#thanks everyone for your patience; these took me way longer than they should have ^^;;

[deezee112]

The good ending : Not Ready to Be a Parent

The worst ending 27 | Special ending

Yandere!Twisted Wonderland x GN!Reader

A/N : Everyone! I never thought we’d make it to this ending. Thank you all so much for following along until now I really appreciate it!

Right now, I’m planning a special episode ( which explores what would happen if we didn’t die ) for all the characters!

I’m also working on the storyline for Season 2. It shouldn’t take too long, but the special ending will probably be much longer than usual. This chapter might be a bit short, but I think it turned out really well!

Tags :

@iris-arcadia @yuu-twisted

If you want me to tag you please tell me.

English is not my first language.

You stared at the doll, now seated upright on your couch, its unsettlingly realistic features illuminated by the soft morning light filtering through your apartment’s curtains. It was a child almost somewhere between eight and twelve years old, with smooth skin, delicate features, and glassy eyes that seemed far too lifelike.

Your fingers drummed against your arm as you stood there, watching it. The clothes it wore were plain, just a simple shirt and pants, but they somehow made it seem even more human. Like a real child sitting there, waiting for you to say something.

You exhaled sharply. “ What the hell am I supposed to do with you? ”

Of course, the doll didn’t answer.

You turned away and headed for the kitchen, needing coffee before you could deal with this mess. The rich, bitter scent filled the air as you poured yourself a cup, taking a slow sip while trying to think logically. Crowley had given you next to no instructions beyond take care of it, as if that were a simple task.

Feed it. Talk to it. Treat it like a real child.

You scoffed, shaking your head. “ Right. Because raising a kid is so easy. ”

The longer you stood there, the more your mind started running through the realities of what Crowley was asking of you. Raising a child even an artificial one meant responsibility. And responsibility meant time, effort, and most importantly…money.

You glanced at the doll again, still sitting motionless on your couch.

“ Alright.. ” you muttered, walking over and sitting across from it. “ Let’s break this down. ”

You weren’t exactly wealthy. Your job covered your rent, bills, and food, but it wasn’t like you had stacks of cash lying around for extra mouths to feed especially not ones that came with unknown costs.

Would this thing need clothes? Medical care? Did it get sick? Did it grow?

You frowned, rubbing your temple. “ God, this is a nightmare. ”

You’d never even considered having kids before. Not because you hated them, but because they were expensive, time consuming, and required more patience than you had. And now you were being expected to raise this?

Your gaze drifted toward the grocery list stuck to your fridge, the numbers scribbled on the side reminding you of how carefully you already had to budget. If you took this thing in, that list would get longer. Food, water, maybe even extra furniture.

And what about emergencies? What if something happened to it? Could it get injured? Would you be responsible for repairs, doctor visits whatever it required?

You sighed, resting your forehead against your hand.

“ I think I should return it. ”

The words slipped out before you could fully process them, but once they were spoken, they made sense. The longer you thought about it, the more you realized just how unprepared you were for something like this.

Crowley could pretend this was some simple task, but it wasn’t. Raising a child even an artificial one wasn’t just about giving them food and shelter. It was about being ready to take care of someone else’s life, to be responsible for their well being.

And you weren’t ready.

Not financially. Not emotionally. Not in any way that mattered.

You let out a slow breath and looked at the doll again. It hadn’t moved, hadn’t reacted, but something about its presence still weighed on you.

Maybe, if things were different if you had more time, more money, more experience you might have considered it. But this wasn’t some stray animal you could feed for a few weeks and then decide if you wanted to keep. It was a child.

And children deserved more than someone who took them in on a whim.

Decision made, you grabbed your phone and texted Crowley.

" We need to talk. "

It only took him a few minutes to respond.

" Ah, wonderful! How is the little one doing? "

You exhaled sharply, already irritated. He always had this way of dodging real conversations.

" Come pick it up. I’m not the right person for this. "

This time, there was a long pause before a reply came.

" Are you certain? This is quite the opportunity, you know! A chance to raise a child, shape a young mind, be part of something truly groundbreaking! "

You scowled. Opportunity? Was that how he saw it?

" I’m not ready for this, Crowley. It needs someone with experience, someone who knows what they’re doing. Give it to them. "

Silence.

Then, finally

" Well, if you’re absolutely sure…I’ll make the arrangements. "

You put your phone down and sighed, running a hand through your hair. The weight on your chest loosened slightly.

It was the right choice.

Raising a child real or not wasn’t something you could do just because someone told you to. It required commitment. And if you weren’t ready for that, then the best thing you could do was step aside and let someone else take care of it.

You looked at the doll one last time.

“ Guess this is goodbye, huh? ”

It blinked slowly.

You chuckled, shaking your head. “ You probably don’t even understand what’s happening. ”

Maybe that was for the best.

When Crowley finally arrived, he was all smiles, acting as if this was just another minor inconvenience in his day. You didn’t bother explaining yourself again. You’d made your decision, and that was all that mattered.

As he carried the doll away, you watched from your doorstep, a strange sense of relief settling in your chest.

It wasn’t your responsibility anymore.

And that was okay.

But the last thing you saw was that doll staring at you one final time before it disappeared.

[elitadream]

Hi guys~! ⛅👋

Long time no see! Much longer than I ever intended, in fact. Truth be told, I wanted to make a public post sooner, but I've had a lot to catch up on in terms of notifications and messages since logging back in a few days ago. I've also made some changes that I will address shortly, but first of all I wanted to thank those of you who have reached out with so much care and understanding during my absence. Adjusting has been a slow and fragile process for me -still is-, and I sadly haven't responded directly to everyone yet because of it, but I wanted to say how much I appreciate your patience and support nonetheless. 🥹 🙏

Long story short, I was gone for five months due to a huge burnout, then progressively found my spark again somewhere along the way and have since mostly recovered. It was my wonderful friend @drones-of-innocence who reached out to me outside of Tumblr, and her sense of initiative is largely the reason why I managed to make this post in a somewhat reasonable delay. 😅💖 With that said however, I must also mention that I've deleted a lot of stuff from my page and have removed most of my work from the public eye as well. This may seem quite drastic and frankly a little unsettling, but I assure you that it was a thoroughly considered and reasoned decision! The thing is that I was still getting lots of notes on these drawings everyday and… To put it simply, I didn't want that anymore. 🙇‍♀️ Experiencing popularity was very detrimental to me in the long run and I needed to put an end to it for the sake of my own wellbeing; at least for now.

Which brings me to my next point.

After mulling it over for a while, I've decided that I would not be returning as an active creator in the Mario community this time around. 👐 Making fanart for this franchise (with such a high and continuously maintained degree of involvement) had a lot to do with my health's decline and I've come to realize that I wanted to direct my focus elsewhere going forward. For that reason, there are things which I know will never be repeated again in the future, both in regards to my art and online presence in general, but that's alright. Things change, as they do and should. I'm looking forward to reuniting with folks and would be very happy to stay in touch with those of you who wish to message me privately. Like my lovely pal @istadris said, what matters most about any fandom are the friends you make in it. ☺️

And speaking of which-

@ody-and-fanatu That's so sweet of you, thank you! 💗 I'm glad you've enjoyed my contribution to the fandom. It was fun while it lasted! 💫 My visual ideas may be gone from my page, but most of my written posts and replies are still there for anyone who wants to revisit those at least, so there's that! And I'd also like to answer some of the asks I still have in my inbox at some point. Knowing that you hold my art in such high regard makes really happy! 🥰 Unfortunately, the other account that I have is reserved for my professional work and I prefer to keep them separate from one other, but the good thing is that I intend to go back to this blog occasionally. Hoping to see you around! Cheers! 🥂

@heiressofdoodles Thanks, I appreciate that! ✨ I'm honestly doing much better than I was earlier this Spring. Back then, I was running on empty and on the verge of crashing without even knowing it. Being in constant physical pain was one thing, but feeling mentally and emotionally drained on a daily basis was another entirely, and something had to be done. It took me a moment to really figure out what was wrong, but thankfully I realized very quickly what was causing it and applied the breaks with all my might. One of my main priorities now is to be more alert and respect my own boundaries to make sure that this never happens again. 🥲

@keakruiser Thank you. 🙏💐 I'm just glad to have found my footing again. Feels good to be able to create freely.^^ Hope you're doing well too!

Special thanks also to @pianokantzart, @jelly-fish-wishes, @katlyntheartist, @triniji and @wahooitsamee for their kind words. 🫂 Your graciousness and consideration means a lot to me. 💝

As for all the nice people who sent me anon comments and well wishes, I tried to summarize my thoughts as best I could in this update, but if there's anything else you'd like to say or know, don't hesitate to ask me anytime! Now that I feel like myself again, I think I'm gonna hang out on Tumblr for a little bit. I'll be excited to see what you guys have been up to in the meantime! 🤗 Wishing you all a very good day and pleasant Fall. 🍂

-elita 🌸

[star-eyed-angels]

Ghosting You

REQ: Stray Kids Reaction | One-Shot/Fake Texts | SUGGESTIVE/ANGST | BFF2L w/ Minho

Ghosting BFF Minho after sleeping together

Anon request:

A/N: to the lovely anon who requested this, I'm so sorry for the long wait! This idea started spiraling way out of control and took me so much longer than I wanted it to💕 Thank you for being patience, and I really hope it was worth the wait.

As always, this is not proofread because it's 3am so please be kind❤️

Warnings: suggestive because it’s Minho 🤡 insecure reader, Minho and reader are both dumb, stubborn, and terribly in love.

The sheets are warm as they drape over your waist. But Minho’s arm that’s loosely hung across your middle provides most of the warmth. Your skin tingles with the marks Minho has left all over you. The sweet ache in your lower half should make you feel giddy beyond belief. And it did in the moment, the way Minho’s lips felt against yours, the desire that dripped from his voice as he held you like you’d always wished for. It felt fucking fantastic. And now you’re staring up at the ceiling, nothing but the sound of his even breathing next to you. It’s like a pit has opened itself in your stomach, and every second that passes by it grows inside you. 

You glance over at MInho, watching him sleep peacefully. Your heart twinges at the sight of him like this, so exposed to you. A moment so intimate it feels unreal. What did this mean for your friendship? Was this how it all ends? Or maybe he feels the same? Maybe he loves you the way you love him. For a brief moment the giddiness returns at the idea of him sharing feelings. You let your mind wander at the possibility of a future with Minho. But it’s that thought that makes the pit open into a bottomless cavern. 

This could never work. 

Minho, your beloved best friend, was from a completely different world from you. How could you possibly forget? He could never be with someone like you. His world was cruel. Standards and appearances were everything in his line of work. One mistake could cost him everything. You’d watched him build it from the ground up. He couldn’t risk that. You wouldn’t let him. 

 You shouldn’t have done this. He can’t possibly love you. He couldn’t. Eventually you catch on to the sound of your heartbeat in your ears, matching the unsteady breathing you're letting out. You need to leave. You need to leave now before you make things any worse. 

You’re quiet as you slip out of the bed, holding your breath when he turns over. His hand blindly searches over the sheets before he settles, mumbling sleepily. You turn away from him quickly, feeling unsteady as you scramble in the dark for your belongings. 

The thoughts only grow louder as you slip on your clothes, hurriedly making your way out of the dorm without a trace. The warm summer air brings you the slightest bit of comfort that what you’re about to do is the right choice, even if you know it’ll hurt. 

You’re pacing your living room for what feels like hours at this point. It wouldn’t surprise you if you looked down and discovered a hole in the rug under your feet. The past few days you’d done the same thing, eat, worry, sleep, repeat. You’re thankful for your boss allowing you the time off, knowing full well your racing mind would have done you no good at work. 

A part of you hoped the time away from Minho would help you clear your head. If anything it only made it worse. Your phone buzzes on the coffee table, a flash of panic going through you when the screen lights up. The lock screen of you and Minho stares back at you, mocking you and your stupid decisions. The nagging feeling inside you finally becomes too much as you open a text thread, typing out a message quickly.

You grimace, looking down at your phone. Of course you know Felix is right. The logical part of your brain knows that he’s right. Minho would understand, you know he would. But there was still the worry of what everyone else would think. As much as you wanted to be with Minho, there was so much more to think about. You’d reach out to him eventually. After you had enough time to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. Then it would all be fine, 

But of course life was never that simple. Your moment of mild peace is immediately shattered at the sound of your phone going off. A second notification lighting up the lock screen. You feel your heart sink at the sight of Minho’s name on the screen.

Two weeks. It’s been two weeks since your texts to Minho. He’d blocked you immediately after. Every call and text being left unsent. You’d given up trying to reach out after the third day. The heartache you felt at losing your best friend was nearly unbearable. This was the longest you’d gone without speaking to each other but this time was different. This time there was no reassurance there would even be a next time. You’d lost your best friend in trying to keep him. Things only worsened with the loss of the others. How could you go to them after what you’d done to MInho? Simple, you couldn’t. You not only lost Minho, but the others as well. And it was slowly killing you. Felix had immediately noticed your absence. And eventually so did the others. Your phone had been full of unread texts from the others wondering where you’d disappeared off to. You didn’t have the heart to face them. 

The texts soon turned into voice messages and voicemails. Jeongin in particular began to blow up your phone, which was very out of character. The final straw was when he’d left you a hurried voicemail begging you to come to the dorm to help him. While you loved all the members, Jeongin was like a sibling to you. The bond you had with him was different. Hearing the desperation in his voice had you worried enough to rush to the dorm. 

One hand keeps your phone pressed against your ear, the other rapidly knocks on the door. You groan as Jeongin finally picks up the phone 

“Hello?” he says casually, as if you aren’t pounding at his front door. 

“I’m here open the door,” you grumble out, thoughts of throttling him pushed aside until after you help him. 

“Uhh- yeah. Yeah I’m going now,” he says, hurriedly. 

You huff as the doorknob twists in front of you. The door swings open, and you’re stepping inside, before you can blink. 

“Yang Jeongin what is it that is so important that you’re calling me 70 times just to not open the damn…door,” your words trail off at the sight before you. 

You’re in shock as you come face to face with Minho. His expression mirrors yours of bewilderment at the sight of you. He looks disheveled as you stand in front of him. He wears dark circles under his eyes, looking like he hadn’t had a proper night’s rest in weeks. Eyes bloodshot and puffy from what looks like tears he’d shed not too long ago. Your heart breaks when you see the glisten as he registers you’re here in front of him. 

“Those fucking brats,” he mutters under his breath. 

The aforementioned brats can be heard from the phones that now dangle at each of your sides. Hurried whispers from Jeongin, Felix and Seungmin can be heard as they speak to each other. They’d set you up. Oh you were so going to throttle them the next time you saw them. 

Eventually the hang up, leaving you and Minho in silence. You both stare at each other for what feels like years. You clear your throat quietly, forcing yourself to speak. 

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know they’d do this. I’ll just,” you meet his gaze hesitantly, he looks away immediately. You can’t help the tears that spring to your eyes at the action. 

“I’ll see myself out,” you exhale shakily. 

He lets out a huff, shaking his head.

“Yeah, leaving what you do best,” he mumbles just quiet enough for you to hear. The cold tone he uses feels like a slap to the face.

“Excuse me?” you say, hoping you misheard. 

“What, am I wrong?” he says firmly. He finally turns to look back at you, shooting you a glare. 

“I didn’t leave minho. You were the one that ended our friendship,” your own bitterness seeping into your voice. 

“Then what do you call sneaking around?” he takes a step towards you, you take a step back matching his pace.

“Or lying to my face about being busy, huh?,” he spits out, inching closer to you. 

“I needed space,” you say, your lip trembling at the truths he throws at you. 

“So you couldn’t tell me that? You have to lie?” he grits out, having now backed you up against the door. His eyes burn into yours as he stares at you, anger and hurt swirling in them. You turn away, his intense gaze becoming too much.

“This is about us sleeping together isn’t it?,” he asks, causing you to look back at him. 

“Minho…” you breathe out, tears pooling at your waterline.  

“If all you wanted to sleep together you shouldn’t have made me fall for you,” he says shakily, his own eyes watering as he stares down at you.  

“That’s not all it was for me. Minho, I care about you more than you can imagine,” you say. He turns away quickly, beginning to walk towards his room. You reach out and grab his hand, stopping him. 

“Please just listen,” you plead out. The fear you felt bubbles to the surface once more. But for the sake of Minho you’d do your best to get over it. He deserved that much. 

When he doesn’t try to shake you off, you continue. 

“I wasn’t trying to hide it. I came here to see Felix,” you start shakily.

“I needed someone to talk to and I couldn’t come to you, okay…” your voice barely above a whisper. 

You wait for Minho to say something, anything really, but he still stands with his back to you. You do your best to keep your composure, but every second that passes feels like a crack in your heart. He finally turns to look at you, shaking your hand off of him gently. 

“Do you think that lowly of me?,” he asks finally. His voice sounding small in the open room. Any semblance of composure fades at his words.

“No minho. Never.” you hurry out, voice breaking with your tears. He takes your hand, gently running his thumb across your skin. 

“Then why?” 

“I’m scared,” you whisper.

“Because we slept together? I thought that’s what you wanted? I thought you wanted this, us?” he steps closer to you, his watery eyes boring into yours. 

“I do- I just…” you sigh, staring down at your hand in his. He waits quietly for you to continue.

“Do you know how scary it is to love you minho?” 

You miss the quiet sound of his breath hitching. 

“One wrong move and I could be the end of your career,” you gently separate your hand from his. 

“I can’t let you jeopardize that for me, I’ve watched how hard you worked, how much you’ve sacrificed to get here. I don’t want to be the reason you lose it all,” 

There’s a quiet silence between you two. All of your fears are laid out in front of him, it's terrifying. You knew it would be, but there’s something refreshing about having the truth out in the open. Again you wait for MInho to respond, keeping your gaze locked to the floor. You don’t think you can bear staring at him when he rejects you. 

“God you’re so dumb sometimes,” he huffs out.

“What?” again your head flicks up to meet his gaze, thinking you’ve heard him wrong. 

“You, you absolute dummy, don’t get it do you?” he huffs in amusement. His gaze has softened. A small twinkle in his eye. 

“Do you know how long I’ve wanted you? How long I’ve waited to tell you? I’ve been in love with you all this time, and then I finally got the courage to do something about it because i though you felt the same. But watching you try and run away from me was torture. I don’t want to lose you,” 

“Min,” you're breathless at his confession. 

“Do you really think I care about what anyone else thinks? Because I don’t. I really don’t” his words are firm, even as he pours his own heart out to you.

“I just want you. I could care less what they have to say,” he reaches out, grabbing your hand once again. This time he intertwines his fingers with yours, leaving you in a state of further bewilderment.

“And if you want me to, that's all that matters,” he says as if it’s the simplest thing in the world. 

“But-,” your protests are shot immediately with a glare. 

“But nothing. I don’t care. If I have you, that’s all I want. Is that what you want?” he asks. The matter of factness in his voice has you nodding without question. 

He smiles, his little bunny teeth poking out in a way that makes your heart swoon. His free hand grabs your cheek gently, tilting your face closer to his. His touches are so sure against your skin, it makes your own trembling stop. You stare up at him, the same feeling of intimacy from your night together fluttering in you. 

“No more hiding things from me, okay? You have every right to want your space, but no lying about it,” He says softly. 

“Never again. Promise,” you say, bringing your own hands up to hold him gently. He melts into the feeling, leaning into you further. 

“Can I kiss you?” he asks, eyes flickering between your eyes and lips. You grin, pulling him into your own kiss as an answer. He giggles, pulling you closer to him as he deepens your kiss. Your own giggles mesh with his, finally filling the tense silence. You stand there for another moment, relishing in the feeling  of holding each other once more. The moment is interrupted with the sound of both of your phones going off.

dividers: @/saradika-graphics @/cafekitsune

[tabbedtabby]

good luck, babe! | chapter 2

regina george x reader

summary: After the Queen Bee of North Shore makes up rumors about you taking pictures of girls in the changing room, you decide to take matters into your own hands. You didn’t think that would mean coming to a reluctant agreement with Regina George.

a/n: i wasn’t gonna add cady but now i am because it’s convenient for me so just pretend she’s in the last chapter lol. also they get high way faster than what’s accurate but i wrote this in like 4 sittings it felt longer to me pls spare me. if the picture collage thing is ugly i’m sorry i’m not a tumblr native 😭 but anyways big thanks to everyone who interacted with the first chapter mwah!!!!! (photo creds from left to right: @/mediorcesav on insta, @/marvelsgirl616, casual mv by chappell roan)

——————————————————————

When the bell rings after 7th period, you’re already halfway out the door.

You’re already sober enough from earlier so you’re desperate to get outside, even if Regina will be there. You bite the inside of your mouth in annoyance. You like your after school alone time; you didn’t want the person who literally ruined your social life to be there. At least maybe she’ll leave right after you smoke. You realize she most likely won’t after you remember she drives. How could you forget that bedazzled orange Jeep?

You feel the dappled sunlight sink heat into your skin once you enter the woods behind the baseball field. It really was a nice day. You make your way to your usual spot and lift up the pile of sticks and leaves that hide your forest stash. The guy who sells to you charges a ridiculous amount for carts compared to just the plant so you try to use them sparingly. Even if this shit stinks up the whole forest.

You’re not sure if Regina will care or not if you start without her, so you pull out your phone to pass the time. Besides, you want to be sober anyway when she finally shows.

After about 20 minutes of standing there, you start to get impatient. You almost pull the bag out to start without her before you finally see a flash of blonde hair from behind the trees.

“Took you long enough.” you mutter, already opening the bag without paying Regina much attention. Your patience was windeled, and you don’t especially want to talk to her anyway.

“Sorry I have a social life. I guess you wouldn’t know,” she snaps back, her voice strained.

You feel the annoyance crawl down your back like a centipede, and you have to bite the inside of your mouth to stop yourself from saying something back to her. She holds basically your life in her hands since you’d be both fucked and poor if she decided to snitch on you. Probably not a good idea to start a fight on the first day of your little deal, but she made it difficult.

You grab one of the cans from under the pile of leaves as you see Regina cross her arms a couple feet away from you. Her eyes watching your every move makes you a bit wary on instinct. You feel like a mouse being stalked by a snake. You grab a decently sized piece out of the bag and put it on the crushed can. You couldn’t be bothered to roll your own blunts, so this was the next best thing.

“How much have you smoked before?” you ask, just wanting a general idea on how much she should have so that you wouldn’t have to drag her to the parking lot. Apparently, she takes great offense.

“What are you, my mom? Just hurry up so I can get out of here,” she says begrudgingly, like being out here was the biggest possible drag on her life. She was really grating on your last nerve right now.

“Trying my best.” you respond dryly, giving her a snide smile as you fiddle with the lighter.

“Well, obviously it’s not good enough. What are you even doing, anyway? This is the shadiest shit I’ve ever seen—”

You blow the first hit out of your mouth harshly. “Can you please just shut the fuck up? I don’t want to be out here with you either!”

“That’s shocking. I’m surprised this isn’t your ultimate wet dream, being alone in the forest with me,” Regina sneers, nothing but disgust on her face. Like you were some kind of animal instead of human.

“What’s that going off of? The photo collection that you made up?” you snap, putting the can down for a minute. “Believe me, I want nothing to do with you either. But since we’re gonna be out here every day, you could at least make it a little easier.”

You can tell she wants to rip your throat out just by the way she looks at you. Pursed lips, downturned eyebrows, piercing blue eyes surrounded by eyeliner almost as sharp as the look she’s giving you right now. She’s way too tense for someone about to get high.

“Whatever.” she finally says, although the edge to her voice makes you want to scoff. Better not to sour her mood more than necessary, though.

Pleased with the newfound silence, you light the piece on top of the can once more and take another hit. It’s strong enough to make you cough, and you sit down against the foot of a tree. Regina raises an eyebrow at you.

“I thought you were supposed to be some kind of professional,” she says, but her voice isn’t quite as taunting as before. It almost sounded like a joke. Maybe she was considering not making this hell for you after all.

“It’s not good if it doesn’t make you cough.” you respond with a shrug. She looks at you expectantly, but you pretend you don’t see. You don’t want to have to stand back up just to pass her the can.

Eventually, she sits next to you (albeit, begrudgingly) and you pass the can to her, lighting it again when she puts her lips up to it. She explodes into a coughing fit the minute the smoke hits her lungs.

You can’t help but snicker at the sight of Regina George coughing her lungs out with just one hit from the can. It was almost strange to see her not perfectly arranged the way she was at school. You were up close enough to see the strings that sew her together.

She glares at you from the corner of her eye, but it only makes you laugh harder. You’re acting stupid right now and you’re aware of it, but you can’t stop. It’s a nice sort of high. Not like when you smoke too much and everything starts to blur together, which happens more than you’d like to admit. But this is nice. You lean back until your back touches the grass.

Regina has a couple more hits until she’s smoked about everything that’ll come out of it, and you both just lay there on the forest floor. You’re surprised she isn’t whining about dirt getting on her outfit. Maybe she’s too stoned to care. She never did answer your question about her tolerance.

Your thoughts go elsewhere as you stare up at the sky. The tops of the trees cover most of it. The sun from behind the leaves make them look almost as if they are glowing. It’s so beautiful. You wish you could reach up and feel it between your own fingertips, the fabric of the sky.

“You don’t care about what I think about you.” You hear Regina say, her voice only a couple of feet away from you. It sounds more like a statement than a question.

You don’t why it’s funny to you, but it is. You feel the laugh escape your lips before you can stop it.

“I guess not.” you respond, even though you’re not certain if she wanted a response. It sounded like she was just thinking out loud. You feel that.

“Everyone else does. They grovel to me like lap dogs.” she says amusingly, although her voice drags and you can tell she’s starting to get tired.

“You don’t like it?” you ask with surprise.

“It’s the way it should be,” she declares, as if you’re stupid for even asking. “But everyone else is a less hot version of me. It gets annoying talking to the same clones that hang onto my every word. Like, just be normal for once in your life,” Regina complains, an annoyed edge in her tone near the end. Somehow you could tell she was talking about Gretchen. That poor girl really did hang onto every little thing Regina said or did. It was almost worshipful. But in an unfortunate, sad kind of way.

Her problems didn’t seem all that hard compared to others, but you don’t say anything. It’s intesting to you to hear her talk about this stuff, to see what goes on in her head. You’d never really considered what her life was like. You wonder if there’s a reason she’s the way that she is. There must be. Everyone’s a product of their environment in some shape or form. Of course, it doesn’t excuse everything she’s done, but that thought makes you want to get inside her head somehow.

You shake your head at the silly train of thought. Regina George was just plain mean. Nothing more to it. You turn your head to look at her as you realize you never responded.

Her eyes are closed, hair splayed out on the forest ground. She looks stoned as fuck, her chest rising and falling dangerously slow. You snort and roll your eyes. How low was her tolerance? You already felt mostly normal again.

Somehow she still manages to look perfect, even if you could mistake her as a corpse. You lay your head back down. Your parents wouldn’t mind if you were home a little late, right?

-

After that, you and Regina would meet to smoke behind the school almost every day, except when Regina had plans with her friends and you would just go alone. You still wish she wasn’t there, but sometimes she’s okay to talk to when she isn’t being a priss. She complains about her friends and boys and how sometimes in the morning her eyelash curler refuses to work. It’s entertaining to hear about how shallow her problems are. You still want to punch her most of the time, though.

This time around, however, she’s complaining about math. Something about her teacher failing her on purpose or something to make her have sex with him to get her grade up. You seriously doubt that’s true, but you listen anyway.

“Like, he’s totally obsessed with me. I know how to do the work, but he always marks it as wrong anyway. That Cady girl helps me with it, and she’s some kind of math freak.” Regina exclaims, taking a huge hit from the smoking can. She immediately sputters and you take the can back from her with a slight roll of your eyes. That’s probably enough for her.

“Is she, though?” you ask, taking a hit from the can yourself. “She’s in my Calc class and lately she’s been doing really shitty. I guess you guys are rubbing off on her,” you say with amusement.

Regina takes a deep breath, an agitated sigh coming out of her. “What’s the point of her tutoring me, then? They’re gonna take me off the soccer team if I don’t start passing like all of my classes. It’s like she wants me to fail.” she seethes, and she sounds genuinely upset. She could afford to pay attention in class instead of doing her makeup if better grades is what she wants, but alas.

You kind of want to offer to help her, but it’s her own fault so you bite your tongue. You put the can down with a sharp sigh. You’d rather not smoke too much around her in fear that you’ll start acting stupid and she’ll post it all over the internet. Just the slightly more giggly high is fine for now.

Regina stares bullets through you as your stash back under the pile of leaves. You pick up your backpack and get ready to leave. You feel fine enough to walk home.

“You’re not gonna offer to help me?” she asks indignantly, as if you owed it to her. You have to bite your lip to keep from groaning in annoyance. Could she be any more of a spoiled brat?

“Why would I do that?” you respond, feeling that your distaste seeps through your voice as well as your expression. You’re tired, both from school and from hanging out with Regina for too long. You just want to go home.

“Because I’m keeping your secret?” she says with that tone that reminds you of a viper. The one she uses to get whatever she wants from people by threatening to ruin them. Your chest bubbles with that same anger as that day in the cafeteria.

“Dude, I’m literally your plug. I’ve done enough for you to keep your mouth shut.” you snap, slinging your backpack over your shoulder. She was really starting to piss you off. That’s how it was with Regina; just when you think she’s all right, she starts doing this bullshit again.

“So what? I don’t need weed. I can break our deal whenever I want. Besides, you’ll only tutor me until the end of the month. It’s not that deep.” It’s only the beginning of October, so you’d be wasting more of your time with her for the next month, but of course she doesn’t include that. God, you’re so pissed off, but what can you do? Not be able to smoke anymore? Get suspended again? You hate that she can just hang this over your head until you comply. You bite your lip hard enough to draw blood as you stare at her, one of her hands on her hip and her eyebrows raised as if you’re a dog she just told to heel that won’t listen. Your hands bunch into tight fists until your knuckles turn white. You really wish you had seen her with that bruise right about now.

“Fine.” you spit, pushing your way out of the clearing and back towards the school. Great. Now it would take even longer to shake Regina off. You shoulder branches of leaves out of your way, your feet kicking at the dirt. You wished she could just be fucking normal and that she never started any of this in the first place.

“I better see you tomorrow, loser!” You hear Regina scream from somewhere behind you. God, you were gonna kill her. Or yourself. Whichever came first.

[famesau]

How The RDR2 Boys Kiss You

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally posting part two, sorry for the late post! This one is John and Dutch, both in the earlier chapters. This will probably be my last part of this little series but I have another Kieran fic in the works so sit tight.

Dutch Van Der Linde

Hand kisses

Joining the Van Der Linde gang came with many surprises, Dutch's interest in you being one of them. To you, his interest came out of nowhere. At first, he was kind to you, sharing his endless wisdom with you like he did with the others. Taking time to inform you about how things in the gang worked too. But once everyone began to trust you, his interest in you grew. His kindness now seemed a little more romantic. His touch and gaze would linger on you far longer than it should. He'd interrupt your reading or chores to talk with you. You didn't read too deep into it; you just took it as him trying to make you feel comfortable. But it was hard not to notice his weirdly romantic behavior towards you. The little nicknames he called you when you both were alone. The way he found any reason to have you near him. It was surprising, to say the least, but you couldn't deny how nice it felt.

//////

It was night and all the camp members were hanging around the campfire, singing songs and having a drink or 6. Dutch had his music playing loudly which made a few other members get up and dance, all except for you. You had no interest in engaging in any sort of thing tonight. You felt yourself growing tired so you decided to turn in. You shifted past the gang members, saying goodnight and trying not to get roped into a song. It was successful up until you passed Dutch’s tent.

“Woe! Where’d do you think you’re going hm?”

He asked with a cheerful shout. He took a long drag from his cigar and puffed the smoke in your direction. The all-too-familiar musk filled your lungs, making you cough before you spoke.

“Just heading to bed.”

“Why’s that? You outta enjoy yourself like everyone else! C’mon and dance with me.”

He suggested, extending his hand towards you with a smile. He always encouraged others to enjoy themselves, especially after a good day's work. His encouragement always seemed to work, even now. You were tired but seeing how upbeat he was, you couldn't say no to him. So with a small smile, you laugh and nod your head, extending your hand towards his and resting it in his hands. His palm was rough but he held your hand with utmost care. His grin grew when you agreed to dance with him. One song couldn't hurt, you thought to yourself as he pulled you closer to him. He quickly finished his cigar so he could focus on dancing with you. He kept holding your hand and placed his other hand gently on your lower back. You lifted your hand and placed it on his shoulder. Being this close to him you could smell a mixture of lavender and vanilla. He took pride in his appearance and hygiene, that much was obvious to anyone. His scent was borderline intoxicating but you soon grew accustomed to it. When you both were ready, Dutch took the lead and started to dance. He used his hand on your lower back to guide you to the song, teaching you the steps without words. It didn’t take long for you to figure out the steps thanks to Dutch’s patience. Once you had them down you loosened up and moved more freely with him. A smile grew on his face as he picked up your enjoyment. His grip loosened slightly on you and he started to move freely too. You were still tired but that feeling of joy you felt while dancing with him overpowered that feeling. You smiled cheerfully at him and he returned the smile. As the song continued your joy only grew. He was a little more relaxed than you but he loved seeing how happy you looked.

It didn't take long for one song to turn to 2 then 4. You become unaware of the feeling of tiredness, with all the dancing and laughs you both shared you didn't care about heading to bed just yet. Your sluggish movements turned to confident dancing. The confidence in your steps grew thanks to Dutch's praises. Hearing him say “There you go!”, “You're great at this!” And much more made you not want to stop. The grin he had at the start of this was still plastered on his features. It was like he was two different people. When he was out on jobs he was hard and stoic, but now, he was far from that. The gaze in his eyes was soft and playful, his hardy laugh boomed out of his chest every once and again, and his hands happily held you when he dipped your body mid-song. Though this moment was a new and thrilling experience for you, even you had your limits.

After god knows how many songs played you finally felt your body tell you it's time to stop. Your feet ache and your legs tingle, a small sweat was on your brightened face but you couldn't care less. Slowly you began to stop dancing and he did the same.

“You sure are full of surprises hah!”

He shouted, pulling his hand from your lower back but still holding your hand. A small flush of red grazed your cheeks. You didn’t expect to let yourself go like that but you needed it. Everyone needs a moment to just enjoy themselves and this was your moment.

“Guess I needed that heh…Thank you Dutch. I enjoyed that.”

You said softly. A little embarrassed but overall happy. You were glad you took his offer to dance, it was the perfect way to end the night. You went to pull your hand away from him but his grip stopped you. It wasn’t enough to hurt you but enough to stop you. He then pulled you closer to you, bringing your hand up to his mouth. Giving the back of your hand a small yet tender kiss. The feeling of his rough lips and mustache against your hand felt slightly ticklish but his gesture was sweet. His eyes never left you and vice versa. The red glow on your cheeks grew a shade darker from the kiss. After he pulled his lips away he continued to hold your hand in his, placing his other hand on top of yours.

“It was a pleasure, to share this dance with you. We should do it more often.”

You took a short pause to process what just happened. When he said that his voice was sultry and sweet. His gaze was soft and entrancing as he danced with you and even now. Something about him was drawing you in and you couldn’t or more so didn’t, want to fight it.

“I uh…I’d like that.”

You responded in a faint whisper but loud enough for him to hear. Hearing your agreement made his smirk grow wider. He was very pleased with your answer. He brought your hand once more up to his lips and gave it another kiss, that same tingling feeling from before filling our being. Now he let your hand go, resting his hands on his hips while your hand retreated and rested on your chest. He stared at you for a brief moment, eyeing you up and down before a husky chuckle left his lips.

“Well you best get some sleep, got a long day t’morrow.”

He said, still letting his eyes wander your face and body. You just nodded and left his side to go lie down. His advances never affected you but dancing with him and that damn kiss had you feeling like you were floating. As you finally went to lay down you found the memories of dancing with him and the sensation in his lips on your hand keeping you up. Part of you didn't want to think too much about it but another part of you secretly enjoyed that experience far more than you'd like to admit

John Marston

Gentle kisses

You and everyone else knew John wasn't the most romantic person. When you and him started dating you knew what you signed up for, a reckless idiot but an idiot you sure did love. He'd never asked you this but he always wondered what you saw in him, what about him made you of all folk want him? It confused him. Instead of asking you like a normal person would, he is distant, always out on missions trying to distract him from his many conflicting thoughts. But he'd be a fool if he didn't admit he loved you too. He just wasn't good at showing it. You'd often hear Arthur scowl him for acting the way he did when it came to you but it was pointless most times. John was hardheaded and stubborn yet you still stuck with him. You were patient with him, which confused him but he appreciated it.

Today was like any other day for you, tending to chores, and enjoying your day by investing in personal hobbies to pass the time. As you expected John was out helping Aruthr with god knows what, seems like two were gone every day thanks to Dutch. You didn’t mind John being gone all the time, you’ve grown accustomed to it by now. But unlike the other nights, this night would be a little different for you both.

By the time the sun had set you were already dressed in your PJs and getting ready for bed. Before you turned in you went to get some water. You walked to the rations tent and had a few ladles of water to satisfy your thirst. With a pleased sigh, you whipped your mouth and started to head back to your tent but the sounds of approaching horses stopped you. It was Arthur and John finally heading back to camp, thankfully by the looks of it neither of them were hurt. Instead of heading back, you decided to greet them.

“Heya fellas! Glad ya back in one piece!”

You shouted to them as they hitched their horses. Arthur greeted you with a smile and tipped his hat to you while John was quiet. You weren’t bothered by it but something was clearly wrong with him. Now that you were closer it was more apparent they might have been in a squabble or two. Their clothes were roughed up and they reeked of sweat and cheap booze. Arthur gave you a small pat on the shoulder before he left you and John to go inform Dutch about their little adventure. You smiled at him as he walked passed then returned your gaze to John. His face was stretched into a focused pout as he unpacked some things from his satchel. You thought about just leaving him and waiting for him to come to bed but you couldn’t just leave him without asking.

“You alright there John?”

You asked, stepping closer to him and placing a gentle hand on his lower back. Your tone grew soft with worry as you leaned forward to get a better look at him. His face was still scrunched up but when you looked at him he looked back. He sighed heavily and nodded.

“Yeah yeah ‘m fine.”

He responded, clearly lying. He was never a good liar. You rolled your eyes at him and pulled back from him, expecting his usual distant behavior. You were about to tell him you’d just meet him in the tent but that wasn’t the case. He turned towards you with a somewhat softer expression and an odd look in his eyes. Like he wanted to say something but can’t seem to find the words. You watched him quietly, feeling a little confused yourself.

“You su-”

“Can we talk?”

Your question was cut off by his question. Your eyes widened and your head tilted slightly, wondering what he could want to talk about this late. Regardless of the many questions you had, you nodded your head. He wasn’t one to get serious or sentimental with you, heck when you first started dating you weren’t sure he wanted to but he had his times where it was clear he did want to and did enjoy it. But it seemed like he’d never let himself fully enjoy the moments. So of course you were a little skeptical of his sudden request to talk but you wouldn’t say no.

“Yeah, we can talk. Let’s talk in the tent. Caught me right before I was heading to bed.”

He just nodded and followed you as you began to walk back to the tent. Silently you both walked through the camp, saying hello to a few people who were still awake before you both found yourselves sitting on your bed roll. Him more towards the end and you lean back, resting your arm against your makeshift pillow. He found himself playing with some blades of grass.

“What do you want to talk to me about?”

You asked, breaking his train of thought. Though you were curious about what he wanted to talk about you started to think he was just playing with you. You would be patient with him of course but you couldn’t help but second-guess things.

“What’s wrong with you huh?”

He asked bluntly, looking at you with confusion written all over his face. Your curious expression faded into an unpleasant one. What does he mean by that?! You thought to yourself. He could tell from how quickly your expression shifted that he messed up. A small sweat started to form on his forehead. Quickly he raised his hands to his sides and waved them in surrender, trying to fix his words before you get any more upset.

“N-not like that!- shit…I meant like why are you with me still? Ain’t no sane person would want to stay with me.”

He said, clearing up his previous mishap. A small chuckle came from him after he spoke but his words weren’t funny. They were a shocker for sure but it made a soft frown brush your lips. You sat up fully and shifted closer to him, not yet speaking. He watched as you moved, unsure of your response but a little nervous to hear it. He had this question on his mind for a while, it didn’t make sense to him how you could still be with him after how distant and often rude he would be. He wasn’t a good man, he was far from perfect. He was stubborn, impatient reckless, and impulsive. Everyone knew that but that didn’t matter much to you. Sure he wasn’t perfect but he was funny, reliable, protective, and most of all you loved him. He was caring in his own way, a way not many people would notice but a way you did. You held all the moments of his softer and more sincere side close to your heart because deep down you knew he was a good man, he just wasn’t good at showing it.

“Oh, John. It's cuz I love you dummy. I sure as hell am crazy for dating ya but I'm happy so I could care less.”

You said, placing your hand on his knee and giving it a small squeeze, assuring him you met it.

“Yur happy?? I've got Arthur always telling me I should do better so I doubt that..”

He mumbled, still unable to face you. John knew he was being distant. He knew he wasn't treating you right but he didn't have a good explanation for it. You witnessed how immature and irresponsible he could be and still loved it. He grew silent as he thought to himself, his eyes getting cloudy with anger, something you quickly noticed. He wasn't the best when it came to concealing his true feelings. You leaned forward and looked up at him, extending your hand up and cupping his bearded cheek. Making him look at you.

“Ain’t nobody in the camp perfect, I've been with y'all long enough to know that much. But even if you're stubborn, impulsive, and sometimes all of the above…I wouldn't want to be with anyone else.”

You said with a small chuckle as you rubbed his cheek and gave him a small smile. Finally, he looked up at you, his cloudy eyes clearing up as he heard you speak. For others, a response like that would make them turn their lip up at you but for him, it was what he wanted to hear. What he hoped to hear. He looked up at you, a faint smile on his lips.

“…Thank you…darling..”

“Ya welcome you.”

To your surprise, he moved closer to you and pulled you into a gentle hug. Soon after he hugged you wrapped your arms around him and rubbed his back. You still were a little shocked by his behavior but wouldn’t push him away. It was nice to get the chance to hold again anyway. The hug lasted for a minute or so longer before he pulled away, loosening his grip around you and letting his hands fall to your waist. You looked up at him quietly, giving him a small smile, thinking that was all he wanted. But it wasn’t. He smiled softly down at you then leaned forward once more, planting a sweet and gentle kiss on your lips. You jolted upright from the sudden contact but slowly melted into his grasp. You couldn’t remember the last time you kissed him but god did you miss it. He was often rough but when it came to kissing and loving you he was gentle. His grasp on your hips tightened slightly, ruffling the fabric on your sides lightly. He held the kiss a few sends longer, letting himself fully enjoy this moment with you. When he pulled back you both made eye contact, him looking relaxed and flustered while you were surprised and flustered.

“Heh..don’t get me wrong, I do love you but I’d love it If you took a shower. You’re sweaty.”

“No I don’t, yur dramatic.”

He mumbled with a sly smile. Swiftly he pulled you closer to him and buried his face in the crook of your neck, planting more quick kisses across your neck. Unable to move from him holding you in place you tried to push him away playfully. Your small snickers turned to loud laughs as he went on, covering you with kisses in response to your claim. His smile only grew bigger the louder you laughed at him tickling you. Seeing how much you seemed to enjoy things he decided to push you gently on the ground and pin you down. He went on kissing your neck but you didn’t bother to stop him now. This went on a little longer before he pulled back from you, still having that dumb smile on his face. Your heart raced quickly but eventually, it grew steady when he stopped.

“I really hate you John.”

You said sarcastically, your breath a little shaky from how hard you were laughing. Your response makes him roll his eyes.

“Yeah yeah, I know.”

He said, moving from on top of you to lay on his side facing you. When he moved off top you you shifted and laid on your side as well, looking back at him. From when he first walked into camp today he looked a lot better now. More relaxed than before. Seeing that made you happy. Again more silence fell but it wasn’t tense this time. You wanted this moment to last a little longer but something was making that difficult.

“Seriously, you stink. Go wash up.”

You said playfully as you put your hand in his face and softly pushed him back. Though you sounded like you were joking he did in fact reek. He laughed then let out a long sigh before begrudgingly listening to you. But before he left your side he looked back at you and gently brushed the back of his hand against your cheek. A look of appreciation in his gaze, the same look in your eyes. You weren’t sure why he had the sudden behavior change but you were glad he did. You’d still be patient with him but this side of him was the part of him you wanted to see more of.

[lupinmoonlight]

Heyyy i love ur writing girl it is amazing.

So I wanted to request smth. Well I thougth about smth like she's in her last year and she sees him for the first time and directly falls in love with him? After a poison lesson she has to serve detention and prof snape isn't there so remus takes over and they flirt and make out or smth???

Masterlist AO3 Kind of part 2?

Detention?

Summary - Your detention takes an unexpected turn. You end up candidly sharing stories and chocolate with Professor Lupin, perched on a desk side by side, work completely forgotten. Tension builds up and fluff ensues (1,462 words).

Warnings - professor/student relationship, age gap, kissing, fluff, some touching, very light smut if you squint, flirting, my grammar (english is my second language), not proof-read.

Notes - Thank you for your request anon! Sorry for taking so long. University is kicking my butt! Thank you to everyone for sending requests! Don't worry, I am slowly going through them. Thank you for your patience :)

You took a deep breath, preparing yourself for another evening under the oppressive gaze of Professor Snape. The cold, damp air of the dungeons made your skin crawl and it clung to you in a way that made you shiver. Each step felt heavier than the last, and the weight of yet another unfair, unjustified, stupid detention settled in the pit of your stomach.

When you opened the door, however, instead of the dark, brooding presence of the dungeon bat, you were met with the soft, gentle gaze of Professor Lupin. You both stopped in your tracks, taken aback by the unexpected meeting. A beat of awkward silence filled the room, but Lupin was the first to break it.

"Y/N," he began, the slight hint of a smile on his lips, "It seems there's been a change of plans. Professor Snape had to attend an emergency and asked me to oversee your detention."

You nodded, trying to mask the relief and thrill that washed over you. "I…understand, Professor."

Lupin held up a piece of parchment, clearing his throat slightly before reading in a tone that was slightly mocking the one of Snape's, "Detention assigned to Miss L/N for assisting another student during class." He raised an eyebrow, looking rather incredulous. "Your punishment is to hand wash every potion instrument."

Lupin rolled his eyes and, with a swift flick of his wand, every beaker, flask, and cauldron gleamed, spotless clean. You watched in astonishment, your voice suddenly caught in your throat.

Lupin grinned. "I think making a student wash instruments for a good deed is rather absurd. Consider your detention…modified. You're free to leave, or you can stay here and keep me company while I grade these essays," he said, motioning to the large pile on his desk, a hint of hope in his tone.

A part of you knew you should leave, but another part- the part that longed for his company- compelled you to stay. The allure of spending time alone with him was too tempting to pass up. "I think I'll stay, if that's alright with you, Professor. I have some studying to do and could use the quiet space."

He nodded and smiled, his gaze lingering on you for a second longer than necessary. "Suit yourself."

The room settled into a comfortable silence. The only sound was the occasional rustling of papers and the scratch of quills. But beneath the calm, there was an underlying tension, something that made your heart flutter and your cheeks burn up slightly.

You found yourself losing focus on your book. Every time you tried to concentrate, your eyes would drift towards Lupin. You'd steal glances, noting the way his brow would furrow in concentration, the soft sigh he'd let out reading a particularly difficult essay, the way the quill looked so small held between his long fingers. Your mind wandered, thinking about what his fingers would feel like gripping your thigh, around your neck, under your skirt…You forced yourself to snap out of it before the way you started to squirm betrayed your dirty mind.

Lupin wasn't oblivious either. He'd occasionally glance up, catching your gaze, making you flustered. The blush that crept up your cheeks did not go unnoticed, and it only fueled the Professor's smitten glances.

Clearing your throat, you tried to break the tension. "Professor, may I ask a question?"

"Of course," he replied, setting down an essay.

"Why did you really offer me to stay?" you asked, your voice trembling slightly.

Lupin paused, searching for the right words. "I believe in fostering a space for students where they feel safe and…understood. And, well, perhaps I enjoy your company."

As the night wore on, the stack of essays lay forgotten. What began as a quiet study session slowly morphed into something more intimate, a shared space of laughter and stories. You had both abandoned your work, now perched side by side on a desk, a half-eaten chocolate bar between you.

The closeness was new for you. Your knees occasionally brushed, sending little jolts of electricity through you. Your usual shyness melted away bit by bit, replaced by a comfortable ease you hadn't known you could feel around a professor.

"So, Professor," you started, a curious tone in your voice, "what was your time like at Hogwarts? Any wild adventures?"

"Oh, plenty," Lupin reminisced with a soft laugh. "My friends and I…we were quite the handful. Always exploring, getting into trouble."

"Trouble?" you echoed, your interest piqued. "You don't seem the type."

"There's a lot beneath the surface, Miss L/N," he replied, a hint of mystery in his voice. "I wasn't always the…composed professor you see now."

Feeling an unexpected surge of courage, you decided to push the limits a little bit, inching closer, "Oh? Show me then, Professor," you said teasingly.

To your surprise, Lupin didn't retreat. Instead, he stood up, placing his hands on either side of you on the desk. He leaned in, close enough that you could see the faintest lines of laughter around his eyes.

Your heart pounded in your chest, your cheeks burning. You'd never been this close to him- or anyone- like this.

"You know," he said softly, "when I was your age, I thought I had the whole world figured out. But life…it has a way of surprising you."

You swallowed hard, your gaze fixed on his. "Like how?"

"Like finding yourself in a dungeon, sharing a chocolate bar with a remarkable student," he replied, how voice low.

You laughed nervously, "And what else has life taught you, Professor?"

His eyes twinkled. "That sometimes, the things we want most are the ones we least expect. And often, they're right in front of us."

You breath hitched. The air between you was charged, stifling, intoxicating.

"Professor, I-" you began but faltered, unsure of what you were about to confess.

Lupin tilted his head, his expression softening, leaning in so close that your breaths mingled. His proximity was overwhelming, rendering you speechless.

He chuckled softly, a sound that sent shivers down your spine. "It's okay, Y/N," he murmured, his voice a gentle whisper.

Before you could gather your thoughts, he brushed his lips against yours, so softly it was like a whisper of a touch, as if he knew if he allowed himself more he wouldn't be able to hold back. It was a tentative kiss, a test of boundaries. The faint taste of chocolate lingered from the bar you'd shared, blending with the unique essence of him, creating a flavor that was intoxicatingly him.

His hands, which had been respectfully resting on the desk, now traveled with a newfound boldness, moving from the nape of your neck down to your waist, drawing you infinitesimally closer. His touch was possessive yet gentle, strong yet incredibly tender, leaving a trail of heat in its wake. Everything around you blurred into insignificance, leaving only the two of you in a bubble of forbidden desires and burgeoning feelings. You found yourself cataloguing everything- his scent, his warmth, the roughness of his scruff in contrast to the softness of his lips- committing each little detail to memory. You wanted more, craved more, wanted him to pour his soul into you, becoming one.

As he pulled back, there was a teasing glint in his eyes. He studied your face, his thumb brushing lightly against your lips, tracing the curve gently, the contact going straight to your core. His gaze was intense, hungry, searching, as if trying to read every thought that raced through your mind.

"The end of the year is approaching. You'll graduate, and then…" He trailed off, the implication hanging heavily in the air.

He smiled, his eyes locked on yours. "There's a nice little place in Hogsmeade. I've always thought it would be nice to visit it with someone…special."

The word hung between you, its meaning crystal clear. It wasn't just an invitation; it was a promise of something more, something that stretched beyond the walls of Hogwarts and the constraints of your dynamic.

You nodded, a smile tugging at your lips. "I'd like that," you managed to say, your voice steadier than you felt.

Lupin smiled. A smile of pure joy. One that reached his eyes and seemed to light up the entire room, your entire world. "Then it's a date," he said, the words sealing a promise of future moments.

He stepped back, allowing you to slide off the desk, your knees weak.

"Let me walk you to your dorm, it's getting late."

"Thank you, Professor."

With that, you left the dungeons, your heart racing and your mind replaying every moment of the night, the memory of the kiss lingering on your lips.

[e-dubbc11]

OK, to make up for making you cry listening to my angsty ass song and writing such a fkn beautiful angsty ass fic for Billy, lets go full swing the other way and do a birthday prompt: ❝You did this all for me?❞/❝Of course, you deserve to have the best day.❞ for the one and only Billy Russo. Because we all know that man never had a good birthday and we are ALL ABOUT giving him one to make up for it! LOVE YOU!!!

Hello my lovely friend! You know I do not mind at all any prompt you want to send me, even if it makes me cry. I’m here for all of it but I am happy you picked something very fluffy this time around though! ♥️ I hope you like it and that I did justice to your ask, thank you again! I appreciate all of your support ♥️♥️♥️ Love you too!

A Hole in One

Photos are not mine. They are courtesy of Pinterest/Google.

Pairing: Billy Russo x F! Reader

Warnings: None really, fluffy bunnies and unicorns, quick mention of Billy’s abandonment

Word Count: 2.5K-ish

Summary: Billy’s never had a birthday worth celebrating so you decide to give him one

A/N: I am so sorry I haven’t finished everyone’s asks yet, I have one more pretty close to being finished after this one and then I think I have three more after that one. It’s been a very busy fall season plus I’m going on vacation tomorrow. So like I said before, I WILL finish everyone’s ask, it’s just taking longer than I thought it would. Thank you all for your patience♥️

He almost didn’t even want to tell you when his birthday was.

Any holiday or birthday was always a sore subject and you couldn’t blame him. Knowing that somewhere out there, he had a mother that had signed away all of her parental rights like he had never meant anything to her, Billy didn’t really see the point in celebrating anything having to grow up in the Ray of Hope group home.

You could see the anger in his eyes, the tightness in his jaw, and hear the bitterness in his voice when he talked about it, which was also difficult to pry out of him. At first, he never wanted to talk about any of it…his mother, the group home, or war and that was ok with you.

“You let me in when you want to, Billy. It’s ok.” You had said to him.

Through clenched teeth, he finally told you the story about the raised scar on his shoulder; it was where his rotator cuff was torn. Nervously, he rolled his shoulder backwards, probably out of habit from when he had to rehabilitate his arm after it was broken in three places.

No child should have to go through what Billy did and you wanted to give him something that he’s never had…a happy birthday.

Given how reluctant he was to even tell you when his birthday was, you decided to respect that Billy didn’t want a big fanfare for his birthday. Instead, you planned something intimate just for the two of you at home. He may not like his birthday to be a big deal but Billy was a big deal to you; no one had ever made you feel the way he did…so loved, so desired, and like you were the only woman in the world.

You wanted him to feel as special as you do when he spoils you rotten.

In a very clandestine way, you’ve been asking Billy questions like what flavor cake is his favorite (of course it’s chocolate), favorite meal (hopefully it’s something you’re able to cook), and something maybe a little silly and childish that he’s always wanted to try (miniature golf).

You were very thankful Billy worked late a lot of the time. It gave you time to prepare everything you had planned for his birthday. In the early evenings leading up to his birthday, you were able to sneak in everything you needed to for a round of mini golf you wanted to set up around the penthouse, you ordered his birthday cake, and made sure his gift would be ready on time.

Even though you didn’t want to, you took a shortcut for Billy’s birthday dinner. Beef Wellington wasn’t exactly easy to make and because you wanted it to be perfect, you decided to take him to Harry’s Bar & Restaurant. Your search for the best beef wellington in the city had finally ended and because of limited availability, when you made the reservation, you also reserved what Billy wanted to eat.

Everything was falling into place.

After work, you picked up his cake at the Chocolate Room and set up the miniature golf course all throughout the penthouse. You were so excited to see his face later but for right now, you were supposed to meet him in the lobby and then go to dinner. Billy was a little suspicious about why you didn’t want him to come upstairs but he let it go.

“I still don’t know why you won’t let me upstairs, sweet girl. What if I wanna change?” He said with a wide smile.

You shook your head.

“You’re already wearing a nice suit for dinner, baby. Our reservation is soon plus I have a surprise upstairs that I don’t want you to see yet.” You said.

Billy humored you, “Alright, alright. So where are we off to, beautiful?”

“Our reservation is at Harry’s Bar & Restaurant.” You replied.

He flashed that perfect smile and said, “Well it’s a good thing I am wearing a suit. Financial district huh?”

You nodded.

“I hope you brought your appetite, handsome.” You said.

Billy touched his tongue to his top teeth as he stared at you from head to toe, then purred in your ear, “You look good enough to eat, my love. Is this a new dress?”

The warmth from his breath traveled down your neck as goosebumps erupted across your skin. He was making you blush as his lips gently touched your cheek and his beard pricked your skin causing you to giggle and blush even more.

“Happy Birthday, Billy.” You said with a wink.

**********

With a very satisfied look on his face, Billy waved the white napkin in the air, surrendering and saying he could not eat another bite which made you smile and very happy he enjoyed it so much.

“I’m glad you enjoyed your dinner, baby.” You said with a warm smile. “Are you ready for dessert and your other surprises?”

“Wait, they’re not comin’ out here and singin’, are they?” Asked Billy, with a look of worry on his face and his New York accent a little thicker.

You chuckled a little, knowing that he did not want to draw any attention for his birthday.

“At home, Billy. Dessert is at home.” You said.

Billy smirked, leaned in close and asked, “Is my dessert underneath your dress, sweet girl?”

You wanted to tease him a little.

“Nope! Let’s go, soldier.” You said with a sly smile and grabbing your purse. “I paid the bill while you were in the restroom.”

“Baby, you didn’t have to do that.” Billy stated.

After slipping on your coat, you walked over to him, snaked your arms around his waist and looked up at him through your long, dark lashes.

“Yes I did, Billy.” You said as your lips curled into a slight smile.

Kissing the top of your head, Billy whispered, “Thank you, my love.”

**********

Billy insisted that you had already done enough for his birthday but you weren’t even close to being finished yet.

“I’m just not used to it, y/n. I’m not the one who gets to have a happy birthday.” Billy said, his jaw tensed with anger. He still didn’t think he deserved nice things to be done for him.

As he continued to drive, you slowly reached over and delicately scratched his scalp with your fingernails, soothing him, comforting him, and reassuring him that he was a good man and he deserved the world.

“Yes you do, Billy. I will celebrate you every day to prove to you that you deserve happiness and to be loved. I love you more than anything.” You said in barely more than a whisper.

With a quick glance in your direction, you could tell that maybe he was starting to believe you by the slight smile he had on his face.

“I respected your wishes by not throwing you a big birthday party but I’m still gonna spoil you because you deserve to have a happy birthday and I love you.” You said.

“Ok, my love. I can’t wait to see what else you have planned.” Said Billy.

**********

Billy was his usual frisky self on the elevator ride to the top floor, kissing you, touching you, and thanking you over and over again for the evening he’s had so far. That perfect smile against your lips gave you butterflies as his kisses told you he loved you countless times and the way his long dexterous fingers gently wrapped around your neck made it difficult to resist him as always but you still had surprises to get to.

“Close your eyes, handsome.” You said, unlocking the door.

He gave you a look that said, “Really? You’re joking, right?”

“Humor me, baby. Please?!” You said. “It’s totally worth it, I swear.”

Billy dropped his shoulders, inhaled sharply, then exhaled before answering you.

“I’ll do it on one condition, sweet girl. I’ll close my eyes but only if I get to hold onto your butt.” He said with a slight chuckle.

Now it was your turn to give him a “look.”

“You don’t want me walking into anything now, do you?” He said, sarcastically.

“You’re lucky you’re cute, lieutenant.” You said, trying not to smile.

Billy closed his eyes and grabbed your ass with both hands as he followed close behind you. You had dimmed the lights before you left for dinner but now it was time for the big reveal so you turned the lights up so he would be able to see everything.

“No peeking!” You said, firmly.

“I’m not peeking, baby. I’m enjoying my hands on your ass too much.” Said Billy.

Your back was to him but you could just feel how big the smile was on his face as he said that.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABY!!” You said with excitement.

Billy opened his eyes and he saw the little miniature golf course you set up before you left for dinner. There were small windmills, obstacles, ramps, and even little flags with numbers corresponding to each hole. You really had built a miniature golf course inside, complete with green turf and wooden borders.

Speechless, Billy carefully walked around looking at all the little details at each hole and chuckling a little at the final hole where you have to get the ball in the alligator’s mouth.

“How did you—do all this, y/n?” He asked, stunned.

You replied, “You like it? Actually, it wasn’t that hard, it sets up and breaks down pretty easily. The wood just kinda snaps into place and then all you have to do is set up the—“

He cut you off as his lips collided with yours, his hands cupped the sides of your face and you gasped against his mouth while his tongue tangled with yours. You knew this was the first time Billy has ever had anything like this done for him, it never had been easy for him to express how he felt about anything so he thanked you the way he knew how which was physical.

“You did this all for me?” He asked.

Looking up into his onyx colored eyes, you snaked your arms around his neck, and replied, “Of course, you deserve to have the best day.”

He pulled you flush to his chest and just held you in silence. Although Billy had a difficult time expressing his feelings, you knew him well enough to know that in his mind, he knew exactly what he wanted to say. His tight embrace and kisses to the top of your head was his way of saying “thank you.”

Cutting through the silence, Billy whispered, “Thank you, sweet girl.”

“You’re welcome, baby. You ready to play? I got real golf putters and everything!” You said, excitedly. “I’ll go change my shoes, I’m not playing in heels.”

There was a childlike smile that was stretched across Billy’s face for the entire time the two of you were playing. The only time his smile disappeared was when the game was over because he lost. Like Billy, you were also hypercompetitive.

He playfully glared and shook his head at you while you celebrated with maybe a hint of taunting thrown in there too.

“You’re lucky you’re cute, baby.” He said with a slight smile. “Especially in your nice dress and leopard print slippers.”

Billy always knows how to make you blush.

**********

As you sat at the breakfast bar, enjoying his birthday cake, Billy couldn’t stop smiling or staring at you as he tried to push your fork out of the way to get more chocolate cake and after opening them, he immediately had to try on his new personalized sterling silver cufflinks. His initials, WR, were engraved on one and the other said “The One I Love.”

“What is it, Billy?” You asked before eating a fork full of cake.

Billy didn’t say anything at first. He rolled his shoulder, looked down at his cufflinks then over at the mini golf course before returning his gaze to you. Those endless brown eyes that looked like two pools of dark chocolate never failed to find yours even in a crowd of people and the flash of his perfect smile that always made you weak in the knees, made your heart swell and your stomach flutter.

He pondered for a minute before responding, like he really thought long and hard about what exactly he wanted to say.

“I think it’s safe to say that you, my love, have made up for every horrible birthday I’ve ever had, for every one of them that I had to spend alone, for all the ones I had while I was overseas, and for all the ones where I made a wish that never came true. Thank you...for everything.” Said Billy, softly.

Even as a young child, no one had ever celebrated him and if they did, he couldn’t remember it. No one had ever made him feel special or loved and he didn’t think he deserved it anyway.

A dull ache in your chest persisted imagining Billy as a little boy, growing up thinking that he was the reason his mother left, that he was bad, or that anyone would ever love him.

Tears welled up in your eyes and quickly spilled over leaving tracks down your cheeks. That was one of the very few times Billy had opened up like that, made himself vulnerable, and reiterated that he has always been more than just a handsome face to you…he was everything and so much more.

With a hitch in your voice, you replied, “You’re welcome, Billy. I love you.”

You placed the fork on the counter and crashed into his chest. His arms wrapped around your body and you felt his warm hands dance up and down your back. Instantly, you felt relaxed as his body was a warm cradle for yours and his words of gratitude were undeniably, music to your ears but the smile on his face was all the thanks you needed or wanted.

Billy tilted your chin up so he could look into your eyes and leaned down until his lips met yours. He tasted like the bittersweet chocolate from his birthday cake. His tongue parted your lips and tangled with yours for a deeper kiss as you tightly clung to him and a tiny whimper escaped your mouth.

“I love you too, baby.” Said Billy, glancing at the large clock on the wall. “It’s after midnight, sweet girl; my birthday’s over.”

The ache between your thighs had been building all night, especially after his frisky behavior in the elevator and his kisses always hit your right in your core.

Biting down on your lower lip and rubbing the hem of your dress, you replied with a sly smile, “Not quite yet, baby. You still have one more present to unwrap.”

He took another bite of cake before he licked his bottom lip and replied, “Your dress isn’t the only thing that’s new, is it my love.”

You replied with a wink, “Well…you’ll have to take it off and find out, lieutenant.”

Tag List: @wheresthesunshinesblog @idaoftheburningmind @rafaelakelley @snowkestrel @music-indie-tv @kayhi808 @munsonownsmyass @gijos @fictional-hooman @k-marzolf @nutmeg17 @vaguekayla @danzer8705 @fireeyes-on-teller-dixon-grimes @aoi-targaryen @mysteriouslydeafeningwerewolf @rachlovesactors @qu1etwolf @sweetserendipity65

Others that might enjoy: @itwasthereaminuteago @fluffyprettykitty @jvanilly @ittybxttykxttytxtty @imagine-a-fictional-boyfriend @mrsbillyrusso @colereads

If you’d like to be added (or removed from) my tag list(s) for the ever so handsome Billy Russo, just let me know and thank you again for reading! 💕💕💕 If I tagged you but you didn’t want to be, just let me know and I’ll never do it again.

[spookymystery67]

I Wish I Could Walk In Heels

AN: Very long chapter! Over 5,000 words as a thank you for everyones patience with me. It took a while because it was a lot, and I probably should have split it up into two chapters, but here we are lol. I hope I didn't miss any mistakes when re-reading and editing, but I just want to get it out now. This chapter is wrapping up the RE4 and Seperate Ways game. And I will be looking into the RE6 story and figuring out how to include it here. I might do a filler chapter before I really get into RE6. But more chapters to come. Anyways, I hope you all enjoy!

Chapter 30:

It was decided that Ada would be the one to carry through with the side mission Wesker had given while you waited outside. It was a good call considering Ada had to get past a pretty large and dangerous creature, presumably from an experiment of some sort, and a hallway full of lasers that could cut right through you like butter. You were slightly upset about having missed her getting through the lasers. She had to have looked badass.

You waited for Ada by the jet ski she had informed you Wesker had left so that you both could get back to the island faster and with ease. It would have been nice if he had given it to you sooner.

“What did he want you to do?” You finally asked her as she sped over to your side next to the jet ski, mission complete.

“Set a timer for the entire island to blow up.” She responded with a nonchalant shrug.

Your eyes widened as you looked at her in shock and disbelief. “Seriously? Even with the president's daughter here?” 

She nodded. “He doesn't care. Made a whole evil monologue about the weak serving the strong… or something along those lines.”

“Well did you go through with it?”

“Not exactly the way he wanted me to.” She pauses, “You trust me, right?”

“Of course I do.” You responded with no hesitation. “I was just wondering if we were still playing by Wesker's stupid rules.”

“Oh hell no. We're doing it our way now.” Ada and you exchanged smirks as she hopped on the jet ski and beckoned you to take the seat behind her. “Hop on. Let's get that Amber.”

—

“Shit!” You shouted as Ada made the jet ski do a hard 180 spin and stop at a dock. You would have fallen off if you weren't tightly holding on to her waist. When fully stopped and parked, you hopped off the jet ski and gave her an unimpressed glare.

“What?” Ada questioned oh so innocently, lips twitching with an amused smirk. 

“I feel like you were really trying to get me to fall off…” You trailed off, playfully narrowing your eyes at your love. She gasped teasingly, smirk no longer hidden.

“No! I would never… Though, it would have been funny.” Ada admitted.

You huffed a laugh at her grin, walking along with her. “I knew it.” 

“Leon's headed for their sanctuary. We'll meet him there.” Ada reminded you, urging you both to pick up the pace. 

So you went, running and fighting off more mutated villagers and cultists as you made your way to their sanctuary. Once you arrived, Ada shoved open the heavily decorated door, and you both caught the voice of Saddler mid conversation. 

Or, more accurately, mid monologue.

“...join our covenant! Oh, blessings unto him and the sweet mercy they bring. Exult all- and let it be so!” As Saddler preached, you caught sight of Leon hunched over, clutching at his chest and screaming in pain.

Ada took immediate action and used her machine gun to shoot at the cultist and Saddler. Leon, with blackened veins worse than they were before, fell over and struggled to breath steadily. Whatever Saddler was doing, Ada's quick thinking had thankfully put a stop to it for the moment.

She gestures for you to go down to help him, silently communicating she will hold them off for the moment before catching up with you. You did as you were gestured to once the gunshots paused.

“Leon! Go!” Ada shouted, resuming the shooting to give you more time to help get Leon and Ashley out.

You help the weakened Leon drag Ashley out of the room through the doorway, before turning back to see Ada's location and help her if she needed. Unfortunately, as you did, Ada had shot the chain holding a large and heavy statue, making it block the exit you had just left through. This made it easier for you three to get away from the cultists and Saddler, but impossible for her.

“Damn it!” You cursed. Frustration and worry was all you felt as you stared at the blocked doorway. 

“Ashley… Ashley!” 

Leon's shouting brought your focus back to the two. Ashley was passed out in his arms, darkened veins and the side effects of the parasite more prominent than ever. Leon looked like he wasn't far off from ending up in the same state.

They were running out of time.

“We have to get to Luis's lab.” You declared, deciding to worry about one thing at a time. You lightly nudged Leon forward, “You want me to try holding her?”

Leon breathed heavily, but shook his head no, before beginning to limp to the lab with Ashley still in his arms. “I got this. Just try to keep up.”

“That won't be so hard.” You halfheartedly joked back, uneasily eyeing his slow but determined pace.

Despite his words, when you saw he was beginning to bump into walls and mutter to himself, eyes darting around as if he was seeing things, you immediately assisted however you could. Gently guiding and nudging him forward. Opening doors and doing the best you could to make sure his mind was present in reality, not wherever the parasite and Saddler was taking him.

You reach the lab and take the key to the door from Leon's possession, unlocking it and entering the room. You did your best to avoid looking at any of Luis's personal items still placed around the room, knowing now was not the time or place to.

Leon muttered to himself, too quietly for you to hear or understand, as he limped to the operating chair and placed Ashley down as gently as he could. He fell over for a moment with a grunt of pain, before lifting himself up to sit on the stool as Ashley weakley opened her eyes.

“You go first.” She quietly told him.

“No way. Like I told you. I'm gonna get you home safe.” He decided. 

You glanced away from the private interaction, anxiously eyeing the door, before taking a step toward the two and the computer. You assumed that the computer would start whatever program that extracts the parasite from whoever is in the chair. 

“Need me to start it up, Leon?”

“No. I need to do this… But do you think you can watch the door for the cultists?” Leon requested, heavily scooting the stool he sat on closer to the computer. 

You nodded in agreement and paced away to guard the door. As you guarded, you heard the operation chair Ashley was in moving mechanically as Leon typed away. It stopped under the parasite removal device, and Leon's finger hovered over the launch button.

“Here goes nothing.” Leon hesitated for a moment, before pressing the purge button.

It's hard to describe whatever the contraption Luis had created to operate on the parasite was doing. The device had locked on to the parasite in Ashley's body and seemingly electrocuted it, or something to that extent, which also hurt her in the process. She let out a bloodcurdling scream as she tried to squirm away from the operation, though obviously failed to do so in her weakened state.

Leon was doing his best to keep her still and help her through it as you observed with concern. Thankfully, the operation didn't last long. But her screams of pain made it feel like it did.

It finished the job, with Ashley's screaming coming to a stop as she lost consciousness. Leon glanced back at the computer screen to see the parasite purge had been successful. A look of relief flashed across his face, until he suddenly passed out, crumbling to the floor beside the operation chair.

You let out a startled gasp, sprinting up to his crumpled form in a panic. A sharp inhale caught your attention and you saw Ashley sitting up, eyes on Leon.

“Help me get him on the chair.” You ordered. She immediately got up and helped you drag the strong, and extremely heavy man onto the seat, before turning to the computer to hit the purge button.

Leon's operation was just as quick as Ashley’s, and likely just as painful. He let out a few grunts and groans from the prodding of the parasite elimination, though you assumed the pain wasn’t as memorable with him fully unconscious.

Overall, the parasite removal was a success.

“How long do you think it will take for him to wake up?” Ashley asked you, worry evident on her face.

“Not long, I think. It didn’t take you very long to recover.” You guessed, watching as she nodded and looked over the items on Luis’s desk you had purposely ignored. She picked up a piece of paper that caught her eye and presented it to you.

“Do you think this would be useful?” She wondered, showing you what looked like a hand drawn map. It looked fairly accurate to the location you were currently at.

“I think so… Looks to be in Luis’s handwriting.” You noticed the similarities to the handwriting from the list of ingredients you and Ada were given by Luis to help suppress her virus earlier.

“Did… did you know him well?” She asked, wanting to know what type of connection you had to Luis.

You shook your head, “No, not really. But I think we got along fairly well, all things considered.”

“... I liked him.” She admitted, clearly sad about his tragic demise. You sympathized with her. Both of you did not know Luis long, yet still admired his charming and friendly personality. Especially his incredible determination to right his wrongs.

Wanting to comfort the girl, you patted her arm and smiled gently. “I think he liked you too, Ashley. And I know he was hell bent on helping you and Leon through this whole parasite situation. He was dedicated until the end.”

She smiled sadly, “I just wish he could have seen it through.”

“Me too.” You admitted pathetically, not knowing how else to respond. You did wish that Luis got to accomplish his goal. To feel some peace of mind instead of the guilt of unknowingly being a part of something bad until it was too late.

During this conversation, you couldn’t help but think that you were terrible at comforting others who aren't Ada. 

“Ashley… Ashley?” Leon called out, finally blinking awake and making you both sigh in relief.

“I'm right here.” Ashley hugged him with a grin, “I thought you were gonna die.” Leon patted her back as she pulled away, then raised his arms to examine himself. 

“You did this?” He asked her, referring to the operation. She nodded.

“Yeah. I did this. Well, with a little help.” Ashley gestured to where you stood. Leon looked over at you, about to say something, but you just waved him off.

“There was no way she was going to lift you into that chair by herself. We barely managed with the two of us.”

“Maybe you need to lift more.” He muttered teasingly.

“Maybe you need to lay off the protein shakes.” Your response gained a light chuckle out of him.

“Can you stand?” Ashley asked as Leon maneuvered to his feet. He nearly fell over, but managed to right himself.

He nods toward the table, “That a map?”

“Yeah. I found it.” Ashley handed him the map, allowing him to examine the lines and words sketched on the paper in Luis's handwriting. “I think it says we can get out if we go… this way.” 

She pointed to the escape route and began to walk away, but paused, before turning back to Leon with a worried look on her face. 

“Hey. We’re a team, right?” 

“Keep this up? I’ll be out of a job.” Leon joked. Ashley grinned in response, relief clear on her face. The moment was sweet, and though you didn’t want to interrupt, you were eager to get out of there soon to find Ada again. But you couldn’t just split up now.

“Ready to go?” You asked the two. 

Leon nodded, “Let’s look around for any useful supplies real quick, then we can head out.”

And so you did. Throughout your search you found a note from Luis about Saddler’s plans to use the las plagas to control more than just the people of this village. It is to use it to potentially control the entire world, and unsurprisingly, the note made it clear that Luis was determined to not let that happen. 

Next, you see another note about methods for eradicating las plagas. Your chest only ached further when you spotted a picture of the Umbrella “Laboratory Six Dream Team”, with Luis being one of the members of the photo. Despite the evil of the company, you knew that not everyone a part of Umbrella knew about that evil. Not until it was too late.

Moving on, you glanced at the computer, attention immediately captured by the picture of the Amber. Intrigue and curiosity got the best of you, and so you read the information of Luis’s findings on the screen. The Amber apparently contains the same organ of the “dominant species” that has only been seen in Saddler. And when fully developed, the Amber could rival or surpass Saddler’s power. While you assumed the Amber had some potential for disaster, this information and confirmation only strengthened your decision to keep it far away from Albert Wesker.

“Hey, these emails look familiar?” Leon called to you, making you cross the room and look at the screen of the emails that, indeed, looked familiar.

“Yeah. Ada and Luis messaging to confirm the mission and the things needed for the exchange. Seems so long ago…”

“Elaborate.” He demanded.

“Luis brings us the Amber, we get him a ride out of here. Not much to clarify.” 

“Actually, I read that study Luis did on the Amber and how dangerous it could be. So yes, I need you to clarify. You two aren’t going to give it to someone, are you?”

“Oh, trust me. The man who sent us here is not getting that Amber.” You declared, standing firmly on that decision.

“And what will you do with it?”

You paused for a moment in thought. Neither you or Ada had really had time to talk about it. You couldn't sell something so dangerous. And you, as you've already decided, certainly couldn't just give it to Wesker. 

So, what would you do with the Amber?

“Keep it away from the wrong hands.” You told him. It was all that you could do.

Leon, surprisingly, didn't push you any further. Instead, he nodded and glanced around the room once more. “I trust you. And before we go, I feel like you should know… I got Krauser. He's gone.”

A wave of emotions crashed through you, all conflicting and almost bittersweet. There was happiness that Krauser was gone after what he had done to Luis. There was a little bit of guilt that you were feeling happy about it. But the one emotion that felt most prominent was relief. 

Your mind was more at ease to know you had one less foe to worry about. One less obstacle to get through to finish this mission. 

“Thank you.” You simply replied. No other words were needed. You both felt the same way. It needed to be done. 

Soon after, you all left the laboratory and followed the map Luis left behind to the exit. 

“That woman who helped us… Do you think she's alright?” Ashley asked as all three of you ran through the caves once more.

“Oh, I'm sure she's fine. She's not the type to roll over that easily.” Leon explained, making you nod in agreement. She wouldn’t go down without a fight. But if something was wrong, you’ll be there to help her without question.

“Sounds like you know her well…”

—

Once you've made it outside, you noticed that the time was now some time around the early morning, just before the sunrise. The structures outside still had the spotlights on, so seeing the area wasn't the problem. 

The problem you had at the moment was finding a way to locate Ada, and then coming up with a game plan to get the Amber from Saddler so this could all be over with. You sighed as you turned to face Leon, observing him as he took his binoculars out. 

“Do you still have your radio on you?” You asked him hopefully.

He nodded, taking said radio off his belt with his unoccupied hand. “I do. You want to try contacting Ada while I check the area?” 

“Please. Thank you.” You said as he handed it over, the channel set to the correct one that would contact Ada's radio. As you impatiently waited for any response, Leon lifted the binoculars to his face and looked out toward the structures.

You jumped in surprise when he suddenly exclaimed, “Ada!” 

“What?” You shouted as you squinted in the general direction he faced, trying to see if you could spot Ada. He wordlessly passed over his binoculars and you brought them up to your face. You gasped, your heart dropping at what you saw.

Ada was chained up by her wrists, high in the air, to one of the structures. And by the way she was being held and so obviously presented out in the open… you all clearly understood that this was a trap.

“Damn it!” You cursed, angrily handing Leon back his binoculars.

“He thinks he can lure me out.” He told you, the apology clear in his tone.

You shook your head, shushing him. “It's not your fault.”

“I'll get her. Don't worry.” He stated determinedly, walking towards the elevator that would lead down toward the structure that held Ada. 

You followed after him, just as determined, with Ashley behind you. “I'm helping.” He opened his mouth to object, but you shushed him once more. “I am not taking no for an answer. I'm helping. No talking me out of it, Leon.”

“Fine.” Leon surrendered to your decision with a sigh, before turning to face Ashley. “Stay here. I won't be long.” 

“Okay.” Ashley agreed without any argument. She seemed to be worried and hesitant to be seperated from Leon again, even just temporarily, but decided to do as he said, knowing it was for the best.  

You gave her a small smile and a wave, not entirely sure if you were going to see her again after, well, whatever happens. “It was nice meeting you, Ashley.”

She smiled back, “It was nice meeting you too. And thank you.” At your confused face, she clarified her reasons behind the gratitude. “For helping with the parasites.” 

“Don't mention it. Luis and Leon did most of the work. I just helped you lift his heavy ass in the chair.” You joked, gesturing to Leon as you stepped to stand beside him in the elevator.

“Ouch.” Leon deadpanned with a slightly amused smirk, clicking the down button on the elevator as Ashley laughed and waved to you both.

The ride down the lift was quick, and you immediately ran out behind Leon once you both saw there was no one directly out in the open waiting to attack you. You shouted her name as Leon raised his gun to shoot the rope holding her up by the wrists.

“Ada!” You ran up to the platform she harshly landed on, wincing at the painful sound and looking up at her collapsed form, debating to yourself about running up the stairs to help her. “Are you okay?”

She looked at you through the grating of the metal platform, though before she could respond, you both were distracted by the chaos behind you. The deafening sound of buzzing and the shouts of Leon made you spin to see him being swarmed by the giant, mutated bugs that you have loathed since they had first appeared.

You hesitantly stepped forward with your gun now in hand, as Saddler seemingly appeared from the swarm. Leon immediately raised his gun at the man, but Saddler’s arm extended through the space between them into a tentacle-like grasp around his neck, suffocating him.

“Shit. Leon!” You raise your gun, but get harshly smacked away from assisting Leon by Saddler’s other arm holding his staff. Your gun fell and slid along the ground, with you not so gracefully scrambling after it as Leon tried to gasp for air around the grasp restricting his airways.

Ada took this opportunity to swing off the platform by using her grappling hook, using the momentum of the swing to harshly kick into Saddler’s back and making him release the hold he had on Leon’s neck.

With your gun back in your hand once more, you, Ada, and Leon exchanged a look to one another before simultaneously using your guns to rapidly shoot Saddler. 

Unfortunately, it did nothing to him.

“You foul renegade!” Saddler growled angrily. His already semi mutated form began to twitch unsettlingly, glowing eyes piercing with hatred directed mostly at Leon. “You have forsaken the Holy Body… the great gift… to become one with us.” 

You three watched in horror as sharp, bug-like features shot out of his back, only to then worsen as his form grew even further. Skin became rough and hard, like an exoskeleton that is likely impossible to pierce with bullets. This was made up for by the many yellowed eyes on the joints of the many large legs that he had grown all at once. One of those large yellow eyes grew in his mouth, contorting his face in a horrid way that made you uneasy. 

All these monstrous mutations always have one thing in common. Those telling yellow eyes. The unnatural eyes that always served as a target and a weakness to the creature that would be impossible to take down otherwise. Something you couldn’t entirely complain about. 

You three backed up when Saddler’s transformation was completed as he shouted, “You require ABSOLUTION!” Saddler charged and you all scrambled away in different directions. Ada took a higher ground by using the grappling hook, while you and Leon managed to end up in a lower level. 

Not the best place to be, but you had no time to even dwell on that issue. 

You looked to where Ada landed. Her eyes wide as she turned heel and ran along the catwalk with a determination that made you know she wasn’t just abandoning you. She was going to get something that would help you and Leon.

In the meantime, you both had to fight off Saddler as best as you could.

Leon grabbed your arm and dragged you into a run, helping you to narrowly avoid what would have been a crushing collision from the monster that landed right where you were just moments ago.

“Such blasphemous desecration! Such unforgivable heresy!” Monster Saddler growled.

“You have a rifle I can borrow? I don’t want to get close to that.” You quickly stated.

Leon nodded understandingly, already holding out his rifle and ammo to you. “Sure, only if I can have your shotgun ammo.”

Immediately, you handed over what you had. You knew his preferred method with these things was to face it head on. A shotgun will be the appropriate weapon for his strategy. “I’ll get him from a little further.”

“I’ll get closer. Try not to shoot me.” He ordered, only half joking.

You smirked, “No promises.”

You maintained some distance as Leon led the preaching monster Saddler around the site, dodging and damaging the yellow eyes when he could, as you shot the eyes from just a little further away. He even went as far as to run up to Saddler and harshly stab the eyes on the legs with a knife when he had the chance.

With that combat rhythm, you were able to take him down in no time. With Leon delivering the final blow. His knife in hand, stabbing the eye in Saddler’s mouth with no remorse. Black liquid sprayed out of the eye as he screamed in pain, backing away and falling off the level Leon had led him to. 

It was over.

Leon walked to the ledge Saddler fell from, wanting to see that it was over. Only to be roughly hit by a large metal crate and flung through the air, much to the surprise of both of you. 

You followed Leon’s form as he hit the side of a falling structure, quickly grasping at the metal support to prevent himself from free falling to the hard ground. Unfortunately, Saddler was not dead. He was even bigger and more mutated than before. With the legs now more tentacle-like and longer, wrapping around the other structures. 

“I’m getting sick of your shit.” Leon huffed as he lifted himself up onto the still falling structure, before running further away to hop off of the crumbling thing, landing right next to you as you gazed at the giant and fleshy tentacles that surrounded the area. There was only one thing you could guess was Saddler’s weakness now.

“Shoot the big yellow orb thingy?” You questioned rhetorically.

“I’d say yeah.” Leon confirmed. 

You both shoot at the yellow ball, evading sharp limbs that tried to hit you all the while. And of course, Leon couldn’t resist the chance to say a one liner to the foe. “Hey, I need to cut this date short. It’s not me, it’s you.” 

You snorted as you both dodged another hit. “You and Ada with the one liners.” You muttered, squinting as you reloaded and aimed your gun again. Huffing when your bullets seemed to do nothing. “Is this even working?”

“Leon!” A voice shouted from above. You both looked up to see it was Ada. 

With a rocket launcher.

“Use this. “ She tossed the rocket launcher to the ground, which Leon immediately took. You were a little envious of him at that moment. You never get to use the rocket launcher. 

Aiming the rocket launcher, he shot once at the orb. It only took one shot for the yellow orb to explode, allowing you to see the monstrous Saddler with the yellow eye in his mouth and staff in hand. Leon quickly sprinted up to him, took the staff out of his hand, and grumbled. “I’ll give you a holy body!”

With as much force as he could muster, he used the staff to stab the yellow eye in Saddler’s mouth. The eye violently gushed a puss and monster Saddler screeched in pain. 

You and Leon get hit by an unexpected limb, flying through the air and crashing into each other, before landing painfully on the ground. You caught the faint sound of a small object landing between your and Leon’s head as it rolled to a stop. But you were too busy blinking violently, trying to clear your dizziness from the fast and unexpected movement.

Seeing the creature Saddler had become collapsing and falling apart was sure a slight. But you quickly stopped caring and just stared up at the sky, now noticing the light had brightened from the sunrise. 

“Well, that was fun.” You grumbled sarcastically, causing the man beside you to huff a laugh before groaning in pain.

“I think I fractured a rib.”

“I think I fractured everything.” You countered.

“Is everything a competition to you?” Leon wondered, incredulously.

“Only the dumb things are.” You joked, huffing from your spot still sprawled out on the ground. “I think we have to get up now.”

“Yeah.” Leon grunted as he moved and you turned your head to look over at him, only to see the vial with the Amber right by your head. You both sit up as heels click closer toward you. Ada crouched down and picked up the Amber before Leon had the chance to do so.

“Sorry, Leon. It’s nothing personal. Luis and I had an arrangement.” Ada helped you up, before dragging you gently behind her by your arm. You looked over your shoulder to see Leon was on his feet. 

“What are you going to do with it?” He asked, hoping you and Ada were on the same page still.

“Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of it.” Ada called back to him. A helicopter flies into sight, and you were surprised you didn’t hear it sooner. Maybe you hit your head again at some point during the fight. Ada turned back around to look at Leon. “Ride’s here. You coming?” 

One look at Leon’s face, and you knew he wouldn’t be joining you two. It makes sense, Ashley is still standing around somewhere. He has his own mission to complete.

“I think we all know this is where we go our separate ways.” Leon said.

You nodded sadly, understanding why he was staying, yet upset that you were leaving him behind all the same. Who knows when you will see each other again. It sucked that despite all that you have been through together, you will likely never be able to actually get to know Leon S. Kennedy. 

“I see.” Ada said. Her face and tone was reserved, yet you knew she was just as sad as you felt in that moment. 

She nudged you to hop into the helicopter, following behind you shortly after. The helicopter starts to lift up, and as it was, a small explosion happened a fair distance away, signaling that the island will be blowing up shortly.

“Better get a move on.” Ada told Leon, tossing him the keys to the jetski Wesker left.

He smirked at the teddy bear keychain attached to the key in his hand as you waved goodbye to him, shouting a “Be careful!”

He waved back, staring at the helicopter as it flew away, with you both staring at his own shrinking figure. “Until next time, Leon.” Ada muttered from your side after you placed a headset over your ears to wear for the flight.

For a few minutes, no words were exchanged between you and Ada. You just stared at the Amber in her hand, mulling over all that had happened during the few short days that felt so long. So much had happened that you had yet to fully process. 

But the mission was not over. Not yet.

Ada placed the Amber in the protective briefcase between you both, then pressed the button on the headset to speak to the pilot. 

“Patch me through.” She told him tiredly. He does as he was told with a thumbs up. “I’ve obtained the Amber.”

“Excellent.” You rolled your eyes a smidge as you heard Wesker’s voice through your headset, staying silent and just listening to the conversation as you stared out the window of the helicopter. 

“Just one question? What are you planning to do with this?”

“I do not pay you to ask questions.” Wesker growled. “All you need to know… is a new dawn is breaking. A hundred will give their lives so that just one may live. I am expediting that change.”

Your eyes locked on to Ada’s, exchanging silent looks of worry over the vague statement. Your gaze moved back to the briefcase between you both. 

“So, we’re talking millions of casualties.” Ada distantly responded. He clarified.

“Billions.” Wesker was smirking, you could tell by the tone alone. You yanked your headset off your head, furious, watching as Ada did the same and came to a stand. She gave you a short reassuring look, wordlesy telling you she had a plan. 

“How ambitious.” She walked over to the cockpit, pulling her pistol out and aiming right at the pilot's head. 

“We’re changing course. Now.” Ada ordered. The pilot immediately does as he was told, much to your relief. 

Glancing out the window once more, you thankfully saw that Leon and Ashley had made it out on the jetski before the entire island had blown up. Now it was clear what she had done to oppose Wesker. Ada had rigged the explosions to detonate at different times instead of all at once, giving them ample time to get out. And making the destruction of the island far less than it would have been if it had exploded in sync.

You couldn’t help but let out a snort, before shaking your head with a mixture of disbelief and admiration. Disbelief, felt with a twinge of anger, ws directed at everything. At how far Wesker was willing to go. And for what? For power? You couldn’t even begin to grasp the mindset that monster of a man had. 

But the admiration? That was all for Ada.

The woman you were so lucky to be able to call your love. She is the reason you are where you are today. And while it wasn’t a great situation at the moment, she was the reason you have survived this long. You were sure of it, and you wouldn’t change it for the world. 

She glanced back at you, concern for you obvious, before she softened at the adoring smile you sent her way. Understanding your feelings with a mere glance, she still felt the need for verbal confirmation.

Ada couldn’t help the little twitch of her lips as her brow raised in question. “Okay?” She asked.

“Okay.” You confirmed, nodding your head tiredly. 

You needed no time to think about your answer. Because yes, while your body ached and hurt all over, and you felt nervous about your next steps after this helicopter ride ended, you had survived. Ada had survived. And you had each other. 

At the moment, that was all that really mattered.

[my-rose-tinted-glasses]

Rose Recaps Rose Tinted Glasses It's been three months since I made a post thanking this community for being a place for me to share my love of BL.

And since then, every day I feel a little bit more comfortable here.

This place is so special to me for so many reasons and the fact that I found it is a small miracle. I was talking with my friend Neely about something BL related and they told me that they think I'm doing much better since I came here. So thanks again.

I was never a part of any online fandom. And before BL I never really felt like I was missing something. Maybe because I always found someone irl that I could freak out about whatever I was watching I never really felt the need to go look.

And the people here are exceptionally kind. Before, I made a point to never engage much online, except for certain support groups, because of the hate that sometimes exists in certain spaces. So I was very much surprised by the kind humans that exist in this bl fandom in this corner of the internet.

Also. There is some serious brilliant people here. Look giffing is not easy, it takes a long time, sometimes you spend so much time with a set only to hate it by the end and never posting it. And sometimes you post something and you're really proud and crickets. And sometimes you post it just so it doesn't go to waste and all of a sudden it explodes. It's all part of the magic.

I keep my sets pretty simple so I'm in awe of how some people make these beautiful art pieces with layers and colouring and typography. It's incredible and I applaud your creativity and patience.

Speaking of brilliance, I'm constantly in awe of the meta writers. That shit is not easy.

It takes way longer than we think, to make it neat and readable, adding gifs or shots to illustrated a point, sometimes wasting so much time finding the gif you want in the mess that is the gif search (I understand it now, cause yesterday I was on the hunt and it would've been quicker to make the damn gifs), and reviewing it before posting, changing it in the process, sometimes leaving it in drafts because the idea is not completed. I'm tired just thinking about this. I'm not able to do that. Sure I can talk for hours about this stuff but actually organize my ideas into a coherent point of view and writing it down. Nope. Not me. So bravo meta writers. I applaud you.

And of course all the people that share the stuff that really matters. Like the colours, the wardrobe, the places we see, the news about what's coming, language nuances, pictures of the pretty people in sometimes ridiculous or beautiful outfits, sometimes the pretty people before shirts were invented, and some of the funniest commentary I ever encountered.

I don't wanna single people out by tagging them because truly there are way too many. So I just want to thank some people that helped me navigate this place and made this time so enjoyable. First and foremost. @twig-tea You were the first person I talked to here and you were so kind and patient with me and my awkwardness and lack of knowledge of how this place works. She also writes great meta and is brilliant and everyone should be following her. @lurkingshan because of the Sahara-Sensei post that you tagged me in and made me feel so seen. @pharawee because IFYLITA just wouldn't have been the same without your sets. @respectthepetty because she helped get the colour coded subs right and she appreciates the bokeh in all its glory. @itsallaboutbl for screaming with me in portuguese. @mikuni14 Because she's been so incredible kind to me. @iguessitsjustme because of many reasons. And If I ever reblogged anything from you, consider yourself tagged in this post. All of you are amazing. And finally...

@blmpff for a lot but mostly for the most unexpected and incredible moment I experienced in this short time. The day that a bird took over my dash. Khun Feathers was such a treat and this masterpiece was the highlight of the day.

image by @blmpff It's been a wonderful year and I look forward to see what happens tomorrow. Wishing you all a happy new year!💜

[auspicious-manner]

heyy!! a request for graham dunne where you’re in a secret relationship and you tell everyone that you’re together by kissing on stage 😈😈😈 please and thanks no pressure 😽😽

THE WAY I YELPED WHEN I SAW THIS IN MY INBOX IM SO EXCITED AHH looks like my tags found the right audience! i have a few more djats prompts other people sent in thank you all sm 🤭

also this ended up WAY longer than i wanted it to be oops, hope y’all like slightly longer stories

also i glossed over a lot of big events within the show because i just wanted to get to the point lol.

fem reader x graham dunne

warnings: some substance abuse

Crazy For You

•

before there was daisy jones and the six, there was just the six. before daisy jones was the leading lady of the band, it was you.

way back in the pittsburgh days, you never knew what was going to come your way when you moved into the empty house right next to the dunne brothers. you knew they caused a racket every time they decided to host a band rehearsal, and it took every ounce of patience left in you to not storm over there and demand them to clean up their sound.

then on one fateful day, your world changed forever. as you were taking the garbage out, you sang at last by etta james to yourself, not thinking anything of it. you got lost in your own voice.

then, your trance was broken when you heard a scuffle of feet coming from your left. your head whipped to the side, and you saw one of the dunne brothers in his driveway listening to you with a smile.

“oh god, that’s embarrassing,” you said, turning your head the opposite direction.

you heard a laugh come from him, but you kept your eyes away from him in embarrassment.

“you have a lovely voice,” he said. you braved looking at him once more, and he was smiling at you. the boy looked to be about your age.

“thanks, but it’s really nothing. i’m not trained or anything,” you replied sheepishly.

“i’m Y/N, by the way,” you said, walking over to him with your hand extended.

he met you in the middle, reaching out and taking your hand. “i’m graham. graham dunne.”

you blushed a bit when he held onto your hand for longer. “nice to meet you graham dunne.”

he nodded, and your hands released. there was a pause in the conversation before graham began again. “do you like rock and roll?”

you smiled. “yeah, i do. i play some guitar. why do you ask?”

graham was now gently blushing. “i-i’m in a rock band, and i play guitar too. maybe sometime you can stop by and watch us rehearse.”

you bit your lip slightly. “i know you’re in a band.”

he looked taken aback, and you realized how insane that sounded. you quickly backtracked, looking down. “i didn’t mean it like that. i just knew you were in a band because i’ve heard you before. like, rehearsing from my house.”

he smiled understandingly. “did you like our sound?” graham asked. he was wringing his hands nervously.

you decided to mess with him. “yeah, you sounded okay,” you said jokingly.

graham rolled his eyes. “maybe if you stop by someday i’ll play better just for you.”

the blush in your cheeks creeped back into place. “will do.”

*

graham gave you his phone number, and only a day later, invited you to a rehearsal at their bandmate’s house.

after your interaction with graham the previous day, your mind was flooded with little thoughts of him. the way his hand lingered on yours. the way he blushed when you talked. the way he smiled lightly when you blushed. something about graham dunne made your heart race, and you barely even knew the guy.

you felt the need to dress nicely for this. you wanted graham to be impressed. you put on a pair of jean shorts paired with a halter top and a jacket.

you met at a boy named chuck’s house. the band was already setting up in his garage, and graham smiled when you arrived.

“hey, you made it!” he said excitedly, running over to greet you.

you grinned. “i’m glad to be here. where should i sit?”

“let me introduce you to the band first.” graham gently placed his hand on your lower back, walking with you further into the garage. you hoped he didn’t feel the shiver going up your spine under his touch.

“guys, this is Y/N. she’s billy and i’s new neighbor. Y/N, this is warren, chuck, eddie, and my brother billy,” he said, pointing to each of the members. you took note of how warren, chuck, and eddie seemed to be yours and graham’s age, around sixteen. billy, however, was older. without even knowing the band, it was clear he was the one in charge. he seemed to be the most experienced.

the band smiled at you. billy stepped forward slightly. “it’s good to meet you. i hope you like what we play.”

graham placed you slightly off to the side of the band, and you sat down on a box in the garage. the band finished setting up their equipment, and discussed billy’s new song he had just written for the band to play.

as the group figured out their chords, your eyes were locked on graham. you watched the way he effortlessly played his guitar, and how clean and crisp his notes were. to you, nothing was more attractive than a man who could play guitar.

after running through the song multiple times, the band knew something wasn’t working. “maybe it’s just the song. i think we should just-” eddie had started before being interrupted by billy.

“there’s nothing wrong with the damn song. i know what i’m doing. graham, try speeding up the chorus a bit, and warren, lengthen your fills just a bit more, see what that does. let’s run it again.”

everyone seemed to roll their eyes at billy’s orders before warren counted them in to begin again. once again, it was a failure; it just didn’t sound right. it was missing something.

“eddie, man, what are you doing back there? you’re changing chords and everything,” billy said, frustrated.”

“i’m doing nothing wrong! this is your song, you should know how to fix it!” eddie exclaimed back. the entire band was now arguing, and before you could even think about it, you were standing up and speaking.

“it needs a harmony.”

the commotion stopped, and all eyes were on you. your face grew hot due to the intense gazes falling onto you. you gulped nervously.

“what?” billy asked.

“it needs a high harmony in the chorus. to, you know, go with billy’s voice,” you said timidly.

billy scoffed. “what would you know?”

graham stepped up to billy. “Y/N’s got a great voice, i’ve heard it. she could do the harmonies.”

billy raised an eyebrow at you. you looked between all the band members before speaking again. “i don’t want to intrude-”

warren spoke up. “i think it’s worth a shot. we’re desperate for something to work at this point.” he pointed at you with his drum stick. “you know the song?”

you nodded. graham set up another microphone stand next to billy’s, and you stood behind the mic. you suddenly regretted speaking up at all on matters that didn’t ever pertain to you.

warren counted it in again. billy got through the first verse, and you focused on your breathing. don’t mess up in front of graham.

he got to the chorus, and you added a layer of your light voice on top of billy’s. you saw out of the corner of your eye billy turning to you, a look of amazement in his eyes. it was working. it sounded phenomenal. although you couldn’t see it, graham was watching in awe. he got chills watching you from behind. before you even knew it, the song ended, and the band erupted into wide grins and loud cheers.

and just like that, you were in the band.

billy didn’t like sharing the spotlight, and quite frankly, you weren’t a fan of it either. however, billy put up with it because he found your harmonies necessary to certain songs and you were close friends with his brother. you stuck to mainly harmonies and, when chuck left and eddie took over bass, you took control of rhythm guitar.

throughout the band’s beginnings in pittsburgh, graham quickly became your best friend. you spent most of your time with him, and he spent most of his time with you. despite being friends, he still gave you butterflies any time he glanced at you. you always wanted to impress him. however, there was a very real possibility that he didn’t get those same butterflies.

the band found more and more gigs in the area, and billy’s girlfriend camila was now traveling with the pack. you two quickly got to know each other and became fast friends.

things began moving in a blur when warren bought a van and the band decided to move out to california. for you, deciding to move was an easy choice; the only part of pittsburgh that brought you any sort of joy was this band. you wouldn’t be caught dead staying in that city without them. and, as the cherry on top of the cake, camila was coming too.

the van arrived in front of your house and billy and graham’s. rain was endlessly pouring, and you only noticed this after you had dragged all of your belongings out the door onto your front porch. your one and only jacket was tucked away into one of your suitcases.

graham looked back at you from the van, his curly hair flattened under the rain. he saw you eyeing the downpour, and ran up to your door.

“what are you doing?” you asked.

he took his jacket and held it above your head for you to take. as soon as you did, he took your suitcases and began walking to the van. you smiled wide at his manners.

you stayed dry under graham’s jacket, and you were encompassed by it’s smell. it smelled like him.

you watched as graham tied your bags to the top of the van. “do you need help?” you asked.

“nope. go get dry in the van.”

“are you sure?” you asked.

he laughed. “Y/N, yes, i’m positive.”

unbeknownst to you, graham would do anything to keep his girl safe and dry, even from just a bit of rain.

graham wasn’t great with expressing his true feelings. it was easier to tuck it away and forget about it rather than exploring it. that’s how he felt about you. he had some complex thoughts about you, ones he was hesitant to call a crush. he tried his hardest to keep these feelings at bay, but it was getting increasingly harder for him to control.

*

after many long nights on the road, sleeping next to graham in the van and totally swooning over him at every second, you arrived in sunny california.

the band’s new house barely deserved to be called a home. but, given the circumstances, it did it’s job. you took the room that the boys claimed was haunted, even though it wasn’t.

not long after settling into california, a keyboardist named karen sirko joined the band. she also quickly became a close friend to you. camila, karen, and you became your own girl group.

over the next months, you had gigs on the strip, and you felt like you were finally making it. you started drinking and smoking more than ever before, and performing on stage gave you a rush. and, not to mention, performing alongside graham was pretty great too.

then one night, while on the infamous first tour, you and graham got wasted at a party with the band.

with all the alcohol and other drugs in your system, you felt bold enough to speak your mind.

“graham, can i ask you something?” you said, trying not to slur your words. the other guys and karen were talking up girls and having their own side conversations through the blaring music.

he turned to you. “what’s that?”

you took a deep breath. “am i crazy?”

graham paused before giggling. “what is that supposed to mean?”

you couldn’t help but laugh too. “do we have something? or am i just imagining it and i’m out of my fucking mind?”

graham’s smile dropped. his eyes squinted as he stared at you. he was thinking hard. “wait…what?”

you rolled your eyes. “for god’s sake graham, i like you. i don’t know if you like me, but i need to know if you feel the same way or if this is all in my head.”

he looked away and nodded. you expected the worst. when he remained silent, you knew you had just messed up probably the greatest friendship in your life.

without saying a word, graham looked around the room and took your wrist, walking away and dragging you with him.

“graham, what the hell?” you asked. you tried not to stumble as he walked. he took you outside behind the building. “look graham, i’m sorry i said that. i should have known you didn’t feel the same, and i-”

before you could finish your sentence, graham spun you so your back was against the wall and his lips were on yours. his hands slowly moved to the sides of your face.

you both pulled away. “woah,” you whispered.

you began making out again, only rougher this time. graham pulled his lips away, resting his forehead on yours. “let’s take this back to my room.”

*

the next morning, you woke up in a different room than your own, the bright sunlight shining through the window. you felt disoriented. you groaned, a splitting headache causing your body to freeze.

you rolled over, seeing graham sleeping next to you in bed. you quickly sat up, instantly regretting it due to the increased pain in your head.

not only that, but you looked down to see your bare breasts out. then, you noticed you had no underwear on.

“holy shit!” you exclaimed loudly before clasping a hand over your mouth, realizing graham was still sleeping. he rolled over, not waking.

you remained frozen where you sat. i just banged graham, you thought.

you took your shirt that laid disheveled on the floor and put it on, along with your underwear. however, when you got to your pants, the room began to spin due to your hangover and you tripped, falling to the floor with a loud thud.

graham sat up. “what the hell was- holy shit,” graham said, stopping what he was saying as you stood up from the ground.

you sighed. “i said the same thing.”

“what are you-” he began before widening his eyes. “oh my god i remember.”

“did we really sleep together?” you asked, already knowing the answer.

graham nodded. “i think we did it more than once.”

you thought about it. “actually, i think you’re right. was it two times?”

graham contemplated again. “no, it was three.”

“was it…?” you trailed off. then, it hit you. “oh my god you’re right. it was definitely three.”

graham slipped on some boxers under the blankets. “well, what does this mean? for us?”

you sighed. you walked over to the bed, facing him. “i don’t know. i know what i want, but what about you?”

he began to speak, but stopped. then a small smile appeared on his lips. “if i’m being totally honest, Y/N,” your heart raced at the sound of your name. “i’ve liked you from the moment i heard you singing in your driveway that one day. you’ve had a hold on me ever since.”

your heart felt like it skipped a beat. you couldn’t help but laugh like a middle school girl with her first crush. “i feel the same way about you.”

graham blushed. “everything about you is attractive to me,” he started. “your voice, your guitar, your body, your spirit, everything. i’ve kept these feelings about you private, even to myself, from the moment i met you. but now i know that what i feel is real.”

you smiled, slowly leaning in. you placed your lips onto his, and you gently rested your hands on his neck. you pulled away, your faces still remaining close to each other. you giggled. “i was okay with our friendship, but this is so much better.”

*

collectively, you both decided to keep this information from the band. they didn’t need to know. and more importantly, you didn’t need rumors to get out to the press about your relationship. you knew that you’d be framed as the tag along of the group, only there because of graham. so, it stayed a secret.

and you played the secret very well. no one suspected a thing besides a close friendship. even then, both of you agreed to tone down being near each other around the band in order to keep suspicions low. after the devastating first tour, karen and camila had even tried to ask you about your friendship with graham and why it seemed to be dissipating.

your answer? you just weren’t as close as you used to be. in reality, you were much much closer.

you were sleeping together at every opportunity. in one of your rooms back at the house, in bathrooms at the studio, everywhere you could.

but there was substance to it too. it wasn’t all sex. you had your deepest moments with graham. you would stay wide awake into the late hours of the night just talking about anything and everything. with your head laying on his bare chest and his arm slung around your shoulders, everything felt perfect despite the rough patch the band was in.

then daisy came along.

teddy believed the band needed a strong female vocalist to lead the band alongside billy, and that wasn’t you. you didn’t take offense to it, you knew your voice was better suited for harmonies and softer songs rather than belting out rock songs.

with the addition of a new person in the band, your spot at the mic next to billy was taken, and you were moved next to graham with a mic. secretly, you were happy because this meant that you could exchange meaningful looks even more than before.

your first time playing live with the new setup was in hawaii, and you took your place next to graham. graham leaned into your ear while on stage. “you look beautiful today.”

warren began the drum beat of look at us now. you tried to contain your smile. “you’re distracting.”

as the song built into the guitar solo, you watched as graham went mad on the strings. the sound rang clearly, and you realized how much you had been missing when you were standing next to billy on stage. you glanced around the stage. all of them were gleaming and playing their hearts out. it was beautiful to see for the first time and you proudly smiled to yourself.

graham finished the guitar solo, and he looked up at you when he finished almost as if to see your reaction to what he did, and get your approval. you nodded at him, a proud look in your eyes. you felt yourself falling in love with this boy more and more every day.

you went back to the hotel after the electrifying performance, and you heard a knock at your door. upon opening it, you found a smiling graham.

“so, how’d i do?” he asked.

you couldn’t help but grin, and your eyes flashed to his lips before tugging him into your room by his shirt and crashing your lips against his. graham felt taken aback, but not unwilling. he found his footing before pulling away briefly to lock the door, going right back into it. he led you to the bed, where you laid down on your back as graham towered over you.

you began unbuttoning his shirt, and he began to lift yours off. when he had just slid your shirt off, a pounding knock came from your door.

the two of you quickly pulled away, and graham grabbed his shirt before scooting away from you to the other side of the bed.

“uh-coming! give me-um… a few seconds!” you shouted, putting your clothes back on. you turned on the tv, so it looked like you and graham were doing nothing more than watching shows together.

“no worries!” daisy’s voice rang out from the other side.

you looked at graham, eyes squinting. “daisy?” you mouthed to him. he shrugged, knowing nothing more than you. you were just surprised to hear her voice, since you hadn’t had all that much time to talk one on one.

you finally felt relatively put together and unlocked the door, revealing daisy.

“hi, come in,” you awkwardly told her, opening the door wider for her to step in.

“thanks Y/N,” she stopped partially in the room. “oh, hey graham.”

graham waved happily. you rolled your eyes at his cuteness.

“so, i have a proposition for you,” daisy asked, looking at you with intention. “let me know what you think.”

you sat down at the edge of the bed. “sure, let me hear it.”

“i feel weird taking your role as the female vocalist of the group. i know you said you really didn’t mind, but i want to offer you a song on the upcoming album.”

your eyes widened. it was a sweet offer, but practically impossible. “that’s very nice of you daisy, but i can’t write songs.”

she smiled. “that’s why i’m here.” she looked at graham behind you before continuing. “even graham could help with the musical arrangements. if you’re down for that, of course,” she said to him.

“yeah, i’d love to.”

“but wait,” you started. “there’s no way in hell billy will allow this.”

daisy smiled again, more mischievous this time. “we can deal with him,” she said, motioning to herself and graham. “if we write a damn good song, he’ll have no choice but to add it to the album.”

it would be nice to hear your voice on a record without billy’s overpowering voice drowning yours out. the offer was tempting.

“what the hell, let’s do it.”

daisy got her song book out, and graham left while you two came up with the words.

“so, you and graham?” daisy asked with a smirk.

your face went white. “us? no, we’re just friends. nothing more.”

daisy huffed, not believing it. “right.”

you laughed. “daisy, i’m being serious. there’s nothing going on.”

“okay, sure. so you opening the door looking completely a mess only to find graham looking equally as guilty on your bed meant absolutely nothing?”

you looked down, biting your lip. “don’t tell anyone.”

she laughed. “i knew it.”

after discussing what the song was going to be about, you decided you wanted it to be a love song. about graham. you wanted the song to have the feeling of being on top of the world, floating on a high like you feel with graham. eventually, you two came upon a name: clouds.

daisy began writing ideas for lyrics while you tested out new melodies. after about two hours, you had an acoustic version of your own song. you didn’t think you’d be this excited about it.

the song started off light and soft, with only piano and vocals at the beginning. as the song progressed, the energy built representing the excitement of being with him, and there was a guitar solo reserved for graham in the middle.

“Y/N, this is a damn good song,” daisy told you.

upon arriving back in california, graham asked you about the song as you were walking into the studio. “it’s coming along,” you answered, not wanting to give too much away.

“that’s all?” he asked.

“yeah.”

he stepped in front of you, stopping you in your tracks. graham looked down at you, searching your eyes for answers.

“you’re not telling me everything.”

you giggled. you stepped closer to him, putting a hand on his chest. “you’ll see,” you said quietly, almost seductively, walking past him. although you couldn’t see it, graham got flustered. you always knew how to rile him up.

going into the studio, daisy met up with you first.

“you ready?” she asked, referring to proposing the song to billy.

you nodded, following daisy to where billy was sat.

“we have a song for you,” daisy bluntly said to billy.

he looked between both of you. “what?”

“we have a song that we wrote together that we want on the album,” daisy told him.

billy scoffed. “no. we write all the songs, and besides, Y/N just does harmonies. i’d like to keep it that way.”

he began to get up. “it doesn’t have to be,” you said. “it’s just one song. let us at least play it for you and the band, see what you think.”

he paused. if it were just daisy, he would have denied the song again. but, billy had a soft spot for you. “fine. make it quick.”

the band gathered around you and daisy, who was on the piano. you shot graham a wink, and he lightly blushed.

“this song is called clouds,” you said into the microphone. you noticed teddy watching from behind the rest of the band.

daisy began playing the piano and you began to song. your light, airy voice filled the room as you tried to not focus on the harsh pairs of eyes staring you down. the song was almost psychedelic, sending everyone in the room into a trance. you got lost in your own voice.

as you approached the chorus, you began playing the guitar, picking up the pace of the song. you happened to glance over at graham, who was beaming from ear to ear. he knew the song was about him.

you left an open slot in the music for graham’s future guitar solo, and you gestured to him to make it clear. the song wrapped up, and you looked up from your guitar. the band stood looking at each other, in awe. the only sound was a disembodied round of applause coming from teddy as he walked towards the band. they all turned to look at him.

“let’s get that song recorded.”

as the studio crew set up all the necessary equipment needed to record, you took a walk through the halls of the studio. as you passed the door to the storage room, a hand grabbed yours and pulled you in. you didn’t even have to look at who it was; you knew it was graham.

he closed the door and placed a long, sweet kiss on your lips. when he pulled away, his hands brushed away your hair on the sides of your head and fell lightly on either sides of your jawline.

“you are fucking incredible. i’m so proud of you,” he said, wrapping you in a hug. you giggle and hug back.

“i can’t wait for the world to see that you’re more than just a harmony.”

you pulled away, and his hands rested on your hips. “i have something to tell you.” you said quietly.

his smile fell just a bit. “yeah sure, what is it?”

you bit your lip. “if it wasn’t obvious in the song… i love you.”

he paused before he kissed you again, more passionately this time. he rested his forehead on yours, his hands still on your cheeks. “i love you too, darling.”

*

during the aurora sessions, you and graham continued to date in secrecy. while the rest of the band was recording their parts, you two would sneak off and do other things together. sometimes those other things involved unprompted sex, other times it was just sitting and talking, with your arms wrapped around each other. either way, every time you’d come back, daisy would nudge your arm playfully and knowingly.

daisy was a good friend to have. she kept your secret locked away, and showed no signs of revealing it to the world. you appreciated her help and guidance.

you and the band recorded all the songs on aurora, and even had your own cover shoot. it felt surreal to finally make it big, after all the trials and tribulations of your band’s early years.

then, when the album released, it was instantly a massive hit. you were on radios, tv, billboards, everything all at once. hearing clouds come on the radio for the first time almost made you cry tears of joy. that was your song, for your graham.

then, it was time for another tour. a bigger, more controlled one than last time. you all knew to not screw this one up like you did the last time. this one was too important to waste.

then, the morning of your first performance on tour, you and graham got into your biggest disagreement yet. you had a few arguments before, but this was so much more intense . this hurt more.

that morning, you were walking through the halls of the hotel, on a mission to find graham before the big night. when you approached his room and saw his door partially cracked with voices coming from it, you walked over to it to see who was there with him. it was warren and eddie, smoking a joint with graham talking about clouds.

“that’s a killer song she wrote with daisy, who do you think it’s about?” warren asked, removing the joint from his lips.

eddie spoke up. “she’s never talked about being in love before. maybe it’s not that deep, and it’s just a song.”

“or maybe it’s about you, guitar boy,” warren said while laughing, hitting graham’s arm.

“i don’t think so. there’s nothing going on between us.”

good cover graham.

“well, you two are good friends, right?” eddie asked him.

graham tilted his head. “sort of. we used to be pretty close in the early days, but not so much anymore. she’s a little clingy. i mostly talk to her when i have no one else to talk with. we’re friends, but not all that close. at least, not like we once were. if that song is about me, i don’t feel the same way.”

what he said didn’t feel like a cover like his previous statement did. that felt real. and it cut deep. he called you clingy? he said you weren’t very close? a cover for your relationship is one thing, but he blatantly denied a real friendship in front of the boys and made you seem like a fool for falling for a boy that didn’t like you back. tears built in your eyes, and you couldn’t decide if you wanted to run and hide or face him.

before you even thought about what you were doing, you pushed the door open with a creak as all three of them turned to face you, a singular tear falling to the floor.

“ah shit,” warren mumbled.

“Y/N, i-what are you doing?” graham asked. he instantly knew you heard everything.

you began to speak, but couldn’t find words. you just shook your head and ran down the hall, back to the safety of your room. you locked the door behind you and leaned your back against it, more tears spilling out as you heard footsteps approaching the door.

“Y/N, i’m sorry, let me in. i need to explain,” graham said from the other side.

“you can’t take back what you said, graham. i heard it, it’s out there, and now i look like the idiot. does that make you happy?” you replied.

“no it doesn’t. you make me happy. i said those things so they would get off my case. i was covering us up. i-”

you opened the door, face to face with him. his heart seemed to shatter at the sight of the tears still stuck to your cheeks.

“that didn’t sound like a cover, graham. it’s one thing to deny our romance, but another to deny our friendship all together and paint me to be the naive, pesky one. you made me look stupid, and now those boys are going to tell the rest of the band what you said.”

graham frowned. he knew he messed up. he looked down, avoiding your harsh gaze.

you sniffled. “and you can’t even look me in the eye.”

you shut the door again. you eyed the alcohol sitting on the desk in your room, and opened a bottle of beer. you downed it, preparing to open another one.

leading up to the performance, you avoided all your bandmates in efforts to save yourself from the embarrassment that graham caused. the word was probably out to all of them now about what graham said; warren can’t keep secrets for the life of him.

you drank a few more beers and took a few pills to get you through the day and night. they took away the pain graham had caused. looking at yourself in the mirror, you had a full denim jumpsuit on that came up around your neck into a halter top. you left your hair down and wavy and added dramatic grey eye makeup.

backstage shortly before you went on, graham came up behind you. “can we talk?”

you made no eye contact. “about what?”

“…about earlier.”

“what is there to say? it seems like you said everything you needed to say to warren and eddie.”

he rested his hand on your bare shoulder. his touch gave you the chills like it always had. “i’m so sorry, Y/N. i genuinely didn’t mean to hurt you like that. i didn’t even think about what i was saying, i just said it. i didn’t think about the consequences like i should have. what can i do to make you not angry at me?”

you paused. every ounce of your body wanted to take him back and hug him, but your mind said otherwise.

you finally turned around to meet his glossy eyes. “prove to everyone that you want this.”

the band ran onto the stage, beginning their first ever setlist on their new and improved tour. despite the still sour mood you were in, the adrenaline with the crowd and the traces of drugs running through your veins made you smile. you felt like a goddess. throughout the show, you felt graham’s gaze periodically fall onto you, and you tried your hardest to ignore it. you were living in the moment and didn’t need him as a distraction.

then, your time came. it was time to sing clouds in front of a full auditorium of people. luckily, your adrenaline was stronger than your nerves.

daisy spoke into the mic. “up next, i would like to introduce the backbone of this group, the glue that holds us together, and one of my very best friends. she adds the most beautiful harmonies to all of our songs, here is Y/N L/N.”

daisy bowed down, shuffling to the back to give you the mic. before you reached the mic, she gave you a quick but supportive hug.

you handed billy your guitar, and stepped up to the mic as the applause died. seeing the faces in the dim crowd made you more nervous. you felt graham’s eyes burning into your back.

“hello, everyone,” you said slowly. you talked methodically. “this song is for anyone who is in love.” you thought about your own experience with love, and the overwhelming love you still felt for graham.

as karen started the piano, your mind was brought back to graham once again. you just wanted everything to be okay like it used to be. but you knew you had to see the effort from his part. he needed to somehow dispel the image he created of you being the clingy, lonely girl of the band who was helplessly pining over the guitarist. it was up to him now.

you rvoice started, crackly at first, but soon finding the rhythm of the music. your vision for this song was to make who ever heard it feel like they were high in the sky, laying upon the soft clouds. to hear it all coming together live on stage was ethereal. you knew it was working.

the song picked up, and the drums, guitar, and bass sounded behind you. it sounded magical, but maybe it was just the drugs and alcohol.

you glanced behind you to see daisy playing the tambourine next to graham, who kept his eyes on you throughout his entire guitar solo. the crowd roared, but all you saw and heard was graham. you lightly smiled at him, and he smiled back. he was all that mattered in that moment.

the song finished, and you stepped to the side of the mic, taking a large bow. before you could turn to get your guitar from billy, footsteps sounded behind you and a hand was on your shoulder, turning you around. it was graham.

“graham, what-”

before you could say anything, graham took your face in his hands and tilted your head up. “i’m going to prove it to you and everyone else.” as you began to speak again, he leaned down, laying a long kiss on your lips. the crowd went wild. although you couldn’t see it, the jaws of everyone in the band besides daisy dropped, who had a proud smirk on her face.

when you two pulled away, his hands fell to your waist and you held his forearms.

“are you crazy?” you asked playfully.

he smiled. it felt like only you two up on the stage. all you saw was him and his bright eyes and curly hair. “crazy for you.”

[purplefangirl42]

For your prompts requests, how about some Cal and Kanan as padawans together? Or even meeting again as adults..whichever sparks your muse.

I think Kanan is a little older, but that doesn't necessarily translate as they would not be friends as kids. I just love his sort of harder sarcasm balanced against Cal's sweeter nature.

Thank you for the request! I'm sorry this took so long and I thank you for your patience. I hope it's what you were looking for! 💜

Tags: Padawan Buddies, Reunions, Survivor Solidarity, Mentions of Grief

Dividers by @eloquentmoon

Cal twiddled with his padawan braid as he watched the traffic fly by outside the large window. Wanting to find a place where he could think without being disturbed, he had climbed up here to this window ledge. If his master looked hard enough, he would find him, so he wasn’t worried about someone thinking he was missing. Although, Cal wasn’t sure if anyone would notice if he did go missing.

With the war raging across the galaxy, it seemed there were always more important things. He knew his master had been hesitant to take him on as a padawan in the middle of the war, and sometimes Cal wondered if that caution should have been headed. He would have been fine to wait in the crechè for a while longer if it meant he could have a master that would be able to designate more time to him. 

Master Tapal had mentioned bringing him along on missions, in order to continue his training in the field, but once again he had hesitated. Cal knew he was younger than most human apprentices, and even those older than him had been kept back from the war as long as possible. One in particular he knew about was Caleb Dume. He was only a little older than Cal himself was, but he had just started going on missions with his master, Depa Billaba. 

Cal both envied the other boy and had pity for him. He knew deep down that they all belonged at the temple, playing and learning with their fellow students. One of the crechè masters had said something along the lines of “being forced to grow up too fast”, but he figured that was part of life sometimes.

“What are you doing up there?” a voice from below asked.

Cal looked down and saw the very boy he had just been thinking of, as if he had been summoned by his thoughts.

“Just thinking,” he responded, turning his attention back to the window. “This seemed like the best place to do so.”

“Is there room for me up there?”

Cal gestured to the other side of the large window ledge, offering the space to the boy below. After a few moments of contemplation on his route, Caleb seemed to find the way up to him and was soon clambering up onto the ledge to settle in the designated empty spot.

“What are you doing out and about?” Cal asked. “Shouldn’t you be training with your master?”

Caleb shrugged and fiddled with a loose thread on his tunic.

“She’s busy right now, so she sent me to go do my own thing. I was on my way to the library when I noticed you were up here.”

“My master is busy too,” Cal said, letting out a heavy sigh. “He’s always busy.”

Caleb gave him a look of pity, which Cal wasn’t sure he appreciated. 

“I know it sounds like I’m whining. I just wish this stupid war would be over so things can go back to normal.”

“I think everyone wishes that,” Caleb said. “It would have been even better if it had never started in the first place.”

Cal couldn’t argue with that. Maybe he would still be in the crechè. Although, he wondered if that meant he wouldn’t have met Master Tapal. He had heard there was a connection between masters and padawans that existed even before they started training together, so perhaps he would have ended up with him anyways. He also knew there were much bigger problems than where his training would have gone.

“I don’t understand why there needs to be so much violence over something as stupid as political disagreements,” Cal said. “Why should people’s different views be a reason to hurt innocent people and drag the entire galaxy into a devastating war?”

Caleb shrugged again and looked out the window at the passing traffic.

“I think it’s a lot more complicated than that. Something that we as padawans are too young and inexperienced to understand.”

“I’m told that I’m too young to understand a lot of things,” Cal said.

Caleb smiled and turned back towards him. 

“That’s why we gotta learn what we can so we can understand the things grown-ups think we don’t. They won’t always be around to help us, so we have to learn to fend for ourselves if the situation calls for it.”

Cal shuddered at the thought of dealing with anything serious on his own without his master there to guide him. While he knew it was an inevitable part of life, he wasn’t in a hurry to get to that point. It seemed that his alone time for thinking had taken him down a path that he wasn’t interested in exploring right now.

“You wanna go get some treats from the mess?” he asked. “I’m tired of sitting up here and I’m hungry.”

“Sure!” Caleb said, shifting in place so his legs dangled over the edge. “I’m hungry too.”

The two boys jumped from the ledge, using the force to slow their descent towards the floor. Cal had to admit that Caleb was better at it than he was, his landing a lot smoother and without stumbling. The pair of them walked off down the hall, sharing what kind of treats they hoped to find in the mess when they arrived.

Kanan picked his way through the market, his eyes flicking from face to face. He always had to have his guard up when he was on a new planet, never knowing who he might run into. He doubted there were many people that would recognize him, but you could never be too careful. He had argued with Hera about which of them should go out to get the supplies, an argument that he had lost when she said she had some repairs to make on the Ghost. Which was how he found himself in his current location.

As he perused the goods in the stands he passed, Kanan made sure to keep one eye on the crowd around him. He stopped at one stand that was selling meilooruns, checking their price. Maybe if he brought a few back for Hera, she would soften up a bit more. He knew she liked them. Just as he was about to ask the owner of the stand to help him, he noticed someone in the crowd. 

A tall man with a shock of red hair was pushing through the crowd a short distance from him. A long scar ran down his face onto his neck. Overall, he seemed a bit worse for wear. A look that Kanan recognized from his stints in that same position. Something about the man seemed familiar to him, something he couldn’t quite figure out. 

Do I know him?”

Kanan wiped that thought from his mind as soon as it appeared. He didn’t know anyone. Everyone he once knew was gone. His master, the order, and all of his friends. The man he had noticed turned to look at him and their eyes met for a moment before the other man turned away, shaking his head. 

Does he know me?

Kanan felt a surge of hope swell up in his chest as he looked at the man again. Red hair, freckles, familiar features. He was transported to a time in his memories when he knew a kid with similar qualities, a fellow padawan. Cal Kestis.

It can’t be him. He’s dead.

Kanan squashed the flicker of hope down and turned his attention back to the fruit stand in front of him. He didn’t dare let his heart run away with the hope that there were more survivors, that some of his friends may have made it out. Hoping was dangerous. There was no way Cal could have survived what had happened at the end of the war, he had only been a kid.

So were you.

Passing over some credits, Kanan grabbed the bag of fruit from the vendor and walked in the opposite direction from where he had seen the red haired man standing. It was better to just walk away and forget about the whole thing.

Cal bounced in his seat as the Mantis entered the orbit of Yavin 4. He was anxious to meet the members of the Rebellion that he had heard so much about. Especially the Spectres of Phoenix Squadron. He had heard rumors that there was a pair of Jedi among the group, a master and apprentice. 

“Kid, would you quit?” Greez grumbled beside him. “You’re practically vibrating.”

“He’s excited. Which is understandable,” Merrin said, coming up behind him and placing a calming hand on his shoulder. “Greez is right though, Cal. You really are vibrating.”

Cal gave her a small smile and placed his hand over hers on his shoulder.

“It’s not everyday you find another survivor,” he said. “I’ve been hearing so many rumors and I’m anxious to know if there’s any truth to them.”

“I understand,” Merrin said. “If I knew that any of my sisters were still out there, I would do anything I could to reunite with them.”

Cal squeezed her hand before releasing his grip and reaching forward to help Greez complete the landing cycle. Once the ship was settled, he took a deep breath and stood from his seat, walking out of the cockpit. BD-1 beeped inquisitively from the holotable, checking if he was alright.

“I’m fine BD, just nervous.”

The droid jumped off the table and landed on Cal’s back securing a grip on his shirt. The door opened as the ramp extended down to the ground. As Cal walked down the ramp, he could see several figures waiting for him. A green-skinned Twi’lek stepped forward, extending a hand for him to shake.

“Welcome Cal Kestis. It’s good to finally meet you,” she said. “My name is Hera Syndulla.”

Cal shook her offered hand and nodded in greeting.

“It’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard a lot about your squad and the good you’ve done against the Empire.”

Hera raised an eyebrow at his words, obviously surprised to hear them.

“Really? I wouldn’t think Saw would have anything good to say about us. He doesn’t really agree with the way we do things.”

“He can be a little difficult to get along with sometimes,” Cal agreed. “But he spoke highly of some of your crew, specifically a pair of Jedi. I was hoping to meet them.”

Hera gave him a small smile and gestured for him to follow her across the landing zone. As the pair of them walked together, Cal noticed that Hera seemed a bit nervous herself.

“I didn’t tell them you were coming,” she said. “I wanted to make sure you were the real thing before I got Kanan’s hopes up. He’s been looking for other surviving Jedi for so long and I didn’t want him to be disappointed.”

Cal understood what she meant about having hope and then having it be destroyed. He had followed many leads to only have them end in disappointment and grief. He had been ready to give up on his mission to find other Jedi, thinking that it was impossible for him to come across any other survivors at this point. But when Saw had said he knew these Jedi personally and that they were the real deal, he had resigned himself to one last truth searching trip.

“Here we are,” Hera said, leading him to a small area surrounded by large crates. 

A group of people sat around talking; an older man, a man with a ponytail and mask, a young woman that looked to be wearing Mandalorian armor, a young man in orange, and to Cal’s great surprise, a Lasat. The sight of the Lasat caused Cal’s heart to clench in his chest. Although he had long ago come to terms with his grief for his master, there was always something that could bring back the pain in small amounts. 

“Everyone, I’d like you to meet a very special guest,” Hera said. “This is Cal Kestis. He’s a purge survivor and has been fighting alongside Saw and his band of fighters for the past few years.”

Everyone but the man in the mask gave Cal a wave in greeting. He returned their hellos with a polite nod to each person, but when he got to the last man, he was surprised to find him reaching for him. Cal took the man’s offered hand, which clutched at his own with strength he was not expecting.

“Cal? Is that really you?” the man asked. “You’re alive?”

“As far as I know, but I do have a friend that can bring back the dead. She could have done something like that without telling me,” Cal joked, trying to ease the tension surrounding them.

The man before him reached up and pulled the mask from his face, revealed clouded eyes slashed through with an angry red mark. Something about his face seemed familiar to Cal, but he couldn’t put a finger on it.

“Kanan?” Hera called out softly. “Do you know him?”

Cal couldn’t remember knowing anyone named Kanan. He reached out with the force to touch the other man’s mind. It was both foreign and familiar to him, like someone he had once known but had gone through much change and heartache.

“I used to be called Caleb,” the man Hera had addressed as Kanan said. “Caleb Dume.”

Cal felt all the air leave his lungs. Never in all these years had he thought that his friend could still be alive. In his search, he had found a record of Master Billaba’s death and had assumed that Caleb had died along with her on Kaller. 

“Caleb…you’re alive?”

The man nodded, a smile forming on his lips. Before he could stop himself, Cal surged forward and wrapped his arms around his childhood friend, holding him tightly against him. To his surprise, his embrace was returned. The two of them stood locked in their embrace for a few moments before Cal pulled away to look at him again.

“You know, I think I saw you a number of years ago in a market,” Kanan said. “I couldn’t let myself believe it was you at the time so I walked away. I didn’t think you were still alive.”

Cal thought back to a similar experience he had been through. He had been in a market once and had a strange encounter with a man across the crowd. He had assumed the man had recognized him from his wanted posters and quickly left the scene. He had buried the feeling that he knew the man deep inside himself, focusing on getting away from the market and the danger it presented.

“That was you,” he said. “I remember that day. I thought you were going to turn me in.”

Kanan laughed softly and shook his head.

“Two Jedi find each other and the first thing we do is run away.”

“Oh how times have changed,” Cal said. “But I have no intention of running away this time.”

Kanan placed a hand on Cal’s shoulder and gave it a squeeze. 

“That’s good to hear. I have many things to tell you.”

Cal laughed at that statement.

“As do I. You wouldn’t believe the things I’ve been through the past few years.”

Kanan led Cal over to a box to sit down before gesturing to the people around them, formally introducing them to him. He called over the younger man in orange, presenting him as his padawan, Ezra Bridger. 

As the group talked about their experiences, Cal couldn’t help but to think about his own crew from the Mantis. This group seemed to have a similar sense of family and companionship that he had experienced with Merrin, Greez, BD-1, and Cere. He was glad that Caleb, or Kanan as he was now known as, hadn’t been alone for all the years they were apart. And now that they had found one another, neither one of them would be alone again.

[skyler10fic]

Girl Friends to Girlfriends

Summary: To earn money for a Christmas vacation with their friends, housemates and best friends Daisy and Carol sell their old stuff at a garage sale, but in the December chill, the conversation they’ve been avoiding reaches a tipping point everyone but them saw coming.

Read on Ao3

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

“Oh my god, I could kiss you.” Daisy ran down the crowded driveway toward her housemate, Carol Danvers, to take one of the cardboard boxes from her arms. “Thank you, thank you. I can’t believe I forgot those.”

“Yep.” Carol’s lips tightened in a forced smile. The garage sale buzzed around them with early morning shoppers looking for a bargain.

Turning to the last empty table, Daisy put down the box she was holding and took the remaining one from Carol, finally noticing Carol’s discomfort. Daisy placed the second box next to the first but turned back to her friend before unloading them.

“I’m sorry,” Daisy tried again and placed a hand on Carol’s upper arm. “I was in such a rush to get here this morning. I should have checked one last time…”

“It’s not that,” Carol mumbled. She shoved her hands in her coat pocket and glanced around at the tables filled with all their friends’ junk that could be someone else’s treasure.

“Oh. What then?” Daisy’s brow furrowed in worry. “Are you okay? You seem frustrated. Is it how early it is? Because that’s usually more of a me problem than a you problem. Not that you’re a problem! Just that you seem to have a problem and that would be one I could relate to. I’m rambling, sorry! Have I mentioned how cute you look in your new scarf?” Daisy grinned in hopes it would win her a smile in return, but Carol simply looked concerned.

“How much coffee DID you have this morning, anyway?”

“Maybe a lot?” Daisy shrugged sheepishly as she bounced lightly. “It was cold out here setting up!”

Carol sighed. “I brought your purple beanie and matching gloves. They’re in my car. Where you left them, actually.”

Daisy’s eyes lit up. “I’ve been looking for those! Again, I could kiss you! You’re incredible. Best friend of the year award right here, folks. Truly.”

“Can you stop saying that?” Carol’s voice was high and in that fake-nice tone when she was trying to avoid a conflict but couldn’t hold it in any longer.

“That you’re awesome?” Daisy laughed. Carol rolled her eyes, so Daisy started walking toward Carol’s car. “C’mon, let’s talk. Over here, let’s go.”

Carol followed, hands still in her pockets. When they were at her car and away from the crowds who might overhear, Daisy folded her arms and demanded, “Spill. What’s up, buttercup?”

“Daisy, please.”

“Please what? Can you just tell me what’s going on so I can fix it?” Daisy huffed out a frustrated laugh. “This doesn’t have to be a big deal. You’re doing me big favors today, but with a face that says something’s wrong. Whatever it is, I want to help.”

Carol swallowed and exhaled a lightly visible mist into the chilly morning air.

“Can you stop saying you ‘could’ kiss me? You said it twice this morning and once last weekend about my Christmas cookies, and I know you mean it as a compliment, but it just… stings. A lot.”

Daisy tried to parse what this meant, replaying the words over and over, but Carol’s stare at the garage sale instead of looking at her made her expression hard to read.

“Why would it sting?” Daisy asked in a low voice, hardly letting herself breathe. She couldn’t afford to be wrong. If she was wrong, everything in her life was fucked up permanently.

“Daisy. You know why.” Carol sent Daisy a derisive look and stopped, perhaps noting the sincerity in Daisy’s eyes. She explained simply as if it took all her patience, “I can’t play these games. With you, in particular. I can’t hear stuff like that and then help you swipe through hot people on the dating apps or call you girlfriend in a friends-who-are-girls way or joke about being married since we live together. Maybe I’m just a killjoy lesbian or whatever. But please don’t say that stuff unless you mean it.”

“What if I do mean it?” Daisy challenged.

“Seriously. You have to mean it seriously. And you’re just…” Carol waved a hand. “Very caffeinated.”

Daisy smiled wryly. “It wasn’t that much coffee. Maybe I get excited to see you, even when we’ve only been apart a day or a few hours.”

Carol did not seem charmed, so Daisy pressed on, letting her own frustration out.

“Maybe I joke about that stuff to see what you’d think about it, and let me just say, you have not been into it! Maybe I do mean it and you’re just too hung up on writing fanfic for Oscar-winner Maria Rambeau and her fighter pilot movie to notice anyone else in the real world might have a giant crush on you, like I don’t know, in your own house. And maybe I can’t compare to supermodel turned actress Bruna Valkyrie and her literal white horse on the movie poster in your bedroom. But guess what, Carol? I’m here and I’m real, and maybe I didn’t stop flying in the Air Force like Valkyrie to look gorgeous and perfect on a horse farm and have to come back for one last flight, but I know you. I know how you like your eggs. I know what music you’d want in the car. I know your shortcuts and house rules of every board game. I can order your usuals for you at our favorite restaurants. Do the sexy plane movie actresses know that? No!”

“Okay, first off, it’s a Top Gun genderbent sequel but better, and everyone loves them. They are queer icons, it’s not like that is unique to me, and I’m sorry are we fighting our way into what I think we are?”

“What if we didn’t fight about it and did something about it instead?” Daisy lowered her voice and stepped closer. She slid her hand into Carol’s open coat, down Carol’s waist to the belt loop of her jeans, and then to the carabiner with her keyfob. She clicked the unlock button without looking and licked her lips.

“Let’s grab my hat and gloves here,” Daisy said in a suggestive voice that did not seem to match her words. “And then we can go to Jemma’s storage shed to pick out any of her old Christmas decorations we want.”

“Sorry?” But the confusion was barely out of Carol’s mouth by the time she realized what Daisy was actually saying. “Oh! Yeah, we should, uh, go to the storage shed in the back, alone, just the two of us without all of these people watching.”

Daisy nodded in satisfaction. “Now she gets it.”

They managed to follow through on this plan without being sidetracked by too many buyers or sellers along the way, and Jemma gladly gave them the key with strict instructions to take anything they liked but bring the rest of the holiday decor out to the sale when they were done.

They turned on the light and shut the shed door behind them, however, and Daisy pressed Carol against a vertical plastic Christmas tree storage box. Faithful to her word, she followed through on her multiple “I could kiss you” promises, multiple times, encouraged by the warmth and weight on her back pockets of Carol’s hands pressing her closer.

“There’s probably better places for this,” Carol admitted when they parted for air.

“Yeah,” Daisy laughed. “Like our own house.”

“And not at 7 a.m. while we’re supposed to be trying to helping our friends sell our old stuff to strangers.”

Daisy shrugged. “But it’s happening.”

“Oh, it’s happening,” Carol assured. “You’re in, right? Real girlfriends, not ‘girlfriends!’ like girlpower female friendship.”

Daisy laughed a little too loud. “I cannot believe you are still asking me that, but YES. You’re my girlfriend. And you’re not some Hollywood celebrity’s girlfriend.”

Carol leaned her head back against the storage container. “C’mon, I never said either of them were!”

“I knoooow, I’m just jealous,” Daisy confessed. “But for real, Maria Rambeau is hot, but would she start an argument with her best friend who has been incredibly kind to her early in the morning just so they could kiss in a very cold shed around a bunch of dusty ornament boxes?”

Carol laughed lightly. “I have no idea, but I don’t think anyone would except us.”

The shed door creaked open and they jumped apart.

“There you are!” Jemma exclaimed. “Someone wants to buy your old bicycle, Carol. How much do you… Hold on. Is this what I think it is?” Jemma waved a finger between Daisy and Carol who were a bit too surprised and guilty for just going through boxes. Especially since none of the boxes were even open yet.

“What do you think it is?” Daisy asked, not nearly as smoothly as she was aiming for.

“Yes,” Carol confirmed. She turned to Daisy. “But we can revisit the topic when we get home. For now, I have a bike to sell.”

With the confidence of a movie fighter pilot, Carol swaggered out the door, with Daisy’s red-tinted chapstick blurred across her lips and chin.

“Should we tell her?” Jemma asked.

“I will in a bit.” Daisy held back a laugh. “I just want to wipe it off myself in front of everyone for the show.”

Jemma shook her head. “You know we had bets on how long it would be after you two moved in together. Fitz gave you six months. Elena said two, and Mack refused to play but landed on eight, just to be safe.”

“Oh yeah? What was yours?”

Jemma smiled. “Let’s just say I won.”

“Lucky number four.” Daisy bent down and started opening the Christmas decoration boxes. “You always were the best at numbers.”

Carol returned with cash in hand but a frown on her face. “It’s a good thing I passed a mirror Elena’s selling! Why didn’t you tell me I looked like that?”

Daisy laughed. “Hmm. Possessive streak? Pride in my work? You ran off before I could help?”

Carol narrowed her eyes. “Good answers. I can accept those. What have you found for the house?”

The girls told Jemma about their earlier argument/love confession as they sorted the boxes into piles for the sale and for Carol and Daisy to decorate their first Christmas in their home, now as not just housemates or solely as best friends, but also as a couple too.

—--------------------

Jemma offered to help load their box of decorations into the car as Carol and Daisy needed to answer questions for buyers. Before closing Carol’s trunk, Jemma snuck in one last decoration: a sprig of mistletoe with a red shiny ribbon. No fights or hyperbolic idioms or jokes needed to inspire kisses any longer. Carol and Daisy were finally on the same page, and Jemma was the winner of a game no one really lost, as plenty of platonic and romantic love warmed the December air around the friend family.

As the money came in and was counted into three piles, one for each couple participating, Fitz sent Jemma a thumbs up. Operation Christmas Vacation Budget was a go. When the final count was in, Fitz sent a group text and Venmoed the other houses their earnings, and all agreed their plan for a luxury ski lodge was on. The next morning, Daisy texted Jemma that she and Carol would only need one king bed at the ski lodge instead of the double they originally had in the plan. Jemma simply sent back a smile.

[i-literally-cant-with-this]

Part I ::: Dad's Best Friend, Reiner

Part II

Yep. I'm pumping out more Reiner stuff. Yesterday (Nov. 6) was my birthday and I couldn't get enough of the man. So I started writing again today and he was just wrecking my brain. STILL proofing. My laptop went a little haywire. This will be straightened out by tomorrow afternoon. Thanks for your patience ♡.

ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○

This will be in 2 parts. I'll attach links as I post and finish them up.

ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○

Warnings ::: Flirting with your dad's friend, older man kink (newly discovered, kinda?), accidental exhibitionism, accidental voyeurism, accidental kiss, erection. Implied plus size//chubby reader The good stuff (HA, listen to me) will be in the second part. That's already almost done. I'll probably post that tomorrow morning or afternoon. Enjoy!!

ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○ꊞ○

Part I WC ::: 2,557

It was Thanksgiving break and you were heading home from college. It's always been a big deal with your family to have everyone over to their home and have them leave well-fed.

Well, it was, anyway. Since your mom left last year, it's fallen entirely on your dad's shoulders.

But this was his time to shine. His time to show you and everyone else that he could go above and beyond the regular turkey dinner. You were a little nervous about it. He didn't exactly have the best track record when it came to cooking turkey. But you'd be here to help him out however he needed.

You and your dad's best friend, Reiner. There wasn't a holiday that he hadn't been around. In fact, there weren't any special events that you couldn't remember him being at. He was sort of like a second dad to you. If you had to put a label on it, that's probably what it'd be.

It's been over 4 months since you'd last seen him. You were both at your dad's house on the 4th of July. You stopped by to have a quick burger before you went back to your dorm room. All you remember is that his best friend was really, really drunk, and really happy to see you.

You called your dad as you hit a red light.

"Yell-o?" The voice at the other end of the call said.

"Hi, dad. I'm on my way. I'll be there in less than 30. Do you have everything you need for the great cook-off? Let me know, I'll call when I get clo--"

"Hey! Hey, y/n. It's Reiner, your dad's --"

"Oh! Hi, um, Reiner. My dad's ... best ... friend. W-where is he at?"

"He had to run to the store to pick up a few last minute things. But he'll be back. Either before you're here or right around the same time. S' I guess, just keep coming, uh, home. I'll be here. We'll be here, I meant. See you soon, sweetheart." He said before hanging up. "Y-yeah, ok. Rei-, um, ok. Bye, see you soon."

You suddenly felt really hot in the face. Was his voice always that provocative? Did it always sound like that when you talked to him on the phone? So deep and alluring? Snapping your head from your daydream as the car behind you honked at the green light you were mindlessly sitting through, you drove on to your childhood home. Not sure what you're in for when you get there. But feeling a little giddy about it, all the same.

Pulling into the driveway, you didn't see your dad's truck. But you saw Reiner's. It wasn't huge, but it took up over half of the drive. You loved the color; a deep blue. So dark you couldn't really see your reflection on the side of it. It was nice.

"Hello? I'm here. Dad? Are you home ye--" you called out to your dad. But he wasn't there. It was just his friend, still. Just you and his friend.

"Hey, sweetheart! Welcome home! S'good to see you, baby girl!" Reiner came to you with open arms. You looked at him. He wore a nicely fitting light blue button-up shirt. It was accentuating his very large, muscular arms. Shit, did he always look like this? His hair was a little longer than you remember it being. But it was slicked back as much as he could get it. It was in that awkward phase between too short to get it to do what he wanted and should he get a haircut. You thought it looked fantastic. Even the little bits that hung down against his forehead.

You let yourself be wrapped up in his arms as he pulled you into a close, tight, and very warm embrace. His body was so hard and so soft, simultaneously. It made your head spin.

A little while later you realized he'd already let go but you hadn't, so he kept hugging you until you were ready for him to loosen his arms. He chalked it up to you missing him or missing your dad after being gone from the house for school.

"You ok, sweetheart? *Heh* I don't remember you ever letting me hug you like this. But that's ok. I don't mind. I'm happy to fill in for any dad energy--"

Dad energy? No. No no no no no. You thought. This had nothing to do with 'dad energy'. Maybe 'daddy energy'.

"Not 'dad', god. I just ... s'just, well, guess I missed you. Dad energy. God." You laughed. He leaned down and brushed your hair from your face and kissed you on the cheek. Twice. You hoped he wouldn't notice how your heartbeat quickened. Or your breath got caught in your throat. Or how your face turned a deep shade of pink.

"You good, baby girl?" Nodding you put your hands up on his pecs and it took every ounce of will power to push him away from you. All you wanted to do was drop to your knees and lick his stomach. Just for starters.

"Hello? I see my daughter's car in the driveway! Where is she?" Reiner dropped his arms and let his hands glide down from the curves in your waist and turned quickly. You saw him start to adjust something, but your dad's voice drew your attention away from his best friend tucking his cock away.

"Dad! Hi! Happy Thanksgiving, pops. Thank you for doing all of this."

He hugged you and kissed the top of your head. "Well, I wouldn't be doin' this if it wasn't for my dumbass friend over there. He insisted that I do this. Y'know, to keep things 'normal' and to entice you to come home for a nice meal."

You looked at Reiner. He shrugged his broad shoulders. Fuck, how had you not noticed how hot he was before today?

"Well, thank you. Both of you. I can't wait to get started on everything. Are you working over the break?" Your dad was a veterinarian and often the one who was on call over holidays. Even on his vacations he'd still find the time to work for his patients. He was just that kind of person. You always admired it about him.

Your dad sighed. "I think you already know the answer to that, baby girl." Reiner's head whipped around at the sound of your dad calling you what he had called you minutes before. Maybe he should lay off. 

But your dad called you that. Reiner has been practically a part of the family for over 25 years. He decided to try it out in front of your dad to gauge his reaction to the pet name. He'd go from there. It just had to be the right time.

"Don't worry, though. I sent home fliers about all the foods animals should stay away from over Thanksgiving. And how they shouldn't have bones that can get lodged in their throats."

Reiner choked on his beer. "Shit, shit. Sorry, {Dad’s name}. I ... *aheh*, shit. Never mind. Sorry." You and your dad stood there looking at Reiner, puzzled. You knew what he was choked up about. But your dad was most likely clueless. And that's probably better for everyone.

It was around 8pm and your dad and Reiner were watching football and reliving their high school days. Reliving their game nights when they were in (what they felt like) was the prime of their lives. Reiner jumped up from the second recliner that your dad moved in for him after your mom left. "Go. Go. Go go go go go go!!! YES!! Whooo! Fuck, I love this team." His honey-colored eyes met yours and you couldn't help but get all bubbly in your tummy at the slight squint as he smiled so widely. He genuinely looked the happiest you've ever seen him. And for some freaky reason, that made you happy, too.

"I'm going to grab a shower and go to bed. Can I bring you guys another beer or anything?" You asked, still maintaining eye contact with Reiner.

He shook his head, "'S fine ..." Now! He thought. Now is the perfect time to test out calling you baby girl in front of your dad! "Think I'm done for the night, baby girl." He waited for the ramification of calling you such an intimate thing. But it never came. Your dad just followed suit, "Yeah, I'm 'bout to turn in too, sweetheart." You nodded with heavy lids at Reiner and rubbed your thighs together the whole way as you walked to your room.

Sitting on your bed for a minute, you did your best to compose yourself after that pithy exchange between the two of you. If you could even call it an exchange. All he did was look at you while you asked if they wanted anything before you went to get cleaned up and tucked in for the night.

Maybe it was the way he hung on to the gaze. How he lured you in to maintaining the shared glance. No, it was more than a glance.

You stood inside of your room, feeling no relief whatsoever, and pulled your t-shirt over your head and tossed it on the chair. Unhooking your bra, the little clasp in the front separated without much effort.

All you could think about was Reiner's hands on you. How would he take your bra off? Would he do it slowly and make you wait as he teased you? Would he be frantic and grab and pull it off?

"Fuck. I, I gotta stop. Gotta get a grip on this shit. Goin' to drive myself nuts." Slipping your jeans and panties off in one motion, you kicked them aside and left them on the floor by the standing mirror near your desk. There was a small wet spot on your panties that could only be from one thing: Reiner.

Looking around your room for your bathrobe, you remember that you saw it hanging in the bathroom down the hall. "Sh- shit. Ok, g'na make a run for it. I'm just going to run for it. They're both in the living room watching football. I can do this." You bounced on your toes a couple of times to hype yourself up for the mad dash you were preparing to make. Slowly, you opened your door and stuck your head out to survey your surroundings.

"H-hello?" You whispered, testing the population. "Ok, 'm gonna ... gonna go ..."

From out of nowhere, Reiner's face popped into yours as you stood there, naked as the day you came into this world. Oh, how he tried to not let his eyes wander from your blushing face down the front of your body. But he couldn't. He couldn't make himself look away. He was hypnotized by your curves. How your thighs nestled together. Your soft stomach. The soft, silvery glow of light stretch marks. 

"F-fuck, sorry! I'm so sorry!" He shouted. "I came to tell you that your dad had to go out on an emergency call for someone's horse. Broke its leg or somethin'. Sssshhhhit. I'm sorry. I'll go now that you know where he's going to be."

He was so flustered he couldn't bring his eyes around to yours. He just stared awkwardly at the floor, hoping you wouldn't see how hard he'd gotten over something so simple and awkward as bumping into you at your bedroom door that you were about to make a break from. Granted, you were naked.

"Oh god, Rei-ner! Oh my god!" You yelled back. But it was more out of sheer surprise than embarrassment. Ever since he answered your dad's house phone today, you couldn't get his voice out of your head. And when he hugged you, it was impossible to forget what his arms and hands felt like on you. There’s a 99.9999999% chance you’ll never forget how he smells. But you couldn't really act like you enjoyed exposing yourself to him. Could you?

Reiner finally found his footing and looked you in the eye. He saw your eyes and felt bad that he made you feel uncomfortable. But he couldn't help but notice how your nipples pebbled in the cold air. How they were a lighter shade of pink than he expected. He just wanted to cup them in his hands and roll them between his fingers. Fuck.

"I-I'm sorry. I thought you and my dad were still in the living room watching tv. I - ugh. Fuck." You turned back and grabbed your throw that lay across the foot of your bed and wrapped yourself up in it. You couldn't get away from him fast enough, but he stood right in the doorway.

"S'ok, sweetheart. It's alright. I just came to let you know that your dad's gone and that I'll be here. Least until he gets back tonight. Just lettin' ya know." He smiled his dazzling smile and you felt your heart skip a beat. "I can come back later and ... and ... you can leave your door open." He stuttered out, not entirely sure what he was suggesting. "You can leave it open while you're getting dressed or whatever. So you don't have to worry about me barging in again."

You nodded, "O-ok? That sounds good, Reiner." You whispered, holding the throw clutched to your chest, you managed to look up at him.

"So, are we in agreement that your dad doesn't have to know anything about this?" Reiner asked and you laughed. "Yes, oh my god, that would be mortifying. Let's just keep it between the two of us."

"Ok, sweetheart. Can do." He leaned down and let his lips sit on your left cheek for far longer than a simple smooch should have lasted. As he was pulling back, you turned your face and looked up at him. What you didn't know was he was going to do the same thing to your other cheek and your lips met with his.

They were so soft and warm. You weren't expecting to actually kiss him when you did this. You were going to say goodnight and slip passed him down the hallway. But instead, you just stood there. Initially wide-eyed, your mouth puckered out slightly. When did that happen? When did you push your lips out to meet his?

Reiner stepped back slightly. He didn't look like he was in as much shock as you. But he had a stupid half-grin on his face where your lips had just been. Like his little scheme had panned out perfectly. You couldn't believe you'd just kissed Reiner. Your dad's best friend. He was practically family. Even if it wasn't on purpose.

You both stood there for a moment longer. You couldn't believe how amazing it felt to kiss him. His lips were so sweet and perfect. But you knew it couldn't go any further. Your dad would lose his shit. And Reiner was his best friend. And he was old. Well, not old. But older.

"I, um, I'm going to hop in the shower." You said, quietly. "Yeah, yeah, I'll leave you to it. Sorry, baby girl." He turned on his heel and walked back down the hall.

He didn't sound like he was sorry. He sounded excited. Like he was about to win some kind of prize.

And that prize?

Was you.

Taglist ::: @darkstarlight82 @callm3senpaii @reinerswarrior

[bitethebulette]

WIP WEDNESDAY

I know it’s no longer Wednesday, but I managed to write a little bit. Not sure how long this will take to finish, so I’m sharing a small pieces of it here. Thanks for everyone’s patience while life happens.

Unedited WIP of chapter 36 of I’ve Been Here Before below the cut.

When Del awoke, she was surprised to feel a cool presence surrounding her body. As she shifted, the arm around her waist tightened and refused to relinquish it’s hold.

A glance at the walls and she could tell it was still early morning. Light was making it’s way in through the windows, but it was weak and milky. A cloudy morning.

With a sigh, Del muttered, “We really should be heading back to the tavern. Everyone will be wondering where we are.”

“If this is the last few moments of privacy I am to have with you,” he whispered against the back of her neck, “Then I am going to suck up every last second of it.”

She huffed out a breath and brought her hand to cover his own where it still clutched her close.

”I think the only thing you’re trying to suck up is my heat,” she joked.

”You’re the one who fell in love with a beautiful corpse,” he insisted, nuzzling his face closer to her neck. “I bring the art into this relationship, and you bring in the warmth. It’s a very equal exchange.”

”Is it now,” was her wry response. “I’m glad I could be so useful.”

She turned her head to look at him, but all she could see was his unruly white locks before she gave up.

”Is that why you’re still here even though you don’t need that much sleep? I didn’t think it was that cold.”

He groaned. “Just let me enjoy this. I couldn’t allow it before - I needed to keep my distance, but it was so hard when you were so soft and warm in my arms. The way you trusted me despite what I was…”

He trailed off when he heard her breath stutter.

He sighed.

”I don’t know why I fought so hard against it in the end. I was falling for you whether I liked it or not.”

When Del moved to face him, he didn’t fight her this time. He wrapped his arms around her waist and gripped the roundness of her buttocks, pulling her flush against him. His legs tangled with hers as he gazed into her eyes.

”I was fighting against it, too,” she admitted to him, reaching up to brush an errant lock from his face. “But like you said, we have all the time in the world. There’s no rush.”

He snorted and rolled his eyes at her.

”Yes, well, I wasn’t thinking about the impending battle with a giant brain that could turn us into mindflayers on command - if it wasn’t for our friend the Emperor, that is.” He became more solemn. “I know death is a normal part of life - but the thought of losing you so soon after…” He took a breath. “It frightens me.”

The additional problem of her not being able to be revived by Withers floated above her head like an apparition, taunting her.

”I know. I don’t want to lose you, either,” she told him, placing her hands over his chest. “But all we can do is go in with the expectation we will win and survive it. I believe it’s possible.”

His fingers idly thrummed across her butt as he thought about her words.

”Maybe we should sit down and discuss what you expect to happen.”

”I don’t think that’s going to really change anything,” she told him.

”You’re knowledge of the future is a weapon, too, Del. You’ve used it for yourself many times, don’t deny it. Help us help you to win. And when all is said and done, we will continue our life blissfully unaware of what will come like normal folk.”

She still hesitated and he smirked at her. 

“It’ll be an adventure.”

”With me around you really think it’d be anything different?”

”Well, we never discussed it. Maybe you were thinking about retiring before this whole nonsense began.”

She snorted. “I’ll retire when my body tells me to retire.”

”Ugh, I had to get with an adventurer.”

”You’re an adventurer now, too.”

”Without my consent, I will remind you.”

”I think you like it more than you’re letting on.”

”…You’re using your ‘psychic’ knowledge against me, aren’t you?”

Smirking, she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer for a kiss. “Maybe.”

[runicmagitek]

I would love to hear about your OCs, always!!

First off, I am SO SORRY for taking a million years to reply to this. I kept it in my inbox to find a chunk of time to sit down and properly ramble about my current OCs hijacking my brain. Apparently that took WAY longer than intended, so thank you for your patience!

Second off, let me introduce this blasted story that started as Yet Another AU With Keitaro And Natsuno that then took on a life of its own and inspired my new faves.

You remember that world with Evelynn and her Dear Friend I told you about? This now officially takes place in that same continuity. A kinda post-war dieselpunk/art deco inspiredsetting, but with witches and questionable pacts with entities that may be fae, may be eldritch horrors, or may just be manifestations of one's own emotions. Who knows! Anyhow, I've now established two things in this world bc reasons: cats are incredibly sacred creatures, for they may host a dead witch's soul to then act as another witch's familiar, and that making a good cup of tea is exemplary of one's magical talent, as it incorporates all the primary elements (harvesting tea leaves from the earth, steeping in clean water, achieving the right temperature with fire, and permeating its lovely scent in the air).

As for the actual OCs, they are two childhood friends: Liladawn and Cyprus.

Liladawn is a feisty young girl from a well-off family of witches. She likes to go on adventures and go against her mother's wishes constantly. That doesn't always work in her favor. She struggles a lot with the expectations placed on her by society and her family. All she wants to do is live by the ocean and sail on boats. But at least she has her friend, Cyprus, to keep her company. He's the only son of the head housekeeper for Liladawn's estate. He may not be a witch, but he does his best with what mundane tasks he's given. A very quiet and polite boy, which also paints a target on his back for abuse from his peers and father, bc how dare he not "man up" or whatever. These two definitely bond over gender bullshit as they grow older.

But then some shit happens and a war breaks out and Cyprus is taken away to battle. Liladawn writes to him every day and he writes back when he can. But then his letters stop. Eventually, her last batch of letters to him return, as well. Finally, officers arrive at his family's home with some not great news.

While everyone mourns his death, Liladawn refuses to believe he's died. Bc Cyprus promised her if anything happened, he'd find a way to reach her as a ghost and set her heart at ease. But he doesn't and Liladawn is a decent enough witch to know she doesn't feel anything when poking around the spirit realm, so to speak.

But this dumb story actually begins after the war ends, a year after Liladawn decided to run away from home and into the city in an attempt to live life her own way. She goes by Lil now and has some eccentric roommates with equally eccentric friends, which is par for the course when most of them are involved with the speakeasy-thing that Evelynn performs at. And for the first time in her whole life, Lil feels comfortable, feels like she can finally be herself. And she's starting to question a lot of things, like maybe calling herself a woman isn't quite right and maybe she should wear men's clothing some more and actually she's less of a she and more of a they.

But some other things are also haunting Lil. They're having nightmares and experiencing mysterious pains and receiving letters about something cursing the family estate. Is it linked to another wealthy boy who went missing when Lil was a teen, one they were betrothed to and couldn't stomach? Is it actually a murder that happened all that time ago? Excellent questions, except Lil can't focus on that when someone knocks on their door one night - someone who looks like and claims he's Cyprus, but is very, VERY much changed by war.

OK IM RAMBLING NOW but yeah, this has been marinating in my brain since the middle of last year or so. Just an adult coming-of-age about magic, ghosts, murder, gender fuckery, recovering from trauma, and learning to love yourself again. I don't know when I'll have the time to write it, but it's been a treat to think about them. Like a lot.

Oh and also Lil's familiar is a tuxedo cat named Edgar, who is equal parts fluffy and sassy and in my head sounds like Matt Berry bc reasons. OK THAT'S ALL I GOT THANKS FOR COMING TO MY TEDTALK.

[parasafterdark]

"Truth (arguably)"

Part 3/5 // 1 2 4 5

Context: This happened recently in Hunting Grounds where they are all furries and stuck in a Deathgame Scenario. I'm skipping the HG![Name] cause it drives me insane in longer Text.

This is part of Game 5, which is a companion of Game 4 with the same Set of Players.

CW // implied prior and ongoing abuse

---

Ignoring the helpful hand, Shal rushed straight into the room and almost tripped over the table. On pure reflex ey managed to adjust, step on the plate and continue to the wall opposite the door. Pretending this was entirely planned, ey turned to lean eys back at the wall, sliding down into a crouch, tail curled around eys feet. Eys shirt was...somewhere. Not here. Not important.

Cold fake wood, in a fake room on an unfortunately real ship, watching the Raccoons fake smile as he sat down at the table.

"I'm not going to touch you. Don't worry!"

Shal could not supress a snarl, but did manage to stay quiet otherwise. While waiting for the coinflip animation to decide who got to ask first, ey rested one hand at the back of eys neck.

"Player 1, ask a Question."

"Why are we here?", the Marten tried to keep eys voice stable, to hide how much eys throat hurt. "We...", with the free hand ey gestured between them: "...should not be in here. We should be over there..." Pointing in the direction of the Dare room: "...where you beat me in...something."

It was pathetic enough that the Newbie Brigade had conviced everyone to not force Shal into doing Dares. Having 81 play into this for fake sympathy just made it worse. Or it was just the constant Nausea and subsequent Exhaustion gnawing at Shal's patience. Likely both.

"This whole...shtick of yours: That you 'regret what happened'. That you've 'seen the errors of your ways'...'starting over fresh'..." Ey trailed off, just gestured at the Raccoon as a whole.

It's not that Shal had anything truly substantial to base eys opinion on. Just that 81 had lied since they all met, managed to subjugate everyone for a while and pivoted into a redemption ark as soon as it was clear they would live through another game together.

"I don't care. So why are we here?"

The Raccoon took a moment before answering. Arms open, smile never faltering: "I understand your apprehension. I got carried away and you got hurt." He quickly added: "Everybody got hurt!" Ignoring the Marten's chuckle, he gestured at the door behind him and continued: "I am thankful, to 18 and everyone for giving me a second chance despite...you know."

Shal dreaded the thought that the other players were really falling for this. Ideally ey could pay enough attention and energy to counteract whatever this was the setup for. Alas ey had a more pressing thing to worry about lately.

"Why I brought you here..." Oh right, this was still going. "...is that I figured: How else to proof my sincerity than through 'Truth'" Ending his speech, the Raccoon folded his hands in his lap.

"Please wait."

"Player 1, do you believe this answer to be true."

"Oh, I truly believe that this is what you want me to believe.", Shal said, chuckling again as 81's smile soured for a second. "Go on, ask what you wanna know."

"Truth confirmed. Player 2, ask a Question."

Despite not quite getting the reaction he wanted, 81 kept up the pace: "You and 45...Looking back at it, I've been wondering how true your relationship is?"

Shal groaned and looked up at the ceiling. This was the other reason the two of them should not be in this room. Because of fucking course the raccoon would ask and there were entirely too many ways to answer.

Admitting now that it had all been a lie taken entirely too far would likely turn everyone against em. Pretending that it was all true would instead make em even more reliant on the Koi continuing this charade. Threading the needle between either of those options risked both outcomes as well as relied on accurately predicting whatever the organizers would put up as 'Proof'.

Hidden under the fur, ey idly brushed over the bruises the Koi had left on eys neck right before the Marten got called into this SubGame. In the end, guessing xyr reaction to whatever answer Shal gave was kind of crucial.

"Player 2, please answer."

Good to know the friendly announcer was as annoying about answering questions as much as it was about asking them.

Oh well, if ey was on thin ice anyway, then why not jump?

"It started as a joke.", Shal said with a sigh, eyes still fixed at the ceiling: "Well...we have history and I thought it entertaining enough for the game's goal. And it worked." So so many hours added to the game they didn't yet know they'd come to regret in this follow up.

Finally Shal looked down, fixed eys gaze on the raccon who listened intently. "Then you happened. Playing the 'Lovers' against each other to take over. Attacking me to keep a leash on xym." The marten took a beat, conjured up the softest half smile ey could right now: "Turns out I'm not immune to heroics."

Entirely untrue. That had been the exact moment Shal had expected this story to end. Instead the Koi had turned the tables and trapped em right back into this lie.

Before continuing ey looked past 81, at the door behind him. Wondered if the Koi was even seeing any of this or was still in Shal's room. Recovering from...

"It's weird to know people here.", Shal spoke slowly, trying to navigate a safe path through: "You get to know things that would take years to unearth outside. Makes it all more intense, you know?"

Ey clasped eys hands together and looked back at the Raccoons face: "I am sure of my feelings for xym." Fully omitting what those feelings actually were, instead follwing up with bait: "If xe is the same....I don't know." Pointing at the door. "Guess we'll find out together."

The silence felt too long as 81 puzzled through the implications. Thankfully arrived at the intended conclusion: "You haven't told xym?"

With a grimace, ey shook eys head: "What for? There is no guarantee they are gonna put us into more games together after this." Oh wait fuck, they are gonna put them into more games together, won't they?

The marten buried eys face in eys hands, massaging around eys eyes and snout. Pretending the shivers racing through eys fur were sudden nausea instead of fear.

"Please wait."

"Player 2, do you believe the answer to be true?"

There should be enough footage to "prove" eys statement. Then again there was probably an equal amount to disprove it too. Having your life in the hand of people you'll never meet really sucked.

Instead of going through that, the Raccoon answered with a benevolent smile: "I do!"

Somehow Shal managed to bite back the urge to call him the dumbest Person alive on this ship.