#thank you kelly you have given us what we all needed

[a-lesbianshadowinthenight]

how am i supposed to think about anything else today, i am losing my MIND

[httpsleclerc]

the story of us - chapter 2

pairings: Max Verstappen x Sister!Reader, Charles Leclerc x Single Mom!Verstappen!Reader, Platonic Kelly Piquet x Verstappen!Reader

summary: Charles and Verstappen!Reader meet for the first time as adults with a little plus one. 

warnings: pregnancy, controlling behaviour from a partner, baby trapping

w/c: 3.4k words

a/n: thank you so much for all of the love on the first part of this series it really means a lot to me! As always, I'm always open to feedback and reblogs! Thank you all for the support again!

my masterlist // series masterlist

The air felt thick and suffocating around you, your shaking hands reaching out to take a hold of the small pink stick which sat on the bathroom counter. You swallowed the lump of fear in your throat, turning the plastic stick around, your breath caught in your throat.

The two pink lines stared back at you glaringly, unwavering and strong.

You were pregnant.

Tears sprung to your eyes, you didn't know whether to be excited or scared - Sure, you were going to have a baby and become a mom, but you were still young, you were only 22 and you knew that your relationship with Lukas was far from healthy and stable.

"What are you doing in there?" You heard him ask through the door, making you jump, yet holding on tightly to the proof of the little life growing inside of you. "Y/N." You pulled yourself together, hoping that he couldn't see the conflict within you.

"Lukas, I'm pregnant," You had gotten your bluntness from your brother, in one sense. You studied his face for any semblance of a reaction, one thing, you had claimed you gained from your abusive childhood, was your emotional intelligence. You watched as his face lit up, slowly racing to gently place his hand on the still flat surface of your stomach.

"Really? That's...that's great, love," He told you, a grin on his face.

He wasn't grinning about the prospect of becoming a father, he was grinning over the fact that he had you in the palm of his hand.  He had been working you up to this, switching out your birth control pills for placebos, timing your cycle perfectly, making sure that he had you trapped. He knew that you had a traumatic childhood and that you would be eager to raise your own family completely differently from how you had been.

"Really? You don't think that it's too soon?" You looked up at him, tears in your eyes. He smiled down at you, swiping the tears away from your face as they slowly fell.

"Not at all, my love, you're ready for this, you're going to be such a good mum," He soothed you, pulling you in tight and holding you to his chest as he rubbed your back. "Our baby's going to be so lucky." You nodded, smiling up at him as you realised that maybe this was Lukas changing, maybe you having his baby was all that he needed to stop being so cruel to you.

Now, you just had to tell your brother. If Lukas let you.

"...Lukas?" You sat across from him on the couch, nervously trying to read his expression as he hummed in response. "Um...when can we tell Max I'm pregnant?" His eyes flicked up to yours, but softened as he saw you rubbing circles on your growing stomach.

"...Whenever you want, when is he back in Monaco, we could make a day of it," He suggested, giving you a soothing smile. He knew this would show your older brother that you were his now, bonded together by the life inside of you. You smiled, getting up from your spot on the sofa to curl up as best as you could beside Lukas, smiling as he placed his hand on your small bump. "She's kicking now?" You giggled as you nodded, feeling the baby, who you had recently had revealed to be a girl, kicked against her father's touch.

"Yeah, I think she knows our voices now," You smiled, placing your hands over his. "I can't believe she's this big already." Lukas smiled, knowing that now he had you exactly where he wanted you - He'd given you a baby, after this you'd have his last name and maybe another baby to keep you trapped.

"Well, she's gonna get bigger," He gently nudged you, making you giggle. "I'll call Max and arrange something, okay?" You nodded and smiled contentedly, Lukas knew that you wouldn't be questioning anything right now, your hormones and baby brain had made you almost dependent on him for everything.

Lukas had arranged to meet with Max at a little restaurant in Monte Carlo, he had taken you to it a couple times for a date, since it appeared that their pizza was the only one made with something that didn't make you throw up.

Max, couldn't wait to see you. It had been months, and he was certain that you were leaving Lukas, saying that you couldn't take how controlling he was anymore - So to hear Lukas calling him and saying that you wanted to see him, Max let his excitement blind him. 

However

As he saw you walk into the restaurant, Lukas following behind you, he couldn't be blind to the small bump on your midsection. He froze, swallowing the lump in his throat while trying to act casual. So this was why you were still with him, he had gotten you pregnant.

"Hi Max," Your grin was wide as you saw your older brother stand on his feet, embracing you tightly, but not too tight as to hurt the baby. "So...surprise, you're gonna be an uncle!" You cheered excitedly, watching as Max grinned and kiss your cheek. You were too excited  for him to tell you how he was really feeling about it, so he played along with you.

"That's great, kleine zusje, I'm so happy for you," Max said, giving Lukas a knowing look as he came up behind you, placing his hand on the small of your back. Lukas pulled a chair out for you to sit across from your brother, but beside him. You always had to be beside him. "So, do you know what you're having?" You smiled and nodded, protectively placing a hand on your stomach.

"A girl, we're gonna name her Romy."

Max made sure that Lukas would be home when he went to collect yours and Romy's belongings. He needed to make sure that he knew that neither you or your daughter needed anything from him anymore, that even if it meant that the two of you had to live with him until you got on your feet, then that would be it - You and Romy didn't need him anymore. Knocking on the door of your old apartment, Max stood, his jaw and fists clenched.

"What do you want?" Lukas answered the door, freezing upon seeing your older brother standing at the door. "Didn't Y/N tell you what I told her? I don't want her or the baby back, she can get her child payment but that's it. I'm done with her." He harshly told Max. Max scoffed ash he shook his head - The audacity of him to think that Max would ever let you go back to him.

"I know that, I just came to tell you that if I ever, ever  see you around Y/N or Romy again, then I'll personally make sure that you never see again. You never deserved either of them." Max responded, fully meaning his threat - He wasn't known as Mad Max for nothing. Lukas just shook his head in response, laughing at Max.

"You can play the protective big brother role all you want, Max, but I know how dependent Y/N was on me for the past 3 years. I gave her everything she wanted, I gave her that stupid baby, and she threw it all back in my face." Max stormed in, grabbing Lukas by the collar and holding him up against the wall.

"You shut the fuck up. You trapped her because you knew that she was going to leave you, you needed her more than she needed you and you know that. How little of a man are you that you would call your daughter stupid? Like I said, you never deserved either of them." Max shoved him once more before leaving, ready to get all of yours and Romy's stuff and taking it back to his apartment. He meant what he said - And if it meant that if you and your daughter had to stay with him for a while as you got on your feet again, then that would be fine. Max loved Romy, and if it meant that he could spend time with her on the breaks and off season while you worked, then that would be fine.

Romy giggled as you groaned, kicking her feet up at you as you tried to place the pink socks over her little feet. You were already late to meet Max's friend, and your daughter's insistence on not putting her socks on was making you later.

"Romy, my love, if you don't let mama put your socks on then you have to wear your crocs," You spoke mainly to yourself, you didn't think your 7 month old baby would be able to comprehend such a sentence, but she heard the words socks and crocs and immediately felt excitement, already kicking her little legs at the prospect of her favourite shoes. "Oh, so you want to wear your crocs. I wish you could talk already, Romy bear, it would make mama's life so much easier," You spoke, digging around the small bag you had packed to look for her small crocs. Finally, you found them, quickly slipping them over her small feet, grabbing a diaper bag quickly to slip over your shoulder, and picking Romy up, holding her at your hip as you hurriedly left Max's apartment.

You quickly buckled her into her car seat, making sure she was secure before hurriedly making your way to the cafe where Max had told you to meet Charles.  You weren't sure what your older brother was thinking about, was he setting you up with the Monegasque, or was he just trying to get you out to socialise? You weren't sure if you were ready to be in another relationship yet, 3 years with Lukas had taken their toll on you and now you just wanted to spend some time with your baby. The cafe was quiet, tucked away from the busyness of Monte Carlo as not to overwhelm you on what could have been your first time out being social with Romy. You pulled into a parking space, quickly jumping out of your car and lifting your daughter out of her car seat, holding her tight at your hip as you hurriedly made your way inside.

You spotted Charles quickly, smiling at him as he spotted you. He hadn't changed much from what you remembered, but then again, you had blocked out most of your childhood - Those weren't things that you wanted to remember. Then again, you had seen him only 8 months ago, just before you gave birth to Romy; However, it pained you when you realised that the first 6 months of your daughter's life had been a blur, you were simply focused on keeping the two of you alive and away from the harm that her father could cause to either of you.

"Hi," You greeted him, smiling as he stood up to gently embrace you, kissing both of your cheeks. "Sorry that I'm late, someone didn't want to wear socks so we had to go with crocs with her pretty pink dress." You smiled once more, tickling Romy's stomach. Charles smiled at her and then at you - From what he had heard from Max recently, he didn't understand how you could still smile, life had dealt you the cruelest of cards, yet here you were, smiling away with your baby in your arms.

"It's alright, I brought a high chair over for her," He gestured to the seat which sat at the side of the two for you and him, making you smile at his thoughtfulness. "I know it is probably a silly question, but how are you doing?" He asked, watching as you placed Romy in the high chair, strapping her in so she couldn't wiggle out and hurt herself.

"Um...I don't really know, I've just sort of been on autopilot for a bit, I'm just relieved to be gone from him, for both of us," You told him, feeling weight coming off of your shoulders - You had spent the past hours telling Max that you were fine, you didn't want to worry your older brother anymore than you already had for most of your life. "How are you after the breakup?" Charles shrugged but smiled sadly.

"Fine, it had to happen - We weren't good for each other anymore," Charles felt like he was almost rubbing salt in your wound, bragging about how easy it was for him to leave an unhealthy relationship while you were stuck in one for years. "But anyway, would you like a drink? Tea or coffee?" He offered you, standing to head to the counter.

"Just tea please," You smiled, watching as Charles made his way to the counter to order for you and himself. He came back soon enough, with two pastries on the side. "What's this?" You asked him, tilting your head as you poured the milk into your tea. 

"Oh, Max told me that it was your favourite like...forever ago, I didn't know what else to get you, I thought that Romy might like it too," He smiled at you and the Romy, who grinned at Charles and reached for him. "What do you want little one? Tell Cha," He spoke to her so naturally, it made you smile.

"I think that she wants a cuddle, Charles," You smiled at him, watching as he blushed. "You've held a baby before, yes? But you don't have to if you don't want to, no pressure," You said, unstrapping Romy from the high chair and holding you in her arms. She continued to fuss and reach for the Monegasque, whimpering in your arms as she reached out for him. "Shhh, just calm down my little love." You soothed her, looking to Charles to silently ask him whether he wanted to hold your daughter or not.

"Yes, of course, I'll hold her," Charles reached out to hold her in his arms, and you watched in amazement as Romy immediately settled into Charles' arms - She had only ever settled for you, on occasion Max; not even for Lukas, not that he had ever taken anything to do with his daughter. "She's so cute, Y/N. Looks so much like her mama," He whispered the last part, thinking you hadn't heard - The blush on your cheeks proved otherwise.

"I'm just shocked that she settled down for you, she's a little bit fussy with who she likes to hold her," You smiled, Charles was a natural with Romy, holding her on his lap. He smiled back at you, gently bouncing her on his knee, the two of you laughing at she giggled. "She must really like you, Charles." You told him, seeing a gentle blush creep across his face.

"Well, I really like Romy too," He said, both to you and to the baby on his lap.

The two of you chatted together, recounting the more happier memories you had of him from your childhood, and how you had missed seeing him around the paddock but looked forward to seeing him more now you were living with Max.

He told you how he was looking forward to seeing you and Romy around the paddock. "I'd love to spend more time with the two of you" Charles told you, making you stutter over your words. "I'm sorry, that might have been a bit too upfront," He said, looking away from you as he rubbed small circles on Romy's back.

"No, no, it's not that, I um...I'd like to do this again, it's been really nice, Charles." You told him, a grateful smile on your face as you appreciated the company of the Monegasque. "I should probably get going, Max is going to wonder where we are." He nodded, frowning as Romy whimpered at the loss of his contact, but smiling as he saw her contentedly cuddle into you.

"Of course, mon cher. Please let me know when you get home," You nodded and smiled, the two of you leaving the small cafe. Charles came to your car with you, watching as you strapped Romy into her carseat.

"Of course, thank you so much for this Charles, I really enjoyed it," You quietly closed the rear door, hoping not to disturb your daughter.

"Me too, I hope to see the two of you again soon."

Carrying your sleeping daughter in your arms, you made your way into Max and Kelly's apartment, the two of them waiting on the couch to hear about how your day with Charles had gone.

"I'll tell you two how it went after I feed her, I promise, she screamed the entire way home," You told them hurriedly, carrying a sniffling Romy into the room which was slowly resembling something that could look like yours. Max and Kelly had spent the afternoon trying their best to make it as personal for you as possible as a way to try and make you feel like this was a safe place for you and Romy. You got comfy on the bed, taking your shirt off and slipping down your bra, sighing in relief as she latched onto you - You had bottle fed her while out with Charles, you had been too nervous to feed her out in public, especially with Charles there.

It was strange, it felt like a way to decompress - A way to focus on something else other than the thoughts of Charles running through your head. The thoughts of how naturally he held Romy and how he spoke to her, thoughts of how when you were buckling her into the car seat, his hand rested gently on the small of your back. Thoughts of how he looked at you so intently. You switched Romy around, letting her feed until she fell asleep, comfortable against your chest. Gently, you lifted her off of you, clasping your bra and putting your shirt back on, laying her down in her next to me bed. You sighed, running your fingers gently down her face and smiling, watching your daughter sleep peacefully.

You closed the door quietly as you made your way out to the living room, sitting yourself between Kelly and Max, the older woman putting her arm around you - You knew that Kelly had a soft spot for you, and especially for Romy; she was forever telling you how much of a great mother you were, especially now since you were on your own - she knew that feeling all too well.

"So, how did it go?" Max asked you, a grin on his face as he watched you lean against Kelly - He was glad that the two of you had gotten along. You smiled as you recounted your afternoon with Charles.

"It went really well, we just talked for a bit and he held Romy for a bit too because she was getting fussy - He's so good with her," You cited, a smile on your face. Kelly gave Max a knowing look, your experience sounded a lot like how she felt taking Penelope to meet Max for the first time. "I think we're gonna do it again." Max smiled, after everything you'd gone through, socialising would be good for you - Even if it was with known womaniser Charles Leclerc. But Max knew you'd been through worse than Charles, but Max also knew that Charles knew Max would kill him if he broke your heart.

"That's good, kleine zusje, it sounds like it went well for both of you." You nodded and yawned, it felt like you hadn't stopped since last night and it was all catching up with you now. Max pouted as you curled into Kelly, you'd come in with your baby and stolen his girlfriend! Kelly grinned at Max, gently running her fingers through your hair as you fell asleep.

Now, normally, Max would have told you to run as far from Charles Leclerc as possible - But following Charles' breakup with Alex, he was almost certain that Charles would benefit from a more social relationship rather than jumping from disaster relationship from disaster relationship. He knew that you, generally, just needed a social relationship - Outside of him, Kelly, and your sister Victoria, you didn't really have many friends; thanks to the social isolation put upon you by Lukas.

So maybe, just maybe, you and Charles could be good for each other.

Taglist! Wanna Join? Fill out the form!

@thevintagegirlsworld @doofenshmirtzevil-inc @luvr4miya @divanca2006 @mrsjamietartt @dog-and-cat-person230 @stressed-cherry @freyathehuntress @suns3treading @hc-dutch

[ceoofsammonroe]

What We Do In The Shadows - James Kelly Smut

Summary: You meet James at a club that your friends had dragged you to and you both find what you’ve been looking for, hidden in the depth of the shadows.

Warnings: unprotected sex, penetrative sex, public sex, reader and James get freaky in a dark corner of a club, exhibitionism, handjob (James receiving), fingering (reader receiving), grinding, alcohol consumption, drink sharing, use of pet names (doll, baby, etc.), teasing, begging, mentions of smoking, as always James is a constant yapper.

Masterlist

The low thumping of a gritty bass vibrated through your body as you idly sipped on the remnants of your drink.

Your friends danced around you, laughing and jumping beneath the haze of fog and strobe lighting. You swayed along with them, trying to match their energy but not quite hitting the mark.

They had dragged you out to this club after staging a makeshift intervention about how you were supposedly turning into a hermit. They swore that you were far too young and hot to be spending every night hulled away in your home and insisted you come out with them tonight to let loose and ‘get some’.

You’d begrudgingly agreed and went with them on the pretense that you’d just be hanging out and not searching for any random hookup. However, now that you were here, you found yourself scanning the dark room for anyone that would catch your attention.

It was pointless, though. Every face you saw looked just like the repetitive boring supply that drove you to reclusiveness in the first place.

It wasn’t that you weren’t interested in having some fun. It was just that nothing seemed to spark your interest. Every guy felt the same, forcing you into a monotonous rhythm that was unfulfilling and unsatisfying.

You wanted something that would excite you, that would make you feel alive again, but that conquest was growing more and more hopeless with every passing moment.

James had a headache.

The pounding of the overly loud music was hammering against his skull and the too bright flashes of lights in the otherwise dark room were disorienting.

God, he was getting old.

He took a swig of his beer, rubbing his thumb against the drops of condensation on the glass bottle.

His coworker, Adam, had tricked him into coming out tonight — much to James’ disdain. This was not his usual scene. In fact, his usual scene was relaxing on his couch in the comfort of his own home.

“You could at least pretend to be having fun,” Adam sighed, giving him a pointed look.

“You said we were goin’ out for drinks,” James retorted, leaning against the small table they were standing beside.

“Are we not drinking?” Adam asked, gesturing to the beers they each had in their hands.

James rolled his eyes, shaking his head as he said, “I thought we were goin’ to a bar. Somewhere we could watch the game or somethin’. Not some place this…chaotic.”

“Look, man, someone had to drag you out of that cave you’re always hiding in,” Adam shrugged, taking another drink of his beer. “You need to go out, see people. You need friends.”

“I have friends…” James scoffed, though even he didn’t sound convinced. “I mean, we’re friends.”

“We’re work friends,” Adam corrected him. “That doesn’t count. Besides, dude, you gotta get laid. When was the last time you got any?”

James felt his cheeks warm at the question and he didn’t feel particularly inclined to answer. Instead, he raised his empty bottle and said, “I’m gonna go get another drink.”

He weaved through the sweaty crowd, grimacing to himself as he made his way to the bar. He rubbed his temples as he waited for another beer, thanking the bartender once he was given a fresh bottle.

His eyes scanned the crowd briefly, looking for anyone that might pique his interest before he shook his head with a sigh.

Truthfully, James really hadn’t gotten any in a long time. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to be getting laid — he was a man, after all — or that women weren’t interested in him. He’d had plenty of girls show him interest, it just all seemed like too much work.

He didn’t understand why there were so many steps nowadays to gauge whether or not you even wanted to pursue something with someone. Maybe it was old fashioned, but James missed the feeling of just connecting with someone.

He let out a huff, taking a swig of his drink and turning to go back and tell Adam he was going to go home.

He stopped in his tracks when his eyes landed on someone across the room.

You felt his eyes on you before you saw him.

The ruggedly handsome man at the bar looked somewhat startled when your gaze locked with his, but he didn’t break the eye contact. Instead, he tilted his head to the side as his lips pulled up in an intrigued smile.

Something about the way he was looking at you ignited a spark in your chest that you hadn’t felt in a long time. You noticed yourself swaying to the music a little more sensually, relishing in the way his eyes slowly trailed up and down your body, appreciatively.

You looked away from him momentarily, turning to your friends as you said, “I’m gonna go grab a drink.”

You made your way through the crowd, watching his grin widen as he raised his bottle to his lips. He looked at you expectantly as you approached him, seemingly waiting for you to make the first move.

With a smirk, you turned away from him and faced the bar like you’d only walked over to order a drink. He nodded, poking his tongue against the inside of his cheek as he let out a deep chuckle.

He leaned in closer to you, his lips hovering near your ear as he said, “If the goal is to get me beggin’ for your attention…it’s workin’.”

You glanced over at him with a raised brow, making a show of giving him a scrutinizing once over.

“Oh, sorry,” you said, grinning up at him, “didn’t see you there.”

“Right, right…” he drawled, biting back an amused smile. “Well, since I’ve got you here now, I’m James.” He waited, eyebrows raised as silence passed between you. “Are you gonna tell me your name, or…?”

“You haven’t earned my name yet, James,” you told him, leaning against the bar with a tilt of your head. “Although, that begging you mentioned earlier might give you an advantage.”

James breathed out a laugh, shaking his head as his eyes sparkled with interest. He focused on your face, narrowing his gaze as if he was trying to figure you out.

“Can I at least buy you a drink?” James asked, gesturing to the bar.

You looked down at the beer in his hand, smirking as you took it from him and said, “This one will do, thanks.”

James blinked as his mouth opened and closed, caught off guard by your boldness. His attention was quickly redirected to the way your lips wrapped around the bottle as you downed the rest of the drink. He fought back a groan as you licked the remaining droplets from your lips, slamming the empty bottle on the counter and taking a step closer to him.

You trailed your fingers down his arm before grabbing his hand, pulling him with you as you said, “Dance with me, James.”

James wasn’t a dancer — never had been — but, as you asked him to dance, he couldn’t possibly refuse. He felt entranced, like you’d bewitched him somehow and trapped him under your spell. He didn’t have a single complaint about it, though.

He followed you out to the dance floor, his eyes never once leaving yours. There was a growing tension between you, a heated tether that was pulling you closer together.

As you melded in with the crowd of moving bodies, you gripped the front of James’ shirt and pulled him into you. His hands gripped your hips as he glanced around at the rest of the crowd before looking back down at you, a sheepish grin on his face.

“I don’t really know what I’m doin’ out here, doll,” he said, though he made no move to leave. His thumb rubbed the fabric of your dress as he leaned down closer and asked, “You gonna show me?”

“Yeah, I’ll show you,” you smirked, reaching up to trace your fingers over his brow. “Close your eyes.”

James’ eyes fluttered shut as he released a shaky breath, waiting eagerly for your next move.

You ran your fingers along the edges of his ears as you said, “Listen to the sound of the music. Focus on it. Block out all the other chatter.” James shivered, but did as you said. You moved your touch down the sides of his neck, placing your hands flat on his chest. “Feel the pulsing of the bass inside of you, like a heartbeat. Let it meld with your own.” James all but groaned at the feeling of your soft hands rubbing against his chest, but he focused on the task at hand. He honed in on the deep vibrations, unable to tell where his heartbeat ended and the bass began. You wrapped your arms around his neck, standing on your tip-toes to whisper in his ear. “Now, feel the person in your arms. Feel how my body molds against yours. Move with it, with the music.”

James’ breath hitched as you placed a soft kiss beneath his ear. His eyes opened, blown pupils staring down at you with a mix of desire and curiosity.

Slowly, you began to move with the music. His body moved in time with yours as his hands slid around to your lower back, pressing you closer against him.

His body felt firm against your own, the faint scent of smoke and cedar swirling around you. His touch was surprisingly gentle, almost as if he was afraid he’d break you. He quickly fell into the rhythm, letting himself go as the heat built between you.

“See? You’re a natural,” you grinned, swaying your hips to the rhythm.

“It helps havin’ a hot teacher,” James smirked, leaning down until his face was a few inches from yours. “Although, it kinda makes a guy wanna misbehave.”

The friction of your bodies was tantalizing, wrapping you both in a haze that had nothing to do with the fog and smoke in the air.

James’ gaze flickered down to your lips as his tongue darted out to wet his own. He leaned in, slowly, and you could feel your body humming with anticipation. He let his lips just barely brush against yours before he gripped your hips and turned you around, pressing your back against his chest.

Your breath caught in your throat as he wrapped his arms around your waist, brushing his lips against your ear.

“Do you feel what you’re doin’ to me, doll?” James breathed, pressing his hips against your ass to let you feel the growing hardness beneath his jeans. “You’ve got me hypnotized.”

You bit your lip as he nipped at your earlobe, feeling scatters of goosebumps erupt along your skin. His breath fanned against your neck as he trailed soft kisses down to your shoulder.

“Maybe that was my plan all along,” you quipped, reaching back to tangle your fingers in his hair. It was softer than you’d expected, feeling silky to the touch. “To seduce you and lure you into my clutches.”

You danced to the music, intentionally grinding your ass back against him. James groaned in your neck, gripping your hips as he rocked into you.

“Fuck, baby,” he cursed, feeling desire burning through him like a wildfire. “You won’t hear me complainin’.”

James��� cock pulsed in time with his heart, nestled against the curve of your ass. He had to fight the urge to rip your dress off and fuck you right there — in the middle of the dance floor. He hadn’t felt this kind of raw need in a very long time and he was quickly losing his resolve.

Everywhere James touched felt electric as his hands roamed across the fabric of your dress. You couldn’t remember the last time you’d had chemistry this natural with someone. It was like your bodies had known each other for a lifetime, and god did they want to reunite.

You tightened your fist in his hair as he grazed his teeth along your shoulder, using your free hand to guide one of his down your thigh.

He caught the hint, chuckling against your ear as he gripped the plush flesh. He let his hand disappear beneath the skirt of your dress, softly trailing his fingertips up and down the inside of your thigh.

Your skin felt hot beneath his teasing touch, flushed and glistening with sweat. There was a tightness growing in your lower belly, nearly making you forget where you were. Your head leaned back against his shoulder as your eyes fluttered shut, the pounding of your heart nearly drowning out the music.

James could feel the heat of your desire between your thighs and his mind was filled with thoughts of touching you, feeling you, tasting you. He noticed how your breathing quickened and the subtle way you parted your legs, and he couldn’t resist moving his hand a little higher to brush against the damp fabric of your panties.

Your eyes shot open as you gasped, tugging sharply on his hair. His touch was fleeting, teasing you before moving down your other thigh.

You turned back around to face him, your knees nearly buckling beneath the look of want in his eyes.

“That’s awfully bold,” you said, sounding as breathless as you felt. “Copping a feel of a stranger in a crowded club.”

He gripped your chin, tilting your head back and pulling your face close to his as he whispered, “Wanna see what else I can do in a crowded club?”

He trailed his thumb along your bottom lip, pulling it down as he leaned forward and took it between his teeth. You inhaled a sharp breath, peering up at him through your lashes. He raised an eyebrow, waiting on your answer.

You nodded at him, too dizzy with need to form a verbal response. His lips spread into a primal grin as he led you through the crowd. You followed him toward the dark corner where the shadows could hide your secrets. Finding an alcove, he spun you around and pressed your back against the wall.

Your heart was beating wildly in your chest as you gripped the front of his shirt, gazing up at him. His mouth turned up in a smug smirk as he leaned in to trail soft kisses along your jaw.

“Where’d that chatty personality go, hm?” James teased, his breath hot against your ear. “You were such a smooth talker, doll, what happened? Cat got your tongue?”

Your face flushed at his teasing, but you couldn’t find the words to argue your case. Instead, you grabbed his face and captured his lips in a hungry kiss.

James groaned, pressing you harder against the wall as his lips devoured yours. Your hands tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as you licked into his mouth. He hummed in approval as you tugged on the strands, rocking his hips against yours.

Your eyes shot open with a gasp as you felt his hand snake beneath your dress, teasing you over your panties with his fingertips.

He stared down at you through hooded eyes, breathing heavily as he watched you squirm against his touch. He grinned, wickedly, as he felt the fabric dampen even more with his soft touch.

“What’s got you so wet, baby?” James taunted, playfully, nipping at your bottom lip. He dropped his voice to a husky whisper as he said, “Gettin’ all hot ‘n bothered hidin’ in the shadows like this?”

You released a shaky breath as he kissed down your neck, sucking softly against your pulse point. He slowly started sinking to his knees, gazing up at you as he trailed his lips down the fabric of your dress.

“James, someone might see,” you whispered, feeling your heart race as you warred between watching him and glancing around to make sure nobody was looking.

He looked up at you with a smirk as he reached under your dress, slowly peeling your panties down your legs.

“Let ‘em watch,” he shrugged, stuffing the garment in his back pocket as he stood up again.

He grabbed the back of your thigh, hooking your leg around his waist to open you up for him. He kissed you, slowly and deeply, as he pressed you back against the wall and shielded your body.

“Relax, doll,” he murmured, moving to kiss your neck. “Nobody can tell what’s happenin’, even if they do look this way. Besides, they’re all too drunk to care.”

A soft moan escaped your lips as he began to circle your clit. The callouses on his fingers made for a delicious friction, building the ache that was growing in your belly.

“Fuck,” you breathed, gripping onto his shoulders for support. You leaned your head back against the wall, giving his mouth better access. “That feels so good.”

James chuckled against your neck, his warm breath making you shiver.

“Yeah? Feels good?” James asked, lifting his head back up to look at you. “What about this?” You gasped as James eased a finger inside of you, stretching you out before adding a second one. James grinned, curling his fingers. “Does that feel good?”

A soft mewling sound resonated in your throat as you fisted the fabric of his shirt. He was watching you with rapt attention, taking in every little reaction he was pulling out of you. His thumb circled your clit as two of his fingers pumped inside of you, curling against that spot that made you see stars. He was working your body with expert precision, like he’d unraveled you time and time before.

“Yeah, feels good,” you panted, trying to get ahold of yourself. His touch was making you dizzy, filling you with an untamed desire. “I can’t let you do all the work, though.”

James raised an eyebrow as you spoke, rubbing your hands down his chest. You smirked up at him, undoing the button of his jeans. His eyes grew darker as a groan escaped his lips, his hips bucking forward instinctively. He chewed on his lip as you slowly undid the zipper, letting your finger trail down the bulge in his boxers.

“Fuck, doll,” he hissed, his cock twitching in his boxers. “You wanna touch me? Wanna wrap those soft hands around me, make me feel good?”

You nodded, dipping your hand past the waistband to wrap your fingers around his cock. You began to slowly stroke him, making a deep groan sound in his throat. He was already slick with pre-cum, his length throbbing in your hand.

“Good thing I decided not to wait any longer,” you purred, squeezing him tighter. “Feels like you were about to explode any second there.”

“Shit, baby,” he moaned, thrusting into your fist. “You have no idea. Coulda came just from touchin’ you, from feelin’ you squeezin’ my fingers all tight.”

His fingers were still pumping in and out of you, coaxing you closer to the edge. You used your free hand to push the front of his boxers down, exposing his cock to the thick air between your bodies.

Your hand looked small around it as you twisted your fist over him. You clenched around his fingers just at the sight of him, almost drooling at his size.

A cocky smirk pulled at James’ lips as he said, “Like what you see, baby? Thinkin’ about how good it would feel buried in that tight little pussy of yours?”

Your eyes fluttered as you whimpered, dripping onto his hand. He pulled his fingers out of you, earning a whine of protest as your walls clenched around the sudden emptiness. His eyes glimmered with lust as he brought his fingers up to his lips, sucking them clean.

“Mm,” he moaned, breathing deeply. “You taste so good, doll. So fuckin’ sweet. I wanna bury my face between your thighs until you’re screamin’ my name…but we can’t risk that.”

You wanted to tell him to risk it all, not caring if anyone saw, but you knew you couldn’t. Still, it didn’t stop your body from trembling at the thought.

Instead, you gripped the back of his head and pulled his lips back onto yours. You moaned into his mouth, tasting yourself on his tongue.

His kiss was desperate and hungry, matching the boiling heat inside of you. He replaced your hand on his cock as he kissed you, rubbing the damp tip against your swollen clit.

“Ah,” you gasped, instantly rocking your hips forward.

James tilted his head to the side, grinning as he said, “Oh, that’s what you want, huh? You want me to fuck you? Want me to fill you up so full that nobody else will ever feel as good?”

“Yes,” you moaned, gripping his shirt as you swallowed thickly. “I want you to fuck me. I’ve wanted you to since I saw you by the bar.”

“Are you sure, doll?” James asked, taunting you. He teased his tip around your entrance, nudging forward without actually pushing inside of you. “I can stop if I need to…”

“I’m sure! I’m sure, just…please, fuck me, James,” you begged, desperately tugging at his hips to try and make him move forward.

“Eager baby,” James cooed, chuckling lowly. “I’ve got you, doll, don’t worry. Gonna make you feel so good, I swear.”

He eased his hips forward, slowly sinking into you. Once he was buried to the hilt, feeling you snugly wrapped around him, he let out a shaky moan.

“Oh my god…” you breathed, letting out soft sounds of pleasure as you clung to him. He was stretching you out in a way that made your knees buckle. “Please, move. Fuck me.”

“Gladly, baby,” he said, wasting no time in setting a steady pace.

His hips snapped against yours, thrusting into you relentlessly as your eyes rolled back. Your toes curled as you clutched his shirt tightly, unable to stop the lewd strings of moans and whines spilling from your lips.

“Fuck, you’re so tight, doll,” he groaned, leaning his forehead against yours. “Nice ‘n wet, too. God, you’re fuckin’ soaked. All for me, hm?”

“James,” you mewled, digging your nails into his shoulders.

Every thrust was angled perfectly, like his cock was made to fit inside of you. He cradled the back of your head to keep it from hitting the hard wall, a gentle gesture in contrast to the way he was fucking you. He hiked your leg up higher, pushing in deeper as you let out a loud moan.

“Oh, god,” you whined, scrunching up your eyebrows. “Don’t stop. Fuck, just like that.”

“Shh, baby,” James whispered, kissing you softly as he grinned. “We can’t have you drawin’ everyone’s attention, can we?”

You bit down on your lip to keep quiet, suddenly reminded of the fact that you were still in public. A thrill coursed through you, making you clench around him as your heart pounded.

“Oh, you like that, doll?” James asked, brushing his lips against your ear. “You like knowin’ that I’m fuckin’ you right here where anyone could see us?”

You gasped, nodding your head as you whispered, “Yes.”

He nipped at your earlobe, bringing his hand down to rub fast circles against your clit as he thrust into you.

“Such a dirty girl,” he purred, licking the shell of your ear. “Gettin’ off on the risk of bein’ caught with a stranger’s cock buried deep inside you? Shoulda just bent you over the bar n’ fucked you right there like I wanted to.”

Your lips parted in a silent cry as you panted, feeling a rush of heat through your bloodstream as you lost the rest of your resolve.

“I’m gonna come,” you breathed, moving your hips to meet his thrusts. “Fuck, I’m gonna come.”

“Come for me, doll,” he groaned, snapping his hips harder against yours. “Wanna feel you squeezin’ my cock, milkin’ it dry.”

White hot pleasure washed over you in waves as you came around him. James fucked you through it, kissing you roughly to swallow down your moans. His hips stuttered as he followed after you, biting down on your lip as his release spilled inside of you.

James’ thrusts slowed to a stop as the both of you came down. He kissed your temple, breathing heavily as he tried to regain his composure.

You gazed up at him through slightly blurred vision, taking in the deep blue of his eyes and the bright flush of his cheeks. He reached a gentle hand up to brush back the hair that had clung to your forehead as he leaned in to kiss you softly.

You melted against his lips, drowning in his kiss.

He eased out of you, holding you steady as he helped you fix your dress. You could feel him dripping down your thighs, causing a heat to creep up your neck.

Glancing over his shoulder, you spotted your friends searching for you by the bar. You let out a shaky breath, looking back up at James with a sheepish smile.

“I gotta get going,” you told him, placing a soft kiss to his cheek. “Thanks for the dance.”

James begrudgingly let you go, his eyes following you with longing as you walked away from him. His heart was still racing, completely captivated by you.

When you rejoined your friends, they all gave you curious looks and immediately questioned your whereabouts. You rolled your eyes and laughed, walking toward the door as they pestered you relentlessly for answers.

As you stepped outside, the cool air felt nice against your flushed skin. The gentle breeze did, however, remind you of your current lack of underwear — thanks to a certain thief.

Before you could walk toward the car waiting for you, you felt a hand on your arm. You turned around to see James, grinning as he held out a cigarette toward you.

You quirked a brow, shaking your head as you said, “I don’t smoke.”

“It wasn’t intended for you to smoke,” he shrugged, handing it to you anyways.

You glanced down at it, seeing that he’d scrawled his number on the side of it.

He leaned in to your ear and whispered, “Call me ‘n tell me if I earned your name.”

He smirked as he pulled back, giving you a wink before disappearing back into the dark club.

You bit your lip to conceal your grin as you turned back to your friends, meeting their shocked and thrilled faces.

You spent the entire car ride back filling them in on every detail, listening to their squeals and gasps of excitement.

It was safe to say that you’d found the thing you hadn’t even realized you’d been looking for and, as you clutched the unlit cigarette in your hand, you couldn’t wait to see him again.

[qqueenofhades]

re your tags on that last post, you could say he was...biden his time

BA DUMP TSHH.

I think that everyone, having gotten through the initial 24 hours of rage, fear, terror, confusion, anger, and frustration, is coming around to the idea that this was possibly a good thing and has undoubtedly given the Democratic ticket a much-needed jolt of energy. There are still all the very valid conversations to be had about the sway of a tiny group of billionaire donors, the media and Anonymous Democratic Sources bullying, the decision to torch Biden when they could so easily (so! easily!!!) have done it to Trump at any time and have clearly decided to go FULLY into the tank for him instead. This has many worrisome implications for democracy, and it's not something to be celebrated. All of that is still very much true.

However, now that we have had concrete evidence of the party immediately cohering around Kamala and the grassroots donors busting down the door to give her money, it may also turn out that this was a very wise political jiu-jitsu move by a very crafty political veteran like Biden. As the post I just reblogged pointed out, he did it AFTER the GOP convention, when the Republicans had already locked in (by any reasonable metric) a terrible, terrible ticket. It makes the Democrats look like the ones responsive to the American people demanding a younger and more mentally "with it" candidate (no matter how obvious the slurs about ageism were in regard to Biden when Trump is literally THREE YEARS YOUNGER and far more obviously scrambled). It opens all the excitement and historic firsts of Obama in 2008, it gives the perfect "Prosecutor vs. Felon" tagline that's really easy to run with and stick in people's minds, it is beautiful revenge for all Trump's horrible sexist behavior in 2016 (and really, his whole life) and it gives the Democrats the narrative, if they can FUCKING STICK TOGETHER AND STOP STABBING EACH OTHER IN THE BACK. Now we get to hear about Kamala's running mate, Kamala's plans, feel-good pieces about how she appeals to youth, women/people of color, etc. etc. ALL THAT IS GOOD.

I think/hope the DNC will now be a massive celebration of Biden, who after all came out of retirement when he was already old to take on Trump, beat him, deliver an incredibly successful presidency, and pass the torch on to Kamala. I saw some criticism of Obama yesterday for not endorsing her immediately, but what I read is that he/the other Democratic big beasts (Pelosi, Schumer, etc) want to be a uniting figure with an endorsement of the final candidate, if there was a contested primary beforehand. Thank fuck, it doesn't look like there will be, but it also means that they might wait until the DNC before openly endorsing her. Now, I am still angry at the Biden knifing that all these three were complicit in to some degree, BUT I also have no doubt that if/when Kamala is confirmed as the nominee, they will line up behind her to endorse her and her VP pick. I have seen Mark Kelly, Roy Cooper, etc as possible picks (since alas, she will probably have to pick a straight white man; Kelly would be replaced in the Senate by Democratic AZ governor Katie Hobbs; Cooper is term-limited as governor in NC and might help us target that state for a flip). But what is number one most important is that we support her and whoever she DOES choose. I have also heard that she is already in the process of vetting picks and this is exciting news.

I am thrilled to vote for a woman for POTUS the second time in a few years, I think she has a real shot at winning, and I am heartened by how the base has rallied to Kamala in 24 hours. Let's fucking go. As my new office decoration says:

[funnyjb]

Sparks

Summary: what happens after childhood friends met again and feel a certain spark?

————————————————————————-

2022

A regular October morning. The grey clouds covering the bright sun. The wind blowing leaves into the street. Lattes and books are all you need.

Your flower shop called Lily’s Bloom named after your late grandmother who you called your best friend was flourishing. Many customers in and out each day. Pretty colored flowers filled the walls and tables.

Your regular routine as always is to check inventory, look for any dead flowers, check appointments, and make sure deliveries are set up.

You lit a pumpkin spice candle and started to make a special bouquet for a client who is supposed to pick it up soon. They ordered pink peony’s, white baby’s breath, and pink roses. Also adding a special note.

The bouquet was set and so was the note. Now you just have to wait.

An hour later

The bell rings as the door opens. Your head was down trying to plan out your events in your notebook.

“Hey, I’m picking up for Joe.”- joe

A tall muscular man stands in front of you. His green long sleeve shirt and grey sweatpants.

You look up

“Joe?”- you

“Y/n? I didn’t recognize you!”- joe

You walked over to him to embrace him in a hug

You laugh

“Yeah, I use contacts now and got rid of the bangs.”- you chuckle

“Wow! I haven’t seen you since high school graduation. How have you been? How’s your parents?”- joe

“I’ve been good! Opened the shop last year and it’s been wonderful! My parents have been good though. They always tell me how they see your parents all the time.” How are they?”- you smile

“They’re great! You know them, always doing stuff around town and call 24/7.”- Joe laughs

“Never changed…well let me get your bouquet.”- you

“Thanks.”- joe

You walk back into the store where the bouquet was being kept. You walked back out with a beautiful bunch of flowers in your hand.

“Wow! This looks amazing, thank you.”- joe says as you hand it to him

“Thank you! Wonderful assortment you picked out.”- you smile as you walk to the computer for him to pay.

“Thanks. I tried my best. It’s my mom’s birthday so I wanted to get her flowers with a few gifts.”- joe

“Well, that’s very sweet. I’m sure she will love it.”would you tell her I say happy birthday?”-you

“Of course. She still asks about you.”- joe

Really? Well I’ve always loved your parents. Always welcoming and kind.”- you

“That’s them.”- joe smiles

You smile back.

“Ok, your total comes out to $76.00.”- you

He hands you his card and you scan it. You hand it back. His hand grazes yours.

“Thank you.”- joe

“Of course! Hope your mom likes the flowers and the gifts.”- you smile

Joe laughs as he waves goodbye and walks out.

I can’t believe that just happened.- you thought

————————————————————————-

A day later

“I can’t believe it! He’s hot, y/n. You should have shot your shot.”- kelly

“No, he probably has a girlfriend and that’s weird.”- you

“He actually doesn’t. We would have known by now.”- kelly

You give her a stare

“Just saying,y/n. You should have given him your number.”- kelly

“Well, he has the store number.”- you

“Eh, that doesn’t really count.”- kelly

You both laughed.

————————————————————————

Couple days later

You were walking along the street trying to get to brunch with kelly. Your brown boots making a noise on the sidewalk and your long coat keeping you warm. As you were looking down at your phone texting kelly you will be there in ten you bumped into a large broad chest.

“Oh- I’m so sorry.”- you look up

“It’s o- y/n?”- joe

“Oh-hey Joe!”- you

“Hi, where are you off to?”- joe

“I’m going to meet kelly for brunch! Where are you off to?”- you smile

“You’re still friends with kelly? Every time I hung out she tried to make a move on me.”- joe

“That sounds like kelly.”- you

“Yeah…anyway I was just picking up some take out.”- joe

“That’s nice, well enjoy and good luck on Sunday!”- you saw as you walk away

“Thanks, y/n. Tell kelly I say hi.”- joe winks

You laugh

“I will.”- you walk away

————————————————————————

That night

You were sitting on your couch snuggled up in your cozy blanket watching Gossip Girl when your phone chimed.

You opened it to see a contact you never thought you would see in a million years. Joe.

Your heart fluttered

Hey, y/n! It’s Joe.It was nice seeing you again today. Hope brunch was good. I just wanted to see if you wanted to come to my game on Sunday? I understand if you can’t or busy. I just feel like we always used to joke about you coming to my games in the NFL when we were kids and now that I am I feel like it’s right to have you there this weekend. You can bring kelly if you want.

You decided to text him back

Hi! I would love to come! And I know kelly would to. And those were some pretty funny jokes we made. They still make me laugh to this day when I watch you guys on tv.😂

————————————————————————

Hey guys!!!!! This is a new series called sparks!!! Can’t wait to put more out for you guys! Hope you like and always welcome to send requests!!🩷

[cssns]

The FINAL YEAR of the Captain Swan Supernatural Summer is behind us, so it's time for the CSSNS24 Event Roundup!!!

Does anyone else need a min? I know I do...

Before we get to the roundup itself, I have to give the LOUDEST OF SHOUT OUTS and GROUP HUG to the team of mods - @winterbaby89 @jrob64 @stahlop and @ultraluckycatnd - who helped me EVERY STEP OF THE WAY!!! This event absolutely wouldn't have happened without them and I'm sooooo grateful that they stepped up to the plate to make this final event a success!!! Thank you all soooo much, ladies!!!!

Also as part of this final roundup, I want to share all the links to all the other event roundups that have been reblogged the last few weeks. This has been an PHENOMENAL ride over all these years and I'm so grateful for all the love and support y'all have given it!! And now, all of the fics and art from all of the years will be in one place!!

CSSNS18

CSSNS19

CSSNS20

CSSNS21

CSSNS22

CSSNS23

Thank you all again for EVERYTHING all these years!!! Its been an honor and privilege to man the helm for most of these years, but it certainly wouldn't have lasted as long as it has without the contributions of all the participants and the enthusiasm of the audience!!!! So thank you all from the bottom of my heart!!!

And now, on to the roundup!!!! Under the cut, unless Tumblr ate it.

I opened us up this year on July 2 with the first of two contributions I prepared for this final event. The Arena was a short and - kinda, maybe, not so much overall, but def by the end - sweet werewolf oneshot with breathtaking artwork by @motherkatereloyshipper !!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 5, @exhaustedpirate posted a not-so-short and extra sexy werewolf fic, In Your Moonlit Eyes, with wonderful artwork by @thejollyroger-writer.

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 7, @whatevenisthisbloganymore posted the first chapter of a fae fic, Where Idle Feet Wander. Princess Emma of the EF finds herself in the Fae lands and needs help to return home. The first ch was fantastic and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us!

On ao3

On July 9, @jrob64 posted the first chapter of her ghost hunter Killian fic, Ghosted, with artwork provided by yours truly, manips of Neal and Liam courtesy of @motherkatereloyshipper! Now complete with five chapters, Joni took us on QUITE a spooky ride!! Don't read before going to bed at night!!!

Ch1 on Tumblr

On ao3

On July 13, @grimmswan updated both of her fics from last year, Dracula in Storybrooke and Love Bites (But So Do I). Both of these fics are SO MUCH FUN and we are getting very close to their conclusions!!

Dracula in Storybrooke on Tumblr on ao3

Love Bites on Tumblr on ao3

On July 14 @anmylica posted an update to last years fic, Fly With the Black Swan, her alternate telling of the Dark Swan arc. Now three chs in, this is an absolutely beautiful tale so far and I can't wait for more of it!!! Artwork by @zaharadessert

On ao3

On July 15, @theartofdreaming1 posted original artwork for the event featuring mermaid Emma!!! Absolutely beautiful work brought me to tears!!

On July 17, @mie779 posted an alternative take on episode 3x17 The Jolly Roger featuring merman Killian!! Don't Kiss and Tail, a fantastic and utterly delightful what if fic!!! Lovely banner by @iamstartraveller776.

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 17, @goforlaunchcee updated last year's fic, Smoke and Mirrors, with absolutely perfect artwork by @piinfeathers!! A ghost/witch story, it's an absolute HOOT and I'm always so happy when she updates!! Now up to ch7.

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 19, @snowbellewells posted the first of her two offerings for this year's event, On Wings of Storm, with magnificent artwork by @motherkatereloyshipper !!! A beautiful one shot that left me in tears of joy!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 25, @laianely posted the first chapter of her crime mystery No Rest for the Immortals with artwork by @captainswan-kellie (x) and herself (x). A murder mystery featuring vampire Killian, I am BESIDE myself every time she updates. Now on ch7.

On Tumblr

On ao3

On July 27, @xarandomdreamx posted the first chapter of her fic, The Kiss of Life with beautiful artwork provided by @motherkatereloyshipper!! Ohhh, she killed me sharing snippets on discord and the whole chapter did not disappoint!!!! Cannot wait for more of this!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 4, I posted my second fic for the event, Return to Me, again with stunning artwork by @motherkatereloyshipper !! Since the whole purpose of this event was to bump up the number of werewolf and vampire CS fics, and I'd already posted a werewolf fic this year, I came up with a fic that I thought the original Dracula was kinda about. Turns out that I was very wrong. But anyway, it was a lot of fun to write.

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 6, @belovedcreation posted the first chapter of an epic werewolf fic, Can I Be Your Werewolf? featuring lovely artwork from @mie779!! 33 chapters that she just finished posting TODAY, it was an awesome ride from start to finish!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 8, @everything-person shared with us a smorgasbord of ideas that she came up with, but real life intervened and she wasn't able to write full fics for them. HOWEVER, she did make art for them all and shared a snippet of where she wanted to go with each one. Each one was absolutely fantastic and I hope there will come a day when she is able to write the fics and share them with us!!

On Tumblr

On Aug 10, @jonesfandomfanatic posted the first two chs of her fic, Into the Parallel. Now on ch6 of 7, this is an incredible time travel/realm jumper fic that I am absolutely in love with!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 16, @exhaustedpirate posted her second fic of the event, Haunted By the Ghost of You, again with beautiful artwork by @thejollyroger-writer. The first chapter was lovely and heartbreaking in equal measure and I cannot wait to see the happy ending she has promised me will happen. Someday...

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 21, @snowbellewells submitted her second fic of the event, For All Life and For All Time, this fic actually inspired by Dracula. The first of three chs is currently up and I cannot wait to see more of it!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 22, @hollyethecurious posted the first chapter of Once Upon a Grimm, her incredible fic using the lore and some storylines of the TV series Grimm featuring Once characters. @eastwesthomeisbest provided the gorgeous artwork!! We are now two chs in and I can already tell, we are in for a really fun ride!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 24, @wyntereyez posted a second fic to her series Bats In the Belfry. This year's fic, Wool of Bat and Tongue of Dog is a MC and a fantastic follow-up to A Little Batty from last year!!! Artwork by @jrob64 .

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 25, @cocohook38 posted her artwork for last years fic by @iamstartraveller776 To Cleave Destiny. We only have the first ch of the fic posted, but it's amazing already and Jules artwork just gives me chills!!!

Artwork post on Tumblr

Fic on ao3

On Aug 26, @eastwesthomeisbest posted a series of manips of Emma Dressed in Blood. Literally took my breath away!!! Gorgeously creepy!!!

On Tumblr

On Aug 29, @zaharadessert posted the Prologue of her fic, Forget Me Not, with a lovely moodboard made by @exhaustedpirate . This first chapter sets up quite a mystery and I can't wait to see where she goes with this!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

On Aug 30, @deckerstarblanche posted the final chapter of last year's fic, An Offer She Can't Refuse, with artwork by @undercaffinatednightmare. A super sexy Omegaverse fic, I was soooo thrilled she came back to give CS the happy ending they deserve!!!

On Tumblr

On ao3

Our last fic of the event, Scattered Earth (Mortua Terra), posted just yesterday. Real life intruded and kept @dykelilypage from finishing her fic until last week, but I told her that if she could get it in before I posted the roundup, I'd still include it, and boy did she deliver!!! The fic was absolutely incredible!!! Supernatural investigative reporters Emma Swan and Killian Jones team up to solve a mystery. Utterly perfect artwork done by @eastwesthomeisbest

On Tumblr

On ao3

Well, that's it, y'all!! Our FINAL CSSNS has come to an end!!

Everyone take a moment, take a deep breath, and join me in expressing your appreciation to all the participants this year and over the last six for giving us such PHENOMENAL, INCREDIBLE, FANTASTIC supernatural stories!!! There are still many fics from past years that the authors are still active in fandom and plan on continuing whenever they get a chance. And to that end, this blog is not going anywhere. Whenever an update to a fic posts, I'll be right here to read, flail, and reblog.

Until then, y'all!!!

[sevcasejay1chicago]

If your requests are still open I would like to request the reader and her three boys (Kelly, Casey, and Jay). Where the reader has to deal with one of her boys being hurt on the job (you choose who) and the other two have to comfort her while she tells them her fear of loosing them due to their dangerous jobs and they tell her that no matter what they will fight to come home to her. Maybe some cuddles at the end as well!

Thank you! Love your writing btw! 💖

Come back to you- Kelly Severide, Jay Halstead, Matt Casey

Warnings: probably wrong medical terminology, basically having a panic attack, CPR mentioned, a curse word or two

———————

To say you were exhausted was an understatement. After working a 18 hour shift in the ER, you were more than happy to come home and collapse right into bed. Given that Kelly and Matt were at the station, Jay was left to make sure you took care of yourself. You were meant to be home hours ago, but someone called out sick, so you offered to cover half of their shift. Luckily, Jay had the day off, so he was able to pick you up when Maggie found you asleep in the doctors lounge. Jay had only had you home for a few hours when he got the phone call. You were cradled into his chest, sound asleep, when Matt called.

“Matt?” Jay whispered, trying not to wake you up. He knew this couldn’t be good. Matt and Kelly never called while on shift. A text here and there to check in was common, but they always gave a warning before calling.

“Jay. K-Kelly. Umm, I, We need you and Y/n to m-meet us at M-med.” Matt stuttered, fear gripping him as he watched Brett work on Kelly.

“Okay. Alright. Take a breath.” Jay said, partly to Matt and partly to remind himself. “How bad?” Jay dared to ask.

“Not good Jay.” Matt replied, right as monitors started to go off in the background. “Fuck. Kelly. Don’t you leave me.” Matt yelled, placing the phone between his ear and his shoulder.

Jay shook you, not bothering with a slow wake up call given the situation on the other end of the phone. ”Wha?” You moaned, rubbing the sleep from your eyes as you looked up at Jay. You could see the fear in his eyes and knew that something was wrong. “Which one?”

“Kel.” Was all Jay replied before you snatched the phone and let Jay out from underneath your body.

“Matt?” You asked, not even bothering to check the caller ID. You could hear him breathing heavily, the sound of the heart monitor beeping loudly through the phone and Brett yelling at Violet to step on it.

“Baby. I, we need you and Jay to meet us at med. Okay?” Matt panted, continuing CPR on your lover.

“Are, are you doing CPR right now Matt?” You asked, looking at Jay, who was grabbing clothes for you as you asked the question.

“Yes.” Was all the answer Matt gave before you heard Brett yell clear as tears streamed down your face.

You choked off a sob as Jay met your eyes. You shook your head and handed him the phone, no longer able to listen to Matt fight to save Kelly’s life. You shakily got dressed and listened to Jay tell Matt you would both meet him at Med. Jay dropped the phone onto the dresser before coming to pull you into his arms. You were a mess. You knew what was happening on the other end of that line. Your worse nightmare was coming true.

“Shhhhh. It’s alright. He’s gonna be okay.” Jay soothed, swaying back and forth with you in his arms. “They only had to shock him once. He had to jump from a third story window when a house started collapsing. So far, he may just have a collapsed lung, but Brett doesn’t think he has any other injuries, okay? They are at med. We gotta go.” Jay soothed, taking your face into his hands. He gently wiped the tears from your face with his thumbs. His words calmed you a bit, but you both knew Brett was only able to see things on the outside.

You allowed Jay to pull you out of the house and into the truck. You numbly watched the city fly by as Jay used his lights and sirens to get you both to med, both of you needing to get to Matt and Kelly as soon as possible. You were stuck in your head. You knew this would happen one day. You’ve patched your boys up time and time again. They have been lucky enough to only get scrapes, minor burns, grazed bullet wounds, or bruises thus far. You were always terrified of this day coming, and now it could be here. You could lose Kelly.

Jay had barely stopped the truck before you were jumping out and sprinting through the doors of the er. Inside, you were met with the entire firehouse, Matt sitting in a chair with Brett on one side and Cruz on the other, his face in his hands. Everyone looked up as you ran in, tears streaming down your face as you stood frozen in the entrance with Jay skidding to a stop behind you. When you met Matt’s eyes, you collapsed right where you were standing. If it hadn’t had been for Jay’s quick reflexes, you would be on the floor.

Matt hurried to your side, taking you from Jay and holding you in his arms. He smelled of smoke and charred flesh, making you wonder who had gotten burned. When you sobbed out the question, Matt was quick to reassure you that it wasn’t Kelly, but someone else Matt had pulled from the house right before it collapsed.

Matt and Jay let Will usher them into the doctors lounge once he saw you in Matt’s arms. He quietly shut the door behind him as he went back to check on Kelly for you when you basically plead to go see him yourself.

“I-I KNEW this day would come.” You sobbed, standing and pacing the floor in front of Matt and Jay. “I al-always thought one of you would come th-through those doors while I was working. Any time those doors o-open I m-make sure it’s not one of y-you.” You shake your head and look up to the ceiling. “I can’t l-lose him. I can’t. God, I can’t breathe.” You said, clutching your chest and sitting yourself on the floor.

Jay and Matt rushed to your side. Jay pulled you into his lap as Matt wrapped himself around the two of you. “Hey hey hey. Shhhhh.” Jay whispered, kissing your head. “Breathe with me. I’ve gotcha. We’ve gotcha.” Jay soothed.

Matt rubbed your back and wiped at his own tears. “It’s gonna be okay. He’s gonna be okay. Shh. Breathe.” Matt whsipered, making his voice not waver as Jay gave him the most heartfelt look he could muster. Jay wanted to comfort Matt too, but the broken women in his arms was his main priority at the moment as he pushed his own feelings to the side.

Jay and Matt had just gotten you to calm down when Will walked back in. Will cleared his throat before he spoke. “He’s awake. He’s got some bruising and his pulse was weak when he was brought in, but some fluids and pain meds has him bouncing back. He’s asking for you.” Will says, stepping aside as you jump out of Jay and Matt’s grip and run through the door, hearing Will chuckle as he shouts the room number behind you.

You come to a halt at the entrance of Trauma 1. Kelly is hooked up to the monitors. Bruises litter his face and arms, his wrapped ribs are peaking out from under his blanket. You let out a shaky sob as Kelly smirks at you through the pain.

“Hey princess.” He rasps, holding an arm up. “Come’re.” He whispered, hating to see you cry.

You rush over, carefully climbing into the bed with him and laying your head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat. “I-I thought. I really thought I l-lost you Kel.” You whispered, careful of all the tubes, wires, and his injuries, but getting as close as you can to him. You are shaking in his grasp, not even noticing Jay and Matt standing in the doorway as you soak in the presence of the man you thought you would never see alive again.

“Hey now. None of that.” Kelly shushes, rubbing your side as he looks to the other two men in his doorway. “I’ll always come back to you. No matter what, I will find a way.” Kelly promises, not just to you, but to your other lovers at his door.

“We all will.” Matt agrees, locking eyes with Kelly.

“No matter what.” Jay replies, taking Matt by the hand and dragging him to the bed with him. You giggle as the boys both carefully climb into the bed with you and Kelly. You barely fit with the man in the hospital bed, but the need to be close outweighed the obstacles that was the small hospital bed.

[theresattrpgforthat]

May I request some recs for games where you play as a dragon? ::D Thank you for your time!!

THEME: Dragon Games

@foggedover and @vanderlyon both of you asked this question so I am killing two birds with one stone this time around! These games were so much more cute and wholesome than I expected Dragon games to be.

Hot Gay Bro Dragons, by Riverhouse Games.

Bro, he’s your whole world. He makes you feel fabulous. His body is smoking hot, and when you look into his eyes they sparkle like gold.

He’s a dragon. So are you. You’re in love.

This is HOT GAY BRO DRAGONS, a gay game about telling your boyfriend you love him.

This is a silly goofy game about dragons in love, that can work for 2 players but can also play with more! What I really love about this game is when you choose how big of a dragon you are, you also tell your dragon boyfriend about how you feel about him based on his size relevant to yours. The game also encourages you to use phrases like “oh my god bro” and “bro you’re so smoking” and “that’s bro-lliant my dude”. If you’re just looking for a fun goofy time with someone you love, this game can do that for you.

Dragonhearts, by FractalDragon.

You get to be a dragon

You get to kiss dragons

Need I say more? 

This Tabletop RPG is about about the clash of over-sized personalities between shapeshifters who can assume human or dragon form, or anything in between. It's GMless—meaning everyone has equal narrative authority—and plays best over one or two 3-4 hour sessions, with 3-4 players. 

As a Firebrands hack, Dragonhearts is rather poetic in its character creation and plays through a series of mini games. These mini games include fights, rituals, moments of intimacy, competitions and more - and most of them can be played in whatever order makes sense for your story. This game also comes with a solo game, which each player will play as they set up their characters but might be interesting to play if you want to explore this game by yourself. If you are interested in short, segmented forms of play that can be mixed and matched as your dragons wrestle with emotions and learn about who they are, I definitely recommend Dragonhearts.

Epyllion, by Marissa Kelly (at Magpie Games).

Dragonia faces a threat we dragons have all but forgotten. Inside each of us are seeds of Darkness waiting to take root in doubt, anger, and sorrow. You and your fellow dragons— although small now—must protect Dragonia from the growing Darkness…and learn what it means to be a true friend.  -- Tass the Gigantic, Councilmember

Epyllion is a tabletop role playing game about young drakes who investigate rumors, solve problems, and discover the truth of a growing evil in Dragonia. While you play, you and your friends tell awesome stories, explore what it means to be a drake of Dragonia, and discover the value of friendship through magical, whimsical, and heartfelt adventures.

This is an adorable game about young dragons, perfect for all ages. You are young dragons trying to save their home from evil. It gives me the same vibes as Land Before Time, although others have described it to have the same tone as Spyro, or My Little Pony. Epyllion has received many accolades in the gaming community, and its author, Marissa Kelly, is also one of the brains behind the gorgeously haunting game of Bluebeard’s Bride. If the kind of dragon you want to play is cute and trying very hard to be a hero, then this is the game for you.

Hearth Dragons, by M. Davis.

With powerful magic, someone has created you, a dragon. Not a true dragon, no, but one crafted with care and love and given a purpose: to protect your home. With a special ability you were crafted with and a dragon's flame within, many adventures await you and your fellow hearth dragons as you strive to be the best caretakers one can be. And you don't even need to leave the house!

Hearth Dragons is a Lasers & Feelings hack inspired by The Last Dragon Chronicles by author Chris d'Lacey and the Pennykettle Dragons who made the stories as magical as they were. With friends and a game master, you'll make your own clay, paper, or other kind of handcrafted dragon and work together to solve problems and tell stories using your own imagination or the random adventure generation table within.

This is a quick little game with easy-to-generate characters and goals. You’ll create a house together and then do your best to protect it from forces such as an ominous neighbour or a a dangerous creature, from doing things such as ruining brunch or capturing the family pet. This is a great little game, perfect for one-shots and pick-up games.

If you like this creator's work I also recommend their solo journaling game, called An Afternoon As A Dragon, a game about someone who's become a dragon because of a curse.

Baby Dragons, by Litza Bronwyn.

In this game, you are a fierce baby dragon, hatched amongst a variety of other dragon eggs and left to discover the wonders and dangers of the world with your draconic siblings. You must choose if you are better at mental or physical, and go out in search of food, loot, more minions, and/or a better lair.

A simple one-page game that is easy to pick up and play with little to no prep! This is also inspired by Lasers and Feelings, but rather than manufactured dragons, you’re just babies, and you’re more likely to cause trouble than prevent it. If you’re interested in Epyllion but you want something that requires less commitment, you might want to check out Baby Dragons.

[gayf1hoe]

Part 15

It's the final race of the season. After Hungary, Baku, São Paulo, Singapore ,Spain and Qatar I've been on a pure continuation of my 1st place finishing streak and I don't plan to change that in Abu Dhabi.

Things have been a little tense between me and Max, but I can't help but think he's got wind of my comments about Kelly and when I said "we've never been friends" it's not untrue but we did have an inkling of a friendship when I first came to F1 but I think it has sort of died down.

The sound of the tires screeching against the runway snap me out of my thoughts and I'm brought back to reality. Looking out of the window the bright sun of Abu Dhabi bares down upon us. My eyes automatically squint as I leave the aeroplane, being blinded by the sun is not what I need.

Me and Charles reconvene as he was sitting with Pierre and I was with Yuki. "Ready for the last race of the season?" he asks. "More than ready, I'm so tired" I reply. This season has been great and I couldn't have asked for better but I'm exhausted. It's been so demanding and the thought of leaving Mercedes has been dawning on me more and more each race.

Abu Dhabi is one of my favourite tracks and the fans always seem to be especially excited on the last race of the season.

"Hey M/N" George calls out, I turn to face him "Toto called a meeting at 2 PM" I thank him and turn back around and sigh, we've only been here 2 minutes and already I have a meeting to go to.

I don't really get much of a chance to settle in before I'm heading to the paddock. The pre-race paddock is quiet, peaceful and tranquil. It makes me wish it was like this all the time, no media and no people.

It's quite easy to navigate the paddock, and I walk into Toto's conference room and see that both Toto and George are already there. I take the empty seat next to George.

Toto waits a few seconds before speaking "It's the last race of the season and it's race week, obviously we didn't have a break between Qatar and now so we can't change much but we are in a great position anyway so I don't think that's much of a problem. You are both doing really well so I just want to say keep doing what you have been doing and it will all be good".

He goes on for a lot longer than necessary and then hands over to the engineers and strategists who gives us all a brief overview of everything that will happen this week.

Given it's Wednesday and race day is Saturday we don't have much free time to do much or train.

Wandering around the paddock towards the exit things have got a little bit busier with loads of shipments and equipment arriving.

Thankfully our hotel isn't far and I just end up cycling back and arrive to find all the other drivers either playing Paddle or in the Gym which doesn't surprise me they are all creatures of habit.

Instead of joining in, I head up to my room to finish unpacking. Pulling everything out of my suitcase I hang things up in the closet, I hear my phone vibrating against the mahogany wood and immediately ditch unpacking.

I answer it seeing that the caller ID is my Mum, "Hey, is everything alright? Are you ok?" I say frantically, "calm yourself, I'm fine. I thought I would just call and wish you luck in your final race week as a rookie and to let you know I will be watching you become World Champion", we talk for ages but time flies by and before I know it, I look out the window and see the sun setting behind the gargantuan buildings that overshadow our small hotel.

I try to locate Charles and find him in the games room with Lando and Alex playing some random farm simulator game. I think it was called 'goat simulator' or something like that, all I know is Charles kept on headbutting things. I come behind him and place my hand on his shoulder which causes him to jump a little.

"Ah mon amour, are you trying to give me a heart attack?" I gently pat his shoulder and laugh.

As it's free practice tomorrow we all decide not to have a late night. Instead we all decide to just stay at the hotel and make use of the hotel restaurant.

Sitting at the table that's covered in a white station table cover there is a cacophony of chatter and laughter, I have Charles on one side of me and Zhou on the other, and throughout the course of dinner it feels like they are both fighting for my attention as the second one starts a conversation with me the other interjects.

I engage in quiet conversation with George and we begin talking about the championship and I see Max dart his attention back and forth. It is evident that he is listening to our conversation out of jealousy, anger or some other emotion.

At 11 PM everyone heads up but I decide to stay down stairs for a while. I decide upon sitting on the edge of the pool with my feet submerged in the warm water and gaze into the night sky.

Hearing faint footsteps behind me I expect to see Lily or Kika by the sound of the high heeled shoes but instead see Kelly approaching me. "Fucking brilliant" I sigh under my breath.

She takes off her shoes and sits down next to me. There is a long pause of awkward silence that is slightly distorted by the sound of the water feature.

"What's your problem with me?" She asks. Not wanting to give her the pleasure of me getting angry I get up and pick up my shoes and turn around but as I do she says something that makes me stop in my tracks.

"Running away as usual isn't that exactly what you did with your relationship with Nyck, it's like your special talent"

I turn back around and crouch down.

"You ask why I don't like you, you are rude, stuck up, insensitive, you act like a petulant child and you're an all round fucking bitch who I can't stand, I can't really give you much more reason than that, now leave me alone, and don't act like you know me or what I've been through because you don't."

Feeling incredibly pissed I walk off leaving her by the pool by herself and heading up to my room I pass Max who asks if I have seen Kelly, I simply motion towards the sign that says "swimming pool".

I creak the door open and see Charles is fast asleep, I walk over to his side of the bed and place a light kiss on his right cheek.

I cautiously climb into bed and place my arm around Charles.

Waking up the next morning for FP1 and FP2 I feel a great sense of relief knowing that this is one of the final times I have to get up this early, don't get me wrong I love racing but not getting up at 7 in the morning to do so.

The paddock is filled with a flurry of people and as I push past all the journalists and their questions I manage to get to the garage in one piece.

Going out in FP1 is great, I feel confident and set excellent times well ahead of most driver's.

Going out for FP2 I feel ready to get this over and done with and go back to the hotel and rest.

"M/N, Verstappen, Leclerc, Perez and Albon behind you now coming out on the track. Verstappen 0.6 seconds"

Looking in my mirror I see the Red Bull appear behind me but I don't pay much attention to him instead focus on the track ahead.

Going into turn 4 he comes alongside me and makes contact with my side pod. I back off to let him pass and overtake him on the straight. But going back into the next corner he comes down the inside line and pushes me causing my car to spin out and catapult into the barrier.

Before my engineer can ask if I'm alright I make it clear I'm frustrated:

"What the fuck was he doing? He just come down the inside like a fucking rocket and pushed me off the track he's a dickehad that's what he is"

Obviously I have to retire given half of my car is over the barrier.

Entering the paddock a plethora of journalists flood over to me all pointing their microphones asking a thousand questions at once.

My media manager manages to arrange some form of order and then the questions start flooding in.

Reporter: M/N what's your take on what happened out there?

M/N: It was clearly Max's fault, I don't know what he was thinking or if he was even thinking because you know if he had a single brain cell he wouldn't have made such a stupid move.

Reporter: Do you think you will talk to him?

M/N: If he wants to talk like an adult, then yes but if he's going to act like a child then probably not.

Reporter: Your team has said you are definitely going to miss out on FP3. Do you think this will impact your performance in Qualifying?

M/N: I don't think so, I feel confident on the track, especially when I don't have a Red Bull driving into me.

Walking off I see Kelly standing on the sidelines and as much as I try to control my anger, however it gets the best of me.

I approach her and she turns to face me.

"What is your boyfriend's problem?" I ask in a spiteful tone, she ignores me, "fine if that's how you want to act, it's fine by me, but know this, I may hate you and may not have the best relationship with Max but even I wouldn't be that selfish or stupid to purposefully ram him off the track"

I storm off and see that the cameras have followed me but by this point I don't care.

Day of qualifying:

After yesterday's incident I don't feel as elated as I should.

Even though I've missed out on FP3, I feel pretty confident that I can get pole position. The video clip of me confronting Kelly has gone pretty viral. My media team has lectured me over and over again about it, I can't help but feel they are the only ones who are happy I'm leaving. I'm sure their job will be a lot easier when I leave.

Making it to Q3 is a great feeling as always and seeing people like Zhou and Yuki make it to Q3 makes me feel even happier as they are in a car that doesn't perform as well.

I manage to get provisional pole and as I'm sitting in my car in the garage Max goes faster than me going in pole. I insist to the team that I go out again but they advise against it saying my tyres can't handle another lap but I don't listen and let my egotism and determination take hold

I cross the line to start my lap time with a literal second to spare. I don't use my brake much coasting in and out of corners. I'm dead set on getting a pole and as I cross the line I wait nervously for my engineer's voice.

"M/N Pole Position for the final time with Mercedes" I cheered into the radio feeling ecstatic.

"I couldn't have asked for anything better guys".

Race Day:

I put on my Mercedes race suit for the final time. It feels a tad conflicting. I'm happy to be going to a new team but sad to be leaving this team behind.

I sit in the car for the final time and turn to face Max who is in P2. We both get a good start and I get ahead of him and manage to create a 5 second gap by lap 8.

The laps quite literally fly by, and time seems to speed up whilst I'm driving.

Commentary: It is the final lap of the Formula One World Championship for this season, it's been a tough year for many, perpetuated by lots of emotions. Winning, losing, devastation, achievements. Everyone and every team has tried their best but it is this one man who is leading his final Grand Prix for Mercedes that will reign supreme.

As he rounds his last corner in that Mercedes, he will cross the line M/N L/N is the World Champion, the first rookie World Champion, there will be lots of celebrations down at Mercedes tonight as George Russell brings home P2 for a double podium."

Crossing the line I'm in disbelief and hear something I never expected to hear:

"M/N L/N YOU ARE THE WORLD CHAMPION, THE WORLD CHAMPION" My engineer booms down his mic.

"M/N it's Toto I just want to say a wonderful well done for your incredible work over the past year you are an incredibly talented driver with a great soul. It has been a pleasure to have you drive for us and we will be sad to see you go but wish you the best at Aston Martin"

For the final time I push my radio button to speak to the Mercedes team.

"Thank you guys, this is probably the best feeling I have ever felt. This season has been a whirlwind that I will never forget. I have absolutely loved working with you all, you're all hardworking, dedicated individuals who make this sport as great as it is. I'm sad to be waving goodbye to Mercedes but you guys will always be my family, I will always have the utmost respect to you all.

I just want to say thank you Toto for your support over the past year and for giving me an amazing opportunity. Thank you George for being the best teammate and friend. Thank you Jack for being such a great engineer. And thanks to everyone in the garage, pit wall and back in the factory for all your hard work and dedication, I wish you all the best, I love you all."

I frantically jump out of my car and embrace my entire team with the fireworks exploding in the night sky behind me. I quickly head to the cool down room to place down my helmet and get a quick drink and wait for my turn to be interviewed.

Reporter: Now here comes the World Champion, How does it feel?

M/N: I can't really put my feelings into words. It's a feeling I can't really describe, my childhood dreams have come true.

Reporter: Mercedes are constructors champions, you are the World Champion and George is P2. What is the atmosphere like at the team?

M/N: It's pretty amazing, we couldn't have asked for a better result coming into this season and you know we've all worked really hard to achieve this result so yes very elated and pleased.

Reporter: Now obviously you are leaving Mercedes, are you going to take this success with you next year at Aston Martin?

M/N: Let's just say next year Aston Martin will be at the top of the constructors.

Reporter: Do you have any final parting words for the Mercedes team?

M/N: Nothing other than thank you so much and I wish you all the very best.

Walking away I'm guided to the podium by Event staff. Standing on the podium I cast my view over the sea of people below me all cheering and ecstatic, but I don't feel as happy as I should. There's something within me that's stopping me from being as happy as them. For the final time in this season me, George and Charles cover each other on Champagne as the fireworks explode illuminating the night sky.

Stepping back onto the podium, Charles places his arms around me and places a kiss in my lips. Pulling away he smiles from ear to ear and laughs at how flustered I get. But the crowd gets great satisfaction out of it erupting into cheers.

Entering the Mercedes garage for the final time I'm met by a cacophony of cheers and people clapping. I hug every individual and thank them for their hard work and all that they have done for me over the past year.

We take the final team photo and I clear out my driver's room of all my Mercedes equipment and walk back into the garage and find the team with a trolley.

"What's that for?" I question "This is your ride to your new team" Toto replies.

Before I know it they are strapping me to the trolley that is used to transport tyres. My engineer and the other engineers and pit crew begin pushing me out of the garage. I take one final look back and smile at George and Toto, a tear forming in my eye.

They push me all the way down the pit lane, past all the garages who stand outside giving me a baffling look. We get to the Aston Martin garage and they literally deposit me, hugging me before leaving.

Fernando and Lance unstrap me from the trolley and there is an awkward moment where no one knows what to say until Ferando speaks up.

"You will enjoy it here" he declares, "I'm sure I will" I reply.

I'm guided to Mike's office by Lance and Fernando and all 3 of us take a seat. "First of all great last race for you Fernando P4 and P6 for you Lance it's been a great season we have finished 4th in the constructors Championship so it's been a great season, now I would like to welcome M/N to the team, it will be a pleasure to have you with us, now do you have anything you would like to say"

"Ermm... it's a great honour to be racing for such a great team next year, I can't wait to get to know the team more and it's an honour to be filling your shoes Fernando".

Concluding our meeting I leave the paddock amongst the flurry of spectators and head back to the hotel to pack my stuff in order to catch my flight to Italy where I have brought an apartment. My mum has sent over all of my belongings already.

Charles has offered to come and help me set everything up so we head to the airport together.

Sitting in the airport lounge I look up and see Charles justvstaring at me, "can I help you?" I question "Just looking at the new world Champion" I respond. "We'll I'm very grateful Red Bull were shit this year, it really helped".

The flight is long and tedious but the in flight entertainment of watching Charles playing games on his phone and getting angry when he loses is extremely engrossing.

We arrive in Italy at 2 in the morning so we just head to the apartment.

Arriving at the mahogany door I lift up the plant pot to find the key to the door, I switch on the light immediately and see an overwhelming amount of boxes scattered everywhere.

We head straight to the bedroom where there is thankfully already a bed and deposit our bags.

"I think we should just head to bed and leave this stuff until the morning I say, " Charles nods in agreement and we both head to bed, exhausted from the overwhelming emotions of the race day.

We end up sleeping in until 1 in the afternoon and with half of the day gone m, we decide to begin unpacking. We delegate a room each. I head into the kitchen and Charles stays in the bedroom and unpacks all my memorabilia and clothes.

Charles POV:

I stand at the door entrance for a while looking for a place to start. The room is covered with cardboard boxes.

I decide to start with all the stuff that goes into the closet and thankfully M/N's mother and auntie have labelled all the boxes as to where they go.

I start ripping the tape off a massive box that's packed with clothes but it's mostly racing teams T-shirts. I see teams that haven't been in F1 for nearly 20 years or longer.

Hanging each one individually is a banal task and just when I think it's coming to an end there's a whole load more "How many T-shirts does one man need?" I question myself.

Finally I reach the bottom of the box and see a grey box. I reorganise it as the one M/N hastily took away from me. I know he took it away for a reason but I want to know what's in there.

Looking behind my shoulder to check he isn't there I take the box out and sit on the edge of the bed placing it next to me. I take the lid off and I'm greeted by a box full of paper.

The initial document has a title in Bold capital letters that says "CONFIDENTIAL POLICE DOCUMENT". I question why he lied to me. He said it was stuff from his childhood.

I begin reading each paper individually, my eyes opening more and more as I read the details of what really happened between him and Nyck.

This isn't what he told me, well it is but he played it down a lot so I still feel like he lied to me.

Then I get to a page that just stops me in my tracks it's read "Mr L/N has indicated that Mr De Vries had repeatedly had non consensual intercourse with him on multiple occasions during the course of their relationship"

I'm absolutely horrified but not as horrified as I am when I get to the last page:

"Conclusion: M/N has decided to drop all charges against Nyck, on grounds that this process is too mentally tough, therefore no sentence or criminal charges will be imposed on Nyck and no further action shall be taken"

I hear footsteps approaching but I'm frozen. I hear his voice "so for lunch I thought we could-" he stops immediately when he sees me sitting on the edge with the paper in my hand.

"Why did you lie to me?" I say.

"What do you mean?" he dumbly questions.

"Why did you lie to me?" I repeat in a louder tone of voice.

"I didn't I just -" he pleads "save it".

We look at each other for a while trying to find the right thing to say but he's the one to break the silence "I didn't tell you because, I don't know how to casually bring that up or speak about it without needing therapy after. I hate the fact I didn't tell you everything but you would have looked at me differently you would of treated me as this frail, incompetent, damaged reject just like Yuki, Zhou, my mother, family, friends even AlphaTauri at the time for fuck's sake. Do you know what it was like to be on a F1 junior programme and have to leave because they thought I was too damaged? I'm sorry it was selfish and stupid of me but I didn't know how to tell you."

"I think we need space" I say.

He doesn't say anything, he just stands there "fine, but just know you're doing exactly what stopped me from telling you in the first place" he says.

I head for the door taking all my stuff and begin to search for flights to France so I can go back to Monaco.

M/N's POV:

As he closes the door behind him, I don't really know what I feel, I don't know if I'm angry, upset, annoyed. Instead I begin unpacking and cleaning like a mad man and by 9 PM I have my apartment fully set up. Apparently when you are seething with rage you can accomplish anything.

As for the police reports and documents I burn them all, ordinarily I would shove them in the bin but I wouldn't put it past the media to dig them out of the bin like they did with my tax report once.

Unlike last time I'm not going to lounge in self pity or depression. Instead I decide to go out and have some fun for once in my life without thinking of the consequences.

I get dressed in a shirt and a pair of blue levis and head for the nearest club. For most of the night I'm sitting by the bar by myself sticking to my zero alcohol rule however I can't lie the temptation was strong.

I'm approached by a group of guys and girls who ask me if I want to join them. I happily agree and spend the night chatting away with them. They are on holiday but are actually from near my hometown so we have a lot in common.

They don't know who I am, and it's nice to be seen as an equal human who doesn't have some higher status because I drive a fast car. They don't know much about what I do until some Ferrari fans approach me, clearly out celebrating Charles' podium and Ferrari being second to Mercedes.

"Hey can we get a photo please?" I agree and they take the photo and thankfully don't ask where Charles is.

"What was that about?" one of the guys asks, "erm I'm sort of a racing driver?" they all clearly know nothing about racing as they start listing all these different racing series "Which one do you do, IndyCar, NASCAR, Formula E, Porsche Cup?" one of the guys asks "erm Formula 1 actually".

Despite having no knowledge of racing by their faces I can tell they know F1 is the pinnacle of motorsports however they don't treat me any differently the whole night.

We take a photo together and part at around 2 AM going home.

The next morning I wake up to the sound of my phone ringing, I sleepily answer it "hello" I say. "Hey M/N it's Yuki sorry for waking you I was just wondering if you wanted to go on a boat trip today as I'm back in Italy" I think for a moment and agree to it not wanting to be confined to the walls of my house.

I lay in bed for a while scrolling through instagram when I see a post with the photo from last night captioned "When in Italy 🇮🇹- going to a nightclub with an F1 World Champion. @M/N_L/N is a great person to go out with"

Eventually I gather the energy to go and get ready. It's quite a warm day as its approaching Autumn but it's not too hot. I'm as usual running a little late but I manage to get there just in time.

Boarding the boat I'm greeted by Yuki, Zhou, Lance and George who are patiently waiting for me, "This is one thing I won't miss about you" George elaborates.

As the journey gets underway we are sat on the bow of the boat overlooking the horizon when Yuki begins to interrogate me. I would be pissed off if this was anyone else but after years of friendship I've learned to just accept it.

"So you and Charles eh" he says "what are you on about?" I say in such an unconvincing tone.

"Well he came here to help you set up and all that and next thing he's back in Monaco with his family and you are going out at night and mixing with tourists"

"He found the box" I declare, the only thing he can come out with is "oh".

"I think it's over", "how many times have you two broken up now? Twice? You will get back together"

"I think it's over for good, maybe I'm just no meant for relationships and plus he was wasn't my type way out of my league"

"What is your type?"

"Short, cute, has anger issues, good cook, great sense of humour"

I turn my gaze towards him.

[whalehouse1]

@thefaeriefeatherdark Sorry, I just haven't had either the time nor the energy to write up a response to your thoughts on the AU and I apologize because this is basically stream of consciousness and not edited, but a few things about my 3 Superboys AU, which thanks to Jon is technically 5 but another time.

Okay, the Superboy AU has actually gotten worse thanks to Leah Williamson (long story, but now we have two Jons). But to answer your questions as best I can given my limited Super family knowlege. Connor is a Cadmus creation, he is straight up the series origins. Made by Cadmus with Lex's funding with Lex's and Clark's DNA. The main difference is he is the first attempt at being cloned and Cadmus lies and tells Lex the clone had deteriorated once he was out of his clone tube. If you want to add Contessa to this, you could have her doing this to spite Lex. I know nothing about her besides what you said in your post, but I'm sure she has good reasons to be spiteful to Lex. And you know to try to keep and groom a Superboy on her own.

As for Lena Thorul, I know nothing about her, but since I am a fan of random characters from Kara's original series (I want that trade if it will ever exist), I don't see any issue with her being involved. My only issue with Kara in your idea, is I hc her around the ages of the original Teen Titans from the comics. At most a year younger, only because I think it's funny that Dick will call her an old hag even though he's physically older, but she's older than even Clark by a decent amount.

I mean all three are Clark and Lex clones, so they will look alike, but as Connor and Kon do have other's DNA mixed in with them (Maik is the only 100% just those two's DNA), they're can be variation. I think Connor looks distinct enough, it could have just been the cartoon style, but he seems more muscular and taller. He's more of a football player, while Kon is more Baseball player in terms of general build (it's a very bad description, but the best way I can explain it without drawing it, sorry). And Maik is 12, he's baby shaped. But he's basically built thicker than Jon, but not really by much since again, babies. Connor doesn't have the earring like the other two do, but I think Maik in terms of appearance does get mistook as Kon's younger brother since they look a lot alike. Maik has much better fashion sense though, cause is it Kon if he is dressed well? Maik has the gray eyes from the movie cause they're very striking compared to everyone else's bright blue ones. I also just like grey eyes and there's not a lot of of them in comics. So Kon and Maik will look alike and will argue about who stole whose look, but it comes down to just their age and clothing. I think Maik will end up looking a bit more different when he gets older, but I think those two will resemble each other the most with the eyes and fashion being their difference sadly. As for their outfits, don't they all need those super awesome jackets? Connor sadly gets his black shirt and pants, it's boring, but you know which Super it is when you see this. I did liker Kon's outfit in Kelly's run and YJ98, but Maik's would start out as the same as in the movie, but I think he would keep a more subdued coloration in his outfit. I also think as he gets older, he would make his costume more punk-rock than just spiked shoulders. I'm not sure how exactly, but I like him having a music industry plant type of idea behind his creation and so I want to incorporate music styles into his older costume if that makes sense.

Well, we have how many Flashes now? It should be fine, right (laughing in DC's inability to give codenames to established heroes for mantle passing)? They would get new codenames, but I haven't thought that far ahead yet. Also their names would have to use some of their personality and stories (Nightwing coming from Clark's story, Troia coming from Donna's stay on the Greek Moon planet thingy, Tempest coming from his water magic, etc.). So that would take a bit to get a good codename for them. But them and both Jons would evolve into having their own codename. Kara at last could go for Superwoman (since as far as I know there isn't one running around (watch me be wrong and there's like 5).

Oh, I completely forgot about Matrix. I want to say since the goal of this AU is to give Ma and Pa Kent the biggest amount of grandchildren, I want to at first instinct say yes, but from what I remember about that, it's still just Kara just merged with another. Also, I just didn't enjoy the bits I've seen of it. But since I haven't read the whole story, I'm not going to say definitively no, but that was just a weird bit of Supergirl's history to me, but not enough for me to just, "yay, no" it. If you want those, ask me about Nightwing XD.

As for the "it's gotten more complicated" it might actually be more fun for you, since you like the paternity bit more, but again I haven't had a chance to read Kon's solo yet (I've been reading from the beginning and I haven't made it to Superman comics yet and until the 90's, there's not really any writer who I'm just going to skip (I can't with Dixon anymore. He can write good plots, but he's such an awful garbage person and it bleeds through too much for me. And actually between him and Fitzmartin, I almost started to hate Tim, but one of his fans actually helped me with that), so I still have awhile and time is a dick. But to the actual point, Connor is the first actual clone, but he isn't "alive" to the world as Contessa is keeping him a secret from Lex and so Lex decides to cut his losses and tries again and that's how we get Kon, but Kon on top of Lex and Luthor's DNA also has Westfield's DNA in the mix. So he'sd the first clone the world gets to know. As for where Contessa and Cadmus is storing Connor, I'm not 100%, since I really, really hated the clone tube, so they probably have a facility underground that they "trained" him in so that he would be perfect for their nefarious schemes. He 100% will keep Wolf, I don't know if it would be from an Outsiders' mission or a one off mission with the Titans, but he's getting Wolf. And I'm fine with him on the farm, the Supers can come and go from there and since it's centrally located, it's not a bad place for him to join up with others. He doesn't have flight, but he's fast and can jump. Also he can get the stickers from Lex again and one of the heroes could probably figure out a way to replicate them without the addiction issue, there's enough scientist to figure it out. I know absolutely nothing about Indigo, but as long as she isn't going to take him to the Legion of Superheroes I'm fine with it (still bitter about that arc with Kara in the show, it just never sat right with me). But I do like your idea of him staying at the Outsiders HQ until Clark invites him to the farm. I think Connor has more of a relationship with the Kents than Clark, because Clark just doesn't know him and after Kon doesn't know how to deal with this new, but older clone. And he has to deal with raising Jon, so he can't just drop everything to help raise this kid he never knew existed. I think it makes him more understandable than what YJ did with him where he just came off as a prick. The powers are right, the heat vision and cold breath aren't as strong as Clark or Kara's, but that can be enhanced with the shields and that's ofc where the flight comes in as well. I do think he has the most strength out of the three in terms of raw physical power. Kon's TTK though obviously wins in terms of actual strength.

Now, because I just want to make things over complicated for no reason, I get you like cybernatics, but as I'm not a big sci-fi fan, when Maik was being cloned, in an attempt to see if they could remove the kryptonite weakness, they had some red kyrptonite in the room where they were cloning him. He still has the weakness, but instead it warped his Kryptonian abilities to an extent. So for example, he has heat breath and frost vision. His superstrength isn't as strong as the others, but (thanks to your boiling water Kara thing), I think he has the strongest durability out of the Supers. This wasn't meant to contradict you, I just think it's funny Kara doesn't want to get him hurt, but if he's not around kryptonite, the kid could get punched by every other Super at full strength and he'd barely feel it. He's still strong and could punch a hole through a solid steel building without a problem, but he's losing the arm wrestling contests. He is also the one Lex had the most see-over on though so he is the smartest since he was basically being taught by Lex approved tutors and that. He also since he actually is the one clone that "got to be a kid" and if the aging thing was retconned, I'm fine with it, he started out as an actual kid, so he and Jon actually are one year apart (Jon's a year older, kid Jon, not teen Jon, as I said it got complicated, but another day), and he would have absorbed some of Lex's "morals", so he could have a good character arc of growing out of that greed inspired mindset and learning to see humans as humans. I do think the Danvers would be a great set for this. The Kents would be too, and they 100% get to help with their grandson, but the Danvers had Kara, who was a teen when they adopted her, with (depending on the timeline) good or bad Kryptonian ideaolgies and previous connotations on Earth and its inhabitants. So they have more experience with that than the Kents. Also, since he and Jon are essentially the same age and Maik starting as an antagonist, that would be a good start for them since it would give a chance of kids figuring out things and influencing each other and given what Jon has been through, it's not like he's 100% rainbows, unicorns and sunshine. He's been through the ringer, possibly more than any other Super, 3 years under Ultraman torture will do that to a person. More so, being left for dead and having to watch that person living your life. But yes, as Kon would have YJ and Connor would be best (for me personally) for the Outsiders with helping out the Titans and YJ at times, Maik would fit in perfectly with the amount of child heroes that exist right now. He might feel redundant if he joined up with Damian and Jon and the people I have on their youth team I have, but what's the harm in having two supers? But even excluding that fact, there's a large amount to make a team out of. And heck, he could even start on my Damian team, butt heads with him (not hard to do) and take a few with him to make his own team and get some of the others Damian couldn't recruit. Even more fun if it splits up the West twins so Wally and Linda have to listen to who has the better team at dinner at least twice a week. And for villains, they would have to fit a theme for him to grow, so if I were to write stories for him, I would want to figure out a good balance for that. I would have to think of a few examples, but someone targeting him for being Lex's son, clone, "hero", "weapon" wouldn't be bad, someone who isn't able to control their actions for one reason or another, I think an evil Toyman would be good to as well, a villain who wants the spotlight (like Punchline, but not as annoying, sorry I just don't like her), he'd be very good for a social media type of villain or a eugenics villain. There's potential for others, but for villains, I think the moral theme for the story should come before their gimmick for a good story (can you tell I'm a batbrat?).

As for the DNA samples, I think it'd be a cute story that Maik and Jon are wanting to be the babies (the twins come in after this so it's all pointless), and also just worried that since Cadmus and Lex both have had access to controlling all three clones, with each one being a stronger control (Maik even having a microchip just in case that Kara made inert whether through Kandor or heat vision, doesn't matter, but one of those), teaming up and Jon using some lockpicking skills he get from Damian and Maik knowing the layout of the building, breaking and entering and destroying the DNA samples Lex has and scanning the building for anything he could possibly use for more DNA and eradicating it. It doesn't even have to be a stressful comic, just a fun little one of them having fun destroying untold and unsolvable property damage to Lex Corp. Everyone wins. And I'll give you this for the cybernetics and Lex being more involved with him, we can give him electric touch. So he could be a human taser or stronger. Lightning has been shown able to incapacitate the Supers, so it wouldn't be a bad thing for Lex to put into the one he has the most control over, until he defects. But now relooking at the timeline you gave me, I don't know if Contessa could have been around for all three cloning attempts. If so, Maik could be the one she doesn't lie about to Lex, but if she couldn't have been in charge for Connor, the pettiness isn't needed. But I do like them lying to Lex that Connor was a failure, so when he finds out he's still alive and functioning, he tries to be a "good" dad with the stickers and to give him resources that Connor knows better than to accept after the incident with the stickers.

[jinx-on-mars-19xx]

Invisible Voice

(Kill Somebody Like You Part Two Chapter Seven)

🔪Previous Parts Here🔪

Dom x Colson (Yungblud x Machine Gun Kelly)

Warnings: ABO dynamics (knots, slick, heats, mpreg), alpha serial killer/hitman Dom, omega mob boss Kells, cursing, past abuse, past SA, past trauma, interviewing, cover stories, boys acting, allusions to murder, anger, mentions of weapons, talks about traumatic birth, mentions of miscarriage, tears, sexism (to omegas), trying to change the world, evil from their past, panic, alpha posturing, misunderstandings, using sex to cope, needy boys, enemies to lovers ❤️‍🔥 Rating: mature

All ideas helped by @iamnotanearthlingmotherfucker 🩷

Collette was able to set her plans in motion more quickly than either man really liked. She was the main person to actually run their cover business so getting in touch with the right people was simple for her. Within a week Colson was sitting in the lobby of their home with the same woman who interviewed his father, his fiancé and sons with him on the couch. He was dressed to the nines and feeling more like himself than he had in weeks, he could fit into his old suits again even though it was tight around the belly. He had everything on that he would have worn before except for his weapons and his glasses. It felt weird to be around a stranger without them but he was supposed to be completely himself. His omega self. Fuck it was terrifying.

Dom was sweating under the lights but he kept himself as calm as possible and tried for his most charming and disarming smile. The one that made people question his age and call him precious. It was almost amusing how easy it was for him to act the non-threatening Alpha he tried to be for everyone but other Alphas. The woman sitting across from him had already awwed over how sweet he was with his son. He tried to keep himself settled and support his mate but it was difficult to keep smiling when there were so many new people around. He wanted to take his family back upstairs and preferably take his lover to bed. He looked damn good in his new suit and Dom was tempted to cut it off of him.

“I have to thank you for meeting here where something so traumatic happened to your family. I've spoken to some of the people who were here that day. They all think highly of you and say it was you and your family that helped save them.” The interviewer- Ellen, explained politely. Of course Colson knew they would dramatize everything and to most people that would have been traumatic. To him it was basically just another Tuesday. Literally.

He played along and looked around before glancing down and taking his partner's hand as if it were difficult for him. He wondered how hard Dom was biting his cheek not to laugh. “We did what we had to for our family and friends. I've lived here since I was a teenager so you have to understand how important these people are to me. This is my home. I felt responsible with Megan coming for me. I should have seen that she needed help long before that.”

“It wasn't your fault. You shouldn't take that on. She was a misguided Alpha who thought the way too many of them do. That any omega is up for grabs. I've seen too much in my career and I know what that state of mind causes. Damage. Trauma. Most often death. You're lucky I think that it ended up how it did. People like her are why we need to change the way we view both Alphas and omegas. We need to teach the next generation better. It seems you're already working on that.” She grinned over at Blain and Punk. They hadn't given out the kid's names but they were allowed to be filmed. Blain could talk if he wanted but so far he kept quiet, just watching everything and smiling like Dom when it was appropriate. Col wondered if he should worry his whole family was filled with sociopaths but honestly he was just proud.

“We're trying, yes. It wasn't until I had kids that I realized what I was doing before was wrong. I shouldn't have hidden what I am to get where I am today. Now we're trying to show them that no matter what they can achieve anything. Our older boy even helped that day, as you know. Omegas are strong and he knows that.” Kells winked at Blain who nodded but stayed quiet. He hoped this wasn't upsetting him but they'd told him he didn't have to come. The kid had said he was part of their family and would stand with them. It felt cheesy as fuck to say and it definitely was, but deep down he knew while he was hamming it up for the television, it was still true. He had already decided to stand up to teach their boys.

“I think everyone understands. I mean look what happened when you were found out at work. You were protecting yourself from Alpha's and one proved your point. Still you and your family won the day and now you've become the face of a movement. I feel partly responsible for this since I was the one who interviewed your father. Please understand I didn't support that, I don't think abusive people deserve a platform.” Ellen huffed and the couple shared a look. They hoped she didn't get fired for being so honest on screen.

“I don't blame you, I can see how your bosses thought it would be good for ratings. I'm just thankful for getting my chance to speak. I can't call that man my father and I hope everyone understands that. He was abusive to my mother and I and hid behind religion to do it. My uncle…” He wasn't just pausing for dramatic effect but his pulse raced. He squeezed Dom’s hand and took a deep breath, letting himself sniffle. “I'm sorry, I can't talk about that. Especially not in front of the kids.” He didn't mind lying to keep himself from having to be so open. It felt bad enough that his whole family already knew, he didn't need the whole population hearing about his bullshit past.

Ellen handed him a tissue and he made himself tear up. He wouldn't normally, he wanted to seem strong but he also knew an omega crying tugged at everyone's heartstrings. “Of course you don't have to. I'm so sorry. I can't imagine what's been brought up for you since that interview.” She sighed. She truly seemed to feel badly and it made them like her even more. Collette had been right, this was the way to handle it. Her plan had been to fight fire with fire and plaster themselves in the media as the perfect family. If Kells had to lead a revolution they needed to control the narrative.

“Thank you. I'm sorry. It doesn't matter how long it's been, some scars never heal.” Colson cleared his throat and tried not to think about how true that statement was. Shit, he hadn't meant for that. “I never meant to be the face of change but being a parent now I see the importance of it. People like them don't deserve to be heard anymore. They hurt children for their own pleasure and amusement and Alphas still run around thinking people like me are toys. The fact he implied I would hurt other omegas? Sick. They're disgusting. Yes I hire omegas in my clubs but I keep them safe. I pay them triple what other places do. Ask any of my people if they feel safe and cared for. I don't force any of them to do anything and we even hire them for our company. But it's not enough. The world has to change. My mother taught me that.” He smiled his most charming smile.

“I had the opportunity to meet your parents before our sit-down. I'm not surprised you have such a lovely relationship with an example like them. Especially since an Alpha gave you your position.” Ellen praised Collette and Travis and they both deserved it. They were still there watching from the sidelines and Kells was happy with that. He needed all the support he could get.

“My dad is incredible. He took me in as a broken kid and helped me heal. Genetics don't make a father, love does. The man you interviewed wasn't anything to me but pain. I learned everything from Travis and now I just hope I can do the same for my son.” He explained softly and he knew the camera was probably zooming in on Blain. He didn't want to overdo it but they needed to seem as sympathetic as possible.

“I'm sure you will. For how young you both are it's incredible you took in a young omega. May I ask how you found him?” They were thankfully prepared for such a question, they knew Ellen would get there at some point. Collette had helped them prepare for every eventuality.

“I don't want to say too much about him, you know? I want my family to have privacy as much as possible. But I help a lot of omegas running my clubs and one of my girls had met him. When his father died he had nowhere to go so the girls sent him to me. I guess they thought I'd offer him a job but no, he's too young. He felt like ours from the first moment we met him.” A lot of it was a blatant lie but the last line was true, Blain was their son from the moment Dom saved him.

“Your family really is the perfect example of what the future should be. Your boyfriend really doesn't mind letting you lead?”

“My fiancé is happy to let me be the boss. Aren't you baby?” Colson teased, leaning over to kiss Dom's cheek.

“Yes master. Kidding! No, I love me mate and I love seeing him flourish like he is. I didn't ‘ave a good example growing up but I knew I didn't wanna be like me dad. I knew from the first time I met Cols tha’ we was meant to be and he was me boss from day one too. Omegas ain't less ‘an and I want our boys to know tha’. If anyone should be the face of change, why not one so pretty?” Col rolled his eyes at his lover's words but kissed him sweetly for themselves and the cameras.

“Your boss? How scandalous.” Ellen laughed.

Kells nodded, it was part of their new backstory. “He walked in one day looking for a job as a bodyguard- we get plenty of threats to our clients. After meeting him I couldn't lend him out to anyone else and now I'm glad I didn't. He helped me so much that day.”

“From what I understand you were in labor through the whole ordeal but the three of you still managed to save everyone in the hotel before your fiancé delivered your son? I can't imagine how terrifying that was. I'm glad the police issued an apology for how they failed you that day.” Ellen was right, they had apologized but the family didn't trust it for a second.

“It was both the worst and best day of my life. My family helped me through it but even dead I can't forgive Megan for making my baby come early. I'm having trouble forgiving the police because something could have happened to my son. We all made it out but I lost some friends that day. You're right Ellen, we have to teach Alphas better. I'm just doing my part to help.” Colson explained, taking his baby in his arms as she took her cue and wrapped up their interview.

“I think you're right, and we all need to do our part to do better. I just want to thank you again for opening up your home and your family for us. You should still be bonding with your son but because of more trauma inflicted by my own company you've had to sit down with me. I can't apologize enough or thank you enough. I think your partner is right, if anyone should be the face of change, you're the perfect example of what it can be. Thank you for being that and showing us.” Ellen held her smile as the cameras stopped and after they were off and the lights were being dismantled it fell to something more genuine.

Colson eased himself off the couch and shook her hand, keeping Punk to one arm. “Thanks again El. I think that went good.”

“Good? Kid that's gonna go wild. I've never been so happy to owe your mom one.” The woman laughed. They had all been surprised to find out the two were old friends.

Collette stepped closer and hugged Ellen close and the beta kept apologizing. “I can't believe they made me sit next to those bastards. I wanted to fucking kill them both. I'm so glad we were able to do this but I think they'll want one with you too. And if this goes as well as I think it will, I'm worried they'll want all of you and your ex on screen together.”

“I know, we'll face that if we get there. I'd be happy to do an interview with you but I wanted the focus on my boys first.” Collette explained. Kells thought she just didn't want to be ‘the face of change’ as everyone kept calling him.

They stood around talking for a while as the cameramen and workers packed up the set to move out. With so many people walking in and out no one noticed a new face walking in until he was looming close. Colson was the first to recognize the scent and his blood ran cold. His lover picked up the switch in his expression automatically and before he even turned to look he was taking Punk from the omega's hold and passing him to Blain. He wanted to send them away but they didn't have time to make sure they were safe so he stayed close as the stranger walked up to their group.

Col felt lost and quiet as he saw his uncle in person for the first time since he was a boy. He had to fight himself not to start shaking but his fight or flight went crazy. His heart raced, his trigger finger itched, and he could feel a pit in his throat he didn't think he could swallow. “You need to get the fuck out of my lobby.” He growled low but it felt too breathy. He honestly thought he might pass out he felt so dizzy.

Collette stepped between them with Travis fuming next to her. “You heard him. What do you even think you're doing here?” She huffed.

The bastard looked between them all and Dom stepped closer. He wanted to reach for a knife he didn't have but he knew he couldn't use force. There were too many people around for him to kill the other man but he couldn't believe the audacity.

“I'm not here for any of you. Get over yourselves. Fucking whores. No, I came for the boy. I saw your little interview and I heard your lies. I know you ran off with something of mine. I can't believe you'd show him off and claim you found him.” It honestly took them all a minute to understand what the hell he was talking about and Colson was starting to regret doing the interview live. They should have recorded it separately but it seems either way the idiot would have come. Maybe if he'd done it later they could have shot him for trespassing. As it was he'd have to have the fucker arrested at best.

“Who the hell are you talking about?” Kells couldn't help snapping but when his uncle looked at Blain his heart froze in his chest.

“You took what's mine. Give it back to me and I'll be on my way.” He obviously knew he had to be careful around such a crowd but he still showed up and they were all pissed.

Dom wanted to step up to him but Colson got in his way, blocking the man from looking at their sons. “You knew? You fuckers beat the shit out of me and sold me and you knew you had-” He had to swallow bile. “My son is not yours. You beat that out of me. You're not owed anything except a bullet between your eyes. Get the fuck out of my home.”

His uncle stared down at him with more hate in his eyes than anyone should be able to muster but Kells met him with the same amount of rage and disgust. When he had the nerve to look at the boy again Blain flipped him off and grinned. It wasn't exactly helpful but it was just who he was and the boss had to summon the hotel guards. “Please escort his ass outside and make sure everyone knows he's not welcome. If he gets in again I'll make sure you're all fired. Don't make me do that please, I like you guys.”

They watched the man get dragged outside and Col felt his power slip away, he'd had enough strength to stand up to the dick but he felt broken having been so close to him again. Dom pulled him against his chest and led him and their boys to the elevator. They were all quiet on the ride up until they got inside their home. “Did tha’ twat waffle think I'm his kid?” The baby Brit exclaimed and Col’s psyche broke enough he laughed at the insult. The sound broke off in a sob and his mate pulled him closer, easing him over to sit down on the couch.

“He knew. He knew I was pregnant and they sold me. They tried to kill us both and they- they succeeded on one.” His voice broke. It wasn't that he wanted to have his uncle's kid but he couldn't help both being terrified of and missing his child every day.

“I guess I'll take the compliment tha’ he thinks I'm yours.” Blain tried to help soothe him but Colson felt lost in his fear and pain. His heart was breaking all over again. “Mum you gotta breathe. He won't get me. He won't get near us again. I'm sorry, if I'd just spoken up once he wouldn't think tha’. It's on me.”

“Hey no. It's not on you. And I should be telling you you're safe. We probably shouldn't have had either of you with us but mom thought…” He sighed. They couldn't change it now but they could all keep each other safe.

“I wanted to be wiv yas. If he shows up again I'll go off on him wiv every British insult I can think of. I might be alright being yours but fuck him.” The boy pulled a face. “Actually no, bad choice of words.” Col couldn't help but laugh again. Dark humor was the family way to handle shit it seemed.

“You are ours. Jus’ means no one leaves ‘ome alone alright? Someday I'll kill ‘em boff for all ‘ey done but for now we stay tog'ever. You fink your mum will come up soon?” Dom asked, they all knew her penchant for coming up to apologize and check on her son. It was sweet but part of him wanted to take Kells to their room and soothe him alone.

“I got Punkers if ya need a bit.” Blain seemed to read his mind but everyone knew how they needed time alone after something intense. It was just part of their bond.

“Fuck. I know it's shitty of me but if she comes up here crying I'll break the fuck down. I can't do it right now.” Col was closer to snapping than he wanted to admit and if he saw tears in anyone's eyes he knew he'd shatter. He felt like he couldn't breathe and their walls were too close. The fucker had been in his hotel and that was too much. Being in the same city as them was too much for him.

“Come on. Let's go rest yeah? I've got yas.” Kells nodded at his lover's soothing voice and let the other help him off the sofa. He didn't know what he needed but he knew what Dom said was true, his Alpha always had him. No matter what.

The killer wasn't exactly sure what to do with his lover once they reached their room. He'd been flooded with needy thoughts earlier in the day but those washed to the back of his mind on a rush of anger at the man who'd interrupted their lives and the fear of what it brought up for his mate. He should have searched them both out long before and killed them already. He felt responsible for them making it into their state and close to his family no matter how little sense it made. He needed to protect his people and he'd failed in that. He couldn't imagine what was going through the other's mind.

Colson sighed as the door closed behind them. It felt calming that they were cut off from the world. Part of him wanted his son in his arms so it gave him something besides his past to focus on but he knew this was better. He needed to let some emotion out. “I don't want to give him a fucking second more of my life.” He huffed as he took his partner's hand in his. Would his uncle keep thinking Blain was his or would he take his word on what they'd done? What did he even want with the boy? Did they realize he was an omega? Did they want money? “Kiss me.”

“Wha'?” Dom blinked. His fiancé wasn't even looking at him when he asked. He could feel the stress rolling off the man. It was almost a physical aura.

Kells cursed under his breath and turned his Alpha to face him. Before another thought could cross his mind he'd pressed their lips together hard. “Shut my fucking mind up.”

“Bab-” Dom couldn't get a word out before he was pushed to fall against the bed rough enough he bounced on the mattress. He couldn't do more than watch as Col started stripping for him. The suit looked incredible but everything looked better off his mate and he felt his body react with every new inch of skin revealed. He wasn't sure this was how they should deal with their problems but since his normal way was murder he didn't think he was the one to throw stones. “Me or you?” He asked softly, swallowing hard.

Col dropped his shirt and cupped his own hardening cock through his slacks, smirking down at his lover. “I haven't decided yet.”

Author's Note/Tags: @iamnotanearthlingmotherfucker @hollywoodxwhore @jaxbreaker @fenoy7 @cole-way-iero28 if anyone wants tagged let me know 🖤

Sorry for the cliffhanger of smut but the chapter was getting long. I can't believe that man showed up stalking them and thinks Blain is his! What can they possibly do if they can't kill him? I hope you're all still enjoying it! ❤️‍🔥🩷🖤

[emmedoesntdomath]

emme i am in need of assistance.

i need to be dragged kicking and screaming back into the newsies fandom, please and thank you

you know what? fine, sure, let’s do this. 

in this fun little drag-you-by-your-ears-and-force-you-to-listen-to-me, we’ll be talking about javey. 

obviously, javey is the lifeblood behind most of this lovely fandom. look at your own account. besides the synchronized dance numbers, it’s about the most the majority of us agree on (with a few exceptions, but we love them anyway <3333 /j)

but why is javey such a phenomenon to us? why is it that big of a deal? let’s explore that. 

javey is, in simple terms, something that can quickly become revolutionary. 

don’t understand what I mean? consider it-

most of us headcanon jack to be a person of color. whether he’s black, or of latinx descent, jack is not normally white. in a lot of cases, people don’t even believe english to be his first language. with these very intentional choices, you are already taking marginalized groups, and giving them a voice. groups, that for most of history, have been shunned, or outright ignored. and to see jack kelly, a character not defined by his parentage or skin color, simply *living*. making choices, mistakes, wrong decisions, without being turned into a performative political message by a major corporation. he’s just jack kelly. and his existence speaks louder than words ever could. 

and all of this can be said before we even mention what else he could represent, could mean to all of us. 

he’s a kid from the streets, or the more modernized foster care. he’s not the sad, lonely, discouraged orphan kid that needs saving. no, jack kelly is going to get off his ass, and do it himself. he’ll run away. earn a living. he is our defiance, he is our rebellion and independence. 

he has dreams, big ones. ones that we relate to. he wants to run to santa fe? well, guess fucking what? we do, too. wants to be given a little respect, a little worth? maybe we relate to that. 

he is the poster child of found family. and I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but we’re all pretty big on that in this fandom. 

so, let’s put it this way- jack is a lot of us. most of us, maybe. 

but so is davey. 

davey is a canonically (or maybe not, but I say it’s canon) jewish character. in a world that reeks of antisemitism, that is ridiculously important. he, too, represents more than just himself. there is a whole history of a people hated and brutally punished for simply existing. he is another character who isn’t restricted, forced to be but yet another stereotype or one-note idea, but who just exists. you don’t realize how huge that is. representation and the explicitness of modern media is great, and very much needed. but it is just as powerful, if not more so, to let a character be without making it a display. 

to compound this all, he is the epitome of religious struggles. our davey has internalized homophobia, self-hatred, and more crises in faith than he has time to count. and I would say at least half of the people that I have met in this fandom can identify with one or more of those things. that’s valuable. especially when you consider that a lot of those things are essentially taboo in a number of regards. 

he’s from a working class family. he’s not rich, not swimming in bills. he’s missing school every day to go to work so his family might eat the next week. and that’s a reality for a lot of people. 

putting them together, we have- a man, a person of color, who has seen the shit end of life that a lot of other people do, falling in love with another man, one burdened with mental struggles and a heritage that carries just as much weight as the heaviest, in a time period when it was literally illegal to do so. 

they are people. they are representations. they are silent messages to the world. they are love. they are queer. they are happy. they are a family. they are revolutionary. they aren’t wrong. they aren’t broken. they aren’t hate. 

javey thrives because they are us, and by letting them thrive, we are hoping we will, too. 

(newsies, with more layers and deeper meanings than one could have ever hoped for since 1234)

ta da. 

[pbandjesse]

I felt pretty good today. And that was good! Because I wanted to end camp on a good note. And now camp is over, and the off season begins!

I slept alright last night. I woke up twice a little disoriented and uncomfortable. But I was able to sleep pretty well outside of that. Waking up was really tough. And my body ached really bad.

But I was doing alright. James got me a bagel for breakfast. Which I would have preferred more toasted but it was still good. James gave me lots of hugs and sent me off to work with good vibes for the last day of camp.

And it was a good time. I got there at 8. I ate half of my bagel while driving. And when I got to camp I was glad that no one was parked in my spot. Tony had been yesterday (thought he moved by 9 and apologized haha) but my spot on front of the building was just like me like it should be.

I would set up and spent some time sweeping and continuing cleaning up and getting ready for the season to be over. I would slowly work through things all day. But I felt good about the space. Really what I need to focus on next is going to be going through Native American field trip stuff so that everything is set for the school year. A task I am dreading but will get done. Probably on Thursday.

My groups today were good. They made good art. I was running low on quite a few colors of felt but the kids made due. And we're mostly self sufficient and so I worked on my knitting and enjoyed chatting and helping them cut their felt. I would show them fabric cutting techniques (use the armpit of the scissors, use small movements, take your time) but if they were still struggling I asked that they draw out the shape before asking me to help cut things because I am not a mind reader and didn't want to mess up their ideas. They would find this funny but it saved me a ton of frustration trying to get them to use their words to describe what they wanted.

I would work on some tasks during lunch. I had my cereal. And went to get check lists for cleaning from the office. Checked in with people about gathering materials from all the new programs spaces. I won't have time tomorrow because I'm helping with a field trip/rental for most of the day. But everyone has been on board and that's just really excellent.

My afternoon was just two day camp groups. Who were very sweet. They would help me clean up. And we're mainly good. Thought one child washed s ton of my hot glue just making a melted mountain and I wasn't happy. But after I spoke to him he stopped and understand why I didn't want him to do that. We learn and we grow.

My last group do the day helped me clean really well. I gave out smiley stickers to those who were helping. Which always makes them help more. I always act like it's the biggest deal to get a sticker so they are really sweet trying hard. And then I told them thank you for being a good last group. And then they said goodbye.

I spent most of the next hour cleaning. Throwing stuff out. Packing things away. Was doing good. And eventually I would take a walk to drop off my check lists. Callie ran up behind me and I was really happy to see her. We walked around together to the different specialties and dropped things off and said hello to people. It was nice.

I would keep cleaning for a bit. Signed some tshirts for friends. Took a few minutes to knit and sip water and have a small snack. And then off to the office for a meeting.

We were meeting about tomorrow's rental. 200 ublaw students coming for team building and diversity training. I am only slightly nervous because I haven't done team building in a while. But it's only two blocks of 45 minutes so I'm not to worried. I want to look over the lessons beforehand but I am sure it'll come back to me. More of the worry is that it's supposed to storm really bad in the morning. But hopefully it just passes us by and it's not a big deal.

We are going to be given breakfast and lunch tomorrow which I'm excited about. And we decided on the Kelly green camp shirt. But I didn't know where mine was. So I would have to go search peeps mill. And thankfully that's where it was. And the day was saved.

I would go home soon after that. And got back home at 5. I was happy that James was already home. And getting ready to host their parents.

We set up the backyard and made it cute. James made burgers and stuff. And once we were set up I would lay on the couch until they rang the door bell.

It was really nice to see them. They brought salmon and James grilled that too. We also had water melon which was great. And I was just really enjoying the company. They told us about their trip and work and friends.

James would make burgers (and a veggie chicken sandwich for me which was very very spicy) and we had great conversations and after dinner James made crepes for dessert which were excellent. I love my husband. They do such a good job making food.

Anne got to learn that there's a fig tree behind our fence. So she would go over there with a container and got a dozen beautiful figs. She loves figs so that was super sweet. I am glad she got to get so many!

Me and Tucker chatted for a while. He tried cottage cheese for the first time and really liked it. And I said my dad always eats it with pineapple but I've never tried it. Jess prefers it as a savory thing. It's for sure catching on.

They would head home soon after that. Which was for the best, as my stomach started hurting again. Me and James would lay on the couch, just both very very tired. It was a long day!

Now we are in bed. James is dozing. I am winding down. It was a long day. But I'm happy.

And because things just keep going. Tomorrow I go back to camp for camp clean up and the ublaw rental. I have to be home by 430 but I will do my best to help outside of that. And then I have a few days off. To hopefully just rest and chill.

I hope you all have a great night. I love you all. Goodnight!!

[bunnyfern]

Chapter 2 - part 2

Am I Wasting My Dream On You

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ 𝄞

Gustavo and Kelly had graciously accepted the offer of tea from Mrs. Knight, not used to the Minnesota cold but the LA heat.

Everyone had moved to the living room, Gustavo still holding a teacup that looked far too small in the larger man's hands. Sitting down in the chair placed by Mrs. Knight, Kelly standing by his side and the group on the opposite side taking up space on the couch.

Sat between James, devastated from Gustavo not wanting him, and Logan, feeling bad for James but still curious, was Crowe, stunned and opening and closing her mouth not sure of what to think. Gustavo began his pitch, laying out all the terms for Kendall and his family.

“Mrs. Knight, I wanna take your family to LA and produce some demo tracks with Kendall.”

“You can’t be serious,” Kendall said, not entertaining the idea one bit.

“It’ll take 3 months. We’ll take care of all of your expenses.” Kelly promised.

Gustavo kept talking, boasting how impressive he and his work is. And how he has anger management issues, which he isn’t wrong about. But Crowe wasn’t about to agree with that now, she didn’t want to give him a reason to leave her. Glancing to the side she saw James wanting another opportunity to show how good he is.

“People say I’m the life of the party-” he began to sing but was shut down immediately by Gustavo, “Stop it. Please. Don’t ever do that again. Thank you”

You didn’t have to be that harsh.

Crowe tapped his knee, giving an apologetic smile and mouthing a ‘ Sorry’ . James gave a weak nod, letting her know he was alright. Even if she knew that he was devastated, she figured out that even if he did seem a bit overdramatic, this was his dream. His dream that Gustavo decided was meant for Kendall instead of him.

Reaching up and twirling the necklace with her fingers, wondering how much her life will change. Getting startled when Gustavo called her name, done arguing with Kendall over the agreement.

“Yes?”

“For now, you’ll be Kendall’s assistant but still work for me when I call for you. Maybe you can be my protege or something, but that won’t happen if you end up like my horrible past assistants! Money hungry and fame crazy, so you better watch your step.” A threat but one he will uphold, something Crowe knows all too well.

Money hungry? Not my thing, fame crazy? Definitely not my thing. I should be fine.

Giving the man a grateful ‘okay, thank you’ as her answer. She was more than ready to start working, all she needed now was Kendall’s okay, praying he would accept his offer.

“So, what do you say kiddo, huh? You wanna go out to LA and be molded and shaped into a big old star by the Gustavo Rocque?”

The room was silent as everyone awaited his answer, wanting to know what he had to say. Wanting him to decide on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the same thing he told James in his peptalk not too long ago.

“No.”

Gustavo shattered the teacup he was holding, shards falling to the ground. Carlos was laughing, thinking Kendall was pulling his leg, until realizing he was serious. James looking at him in disbelief and Crowe, tightly clutching her necklace and feeling her heart stop if only for a second.

The enraged producer stood up, wanting to step outside for a minute to let his anger out. Not bothering to look back to see if the boy would change his mind or if he even regretted saying no to him.

Kelly had a wad of cash out, laying some down on the table. Hearing shattering and crashing noises from outside the house, Kelly added more bills to the pile. Leaving more to cover everything Gustavo had broken and then some. She then gave Kendall her info, “Here’s my card. If you change your mind, call. You should think about this Kendall, we leave tomorrow at 2.” she said, then left the Knight’s house.

The group was utterly shocked, even more so was Crowe. Kelly hadn’t given her any mention of when she would leave with the two. Wondering if maybe she just forgot, but after a few seconds of her not returning, it finally dawned on her.

She wasn’t going, if Kendall wasn’t then there wasn’t a point for her to go, making Gustavo’s words mean so little to her. Knowing that all they really wanted was Kendall and she was just an afterthought. Feeling worse the more she thought about it, so she stopped.

She stopped thinking about the opportunity that was so close to her, ripped out of her hands quicker than she could blink. Crowe was suffocating herself, wanting to leave and get some fresh air and back to her bed. With little of the strength she had left, she asked Mrs. Knight if she could drive her back home now.

Mrs. Knight agreed, walking back to the hallway to grab her things. Crowe stood up and headed toward the front door, not saying anything to the boys. They noticed how calm she was being, wondering if she was okay or even wanted to tell Kendall off. Mrs. Knight went outside to ready the car for Crowe, leaving her inside to see if she would say bye to the boys.

Words weren’t easy for her to say, she always struggled with that. But what was easy for her was letting go, everything she had worked towards for years, she just let go. It was ingrained in her that if something didn’t work out, then you have to move past it and do something else. Even if it was so special to her heart, but she wanted to leave the boys knowing she was going to be okay, even if she knew it was a lie.

It’ll be the last time they ever see each other, so she wanted to leave on a good note. Meekly muttering, “I had fun tonight, thanks,” wanting to see them again but knowing full well how this always goes she ended with a “Bye.” and made her way out to the car.

⟡

The sun had risen again the following morning, shining through the open curtains Crowe forgot to close last night. Waking her up and not being happy about it but decided to get up. Fixing her ponytail and bangs from the night of tossing and turning, she threw on some sweatpants and a washed but still paint covered hoodie and headed to the bathroom.

Catching a glance of her reflection she stared at herself, her tired eyes wandering down to the necklace. Lightly touching it and feeling ashamed for letting her mother down. Exiting the bathroom to not dwell on it any longer and going to the kitchen to find some snacks in the cupboard.

Opening the cupboard only to notice that she had run out of everything. She scoffed at herself for forgetting to write a note for her future self to refill it. Writing notes was something she had always done since she was 5, even if most of the older notes were just colorful scribbles or doodles.

It comforted her, it made her think she wasn’t the only one inside the house all day, that someone was looking at her note and knew what she was doing.

‘Leaving, be back soon’

Last night’s note stuck in the same place near the doorway, not taking it down to add to the pile of others. Slipping on her shoes and gloves, taking the keys with her since she didn’t want to walk all the way to the supermarket.

Pulling up to the store and parking, making her way to the aisles of various snacks. Picking up anything sour or spicy related to make her feel better after yesterday’s events.

Checking out and paying was simple enough, but carrying the two heavy bags back to the car was harder. Crossing the parking lot then abruptly stopping when she heard someone call her out, sort of, “Bird, watch out!” who sounded suspiciously like James.

Looking over to confirm but was met with a shopping cart to the side, knocking the wind out of her and one of the paper bags to rip apart from the impact.

Holding the side that was now probably bruised, she sat up and brushed the snow and gravel out of her hair. Picking up a couple of her things and squishing them into the single bag she had now. Apologies sounding closer as four familiar faces came to help her back up on her feet.

“What’s with all the snacks? Oh, are you throwing a party?!” Carlos asked as he collected some of the snacks and placed them inside the bag. Acting oddly the same as Crowe, as he seemed to not recall the rejection yesterday.

“No, I don’t really like parties,” answering him as she grabbed the rest from his hands. She wanted to end the conversation and head back so she quickly said her goodbyes. “Nice seeing you guys again, but I gotta head back. So, bye.”

About to leave but was stopped by Kendall as he handed her a drink she bought, almost leaving it behind. “You don’t have to leave so quickly that you almost forget something.”

“Don’t worry, when you come to a party we throw, you’ll surely change your mind.” Carlos said, making it seem like she didn’t know how to have fun and that there would be more times of them all hanging out together.

“We know how to have fun, watch this.” Taking a grocery cart from Kendall and facing it towards the cart corrals near the entrance doors. “If I make a hole in one, you have to call that guy back.”

Crowe smiled a bit, hearing that they, or maybe just Carlos, wanted to hang out with her again brought her a certain joy that she didn’t know she had.

Carlos had jumped in the cart, racing through the lot hoping for a hole in one. Instead he was hit by an oncoming car, something he could’ve easily avoided if he looked at his surroundings before launching himself.

A chorus of laughter came from the four who weren’t harmed, Carlos stumbling back and wobbled his way towards the group. Surprisingly unscathed thanks to his trusty helmet, Crowe tried to leave but once again was stopped by the boys as they still tried to convince Kendall to call the mean producer back. It was a nice gesture sure, but the girl knew that once someone made up their mind it would take a lot of convincing to change it.

She stayed, maybe because they were stubborn and didn’t let her leave or maybe she had a small drop of hope that the boys could change his mind. After a completely unrelated conversation between James and Kendall talking about the odd items that James kept on him, it got down to the point with Kendall asking a question.

“You’re saying if you all had a chance to go to LA with a giant turd producer to record demos, you’d go?”

Without saying a word the three boys held out their cellphones, urging the blonde to make the call. With Kendall’s turn of grocery cart golf, came a hole-in-one.

⟡

A luxurious white limousine, standing out like a sore thumb, came to a halt right outside of the Sherwood store.

An imitating looking Gustavo and Kelly stepped out of the vehicle. Both groups walked towards each other, reaching the middle as Gustavo pressed, “Well?”

“Okay. I’ll go to LA with you and record some demos,” Kendall agreed. Gustavo looked satisfied but it quickly faded when Kendall added. “ If, you take my buds and make us a singing group, with help from our new songwriter/assistant.”

The four looked at him with utter shock, Logan spat out his drink and Crowe had a small coughing fit. Thinking there was no way the hot-headed producer would agree to his outrageous deal.

Confirming her suspicions, Gustavo was pissed. “I-I’m sorry,are you trying to make a deal with me? I make the deals.”

But Kendall didn’t back down as he declared that if Gustavo wanted him, all of them would go, an all-or-nothing deal.

“No way Gustavo Rocque is takin’ the five dogs from Minnesota to Los Angeles to make them stars. It’s never gonna happen. Never!” sounding more desperate than ever.

Kendall responded kindly, clearly having the upper hand in the negotiation. “So, we have a deal.”

“Yep.”

⟡

After the long grueling hours on the plane, it made Crowe sick to her stomach and decide that she hated planes, wanting to never go back on one again. Spending about 10 minutes in the LAX bathroom throwing up contents of her stomach, while having Mrs. Knight and Katie watch over her, having water bottle’s near her.

Thanking the two over and over again, being slightly embarrassed that they had to take care of her when they didn’t need to. Brushing her teeth to try to get rid of the smell as much as she could. Emerging from the bathroom and realizing that she hadn’t checked on the boys, not knowing if one of them is possibly going through the same issue as her.

The boys rushed over to her, thankfully looking in much better condition than her. Logan had offered her medicine and ways she could prevent herself from vomiting anymore. Clearly not focusing on what he said but was thankful nonetheless. Kendall handed over some napkins and a paper bag in case she might vomit again. Carlos gave her an energy drink to help her rehydrate and was continuously asking if she was alright.

James was the only one not concerned, “You’re not going to get me sick, are you? I don’t need to get sick.” Crowe blinked in disbelief, “It’s not contagious. So, no.” He sighed in relief, “Oh, that’s good. I don’t want your gross germs infecting me. My voice needs to be in the best condition to sing for Gustavo.”

Her opinion of James changed again, liking him less than the other three and being at the bottom of her list.

Going down to collect all their luggage, Crowe was more than relieved to find her luggage safe, especially her pink luggage which contained some of her valuables. After dealing with the terrible turbulence, she was afraid that it might’ve gotten damaged on the way here. Making their way out of the terminal and following Kelly as she had called ahead for a limousine to take them to their future home for the next three months.

The boys rushed over to be the first one in, having them sit in the back while the other three ladies sat on the sides. Looking through the windows outside and seeing all the sights that LA had to offer as they drove. Rolling the windows down and opening the sunroof to stick their heads out to feel the warm breeze.

Crowe was calm now that she felt the wind blow on her face, loving the warmth over the freezing cold that Minnesota had practically every day.

Now this is something I could get used to.

Once they had arrived at the Palm Woods, something that Kelly had chalked up to be the place where all the future famous go to live, they all exited the vehicle excited.

The building seemed larger than life with various different kinds of people entering and exiting.

Mrs. Knight went straight to a palm tree, “ That's the first palm tree I’ve ever touched!”

Continuing down the path leading to the lobby, Kelly had told them about their accommodations adding the fact that there was an amazing pool.

At the mention of a pool, the boys dropped everything and ran outside to where it was located. Wanting to see it too, even if she didn’t like pools, and join the boys, Crowe politely asked the front desk if someone could take her bags up to her room, taking extra care of the pink one since it had breakables.

She noticed they had gotten comfortable so she found an empty chair next to Kendall and sat down herself. When not even a few seconds of sitting, some random girl in a sparkly purple dress and updo hair slapped Kendall across the face, screaming at him, “How dare you?! What we had was real! But you threw it all away for Trish! Trish, my sworn enemy! I never wanna see you again Troy, never!”

Shrieking and sobbing, leaving the group a bit stunned to say the least.

“You new guys just met Camille, the Palm Woods method actress queen.” a voice coming from the trash can next to Crowe, which startled her again.

Crowe lifted the lid, revealing a red headed boy as he introduced himself, “The name’s Tyler. You may have seen me acting on various juice box commercials. Only, I don’t wanna be an actor, I wanna be a kid.”

Crowe felt some sympathy towards him and his situation.

Just then a woman called out his name, causing Tyler to hide again. “Oh! Hide me.” Quickly putting the lid back on to cover him and having a frantic woman, his mother, ask the group if they had seen her son for another audition he has.

Apparently the boys were all on the same page and pointed towards the lobby where he ‘apparently’ went. Making Crowe awkwardly join a bit late, with the mother thanking them and rushing off to find her son.

Tyler popped back out being surprised they helped him and thanked them.

Logan asked the question they all wondered about the kids here, “So is everyone here an actor?”

“No, that’s guitar dude. He’s a ‘songwriter’.” The kid pointed at a long haired guy with a guitar and two girls at his side.

Saying what’s up and then going into an impromptu ‘what’s up, what’s up, what’s up?’ Crowe is a bit impressed with how quick he can jump into song, thinking maybe she could get some ideas from him.

“Oh, that’s Lightning, the tv wonder dog.” Next was an adorable dog with sunglasses on, waving his paw at the group.

“Oh, and then there’s the Jennifers,” finishing off the list with three girls. “3 girls who all have the same name, who sing, dance, and act.” Tyler shifted a large fan in their direction, their hair blowing and slow walking.

They were all pretty so of course the boys would stare at them. Crowe did too, but feeling a little self conscious and intimidated since she didn’t carry herself like those three did.

“Hey!” James called out to them, they stopped and took off their sunglasses, “We’re in a band.”

“Really? Oh my gosh.” The three simultaneously said, with a tone of sarcasm that was easy for Crowe to detect.  “And we’re actresses who don’t care.” Brunette haired Jennifer said.

Carlos didn’t get the hint though and asked, “Wanna go to the movies tonight?”

Sweet, but they are definitely gonna say no.

Confirming her thoughts and saying unless they’re in the movie then no. “If that seems harsh, it’s because it is, and so is this town. So…” Ending off with putting sunglasses back on and sauntering away, curly haired Jennifer paying Tyler for his work.

I should be careful around them, but at least they paid him.

Carlos declaring how he’s in love and Kendall giving them all, but Crowe not needing one, a reality check. Not wanting the town or singing carriers to change them for the worse, as everyone agreed.

Feeling inspiration hit her, she took out her used journal and favorite sparkly green pen, adding a small note to look for a new book, she started jotting down some lyrics. Once Crowe had something in mind, she had to write it down as quickly as she could or it would disappear and leave her stumped.

Maybe something like, ‘listen to your heart now…better take your shot now’? Yeah, that sounds decent.

Not even 10 minutes later the boys went upstairs and changed into swim clothes, coming back down to lay down on pool floaties and sipping coconuts. Crowe didn’t join them but instead went to the smoothie cart to grab a cold drink to see how good it is here.

Crowe headed back to the boys, waiting for Kelly to tell them the plans for today. She was about to pass the Jennifers but got stopped by blonde Jennifer, waving her over.

“Hi, what’s your name?” Brunette Jennifer asked, Crowe being thrown off a bit by the nice greeting compared to the boys.

“Crowe.” She responded.

“What brings you to LA? Acting? Singing?” Blonde, and possibly the leader, Jennifer asked.

“Songwriting,” Crowe corrected her, nodding towards the four boys, “For them but technically Gustavo.”

“ Gustavo ,” All three collectively said with a tone of acknowledgement? Crowe wasn’t exactly sure.

“Well, if you guys survive his boot camp then maybe you can write some songs for us.” Blonde Jennifer suggested.

“Bootcamp?” Crowe repeated, confused on what that meant.

Brunette Jennifer explained, “Gustavo puts all his new talents through one to see if they have what it takes, even if you aren’t a part of the band you’ll be put to the test too. He only works with the best.”

The three collectively nodded, showing sympathy towards Crowe.

“Oh, thanks for the warning. I appreciate it, it’ll help calm my nerves.” Giving a gracious smile to the three and nodding her head, signaling she was leaving.

Crowe bumped into the four boys who were staring in the direction of the Jennifers, forming some kind of plan.

Moving next to Kelly, Crowe told them they won’t go for them unless they’re famous. Kelly agreed, but they ignored her and went to follow through with it.

“Clearly you don’t understand the power of the…” James finished that sentence by doing some weird finger moves and moving his head in a circle.

I clearly don’t understand.

Kelly was about to object but Crowe interjected and whispered to her, “I wanna see where this goes.” Talking to James, “Go ahead, let’s see it work.” A smirk covering her and Kelly’s face.

As expected, the Jennifers threw the pink smoothies they were drinking at them before they could finish a sentence. Crowe busted out laughing, covering her mouth and liking what they deserved from not listening to her.

⟡

The boys and Crowe gaped at the sights of various posters lining the walls of Rocque Records. All the numerous stars that Gustavo had been in charge of, leaving some room of hope for the boys to have a poster like that.

Hopefully not like ‘Boyquake’ though. Dismissing that one in particular, she wasn’t the only one who thought so too.

“Do we want to end up on these walls?” Kendall was the one to make his concern heard, ending up with contradicting answers from the others.

“Yes,” James being the only confident one while Carlos and Logan had a negative reaction. Leaving Crowe to be in the middle of both, “Maybe…?”

Kelly redirected their attention, introducing the famous ‘The Pussycat Dolls’ singer Nicole Scherzinger. The five were starstruck, mouths agape but saying nothing. Except when Carlos boldly bursted out, “He’s gonna marry you.” nudging at James.

Nicole playfully questioned ‘Where’s my ring’, leaving James stammering. Kendall came to James’ rescue to let her know they were here to record some demos with Gustavo. After the mention of his name, Nicole was apparent in showing her dismay.

Politely mentioning how she and Gustavo had some ‘creative differences’ working on her first album. Making the five confused but once Gustavo emerged from his office to say hi to the singer, it was obvious that she really didn’t like him. Throwing a phone at him and missing him just by a millisecond, Gustavo closing the door just in time, hitting the door rather than him.

Wishing the five good luck before leaving, Kelly gave the all clear to Gustavo who stepped out and faced his new talents. He regained his composure, the excitement in his voice fading near the end as he told the group some bad news.

“Ok, so you guys ready to be stars? Are you ready to be a songwriter?”

“Yeah.” the five nodded eagerly.

“Good,” Gustavo continued, aiming a finger at Crowe and motioning it towards Carlos. It took Crowe a second to realize what he was getting at, taking Carlos’ helmet off and holding onto it.

“Then prove to me you can be stars. We have 3 days to prove to this record company that there’s something, anything here.”

Kelly had the same confused face as the five, clearly not aware of the new sudden development. The boys started to argue with Gustavo as they won’t be able to make it happen. Shortening it from 3 months to 3 days sounded impossible, it would take everything they got and hoping it’s enough.

Crowe was definitely worried, if they can’t do this then all of this would be for nothing. She was about to start panicking but she focused back onto the main conversation when Kendall stepped up accepting the challenge.

“Oh, we can do it. No problem. Bring it.” Stepping closer to Gustavo and shrugging.

“Oh, I will bring it. I’ll bring everything I got.” Gustavo had accepted the challenge, not backing down either. The two stared each other down until Kendall broke the silence, “This is a little too close for me.”

Gustavo agreed, stepping back from the frontman, instructing the boys to change and meet in the practice room.

Crowe followed Kelly into the practice room and took out her journal and tried to hum a tune while writing down more lyrics. Tapping her pen on the book to form some kind of idea.

‘What you gotta lose? Go and make your luck with the life you choose. If you want it all, lay it on the line, it's the only one you got?’...I hate that ending but I’ll deal with it later.

Crowe shoved the book back into her bag once she finished and waited for the start of bootcamp. The four entered the room wearing camouflage pants and olive green shirts, with James being the odd one out with rolled sleeves. Crowe thought they looked a bit ridiculous but once she saw Gustavo wear a similar outfit but as a drill sergeant, she oddly kind of felt a bit left out.

“To be a great pop group, you need four things,” Gustavo held up four fingers, “Great dancing, a great look, a great song, and great singing.”

Kelly blew an airhorn and three teams came into the room, Crowe had presumed a styling team, choreographer and marketing by what they were wearing. Each having a move except the marketing team, they didn’t have one so they improvised, badly, with Gustavo telling them to just stop.

“First up in boot camp, great dancing.” The first one to help the boys was a man dressed in black and gold, Mr. X. Gustavo explained that he has choreographed for Boyquake, Boyz In The Attic, Madonna, Beyonce, and Yo Gabba Gabba. Showing off each signature move respectfully, slightly impressing the boys and Crowe.

Mr. X started with an x-amination of the boys, figuring out how good each one is. After a demonstration of what he wanted, the boys copied him, badly. James and Kendall had luck in being able to recreate it, but Logan failed and accidentally slapped Carlos in the face. Luckily he had his helmet again, wondering when he took it from Crowe, so when he fell on the floor it didn’t harm him too badly.

Going one by one and telling them how they did, holding no punches in saying that they were bad and can’t be ready by Friday. Gustavo compromised with doubling his x-salary which Mr. X had immediately agreed to. Leaving Mr. X to the boys and checking back in with them in an hour.

“You, follow me.” Gustavo ordered Crowe, heading out the door.

Crowe followed but not before stopping to turn around and give the boys a thumbs up and a ‘good luck’.

She followed Gustavo to his office and sat at the empty seat in front of his desk.

“You, uhhh…” Gustavo snapping his fingers as he struggled to remember her name.

Kelly filled in the blank, “Calliope Ar-” but Crowe stopped her before she finished.

“Crowe, just Crowe is fine.” a slight shiver down her back.

“Alright,” Gustavo not questioning it, “I saw you write something down earlier, was it another one of your songs?”

“Oh yeah, I haven’t finished it yet but here.” Crowe handed over her book with it open to the song she was currently stumped on.

“This doesn’t look that bad, it just needs some touch ups and refining, with my help of course. But I think you should try to finish this one soon, this could be my next big hit. But for now, it’ll still be ‘Girl Time’ for my first hit back.” Gustavo said, not directly giving Crowe a compliment but she was fine with it. As long as Gustavo thought it had potential then it was something she knew she had to finish, especially since the song he was preparing sounded worse than she imagined for the boy’s first hit song.

“Since you’re going to be my protege,” tossing the closed book at Crowe, “You have to get used to the equipment here cause I don’t want you to break anything! Cause if you do, you’ll be banned from stepping foot in this studio until you pay it off!” Gustavo said loud and clear, finishing it off with details for her contract as Kelly handed Crowe some paperwork.

“Got it. What’s this?” Crowe reading over the internship details, noticing an acting gig was even included. Looking at Gustavo and Kelly confused while pointing directly at it, showing it to them both.

“What?” Gustavo had to squint to see what she was pointing at, “Oh that. Besides working for me and writing some songs, you got to do some odd acting gigs when you’re not busy.” Waving it off, not really fully explaining why so Kelly took over to help him out.

“It’ll allow you to be in a school program here,” Crowe still didn’t quite understand but kept listening before objecting. “The programs are mostly mandated by the Actors, Singers, and Performers Association, which means you’re only allowed in if you’re an active performer in music, television or film.”

“So technically, me being a songwriter can’t get me into that Actors singer school thing?” Crowe asked, trying to find a way around not acting.

“You said you didn’t sing back in Minnesota, so acting it is.” Kelly reasoned with her.

Crowe didn’t have anything to say after that but Gustavo did.

“So unless you wanna sing for me,” Waiting a moment to get her response, she shook her head no. “Then you have to be on tv or something like that. We’ll figure it out later.”

Pushing right along, Kelly offered to give Crowe a tour of the place so she wouldn’t get lost. Crowe was excited to say the least, wanting to know what all this place had to offer. With Gustavo joining them taking the lead on most parts, like for the recording equipment, sound booths and such. Letting Kelly take over when she explained to Crowe some of the assistant work she might do while working there.

Rounding back to the practice room after showing most of the essential things she needed to know, quickly going to the lounge area to grab the boys water bottles. Knowing it must’ve been hard work to learn new dance moves for over an hour, it’ll help them cool off before continuing the boot camp.

Once the three entered the room, Gustavo turned off the music from the stereo system and found the boys sprawled out on the floor with Mr. X nowhere in sight.

Logan, James and Kendall sitting on the ground and Carlos hanging upside down on his head with his helmet on him. Crowe handed the cold bottles to each boy, thanking her while x-plaining why their dance instructor was gone.

“Well, first he banged his head into the wall a few times.” Logan started. Carlos continued, “Then we got really dizzy.” Gustavo started to shake. James added on, “Then he said a bunch of bad words that started with ‘x’.” With Kendall finishing off, “Then he x-quit.”

Kelly frantically got her and Crowe headphones, trying to save their ears from Gustavo’s loud cry. It was so loud that the kids back at the Palm Woods could practically hear it.

Moving into a different room after Gustavo was finished screaming, part 2 of his boot camp commenced. The four boys at one end of the table facing the others with Crowe, Kelly, Gustavo and the marketing team in front.

The man on the marketing team started their presentation on the boys' looks/style, “Guys, we have some exciting looks that will literally transform you.”

“Can’t we just be ourselves?” Kendall stated his dismay but was shut down by the marketing pair laughing and stating no.

“Boys, we researched and electroshocked focus groups to determine the exact look and name that will sell millions of records.” The woman said, turning the screen on to show the data. Crowe was taken aback by what she just said, “You did what?”

Ignoring her, the man brought in the stylists team consisting of four women, each holding a different styling object.

“Now, Griffin wants a tasty dish on Friday. That’s why we’re giving him…” letting the stylists get to work on the first look.

Crowe had a hard time containing her laughter as they went over the first look as ‘boy-licious’, along with Kendall giving his opinions. “The beach, girls, the shirtless overalls.” Clearly not loving the look as much as James did, “I think we look good.”

Gustavo wanted more options as he didn’t love the look either, making them change into outfit number 2.

It wasn’t any better, Crowe struggling even more to not make a sound and covering her mouth.

“This look does great with war veterans who own buicks.” The man said.

James still liking the second outfit, “We look good.” and Kendall still hating it, “We look like Uncle Sam threw up on us.”

“You, silent.” Gustavo pointed at Kendall, “You, stop laughing.” now pointing at Crowe. “You, more options.” pointing at the marketing pair.

The third and final change was definitely a strange one Crowe thought, not laughing anymore but feeling bad for the boys. How James thought any of the looks were good was something she wouldn’t try to understand.

“I give you…danger boy.” The pair said, “Danger boy is danger. Parents will forbid their kids to buy the dangerous music.” “And that’s exactly why they will.” The man ended with a fistbump with his partner.

“I, uh, can’t feel my legs.” Logan was wearing ‘dangerously tight pants’ and barely being able to stand up. Now Crowe was really feeling bad for them and thankfully Gustavo still didn’t like it.

“I hate it.” Gustavo said in defeat, with the marketing pair agreeing, baffling Crowe.

“I need 5 new looks for tomorrow.” Unfortunately not giving up on the horrible taste the team had. “All right, now follow me to hear your first hit single that’s gonna put me back on top. Move out.” Gustavo turned to go out and everyone followed right behind him.

Crowe was about to just leave before she remembered the boys’ situation as they all collectively fell on the ground screaming. She rushed to help each of them up, leaving James last since he thought they still looked good. Helping the boys get to the dressing room for them to finally change back into their regular looking clothes.

Part 3 commenced as Gustavo told the boys the great song they would sing.

“It’s called ‘Girl Time’.” Kelly said, handing out the sheets to the four. Crowe stood near the piano looking over the lyrics as Gustavo played.

“It’s a song about no matter what time of day it is,” Gustavo started to sing, “Don’t you know it’s girl time?” Both him and Kelly turned to face the boys as he continued with the song.

He yawns and stretches his arms out “I just woke up. What time is it? It’s girl time. Excuse me, sir. Do you know what time it is? Yeah it’s girl time.” Driving his scene out to emphasize the song.

Logan was thinking too literally, “What if you have a sinus infection? Isn’t that doctor time?”

“He’s not wrong.” Crowe butted in.

“No. No, no, it’s still girl time.” Gustavo said, getting frustrated.

Kendall didn’t help either, “Do any of your songs not have the word ‘girl’ in them?”

Gustavo frustratingly shouted at him. “Let’s find out, Mr. question everything I do. Let’s take a look at my wall of platinum records!” Pushing the boys aside to go behind them.

He started off at the top left and listed off each one, “There’s, uh, ‘Girl like you,’ ‘Girl, you are my girl,’ ‘Hot girl,’ ‘Cold girl,’ ‘Girl to my heart,’ ‘Yard squirrel christmas’-I forgot that one was there.” It made Crowe do a double take when she heard that, breaking up the flow that Gustavo had.

But he got back into flow, “Uh, ‘Girl zone,’ ‘Girl zone remix,’ ‘Girl cake,’  and ‘Girl, girl, girl’ which sold 3 million copies and was number one for 5 weeks!”

Gustavo had enough as he walked right up to Kendall, slapping his cheek twice and taunting him “Any other questions, dog?”

Kendall, please don’t… Crowe anxiously waited.

Except Kendall did, “Are any of those songs from this girl-ennium?”

Once Gustavo started to shake, Carlos put his helmet on and Kelly and Crowe put the headphones back on preparing for the worst.

Apparently Gustavo couldn’t work if his blood pressure was high, so they had to wait as he was hooked up to a heart monitor. So when a piece of paper showing his heart rate was back to normal and his blood pressure 120 over 80, Gustavo ripped everything off his arm.

Before he pressed any buttons, Kelly warned him, “Remember, these boys haven’t had a break all day.”

“Yeah, I think they’re getting a little punchy.” Crowe added a warning herself.

Gustavo didn’t care so he went ahead anyway. “Ok, and now it’s time for the final phase of Gustavo Rocque’s most awesomest pop-group boot camp, the singing!” Screaming loud enough that there was feedback in the boys’ headphone’s causing them to wince at the noise.

“What is this place?” Kendall asked.

“It’s a sound booth guys. It just isolates the vocals in case we need to edit or enhance them later.” Kelly answered this time.

The boy’s weren’t focusing on singing just yet so they continued asking more questions about the items in the booth. Containing pillows in which James asked if they wanted them to nap.

They aren’t focusing, this’ll be fun. Smirking a bit to herself to see how long it would take until they break.

“They just absorb any extra echo or treble, just like those big foam mic covers.” Kelly explained again.

Kendall took the mic off the stand and hit it against his head, Kelly adding onto the fact that she placed fruit water in there if their mouths got dry. Crowe wasn’t sure about that combination, the restless boys with pillows and water. It wasn’t going to end well.

“Ok, great. And-” Gustavo tried to stay on track but the boys had other plans. Kendall, still holding the covered mic, hit Carlos’ head and quipped how he wasn’t so tough without his helmet. It caused a negative reaction as Carlos grabbed one of the various colored fruit water and sprayed it at Kendall. Missing him when Kendall leaned back, getting the water on Logan instead.

Logan tried to be civil but when Carlos sprayed him again, he decided to fight back. Starting a messy fight that Gustavo certainly wasn’t happy about. Logan missed, just like Carlos, and got what James calls his ‘lucky white v-neck’ dirty. Successfully getting James involved into the fight.

“Maybe the fruit water was a bad idea.” Kelly stated.

Gustavo asked Crowe to get them to stop but it wasn’t helpful as they moved onto a pillow fight, feathers flying all around the small booth and covering the sight of the boys.

“Pillows were a bad idea too.” Crowe said bluntly. “We tried to tell you they were tired.”

“Just have the boys meet me in the studio when they’re finished.” He said and left to not witness the continued mess happening. Kelly followed him as soon as Carlos got thrown and slid down right into the screen separating the two groups. Crowe knew it would be awhile before the four got tired out, she sat where Gustavo was previously and just watched. Dreading if she would be the one to clean up their mess instead of the ones who caused it.

It took about ten minutes before the four finished and even realized Gustavo and Kelly were gone. All walking out the booth to ask Crowe where they went. The only thing she told them was to meet him back in the studio. She didn’t want to say how upset she was, she knew they were under a lot of pressure. But maybe if they could’ve let Gustavo know, then maybe they all wouldn’t be in the mess awaiting them in the studio.

Crowe stood next to Kendall and Gustavo started down the line, saying all his disappointments towards them, but mostly the boys.

“You can’t sing.” Carlos was first and was clearly upset.

“You can’t sing or dance.” Logan tried to defend himself but was shut down quickly.

Gustavo completely skipped over James, who was smiling eagerly until he passed him.

And finally getting to Kendall, “And worst of all, you don’t even seem to want this.” Kendall coughed up some feathers which didn’t make anything better.

“What about me? I can sing, dance, and I want this.” James earnestly said, coming back to the fact that he was the reason this whole thing started.

“You remind me a lot of Matthew McConaughey,” James smiled, considering it a compliment.

“I can’t stand Matthew McConaughey! This group can’t sing, can’t dance. You don’t have a song or a look, and they’re covered in feathers!” Gustavo went off on the group who were already knocked down.

“And I would rather quit right now, than commit pop suicide on Friday in front of the record company. However, there is one song I would love to play for you.” Heading over to the piano.

“Ohh, now that I’m through bangin’ my head, this band of dogs, is officially dead!” Playing a catchy tune and ending things with a song. Leaving the boys and Crowe defeated, they all left the studio heading to the elevator to go back to the Palm Woods.

Crowe was behind, slowing down before stopping. The four continued down the hall not noticing her, but she couldn’t just end it there without doing something. They were the reason she was here at all, so Crowe went back to the studio and threw the door open, her emotions getting the better of her.

“Oh, come on!” She half yelled at Gustavo, who looked back at her shocked, with everyone else staring “Can’t you just cut them a little bit of slack. They tried their best with what you gave them, 3 days! Instead of 3 months, thanks to that Griffin boss, but you didn’t even give them a chance!” Gustavo tried to interrupt but Kelly stopped him.

Struggling to find the right words but she pushed through, only for the boys, “Like actually giving them a fucking chance to be themselves. You tried to squeeze everything in 1 day and mold them into some weird boy group that they're not.”

Choking on the last few words to her former boss, “It might’ve not been your choice to do that but if it was, then you gave up on them way before we even came here.”

Crowe left slamming the door behind her and being disappointed at how quickly things ended. Slowing down her breath once she reached the elevator, waiting for the doors to close her in the empty space. A few salty tears escaped, she touched her cheek in surprise since the last time she cried was when she was 4 and at a funeral.

She surprised herself even more when she went back to yell at Gustavo. Crowe never defended anyone before besides herself, she was the only person she ever relied on. Maybe it was just her guilt taking over, how she couldn’t help the boys at all. She didn’t want to admit that maybe she cared for them, she doesn’t want to be disappointed when they leave her. Wiping the tears away when the elevator dinged, engulfing her necklace in her hand so no one could see her be vulnerable.

Crowe arrived back at the Palm Woods, noticing the four from the lobby laying on chairs by the pool except for James who was pacing back and forth. Crowe and Katie approached them at the same time, with Katie asking them, “So has Gustavo dork made you guys famous yet?”

Probably not the best question to ask right now.

“We had some creative differences.” Kendall said to his little sister.

“You got fired, didn’t you?” Katie didn’t hold back, used to the boys’ behavior.

“All he did was yell and scream at us and make us wear dangerously tight pants.” Kendall defended him and his friends, but James wasn’t accepting that fact.

“Yeah, you’re right. He wanted to turn us into rich and famous pop stars. What an idiot!” Turing his anger towards him.

“He wanted to turn us into his trained dancing dogs.”

“Rich and famous dancing dogs.” James hopped up and down like a show dog to try to get his point across.

“He’s got a point.” Logan agreed with James.

“Oh. So you’re siding with James now?” Kendall said, sounding a bit offended.

“No. I-maybe. Kinda. Yes.” Saying his stance.

James started to blame them again, how he was the only one who tried while they didn’t care. Carlos hopped up to try to diffuse the situation so it wouldn’t escalate any farther. James took it a bit too personal when he insulted Carlos’ singing and his beloved helmet and shoved him back onto the chair.

Carlos fought back, lunging at James ignoring Logan’s warning of the town changing them for the worse. Kendall didn’t even try to stop them but just concluded that all four boys were fighting and grabbed Carlos to pry him off James, Logan doing the same to James. Soon they were all just shouting over each other, it was hard to even know what they were saying. Katie had enough and looked to Crowe, motioning her head to the boys then the pool.

Crowe quickly understood and both of them went behind the four and pushed them hard enough so they could fall in the cold pool. They resurface looking angry towards the two girls, Kendall questioning why they did that. Both Katie and Crowe remarked with all the stress they’ve been under, it was an easy way to cool them down. The boys apologized to each other and soon splashed and dunked James underwater. Crowe fetched them towels, relieved that they were acting like best friends again.

The five sat around a fire pit, accepting the fact that they’re going to leave soon.

“I could stay here and be a model. I’m still great-looking. Or the star of a reality show.” James said, trying to find ways to stay.

“Reality shows are becoming a big hit recently.” Crowe threw out.

“Which one? ‘Project Idiot’?” Carlos playfully rebutted, high-fiving Crowe beside him.

“You know what’s funny?” Kendall questioned, “We didn’t even get a chance to sing together.”

“Oh yeah, I was kinda looking forward to it.” Crowe thought out loud.

Kendall took that thought and began to sing the ‘giant turd song’. Carlos, Logan, and James joined in Kendall’s antics, standing up to dance along and beatboxing coming from Logan. James ended the song belting out the last few notes, leaving Crowe quite impressed with their singing skills. She clapped her hands and everyone near who heard them joined in the applause as they sat back down.

“We should do this. You guys were right, I really think we should do this.” Kendall stood back up moving to the front to face all of them.

“How? We got fired, remember?” Logan reminded him.

“We didn’t get fired.” Kendall waved off his worries.

“We got fired.” Crowe bluntly stated.

Kendall didn’t back down though and continued his pitch. “But the problem is we didn’t try our best.”

“I tried my best.” James interjected, reminding them for the thousandth time.

“We know James. We know.” Crowe tired of him bringing it up again, patting his shoulder.

Turning to guitar dude to give him some inspirational music and trying to fully convince them they had a chance.

“We are hockey players, brothers of the ice,” He began but Crowe coughed to signal that she was there too.

“Do you play hockey? Or even skate?” Finding a way to include her.

“I don’t play hockey but I do figure skating.” Crowe compromised.

Her answer caused the four to gasp and stare at her with seemingly a small disgust on their faces. She hoped it was caused by her not playing hockey and not over one of the countless hobbies she does.

“We’ll get back to that later,” pushing aside that fact. “But we do not quit. Now, are we gonna dump the puck and scramble back to the bench. Or are we gonna grab that puck, pull the goalie, and rush the net big time?” Saying it in terms that only the hockey players knew, leaving Crowe scrambling to wonder what any of it meant. But there was something she knew from the jumble of words Kendall said, pulling her journal back out to finally finish what she started once she met the boys.

Barely listening in to the conversation, only hearing a few words from Kendall realizing something. Crowe scribbled the last few words she needed at the top before turning her attention back to them, concealing a smile from them.

“Big time rush.” James said joining Kendall in their ‘comeback’ and putting his hand on top of Kendall’s. Carlos followed suit, tapping his helmet twice and placing his hand in, “Big time rush.” Logan added his own and covered Carlos’ hand, “Big time rush.”

Then they all turned to look at the girl that they brought along on their mess, waiting for her response.

Crowe didn’t know why they were looking at her so she glanced at James who just nudged his head at their hand pile. They were implying that she was included in the decision too, even though they didn’t know her for long they considered her as part of the group.

It warmed her heart knowing she finally had someone who cared about what she thought too, so it was easy to make the final decision.

With her open book in her hands, she placed it on top of the pile to show what she wrote and proudly said, “Big time rush.” revealing the song that would convince Gustavo to take them back and make them a boy band, one that shows off each unique and special thing about the members.

The following morning, all five teens and Gustavo’s team met up in the hallways of Rocque Records. Kendall led the group to face Gustavo who did the same, coming to a halt in the middle.

“Well?” Gustavo questioned.

“Ok, we’ll do it your way,” Kendall began. “No goofing off, no pillow fights, and no questions for the next 2 days.”

Gustavo was happy with the group's decision, “Ok. ‘Girl Time’ from the top.”

“Except for that. We really don’t wanna sing ‘Girl Time’.” Getting rid of the idea of singing that horrible song.

“Oh, let me guess. You have a better idea. Well, let’s hear it. Let’s hear the dogs’ better song title.” Not convinced they could do any better than him.

Kendall stepped to the side revealing Crowe behind him, letting her take the lead on her idea.

“Big time, rush.” They all collectively said, having Crowe explain further.

“It’s a song about 4 hockey players,” whispering her part “and a figure skater, from Minnesota who have an amazing opportunity in front of ‘em. And they’re gonna take their best shot.” holding her breath in anticipation.

“I like it, and you’ve got to stop using the word ‘girl’ in all of your song titles.” Kelly sided with the group.

“I…” Gustavo cried out before returning his voice to normal, “like it also.” The boys smiled at Crowe, happy for her that Gustavo agreed to the song change.

“We’re gonna be workin’ all night, because Friday is 2 days away and we are in a big time rush!” The five were excited to prepare for the biggest day of their lives.

“Now, get in the booth so we can start this thing.” Signaling to the boys and then to Crowe, “And you, give me that book so I can look at my hit song and refine it if I need to.”

The boys entered the booth ready to record and Crowe sat next to Gustavo to produce her song, even if he said it was his, she knew it was hers since she wrote it for the boys.

“Ok, ‘Big Time Rush’ from the top. Only, this time, let’s try not to make me wanna choke you.” Pushing the button to record and begin the song, the four sang the beginning notes.

For the next 2 days, the boys practiced for hours on end learning the dance moves and having Crowe as their audience for every practice session. The only time Crowe didn’t watch was when they were at the studio since she was with Gustavo going over the production of the song and touching up any mistakes they may have missed. But sometimes going inside on her very small break to check on their progress and give them some water.

Even when they were at the pool Crowe was nearby watching, making sure they all stayed focused and having them redo it if they accidentally forgot a move. Sometimes letting them goof off when she was tired of watching the repetitive dance. Except when the Jennifers passed by with the boys following behind them, reminding them that they won’t go for them unless they're famous.

When Gustavo brought the styling team back in, Crowe stepped in and asked if she could take over, not wanting to see any more terrible outfits. With James wanting to help too, they both went through the clothes to find the perfect outfit for each of them. Kendall ending up with a fedora, that Crowe had to convince James that it was a good choice and ended up compromising that he would throw it during a move, gray vest over a black shirt with dark washed jeans and a studded belt to complete it.

Logan and Carlos were pretty easy for the two ‘stylists’ to agree on. Deciding on a red long sleeved shirt with a jacket and tie, having him wear pants instead of jeans, suiting his style more. With Carlos in a blue long sleeved shirt and a black vest. Baggy jeans for him to feel more comfortable to move around in.

It left James last, being the most difficult to work with. Shutting down Crowe’s suggestions and choosing what he thought was best. Some of his clothing choices weren’t that bad, like the denim jeans he was wearing and the graphic t-shirt. But it was the jacket that made Crowe question the complete look. It was a brightly yellow mustard colored jacket or gold as James put it not making it seem any better. She had a hard time convincing James to take it off, him saying that it matched his personality, what that meant she didn’t know and didn’t care to find out.

Ignoring his choice she searched every clothing to find something, anything better to make him change his mind. She finally found a deep purple velvet jacket, knowing this was the one, showing it to James and he surprisingly liked it more than the gold one. Complimenting her on her taste and saying how he’ll look even better now, Crowe rolling her eyes at his over-dramaticness.

Practicing one final time in the new outfits before Griffin arrived, perfecting everything they worked so hard on.

And now Crowe, along with Kelly and Gustavo, stood behind the long awaited Griffin. She was wearing an outfit that Kelly helped pick out since she didn’t have any fancy clothes and was subtly dancing with Kelly as the boys performed.

Ending the performance in poses and catching their breath, waiting to hear the aftermath. Griffin turned around in his chair, giving his thoughts to Gustavo.

“I like ‘em, and the board’s gonna love ‘em.” He stood up, “You got 3 months to make your demos. I told you the boy band was back.” Tapping Gustavo's cheek before ending the meeting, but not before addressing Crowe. “Who are you?”

“She’s my protege and assistant for the band. She wrote the song.” Gustavo said, implying that it was her song instead of his.

“Keep writing like that, I want more hits. Now I have to go. My pants are cold.”

Walking away like he didn’t say anything odd at the end, Gustavo taking over where he just sat to tell the boys the good news. Crowe was keeping her face neutral, not wanting to ruin the surprise or freak out over Griffin liking her work. Gustavo moved to the mic and pressed the button that let him talk to the four in the studio.

“Guess who’s stayin’ in LA.” Having a grin on his face for once.

Everyone celebrated, the boys cheering and Kelly hugging Crowe. Except that Gustavo cut them short, seriously talking to them and Crowe.

“Stop cheering. If you thought the last 3 days were hard, wait till you see the next 3 months.” Listing off everything they still can’t do and need to work on, “Carlos still can’t sing, Logan still can’t dance, and I still can’t stand James.” Crowe laughed at his remark for James.

“We’ll work on it.” Kendall promised.

“Ok, now you can celebrate.” Facing Crowe to talk to her without the boys listening.

“And you, nice work with the song.” Sounding genuine, “But that stunt you pulled yesterday yelling at me, won’t happen again. In this business, you have to do things you don’t want to, even if that means changing four dogs into something they aren’t.” Making sure that Crowe understood how tough the music industry is and preparing her for the worst.

Crowe nodded, thanking both Gustavo and Kelly for everything the past 3 days. She was about to leave but Gustavo caught her off guard, “I didn’t give up on them.”

Remembering it was the last thing she said to him when he fired them. But then remembering that he fired them, “Well…”

“I didn’t! Now leave.” He said not wanting to be wrong.

Crowe happily left the room and met the boys in the studio still celebrating.

“You guys did it, I’m kinda surprised.” Crowe said, not entirely complimenting them but in her own way.

“No,” Carlos stated, tackling her in a hug and squeezing her.

“We did it.” All four collectively said, rushing over and joining Carlos in hugging her and squishing her even more.

Crowe got flustered by the sudden affection from the boys, not used to it and blushing like a tomato.

“Enough hugging.” Having a hard time breathing and getting embarrassed.

The boys ended their hug and stepped back to give her some space. Except James who was still hugging her, whispering to her and making her blush even more.

“Are you blushing cause of me? I know I’m hot.” Smirking at her, oblivious to her distaste towards him.

“You wish.” Crowe responded by elbowing his stomach to let her go, making him cough from the impact.

The other three laughing at his attempt of flirting with Crowe, with all of them heading out to change back into regular clothes so they can go back to the Palm Woods.

Their home for the next three months.

And their musical journey begins…

⟡⟡⟡⟡⟡

[saralayne]

We Are (A) Family 🩷

Chapter 12: Always Come Home To You

Kelly struggling with going back to work.

Kelly had taken 3 weeks paternity leave from the firehouse. Settling in with Stella and their baby girl, Shae. She was just shy of a month old. They had settled into a routine. Shae was waking every 3-4 hours to feed. They would prepare bottles so Kelly could get up with her at least once through the night which allowed Stella to sleep. Shae started to get on a schedule. Before they knew it, three weeks had passed and it was time for Kelly to go back to work. Stella still had 8 more weeks of maternity leave. Stella had prepared herself for days to be just her and Shae well Kelly was at work. She knew he was only a phone call away and their days would be filled with Mommy and daughter time.

Kelly on the other hand was having a much harder time at the thought of leaving his girls. He knew whole heartedly that Stella would be great and could handle it just being the two of them. The thoughts that plagued him was merely leaving them. Period. His wife and new born daughter. He was going to miss them. Since the day Shae was born he hadn’t spent a minute away from either of them. He knew he needed to go back. But he didn’t want to. Leaving them even to go to work just felt wrong.

Shae was still sleeping in their room. In her bassinet beside their bed. It made it that much easier to feed her the few times through the night. They had planned to move her to the nursery when she was a little older. On the night before he was to go back to shift, Shae was soundly asleep in her bassinet in between feeds. Stella fast asleep. Unfortunately Kelly was tossing and turning, sleep was plaguing him. Dreading leaving his girls. When Stella woke up to feed Shae a couple hours later, turning towards her husbands side of the bed. Not finding him there. A small burst of panic came over her given what they had been through the days leading up to Shae’s birth. Shae was becoming fussy. Stella peering through their open bedroom door and seeing her husband on the couch. Knowing he was safe, Stella picking up Shae to feed her. After, Shae was soundly asleep again. Stella gently laying their baby girl back down in her bassinet. It was now 4:30am. Approaching her husband on the couch. Stella knew something was wrong. Kelly had made it a point to always be near her and their daughter, including always sleeping in bed with Stella where Shae was in his sight at all times.

“Kelly. Babe. What’s going on? Why are you out here?”

Kellys eyes peering open, looking directly into his wife’s eyes.

“I came out here. I couldn’t sleep and I didn’t want to disturb the few hours of sleep you were going to get in between her feeds”

“Kelly. Why can’t you sleep?”

Kelly pausing before letting out a deep sigh.

“I don’t wanna go back to work. I don’t wanna leave either of you. I don’t want to miss anything with her”

“Baby. I know you haven’t been away from either of us since she was born. I understand why this would be so hard for you BUT we are going to be ok. We will be anticipating you returning home after shift. I promise you I will blow up your phone with pictures, videos and even FaceTimes when your free. You won’t miss anything. Shae is without a doubt daddys little girl. I mean, I went through the painful labour to bring her into this world. It’s you she always wants. When she hears your voice, she is the happiest. So, when you go to work you and Shae will both have something to look forward to when you come home”

“Thank you, sweetheart. I needed to hear that”

“The love our angel has for you will NEVER go away because you go to work”

“Now, I just fed her. She’s fast asleep. Let’s go back to bed so you can get a couple more hours of sleep before shift. Ok?”

“Yeah, baby. Let’s go to bed”

As Kelly crawled under the covers. Wrapping himself around his beautiful wife. Turning his head and seeing his daughter who was peacefully sleeping. Falling fast asleep knowing everything was going to be ok. Leaving his girls to go to work only meant he would have something to look forward to.

[hitchell-mope]

(The Wedding Conversation)

Lucy: here.

Kara: what’s this?

Lucy: a cheque for 800 million dollars.

Kara: wow! Want me to give this to Alex and Kelly?

Lucy: no. I bought them a China tea set. The one in the catalogue that Kelly circled with orange felt-tip. The cheque is for you and Mon El.

Kara: yeah I think everyone got them the China tea set WHAT?!?! 800 MIL-800 million dollars? Where did you get it from?

Lucy: me. James. Alex and Kelly. Winn and Samantha. Cat and Carter. Clark and Lois. Thea Queen and her niece. Barry and Iris. Sara Lance. Actually Sara’s the reason why it’s a cheque. I didn’t know what year the money was from. For all I know she could’ve robbed a treasury during prohibition.

Kara: yeah she does that. But why?

Lucy: the boys are what? Six months old now? They’ll be walking soon. Flying soon. The loft is no place to raise your family. James and I found this great bungalow for you guys. It has three guest bedrooms. Four if the twins share until they’re older. En suite bathrooms. Walk in wardrobe in the master bedroom. Giant backyard you can cover in baby safe foam material. Plus. It’s still in National City. So you can still be Supergirl and Valor. You win. Everybody wins.

Kara: I can’t accept this.

Lucy: yes you can. Look, Kara. Fact of the matter is. We’re family.

Kara: we’re Space Balls. You’re my cousin’s sister in law. We’re virtually nothing to each other.

Lucy: and yet I still wanted to help you and your family. What does that tell you?

Kara: I’ve been an ass?

Lucy: only occasionally. Okay look. I know we don’t see eye to eye on everything. You prefer to talk things out before you start punching and I prefer to use brute force before talking.

Kara: yup.

Lucy: but we’re still family. And after what you’ve been through. You deserve this. Which brings me to my next point.

Kara: what?

Mon El: Cat just told me that your job is ready and waiting for you whenever we get back.

Kara: our honeymoon. I completely forgot.

Mon El: oh yes!

Lucy: we can move your stuff in. Alex and Winn know where you like to put everything. It’ll all be ready for you when you get back. Just send holograms of the chubby cheeks and vomitron.

Mon El: is Tony vomitron?

Lucy: does my hair still smell like milk and crackers?

Kara: yes.

Lucy: then yes. Tony’s vomitron.

Kara: thank you Lucy. Sincerely.

Lucy: it’s what I’m here for.

Mon El: how did you think this up though?

Lucy: well I have new memories of Clark and Lois dealing with their boys emerging powers. So I thought you’d need a house more equipped for new parents.

Kara: how’re we gonna spin it?

Mon El: hm?

Kara: the city depends on us. We can’t just leave them for a year.

Lucy: well I say fuck em. You’ve given six years of your life to this city. You’ve been tortured, hunted and almost killed multiple times. It will survive without you guys for twelve months. And between all of us at the DEO. The city’s in more than good hands.

Kara: it still doesn’t seem right to me. Kara Danvers can’t just disappear. Maybe we should release a state-

Lucy: please don’t. You don’t need more Lena’s blaming you for everything. Forget about Kara Danvers. Forget about Mike Danvers. Forget about Supergirl and Valor. Kara Zor El and Mon El need their say. Your real lives have had to be a secret for a long, long time. You more than deserve the chance to be yourselves.

(Kara still doesn’t seem convinced)

Mon El: hey. Honey. Look at me. What was our plan for when we got married?

Kara: go to Argo on our honeymoon and have a second wedding there.

Mon El: and what did Sarah Jane tell the Doctor at the end of Journey’s End?

Kara: “you have the biggest family on earth”.

Mon El: and your family encompasses planets and dimensions and, let’s face it, occasionally time periods. And your birth parents deserves to know their grandsons. Plus. I wanna get to know my in laws that aren’t Eliza, Alex and Kelly. But you can’t keep ignoring a whole entire half of yourself because you’re afraid of what others might think of you. That’s no way to live.

Kara: let’s do it.

Mon El: what? Really?

Kara: yes. Let’s go to Argo for a year. I mean not right away. We’re babysitting Esme for two weeks while Alex and Kelly are on their honeymoon. And we’ll have to release a statement as our Alter Egos saying we won’t be around for a while. But we’re going to Argo.

Mon El: YES!

(He picks up Kara and spins her around)

Esme: Uncle Mon. Aunt Nia’s asking for you.

Mon El: ooh it’s bouquet time.

Kara: what?

Mon El: I promised Nia I’d stop Andrea getting the bouquet.

Kara: oh she’s gonna hate you for that.

Mon El: I’m planning on it. C’mon!

Kara: WHAHOO!

(End of The Wedding Conversation)