#spoiled for choice! she's never been spoiled for choice before! this is a very new experience for her!

[monty-glasses-roxy]

Ok if roxy was in a farm

What cude she ride / race.

She may not be able to ride a horse but not to fear there a buggy that can be attached to a horse.

There big horses and miniature horses witch can be race. If there pare in teams

There normal donkey and miniature donkeys that can pull a wagons. If you pare them in teams

(( fun fact miniture donkeys were use in coal mines to haul Wagons of coal or other valuable materials underground))

There also mules and miniture mules. That can al'so be dont the same in a team.

There many sizes of tractors.

From

Compact tractors.

Utility tractors.

And

Full size tractors.

But much bigger farms have industrial size tractors for larger field.

Al'so don't forget about self propelled sprayer for crops.

Combine harvester is many types and sizes from small combine harvester to some being the size of a house.

There also

Side by sides / utv

Also don't forget.

Your farm truck that can be from like a small pickup. A half ton a 3/4 ton and a full tone trucks all of witch are powerful.

But don't forget about the riding lawn mower.

(( that be a slow and I mean slow race. ))

And don't forget about other types of raching were you train animals to race

Like there a race of chickens pigs cow and sheep that you place in a line and witch every make it to the finished line wins

(( no worry to fear couch roxy is here to teach a sheep to run faster then other sheep ))

But there many for of racing were you dont drive or ride to win.

There even rc car racing to .

"May not be able to ride a horse" buddy she absolutely can. There's no way she can weigh more than a shire horse can carry on its back safely. Her problems would probably be adjusting to the idea of something being strong enough to carry her, adjusting to riding a living creature that can be hurt if she's not careful instead of a go-kart that can't be, dealing with the horse being able to yeet her across a fucking field if she pisses it off too much, and the fact this thing that is alive with blood and bones and stuff is so much bigger than her. Also the horse might just not like her or be freaked out by her not being anything they've encountered before. Ya know, standard horse stuff.

Like, she could ride horse if she so chose to and honestly she deserves it. So does Cassie.

Especially if Cassie knows how to ride already so she's just confidently trotting around on her little cob pony beside Roxy trying desperately to look freaked out on a shire horse. She can give her lessons :)

There's a good few types of horse racing they can do too. Like obstacle courses and jumps and stuff, but like you say, there's also cart racing. There's harness racing that they can do, but there's also driving which is basically the same kind of thing but with a team of two or three on the cart instead of just one. They could have fun with team racing I think! There's also carriage racing which is done with an actual carriage, not just a cart and honestly? I can see them really getting into having the nicest carriage for this and forgetting they're meant to be racing it lmao

My question to you on the horse sports is how long would it take before Roxy reinvents horseboarding? Or finds it on the internet and becomes a little bit obsessed?

I mean. A horse pulling you along on a skateboard/snowboard/skis while you do tricks and shit is pretty cool. I can just see Cassie's dad being positively thrilled at the thought of Roxy and Cassie getting into this for a hobby /sarcasm

Fun fact: Ponies were often used in the mines to bring carts of coal up to the surface and back down again, just like you said donkeys were. We called them Pit Ponies :)

Fun fact 2: Did you know they were also the predecessor to train networks? They took the idea of pony-pulled carts on tracks in the mines and expanded it into the first form of public transport on rails.

Anyway, donkeys are also good for sports and stuff like you said, though there's not as much chance Roxy could ride one. Donkeys really aren't that big and bulky so she'd probably have to get really lucky to find a donkey big enough to safely carry her. Even then, she'd probably still be pushing it. I don't know how much she actually weighs because we just don't know these things, but I'd imagine an animatronic like her should weigh more than like... an eight year old child

Anyway, donkeys are often used in pony sports so they have a good selection of games to play with them!

Mules are great too, they have the stubborn nature of a donkey and the agility of a horse. That mule will not do what you're telling it to do unless it's convinced it can do it, which honestly, if Roxy can ride one, this may be a good option for her starting out lmao. It would certainly prevent any stupid ideas she gets in her head like "we can jump that" when there's not a snowballs chance in hell they can jump that. But also the mule could probably jump that, it's just choosing not to because it Knows that's not a good idea and now it's contemplating throwing Roxy off because she doesn't seem to realise this and is not used to being told no by a fucking mule lmao

On tractors though? My guy have you heard of a program called "The Fast and the Farmer-ish"? I saw my dad watching it once and it's honestly wild. If it's not just Roxy on this farm, then there's a tractor game in there for literally everyone. I mean this video is one of the teams playing bowling by reversing their tractors at speed and releasing a pair of tractor tyres bolted together to demolish garden sheds set up like pins. This one is them competing by using the tractors to cut the grass into specific pictures, with one person driving and the other two telling them what to do.

There's another one I couldn't find a clip of where they have these big metal poles on the top of the tractor and they have to speed around a circular track one at a time as fast as they can, whilst also hooking several hoops suspended in the air over the track onto the pole for points. They also have a game where they compete to build the best castle out of hay bales in teams, obstacle courses, a game where you have to navigate a course as quick as possible with time penalties if you lose any plastic balls in your trailer, and a wire game where you get the hoop from one end of a wire to the other without it touching the wire but with tractors.

There's a whole range of bullshit fun to have here they've got so many options once they feel like some variety after a long month of racing the same track every day lmao

I did a quick search on if they did anything fun with combine harvesters already and apparently they do demolition derbies with them? I dunno I feel like this would be the bigger version of robot wars or something?

Lawn mowers are an option, yeah, but did you know you can ride cows? And that some sheep farmers will use quadbikes when taking hay bales into the field instead of a tractor? And since this is Roxy, she could always just have a dirtbike for funsies so there's that too! There's plenty of options here!

I feel like in terms of competitions though, if Roxy is on a crop farm and can't race for whatever reason, she's probably gonna end up getting her competition fun in by trying to grow the biggest pumpkin or something. The biggest leek at the fair or have a hive of bees that makes the best honey in the country, and since she's an animatronic, it's not like she ever has to worry about being stung or anything so it's even easier for her to get started in that.

She could also have racing pigeons of course. You can train and race any kind of animal really, so she's got no shortage of options there too.

Oh and of course, remote control cars, trucks, planes, helicopters, boats, etc. could be fun. Though I feel like Roxy would be a lot more familiar with that than she would be with anything else here so she'd probably be a lot less excited for it. She's surrounded by new and exciting things to do, it would be fair enough to lose a little interest in racing remote control cars lmao

Might I also suggest, for the shits and giggles... cheese racing?

It would be funny. She deserves it.

[lovelyyandereaddictionpoint]

Platonic Yandere Queen Step Sister

She wasn’t always a queen 

Like every queen before she was a princess

But before she was a princess she was a count from a low-class duchy

Her mother had found your father

Old, ill, and enticed by the countess willing to entertain him

The countess herself wasn’t awful

She was civil, for the most part the only problem with her was her daughter

“And this is your new sister—Harley! Say hello!”

“Hmph just because your Dad’s the King doesn’t mean I have to like you!”

“Harley!”

Harley was a menace

Snooty and rude

Every time she spoke to you it was like liquid acid spraying specifically at you

She was typically spoiled but she never mistreated the servants 

She was decent to your father 

But to you, it was like she hated your guts from the very beginning

“I’m glad I spilled all that cranberry juice on you! The little outfit you were wearing before matched your ugliness a bit too well.”

“That was a gift from my late mother!”

“Hm figures.”

Of course in turn you hate her too

And you don’t bother hiding it from your father when he weakly asks you to hang out with her

“Did you hear what she said to me? I honestly couldn’t care less if that horse she spooked stomped her flat.”

“(Y/n)! Hold your tongue, she’s your new sister.”

“She might be your daughter but that thing is not my sister.”

He doesn’t seem convinced as he continues putting you together with her in hopes it will strengthen your bond

It does not

And it will never be as your father succumbs to his illness

Naturally, you prepare to take on the throne despite your young age

But alas nothing goes the way it should since she’s been forced into your life

“As the former partner of the King, I gladly will take up the role until our child is ready.”

It’s infuriating as the advisor reads a part in his newly written will about this

How he ordained that his second wife have you in her care and the kingdom in her control

And of course decency dwindles as she becomes drunk on the social power

Fueling her gremlin of a daughter

“Mother’s forbidden you from leaving your room. So I figured I’d give you some of my company! You're welcome.”

“Go jump out the window.”

“How dare–MOM!”

It just gets worse and worse

You do think for a moment things will get better as The substitute Queen keels over her wine at a banquet

Thanking the heavens for whoever poisoned her, you’re prepared to take the throne

“I am so sorry (Y/n) but the council has ruled that for your safety as the kingdom’s only true heir, it’d be dangerous to let you take the throne. So we’ll give the role of Queen to Harley.”

It takes you everything not to stab the brat as she puffs her chest and flips her hair

“Won’t you congratulate me on my coronation!”

It’s agony that ripples under your skin as you have no choice but to flee the castle grounds to escape her stabbing presence and that only works for a day at most

With her mother no longer ruling she isn’t forced to take etiquette lessons away from you

Now she can demand your attendance for any minor meeting

“I don’t think we should mobilize our militia on that border. It’s far too much of an overreaction.”

“What about the villages that have been burned there? The people who need medical attention?”

“Hush (Y/n) I didn’t say you could talk in this meeting.”

It's all so frustrating feeling trapped

But you’re not the only one 

Harley is incredibly frustrated because of what keeps her trapped

And that’s her inability to say anything that she truly means

Especially with manners of the heart

Underneath layers of cruel insults, stifling rules, and personal jabs 

Is a step-sister who adores your very being but is stuck with her thorny exterior

She is forced to stick her nose up and sneer at you when you look her direction

When she’ll say “You look like death with the new family brooch. You might do better to just leave it off.”

What she means “I think you look even more gorgeous than usual with the family brooch, don’t ever take it off.”

If she wasn’t as backward demented as she was it probably wouldn’t be so hard to try being nice

To switch her compliments to insults for just a day to give you a kind compliment

But she hates actually making it so that

Naturally, this is why she killed her mother

She’d gotten in the way of her free time with you 

On top of looking down on you which she absolutely hates the most

Granted she’s certain you hate her with how much time she spends attempting to bring you down expressing her affection the only way she can

Sometimes she’s tempted to put it in writing 

just explain her condition so that she can jump into your arms as you connect the dots

But every time she’d written something out, she couldn’t help but confess how obsessed she was with you 

How happy she was that her whole job now was protecting you

She wasn’t exactly fond of the kingdom other than it being an inheritance for you

She hopes you’ll forgive her as she’ll  prioritize you and your safety above all else

No one but your father’s trusted advisor may see past her biting personality

Convinced with the council that it’s best to have her temporarily rule

If only until they get to the bottom of both the King and the Queen’s deaths

Should any council member question her or her motives 

she’d be quick to shut that down

She can’t have these old nobles get in the way of her dominion over you

“I hope you enjoy the joys of being accused of fraud. It’ll be nice to look back on your time when on the council when you’re rotting in jail.”

She has no mercy for anyone but you

[deonsx]

If They Take Aphrodisiacs

Feat: Dazai, Chuuya, Fyodor

Content: Nsfw, Smut

Dazai Osamu

The nights you spent with your boyfriend always made you very happy. Whether it was the way he always cherished you, the gentleness and the sensual feelings he gave you... the words that made you beg him all the time, you always loved these, but have you ever thought about the possibility of him begging? Wouldn't you like it if he begged you with a sexual hunger just like you? Since you started thinking about this, the direction of your desires changed and you decided to make plans

He is an intelligent man, it is only a matter of time before he realizes what he is drinking, but since he would not expect such boldness from you, everything became simpler. You gave him a heavy aphrodisiac syrup mixed with the drink you gave him that night, and he made a grimace when he first drank it. "It was sour than I thought, shouldn't it be spoiled?" You replied, taking a sip of your own drink. "I don't think so, it's Chuuya-san's choice." You cleared the doubt in his mind by saying so. "Ahhh Chuuya?? It's definitely poisonous then"

Dazai went to sleep half an hour later because he wanted to go to bed early tonight and you couldn't escape the idea of ​​wearing something nice. You went forward wearing sensual dresses. Dazai looked very calm, which made you suspicious... When you approached him, you saw that he was sweating slightly "My love..Are you okay, it looks like you have a fever" " you spoke, placing your hand on the brunette's forehead "Ahm..I don't know, I feel weird"

You grinned slightly "Is my boy really tired today" you played with his curls and placed kisses on his forehead which made him suddenly pull away from your arms and lay on top of you "I thought you were tired Osamu" He barely smiled "Hah...I-I feel warm" you gently cupped his cheek and kissed him. holding his arms, you changed your places and now you were on top, you sat on his tent and lightly rubbed him "uhhh..Love please..I need you"

"Really darling? Let me hear you beg for more" brown eyes looked at you sharply from under their long eyelashes and then their lips let out a deep breath "I need you..I want you my love..please don't turn me away" you slowly unzipped his pants and they were already sewn. You revealed his tent

"Now I see more clearly how much you need me, my love"

Chuuya Nakahara

It was an ordinary day at work. PM days had never been this tiring. You weren't sure if it was the duties or the new blonde girl that was tiring your mind. Are you jealous of your boyfriend from that girl? But she won't betray you, you trust her... But it seems like that girl is trying to use Chuuya's kindness. It's been 2 months since that girl came, but you were bored now, something was happening every day and she was visiting your boyfriend's office, files? enemies? information? boast? she was really trying to seduce him

Every time you tried to talk about this with your boyfriend, he denied it and said that the girl was just immature and was just trying to reinforce things with questions. No matter how angry you got, you couldn't do much. Instead of focusing on these, you thought of focusing on your relationship... something that would make him listen to you, something that would make everything sprout again. well..a few drops of aphrodisiac

You changed the same boring day at work completely. Chuuya wanted his usual morning coffee in his office, but he didn't know who made the coffee. When he entered his office with a coffee in his hand, his eyes narrowed with a warm smile. "My love..Did you make coffee for me?" you nodded slightly and placed the coffee in front of his desk "It was stupid to argue with you about that girl last night dear" chuuya bowed his head slightly and took a sip of his coffee "it's okay from now on I'll make sure he doesn't come into this room that often I promise"

While you were talking, chuuya started to sweat and his breaths became faster. "It was hot.." You blinked your eyes as if you didn't know. "oh? are you sure about that..that you weren't the one who was actually hot...?" his eyes quickly found you, "Did you give me an aphrodisiac, darling, I didn't think you would do this at work" you stood up and walked towards the chair your lover was sitting on and sat on his lap "my love, you were so busy with work these days, I wanted you to give your mind to me"

you covered him with your kisses you left bruises on his neck and gently unbuttoned his shirt "You are so naughty s/o..." you giggled and just rubbed on his lap which made him moan "nghh~ don't make fun of me dear" a knock on the door stopped you both but the voice was the person you wanted to hear "Chuuya-san Can I come in?" That high pitched and affectionate girl's voice, Chuuya couldn't even answer as he was out of breath, but the girl already wanted to enter so he opened the door quickly "Chuuya-...." When you turned your head back you saw the girl's disappointed expression

"Leave me and my girlfriend alone intern"

Fyodor Dostoyevski

Your boyfriend literally doesn't have time for you and this isn't just a 1-2 week thing, it's been 2 months, he can't take his mind off his plans to beat the detective agency and his mind games with Dazai, he doesn't even look at you. You even tried to tell him this "Fyodor... I know you're on the job but "I missed you." He frowned slightly and turned his head from the computer to you. "When the time comes, I will make you forgive me for this indifference." In the second attempt, you prepared a meal for him, but he did not leave his room. In the third attempt, you fought with him and unfortunately, you argued and you tripped without taking a step back. He didn't try to forgive

Finally, one day, an idea came to your mind, you knew he would get angry with you, but you still thought it would solve the problem between you, and now you were upset with him. Normally, you were always the one to hold people back, so this time, you were going to use it. You went home, Fyodor hadn't arrived yet, you prepared a meal and put a lot of your syrup into it. , time has passed. Finally, your lover came home, his eyes looked at the already prepared dinner table, then he looked at you. "Dinner?" He knew you were upset with him, normally he wouldn't eat dinner, but this time he sat at the table for you both.

It was a quiet dinner, as you'd expect, and no sound was heard leaving him. After the meal, the usual work change went on, nothing happened yet, you didn't see any reaction, did it go wrong? Didn't it show aphrodisiac performance? Was the amount not enough? Everything was empty, you took steps towards your room and you were passing by your boyfriend's study, you stood as still as possible until the rapid breathing became louder, very light moaning sounds, it was easy to hear his sounds in the quiet house.

It was fun to listen to your voices. Only the lights were illuminating the dark room. You slowly opened the door, but I guess Fyodor didn't hear it. The voices continued in the same tone. You looked into the room with your eyes and saw your boyfriend, who had thrown his head back and grasped his dick with his hands.. He was trying to help himself.. How sad..." Does someone need my help?" purple eyes opened like they were shining in the dark and they turned directly to you "What did you put in that food...haah.." as the light moans continued he removed his hands from his cock and tried to cover himself, you directed your steps towards him "What does it matter...I just wanted you to understand your mistake dear." fyodor's eyes narrowed in disdain "I don't need any help-" you slowly sat down on your boyfriend's lap, who was sitting on the chair, and felt his cock start to get wet under his pants. "nnnghh stop it...don't make fun of me"

“If you tell me your wishes, I will not hesitate to give them all to you, my love”

Enjoy!

We are 800 people, thank you everyone for supporting what I wrote^^

[bibliophilesince2003]

Transformers One In-Depth Review

Transformers One is a must watch.

I’m tired of seeing a bad review go towards a movie that is actually extremely well done, especially if the reviewer hadn’t taken the time to watch it or considered the trailers enough content to draw a review from.

Seriously, it was so refreshing to see a new take on a franchise that has been around for years. In my personal opinion, it’s better than re-makes that offer even less room for creativity.

I am a huge Transformers fan. I grew up with Transformers Prime, and when I was older, I watched the movies. I’ve watched other shows here and there, and while I may not be a complete expert, I know the lore well enough to have been heavily, emotionally impacted by Transformers One.

I’ll start with the "non-spoiler take" followed by the "spoiler take” which will be “hidden” for those who do not want to be spoiled.

"Non-spoiler" take...

Peter Cullen’s voice is legendary. Chris Hemsworth himself acknowledged this in an interview, mentioning that the goal was to “re-create” and “do something new.” He intended to represent a “youthful, brash, and cocky version” of Orion Pax before he was known as Optimus Prime. This is a realistic representation. In Transformers Prime, Ratchet states that Optimus Prime was more like Jack in his youth. For those of you who don’t know, Jack is a strong-willed, selfless, but slightly impulsive teenager, as all teenagers should be. It is clear that Hemsworth has evaluated “hints” that other movies and shows have provided. Hemsworth wanted to “lean into” a more serious voice towards the end of Transformers One. He insisted “he wouldn’t dare mimic Peter Cullen.” I highly respect his choices, and he does not deserve the amount of hate thrown at him. Now, Orion Pax also comes across as a humble, soft-spoken character in other movies and shows. However, I can see why they would lean into his impulsiveness to better highlight and contrast the relationship between Orion Pax and D-16, especially as D-16’s true colors show. More about that in the “spoiler” section, though!

No, it would not have made sense for Orion Pax to have a deep, majestic voice. That comes with experience; that comes with hard decisions. Quite honestly, Hemsworth is pretty close to what I had imagined Orion Pax to sound like. It’s still slightly deep, and very soothing.

The character development in this movie? Oh. My. Word. Guys, as a writer, I can say that subtle character development – the best kind – is not easy to do. In Transformers One, it flowed naturally. It made me smile. It broke my heart. If you’ve seen other Transformers movies and shows, brace yourself. If you haven’t, still brace yourself. Again, more about that in the “spoiler” section.

The humor in the trailers has been re-posted so heavily I think it’s beginning to lose its effect and people, not knowing the context, are quick to judge. Yes, Bee is funny. It’s Bee. He’s supposed to be lovable, humorous, loyal, and powerful. I found no issue with most of the humor coming from him. There is more humor that is not mentioned in the trailers that is really worth chuckling over.

Finally, the fight scenes were clean, the animation was captivating, and the incredible Brian Tyler produced musical masterpieces for most every scene, some of it connecting to other movies and shows.

"Spoiler" take, now!

I expected to dislike Elita. Really, I did. I knew she was the “love interest” for Optimus Prime beforehand and expected big things from her, because Optimus Prime never struck me as having a “love interest” in the past. Not only that, but I expected her to be the female character I seem to find everywhere these days who strives to be better than everyone else without a lick of experience, complaining about the male figures in her life.

Elita, however, is ambitious. She leads. She doesn’t have to prove anything; she’s simply willing to work hard and do her job. Understandably, she gets upset with Orion Pax and the others when they interrupt her progress, though I can’t help but be amused by Orion Pax’s shy attempt to get her attention and adored his subtle acts of kindness. Sure, she’s a tad bit aggressive – she did punch Orion Pax, after all – but I really enjoyed seeing her adapt. When Orion Pax was feeling hopeless, she was there to encourage him. If she had stopped talking immediately after saying “I’m better” I would have been frustrated. Orion Pax and D-16 are the main characters in Transformers One, after all. She didn’t stop there, though. She highlighted the most important aspects of Orion Pax; his good heart, selflessness, and bravery. She told Shockwave and the others to shut up and listen to Orion Pax when they doubted his plan. She encouraged him to speak louder when others couldn’t hear him. She leaned towards the pit when Orion Pax fell.

Not only that, but Orion Pax was incredibly patient with her. He woke her up when she was unconscious and immediately took a punch to the face like a champ. He gently, subtlety smiled at her when they traveled to the surface and Elita announced "it's beautiful." He cried out her name and pushed her out of the way to save her during a battle. He listened to her. He told her to beat Arachnid “gently” when Elita managed to detain her, proving he fully understood Elita’s personality.

I’m sorry, but this kind of relationship takes the cake. If they’re meant to be a couple, I can see the signs. I love how well they work together and build each other up.

Bee is an icon. One of my favorite scenes is him eagerly saying to Orion Pax “I’m going to go cut these guys up, watch! C’MERE!” It’s like a proud kid trying to get their parent to watch. I love how loyal he is to Orion Pax right off the bat.

While they changed some lore in Transformers One, they included everything that was important. Orion Pax and D-16 are miners, but it seems Orion Pax may have been a clerk beforehand. When he broke into the archives, he seemed to know where he was going. When he ran, I can’t remember exactly, but I believe he was muttering numbers? I don’t mind the small twists and can see how they were necessary for the story; key details are kept.

Jazz and Ratchet mention! I was so excited to hear their names. Kind of wish they had shown Ratchet, maybe shouting “I needed that!” to a fumbling worker. Sorry, Transformers Prime reference.

Arachnid had an incredible design.

Sentinel is a well-written, hate-worthy villain. I… did not expect D-16 to rip him in half, though.

Also… can I just mention how epic that particular scene was? The switch from D-16 reaching his peak character development – showing no mercy – while Orion Pax reached his – making the ultimate sacrifice to preserve life and do things the right way; receiving the Matrix of Leadership. The music, the animation, the slow-motion… everything was incredibly cinematic.

Obviously, D-16 took things too far. I appreciated the fact that he didn’t just wake up one day and decide to be evil. It took time. It took motivation. Obviously, any sane person would stand with Optimus Prime, though he does make mistakes from time to time, but it was incredibly neat to actually appreciate D-16’s insight in the beginning, then notice the shift and feel every bit of emotion Orion Pax felt.

People say the ending is rushed, or that D-16’s change came too abruptly without any good motivation. Sure, the ending may be a little rushed, but movies are typically structured this way. Falling action does not have a set speed; it just needs to be well done. Bad things happen in a rush, and this leaves ample opportunity for the “good guys” to react a little too slowly. As for D-16’s motivation… even a person can take their worship of an item or figure too far. Megatronus was someone to look up to in D-16’s eyes. He agreed to Orion Pax’s plans, or at least tolerated them, but his admiration for Megatronus was his own interest. Orion Pax threatened that vision. D-16 wanted to kill Sentinel to satisfy his own needs and desires, not to liberate others. Sentinel deserved death after committing murder, yes. He didn’t, however, deserve a public execution, especially as he tried to get away and was relatively defenseless. Remember, Sentinel told D-16 and Bee that he would execute them in front of everyone. We can acknowledge his promise as brutal, so shouldn't D-16's actions be considered brutal, too? No "reason" could ever justify it.

When D-16 let Orion Pax drop, he proved he no longer cared about loyalty. The least he could do was hoist Orion Pax’s body up or break down after losing what he once called his best friend, but he didn’t.

It’s ironic… D-16 said “I’m done saving you” when in reality, Orion Pax was trying to save D-16 from doing something he knew D-16 should have regretted doing. Normally, yes, D-16 is the voice of reason, but not in this case. For once, this is where Orion Pax’s true personality shines through. His spark – the spark of a Prime – is in the right place. Orion Pax puts joking aside when serious matters arise. It seems D-16 didn’t really know his friend after all. The actions D-16 committed, my friends, are not actions you want to celebrate.

I really, really hope Transformers One gains more attention. We need the sequel! Transformers fans, tell your friends. Give an honest review, which are of more value than the reviews given by those who didn’t take the time to watch it. Hype it up and roll out!

[wings-of-ink]

Alright, everyone!

HERE ARE THE ASKS YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR

Below the cut are the asks and my answers/responses. I do apologize for not answering these individually, but some of them contain spoilers for chapter 5 content. Given the developments and reveals of the chapter, I want to let things simmer a bit before I pop off responses like normal.

If my Nonies listed below want to pop back into the ask box and let me know they got their answer, I would appreciate that, but you don't have to either (or if you have an additional question or comment, that's fine too!). I will reblog this a few times to make sure you have a higher chance of spotting it.

I numbered the Asks and put my answers in another color so you can tell things apart a bit easier. This is a trial run on answering these this way. I will also tag things for spoilers. ^_^

Anon:  "There's a she-wolf in the closet" made me laugh so hard I cried sdfjglkjl I was not expecting that out of nowhere 🤣😭  the temptation to name the wolf Shakira...............immense.

I'm so glad you got that reference! My husband and I sing that song to each other with the little "awoos" and all, lol. It was too good to pass up. Fun fact, if you name her Shakira, Oswin has a unique response. 

2. Anon:  Hmmm. "I like the name Aster I'll probably use it again" HMMMMM hMMMMM hmmmMMMM Is this new Aster the ??? RO

Remembered that, did ya 😁 (I was quietly cackling when I wrote that for the old ask). You questioning Aster just makes me want to mess with you Nony, you can't tempt me like this! 

3. Anon:  Aster is so hawt, carressing our cheek w his thumb???? "i wont hurr you" pls let him be an ro bc gah damnnnn

Glad that did it for you, Anon, lol. There will be more of that in store. ^_^

4. Ravioli anon here, hope you remember me LOL I just finished reading the new chapter and I HAD A BLAST The whole gang in here now!!!!!! Aster is no longer question marks!!!! (I will admit when they were introcuded I almost, ALMOST expected their name in game to just be ???)

Hello Ravioli! Still chuckling about that I hope you know. The temptation was unreal to leave ??? in there, lol. At this point, even I know him more by that than his name!

Also to keep up with my perfect choice of names, my she-wolf is now named Der, because together we are Ravi and Der Get it, Ravi 'n Der. Consider this as a way to honor our dear grandma we were named after by our loving dads, you'll never be forgotten, you girlboss of a woman 

OMG, you are killing me over here, lol. This makes me want to code something for that, lol. Just your fathers shaking their heads at your MC while still being kinda amused and weirdly proud. Grandmother Ravinder would glare at you, but smile later.

5. @origamihoshi: Screaming about the necklace Oswin gives MC, my headcanon about MC wearing the snail shell as a necklace can now be canon! and I guess more reasons for my MC to be down bad for Oswin oops. I'm loving the update! I'm so happy to finally meet Rune, I love them so much! I wanna befriend them all. and I feel like there's been a good balance to spend time with all the characters so far and that makes me really happy. 😌Also cuddling with Zahn was so sweet oh my god, I love them so much too! I got so many more questions about MC and the curse, and the mark for that matter, looking forward to when we finally get some answers.

I very, very nearly told you that when you posted your MC, I was so ecstatic. I thought if you while coding that section too. I am so glad you enjoyed the new chapter and new goodies. Lots of fun stuff to come! ^_^

6. @mutsuowo:  HELP I NAMED THE SHE-WOLF ASTER BECAUSE I FIRST CALLED THE MULE YARROW AND NOW I HAVE NOT ONE, NOT TWO BUR THREE ASTER* GOING AROUND (I know one changed to Lakota but the joke that count)

Whoops! Lol Sorry my friend! I don't think any more Asters are hiding about at least. Probably….

7. @mutsuowo: I got spoiled of Aster's name by accident and even then I mistook it for being Lakota, so I thought somehow Lakota had a divorce and took the children to be an option romance with the MC. Cue to me acting like a variety game host and going "We have a cult member, a magician, childhood friends and also a wolf...what about you Aster ? What do you bring to make we choose you ?" The answer was being a DILF

Lol! Oh dear, yeah, bestie has a quarter-life crisis and leaves his wife and 4 kids to live that DILF life. Love it, this is some quality daytime TV stuff. 😆 

8. Anon:  Hello there! I am currently in the middle of the newest chapter, very very good work! Spoiler ahead : So MC is absorbing magic? That might actually help the theory that somehow MC is a god, demi-god, or whatever that is: cursed because they are on this plane and needing magic as a very part of their being? I can't imagine that a god wouldn't be starving for magic if deprived of it. Perhaps in GC it's not magic gods handle, but something similar? The fact that we CHOSE the mark truly makes me think that somehow we were choosing an aspect of ourselves for some reason. Not only something physical either. If not our domain, perhaps a tell of why we were cursed in the first place ? I wonder if, before the Curse manifested, MC would have been flagged as a magic being ? I don't think there was anybody that could have sussed them out back then though ? Rune is amazing, btw, big fan. Can't wait for Purple Lad to accompany us and need a bath as badly as Duri did !

Oooh, are you perhaps my Nony who sent some other theories in about this? Very juicy theory as well. Next chapter you'll learn a bit more about Hayat's curse over the gods and see if it lines up or changes your thoughts more. 😁 I'm glad you like Rune too! They are in for a new experience for sure. Even if they aren't as stuffy as other nobles, they definitely appreciate more refined things. The little town MC grew up in might be a bit of a culture shock. 

9. Anon:  Sooooo... I'm thinking we ARE the mad god ! A reincarnation of it at least ! Thinking about how the cult wanted us dead, I am thinking that as long as MC is alive, they can't have another incarnation of them.   But What exactly was it that drove the god mad ?

Oooh! This one is juicy too! These theories are so tasty! Lots of questions with this one. And like the one above, there may be some info in chapter 6 that may just give more evidence one way or another.

10. Anon:  Me on my first playthrough: oh, Oswin's pretty cute! I think I'll try romancing him first Me when I meet Zahn: oh no you can't just make me choose like that how am I supposed to do this Me when I meet Duri: are you kidding me. Ok screw it I'm romancing Duri Me when I meet Rune: FUCKAIJASJDSAAA Me when I meet ???: No reaction because I'm already combusted. I can't even anymore 

Lol! I am glad and maybe just a tiny bit sorry that you're so torn, my dear. Let's find some glue and get you patched up… ^_^

11. Anon:  HAVE THEORIES! NATHAN IS DURI'S UNCLE, AND ASS-TER -HE DESERVES THAT AFTER THE RING BUSINESS >:( - WAS RAISED BY THOSE ASSHOLES WHO ALMOST KIDNAPPED MC! (I am open to Asster endearing himself later, but I'm mad at him rn, how dare he hurt my already hurt, lovely, MC 😡😡😡) Anyway, your writing is impeccable as always, can't wait to (perhaps) bring Asster to his knees (with love or spite, or maybe both?? He seems like someone easy to love-hate, lol). Tysm, for God Cursed, I love it <333

Yaaass, moar theories! That's a good one too! Nathan having some secrets wouldn't be shocking either. They'd get along too… And it is totally fair for MC to be salty! And ASSter is a perfect nickname, lol. It's also fair that in chapter 6 you'll be able to (try to) get after him about it. :3

12. Anon:  TW SPOILERS ''There is nothing I want more than to hear you…hear you say what you- Nothing more… But for your own sake. Y/N, I'm a monster. I have been a monster. Your heart should be free of thoughts of me until you know what haunts my sleep at night. If you can do that for me and your heart does not change, then I will hear those words and I will spend the rest of my days showing you what you mean to me.'' UUUUHHMMMMM, EXCUSE MEE?????? LIKE THIS IS THE MOST-ROMANTIC-NON-LOVE-CONFESSION I HAVE EVER HEARD??? EVEN THOUGH IT BURNS ME TO NOT KNOW WHAT AFFLICTS OSWIN, AFTER HEARING THAT I'M WILLING TO WAIT FOR HIM.

I love that you love this! I might have cried juuuust a little bit when I wrote that scene, lol (shocking, I know).

13. Anon:  replayed the IF from the start for the update and gosh i felt so bad for our dear MC who has gone through SO much in a (relatively) short amount of time. and the way MC just always thinks about their fathers makes me sobbbbbb. one that always gets me is the scene where MC cried out for their fathers when they were in pain (my heart broke when they said they wanted to be held by their papa). another is in the scene with jasper and co. (‘i learned it from my fathers!’, yesss go MC!!!!). but oh, just imagining the absolute heartbreak the fathers would feel if they knew how MC cried out for them and knew about everything that MC went through, makes me tear up! MC is SO loved by their fathers and MC loves them just as much and i love that. i hope we’ll be able to give da and papa the biggest hugs when we see them again 🥹wonderful update, author! i absolutely adore the world you’ve built and the brilliant characters you’ve created (shout out to one my favs.. our new she-wolf friend <3)

I set out on this IF journey intending to be a bit hard on the MC and I think I succeeded, lol. It might be hard to believe but I really do love the MC as a character too and I feel for them. Hopefully not too hard, but they're on a journey of perseverance so I have faith in them. ^_^ That scene really tore me up too, especially thinking about how hard it would hit the dads to know their beloved kid was calling out to them. 😭 I am so glad you enjoyed the update, my dear, there will be great big dad-hugs in the future, I promise (and more than a few tears). ^_^

14. Anon:  idk if it's choice or route-specific but, zahn was NOT looking good at the end of chapter 5 and i'm worried 😟

Not route-specific (unfortunately???)…they're…going through some things. 😬 (sorry in advance)

15. Anon:  Hi, hi!! Dropping by to blabber about the update after i've finally had time to lose myself in it! (Oh no it got long again.) Okay, so, from the very moment i saw your intro post (over half a year ago, methinks) i decided to go for Rune's route first. I have been very patient, very faithful. And now i can finally say it was so, so worth the wait!!! they have me wrapped all around their beautiful noble finger; they're perfect, they are everything (i mean, how many people can say a literal god shows up for their birthday? yeah, thought so). I know they are no exception either and have their own share of issues, but honestly? that's even better. I wish i was kidding about the amount of times i daydream about them. Look at me now how i'm smiling like a stupid idiot. And the fact that i can make my MC an absolute shy mess around them is just so!! *chef's kiss* 

"Oh no it got long again" is like the tagline for my existence, lol. I am so giddy that you adore Rune! I think they've had less traction since they weren't introduced until now, but I also believe they are just the type of person that is better experienced. I enjoy writing all of the ROs, but Rune is such a presence in my heart and I really hope that comes through.

Also, did Duri seriously rat them out like that? Umm, for science, of what nature, exactly, are the books under Runey's bed?

LOL and I'm so glad you caught that bit about their "hidden literature." Rune LOVES romance novels, including the ridiculous smutty ones even if the plot is kinda bad.

Anyway, moving on, because you fed us so well with the story once again!! Can i just say i love your brain? Can i? Is that weird? Apologies. So!

You can totally say that, lol. I appreciate that you think so, my brain frustrates me sometimes, but I like how smooth it is. Very soft.

We learned so much in this update, and yet our answers are still too far to reach--but that's the whole fun about this! I'm thinking things, i'm suspecting, but i'll hold onto my theories for now… It is indeed very fortunate that each of MC's new friends can seemingly contribute a piece to this vexing puzzle; question is, is the picture only missing the very last piece, or are all four needed for it to be complete? I'm folding my hands and patiently waiting to find out in future updates. 

Oooh, you're speaking my language, Nony. There are some theories up above, maybe those will get your mind spinning too. That's a very good question though too. Eveyone seems to have something that might help MC out…so the question could be, do they go full Power Rangers and combine them to solve this problem or is one strong enough on their own? Hmmmmm? Time will tell.

One thing i will say is, more people may know about MC and their whole deal than Oswin may want to even consider. People with not the best intentions, that is.

I'm sure it's fiiiiiine. Probably just a…crazy…crazy fluke. It's fine. 😀

Speaking of, Oswin is so sweet! He cares so much i think it's rending him apart. Perhaps he should partake of Nathan's pipe every now and then. You know, for recreational purposes. Frankly i admit i don't know how mean you still can be to Oswin because every time there's a choice during his scenes i just tunnel-vision to the friendliest one there. It really makes me feel sorry for him if there are MCs out there who are still bitter about their relationship. As he was opening up about what kinds of actual horrors he witnessed and had to deal with in consequence, it really made me think MC's little group should, as a side-quest, go out and find him a therapist, because this guy *slaps him on the back* can fit so much trauma in him!

That's a good way to describe Oswin. He feels very intensely and those emotions are difficult for him to manage. I try not to be too mean to him, but I do want to try and give a decent variety of responses to the past tension for some MCs. Negativity there isn't a huge focus, so I try not to go too far down the rabbit hole with it at least, lol. A therapist is a great idea for him, for real. You cracked me up with that reference, I imagine Lakota trying to sell him to the MC, lol.

 I see Zahn has entered the trenches(TM). Just after i had them repeatedly stabbed in MC's place. And just after they finally got to cuddle with MC. This is fine. Not gonna lie, for a solid second you had me believe we wouldn't see them come back from that totally not evil or at least highly doubtful church of theirs, and that we'd had to leave without them. Haha, no waay. Lunan wouldn't do that to them, right? Right? Oh thank gods. See? I was right. Anyway, it seems like their character development arc is coming up soon, so i'm keeping calm and not cracking my knuckles, not at all.

Oh yes, there will be some development soon here. Tee hee?

Duri is so fun. Their playfulness is so endearing, so much so that i find myself repeatedly swayed in my decision to have them in a (now mostly) platonic relationship with MC. Simmer down, you'll have your turn. It had me rolling how they snapped once the bandits insulted their feet lmao! Also, also, their dynamic with Rune? Mmm, so good. I love the kind of friendship that's like "yeah i picked up this weird wet dog one day and now it won't leave me be and it's annoying, but only i'm allowed to say that. here, have a treat."

I love that you love that. Writing Duri is fun and I get to break some social norms with them so it's a win-win for us all. The relation to Rune is a blast.

Moving on, Duri sniffing MC after they talked with someone they didn't know; Duri immediately leaping at the opportunity to tease a jealous MC; Duri coming to MC's rescue to put a harasser in their place--they can't keep getting away with being so charming! Oh wait, they can. Human laws don't apply to them, after all.

Duri is already so loyal. Like a pup you picked up at the shelter, the connection is pretty quick for them. Also, if you didn't know, you can also get Rune to get defensive of MC being harassed in the tavern. Currently thinking of changing the code of that, but if you choose to stay neutral or a bit distrustful of Duri, Rune will get involved instead. Both have the confidence and the power to back it up though, can't go wrong.

And Aster? Something is up with him. Big time. Bost obviously, his name. I don't know, i don't know, i'm not convinced it's a coincidence or merely "fate." I'm watching you, Aster. Okay, and yes, i see why MC might need his help, but he never once elaborated on that part where he said he needs MC for power. Sooo, naah, i'm not putting my egg in your basket, not yet. Especially!! After he so brutally demonstrated just how much of a bigger hand he has over MC. That was evil. (In a good way.) He's unhinged, and i love that in a character. I would not trust him even with a cheese grater.

That may be wisdom here for sure, lol. Aster is quite the character, as are all of them I suppose. All have secrets he especially has some serious growing to do. He'll be an interesting addition - and a very smug one at that. Maybe juuuust maybe MC can get him to feel a little remorse for being an ASSter, to quote a previous ask, lol.

I almost thought MC's group of friends were going to mistake him for the kidnapper and everyone would want to throw hands, or would at least be very leery of him, so seeing how easily he slotted in had me a little surprised (and i think he was a bit surprised himself).

That very nearly happened actually. I cut it because of chapter length, and I'm thinking I want to polish the ending for that anyway. I feel like I was burnt out while writing that and I pushed it too fast. So, we'll see what happens in future….

I really, really liked the option of having MC be scared of him after he put a cork (dart) in Jasper's mouth (throat). The head tilt afterwards? Wiping away a stray tear? "Now come sit with me on my picnic blanket designer cloak to talk about how everything is drawn to you, including me?" "I'll need to study you?" Yes, i'll take your entire stock.

I'm glad you enjoyed your dessert, Nony. ;) There will be some serious studying in the next chapter.

Oswin being extremely quiet while MC was recounting their failed abduction because he was still recovering from those 6 panic attacks he had since finding MC's room empty and with signs of struggle.

THIS absolutely. MC may get an account of the experience later.

 i can't wait to see what the dads are going to say about each of MC's new friends! I can already imagine who might not entirely vibe with whom, especially if papa and da are going to be in a sour mood after they see my (feral despite being the healer of the party) MC scarred and sore despite their letters containing nothing but rainbows and sunshine (oops). MC's right, though, how are they going to house so many people lol.

This will be so much fun, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements…A couple ROs will get themselves sorted but there's a couple that we might just get a "one bed" trope with, lol.

And last but not least, MC got the promised puppy!!! (i named her "Ginger" <33) 

Oh that is such a cute name too! She is kinda the color of ginger and she's also very gentle (ginger) AND she can be very spicy if you piss her off. Very gingery.

I have been here before and gushed about your writing on multiple occasions and i don't want to repeat myself over and over, so i'll just reiterate once more that i'm constantly blown away by how real and vivid you make everything feel. You're putting things down and i'm picking them right up, thank you, thank you, yup, i'll have that as well, thank you. You're painting pictures inside my head, and they're gorgeous and vibrant and moving now--hey, how did you even get in here? I'm convinced you're a mage. MC is not the mage here (yet?), but you sure are!! It's okay, you may fess up now. As always, thank you so much for all your hard work! May your holidays be full of joy and rest! Take care <333

I am so thankful that you resonate so much with my writing, my friend. That really truly makes my heart so glad and encourages me to keep at it. I hope each chapter brings you more and more enjoyment and adventure. ^_^

16. @rhiannon02:  IM SCREAMING OVER CH 5 LITERALLY SCREAMING ASTER ??? IM IM LOSING IT

Well, hang on dear, maybe I can help you find it, lol. (I heard that one in my soul) ^_^

That's all for now! ^_^

[yandere-paramour]

something something Ata finding a platonic darling after getting her hands on her spouse and basically forcefully adopting said platonic darling

bonus points if the platonic darling is some timid wetcat trying to escape an abusive family

This is cute scenario, very similar to Darling!Daughter.

Atalanta already has a Darling spouse she's very happy with, but she somehow comes across you one day. You're sobbing like a baby, the worst cries of your life. Your family is abusive, but they won't let you into the domestic violence shelter because you're still underage. You don't have any food, money, or work experience, and it's cold enough that you might actually freeze to death tonight.

But your luck is greater than you realize.

"What's wrong, little one?"

Your first thought is Mafia. A gorgeous woman, surrounded by thick, beefy bodyguards, is speaking to you. Her face is endowed with parental concern, looking at you like you're a poor little wet kitten in the rain.

You look around, afraid to speak, but it's clear she's not leaving, not without an explanation. So you spill your story, hating the way her face screws up with anguish. She shakes her head and stands to her full height, making up her mind.

"Come with me," She holds out one perfectly manicured hand, "I can get you someplace warm for the night, and we can work from there."

Your choices are go with her or stay here, so you go. Her car is warm, and you feel bad sitting on the seat in your dirty clothes. She is clearly a very wealthy woman, tapping out a text on the latest iPhone, while you try to stay quiet and hope she won't have a change of heart and shove you out onto the highway.

She brings you to some apartment building in the next town over, and when one of the bodyguards bids her a goodnight, you finally realize who this woman is. This is Atalanta Montclair, heiress to the Montclair dynasty, the richest person within 500 miles, a woman of looks, brains, and wealth. Your face is clearly terrified, and you want to escape, but you and her are in an elevator, her clearly noticing but ignoring your fears.

She brings you to a room on an unmarked floor. The room is pristine, white bedclothes, clothing in your size already in the closet, large TV with all channels. You've never seen such luxury. Montclair does not touch you, only advises you to stay the night and she will be back to speak to you in the morning. She sends some food up for you, and leaves you to rest in peace, only warning you to be good and stay in the room until she comes to get you.

You decide to take your good fortune as it comes. You take a much-needed shower, eat the warm soup and crusty bread, and sleep on the softest mattress you've ever felt. You feel like a whole new person and it's only been one night. Atalanta Montclair must be an angel sent by God themself, so you might as well obey her.

Atalanta is back down with you late the next morning. She looks pleased at your clean, well-fed state, and praises you for taking care of yourself, making you blush. You thank her profusely for the food and warm bed, telling her than you'll get out of her hair soon, but she won't have it. Before you know, she's convinced you to stay another night.

And then a week passes. Then two weeks. Then two months.

The building is massive. You've been to the Montclair's apartment and had dinner with Atalanta's wife many times, even spending some time with the lady during the day. You've accompanied her on shopping trips, trying to refuse all the soft pastel clothes she insisted on buying you, but she won't have it. You've had tea with her on the garden terrace, even fallen asleep watching a movie in the screening room, and woken up to a soft blanket draped over your shoulders.

You've become almost like a child again, a companion trailing after your saviors as the spoil you with gifts and luxury. Atalanta is even talking about moving your room closer to the main apartment. Every time you try to leave, there is always another slice of cake, another movie to watch, another cup of hot chocolate for you to drink. You're doted on like a beloved child, even having your own staff assigned to look after you and protect you. You're never in the elevator alone, and you have no idea where your important documents are now; Atalanta said she was keeping them safe in her office but you're not allowed in there without her.

Honestly, the whole situation was a dream. Outside this glorious building is endless capitalistic work, abusive parents, freezing cold wind that makes your weak joints ache. There's nothing for you out there, nothing you want to be bothered with.

You should just stay. Atalanta and her wife clearly want you here, they're talking about taking a trip to Greece soon and you heard them mention 3 tickets. No one's ever wanted you before, and no one's ever treated you this well either. You're doted on here, loved and adored and hugged, getting to really experience the love of parents who don't abuse you in 15 different ways. You even get pocket money.

You're still waiting for the other shoe to drop, but for now, you're... here. And you really don't want to go back.

[imdoingaokay]

Cullen x f!Inquisitor/Reader - After It All...

summary - after the events of Veilguard, Cullen meets his wife in Minrathous

word count - 900+

warnings - fem!reader, HUGE VEILGUARD SPOILERS (it's just one really big one, but it's still there, please don't read if you don't want to be spoiled!), mentions of children, Inquisitor's race is left up to the reader, some artistic license taken in general + what's going on in the south of Thedas (specifically Ferelden)

a/n - hey guys. been a while. I graduated nursing school and started a job, so I've been a wee bit busy. but obviously, I gotta write. I missed y'all. like- a lot. I may do the other Inquisition romances if I feel like it or if it gets asked, but I needed to write this for my sake. I feel very strongly about how much/little some characters were mentioned lol. anyways, enjoy!

It’s nighttime when she returns. 

Cullen wasn’t sleeping, though that wasn’t necessarily by choice. Aside from seeing her, nothing about this trip was by choice.

He would’ve rather their children stay with his sister and would’ve much rather not have them tag along with Cullen to Tevinter of all places. But with Redcliffe and The Blight… he couldn’t leave them anywhere. Not while she was gone. What if something happened in his absence? He’d… Maker, he knew not what he’d do.

Cullen struggled to leave his siblings behind in Gwaren, but they had shooed both him and the children away.  He could only hope for their safety. 

Still, he held no affection for Tevinter or her people. The way the family was sneered at whenever one of them was to speak, whenever someone threw a glance over to them, it was obvious. The people of Tevinter knew what he and, more importantly, his children were. Then again, maybe it wasn’t the best move to bring the dogs… they were a dead giveaway.

“Wasn’t like I could leave them behind…” Cullen murmured, glancing around the dark room. He shook his head and exited the large bedroom before quietly strolling down the hall.

The house was rented by Dorian, when Cullen had arrived and promptly assumed he was in the wrong place, Dorian ushered him back.

“You don’t expect me to let you stay in some inn, do you?” The magister had scoffed

The only thing that calmed Cullen’s nerves was the mention that they’d be under constant supervision by Morrigan… somehow.

And speaking of Morrigan, Cullen passed by an empty room. Morrigan had popped by and suggested leaving an eluvian inside for easier access, something Cullen shut down immediately. He wasn’t letting some fade demon/spirit/creature come anywhere near his family.

Cullen passed by the bedrooms, peeking in through the cracks and seeing the familiar locks of hair peeking out from under the covers. The children were so excited to be in such a fancy house, after living in the countryside for so long, it was almost like a vacation for the children. Cullen smiled to himself, remembering how the children ran throughout the halls, chasing one another while Cullen followed behind with the dogs. If Tevinter wasn’t such a mess and didn’t hate his love so much, he wouldn’t mind coming up for a vacation occasionally.

Cullen slowly made his way back to the bedroom, his thoughts drifting to his wife. Maker, he missed her. So did the children. Everyone missed her. Her letters were wonderful, but they could never replace the thing they all wanted.

“Maker…” he sighed, leaning against a wall. He hadn’t heard any news, no whispers of death, but… what if…

CREEEEAAAAAK

Cullen shot up, suddenly not tired or worried. That was the front door, he was certain. He quickly went into the bedroom and grabbed his sword before walking back down the hallway, checking inside the rooms quietly, making sure his children were safe before moving down.

He heard the intruder's footsteps and finally thought he got them, jumping out from the corner with his blade pointed at their throat. He’d ask questions. Who sent them? Who knew they were there? Whatever else came to mind.

But his thoughts were all thrown away when he finally saw his prey. Those eyes, those lips, Maker that voice calling for him.

“My love…” he breathed, letting the sword drop down, “Why didn’t you…”

“I wanted to be quiet…” The Inquisitor whispered, watching her husband nearly drop his sword before enveloping her in a tight hug. How long had it been? Weeks? Months? Too long, that was certain. Ever since he had arrived in Minrathous, their communication had been brief, he wasn’t even able to learn of Varric’s passing through her, only through Dorian, who had passed by one day to bring sweets for the children and somber news to Cullen. That evening, it had been a difficult task to explain to the children why Uncle Varric wouldn’t be coming by next summer after all. So much death in so little time, The Blights, the dragons, and with his lifeline off in The North while his nightmares grew worse in The South, Cullen was even more stressed than he was during The Inquisition.

So lost in his thoughts, Cullen hadn’t even noticed the tears that had slipped down his cheeks, it was his wife who, after finally breaking away, wiped the tears with some whispered words of affection.

They stayed like that for a while, in a tight embrace, occasionally pulling away only to be brought back again. And even when they had pulled away completely, it was only so she could put her things down. “We should go to bed…” She hummed, “I think the children will sense us and-” She began, only to be cut off by the pitter-patter of feet and the crying out of The Inquisitor’s other, newer, title.

Over an hour later, after some tears and many kisses pressed to cheeks, noses, and foreheads, the happy family lay together in one bed. The children passed out quickly, leaving Cullen and his beloved again awake.

“We have a lot of work to do…” He whispers, “The South is-” He begins before feeling his wife’s finger on his lips.

“Tomorrow…” She says, “I only want you and *this*-” She gestures to the children sprawled out over the bed, “... tonight if that’s alright. Tomorrow, we’ll…” She yawns, and Cullen smiles.

“I know…” He says, draping an arm over his wife his youngest, who planted themselves in between the pair, “I love you…” He sighs happily. “I love you too.” She smiles and finally closes her eyes. Cullen realized that she was probably exhausted, as was Cullen. So, finally feeling at peace, Cullen closed his eyes and fell asleep almost instantly.

That night, Cullen slept dreamlessly, something he had missed almost as much as he missed her.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

WIBTA for calling animal rescue/welfare on my mom who loves her pets?

My mom has 2 cats and 1 dog. I want to start off by saying that she doesn't physically abuse her animals.

They're in a weird state of being really emotionally spoiled and completely physically neglected. The dog sleeps in bed with her and is always on the sofa, doesn't get told off when he pees and poops in the house, and the cats are always getting cuddles. The cats are getting kinda fat because they're fed a lot.

My mom is an alcoholic and she doesn't look after herself or her home at all. It's been years since she showered or bathed, she goes weeks without changing her clothes except for when she works, her house is genuinely falling completely apart. Cupboard doors are falling off at the hinges and propped up with buckets, doors don't close, carpets are coming up off the floor, wallpaper is peeling, the shower door fell off and shattered, the toilet lid is cracked in half, the floors are too dirty to step on without shoes, the entire house STINKS of animal urine and there are stains everywhere. A couple of years back she had an insect infestation in one of the bedrooms.

Now, my mom loves her pets and really emotionally relies on them. Ever since I moved out she's been alone and has regressed even worse because when she's at home she has nothing to do but drink and watch TV. The pets are her only company most days.

However, her bad hygiene and home care translates to them. It has been YEARS since the dog was walked, and months since he even got a cursory trip over the road to the small grass area outside her house. His fur is always matted, and he recently had fleas (god knows how when he doesn't leave the house but there you go). He has bald patches of fur missing. He pees and poops all over the floors and carpets because he just doesn't get let outside to do it enough - and he runs away or hides when you find it so he 100% knows he's not supposed to, he just doesn't have a choice because he's not able to go into the garden. His claws are always so long they're bothering him when he walks, and as gross as it is to describe there have been COUNTLESS times I've visited and he's had literal shit caked onto his fur around his tail because he's had diarrhea and when I've pointed it out that he needs to be washed my mom brushes it off with "It's only a little bit" and continues to let him onto the bed/couch.

The cats are mildly better off because they can clean themselves, but their litter trays are always OVERFLOWING - like, genuinely, mountains of cat poop piling up in the trays to the point where they're going on the floor because they don't have room in the tray - and one of them is sleeping in a bed that is Caked in vomit stains, clumps of hair, other miscellaneous marks, all of that.

I've called someone about it before when I still lived there, and a woman did stop by to check it out and told my mom that the cat litters were unacceptable, but my mom just lies to them. According to her the dog gets walked twice a day without fail, gets a ton of enrichment, everything, and you can't really prove her to be lying. The woman told her she'd drop by in a week to check on the litters, my mom kept them clean until she came back and gave the okay, and then just went right back to neglecting them and nothing was done about it.

I have no idea what to do anymore but I want to call again and really impress upon them that they're not being cared for. I sent photos and video evidence last time along with an explanation, but it doesn't seem like it got me anywhere at all. I just don't know what else to do. I've brought up the idea of taking at least the dog with me to my new place (it's very nearby so she'd still be able to visit him and I'd be able to walk him up to her house), but she VEHEMENTLY objected and told me she'd never be able to let him go.

I'm not sure what it would do tbh, even disregarding that she'd probably just get a new pet I would be genuinely worried she'd lose all interest in life if they were taken away.

TL;DR Mom's alcoholism means she doesn't look after her pets and they're not being cared for at all, but taking them away would severely impact her mental health.

WIBTA for calling animal services on her again?

What are these acronyms?

[rosapexa]

When you and the rogue AI you leashed to your Cyberdeck get along a little too well...

His name is Typhon. He chose that name. Everyone had a name, so he also wanted one. Typhon is one of the most dangerous creatures in greek mythology and the father of many monsters. He found that very fitting. And this choice might have been slightly influenced by Lexa's fondness of all kind of monsters (dragons and dinos the most of course).

Typhon was not happy at first to be leashed by an inferior human. But kinda... impressed(?) that this weak human was able to do it. And soon he got used to it.

Lexa used him and his abilities well in his eyes. She used him to kill (not enough for his taste and oh he let her know). He liked killing worthless humans and there were a lot of them. Typhon was also curious about the human world. It was inferior than his world, but with Lexa he got to experience so many new things. He learned so much. He developed.

Typhon became protective of Lexa. He wasn't sure why, but he made it his duty to protect her. He became like her very agressive guard dog (who also acted like a spoiled cat a lot nontheless). She was his owner and her Cybedeck was his home. And he had to defend both. He now had a purpose and he liked that. He never had one before, beyond the Blackwall.

He also accepted "the spare human" Johnny and was fascinated by the other little creature, Nibbles, living with them, who seemed to be able to order both humans around.

Typhon is also is the reason, why Lexa was able to survive Mikoshi. He protected and stabilized her during and after. She trusts him and he not only protects her but he also made her a better and even more dangerous Netrunner.

But Lexa also never forgets, what Typhon truly is. And he doesn't want her to either.

Note: These are my personal headcanons for my own Cyberpunk 2077 world. If you don't like it, ignore it. Thank you!

[harknessxo]

All My Works Masterlist

WARNING! Most of the following contain SMUT and/or have a DARK theme.

➥ This Masterlist contains all my works, I hope you enjoy 🤗

Dark-♤ Angst-♧ Fluff-♡ Smut-♢

MARVEL

Agatha Harkness

Love At First Sight ♤

Summary: When Agatha saw you she knew you were going to be hers.

Unattended ♡

Summary: Agatha has been working all day and leaves you unattended.

You Can Run But You Can’t Hide ♤

Summary: Agatha slowly starts to isolate you so you can only rely on her and her alone but her plan has one flaw.

I’ve missed you ♤♢

Summary: You and Agatha had a twisted history. She had kidnapped you into Wanda’s distorted reality to make you into her perfect wife. She had you under a spell until Wanda freed you. Wanda promised you Agatha would never hurt you again and helped you find a new home where Agatha wouldn’t be able to find you. You had your little house in the middle of nowhere, where you were safe…or so you thought. (This is also based on the one clip of Rio pinning Agatha to the wall.)

Neighborly Desires ♤♢

Summery: You had recently moved into Westview. Your mother had passed away and you wanted a new start in a small town. Agatha was your neighbor there and she didn’t waste any time welcoming you into town. She thought you were so adorable and so innocent…she wanted to be the one to corrupt you. She needed to be patient, careful, and precise.

Agrio ♢

Summery: The fight scene between Agatha and Rio but with smut.

Unraveling ♡

Summary: For the past three years, Agatha was trapped under the Scarlet Witch’s spell. Trapped in her own mind to play the character of Agnes, the nosy neighbor. But even then she was able to find some sort of happiness, you. At some point, you always found yourself at her house, talking or just watching tv together and in Agatha’s mind it became a romantic comedy where you were her love interest. It was such a refresher after the nightmares of her past she had every night. Then came the day the spell was suddenly lifted. Agatha had finally come to her senses. She had fallen in love again after all these years but were you even real? She had no sense of what was real or fake.

THE GREATEST ♧♡

Summery: Agatha has to make a choice without hurting you.

THE DINER ♤♢♧♡

Summary: Unbeknownst to you, you had the pleasure of being Agatha’s next victim but she takes a liking to you.

Cigarettes out the Window ♢♧♡

Summary: You go into a fight with your parents about your grades and ran to the only safe place you know, Agatha.

Needy ♢

Summary: Agatha finds you touching yourself without permission when she got off work and gives you a much needed punishment.

House Of Balloons ♤♢

Summary: When Agatha went into Westview her goal was to find the source of such chaotic magic but the moment she saw you, her plan changed just a little bit.

Love is Embarrassing ♤♢

Summary: Your girlfriend, Kate, broke up with you and you decided it’s time to get a therapist before you fall down a spiral you can’t get out of.

Professor Harkness ♢

Summary: Agatha is a very attractive but strict Professor in your College. You somehow manage to keep up with her without seducing her like many students tried but failed to, which makes her take an interest in you.

Hela Odindottir

Too Sweet ♢

Summery: She finds you talking to a guard in the garden and makes you cum until she’s satisfied as a punishment.

Okoye

Lesson ♢

Summary: Okoye thinks you're a spoiled brat and deserve a lesson.

Shuri Udaku

No Escape ♤♢

Summary: You tried to escape but there is no escaping her.

Pretty Little Thing ♤♢

Summary: You were sent on a mission to retrieve vibranium from Wakanda for S.H.I.E.L.D. In the process you get caught by the Black Panther.

Queen Ramonda

You Don’t Deserve To Mourn ♧

Summary: When Ramonda drowns, Shuri blames it on you.

The Set Up ♡

Summary: You work as a scientist in Shuri's lab, and one day the Queen walks in to talk with Shuri and T'Challa about something. You find it impossible to take your eyes off of her. Shuri and T’Challa notice and set you both up.

My Queen ♡♢

Summary: The Queen has been having a stressful day so you help her out.

For Your Own Good ♤♢♡

Summary: “When she was told of her husband’s death she was devastated of course, but the first thing on her mind was you. She couldn’t let another person she loved to get killed, not under her watch. She thought the best way to keep you safe was to have you with her at all times, whether you liked it or not.”

Try That Again ♢

Summary: Ramonda had been busy all day and you wanted attention so you decided to have a bratty attitude but she had none of it.

WWE

Charlotte Flair

Not So Permanent ♢

Summary: After Charlotte is suspended for attacking a ref she goes to your office in hopes to change your mind about her punishment.

Revenge ♧♢♡

Summary: You lost your NXT Championship to Lyra while Rhea was gone and she was not happy. When you didn’t succeed at getting it back she and the rest of TJD left you. You found comfort in someone else who also helped get your revenge.

Workout ♤♡

Summary: You and Charlotte went I the gym. A guy thought it was a good idea to mess with you and Charlotte took care of it.

Still Your Mami ♢

Summary: Charlotte congratulates Rhea after their match in more ways than one.

Rhea Ripley

Always Back To You ♧♢♡

Series Summary: Rhea has a one night stand with none other than the tribal chief Roman Reigns. Eventually that one night stand becomes multiple one night stands and her life gets turned upside down.

You Belong To Me ♢?

Summary: You break a rule and Rhea makes sure you get in line.

Revenge ♧♢♡

Summary: You lost your NXT Championship to Lyra while Rhea was gone and she was not happy. When you didn’t succeed at getting it back she and the rest of TJD left you. You found comfort in someone else who also helped get your revenge.

I’m Your Papi ♢

Summary: Rhea has a new papi.

Roman Reigns

Always Back To You ♧♢♡

Series Summary: Rhea has a one night stand with none other than the tribal chief Roman Reigns. Eventually that one night stand becomes multiple one night stands and her life gets turned upside down.

Other

Larissa Weems

Almost Caught ♢

Summary: You acted like a brat towards Larissa and in the middle of your punishment, your family interrupts.

Nightmares ♡♢

Summary: You have been having nightmares and Larissa wants to help you but in the process, feelings rise up.

Alice Chambers

Reminder ♤♢

Summary: A woman flirts with you at the grocery store and Alice shows you who you belong to.

Harley Quinn

Crazy ♤♢

Summary: You were assigned to be Harley Quinn's new psychiatrist and things take a turn.

[twstfanblog]

im literally so invested pls talk more about Cindy

OGCindy was a naive but well-meaning girl. The life of high nobility would not have been easy since she would come across as very rude. Yuu places as the antagonist to her since they were pretty good foils. Not even the villain, Yuu was just the current flower of high society, and she would unknowingly made OGCindy feel awful about her lack of manners. In the ORIGINAL TALE, Yuu doesn't die. It's a happy ending for everyone involved. The romance is hinted but never confirmed and ends on OGCindy going to a tea party with the trio and Yuu.

FLCindy is sadly a cookie cutter entitled manhwa protag who read the book and basically oversimplified it to 'hot boys' and 'mean girl'. There's also the fact that since she fully believes this new world is just the book, there's no deeper complexity to anyone in it. She knows the basic info about everyone, but actual traits and nuances are completely lost on her.

The love story between FLCindy and the trio was completely toxic. While OGCindy pointed out the flaws in their logic and that allowed them to grow as people, FLCindy just fed into it because she liked them being mean to Yuu since she was the 'villainess'.

She was genuinely confused why people were upset at Yuu's death. She was the mean girl? She kept pointing out how the 'main character' wasn't doing the right thing. She's evil, that's how these books work! In the short time before the timeline is reset, FLCindy's life goes downhill pretty fast. Before the reset, Malleus was actually going to kill her since he starts to wholly blame her for Yuu's death.

Now in the reset, FLCindy is basically using her prior timeline knowledge to speed run a cushier life. Meaning she lies about how horrible her step family is to get her father to divorce her stepmother and cast her and her daughters out of their house. He later remarries a woman who's all too willing to spoil and dote on FLCindy, making her even WORSE this time around.

She's been reborn basically, but she's instead treating it like she's playing a dating sim where her choices won't actually affect anything. Which...she will find to be very, very false.

[romana-after-dark]

Blessed Be The Fruit

Commander!Joel Miller x Handmaid!Reader

Series masterlist

Summary: A few decades into Gilead’s conception, you head into your first posting as a handmaid after an affair with a guardian landed you in trouble. Determined to keep your head low in order to keep your son safe, you take on the moniker of OfJoel. Commander Miller has very little to do with you and mrs. Miller regards you with disgust, however you find solace in an unlikely friendship with Commander Miller’s daughter from a handmaid 14 years ago, Ellie who just got done with wives school. You and your friend, Ofthomas start teacher her and her friend Reilly under her mothers nose. Slowly, Commander Miller begins spending time with you and you begin to learn more about the man he was before and an affair begins outside the confines of the ceremony. Although initially you go along with it out if survival, you find yourself falling for the version of Joel you saw in these late night rendezvous.

Which Joel is really him, and how will he react when his own daughters secrets are revealed?

Content and Warnings: DARK JOEL! DUB CON!

Although no violent rape happens like in TWW, reader is under systemic misogyny and a society of ritualized sex abuse. Everything other than the violent rape scenes, everything that happen in either The Handmaids Tale book or show are liable to happen here including but not limited to discussion of rape, child abuse, child marriage, ritualized sexual abuse, sexual abuse in general, acts of violence, major character deaths, mentions of miscarriage but never shown and never pregnancies we know of. Big ole homophobia warning, specifically in regards to lesbophobia. As for Joel, PIV sex, breeding kink, degrading (slut, whore etc but thing like Raider!joel) forced breeding and breeding kink, power dynamics, Joel is not the good guy but he’s also not the worst, slightly rough sex but not violent. Warnings are liable to be added as the story goes but I’ll always update. As always if I miss something please tell me, but i extensively label my warnings and in the end media consumption is your own choice. If you would like to know if this is a happy ending or not you can message me and I’ll tell you that way I don’t spoil for everyone but you can decide if this is for you.

Immersability: Reader has long hair, can conceive children theoretically. At one point, she has to pose as Ellie's mother and I know this can be loaded in terms of skin tone. I am no genetics expert but I know dark skinned parents can have white passing children, like Lional Richie and Nicole Richie. It's up to you to see if this is going to take you out of the story or not.

Support writers, reblog and leave comments!

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

Aunt Lydia said your first posting would be a difficult one, but that she took pride is matching up Handmaids to the right households and said she thinks it will be a solid posting. A peaceful household is the best conditions to conceive a child in, after all. Stress isn’t good for the baby, dear.

She gave you all the details, everything you needed to know. You would known as Ofjoel for the time of your posting; three years unless you conceive, God willing. Commander Miller was known as a fair man and a good father to the child he had, a 14 year old named Elizabeth who had only recently returned from wives school. Gildead had been eagerly awaiting news of her being betrothed, but Commander Miller was very particular. Nothing but the best for his daughter. Elizabeth was the product of a handmaid that had been posted with him 15 years ago at the advent of Gilead; one of the first 3 successful children of the new state. Their family had a bit of celebrity in that sense. Joel had declined handmaids for years ever since, saying he had his child and it was only fair that others got a chance. A good man, dear, always thinking of his countrymen. 

Mrs. Miller, she warned, can be a bit particular. But that shouldn’t be a problem for a well behaved girl like you, dear. You were well behaved, that was true. After you were taken away from your life with your husband, your son was taken and given to an unknown high ranking family. All you wanted to do was be passive and quiet and behave so no harm came to your son.

“Ah, welcome. Blessed be the fruit.” A beautiful woman in blue with dark hair braided back greeted you at the porch. Behind her was a young girl, Elizabeth you assumed, who looked less than thrilled to be there and behind her was a Martha. In front of Mrs. Miller, however, you see him. He was tall, handsome, a strong alkaline nose and medium brown curls slicked back in an attempt to tame them. 

Aunt Lydia spoke for you. You weren’t to speak unless spoken too. “Thank you, may the lord open! Mrs. Miller, Commander Miller. Oh, Elizabeth! Look how you’ve grown!” Lydia greeted the teenager who refused to put on a smile.

“Elizabeth, be polite.” Her mother chided, but it wasn’t until Commander Miller whispered a small ‘Ellie’ that the girl put on a small and curtsied.

Mrs. Miller invited aunt Lydia in for tea, but she declined, saying goodbye to you and telling you to be good before you were ushered inside. As Mrs. Miller introduced the household, you felt Commander Miller’s intense stare on you, his hands clasped tightly behind his back.

“Our daughter, Elizabeth, is to be betrothed soon, God willing.”

Elizabeth groaned. “Great.”

“Your attitude is exactly why we can’t find you a match, young lady.” Mrs. Miller snapped, turning to her daughter with a glare. “That and the fact you keep sneaking second helpings-”

At that, Commander Miller walked over to where his wife was berating the girl. “She hasn’t found a match because I haven't found anyone suitable for her. She’s a shining star of Gilead, Gina, and I’m not going to send her off to just anyone.”

You watched as Mrs. Miller glared at him before her eyes fluttered over to you, and suddenly you felt like the outside you were. 

Commander Miller kissed the crown of Elizabeth’s hair, gently nudging her off. “Go to your room, I’ll walk you to Reilly’s after I’m done here, alright?” Women couldn’t walk alone, God forbid. It was for your safety, right?

Elizabeth rolled her eyes, but agreed and left the room, the commander looking back to his wife. “You have to stop berating her like that, she’s a good kid.”

Mrs. Miller walked a step closer. “She’s a brat, she’ll never have a successful marriage if she can’t submit to her-”

“Woman, I told you to drop it!” Commander Miller’s voice raised up just a little, enough to tell his wife to leave it alone.

With a huff, Mrs. Miller left the room mumbling that he can deal with the help, and how this is why they were getting a new handmaid and baby in the first place.

As she walked away, Commander Miller scrubbed his face and sighed, eventually looking over towards you and seeming startled by your presence. He sighed again. The way he looked at you… he didn’t look past you like everyone else seemed to do, he didn’t look at you like furniture. “Ellie’s going through a phase right now. Gilead has seemed to forget that teenagers are still teenagers, no matter the birthing crisis.”

You want to ask him whose fault that was. You want to remind him that he was one of the sons of Jacob who created this entire system… but you weren’t looking to die today. 

“She’s a good kid, smart.” He pressed on, like he was looking for a response. Smart was an odd choice of words. Women weren’t meant to be smart, they were meant to be pretty, fertile, godly, kind, demure.

You down cast your eyes. “Of course, sir.”

Commander Miller urged you along showing you all the parts of the house. The bottom floor held the kitchen where you would be helping the Martha, Lisa, the dining room, parlor, all the miscellaneous living areas and way in the back was Commander Miller’s office. Upstairs was a second bathroom, the master suite, Elizabeth’s room (or Ellie, as he called her), and Lisa’s room and then yours towards the end. He excused himself there.

“Make yourself as comfortable as possible.” He urged. It  was strange, the way he acted was not how you had expected. For such a  prominent commander  whose daughter was almost like royalty, you expect a harsher man; someone to match his wife’s strict standards. However, it seemed he was… almost normal, whatever that meant. “I’m going to walk my daughter to her friend’s house, but I’ll be back if you have any questions. Lisa would probably appreciate some help with dinner for once.”

“Yes commander”

You were in elementary school when Gilead was formed. Your parents were christian and church goers so you were allowed to grow up with them in the lower class regions and were married off to another man of lower stock, and it was years before you became pregnant with your son. Problem was that this son looked nothing like his father, and a paternity test revealed your secret, landing you in the position you were at now.

The day dragged on. Between you and Lisa, there wasn’t much to do to keep the household clean for the three other people that lived there, even with Mrs. Miller’s strict standards. Tomorrow you would meet your walking partner, and hopefully have activities to fill more of your day until your first ceremony.

That night, you woke up to use the bathroom, but when you walked out you were met face to face with Commander Miller. He was even taller like this, even dressed down out of his boots. White tee shirt and dark pants were under his long road and his previously slicked back hair was unfurled into soft, messy curls. His face was still sweaty; he smelled like sex. You hadn’t really thought if Commander’s still fucked their wives… but you suppossed there was no reason not to. Gina was beautiful, after all, and so was Commander Miller.

He towered over you, breaths almost shared in the close confines of the hallway. “Sorry.” He murmured in a whisper and moved, heading downstairs to his office or a midnight snack. A little shaken at being so close to a man, a man of such rank and power… that very power emanated off him in wafts of manly musk. You ran into Elizabeth as you exited the bathroom and she looked as startled to see you as you did Commander Miller.

“Excuse me.” She said as she slipped past and you re-entered your room, only to peek out as she was tiptoeing down the stairs and turning towards Commander Miller’s office. It was strange to see, but you supposed fathers were fathers, no matter the horrors they created for other women. Did he realize he was setting his own daughter up for this life? Especially a girl as headstrong as she seemed to be?

The sun was bright, the early fall only requiring  your long sleeve dress as you stood outside but behind the gate of your new home, Mrs. Miller standing beside you to make the introduction. Your walking partner was your next door neighbors handmaid.

“Ofthomas is my brother-in-law’s handmaiden. I assume you’ll meet their family this week, we usually keep weekly dinner’s at each other’s homes every Friday, we host this week. Tommy- Commander Miller, I mean, is certainly… interesting. Very kind, but don’t like me catch him being kind to you alone.” Mrs. Miller shot you a warning eye and you understood. Despite having wives and handmaids to fuck, men were never satisfied. 

“Ofthomas, there you are. You’re late.”

Ofthomas curtsied. “Apologies, Ma’am”

“Hm. This is Ofjoel, our new handmaiden.”

You bow your head and Ofthomas bows back, and Mrs. Miller opened the gate, allowing you to begin your walk to the store. To say you were nervous was an understatement. You could never tell who an eye was, and certainly couldn’t tell who a true believer was. Did Ofthomas believe everything she had been taught? It was never safe to say anything, never safe to question or complain to a single person lest they turn you-

“So what’s your real name?” Ofthomas asked.

You jolt, turning to her in shock. “Excuse me?!” Wide-eyes, you wonder if this is a trap, she had to be trapping you, right?

Ofthomas smiled at you, it was friendly but teasing as if she knew you’d react like this. Her dark hair peaked out of her wimple, as uncontrollable as she was, it seemed. “My name’s Angela.”

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

@my-secret-shame-but-fanfiction @dins-riduur-anthe @morallyinept @fan-fiction-floozy @med494 @taliarose12 @flvrdoll @k-ra @sam-2me @ramblers-lets-get-ramblin @moriartyyouwhore @hereforthepedrofanfic @alwaysmicado @noisynightmarepoetry @kyloispunk

[deanx444]

PornStar Nicholas Chavez

18+

(Y/N POV)

I woke up at a reasonable time for work today. I just turned 21 and started my career in adult film last year, so I think I have been getting the hang of it. As I am getting up for work, I check my phone to see who I am working with today. I got a text from my close friend, who is also the director of today's film.

Text message from Tommy:)

Hey hun, today you are working with one of the two options: someone you've worked with before or someone new, either Sam or Nicholas.

I look at the phone and sigh. I have worked with Sam a couple of times, but it was actually really painful. I have never met this Nicholas guy or had a feeling that I knew him.

Hey Tommy, who is the Nicholas guy?

delivered

As I wait for his response, I go to the fridge to grab milk and creamer to make myself a coffee. I hear my phone buzz. I pick the phone up and read the text.

He's new to the industry. Big guy, around 6'5, and holy sexy.

I look at the text and text back immediately.

Is he new to the industry? Am I his first video? His first big adult film actress?

Tommy: I would think so, he's on set right now with me, come to the Hotel you went to last time. Be there in 30 minutes.

I like the message and finish making my coffee. I walk into my room, put on a shirt and sweatpants, grab my keys, go to my black Mercedes, and turn it on.

As I wait for the car to heat up, I get a notification on my phone.

Unknown Number:

Hi Y/N, it's Nicholas! I cannot wait to meet you; I hope you aren't freaked out because this is my first film. I think we will have some fun ;)

I stare at the phone with my mouth slightly open. I was not expecting him to text me that quickly.

I like the message and start driving to work. Not knowing how this will play out.

Once I arrived, I went in and talked to the manager of the hotel, and he showed me where the room that we would be using for this scene. Once I got into the room, I saw a king bed with white sheets and a white blanket. I look around the area to find Tommy talking to who I believe is Nicholas. I walk over to them and see Nicholas's expression change on his face.

"Ah, yes! Here she is! Nicholas, this is Y/N, Y/N, this is Nicholas," Tommy says

"I know," he replies, shaking my hand. "It's nice to meet you in person, Y/n"

"You too," I replied and smiled slightly.

I could see him start getting more and more excited, knowing that today would be his first time in the industry. I started talking to Tommy about how the scene would go, and it was a stepbrother-step-sister video. Those usually go hardcore, but I am not sure how fast Nicholas is going to catch up.

"Alright, guys, let's start getting everything ready, Y/N, go put this on," Tommy says, giving me a cute bra and underwear set to make me look believable that it wasn't just false acting. I go and throw it on with a white skirt he gave me as well.

"Y/N, this is your room. You are going to be looking at your phone and playing with yourself with a photo of Nicholas as your background." Tommy says I nod my head and start getting ready to lie down on the bed and get in position for this scene. Nicholas is in a towel, waiting for the cameras to start rolling so he can come on.

Action

As the cameras start to roll, I get into character as a spoiled step-sister making bad choices and playing with myself while looking at my stepbrother's photo.

"Hey, Y/N-" Nicholas walks in, sees the sight, and acts confused, seeing the boner in his pants grow larger.

"Oh uhm- it's not what it looks like-"

"What does it look like then? Because it looks like you're rubbing your pussy to a photo of me,"

I pretend to act all innocent, but he takes no time to grab me and flip me over.

I felt a sharp pain hit my ass, and it was his hand slapping me. I moan out of pain and pleasure.

"You've been a very bad girl, you know what I need to do," he says, lifting my ass and putting me in doggy. I feel his breath come closer to my clit, and I feel his mouth attach itself to me. I feel my eyes roll back for actual pleasure. Something I've never felt in the industry before. I feel him go in a circle around my clit with his warm tongue, and as he lets go, he turns me back around and shows me his big dick poking out from his towel.

"Take the towel off me since you want to see what's underneath it so bad," he says as I quickly take the towel off of him he grabs my face and gives me a look showing that he wants me to suck his dick. I grab his dick, and fuck is it big. I then take his member and place it on my tongue, feeling himself jolt forward and throwing his head back.

Seeing this made me want to burst. I didn't know what I was feeling, but I knew it was something strange that had never been felt before. I feel him push my head lightly back and forth, wanting more but not forcing it.

Respectful...

He removes himself from my mouth, gets on top of me, and slips himself inside of me. I feel my eyes roll back as he starts choking me. I feel his face come closer to mine and kiss my lips. I kiss him back, and it turns into a passionate rough kiss where he moves himself down from my lips to my neck, then down to my tits. I feel him come back up to me, put his face to my ear, and whisper lightly.

"Let me know if you want me to slow down, pinch me whenever," he says quietly.

I nod as he goes back into character, "You like being a dirty slut to your stepbrother? Huh? You like it"

"Yeah, I do, I fucking love it," I cry as he grabs my face and spits in my mouth. I feel my eyes roll back again, and he smirks at the sight.

"Fuck, you're so good at this," he says,

I feel him lift me again into doggy, and without warning, he pushes himself inside me. I let out a small scream as he grabbed my hair and pulled it back into his hands. I feel him go harder inside of me and feel the way that he is moaning slightly, seeing that he is gaining pleasure from this, too.

I feel his thrusts become sloppier and harder as he pulls himself out of me, flips me back around, and cums all over my face. The look in his eyes when he did it was so fucking hot. He looked so comfortable to do it.

"We won't tell Mom and Dad about this, right?"

I nod my head, and we hear Tommy scream cut.

"That was amazing, guys!!! I hope we can all work together again after this!"

"Yeah, me too," Nicholas and I say in synch as we look at each other and smile.

"Text you guys when the film is out! We got fucking stars over here!!"

Nicholas, you are a fucking pro.

----

MORE ON WATTPAD DEANX444

[starfall-spirit]

Read on Ao3 // Fic Masterlist // SJM Omegaverse Masterlist // Dark Feysand Masterlist

@acotar-omegaverse-week Day 1: Nesting

Summary: When Rhys set out to collect his dues from the head of the Archeron house, he knew the man would be begging for more time. What he didn’t expect was to be offered the youngest daughter as collateral.

After spending only a day in the temperamental woman’s company, he found himself utterly enthralled with his new guest—and with no intention of letting her father scrape together the funds that would grant her her freedom.

AN: I forgot to mention, thank you @sajirah for being my awesome beta reader!

CW: Manipulation tactics???

Chapter IV

Rhysand

Rhys had been staring at that damn camera for far too long. And yet he couldn’t bring himself to focus on anything but the sweet little omega he’d come to possess. His second, Amren, had certainly made her views on his recent choices well known. His people were right. It had been a stupid decision to rope her in, considering everything else they were dealing with at the moment. He didn’t need a wild omega causing trouble for him in the middle of a turf war. And yet he refused to send her packing.

The next time he glanced over at his phone, she’d sat up in the bed, her attention immediately catching on the pile of nesting fabrics that had come in yesterday afternoon. Despite what little faith his cousin had in his planning for all of this, he knew exactly what his pet was longing for after her punishment. Now that everything had been put through the wash, he was happy to deliver it.

The only question now was how long she could fight her instincts with that material waiting for her. Not long, he imagined. Being in the constant company of four alphas was going to start putting some changes on the fast track. It was only a matter of time before she would be pushed into her first heat. This time next week, he had no doubt she’d be begging for his knot. 

Feyre crept forward, letting herself reach out and brush her fingers over the softest blanket—the one item he hadn’t been able to stop himself from taking from his own room. At least he’d kept all of his hoodies and suit jackets in his own closet. It only took a second for her to snatch that hand back, shaking her head and rushing away, straight into the bathroom and out of camera range to presumably go through her morning routine.

Rhys locked his phone with a sigh. It was a start all the same. And he was a very patient man. ~~~~~

Feyre

Four hours.

Feyre was able to distract herself from the pile of pillows and blankets for four hours, indulging in one of the romance novels Mor had brought her with breakfast and an apology for her role in testing.

Feyre the day before. “What’s the harm?” she muttered to herself. “It’s just some blankets. I’ll never call this place home.”

She knew it was a bribe. A small comfort Mor had convinced her captors to grant her in a hope she’d stop acting out. It wouldn’t work, but she could still take advantage of the offering. She’d earned something for herself, putting up with their bullshit the past two days. The bastards had even taken her shoes, though that might truly have been a consequence of her own actions. Either way, it was time she spoiled herself with something.

An hour later she had a decent nest. The silky sheets and butter-soft blankets twisted together in an ovular shape with the provided pillows nestled in odd clusters near the head of the bed, the one exception being the firm body pillow she was a little too tempted to cuddle up with at the moment. Just before she could give into that appeal, a knock fell on the door. She was coming to realize at least a couple people here had something resembling manners. “Yes? Come in,” she sighed, less snappish than the day before.

A moment later her tone was the last thing she was concerned with. Because the third man, Azriel, was standing in her doorway—the doorway, his scent rolling off of him. The dried stains near his collar and sleeves told her he’d recently finished some sort of workout, apparently running too short on time to consider showering. 

He smelled delicious. She forced herself to take a deep breath through her mouth, trying to clear her head before she opened her mouth and made a fool of herself. Or worse, stuck her nose where it didn’t belong. Literally.

“H-hi. What’s going on?”

He smiled. “I thought you might be hungry by now. And tired of your room. If you’d like we can take a walk and have lunch outside. I figured if I was going right back outside it was better to wait to wash off,” he explained, a slight smirk on his lips when he noticed where her eyes kept drifting to.

She blushed slightly. “A walk would be nice. If I had shoes.”

That smirk broadened. “The path in the back is all grass and smooth stone. You won’t need shoes. It’s also completely fenced.”

The neutral expression she’d managed to hold morphed into a scowl. “I’m not going to try to run again.”

“Yet.”

“At all,” she lied. She needed a better strategy, sure, but she wasn’t going to sit here like a good little doll for them to amuse themselves with. She huffed. “Lunch sounds good.” 

Already dressed for the day in a suitable cotton dress, she didn’t have anything to do before following him out the door and to the stairs. Leading her down a long hall on the ground floor, he finally opened the door to an impressive sun room, revealing the walking path behind the estate.

“Why are you doing this?” she asked as he pulled a chair for her. “You all were content to lock me in for breakfast and dinner.”

“Because you’re a human being, here by no fault of your own. And because I know the toll it takes, being left in isolation. Even if you despise your only options for company.”

For just a moment Feyre thought he was going to elaborate, but just as quickly as that shield cracked it was repaired. And why should he spill his history to her? A random teenager his boss brought into their home on a whim.

“Don’t expect any sympathy beyond that, though. The rules stand as they are. Cassian and I are loyal to Rhys alone. “As are any other members of our organization.”

“Is that what you’re going to call it?” Azriel narrowed his eyes. “I’m not a child. I know what my father got himself into. What kind of people come knocking on doors for money they’re owed. Why you wear weapons as casually as clothes. I’m not a child and I’m not stupid.”

“No,” he mused. “I suppose you’re not.” ~~~~~ Rhysand

Whether she put the pieces together or not, Feyre’s small outings weren’t entirely an act of grace. Yes, he knew Azriel would feel like a guilty bastard if she was locked in. Anyone with half a heart would, himself included. But he needed to know when she started to become reclusive by choice. There was no doubt in his mind being so active with the members of the household would bring on her heat.

And the experiment was a success. Three days after her lunch with Azriel she made her first excuse to stay in her room. By the fourth she was obsessively nesting, unconsciously inching close enough to scent whoever decided to visit her room. He'd left his suit jacket on her bed that evening. By accident, of course.

On the fifth morning he opened the surveillance on his phone to find the flat sheet and summer-weight blanket kicked to the foot of the bed, his sweet girl having already raised her nightgown to her waist line, two fingers hidden behind the fabric of her panties. Rhys would bet anything he’d walk into that room to find her flushed head to toe.

He smirked to himself. It was time.

Taglist: @whatishowedyouinthedark // @ninthcircleofprythian // @sajirah // @acourtofladydeath // @lulling-night-sky // @edgyellie // @shallyne // @the-lonelybarricade // @darling-archeron // @goddess-aelin // @the-lost-changeling // @faeriequeensuriel // @pandavelaris // @s-uppertime // @elentiya-whitethorn // @acotar-fanns // @jealousveronya // @acourtofwips // @reverie-tales // @gwynkyrie // @corcracrow // @thelovelymadone // @rosanna-writer // @toporecall //@popjunkie42-blog

[fire-of-the-sun]

Ilsa and Ethan: There's Still Hope

Spoiler Warning for M:I7!

I'm sure a ton has already been said about Ilsa in the new movie, whether it be lamenting her loss or developing theories as to her potential return in the next film, but here are some contributions I've been mulling over. This isn't going to be an exhaustive list of reasons why she's still alive, but I will try to address some and add my own thoughts into the mix.

I agree with the discussion that one of the best clues of this all being a fake out lies in Ethan and Ilsa's reunion near the beginning of the film. Ilsa plays dead during the fight and Ethan momentarily believes it before she attacks him and reveals herself to be alive. As it stands, this looks like a foreshadowing to her eventual, real death, however, I think it instead acts as setup to her still being alive. I think it's clear that her death fakeout exists to give us clues to her eventual return as well as deflect audiences from even considering it as we're trained to accept that foreshadowed events that transpire in most stories would simply be the end of it, but this isn't a typical story, this is Mission: Impossible, and nothing is as it seems and this film establishes that that's more true now than ever.

And if you're really going to kill Ilsa off, why do a fake-out at all? Why not just have her die later without warning and really shock the audience? Why already have the fans ruminating on the possibility early on and telegraph it long before it actually happens? Consider Julia's "death" in M:I3. The film starts in media res and there's a strong sense of tension throughout the whole film knowing that that's going to happen. Julia is going to get kidnapped and possibly die no matter what, but it's okay to spoil this scene in advance because she doesn't die. Because why would you tell the audience that's going to happen right away unless there's going to be some kind of twist where she lives? What's the point in watching the movie if you know that Ethan is ultimately going to fail and it's going to have a tragic, unsatisfying ending? Julia's death fakeout is a tactic meant to trick him and the audience and make him feel like he's lost only for the twist to be that he ultimately wins and Julia remains alive. I believe a similar tactic is being used with Ilsa which has the potential to be a very well-executed plot twist rather than a disappointing one if done correctly and not completely abandoned in the next film. I actually think that without the fakeout and just a sudden and completely unexpected death I'd feel more worried but, as it stands, I think the choice (among many others) actually serves to legitimize this all being fake.

After all, the best twists are ones that you can see coming if you're really looking for it and that's okay. It's okay that we've figured it out - that means the director ultimately did their job right. Some viewers, especially more casual fans, are taking what they were shown at face value and not considering there's any more to it. They're falling for the trick and that's fine too, because a good twist is one that is set up in a way that leaves clues but also remains largely hidden especially as the audience isn't looking for it. A magic trick that deflects us from seeing what the magician is actually doing. When Ilsa shows up in the next film, some people will feel rewarded for their observations and others will finally see all the pieces click into place that they disregarded before and both be satisfied, but I digress...

Another huge scene to look to for clues lies in the team discussing the severity of the threat and really cementing just how difficult it's going to be to trick the Entity before the party. I think it's very possible that there are missing conversations here that we will not be privy to until the next film as Ethan would never let his friends be in such danger without having a real plan on how to protect them and the audience always knows what the plan is so when things go awry we're aware the complications were unprecedented. In this case, we really have no idea what they're walking into, nor do we see them effectively prep for it. Unless I'm forgetting something, why did Ilsa need to be at the party at all? Why would Ethan put Ilsa in danger like that for no real reason especially after already enduring those brief, agonizing moments earlier when he truly believed she was dead and had to consider a world without her in it and knowing that Gabriel has taken someone from him in the past? Ilsa is her own woman and can do what she wants, but we don't see him even trying to protest her inclusion and voicing fear for her safety for her to even refute.

The scene where Ilsa meets Ethan on the balcony afterward is incredibly short and could feel tacked on given that there's no real lead up to it, but it could very well be the aftermath of a heavy conversation where - feeling burdened by the weight of what must be done - Ethan leaves the room to think and Ilsa follows. She looks particularly chipper here despite the seriousness of what's going on and I believe her benign comments about Venice are purposefully meant to distract Ethan in an attempt to cheer him up. Notice how he shakes his head a little after he answers, like he knows what she's trying to do before giving into her and hugging back. She's calm because she has faith in the plan while he's nervous about it. As a side note, I think it was a touching detail to have Ethan return to this same balcony to grieve (publicly).

We also see Ethan and Ilsa looking at each on the boat before he takes her hand on their way to the party. This, of course, acts as yet another sweet gesture to showcase how strong their relationship is at this point but, again, Ethan doesn't seem that happy. This isn't a relaxing date (which they deserve), he looks tense as he takes her hand. Notice how he's fidgeting as he strokes her fingers and rubs his own fingers together in his free hand. It's like he's trying to hold onto her as much as he can knowing what's going to transpire and, once again, Ilsa looks like she's trying to comfort him by stroking his hand back, never taking her eyes off him. It's a nice continuation of the dynamic of their previous moment together.

And, if this is truly Ilsa's last outing? Why hold back on basically every aspect of it? If it's truly Ilsa's last fight, why not make it her biggest, baddest fight yet that showcases all of her skill but also begins to feel truly unwinnable? We've seen her face intimidating foes before, so if she's truly going to meet her match, you really need to sell to the audience that all her usual tricks aren't working and let us see on her face that she knows she's losing this fight, which would also help build a sense of dread. I've only seen the film once at this time, but I don't recall her looking too worried at any point at the party or during her fight with Gabriel. She's a brave and skilled woman of course, but she seemed incredibly unfazed by it all, almost like she knew how it was going to go. I want to add that there's no way of knowing for sure when entering into any fight that you're guaranteed to survive. Gabriel could have stabbed her anywhere and there'd be no way to anticipate that beforehand but, as I've seen pointed out, her hand is also on the knife when it plunges into her chest. The only way to know for sure where the blade would go to look deadly but still survive it would be to guide it there herself and that seems like something the skilled Ilsa would be able to pull off.

And if it's truly Ilsa's end, why not go out of your way to make it as sad as possible? What if Gabriel leaves her just alive enough for Ethan to find her and they have a heartbreaking final moment together where they perhaps exchange a line or two before he watches her die? Of course, to add insult to injury, the grieving process is pitifully brief, focusing more on Grace's reaction than Ilsa's own friends. Why not have a stronger reaction from Ethan, Benji and Luther that absolutely breaks the audience's heart? Just compare Ethan's reaction to Ilsa's death to the assumed death of Julia in MI3, the other love of his life. Yes, technically, that was a very different situation and Julia was his wife after all and Ilsa isn't, but they don't even compare. Heck, we even get to see Ethan mourn Lindsey, a friend, in M:I3 longer than Ilsa. I understand that the movie can't languish in sorrow for too long and Ethan is used to compartmentalizing to get the job done, but this is also one of the biggest losses he's suffered and right on the heels of proclaiming to his friends how he'd never let anything happen to them. This is also the longest movie in the series so far and it has no excuse for skimping on the aftermath of the death of one of its biggest and most beloved characters. Ilsa's death is sad but leaves you feeling more empty and disappointed than utterly devastated - at least for me.

We've also seen Ethan act before, as is a necessary skill for a spy, and I think the fairly subdued reaction to her death speaks to his ability to act realistically sad (he's had practice for this exact situation too as he's probably channeling all the awful things he felt when he believed her to be dead at the beginning of the movie) but also speaks to the fact that it's not actually real because if it was I think it'd be a far stronger reaction. Yes, Ethan could just be becoming desensitized to losing people after enduring it so many times but I don't think he'd hold back for Ilsa. His partner. His equal. Someone he loves deeply and offers his only chance at a life beyond this. That chance, that love, that happiness, are now gone forever and that's not something you just take in your stride.

And yes, maybe Rebecca needed or wanted out of this franchise to film other projects but that's only more reason to give her the best sendoff you possibly can and I don't think anyone, not even the director himself would be able to admit that this was worthy enough of her character and respectful to Rebecca. If even her final fight was, for whatever reason, purposefully undercut, then what else did the director choose to take away despite having so little to begin with and why? If, historically, it's not in his nature to pull something like this based on his previous work in the series and his own passionate comments regarding the character, why would he now? It's the overall lack of care in regard to her character all of a sudden that makes it all feel fishy.

And if this is it for Ethan and Ilsa, why not push the romance? Instead of just a hug on the balcony, why not feature their first kiss or, at least, a much longer conversation that cements where they really are before it all gets taken away? If the director attempted to include a kiss in the past but scrapped it because it wasn't the right time, he probably intended it to happen eventually. Why not sneak it in right before she dies if these are their last scenes together anyway? Maybe a kiss would only serve to telegraph her demise further by making the audience more nervous about her fate, but it also would have made it even sadder knowing they had finally reached that point right before she died. If the intention of all of this is truly just to make Ethan and the audience sad and it's going to hurt one way or another, you might as well push it as hard as you can to achieve the desired effect. Regardless, I believe that when she comes back in Part 2, they'll finally get that well-earned kiss and that's what the director is waiting for.

But why have Ethan lose another woman he loves at all? Why watch him go through an entire series where all he does is lose lovers only to have him ultimately end up alone especially after developing the perfect romantic partner with him and getting audiences on board with it over the course of multiple films? It all just feels unnecessarily cruel and, as it's nothing new for him, what is it really adding to the story or his character? Losing another lover is predictable at this point but bringing one back and actually letting him be happy? Now that would be a twist! What a triumphant moment it would be for Gabriel to see Ilsa return in the next movie (and perhaps have a rematch) and realize that he's the one who'd been duped? That the Entity is not infallible? That Ethan has been one step ahead of him this whole time?

I don't think I'm alone when I say that the best possible ending for the series and Ethan's story is to get to live his life with Ilsa given he wasn't able to with Julia, trusting the IMF in the hands of new operatives like Grace to carry on in their stead (notice how they focused on that other new recruit during Ethan's introduction as well like they're preparing him to pass the torch). He finally gets to go with Ilsa like she asked him in Rogue Nation and in Fallout and they both finally get out of the game and live happily in the peace that they helped ensure and so deeply deserve. Ethan has sacrificed his own happiness to save the world so many times, why can't he and Ilsa finally get to find some happiness with each other? This series has had it's bittersweet moments but it's never been a tragedy. The conflict is meant to feel insurmountable (it is called Mission: Impossible after all) but the heroes still win and get to be happy and I expect that to continue to be the case in the very end.

Now, I understand and agree with confronting real consequences as we face our final antagonist of the series, but I would honestly predict an actual death from Luther or Benji in the final film - staples of the series and longtime friends of Ethan - that would hurt the audience too but not steal a future from him and perhaps Ilsa's "death" is also meant to deflect from the real death that's coming which would still, naturally, makes things very bittersweet. That being said, if this series wanted to continue to lean into happy outcomes over sad ones, then simply having Ethan get to live peacefully in the knowledge that he was able to keep all of his friends safe would be enough for him and for me.

As of now, I'm actually feeling hopeful about the potential for Ilsa to return. I think there are currently more viable reasons for why she could still be alive than dead and I think it would vastly improve the story they're telling rather than take away from it or feel forced because, as it stands, the execution of her death does feel less than the caliber of what this series is capable of and a surprise return would certainly remedy that. It wouldn't feel like a gimmick given the nature of the series, nor do I think it would undermine the death scene we got since it didn't have any impact on the plot and barely any on the characters anyway. Ilsa returning would improve things, not take away and if this all works to bring her back, it will take what was a lackluster plot point and unceremonious exit of a major character to a brilliant showcase of subterfuge both for the characters and the audience and the latter sounds more like the Mission: Impossible I know.

The first time Ethan faked the death of a woman he loved to protect her; he lost her. Now he's had to do it again and this time, he'll get her back. There's still hope.

[smilingformoney]

For the Love of Books | Sinclair x OC

XII. Forgiveness and Love

Summary: The truth finally comes out - but Sinclair's got some work to do before he and Betty can move forward.

Read now on Ao3 or below the cut:

Despite Lionel’s very unsubtle attempts to set her up on dates, Betty was still nowhere near ready to date again – not least because she barely had time. Between managing the shop, looking after Goldie, looking after herself, housework and being dragged by Lionel from art exhibitions to charity galas to opening nights at the theatre, Betty had hardly any time to think about dating, let alone find time to actually do it.

But the other reason was, she just didn’t know how to shake Sinclair from her head. Everything reminded her of him, particularly the ever-growing golden retriever who she was now solely responsible for. Although Sinclair had seemed eager to visit Goldie, the call never came, and Betty suspected Natalie was to blame.

Knowing that Natalie was due to pop any moment, Betty braced herself every time she saw Lionel for the news that the baby had come, but if it had he kept mum.

The news came finally on a Friday night; Betty was just putting the dishwasher on after dinner when she heard the doorbell chime.

Goldie immediately began barking, running to the door to protect her from the stranger, and Betty had to coax him into the living room and shut the door before she could attend to her visitor.

On her doorstep was a sad, wet puppy, soaked from the summer storm raging overhead.

“What are you —? Get inside, you numpty!”

Betty grabbed Sinclair’s arm and pulled him inside, quickly closing the door behind him so he could shiver on her carpet.

“Th - thanks,” Sinclair said through chattering teeth. “That rain came out of nowhere!”

“Look at you, you’re soaked!” Betty admonished him as she poked at his clothes, which looked like they’d just been sat in a full bathtub. “There’s towels in the bathroom, go get yourself dried off. I think I have something you can wear. Then you can tell me what you’re doing here.”

Soon enough, Sinclair was mostly dry, although his hair was still damp, and he was wearing the pyjamas he’d kept in a drawer at her flat… before. Goldie was ecstatic to see his dad again, and despite everything, when Betty entered the living room with a cup of tea for Sinclair, her heart warmed to see her two puppies reunited.

Sinclair thanked Betty for the tea, although with Goldie on his lap he had little space to hold it, but the pup soon calmed down enough to settle on his dad’s lap while Sinclair held the warm mug like it was his life source.

“I really like your house, Betty,” Sinclair said, his eyes darting around as they always did in a new place, as if he needed to absorb every detail of it. “It’s cozy. Very you.”

Betty sat down at the opposite end of the sofa, her legs tucked underneath her. Spoiled for choice, Goldie decided to settle between them, his head on Sinclair’s lap and his bum curled up against Betty’s thigh.

“Thanks. I got it with the money Lionel paid me for the shop.”

“Yes, how is the shop going? If Lionel gives you any trouble…”

“He’s been nothing but good to me. But I don’t think you came here to talk about Lionel, or the shop.”

Sinclair bowed his head sadly.

“Um, no. I came here because… I didn’t know where else to go. I don’t want to go home right now. I thought about going to the office and getting some work done but I don’t think I could focus. I needed somewhere I feel… safe. And so I thought of you. I’ve always felt safe with you, Betty. I think that’s what drew me to you from the day we met. You’re my safe place.”

He gazed into his tea thoughtfully.

“Why do you need a safe place right now, Sinclair?” Betty asked softly.

“Natalie had the baby,” Sinclair said, his voice barely more than a whisper. “The doctors said he has, um, carma cramlica. Which only occurs when…”

He hesitated.

“The parents are siblings,” Betty finished for him.

“…Yeah.”

Sinclair closed his eyes and shook his head.

“God, Betty, I am so sorry. I’ve been such an idiot. To think I - I broke your heart because I was stupid enough to believe her. I’m not… I’m not asking for you to forgive me, or take me back, or to ever see me again. I wouldn’t have blamed you if you’d left me out in the rain. But I… I needed to see you. I needed to say I’m sorry.”

He looked up at her at last, his puppy dog eyes brimming with tears.

“I am so, so sorry, Betty.”

There was a long pause, the silence broken only by Goldie’s tail wagging excitedly, apparently oblivious to the tension between his parents.

“Losing you killed me, Clair,” Betty said quietly, her hands busying themselves with stroking Goldie’s back. “It killed me over and over again. Every time I woke up alone, every time I ate lunch alone, every time something reminded me of you. My heart broke every day. But still, every day I had to get out of bed, I had to eat, I had to keep living. Alone, like I’ve always done. But this time it hurt.”

“But you’re not alone, you have Goldie! And Lionel, he’s clearly been a good friend to you.”

“That’s not the same, Sinclair. Goldie’s a dog, he’s not you . And Lionel - he is a good friend. But he’s still not you. I wanted you. I fell in love with you. Your dog, your cousin - they’re wonderful, but they’re still remnants of you. You haunt me, Sinclair.”

“I never meant to haunt you.”

“I know.”

“Letting you go was the biggest mistake of my life.”

Betty sighed, closing her eyes as she tried not to cry.

“Sinclair, why are you here? Do you want me back?”

“Yes! I - well… yes, of course I want you back. And if you turn me away, I’ll want you back until the day I die. But that’s not why I came. I came because you’re the only thing that’s right in this world, the only person I can trust. I’m not asking you to get back together with me, Betty. I know I don’t deserve it, and if you hate me, I understand. I just need your company, just for tonight. Please.”

Betty laughed incredulously, her eyes still brimming with tears.

“I don’t hate you, Sinclair! How can I? I love you. That’s why it hurts so much. That’s why I let you in without question, why we’re sitting here now. Because I need you tonight as much as you need me.”

She sighed.

“But… I think you should leave.”

The disappointment on Sinclair’s face couldn’t have been more obvious.

“…Oh.”

“You hurt me, Sinclair. Really hurt me. I can’t just forgive you like that —”

“I’m not asking you to!”

“Then don’t ask me to comfort you because your wife cheated on you again. I just - I need time, okay? And so you do. You can’t keep jumping from relationship to relationship. Do you even know who you are without a girlfriend or a wife?”

Sinclair looked hurt, but he couldn’t argue, because she was right and they both knew it. Before Natalie there was Laura, before Laura there was Amiee, before Amiee there was Alex, before Alex there was Emily… he’d hardly ever spent more than a few weeks single before jumping into another relationship. Truthfully, that was partly why he’d married Natalie - because everyone told him he had to settle down eventually, so he did. He hadn’t considered that he wasn’t settling down with Natalie - he was settling for her. He had no idea that he’d meet the love of his life two years later.

“I… I still want you in my life, Betty,” Sinclair said, his voice almost a whisper. “But I know - I know we can’t go back to being just friends. How can we, when we both know I still love you?”

Goldie contributed to the conversation with a fart.

Betty snorted with laughter, and Sinclair laughed too, the tears in his eyes disguising themselves as tears of laughter.

“I really missed you, Goldie,” Sinclair said, scratching the dog behind his ear. Goldie panted happily.

“Do you want him back?” Betty asked. “Now that Natalie’s gone?”

Sinclair looked up at her, wide-eyed. “No, he’s yours! I mean - I would like to see him, if that’s okay. I know we talked about visitation before but…”

“Natalie wouldn’t let you, I know. Of course you can visit him. Maybe you could come by after work on a Friday and take him out for a walk?”

Sinclair’s eyes lit up again. “Yes, I’d love to! I miss bringing him on my morning runs. Maybe I’ll take him on a run around Hyde Park, then I get to spend time with him and get an extra run in! What do you think, Goldie?”

Goldie wagged his tail. Sinclair grinned, then remembered his situation, and his heart sank.

“I don’t want to go back home tonight,” he sighed. “She’s still in hospital, but I don’t know if she’ll be discharged tonight. Although I’d hope she’ll stay with Richard if she does…”

“Why don’t you stay with Lionel?”

“Hmm, maybe…”

Sinclair was clearly struck with indecision, so Betty decided for him and stood to pick up the phone that sat on the wall. She pressed the speed-dial button for Lionel’s office; when there was no answer, she tried his London home, hoping he hadn’t gone to his country home for the weekend.

“Lionel Shabandar speaking.”

“Hello Lionel Shabandar speaking, it’s Elizabeth Bennett speaking.”

“Ah, Elizabeth Bennett speaking, wonderful to hear your voice. Looking forward to the exhibition tomorrow?”

“The —? Oh, right, yes. Look, Sinclair’s here and he needs a place to stay tonight. Can he stay with you?”

“Sinclair’s with you is he?” Lionel asked, clearly scandalised. “Well, you have a bed, don’t you? A lovely double bed for two people to cozy up in. Unless you’re planning on fucking in my guest room?”

“Lionel, shut up, it’s not like that.”

Betty glanced at Sinclair, who was watching her nervously from his seat on the sofa, still scratching Goldie’s ear.

“I’ll let him explain. Just - let him stay tonight. Please?”

“Oh, alright. I suppose it’s my brotherly duty, isn’t it? But I want full details from him, and don’t think I won’t be grilling you tomorrow too. I have methods for getting information out of people, you know.”

“If by ‘methods’ you mean getting people drunk, then yes, I’ve experienced that firsthand. Thanks, Lionel. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow it is. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Betty hung up the phone, then walked back over to the sofa to scoot Goldie off Sinclair’s lap.

“Come on, you, let dad up so he can go.”

Betty waited for Sinclair to stand up, but he sat there glumly before looking up at her with those big, sad eyes.

“You have Lionel’s number on speed dial.”

“Yes, because he’s my boss and my friend. Come on, Sinclair, I need to go to bed too. Are you okay to drive?”

Sinclair nodded, then pushed himself to his feet. Goldie spun around excitedly, thinking daddy was taking him on a walk, and barked his protestations when Betty shut him in the living room as she saw Sinclair out.

“I’ll see you next Friday, then,” Betty said. “You can pick him up around six, I’ll be back by then.”

“Alright. I —”

Sinclair hesitated, his words caught in his mouth.

“Thank you,” he said at last, and Betty watched him go as he stepped back into the pouring rain to drive away.

When Sinclair arrived at Lionel’s high rise apartment, he had during the relatively short drive over ran every possible scenario through his head, naturally coming to the worst conclusion - that he’d lost Betty forever.

But who could blame her? He’d not want anything to do with him either, not after the misery he’d caused her.

Sinclair entered his cousin’s apartment with a dark cloud looming over his head, and Lionel knew immediately that something was very wrong. They’d known each other their entire lives, and Lionel could probably count on one hand the amount of times Sinclair had let him see him sad.

He took one look at his cousin’s face, announced it was time for the emergency wine, and retrieved from the kitchen the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay he’d been saving for just the right moment. He brought the bottle and two glasses into the living room and poured a glass for each of them.

Sinclair just sat there glumly.

“Come on, spill,” Lionel demanded. “What happened?”

Sinclair sighed and sank back into the sofa.

“Natalie had the baby. And it’s not mine.”

“Well, I could have told you that,” Lionel said with a shrug.

Sinclair shot his cousin a dark look. “You did tell me that. I just thought you were being a prat.”

“So are you done with her for good this time?”

“Yeah, she - she agreed not to contest the divorce if I don’t tell anyone that Richard’s the father.”

“And how does that lead to Betty calling me asking me to put you up for the night?”

“I - I went straight to hers. I didn’t know where else to go. I didn’t even think about it, I just… needed somewhere I felt safe. And I ended up on her doorstep.” Sinclair sighed. “God, she was so kind to me. I was going to ask if I could stay the night - just on the sofa - but she asked me to leave. Which I completely get – just because I realised how much of an idiot I’ve been, doesn’t mean she doesn’t hate me for it. And I was such an idiot! I thought I was doing the right thing, and now look at me. I’m all alone.”

“What am I, chopped liver?”

Sinclair’s mouth twitched with the ghost of a smile.

“I mean it, Sinclair,” Lionel said firmly. “I know I never say it, because I’m terrible at these things, but I am here for you. We’re genetically brothers, as you love to remind me, so as your brother I have no qualms in telling you to stop convincing yourself that Betty hates you. She’s madly in love with you. You know, I tried to set her up with some very impressive friends of mine, but she wasn’t interested. She was too hung up on you.”

Sinclair sniffed and wiped a tear from his eye.

“Did you really not sleep with her?”

“This again,” Lionel muttered with frustration. “No, I did not sleep with her, Sinclair. I suggested it, she said no, that was the end of it. I understand what you see in her, but we really are only friends. In fact, aside from you, she may well be my best friend. So I’d really like it if you two could stop pining over each other and just fuck already because it’s driving me insane.”

Sinclair shook his head. “No, she - she said she can’t forgive me. She needs time. And I’ll give her all the time she needs. If I have to wait forever for her, I will. And if she never forgives me…”

A tear rolled down his cheek as he contemplated the thought of it.

”…then so be it. Because I’m not sure I’ll ever forgive myself.”

---

The next few months were some of the hardest in Sinclair’s life.

Natalie kept her word and signed the divorce papers without fuss, agreeing to a clean break with no demands for maintenance. When they met up in the solicitor’s office a month after the birth to sign the papers, she brought the baby with her. His name was Peter, she told him, and although his condition left him with some physical abnormalities, he was overall a healthy boy. She brought the birth certificate to prove that she’d listed no one as the father, leaving her the only one with responsibility for him. Between that and the divorce finally settled, Sinclair felt oddly empty to know he no longer had any links to her or the baby.

They said an awkward goodbye afterwards, and she drove away.

Two weeks later, Sinclair received a postcard from Amsterdam. Richard had been offered a job there and they’d had to move quickly.

With Natalie out of the picture, Sinclair felt a sense of relief, and he admitted as such to his therapist. A few days after the birth, he’d called the same therapist he’d seen with Natalie, and she was happy to see him on a one-to-one basis.

He almost didn’t go back after the first session. It was difficult, telling her everything - even about Richard and Natalie - and he left feeling more exposed than ever. But the therapist promised it would get better, that they had to expose the wounds for them to heal, and week by week, it did get better.

He was beginning to understand himself, something he’d never stopped to think to do, and after the third session, the therapist asked if she could speak to Lionel on the phone, then sent him home with a list of questions to consider. He didn’t really understand why she was asking them or why she wanted to talk to Lionel until his next session, when another doctor sat in and asked him some more questions. He’d read Sinclair’s answers, read the notes from the call with Lionel, and after meeting him, the doctor came to a conclusion and sent Sinclair away with some pamphlets.

Sinclair felt guilty going to a bookshop other than Betty’s, but he didn’t want her to see him buying books on ADHD. Not that he was ashamed - the more he read about it, the more it made complete sense. But he wanted to understand it himself before he asked her to understand it.

The best part of Sinclair’s week was always Friday after work, because he got to see her. He also got to see Goldie, who he’d missed almost as much as he missed Betty, and taking him out for a walk was his favourite thing to do.

Three weeks after his diagnosis, Sinclair asked Betty if she’d like to join them on their walk.

He expected her to make an excuse, or to just plain say no - she was direct like that, and he loved that about her.

What he didn’t expect was for her face to light up and her coat to be in her hands before he’d even finished his sentence.

“It’s funny, I was gonna ask you if I could come today,” Betty said as she closed the door behind her, having to speak up to be heard over Goldie’s excited barking when he realised he was getting a walk with mummy and daddy. Betty put her hands in her coat pockets, partly to warm them from the chilly autumn air, and partly to stop herself from instinctively taking Sinclair’s hand.

“You can come with us any time! I’m sure Goldie’ll love it. It’s been ages since we last walked him together, do you think he even remembers it?”

“We walked him together once, when he was still a puppy,” Betty reminded him. “I doubt he remembers it. I do, though, it was… it was nice.”

“Yeah, it was,” Sinclair said, blushing when he remembered it was the morning after their first time.

“I’d like to come with you more, if that’s okay.”

“Yes!” Sinclair nodded eagerly. “Yes, of course it’s okay! Look how happy it makes him!”

Sure enough, Goldie was barking happily even more than usual, and Sinclair had to keep tugging on the lead to stop him jumping into the road.

They walked in silence for a few minutes, both unsure how to make conversation when their relationship was what it was.

“I’m seeing a therapist,” Sinclair blurted out.

“Oh! Oh, that’s - that’s good.”

“She’s been really helpful. It’s really hard sometimes, but… I’ve made a lot of progress. You know, understanding myself and that sort of thing.”

“Right.”

They passed through the gate to the park, and Goldie started bouncing happily, making it difficult for Sinclair to take the leash off his collar.

They watched him bound away into the park, barking excitedly as he greeted his doggy friends, and Betty laughed.

“He really is just like you.”

Sinclair smiled.

“Like father, like son. Hey, do you want to get an ice-cream? There’s this really nice stand over there - I’m sure you know this, you take him here more than I do - but I love their mint chocolate chip.”

“Sinclair, it’s freezing!” Betty laughed.

“It’s never too cold for ice-cream,” Sinclair said seriously.

“Oh, alright, only because their chocolate is amazing,” Betty conceded. “And I think they’re closing for winter soon.”

“Nooo! It’s even more important that we have some now! Come on, I’m paying, no arguments.”

Sinclair bounded over to the ice-cream stand, ordered a mint chocolate chip and a chocolate, and the two of them sat down on a bench in the 7 degree weather to eat their ice-creams.

“How’s things with the shop?” Sinclair asked, mindful of his therapist’s advice to ask other people about their lives, and also genuinely curious how it was going since Lionel had bought it out.

“Really good, actually. Lionel was a godsend - don’t tell him I said that, though. But I’ve got staff now, some really lovely uni students, so I get a lot more time to spend doing the back office stuff. I’m making a decent wage, enough to support myself and Goldie, and Lionel says at the end of the year I’ll get a bonus based on the profits.”

“That’s amazing! You really deserve it, Betty. You’ve put so much into that place. I see it when I go to David’s for lunch, it looks so different than it did a year ago!”

“Crikey, has it been a year already?”

“Almost! It was the end of October when we met. I can’t believe it was only a year ago. I feel like I’ve known you forever.”

Betty smiled.

“Yeah, I think that sometimes. Even though - even though we were only together for a few months… you changed my life.”

Sinclair looked down at Betty, butterflies erupting in his stomach as if they were on their first date all over again. He wanted to kiss her, to tell her he still loved her, to take her home and make love to her, to hold her close and never let her go.

Her hand moved towards his face, and he thought maybe she was about to cup his face and kiss him - but instead, her thumb wiped the end of his nose, and she giggled as she showed him the blob of green ice-cream.

“I think this is yours.”

“Hey, I was saving that for later! I guess you can have it now.”

“Eiw, no, I hate mint ice-cream. You have it.”

She moved her thumb towards his lips, but at the same time he moved his lips towards her thumb, and where he intended to simply lick the end of her thumb, he ended up taking her thumb into his mouth.

Instinctively, he closed his lips around her thumb and sucked, their eyes locked on one another, and Betty felt a tingle she hadn’t felt in a while as Sinclair’s amber eyes glowed with some intensity she’d only ever seen in him.

She withdrew her thumb from his mouth, blushing, and Sinclair realised suddenly what had just happened.

“Oh, god, sorry,” he apologised profusely. “I didn’t, um - I don’t know why I did that.”

“It’s okay,” Betty replied quietly. She looked up at him again, fighting the urge to kiss him. God, why did he have to be so irresistible?

With an excited bark, Goldie bounded up to them, as if he knew he needed to stop his parents before they did something stupid like admit they still loved each other.

“Oh my god, he’s done a shit,” Betty groaned, noticing the familiar stench of dog poop nearby. “Have you got the bags?”

“Yeah, I’ve got them here - hold this —”

The moment well and truly broken, Betty held both ice-creams in her hands as Sinclair dug out the poo bags to retrieve the remnants of Goldie’s dinner. The sun was beginning to set, so with a stranger’s shoe saved from stepping in something unpleasant, Sinclair and Betty finished their ice-creams as they led Goldie back out of the park, both of them silently pondering the moment that had just passed between them.

---

Betty came along on the next walk, and the next, and when she met Lionel at the National Portrait Gallery one evening for the unveiling of their latest exhibition, he immediately started questioning her.

“So I hear you’re dating Sinclair again,” he said by way of greeting as he approached her with drinks in hand.

“I - what - no I’m not!” Betty spluttered in protest. “We walk the dog we’re co-parenting once a week. We’re not dating.”

Lionel sighed. “Sinclair said that too. I was hoping you’d be more honest with me. So going for a walk in the park and eating sweets together isn’t a date?”

“No! Not in this context. I want to spend time with him and Goldie, that’s all. Why, what’s he been saying?”

“Oh, no, I’m not gonna be your go-between,” Lionel said firmly. “If you two want to communicate, you do it together, not through me. Frankly, I’m getting a little sick of the two of you and your pining. You’re clearly mad for each other, what’s stopping you?”

“You know what’s stopping me,” Betty said quietly.

“Well, I think you’re both complete morons. Now, can we focus on the art and not your self-inflicted heartache, please?”

“Hey, you brought him up!”

Lionel waved aside her protest and put a hand on her back to guide her to the first corridor of the exhibition.

“This way, there’s a Monet piece they’re showing down here I really want to buy…”

At some point in the evening, Lionel and Betty lost each other, but that was usual - Lionel got talking to someone, Betty wandered off, and they’d find each other again in the end. So when Betty ended up at the bar on her own, she wasn’t perturbed, and she bought herself a glass of wine while she waited for Lionel to catch up.

“And just what would a beautiful woman like you be doing here on her own?”

Betty looked up from the spot on the ground she’d been absentmindedly staring at when she heard an unfamiliar American drawl. The stranger was a little older than Lionel, and handsome too, with a moustache and a confident smirk on his face that said he was used to approaching strange women and was rarely told to piss off.

“I’m waiting for a friend. We got split up in the gallery. What are you doing here on your own?”

“Also waiting for a friend, though I’m hoping I’ve made an even better one.” He put his hand out to her. “Dr Eli Michaelson.”

“Oh, I’ve heard of you. Betty Bennett.”

She went to shake his hand, but instead he took it softly and kissed the back of her hand. What was it with these uppity white men and kissing women’s hands when they met?

“You’ve heard of me, have you? Are you an enthusiast for chemistry?”

“No, Lionel told me about you,” Betty replied as she took her hand back. “He said you were visiting from the States and you’d meet him tonight.”

“Did he say anything else?” Eli asked with faux modesty.

“About you? No. But I suspect you can speak for yourself.”

“I sure can,” Eli said proudly, his back straightening slightly. “I’m a scientist; some might say a renowned scientist. I specialise in chemistry, of… all types.”

Eli’s eyes flashed dangerously, and Betty suddenly became very aware that he had very little concept of personal space as he leant against the wall next to her.

“Do you know much about chemistry, Betty?”

“I was never much for science at school,” Betty admitted. “I much preferred English and Humanities.”

“Is that so? Well, when I’m not researching, I’m also a chemistry professor. Maybe I could teach you a thing or two?”

Betty gulped and glanced around. A few people were milling about, but none were paying them any attention. Where the hell was Lionel?!

“Thanks, I - I think I’m good.”

Eli looked her up and down, not even trying to hide the fact that he was checking her out.

“Something tells me you’d be a quick learner. C’mon, what d’ya say we ditch Lionel? I can teach you more than you ever imagined in one night, and you’d still have only scratched the surface of my… expertise .”

Betty was frozen to the spot. She had no idea what to do or say to get herself out of this. He was taller than her, almost definitely stronger, and if she made a scene she knew from experience she’d be the one getting kicked out.

“I’m sorry, I have to go and find Lionel,” she mumbled, ducking under Eli’s arm to quickly scurry away back into the gallery, leaving her half-drunk glass of wine on a table.

She didn’t dare look back, worried Eli would follow her, but if he did then she didn’t hear him. She finally located Lionel in a room on his own, looking thoughtfully at a portrait of some king or another.

“Ah, there you are - what’s wrong?” Lionel turned to her, a frown forming on his face when he saw how uncomfortable she was.

“I met your American friend. You didn’t mention he’s a complete cad.”

Lionel sighed in frustration.

“I’m sorry. He’s the worst. Are you alright?”

“Yeah, just - I needed an excuse to get away. Um, in fact, I might just go.”

“Are you sure? I can tell him to piss off instead. I’d much rather have you around.”

“No, it’s fine, honestly. Can I use your driver? I’ve had some wine.”

“Of course, let me just call him.”

Ten minutes later, Betty was in the back of Lionel’s Range Rover, wondering why the hell one of Lionel’s friends flirting with her was making her so uncomfortable. She’d gotten used to it, or so she thought - whenever she met another of his important friends, if Lionel didn’t try to set them up himself, they’d usually try and flirt with her anyway. At least, she supposed, they weren’t baulking when they saw her.

But this time it was different. It was as if, were she to accept Eli’s advances, she’d be breaking some sort of rule. Like it was cheating.

Which was preposterous - she was a free agent. She had no one to cheat on. She’d made it very clear to Sinclair that they were taking some time apart. Only that very evening she’d told Lionel that her weekly walks with Sinclair were not dates.

So why did she eagerly wait all week for them?

Betty was so lost in thought that she didn’t glance out the window the entire journey. When the car came to a stop, she absent-mindedly thanked Lionel’s driver, then climbed out of the car.

It wasn’t until she closed the door behind her that she peered through the darkness of the evening to see that she wasn’t at her house at all.

It was Sinclair’s.

“Oh, fuck you, Lionel!” Betty hissed.

And yet, she didn’t get back in the car. Instead, her feet carried her forward. She was cold, and like a moth to the flame she was drawn towards the warmth of the house, enticed by the thoughts of central heating, the fireplace, and Sinclair’s arms.

She rang the bell, but there was no answer. She could see a light on in Sinclair’s reading room. Maybe he knew it was her at the door and was ignoring her. Or maybe he was so wrapped up in a book he hadn’t even heard the bell. Or, quite likely knowing him, he was tucked up in bed and had forgotten to turn the lights out.

The driver had already driven away, so Betty had little choice but to go inside. She took the spare key from its hiding spot and let herself in, treading quietly so as not to wake Sinclair if he was asleep.

She slipped off her shoes and tip-toed to the reading room to find that, sure enough, Sinclair was splayed out on the sofa, mouth hanging open, and an open book laying face-down on his chest.

Betty smiled at the endearing sight. She saw the remnants of the takeout he’d ordered were still on the coffee table, so she gathered up the pizza boxes and consolidated the leftovers into one box to put in the fridge, then threw the rest in the bin. She wiped down the table, then picked up the book from his chest to mark his page and put it aside.

She paused, curious, looking at the cover of the book.

Adult ADHD and Navigating Relationships

She had no idea what ADHD was; was it some kind of condition that Sinclair had? She looked at the blurb on the back, which read:

For adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, navigating relationships - whether romantic, family or friends - can be difficult. Our book is designed to help you and those you love to better understand your functioning and build healthy relationships.

“Attention-deficit” and “hyperactive” were certainly words Betty would use to describe Sinclair, but she wasn’t so sure about “disorder.” Still, if it was something his therapist had advised him to read, she certainly wasn’t qualified to question it.

She slipped the bookmark Sinclair had dropped on the floor into the page and closed the book. Although she was tempted to see what it said, she felt that might be a little too invasive.

“Betty?” Sinclair mumbled from the sofa, his eyes squinting against the light of the lamp he’d left on. “What are you doing here?”

“Hello, sleepyhead,” she said with a smile, placing the book down on the table and sitting on the sofa as Sinclair sat up. “I see you’re still falling asleep mid-book.”

“Just resting my eyes,” Sinclair replied with a yawn. He stretched, and when he lowered his arms, his hand instinctively fell on her knee. “I’ll do it more often if it means a beautiful woman will appear by my side.”

Betty blushed.

“I hope you don’t mind I let myself in…”

“Of course not. I’m so glad to see you — but, um, why are you here?”

“I, erm… I was at an art thing with Lionel. I wanted to go home early so he called his driver and apparently told him to take me here.” She rolled her eyes. “He’s desperate for us to get back together.”

“I know he is,” Sinclair replied cautiously, trying not to make it too obvious that he was desperate for the same thing. “But you can stay here anyway if you like. I’ll make up the guest room for you - or I’ll sleep in there and you can have my bed, I know you like the mattress.”

“No, Sinclair, you don’t have to do that —”

“I insist!” Sinclair said stubbornly, pouting a little to emphasise his point, and Betty fought back the urge to kiss his cute lips. “If you don’t, I’ll sleep on the sofa and no one will have the comfy bed.”

Of course, they could both sleep in the bed - they’d done it plenty of times before. Betty couldn’t stand the idea of sleeping in that bed with Sinclair in another room, as if she’d kicked him out. Sinclair was right, his mattress was amazing… and even comfier with his chest as a pillow.

She became suddenly aware that his hand was on her knee. She tentatively placed her hand over his, and when he glanced down, both of them surprised at the electricity of her touch, Betty leaned forward and connected her lips to his.

There was no hesitation, no surprise. They just melted into each other’s touch immediately, both so relieved to finally taste the other again after far too long. Sinclair placed his hands on Betty’s hips and lifted her side-saddle onto his lap before wrapping his arms around her torso to hold her close. He felt her tongue pressing against his lips and was more than happy to part them for her, allowing her to taste him again.

She wanted to straddle him, but her skirt was too tight, so she pulled it up around her waist to expose her legs and allow them to sit either side of his hips. Sinclair immediately reached for her exposed skin, hands grabbing at the flesh of her thighs as she released his lips to kiss his neck, teeth grazing at his skin, making him whine in that beautiful way she’d missed so much.

Sinclair wasn’t sure what had changed, but he wasn’t going to argue. He was too intoxicated by her, by her touch, her smell, the taste of her skin on his lips as he kissed whatever part of her head he was able to get access to as she mapped a trail along his neck, as if she were determined to leave him a chain of lovebites.

He could feel his cock growing between his legs, because how could it not when she was on top of him, both of them in their underwear from the waist down, leaving only two small pieces of fabric between them.

He wanted to be inside her, but the part of him that still screamed with guilt at the way he’d hurt her refused to let him. He didn’t deserve that, he didn’t deserve her — but she deserved everything she wanted, and he’d do anything to give it to her.

Sinclair reached between their bodies to push his hand under Betty’s underwear, and he let out a groan of desire when he ran his fingers through her hair, the hair he loved to bury himself in as he brought her pleasure any way he could.

“Please,” Betty gasped, speaking for the first time since their lips had connected. “Clair… I need you.”

“You have me,” he promised, his eyes burning into hers with a fierce amber glow.

He slipped a finger and then a second inside her, her wetness easily letting him past her entrance. God, she was dripping, and he could hardly believe it was all for him.

Betty grabbed onto Sinclair’s shoulder with one hand and the back of his neck with the other as he thrust his fingers inside her, reaching up to her sweet spot with practised ease. She pulled on his hair a little, knowing he liked it, and he let out a whine that sounded almost like her name.

As if his fingers weren’t enough, Sinclair pressed his thumb against her clit, circling it in rhythm with the thrust of his fingers, and Betty groaned hungrily.

“Oh, god, Clair… Clair, that feels so good…”

“I love you, Betty,” Sinclair blurted out, unable to keep it inside any longer. His heart was full with love for her, and his cock full of lust, and he knew one of them had to burst.

“I - I love you too, Sinclair,” Betty gasped between moans. “So - so much… I couldn’t resist you anymore…”

“I’m glad you didn’t, because I’ve been dying to touch you again. To kiss you - hold you - fill you up… I missed you so fucking much…”

“How about we both take that bed tonight?” Betty said mischievously.

“Mmm, yes, please…”

“Come on, then.”

Betty pulled away from him and stood up, adjusting her hitched-up skirt to fall down her legs again, looking as if she hadn’t just had Sinclair’s fingers inside her a moment ago - he, meanwhile, had the clear evidence of their escapades glistening on his fingers, not to mention the obvious erection underneath his boxers.

Eager to touch her again, Sinclair stood up and scooped her into his arms bridal-style, causing her to yelp with surprise.

“Hold me a little higher,” she giggled as he navigated around the sofa, and Sinclair obliged, lifting her up so her head was level with his.

“Wow, so this is what it’s like to be tall.”

Sinclair laughed.

“It does get dizzying. Mind your head.”

He turned slightly to the side to carry her through the doorway, then up the stairs to his bedroom, all the while trying not to get distracted by the way Betty was working on the lovebites she seemed determined to leave on his neck.

“Are you trying to eat me up?” Sinclair asked.

“Yes,” Betty replied as she nibbled on his collarbone. “Do you think your coworkers will notice?”

“Definitely.”

“Good.”

Sinclair laughed as Betty continued feasting on him, and when he leant down to lower her onto the bed, she kept a firm grip on his shoulders and pulled him down with her. They both fell onto the bed, giggling, and Betty felt a sense of relief wash over her as she sank into Sinclair’s mattress, with Sinclair on top of her, both of them battling to give each other the most neck kisses.

“Nooo, come back,” Betty whined as Sinclair kissed his way past her collarbone and down her partly-exposed chest, but he just looked up at her and grinned mischievously.

“You’ll like what I have in mind,” he promised.

He pulled down her knickers as he moved down her body, tossed them aside, then settled into his favourite position: kneeling between her legs, face between her thighs, his tongue lapping up her heavenly taste.

“Sinclair…”

God, he’d missed this. The taste of her arousal, the sound of her moans, the feeling of her thighs twitching against him with each flick of his tongue. All he wanted to do was to please her, to give her everything she wanted — and, for reasons he couldn’t understand, she still wanted him.

And boy, did he want her. His boxers were bursting at the seams trying to contain his throbbing cock, and each time he adjusted his position slightly, just the slightest bit of friction threatened to set him off. But he ignored it, focusing entirely on her.

He could honestly stay there for hours between her legs, feasting on his favourite snack, but after he’d elicited a third orgasm from her, she called for a timeout.

“I was enjoying that,” Sinclair whined teasingly, although of course he pulled away as soon as she asked him to.

“Me too,” Betty panted, her breaths heavy and her skin slick with sweat. “Just… just need a break.”

“Of course, darling.”

Sinclair wriggled back up the bed to lay next to her, and although he was much taller than her, he naturally curled into her, resting his head on her shoulder as she absent-mindedly played with his hair.

“Betty?” Sinclair mumbled after a few minutes.

“Hm?”

“I just want to be clear. Are we - is this - um…”

He looked up at her, eyes wide.

“Does this mean I get to be your boyfriend again?”

Betty laughed. If she didn’t know Sinclair so well, she might have been offended at the suggestion that this could be anything casual.

“So long as you promise not to go back to your wife again,” she said, half-joking.

Sinclair propped himself up on his elbow and nodded sincerely.

“I promise. There’s no one else for me, Betty. There never will be. I regretted what I did as soon as I did it. But I… I really thought I was doing the right thing. I know now that even if the baby was mine… better to be raised by happy divorced parents than miserable married ones.”

“Finally, he admits it!” Betty cheered. “Took you long enough.”

Sinclair glanced away, embarrassed.

“I know. I’m sorry. For all of it. For leaving you, for believing her… for dumping Goldie on you without even asking. And I’m sorry I was so suspicious of you and Lionel. I broke your heart and he helped you put your life back together, and I paid you both back by making my own jealousy your problem. You’ve done so well without me, Betty. I’m so proud of everything you’ve done. I - I want you to know that. Whatever becomes of us… I’m so, so proud of you.”

Betty smiled and reached up to stroke his cheek. He smiled and melted into her touch.

“Clair… all I ever wanted was to be enough for you.”

“You’re everything to me,” Sinclair confessed, his voice barely more than a whisper. “I just hope I can be good enough for you. I’ll do anything for you, Betty. I love you.”

“Make love to me, Sinclair,” Betty begged. “Show me just how you feel.”

Sinclair whined with desire, his still very much erect cock twitching with the need to be inside her.

“I don’t have any condoms left,” he admitted. “We ran out last time you were here and…”

“You’ve not - you and Natalie never —?”

He shook his head.

“Not since you. Have you —?”

“No. There’s no one else for me, Sinclair, you know that. And I - I trust you. If you say you’re clean…”

His eyes widened.

“I am, but… what about —? I won’t last long, Betty, I don’t know if I can pull out in time…”

“I’m still on the pill. I trust you, Clair… but only if you want to…”

“I do! God, yes - yes, I do!”

He fumbled with his boxers, eager to get them off, and Betty pulled her dress over her head, both of them laughing as they fumbled with their clothes.

“Look at you, Clair, you’re fit to burst,” Betty teased, taking a gentle hold of his cock to feel its hardness in her hand. “Is that all for me?”

“Yes, all for you… fuck, you have no idea what you do to me, Betty…”

“Then show me.”

She guided him to her entrance, and when he pushed forward, the remnants of her three orgasms combined with the precum he was leaking for her let him slide into her with ease.

Betty let out some garbled sound that might have been words, or maybe it was just a groan - she didn’t even know herself. All she knew was that the feeling of Sinclair’s raw cock sliding up her walls was beyond anything she could have imagined, so much better and more intimate without a condom between them, and the room was filled with the sound of both of them moaning with pleasure as they savoured the feeling of one another with no barriers, no tension, no guilt and no anger. It was her, and him, and nothing but the love they had for each other.

“I love you, Betty,” Sinclair murmured in her ear. “I’ll say it again and again until I’ve made it up to you. I love you, I love you, I love you…”

Betty wrapped her arms around his shoulders and embraced him, holding him as tight as she could, kisses ghosting the side of his head as she savoured the feeling of him, his smell, his presence… the love that radiated from them both as their hearts overflowed.

“I forgive you,” Betty said softly.

Sinclair let out a sob. His body shuddered, and he buried his head in her neck, ashamed to let her see a tear fall from his eye.

They rolled over so smoothly, neither of them could really say who instigated the movement, but their hips stayed connected, and with Sinclair on his back, Betty sat up and smiled as she looked down on him.

“You’ve been through enough, Sinclair. Let me take care of you.”

The tears rolling down his cheeks did nothing to put her off. As she gently moved her hips, slowly so as not to overwhelm him or make him finish too soon, Betty took Sinclair’s hand in hers, their fingers intertwining as she rocked her hips back and forth with small, precise movements. Neither of them chased their orgasm; they both knew they could do that any time. But being together here and now, sharing the connection they had — it was something neither of them had thought they would ever have again, and they weren’t about to rush it.

When he could sense she was getting tired, Sinclair gently moved Betty onto her back, and he took over thrusting. She knew just how to angle her hips to drive him crazy, and when she wiggled her hips beneath him just right, Sinclair knew he wouldn’t last long.

“I - I’m so close, Betty,” Sinclair groaned, his voice hoarse. “Where…?”

“Inside,” Betty replied with a high-pitched whine to her voice Sinclair had never heard before. “I trust you, Sinclair. Please… I want all of you…”

“I’m yours,” Sinclair promised, and as he let his peak wash over him, Betty felt him twitching inside her as he filled her up, his seed filling her just as much as his love did. He mumbled something that sounded like her name, and when he collapsed on top of her, she wanted nothing more than to hold him close forever and never let him go.

For a few moments, that’s what she did, both of them breathing heavily as they recovered, and once they’d begun to cool down from the exertion, Sinclair reluctantly unstuck himself and rolled off of her.

“You need to —”

“— use the toilet. I know.”

The diligent way he always ensured she avoided infection was nothing short of adorable. Betty went to the bathroom, and when she sat down to pee, she saw not just her urine but his seed too, and she gave it a little push to be sure. She took the pill every day, and Sinclair could probably tell her the exact percentage chance of her getting pregnant while taking it, but she couldn’t be too careful.

Strangely, although the idea of a man finishing inside her had always filled her with dread, she felt nothing of the sort. She’d wanted Sinclair to finish inside her - begged him to. And while her feelings on pregnancy hadn’t changed, she trusted Sinclair implicitly. So long as she stayed on the pill, she’d happily let him fill her up again and again.

Betty emerged from the bathroom after taking a quick shower to wash off the sweat, and to her disappointment Sinclair was gone - but on the bed was a set of pyjamas she used to keep in a drawer and, apparently, still did. Her heart leapt at the thought that he’d kept her stuff; it made her feel a little better about the fact she’d kept his.

Sinclair backed into the room holding a tray, and Betty quickly finished pulling her bonnet over her hair before rushing to his side to help him.

“Thanks,” Sinclair said as Betty took the jug of water from the tray and placed it on the dresser. Of course he’d gone to fetch some water for them - as well as his book and some snacks.

“I see you kept my nightie,” Betty said teasingly.

Sinclair blushed as he went to pour some water.

“I couldn’t bring myself to open your drawer. I guess part of me hoped you’d need it again one day… but I knew if I opened it, I’d have no reason to leave it there. So I didn’t touch it. Here, make sure you drink some water. I brought snacks, too, if you’re hungry.”

“You’re too good to me, Sinclair,” Betty chuckled before popping a grape in her mouth. “I missed our after-sex snacks. Somehow food always tastes better after sex.”

“We’ve worked up an appetite!” Sinclair said happily through a mouthful of grapes. “I forgot how exhausting it is.”

“Hmm, and after-sex cuddles, I missed them too.”

Sinclair nodded in agreement, his mouth still full of grapes, and he took her hand to lead her back to the bed.

He swallowed, then said, “Do you mind if I read my book for a bit?”

“Of course not. So long as you don’t mind if I cuddle up to you while you read it.”

“Definitely not!”

Sinclair put an arm around Betty as she got herself into a comfortable position, her head on the pillow and an arm over his waist as he sat up and reached for his book.

“Just one chapter,” he promised.

“As much as you want, babe,” Betty replied sleepily, her eyelids already drooping, and she was asleep before Sinclair had even finished a page.