#so this one has me a tiny bit cautious but i appreciate getting the chance to talk about it all the same

[south-sea]

∇ ∇ your AU Metal and Shadow??

YEEHAW

∇ - old age/aging headcanon

metal: ageless in a much more literal sense than even shadow. he doesn't factor in his "physical" age, and doesn't particularly "identify" with any number-age or specific category otherwise. he simply exists, and this does not change. the only thing that does change is his understanding of and relationship with the world around him, and that develops at such a breakneck pace it can't even really be equated to human development.

like in the span of two years, he goes from "rudimentary understanding of emotions to the point of being childish and otherwise acting on impulse" to "has made the decision himself to take on the role of an adult (who will act on impulse anyway if he lets himself/maybe still has Anger Issues)". this exceptionally responsible/mature demeanor is especially the case when in stardust neo form. if anything, that form is a shorthand for "i'm taking control of the situation and am making my status extremely clear".

he wasn't coded/designed to be a specific age like sage presumably was, so i'd liken him more to a typical self-learning AI that started with such restrictive protocols it made him hard to develop beyond "attack this, kill that, be violent". once those restrictions were lifted, though, he was free to figure out what he himself wanted to be. basically, metal is whatever the hell he establishes himself to be, and 2+ years out in the AU, that happens to be [nebulous concept of an adult]. i expect that to be the default going forward.

in terms of appearance/capabilities, that's sure to evolve over time with more upgrades and such, but right now he's pretty content with his current specs.

shadow: wibbly hand gestures. he seesaws between kid and adult early on, but by 1-2 years out in the AU, he's a lot more solidly in the "adult" category unless in specific company.

you could see it as code switching; with his close friend, he's more free to be "childish" (expressive, honest about emotions and needs, etc; i am not talking about straight up age regression). with strangers/colleagues/etc, he's much more "adult" (reserved, stone-faced, doesn't talk more than necessary, etc). with metal specifically, he's neither, but is naturally unguarded and honest.

in terms of appearance, the only major changes will be whenever he ends up with new scars, leading to more pale spots in his fur. by 2+ years later, literally all of his limbs have some level of discoloration, and the bottom half of his chest fluff is gone, so like, he's showing no signs of being any less reckless. the only thing remotely slowing him down is the occasional achy knees/hands, and the more he has to regenerate those joints, the achier he's going to get, so i could see him maybe properly slowing down in another ten or so years if he's still pushing it.

overall, similar to metal, he's whatever he establishes himself to be, but there's still no specific number-age he attributes to himself. if metal is ageless in mind, shadow is ageless in body, so he just exists in whatever capacity is comfortable at the time. neither of them use it as a "legal loophole", neither are claiming to be something they're not, and neither are going to "age" in any capacity beyond how they're perceiving the world. they are both inherently mature enough to navigate the world appropriately.

[drarrily-we-row-along]

Day 125.4: Accidental Bonding (Part Four)

(You can start at Part One, if you’d like.)

"Come on," Harry begged, the following Friday. "Please come to dinner." The bond had only seemed to strengthen in the past eighteen days and Harry found his mind turning to thoughts of Draco almost constantly whether they were together or apart.

And touching the other man was almost second nature at this point. They spent all day every day touching the other without thinking; they sat with their ankles pressed together under their desks, hands brushed against shoulders and backs as they walked past each other, they frequently held hands without even talking about it first, and Harry couldn't remember the last time that he'd woken up without being wrapped around Draco's body or vice versa. Yes, the bond wasn't showing any signs of weakening.

"Your friends hate me, Potter," Draco reminded him as he pulled a wine glass down out of the cupboard.

Harry sighed, "But they wouldn't if they got to know you."

Draco leveled him with a glare, the kind that Harry had learned to recognize as a shield of sorts that the other man used when he was feeling insecure. "They have good reason to hate me," he said as he filled the glass.

"Not anymore," he protested.

The other man rolled his eyes and took a large swallow of his wine.

"Come on," he said again. "If you're there no one will flirt with me."

Draco face twisted in disgust, it was unpleasant for both of them if someone touched one of them with certain intentions.

"If they're rude, you can leave right away," he added.

"What's in it for me?" Draco asked.

He thought for a moment, "A foot rub," he offered, remembering the night that Draco had drunkenly been complaining that his feet hurt and Harry had drunkenly offered a foot rub. There'd been something immensely satisfying about it, he assumed it was something to do with the bond and not with the look of rapturous delight on Draco's face.

(Read more below the cut)

Draco's eyes narrowed, "And I can leave immediately if they're unkind."

"Yes."

"And you'll give me a long foot massage?"

He laughed, "Yes."

"Fine."

Harry grinned at him. "Excellent. Let's go then, they're meeting us at The Night Owl."

"How did you know I'd say yes?" he asked, looking affronted.

"I didn't," Harry lied, even he'd had a strong suspicion he could convince the other man. "They could eat there without us if you didn't want to go."

He didn't seem entirely convinced but he allowed Harry to take his elbow and he apparated them to the apparition point closest to The Night Owl.

Ron and Hermione were already sitting at a booth when they arrived, and Harry slid his fingers through Draco's as he headed over. "Hey," he greeted brightly.

His best friends both looked up, smiling at Harry before doing a double take when they saw Draco standing there beside him.

"Malfoy," Hermione said, eyebrows lifting. "What a surprise!" she said, glancing at Harry.

He could feel Draco's nervousness like it was a tangible thing. "Yeah," Harry said, widening his eyes meaningfully at her, "I told you he might be coming."

"Yeah," Ron said, "But we didn't think he actually would."

"Well," Draco said, detaching his hand from Harry's, "This has been fun but I'm going to-"

"No," Harry said, turning toward him and grabbing his hand again, "It's fine," he said, glaring at his friends, who he had told to be on their best behavior and to just give the other man a chance.

"Yes," Hermione piped up. "Stay, please. We were just surprised."

Draco looked at Harry for a long moment, obviously arguing with himself before nodding once and sliding into the booth.

Harry slid in next to him, the first (and hopefully largest) hurdle out of the way.

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

Dinner went surprisingly well. Hermione and Ron obviously struggled a bit but Harry had asked them to give him a chance and they seemed to be trying.

Everyone seemed to relax a bit once they'd had a few drinks and when Draco got up to use the loo, Harry turned to his friends, "So?" he said eagerly, "He's different, right?"

Ron and Hermione looked at each other before Hermione said carefully, "I think it's too soon for me to tell."

"Yeah, mate," Ron agreed, "I know you've always had that thing for Malfoy but," he shrugged, "it's hard to know what's real and what's an act."

"You do know that he like cut ties from his parents, right?" Harry asked incredulously, "he believes that all of that pureblood nonsense is garbage."

"Does he though?" Hermione asked, "Or is that just what it behooves him to have you believe?"

"He lives in a tiny flat!" he protested. "He said that he was so compelled by your arguments about house elves that he couldn't bring himself to have one for his flat."

"Are you sure?" Ron asked, "Or does he just hide it from you? House elves are wicked good at magic."

"He knows how to cook," Harry said, "From scratch. And he knows cleaning spells," he added. "Why would he have to know cleaning spells?"

Hermione looked at him thoughtfully, "Maybe you're right-"

"Just give him a chance," he said. "You won't-"

"Better talk about something else," Ron interrupted, "He's headed this way."

"Well, I tried to get Lugnok to speak with me about the discrimination that Goblins have been facing for ages in the wizarding community, but he wasn't very forthcoming," Hermione started as Draco slid into the booth once again.

"Oh," Draco said as he pressed his shoulder against Harry's and they both relaxed into the pleasant hum thrumming through the bodies, beginning at their shoulders and radiating outward. "I read the last article that you published in The Daily Dilemma," he said excitedly. "It was fascinating," he added.

"Really?" Hermione asked, sounding surprised.

He nodded, "I always wanted to learn more about Goblin magic but good information is so hard to find. When I was young, I'd hoped that it was something they'd teach at Hogwarts-"

"Yes!" Hermione agreed emphatically. "I have been trying to convince Minerva of that for years."

"We don't know nearly enough about magic that other beings possess and honestly," he said, lowering his voice slightly, "I don't know why any other magical being puts up with us. I can't understand it." He shook his head, "I mean for all intents and purposes, their magic is stronger than ours and they've got better control of it. A house elf, for example," he said, "when they want to apparate somewhere it's just a snap of the fingers. And their blind apparation is loads better than ours," he shook his head, "And that's just one spell."

Hermione nodded, "It's never made sense to me."

Draco swallowed, "I'm sorry about that, by the way," he said, not quite meeting her eye, "for making fun of your organization." Then his mouth twisted, "For a lot of things, really," he continued. "Many that were worse than that."

"Thank you," Hermione said after a moment. "I appreciate your apology."

He nodded once. "You probably know this already, but Henri Laurence is a real advocate for changing the way we treat other magical beings. He could probably help your causes."

"Who?" she asked, brows furrowing as she tried to place the name.

"Henri Laurence," he repeated.

She shook her head, "I'm not familiar with that name."

"He works in transportation," Draco replied.

"Why would I talk to someone in transportation?"

He gave her a wry smile, "Henri works closely with a lot of department heads to schedule their trips. He's very amiable and everyone loves him," he added. "More than one political career has risen and fallen by his words. He also works with the Minister quite a bit, the Minister is quite fond of him."

"I never would have thought to start there. Thanks for the tip," she said, giving him a cautious half smile.

"Of course," Draco said automatically. "I'd be glad to give you names if you're ever wondering the best way to get things into people's ears. I'm afraid I can't do introductions, though," he said with a self depreciating laugh.

"Thank you," Hermione said, sounding genuinely grateful. "That would be so helpful."

Draco gave her a little smile and Harry felt hope bubbling merrily in his chest.

----------

As the evening drew to a natural close, Harry couldn't help but think that everything went exceptionally well.

Draco was still talking about Hermione's current project with the Goblins at Gringotts as Harry headed back toward the bedroom, Draco trailing along behind him. "It's invaluable," he said as he started to strip so he could put on his pajamas. "This research could change the way that we think about other beings. We could really have the opportunity to understand them better and then maybe we'd understand our own magic and our own limitations better."

Harry nodded, "You sound just like her. I thought you two might hit it off."

"Did you?" Draco asked curiously as he crawled into bed.

He nodded, sitting at the bottom and pulling Draco's left foot into his lap, pressing his thumbs up the curve of Draco's arch. "You're the only other person I know who likes to talk about Magic Theory."

He let out a low moan as Harry's thumbs rubbed the ball of his foot, "Potter, you are really good at that," he said, thoroughly distracted from the conversation they'd been having.

Harry laughed.

"I'm serious!" the other man protested. "If the whole saving the world, one idiot at a time thing fails, you can go into foot massages."

Chuckling, he shook his head, "Can you imagine?"

"Yes," Draco replied, closing his eyes and settling further into the mattress, "I'd come see you every day."

"Ah, in that case," Harry teased, "maybe I should think about it."

"You do that," he said, in that distant voice that meant he wasn't listening to him anymore.

"Read something," Harry said.

The other man opened one eye to look down at Harry, "What?"

"Read me something," he said. "Grab a book off your nightstand," he said, nodding to the pile, "And read. But don't pick something boring."

Draco reached over and plucked a slender book off the nigh stand, "I think you'll like this one. He gets everything wrong but it's delightful." He cleared his throat, "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit..."

Harry listened as he read, a smile tugging at his lips, his chest filling with warmth.

This was nice, Harry couldn't help but think. Living with someone, sharing meals with someone, having someone in your bed when you went to sleep and when you woke up. It was nice to have the sound of someone else's voice and the feeling of someone else's hand in yours.

He wondered if he'd miss it when the bond ended in twelve days.

More importantly, he wondered if Draco would miss it.

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

Part 3 | Part 5

[bokettochild]

Request: Fairy Hyrule, Minish Four and Bunny Legend cuddlefic? Mostly because I love the idea of hugging a bunny ten times your size. THINK OF THE (literal) FLUFF AND SOFTNESS

So... I got a bit caught up in the WHY of them all being Small, and... this happened.

It all got deleted halfway through and I had to rewrite it from memory, but it turned out okay (although I don't like the flow as much this time through), bt it's... a bit long. This baby was ten pages, and it took forever to get to the cuddling bit- sorry about that.

Anyways, Anon, here is your (long overdue) Tiny fic (it ain't tiny).

The others are laughing and it’s making him mad. Usually, he’s just smack them over the head (a much good as it would do, curse his weak arms) but usually he can reach that high.

Right now, he can’t.

Because right now, he’s a freaking rabbit

He’s a little pink rabbit sitting in the middle of a circle of heroes who are all laughing at him, and more than anything he wants to hop his freaking furry tail over to Warrior’s horrid choice of footwear and bite the shit out of the captain’s ankles; he deserves it (the rancher does to).

“How did this happen?” Hyrule wheezes out, and even though he wants to be, Legend finds that he can’t be mad at the healer, not when the kid’s face is flushed with laughter, his smile bright and carefree, golden gaze watery under the force of his bell-like laughter as it pricks at Legend’s sensitive ears.

“I don’t know!” Twilight wheezes from where he’s leaning against Time, hearty chuckles exploring from him unabashedly as he looks down at Legend. “We were scouting around the camp and when I turned around,” He gestures weakly to the veteran, tears pricking the corners of his eyes. “Rabbit!”

Legend scowls. He doesn’t even know what happened. One minute he was walking and the next he was tumbling head over paws on the pathway. He’d refused to let Twilight carry him back to camp (if only to try and maintain whatever dignity he had left) and had waited hopefully for Twilight to retrieve the Master Sword for him, only for Warriors to stumble upon him with the darkest expression he’s ever seen on the captain’s face.

Warriors’ expression at seeing a rabbit might very well haunt Legend’s dreams for ages to come, and had prompted a squeak of fear from him that had sent Sky darting up from his seat. “Legend!” The Chosen Hero had shouted, concern in his sky-blue eyes as he had skidded to his knees at Legend’s side, cautious hands scooping him up and inspecting him for injuries in the brief moment where he was too shocked to protest. Of course, he wouldn’t stand it for long, and after pawing at Sky’s fingers with angry huffs and squeaks that he was going to hope the others would forget about, he had been released back onto the ground.

Which landed them where they were now, surrounded by cackling heroes as they stared down at the fluffy pink ball of fur that was their salty veteran.

“Wow vet, I’d’ve never guessed, a rabbit?” Warriors wheezes, eyes full of mirth. “No wonder we don’t get along!”

He rolls his eyes and growls as best as he can as a rabbit (not like he can growl anyway, but he tries none-the-less). “Just hand over the Master Sword so we can get this shit over with.” He squeaks, ignoring how his growls sound more like honks and chitters than anything threatening.

Sky looks at him oddly, as do several of the others, none of them (save Twi and Sky) apparently expecting him to be able to speak in this form, but the Chosen Hero obliges regardless, reaching back for the Master Sword and carefully settling it within Legend’s reach.

The cool cross-guard is comfortable under his paws, even if it is too big, and he sighs in relief as the power of the blade flows over him. In a moment, his form will disappear into the light and reappear, whole and Hylian, and fully capable of kicking some rancher ass.

Just a moment....

A second more...

He blinks his eyes open, violet flitting across the blade in mounting concern as he takes in the fluffy pink paws that are where his hands should be. Why isn’t it working? Why is he still a helpless rabbit?

“That’s weird.” Twilight and Sky both murmur, exchanging a worried glance as the Skyloftian retrieves the blade. He lunges after it though, not giving Sky a chance to inspect the blade and instead startling him with the weight of a rabbit in his lap as pink paws reach up to grasp the sword hilt again.

“Fi, explain.”

The sword spirit’s voice rings clear and cool in his head as Sky lowers the blade further, better into his reach. He hardly processes the motion, so focused on the words, which is perhaps why he doesn't question the stabilizing hand that lowers onto his back.

“Young Master,” Fi chimes softly in his mind. “The forces which have transformed you are not dark in nature. There is a 76% chance that they are in fact, of nature themselves. As such, my blade is unable to undo the curse. You will likely have to wait until this curse runs its course.”

“How long.” He grates out, nose shivering in irritation as his ears flick back, brushing gently against the Skyloftian's fingers and making Sky gasp softly.

“Processing....There is a 49% percent chance that this curse will fade and return you to your Hylian form in approximately three days' time, and there is a 27% percent chance that it will take a week for said change to occur. Additionally, there is a 15% percent chance that the curse will not fade, and a 9% chance that this curse will make you explode.”

A strangled screech escapes him and he doesn’t even realize his paws have released the sacred blade until they are grasping at his ears, tugging with all of the pent-up emotion inside of his body as he processes the words. Never mind the exploding bit, he might not turn back? There’s only a fifty-fifty chance that he’ll turn back in the next few days?

Sky’s long fingers drag through his fur gently, rubbing soothing circles over his back. “What did she say?”

“Three days!” He tugs his ears again. “Three days of being utterly useless and helpless, and it’s not even certain that I’ll turn back! I could be stuck like this forever! I could explode!”

“Exploding doesn’t seem likely-” Twilight attempts to calm him, but it only makes him tug his ears harder.

“Fi said it might happen!” He shouts back, high pitched and squeaky, and hating every second of it. He buries his face in the fabric beneath him, his rabbit heart pounding with panic and cold dread washing over him as the words continue to spew from his mouth. “And if Fi said it could happen than it might! And we were about to go into battle too! What’ll happen if someone gets hurt? I can’t help anyone and there's absolutely nothing that stupid bunny could do and-”

Someone’s scratching his ears.

Long fingers rubbing just right between them and Legend is helpless to tell them to stop because he’s too busy melting into a puddle in Sky’s lap at the sensation. All thoughts flee as he lets Sky’s hands drive away all worries. Should he be worried that he’s rendered speechless and vulnerable by something so simple? Probably, but Sky seems to know just how to place his hands and Legend can only hum in appreciation at the feeling, a squeaky purr escaping him as he leans into the sensation as Sky hums something soft and soothing under his breath. The vibrations carry down his fingers and tingle down Legend’s spine, calming him further.

“Cute.” Twilight's voice breaks him from his thoughts, and he’s pulling back from Sky’s hands and glaring up at the rancher with all the fury he can fit in his now tiny body.

“He’s not wrong, Kit.” Time chuckles soft and low, and Legend whips his head around to stare at the man.

“Oh no, you are not giving me a nickname!”

“Yeah Time,” Sky’s voice is low and mirthful as he speaks, hand once more settling on Legend’s back as he lifts an arm to block the vet from launching himself at their leader. “He’s my descendant, if anyone should be giving him a nickname it’s me.”

“How about Nibbles?” The sailor grins, leering into Legend’s space with enough mischief in his gaze to kill a Lynel. “I mean, the vet is always chewing us out.”

He forgets for a moment that his growls sound more like chirps in this form, baring his teeth at the sailor as he attempts to frighten him off. It doesn’t work, rabbits aren’t made to scare off bigger animals “So help me sailor I-”

Large hands scoop him off the ground and suddenly he’s being cradled in Sky’s arms. Like a baby. The indignity! “Calm down, Bun, he’s just kidding.” Sky’s crystal eyes glimmer with genuine concern as he looks down at Legend. “And we’ll find a way to change you back, I promise. The goddesses wouldn’t have let you change like this if it was for the worse. You’ll see,” Sky bops his nose with a smile entirely too pure. “It’ll be fine.”

Legend would like to argue that point, the goddesses have never shown any particular interest in what’s best for him before, and most of them seem to find humor in ruining his life time and again (except the Golden Trio, they’re alright he guesses, especially Din), but Sky looks so certain and Legend’s honestly too tired to start a big fight about Hylia again. (Heaven knows the last time he made Sky mad he nearly shat himself at how terrifyingly defensive Sky could get about those he loved). It doesn’t matter anyway, he supposes, as Sky’s already standing and making is way back to their main camp, gait just smooth enough not to jostle his reluctant passenger as Legend slumps in place.

He might as well let this happen, at least until he can figure out how to fix it.

It’s official.

Legend hates being a bunny.

They’ve settled down for dinner and as if to mock him and all that he loves, Wild has been struck with the inspiration to make his absolutely heavenly radish stew. The one that Legend would literally sell some of his rings for because it is that good.

And he can’t eat it.

He tried, and that attempt resulted in both himself and Sky covered in broth, the thick liquid clinging to his fur now as he sits on the ground with some raw fruits and vegetables instead. He doesn’t know that he’ll ever be able to eat it again without being forced to remember nearly drowning in the stuff.

He feels like a baby and he hates it.

He’s soaked himself and his ancestor and food and Warriors still isn’t done tittering about it.

He really hates being a bunny.

The others have nearly stepped on him numerous times, simply because they aren’t used to having to watch underfoot, so every time someone walks over to Wild to get seconds (why did the Champion sit next to him and Sky in the first place?) he has to back-peddle onto his haunches to avoid being crushed under heavy boots and even heavier feet.

Add to that that Wild and Wind both subconsciously reach out to pet his bedraggled fur every few minutes and he’s absolutely fed up with this shit!

At least the Champion was willing to lend him something to dry his fur off with, and even if he hates it, the spare brush Warriors has on hand does a decent job of detangling his fluffy hide. If he melts a little in Twilight’s lap as the rancher goes over him with the brush than no one says anything (although both Sky and Time have infuriating matching smiles on their faces).

But then it’s bedtime and Time is sorting through his things to try and make sure that no one person will have to carry all his stuff, and he’s reminded once again how utterly useless he is in this form. It only makes things worse that he knows that the others will be burdened with his bags, and considering his top speed at the moment can only be held for short sprints, he’s pretty sure the Old Man is going to have someone carry him too.

The very idea makes him puff out his fur in irritation.

At the very least though, he doesn’t have to worry much about how he’s going to handle the cold nights, Sky’s already taken his beloved sailcloth and bundled it into a little nest, and the minute Twilight is done with his fur the Chosen Hero is scooping him up and laying him in it (absently, he wonders if Sky might have a stronger paternal instinct than Time and if his own small form is triggering that). The fabric is warm though, and it’s nice. If Sky curls up around him in the middle of the night though, well, he supposes there’s not really much he can do about that.

Sky does curl around him and he’s trapped.

The Skyloftian may look soft and cuddly, but he’s got an iron grip when he’s asleep, and it’s only by the pure squishability of his current form that he’s able to escape (Sky will be disappointed when he wakes up, he knows, but even so, Legend doesn’t intend on staying a rabbit, not for a whole week, especially when there’s monsters out there.

Perhaps the thought of said monsters should dissuade him, but it doesn’t. He knows now what triggered this change, and he’s determined to hunt it down and trick it into changing him back, he just needs to escape his babysitters for a hot tic in order to do so.

It’s a lucky thing that Four and Warriors are both so drowsy that the feather light step of a rabbit doesn’t catch their attention as the two sit on watch, and Legend’s able to creep over to his bag (positioned with Twilight’s things) and dig through it until he finds what he needs.

You can’t go making deals with the fae unless you have something of value, or those tricksters will rob you blind and steal your first born. Not that Legend ever intends on having kids, but on the off chance that he ever did he’d rather they didn’t have a shitty life because he made an error in dealing with a forest sprite.

Come to think of it, how powerful are the forest people of this time?

Warriors looks seconds away from walking up to Sky’s sleeping form and throwing Legend as far as he can into the distance, and it’s making Four nervous.

Rationally, they know that Warriors wouldn’t consciously do such a thing, but they also know how much Warriors hates rabbits in general, and that the captain’s initial instinct at seeing them is to toss them away from himself as far as possible (never mind how rare a real rabbit is, Warriors’ time is apparently full of them and Warriors hates them). They’ve heard the story, how the captain was made to hunt rabbits down across his world and return them to their homes, the fact that he did so by throwing them is a bit concerning considering the delicate bone structure of the animals, but it’s not Wars’ fault that he doesn’t know that.

All the same, Four would feel a bit more secure if they knew that Wars wouldn’t be doing such a thing.  (Rationally, they know he won’t, but rationality is only so much of the equation).

“I’m gonna check on the vet.” They murmur softly to their companion. Somethings not right and they hope it’s just Warriors’ previous retellings of his own rabbit-escapades eating at them and not something else. “Sky’s got a grip like a vice when he sleeps and I don’t want him getting crushed.”

Never mind that being small sucks when it’s this cold out. Four desperately hopes that it won’t rain tonight (although the air tastes right for it).

“Rabbits are tough little things,” The captain chuckles. “I’m sure he’s okay.”

Vio wrenches control from the others, gaze flat as he stares out at Wars. “You do know most rabbits can’t survive being thrown, right? They’re not like cats, if they land wrong their done for.”

The captain pales slightly but doesn’t say anything, and they take that as their cue to stand and make their way over to where Sky and the vet had bedded down for the night. Sure enough, Sky is curled up around the sailcloth nest he made for Legend like a child curled around their favorite stuffed animal (or Red with any of the rest of them), but at the very least it doesn’t look as if Legend would have been smashed, just caged. They wince, the vet doesn’t sleep well on a good night, but waking up to being trapped? That is...not good. There’s a reason they never force him to join everyone else when Red takes over and calls for a cuddle pile; everyone knows that the most Legend will stand is letting Hyrule hold his hand while he sleeps, and even then, the vet will still pull away when he finally does fall asleep.

Sky shifts (he’s a heavy sleeper, but all the same he moves a lot), arms wrapping tighter around the bundle in his arms. Tight enough that the sailcloth gives way. Sky’s face screws up in his sleep, wrapping even tighter around the bundle as if seeking out some form of resistance.

Four panics. Bunnies are delicate creatures and Sky is strong, did he just crush Legend?

Only, looking closer, Vio points out that there isn’t even a hint of pink amidst the fabric, and when Four dares reach out to test the bundle himself, they find that there is nothing within its folds.

“Four?” Warriors’ voice is tinged with concern as Four stand back up from his crouch, brows pinched together as he scans over the camp. “Is something wrong?”

“Legend’s missing.”

The captain’s brows shoot up, but thankfully he doesn’t bother with questioning them, instead hoisting himself to his feet and making his way around the camp, an ever-growing frown marring his features as he looks around. “Did he choose to sleep with Hyrule instead?” It’s a soft murmur, likely only spoken aloud because Wars is too tired to stop it before it reaches his mouth, but Four’s eyes flick over to where the Traveler sleeps regardless.

“I don’t think so.”

“Look,” Warriors groans softly, not loud enough to wake the others, stopping at Twilight’s bedroll and motioning to the bags stacked near the rancher's pillow. “His bag is open.”

“You don’t think he climbed inside of it, do you? We’d never find him!”

The captain gives him a look, blinking once before shaking his head. “No! But he was clearly trying to get at something.” Royal blue eyes turn to stare out at the forest. “What are the chances he went back out there, alone?”

Four hesitates, fingers drumming on his thigh as the colors swarm in his mind. “I don’t know, but I should probably check.”

“We need to watch camp.” The older hero frowns.

“You watch camp, I’ll go out there.”

“You can’t go alone, Four, it’s not safe.” Wars reminds him, concern glinting in his gaze as he turns back to the smithy.

“Fine.” Blue’s the only reason they roll their eyes, they swear. “I’ll take Hyrule. If the vet’s fallen down a hole or something then we can take care of it immediately.”

A smile breaks out across Warriors’ face, even if it is slightly strained. “Funny how that’s even a risk now.”

“Don’t I know it.” Besides, at least Hyrule seems to have a second sense for these sorts of things. Like Sky and Twilight, he has a knack for tracking down the others, especially if he needs to find Time for whatever reason. Four’s seen it themselves, it’s uncanny, but incredibly useful, so they’ve never really questioned it (Vio has, Vio has questioned it enough to give them a head-ache).

It’s the work of a minute to shake the traveler awake, as he’s one of the lightest sleepers of them all, and it takes even less time for them to be off, the simple words “Legend’s gone” being enough to send the traveler springing up and following closely after Four, one hand on his sword as the two of them make their way back into the depths of the forest.

Legend should know better than to try and make a deal with the fae.

Hyrule can recognize the look of a fairy about to claim her prize in an instant, and it appears Legend is about as clueless as a bunny can be about the loophole that he must have left open in whatever twisted deal the two have concocted. Anger burns in his blood as a whisper-hisses through his teeth, a few words all it takes before he’s zipping between the two of them, wings beating furiously as all six of his eyes stare into those of the other with nothing short of pure fury.

“Mine!” He hisses, darting forwards in a fake charge at the other, wings whirring angrily as his eyes stare at them “Mine, mine, mine, mine, mine!” His voice contorts and buzzes, his aura flickering brighter and sharper as he zooms down to hover over Legend’s ears. “MINE.”

“What is your claim?”  The other chimes smugly. “What promise or service marks him as yours? Where is the Mark that makes a mortal the charge of a fae, hmm? Show it to me and I will release him to your care.” Glistening teeth glimmer as multiple eyes glisten with malice, jealousy over a potential catch making the fairy’s gaze spark dangerously. “Else ways, leave us be, our deal is near set and you have no business to interrupt it.”

“His true form,” He hisses. “There is my Mark on his hand. The Triangle, my symbol.” He hisses through bared teeth, every eye slitted and glimmering with fury. He can’t lie, not even if he tried, but he’s fae and they’re more skilled than anyone at finding tricks to get around things. The triforce is his symbol, something he’s recognizable by in his world, but it’s not only on his hand, the others bear the same mark and even if it isn’t Fae in origin, it's from the Scared Realm and none can deny that it sets them apart. Anyways, the Fae know mortals by their markings, this should be enough of a claim to make her renounce her dealings with Legend.

No fae dares mess with the Charge of another.

“What is your proof? Can you show me?” She taunts.

“My power isn’t that strong.” He hisses. “You do it and then you’ll see!”

“And give him what he asks without receiving my due? Oh no little Half-Blood.” She glares at him. “Give me Good Reason or leave alone.”

“He is goddess born.” He hisses out finally, grasping at straws. Mother only taught him so much of Fae law, but surely there’s something against touching those blessed by the heavens, right? “Hylia’s child descended. To touch him or any other of Mine is to plead wrath from the Scared Realm.” A sly smile slides over pointed teeth. “Would you wish that on Yours?”

She pales. “Mark your own in all forms, Halfling. This would not happen if you did.” It’s all she cares to say though, zipping away without another word.

“Do I want to know what I just avoided?” Legend’s voice croaks up at him, faint and pitchy all the same as he looks up to the fairy above him.

“I don’t know. But never, and I mean NEVER, make deals with fae again. Not even me! You can’t break promises or be too careful, you never know what they’ll do.” Two of his eyes glance over his shoulder to ensure that the other Fae is gone for good.

“I was trying to be careful.” Legend huffs, his breath sending Hyrule higher over his head for a moment before the fairy regains his balance. “They’re clever little-” He cuts off, violet eyes narrowing and bunny nose shivering as he looks up at Hyrule again. “You’re a fairy.”

His aura dims slightly, wings drooping ever so slightly as he looks down at his mentor. “Yes.”

Legend stares, violet piercing and sharp. Hyrule has never noticed the hint of gold that bands his irises, nor the flecks of blue that glisten under the effects of a fairy’s glow, and it only makes the Veteran’s stare all the more intense.

“Huh.” The bunny huffs softly. “That’s pretty neat, ‘Rulie.” There's no anger, no accusation in his tone, and when Hyrule brings his gaze up to meet that of his mentor again, all he sees is fondness and intrigue. “Is this new? An item? Were you- no,” Legend’s ears prick forwards, his interest obvious as he leans forward. (Hyrule wonders if the vet realizes that he's smelling him.) “You speak like They do. This isn’t new.”

It’s not a question.

“I’m, uh, half fairy.”

Legend nods slowly. “And you didn’t think to tell anyone?” At the dimming of Hyrule’s glow the vet pulls away, eyes flashing with panic for a moment. “I don’t mean that as a bad thing, ‘Rule, just-” He cocks his head long ears flopping to one side sloppily. “It’s not something I’d think you’d want to hide. Seems pretty useful to me.”

And by useful, Hyrule knows Legend means cool.

“I told Four.” He nods to the Hylian standing over them. The smithy’s eyes flicker various colors, his lips pulling aside into a slight smile as he crouches to be closer to their height.

“Now I’m taller than both of you.” Four chuckles softly, crimson tinged gaze sweeping over the two of them.

“Don’t get smart.” Legend huffs. “This is a curse, not my true form, you’d be tiny too if you were cursed into an animal form. Probably smaller than me!”

There’s a knowing look in the smithy’s gaze, but he holds his silence, smile still present as he carefully looks over the both of them. “Well, if neither of you were harmed in that little exchange, we should get back to camp. Wars will be in a huff if we don’t back with you soon.”

Legend huffs his own huff, but doesn’t object, gathering up the glimmering item he had brought as a toll (Hyrule thinks it might be a precious stone of some sort) and slowly hopping after the Smithy as he turns back towards camp.

They’d have made it to camp rather quickly too, if the sky hadn’t chosen that moment to weep out it’s sorrow with the world and the evils within. Great sheets of rain, the likes of which they usually only expect from the Champion’s Hyrule, flood down over them, and Hyrule thanks all things Holy that Legend is there to break his fall as the water soaks his wings and sends him careening towards the earth. Four yelps in surprise, hands fumbling for his hood as he tried to fend off some of the wet (it does little good, they’ll be soaked in seconds in this downpour.

“In here!” Legend squeaks, the rabbit hero already darting into the nearest hollow he can see that isn’t clearly inhabited. It’s a tight squeeze, and Hyrule nearly knocks his head on the bark of the opening, but Legend gets the both of them under, and despite the mushrooms that seem to fill the space with a soft light, it’s a comfortable fit for the two of them. The ground beneath is laid with moss, purposefully it would seem, and Hyrule lets himself side down into it with an appreciative hum.

“What about Four?” He murmurs softly, looking out of the crevice through which they entered. It’s still pouring buckets, and unlike them, the smithy has no dry place to hide (heavens knows the camp will be soaked. He feels terrible for the others).

“What about me?”

Violet and gold turn upwards as twin gasps escape the two. Four, in all of his minish glory, waves back at them from where he’s perched on top of one of the mushrooms. “Minish portal.” He smiles cheerily (but Hyrule can Taste the nervousness rolling off of him).

“Wait, both of you get small?” Legend’s ears stand up straight, brushing the roof of their shelter. “Smaller?” He corrects himself.

Four rolls his eyes. “It was get soaked or get small. I don’t fancy catching a cold, so I chose small.” He wrinkles his nose (it will never stop being cute), hopping down from the mushroom and free falling into the dampened fur of his rabbit-companion. “Now shut up and let me warm up, you’re bigger than I am and since you left me out there to soak I think I can get away with using you to warm up.”

Hyrule’s laughter rings soft and sweet through the hollow, Legend’s vaguely offended expression only adding fuel to the fire as he flits closer. “The vet doesn’t really mind cuddles, do you Ledge? Besides,” He lets his wings fall still, embracing the warmth of Legend’s soft fur as he lands in it lightly. “We just saved his ass.”

Legend turns his head to stare at the two of them, but even in rabbit form his lips twitch with amusement as he shoves him nose into Four’s personal space, making the minish-hero tumble down into the moss with a faint yelp. “You’re soaking.”

The smith grins back, plunging right back into the warm pink fur. “That wasn’t a refusal.”

“One time.” Legend huffs, ears flicking briefly. “One time only, smithy. Enjoy it while you can.”

“Trust me,” Four sighs, plonking down against the vet and leaning into the plush fur around him. “I will.”

It takes mere seconds before Four has drifted off, and Hyrule is reminded that the smith was keeping watch for most of the night before they had gone out looking for Legend. Guilt, sickly-sweet, yet bitter, taints his tongue as Legend stares down at the tiny form curled against him. Hyrule sighs. “I guess he was more tired than I thought.”

Legend only huffs, ears flicking back and nose shivering as he noses the smithy’s sleeping from. Four’s dropped off like a stone, completely dead to the world as Legend curls around him (not dissimilar to how Sky had curled around him earlier that night), easing the gentle shivers of the smith, who noses deeper into Legend’s pelt. Tiny paws coming up to catch hold of pink fur as Four curls up, feather-like tail brushing against the top of his tiny nose, moved only by tiny snores that make Legend’s ears twitch and Hyrule giggle softly.

“The rains still pouring down.” Legend hums, gruff as he can be in his current state, but Hyrule knows it’s all an act. “You might as well get some sleep too, ‘Rulie.”.

And while any other time Hyrule may have argued, Legend lifts his head to offer the space next to Four, and if Legend is offering cuddles, especially with his silky soft fur as a barrier against the cold, Hyrule knows he can’t resist it.

Four’s paw catches hold of him the instant he settles next to the smithy, and before he knows it the two of them are both bundled up in each other while Legend curls himself around them, breath soft and soothing as his heart pit-patters away inside of him.

That’s how they wake the next morning.

Wolfie’s nose shoved against the crack in the bark is what pulls them back from the land of dreams, and the soft snuffling bark followed by Time’s voice is what gets them up on their feet. It’s an awkward thing, emerging into the light again to find five heroes and a wolf staring down at them in a mixture of confusion and concern, but nobody seems to be able to bring themselves to scold when Four sneezes.

“We got caught in the storm.” Legend huffs when he sees the soft expression on Time’s face.

Wolfie huffs, and, much to the surprise of the currently shrunken heroes, they can hear the laugh in it. “Of course you did.”

Hyrule’s mouth drops open, all six eyes bugging out in shock as he turns to Four. The fairy’s whisper is high and shocked, but too sharp a noise for Hylian ears, although Legend, Wolfie and Four can all hear him quite clearly. “Wolfie is Twilight!”

[fandomlovingfreak]

Healing His Heart (10/?)

Young Remus Lupin/Reader

Rating: E for Everyone

Word Count: 3267

MasterList Link I AO3 Link I Wattpad Link I Tiktok Link

Summary: (y/n) is two years younger than him, a popular Slytherin, and Regulus Black’s best friend. Yet he can’t help but be attracted to her bewitching personality and sweet smile. Unfortunately, his er–problem makes it harder to get close to others. Despite his attempts to push her away (for her own good) she seems determined to worm her way into his life.

Enjoy

"What are you going to get (y/n) for Christmas?" Sirius is leaning against the table in the common room, his feet reaching out to the fireplace.

Remus looks up from his book, "I haven't thought about it."

Sirius turns to frown at him, "You haven't thought about it at all?"

Remus shrugs, "I don't see (y/n) being so-- uppity about things like that."

His friend rolls his eyes, "Yes, (y/n) isn't necessarily material, but she's still your girlfriend."

Remus frowns again, "has she told you something? Did she get me something?"

"She hasn't directly told me anything, but (y/n)'s always been thoughtful. She gets Regulus and me something every year."

Oh.

"Why didn't you tell me earlier?" He closes his book.

"I didn't assume I had to tell you to buy a gift for your girlfriend, Moons."

"Shit..." Remus tries to think up some sort of plan. How the hell would he get something... "is this next weekend a Hogsmeade weekend?"

"It is."

"I'm going to need you to distract (y/n), so I can shop around."

"She's going to be suspicious--"

His brow furrows in frustration, "Well, do you have a better plan, Sirius?"

Sirius's grin

"Go talk to Regulus. It would be a lot less weird if she were distracted by him." 

Remus nods, "yeah, yeah. I'm going to go find him now."

***

He roams the halls, hopeful he'll run into Regulus eventually. Remus is about to give up when he spots the boy walking in the distance.

"Regulus!" He calls down the hall. 

Regulus stops, turning slowly to face him, "Remus?"

Remus briskly walks towards Regulus, "can I talk to you?"

"Yes?"

"Wait, is... (y/n) around?"

Regulus frowns, "no? Why-- what are you--"

"Okay, good. I wanted to ask you if she got me anything for Christmas."

Regulus's frown disappears, replaced with a knowing smile, "why?"

"Because--" he pulls an awkward smile, "I don't know if she got me something, and I haven't got her anything-- and Sirius made me feel weird about it. I desperately need your help."

"You haven't got her anything? You realize Christmas Day is less than two weeks away, right?"

Remus sighs, "I'm aware. I didn't know we were doing gifts."

"She's staying at the castle with you, isn't she?"

"Yes? Are you not staying for the holidays as well?"

Regulus nods, "I am. Only for (y/n), though. She said you four were busy Christmas Day? Didn't say what you were up to--"

"Oh! It's nothing! Just something we planned, ya know, for the last year memories and all that." He waves his hand around, hoping Regulus will let it go.

Regulus's brows furrow, "Okay? Well, what do you need help with?"

"I need you to distract her while I find something this weekend in Hogsmeade."

Regulus crosses his arms across his chest, "Do you really think she won't be suspicious?"

He sighs, "I know she'll be suspicious, but she'll be even more suspicious if I ask Sirius to distract her. At least she ordinarily hangs out with you. Besides, I need to buy her something. This is the only chance I'll get." Remus pleads with Regulus.

"Fine. But, I'm not holding her back if she gets suspicious and comes to look for you."

"Fair enough. I appreciate it so much, Regulus."

"Yeah, yeah. It's all for (y/n), don't forget that."

Remus smiles, "Wouldn't dream of it."

***

"What are we doing this weekend?" (y/n) leans over his shoulder to look at the piece of parchment he's been scribbling on for the past hour and a half. She lazily wraps her arms around his neck, leaning her chin rest at the junction of his neck and shoulder.

Remus smiles, hoping he can be convincing as he tells her a small white lie, "I have a paper due Monday."

"How long is it? You can't possibly be busy all weekend on one paper. I've seen you finish multiple pages of parchment in hours, Remus!"

"It's an important one! I don't-- I don't know a lot about the subject... so I have to research--" He scrambles to sound convincing.

(y/n) steps away, moving in front of him. She gently grabs his chin, looking him deep in the eyes. "Are you feeling okay?"

Remus's face pinkens, "I'm fine..."

"You're acting weird again. Are you-- are you already feeling symptoms?"

Remus rolls his eyes, "No. I'm completely fine. I promise."

(y/n)'s lips are twisted in an unconvinced grimace, "You're sure?"

He sighs, "Yes. One hundred percent. I'm feeling pretty good today. Besides, the-- moon isn't full for another... eleven days."

(y/n) releases her grip on his chin, shrugging, "I dunno. Just a bit anxious, I guess?"

He frowns, cocking his head, "what are you anxious about?"

(y/n) releases a heavy breath, "You should probably get used to me being anxious over you. I don't think the feeling will go away any time soon." Her laugh is dry as she absentmindedly reaches to fiddle with the collar of his sweater.

"Darling," he pulls her onto his lap, "you have nothing to be anxious about. I promise."

(y/n)'s fingers comb through his bangs, eyes refusing to meet his gaze, "I hate that I can't be with you... Let me at least try to become an Animagus. I would feel so much better knowing exactly where you are--"

"I don't want you in any danger. You're safe in the castle. I need to know you are safe." He brushes his thumb across her cheek. "I couldn't live with myself if I hurt you."

"You won't! You don't hurt James, Sirius, or Peter. Why would I get hurt?"

He cups her face in his warm hands, "The chance that it may happen will always outweigh anything else. Besides, just because it hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it will never."

"You're too cautious." She pouts. Remus runs his thumb across her protruding bottom lip.

"I'm cautious enough."

"Remus," she whines, "I can take care of myself."

Remus bites his lip, thoroughly liking the breathy, pouty way she says his name. "You take care of me constantly. Let me protect you the best way I can."

(y/n)'s eyes soften, "Protect me?"

"Yes, from me."

She touches his face gently, "I'm not afraid of you, Remus. Your condition doesn't change the fact that you are the most gentle, loving person I know."

"But not-- then. I'm not any of those things during that time-- I wouldn't recognize you even if I could try to..." His eyes flick down to the ground.

"I want to be there for you, Remus."

He meets her eyes. She looks at him with such adoration, and he doesn't know quite what to do with it. "You already are there for me. Always. In ways, I don't think you acknowledge all the times. Let me think about the animagus thing. And if I agree, I don't want you to follow in the rest of the Marauder's steps. It has to be legal."

(y/n) rolls her eyes, "Obviously, I'll be registered."

"Good."

***

The plan is that Regulus would keep her preoccupied at the Three Broomsticks for as long as possible. He can't help but chuckle, thinking about Regulus attempting to keep (y/n) in one building for an hour or so when she's already suspicious of him.

He makes his way to Tomes and Scrolls, intending to find something healing related. There had to be something healing related in there that will make her smile when she opens it on their makeshift Christmas.

He still can't believe she's chosen to spend the holidays with him over going home. Remus plans on making the week after the full moon especially special for his beautiful girlfriend.

The witch running the store kindly at him as he walks into the cozy store. "Are you looking for anything specific, dear?"

"Do you have anything on healing?"

"We have a whole section in the back here," she leads him towards the section.

"Thank you," Remus smiles back before he starts to look at the numerous texts. There are books on nearly every sort of healing magic: potions, charms, spells... the more generic books are probably already in (y/n)'s possession, so he looks closer to the more specific books.

For a moment, he thinks that it would be a tiny bit funny if he got her a book on lycanthropy... but he thinks it wouldn't be a suitable Christmas present. Maybe some other time.

Eventually, he picks out one on advanced herbology related to healing. It's perfect. There's no way she has anything like it yet.

Setting down the book on the counter, the witch asks him if he found everything he needed. 

"I did. Thank you." He pays the woman, and she wraps his purchase in a brown paper piece, tied together with a bit of string.

Remus makes his way back to the castle without running into (y/n) or anyone else and is able to get back to the library to make it seem like he had been writing the entire day, just in time.

(y/n) wraps arms around his neck as she sits down in his lap, "hello!"

Remus kisses her temple, leaning back in his chair and pretending to stretch his back.

She picks up his parchment, "You didn't even write anything all day!" 

"I-- I was reading before I started...?"

(y/n) laughs, "you sure you're feeling okay?"

Remus sighs, "Yes, I am fine. I promise I am fine. You'll be the first person to know the moment I don't feel normal."

"Fair enough."

***

Christmas Eve arrives on the tail of a snowstorm. Remus wakes early and glances out of the window. The grounds have been covered in a thick white blanket.

He's pulling on his sweater when Sirius shoots up from a dead sleep. His usually immaculately styled hair is sticking up all over from sleep.

"What day is it?" he rubs his eyes.

"The twenty-fourth."

"Makeshift Christmas--" Sirius falls back into his bed, soft snores continuing.

Remus shakes his head before heading out of the dorm, determined to spend every moment of this day with (y/n).

Thanks to the holidays, the Great Hall is nearly empty. Only a few stragglers are left, the four large tables being replaced with one substantially smaller one. 

Remus spots (y/n) and Regulus in the far-middle of the table. He slides into the spot next to her. "Morning."

(y/n) instantly moves closer to him to press a chaste kiss to his lips, "morning."

"How'd you sleep?" he hugs her close to his side, picking up a mug that appears in front of him.

(y/n) snuggles up closer to him, "very good."

Regulus rolls his eyes, "Really, guys? I'm right here."

(y/n) sticks her tongue out at him, "Nothing is happening here that should disgust you, Regulus Black."

Regulus takes another sip of his drink, choosing to change the subject, "what's the plan for today?"

(y/n) looks at him, her lips pinched as she ponders the question. If they were alone, he was sure. She'd ask what he was up for and if he was feeling okay.

"Relax," she leans her head on Remus's shoulder.

Regulus groans, "that's so boring--"

"We don't have to spend the entire day like that," Remus laughs, "I'm sure Sirius won't be too keen on sitting around all day."

At that moment, Sirius, James, and Peter walk up to them, "Morning."

"I'm surprised you three are up," Remus directs his words towards his friends.

Sirius stretches his arms over his head, yawning dramatically, "Me too."

"What's the agenda today, boys-- and (y/n)," James plops down across from them.

"(y/n) wants just to relax," Regulus mimics her voice, grinning when she smacks him on the shoulder.

"So boring. Let's go mess around on the grounds. Look at all the snow we got!" Sirius lightly knocks his shoulder against Remus'.

(y/n) shrugs, "why not."

***

"You sure you're warm enough?" he moves her scarf up over her nose.

(y/n) frowns, "I'm fine. It's not that cold out, Remus."

He smiles down at her. Her frown is adorable, half-covered by her green scarf. "Just making sure."

"I should be asking you these questions. Not the other way around." She reaches up to tug his hat further down his head.

"I don't get cold."

"Yeah, sure," she grabs his hand, "where are your gloves? Do you even own gloves, Remus Lupin?"

He shakes his head, "I just said I don't get cold."

"Everybody needs gloves, Remus."

"Are you two done fussing?" Sirius is leaning against the door.

"Did you know he didn't own gloves?" (y/n) turns towards Sirius.

"How is that my issue?" 

(y/n) frowns at him, "well, you've shared a room with him for the past seven years, I would assume you'd pick up a bit more on your friends."

"He's not my responsibility; that's why you're here." Sirius teases.

Remus rolls his eyes, "Not a child, guys."

(y/n) turns her attention back to him, "You don't take care of yourself."

"I just don't own gloves!"

"I have to remind you to eat," (y/n) raises a brow.

"And before she did that, that job fell to James and me."

"Okay, so--" Remus feels his cheeks burn, "I'm forgetful, not a child."

(y/n) laughs, cupping his cheeks in her gloved hands, "No?"

"I'm older than you, you know." He moves her scarf down to press a kiss to her lips.

"Godric-- can we get going?" Sirius complains, pushing off the door's frame.

"Sorry," Remus chuckles, taking (y/n)'s hand in his. 

***

The grounds are covered in a thick layer of wet snow, perfect for snowball fights and rolling snowmen. James and Sirius are already building up an impressive fort by molding the snow into walls around them, laughing together about something. Peter has busied himself a distance away by rolling a large snowball to make a snowman.

(y/n) sits between Remus's legs as they sit and observe the other three. She's leaning against his chest, fully content to be in his arms.

"What are you thinking about?" he whispers in her ear.

(y/n) hums, snuggling closer, "Just enjoying being with you."

He grins, feeling like the luckiest man in the world. "Yeah?"

"Yup. Can't wait to spend the whole next week with you, alone hopefully."

Remus's heart beats faster at the request, "Yes. Alone. Somewhere beside the back of the library for once..."

(y/n) turns in his arms to look at him, grinning widely, "not in the library? Where were you thinking then?"

Remus gets shy with her eyes on him, "I dunno..." 

"You're so cute when you're flustered." (y/n) turns, pushing him down on his back, her hips straddling his as she leans over him. Remus stares up at her, her face inches from his, unsure what he's supposed to do. (y/n) seems to notice his hesitation, sitting up.

"Are you-- are you okay with this?" She looks as flustered as he feels.

Remus nods, "I am. I'm completely okay with this... I just--"

"Sorry! I didn't mean to be so-- aggressive!" She laughs, leaning down to press a kiss to his lips.

"Really, guys?" James shouts, "we're out here building a fort, and you two are rolling around on the ground snogging."

(y/n) turns her head slightly, "sod off, Potter." Remus chuckles, sitting up on his forearms.

"You know--"

"Don't bother them, Potter." Regulus chucks a snowball at James's head.

"Regulus? Where have you been?" Sirius is chuckling as James brushes snow off of his coat.

"You're dead, Reggie!" James ducks down behind the fort to grab up snow.

"I was getting some last-minute things wrapped up," Regulus ducks as James chucks a snowball at him.

"Last-minute things?" (y/n) has moved off of Remus to watch the boys as snowballs begin to fly. He pulls her back against his chest, leaning his chin on his shoulder as he watches his friends.

"Had to send mum her gift. Listened to the Howler she sent--"

"She sent a Howler?" Sirius ducks behind the snow walls.

"You'll get one, too--" Regulus laughs.

"Oh no, what's this one about?"

A snowball nails Regulus in the face, "Ow-- She's pissed that we decided to stay here instead of spending the holidays at home."

"She knows we hate those stuffy Christmas parties. She shouldn't be surprised we've skipped."

"That's true. I don't think I could drag (y/n) to another one--"

"You could not. I'm done having people assume we're dating Regulus." (y/n) snuggles back into Remus's arms. Remus hides his grin in the crook of her neck.

Regulus looks over at her, a broad smile on his face, "I should've known telling Madame Guillebeaux we've been dating for two years, as a joke, last Christmas was a bad idea."

(y/n) giggles, "Probably would've been wise not to do that!"

Regulus looks like he's going to say something when he is pelted with another snowball. He whips his head towards his brother, who is doubling over with laughter. "Fuck! Sirius!"

***

Remus and (y/n) are wrapped up in a blanket on the Gryffindor Common Room's couch, warming up after their time in the cold. The rest of the boys, uninterested in hanging around the warm fireplace with them, are off doing their own thing. James, Sirius, and Peter are out scheming for the next semester's prank agenda. Regulus, uninterested in both watching his best friend snuggled up with her boyfriend and listening to his older brother and his friends planning pranks, is back in the Slytherin Common Room with the few other Slytherin students staying in the castle.

(Y/n)'s fingers are entangled with his. He admires the way his hand dwarfs hers.

"I got you something." He presses a kiss to her temple, moving to reach behind to where he's stashed the brown paper-covered present.

"You got me something?" her eyes sparkle in the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree.

"Of course," he watches her start to unopen the package.

"Salazar-- Herbology and Healing? How'd you know? I meant to pick this up eventually. It's not part of the curriculum, but Professor Shirley suggested it... how'd you know?"

Remus grins, happy that she likes the book, "I'm glad you like it. And to answer your question, I didn't know you wanted it. I saw, and I thought you'd like it, honestly."

(y/n) throws her arms around him, "thank you!"

Remus holds her close, "of course."

(y/n) pulls away, reaching behind her for a package wrapped in red and green paper, "I got you something as well."

"Yeah? You didn't have to--"

"Nonsense. I wanted to. Open it!" she shoves the package towards him.

Remus grins down at the package, carefully opening the paper.

(y/n) scowls at him, "please don't tell me you're one of those people who tries to save the wrapping?"

"Well, now I'm not." He rips into the packaging as he chuckles. He finds a pair of expensive-looking gloves inside the paper. He stares down at them.

"Do you like them?" (y/n)'s biting her lip nervously.

"Oh wow, (y/n). These look expensive--"

"Merlin," she rolls her eyes, "it doesn't matter how expensive they were. They're good quality, warm gloves."

He slips one on, testing the gloves. "they're really nice."

"Do you like them?" eagerness laces her words.

"Of course I do. They're fantastic."

(y/n) giggles, "I'm glad you like them. You can't make up excuses about gloves now, Remus Lupin."

"Oh, so this gift was to prove a point, eh?" He laughs, putting on the other glove.

"Maybe a little. But, you needed gloves."

"Thank you, darling." Remus leans forwards to kiss her cheek.

[raindancer2004]

Blended Family

Word Count: 4,543 Demetri x OC - Part Three Warnings: Language, Fluff, Angst, Description of torture / murder

When Demetri and Nico arrived back at the castle the following afternoon he dropped off Nico to Heidi’s room “Can you watch him for a bit please, I need to have a private conversation with Felix?” “Of course D. It will give us a chance to catch up and maybe I can find out more about his new friend” Heidi smiled at him and Nico looked up at Heidi excitement clear in his blue eyes “Sophie and Ellie are great but Ellie is so tiny…” Demetri smiled and closed the door knowing Heidi was going to hear all about Sophie and Ellie. 

He found Felix in his room along with the twins “Afternoon Demetri, enjoy your ‘sleepover’?” Jane asked, amusement clear in her voice, he chuckled “Afternoon Jane and yes I enjoyed spending time with my mate” He replied “So that talk went well then?” Alec asked “Yes it did and she is absolutely fine with everything…including our diet” He replied “Did you tell her about Nico’s mother?” “Yes Fe, I did and she was ok with that too. The conversation that followed was a little more difficult to deal with…for me” Demetri replied taking a seat beside Felix on the sofa “Ah…the complication of Ellie’s father” Jane said softly “DON’T CALL HIM THAT!” Demetri growled at her, his eyes darkening and Jane visibly flinched “D…calm down” Felix said placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder, Demetri took a breath “I’m sorry Jane but-but that man doesn’t deserve the title of father…” His fists curled into balls “Demetri” Alec warned this time “Sperm doner” Jane said low looking at Demetri “We’ll refer to him as the sperm donor…better?” She asked and he nodded seeming to calm a little “Talk to us D…maybe we can help” Felix sounded cautious “I won’t tell you everything as it’s…private and not fair to Sophie but…” He took another deep breath trying to stay calm as just thinking about what happened to his mate angered him “We have a human to hunt down and kill…she deserves to feel safe again…I owe her that much seeing as I wasn’t there when….” Demetri trailed off and realisation flashed across Jane’s face although Felix and Alec took a little longer to catch on “Tell us when and where and we’ll help you Demetri” She said firmly “I was actually just going to ask Felix…” “We’re family and we protect what’s ours” She growled low cutting him off “Agreed” Alec and Felix said together “Thank you. That means a lot” Demetri replied. 

Demetri met with the Kings in the throne alone, the guards on duty having been dismissed by Caius “Demetri, how did things go with Sophie?” Aro asked holding out his hand “May-may I tell you rather than show you?” Aro looked a little shocked as Demetri had never refused before “I mean no disrespect master, it’s just…Sophie disclosed something…personal…pertaining to Ellie and I want to respect that….it should be up to her to share that information with you” Aro nodded “Say no more my dear boy, I think we can…fill in the gaps” “Thank you. Although I must confess, I will be dealing with the problem personally as it hasn’t been dealt with by the human authorities” He told them “As long as you cover your tracks and take Felix and the twins with you, you can deal with the matter however you wish. After all our mate’s safety is what’s important” Caius replied “Thank you, I appreciate your support master” He replied looking at Caius. “I’m glad she has accepted you and Nico and vice versa. I hope you all have a long and happy life together” Marcus smiled “Yes, quite. We are looking forward to meeting them both” Aro added with a smile. 

Demetri and Nico had been spending time with Sophie and Ellie the last month or so and Nico started to notice differences between himself and Ellie that left him a little confused. “Daddy how come Ellie isn’t growing up as fast as I am?” Nico asked Demetri “Ellie is human the same as Sophie” “Why does that matter daddy?” “Well, you are half human / half vampire and as a result you will be fully grown in seven years, whereas Ellie won’t be fully grown until she is sixteen” Demetri replied “Oh ok, but I thought you said I was younger than Ellie” Nico replied looking a little confused “Although you are younger than Ellie in age, you will look older than her physically because of your vampire side, so essentially you will be like a big brother to her as she grows up” Demetri replied “Will Sophie and Ellie become like you dad, a full vampire?” He asked “Yes, I will change Sophie once Ellie is a little older, and once Ellie is old enough to be changed, I will change her too” Demetri replied “So you and I have to protect Sophie and Ellie until they become like you?” “Exactly Nico. Although I will protect all three of you forever” “So, Sophie and Ellie will be with us forever?” Nico asked looking hopeful “Yes Nico, they will be with us forever, I promise” Demetri smiled and wrapped his arms around his son holding him close “Good, I will help you protect them forever too” Nico replied snuggling into his dad.

Demetri told Nico that he had to go away for work and that he was going to ask Heidi to look after him but Nico had a different idea “Can I stay with Sophie and Ellie whilst you’re away Daddy, please?” “I don’t know if that’s a good idea buddy” Demetri replied “Why not?” “What if something happens, Sophie can’t protect you like Auntie Heidi can” He replied “Nothing will happen. It’ll be a sleepover just…without you” Nico replied “Exactly Nico, I won’t be there to keep you all safe” “Please Daddy, I promise to be good for Sophie” “I know you will, but that isn’t what I’m worried about” Demetri said “You don’t think Sophie will want me there without you” Nico replied sounding sad, eyes becoming a little glassy “No, no that isn’t it either buddy. I’m just worried that Sophie will be a little overwhelmed looking after you and Ellie alone” “Honestly?” Demetri lifted Nico onto his lap “Honestly” He cupped his Nico’s face and wiped away the lone tear that slipped down his cheek “I’ll ask Sophie and see what she says” “Thank you Daddy.” Nico hugged him and Demetri smiled. 

Demetri rung Sophie later that evening after Nico was asleep and asked if she would look after Nico for the weekend whilst he was away on a mission “You-you trust me to look after Nico alone…without you?” Sophie couldn’t help sounding surprised “Yes, I trust you with Nico. You’re my mate…but you don’t have to agree if you think it’ll be too much” He replied “I’d love to have him for the weekend and…it gives you a reason to come and see me when you get back” She answered smiling “I don’t need a reason to come to see you” He replied “I know, I’m just teasing Dem. When are you going to drop him off?” “Friday about 11.00am if that’s ok” “Perfect. It gives me time to go shopping tomorrow for food” She replied. Demetri was happy that Sophie wanted to look after Nico, although he was a little worried about him being away from the castle without him. 

“He’ll be fine D. Sophie’s a mum and will look after him” Felix said from the doorway “I know. It’s just he hasn’t stayed away from the castle without me” Felix nodded and entered the room taking a seat on the sofa, Demetri sat beside him “When we get back, invite her to the castle to meet the Kings and me of course, then ask her to move in. You’ll feel much better when she and Ellie are living here with you” Felix said “What if she thinks it’s too soon to move in here?” Demetri asked, worry evident in his eyes “Discuss her concerns and reassure her that she is the only one for you and that you are offering her forever. Be patient and you will get the result you want” He replied “When did you get so wise?” Demetri chuckled “Common sense D. You love her and want her and Ellie here with you and Nico, I can see that, especially after what you told me the other night. Isn’t this why you want to take care of that human, so that they’re safe” Felix replied “Yes Fe, it is. I guess I’m just worried that I may not get my forever with her…once she knows I’ve dealt with him” “You plan on telling her then?” “Yes. I will not lie to her and I want her to know she’s safe. I want her to know that I will protect her and the children always” Demetri said looking over at Nico asleep in his bed “You know what you have to do when you get back…take my advice and bring her here to meet us and take things from there” Felix smiled and Demetri nodded. 

Nico was excited that he got to stay with Sophie and Ellie whilst Demetri was away “Thank you for letting me stay Sophie” Nico said with a smile “You’re very welcome sweetie” She replied and watched as he went straight to Ellie’s room “Thank you for this Sophie. Nico asked to come and stay with you instead of staying at the castle with Heidi” “It’s not a problem Dem, really. I’m looking forward to having some company whilst Ellie naps” She laughed and he smiled at her “I wish I was keeping you company” He replied low and pulled her against his chest capturing her lips with his “Feel free to come straight here instead of the castle once you return” He felt her slip something into his pocket and he looked at her confused “Spare key. So you don’t have to worry about waking me or the children if you’re back late” She replied “You are amazing cara mia” He said and kissed her again “See you in a few days Dem” Nico came running back to the hallway “See you later Daddy” “See you all soon” He replied and kissed his son and mate goodbye “Give Ellie a kiss for me” “We will” Nico replied and watched as Demetri left, making his way back to the castle. 

Demetri, Felix and the twins left the castle and took the private jet to Seattle to deal with the sperm donor, as Jane calls him. Jane made Demetri promise that she could ‘play’ with the lowlife before Demetri and Felix dealt with him permanently. Jane used her gift on him, starting at the lowest level and working her way up to the highest level, Alec took away his senses one at time just for fun during the ‘downtime’ Jane gave him. Demetri couldn’t help the wide smile on his face as he watched the twins torture the man “I think they’re enjoying this a little too much” Felix said low “Good. Let the bastard suffer. I plan to kill him slowly, until he’s begging for a quick death” Demetri replied and Felix noticed his best friend’s eyes were black, despite their recent hunting trip ‘I don’t envy that human once Demetri gets his hands on him’ Felix thought to himself. 

Demetri and Felix torture him a little too as they kill him slowly “Hold his arms down Fe” Demetri growls and Felix nods and moments later Demetri’s foot comes down on the man’s hand, shattering every bone within it “Arrghh” He screams out before Demetri’s foot crushes his other hand, another scream leaving the human’s lips. Felix then bends the human’s elbows backwards, breaking them in the process; Demetri smiles as the human screams again, laughter leaving the twins as they watch the human being broken bone by bone. Alec can’t help himself when he sees the human’s feet moving about as he writhes in agony and steps down hard on them one at a time breaking both feet, more screams filling the air and Alec shrugs when Demetri meets his gaze “He was moving about too much” Demetri nods in agreement before leaning down and punching his ribs, a cracking sound can be heard before he screams again “Wh-who are y-you?” The lowlife stuttered out pian lacing his voice “That doesn’t matter” Demetri replied “Wh-what did I d-do to de-deserve th-this?” “You hurt someone that I love and got away with it…until now” Demetri responded “I-I ha-have no idea wh-what you’re talk-talking about” “DO NOT LIE TO ME” Demetri growled and nodded at Felix who began choking the human, he started coughing and struggling to breathe “I-I d-don’t…” Demetri growled low before moving Felix’s hand from the human’s neck, wrapping his own hands around it instead and twisted; the crack that sounded out in the quiet room assured them the human was dead. “Let’s clean up and head home” Jane said looking at Demetri and Felix, who nodded “Hey D, let me do that, take a walk…cool off” Felix said placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder “I’ll help you” Alec added. Demetri stepped away from the dead body and watched as Felix ripped the human’s limbs away from his torso, Alec throwing a match onto the body parts, ensuring to cover their tracks.

Meanwhile, back in Volterra, Sophie and Nico spent Friday watching movies and cuddling and playing with Ellie when she wasn’t napping. Saturday afternoon Sophie baked cupcakes with Nico and showed him how to decorate them, something he thoroughly enjoyed “Mmm, that’s yummy”” Nico said as he licked the frosting off his fingers, Sophie chuckled “Glad you’re having fun” “I am, I don’t get to do this at the castle” Nico replied and Sophie smiled “I promise to do ‘human’ things with you when you’re with me” “Thank you Sophie, I’d like that” He replied smiling. Sophie and Nico made pizzas for dinner, something else Nico enjoyed doing for the first time, before getting comfortable on the sofa to watch more movies together. 

Demetri got back late to Sophie’s and let himself in, locking the door behind him. He walked into the front room and saw Sophie and Nico cuddled up together on the sofa under a large blanket, he smiled to himself before carefully lifting Nico up into his arms and putting him to bed on the sofa bed in Ellie’s room “Goodnight son” He kissed his hair and tucked him in. He walked over to Ellie’s crib and leant down over it, inhaling her scent “Goodnight princess” He placed a kiss to her forehead and returned to the front room; he lifted Sophie up and carried her to her room and gently laid her down on the bed beneath the duvet. He changed into a pair of lounge pants and a t-shirt that he had packed in Nico’s bag and climbed in beside her, taking her into his arms “Goodnight mi amore” He kissed her cheek “Goodnight Dem” She rolled over and snuggled into him, his grip tightened a little holding her closer to him. 

The following morning Ellie woke up early and Sophie rolled over ready to get out of bed “Let me” Demetri said and moved quickly to Ellie’s room, Nico was standing beside her crib, he had slid his arm between the bars and was stroking her head “Sshh, sshh, you’re ok” He said low, trying to soothe her “Come here princess” Demetri said as he lifted her out of her crib “Daddy” Nico wrapped his arms around Demetri’s legs “Missed you” “Missed you too buddy. Come on” Nico followed Demetri back to Sophie’s room and Demetri climbed back in beside Sophie as Nico stood in the doorway “Come on sweetie” Sophie said smiling as she shifted towards the middle of the bed making room for him. Nico climbed in and snuggled into her as Ellie snuggled into Demetri’s chest “Sunday mornings are a great excuse for a lie in and cuddles” Sophie said smiling “I agree” Demetri replied “Me too” Nico added and Ellie cooed before falling back to sleep, along with Sophie and Nico; Demetri closed his eyes enjoying the sound of his family’s steady breathing and their heartbeats. 

That Wednesday Sophie met Demetri by the fountain in front of the castle “Hi mi amore” He wrapped his arms around her “Hello Demetri” She replied hugging him back; he leant down and kissed her. Ellie recognised his voice and started cooing and making babbling noises, Demetri chuckled “Don’t worry princess, I haven’t forgotten about you” He leant over the pram smiling at her and she smiled back, happy she had his attention. “What if they don’t like me?” Sophie asked as they neared the doors to the castle “They’ll love you, I promise” “But…” “Nico has told everyone about you and Ellie” He cut her off wrapping an arm around her waist “They can’t wait to meet you both” He kissed the top of her head and he felt Sophie relax a little in his hold “O-Ok” She replied. They entered the castle and saw Nico waiting for them; the four of them made their way to the south facing garden where Demetri had blankets laid out on the grass and a picnic basket filled with food for Sophie and Nico, and a flask of blood for himself. 

The three Kings were in Caius’ study that overlooked the south facing garden and observed Demetri, Nico, Sophie and Ellie as they sat in the castle garden spending time together. Marcus didn’t turn to look at his brothers as he confirmed Sophie was indeed Demetri’s mate “Demetri and Sophie are known as ‘True Mates’ and their bond is strong despite the complications of children being involved. Demetri feels very protective of both Sophie and Ellie.” Aro found it amusing that Demetri hadn’t figured it out when they met on the plane “How did he not know Sophie was his mate when they first met?” “Fate works in mysterious ways brother” Marcus mused “All that matters now is that they have found each other and they need to find a way to blend their families together. In fact, a ‘father / daughter’ bond is forming between him and Ellie as he already sees her as his daughter” He added. “Are there any bonds between Sophie and Nico or between the children themselves?” Caius asked, curious “Sophie and Nico have a ‘mother / son’ bond that is very strong; in fact, that bond probably took hold before her bond with Demetri...” “Really? How come?” Caius cut him Marcus off “Yes brother, and I put that down to the fact that Sophie is a mum and she naturally stepped into that role for Nico early on. There is also a ‘sibling’ bond between Nico and Ellie and although Nico is younger that Ellie; physically he appears older than her due to him being a hybrid” Marcus added “Let’s hope things work out for all involved” Aro said “They will brother I’m sure. I will say this though, some leniency will be needed with regards to Sophie staying human until Ellie is a few years older and even then she will need to spend her newborn phase here with us; with her daughter” Marcus replied “That is something that can be accommodated I’m sure…as long as they move into the castle; move into Demetri’s quarters, which can be extended to include the vacant room opposite his; I mean the room can be split to accommodate both children” Caius added “I’m surprised you agreed so easily brother” Marcus commented “I won’t have mates separated, it’s cruel and heart-breaking for all involved, not to mention without his mate our dear Demetri will become like you brother and I know you wouldn’t want that for him. None of us would” Caius replied “I think you’ve mellowed a little brother” Aro mused “I will never allow mates to be separated especially when they are mates of our guards. Anyways, my wife is rather fond of Demetri and Nico and she would make my life hell if I did anything to upset or hurt them” Caius replied honestly “I think my wife would do the same brother” Aro said in agreement. 

Demetri had arranged for Sophie and Ellie to meet the Kings and Queens that afternoon, Marcus suggested they meet outside in the garden as it might Sophie less nervous. Athenodora and Sulpicia were excited to meet Sophie and Ellie “Just don’t over crowd her mi amore, she’ll no doubt be nervous about meeting us” Caius said softly as they neared the doors to the garden. 

“Good afternoon Demetri, Nico” Marcus greeted them with a smile “Master, Marcus” They replied together. Demetri stood up and helped Sophie to her feet too “This is my mate Sophie, Sophie this is Marcus, Aro and his wife Sulpicia, Caius and his wife Athenodora” Demetri introduced “Hello, it’s nice to meet you all” Sophie said smiling “And you my dear, Demetri and Nico have told us lots about you” Aro smiled, resisting the urge to take Sophie’s hand in his. “This is Ellie” Nico said looking at up everyone, Ellie sitting on his lap babbling away “She’s beautiful, just like her mother” Athenodora smiled, Sophie blushed and watched as the Queens sat beside Nico “May I?” Sulpicia asked looking at Sophie, who nodded, before looking at Demetri who smiled back at her “You may not get her back for a while” “That’s ok, Nico seems to like holding her a lot too” Sophie chuckled “She’s just so huggable” Nico replied smiling at Ellie. “I really like Sophie and Ellie” Athenodora said low to Demetri “Thank you mi’ lady” He replied “When are they moving in?” “As soon as possible, if I get my way. We need to have that talk” He replied low “The sooner the better my dear, it’ll be nice to have them here with us” Caius rolled his eyes “You cannot steal the little one my dear” He whispered “I wouldn’t steal her Caius, but I would look after her and Nico if…Demetri and Sophie wanted alone time” Demetri chuckled as she took Ellie from Sulpicia “I’m going to assume Sophie and Ellie have your approval” “Definitely my dear boy” Aro answered smiling. 

Later that afternoon Demetri took Sophie and Ellie up to his room and met the twins in the corridor “Hello Demetri, Nico” Jane smiled “Hello Jane, Alec. This is Sophie and Ellie. Sophie this is Jane and Alec” He introduced “It’s nice to meet you both” Jane said smiling “Yes, we’ve heard lots about you” Alec added “It’s nice to meet you both too, Demetri has told me about you both also” Sophie replied  with a smile. The twins followed them into Demetri’s room taking a seat on the sofa “They want a cuddle with Ellie” Demetri said to Sophie as she watched the twins get comfortable “Oh ok. I’ll change her quickly and then she’ll be ready for a cuddle” Sophie said before entering the bathroom to change Ellie’s nappy. A few minutes later and Jane is cradling Ellie in her arms, Alec sitting beside her “Ellie’s loving all these cuddles and attention” Sophie whispered to Demetri, although the twins heard “There’ll be no shortage of offers to look after her and Nico should the two of you want alone time” Alec said smiling “As long as I get first refusal” Jane said looking at Demetri “You’ll have to speak to Athenodora, I think she called dibs first” Demetri chuckled “My room is closer” Jane replied, Demetri and Sophie nodded at her. Nico went and beside Alec waiting for his turn to hold Ellie again. 

Sophie and Ellie stayed over the night and Demetri saw to Ellie when she stirred, crying a little, allowing Sophie to get a full night’s sleep. The following morning Demetri caught her off guard with his topic of conversation “Sophie I would like you and Ellie to move in with me, here at the castle” “Isn’t it a bit soon to live together?” She questioned “Sophie, remember what I said about my kind being protective of our mates…” She nodded “…In my case it’s worse as there are two children to protect also” He continued “I must admit I like it when you stay over, but I miss you both when you leave” She replied “I miss you both too when we’re not together. I want my family together, I want us all under one roof, so I can protect all three of you” Demetri said looking at Sophie, Sophie was speechless hearing Demetri say her and Ellie were his family “I love you Sophie and that will never change, I promise. Please move in with me mi amore” He asks holding her hands in his and she nods, her eyes tearing up “Ok, we’ll move in with you” “Really?” He asked “Yes, Dem really. I love you too” Demetri smiled wide and lifted her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her, her arms wrapping around him too. “Hear that Ellie you’re moving into the castle with Daddy and I” Nico said smiling at her and she made little noises back at him in response, causing him to laugh “I need to teach you to talk once you move in” He added, Demetri and Sophie chuckled watching their children together. 

Demetri moved Sophie, Ellie and their stuff into the castle that weekend with the help of Felix and the twins. “Sophie the room opposite yours and Daddy’s is my room, but I haven’t really stayed in there as I sleep in Daddy’s bed, but now you and Ellie are moving in with us, that room will be now be mine and Ellie’s shared room” Nico said smiling and pulling her into the room “It looks nice but are you sure you want to share with Ellie, she doesn’t always sleep through the night” She replied “I like sharing with Ellie when we stay with you and I don’t mind if she cries in the night” He replied “You won’t change his mind mi amore” Demetri said in her ear, his arms wrapping around her waist from behind “I just wanted him to be sure Dem that’s all” “I know but trust me, Nico wants to share with Ellie..” “He told us all how this is his and Ellie’s room now” Felix added cutting off Demetri as he entered the room with a box of Ellie’s stuff. “Thank you for helping us move in” Sophie said to Felix and the twins “You’re welcome, although I was surprised you didn’t have more stuff” Alec replied “The apartment came furnished and all I had was mine and Ellie’s clothes and a few toys when I moved over here. I bought a few things that I needed once I moved in and planned to get more as time went on but…” “Anything you need just let me know cara and it’s yours” Demetri cut her off but she didn’t reply, choosing to just smile at him.

[cheese-ception]

Dulcis

I am so soft for Levi it’s not even funny...

Dulcis means sweet. Such as he is. I’d like to dedicate this one to my dear @tsubaki3192​ �� I hope you enjoy it, love. It’s Lorei-approved! ♡ @masamune-archive​ pairing: Leviathan (Obey Me!) x reader warnings: none word count: 1010

Leviathan shuffles in his seat, distracted and huffy and you grin.

Rather than a sea serpent, he reminds you of a hedgehog at times – somewhat prickly, shy and slow to open up. It doesn't take much to startle him and make him bristle, curling up on himself to protect his fragile ego from getting bruised.

You are all too painfully aware of how cautious you have to be with him, taking is easy whenever he feels threatened or upset and to his wonder, you respect his boundaries, eventually bringing such situations to an absolute minimum.

He feels safe with you, happy even.

But not today.

His leg bounces against the floor while he readjusts his position for the umpteenth time, slight blush spreading across his cheeks, much to his dismay.

He leans away from you, the collar of his loose shirt sliding down, baring his collarbone and most of his right shoulder, skin pale against the dark fabric.

Seeing him that way stirs something in you, causing you to stare at him in appreciation of his exquisite features, your arm seemingly gaining a life of its own, reaching in his direction.

Clumsily, you retract it, stroking nothing but the air between you and fold your arms against your chest, eyes still glued to Levi as he swallows, his Adam's apple bobbing in his throat.

He looks absolutely stunning and it takes all of your strength to keep your hands locked against your biceps, the atmosphere in the room growing tenser with every passing second.

Finally, he notices you have been looking at him, the mix of love and yearning in your gaze mirrored by his own, although doubt gnaws at his resolve at the same time, keeping him stuck to his chair, unwilling to be the first to take the move.

You seemed to have reached an impasse now, his hesitation and your worry tying you both down in a fragile standstill while he studies your expression, inquisitive but fretful, choosing his words with the utmost care, only to stumble over his own tongue when he finally breaks the silence.

'Wh.. why are you looking at me like that?' he stutters out, voiced pained and his gaze darting around the room, desperate to find something else to look at than your face.

'Like what, Levi?' you coo, mischief tinting your tone in a way that makes the fine hairs on his forearms stand up in apprehension.

'Don't tease me!' he hisses, an edge of annoyance making his words sound somewhat sharp and brittle.

You chuckle and his chest feels tight, immediately assuming you're making fun of him.

It's him you're talking about after all.

An unsightly, disgusting, good for nothing otaku, who has no chance at ever being with you, not the way he would want to, the way he has been dreaming about for so long. Longer than he cares to admit, even to himself.

His train of thoughts gets interrupted by your voice, halting his ride of self-deprecation, leaving him stunned as your fingers touch his chin, tilting it slightly upwards.

'I was just thinking about how beautiful you are.'

He draws in a sharp breath, eyes closing and for a moment you think he will shrink away from you, escaping your gentle grasp, the though of it alone enough to make your eyes sting with tears.

But he stays right there, leaning into your touch, the warmth of his face positively radiant, furious blush colouring it in its entirety.

'You really mean that?' he swallows again, still nervous but brave enough to meet your eyes with his amber ones, a small spark of hope igniting in their depths.

You smile and he could swear he's never seen anything so dazzling. His heart races so fast it makes him dizzy while he waits, seemingly patient, while he's burning on the inside, unable to deprive himself of more of your affections as he nuzzles against your fingers.

Leaving your right hand on his chin, you raise your left one slowly, tracing the delicate curve of his neck, fingertips feather-light against his skin.

A small moan escapes him while you reach his collarbone, its hard ridge smooth at first, though as you ghost over it again, your nails scrape against several shimmering scales, eliciting a soft whimper from him in turn.

You start praising him, words filled with love and adoration spilling from your lips in abundance and he keens at the stimulation they provide together with your continued ministrations.

Snaking your fingers into his hair, you let it spill through, shiny strands slipping between your digits like silk, falling back slightly dishevelled, enhancing the way he slowly falls apart under your touch, starved for more but not demanding as he accepts each and every stroke with such obvious content it sets your heart aflutter.

You graze the base of his horns, surprised to feel they are actually warm to the touch, luminescence making them glow dimly amidst his purple tresses. An idea forms in your head and you test it, stroking the coral-like branches, teasing them softly under your careful fingertips.

He moans loudly, biting into his lip, sharp teeth leaving little marks as he gasps for breath, shivers running over his spine, making him tense up, pushing against you a bit harder.

He brings your hand to his mouth, kissing your fingers with bashful reverence, shaking a little before pulling you onto his lap, resting his head against the crook of your neck, practically purring into it when you brush through his hair again, slowly coming to terms with the fact that his desires are getting realised and you aren't leaving him just with his thoughts and dreams.

'Will you stay with me tonight?' he murmurs, the question he wanted to ask so many times finally leaving his lips, punctuated by a tiny kiss against your neck.

It's your turn to get flustered, sure that he can feel the way your heartbeat quickened at his proposition, happiness spreading through your every nerve.

'I thought you'd never ask.' ________ Masterlist

[damfinofanfiction]

Chapter 5: Their Night Out

Goodness! I thought it was an easier chapter, but it turned into a longer one. I hope you like this!

It’s been a couple of days since Gail heard something concerning about Buster Keaton that she should never know. Gail was in her room which was meant to be for a maid. It was 11 am, she decided to get up, get dressed, and apply her dark makeup. She tried to stop thinking about Keaton, but she couldn't. Why would he betray the mother of his children, The same woman who he cast in “Our Hospitality”? Then, a thought occurred to her, what if Mayzie is lying? It is hard to believe that she would make up a fib about one of Hollywood's elite. Suddenly, her train of thought stopped when she heard knocking on a door.

“Come in,” Gail answered, brushing her hair.

Sally slowly opened the door, sending Gail two pieces of toast because she missed breakfast. She said to her housemate, “Bae it’s unlike me, but, I’m a bit worried, you aren't yourself since after we got home from the Venice café last Thursday.” She went in to sit on the edge of the bed, “What’s eating ya?”

Gail turned away from the mirror to look at her, “Sal, how much do you know Mayzie?”

Sally shook her head, “Nah, I don’t pay attention to the whole gang.”

“Do you think she would ever lie to anyone?”

She leaned on the bedpost, “I do think she might have lied about her age.”

She took a deep breath before saying, “At the party, she told me she went out with a famous actor.” Sally’s face brightens up in astonishment. Then Gail continued with “And he’s married.” Her brows, then furrowed, “What?”

“She also told me not to tell anyone.” She moved next to sally, “What do you think?”

“If she were lying, she would say he’s a bachelor.”

Gail looked down feeling disappointed, “Well, I hope that isn’t true.”

“It doesn’t matter Bae, this is Hollywood, people sleep around.”

She turned to sally, “You sleep around.”

“Yes, but not to married people!” Gail wanted to weep if it weren’t, for Sally’s presence and her freshly applied makeup, she finally took the toast and ate it “Did Mayzie tell you who it was?”

Gail responded while brushing off the crumbs from her lap, “Yes, but I cannot tell.”

“Then leave it as it is.”

Gail puts aside the half-eaten toast  and lies down, feeling aggravated, “I need to clear my head.” 

Sally lies to join Gail when she suggests, “How about we go out for the night?”

Gail was uncertain, but, she nonetheless responded with, “So long as I get you home at a reasonable time, I think it's a good plan.”

Sally suggested, “We can go dancing and then to a speakeasy”

Gail nodded in agreement, “When’ll that happen?” 

Sally responded with a blank expression, “Not if my aunt is occupied.” They realized that Lenore could get worried ill with both of them being out at night. 

Gail said to her, “If she falls busy, We’ll see if that time comes.” 

Sally held her hand, “It’s a deal.”

2 weeks later, Lenore was set to go to a friend’s house for a game of bridge, leaving the women free to go downtown. They went out of the house in their short evening dresses like flappers. Sally was dressed in red and wears her stockings rolled, unlike Gail, who left her stockings unrolled along with her black and white dress. They went by taxi for dinner and dancing. The nightclub they attended was not elite, but it was to their taste. They danced to jazz and the foxtrot. Before they exhaust themselves, they retreated to the Speakeasy by taxi.

After they are dropped off, Sally and Gail walked on the pavement until they reached the toy store. The blonde took out a tiny piece of paper from her clutch, “It’s got to be that address.” Gail detected the alley on the side of the store, “I see four trash cans lined up here”. Sally smiled, “Then this must be the Joint.” Located at the end of the alleyway, they climbed down the steps to get to the door. 

Gail clung to the rail in caution, “How secure is it?”

“The speakeasy changes passwords every week, thankfully I remained in contact with my ex Roger. I hope he’s kept out of jail.” Sally knocked on the door. A pair of eyes appeared from the peephole. “Password?”

 She replied, “Davis sent me.” 

It was opened by a man in overalls, who padded both of their bodies thoroughly to make sure neither of them had police badges.

 “Hey Jackass! Do you do this to all the patrons or just the women?” Sally squawked. 

“Quiet that’s my business!” The man yelled as he examined their clutch purses.  After inspection, he said, “You’re good to go,”

The friends were let into the room as Gail went curious when she noticed two passageways, then she was notified that one was to be discreet. They went through the main passageway to a chamber designed to look like a saloon. The Gin mill does not have a traditional clientele, as its patrons come from various races. The musician was Hispanic, while the bartender was Asian. Gail was intrigued at the diversity but remained cautious for rough drunks. They are only carousing men, hopefully not threatening. 

Sally walked to the serving area to order drinks while Gail went to find seats for them. She found a booth in an area that was somehow unoccupied except for an overweight man sitting in the back. Gail thought that guy looked very familiar, but she prefers to enjoy her evening. 

Gail raised her hand to get Sally’s attention. As she joins her on a booth, a server brought them complimentary potato chips and water. Though they were satisfied from dinner, Sally couldn’t help herself for a bite. 

Sally was elated when the drinks appeared on their table. She handled her glass saying, “Oh I miss you.” before downing her giggle water. However, Gail was nervous since she had never had real alcohol before. “How can I be careful?” Sally told her, “Drink slowly”.” As she took her first sip she tingled to the burning sensation in her mouth and then her throat. Her reaction caused her friend to laugh, which infuriated her. Sally then congratulated her, “Welcome to my world.” And after a moment, they clink their glasses together. 

Not long after, Sally nearly spits out her drink, whispered to Gail, “Bae, look behind you.” She reacted in surprise at the sight of Buster Keaton, who was shaking hands with the overweight fellow. 

Gail nearly slammed her face on the table when she said, “Of all the Gin mills in Los Angeles at this hour of the day, he has to go here.”

Confused, she said to her raven-haired friend, “I thought he was your favorite.”

“I did before I hear-,” Gail paused before she spilled the beans.

However, Sally was quick to figure out, “Oh shit. That was Buster?”

Gail covered her face rather than admitting, but eventually nodded her head.

Sally did not react as strongly as her friend did but, was still in disbelief, “That explains why you’re feeling down and out.”

Gail is so upset that she took a few sips from her drink.

Sally patted her shoulder, “It doesn't matter if that's a bunch of crap or not, don't let that get your goat, you're supposed to sit back and calm your nerves.” She gestures to Buster, “Let that Keaton fellow hang out with the fat guy.”

She raised her eyebrows as she finally identified the man, “Sal, that’s Roscoe Arbuckle!” 

Gail didn't recognize Arbuckle at first because he hasn't appeared on film for over 3 years. Before the scandal, he was a headliner in films under the nickname, “Fatty”, and he had previously worked in keystone comedies. Her first exposure to Buster was when he started his own film career working with him.

Sally went perplexed, “Huh, I forgot all about him.”

As Gail was touched upon Buster's appreciation for his friend during hard times, she concluded that perhaps something good existed in Keaton after all.

************

“How’s business treating you, pal?” Buster asked, sitting across his friend.

Arbuckle shrugged, “Better than last time. The Tuxedo Comedies had me directing another short. It’s a comedic take on John Ford’s The Iron Horse.”

Keaton lounged on his seat, “My guess is you would be working with good ol’ Al St. John.”

“You are correct Bus. Speaking of which, he asked me for a favor for you.”

Buster responded with a sure nod.

“You know that Rocket Train you used for Our hospitality, he wants to borrow the Locomotive for the short.”

Grinning, he replied, “Well, I got to use it anyway.” Later, joking, he said, "Next thing you want me to be in the movie as well?” 

They laughed at the thought, but Arbuckle would consider it. Soon, their drinks show up with Buster having told the server that both of them are for him as he is worried they would be spit on by the server.

Roscoe asked, “Enough about me, How did Seven Chances go?”

Buster tapped the table as he responded, “I've got it, I came up with the perfect gag to end the sequence.” 

Roscoe cheerfully said,  “Good for you, how will that go then?” 

Buster wiggled his finger, “Ah, You have to watch my film to find out.” 

He raised his glass slightly, “Also I would like to thank you again for including Doris in Seven Chances.” 

“No problem, chief.” 2 friends clinked their glasses together.

*****************

Gail was drinking water when she asked, “Are they still here?”

Sally looked behind and said “Yep.”

Seeing the waiter come back, Gail made a suggestion, “You know what, how about if I buy him and Mr. Arbuckle a drink?”

Sally smiled seeing her clever side, “Getting his attention? I like it” she chipped in, “Let me pay for one of them!” 

Soon after, the server brought Buster and Roscoe 2 smaller glasses of liquor. Before they had a chance to speak, the server informed them that the drinks were paid for by the ladies at the booth. Gail shyly waved as the Server pointed to her and Sally. 

Roscoe half-wittingly questioned him, “Which one of these dames you will be taking in?”

Buster was offended. “Stop that! You know very well my heart belongs to my wife!” 

Roscoe half-heartedly said, “Yeah, the one you cheated on after she kicked you out of the bedroom.” Buster hushed him, concerned that someone would hear. 

As Roscoe was apologizing to Buster, Gail recognized Buster’s body language, in a suspecting manner, perhaps Arbuckle knows something.

Within an hour, Sally had ordered another round and asked Gail to mingle with the patrons, but she preferred instead to observe the body language of a screen comedian and his rotund friend. By the time sally returned she felt intoxicated but not too drunk. Gail, who was now seated next to her, gave her chips to counteract the effects of the alcohol. 

After all that carousing, Roscoe stood up and put on his hat and coat, “I’d better go home. Doris won’t like it if I leave her alone too long.”

The friends exchanged parting words and Roscoe left to the same door that his protégé had entered an hour before. Gail frowned seeing this, thinking that the stone face will have to leave as well. 

Gail sighed, “And I wondered just how innocent Buster really is.”

Sally went, “Screw it, go talk to him.”

Gail was bewildered. She thought sure after the time she encountered the comedian in person, she is certain she will pass out again. She told sally “I don’t know, after what happened on the set-”

Sally patted her cheek, “Bae, you made it so far without blacking out, you’ll be fine.”

Gail feeling unsure, took one more sip to ease her nerves, got up from her table, and straighten her dress.

Sally also stood up to whisper to her friend, “If you do not find out anything about him, I can talk to that Mayzie girl.” Then she pats her in the back before sitting down, “Good luck.”

Gail got Keaton’s attention when she stood near him.

She waved and smiled when introducing herself, “Hi, my name is Gail Anders.” She was trying hard not to blush, “In case you didn’t remember me, I was on one of the brides in the chase sequence in Seven Chances.” 

Keaton nodded, “Oh of course. I want to thank you for the drinks.”

"You're welcome, It's all we can do.” she pointed to sally behind her, “She helped pay for them. Her name is Sally.” 

Gail had her hands on her back to hide her fidgeting fingers, “I want to tell you I’ve been a fan of your work. I even saw your films with Mr. Arbuckle.” 

He didn’t say anything, he was studying her looks. He only nodded at her to respond.

Behind her happy expression, she was seconds away from telling him that he was with Mayzie and asking if he is dating other women when Buster finally chirped out, “Didn’t you work at the Café on Venice Beach?”

 Her hands stopped fidgeting, “Yes, I used to be chorus girl with Sally. Why did you ask?”

“I was there once around last year.”

She went wide-eyed, “You’re, kidding? How did I not notice?”

Buster admitted, “I was on the very back. I was good at blending.” He also recalled, “I think it was that jump rope sequence.” Gail remembered that one. The chorus girls were jumping rope for the act. She was considered lucky to not have fallen out of the stage.

He praised her, “I thought you did very well.”

She blushed hearing this, “Thanks. I currently work at Mack Sennett’s studio.” Buster asked, “Have you played lead roles?” She replied “No I just work on background roles. Sometimes as a bathing beauty.” 

“I think you deserved to be in the movies”

Gail was blessed hearing that, “Thank you again. Gail continued, “Oh, and I love Sherlock Jr. It’s such a great show. I saw it four times. My boyfriend didn't think it was that funny. Though the effects are amazing.” 

Buster seemed thrilled to hear that considering it didn't make much money as his latest film The Navigator did. As Gail attempted to talk more about the effects, a clunk came from behind her.

Gail turned and saw that Sally drank up the alcohol left behind on the table, and tipped the glass. She turned back to the stone face and said “I think I have to get her home soon.”

 He asked, “Is she your sister?”

She shook her head, “No, I just live with her and her aunt.”

He went puzzled, “Why here?”

Her eyes trailed off, “I don’t have an idea. Sally told me she wanted to take advantage of the growing real estate.”

Buster was close to chuckling, “No, no, I meant where are your folks?”

She sat straight as she told him, “They are in Nevada. They were nervous about me moving to Los Angeles after the scandal. I did so anyway and then sally took me in from that cheap unpleasant place.” she went, “Regardless, I thought it was a nice thing of you to check on Mr. Arbuckle.”

“Roscoe? Thanks. I owe everything to him.”

Sally whispered in her ear, “Has she told about me.” Gail didn’t know that her friend was so close to her that she frightened her. Buster stood up from his chair to get ready to leave “How about I escort you fellers through the passageway?”

Gail nodded at his gesture, “Sure just let me leave a tip first.” 

With Sally seemingly drunk, Gail has her hold her friend to keep her in place while Keaton led them back to the entrance where they saw that the man in overalls is now napping.  

After they reached the door, Gail turned to Buster saying, “Will I ever see you again, Buster?”

“As long as you catch me on Seven Chances,” he said. Gail giggled at his reply.

Her soft statement was, “Maybe I'll audition for your next movie. Goodbye now.” Keaton watched as they departed the Speakeasy.

As they got out of the alleyway Sally asked, “Well, did you find out anything about Keaton?”

Gail was raising her hand to attract a cab, “I can’t do it. I don’t care anymore. I know he is a very trustworthy friend.”

Sally went, “Okay if he is a cheat. He needs to stop that before he goes to hell.”

Gail was happy to chat with her favorite screen comedian but when she mentioned her boyfriend to Keaton she suspected that she might have struck his nerve. It is not clear that he showed it, but it is possible.

Soon, their ride home shows up and got on the passenger seat. As Sally leaned on her friend she commented, “Oh and you aren't kidding about the accent. Some night out huh?”

Note: that the film that Roscoe was talking about. it was the Iron Mule (1925). There is even an uncredited appearance from Buster Himself! Try to watch it!

also Gail couldn't hear Roscoe and Buster. that part is supposed to be POV for both Buster and Gail.

[nyongsimp]

truly, madly, deeply (pjy)

pjy x female reader word count: 4.1k genre: fluff fluff fluff warnings: it’s based on One Direction’s song, so you might cry. also, very domestic jinyoung. there miiight or might not be a proposal. mature content: just fluff.

summary: waking up besides the love of your life has always been a blessing, and today is no exception.

The not-so-subtle light was entering the room, the rays falling right on your eyes, making you struggle to continue sleeping. You’ve never liked when the window curtains weren’t fully down as any tiny ray of sunshine would make your peaceful sleep drift away. The sheet moved over the night, so now it wasn’t fully covering you but covering only from your waist to your feet. With your eyes still closed you tried to go back to sleep, taking advantage of the state you were in, between sleep and awake.

A tug in your waist was all you needed to know that he was still asleep, so being really cautious not to wake him, you turned between his arms to contemplate him while you could. He had never been a fan of people staring directly at him. Yes, he has been an idol for a while now and an actor too, and he loves his jobs. He shows himself as someone tough and neat, sometimes people take him as cold and a bit of a bully, he has portrayed an image for so long that now he has to maintain it. But people who really knew him were aware that he’s someone with some big insecurities and really shy. He loves to admire art and beauty so much, and he doesn’t notice that he is both things too.

You opened your eyes little by little to find Jinyoung laying on his back, head tilted to your side. His eyes were closed, eyelashes touching his skin like feathers. Lips slightly parted and doing a small pout, which you adored, there was a little stubble around his mouth, which he hated and would surely shave as soon as he woke up. He moved a little, trying to spoon you to keep you closer to him, but you moved too and he stopped; his arm still around you but his legs allowing you to fit one of your legs between his.

Still looking at his face, you laid your hand on his chest, feeling the beating of his heart. He frowned a little, those full thick brows changing his peaceful state to a worried one. The hand you had on his chest moved to cup his face and then your thumb stroked his frown away as lightly as you could, once it faded his lips curled a bit, making his cheeks look puffier.

You knew you were the luckiest girl in the world if you were able to see the Park Jinyoung like this.

There were still some occasions when you questioned yourself if this was just another dream of yours, as this was too good to be true. But that’s how life works, sometimes things that seemed impossible for you end becoming true. You were sure there was something you did incredibly well in your past life, had someone up there that really loved you, or destiny was on your side, because there was an almost zero-chance possibility for this to happen, nevertheless, it was real, and it was your present.

You went back to the first time he saw you, three years ago.

You were rushing to one of your Master’s classes, coffee on one hand, bag beneath your arm, some books being held with your forearm against your chest. Professor Han would be pissed if you arrived late again, but it wasn’t really your fault that the classrooms were at different ends of the campus. You cursed at your twenty-two-old-self for taking the decision five years ago of coming to South Korea to do a Master’s in Korean Language, thinking it would be easy which, spoiler, it wasn’t. You fastened your pace.

Your phone in your free hand buzzed and you took a look at it; it was a twitter notification: GOT7 would hold a meet & greet at your auditorium. Great, this would be their first OT7 activity after all they went through: getting out of JYPE, winning the lawsuit to keep their name and songs, and the korean members going to their military service. And you will be missing it because you had to deliver your final paper to professor Han or you’ll have to face taking his class again next spring. Which you couldn't or wouldn't as this was your last year here and it would mean saying another year but this time without the scholarship.

Muttering curses in your native language, you didn’t notice a large group of people coming until it was too late; your blouse had a huge stain of coffee, the books you held were all over the place, the only good thing was that your paper was safe. You didn’t even have time to say anything before lots of screams were making you deaf, hands were all over the place collecting your stuff, phones were all around you. What was this?

‘Is she ok?’, ‘she should be more careful’, ‘look, another idiot who falls so they have to pick her up’, those were some of the things people were saying.

“Here, let me help you,” a voice you recognized pretty well told you, a hand was extended to your direction. “I’m sorry for the trouble, but you have to be more careful of your surroundings, if not you’ll get hurt” he flashed you a friendly smile.

You took his hand to get up and thanked him, another man gave you your bag, other your books, and the last one gave you your coffee mug. You thanked them once again before saying you were sorry and bowing a couple times. They left, and so did the security guards and the fans, you stood still. 

Park Jinyoung had smiled at you and helped you get up.

Shortly after that first encounter you started bumping into each other, and after six months of doing so, you joked about hanging out sometime and he agreed, so he asked for your phone number and you gave it to him. A few days later you started hanging out with him and a few months later he asked you to be his girlfriend, the only downfall: you had to go back to your native country, so he helped you to find a job at his agency. Jinyoung asked you to move in with him while celebrating your first anniversary, and six months later he traveled to meet your parents.

With that travel the scandal exploded, everyone wanting to know more about the secret girlfriend of the most secretive members of GOT7. Most fans took the news pretty well. After all, Jinyoung was turning thirty-three and everyone was waiting for a dating scandal from him as he was the only missing from the seven men. And now, a year and a half later, you were laying between his arms, admiring his features, appreciating his warmth.

You felt his hand sneaking under your shirt to touch your lower back. “You’re staring” his morning voice finally made its appearance, ears turning red.

“Yes, I am,” he moved closer to you and opened his eyes, staring directly at yours. “I love watching my boyfriend.”

He laughed and you smiled. You weren’t lying, you loved watching him doing anything. To you, he was the most perfect human being you could share your life with. Both of you fitted so well, of course there were some fights, but nothing that couldn’t be fixed. You were truly in-love with him, no matter what others said.

His stomach growled, of course he was starving. Last night when he arrived he went straight to the bedroom, practice being really tiring to him as the next comeback was being prepared. He didn’t even eat something on his way to your place, and when he fell on the bed you had to help him to change his clothes so he could sleep more comfortably. And as today was his free day, he slept as much as he could, and by that you meant around twelve hours.

“Good morning.”

“Seems like someone’s hungry.”

“No, I’m not,” he said, placing your head on his chest and finally hugging you with both arms.

“Jinyoung…” you warned.

“Let’s stay like this a little longer,” he hummed, his voice vibrating on his chest. “We can go eat later, let me enjoy being like this with my girlfriend” he placed a kiss on your hair and you felt your heart warm.

Even though you knew it was a bad idea as he would fall asleep again, you let him have the opportunity of being like this. He was playing with your hair while you were drawing circles on his chest’s exposed skin. Last night was too much struggle for you to try and put him on a shirt as he was really sleepy for his own good, so you let him shirtless and enjoyed the warmth of his skin while you could. As soon as you heard the light snores, you decided it was time to make breakfast, and against all your desires to keep sleeping along your boyfriend, you got up. He immediately seeked your body, pouting and frowning when he couldn’t reach you. You tied your hair and walked over to his side, gently brushing his hair out of his face and kissed his cute nose before going to the kitchen.

You put some coffee to brew and scrambled some eggs, then chopped two tomatoes, sliced an apple, and took out a banana and a few strawberries. Once the eggs were finished you put bread to toast while serving some yogurt and granola in a bowl. As you were finishing, you placed the food in a tray so you could move all of that at once. You made your way to the bedroom and hoped for Jinyoung to be asleep. His idol agenda was crazy, and with his upcoming movie filming he would need as much rest as possible. He’ll hate not being able to give his best and will keep blaming himself for it.

He was still sleeping when you entered the bedroom. You placed the tray on the nightstand, and then walked over the window to open the curtains a little bit without disturbing Jinyoung. Now it was time to wake him up. So there you went again to his side of the bed, sitting on the edge of it, hoping it wouldn’t make that much noise.

You couldn’t help but look at him again, seeing him this calm and relaxed would always bring peace to your life. You were sure you could explode from love right then. This was one of the highlights of your relationship with him; him trusting you enough to show you his defenceless self, his fears, his worries, his tears and also his joys, his wonderful laughs, his playfulness, and everything he often had to hide from the rest.

You leaned over to kiss him on the cheek to wake him, but he surprised you when he trapped you with his arms over him, you let out a small and quick scream. The kiss intended on the cheek ended up on his lips. He laughed fondly while kissing you.

“God, I could wake up like this every morning and never get tired of this,” he said, eyes half-closed and lips brushing with yours. “Good morning.”

You laughed lightly. “Good morning,” a peck on his lips was all he got before you could escape to get the tray. “Here, I made breakfast.”

The look Jinyoung was giving you made you weak in the knees. It wasn’t a lustful one, even though the shirt you were using was his and you weren’t using a bra and he knew it. His look was a fond one. The one that can make you feel all warm from love, because you know that their eyes light up like that only for you and you’re the only one able to see it. His eyes never left you as you approached him again, left the tray on his legs and then sat beside him.

Both of you started eating, sharing what happened this week. He was being really secretive about the comeback, more secretive than he ever has, and it only intrigued you more. He knew you were a fan, but that hasn’t matter before, maybe this time there would be something bigger, and you respected that. It was exciting anyways. He told you that next week he would be coming home later than usual as Jaebeom asked him to run some errands with him, you told him that your parents were coming next weekend so there would be a dinner being held as they missed you a lot and your dad wanted to make sure that his princess were being well treated.

Jinyoung’s free day went faster than you expected. You decided not to go out, and instead to watch a movie and order in, so he could have a relaxing day. He didn’t decide which movie to watch though, this time it was your turn and you decided to watch the live action version of The Beauty and the Beast, he knew you would cry when Evermore came up, so he hugged you closer when Dan Stevens started singing. He made fun of you when you started saying the dialogues in your mother tongue, but he loved hearing you speak another language than English or Korean, he just would never say that to you out loud.

At the time you both had to go back to bed he went into the bedroom first as you wanted to wash yourself before going to sleep, when you went into your bedroom you saw Jinyoung sitting at the edge of the bed. You kept drying your hair with your towel until you were kneeling in front of him.

"What's going on?" you touched his knee and he looked at you, your thumb was caressing his skin and he placed his hand on top of yours. "Nyongs, are you ok?" "Yeah, it's just…" he gave your hand a squeeze and then placed a kiss on top of it, his eyes drifting to his drawer and then to your hand again. "I feel like this is too good to be true, as if I'm going to wake up at any moment and you won't be here. I'm afraid that I could lose you."

You stood up and your hands cupped his face and you made him look at you, "listen, Jinyoung, there's no way on Earth that you could lose me or that I would ever leave you. You're all I've ever wanted and more, much more," you kissed him on his lips and then hugged him.

"You promise?" he asked, his voice trembling a little.

You knew he was afraid, that was your fear too. Your relationship was never too vocal when it came to feelings. Yes, you mocked each other at times by calling each of you by boyfriend or girlfriend. But there weren't tons of I love yous, and the pet names had died long ago in the relationship, those were saved for special occasions. You hugged him tighter and he enclosed you in his embrace, his head on your chest and arms wrapped on your waist.

"Princess? Do you promise?"

He was really affected, so you nodded, "yes, Jinyoung. I promise."

Jinyoung broke the hug and then stood up and looked you in the eyes. He was holding your hands and then he was kneeling in front of you, "then say yes."

"What do you mean?"

"Let's get married," he opened the little velvet box you didn't notice he was holding until now. "Promise me that from now on it'll be the two of us forever. That, of course, until and if you wanna have kids."

You were speechless, like you forgot how to breathe. Your hands were covering your mouth and he was looking at you waiting for the answer. How long has he been hiding this ring? was the first thing that came to your mind but you shushed your thoughts before making Jinyoung stand up again.

"Then let's do it. Let's be us forever, with kids and everything" you said with a smile on your face and your eyes full of tears of joy.

He placed the ring where it belonged and then hugged you.

________________________________

It was Saturday morning when you decided to hang out with your parents for the day as Jinyoung had to record something for their fans. Your mother was extremely excited to go out and know Seoul while your father was still struggling with the jet lag. They told you about the family, how your cousins, aunts and uncles were doing. It has been so long since you last saw them, you missed them but you also didn’t have the time to go back to your hometown as much as you wanted.

You three spent all day together, your mother even bought you a beautiful casual dress as she wanted to gift you something. You ate at one of your favorite restaurants knowing how picky your dad was about food, walked beside Han River and watched all the people on their bikes or spending some time with their loved ones. It was almost dawn when you received a call from Jinyoung, letting you know that he would go and pick you and your parents up to have dinner together with his parents.

Jinyoung and you had decided to tell your parents about the engagement over dinner, hoping that none of them would collapse right there. Once you arrived at the restaurant you made the reservation, Jinyoung introduced your parents to his and, much to your surprise, your parents bowed politely.

After that, dinner became complicated, your parents speaking their respective mother tongues, and you and Jinyoung working as translators, but it seemed like it went good anyway. When you and Jinyoung broke down the news to them it felt like an avalanche of emotions; your mom was crying, your dad was shocked and consoling your mom, Mrs. Park was clapping while telling you how much she wanted her baby to start having babies of his own, and Mr. Park was coughing as he was drinking water when Jinyoung spilled everything.

Once everyone went back to their senses the questions began, and you told them not to worry as both of you wanted to do something small and private, just some relatives and your closest friends. Both fathers nodded while your mothers were lost now in their recent talk about grandsons or granddaughters. When the dinner came to an end your mothers exchanged numbers with a promise to try to communicate as much as they could while Jinyoung’s father flinched at your father’s handshake. You looked at your dad, scolding him with your eyes as you had previously told him that their handshake wasn’t as strong as the one he was used to. You said your goodbyes and left the restaurant.

After dropping your parents at their hotel you went back to your place. Jinyoung was driving with his hand on your thigh, and you looked at him when he drove by your building.

“Jaebeom-hyung sent me a text, seems like I forgot something with him,” he smiled at you and you relaxed, you hated surprises.

You looked out of the car, loving the way the lights were on at night, it was like magic. Seoul’s traffic was really troublesome, that was one of the reasons using public transportation was better. You didn’t remember quite well where Jaebeom lived, so you decided to sleep a bit. You knew the pair too well to know that it wouldn’t be just ‘picking it up’, it would take an hour or so to go back to your place, so Jinyoung would wake up once you were there.

Jinyoung was caressing your arm to wake you.

“We arrived?” he hummed in response, you stretched yourself and took off the seatbelt. “Alright, let’s go.”

“Here, let me help you” his hand was extended to help you out of the car.

“What−” you stopped yourself when you noticed you weren’t at the city, but at an observatory. “Nyongs, what’s this?”

He just shrugged his shoulders and offered you his arm. As you walked you saw a square piece of cloth laying on the ground and some candles around it, the view was amazing. You looked speechless at the man walking beside you.

What was going on?

As you got nearer the cloth you noticed a lot of flowers and petals laying around it and a bouquet of it at the center of the cloth. Pink, blue, yellow, red… you didn’t know a lot about flowers, you loved them, yes, but you knew nothing about the meanings and all that. The only flowers you could remember their names to were the orchids and the sunflowers. The city lights made it impossible for you to see the stars but you still had the moon.

When you finally arrived at the place Jinyoung wanted you to be, he handed you the bouquet and hugged you.

“Wait,” you said in his embrace. “Am I forgetting something? Why are we here?” your impatience made its appearance.

“What? Am I forbidden from doing something special for my fianceé?” Jinyoung retorted, grabbing the guitar you didn’t even notice was on the mat.

“But−” he kissed you.

“But nothing, be quiet.”

He started playing a song you knew too well, after all GOT7 wasn’t the first band you loved and he was well aware of it, constantly dealing with your love for Harry Styles. How and when he memorized the chords and lyrics from the song was a mystery to you, but there he was, singing Truly Madly Deeply to you. Tears started to form in your eyes and you smiled up to him. You took in the smell of the bouquet.

“Truly, madly, deeply I am. Foolishly, completely fallen. And somehow you kicked all my walls in,” he placed the guitar on the floor and came nearer to you and placed his hands on your hips making you slow-dance. “So, baby, say you’ll always keep me truly, madly, deeply in-love with you.”

"What are you doing?" you wrapped your hands around his neck.

"Dancing with you," he stated as if matter of fact.

"I mean, what's all of this?"

"Oh. Well… this was the actual proposal. I told the boys that I wanted to marry you and Jaebeom-hyung told me to ask you already, so he and Mark-hyung helped me a little. Jackson and Bambam accompanied me to look for the ring a couple months ago."

"What? Months?" you frowned a little.

"Yeah," he laughed. Oh, you loved when he laughed. "And actually Yugyeom was the one who told me to go for something simple and not the ring the other two were thinking,” he shrugged. “He was right, though."

You stopped dancing and sat on the mat, "and what about the song? I have never told you about it."

"That was Youngjae, he heard from his girlfriend that you said that that was the proposal song. But the other day seemed like it was the right time to do it, and this was because you deserve it," Jinyoung placed an arm over your shoulders and kept you close to him.

"Be honest with me, you did it anyway because you didn't want the boys to be all whiny at you after all you put them through for this, don't you?"

"Well…"

"Don't you?" you squinted your eyes at him and poked at his side.

As Jinyoung wasn’t saying a thing, you decided to tickle him. He started laughing from the tickles and fell on his back on the mat, you on top of him, his hands keeping you in place while you kept tickling him. His hands left your hips to grab your hands, placing them at his sides to stop you from tickling him.

He pouted, "yes." 

You knew he knew his pouting was one of your weaknesses, and still both of you enjoyed how this ended.

You give him a peck before he could deepen the kiss.

Jinyoung couldn't help but to feel like his chest was about to explode. Everytime he looked at you, he could picture you wearing your white bridal dress while he was trying to be strong as he looked at you walking down the aisle, everyone else blurry but you. He could also picture how the two of you started having children of your own, he dreamt of the day he could experiment a pregnancy with you, or to adopt if you didn't want to get pregnant or couldn't, either way those would be your kids.

He could picture all his life from now on, holding you close, being sure this wasn't a dream.

Hearing his heartbeat, you did that too. 

And Seoul’s night sky was your witness.

[slytherinknowitall]

To Bed A Death Eater

Chapter 2: Doubt

(Click here for chapter 1!)

Disclaimer: I don’t own the “Harry Potter” book series. The story of “Harry Potter” is the property of J. K. Rowling, it is not my intellectual property. There is no financial gain made from this nor will any be sought. This is for entertainment purposes only.

Less than ten minutes later, there was a timid knock at her door, and Hermione would have been lying if she had said that that sound did not make her heart skip a beat.

Putting aside the book she’d been absentmindedly flicking through, she walked to the door with a rather stiff and unsteady gait before pulling it open to reveal the familiar figure of the Potions Master.

“Professor Snape,” she whispered breathlessly, trying hard to ignore the sudden lump in her throat. “Um, please, come in.”

Stepping aside, she watched as the man hesitantly took one cautious step into the crammed room; and the unusual sight of his visible wariness made her mentally smack her own forehead.

Of course. He can’t see!

“Here, let me help you,” she offered, reaching out her hand without a moment’s thought. When she touched his forearm, he drew a sharp intake of breath. “Oh, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to startle you, sir.”

Snape did not say anything in response. For an agonizingly long time, they just stood like that in the doorway of her bedroom, her hand on his arm, the awkwardness in the air virtually palpable. It was only when there was suddenly the sound of commotion coming from downstairs that Hermione summoned up the nerve to pull him inside, locking the door behind them. Getting out her wand, she applied a silencing charm as well as some protective wards for good measure.

Better safe than sorry. It certainly wouldn’t do any good to have someone just barge in.

Turning back around to face him, she tentatively grabbed his elbow and guided him towards her bed. She could not help but silently cringe as she saw him there, seated on her tiny twin-size bed, thinking about what might be happening soon in that very spot. But alas, her small bedroom, which she had moved into a mere two months earlier, did not offer any other sitting accommodations. And so, though her heart was trembling so very terribly, she went and sat next to him.

For a while, neither one of them spoke. Kneading her fingers, the young woman struggled to ignore how uncomfortably close she presently was to her former teacher as she stared out the window overlooking the deserted street outside. Looking back, she could not have said with certainty whether it had only been a few minutes or several hours, but by the time the streetlights came on, she finally plucked up the courage to say, “I’m glad that you decided to come here so that we can talk in private.”

“I did not have much of a choice,” Snape admitted huskily. “Alastor practically pushed me upstairs while Albus tried to contain everyone else in the kitchen.”

“They’re still not very thrilled about this, aren’t they?”

He gave an affirmative grunt. “Most of them were ready to jump at my throat and kill me with their bare hands right there and then.”

“Oh …” Hermione had to swallow hard. “I’m sorry. They really ought not to treat you like that.”

“I don’t blame them. I truly have half a mind to turn my own wand on myself.”

A troubled frown creased Hermione’s forehead. There was an obvious hint of blatant self-hatred dripping from his words, and she did not like that. She did not like that one bit.

But before she even had the chance to respond, he continued, “I will be honest with you … I do not even know what to say to you right now.”

Vaguely tracing the diamond pattern of the quilt they were sitting on with one finger, she tried her best to sound nonchalant as she mumbled, “Well, why don’t you simply tell me whether or not you accept my offer.”

“Miss Granger, I –”

“Would you mind if we used first names?” she interrupted him. “Just for today. It’s just that formalities would make this whole thing even weirder than it already is.”

She saw him hesitate for a second.

“All right … Hermione,” he ultimately conceded, and it was so weird to hear him properly address her by her given name for the very first time – though she had to admit that it sounded quite nice coming from his lips. Something about that deep voice of his made her stomach clench up into knots. “As much as I appreciate it, I obviously cannot accept your proposal.”

“Why not?”

“Even forgetting the fact that you were my student for seven years and that I am a lot older than you, I could never in good faith make you endure such a thing. This, this curse,” he spat out the word with disgust. “Is a lot more powerful than you could ever even imagine. It would strip me of all control and force me to do unspeakable things to you that could very well destroy your sanity.”

He turned away from her in an unsuccessful attempt to hide his facial expression which was filled with nothing but self-loathing. “Even now, I can feel the dark magic coursing through my veins, tugging at my mind. It senses your presence. I can hear it whisper to me, bidding me to just rip off this stupid blindfold and take you right here. Merely sitting next to you already requires more will power than any time I have had to shield my mind from the Dark Lord.”

The witch’s breathing hitched in her throat. His crude confession made her heart beat so fast that it was almost threatening to break out of her ribcage. Willing herself to take a deep breath, she squeezed her eyes shut and forced herself to stay put.

No. No, you can do this. For the Order. For Harry.

“I don’t believe that Professor Dumbledore would have sent you up here if he thought that there was a chance of me being seriously harmed,” she said softly, her eyes still closed. “And I also don’t believe that any kind of dark magic would ever be able to entirely overpower your morals and your good heart.”

He snorted with biting laughter. “Then you clearly do not know me well at all. Or him, for that matter. All that old madman cares about is the cause. We are all nothing but mere chess pieces in that little, rigged game of his he likes to play.”

“Don’t say that –”

“But it’s the truth! Don’t you see?” His tone gradually got louder and louder. “Any reasonably sane man in his position would have simply hired an unsuspecting prostitute, slipped her a couple of potions and then sent her back home with an altered memory and a nice, big bag filled to the brim with Galleons, blissfully unaware of any specifics. But not Albus. No, in his mind, raping the Muggle-born third of the Golden Trio is the perfect way to feign loyalty to the enemy and thus securing his plaything’s rank among the Dark Lord’s inner circle. Ha! As distraught as he might have acted, he knew from the beginning that you’d be the one to volunteer. Only you’d be foolish enough to let the greasy git of the dungeons fuck you in an attempt to save his pathetic, miserable life. You and your stupid saviour complex. So please, don’t be so naïve. This is all just a fucking charade to that bloody bedlamite!”

What followed that angry outburst was silence – complete and utter silence. Not even the rustling of the trees outside or the rapid palpitations inside both of their chests seemed to be able to penetrate their noiseless bubble. Hermione could feel her own pulse thumbing in her ears, and her mouth felt almost disgustingly dry. Wordlessly counting to a hundred, she at last opened her eyes and dared to cast a glance at the wizard. He was sitting in a hunched-over position, his face buried in his hands. Never before had she seen him like that, so evidently helpless, so vulnerable. For some reason, it nearly made her feel physically sick to witness him in such a state.

“I understand your apprehension, I really do,” she muttered gently. “I’m not quite keen on having to do this either. But I honestly don’t see any other way out of this mess. Somehow or the other, the curse must be broken … and time is running out.”

“I know,” he croaked out, the words muffled by his hands.

“And for all his faults, Professor Dumbledore is right. We cannot put ourselves before the cause. Especially not during dark times like these.” She could not stop her face from twisting into an anguished grimace. “Besides, I dare say that you are being a bit naïve yourself if you think that tricking a stranger would not weigh heavy on your conscience, too.”

Snape slowly lifted his head a little, allowing his chin to come to a rest on the pressed-together tips of his fingers, which were horribly stained from years of daily brewing.

“I don’t think that you are fully aware of what you are getting yourself into here. This would not be like any of your previous sexual encounters, Hermione. There would be no romance, no pleasure, no satisfaction. It would be hard and fast and downright animalistic.” He squared his shoulders. “And though I have never made it a habit to keep up with my students’ private lives, I do not think that it would be wrong of me to assume that an ever-busy academic like you most likely has little experience with such things.”

Hermione felt the warmth creep into the apples of her cheeks as her whole body stiffened, and that movement did not go unnoticed.

“I mean, you do have some experience, right?”

No answer.

“Oh god, you aren’t still a virgin, are you?” Snape rasped despairingly before letting his head fall back into his hands.

Hermione shifted her weight with unease. “I do not attach any value to my virginity if that is the problem, sir,” she was quick to assure him, glad to know that he could not see how awfully red-faced she was at that very instant. “When you think about it, it’s really nothing but a social construct. Will I be a different person afterwards? No. Will you be dead should I refuse? Most likely. So the decision is easy, really. The only reason why I … why I haven’t done it yet is because such a situation has simply never arisen before.”

“No! No, this is deranged!” he cried out as his entire body seized up and started to shake. “How could I ever live with myself knowing that I took something like that from you?”

She bit her lower lip. “I very much doubt that it would be that much better to wait for my first true love or maybe even just a drunken night out to come around first,” she argued with furrowed brows. “Because even in that case, it would be awkward and fumbling and, in all likelihood, disappointing. With you, now, it would at least serve a bigger purpose. It would be special – in its own absurd way.”

“I can’t,” he whispered in a quivering voice.

Suddenly feeling bold, Hermione grabbed his wrists and pulled his arms towards her, forcing him to face her.

“You don’t have a choice,” she told him in a beseeching yet stern manner. “You are far too valuable to the Order to stupidly risk your life like this.”

Snape opened his mouth as though to say something in response, but then he quickly closed it again. Pulling free from her grasp, he leaned back until his shoulders were touching the wall against which her bed had been pushed. He looked like a picture of misery. His complexion was of a deathly pale colour, his jaw was clenched, and a few beads of sweat could be seen running down his forehead.

“I do not want to do anything against your will,” he insisted weakly.

“I wouldn’t be too concerned about that if I were you. I –“ She dithered for just a second. Come on, Hermione. Don’t lose him now. “I am rather physically attracted to you.”

His head jerked up in surprise. “You are?”

“Y-yes,” she replied bashfully, all at once feeling dreadfully shy. “I find you quite handsome, actually.”

She was not lying just to make him feel better either. Truth be told, she’d had a slight fascination with him ever since he took over the Defence Against the Dark Arts position during her sixth year, when his passion for the subject really started to shine through – particularly during his more physical demonstrations.

Still, she was glad when he did not ask her to elaborate any further. Watching as he ran a tremulous hand through his jet-black hair, she heard him say, “Surely you are aware of the fact that some men would not take kindly to the fact that you are not chaste anymore?”

“Good!” Hermione huffed exasperatedly. “If they truly measure my worth as a person by who I have given my body to, then I’d rather have them think of me as used goods and leave me alone all together.”

“And what about Weasley?”

She looked at him with confusion in her eyes. “What about him?”

“He seemed … very much opposed to the idea.”

“Oh, he can sod right off!” she snarled angrily, leaping to her feet. “I don’t want anything from him. I never have.”

Walking the short distance to her nearby dressing table, she pulled open one of its drawers and fished out a black hair tie which she then used to fasten her brown curls into a low ponytail at the nape of her neck. Checking her appearance in the half-tarnished mirror, she could see the man rub his hands across his thighs in obvious discomfort.

“It could hurt,” he said in what sounded like a last-ditch effort to keep from having to yield himself to his fate.

Turning around, her mouth twisted into a wry smile.

“I’m sure that I have experienced worse,” she told him calmly, and for a moment, neither one of them said anything. Hermione sat back down next to him. “But like I said, I don’t think you’d ever be actively out to hurt me. I trust you, you know?”

Even though they were mostly hidden behind the blindfold, she could still see his eyebrows lift in surprise. It was abundantly clear that even the mere notion of someone like her trusting someone like him seemed utterly unfathomable to the dark wizard.

There was another short moment of heavy silence. Then, a deep sigh escaping his lips, he finally asked, “Are you really sure?”

The tone of his voice nearly broke her heart. He was normally such an assertive and stern man, but now he just sounded so defeated. It made for an easy choice.

“Yes.”

(Click here for chapter 3!)

[shouta-aizawow]

I forgot what number it was, so... 3(? Bakugou loving big space to sleep. Like a queen/king sized bed, or a big couch, etc. But when he's sick he get in the most little space he can find, and if they are hidden even better. (Ex: The air conducts, the space in between the washing machine and the wall, etc). 1A finding this in the worst possible way :)

This is so CUTE 😭

Okay, so Katsuki used to like small places all the time, as in tiny rooms and whatnot, but after the sludge villain, that changed.

Then the sports festival happened.

Then the kidnapping happened.

Now, Katsuki cannot stand to be in tiny spaces and feel constricted. He’s touch-starved, but in his opinion, that is a lot better than having a panic attack or a flashback.

Some people may call him prickly, but he prefers the term “cautious”.

That all changes when he’s sick, however.

Katsuki doesn’t feel ill very often, but when he does, it’s like his mind becomes more cat than human. He forgets everything and his only thoughts are “need warmth, need comfort, small space mine”.

Unfortunately, his haze isn’t as potent as time goes on, because as he feels better, these thoughts just become an urge at the back of his mind that he is able to ignore.

But while he’s taking the brunt of the sickness, “Katsuki’s mind” becomes “Catsuki’s mind”, and he can’t control what he does during it.

So he hides under tables, sleeps in closets, and curls up in the small space behind the furniture.

That’s all fine and dandy, but Katsuki was kidnapped once, and his classmates seem on high alert every time he’s out of sight.

(Out of sight, out of mind? More like out of sight, all of mind amirite? 😎)

And because the class had never seen him sick before, when they haven’t seen nor heard from him for the entire day, well...

To put it bluntly, all hell breaks loose.

The Kamino rescue squad was suiting up to find him, Shoji and Jirou were using their quirk like it was the last day on Earth, people were destroying furniture, and some of the more level-headed ones (which isn’t saying much) went to get Aizawa.

When their teacher gets to the dorms and witnesses the absolute chaos, he’s about to nope right out of there until he notices the suspicious lack of explosions.

He immediately questions the students, and the ones closest to him answer with the sentence that had to be in the top three of “things I never want to hear again”.

“We can’t find Bakugou”, they say, unaware that Aizawa’s stoic face was just the mask covering the complete dread settling in his stomach.

He manages to continue on despite this, and quiets everyone down, pointedly not looking at the destruction.

Aizawa looks at their tense and terrified features, unsure of how he’s going to approach the situation. As soon as his mouth opens, though, the front door opens.

He turns to see who it is, and in walks Kouda, back from the vet, carrying his bunny.

Aizawa gets an idea.

Before Kouda even has the chance to look at the damage caused by his classmates, Aizawa says, “Kouda, Bakugou is currently missing. If you could get your pet to search the dorms for him, that would be much appreciated.”

Kouda wants nothing more than to curl up in bed and fall asleep after his long day, but after taking in the severity of the situation, he knows better than to ignore it.

So he nods and asks his bunny to search for “the one that smells like caramel and smoke”.

After a tense 5 minutes, the animal comes back and tells Kouda to follow her.

As Kouda starts to walk away, Aizawa and a few of the students decide to follow as well.

Soon, they come across a section in the wall that seems to have been removed. Unsure of what they’d find, everyone is fearful, but Aizawa grabs the edges of the panel and pulls.

It takes a bit of effort, but once he sees what’s inside, he sighs.

Katsuki is there, curled in a blanket, tissue box beside him, and sound asleep.

(Aizawa doesn’t get paid nearly enough for this.)

After telling the other students to go and clean up and thanking Kouda, he turns his attention back to problem child number 2 (though he’s thinking of making him number 1 after today).

Aizawa gently nudges Katsuki awake, and when his student’s eyes open and he takes in his surroundings, he’s immediately hit with a panic attack.

Now, contrary to popular belief, Aizawa cares a lot about these kids, and with that, he’s also very observant when it comes to them.

He knows Katsuki is claustrophobic, so he’s confused as to why he was, as it seems, voluntarily in such a small space, but he puts those questions to the back of his head as he starts to help the child that is struggling to breathe.

After about 10 minutes, Katsuki is calm enough to, albeit weakly, push Aizawa away.

They sit in silence for a bit.

Aizawa asks what Katsuki was doing in there, and when he hears an “I was sick” in response as if that actually answers anything, he shakes his head, rubs his temples, and says, “Congratulations. You’re number one on my list of children that give me the most problems.”

Katsuki chuckles softly and gives a better explanation.

Aizawa listens and then scolds him a bit for worrying everybody, but with a pat on his back and a “Try not to do this again next time, at least tell someone where you’re going”, he gets up and goes back to his apartment, hoping that he’ll finally be able to get some sleep.

(He doubts it, but a man can dream...

...which is probably not what he’s gonna be doing anytime soon as he gets a call from Nezu asking why there are multiple noise complaints coming from other dorms.)

DONE!!! This wasn’t how I thought it’d be when I first read this ask.

I first planned to make it like “someone finds Katsuki and uses their quirk on him in surprise, waking him up harshly, causing him to have a flashback, and getting the brunt of an explosion to the face in return” + “lots of angst and anger/mistrust on Katsuki’s part probably”, but my fingers said no❤️ and it went like this instead.

Aizawa had, like, two lines, but he’s surprisingly hard to write dialogue for (or at least in this he is). I can write characters’ thoughts and actions, but their words are hardest for me. (that’s half of the reason why there’s so little dialogue in this. the other half was that it would be too long and i didn’t feel like doing it :P)

ANYWAY!!! I HOPE YOU ENJOYED IT!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS 💖💞💗💕💓💝

[satananon]

I figured that since @ibelongtowrath is always sharing so much, that I would try my hand at appeasing you all.  So I hope that you all enjoy.  

    Satan flipped the pages of his book and let out a resounding sigh.  He looked over to the bed beside him where Rebecca sat, engrossed in a makeup tutorial on her DDD.  He couldn’t help but smile as he appreciated the look of concentration on her face. 

    Reluctantly, he pulled his attention from her face and shut his book, reaching over to lay it on his bedside table.  He sat up, turning to face her and cleared his throat.  

     “Kitten, I was wondering if you would let me steal you attentions for a bit?” 

    Rebecca looked up from her phone and smiled, “Oh, Daddy you know that you can steal my attention whenever you want.”  She sat her DDD aside and looked at him expectantly.  “What’s up?”  

  “I was hoping I could tell you about this dream I had last night.  I keep replaying it in my mind and I thought that you might find it amusing,” he responded, waving a hand loftily.    “Ooohh was it a sexy dream?” she inquired, her voice bearing just a hint of a sultry tone.  

   “ No, you insatiable thing,” he leaned over and kissed her nose, “it was not a sexy dream.  Now if you are prepared to listen, I will regale you with my tale.”  

    Rebecca nodded and settled into a cross-legged position, elbows propped on her knees, and her chin resting on her hands. “Okay, I’m ready, lemme have it.”

Shaking his head in amusement, he closed his eyes, thinking back to the dream…..

“So there I was, at my desk, working through a stack of manuscripts that Solomon had provided me, my genius mind deciphering the mysteries at an amazing pace…” 

Becca snorted from her position across the bed and Satan opened his eyes shooting her a warning look. 

   “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. Keep going, please.”

“Anyways….  So I was burning through the manuscripts with amazing speed, one right after the other; but with the excitement of my success, I had forgotten to be cautious.  Old manuscripts can be a bit tricky; you never know when a disgruntled sorcerer might decide to leave a curse for the next reader.  So, I reach forward grabbing the next in the stack where there is a blinding light that flashed before my eyes and pain ripped through my body.  

    When the light cleared I found myself staring up at my desk.  My first thought was that I had strumbled upon some kind of shrinking curse, that is until I saw something out of the corner of my eye.  

    What I had seen had been a large brown and black striped tail.  It was in that minute, I realized that I had been turned into a cat.”

   Rebecca let out a surprised gasp of surprise, quickly covering her mouth to stifle the laughter that quickly followed.  “So you mean to tell me that you got turned into a cat?’, she inquired her voice ripe with glee.  “You were actually literally, Cat Daddy.”  She began to roar with laughter then, her body folding in half as she buried her face in the bed.  “Oh this just keeps getting better and better.  Sorry, continue please.  I am dying to see where this goes.” 

    “So there I was, turned into a cat by a cursed manuscript.  Obviously my first reaction was to panic.  I ran as fast as I could toward the mirror, but being unaccustomed to having paws, I found that I was tripping head over tiny little cat paws, landing my flat on my face.  Once I reached the mirror, I took in my appearance.  It was obvious by the silky chocolate fur and adorable white socked feet that I could be nothing other than a purebred Birman.  

    As I admired the sheen of my coat, I felt my nerves begin to calm.  The chances of the curse being permanent were slim and I decided that it would be a missed opportunity to not take full advantage of the situation at hand.

   It was about that moment that I heard a key in the lock and the door begin to open.  I darted across the room, positioning myself to run out the door, when I noticed that it was you entering the room.”

   “Awww I was in your cat dream?”, Rebecca gushed, as she playful pushed at his shoulder.

   “Yes, Kitten, you were in my cat dream,” he answered unable to keep the smile from his face.  

  “As you pushed your way into the room, I heard you calling out to me.  I let out a loud meow in response and you looked down at me with love obviously shining in your eyes....”

   “Obviously.” 

   “Yes, obviously, Kitten. What kind of monster doesn’t look at a cat with love.”

“.... love obviously shining in your eyes as saw me sitting before you. You reached down and scratched my ears; it was quite pleasant actually, it made me purr which seemed to please you.  I could have stayed there all day, enjoying having you dote upon me, but being unsure how long I had before the curse was up, I knew I had to make quick work. 

    I moved quickly, slipping between your legs and darting out the door and down the hall.”  

“Oh I see how it is.  There was I was showering you with love and you just abandon me, Rebecca pouted, warranting an eye roll from Satan.

    “As I moved down the hallway, my literal cat-like stealth helping me evade the eyes of anyone who passed; I found myself standing in front of Mammon’s door.  It was cracked just enough for me to slide through.  I looked around the room, for research purposes obviously, and that is when I saw something that made my feline blood boil.

    Sitting on his couch, exposed to the harsh dry air of a room that has not been perfectly curated to a temperature to prevent decomposition, was my prized signed copy of The Codex Leicester, Leonardo da Vinci.  Naturally, I was livid.  There was no way that I would have lent him a book of such historical value.  He would have had to take it from my room himself; most likely after looking up it’s worth online.”  

“How much is that book worth?”, Rebecca interjected. 

“In terms of human currency…”, Satan counted on his fingers as he wordlessly mouthed his calculations, “I believe with the current exchange rates, it would be worth somewhere along the lines of $30.8 million USD.”

“You have a book work 30 million dollars?!”, she gasped, eyes wide.

“Yes, Kitten, but that is not the point right now, I am trying to tell you about my cat adventures...”

“How is a book worth 30 mil…..” 

“AS I WAS SAYING….” 

“The book as sitting there, on his couch, unprotected, probably deteriorating by the second and I was absolutely livid.  I knew that in cat form there was no way that I could get it back to my room without causing additional damage.  I knew that I would have to retrieve the book from him later but I could not just walk away without teaching him a lesson.      Luckily for me, one of his designer leather jackets was draped across the chair in the corner of the room.  I jumped nimbly into the chair, grasping the leather in my mouth, I yanked the jacket from the back of the chair, teeth leaving blatant puncture marks.  I position it into a nest, making sure to bite it in several places; he wouldn’t want to leave the marks uneven.  Then I threw myself down into the nest rubbing myself against it.    If I am being honest, I got a bit lost in the sensation.  It was very comfortable.  I was just laying there, purring and shedding all over the jacket when I heard the door push the rest of the way open.

    ‘Oy!  What the hell you think you are doing, you stupid cat!  Get off my jacket,’ he yelled at me from behind his stupid yellow sunglasses.

 A shoe whizzed through the air, missing me by inches.  That scummy brother of mine was attempting to hit a poor defenseless little cat!  I was angry again, unable to believe that even he would stoop that low.  My hackles rose and I began to hiss at him.

   ‘Don’t think ya are gonna scare me off like that!  Get out of my room!  Satan probably snuck ya in didn’t he?  He should have kept you locked up; I am gonna feed ya to Beel for messin’ up my favorite jacket,’ he was growling at this point, like even a cat would be scared of him, I mean really.

   He rushed towards me, another shoe in hand, and raised it up, preparing to smack me with it.   I hissed again and darted around him, jacket in my mouth, and headed for the door.  

  ‘Get back here ya bag of fur!  Gimme back my jacket!’

I made my way into the hall, jacket still snug between my teeth, and surveyed my options.  Mammon was close on my tail and I needed an escape plan.  It was then that Levi turned the corner and I knew what I had to do. 

    Taking off as fast as I could, I charged Levi, releasing my claws and scaling him in seconds flat. 

   Then Levi cried out, “Woooooaah, what is happening, I can’t see anything, why is there so much fur.”  The jacket had fallen over his eyes as I took my attack position on his head; hissing and clawing at Mammon as he pushed closer.    “Just hold ya self still, Levi, I am gonna take care of this furry little pest.”  He said this to Levi as he raised his shoe again to hit me. Being the intellectually superior being that I am, I saw the move coming and just as he went to hit me, I left into the air straight over his head.  As I landed gracefully on the floor, I turned to watch as Mammon hit Levi on the head with the shoe, just as the jacket I had been holding fell to the ground.   As I watched Levi’s demon form appear, I decided that this was a good moment to make my escape and leave them to their own business.  

    “Poor Levi, what did he do to deserve to be left like that, Daddy?” Becca pouted, obviously invested in the story at this point.

“It’s called collateral damage, Kitten.  Levi is a strong demon, don’t let his Otaku ways fool you; he can hold his own.”

“I continued down the hall, smug from my victory over Mammon, when I entered the common room to find Belphegor sleeping on the couch.  He and I had not had much interaction since our tiff over you and I was still feeling a bit sore over the whole situation.    I walked over to the couch and sat on the floor, looking up at him.  He was fast asleep and did not even notice that I was there.  This was the puurfect opportunity to take my revenge.”

“Stop laughing at me Rebecca, that was funny and you know it.” 

“I sat up tall, drew a deep breath into my cat lungs and let out the loudest most mourn cat yowl I possibly could.  Much to my dismay, Belpheghor did not even budge.  So I pushed my face right up against his and yowled again.    “What the actual fuck?” Belphie sat up, looking startled to find a cat staring up at him.  I just flashed him the smuggest look I could with a cat face and meowed loudly again.  He glared at me before rolling over and throwing his pillow over his head.    Not being one to be ignored, I jumped up on the pillow, making sure to push it uncomfortably into his face before I jumped up on the back of the couch and looked down at him.  He threw the pillow to the side and glared up at me, his eyes filled with irritation.  

    ‘What is your problem cat?! Better yet why the hell are you here?’ he snapped at me.  I meowed at him in return, my tail swinging behind me.  That is when he decided to try and push me off the couch.  Though I could have easily landed on my feet, I decided to strike quickly and bite him.  

   He yelled out in pain, ‘Ow, you little shit, what the actual fuck was that for?!’

   He pulled back to hit me and I made a break for it.  I was getting pretty good at the escaping thing.  I made sure to let out another loud meow as I ran, letting him know that I considered this victory was mine.  

    “You bit him!?”

     “He harassed my mate,” Satan retorted defensively.

      “I think maybe biting him was a little dramatic, Daddy,” Rebecca countered.  

“I am not dramatic.”

“I was back in the hallway, running for my life, the murder cow somewhere behind me. I looked around, trying to find my bearings, when I realized exactly where I was.  I was in the hallway leading to Lucifer’s room.  Fate was indeed smiling down on me in that moment.  I had found my way to the very place I wanted to be.

   As I reached Lucifer’s door, I found it was closed and I could not open it with my adorable little cat paws.  I had to find a way to get him to open the door before one of the three brothers I had encountered so far found me and sealed my fate.  

   I noticed then a vase, position on a pedestal across the hall from the room.  I crouched down on my haunches, and took a running start and lept, hitting the vase squarely with the weight of my body.  It fell with an astounding crash.  

   I rushed back across the hall, pressing my self against the wall as Lucifer threw his door open.  

“What is going on out here?”, he asked in his stupid peacock squawk.  That is when he noticed the broken vase and got his feathers in a ruffle.  As much as I wanted to stay and watch his irritation, I knew that I had a greater calling.  

   I slipped into Lucifer’s room just as the door fell closed.  What I saw once I entered could only be described as hideous.  I don’t know where Lucifer learned about style, but it was obvious that he had none.  Red and black.  Asmo would have had lost his lunch.    I decided there was only one option.  I had to wreck everything.  I jumped up on Lucifer’s desk and began to shove piles of paperwork onto the floor, delighting as the papers floated through the air.  It was amusing in fact, I lost myself and started chasing one of them.    Next, I had to kill the hideous curtains.  Asmo would have wanted them to die.  I ran and jumped shredding them as my claws ran down the length of them.  I tried to pull them down, as well, but they were secured pretty well, which frustrated me.  So I decided to go into Lucifer’s closets to rub against all of his clothes, covering them in cat hair and relieve myself in his favorite shoes.”

“YOU DID NOT PEE IN HIS SHOES!”

“I did so.”

“And you call me a naughty kitten!”

“So as I exited the closet, the bed seemed like the obvious next choice.  I jumped up on the bed and began to scratch at all of the pillows, extracting features as I went.  Feather pillows, our course the peacock had feather pillows.    It was when I began to shred his bedspread that I started to feel odd.  My limbs aching and head spinning a bit.  I stopped for a moment, resting my head on the bed, willing the spinning to stop.

   The sound of the door opening jarred me from my rest and I found myself looking at a wide eyed Lucifer, staring at the state of his room.  I sat up on the bed, feeling very satisfied and let out a proud meow; but when the sound left my mouth, it wasn’t quite as it had been before.    Lucifer wheeled on me, fury in his eyes, ‘Satan, what the hell are you doing naked in my bed?!  And why the fuck are you covered in feathers!?’

   I knew that in that moment, calm was the best way to mess with Lucifer’s head.  So, I stood from the bed, brushing the feathers from my hair and body, and began to walk towards the door, chin held high.  Lucifer was gaping at me as I approached him, not quite sure what was happening.   As I reached him, I stopped, looked him dead in the eyes and said, “Fuck you, Lucifer.”  Then I made my way out of the room and that is when I woke up.”

   Rebecca sat silently for a moment, absorbing the story that he had just told her.  “So you turned into a cat.”

“Yes, I thought that was clear,” he replied a bit confused.

“And your first response was to torture your brothers?”, she inquired calmly.

“No.  My first thought was to torture Lucifer; the rest just happened organically.”

    That was the point where Rebecca could no longer hold her laughter in.  Tears began to stream down her face as laughter wracked through her body.  

   “That was the funniest thing that I have ever heard!” she gasped as she tried to regain her composure. You were so petty!!  I love it.”  

  “I am glad that you are amused, Kitten, “ he said with a smug smile, “I also enjoyed it.  It had me in a good mood all day.”  

    There was a loud knock then and they both looked towards the door.  

    “Satan!”  Lucifer’s voice bellowed loud enough for his voice to be heard through the thick wood. “Where is the cat, Satan? You know the house rule.  Don’t try to deny it! Something peed in my shoes.”

  Satan and Rebecca turned towards each other, both of their eyes filled with surprise before they both erupted into peals of laughter. 

[dearlazerbunny]

Ignite (Redux); Ch. 1 of 5ish

Pairings: Kylo Ren x Reader

Genre/Ratings: currently T for severely injured reader 

Words: 2250

Summary: After an accident aboard Starkiller Base, someone unexpected proves invaluable.

This is a rewrite of Ignite, which I published two-ish years ago. I thought I could put more into it than I did initially, and soon enough this one chapter was more words than the whole original idea. Same story, incredibly expanded upon. Enjoy!

You sigh as you scroll through your daily schedule that’s pinged into your datapad. Apparently a fresh crop of newbie engineers has been recruited, and now you’ve got to teach them how to not blow themselves up- or more crucially, not blow up the expensive TIE Fighters that cost more than your entire life is worth. Joy oh joy. Really, you prefer to work alone- you’re a senior engineer aboard Starkiller base, you don’t need anyone to double check your work (or worse, mucking it up). But as long as the rookie knows their place and doesn’t cross wires they aren’t supposed to, things should- should- be okay.

Hopefully. Maybe. Fingers crossed.

You pull on your uniform, doing up the buttons and fastening the buckles; your tool belt, a beautiful piece of leather that’s been worn enough to be molded precisely to your waist, gets secured in its place of honor across your hips. After tracking down your pesky gloves and tucking them into the top of your work boots so you don’t lose them for the millionth time, you join the ebb and flow of traffic constantly racing though Starkiller’s veins and head for the flight deck.

It’s a decent trek- base is huge, and nowhere you’re heading is ever anywhere near everywhere else. It’s become something of a tradition to mentally curse whoever designed this bucket of bolts as you follow hallway after hallway, trying to keep pace with those around you. Would it have killed them to put in some moving walkways? Maybe a more direct path through the ducts? At least that way you’d be able to avoid all the upper-crust officers on your way to work, and their holier-than-thou stares as they eye your patched elbows and stained pants. Chuckling to yourself, you pat the nearest metal archway, mentally apologizing to your pride and joy. Starkiller is, ultimately, a feat of engineering, and the fact that you get to crawl around in her walls and find what makes her tic is a pleasure, no matter how finicky she gets- or how snotty the officers become.

In the corner of your eye, you can tell that the corridor has suddenly emptied, startlingly silent of stormtrooper boots or the quiet mumbling of messengers running to and fro. Rather than following suit and making yourself scarce, you purposefully slow your gait and linger, letting your fingers trace along the seams of the polished walls.

Not a minute later, Kylo Ren comes stalking around the corner, boots thumping menacingly along his path and cape fluttering behind him. He doesn’t seem phased by the sudden clearing of his path- he probably comes to expect it by now. It’s not like he demands it; people just seem too frightened of the Commander to even do something as simple as walk in the same corridor as him.

You can’t really blame them. He’s a six-foot-something space wizard in all black and an incredibly intimidating mask. Rumor has it he isn’t afraid to cut you in half with a lightsaber if you so much as breathe wrong in his direction- and to be fair, a lot of those rumors are true, given how frequently you’re called to patch up medical equipment in the infirmary.

“Am I interrupting something?” The Commander’s voice comes out heavily synthesized through his visor, but you could swear there’s a touch of teasing in it as he watches you run a hand over some welding.

You grin at him. “No, sir, just having a little moment of appreciation.” You comically pat the metal next to you, as though assessing a prize cow.

Normally you wouldn’t dare joke around with a senior officer, but despite his fearful reputation, the Knight has always seemed… different, to you. In command, yes, but not quite part of command. The rest of base always runs whenever he heads in their direction. Even his infamous Knights of Ren seem just a touch too cautious around their leader to include him in the camaraderie you’ve seen them demonstrate in the mess hall when he’s not around. He’s a true loner, sitting solitaire in meetings and speaking to no one except to yell orders; a black phantom haunting the hallways with rumors flying left and right in his wake.

You made the decision a long time ago to not be afraid of the man. He has to know that not everyone sees him as some sort of grim reaper, no matter what people might whisper. “How are you today, sir?”

Despite you making it a point to ask him this every time you see him, he still seems taken aback whenever he hears it. Like he’s shocked someone is speaking to him in pleasant terms. “I am fine. And you?”

“Just peachy!” You gesture down the hallway. “Are you going this way?”

He nods briefly, and so the two of you start off together, only close enough to barely be associated as acquaintances. The stares you get are numerous, but you always feel just a tad more confident with the Commander at your side. You suppose it must look a bit comical- the dark knight and a tiny engineer marching through base like they own the place. But you’re grateful for the company, silent as it is, and you tell yourself he must be too- otherwise, why give you the time of day? You’re not anyone important.

You know Commandeer Ren notices all the attention the two of you get- you can tell by the way he has to keep his fists from clenching up; struggle to keep his gait even. Briefly, you wonder if the reason he wears a mask is so his emotions won’t run amok across his face. It’s certainly easy enough to read the rest of him, if you bother looking.

“Are you not afraid of me?”

You stop short, surprised. Even when he seems to be in a good mood, he rarely says anything. “No sir, I’m not. Should I be?”

“Yes,” he says flatly. Just, yes, as though that’s the only possible answer to his question.

“Well… just don’t come at me with your fancy glowstick, and I think we’ll be alright, yeah?” You offer him an easy grin, instinctively reaching out to tap him playfully on the shoulder before you remember who you’re talking to- it quickly gets withdrawn. He simply stares at you, and you’re unsure if you’ve just doomed yourself to a cold and miserable fate on Hoth. “I’ll see you later?”

He just turns and stalks away, and you sigh, shoving your hands in your pockets. He never answers that one. Which, to be fair, he probably has much more important things to do than run around entertaining some random engineer. Still, he never blows you off though, even when you’re rambling or asking too many questions- he might not answer the questions, but he doesn’t tell you to shut up either.

Truth is, you’re a bit fascinated with the man. He’s an enigma, a mystery, and your whole life you’ve been trained to solve mysteries; pull out the broken pieces and wind it all back together again even better than the day it was brand new. You can only hope someday that helmet of his will short circuit and you’ll get a chance to take a crack at it.

You have to pull yourself away from watching Ren’s retreating back, refocusing on your job. Rookie to train. TIE Fighters to tune up. Right.

It’s pretty easy to spot your trainee- he’s tentatively poking around a TIE the way you do when you want to look like you know what you’re doing, but in actuality you’re three seconds away from seriously messing something up. When he gnaws his lip and reaches for a panel of circuitry, you step in- “OKAY! Let’s back away from that, shall we?”

Startled, he knocks himself away from the board he’s studying. “Right! Right. Uh, sorry.”

You gingerly close the panel back up and push him a few steps away from the battleship, then wipe your hands on your pants and hold out a hand. “I’m Y/N. I’ll be your supervisor for the day. Rule number one? Don’t touch anything unless you know for certain what it is, what’s wrong with it, how to fix it, and all the ways it can kill you if your finger slips.”

The kid’s cheeks pale a bit. “Right. I’m Cale.”

“Wonderful. Don’t blow anybody up and don’t put our heads under the general’s fist, and I’m sure we’ll get along great.” You tug on your gloves, tighten the cord securing your hair, and put a hand on your hip. “First thing’s first- how much do you know about twin ion engine ships?”

You spend the better part of your shift going over every inch of the craft in front of you, as well as the science that makes it run and the parts that need hands on them more often than not. “…and this is the engine itself. It destabilizes xenon gas and uses the resulting broken-off electron for thrust. Xenon gas is ideal because for the most part, it’s completely inert- fireproof, explosion-proof, etcetera. As long as it’s converted back to a stable state before it’s exuded by the engine, it’s pretty safe. But you should still be extremely cautious when working on the engine itself. Obviously. It’s worth more than we ever will be.” You press your wrist to your forehead, trying to think of anything you missed. “Okay. Any questions?”

“…No?”

“Cool.” You check your datapad. “This one needs new electrostatic grids. Xenon gas is fairly corrosive. Check with me before you do anything, and we’ll get to work, okay?”

Other than the occasional question here and there and getting used to someone hanging over your shoulder watching you tinker, you settle into a wonderfully familiar routine. Your fingers fly like they have a mind of their own, effortlessly making the rig in front of you shine like it did when it first came off the line.

“-so what do you do here, anyways?”

You shake your head, pulled from the flow of work- “um, little bit of everything? I got promoted to senior a few years ago so I’m called all over base. I work a lot with command and their personal rigs and equipment.”

You can’t see Cale’s face, but you can hear the curiosity in his voice. “You work with General Hux?”

“Yes. He’s just as…intense, as everyone makes him out to be. But thus far I’m not on his bad side and I plan to keep it that way, so I’m not saying anything else about it.”

“What about-” he pauses, like he’s looking over his shoulder to make sure no one else in the massively busy hangar is listening in- “Kylo Ren?”

You wedge a particularly tight support into place with a grunt. “What about him?”

“Is he really insane? I heard that-”

“No,” you say harshly. “And you shouldn’t believe everything you hear. He’s a person, just like everyone else, okay?” Christ, the rumor mill is as exhausting as it is useless.

Thankfully, something on your tool belt starts beeping and you can focus on that. A little indicator light is flashing orange, harsh and neon. “Interesting.”

Cale pops his head out from underneath the ship. “What’s beeping?”

“This monitors the air quality; lets us know if the composition of gases gets unbalanced. It generally means there’s a leak somewhere.” You glance at what you’d doing. More electrostatic grids. “What are you working on down there?”

“Oh, a few tanks were too pressurized, so I released the valves a bit to relieve those.”

You blanch. “The xenon canisters?”

“Um… maybe?”

Fuckfuckfuckfuckfuck. Just before you can hit the alarm button, you see a spark from a nearby welder flicker- it arcs to the floor almost in slow motion, one small bit of fire promising catastrophe. If you’re lucky, it won’t catch- it will fall harmlessly to the floor and extinguish, giving you time to alert others, clear the area, and reset things when proper ventilation has made the area safe.

But when have you ever been lucky?

All you see is red. You’re awash in it, swimming in it, drowning until your whole being is nothing but scarlet and an unholy, white-hot, supernova blue. You’re in the heart of an exploding star, witnessing the birth of the universe, and it’s just as beautiful as you’d imagine the very atoms of space rearranging themselves would be.

Then there’s stillness. The colors fade. It’s not silent- no, there’s a ringing in your ears, and somewhere very, very far away something like an alarm. And then- pain.

Oh, the pain. It flashes through your nerves like lightning, so intense you almost can’t comprehend all the little nuances screaming across every inch of your body. Joining the ringing and the far, distant sound of klaxon alarms comes a high-pitched, desperate sort of scream. You turn to help whoever it is- you raise a hand in front of you, only to see rapidly singing flesh. It’s you. You’re the one screaming. You’re the one on fire.

Sprawled on the floor of the hangar, vaguely aware of everything and nothing, hoarsely begging for this to stop, stopstopstop please make this stop, you wonder just for one second if the tall cloaked figure at the other end of the room is a hallucination or wish fulfillment or both.

You lose consciousness before you can come to a decision.

A/N: Yee

[lottalucamotion]

Lucas' Guide to to Railfanning for First Time Railfans

Have you thought of picking up the railfan hobby? Whether you're fixation on a musical about trains or your bored/looking for a new activity to give you a chance to go outside and practice some good old fashioned amateur photography here's what you should know as a first time railfan

Disclaimer: This was written with American railfans in mind. International readers should learn the rules for their area. I said that the engineer is always on the right, but this is not the case for all countries like the UK where the engineer is seated on the left side of the cab.

The thing that you must always keep in mind is that trains are dangerous. It's not like the trains are out to get you, they're just very strong and difficult to control compared to other vehicles. If you somehow end up in the way of a train YOU WILL ALWAYS LOSE. Rule of thumb, If you can see the train, the train won't be able to stop before it reaches you. Rolling stock are specifically designed to maximize speed by minimizing friction. This is accomplished by metal wheels on greased metal rails. Rails and rolling stock are designed to be difficult to stop. If an engineer is forced into emergency breaking, the train has a greatly increased derailing risk.

That's the other thing you should remember. Derailing doesn't just occur when a train hits a curve too fast, it can happen at any time going as slow as 25mph. Getting hit by rolling stock or debris in a derailment can seriously injure or kill you. When railfanning don't stand too close to the tracks for this reason. You should allow AT LEAST 10ft of clearance between you and the train.

I'll let this being me into my "must haves" for railfanning:

-camera: obviously if you wish to take photos and/or video you need a camera, a phone with a clear, working camera is fine as well.

-tripod: remember what I said about distance from the tracks? Well sometimes your good shot is a bit on the close side to the tracks. In this case a tripod is a great solution. If something happens, worse case is you need to replace a broken tripod and camera/phone.

-Radio transceiver: A must have if you are looking to catch freight trains. It’s a good thing to have even if you only watch passenger trains, but since there’s no other way to really keep track of freight trains, they are a game changer. When dealing with radios, remember that it is illegal to talk to railroad personnel via radio. Listen only dont talk.

-Florescent safety vest or other brightly colored article: Good thing to have when shooting from trackside. Basically, trespassers who may put themselves in danger in front of an approaching train don’t wear florescent outerwear. It’s a good way to communicate to the crew of an approaching train that you intend to stay a safe distance away from the track.

-Dress for the weather: this does not just mean wearing weather appropriate clothing. Always bring thinks like sunscreen and insect repellent with deet to avoid sunburn and keep ticks and mosquitoes off. Take it from me. Ticks don’t like me, I work on a farm and walk through tall grass all day, haven’t found a tick on me yet, but I walked through a tiny patch of taller grass while out railfanning and managed to pick up two American dog ticks. You are not immune to the hostile elements when railfanning. Make sure to wear closed toed shoes, preferably with ankle support.

-Car charger and/or battery pack: If you use your phone as a camera, you want to make sure you have plenty of juice. Not just for footage, but in case of emergency, you don’t want to be dealing with a dead phone.

Basic safety rules:

-Rule number one is never trespass. Always stay a safe distance away from the tracks and trains (at least 10ft from the tracks). Remember, a train can derail at any time. Respect trains.

-If you see something, say something. Know the track ownership and contact the railroad police if you see a trespasser or hazard on the track during your outing. If a railroad crossing gate is not functioning, there usually is a number on the crossing gate which you can contact to report the malfunction.

-To further elaborate on the no trespassing rule, never stand, sit, or lay down on track for any reason, esp not photographing. I can’t help but cringe when I see people snapping “aesthetic” pictures on functioning railroad tracks (if the tracks are abandoned, and you have confirmed that they are abandoned, just be careful as tracks can have loose spikes and other hazards you can injure yourself on, but go ahead, otherwise stay off!). Even if you don’t think a train is coming there can be freight trains, test runs, track switches, or other such things that can surprise you. You may think trains are not stealthy, but you’ll be surprised on how trains can sneak up on you.

-You would not bank your life on your toaster’s ability to make breakfast, so don’t assume that devices such as railroad crossing gates and signals at stations to always be accurate, as always stay off the tracks and always assume a train could be coming through at any moment. When driving through a railroad crossing, stop, look, and listen if you can. If someone’s riding your tail and you can’t, at least reduce speed and roll down your windows so you can check to make sure the crossing is safe from any approaching trains. If you can hear an approaching horn, stop, even if the gates aren’t going down yet. When the lights start flashing, stop before the white line in front of the gates always. Be extra cautious in a no horn zone as you won’t be able to hear an approaching train as easily.

-Never play chicken with trains. If you witness someone doing so, tell them to get their soggy ass off the tracks. Reminder that making a train go into emergency increases it’s likelihood of derailing.

Remember to be courteous to railroad crews:

-Body language is an important key to the positive communication and relationship between crews and railfans. When I mentioned the tripod and vest, these are great tools for this method of communication. Bear in mind, the average engineer will have their train strike a pedestrian once in their career. Trains run on tracks and always have the right of way so when it’s train vs trespasser, it’s never the engineers fault, but it doesn’t make the event less traumatic. You wearing fluorescent outerwear and using a tripod sets you apart as a railfan, putting the crew at ease that you are not about to run out in front of the train. As far as body language goes, When a train is approaching, step into the engineer’s line of sight maintaining a safe distance from the track (the engineer always sits on the right. Then, take a several steps back to communicate to the engineer that you don’t intend to run onto the track. When the lead vehicle is passing (engine or cab car) wave to the crew members, not only does this show that you are a railfan rather than a trespasser, a friendly engineer or other crew member will wave back and/or sound the horn for you (this is called a “horn show” and it’s one of my favorite things to experience as  railfan)

-When standing at a platform, occupy one of the farthest ends. Passengers looking to take the train will typically stand toward the middle. Standing on the ends will better indicate that you are a spectator and don’t intend to board.

-If you are actually a passenger but also want to get some shots of the train you are riding, wait until you have reached your destination to take pictures. Either your train could end up departing without you, or you could cause a holdup if you manage to make the train wait for you. Remember that running railroads is a complex endeavor and seconds matter. If you cause a hold up for one train, you are influencing the timing of many more even for other lines besides the one you are boarding.

Now that you know how to be safe and courteous when railfanning, here are some tips for finding good spots.

When trying to locate good railfanning spots, there are several things to consider. These include:

-If you have to drive, where will you park? You have to pay to park at most stations, though some allow free parking on weekends. If it’s not a station it may be even harder to find a parking spot.

-When scoping out your spot use google street view to figure out the best place to go for shots (this can help with parking too). Using a map of the railroad systems will help you find stations, crossings, bridges, and yards, but using street view will help you figure out if these spots are easily accessible and good spots for taking shots.

-Look for other railfans in your area, some will tag locations, or even just the towns which they saw the trains they photographed. If you’re interested in what is there, try to scope that spot out or somewhere near there.

-Railfan forums are a great way to find spots and also know when an interesting engine or other rolling stock is out. If you see something interesting, other fans in your area will appreciate you sharing it.

How to identify rolling stock:

It’s okay if you have no idea how to identify rolling stock right off the bat. There’s a simple way to figure it out. All you need to do it look up the company and number, or look up the company’s roster, and figure out based on the number index. Railfanning is a lot about learning as you go so dont feel like you need to be an expert on trains to pick the hobby up. Really it's a great hobby if you enjoy learning new things, esp about the local history, and transport of people and goods of your area. Happy railfanning! Have fun, and most importantly STAY SAFE

[glenncoco4]

This might help them with their decision.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Deeks places his hand on the small of her back, ushering her into their bar. “Sam said they’d be here.”

“Who is they exactly?” Kensi questions as she waddles into the deserted room.

“I don’t know. All he said is that he had a surprise for us.”

Before she has a chance to ask another question they’re both startled by the voice that flows through the room. “Kensi. Deeks.”

“Aiden? Oh my gosh!” The tall brunette walks as fast as she can towards the younger version of Sam and gives him a hug.

Deeks smiles, patting naval pilot on the back. “Hey, Goose!”

“I’m actually more of a Maverick.”

“Of course you are.”

Kensi slowly squats down, it’s been a bit difficult for her to sit lately. Her husband catches on and takes hold of her arm as she lowers herself into the chair. “How have you been?”

“Good. Good.”

“Just in town for a visit?”

“Yeah, and...”

“And what?” The detective’s brow furrows, something’s definitely going on here.

“I came to talk to you guys.”

Now it’s Kensi’s turn to be confused. “Us?”

“Yeah.”

“For what?” The couple looks between Sam and Aiden wondering what they could possibly want to talk to them about.

“Well, dad told me the good news.” The young naval pilot points towards her now obvious protruding belly. “He knew you guys were struggling with quitting so that you could be safer for little shaggy Wonder Woman and so I came to give you a little insight.”

Deeks moves to stand behind his wife, his hands finding home on her shoulders as he begins massaging her aching body. “Insight to what exactly?”

He takes a deep breath knowing what he’s about to talk about is going to bring the room down immensely but if it’ll help....“Look up until I was 11 I barely saw my dad, he was going back and forth across the world, in and out of missions but I always had my mom.”

Seeing where this conversation is headed, Deeks pulls up a chair next to his partner and wraps his arm around her shoulders. He’s her emotional rock, always has been.

Aiden waits until the surfer’s situated and continues on. “When he decided to become an agent everything changed. For the first time in my life knowing that my dad would be fighting bad guys over here instead of over there gave me a sense of safety. I spent my whole life wondering if every time I said goodbye to my dad if it would be the last. The point is, I was so worried about my dad that I hadn’t even considered anything happening to my mom because she was safe, right? She was a stay at home mom and what could possibly happen to her. What I’m trying to say is that no matter what you’re doing, now matter how much you think you’re safe, it’s never that simple because even the most cautious people can loose it all.”

They stay silent for a few minutes taking everything in that was said and how true Aiden’s words rang.

Deeks doing what he does best turns towards Sam with a smirk on his face. “Why Samuel, did you get Aiden to come all the way over here because you don’t want us to leave?”

The former Navy SEAL rolls his eyes, shaking his head. “Of course I don’t want you guys to leave, but this is about you two and your family. I was just hoping that hearing from someone that experienced it first hand would help you guys whether you want to stay or not.”

“Thank you. Both of you.” Kensi reaches out taking hold of the younger Hanna’s hand in appreciation.

“Hey, that’s what family’s for.”

The detective takes a moment, just to think about family and the meaning of the word. He places his hand on his wife’s stomach where their baby’s lived for the past 28 weeks now. At the feel of her hand laying on top of his, Deeks looks down and sees her ring shine, which brings a smile to his face and it reminds him of something. “Speaking of family, I heard you have a tiny piece of jewelry to give a certain someone.”

“I’m actually gonna do it tonight.”

“That’s great, buddy.” Deeks turns his attention from his partner’s protruding belly and looks up at Aiden. “You know I could give you a few pointers if you’d like.”

Kensi can’t help but roll her eyes at her husband’s offered assistance. “Please, babe, unless she’s in a comatose state or in a wheelchair you got nothing.”

Aiden’s eyes widen in surprise. “Wait, how many times did you propose before she actually said yes?”

“Just around 3.”

“Three?!” The young pilot wasn’t nervous before but he most certainly is now. Proposing three times? “So what made you finally say yes, Kensi?”

Deeks speaks up answering the question with pride in his voice. “Actually she proposed to me.”

“One for one, baby.” A toothy grin spreads to her face. Yep, she gets to lord that over him for the rest of their lives.

Deeks hears the smugness in her voice and turns to her with a look in his eyes. “The only one that matters.”

She can feel his eyes on her, turning just enough she looks at him, his now navy blue eyes locking with her mismatched chocolate orbs.

Sam sees the scene play out between the husband and wife duo and knows exactly what’s about to happen next. “Aiden, if you want to keep your eye sight I suggest we leave now or you’re gonna get quite the show.”

“Bye, you two.” The two Hanna men quickly walk to the door before they witness something that they don’t want to.

Kensi registers the goodbye long enough to say one last thing to the guys all the while her eyes stay locked with his. “Lock the door on your way out.”

As soon as the door closes his lips are on hers taking her breath away all thoughts about the job being the last thing on their minds.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: I couldn’t find an age for Aiden or when Sam joined NCIS so I had to do some calculations....maybe they’re right. 😂 I did however figure that Aiden was around my age so that helped a lot.

[bigherosixfeels]

Okay kinda got a cute idea for a fic request. Considering there's been a lot going on in the world right now, how about Hiro helping Megan through a bad time in her life?

Aw, sounds good!

---

Homesick

Fandom: Big Hero 6: The Series

Rating: K

Characters: Hiro Hamada and Megan Cruz

Word Count: 1,625

Summary: Megan misses her previous homes

---

The first two weeks of summer vacation had already come and gone. Everyone in San Fransokyo was out and about, going anywhere they pleased. The Lucky Cat tended to do better than usual with business when school was out, resulting in Hiro lending his aunt an extra hand during work hours. His spare time went into night patrols alongside his friends, who were currently looking for work since graduating. 

What was a bit concerning to the teen genius though was that he hadn’t heard much from his good friend Megan in awhile. He hadn’t seen her since the day Trina attempted to unleash her robot revolution on the city. They had briefly texted a couple times before school let out. Since then, Megan hadn’t contacted him once. It was unlike her. Megan was an extremely social person. Hiro figured by now, they would have hung out with more free time on their hands. 

Hiro tried not to be too worried at first. Perhaps she was spending more time with her dad? Or she had plans with other friends? 

After awhile, a thought had occurred to him that maybe she needed space after the whole ordeal with Trina. While Megan initially wanted to get more involved in superheroing since discovering Hiro’s identity, what happened that day had to have been overwhelming. Trina did capture her for a short time. 

With that unsettling memory in mind, Hiro decided to reach out to her. A simple text asking how she was doing. A text that not only she didn’t respond to, but also never read. Was she okay? Was she purposely avoiding him?

After a couple of days with still no response and concerns rising, Hiro took a trolley that let him off in Megan’s neighborhood. He walked at a fast pace as he neared closer to the apartment complex. A wave of apprehension overcame his nerves as he entered the building, accelerating the closer he got to her home.

Not to his surprise, Chief Cruz answered the door. Although, what was surprising was the chief’s attitude towards Hiro. The strict, overprotective man who was always cautious when allowing Hiro to go up to Megan’s room was uncharacteristically welcoming. It may have had something to do with him having more of an appreciation for the young prodigy after rescuing his daughter. However, upon being told that Megan was in her room, he also made a remark about how she could probably use some company right now. There was a hint of sadness in his tone that Hiro chose not to comment on. It only made him worry more, all the more glad that he chose to stop by for a visit.

Hiro walked up the stairs that led to Megan’s room. His eyebrows knit at the closed door, wondering what she was up to. What was going on? Why did her father think she needed company? Had she been up in her room since school ended? 

The teenager paused upon reaching Megan’s bedroom door. Hiro let out a quick, inaudible sigh. He hated the thought of his good friend not doing well. Megan was such a good person. She helped Hiro experience a more casual, teenage lifestyle and had his back in desperate times. If she’s been troubled, the least Hiro could do is help. 

Reaching his arm out, Hiro gave two firm knocks on the door. 

A loud, exasperated groan was made on the other side. “I’m fine, Dad!” 

Hiro flinched. He hadn’t expected that to be the reaction. Clearly, her dad had been checking up on her multiple times. “M-Megan, it’s me!” Hiro responded. “Hiro.” 

There was a short silence. “Hiro?” 

Before Hiro had a chance to say anything else, he could hear Megan’s footsteps approaching closer. Soon enough, the door swung open. The aspiring journalist was in her usual shirt and jeans; her black jacket tucked away due to the summer heat gradually increasing. 

However, the first thing Hiro noticed about her was the dark circles under her eyes. Along with that were widened eyes and a small frown. She raised an eyebrow as Hiro continued to stand in front of her. Hiro noticed this. What was she thinking about? 

“What are you doing here?” 

The soft, yet dejected tone in her voice made a frown form across Hiro’s face. She was usually so excited when he would come over. Something must really be bothering her. 

“I came to see how you were doing.” Hiro sighed heavily. “We haven’t hung out in awhile and you never responded to the last text I sent you.” His frown deepened as he looked over her facial expression again. “Are you alright?” 

Megan glanced down at the floor. She debated what to say and what to do. A lot was going on in her mind, but the last thing she wanted to do was push Hiro away. Especially since he stopped by just to check on her. 

“Come in,” she suggested. She walked out of the doorway, holding her arm out as she invited Hiro into her room. 

Hiro nodded before stepping inside her room. She led the way to her bed, which was neatly made with the exception of the comforter being wrinkled from where she had recently sat. Hiro took a seat at the end of her bed where Megan distanced herself in the middle. 

For a minute, the teens sat in complete silence. They looked away from one another, both trying to find the right words to say. Eventually, Hiro looked Megan’s way first. 

“Megan...i-if this is about what happened with Trina and the whole robot revolution, I am so sorry  you got caught up in that mess. I should have been more--” 

“What?” Megan cut him off. She shook her head at him. “Hiro, I’m not upset because of that.” 

Hiro blinked in shock. He wasn’t sure if he should feel relieved or more uneasy. On the one hand, it was reassuring to know that she hasn’t been too shaken up from that experience. Though now, he was somehow more anxious. What was causing her to be sad? 

“O-okay...then what’s up?” 

Megan’s face fell into a deeper frown. Not wanting her friend to see her so distraught, she faced away from him. She sighed, closing her eyes as she collected all her thoughts together. 

“I’ve just been thinking about the places I used to live before my dad and I moved here,” Megan admitted. She gained the courage to look back over at Hiro again. “You know he’s been transferred before because of his job. So, every time that’s happened, I’ve been to different cities. Different schools. Different people…” Megan clutched onto her arms. “I have friends all around the state. Most of them I haven’t seen in months or years. I’ve been reaching out to them, but everyone has been travelling since summer break started. This sucks…” 

With a frustrated huff, Megan brought her legs up to her chest, wrapping her arms around them. She leaned her chin against her right knee, pursing her lips as her mind went back to thinking of all the friends she’s had to say goodbye to over the years. 

Hiro was at a loss of what to do. He couldn’t relate to how Megan felt. He wanted to provide the comfort she clearly needed, but was unsure how. No wonder she was so upset. She was apart from a lot of her friends and it was making her lonesome. Moving from place to place made maintaining her friendships harder. 

The young prodigy gave a sympathetic frown Megan’s way. He reached his hand out, gently placing it on her shoulder. The second Megan felt his touch, she looked over to her friend. 

“I’m really sorry, Megan.” Hiro sighed. “I...I can’t imagine how hard that is.” 

“It’s just a little frustrating,” Megan admitted. “I want to see them, but for a lot of reasons I can’t. You’re so lucky, Hiro. You’ve lived in San Fransokyo your whole life!” 

Hiro nodded. “Yeah, that’s true…” He rubbed a hand at the back of his head. “But you’re lucky too. I mean, sure you’ve had to move a lot, but you’ve gotten to live in a lot of different places. That’s cool too! You love photography. I can only imagine all the photos you’ve taken of everywhere you’ve been so far.” 

Megan cracked a tiny smile. “Yeah...I have actually.” 

“See? I’m not much for travelling, but I still think it’s awesome that you’ve gone so many places. I’m sorry that all the moving has made it hard to stay in touch with your friends though.” 

“It’s alright.” Megan shrugged. “I guess...it’s not all bad. If I hadn’t moved, I never would have met any of them in the first place. The good thing is that I’ve always met at least one really great person everywhere I’ve been.” She smiled widely at Hiro. “That includes you of course.” 

Hiro chuckled. “Thanks. You know, I don’t exactly have friends my age or a more normal teenage lifestyle. So I’m glad we’re able to hang out when we can.” 

“Me too.” 

Hiro scooted over closer to Megan. Once their proximity was merely inches apart, the teenagers wrapped their arms around one another in a happy embrace. More than anything, Hiro was glad he had stopped by. He was able to cheer his friend up again and understand why she had been distant. 

After a few seconds they pulled away. The smile that had managed to make its way on Megan’s face was far from fading. 

Hiro got up from her bed. “How about we go to Joe’s Diner? It’s on me this time.”

Megan giggled, standing up to follow him. “You’re the best. That sounds great.”

---

Yay, I finally got a request done! This was a cute one to do. Hiro and Megan have such an underrated friendship. I like to headcanon that since Chief Cruz is a police chief/officer, they’ve had to move around a lot with his job. Anyway, thank you so much for the request @blxndeichiban! I hope you enjoyed it! :D

[cowandcalf]

10.14 - Spoilers

Random thoughts, no particular order.

Danny has some workdays off. He sits in a bar, at 10 am, alone, watching TV. I haven't decided yet if this is a sad picture or if Danny's having a good time, some me-time, away from the normal daily routine… I really don't know. Maybe he's somehow heartbroken over Grace being at college, far away from home, far away from her Danno. It might be all about a dad who must get used to the fact that his daughter grows up. And that hurts, a lot, especially Danny. He's a great dad. Because Danny doesn't look relaxed in this first scene at the bar, more like deeply immersed in serious thoughts. So maybe his face expresses all about the changes in his life he can't stop from happening.

Steve's worried about Danny and I know he has his reasons. So, it really might all be about Grace and college and moving away from home. Steve's looking out for his boy the only reason for his early call to check up on Danny. Okay, I mean Danny must have left the house around what time? 8:30 am? 9:00 am? Something like this? So, he's seen Steve just a moment ago, had a cup of coffee with him. He even petted Eddie before he went to drive off to this bar. And Steve is separated from Danny for how long exactly? For about 2 hours tops? Before Steve decides it's time for a call, to touch base, making sure he's fine. I mean…this, yeah, this is what I live for.

Steve calls Danny, asking him how he's doing. And it's not anywhere near lunchtime but Steve asks Danny to join him, to grab a bite to eat for lunch. Danny has this day off and Steve can't stand the thought thinking Danny might overthink things, having a bad time, a somber mood. Whatever. Anything is good enough to pretend it's all about caring instead of admitting he only wants to hear Danny's voice. Steve's worried, he misses him…

(Damn, right this moment, in the middle of writing this text there's some other thoughts popping up…GAHH!)

How could I forget about that? OHmYGoD! Steve has just had this awful moment with Eddie! He was terrified Eddie might die on that highway, disorientated, run over by a car. Steve's all shaken up emotionally. He can't really admit that fact to himself, not yet at least, only later when the vet is there with him…I got a little of that myself today – talking about anxiety… So, the call to Danny is also to calm Steve down from the recent, shocking events because Eddie is much, so much more than just a dog to him.

Eddie is the main supporting pillar of Steve's fragile world he hides in his heart and his shattered, scarred soul. Steve is still upset and who does he call? Danny.

He calls, just as Danny would have called him and he checks up on his boy. What a great, tender, comforting moment. Steve doesn't see Danny at work due to his short time-out, though Danny still lives at Steve's place (…if he hasn't forgotten his key…) and Steve sees him in the evening for sure but he wants to eat lunch with Danny although he knows Danny is off to have some good time with whatever he's coming up with. The call Steve gives Danny is similar to the one Danny gave Steve in 10.01, exactly the same. I love this continuity. Warms my heart and the inside of my body down to my little toes.

Danny and the unknown, sexy woman. She's a natural beauty. I love everything about her. From her hair to her fair skin, down to her curvy, hot as hell body, to the way she's dressed, wearing the badassery-is-my-first-name tag like she invented also sensuality. I appreciate the absence of heavily put-on make-up. She's gorgeous and perfect. What a woman!! Whoa, she's freaking hot! And so damn far away from Danny's comfort zone, it makes me want to bite something. That pick-up scene where she just entered the bar to catch up on Danny was a total turn-on, so special, totally out of the ordinary, so hot! Holy shit! This sexy brunette plays with Danny and makes one hot move on him after the other.

God, she's so sexy, full of sass and wits and she swaggers into the bar and within seconds she hits on Danny and it knocks me off my feet with the wave of passion and lust and joy of life breezing my way. Bow chica bow wow!

Danny goes with the flow. How could he not? Steve is still important, and he takes the call. Danny would never not take a call from Steve. But after that Danny's world spins out of control. This woman seduces him into a state where Danny's cock rules his body. They go and have a hot fuck in the woman's bathroom of that bar! Danny stumbles into a tiny, confined space with no windows and only walls around him and he's fine! I have a great live-sex-movie in my head with Danny having this impromptu sex and that's why I have to use other words! Let’s be dirty! He bangs her, right there, from behind, and Miss Sexy-and-Brunette has one palm spread wide against the mirror, and with her other hand she clamps the rim of the counter to catch the heavy snaps of Danny's hips against her ass. God, they watch each other in the mirror, Danny takes her from behind, face red and flushed from arousal and joy and a tiny bit embarrassment that he even sees himself fucking a stranger in a public toilette. A hookup, not even knowing her name and she lifts her skirt and pulls her panties aside to let Danny glide into her wet, hot pussy. Jesus!

I mean, what the hell? (I love Danny’s wet spots under his armpits on his shirt after the sex, that's a great detail.)

The absolute cutest thing happens afterward. Danny has never done this before..just savor this...Danny has never fucked a stranger in a bathroom. He’s not so adventurous and this all-in now or never guy and it shows a tiny bit in the way of his movements which aren't all that confident, just a tiny bit insecure but the desire is there, burning like a wildfire. I mean the red-kissed, sore skin on the sexy brunette’s throat makes my knees go weak.

We know how Danny approaches his women, not like this. He's very much hesitant, insecure, shy, careful, cautious that this event right there with Miss Sexy-and-Brunette?? This renders me damn speechless. Wow! I'm sure Danny calls her (the unknown, sexy woman he just had sex with) Vivienne in his head. I see him whispering hot nonsense in her ear while he comes inside her, and her eyes grab his gaze and lock on. She's so damn self-confident. Who had the condom? That had to be Miss Sexy. I really don't think Danny plans such an act on purpose. He has never done this before!! And he's a bit shaken from his courage and he's so damn sexy with this touch of shyness and the way he speaks to her afterward, coaxing her into giving her a lift…wow, man, Danny's such a hot a stud when he sets his passion loose!

I have no idea if they had had a chance for a relationship. It wasn't the question anyway. But Miss Sexy-and-Brunette is from the East Coast, she loves Jersey, she gets movie/baseball/football (?) quotes. She knows 'Romeo's'…she's such a great gal and I literally can see Danny falling in love iwith her just because she so very different compared to his previous women. She's a wild one and I'm not so sure if Danny could have handled her. Really, I'm not so sure. But she sounds perfect.

Everything that happens afterward seems to be fate, just bad luck, even if it kills you as a viewer, you can't turn back the clock. It's so terribly heartbreaking and this strong, incredible woman dies without telling Danny her name. She's outstanding and a tough she-warrior till the end. She fought so hard, she was so brave and everything...but it wasn't enough. God, I cried for both of them.

Danny had the hottest adventure in the morning because of her, Miss Sexy-and-Brunette and because of her asking him questions about his life Danny came up with some damn honest answers.

For example, Danny told her that Hawaii isn't the worst place to be. He said 'Hawaii 'grows on you'. Or when 'Vivienne' asks about Danny's reason for being in that bar and he answers the reason might be his ex-wife. And Rachel comes up and we get to know that Danny and she tried to make it work and they failed, again. As Danny said, they're better off as friends. So, Rachel's out of the picture. Hopefully forever.

But Life has other plans and this wonderful, sexy morning turns in another haunting, dark, life-sucking event. Danny relives a terrible nightmare – the one where his partner Grace got shot, that day 9/11, right next to him and he couldn't save her. It happens again that a woman dies in his hands. The circumstances are brutal. Danny has experienced paradise and heaven, love and passion, despair and bone-deep grief within hours. He's a mess. He can't deal with anything at the moment. He had it, this spark and it's gone, forever lost, seconds later.

And what’s with Steve? There's also some heavy shifting on the emotional side happening. He opens up to his ohana and we get some deep insights into his heart and his well-guarded feelings because of Eddie. He's honest with the vet-lady and it hurts my heart to know his job always comes first like as if he has no idea how to create a personal life. He would want a relationship with someone, but he can't fit it into his life and the vet-lady wasn't as important as it had to be to make it happen.

In the end, Danny and Steve are single again. They try hard to make things work, but it's not happening. Steve needs Eddie to get through his days and his ohana is always there for him. It breaks my heart how much everyone loves Eddie. Eddie has gone through the same war terror as Steve and neither of them came out sane and healthy. Both of them carry a heavy, invisible burden and that ties the bond between them even tighter.

Steve is going to break down when he gets to know what happened to Danny while he was hat home. God, he’s going to be a mess, too.

At the end of the day, Steve will do everything in his power to be there for Danny. They end up sitting on the couch, leaning into each other and helping one another to get through this mess that is life and love. But they always have each other. Danny lives at Steve's, Danny's single again, Steve's also single and one day, I'm sure of it, one day they stop being so stubborn and they will kiss and snuggle on the couch and they know they'll grow old together because they love each other deeply and uniquely.

There are so many more details. But again, let’s stop here. Thanks so much for reading!

Season 10 is quite outstanding. Great episode. It was poetic, sad, heartbreaking cinema.