#that being said El should let her brother have that man

[jonathanbyersphd]

No bc the way You're Losing Me fits both Byler & Milkvan like Mike Wheeler what did you do??????

[starkeysbaby]

When the turtle incident at the beach happens the reader gets hurt saving the turtle 🐢 and rafe snap. Everyone sees a different side of rafe

a/n: i LOVE this idea. - Unfortunately i feel like i didn’t do it justice 🥲🥲 but hope you enjoy!! <3

“if i ever see you round my girl again…”

pairings: s4 rafe cameron x kook but not kooky!reader [est. relationship]

warnings: S4 E4 SCENE DESCRIBED/USED (not sure if it’s really a spoiler tho as nothing plot wise is revealed) turtles being hurt, blood, death threat, canon rafe lol, use of swear words. (pls lemme know if i forgot any)

summary: you just wanted peace between everyone, unfortunately you and a turtle became collateral damage over a kook vs pogue contest. rafe is not happy…

navigation ⋅˚₊‧𐙚‧₊˚ ⋅ obx masterlist

You were a kook? Well that’s what your bank account said. However, you were closer with the pogues and basically hung out with them or your boyfriend.. rafe cameron. that was the weird part. It had been awkward since the pogues all returned from El Dorado. You had sort of become the middle man in between rafe and the pogues including his sister, sarah. It was an unspoken rule between you and rafe that you just don’t talk about them with him which you respected. He’ll come around in his own time you thought.

When the swell came in, your boyfriend and his friends were eager to hit the beach and have a surf day to which you wouldn’t turn down. meeting up at tannyhill, you saw that topper had bought his new girlfriend, ruthie who you weren’t too keen on. You had mentioned this to rafe a while back but he said that it isn’t yours or his business to get involved with toppers love life and told you to just stay away from her if you didn’t like her to which you couldn’t argue.

Arriving at the beach you saw your friends, jj, john b, kiara and sarah and quickly told rafe that you were going over to say hi. Rafe just mumbled something as he set up his towel and told you not to be long as he stared daggers at sarah.

“hey!” you wave jogging up to the pogues, hugging sarah then kie. “what’s up y/nn (your nickname)” kie asked. “not much. just thought we’d hit the waves. i told them we should go a bit farther from here but they didn’t listen… sorry” you explained, knowing it’s best if the kooks and pogues don’t cross paths today. “you’re good. it’s them we don’t trust” jj butts in. “yeah, no. i’ll tell them to lay off..” you smile then turn to sarah. “he’s trying. he’ll come around. i know it..” you tell her, referring to rafe. Sarah just shrugs, pretending as if not being on good terms with her brother isn’t bothering her. “wanna surf?” you smile and take sarah’s hand dragging her to the water as you both laugh.

After surfing with sarah and the pogues for a while, you had joined rafe on his towel and spent an hour or so just chilling with him. He showered you in attention and you did your best to ignore ruthies little comments about the pogues and how jj is a poor sport. At one point, rafe saw you side eye ruthie for shitting on the pogues again. “hey. don’t frown.” he mumbles turning your head to face him and pats your cheek. “i don’t get her problem rafe.” you sigh. “yeah it sucks, but cmon” “no. it’s unnecessary. they aren’t doing anything to her.” you tell him, referring to the pogues just minding their business apart from that tiny squabble with jj and topper in the ocean but topper didn’t seem to care too much so why does ruthie? “i told you, ignore her” rafe says a little sternly taking your hand in his, his thumb caressing the back of your hand. “yeah yeah…” you smile as you peck him, letting it go as you didn’t want ruthie to ruin the day.

While you packed up, unknown to you and rafe, ruthie was convincing topper to just ride the truck over to the pogues to mess up their set up. You in the meantime went over to the pogues to say bye, only to find them saving a turtle hatch in which you started assisting with. The next thing you know, you see ruthie driving her truck at a high speed straight at you. While sarah and kie do their best to get the turtles out of the way in time, you stand in front waving your hands trying to get ruthies attention to stop her. “hey! hey!!! stop! there’s a hatch!” you call out but she doesn’t hear you. you can vaguely see topper yell at ruthie, probably to stop but she’s just laughing. kiara notices ruthie has no intention of stopping and quickly pulls you out the way.

Luckily no turtles were hurt at that point but you see ruthie circling around to go again. You stand up again, trying to stop her. Rafe has also noticed this and starts making his way over to get, in his words, your stupid ass out of the way. You realise ruthie yet again has no intention of stopping so you quickly go to pick up a turtle that was in the way but you get hit slightly by the truck, knocking you out.

“what the actual fuck?!” kiara yells rushing to you, she takes the turtles from you and calls for rafe who’s at your side in seconds. He looks up at a shocked, somewhat guilty looking ruthie. “what the fuck is your problem?” he spits “did you not see her fucking standing there telling you to stop!” he yells as he takes off his shirt to wrap around a bloody scrape on your knee from something in the sand. Overall you weren’t too badly hurt but might need some stitches. That was enough for rafe to see red though.

As sarah goes to fetch water to splash you awake, ruthie stutters “i.. i thought she’d get out the way. why would she just fucking stand the-” kie cuts her off “there was a turtle hatch! look what you did! she was tryna save this turtle” kie yells at her, showing her the hurt turtle to which ruthie turns her face away from. “why the fu-” rafe cuts himself off on questioning you to wake you up with the water sarah got. As you felt water being splashed on your face, you sit up. “what happened?” you groan. “y/n im so so sor-” ruthie starts to apologise but rafe cuts her off. “no. you shut the fuck up and stay away from my girl” rafe snaps causing topper to get involved. “hey now rafe-” but again rafe cuts him off. “control your bitch, top” he huffs shutting topper and everyone else up.

He lifts you up and walks towards his truck. “my head hurts..” you mumble. “i know baby.. gonna get you to the hospital aight” he gently whispers to you to which you just nod. With a final “don’t pull shit like that again” from rafe, he places you in the passengers seat before shutting the door and quickly going up to ruthie. “if i ever see you round my girl again… i’ll kill you” he murmurs up close to her face in a terrifyingly dangerous way. Apart from sarah and a few of the pogues, no one has ever seen rafe like that.. so scary.. so threatening… so murderous. Ruthie just nodded which was enough for rafe to leave the scene so he could take you to the hospital.

a/n: hope you enjoyed - kinda struggled to find a way to set the dynamic where reader is dating rafe but close to the pogues at this point in the show cuz i couldn’t see rafes defending someone so furiously unless he was dating her 😭

requests are open!! enjoy lovelies - liv <33

[natalievoncatte]

“What I did wasn’t personal,” Lena said.

Supergirl had already turned to face her. There were words formed on her lips, but Alex struck first, bringing her viper wit where it wasn’t needed or welcome.

“You had a stash of ‘Kills Kryptonians’. It’s personal,” said Alex.

Lena ignored her, looking directly at Supergirl.

“You know I’d never use it that way.”

“You kept secrets,” said Supergirl. “Secrets change things. I don’t like secrets.”

“Oh really,” Lena spat, knowing she’d regret what came next. “You don’t like secrets. Okay. What’s your real name?”

Alex flinched. Supergirl stared her down. Even in this miserable place, she was inhumanly beautiful, even if Lena was a little resentful that she’d been bitching about walking fifty yards a few moments ago, and making light of exercise, when she had the audacity to look like that.

The pause grew heavy. Something seemed to turn behind Supergirl’s eyes, like she was working something out. Her expression softened lightly.

“Why didn’t you come to me about Sam? I thought we trusted each other.”

“How can I trust you?” Lena said. “You still hold me at arm’s length, won’t let me in, only look for my help when it’s convenient for you. Maybe I should have sought your help, but it isn’t like I have you on speed dial, is it? What was I supposed to do, toss myself off a balcony and hope you were having coffee with Kara Danvers again?”

Supergirl flinched. Looking at Lena intently, she stepped closer, and Alex grew visibly nervous.

“Supergirl…” she said.

“You want to know my real name?”

“Yes,” Lena said, her voice suddenly unsteady, her palms breaking out in a sweat despite the cool, stale air. She stood her ground before a being that could level a mountain with a look and held her gaze.

“Kryptonian names are patronymics, sort of. A man’s name is his own and that of his family. So, for example, my cousin’s name is Kal-El. His father was Jor-El.”

“I knew that already,” said Lena. “Your cousin shared that an interview with Lois Lane.”

“He can share his because he has a name that was given to him by his adoptive family,” said Supergirl, her voice softening as she took another step closer. “I still use my Kryptonian first name.”

Something about that itched at Lena’s brain, but she wasn’t sure what.

“Supergirl,” Alex hissed. “You can’t… we can’t…”

Supergirl threw her a glance. “What? Trust her?” She looked at Lena. “My father was Joe-El’s brother, Zor-El. My mother’s name was Alura In-Ze.”

Lena licked her lips.

“They gave me the name Kara,” said Kara Zor-El. “On Earth, I accepted the surname of the family that took me in to raise me when my cousin gave me up to them. My full name is Kara Zor-El Danvers.”

Lena stumbled a step back, her mouth falling open comically. It felt like the ground was bursting open and swallowing her up, her stomach dropping through her knees.

No. No, no, no, no. It couldn’t be.

“Look at me, Lena.”

Lena looked away from her.”

“Look at me.”

Lena looked.

Lena saw.

Her hair was down, but Lena knew those honeyed curls. Supergirl carried herself differently- her shoulders were proud where Kara tended to hunch down, make herself small, as if to pass through the world without touching it.

Lena hadn’t really looked before. Not like this. She’d studied Kara, maybe even mooned over Kara a little until she seemed to confirm she was straight by dating that alien jackass. She knew every part of her face from her soft lips to her feel blue eyes to that funny little scar right over her eye.

How had she not seen?

“Fucking hell, Kara!” Alex snapped.

Lena’s lip trembled. She clenched her fists to keep her hands steady, knowing they were shaking.

“You tricked me,” Lena hissed, “so many times, so many ways, running off and changing into that suit when I thought you were both people. The super-speed, right?”

“I’m sorry,” said Kara, her voice soft. “Let’s just…”

“I wasn’t finished,” said Lena. “You… you told me you were having coffee with Kara, but you are Kara. Kara… you caught me when they threw me off the balcony. You risked being killed by a kryptonite explosion when Metallo went critical. You… you were… Jesus Christ, the plane, the chemicals, that was you?”

Kara’s eyes grew wider with every syllable and even in the gloom, Lena could swear she saw tears welling up within them.

“She’s risked her life for you over and over and over,” Alex said, quietly. “Her faith in you has only wavered the once. She’s always defended you and insisted on your innocence even when I was ready to throw you in a cell,” said Alex. “She defended you from the first. Shit, she defended you from Superman.”

Lena looked from one to the other, staring at them both in turn, trying to keep her wobbly legs from completely collapsing under her.

“I owe you an apology,” said Kara, raising her gaze to meet Lena’s.

“Can you two do this later?” said Alex. “We’re on a mission, here.”

Lena swallowed, hard.

“Yeah. Let’s go find Sam.”

They did find Sam, eventually, but the plan went sideways. After they were thrust back into their bodies, Supergirl -Kara- curtly told her to help Brainy while she and Alex rushed off.

So Lena helped brainy, until it was time for her to leave. Eventually, she made her way back to her penthouse, and to a glass of single malt, neat. She savored its subtleties as she stared out at the stars.

She knew this would happen sooner or later, so she wasn’t surprised when Kara touched down on the balcony, looking utterly stunning and brave and dashing in her fancy suit. She motioned to knock at the glass.

“It’s not locked.”

“Hi,” said Kara, stepping inside.

Lena looked up. “I can’t believe I didn’t see. You’re just… you, in a different outfit.”

That wasn’t exactly true, Lena knew. As she walked into Lena’s living room, Kara had neither the mousy, retiring way of Kara Danvers nor the brash swagger of Supergirl. It was like she was seeing a third person, one who’d been fully revealed for the first time.

“I’ve been going back and forth in my mind, trying to decide what parts of our friendship were real.”

“All of it,” Kara said.

“If my brother were here, he’d say that you befriended me to spy on me and use my resources and genius for your own ends.”

“That’s not true.”

Lena took a sip, and breathed in through her parted lips after swallowing to savor it.

“I know. He said the same thing about Jack, actually. Lex always tries to convince me that anyone else in my life is just after my name or money or body.”

Kara said nothing. Lena looked up.

“Just because he’s a madman who wants to gaslight me into being a supervillain doesn’t mean he’s always wrong. Does it?”

Kara swallowed, hard.

“You’ve been very insistent on being my friend,” said Lena. “You practically barged into my life and broke down all my barriers with your earnest kindness, but you were keeping yourself behind another one.”

“The first time I ever saw you, I knew in my heart that you were nothing like him,” said Kara. “I remember every detail.”

“In my office, with Kent.”

“No. In the helicopter. That was the first time I saw you.”

Lena swirled the dregs in her glass. “Oh. Right.”

“I just had to know you. You were compelling, and the way you treated me in your office that day was a huge part of that. You seemed so… I don’t even know how to describe it. I just knew I had to be close to you.”

A fit of pique moved her arm before she could contain herself, and Lena threw the glass. Kara snatched it from the air and placed it on the table without spilling a drop.

She was closer now, standing within arm’s reach.

“You can’t just say things like that to me,” Lena almost hissed, her voice loosened by the whiskey and the one before and the one before that.

“Why?” said Kara.

Lena looked up, swaying slightly.

“You told me your name.”

“I should have sooner. We could have worked together. We could have done a lot of things.”

“Fuck,” Lena snapped. “You’re doing it again! Knock it off?”

“Knock what off?”

“You goddamn well what,” said Lena. “Or maybe you really don’t.”

“I’m sorry,” said Kara. “I just don’t understand. Can you… do you want to tell me what you mean?”

“I… sit down.”

Kara swept her cape aside and sat primly in a side chair, folding her hands in her lap, worrying at the back of her thumb with her other thumb. God, she even had Kara’s mannerisms.”

“I’m gay,” said Lena.

Kara swallowed. “But… you were with Jack… and James… and you really seem to like the letter J,” Kara said, lamely.

“It’s called bisexuality, Kara. It’s a thing.”

“Oh, I um, I don’t really get ‘sexualities.’ On Krypton, we didn’t have sexual preferences. We didn’t choose our partners at all, everything was arranged.”

“That sounds awful,” said Lena.

Kara looked away. “It was our way and it worked. We had stable families, and most people had a kind of love. My parents loved each other.”

Lena sighed. “I wish I could say that. One of my parents didn’t love anyone but himself. Your sister is gay, Kara. How can you not understand it?”

“I understand that. I just find the whole thing confusing, and overwhelming. I keep looking for this spark that everyone talks about, and these ‘gut feelings’, but every time I think I’ve had it, it wasn’t right.”

“It seemed right with Mon-El. Oh. Oh Jesus. You banished your own boyfriend from Earth.”

Kara shook her head. “I know it did. I thought it did. I just never… it was the idea of him. I was checking a box. I was with him to have a boyfriend, not to have him. We’re really different people.”

“Why are we talking about this again?” said Lena.

Kara suddenly looked nervous, and thus even more like herself.

“I don’t know. It just seems to have happened. Kind of like our whole friendship. I never made a plan to be your friend. I never had an agenda. I just needed you in my life without knowing why. You just bring me joy.”

Lena wanted to laugh. She wanted to cry, she wanted to scream.

You big indestructible goof, that is the spark!

“I should have told you about me after Medusa. I should have trusted you then, but Alex talked me out of it. I didn’t push past when it counted. I know you doubt how much you mean to me now, and I’m so sorry I did that.”

“I’d never hurt you, ever,” said Lena. “Even if you weren’t Kara. But I could never hurt her. You.”

“I know.

“For what it’s worth,” said Lena. “I felt it too. That pull, that need to know you. That’s why I allowed you to get close to me instead of being bundled off by my security. I felt it from the first, that day you came to my office. I might have felt it a little during the helicopter crash, too.”

Kara nodded.

“I feel like there’s something we’re both not saying.”

Lena licked her lips.

“I have to stop the worldkillers. I have to save Sam. I have to fix it all. I just needed to talk to you first. See you first, see you again, just the two of us.”

Lena nodded, swallowing.

“I guess I should go.”

Lena wanted to tell her not to. To ask her to spend the night, change out of that ridiculous suit, to just be Kara and stay with her, but it dawned on her now that it could never be quite like that again. Kara was Supergirl and Supergirl had to be shared with the world.

“I want to help. I’ll come to the DEO.”

“Okay,” said Kara. “I’ll see you there.”

She stood up and walked to the balcony, pausing before she opened the door. She didn’t turn when she spoke, as if she was afraid to face Lena, to face the answer.

“Do you think, when this is over, we can try it again? Try to fix it?”

“Is that something you want?” Said Lena.

“That pull is still there.”

“I know,” said Lena. “I feel it too.”

Kara’s shoulders rose and fell, as if she’d just rolled a great burden from her back.

“Okay,” she said. “Okay. I’ll see you back at the DEO. Goodnight, Lena.”

“Goodnight, Kara.”

She slid the balcony door open and stepped out, pausing for just the briefest second before lifting off, sending a gentle gust of chilly night air rolling into Lena’s penthouse.

Lena let the breeze flow in for a while before she stood up and went to the door, meaning to close it. Instead, she stepped outside, leaning on the railing as the chill raised gooseflesh on her arms.

“I feel it, too.”

[d-targaryenshoe]

Muddy Games - Anthony Bridgerton

Word Count: 1728

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton and a game of Pall Mall, without winning it's never good enough it is.

As the sunlight met your skin, you felt the heat radiate from the So huge window shining into your bedroom, or perhaps it may been the warmth that radiated from your husband's body who still sounded pretty much asleep next to you. 

Staring at the ceiling, a smile appeared on your face. It may have been happiness even though adoration was also still a valuable option.

You pulled the covers from your body as you carefully took hold of Anthony's hand, trying to pull yourself from under his grip meanwhile, but the Lord was smarter than you knew.

"Dearest, it's almost half of the day, we must go downstairs to the family." You chuckled, feeling Anthony's arm tighten around your waist before he pulled you closer once more. "Anthony, we've arrived last night, we didn't even see them."

"We still have enough time to conversate with them, they'd understand me if I desired to lock myself in here with my newly wedded wife." He answered, placing his lips on your neck.

"They would, hm?" Running a hand through his brown hair, you smiled while raising an eyebrow at the man. "We really should sr-tart of this da-"

"Anthony? Y/n?" A young female's voice was sounded on the other side of your door after a knock was heard. "YOU MUST MAKE HASTE." 

Anthony sighed to himself, rubbing his forehead before getting up out of bed and opening the door for a small crack. hiding his uncovered body behind the door, meeting Eloise's eyes. "Sister? Nice to see you on this delightful morning, is it not?"

"No, it is not." She answered.

"The sun is shining to its greatest?"

"Sun? Ah, very hot, too hot." She fanned herself with her hand.

Eloise grinned sarcastically at her brother, giving him a toothy smile, trying to peek into the room but no one could do as Anthony positioned his hand on the doorframe. "Do you need assistance with anything, El?

"No, just hastening the two of you up with whatever you're accomplishing, everyone's downstairs, we're almost beginning a Pall Mall game." Eloise shrugged, before loudly speaking up. "DAPHNE WOULD LOVE TO SEE Y/N AGAIN AFTER SUCH A LONG TRAVEL." 

Anthony squinted at the younger girl, shaking his head before she waved him off and walked away, knowing how much of a strong connection you had with the other Bridgerton sister.

Anthony closed the door, walked back into the room, and started to relay Eloise's message, but you interrupted him with a chuckle. "I heard everything, dearest. Let's not keep your family waiting." 

You leaned in and gave him a quick kiss before getting out of bed to get dressed. Anthony smiled at you, grateful for your understanding nature, and started to get ready as well. 

"Thank you for the concern, but I'm ready to face them. We'll handle it together." You replied with a smile as you walked down the staircase, holding hands. 

As you stepped outside, the first thing you saw was the family waiting on the grass field. They were all smiling and waving, and you could feel the love and warmth radiating from them. 

Despite the overwhelming feeling of being surrounded by so many people, you knew that you were very much ready to be a part of this family.

Eloise was standing next to Violet, who immediately embraced you and welcomed you to the family. 

"Oh, brother, I must say, you and the clothes on your body are a much more pleasant sight." Eloise smiled, but the smile quickly faded as she saw the look Colin gave her.

"Eloise, that's enough. Let's not embarrass the newlyweds," Violet said, giving her daughter a stern look. 

"I'll think of a number and the person to guess it, picks first?" Colin suggested.

"What? I do not accept. The oldest should pick first, Colin." Benedict snapped.

"The oldest? The youngest, much rather!" Eloise

"I just got married, I should be choosing." Anthony urged.

"Why am I afraid that this is how every Pall Mall game goes?" You asked Daphne as she chuckled. "Because it is, is it not?"

Daphne catches your eye and nods her head. "Very much so, excuse me for a moment."

"All of you, almost starting a contest on who shall pick first, when the only person who has not said one thing, is your wife, Anthony, maybe she is the one to pick first?" Daphne gave her brother a stern look, hearing Eloise laughing quietly.

As Anthony clears his throat, he agrees with Daphne's suggestion that you should be the one to pick first. "Yes, that's a great idea. Dearest, why don't you pick first?" he says, giving you a warm smile. 

You nod, picking the black mallet, and noticing Anthony's expression of shock. You can't help but laugh as Benedict teases his brother about the mallet of death. 

"So it is yours?" You ask, holding out the mallet towards him to take, but he shakes his head, kissing your temple.

"No, not at all, it's yours now." Anthony smiles.

"Is it? Because the last time I tried to do so, you almost beate-" Colin his words were stopped by the look his brother gave him. "What?"

"You exaggerate, dear brother." Anthony placed his chin on your shoulder, standing behind you and wrapping one arm around your waist. 

"I've had enough, shall I watch those two all day, or may I start this game?" Eloise sighed, swinging the mallet in her hand towards you and Anthony. "I much would like to do the second thought."

" I think we should indeed begin with the Pall Mall game, y/n, love, why don't you start? violet kindly smiled, placing her hand on yours before returning to her seat.

With a determined look on your face, you swung your mallet and successfully struck the round bowl through the high arch of iron.

"Well, well, well! It seems your mighty mallet has finally proven its worth." You teased your husband, making him place his lips on your neck, making you lean into him. 

" It was just a stroke of luck." He muttered against your neck, before releasing you and walking towards the spot to give it his best try. "Dear family, watch closely, Benedict, you indeed. I'm about to show you how it's done."

Anthony steps up to take his shot, his eyes focused on the target. He swings his mallet with confidence, but to his dismay, he misses the ball completely. His expression turns from determination to frustration.

"Well, well, Anthony. I must say, that was quite the swing!" Benedict laughed, throwing his arm around his brother's shoulder.

Anthony's face turns red with embarrassment as his siblings join in on the laughter.

"Oh Anthony, perhaps you need a bit more practice before challenging Benedict." Daphne tried to hide her smile behind her gloved hand. 

"I think I'll keep score. One point deducted for every missed shot, Anthony." Eloise adjusted the bow in her hair, smiling at the Bridgerton brother.

Anthony tries to maintain his composure, but the teasing continues to rattle him. "Enough! I'll show you all in the next round."

"Alright, here goes nothing!" Daphne sighs, taking Anthony's spot of position. Daphne takes a deep breath and focuses on the ball. With a swift motion, she strikes it with precision.

The ball hits the target dead center, causing a loud "clang" sound. 

"I did it! I did it!" She cheered, embracing you and Eloise with joy. 

"Okay, Daphne, we've heard, now it's my turn." Colin tries his best to concentrate. "Alright, here goes nothing!"

"Colin, that position? You really must work on your aim." Anthony spoke, having Eloise chuckle. "Don't chuckle, you too."

"Just you wait, Anthony. I'll get better with practice." Colin answered, striking the ball and scoring another point. 

"Everybody move, I get to try now." Benedict swings his mallet and hits the ball with a strong force, but unfortunately, it veers off course. "Damn it!"

"What happened, Benedict?" Anthony raised an eyebrow, leaning his hands on his mallet.

"It's your fault, Anthony! You distracted me!" Benedict pointed a finger at his brother. 

 "Me? How on earth did I distract you?" Anthony rolled his eyes. "It's not my fault you missed your shot."

"Okay, okay, my turn, go away," Eloise said, She hit the ball, but it flew through the air and landed in the mud. "Oh no! The ball went flying, there goes my shot!

Anthony let his eyes run over the field and remembers which direction it went. "Y/n, dearest, the ball went in that direction, care to join?"

"Of course, we must retrieve it." You smile, taking hold of your husband's hand and following him in the direction, trying not to ruin your gown.

" Look for anything round and shiny. It could be partially buried." Anthony said, doing his best not to slip away in the mud. 

Letting your eyes scan the ground they stopped at a particular point. "I see something over there! It's partially hidden under the mud."

The both of you carefully unearth the ball, covered in mud, but otherwise intact. "Thank goodness! Our family's legacy is safe."

the both of you find yourselves alone in the middle of the muddy mess. Your clothes are drenched and covered in dirt. The rain pours down, adding to the chaos.

"Well, my love, it seems we've found ourselves in quite a predicament, the desire that burns within me is too strong." Anthony softly spoke, removing the sleeve from your shoulder

"Oh, stop it, Anthony. You're just as disheveled as I am." You chuckled, as Anthony pulled your body closer to his. 

"But that's what makes this moment so perfect. No expectations, no inhibitions, just us, here in the mud." Anthony smiled at you, tightening his grip around you. 

 "Are you suggesting we make the most of this muddy situation?" You asked, removing the strand of hair that fell on his forehead.

"Absolutely, dearest, let's embrace the messiness and create a memory that will last a lifetime." You share a passionate kiss, your bodies intertwining as they revel in the spontaneity of the moment. 

The rain continues to pour, washing away your worries and leaving only their love behind. The mud still clings to your clothes, but you pay no mind.

 In this moment, nothing else matters except their love for each other.

[theofficialpresidentofmars]

zuko and katara have genuinely SUCH an interesting dynamic and relationship to explore when you don’t have a bitch in your ear trying to tell you they should kiss.

like there’s nothing objectively wrong with shipping zut4ra but i CANNOT find any proper duo content of them that isn’t romantic or romantically implied and it annoys me. no i don’t think they would work. no i don’t think Katara would give up her man for that guy of all people. no I don’t think Zuko would be romantically interested in Katara. yes i do think that reducing all of their feelings towards each other into ‘romance’ oversimplifies and undermines the depth of the platonic relationship that they actually do have in established canon. yes whatever I’m sure there’s something sweet about a boy trying to get a girl to forgive him by helping her get revenge on the guy that killed her mom but don’t you think that it’s actually much more profound if there are no romantic ulterior motives whatsoever and it’s actually just a demonstration of the lengths Zuko will go to because he cares deeply about his friends and their feelings and what they think about him and he wants Katara to like him and he’s genuinely sorry that he broke her trust by warming up to her slightly before betraying them and to make sure she knows that he was being sincere and he actually was touched by what she said he tries to find a way for her to heal a wound that he knows tears her apart and it’s a wound he wishes he could heal in himself. and he does it because he’s trying to earn her forgiveness, not her love. he’s trying to earn himself the right to look her in the eye, not to hold her hand. he’s trying to amend for the mistakes of his people for nothing but the better of others.

and when Katara offers to heal him in the cave, it’s not because she’s fallen head over heels at all, or even in the slightest. she’s the first to see the light in him, and she sees a boy who’s been hurt by the fire nation in a similar way to her. she recognises that if she can convince him to come with her now, the gaang is up by a firebending teacher and a friend at best, and down an enemy at least at worst. for a moment she sees him for who he is and what he’s been through and it’s not because she likes him. the thought doesn’t even cross her mind, it’s just in her nature as a person to be caring and understanding and she has the help she can tell he needs, so she extends a hand.

and when they face Azula together? Katara was the first to reach out when it was almost the right time, and she’s the one who’ll be there to help him see it through. When he takes a bolt for her, isn’t it more profound that he jumps in front of the bolt not out of romantic love, but because Zuko is the kind of person who would put himself in mortal danger for anyone he cared about? Because his heart’s too big and because he’s seen those he love get hurt too many times to stand there and let them take it?

anyway I’ve spent too much of this post refuting romance but not actually expressing what it is i do like about their platonic dynamic but it’s late and i don’t have the words. so i’ll just say it’s such in that it would be really funny if Zuko instead dated Katara’s brother. and they yap together and she gives him a list of interests and he tells her embarrassing date stories. they also yap a lot about Aang because like. Zuko’s bff and Katara’s bf he’d probably come up a lot. also Maiko’s platonic shit-talking exes/close friends dynamic solos their romantic dynamic but that’s a discussion for another day ^-^

ship name censored because I don’t intend for any negativity to actually intrude upon certain shipping spaces lmao. i’m rarely opinionated but i don’t really care tbh i just wish there was more platonic stuff out there or i saw less romantic stuff el oh el

[apomaro-mellow]

S1E07: Go Fish

S1E06

Jim was in the cereal aisle, pushing his cart around. He stopped in front of the chocolatey cereals and was pretending to look at them. He picked a box up and without missing a beat-

“I know when I’m being followed, Joyce. Whatever it is, just spit it out.”

She slid her cart next to his, looking a little sheepish. “I didn’t mean to stalk you in the store. I just didn’t need you turning tail when you saw me.”

“I wouldn’t ‘turn tail’. I’d walk away, like a man.”

“And this man is gearing up for a fishing trip this weekend with his son, right?”, Joyce asked.

“Yeah, me and Steve have plans for it. Why?”

“Well I was thinking… that you could bring a couple other guys. Like Will and Jonathan.”

“And just why would I do that?”

“Because they could use some male-bonding time”, Joyce said, looking very intently at the contents of her cart.

“See, the thing is, I was planning on having a little…talk, with Steve. Just me and him.”

“You can talk to my boys too.”

Jim cleared his throat. “It’s gonna be uh, well a sensitive topic.” He started pushing his cart in an attempt to leave the conversation.

Joyce kept pace with him. “I think Jonathan and Will could use that talk too.”

Jim stopped suddenly, then looked Joyce over. “I think we’re talking about different things.”

“I don’t think we are”, Joyce said.

“And why should I be the one to do it, huh?”

“You’re the one who decided they needed someone to teach them how to throw a ball or mow the lawn. So you can get this too.”

Jim hung his head. “....They bring their own poles.”

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

At 4:30 in the morning, Jim was already packing the car away. Steve was yawning as he leaned against the passenger door. Jonathan was carrying Will, fully dressed but still mostly asleep. Steve opened the back door so he could be put into the backseat.

“You and Hopper fish a lot?”, Jonathan asked.

“Only when he wants to talk”, Steve said. “Last time we went fishing he told me about us moving. This time I think he’s gonna tell us he’s getting married to your mom.”

“What?”, Jonathan hissed in a whisper.

“Why else would he bring you and Will along?”, Steve shrugged.

“They’re not getting married.”

Steve grinned. “Wanna bet?”

“I thought you learned not to bet against me?”

“Saddle up, boys. We gotta get there before the fish wake up”, Hopper said as he got in behind the wheel.

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

Hours later, El’s Saturday morning cartoon marathon was interrupted by the sound of knocking at the door.

“Good morning!”, Dustin, Lucas, Max, and Mike greeted.

“Good morning”, El waved. “Were we supposed to meet up today?”

“Your dad and your older brother are both out of the house all day. Of course we’re hanging!”, Dustin exclaimed while letting himself in.

“We brought some movies and some games”, Lucas added.

“This is okay, right El?”, Mike asked.

“Y-yeah it’s okay. Totally.”

Max gave her a knowing look before making herself comfortable on the couch. Lucas took out a deck of Uno cards and began to shuffle.

“As the reigning champion, I’ll deal”, he said.

“Since when are you reigning champion?”, Mike questioned.

“Since I beat you back in second grade and you never recovered.”

“That’s BS you never beat me!”

“Well how’s about a friendly game to settle it?”, Lucas suggested as he dealt everyone a hand.

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

The waters of the lake were calm and mostly still. In the boat, Jim and Will sat on one side, while Steve and Jonathan sat on the other.

“Look at us”, Jim said, trying to keep any nerves from his smile. “Just a bunch of men, earnin’ their meals today.”

Jonathan was the only one to respond. “Heh, yeah.”

“Your dad ever take you boys fishing?”, Jim asked.

Will shook his head as Jonathan spoke up. “He took me hunting, a couple of times. I didn’t really…enjoy it.”

“Well fishing’s different from hunting. For one thing, you can just shoot the breeze with your fellow fishermen while waiting for something to bite.”

“Does it take a long time?”, Will asked.

“Depends. We could be out here for hours and catch nothin’. You just never know.” Jim rolled his shoulders and cleared his throat. “But uh, speaking of catching, or uh”, he shifted it gaze to Steve. “Pitching? Or you know, whatever you’re about. Um-”, he cleared his throat. “I wanted to talk to you boys about something.”

“Here it comes”, Steve said. 

“Are you really marrying my mom?”, Jonathan blurted out at the same time Will asked, “Are you mad about the baseball game?”

Jim looked between all three of them. “Marry-what?! The game?? And what do you mean ‘here it comes’?”

“Every time you take me fishing, you’ve got some big news, or you wanna talk about something serious”, Steve said.

“We’ve been out fishing like, twice”, Jim said.

“But it’s true, right?”, Jonathan said. “You have something important to talk about? Is it about our mom?”

“I’m not getting married to Joyce.” Then Jim put a hand on Will’s shoulder. “And I’m not upset about the game. We raised a good amount of money and you kids played your heart out.”

Steve’s eyebrow raised. “Then why are we out here at the ass crack of dawn?”

“Watch your language. And we’re here because…” Jim got fidgety as he tried to lay it down gently. “I’ve noticed-well I guess Joyce has too, I wanted to talk to just Steve but if our suspicions are correct, you two boys need this talk too.”

“Um, if this is the talk I’m thinking about, my dad already had it with me”, Jonathan said, eyes shifty.

Steve raised a hand. “Yeah, same here. It’s a little late for the two of us, but maybe Will?”

“I-I don’t need that talk!”, Will said quickly. “I heard high school has a really good health teacher so, yeah.”

Jim rolled his eyes. “Not that kind of talk. This one’s a bit more…specific.”

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

“This is exactly what happened last time”, Lucas beamed.

“Shut up!”, Mike shouted.

All five of them had cards in their hands. Lucas was down to two while Mike had about a dozen in his hand.

Lucas kept going. “I was about to win, while you were stuck with all these cards.”

“How’s this for ‘about to win’? Draw four!”, Mike slammed it down like the card had wronged him personally.

“....This means war Wheeler.”

“Did any of you guys see this epic game?”, El asked Max and Dustin.

“Nope”, Dustin replied, placing down a card when it was his turn. “It happened before I moved here, which means it happened before Max moved here.”

“I’m starting to think it didn’t happen or neither of them won”, Max said. She then grinned at Mike. “Draw two, you goober.”

“You’re the worst”, Mike complained.

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

Silence lulled over the boat. Jonathan’s head was in his hands and Steve had his arms crossed. Will was gripping his pole like a lifeline. Jim released a breath.

“Feel free to, you know, say anything.”

Steve pinched at the bridge of his nose before leaning forward. “What are we supposed to say? Besides ‘you’re dead wrong’? Or ‘you have no idea what you’re talking about’?”

“I know a thing or two about it.”

“Then let’s focus on you being dead wrong”, Steve said. “We’re not-”, he quickly looked around the lake but there was no one else on the water but them. “We’re not queers”, he said a bit more quietly.

Jim sighed. “Steve…”

“I’m sorry, our MOM asked you to talk to us about this?”, Jonathan finally looked up from his hands.

“Joyce has noticed some things. And so have I”, Jim said.

“I don’t know what you think you’ve noticed, but you’re wrong”, Steve said.

Will was very quiet, but Jim’s eyes still went to him, trying to gauge his expression. It reminded him of a scared, cornered animal.

“Look, gay or not, we just wanted you to know…well that we know.”

“And what? You’re gonna kick me out? Or send me to boot camp?”, Steve got up suddenly and jostled the boat.

“Watch it”, Jim said in a warning tone. “No one’s doing any of that.”

“Steve”, Jonathan grabbed his sleeve and pulled him back down. “I think he’s trying to tell us that he’s okay with it.”

“It doesn’t matter if he’s ‘okay with it’ when it’s not true!”

“Even if you’re not gay, you might have a friend that is”, Jonathan said. “And if you ever bring that friend around, it’s nice to know Hopper won’t just toss ‘em out, right?”

Steve settled, and for a moment, he thought about Robin. Then he looked to Will, who still hadn’t said a word.

“Yeah…okay, fine. It’s…nice to know that, I guess. But where do you get off just assuming I’m gay? I’ve literally gone out with half the girls in this town.”

“Two words”, Jim said as his line began to go taut. “Eddie Munson.”

Steve sputtered while Jim began to reel in something. He was still trying to explain himself when Will’s line did the same and he started to reel in a fish.

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

“This is inconceivable”, Mike said as he looked down at the stack of cards.

“Well, conceive it”, Max said as she placed down her last card.

“That’s two wins for me, three for El, and a whopping five wins for Max!”, Dustin announced with great exuberance.

“How is this even possible?”, Lucas lamented.

“Maybe we were just lucky”, El offered.

“Or maybe you two have never played against anyone with actual skill”, Max said just as the front door opened.

“Welcome back! Did you guys catch dinner?”, El asked.

“Fried fish is on the menu”, Jim said while patting the top of her head. He took the cooler full of fish into the kitchen.

“So how was manly-man fishing time?”, El asked Steve when he came in, carrying the poles.

“It was…enlightening.”

S1E08

[bella-rose29]

Little Kipps

Lockwood had no idea just how lovely somebody related to Quill Kipps could be.

Might make this a mini series (translation: I am definitely making this a mini series)

Word count: 1.8k

Warnings: swearing (i think that's it)

Tag list: @augustisintheair, @el-de-phi, @karensirkobabes, @tournesol77, @wordsarelife

Please let me know here if you'd like to be added to my Lockwood tag list <3

Quill Kipps was the most insufferable, annoying, arrogant, conceited man Anthony Lockwood had ever had the misfortune to meet.

So how on earth did he have such a lovely sister?

Y/n Kipps was everything that her older brother was not; kind, funny, caring, beautiful (not that Lockwood spent much time considering how attractive Kipps was, it was Y/n he couldn't tear his eyes away from given she was practically a goddess). In Lockwood's eyes, she was perfect, and in an ideal world he'd try and ask her on a date.

This wasn't an ideal world, however.

The first time that he'd met Y/n was after a case gone only slightly wrong, but involved Kipps' team showing up. Lockwood, George and Lucy had everything under control, of course, but he couldn't deny how grateful he was for the extra supplies of flares when the Fittes team turned up. Walking over to the pavement after the sources were contained, he sat down rather unceremoniously, then groaned when he saw Kipps headed his way, a smirk on that stupid face.

"Alright, Tony? I think it's time you considered giving up and leaving the jobs to the real agents, yeah?"

"Oi! Don't be rude, Quill. He did actually save your sorry ass out there! Biscuit?" Both boys startled at the new voice, and when Lockwood saw the girl that had approached them, packet of digestives in hand, he lost his breath.

"He did not," Kipps grumbled, taking a biscuit and munching on it like an angry rabbit. She turned and offered the packet out to Lockwood, who took one with a grateful smile.

"I did, actually. Remember when I told you to duck? You looked around for a quacking bird instead, so I had to shove you to the ground." Now it was Lockwood's turn to smirk, and the delighted laughter that came from the girl made his heart lift.

"Shut up, you pointed and I thought 'That's just the kind of stupid thing that Tony would do, see a duck and get distracted on a job that's clearly out of his depth'."

"Quill?"

"Yeah?"

"Please stop talking."

Lockwood watched the two of them talk, and wondered how they knew each other. She was clearly close to Kipps, but why he had no idea. Surely nobody in their right mind would willingly spend time with the guy?

"Why are you even here? You should be home," Kipps said, worry creeping into his voice. Lockwood's brow furrowed, and he wondered if they were maybe dating.

"Yeah, well mum's being a bitch again, and I have a rapier, so it's not like I'd have died, is it?"

"She's being a bitch again? I thought you said she'd stopped?"

"Sorry to interrupt, but maybe have this conversation where other people can't hear you? It just feels like it's about to get deep and as much as I would love to spend more time in your company," he sent a wink in the girl's direction, delighted when she blushed lightly, "I don't think you really want a stranger listening in," Lockwood said, charming smile working its way onto his face as he stood, brushing off the back of his trousers.

"Oh, yeah, of course! Sorry. Another biscuit for the road?" She offered the packet up, and who was he to say no to her? Taking a second biscuit, Kipps scoffed.

"Yeah, okay. This," he pointed a finger at Lockwood and the girl, "is never happening again."

"What? Have you finally lost your mind Kipps?"

"Nope. Good night." And he turned and walked off, dragging the girl with him. Lockwood stood staring dumbly at their backs.

"You okay, Lockwood?" Lucy's voice surprised him, and he nearly dropped the biscuit.

"Who's that girl with Kipps?"

"Why, got a crush?" she teased, then seeing his face her jaw went slack, eyes lighting up with glee. "Oh my god you do, don't you! GEORGE! GET YOUR ASS OVER HERE!" Lockwood groaned, knowing that no matter what he said now, his colleagues would refuse to believe anything else.

"What? Why does Lockwood look like that? And how come he has a biscuit and I don't?"

"He's got a crush," Lucy said, and then George's eyes lit up.

"It's not a crush, I'm just curious why she's friends with Kipps," he explained, taking a bite of the biscuit.

"Oh, that's his sister," George piped up. "She's quite often in the Archives, does research on the beginning of the Problem like me. Pretty sure she's a freelance agent, our age. She mentioned she doesn't like the big institutions, but she has a rapier, so I'm just guessing."

"His sister?" Lockwood wilted a little. Kipps would definitely never let Lockwood anywhere near her now.

"Yeah. Her name's Y/n. And Kipps is super protective of her, so good luck asking her out or even looking in her direction while he's nearby."

George and Lucy walked off, taking the kit bags with them and loading them into the back of a night cab. Lockwood trailed after, still thinking about her.

"Y/n," he mumbled, and he decided he liked the way her name sounded.

~~~

The next time he saw her, he was in Arif's corner shop topping up on groceries. He'd just entered the bread aisle when the bell on the door dinged, and she walked in. She saw him, and a smile formed on her face as she waved.

"Hi! Lockwood, right? You look a lot better in daylight, I've gotta say," she said, coming over to where he stood. "Wait, not like that, I just meant that last time I saw you you'd just finished a job, not that you didn't look good, you're quite cute, oh my god I'm gonna stop talking now." She'd gone bright red as she rambled, and Lockwood was sure that he was the same.

"You're quite cute too," he replied, and where had that come from?! "Anthony Lockwood, yeah. I don't think I caught your name, though?" He knew exactly what her name was, but he didn't want to come across as a creep.

"Y/n, Quill's my brother. Oh, don't get that bread, that won't be any good."

He looked at the loaf he was holding and frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Uh, look at the use by date? It's for tomorrow?"

"Oh. Well there's three of us and none of us have had breakfast yet, and we can all eat for England, so I'm sure it'll be fine." She laughed, and he couldn't stop the smile coming onto his face. "You know George Karim, right?"

"Yeah! Do you know him too?"

"He's at my agency, has been for a while now."

"He did mention that, actually. Lockwood and co, right? Cool! Yeah, we quite often end up in the Archives together. Oh, I had something for him as well, but I left it at home," she slapped her hand on her forehead. "I'll bring it round later if that's okay? He said it was important for a case you're going on soon but he didn't have the time to research everything, so I said I'd help out."

"Yeah, anytime today," he smiled. "The next case we have is tomorrow night, so I'm going to assume it's that one." She nodded, then turned to leave.

"I'll see you later then," she waved, going off into a different aisle, leaving Lockwood to stare after her longingly.

~~~

That afternoon, Lockwood was reclining in his usual armchair in the living room, watching Lucy and George play cards with an amused look on his face.

"Stop winning! This is so unfair!" George was not happy, it was safe to say.

The doorbell sounded, loud and obnoxious, and Lockwood leapt up to answer it, reassuring the others that he would be just fine on his own, and George should keep playing. Lucy gave him a knowing smirk, which he chose to ignore, and when he opened the front door to see Y/n, he smiled brightly.

"Oh, hi! Is your doorbell meant to be that loud?"

"Hmm? Oh, yes. Just in case George is home alone and asleep. He's completely unresponsive when he is." She laughed, and Lockwood felt a heat crawl up the back of his neck. "Did you want to come in? I just put the kettle on."

"Tea would be amazing, thanks. And actually I wanted to talk to George about something I found this morning after I saw you," she said, coming inside and shrugging off her jacket.

"He's just-"

"OH COME ON! YOU'RE CHEATING!"

Lockwood was cut off by George himself, shouting at a laughing Lucy in the other room.

"He's in there," he gestured towards the door, then took her coat, hanging it on the stand. "I suggest you leave him a while though. Kitchen's this way if you wanted tea? I'm not sure how you take it."

"Oh, right!" She was so chipper it was infectious, and she was so different to her brother and his usual grumpy face that Lockwood had no idea how the two of them were related. She poured her tea, chatting the whole time about the papers she'd brought over, and Lockwood severely hoped that George would listen to her later or read the notes because he had been half paying attention and half thinking about how beautiful she was.

"Lockwood?"

"Hmm?" Shit.

"I asked how long you'd been here? It's a beautiful building."

"My whole life. It was my parents' house." He swallowed, fighting back the emotion that inevitably came with thinking about his family.

"Did they move out?" She seemed so genuinely confused and was so lovely the rest of the time he was surprised that he felt able to talk about it with her.

He shook his head. "My parents died when I was 6. My older sister died three years later."

"Oh. Oh. Lockwood, I'm sorry if-"

"It's alright, really. You didn't know, love." He offered up a smile, mind going blank after his use of the pet name. Where the fuck had that come from?

Her resultant blush was worth it, though, and Lockwood had just opened his mouth to say something when Lucy burst in.

"I won!" She declared, doing a victory dance. "I won, I won, I won! Oh, hi!" She waved, seeing Y/n leaning against the counter, cup of tea in hand. "Y/n, right? Kipps' sister?"

"Ugh, yeah. That's me," and Lucy and Lockwood shared a look at the girl's tone.

"Why do you sound put off by that? I mean, it makes sense, 'cause your brother is a monumental tw-"

"Lucy," Lockwood hissed, warning glance sent her way.

"A monumental twat? Yep, I know. But I'm always 'Kipps' sister', or 'Little Quill', which is infuriating, because I'm a better agent than him, and far better looking!"

"I agree on both fronts," Lockwood said, winking at Y/n. Where was all this bravery coming from? Normally he was hopeless around girls he genuinely liked.

"Y/n! You're here!"

George had entered the kitchen now, taking his mug from the counter and collapsing into a chair.

"Hi Georgie," she waved, laughing as he almost fell off the seat. "I've got those papers for you, I was just telling Lockwood about them."

"Yeah, you might wanna repeat all of it to all three of us," George said with a smirk.

"Oh, why?"

"Lockwood can't concentrate around girls he has a crush on," Lucy chipped in, hiding her smile behind her tea.

Lockwood himself stood dumbly, staring at his colleagues as his face went bright red.

"Uh... what?" Shit. Now Y/n thought he was weird, and he'd never have a chance with her.

"George, wanna play me at cards again?"

"Ugh, but you always win! It's not fair!"

"George!" Lucy said through gritted teeth, and hauled him out of the room. Lockwood heard his cry of pain as Lucy jabbed her elbow into his ribs.

"Sorry, I don't know why she said that, it's-"

"So you don't like me?" At her frown, he rushed to rectify it.

"No! I mean, yes! Wait, I do like you," he sighed, and dragged a hand over his face. "I do like you, and I'd like to take you on a date at some point if you'd let me."

When she didn't say anything, instead just standing and watching him over the rim of her mug, Lockwood tensed, already preparing to take it back.

"You're ready to deal with the fallout from my brother, right? Because when he finds out that we've gone on a date he's gonna lose his shit."

Nodding so fast he thought his head might fly off, Lockwood let a smile come onto his face. "Absolutely. So you'll go on a date with me?"

"Yes, I will go on a date with you, Lockwood. Here's my number," she picked up a pen and wrote it on the thinking cloth, "call me when you're free. If you get answer phone I'm probably in a meeting or on a case, but most of the rest of the time I'm available. Thanks for the tea!" She went to wash up her mug, but Lockwood stopped her, flushing when their fingers brushed.

"I'll do that, don't worry about it."

"Oh, alright then. See you, Lockwood." And before she left, she pressed a kiss to his cheek.

"See you," he replied, still in a daze.

Kipps was definitely gonna kill him.

Part 2

[ravennaortiz]

Two Worlds

Summary: How does Manny handle finding Juice in his sisters house. Sons/Mayans AU. 18+ Flashbacks/Time Jumps.

This was requested by @hatersaremymotivators using the prompts number 2. I'm not the right man for you and number 7. Stay away from my sister.

Neither man spoke for a moment as they stared at each other. "Go ahead and finish putting your shirt on." drawled Manny his face giving Juice no hint as to what he was thinking. Juice yanked his black tshirt down quickly and stepped to the table where the Mayan was sitting. "You must be Manny. Lupe has told me a lot about you" stated Juice as he extended his hand out to shake. "Odd she's not said a word about you" replied Manny as he leaned back in the chair letting his words fall between them like grenades.

Juice nodded as he withdrew his hand and rubbed the back of his neck. Angel and the others had warned him about Manny. That he wouldn't approve of Lupe dating a Son. "Listen man. I think we've gotten off on the wrong foot here. Finding a random guy in your" started Juice trying to make light of the awarknedness. "I'mma cut you off. Facts are I never wanna see you in my sisters house, around my sister, say her name ever again after this moment" stated Manny as he leaned forward on his elbows his eyes never leaving Juices.

"Are you asking me to break up with your sister?" questioned Juice taken aback. "No I'm telling you. You two should never have been together in the first place. I get my sister being a bit naïve on the danger but you? Your a grown man who knows the darker side of the leather we wear. Sons and Mayans might have an alliance now but what about when that gets broken? Mayans and SONs will both want her dead." snapped Manny his voice tight and low with anger. Juice was shocked at the venom in Mannys voice and couldn't speak for a moment. "I would never let anyone hurt Lupe. Your sister" started to reassure Juice before Manny sighed and stood up. " Look, I've been told your a good dude and that you are treating Lupe like she deserves. I appreciate that but I want you to stay away from my sister. This will be our only talk on the matter." stated Manny as he made his way out of the kitchen. "I don't repeat myself either by the way" called Manny over his shoulder.

Four Months Prior

"The regal Guadalupe is gracing us mere peasants with her presence tonight boys" greeted Angel as he kicked EZ out of the chair for her. "Eres un niño"(you such a child) stated Lupe as she rolled her eyes at Angel. "I love when you call me names mami" purred Angel as he leaned in to her space. "¿No recuerdas qué pasó con el último hombre que entró en mi espacio personal? (Do you not remember what happened to the last man who got in my personal space?). replied Lupe as she patted his cheek as she smiled at him. "Sí. Lo enterré. (Yes. I buried him) answered Angel with a chuckle.

"You two are so weird" muttered Coco as he took a drag off his cigarette as Gilly nodded in agreement. "Says the man who pretended to be his daughters brother for most of her life and now wonders why she wont listen to him" snipped Lupe making Gilly and Angel laugh. "You know you could be nicer" replied Coco as he rolled his eyes. "I'm letting your kid live with me. How much nicer do you want me to be" replied Lupe with a raised brow. "I have a list" replied Coco with a smirk as he pulled a piece of paper out of his pocket. "On that note I'm going to get another beer" replied Angel as he stood up while Coco and Lupe bickered away.

A couple hours later a guy with a mohawk and tribal tattoos on his head caught Lupes attention as he spoke to Bishop and a man named Chibs who was the President of the Sons. Lupe sipped her beer as she studied the well muscled man with a gorgeous smile. "I'll catch you guys later" stated Lupe as she stood up and made her way over to the bar where the men were now standing.

Juice had been casually scanning the crowd still not feeling quite at home in the Mayans clubhouse when a leggy brunette with curves he would love to travel stepped into his view. Juice felt his soul leave his body when there eyes met. He was so entranced in her aura that he didn't register she was speaking to him until he felt Chibs nudge him in the back.

"I'm sorry I didn't hear you" half fibbed Juice as he felt himself start to sweat as she cocked her head to the side. "I said, hi I'm Guadalupe but you can call me Lupe. " repeated the gorgeous woman in front of him as she let her eyes drift over him. He's even hotter up close Lupe thought to herself. "Juice" replied Juice as he stook out his hand to shake. The feel of her soft skin against his roughened made sparks fly as she laughed. "Something tells me your momma didn't carry you for months on end and endure birth to just name you Juice" joked Lupe as she smiled at him. Juice chuckled as he nodded. "Real name is Juan Carlos" he explained as he took a sip of his beer to calm his nerves. "Juan Carlos. I like the sound of that" purred Lupe as she put her hand on his forearm. "I like how you say it" replied Juice as he shot her a wink.

Next Morning Lupe's House

Lupe had just stepped into her kitchen, where Letty sat drinking coffee and eating breakfast ,when she heard her front door open and Angel call out. "To what do I owe this early morning visit?" inquired Lupe as she walked into the living room yawning. "Did you bed a Son last night after you ditched your friends?" inquired Angel with arms folded as he shot her s sly look. "Hmm, I dont' think I understand your question" replied Lupe as she put on her best poker face.

"I'd say you gave him that good shit cause he was up before me and made us both food before that old man with scars picked him up just so you know. So like keep that up cause he cooks better than you" inserted Letty as she joined Angel and Lupe in the living room. "Letty" grumbled Lupe as her face warmed and Angel dropped to the floor laughing. "What? You deserve to have your back" started Letty making Angel howl louder with laughter as Lupe cut her off. "Enough! Room now please" snapped Lupe as she closed her eyes. "That kid is great" stated Angel as he wiped tears from his eyes after a couple minutes. "If you must know. Yes and we are going out to dinner next weekend" sighed Lupe as she made her way back to the kitchen with Angel hot on her heels.

Present Day

The clubhouse door slamming open and an angry tirade of Spanish mixed in with English had every Mayan in silence. Lupes eyes were ablaze and her mascara streaked cheeks were a sight as she scanned the room for her brother . Manny sighed as he slid out of a chair and made his way to her. "I'm a grown ass woman!" snapped Lupe as she jabbed her finger into her brothers chest. "Hell yeah she is. Look at that grown woman body" shouted Angel as he tried to diffuse the situation. "How dare you tell Juice to break up with me. Have him telling me " I'm not the right man for you?" continued Lupe each jab getting harder as her temper flared. "He's not Lupe. Being in two worlds is " started Manny as he stepped back slightly as his chest ached. "Screw you" interrupted Lupe as she stepped back into his personal space.

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[ell0ra-br3kk3r-writes]

The Phoenix and the Crow

part thirteen

pairing: kaz brekker x reader

genre: angst/neutral

el's thoughts: this... is the "official" final part of the series! thank you so so much for all the love and support y'all have given me! i left the ending in a place where i can always come back and pick it up if i wanted to. so with that being said, please enjoy this part! i hope you like it as much as i loved writing it! please remember to reblog and comment :)

masterlist

Nikolai leaned heavily on Toyla while Tamar walked on his other side, both siblings leading him to a place to sit. The crows followed silently behind the group of three, watching the other soldiers carry their dead.

“Long may the night carry our souls until the dawn renews us.” Toyla said as he helped the young king sit on a wooden crate. 

“Rabinov. Canto Seventeen.” Kaz spoke, leaning forward on his cane. 

Toyla smiled, “Seems we both share an appreciation for life’s beauty.”

Nikolai let out a soft groan when he put some of his weight on his wounded shoulder. Tamar placed her hand on his back, “Are you okay?”

“A moment of sun before we deal with our losses.”  The blonde stared blankly in front of him. “Dominik…” He cut himself off as he felt emotions rising in his throat at the thought of the loss of his best friend. 

“He did exactly what any of us would have done for each other. For you.” Tamar’s voice held nothing but conviction as she spoke. 

The group's attention was taken away from each other when they noticed five people walking into their camp. Alina lead the group while Mal followed behind everyone. Nina stopped at the line of dead soldiers and stood in her place with a distant look in her eyes. Y/N froze in her steps a few paces before the heartrender, lost in her own mind as she observed the people around her. Kaz stared at her with a flash of concern in his piercing eyes. Nikolai watched the small, nearly unnoticeable interaction with slight interest before he saw Inej hand the blade to Alina. 

Alina ran off to find Mal and before Inej walked over to the other crows she turned to Y/N. She held her hand out to call her over causing the inferni to smile softly to herself. She followed the suli girl a few paces behind her finally looking over the rest of their crew. Kaz watched her intently, waiting for her to make eye contact finally and when she did neither was brave enough to break it. A strong sense of longing filled Y/N’s chest but she held her ground, only nodding at the man before going over to Nikolai and the twins. 

“And Kirigan?” Nikolai asked. 

“Dead.” Y/N’s voice was cold and emotionless as she avoided looking into their eyes. “Zoya is protecting the body. Alina wants it burned.”

A wave of unspoken relief washed over the trio seated before her.

The young king rose to his feet and faced the crows. “Thank you. My country might have been sunk if you hadn’t arrived.” His lips formed a faint smirk, “Again.” 

“We’ll settle those thanks in gold.” 

Y/N’s eyes only lifted from the ground in front of her at the sound of Kaz’s gravelly voice.

Tamar and Toyla helped Nikolai limp away with Nadia and her brother following the trio. 

“He’s right, you know. We do have our adventures. We should hire a writer to jot down our story.” As Jesper spoke, Wylan moved to stand next to Kaz while Y/N stayed seated on the wooden crates.

“What will we call it?” The zemini continued. “The four charming rouges of Ketterdam. Yes.” He smiled to himself with pride. 

“There’s six of us.” Kaz said quietly as he glanced between Nina and Y/N.”

Jesper snapped his fingers, “Right. Six of cro-”

~

Y/N stood with Nina and the horse’s stroking their manes while leaning her head against one of their necks. She heard the muffled sound of Kaz’s cane coming towards them and she swiftly moved behind the horses so she wouldn’t have to see him directly.

“You might be a Saint now.” Kaz said to Nina. “Bringing someone back from the dead.”

“I wish I could take credit. Wasn’t me. She’s the real Saint.” They both turned to look at Alina talking with Nikolai.

“Once the world stops looking at her with gratitude, they’ll start to wonder if she's outstayed her welcome. That’ll be dangerous.” Kaz’s words caused Y/N's mind to run wild with uncontrollable thoughts. How were the people to react once they saw her for what she truly was? Where was she supposed to stay if she had to ture home? Her whole existence’s purpose was to protect grisha, at least that’s what Kirigan told her. She was to be a shield for those too weak to make their own. She was trained to willingly sacrifice herself over and over again. She didn’t know a life without that mentality.

“She may be the first person I’ve met who is both of the two most dangerous types in this world.” Nina’s voice shook her from her thoughts. 

“And which two are those?” Kaz asked. 

“Those defending their happily ever after. And those who don’t know how to find their way to one.” The heartrender spoke while watching him expectantly.

“Sounds like someone else I know.” He diverted. 

“I can't make peace with this place. I’m not giving up on my happily ever after.” Nina shook her head, “I’ll claw my way to one. If he’ll let me.”

Kaz’s eyes moved past Nina to the pair of boots standing behind one of the horses before looking back at the girl in front of him. “Let me help you.”

Y/N smiled softly to herself at the sound of determination in his voice. Proud of the small bit of care for his friends breaking through his walls. 

~

The heat was scorching as they all stood around Kirigan’s body that laid on a bed of firewood. Y/N extended her hand from where she stood and lit the two torches where they laid in their basket. She stood next to Zoya with Genya and Alina next to them. The crows stood behind the girls while Nikolai and his soldiers stood on the stone steps in front of everyone. 

Kaz stood directly behind the inferni, everything in his being screamed to place a hand of comfort on her shoulder but he knew he couldn’t. Instead he was left to watch in affliction as her shoulders visibly tensed beneath her uniform, her hands clenched and unclenched at the sight of the Darkling’s body before her. The man who caused her mental and emotional pain for years before she was able to escape. Before Kaz was able to do everything in his power to keep her safe and out of harm's way the best he could. 

“You go.” Alina spoke to Zoya and Genya. “You both have every right.”

Zoya lit the bed of firewood first, her eyes never leaving the Darkling’s pale face as she tossed the torch next to his feet. Genya then walked forward and lit the wood next to his head, making sure the fire caught before turning and handing the torch to Alina. 

“No grave. Nothing left.” Alina spoke as she stood before the body. “Goodbye, Aleksander.” She threw the torch onto him and walked back to stand beside Genya. 

Y/N moved her hands subtly twirled her fingers to spread the fire over the bed of wood while Nikolai walked down the steps.

“Today is a new beginning.” The young king started his speech. “For all of Ravka. Hell, for our whole world. It’s a bit daunting, isn't it? Knowing where to go from here.” He looked at the four girls at the front of the group, Alina and Genya holding hands while Y/N and Zoya stood beside each other like soldiers. “We’ve had a singular focus for so long. So much blood has been shed. After hundreds of years separated by the Fold, we can celebrate a unified Ravka. Our neighbors to the North will see us united and will aim to strike. But often it’s not the battle that takes the most from us. It’s the aftermath. The chance to put the pieces of our lives back together.” He focused his attention on Y/N, the girl holding eye contact with him. “When a Phoenix rises for the ashes, it is not the same. But in that rebirth, is potential. Potential for a new purpose.” 

Y/N turned her head down to stare at her sandy boots. Hyperawear of Kaz’s lingering eyes on the back of her head.

“Thanks for what Alina has done for us,” Nikolai continued. “We all have a chance to better the world now that the Fold is gone. Above all, you must trust. Trust in each other. In yourselves. Trust in the fact that this is the start of better days to come. And it won’t be easy, of course. Nothing is.” He looked around the group of soldiers and thieves. “I had hoped to end that on a more uplifting note, but here we are.”

The crows all walked away, glancing back at Y/N every-so-often as she stood with her eyes glazed over while she stared at the charred body of General Kirigan.

Alina wrapped her arm around Genya and looked to the other two girls silently asking them to come closer. Zoya stepped first and reached her hand out to Y/N, drawing her into her side. Nikolai watched the four girls with an ache in his chest but a slight smile on his lips before he too followed the rest of the group. Leaving them there to have their final moments alone. 

~

Y/N sat with her hand’s clasped in front of her on her knees. Her eyes were closed as her lips moved in a silent prayer. She prayed for her country and the road ahead of them they’d have to pave. She prayed for her old friends and new found friends. For them to find peace and happiness in every step forward from now on. 

The last of her prayers fell from her lips when she heard soft footsteps down the hall followed by the unmistakeable clicking of her favorite cane. She closed her eyes and bit back her smile when she felt him walk into the small chapel room.

“Lantsov paid up.” Kaz said. “Everyone will get their cut.”

“I didn’t do this for the money, Brekker.” Y/N replied, her eyes still focused on the stained glass portrait of Alina. She sighed when he didn’t say anything. “And Nina?”

“She’ll receive a pardon for deserting and another for her Fjerdan.” The inferni looked back at him, his eyes not meeting her as he updated her. “As long as he stays out of trouble, the charges will be dropped.”

She nodded and faced forward once again, opening her mouth to say something then quickly decided against it and bit her tongue.

“I also…” Kaz cleared his throat. “Wanted to say goodbye.”

Y/N felt her eyes glaze over as she turned to look at him, “I didn’t think you were the sentimental type.” Her smile faded when he didn’t say anything, his eyes avoiding her at all costs. “Who said I wasn’t going back to Ketterdam? I have to say… That city has grown on me.”

“Ravka is your home. You and I both know that you need to stay. Your country still needs you, Y/L/N. They’ll need someone to help lead, not a king, not a sun Saint. They’ll need a strong soldier.”

Y/N turned away from him quickly, blinking back her tears. That was the last thing she hoped to hear. How she still had to keep fighting for her country, for the people who hadn't done much for her in return. She couldn’t go back with the people who had shown her true kindness. Not yet anyway.

She swallowed hard before speaking, “I know this won’t mean much to you… but I pray for him. For the person who you once were. And you.”

“I don’t want your prayers.”

“What do you want then?” 

Kaz stared at her as she looked down at her hand and twisted her fingers together. And all at once, that familiar sense of longing settled in his stomach. What did he want? For her to let go of her morals and values just to come back to Ketterdam with him? For her to be one of his crows or something more? To be able to see her everyday in the normalcy of the Barrel. To have everyday conversations with her. To get to know her better than anyone has ever tried. For her to trust him just as he felt he could trust her. What did he want? Her.

“To die, buried under the weight of my own gold.” His mind screamed at him for lying. For lying to her of all people.

Y/N chuckled humorlessly, “More money. More scores to settle.” With a deep breath she rose to her feet and walked closer to him. Her actions startled him for a split second. “Was there never another dream?” His lack of response caused her to nod and start walking past him. 

The sudden urge to reach out for her washed over Kaz so strongly he finally gave in. His gloved hand clasped around her wrist. “Stay.”

She froze at the feeling of the leather on her skin, the air leaving her lungs in a gasp. 

“Stay in Ketterdam.” He choked out the words. “Stay with…” He couldn’t finish  his thought as she turned around to face him. 

She smiled softly as she looked at their hands “What would be the point?” She moved her hands to hold his one in both of hers. “We both don’t know what we’re getting ourselves into yet, and that’s okay. You’re not ready and… I might not be either.” She let out a sigh. “You have a kingdom of your own back in Ketterdam to run and I have a country to help run. We… We have jobs to do, you said so yourself. But-” She finally brought her eyes up to his and licked her lips in thought as her mind ran over her next words. “But if you’re also willing and the Saints above see it fit… I’ll wait. For you. I’ll be here waiting for you whenever you’re ready. I will have you, Kaz Brekker, when you’re ready. That’s my promise to you.” She smiled one last time up at him before letting go of his hand and walking out of the chapel room.

Kaz continued to stare where she once stood and gave in to the slight quirk of his lips. When he’s ready. That was something he could live with.

~*~*~

taglist:@rachelcarroll1819 @xcharlottemikaelsonx @khaleesihavilliard @simrah1012 @foulkryptonitepeanut @astridyoo15 @queenofshinigamis @peakyispunk @jahayla-parker @maliciousbrekker @brekkershadowsinger @winstonthecow22 @lee-says-things @bunneex @writingmysanity @sleepynightchild @madnessinwrighting @romanticvampire @dark-academia-slut

[gleefullypolin]

Dating Lady Whistledown by GleefullyPolin

Read on AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/57046732/chapters/145081255

Summary: Eloise always thought that her idiot brother was merely a distraction for their shared friend Penelope, always in her ear and never allowing her a moment to venture out on her own. But when Penelope begins online dating and finally meets a man who starts to slowly win her heart, was fate truly at play all along?

Chapter 1: Lady Whistledown

“Love is an untamed force. When we try to control it, it destroys us. When we try to imprison it, it enslaves us. When we try to understand it, it leaves us feeing lost and confused.” Paulo Coelho

“How long do you plan to be in Greece this time?” Penelope sat in the puffy chair tucked into the corner of Eloise’s office, her body dangerously close to being enveloped into the folds of the aggravating feathers jutting out of the cushions surrounding her.

She shoved one of the invading plumes out of her face as she listened to Colin’s voice humming in his usual caramel tones through the phone attached to her ear as he recounted his agenda for the next week of travel. She bit her bottom lip, as he recounted a tale about his latest hotel sitting right on the water and she tried not to sigh thinking about how wonderful he must look standing on the balcony with the rays beating down on his sun-soaked skin.

“Must be nice!” She responded to something he said about a beach or maybe he was talking about the mountains, honestly, she wasn’t sure as she had definitely drifted off again just listening to the cadence of his voice.

“You know it’s not always beaches and sun, Pen, you forget I have a deadline to meet.” He laughed in her ear, and she closed her eyes, trying not to think about how much she missed him. It had been a year since he had been home, a full year since she had last had him in her arms, the enveloping hug he had pulled her into as she dropped him off at the airport when he was heading off to Spain at the time.

“You mean you don’t just fuck off all day long?” She teased.

“Penelope Anne Featherington, how dare you!” He retorted sternly with a snort.

She rolled her eyes, pulling her ankles underneath her as she curled into herself, sinking into the infernal chair. “I know, I know, you work hard, my sincerest apologizes Mr. Bridgerton.” She sang.

“Better.” He half scolded, a light laughter hinting in his tone. “So, what are you and my sister up to tonight? Hot dates?”

“Oh um, not really.” She squirmed. “Mostly just ordering pizza and probably watching a movie.” The door to the office opened and Eloise bounded in with an air of determination.

“Is that my brother?”

“El says hello.” Pen sang into the phone.

“She has a job to do without you monopolizing her entire day!” Eloise yelled toward her in that motherly tone she had perfected so well over the years.

“Why does she always sound so serious? Is she not getting laid anymore?” Colin inquired and she snorted before covering her mouth and whispering into the phone.

“Theo and her broke up two weeks ago.” She whispered into the phone, earning her a glare from her friend who was rifling through the paperwork on her desk.

“Ah, you two really need to hit up a pub, meet some fine gentlemen or perhaps maybe acceptably nice gentlemen?” he questioned, and Pen frowned. She hated when he suggested she go out and meet men. Not when the only man she had ever actually wanted was on the other end of the damn conversation. She bit back another sigh and pushed herself out of the aggravating chair.

“Well, I should get back to work before your sister reports me to Danbury for dereliction of duty. Let me know when that next chapter is ready, I can take a look at it this weekend if you want.”

“Sounds good, Pen. I’ll send it over before my deadline. Tell El to smile more, she’ll scare less men that way. Love you!” His voice started to trail off.

“Love you too, Col” She added quickly as she disconnected the line and dropped her phone onto the desk. She plopped down next to it, staring at her friend who was scowling at her. “What?”

“If you spent less time conversing with my idiot brother and more time talking to actual eligible men, maybe you wouldn’t be single.” She scolded.

“El, first off, your brother is not an idiot.” She smiled softly before sliding off the desk and walking back over to the stupid puffy chair. “Second, you’re just upset because of Theo, who was an actual idiot by the way, and third, I’m not interested in dating anyone right now.”

“That’s only because Colin won’t stay out of your ear. It’s Colin this and Colin that.”

“He’s my best friend.”

She groaned. “And you always remind me of that, but it’s not normal the two of you. It’s a crutch, a distraction. If you don’t let go of Colin, you might never find the right person for you.”

Pen nibbled her bottom lip until she was sure she tasted blood. “Colin is not a crutch or a distraction, El. There is nothing wrong with being friends with a guy. Hell, half the time, he lives all the way across the other end of the world. It’s not even possible for him to be distracting me from anything.”

Eloise walked over and bent in front of her, taking her hands in hers before smiling at her. “Pen, you know I love you like you were my own sister, and I know that Colin and you have been thick as thieves since we were children, but you have to be honest with yourself.”

She blinked slowly, turning her eyes away from her friend, she didn’t want to have this conversation right now. She suspected that Eloise was aware of her feelings for her brother, but they had never actually breathed the words into existence. “Honest about what?”

She opened her mouth and closed it again, shaking her head with a laugh as if changing her mind. “Can you really say you have tried dating anyone?”

“El, I would, I just haven’t met anyone I am really interested in.” She said honestly.

“Because you don’t look.” She snapped back. “Can you honestly tell me you have looked a single man in the eye in the last year?” She paused, “And Benedict does not count!”

Pen groaned. “There was that one guy, at that one bar, when we were out that one time.” She lied.

“Penelope…” She growled and stood up, pacing in front of her. “Every single time we go out, you are on your phone talking to my damn brother, I swear there isn’t a single time that we have been out at a pub that you aren’t on your phone, you wouldn’t even know if a man was…” She paused, turning toward her as if she had suddenly figured out the answer to every question ever posed to her.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” She queried, reaching up to touch her hair as if suddenly she would find a bird perched atop her head.

“I have the perfect idea.” She grinned devilishly.

“Why do I have a feeling you and I are going to have very different definitions of the word perfect.” She deflated against the chair.

“Online dating.” She announced as if it was the most normal thing in the world.

“Absolutely not.”

“Oh, come on, it’s brilliant. You’re always on your phone, and now you can be on your phone and find love. Why did I never think of this before?” She smiled so widely that Pen wanted to agree with her simply to make her stop talking but she knew there was no way she was going to get her friend to quit with the way she was pacing in front of her.

“I don’t love this idea.”

“Why not? Come on Pen, do this for me. What can it hurt?  So, maybe you meet a few guys online, you talk to them a couple of times and maybe you make a couple of friends not named Colin!” Her final words, pointed and frank.

She let her head fall back against the chair and closed her eyes. “You aren’t going to let this Colin thing go, are you?”

“Do you really want to talk about that particular topic with me right now or would you like to reconsider my option? Because we can crack that egg open if you really want to.” El’s tone loomed through the room and Pen knew she was serious this time.

Pen didn’t want to confront her feelings for Colin. Not with El. The moment the words left her mouth, I’m in love with your brother, they would never be able to put them back in the bottle.

She peered through her eyelashes at her friend and considered her options. There was Eloise standing over her with the proverbial knife ready to cut her heart open and the corner of the room where she could continue to hide in her feelings. She chose the only viable option.

“How does one even start online dating?” She asked with a resigned groan, knowing immediately she was going to regret the question.

“Wonderful, I knew you would see things my way!”

“And I don’t mean Tinder, El. I don’t want to actually meet them, just talking online. No hookups.” She warned her friend.

“Baby steps, I know. Maybe we just start with a chat room. Like put yourself out there in a discord or something.” Eloise was already opening her laptop and tapping on the keyboard with a determined look on her face.

“This already sounds complicated El. I don’t know the first thing about any of this.” Pen could feel her anxiety rising the more she thought about randomly chatting up strangers.

“It’s not that hard, I mean what about a site for writers. You’d have something in common with them, mutual understanding, it would give you something to chat about.” Her eyebrows rose slightly. “Oh, this looks interesting.” She turned the screen around.

“The Lonely Writers Club, really?” She stomped her foot angrily. “Do I look desperate to you?”

“Oh, come on Pen, I’m just saying, it’s for writers, which is you. And it’s for lonely people who want to chat and find friends. So, I mean, they are ripe for the taking!”

“This is ridiculous.” She exclaimed with a heavy sigh, realizing that her friend was not going to back down from this. “Fine, I will do this, but...” she held up her hand in front of Eloise’s face. “If I do this, I have conditions.”

“Conditions? I swear Pen, you are being so dramatic about this, it’s just talking to people.” She rolled her eyes and sat down at her desk. “Fine, name your terms.”

“I will not use my real name.” She held up one finger.

“How does that allow you to...” Eloise began before Pen cut her off.

“El, I need you to listen, these are not negotiable.” She warned as her friend closed her mouth. “No real name.” Her friend nodded in agreement before she continued. “I will not post my photo.” She began again as she held up a second finger.

“Well how will they know what you look...” Pen narrowed her eyes.

“El...” She growled before continuing. “No photo.” She held up a third finger. “I will also not share any personal details that might otherwise tell anyone who I might be.”

“I do not understand how this is going to ever end up in you finding someone who might be right for you.”

“Because I will not be meeting any of these men. I am here simply to talk to other people, as you said, who are not named Colin. And I will do that. I will chat with these men, I will have pleasant conversation about the weather or whatever nonsense I must endure, and I will never, and I need you to hear me clearly Eloise, I will never meet any of these men.” She paused, meeting her friend’s eyes. “These are my terms. Take them or leave them.” She put her hands on her hips, leaning forward with a glare.

Eloise considered her demands, pinching the bridge of her nose. She blew out a breath before speaking. “Fine, I accept your terms. So, what will you call yourself, if you will not be providing your real name?”

“I was thinking...” She smiled brightly as she looked around the office, looking back at her friend with a bright smile. “I think I will call myself Lady Whistledown.”

[nerdieforpedro]

A Walk with your Pilot

Security Log Drabbles part of the Secret Springs Shenanigans

My entire masterlist and blog are for readers 18+ MDNI. I do not consent to my work being used in AI, recommended on TikTok, borrowed or plagiarized.

Summary: It’s been slow for security, until a silent partner makes her presence known and a new Marcus is discovered. Chloe tried to apologize to Frankie.

Warnings: possible kidnapping, allusions to smut, banana 🍌, Frankie being a sweetheart, Ezra being a scoundrel but also that money 💰

Word Count: 1k+ (an actual Drabble!)

Notes: I made liberal use of @pedropascalito ‘s wonderful Ezra Moodboard. Ezra is a scoundrel in this one, but in their Moodboard he’s a sweetheart. The counter is totally legit, this version of Ezra is Nerdie aka NP’s fault. 👀

Main Masterlist/ Frankie Morales Masterlist

My security logs have been scant…not for lack of reporting. Everyone is well behaved, enjoying themselves. It’s very good, meaning less work for all of us, though I have a few concerns.

Our silent business partner, let’s call her NP. She apparently was at the Secret Springs without giving me or Dave a heads up, she also took a third Marcus who came down from one of the surrounding mountain ranges (that is a mystery on its own) for an interrogation and neither of them have been seen for the last few days. Then suddenly this morning, the third Marcus is sipping orange juice with the Mayor and the other two Marcus’s. Dave and I were perplexed and the only message we got from NP was:

He’s solid. He’s firm. He responded appropriately. He’s got quite an appetite. I handed him over to the Mayor in good condition.

I’m not an idiot, but I’m also pretty sure that kind of questioning (if you can even call it that) is entirely illegal. Roman Marcus doesn’t appear to have any complaints and says a real man shows you better than he tells you. I did not need to hear those words while he’s eating a banana shirtless but I’ll tell him I will keep that in mind. Mayor El says happy for all of our through work. I can only nod and take the compliment. It’s only been a week here.

Speaking of, I took Frankie to lunch to apologize for trying to go through his belongings and passing out drunk in his room. Neither were my best moments. I try to explain that I am a sane person, but the quizzical look he gives me informs me otherwise.

“Most people would try to be nice to the guy flying them halfway across the world. Or at least be more discreet about it. Are you sure this is the job for you querida (sweetheart)?”

“That’s why I’m taking you to lunch to apologize. That’s nice and I am excellent at my job! You’re the problem, I’ve been off kilter trying to-“ He’s sitting across from with his arms crossed, a slight lean and his lips curling into a grin. I feel like calling him a jerk, but he’s just being himself I assume. I can’t fault him for that. “Never mind. Just, see you around Frankie.” Retreat is always a viable option and one which I plan to use as I get up from the table. He grabs the hem of my white blouse, it’s lose and my yellow bathing suit is sticking out of the top near my neck.

“Hold on there Chloe, how about we go for a walk? You can do some more rounds and we can talk. Ask me anything you want to know.” His suggestion is a good one, but I should stay focused. But also maybe be a little selfish on my part. I agree and we begin our stroll.

I soon forget how nervous Frankie made me originally. He explains that he settled in Florida after serving with the Special Forces during his time in the military. One of his brothers in arms recommended this gig to not only make some extra money but for him to get away from usual business back home. Morales said that it was nice not having to worry about gators at all.

We passed by Ezra’s Beach Shop and I said hello. That usually leads to at least a five minute description from the owner about everything that could have happened this morning. Today’s answer was not a ramble but succinct, curious, I asked him if anything was the matter and he replied there was not. Suddenly, two women pop up from under the counter which he was seated behind. One bumped her head and both stared at Frankie and I. They each kissed Ezra’s cheek and left him some money on the counter, carrying a small plastic bag each with them. About twenty dollars from each woman.

“Should I even ask if that’s the stuff you keep under the counter that they just paid for in addition to the small items they have?”

Ezra scratches the exposed part of his chest above where his tank top scoops down. He’s never not sweaty, to be fair it is hot. He stands and thankfully his dark green trunks are not disheveled. He gathers the money with his one hand and plops it in a lock box he has next the small register. “The ladies were sought out some shelter from the blistering sun and I did not have ample room under my umbrella. I did advise against going under the counter but that is what they chose.” He presses his palm on the counter and snickers, “As to why they left me such a large tip, I cannot say. You’re well acquainted with my gift of gab, they also could have taken pity on an unfortunate man such as myself.” His explanation is hot air, but he adds a wiggle of his right residual limb to add to his point.

I know there’s no merit in arguing with him, whatever happened, I didn’t see it directly. “Keep your tips to the monetary kind Ezra. I’ll be back.”

“And I will look forward to it my dear straight laced Chloe. Enjoy your time with your gentleman here. Maybe he’ll introduce you to a tip.” Ezra ends as we walk away.

Frankie looks back and the shopkeeper waves goodbye. “Seems pretty cheap for your tip there. Maybe they didn’t get enough bang for their buck.” His snicker makes me lean on the nearest tree in laughter while I hear Ezra click his tongue in annoyance.

I like Frankie even more, he managed to get the last word in on Ezra.

Those who may adopt the M.O.P method: @maggiemayhemnj @goodwithcheese @secretelephanttattoo @undercoverpena @megamindsecretlair

@fhatbhabiee @tinytinymenace @morallyinept @readingiskeepingmegoing @survivingandenduring

@inept-the-magnificent @604to647

Ending day seven log:

Violence - None

Public intoxication - None

Public Nudity - None (still suspicious of what goes on under that counter)

Destruction of Property - None

Injuries: Minor = possibly 10+ (I only saw Roman Marcus’ upper body. It was a mix of old and new marks. I’ll have to reach out to NP later)

Chlóe’s well-being: On the mend. Turns out lunch and walks are solid remedies

Security Log One. Security Log Three

[jacobsbigmelons]

Jacob x male reader who is Emma's brother and reader has had a crush on him since they showed up

Jacob Custos x Male Reader

Sibling Beauty

cw: fluff, playful sibling teasing, Emma peer pressuring reader to a degree but nothing crazy. Emma being a big sister (reader was born like 2 minutes after Emma so she’s taking the big sister role lmao) and we love her for it. Jacob being the dumb himbo he is but we love him, and Emma and Jacob not being a thing as well el oh el.

“So when we’re you going to tell me you like Jacob hm?” Emma said as she playfully nudged herself into you as you guys were walking back from the trail, the rest of the councilors more up ahead so no worries about anyone overhearing you guys. “I have no clue what you’re talking about, besides even if I did like Jacob he’s so out of my league.” You said kicking a few rogue pebbles away from you.

“Oh please it’s so obvious you like him, you literally offered to carry his hydration bag knowing you would struggle. No offense but long walks even back home weren’t your strong suit.” Emma glared at you, her statement coming off not hurtful, I mean she was right you kinda outdid yourself offering to hold something so heavy for such a long walk but she didn’t need to know that.

“Well excuse me, didn’t think i’d be getting flamed by my own sibling, you’re a bitch y’know that, and for the record I was doing it out of the kindness of my heart, you should learn a thing or two about that.” You replied back, your poker face keeping Emma’s accusations (which weren’t wrong) at bay for at least a little bit.

“Everything I do for you and I get called a bitch?!” You scoffed at Emma’s hurt comment knowing she doesn’t care in the slightest, you’ve called each other worse things after all. “If I didn’t know better you sound adamant on defending the fact you don’t like Jacob, you must like having his name in your mouth huh?” Emma knew exactly what she was doing and as good as your facade was able to keep up, the heat in your cheeks and the rare drop of sweat was blowing your cover.

“It’s not like I talk about him 24/7 geez.” You rolled your eyes realizing last second you left yourself open to an obvious comeback. “But you do talk about him…maybe not everyday no but you seem to like talking about him, if not to me maybe Dylan, or Abby.” Emma giggled at her words as you annoyingly sighed as you picked up the pace, you knew your sister was just gonna keep bringing up every little thing until you break your defenses.

At least you thought you’d be safe before a familiar ear jerking voice caught your attention as he was calling you, it was Jacob. You looked back as Emma slowly but surely caught up as you stopped so Jacob could walk with you. “Hey man, look thanks again for holding onto my bag, never got to actually thank you for that.” He patted his hand on your back as a sign of gratitude but to Emma it was all the evidence she needed.

You didn’t care at this point, she was already seeing everything and your very clear change in personality was more then enough to prove her point. “Uh…ye-yeah, anytime Jake…anytime.” You fidgeted with your hands as they patted your thighs, a way to try and ignore the man you’ve been crushing on since you’ve arrived at this camp. Thought he was making it very hard. “Look uh, how long until we get back to the cabins? My legs hurt so mu-“ You were cut off by the feeling of an arm pulling you closer to the big jock next to you.

“Y’know my brother would be down to hike with you, he loved going on walks and such back home.” You couldn’t believe what your sister was telling your crush, you didn’t want to subject yourself to all that pain in your legs but if it meant you had more of a chance you’ll let her do her thing. “Hell yeah bro, you and your sis can come hiking with me after summers done or something like that” Jacob said, his smile imprinting itself in your head, god you’re a mess. “Oh sorry I don’t really do hikes, it was already tough for today but-“ Emma tried to remove herself from the invitation before Jacob interrupted her “Oh nah nah it’s cool, we can just go on a smaller hike or maybe just a walk” You glared at your sister as she stared right back “Don’t act like you’re the one who doesn’t do the hiking” you whispered as you nudged her right back from earlier, yet all she did was scoff.

Eventually the group returned to the cabins as all the kids were separated into their own cabins as the counselors returned to their own places to rest. Though Emma pulled you aside before you got close to your own cabin. “Hey hold up” she said calling out to you before you stepped away to your cabin. “You gonna make a move or something? Guy is an absolute beefcake.” you both stood in front of each other, arms crossed thinking what to do, or at least you were. At this point all you could do was agree instead of play the fool, you didn’t deny anything after your run in with Jacob.

“I don’t know dude, what if he’s straight? What if he’s homophobic dude? think of that hm?” A slight sassy tone lacing your words. “Y/N, he’s not homophobic. If he was he would’ve probably been shit talking Dylan from day one, it’s obvious he enjoys a good man and Jacob hasn’t done anything so you should just go and do it. Even if he says no you at least sent your shot” She rested her hand on your shoulder, there weren’t many times when she would be super serious about this stuff but now is one of those times.

“it’s just-“ you tried to speak before Emma stopped you once more, “if you don’t take your shot, someone else will then you’ll be all up in your head about how you regret what you did.” Emma spoke up as her hands cupped your cheeks, if she wasn’t being 100% she definitely was now, and all you could do was rest one of your hands on top of hers. “So go get him before you miss out” You didn’t think about that, you didn’t think how you might have no chance if someone else goes for Jacob.

You left each other with a genuine hug before you entered the cabins which Jacob was also staying in, and you were greeted with the stunning sight of him with his shirt off as he was goofing off with the other boys. “Yo dude catch!” Nick practically ran in front of you as he caught the incoming football, you sidestepped carefully as to not get hit by any incoming sports ball.

You watched the boys play as you thought on what Emma said, it was only Jacob and Nick playing but you couldn’t help but think who might take a shot with Jacob. But the only person might be Dylan, Ryan seemed to just be in his own world most of the time and Nick seemed more interested in Abby. You didn’t linger on the thought to long as some time passed and you decided to go for it. You walked over to Jacobs bunk as you took a seat next to him, he was just spinning around his sport balls or just throwing it up and catching it himself. “Sup dude” Jacobs casual demeanor was always welcome, a comfort even.

“Hey…um I got some stuff to talk with you about, if that’s cool with you.” You softly spoke, as you patted your hands on your legs to fidget a bit. “Yeah- yeah go ahead man” Jacob straightened out his back to listen to what you have to say. “Look, i’ll be blunt because if i’m not first off my sister is gonna beat my ass but also because I don’t wanna stall longer then i need to, Jacob you’re really nice and cool and I really like that about you and I think I like you a lot, but not as a friend…y’know?” Jacobs silence was more then loud enough, you wanted him to say something but you didn’t want him to rush his answer, you did just drop this on him after all.

“So…You’re like- crushing on me?” He questioned as he looked at you, you didn’t want to stare back at him in fear he may be disgusted with what you just said. “Yeah…about a month now, better to get it out when I can right?” You shrugged as your heart was racing, as much as you wanted to just forget about doing this your sister proved too much of a point to let this chance slip away.

“Respect dude, I mean shit, you beat me to making a move” He flipped his football in the air before catching it once more before he saw your eyes connect with his quicker then ever. “Wait what?!” You said with shock in your voice, the other boys looking over slightly to see what’s happening. “You’re serious right now? Not fucking with me or anything?” Jacob nodded in disagreement as he covered his mouth to yawn. “Look, i’d love to get this squared away but i’ve tired myself out, let’s talk tomorrow when i’m not completely exhausted” Jacob said with a sluggish tone, but not before he let you go with a cheeky move as he gave you a kiss on the cheek.

All you could do was stand up and hold your cheek, Jacob clearly has his priorities set on sleep as he was already laying back down with his arm over his eyes.

Tomorrow aught to be fun.

[thewrongmoon]

writers twitter deep dive

in light of the "let's start a new party" tweet being cracked, i decided to see what else i could find from the writer's account!

DISCLAIMER: some of these things could have potentially been tweeted by an intern or someone who isn't the duffer brothers themselves. as a result, not all of this is 100% definitive proof of anything! with that being said, here is some interesting things I found:

Tweets hinting at future events of S4:

This is a hint at Max's isolation due to her depression in S4.

This one requires some extrapolation. So, let me interpret this picture by picture:

Steve and his high school friends. I can find two potential meanings for this; the first is that this is meant to show how S4 starts with all the kids not in high school. The second is that this is a representation of "forced conformity", as Nancy, who conformed to fit in with Steve's friends, is present.

Will having an episode. I think this is meant to represent the Vecna visions.

The gang in the basement. This is meant to represent the gang, again, brainstorming in Mike's basement in S4.

Completely black screen. I can think of a couple different meanings behind this-- it might be to show a separation between this storyline and vol 2. Or maybe it's meant to hint at Max's death or coma?

again, let's go through this image by image:

Billy. Billy makes a return in S4. He also serves as a metaphor for the ghosts of their past, Max's especially.

Nancy and Jonathan. I think both of these past two tweets are about the Hawkins storyline specifically, so I don't really think it's meant to represent Jncy literally? I think maybe it might be more of a metaphor for the investigation arc that Nancy and Robin go on, seeing as we usually see Jonathan and Nancy take on that role.

The mindflayer. i.e. the big bad, the lingering doom of the season. Obviously we know that that's actually Vecna, but they weren't gonna spoil the season on their twitter, so think of the mindflayer as a placeholder for him.

Steve with the bat protecting the kids. Once again, Steve is trying his best to protect the kids in S4, Max in particular.

I'll acknowledge that this is potentially a stretch. But CMON MAN, Miss VICKIE'S chips? It's a hell of a coincidence if not intentional.

Tweets of four images:

So on top we have an image of Kali and El, an image of Max and El, on bottom we have an image of Will and El, and an image of Mike and El. The two on the left feature El with an adoptive sibling. The two on the right feature El with a close friend (the image of her and Mike is pre-relationship.) All but one of these are non-romantic relationships.

The top two images are Max and El, and Will and El. The bottom two are Mike and El, and Mike and Will.

Once again, we see platonic/familial relationships on top. On the bottom is one romantic relationship and....one relationship that you literally can't label as platonic atp since one is in love with the other. Veeeery interesting placement here.

This one stumped me a bit? The main motif I get is love triangles. Lucas, Max and Dustin were in a love triangle in S2. Dustin is not in the photo with Lumax because their love triangle has been resolved. With Robin, theres two potential paths: Her love triangle featuring her, Tammy, and Steve, or, her trying to get Steve and Nancy together in S4, even when Nancy is dating Jonathan. We also have Dustin looking at her in this configuration, which could represent how he thinks she should date Steve.

And then we have Mike, Will and El. The only set of three here. The only love triangle yet to be resolved.

This one I found interesting because it places the rain fight on the same level as El being traumatized, Max watching her brother be possessed, and Murray watching Alexei being shot. The only other message I can garner is that they're saying these things come back. And we do see that in S4 (El is placed in an isolation tank again, Max is haunted by Billy, Mike and Will have unresolved tension, Murray's Russian skills are needed once again.)

Tweets of single images with lowercase text:

Okay, so if I showed these to a byler on twt I have a feeling they would immediately start doubting and say this means byler has no chance of being endgame. But let me give you my observations on this:

With Jancy and Lumax, there is an adjective given. With mlvn, it's only "love." (you could look into the love being lowercase, I know that's another reoccuring motif.)

I think it's interesting that they chose this word for mlvn. namely because it's literally the exact word Mike cannot bring himself to say to El. THAT is what I believe they are foreshadowing with these tweets.

Also, most other mentions of love on their account is in a platonic sense. See: this tweet featuring a gif of Steve and Dustin.

the only other example of them using the word "love" I found was this one of Nancy:

In which, I believe, she is talking to Steve. So this is another mlvn/stncy parallel!

they also don't just make these lowercase + image tweets with couples. Here's one with El and Hopper!

Miscellaneous interesting tweets:

A mention of Wonder Woman. In relation to El using her super powers. Once again, the only person who compares her to male superheroes is Mike.

For you lettergate truthers, here's another instance of a letter being put in the left chest pocket (by the heart in their own words!)

Likening Max and Mike's relationship to El

Not once, but TWICE they did this! Directly comparing the way Max and Mike "love and support El" despite the fact that one is her best friend, and the other is her boyfriend.

Honestly, they don't tweet many pictures of byler? But this is one of the few i did find. Actually, funnily enough, this is the notorious 53 minutes 5 seconds time code. Makes you think that they were aware of it, hmmmm?

[duck-in-a-thrift-store]

Alright guys here's the first room closeup (+ headcanons/notes), by popular demand:

~Mike & Will's room~

(Plz don't judge my choice of wall art I pretty much just picked it bc it matched the wallpaper colors and there weren't a lot of good options)

Ok so design details

I know yall see that blue and yellow, and the green in the middle. All very intentional. The bed w/ the yellow blanket is Will's & the one w/ the blue blanket is Mike's. They sit on the rug when they're having their little heart-to-hearts that the rest of the party never seem to be a part of for "some reason"

Also, these boys wear a lot of fuckin stripes, so. Blue and yellow striped wallpaper? Green striped rug? Idk man it was screaming byler what can I say

And then there's a record player or whatever on the dresser between them, bc as we all know Will is a music guy and Mike lets Will do whatever he wants even if that means keeping him up listening to his favorite song all night bc he'd never forgive himself if Vecna somehow got Will bc Mike made him turn it off*

*So, to explain what that's all about: after his repeated failed attempts with Max, One went after Will next bc y'know, lots of trauma, easy target, etc (at least that's what the mf thought, I'm pretty sure Will lowkey has powers or smthn)

(This happened before the start of the au btw so it's just sort of background info, it might be mentioned but it won't be happening in present)

But anyway Will almost got Vecna'd and it was partially Mike's fault bc they got in a fight, Mike said smthn stupid and Will ran off, we know the drill (Mike still blames himself for it even tho they made up & Will forgave him and is fine)

Mike kinda lost his shit, honestly I'm thinking in his terror he pushed El too hard to save Will (when she was already doing her best obviously bc that's her brother) and that was part of why they broke up bc even El realized he cared more about Will than her- Mike is pretty much the only one who doesn't know yet lol

And they all survived obviously but now they're both kinda extra paranoid about it and even though they've moved far away and One hasn't followed them they still worry that some day he might track them down, so they fall into a (compulsive) habit of playing Will's favorite songs on repeat

(I'm not giving you his fav songs bc first of all I can't even decide my own fav song and also it just feels really presumptuous like that's too personal of a thing for me to decide for somebody else. I take music very seriously & very personally ok. Funnily enough tho I am listening to "should I stay or should I go" at this very moment)

Anywho, moving along

That desk by the door is mostly used for coming up with new campaigns they don't want the others to spoil (it's ok for their roommate to have insider knowledge that's not an unfair advantage or anything and besides it just can't be helped y'know? /s) no but they do collaborate sometimes and they work so well together as storytellers that the others find it lowkey unsettling (Dustin and Lucas are used to it tho)

>tw: vaguely suicidal themes?

Someone, not thinking I guess, makes an offhand joke about them being on the ground floor so they don't have to worry about Mike jumping out the window, and Will, who somehow hadn't ever actually heard the whole "quarry story," asks what that's supposed to mean and then they very awkwardly have to explain and he's basically like "oh my god what the hell that's not fucking funny why would you joke about that" and for a while after learning about it he's extra conscious of any self-deprecating/self-sacrificing type shit Mike says

Also they have "crazy together" written somewhere in the room no one else will see it. It's uncertain where, or whose idea it was, or why they did it, but they did. Probably to sort of make the room feel more like it was claimed as *theirs* after having to move to a new house far away from familiarity, and as a reminder to always be there for each other when times are tough

[eddiesbabe95]

Unsaid Eddie (Part 4)

The three boys rushed through the remainders of the past they never wish to visit again. Steve hadn't realized it, but Eddie had a tight grip to both him and Dustin's hands, never once letting go of either one.

Eddie knew why he kept his hands on both of them. And it wasn't for them. It was for himself. He had to keep telling himself in his mind this is real, they are real and they are here with you, Eddie. He hated that he even doubted it, but being alone in for so long in this type of place had really done a number on him, but he would keep that to himself for as long as he could. Forever, if that was possible.

Once they reached the gate, Steve looked up to see it was barely open enough for them to fit through. "Shit guys, we have to hurry." He nodded towards Dustin. "You, you're going up first," Steve grabbed Dustin's hand and pulled him towards the rope dangling. Dustin wanted to argue but he knew they didn't have the time.

He grabbed and started his climb and once he was through to the other side, Steve looked at Eddie. "You're next," Steve said to him. Eddie just looked at him. "Nah, you should go next, I'll go last," Eddie said, smiling weakly at him.

"Nope, you've been here long enough, up you go," Steve pulled on Eddie this time and Eddie didn't fight him, despite wanting to. He knew if he wanted to get both of them out of there, he would just have to go. Steve's stubbornness would get the both of them trapped in there and Eddie was not staying a moment longer.

Once Eddie was safely on the other side, Steve grabbed the rope and began to climb. Once he was half way up, the hole began to finish closing. "Steve!" Dustin screamed and El ran to the hole. "STAND BACK!" she told the entire group. Eddie didn't listen, his eyes never breaking Steve's.

"Come on, El. We can't leave him there. You don't know what it's like," Eddie begged her. Steve looked up at Eddie, hearing everything he was telling her. He realized Eddie was a lot more than just wounded from being in the Upside Down for so long.

The kids grabbed the rope and all of the sudden in one swift movement, Steve was yanked out of the hole and onto his back. He landed onto a pile of teens and wrapped into their arms.

"Oh my god, thank god you're okay," Lucas said. "I couldn't lose you. I've already lost one brother. I can't lose you too," said Max, sobbing into Steve's shoulder. He turned and grabbed the redhead's arm and pulled her into a hug.

"I'm here, I'm okay." He assured her. He felt horrible for making them think as though he wouldn't be. If only these kids knew he needed them as much as they needed him.

"Steve? You good, man?" Eddie came up and asked, Steve could see the panic in his dark eyes. It broke his heart even more. "Yeah, yeah I'm good. Thanks, Munson." He reached his hand out for "support" to get up but in all actuality, he just wanted to touch Eddie again.

Eddie didn't mind. He was thanking his lucky stars to touch Steve again. He grabbed his hand and probably a little too abruptly, pulled him to his feet, causing Steve to bump his chest into Eddie's.

"By the way, cool vest," Eddie smirks down at his own vest that Steve is wearing. Steve feels his cheeks heat up.

"Uh, thanks. Someone that means quite a lot to me gave it to me before this big battle, and I uh. Well, I haven't been able to take it off since the day I thought I lost him. Felt like he was still here with me when I kept it on, so I did." Steve looks down.

Eddie knows. Eddie sees it. Eddie feels his heart race in his chest. "Holy shit." he says in a voice just above a whisper.

Eddie knows it. He knows that Steve Harrington is in love with him. The kids start heading towards the RV, so Eddie takes his chance.

"Hey Steve?" He clears his throat, his nerves already bunching up inside. "Yeah man, what's up?" Steve says, slowly walking towards the RV, next to his side.

Eddie swallowed hard. He didn't want to just throw out Hey, I like you. Like a lot a lot. And I think you might like me too? Let's be more than friends. He was worried he would scare away the one person who understood him more than anyone else in the world. But he also knew that he couldn't beat around the bush anymore.

Eddie takes a deep breath. "Steve, look. Remember back to the night of the battle? When we parted ways for the final time?" Eddie hated bringing it up. He knew that Steve probably tried forgetting about that night. Especially if he was right about his feelings towards Eddie.

"Uh, yeah. Yeah I do. Why?" Steve feels his throat swelling. If there was ever a time to tell Eddie how he felt about him, it is right now. He is literally giving him the perfect opportunity to tell him, and fuck everything and everyone if he is going to be a coward.

"You know how I stopped you and told you to make him pay?" Eddie says, his heart is thudding so loudly in his ears, he almost believes Steve can hear it.

Steve, on the other hand is thinking back to that exact moment. "Hey Steve?"

Eddie hollers for Steve.

Steve turns around. This is it. Steve thinks to himself. Eddie is going to tell me he has feelings for me and then I can just slide into it with "Me too, Eddie. Me too" and everything is going to be okay.

Everything was not okay. Eddie did want to tell Steve he had feelings for him. That's exactly what he planned to do. But just like Steve, Eddie felt like a coward in that moment and backed out.

"Well, that wasn't what I initially wanted to tell you, Steve." Eddie sighed. Steve stopped walking. He turned to look at Eddie this time.

"Tell me." Steve said, his words smooth.

Eddie stopped walking too. He looked into Steve's eyes. "What?"

"Tell me like it's that night again. Like you didn't say what you already did. Tell me what you wanted to tell me." Steve stepped a step closer to him.

Eddie swallowed. "Uhm, okay.." He fiddled with the rings on his hands. Eddie wasn't the one to get nervous. But something about Steve Harrington brought out every side of him he wasn't used to showing.

"Steve, before you go and fight Vecna the dark Lord. There's something I gotta tell you man." Eddie looked up at Steve.

Steve grasped at the sides of the vest. He much rather be holding onto Eddie, but he didn't want to push him. He wasn't sure Eddie was about to admit he had feelings for him, even though all of the signs pointed towards it, but he knew he had to at least hear what Eddie really wanted to tell him that night.

And then Steve could finally tell Eddie what he's been wanting to say to him since that night too. Whether Eddie felt the same or not.

"Sure, what's up?" Steve tried his best to remain cool and composed, even though his voice was failing him.

Eddie gave him a small smile and Steve swore he melted into a puddle.

"Jesus, Harrington. You know, you have made this super fucking hard to say, but yet, you've made it the easiest thing to do in my entire life." Eddie lets out a laugh and Steve feels like the sun had been ripped from the sky and been placed inside a human. This human. Eddie.

Eddie was his sunshine. And for the first time in a long time, Steve smiled. A real smile.

"Made what easy?" Steve laughed with him, not being able to hold back anymore.

Eddie laughed a second longer and then stopped. He looked directly into Steve's eyes like he was looking into his soul. Eddie felt as though he could see his whole life appear before him and it was the push he needed to spit the words out.

"To fall in love with you." Eddie's eyes searched Steve's. Steve felt his heart race and thud and he couldn't believe what he just heard come from the very man he too, had fallen in love with.

"You... you love me?" Steve said, tears beginning to fall from his eyes as his feet led him closer to the metal head he had been hopelessly falling for since the day he had him pinned up against that boat house wall by a broken beer bottle.

"I fucking love you Steve Harrington," Eddie says, stepping closer to him. "Do you feel the same?"

Part 5 here

[undertheknightwing]

Going feral because i somehow only just realized that in the scene where Jon-El's family sees he has powers, it's pretty heavily that implied that he had had powers for a while but had been hiding it.

No idea how I didn't notice on my first time watching that scene, but the reserved way he stares up at the man about to fall like he was trying to decide what to do, the defeated/nervous way he looked around after he had done it, the way he was so in control of his powers!!! Driving me absolitsly crazy that I didn't pick up on any of that before.

Anyway, all of that say: we saw how badly Jordan adapted to getting powers, especially super-hearing which Jon-El was shown to have. Thinking about how difficult it must have been, getting a grip on his powers and hiding it from his parents. I dunno how he could possibly have hid the development of super-hearing from his parents. Maybe he just got lucky, and he and/or Jordan were away from home on some sort of week-long publicity stunt. when his powers developed.

I really like the idea of Other Jordan helping him through it. Ik the show didnt get into his and Jordan's relationship more than Jon-El thinking Jordan was just the "weak" powerless one, but if it were up to me, I think that world's Jon and Jordan should have a bond. Whether or not Jon-El was willing to admit it, Jordan was probably the only one around when things got bad at home. Jordan was the only other person around who knew what it was like to be victimized by their parents. In my head the other world's Jon and Jordan were really close when they were younger but ended up growing apart as they aged, especially after Jon got his powers and Clark low-key brainwashed Jon-El into thinking of Jordan as inferior. But even after all that, I think that bond would mean something to Jon-El, even if it had eventually become more of a trauma bond between two lonely kids struggling to survive abuse and neglect.

Excuse my rambles <3

OUCH THE ANGST

But this is why Jon-El is one of the best characters in the entire series, there is so much unsaid and unexplored about his character and the show just threw him away 🙄

The scene where he saved the man falling HURT you can tell by the look on his face as he's descending that he knows that's it, his previous life is gone, now he's going to be forced into spotlight and fame he didn't want just because he has powers.

Now that you mentioned the having to hide his powers thing, I can't imagine how awful and hard that would've been, look how painful it was for Jordan. But the fact he tried to hide them in the first place says A LOT about how his relationship with his parents, but mainly with his dad, was.

He knew his parents didn't see or hear him or his feelings just as Jonathan and knew it would be even worse if they knew he had powers since powers are seen as the most important thing. And he was right. (*cough* in the main world too *cough*)

Kal didn't even let him choose his own superhero name, just said his name is Jon-El and Jon had to accept it, no questions asked.

The family image is the most important thing to Kal, how his choices are destroying his son was the last thing he cared about until it was too late and saw how deep Ally sunk her hooks into him.

It wouldn’t surprise me if Kal tried to get Jon-El to believe he was better than Jor-El and Kal purposely neglected Jor-El just because he had no powers (it's a universal thing for Clark to neglect the powerless son I guess), but I like your idea of Jor-El being the one around to be with Jon-El after things got bad because he knows his brother doesn't really think those things and knows how badly he's hurting. He's probably seen Kal get upset and scream at Jon-El for not wanting to be shoved in front of a camera everyday and force Jon-El to go anyway even though he's begging to stay at home.

Jon-El looked so dead inside during the "fame" montage scenes and like he was faking his enjoyment of the spotlight constantly shining om him.

Anyway before I go full headcanon/fic mode because I will if I keep going, thank you for the rambling I love it ❤️🖤 welcome to the Jon-El fan club