#the original is better but i'm glad i was able to read whatever the hell Restoration was

[amandabe11man]

jin-e in Restoration literally had his hands impaled and was like “omg this is so me!”

[villainsandvictimsalliance]

Another quick rection from me, this time for the 390 bnha leaks!!!!!! :

Iida and Shoto's friendship is everything to me. They have now helped each other reach beyong their family darkest times and have given the absolute most for each other. I love them soo much!!

This justice and happiness for so many meta writers that have been telling the fandom it'd be like this. I salute those writers, wishing them an amazing time on their "I told you so".

I'm so glad Horikoshi made Enji acknowledge verbally and explicitly all the mistakes he has committed against his family and made him apologize to every one of them individually. He mistreated his family in many different ways but they all deserved closure. The ones following me for a while know that I'm not an Endeavor fan, but I appreciate what he brings to the narrative sometimes.

While I'm pleased that Enji is finally accepting his responsibility inthe fallout of his family,it scares me a little because I know the fandom would start fighting about wether Rei and his kids should forgive him immediately or not. It's gonna be different from each Todoroki, so stop for a second and ask yourself if in those situations, the victims should be pressured to do one thing or the other. If Fuyumi forgives Enji immediately but Touya never does, it is okay for both of them. Whatever makes them happy and helps them through their trauma, as long as it is not self-destructive or risks other people's lives.

I KNOW IT'S NOT MEANT TO BE FUNNY but Dabi saying that he should be dead —they all should be dead really— hurt a lot, but then I read Natsuo telling him “well that's gonna be a problem because you're gonna live bro” was so sibling behavior of them. Touya is suicidal and finds it easier for things to be over now, he hadn't planned for this to go this far, you know? And that's exactly why Natsuo asks what does he plan to do next.

I haven't read the translation yet, but if they really phrased it as "hellish life" (Natsuo says that's what awaits Dabi, after seeing the ice on his chest) is gonna be an immense irony but amazing writing. Dabi told Enji to come dance with him in hell, but isn't life hell on its own way sometimes? I love when a character that planned to die lives, because it defies the narrative and questions the character while giving room to so many opportunities.

SHOUTO FINALLY ACKNOWLEDGING HOW COMPLEX TOUYA'S ORIGIN IS. It's nothing you can solve with mere words, nothing you can solve with a conversation. This is a huge win in this manga, contrasting the shonen trope of things being solved through words or the speech of the protagonist.

People better give Rei all the recognition she deserves or I'm gonna start punching them.

Touya saying they all should be dead and that he hates them all and Enji asking for him to tell him how he feels— this is how things get solved. It's a callback not only to Enji, but to many other conflicts were pro-heroes and other adults should have listened to victims, villains or their own kids to understand what was wrong, but decided to tackle the issue without even caring to have a grasp on it. Right now, Enji wants to start from where Dabi is, not from where he wish he should be. He's not arguing against Touya's feelings or going against them or anything. He is willing to communicate and listen to him, he is being open and vulnerable and direct and that's exactly how it should be. Super funny coming from me, but this was an Enjj win.

BUT I'M IN SHAMBLES FOR TOGA. I AM KICKING SCREAMING SCRATCHING THE WALLS OF MY ROOOOOOM.

If there is a testament of how much they (the members of the League of Villains) care for each other, it's that Toga can't see Dabi's fire anymore and immediately wishes he found a way to smile, exactly like he said she should. She's having a whole breakdown over how much she knows she love Tomura and Dabi and why her quirk won't work from them, but even with tears in her eyes, she's wondering if Dabi is happy now, if he was able to reach his goal. Horikoshi please, you need to gives us all a panel of Touya and Toga smiling together after the battle, okay? They deserve it.

OCHAKO IS SO CLOSE TO HER RIGHT NOW as she's being held down by multiple Twice clones. I'm so excited to see the resolution of their fight!!! It feels perfect that Ochako gave that speech about wanting to see the people she love and people in general smile and now Toga is just thinking about that with Touya. Narratively speaking, I enjoy so much how these girls are connected to each other. Now that Shouto reached his brother and was able to stop him with help from his family, it's time for Toga and Ochako, then Deku and Tomura.

I'm satisfied and happy, being honest. There's still some road left ahead, but I'm liking what I'm seeing at the moment. This must be one of my favorites chapters so far!!!!

[fledermoved]

Who is your favorite canon warrior cat?

I used to say Graypool or Dovewing but when it comes to the original arc I think I favor Longtail just because the narrative really did him dirty.

People will be like "oh he was so edgy and mean to rusty/firepaw when he joined" but like. And? He was still a young warrior at the time and was taken under wing of like. Two very very anti-kittypet cats. Cats that had major influence on his life. Ofc he's gonna take after them and try to imitate that ideology/attitude, and probably in an exaggerated way because he's young, esp when it's not just Tigerclaw and Darkstripe that dislike kittypets.

But we see time and time again that Longtail is fiercely loyal and pretty compassionate about his clanmates even if he doesn't necessarily like them. Didn't he save Fireheart from like??? Drowning??

And then at the end of it all, he ends up with two of the most influential cats in his life leaving by betrayal and having to fight against them, losing his apprentice in an extremely traumatic way that, mind you, is connected to one of those influential cats because he lures the dogs out to kill brindleface, and ends up blinded by what to him MUST be a humiliating way.

I'm glad he's able to find peace with the disability by the end and settle, though as always I wish that the Erins would actually let disabled cats be warriors instead of immediately assuming they're incapable. Blindness ≠ unable to fight. It's a big disadvantage, yeah, but cats have other senses, and they're pretty strong senses at that.

Idk. I grow more and more fond of Longtail as a character as time goes on and personally I really wish he had been made deputy within the first arc because I believe he not only deserves it, but would be the guy fit for the job better than Graystripe or Bramble.

Dovewing is another close favorite, though I haven't read the newer arcs. I only know up to Omen of the Stars. Everyone sympathizes with Ivypool because she had a bad childhood and literally got sent to hell (it's valid to feel bad for her, don't get it twisted) but imagine being a literal child and your gods tell you that you're the chosen one whether you like it or not. You're "blessed" with an ability that actively hurts you and alienates you from your peers and you're settled with an insurmountable pressure to do as you're told to save the world or whatever. You just want to be a normal kid. You want to have a good relationship with your sister, but you can't because of this. You aren't allowed to complain about it because you are supposed to be grateful to these gods for everything. The other chosen ones are abrasive and standoffish from their own traumas. You're a child. And you're going through this. That's fucked up, man. And yet she's so kind 🥺

[stannyramirez]

𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝟎𝟑𝟎𝟏

❝Y'all know I don't like to cuss, but what in the hell is this horseshit I'm looking at right now?❞ ❝I can’t believe y’all let him pull this Hot Wheels mess.❞ ❝Money ain’t everything, baby.❞ ❝You think I’d just live with it, what you done to my family?❞ ❝Admit it, you can’t stay out of the spotlight.❞ ❝You better believe I’m gonna be fishin’ and sippin’.❞ ❝I had a fucking thing planned!❞ ❝Take it like a man, if you can.❞ ❝Sugar cookies ain’t real, bitch! That’s a detail I made up to sniff out the rat.❞ ❝You’re the only one I told sugar cooks to, you fucking snitch.❞ ❝Dammit, you brought me all the way to Florida just to fire me?❞ ❝When your family asks you how you broke your nose, tell them it was a kite surfing accident.❞ ❝I’m tired. Cut me some friggin’ slack.❞ ❝No smut, no lust, no coconuts.❞ ❝Hopefully, maybe you could help out, seeing as how I do every other goddamn thing around here lately.❞ ❝Man, shut the fuck up, you ain’t the boss of us.❞ ❝I’m the main decider.❞ ❝Well, I’m glad that truck drivers won’t be able to buy dick pills anymore.❞ ❝Unfortunately, I have some not-so-peaceful news.❞ ❝You’re colder than a fucking ice cube shoved up a polar bear’s asshole.❞ ❝Maybe if y’all stopped henpecking at one another and started trying to fix what isn’t working, you wouldn’t be in this situation.❞ ❝Bunch of rednecks, racing around, seeing who can go nowhere fastest.❞ ❝Somebody’s been acting mysterious.❞ ❝We’re young and up to the task, dude.❞ ❝I don’t feel the love in this current configuration.❞ ❝Not a damn one of you looking as fine as me.❞ ❝Come on. My car at home is fast as fuck. How can this be any different?❞ ❝Do the gas! Do the gas, boy!❞ ❝That’s embarrassing, dude.❞ ❝I guess I lived longer than I thought, and I still have a little more to say.❞ ❝You got a lot of nerve coming here.❞ ❝Figures you have to pay money to get a little face time.❞ ❝I wish I had some traumatic event that happened to me that I can exploit and make people like me.❞ ❝I mean, my origin story sucks compared to yours.❞ ❝Baby, that energy makes you look desperate.❞ ❝Look, baby, I know you’re upset, but please don’t take it out on me, okay?❞ ❝What if we’re not Leno? What if we’re just Conan?❞ ❝God dang, why do you gotta kick my gift horse in the mouth right now?❞ ❝Why are you reading stuff into things?❞ ❝Don’t emotionally disappoint me now.❞ ❝Goddamn, what the hell are you cooking out there?❞ ❝The smoke was green from some of the butt plugs, and it smelled like pool toys.❞ ❝Get a little rest, and get you a Coke or whatever.❞ ❝Being bad like some bitch in an ‘80s movie.❞ ❝And now it’s time to nut up, because road head is road head. That’s just the rules of tour, okay? We can’t be bringing this shit home.❞ ❝You’re just going to have to suffer through the pain.❞ ❝Y’all a bunch of dirtbags!❞ ❝I’m trying to tell you, you fucking dork...❞ ❝Yeah, enchante, motherfucker.❞ ❝You come back here again, I’ll send your ass straight to hell!❞ ❝As main decider, the motherfucker is fired.❞ ❝Sugar Ray-looking motherfucker.❞ ❝Get the fuck out of here.❞ ❝You think we can handle this kind of scandalous bullshit right now?❞ ❝Like you ain’t done your fair share of illicit shit.❞ ❝What the fuck are you even here for anyway?❞ ❝You got more piss and vinegar than you did when you were begging for help.❞ ❝After all this time, why should I help you?❞

[your-subby-creature]

I’m so glad you responded to my ask, the idea of puppy playtime sounds so nice and fun! And the thought of adding another puppy and making it a brigade sounds even better! So many different things we can do with more and more puppies joining us in our little playtime!

That’s also really cool about that research. I know that there was always issues when it came to trans people and being respected at burials, but now I have a ton of more info to be able to read up about it.

~✨(can this be my emoji to use if I send you asks again?)

Of course, sorry for taking so long to respond!! I love chatting with y'all in asks, especially when it means planning puppy playtimes!

There's actually not a hell of a lot published about the specific history, but the Order of the Good Death articles I shared gave some practical and necessary information on the current situation and how to start funeral planning for trans people. I really only found about 10 relevant cases between 1895-1990 for the historical portion, and I'm currently in the process of contacting LGBTQ+ archives to see if I can get my hands on some more resources. It's definitely a continuing project for me, and I'll let y'all know if there's anything interesting I find.

(I also want to do an autoethnography of disability and neurodiversity on horny tumblr as another research project, but I'm working through learning the procedure for ethical autoethnography first, so that may come down the pike someday)

And as for ✨️, I think the anon I originally thought was 💙 may have claimed it? They've only sent 1-2 asks so I'm unsure. You can either add to or change your emoji signature to make it distinct from theirs, whatever works for you!

Thank you again for the asks, and for asking about my research!!! I love LOVE love talking about it <3

-your Creature

[kerie-prince]

We're Worlds Apart (5)

Draco Malfoy x American No-Maj!reader

series m.list | general m.list | previous chp

warnings: cursing, mom being a dick :/, accidental peeping eyes, jealous draco

summary: Draco Malfoy is a pureblood wizard. Magic runs through his veins and has been since his birth. You're a Wiccan No-Maj; a non-magical being with ordinary blood through your veins, but practices what you call magick. And this very practice upsets your neighbor.

a/n: omg, i had to rewrite this WHOLE THING again. but now i know to write things in my google docs first

(gif cred)

Everyone at the table was silent. Your mother sat processing what had just occurred moments ago. I practice, too. You always wondered why your brother never talked too much about her whenever you were on long phone calls with him. He was pretty vague about Stephanie, and now you knew why.

Actually, it made complete sense as to why he didn't tell your mom about Stephanie being a practicing witch, but you? That was what really confused you.

“So,” you decided to break the silence, “how long have you practiced?”

Stephanie had an excited glimmer in her eyes when you asked. “I'm still a baby, I started earlier this year.” Something about her aura was soothing and pure. You scooted your chair closer to her and continued your conversation. “So you’re a Wiccan? Or do you practice something else?”

“I practice Gardnerian Wicca,” she declared. From the corner of your eyes, you could see your mother holding back a scoff. Surely she was thinking Why the hell is she encouraging this?

The ding of the oven sounded like church bells to her as it gave her an excuse to leave the room and focus on anything else. The situation was quite hysterical. But questions were in order. As Stephanie left to use your bathroom, you pulled your brother aside. “Dude, why the hell didn’t you tell me anything?”

He flinched away from your hand and started massaging the pain away from your grip, “I didn’t think it was my business to tell.”

“But you told her about me?” You asked with crossed arms. Your brother’s logic was lacking. “It… might’ve slipped, but I only told her after she told me that she’s a witch. I don’t go around campus saying ‘Hey, I’m Y/B/N Y/L/N. I’m a communications major and y’know what? My sister’s a witch.’” You weren’t upset that he told his girlfriend about you. You weren’t ashamed at all. And you weren’t really upset that he didn’t talk to you about her. Because, in a sense, he’s right.

But you like being dramatic, so you figured that while you've got your brother in your house you’d act like a petty sister. “Whatever, man. But you could’ve told Mom beforehand,” you scolded with your arms crossed. He had a scoff in his laugh, “Tell Mom? We’re thinking of the same person, right? You know she would freak.”

“She’s freaking out right now! I’d have rather her freak out earlier before she made my house look like some stupid picture in a Martha Stewart kitchen advertisement,” you whisper yelled. To think that your house could have looked as it normally did annoyed you. Grandma’s tapestry you whined internally.

Stephanie found you two in your hallway and froze in an awkward stance, “Is everything okay?” You and your brother put on your best smiles. “Yeah, just wanted to see how my baby bro is doing,” you reached up to pinch his cheeks to which he swatted you hand away. It started a playful fight that made your guest laugh in amusement. The sound of your mother announcing that dinner was ready brought the little fight to a halt. “I’ll beat your ass later,” you challenged him, fingers doing an ‘I’ve got my eyes on you’ movement.

—

He couldn't believe it.

Theodore Nott and Blaise Zabini stood at his doorstep with their bags. Theo had his wand pointed out with confetti spurting out the tip. “Surprise!” he yelled.

Draco pulled them in quickly and nearly sprained his neck as he looked around to make sure no one saw his friend. “What part of 'muggle neighbors’ did you not understand” he scolded.

“Oh shit, sorry mate. I forgot.” Theo scratched the back of his head. He then glared at Blaise knowing that with his brilliant memory, he let Theo make a big mess of things. Theoretically and literally. An enchanted broom swept up the confetti on the floor.

“What are you guys doing here, I wasn’t expecting you two for another week?” Draco asked as he pulled each wizard in for a welcoming hug.

“Merlin, mate. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that you’re disappointed to see us,” Blaise teased.

“That's not what I meant and you know that. I’m happy… just surprised.” The blond wasn't isn't used to showing this kind of side to himself. “What brings you two here early?”

“Have you ever known Theo to be patient for anything? Bloody git nearly dragged me out in the middle of work,” Blaise expressed. The Slytherin trio laughed as the two friends followed Draco through his new home. “Well, here’s the guest room. Set your things down and I’ll grab some drinks.”

For the first time since getting his phone and learning about take-out, Draco had ordered a couple pizzas to be delivered. Blaise and Theo were genuinely impressed by the whole thing. “Muggles sure do think of everything,” Theo observed.

“Almost shocked that Malfoy here adapted pretty well to them,” Blaise had a smirk on his lips before stuffing his mouth with his first ever slice. “Salazar, this is amazing.” Draco raised his eyebrows in agreement. The three men sat in the living room eating and caught up with each other.

The night was filled with laughter and tipsy hiccups. It was arguably Draco’s best night since he first moved to America. He hadn’t realized how much he missed their shenanigans since Hogwarts before it all went to shit thanks to a certain Dark Lord. He was ecstatic and couldn’t wait for them to meet his new friends.

In the middle of their laughter, Theo was seen squinting his eyes in a direction, “Oi mate, who’s that?” The two others followed his eyes which looked out a window. Sort of blurry due to the alcohol, Draco leaned forward to focus on what it was Theo was talking about.

When his vision cleared, he saw some heads moving around. And… arms flinging about? The sight was strange to say the least. Draco didn't exactly know what was going on, he watched as you stood in your living room in front of who he recognized as your mother. Sitting on your couch was some woman, and in between you and your mother was some guy.

“Is that the muggle neighbor you told me about?” Blaise observed.

“Yeah, and her mum. Don’t know the others, though.” Draco stated. He shrugged his shoulders and sat in a comfortable position. Blaise continued to look at the weird scene next door. The only pieces he could put together was that you definitely weren’t happy and neither was your mother. “She’s kinda fit, don’t you think?”

“No,” Draco didn’t hesitate to answer. His irritated voice was indication enough to not press on the matter more. And seeing as it was their first night in America, Blaise didn’t want to risk getting hexed before bed.

Draco looked at the clock on the wall which read 10:57 pm. “Shit,” he whispered. “I’m turning in. I have a meeting in the morning.” Theo was already passed out on the soft couch and Blaise walked himself to the guest room to claim the bigger bed. Once in his room, Draco chugged a bottle of water that was on his nightstand and went to sleep.

—

She finally went home. After the huge fight that broke out after dinner, your mother grabbed her things and left. Poor Stephanie had witnessed the mess and regretted coming. As much as she was glad to finally meet a fellow practicing witch, she underestimated your mother entirely.

It actually surprised you that your mother acted in such ways. Growing up, your mom never really made too much of a fuss of your Craft. But just out of nowhere, she’s making comments of this and making complaints of that. You wanted to forget Thanksgiving night all together.

Currently, you were pacing in your kitchen debating on whether or not to call Stephanie and make sure she was alright. She was nothing but sweet and kind. Didn't deserve to come home with your brother and have some woman blow up. Your mother hit some random nerve in the middle of your conversation that you carried on about what Steph’s practice consisted of and yelled about her whole family getting full of ‘damn weirdos’.

The best thing to come out of it was that you were able to bring back all your original decorations and stored all the stuff your mother bought in the garage.

Thinking about it started to give you a migraine. You walked to your bathroom and started to fill the tub with the hottest water you could take. As it filled, you went to the comfort of your room and undressed. You opted out on bath salts and oils; just the warmth of the water would be enough to settle your nerves.

Before you could remove your bra, you felt a weird shiver up your spine. Something in the air made you feel tense. You wanted to assume that it was negative energy that your mother left behind, but it felt different than that. No, you felt a presence in your home. Or worse, from somewhere else.

You turned around and widened your eyes in horror. A man that you didn’t know nor have ever seen before looks at you from the window of your neighbor, Draco’s room. As soon as it processed to him that you were looking back, he quickly shut the curtains again. At that moment, you wanted to crawl into a hole and never come out. You were so caught up in your thoughts that you forgot to shut your blinds.

You sat in your bathtub still shocked that a complete stranger almost saw you naked. Had you even gone further a couple seconds or ignored your instincts, he could have seen everything. You dunk your head into the water and scream under it. This day can’t get worse you thought.

But oh, how it can. You performed your house cleansing spell and as soon as you set the censor dish down, the doorbell rang. You opened the door and was face to face with the same man who saw you. “Hello,’ he said. You recognized the accent, how it sounded like Draco’s.

Shyly, you nodded your head and said a soft ‘hi’.

“Listen, I just wanted to say that I am so sorry for… for what happened,” presumably Draco’s friend apologized.You stood there a bit shocked and flustered. “I swear I’m not a bloody pervert. Mate doesn't have any light in his room so I’d thought I’d do him a favor. Guess that didn't turn out so well,” he sheepishly chuckled. It made you laugh as well. It was decided that it was just an honest mistake.

“It’s okay. I should’ve closed my curtains so I guess it goes both ways,” a blush was spread across your cheeks. The more you looked at him, the more you studied his gorgeous features. “I’m Y/N. You must be Draco’s friend,” you extended your hand out for him to shake. He took it in his and you nearly melted into his smooth skin.

“Yes, I am. I’m Blaise.”

—

Draco returned home with a pounding headache and stiff neck. He had never felt more tired than he did in this moment. He saw Theo sitting on his couch reading the Daily Prophet with one hand and holding a cup of tea in the other. It was funny to Draco because he explicitly remembers Theo promising that he would never become his father who did this exact thing.

Looking around his surroundings, he noticed how his other best friend wasn’t around. “Where’s Zabini?”

“I think he went out for a walk,” Theo guessed. “Think he’s been gone for about an hour now that I think about it.” He put his paper down and mirrored the look of curiosity that was also on Draco’s face. Seconds later, the devil himself walked into Draco’s home. The look on his face was the same he had back in Hogwarts. A look Draco and Theo knew all too well.

“How? Actually no, scratch that. Who?” Theo pressed on instantly. Draco was also interested as to how Blaise somehow seduced a woman a day into his vacation in the foreign country. “You gits really want to know who?” They both nodded. He stood hesitantly but kept the smirk on his face, “Your muggle neighbor, Y/N.”

Theo stood up and gave Blaise a high-five, “You still got the magic touch I see.”

“Please never say that again,” Blaise sighed. He went on to explain everything that just happened, how he accidentally saw you, how he went over and how you invited him in for coffee and talked for about an hour. Well, mainly flirted. Then he talked about how he acted coy and wanted to know whatever was nice in town and when you told him about a French restaurant uptown, he used it as a way to ask you on a date.

Blaise was explaining everything, but it all sounded quiet to Draco. He couldn’t hear a word out of his friends mouth after he said your name.

“Mate, you alright? You look pale,” Blaise looked concerned.

Draco snapped out of it and lied through his teeth, “I’m fine. Just tired and slightly hungover is all.” Lie? Why would I be lying about this? Wait… why am I lying about this?

“Oh, well I can make the thing my mum makes for hangovers if you’d like,” Theo offered.

“No, it’s fine. I’ll just get some rest.” Draco walked to his bedroom and removed the necktie around his collar. As he walked in, he saw how his curtain wasn’t fully closed. He opened it slightly and as he looked across, he saw you sitting in a chair in your bedroom. You seemed to have been in a haze before you looked up and met your eyes with his. You waved gently and Draco, as he always does now, nodded his head and closed the curtains.

This can’t be real.

—

next chp

(っ◔◡◔)っ taglist: @beiahadid @malfoy-styles-wife @fivenightslaughter @juneballoon999 @leydileyla @fangirlanotherjust @originalsoulcollector @opiomancy @lipstickandloveletters @ninacotte @daedric-sorceress @frecklesandfirecrackers @hahee154hq @disartrous @oh-those-barricade-boys @bornforfangirling

[lovemalecforever]

Chapter 18

Silver is the color of the moon.

*The next day*

Everyone was at Catarina's apartment, pacing in her living room or fidgeting with their dresses while waiting for Alec to arrive. Before Alec went to the forest for the awakening of his powers they decided to set the get-together at Catarina's place the next day so that they could comfortably discuss about his new powers and his feelings towards it. But things took a turn when Jace told them about what happened and the silver glow of his Parabatai rune. Now, they were all worried about Alec and were getting impatient by every passing second.

The awakening of his powers was a little overwhelming for Alec, Angel Ithuriel had been there for him the whole day and told and taught him about his new powers. He guided him and assigned him one of his winged nephilim for his further training as he's the new winged nephilim and also provided him with a way to contact him. Alec was somewhat glad that he got ahold of his new powers quickly, though his shoulders still hurt a little but it's better now. He still needed to get used to his new appendages, but he knew that he would in some time.

As he reached Catarina's apartment, he rang the bell. Catarina quickly opened the door with her magic, as soon as he walked in every eye was on him with a worried expression on their faces.

"Why are you all looking at me like that!?" He asked, uncomfortable with being the attention of the room.

"Alec!" Max yelled with excitement, ran towards him, and hugged him tightly.

"Hey, Max!"

"Alec, are you okay? We were all worried about you!" Maryse said and hugged her son tightly.

Alec returned the embrace. "Yes, mom. I'm fine. Why are you all so worried about me?" He asked, confused.

"Alec, your shirt! It's torn in the back, what happened, big brother?" Izzy asked worriedly.

"Umm.. that! That's for the wings! On that note, Catarina, I'll be needing your help to make space for it and glamor them. I can't keep tearing my clothes!" Catarina nodded. "Why are you all so worried, though?" He asked.

"Alec, our... our Parabatai rune.. it glowed in silver! I've been feeling restless since then.. are you okay, buddy?" Jace's voice was filled with concern making him sigh.

"That's because I am. I trained the whole day with Angel Ithuriel!"

As on cue, Catarina summoned a comfortable settee for Alec, more sofas for everyone and they all settled down.

"Thank you, Cat!" Alec stretched out on the settee, ignoring the crowd.

"That still doesn't answer the silver glow, kid, what about that?" Luke asked.

"I guess that's because my powers and wings are silver. Okay, it still sounds weird!" Alec sighed again, it's gonna take a hell lot of time to get used to it.

"You.. have silver wings.." Jace trailed off as his jaw fell open.

"By the angel, big brother! I still can't process it!" Izzy blinked in astonishment.

"Can you show them to us, Alec?" Max asked excitedly. Even as a teenager, he was still a kid.

Alec looked at Max, then his whole family, and they all had the same glint of excitement in their eyes. "Okay, but I need some space!"

He stood up and walked towards the center of the living room, making sure there's nothing breakable or sharp around him. Once he was sure he's in a clear space, he closed his eyes and focused on his wings, his shoulder blades pained a little, his skin cracked beside them, but didn't bled this time, soon enough a pair of huge appendages were hanging on his sides.

He opened his eyes and saw that his whole family was looking at him with awe and astonishment. Their jaws were on the floor, literally.

A loud gasp broke their trance, which was from Simon. They all looked at him but he was still looking at Alec. "Alec, your... your eyes.. it's..-"

"Silver!" Jace finished for him, earning a collective gasp from everyone.

"Wow!" Max and Clary said in unison.

"Sorry to break the moment but, I've never heard about angels being silver, from whatever I've read in that book, is it normal?" Catarina asked, curiosity visible in her voice. With being a downworlder, seeing a literal angel standing in front of her was beyond unimaginable.

"It's rare, but it is." Alec answered and explained to them everything that Angel Ithuriel had told him.

Everyone was speechless, not knowing how to respond but their eyes were talking for them.

"Can I touch them?" Max asked curiously, breaking the silence of the room.

"Of course, young boy!"

Max quickly ran towards him and reached his hand up to the feather he could, then traced it gently. It was soft and silky under his touch, it fluttered when Max ran his palm around it and curled itself around Max's body.

"Woah!" Max squealed.

"I'm just hugging you, Max, relax." Alec said with a broad smile on his face and ruffled his brother's hair.

"Ugh! Alec!" Max protested and everyone burst into laughter.

"Can I sit now? I'm tired." Alec said as he concealed his wings again, and eyes turned back to their natural hazel shade.

Everyone nodded and they settled back in their respective seats. That's when Catarina realized something.

"Wait! Alec, are you comfortable on the settee? Your wings must be glamoured but they could be hurting-"

"Cat, relax! They aren't glamoured, they're inside my body next to my shoulder blades and spine."

"Wait, what?" Jace asked, panic creeping inside him. Others were mirroring his expressions.

"Okay, relax all of you. I could glamor them too, but this is also a way to hide them."

"Alec, I'm confused, honey, how could those huge pairs of wings fit inside.." Maryse trailed off, shock and panic visible in her eyes.

"Mom, everyone, relax. They aren't huge when they're inside." Alec took a deep breath and continued. "Okay, I'll explain from the start. As Angel Ithuriel told me, and I said earlier, there are two ways to hide the wings, I could glamor them, but they'll still be there, which will be uncomfortable for me whenever I'll sit or lay down or when I'm in small space.

The other way is to shrink and minimize them back into my body, from where they originate, next to my shoulder blades and spine. There's a permanent scar over that area now, and if you focus on it you can see the tiny miniaturized wings there. It's painful in the beginning but with practice and time, the pain will fade away. It's more comfortable like this, I don't have to struggle with them at least. It's weird right now, but he said by time it'll become my second nature." Alec concluded, and looked at his family, they were all relaxed now.

"That's why my back is hurting and feeling heavy." Jace said, who was trying to adjust his shoulders for a long time.

"He's been like this since yesterday, Alec. He's restless and didn't even sleep properly." Clary said, worry clearly visible in her voice for her boyfriend.

"Don't listen to her, Alec, I slept fin... how's the pain suddenly gone and I'm feeling better, like strong and refreshed and energetic. How?" He looked at his Parabatai with curious eyes.

Everyone looked between them with surprised expressions on their faces. Alec looked at his Parabatai and smiled.

"I just focused on my Parabatai rune, then Iratze, Nourishment, Stamina, and calm anger rune." Alec shrugged. Everyone's eyes went wide.

"Hold on, What? How did you do that without using stele?" Jace asked.

"just like you do, idiot. the only difference here is that we can activate each other's rune instead of only ours. first focus on our Parabatai rune then the one you want to activate."

"Okay...." Jace said, unsure then closed his eyes and focused on his runes.

"Seriously, Jace! Clarity rune?" Alec shook his head.

"Okay.... Now that's pretty cool!"

"You were worried about our Parabatai bond earlier, right? Well, to answer your questions, our bond got stronger than before because of my powers, we can activate each other's runes without using stele, but it had to be used only in battles or emergencies and is only possible when we're together. I did it to show you how it works."

Everyone's jaws were on the ground as they witnessed their conversation.

"By the angel! That's amazing! But, not fair, you both are going to be stronger than me and Clary." Izzy fake pouted, earning Alec's legendary eye roll.

"That made me remember, where's my stele?" Alec asked and Izzy handed him his stele.

"Jace, come here." Alec said in his Inquisitor tone and Jace obeyed. Alec activated his stele and drew a rune on the back of Jace's arm, he asked him to activate his stele and draw the same rune on him, he was confused but did as he was told.

"Angel Ithuriel provided me this rune, it's a rune only for Parabatais, it got lost centuries ago. It's called lost sight. If there's an emergency or danger and we're not together, you can activate this rune and I will be able to see through your eyes and will be able to know and track your location." Jace was completely dumbfounded and so were the others.

"Alec! I.. I can't believe it.. I.." Jace stuttered, he didn't know why but he had tears in his eyes.

"Seriously, Jace! I told you we're always going to be Parabatais, no matter what!" He kept his stele down on the table and wrapped his brother in a tight hug.

Everyone had smiles on their faces.

"That's so cool! What else can you do Alec?" Max asked, still curious about his brother's new powers.

"Alec, do you have more power? This was already too much to process, sweetheart." Maryse said with concern and tiredness.

"Ah, yeah.. I kind of do, Mom. Cat, can you summon as many plants as possible in this living room?"

Catarina nodded and filled the whole room with different kinds of plants. From small to large of different varieties. "Alec, I'm confused as hell right now, my whole room is filled with plants. What are you up to?"

"Calm down, Cat! Also, can you and Simon stay back for this? This could hurt you both if you stay up close."

The two downworlders exchanged a look and stood as far as possible, not knowing what Alec was up to. When Alec was sure they were as far as they could get, he focused his mind and energy on the plants surrounding him. His eyes went icy silver again, and a thread of bluish silver started dancing on his finger tips.

He stretched his hands out and created a small ball of energy, the faint blues and silver interwining with each other. The whole room was filled with calming surroundings, it was peaceful and the ball was like a calming trance of everyone except for Catarina and Simon.

"Alec, please stop!" Simon begged, he and Cat were trying to move backwards as much as they could. The energy of the ball was creating a severe headache for him.

"Sorry!" He focused again and scattered the energy in all the plants. His eyes went back to normal again.

"W.. What happened? That power.. it was.." Maryse trailed off, her eyes were hazy and she felt like she was in some other world.

"Mom! Oh god! I should've asked you to stay back too. I'm sorry! Are you okay?" He ran towards her and helped Luke in sitting her down. She looked between them in confusion.

"Alec, what happened to her? That energy, it felt like.."

"Peaceful and.. and calming." Izzy said.

"And nice!" Clary added.

"For nephilims, yes it's like how you're describing it, but for mundanes, it's the same but much stronger. Mom, are you okay? I'm sorry." He asked, worry and guilt filled in his eyes.

"Yes, Alec I'm fine, just a little dizzy. Don't apologize, honey, it's fine, I'm okay." She reassured him.

"And I guess for us downworlders, or demons, it's dangerous and deadly." Simon said.

Everyone looked at them and gasped. Simon had his fangs out and Catarina was in her true form, her blue skin visible with long white hair snaking around her.

"By the angel! Simon, Catarina, I'm so sorry!"

Once Catarina was in control of her magic again, she glamoured herself and vanished all the plants. Simon had glamoured his fanga as well then they walked forward

"It's okay Alec, I'm fine. We both are. But, magic? There was no mention of that in the book. So how do you possess?" Catarina asked curiously.

"I do have it but it's only when I'm around nature. But it's nothing like what you, Magnus or other warlocks possess. From what Angel Ithuriel told me, not every angel has magic, it's rare to find angels with full magic. Guess I got lucky." Alec shrugged.

"Wait, Alec, so you can fly too, right?" Simon asked, knowing it was a dumb question, but he still asked, earning a look of disbelief from everyone.

"Yes, Simon, I can, but I'm still learning it. Angel Ithuriel had told me some basics but he had assigned me another winged shadowhunter for my further training. He has provided me with his details and how I can reach him."

Everyone's eyes went wide with the revelation. "How many immortal shadowhunters are out there, which no one knows about!?" Luke asked.

"Angel Ithuriel told me I'm the fifth one. Kasper, the one which I've researched was the first one. I don't know about the one who's going to train me, maybe he can tell me more."

"And what's that angel's name?" Jace asked, a hint of jealousy clear in his tone.

Alec suppressed his smile. With their bond becoming stronger, he could feel his jealousy clearly. "His name is Daniel Nightstorm."

"Nightstorms? Their line ended decades ago. They were never heard of anymore." Maryse said, a little surprised by this piece of information.

"I think we should call it a day, now. This is all a lot to process in, even for Alec." Luke said, and everyone nodded.

They all hugged Alec once again and said their goodbyes. Alec stayed at Catarina's to get some rest properly for sometime then with her help he made space for his wings in all of his clothes which he brought and Catarina glamoured them in that area.

The rest of the day was like a blur for him, he attended the meeting which they preponed which as usual went not so interesting, then completed the paperwork he was supposed to for his inquiry visit. By the time he was done it was late at night but he didn't care, he wanted to get back to his husband, his home. His family argued with him that he could leave the next morning but he eventually won and said his goodbyes to his family and left for Idris.

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

As Alec stood beside his apartment door, he took a nervous deep breath. He didn't get a chance to talk to Magnus that day and his husband didn't know that he was coming back late at night so it'll be a nice surprise for him. He took a deep breath again and opened the door.

As soon as he entered the apartment his nostrils filled with a foul smell which was floating in the whole apartment which was dimly lit. He took in the state of the room which felt like it wasn't cleaned in decades, there were several half empty or full packets of take out scattered on the floor, some leftovers of food were placed on the coffee table and the glass table near the couch, broken shards of numerous glasses were scattered on the kitchen floor and in center of the living room, a empty bottle of whiskey was kept on the kitchen slab. He took in the scene and sighed heavily, rubbing the crease formed on the bridge of his nose.

He looked around and spotted water bamboo on one shelf. To his advantage they both were nature lovers and had many house plants in their apartment like Oxalis, Aloe Vera, Snake plant, different types of ferns and Anthurium. He focused on the lot at once, extracted their mixed scents and spread it in the whole apartment replacing the foul smell. He sighed then started walking towards their bedroom, avoiding the scattered shards of glasses.

"Magnus!? Mags!?" He shouted, his voice echoing on the whole apartment filled with dullness.

He opened his bedroom door and his eyes widened with horror. His husband was curled around in the center of the bed, sheets and pillows scattered around the floor,  eyes  bloodshot with his makeup all smudged and flowing down. His hair was down and messy and the man was completely naked, looking paler, lacking his usual natural glow. Alec's heart raced badly as he sprinted and sat beside Magnus.

"Magnus!? Mags? Love, wake up." From up close he could see that his lips were cracked and bleeding, and it looked like he hadn't taken a shower in days.

"Angels!! Magnus? Mags, wake up love. Please."

Magnus stirred, his eyes were heavy and he could taste metal in his mouth.

"Magnus? Hey, wake up love."

Magnus blinked his eyes when he spotted a figure next to him.

"A.. Alexander?" His voice was rough and croaky from his dry throat.

"Mags! Hey, what happened here?"

He blinked a few times to make sure he wasn't dreaming. "Alexander... W.. Water... I..."

Before he could complete Alec was back with water and some soaked cotton balls in his hands. He put it on the side table and helped his husband to sit properly, then cleaned the blood with the help of cotton balls. After making sure there was no blood on his lips he helped him with water.

"Slowly, Mags!" His eyes were filled with worry the whole time.

"M.. More.."

He filled the glass with more water and placed it on his lips. His fast heart beats refusing to slow down. "Magnus!? How long has it been since you've eaten anything or drank water?" He asked softly, voice laced with concern.

Once Magnus was in his full senses with enough water in his system, realization dawned on him. He lowered his eyes, unable to meet his shadowhunter's.

"Mags!" He said softly and placed his hand gently on his husband's cheeks. Magnus couldn't hold it any longer and tears started running down his cheeks.

Alec quickly placed the glass on the table and wrapped his husband in a tight hug. He winced in pain when Magnus unknowingly tightened his grip just above his left wing scar. He suppressed it down and let his warlock cry on his shoulders.

Magnus didn't know what to do, he couldn't meet his shadowhunter's eyes but he needed him, badly. 'What have I done!? How am I supposed to tell you that I..I kissed.. Camille.. that I.. I cheated.. No! It was Camille.. b.. but I got weak.. I let my guards down. I'm not ready to lose you. I can't. Not again. I don't know if I could, but if not telling you means having you for long enough, I'll add it to my existing pile of secrets.' he thought.

When Magnus' crying slowed down, Alec held his face in his hands and placed his lips softly above his eyes and pecked them gently.

"Magnus? What happened here? Are you okay now?"

"I.. Alexander.. I.." He sniffed, not knowing what to say but he couldn't keep everything from him. He could tell him half the truth, leaving the part where he cheated on his precious Alexander.

"Mags, look at me!" He spoke softly. "What happened, love?"

Magnus looked at him but still couldn't meet his eyes. "C.. Camille happened."

Alec's eyes widened with the information. Several thoughts started running through his mind. "What!? Was.. was she here? Did she hurt you?"

"No, I was at a client's.. when she... she's a vampire again, way more stronger.. more.." he trailed off and started crying again. "I'm sorry, Alexander!"

"Magnus, there's nothing to apologize for. I'll kill her if I see her again." He seethed with anger and wrapped his husband in a tight, comforting hug. He knew his husband was vulnerable right now, and Camille would have tried her way to get to him. Whatever she has done, she'll definitely pay for it.

He broke their hug when he felt his warlock getting relaxed under his touch.

"When did it happen, Magnus?"

"Th... this evening, seven to eight hours ago."

Alec sighed. "And you haven't eaten anything since then?"

Magnus shook his head, fidgeting with his husband's fingers absentmindedly, which were placed on his lap.

"Love, whatever she did, don't overthink it, okay. I'll make dinner for us."

"No, Alexander, I'm fine, there's no.."

"Magnus! I'm going to make dinner, you rest, okay?"

Magnus nodded, he couldn't bring himself to tell him the whole truth. Alec quickly prepared a dinner of spaghetti with meatballs for them and  took it to his husband, with a glass of juice for him. He fed his husband properly then helped him to clean up and changed him into more fresh and comfortable clothing. He himself changed into his night dress and cuddled closely to his husband.

"A.. Alexander, I.. I'm sorry, I was.. the apartment, I couldn't..." he was unable to form a proper sentence, he wanted to be with his shadowhunter, but the guilt was strong.

"Shh, Mags. It's okay. I don't care about the apartment, we'll clean it tomorrow. All I care about is you. Just sleep, okay. You need proper rest."

Magnus nodded and snuggled into his husband's chest, needing all the touch he could get from his shadowhunter. Alec kissed him on the top of his head, stroking his thick silky hair gently, he tangled their legs together and wrapped his arms tightly around his waist. He kept stroking his hair until his warlock slept peacefully beside him then he dozed off to sleep himself.

[nikki-romero]

The Wild Flower (Tomoki Matsuba x OC) Prologue

It was finally the long-awaited moving day. I was moving into an apartment by myself. My dad helped me get the perfect apartment. The negotiations had gone smoothly and it was time to move in. I decided to walk to the new apartment to learn the new neighbourhood better.

My cousin and I had stopped and checked the map we had.

"Hmm, it looks like it's this way." My cousin, Ayame, pointed ahead of us. The pedestrian light turned green. "Come on!" She rushed across the street. With how excited she was getting, you'd think she was the one starting a new chapter of her life, so to speak.

"Wha-! Ayame!" I called after her. I quickly shoved the map into my bag before running after her. She turned around to wait for me, and her eyes widened.

"Hotaru! Watch out!!"

I looked to the side and saw a white limo heading towards me. I gasped but managed to leap out of the way before it could hit me, right into a puddle of ice-cold water.

"Hotaru! Are you alright?!" Ayame came running up to me, panicked.

"Peachy." I looked at my soaked clothing in utter dismay. Just as I was about to get up from the ground, a gentlemanly man dressed in black stepped out of the limo. A butler? I stared dubiously at him as he reached out his hand.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

"Oh, I'm great," I replied sarcastically. I had the right of way. I should not have had to escape death so narrowly. And I wasn't about to take his hand either. I shot him a nasty glare as I got up by myself.

"Your clothing... This is my fault. Allow me to make it up to you."

"What the hell was that? Don't you know how to read a road sign? Jesus Christ, you could have killed me!" I scolded him.

"You're right, I am so sorry." He bowed to me. "I'll get you a change of clothes," the man said gently.

"I don't need it," I snapped.

"Please, I insist. I can't leave a beautiful young girl looking like this. For one thing, my employer would be angry with me."

"Hotaru," Ayame whispered, "Maybe you should accept his offer. He looks like he feels really bad."

"You're too nice," I whispered back before turning back towards the butler. "Fine, whatever."

He smiled as he opened the door of the spacious limo and ushered us inside.

"My apologies. I should have stated earlier. My name is Aoi Shirafuji. I'm a butler to the Ichijo family," the butler introduced himself.

I stilled. "Ichijo?" I repeated.

"Oh, you know Mr Ichijo?" Aoi asked, looking somewhat concerned.

"No, I've just heard a lot about the Ichijo Group," I managed to force out. "The amusement parks the company has built is really quite impressive." I forced a smile. Somehow I felt like I just stepped on a landmine.

We arrived at a large and impressive mansion and Aoi took me to a room with a large full-length mirror and closets full of a wide range of clothing. "This way. Choose whichever you like."

The clothes were both my style and my size. It sent unpleasant shivers down my spine; I felt sick.

"Does a girl our age live here?" Ayame mused. I didn't answer. "Hotaru? Hey, are you okay? You seem a little tense." She furrowed her brow.

"Mm," I choked out. I didn't feel particularly eager to talk about it. "I'm... going to get dressed. Would you mind waiting outside?"

"Uh, yes, sure." Ayame knew me too well. She knew I wasn't being myself.

I took a shaky breath. Then another. Another. I took several deep breaths until I felt slightly calmer. I really didn't want to be here. Feeling like I wouldn't explode, I grabbed the first dress I saw off its hanger, not bothering to even look at it.

There was a knock on the door as I finished getting dressed.

"Yes?" I replied though I hadn't finished fastening the hook of the dress yet. It wasn't Aoi who entered the room.

"I'm Tomoki Matsuba. I'm one of the butlers here. I'm here to pick up the garments that require cleaning," the butler said. Bow-tied, black-suited and bespectacled, he exuded a rigidness befitting of a butler.

"Right. My cousin; did she...?"

"She went ahead to the garden," Tomoki responded.

"Oh." I bit my lip. Now what? I couldn't reach the clip on the back of my dress. I took yet another deep breath." Would you mind helping me fasten the hook on my dress? I can't quite reach it," I said.

"Please turn around." I did as he said and turned my back to him. He swiftly fastened the hook at the back of the dress before speaking again. "I'm going to do your laundry. Would you like some tea while you wait?"

"That would be lovely, thank you," I answered.

"This way." I followed Tomoki to the garden where Ayame was already waiting for me. She was sitting at a table, drinking from an elegant tea set.

"Kyo Aizawa. I'm a butler. Would you like anything else to drink?" Yet another butler introduced himself to me.

"The tea will be just fine, thank you," I replied formally as I sat down. Kyo promptly poured tea into the beautiful cup. "Thank you," I smiled up at Kyo once he was done.

"It's an original black tea blend using roses from this garden," he informed me.

"It smells wonderful."

"I recommend first tasting it black." A delicate pattern covered the teacup.

"This is Queen Rose, is it not?" I inquired, inspecting the cup. It suited the garden, but I was too on edge to enjoy it. Kyo didn't look the least bit surprised that I knew that.

"That's correct. It was produced in the early 18th century at the Raines factory." I nodded as I delicately held the cup and took a sip.

"How do you even know that stuff?" Ayame asked me. My only response was a small smile. Ayame cocked an eyebrow at me, inspecting my lips, and then my eyes. She gently placed the cup in its saucer and leaned over the table. "Hotaru?" she lowered her voice so only I can hear.

I shook my head. "Don't."

Ayame frowned but left it at that.

"It's delicious," I said after having tasted the tea, but the truth was I could barely taste anything. Silence fell upon the garden. Kyo didn't seem to be the talkative type as he watched over us. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed another butler approaching, a charming smile on his face. This family certainly had a lot of butlers...

"What's the matter? You look so serious," he commented.

"I always look like this," I replied calmly.

"Itsuka Matsuba at your service. You met Tomoki earlier. Last name's the same," he said cheerfully.

"Brothers, I take it?"

"That's right. Now, how would you two like some freshly baked scones?"

"Scones sound nice, don't you think so, Hotaru?" she asked, a little too cheerfully.

"Thank you," I replied. We were stuck here until my clothes got cleaned so we might as well.

"The strawberry jam is made with organic strawberries from our farm, and the clotted cream from milk from our cows." Was that supposed to impress me? Without responding, I cut open the scone and took a small bite.

"It's very delicious," I said before taking another bite. After eating, I elegantly wiped my mouth with a napkin and glanced at my surroundings. The garden was well taken care of. It was filled with gorgeous flowers and the landscape was really quite breathtaking. "You have a lot of pink flowers and roses here," I noted.

"We're growing them for a celebration," Itsuki replied.

"A celebration?"

"It will be our employer's birthday in a month. And his daughter will be introduced to society on the same day," he explained. It took everything I had not to tremble. Not to react in any negative way. I swallowed.

"Is that so? I'm sure she must be wonderful," I said, keeping the bite I was feeling out of my voice.

"She is. A bit of a diamond in the rough. But that'll make training her all the more worth it." I had to keep myself from barking a laugh, and almost faltered.

"Oh? In my experience, I've found that the rough diamonds are far more valuable than refined ones." I flashed him one of my most dazzling smiles. His eyes widened.

"Oh, how do you figure?" he asked.

"I apologise for not being able to put this more delicately, but in this society, I find these 'refined'," I air quoted the word, "diamonds to be little more than sheep." Itsuki didn't hide his shock at my words, and I smirked ever so slightly. "Of course, I don't blame them. They were raised that way. You know, to follow someone else's orders; someone else's plan for their lives. It's been imprinted on them since the moment they were born and it's all they know. Whereas a diamond in the rough, as you put it, is quite rare in high society, but personally, I find it invigorating. It's like a breath of fresh air in an otherwise suffocating world to meet someone who is willing to against the status quo to do what they believe in. You could even say it's like defying gravity, which, in and of itself is already a very impressive feat." I chuckled. "But, what do I know? I'm just a teenager." I didn't fail to notice Ayame's dubious expression directed at me.

Yet another butler walked up to us, holding my freshly cleaned clothes.

"Sorry I kept you waiting," he said. I had to admit, I was taken aback by how attractive he was. But he had a certain vibe that reminded me of my brother, Eisuke, and that usually only spelt bad things. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Yuma Akagi, and I'm the Ichijo family's head butler." Yuma bowed to me.

I smiled. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"I would like to apologize for the actions of one of our butlers today," Yuma said.

The corner of my mouth twitched. "I appreciate it. I'm just glad no one was hurt," I added. Yuma nodded.

"Meeting like this was, I think, fate. I hope... that you and I will meet again somewhere." I forced a chuckle as I looked away. If we did, I'd choke all of them. Yuma smiled significantly as he took my hand, then he gently kissed the back of it. The gesture was familiar, but it never got any easier to bear. "You were in the midst of moving. I'll have the limousine take you," he said.

"Thank you," I replied. I quietly watched Yuma give instructions to the other butlers.

After changing my clothes, Ayame and I got into the limo together with Yuma.

Ayame gave me another worried look as she was dropped off. "Hey, um, call me. Okay?"

"Sure." I nodded.

"Again, I am very sorry about today," Yuma said. It seemed like his attention was focused solely on me.

"It's alright."

"How did you find the house?"

"It was gorgeous. Absolutely breath-taking," I replied.

Yuma smiled, brimming with elegance and grace, but I could tell he wasn't actually buying a word I said.

We weren't far from the new apartment when the limousine came to a sudden stop.

"Are you alright?" Yuma's arms were around me, steadying me after the abrupt braking. I felt myself stiffen; my blood ran cold. In a panic, I pushed away from him. "Miss?"

"Sorry, I just don't handle physical contact very well." I shifted uncomfortably.

"I... apologize," Yuma said as he moved away from me. I shook my head.

"It's fine. But is there a problem?" I asked, looking away from him and out the window in an attempt to get rid of the tension in the atmosphere.

"It appears the road narrows up ahead. The car can't continue. This is as far as we can take you," Yuma explained.

"Here is fine. Thanks for bringing me this far."

"Before you go, might I ask how you found our service?" Yuma asked. An odd thing for a butler to ask.

"Oh, your service was superb." I got a sudden idea. "You're definitely on Geo's level."

"Geo?" Yuma asked. The corner of my lips tugged upwards. I got him. Hook, line, and sinker.

"My dad's butler," I replied innocently.

"Your... Dad?"

"Oh! I just realised I never introduced myself. Apologies. I'm just so used to people knowing I am. I'm Hotaru Ichinomiya."

"A pleasure, Miss Ichinomiya." Yuma smiled, but it was forced.

"I know this is probably common knowledge, but my dad, Akira, adopted both me and my brother, Eisuke. You see, my biological father abandoned me and my mother a long time ago."

Yuma's façade almost faltered, and I saw that. I was right; he knew!

"Abandoned?" Yuma asked, almost hesitantly.

"Yep. He didn't even show up for my mother's funeral after she died."

Yuma looked away. "I'm sorry to hear that. Perhaps there was a reason he couldn't take care of you?"

I leaned back in my seat. "I don't care."

"You... Don't care?" God, how many more times was he going to feel inclined to make me repeat what I said?

"I don't. No excuse he could have would ever be good enough."

"I'm sure he must love you." I could tell Yuma was choosing his words very carefully without divulging too much information.

"You can't love someone you don't know. I've never even met him. Or talked to him. You see, the way I see it, blood doesn't mean anything. Genetic doesn't mean anything. I'll tell you what does mean something though: When I needed a dad, Akira was there. Akira is my dad. And my so-called father was little more than a sperm donor." Yuma almost choked on his words, and I chuckled. "Not the most delicate choice of words, but it's the truth. The thing is, you don't get to be a dad just because you share DNA. He wasn't there when I needed him the most, and he has no right to take up that role now." Yuma was speechless. "But I'm sorry to dump all of that on you like that. That was really silly and unfair of me. Please, forget I said anything." I made a show of giving a nervous laugh.

"Not at all." Yuma knew I was full of it. And I knew he knew that, but he didn't say anything more.

"Well, it's getting dark. I really should be going."

"Of course." He got out of the car before I did and held the door open for me. I bowed politely to him and turned to leave. I was happy to see the moving truck in front of the building when I finally got there.

"Excuse me. I'm sorry I'm so late. I'm Hotaru Ichinomiya."

"We've brought everything inside. Have a great day, Miss." With that, the movers left. I stood still for a moment and frowned. They brought everything inside? I didn't have to guess how they did that. I had a really bad feeling about this. I just hoped to god I was wrong. I inserted my key and unlocked the door.

"Welcome home, Miss Ichinomiya."

I wasn't wrong...

I was unable to hide my disdain as the butlers bowed their heads gracefully. I slammed the door shut behind me. The composure I put so much effort into keeping all day crumbled in an instant. I stared at them, not saying anything.

"We're here to serve you. Starting today." Aoi said. The butlers brought me slippers. I glared at the slippers, then at them, and crossed my arms.

"Well. I wish I could say I'm surprised," I snapped scornfully. I slipped my shoes off, not bothering with the slippers as I walked into the living room and sat down on my sofa. Resting my elbow on the armrest, I pressed my forefinger against my temple and my thumb beneath my chin. "Well go ahead. Give me the whole speech about why you're here."

Itsuki cleared his throat, uncomfortable. "Do you remember when I mentioned our employer's daughter?" he asked.

"Uh-huh."

"That girl..." Itsuki started, only to have his sentence finished by Tomoki.

"... is you." I didn't respond. "But... you already knew that."

"And that surprises you, how? I have the power, money and resources to do just about anything. You really think I'd go through life being oblivious and naïve without looking into who my father is?"

"You're going to be a sophisticated woman by the time of our employer's birthday," Kyo said. Sophisticated. I could socialise quite well in and I knew how to conduct myself, but there were many in high society who would argue that I wasn't quite "sophisticated" or "traditional" enough. Men in high society liked controlling everything, and I had a reputation for going against the tide. But I've never been bothered by that before and I wasn't about to start now.

"Right. Your employer, Kazuma Ichijo. My so-called father."

"Yes." Aoi smiled. I bet women were putty in his hands with that smile. The stupid ones anyway.

I didn't say anything, and the tension in the air grew ever more palpable. I didn't take my eyes off the butlers either.

As the glaring continued, the front door opened and Mr Head Butler walked in.

"Why, hello there, Miss Ichinomiya," Yuma grinned as he unceremoniously locked the door.

"Oh, great. The cavalry's here," I said sarcastically.

"Yuma, she knows," Aoi said.

Yuma grinned. It was a sinister grin; the same one Eisuke got whenever he was plotting something. "I figured as much. Everything you said in the limo... You knew all along who Mr Ichijo is."

"What did she say in the limo?" Itsuki asked, curiously.

I snorted. "Believe me, if I'd known you were Ichijo butlers before I got in that limo, I never would have accepted your half-assed offer. But then again, something tells me whether I accepted it or not, we'd still all be here right now."

"Enough. I cannot allow and Ichijo to utter such vulgar words," Tomoki said with a scowl.

I snorted and rolled my eyes. "Oh yes? Try and stop me, four-eyes."

His scowl turned into an expression of both shock and offence.

"Well as fun as this has been, everybody out. Before I report you for break in and entering."

"I didn't expect you'd treat us like crooks. Not when you're the one violating your lease." Yuma held out a piece of paper.

I snatched the paper from his hand and skimmed through the contract until my eyes stopped at a particular 'special feature'. "Personal butler?" I read out loud. And right at the bottom was Akira's signature. My dad wasn't stupid. No way would he have signed this without checking every detail and have the family lawyer go over it for emphasis. Which could only mean he knew about this and didn't tell me.

"We had you come to the house to make the idea more palatable," Aoi said.

"Yes, yes. You set me up. I figured that out hours ago." I got up. "I don't believe this," I mumbled as I grabbed my phone and went into my room. I slammed the door shut and furiously dialled my dad's number.

"Yes?" He didn't look at the caller ID before answering.

"Hi, Dad. It's me," I said in a voice so sweet it sounded sickening even to me.

"Hotaru! I was going to call you in the morning. Have you settled in?" he asked.

"Yes, about that... Did the lease for my new apartment perhaps come with a tiny detail you forgot to mention?" I spoke through clenched teeth.

"The lease?" Akira remained silent for a few moments as he thought. "Oh! You must be talking about the butler service. It was a special they had just for your apartment. I figured having a butler would make your life a little easier."

My eyebrow twitched as I closed my eyes in exasperation. "So you did know about it."

"Of course. You think I'd sign something like that without thoroughly checking every word on it?"

"And you didn't think to warn me about it?" I breathed.

Akira paused. "You're upset..."

"Damn right I'm upset! Dad, you've been duped!"

"What are you talking about?"

"Those butlers! I wouldn't be surprised if they disguised themselves as real estate agents. They probably played on your worry as my dad, too."

"Hotaru, you're not making any sense."

"They're Ichijo butlers! They orchestrated this whole thing! The apartment, the lease, the butler service. All of it! All so they could, and I quote, 'turn me into a sophisticated woman' for his birthday party."

I heard Akira breathe hard over the receiver in an attempt to maintain his composure. "I'm calling Yuzuru."

"What's he going to do? They're practically untouchable, and not because they work for Ichijo. They planned everything to the finest detail and slipped through all the right loopholes. Everything on the lease is legal and you knew about the butler service when you signed it, so we can't even sue them for not explaining certain details on the contract. There's nothing we can do."

Akira paused. "You're right. But there's nothing on the lease about you following their rules. No conditions about you taking any kind of lessons from them. I doubt I need to tell you this, but you don't dance to the sound of their pipes. You dance to yours."

I smirked, relaxing a bit. "You know it, Daddy."

"Good. I'll call you tomorrow. Love you." I could hear the smile in his voice.

"Love you, too."

I took a deep breath before opening my door. Of course they were still there, and they likely heard every word I said to my dad, too. I took one annoyed look at them and moved to the kitchen.

"All sorted out?" Yuma asked sarcastically as he followed me into the kitchen.

"Why bother asking when you heard my entire conversation," I retorted.

There was a moment of silence before Yuma doubled over with laughter.

"I think this will be very interesting indeed," he said as he looked at me with amusement.

I didn't bother responding as I put the kettle on; nothing good could possibly come from interacting with him. I turned around and leaned against the kitchen counter, crossing my arms over my chest.

Yuma's sinister smile returned. I raised my eyebrows in a motion for him to get to the point.

"All you have to do is accept our training on behalf of our dear employer. It's only a month," Itsuki said.

My eyes flitted to him. "No," I said flatly before turning my back to them.

"You had etiquette lessons, but we need to make doubly sure you didn't miss anything. Not to mention kick that flighty nature of yours. Otherwise, you'd just be an embarrassment," Yuma replied with a broad smile.

I barked a laugh. "Wow. That is just hilarious." I turned back to him. "I already told you how I feel about him. And I know you know I meant every word. But just in case you're still processing, allow me to break it down for you. I can barely stomach the thought of breathing the same air as your oh-so-wonderful employer. He can go fuck himself for all I care. And you would be damn lucky if I decided not to embarrass him and his company on purpose, which, by the way, I'm still undecided on." Tomoki opened his mouth to say something. I pointed my finger at him without looking at him. "You say one word about my language, I swear to god I will punch you."

Yuma sighed, exasperated. "How you feel about him doesn't matter. We made a promise to him and we intend to keep it."

I snorted. "Good luck with that." I turned back to the now boiled kettle and prepared some camomile tea. God knows I needed it.

"Alright, it's time you choose," Yuma said. I could hear the amused smirk in his voice.

"Oh, I get a choice, do I?" I retorted.

"Who would you like to be your butler?" Aoi asked.

Next Chapter

[angelic-serenade]

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request: 🌟 Hellou!! I love ur work!! ❤️❤️❤️ Is it possible tó ha e a Alastor and younger(like 4 years younger) reader who have nightmares of his death sonetimes, cause she saw itt Back then, and go to big bother Alastor for comfort? 🦌

requested by: anon

a/n: okay so this was supposed to be a quick one-shot but my hand slipped and I wrote 9500+ words instead. oops. anyway, I hope this meets your expectations, enjoy!

gif, original work and characters do not belong to me

pairing: Alastor x sister! reader

fandom: Hazbin Hotel

warnings: mentions of death, bit of angst, traumatic events, toxic relationship if you squint, Alastor being Alastor but softer for reader

✧༝┉┉┉┉┉˚*❋ ❋ ❋*˚┉┉┉┉┉༝✧

It never rained down in Hell, no matter how ardently you had sometimes wished to feel the drops pouring down your robes. Even during your longest nights, the ones haunted by nightmares and long-forgotten memories resurfacing at your weakest, it would never rain like it did in those Gothic Novels your darling brother used to read you back in the day: you were no virtuous protagonist and never would the skies cry for your misery. It was probably one of the worst downsides of being stuck in Hell for all eternity: the equally eternal blood red sky forever looming over your head, serving as a reminder of your infernal punishment.

When you'd wake up in the middle of the night, after a particularly vivid nightmare, there was no pouring rain to muffle the sound of your hopeless wailings, no thunder to distract your spinning mind from its panic. Therefore, you found yourself continously seeking comfort from the only person you held dear to your now dead cold heart: Alastor, The Radio Demon, whom you had the privilege to refer to as your darling brother (at least in the privacy of your own bedchamber) - older brother to be precise, even if only by a few years. You had always been extremely fond of your sibiling, looking up to him as a role model - definitely not your wisest decision since it had landed you among the sinners of Hell. That's not to say you had any regrets, Heaven seemed like an awfully dreadful and boring place if you were to be completely honest.

Alastor, on his part, had affectionately doted on you back on the surface, taking his little sweetling under his protective wing as if his sole purpose in life had been to take care of you. As a consequence, on more occasions than you cared to remember, you had felt utterly asphixiated by your brother's undivided attention all your life, and quarrels had been a daily occurrence whenever his protective behavior clashed with your own desire for freedom. Your lovely mother had always been there to try and defuse your heated altercations, the poor woman; your dear brother and you, however, both shared the same stubbornness and desire to prevail on others, so that whenever your strong personalities came to oppose, trouble was always certain to follow suit.

You wished you'd appreciated his concerns more when you had been given the chance. Now in the afterlife, shows of affection were hard to come by. Mayhap that had been the worst punishment inflicted upon you after death: the privilege of having your dear brother by your side without actually being able to cherish and bask in his caring regards. Mayhap the illustrious Dante had been right in his musings all along: the law of retaliation had taken away from you the one thing you had never really appreciated in life, making you realize just how much you had taken for granted. Now that your brother had become Hell's greatest menace, an overlord to make things worse, weakness in any shape or form could and would not be tolerated under any circumstance, for both his and your sake.

Luckily, no demon in the seven circles suspected that the feared Radio Demon had any siblings to begin with, thanks to Alastor's foresight.

Your identity was to be kept secret at all costs in order to avoid undesired repercussions. If anyone were to even suspect you had any kind of connection to the Radio Demon - Alastor had told you - overlords and lesser demons alike would be at your throat in the span of a heartbeat. If given the chance, no enemy of his would ever hesitate to stoop as low as to attack him were it hurt the most, where he was most vulnerable. And that chance, he was not willing to give any time soon. You both had already died once and you were not keen on repeating the experience.

So you had followed his every order ever since your fall into the pits, leading a life death away from your darling brother and his chaotic ways - the one thing he hadn't been able to prevent in life -, keeping a low profile as a common denizen of Hell. Alastor would unsuspiciously check up on you every now and then, but his visits had been as rare as it was to see an angel in Hell - seeing him once a year was truly an unfair torture. Time went by and you grew more and more lonely as you mostly kept to yourself and wasted your days away in a nice apartment away from prying eyes. You were a nobody in Hell, and that was how things were meant to be.

Things changed when Alastor unexpectedly showed up at your doorstep for the second time in a year, blabbering about the newest project he'd involved himself with. His words betrayed unusual enthusiasm, a mood you had learned to be usually spurred on by the prospect of carnage and bloodshed or his precious radio broadcasts. Whenever he came to see you, he always showered you in gifts and praise, but it had been centuries since you had seen your brother so excited over... anything, really. Therefore, witnessing his cheeriness brought a genuine smile on your face. You were a little jealous you weren't the reason why he felt so giddy, but you couldn't complain as spending time with him was the greatest gift you could ever ask for these days. So when he told you you'd be moving into this phantomatic Hazbin Hotel, where he'd be staying for a while as well, you were impossibly ecstatic. Alastor had gently caressed your cheek and, in one of his rare moments of tenderness, softened his voice as if to lull you away:

“My dear, it has always pained me so to leave you here to your lonesome, but I am certain you understand that I always ever meant to protect you from harm.”

Unexpectedly, as most of his actions were, your dear brother spun you around into his arms as if he were coaxing you into a dance - which would probably be the case, knowing him. His words were impossibly haughty now, as if a switch had gone off in his mind:

“But now sweetling, now the time has come to finally put an end to this painful arrangement. You'll be joining me at this whimsical Hazbin Hotel our dear princess is so enthusiastic about!”

You knew better than to question Alastor and his ways, so you simply nodded your approval, glad to finally be able to leave that god forsaken apartment you had been locked in for far more than you cared to admit. And so you moved to the hotel - still keeping your true identity a secret, mind you. You were introduced as one of Alastor's acquantances, much like both Niffty and Husk were. Nobody questioned your unexpected presence and Charlie (much more than everybody else) welcomed you with opened arms into her precious hotel. When you offered to lend a hand with whatever she needed, she was utterly ecstatic. All in all, you were quick to adapt to the new situation.

The new accommodation, however, brought about quite a lot of new issues as well.

Spending so much time with Astor, for one, even if pretending not to be as close as siblings should be, awakened long forgotten memories about your life on Earth, most of which you would have preferred to keep locked away. During your very busy days, you were able to distract yourself from your scattered thoughts and memories; at night, however, your subconscious relentlessly haunted you in the form of nightmares and there was nothing you could really do to prevent it.

It was inevitable that you'd start losing sleep, as the only way to evade the cage that your mind had become was not to sleep at all. Astor had grown increasingly worried about your sleep-deprived state, even if he tried not to show it, masking his concern with his usual smile and charming talks:

“You will chase away any potential patrons looking so disheveled and shabby, my dear. Charlie will surely be heartbroken.”

You wouldn't have put it past him to manipulate you through guilt, but you knew that Alastor was truly worried about your health. His gaze, cryptic to most, felt all too familiar to you, just like the expressiveness of his smile held no secrets from you anymore. Needless to say, as fond of him as you were, you tried to sleep once again.

Then one night everything changed: it had been the worst night of your undead life, and the best one too.

The deafening sound of gunshots had echoed through your unconscious mind, increasingly loud footsteps and dogs barking so loud that you subconsciously jerked in your sleep. A call to your name, desperate, hopeless and scared. You saw him, his beautiful maroon eyes that had once only pooled in fondness for you, now dark and miserable. But they held promise too, a promise to fulfill maybe someday, in another life.

“I'm sorry (Y/N)”

His smile had dropped.

So had you.

You woke up screaming, trashing about in your bed. Sweat clung to your brow, your mind in a frenzied panic searched for something concrete and real to cling to. Was your brother alright? Satan, you hoped so. He had to be, he couldn't leave you again, you had to go to him, to see him, you didn't want to lose him again, you wouldn't bear the pain - you almost tripped in the bedsheets as you scrambled to the door.

When you arrived to Alastor's door, you had yet to calm down. You rapidly knocked on the hard wood, agitation evident in both your jerky movements and shivering hands.

“Alastor, Alastor, please. Open up. It's me” you desperately whispered.

As the door gently opened, your brother stepped into the darkness of the hallway and you unceremoniously flung yourself to him, clinging to his neck as if it were your lifeline. Your tears wet his robes, but you couldn't bring yourself to care enough to apologize. You felt like you had almost lost him again after all those years of seclusion.

But he was alive and he was with you. That's all you could hope for and far more than you thought you deserved.

Alastor uncharacteristically started to pat your head, as if trying to console you even though he had little to no experience in that area. His movements were uncertain, but as you lifted your head from his chest to gaze into his eyes, you realized no words would ever convey as much affection as Alastor's eyes did in that brief moment. His smile never faltered - even if it had become a bit strained - but you hadn't expected it to. It made you smile through your tears, despite yourself. You realized in that moment you'll forever be the only one allowed to touch Alastor without eliciting his wrath. That fact alone enough for you to truly appreciate the amount of control he'd give up in order to comfort you. He gently brought you to his bed and sat you down next to him.

“Are you quite alright sister dear? You know, those awful tears don't suit you at all! I rather much prefer your blinding smile!”

You smiled wider this time, for him, to let him know that you were indeed grateful.

“Oh, now that wasn't so difficult, was it?”

When he kissed your forehead, you almost broke up crying once again: it had been so long since you and your brother had been so close. The gesture warmed your long dead heart and you tried to return the favor by kissing his cheek. Nobody had ever been that intimate with the Radio Demon and lived to tell the tale, but in that moment he was no demon of hell: he was just Alastor, your dear brother who had doted on you in life and kept protecting you in death too - even though his ways weren't the most orthodox.

“I missed you Al. Please, don't ever leave me again.”

“I most certainly shall not, my sweet little darling. It's a promise.”

You were glad he let you stay with him for the rest of the night. No words were needed as he brought you close and took your hands into his. You both laid on the bed, in a rare moment of peace and quiet. It reminded you of your childhood on Earth and how you'd always sneak out of your room during the night to sleep next to him - you had always been afraid of the dark after all. Only in your adulthood had you learned that there are worse things than darkness one should fear.

After eons of suffering and terrible loneliness, everything finally fell into its rightful place.

Alastor was safe and so were you.

That was all that mattered.

[possiamo-andare]

No More Divisions - Chapter Eight: Why Should We Help?

JJ x Original Character

MASTERLIST

<3

~

At the makeshift headquarters beside the lighthouse, there's two tents. I'm guessing Kiara, Pope and JJ are in tent one because I'm in tent two and all that's in tent two is an officer watching me and a row of computers. They're turned off but I can still tell that this tent is a precaution, just in case they need to call in for more man power. For a teenager.

I'm sitting on a chair that has been pulled out of a computer desk. It's uncomfortable and I'm becoming more irritable the more I sit and do nothing. This also probably has to do with me being separated from my friends, but I don't care. I'm taking out my anger on this poor officer, who is seriously not doing anything, other than his job.

"I want to go." I grumble, crossing my arms over my chest.

The officer turns to me and rolls his eyes. "Anything else, madam?" His sarcasm is even more annoying than his voice.

"Yeah, your mom's number." I spit bad, acting very juvenile. I guess JJ has really rubbed off on me.

"Just sit still. Your parents should be here soon. Then you can go home." The officer says, one arm forward. He's trying to calm me down but it's not working. It's actually only making me even more pissed.

"I don't want to go home." I angrily mumble. "I need to see my friends."

The officer chuckles. "Not happening, sweetheart."

I roll my eyes. "Don't patronize me buddy." I had no idea where this arrogance was coming from. I was intimidated by the police but now, after all that I've been through, I could care less.

"Listen kid -" The officer is about to start on me, probably about respecting authority and your elders but he doesn't get the chance. Walking through the tent to meet me is the fed I saw from before, my parents, Ward, and Rafe.

I get up instantly. "Stay away from them!" I say, grabbing my mom and dad and standing in front of my parents.

I block them from Ward and Rafe, who are now face to face with me. For the first time since Peterkin's death, I'm looking Ward dead in the eyes. He looks back, very arrogant for someone that's guilty and surrounded by cops. But I guess it pays to be Ward Cameron; everyone believes you're good all the time.

"Callie," my mom cried, pulling me away from Ward and hugging me. "We were worried sick."

My dad hugged me and my mom. This is the first time I've seen them embrace in months. Its sad to think me going missing has brought them closer together.

"Once you get home, you're grounded." My dad says sternly, his eyes instantly softening. "But for now, we're so glad you're safe."

I'm happy to see them but I have to pull away. I have bigger things to be concerned about. I don't know if Sarah or John B. are okay, not to mention I have no idea how Kiara, Pope, and JJ are.

I look to the fed, glaring at him. "Where are my friends?"

I the fed nodded to his right. "They're in the next tent. I actually want to talk to you."

Ward's eyes widen. "Why? She's been clearly brainwashed by John B."

The fed looked at Ward. "It's just protocol.

My eyes widen now. "No!" The fed turns to look at me again. "I was there when Peterkin was shot. I know who did it."

My parents gasp. I look to them quickly and once I see their disappointed faces I have to look away. I feel a hand grab onto my arm. I look to my right and see it's Rafe. His eyes are filled with tears.

"Please Callie," he begged, "you don't know what you're doing."

I scoffed, ripping my arm away from his grasp. "I know exactly what I'm fucking doing. Get away from me." My anger is boiling over but I control myself. I have to do this for Sarah and John B. If they're not here to clear their names, then I will do it for them.

"Callie, I love you." Rafe chokes on his tears.

My hurt almost hurts for him. I swallow and the hurt is gone. "No." I say sternly.

Rafe nods quickly. "I do. I knew I loved you since you first said hello. We're so good together, we can go back to that place."

My mind goes to JJ. I feel his hand on my back and I remember his smile. "I don't love you Rafe. I don't think I ever did."

Love is supposed to make you feel giddy. Love is supposed to make you want to get out of bed. It makes you want to dance. Love is in the simple actions. Like, just talking for hours to them. Every kiss should feel like the first kiss. Every hug should feel like the first touch. I never felt that with Rafe; it was always more of an obligation. With JJ, it's natural. It's easy.

Rafe swallows, his tears sliding down his face. A year falls down his face. It's only one and he wipes it away quickly. Embarrassed, he then backs away, moving away from me.

I look to my parents. My mom is giving me a sweet smile. My dad, who always liked Rafe, seemed a little disappointed. I can't look at them any longer. Everytime I look at them, I feel very sad. I know I've let them down.

I look to the fed again. "If you let me see my friends, I'll do whatever you want."

The fed thinks for a moment and it's so silent in the tent. Then, he speaks, "Follow me." He tells Ward, Rafe and my parents to stay behind because it might cause too much drama. That's an understatement.

We both walk out of the tent, both staying silent. Finally, before we enter the first tent, he says one thing. "I believe you."

I am shocked. It feels so good for someone to say that to me. "Really?"

The fed nods. "You might not want to believe this but I am on your side."

As he says this, he pulls the curtain to the side and my eyes search for blond hair. This tent looks exactly like the other except there's just more people here. Dozens and dozens of officers walk and talk, doing god knows what.

Then I see it. Blond hair. It's JJ.

My heart bursts with joy. "JJ!"

JJ hears me over all the commotion and turns around, looking for me. Once our eyes lock, butterflies erupt in my stomach. He's there. It's been three hours without him but it feels like more. It feels like an eternity.

Once I see the smile on his face, I start to run. I'm pushing past the officers and I'm not being polite. I tell them to move. JJ, funny enough, is doing the same. Once we're close enough, my arms reach out to him and he does the same. I'm hugging him so tight I think I might suffocate. He's hugging just as tight though. I can feel his heartbeat as his chest presses against mine and I smile even wider. Hearing his heartbeat and touching him makes this whole ordeal better.

"God, I missed you." I smiled, pulling away from him for a moment.

"I would too." He jokes but I know what he truly means. He missed me too.

I can't help it. Even if we're in front of all these officers and our friends, I still kiss JJ. He's kissing me back instantly. Each kiss is amazing. It's always like the first time. I don't think my heart will ever be able to adapt to how he makes me feel. I want to deepen the kiss but decide against it since we are in public.

I pull away. "Are Kiara and Pope okay?"

JJ nods. "They're here. How about you?"

I shrug. "Better now."

JJ reaches up to my brown hair and pushes it behind my ear. His hand rests on my cheek for a moment then he pulls away. "Callie, I -"

"Callie!" Kiara yells from behind JJ.

I let go of JJ and and run past him to her and Pope. I'm sure whatever he has to tell me, he can say later. I'm just so glad to see that they're alright.

I embrace Kiara and I can feel her smile on my shoulder. "I'm so glad you're safe."

I smile back, still hugging her. We don't say anything for a few moments and then we finally let go of each other. Pope is now beside her, his arms out for me. I'm smiling so wide now. He was very apprehensive at first but now we're friends.

Once we hug, he speaks, "I'm glad too."

"Sorry to break up this reunion," the fed speaks from behind me. "But we need your help."

I let go of Pope and turn to the fed. I look at JJ. He's glaring at the fed. I walk to JJ and pat his shoulder, trying to calm him down. I know he doesn't trust this fed but I'm starting to. It might be naive but what other choice do I have?

"And why should we trust you?" JJ bitterly asks, Kiara and Pope nodding along with him.

I can see Deputy Shoupe behind the fed and I want to roll my eyes. He's listening in on our conversation and since he's such an ass, he speaks up before the fed has a chance.

"Because we want John B. and Sarah to live."

That grabs all of our attention. The fed shoots Shoupe a glare but he doesn't get a chance to say anything because JJ is already in his face.

"What the hell are you talking about?" JJ spits back.

I'm holding onto his bicep, trying to pull him away from the Deputy. JJ looks like he's ready to fight and that's the last thing I want. "JJ..."

He looks to me. His face softens and he backs up a little, standing beside me again. When he loosens his arms and lets them fall to his sides, I grab ahold of his hands.

"What Deputy Shoupe means," the fed says slowly, shooting Shoupe one last glare before looking back to us, "is that right now John B. and Sarah are on a boat, headed into a storm. They won't make it through the storm."

How did Sarah get on the boat with John B.? Did he stops to pick her up? I don't know and honestly don't care right now. My only priority right now is to make sure John B. and Sarah are safe.

"What do you need us to do?" Kiara asks, speaking up for the first time. I look to her and I can instantly read her face. She's so worried.

The fed sighed. "I need you to go on the radio and tell them to turn their boat around."

Once we all heard this, there was an uproar from all of us. That was not an option. The second John B. and Sarah's boat hit solid ground we all knew that the police would arrest them. This was their plan all along. The storm was a perfect setup. Sure we might save them from the storm, but we wouldn't be saving them from the police.

"Yeah, so you can arrest them the second they get here." Pope angrily spit back.

"Fuck off." JJ says, rolling his eyes.

"They will die if you don't do this." The fed argued, looking to me. "You really want your friends to die?"

That was it. This time, I wasn't gonna let this fed blame us. If he had done his job correctly, we wouldn't even be in this situation.

"How dare you try to blame us." I said coldly. Everyone looked to me, shocked. Even Shoupe seemed surprised that I had taken such a tone with a federal officer.

"I'm not -" The fed tried to explain. I wouldn't let him.

"No, you are." I looked to JJ. His smirk was what made me continue. "If you had done your job properly we wouldn't even be in this situation. If any of you just stopped and listened, John B. and Sarah wouldn't be on that boat headed towards that storm. But you won't listen and I don't know why. Is it because we're teenagers? It doesn't matter because we're not helping you arrest our friends."

It was silent for a moment as everyone processed my words. Even I had to process my words. I can't believe I had just said that. Maybe going through all of this gave me the confidence I needed. After a minute, JJ was the first to speak up.

"We're not gonna help the people that never helped us."

I looked to JJ, a frown on my face. I knew what he meant. It has been years and years and still, no officer ever helped him with getting out of his dad's house. I'm sure people knew what was going on. Most of the town did. They just chose to do nothing. Why should he want to help them now. JJ looked back at me, giving me a half smile. I knew he was trying his best to not show how upset he was with Shiupe and the fed and I wanted to kiss him for being so brave.

The finally responded by nodding and saying, "If you won't help us, then someone else will."

I heard Pope scoff from behind me. "Yeah? Who's gonna help you?"

That's when I saw him. Entering the tent, a face full of fake concern for his daughter, was Ward Cameron.

Shoupe smirked and pointed to Ward. "He will."

[oloreaa]

Oh my god Rea, I’m so sorry you had to even see this bullshit... Ven is an astonishing work with range and beauty and a masterclass in avoiding “undescribed= assumed white” (In sPACe, theyre not even from earth, I’m losing my MIND; there’s a literAL frog lady that doesn’t have to deal with this discrimatory garbage). Even though your fic doesn’t harp of Elana’s features, just her existence MATTERS. BIPOC (and in this case, East Asian characters!!) deserve to be in fics of every kind! To have a wide range of characterizations and to fall in love or be badass or take a nap or whatever the hell else they wanna do. You write so many incredible stories and f u c k this anon for not being able to appreciate that or THE GIFT that is Elana who is so original and full of life! I admire you so much as a writer and creator, and how you managed to eloquently shut down this hate, even though it’s not your responsibility to be be educating racist idiots who doesnt deserve an inch of your headspace. It always makes my heart so warm to see you and other BIPOC creators lifting eachother up. Your guys’ art brings so many people joy, and makes so many people feel less alone. You’re building a literary world that is so much richer and better than what we have now. I hope you receive so much encouragement and love, brilliant Rea <3

B r o, I straight up didnt know how to process this ask at first because?? My heart??? Is so full????? And I still don't know how to properly respond to this because I'm completely overwhelmed right now.

I'm so glad that even though she is an OC, her existence counts as representation to some extent. Ven is a whole case of writing what I want to read, and I just really miss having East Asian female leads in a show getting a good story arc, being normal and irrational without them getting shit on, without being weighed down by the different expectations by the viewers/readers. I love writing Elana because she is just allowed to BE, and I will keep on having her descriptions vague because her character is just so much more important than how she looks like.

I really cannot tell you how grateful I am for every single one of your words, I am completely overwhelmed with love and??? You are such a bright soul and this means so so SO much to me. Thank you so much, this absolutely made me tear up and please imagine me giving you the biggest hug right now🥺🥺❤

[swiftlymoniquesblog]

Into the Unknown- Sam Winchester x Reader

The reader is a Disnerd and is obsessed with Frozen. She watches the movie constantly and plays the soundtrack at high volume in the Bunker. How do the Winchester Brothers react?

A/N: So, I just watched Frozen II with my Mom last night and my favorite song is Into the Unknown. Panic! At The Disco’s version is really good too! I’ve been this singing this song like crazy so I thought to incorporate the Winchesters into my singing world.

DISCLOSURE: I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE RIGHTS TO DISNEY OR ITS AFFILIATES! Lyrics are used for reference purposes ONLY 

Warnings: Dean being (slightly) mean, fluff, Disney singing, Sam being adorable

Word Count: 1429

Masterlist

There was something about the Frozen movies that just inspired you. Whether it was the bond between sisters, Anna and Elsa learning to respect each other’s differences and learning to love one another, or the goofiness and all-around adorable snowman that is Olaf. Maybe Sven and Christoff are what you love; talking Reindeer’s are the big thing. Whatever the case may be, you couldn’t get enough! You’ve sat and watched the movie religiously since it came out on DVD and you played the soundtrack on repeat from your room, occasionally leaving the door open. Especially when the brothers or Cas weren’t around, you’d leave your bedroom door open and crank your TV as loud as you could. The song you loved the most was Into the Unknown. Something about this song stood out to you more than the others. You can relate to needing to follow someone or something into the unknown; that described your hunter life. Originally, you were just a normal college student but soon after you graduated, your brother was killed by a shapeshifter and with the help from the Winchesters, you eventually defeated the monster and joined their little “clan” of Supernatural hunters. 

One day, while Sam, Dean and Castiel had been out on a hunt, you decided to clean up around the Bunker so of course, you played Into the Unknown and sang along as loudly as you could. You hadn’t realized the other hunts had come back earlier than they said they were going to, so you didn’t hear them come in. They remained silent as you continue singing and cleaning. Everyone froze in their places; your voice was captivating to them. No, you didn’t see yourself as a great singer, yet the angel and the Winchesters couldn’t seem to do anything at the sound of your voice. Sam, Dean, and Cas appeared to have been in a trance, and as you turned around, you jumped when you saw them staring at you.

“Holy shit you guys, you scared me! What…what the hell are you guys doing home so early?” You say, holding your hand over your chest. 

“We finished our hunt a bit earlier than we thought it would take,” Cas explained. 

“Oh, well, sorry, let me turn this off then.” You say, hitting the power button on the small remote you took with you to control your TV. 

“You didn’t have to do that, Y/N. We thought you sounded good.” Sam complimented you, to which you just blew him off. Not being rude to him, you just smiled and looked away from him. Compliments from Sam were something that meant a lot to you. He didn’t give them out often, but when he did, it hit home for you. You admit, you had a big crush on the younger Winchester but admitting that to him is something you can’t do. Not like he had a long relationship with anyone and it wasn’t his fault either. 

“Well, I, uh, I’m going back to my room.” You scurry off as quickly as you could, ignoring the calls from Sam.

“That was weird. I hope she’s okay.” Sam says to his brother and best friend.

“Who knows with her. She’s kinda moody sometimes.” Dean says, to which Sam whacks his arm. “Ow!” 

“I wonder if she is menstruating.” Castiel suddenly said, surprising both Winchesters.

“What?” Dean asked, eyeing the angel suspiciously. 

“Well, I read in one of the books I found in the library about women and it said when they menstruate, they tend to be very ‘moody.’” Cas explained.

“How can you read about that crap, Cas?!” Dean asked, astonished the angel would find interest in that topic. 

“It’s good stuff to know Dean. Y/N is the only female in this Bunker. Being able to help her out wouldn’t kill us.” Sam said.

“Whatever, you guys can help with the blood and mood swings,” Dean said, shivering at the thought. 

“Good to know where you stand, man,” Sam said, rolling his eyes at his brother. 

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

Sam’s POV

Into the unknown

Into the unknown

Into the unknown

(Oh)

I can hear you but I won't

Some look for trouble while others don't

There's a thousand reasons I should go about my day

And ignore your whispers which I wish would go away, oh

Whoa

You're not a voice, you're just a ringing in my ear

And if I heard you, which I don't, I'm spoken for I fear

Everyone I've ever loved is here within these walls

I'm sorry, secret siren, but I'm blocking out your calls

I've had my adventure, I don't need something new

I'm afraid of what I'm risking if I follow you

The lyrics to that song from Frozen was playing from Y/N’s room again. She’s been listening to it nonstop and singing her little heart out. Honestly, I loved the sound so I crept over to her room, and leaned in close, to hear her voice better. 

Into the unknown

Into the unknown

Into the unknown

(Oh)

(Oh)

God her voice was absolutely beautiful. Snap out of Sam! You can’t think like that. Don’t let her get too close; you can’t lose her like all the others.

“Whatcha doing little brother?” Dean said, suddenly appearing behind me.

“Jesus, Dean! Quit doing that!” 

“Are you spying on y/n?”

“No, I’m listening to her sing.” 

“She’s singing that stupid Frozen song again, isn’t she?” 

“Yeah.”

Dean rolls his eyes, “can’t she pick any better songs?”

“Oh, leave her alone, Dean! I think she sounds beautiful.” I defend y/n.

“Really?” 

“Yeah, haven’t you seen the way her face lights up when she watches the movie? How passionately she sings? I mean, you can tell it’s from within.”

“And you’ve noticed all this?” 

“I have.”

Then Dean gasps, “oh my God, you like y/n!”

My eyes widen. “What? No, no I don’t like her.” I scoff.

“Oh yeah? ‘Do you see the way her face lights up?’ ‘I think she sounds beautiful?’ Dean mimics me, proving his point. 

“Okay, okay, fine. I might have a bit of a crush on y/n.”

“Ha, I knew it! Sammy’s in love!” Dean cheered.

“First off, it’s Sam. Second, I’m not ‘in love’ I just, really care about her.”

“Sure, you do. Okay, well, you gotta tell her! Y/N!” Before I even get to react, Dean calls for the girl and, I begin to panic.

“Hey guys, what are you doing in the hallway?” She asks, opening the door, and looking at us. She looks adorable, with her hair tied back in a high ponytail, a tank top, and short shorts.

“Sam has something he’d like to talk to you about,” Dean said, turning to look at me, while I just stood awkwardly. 

“What’s up, Sam?” She questions me, craning her neck a bit to look up at me.

“I uh….”

“Sam? What’s going on? You know you can trust me; we’re best friends.”

“I know, y/n, I know. I just. Okay, please let me get this out before you say anything.”

“Alright.” She says, crossing her arms over her chest, that doesn’t do too well at showing she’s not wearing a bra. Damnit, Sam, focus!

“Okay, well since you first came to live here, I was immediately attracted to you but I didn’t want to ruin things between us, just in case you didn’t feel the same, and the fact we live in the same place might make it all uncomfortable. I swear I tried fighting it but then you started singing Frozen songs and you make this really cute face when you watch the movie; your whole face lights up! And I really care about you and don’t want anything to happen to you. I have a strong need to protect you at all times and to be near you. And if that scares you, then good. Cause I’m absolutely terrified of falling in love with my best friend.”

“Sam, I-I’m so glad you said that because I am too. I am so scared to fall in love, let alone with you, but if you’re willing to, I want to give this thing a try. I really like you, too.” She says.

“Oh, thank God!” I said, bringing her close to me to seal our deal with a kiss.

“Okay, this is weird since I’m pretty much half-naked here.” She laughs.

“Nah, it's fine. This is a really good look on you.” I wink at her, leaning down to kiss her again. 

“Will you watch this with me?” She asks.

“I would be honored.”

Tag list (requests are open) @fandom-princess-forevermore​ @forever-trapped-in-my-dreams​ @simpleboox​ @juju-la-tortue​ @marvelfansworld​ @tloveswriting​ @67-chevy-baby​

[peakysabrina]

Heaven

How Jeremiah met his wife, how they got married, and the story of how Isaiah was born.

TW for miscarriages, sorry!!

Jeremiah Jesus had tried to become a priest before, but because of the reasons stated above, had been pushed out of the noble calling of God. Time and time again, he had gone to the seminar, and had done what all the white boys had done, better than them, and was still rejected with a snare and everything short but a kick to the backside. Somehow, his devotion to God wasn't good enough, his oratory wasn't good enough, and him as a man wasn't enough. Every time, he knew very well why it had been: because he was black, his parents were from the Caribbean, and he didn't fit the Church of England's image of a good shepard for their sheep. The sheep, better known as citizens, weren't big on other ethnicities, and a coloured pastor could drive them away from church, and away from the brain-wash that went on inside such venerable buildings.

So Jeremiah Jesus gave up, tired of wasting his time studying the Bible and the great Classic masters of oratory, given that it was of no use. Instead, he decided it would be much better to make it on his own, to go off into the world, make his money, find a job, one that he could excel at, despite the colour of his skin, or the place of origin of his parents. The first step to make that happen was to go around to the shops, to try and find someone who would employ him, even if it was in the backrooms, or warehouses. No one agreed, so Jeremiah moved on to the farms and factories around Birmingham. There, in the small property of Jacob Steadman, he found what he was looking for: a steady position as farm hand, doing whatever was needed.

The Steadman family was composed of seven people: the father, Jacob, who was married to Lucinda; the eldest daughter, Lucy; and four younger siblings, named Jacob Jr., Alphonse (who went by Alphie), Henrietta and Julius. They had a couple more men on the property, who mostly dealt with the produce the family sold at nearby markets. The Steadmans weren't rich, but they lived comfortably, which allowed them a bit more independence, and an education for their children. The eldest one, a beautiful red-haired girl in her early twenties, was especially gifted, and wrote stories for her younger brothers and sisters, which she also illustrated with all the care in the world. She was, unfortunately, prone to bouts of coughing fits, with no apparent reason, and the fairy-tale sessions were often interrupted by these moments, much to her sadness.

"Hey. You need any help?" the same Lucy came asking, carrying a tin full of water and a plate of food. "You've been at it for hours, eh?"

"It's my job" Jeremiah replied, looking up from the car tyre he was trying to patch up, and seeing that blessed apparition, made even more welcome by the food she was holding. "I will accept some lunch, though"

"Yeah, thought so" she replied, chuckling and handing him the plate and the water. "How's it going with dad's car? That tyre's busted"

"Busted is... an understatement. You feeling better today? I heard you coughing yesterday"

"I uh... I'm better, I think, yeah" Lucy sighed, obviously not one bit better, but refusing to look weak, even in front of the help. "To be honest with you, I don't think I'll ever get any better. But that's just my opinion"

"Have you been to a doctor?" Jeremiah looked up from his plate, still chewing a bit of meat. "Nothing they can do about it?"

"I've been to a couple doctors, and none of them know what the hell is going on. Shit, sorry, shouldn't curse, you're religious" Lucy let out, apparently unaware that it hadn't been offensive, but rather funny, to hear someone so proper speaking like that.

"No problem, I'm not that religious" he assured, observing closely the process of his boss's daughter crouching, and then sitting on the ground. If he was asked, a lady sitting on the ground, talking to the coloured help would be much more scandalous than all the cursing in the world. But he liked how pratical she was, how she didn't let her obvious beauty and good manners get in the way of doing what she wanted to do. "I have a chair somewhere over there, if you want"

"Nah, I'm alright, thanks" was the quick answer, accompanied by a shrug. "I'm sorry if I kept you awake with my coughing"

"You didn't. I couldn't sleep anyway"

"Anything worrying you?" Lucy kindly asked, taking a nearby wrench and playing with it, throwing it in the air a couple of times, and catching it with precision. "Well, anything I can help you with? Even if it's just talking"

"On second thought, maybe it was your coughing" Jeremiah joked, finishing his lunch and taking a big swig of water. "No, it's nothing. I was reading, and I lost track of time"

"I know that feeling. You know what I was reading? That one author you showed me, Jane Austen. Really like her stuff" Lucy informed, dreamily looking into the distance. Truth be told, Jeremiah was terrified of her when she looked like that, terrified of the way it made him want to lunge forward and kiss her. It was unspokenly agreed between the two that whatever the thing between them was, it was friendship, and just that: friendship.

"Glad you like it, I came across some stuff of hers through a friend of mine in town" he replied, clearing his throat, and coming back to reality. "His dad knew her dad, or so he says"

"That's interesting. What about you, what were you reading?"

"Do you even need to ask?" he laughed, drinking what was left from the water. "I go back to it a couple times a year, to make sure I haven't forgotten anything. Helps me keep my mind in the right place"

"Fair enough, Jimmy. No shame in that" she responded, using that name that only she was allowed to use. She didn't like the name Jeremiah for some reason, didn't like the way it sounded; but Jimmy sounded good, it suited him. Reading the Bible and losing track of time because of it also suit him, and Lucy was very aware that it was just one of the manners in which he was perfect, in which he made her fall for him.

"You've read the Bible, haven't you?"

"Might have... when I went to Sunday School. Ah, and on Sundays, they always read a bit, don't they? Can't say I remember reading it from start to finish in one go, though" she admitted, tapping her fingers on her lips as she gave the subject some thought. "I prefer novels, You know the ones, where the girls have pretty dresses, and always end up marrying the man of their dreams and living in a mansion"

"That what you want to do?"

"Pfff" Lucy let out, a strange and humorous sound that made Jeremiah laugh along. "I don't really care about dresses, and mansions are too much maintenance. As for the man of my dreams, he knows where I live, he can come get me if he wants" she added, looking down, and then up at him. Another good thing about Lucy was this: she knew what she wanted, and she knew how to get it. The ball was in his court, so to speak, and there was no religion that could provide an answer.

That conversation was the latest of many they had shared, and hints had been coming all along. But it was all in good fun, a bit of light flirting between friends. There had never been anything like that very particular jab, and it wasn't mistakeable for banter. So, it was time to make a decision: to stick to friendship, maintain everything as it was, and resort to reading the Holy Book to drown the noise of his very obvious attraction; or to go ahead and go get the girl he wanted. It was true: he knew where she lived, and knew which room was hers. It had to be the one which still had light coming from underneath the door. She had to be awake, and alone, for them to be able to talk through what they needed to talk through. As softly as he could, he knocked, and the door opened instantly, like she had been waiting. Knowing Lucy, she probably had been, although she would not admit to it.

"Thank God, I was starting to think you hadn't gotten my hint" Lucy scoffed, crossing her arms in front of her chest. "Took you long enough"

"It wasn't an open invitation, was it? What happens if your parents come around to check on you? And what if they hear us?" Jeremiah asked in return, fully regretting what he had done. It would mean being dismissed on the spot, and he couldn't really afford to go back to his parents' house. "I can't lose my job"

"You won't, don't think about it" she guaranteed, going around Jeremiah and locking the door. "See? They can't come in"

"What does it mean, then? What do you want to do?" he asked, bearing in mind that a decision had to be made, and the sooner the better, before someone caught them.

"Do I need to know? Do you really need an answer to that?" Lucy asked, biting her lip repeatedly, obviously nervous for being put on the spot.

"If I didn't need to know where we stand, I wouldn't have come here, now would I?" Jeremiah asked, losing a bit of his cool. It was in his nature to need everything decided, and defined. The idea of puting them both at risk for nothing was annoying, to say the least. "I came here for nothing, wasn't it, Lucy?"

Her reaction was completely unexpected: instead of pouting, or retaliating, Lucy simply walked up to him, placed her hands on his neck, and pulled him down, kissing him on the lips. For good measure, she took Jeremiah's own palms and placed them on her waist, where he could feel the warmth of her skin through the cotton of the nightgown.

"Would this be considered nothing?" Lucy asked, breaking the kiss but making sure Jeremiah's hands stayed where they were. "Because if so..." she continued, taking his writs, and making his hands move to her thighs, and then up, and up, until the nightgown was over her head and on the floor. "...would this be better?"

For once, Jeremiah was speachless, and torn between looking at her face, or looking down at her body, which was wrong, but pretty damn irresistible. He didn't know whether she was aware of what she had done, but it didn't seem to be a problem when he bent over to kiss her, taking her into his arms without thinking too much about it.

After that night, things only escalated: from sex, to talks of marriage, and to a proposal, done beneath the apple trees on a warm Spring day, complete with the best ring the sparse money Jeremiah could buy. At the same time, he'd started making efforts to find a new job, whereas Lucy had gotten employment at the Birmingham library, in hopes that some day, they could tell her parents about their engagement. Once that was out of the way, they could get married, and move into their own house, living their lives, building a family, having a good existence. Luckily, there had been an opening for Bible Studies teacher, under mysterious circumstances, but that were probably connected with the imprisonment of the deacon. Hence, it was time: Lucy's parents had to know.

"Mom and dad, me and Ji... I mean, me and Jeremiah have something we need to tell you" Lucy started, getting her mother's attention, while her father kept on reading the newspaper. "We're engaged to be married"

"You're what? To... to each other?" mrs. Steadman asked, absolutely caught off guard.

"Yeah" her daughter responded, showing her mother the engagement ring.

"No"

"What?"

"I said no" mr. Steadman chimed in, lowering the paper, and looking at his daughter with the utmost disgust. "You are not marrying a coloured man, let alone a poor one"

"Excuse me, sir, but I don't think the colour of my skin has anything to do with this subject. I love your daughter, I am prepared to offer her the best life I possibly can" Jeremiah protested, forcing Lucy to take his arm, to pacify him a little.

"Look son, I have no problem with the colour of your skin, but I am not letting my daughter marry you" Jacob replied, as if he was simply commenting on the weather outside. "You have no idea how people will treat her if she marries you"

"I'm not unaware of that, dad, I know how stupid people are; I don't care about any of that, I'm prepared to deal with whatever is thrown at me. Jeremiah asked me to marry him, I said yes, and that's that. You can be by my side on my wedding day, or not. That's your call" Lucy stated, beggining to feel the burn of anger on her throat. "He's the man I want, he's the man I love, and that's that on that"

"Out" Jacob simply stated, his eyes as clear as day, pointing to the door. He didn't even raise his voice, but the message as loud: he wanted the both of them out of his house, and he wanted them to go without missing a second. As for his wife, she just lowered her head and went back to sewing, pursing her lips but saying nothing. It seemed like the only one affected by that demand was Lucy, whose eyes filled with tears, and fists clenched. "I said out, didn't you hear me? Out of my sight, both of you. And don't you dare come back"

Matter of fact, they didn't. Lucy packed her clothes and some books she'd bought with her own money, wrote a letter to her siblings explaining why she had to leave, and was out of her childhood home before dinner time. As for her fiancé, a completely distraught Jeremiah, there was not much to be said: the guilt he felt in his heart was so overwhelming he wanted to simultaneously punch Jacob Steadman and hug Lucy, to cry on her shoulder. It was her spirit that never waivered, it was her that got him out of the property her parents owned, and it was her who found them a room to rent while they saved up for an apartment or house of their own. Their landlord, Arthur Shelby, was a strange man, but his wife, named Elizabeth, was an angel, who looked after the young couple with as much care as she did her own child, a lanky, sickly-looking boy named after his father.

As for their wedding, there was not much to be said: there was the priest, the bride, the groom, and two witnesses, namely Elizabeth Shelby and her husband, who signed the paper with a disgruntled look on his face. It wasn't much of a party, but then again it didn't need to be, as Lucy and Jeremiah didn't have the means to provide one. The bride had a bouquet of wildflowers, and a simple everyday dress, but her groom was so in love it didn't matter. To Jeremiah, she was an angel, something from high heavens.

"... I now pronounce you husband and wife. Mr. Jesus, you may kiss your bride" the pastor announced, causing both Jeremiah and Lucy to smile at each other, before chastly kissing to the sound of Elizabeth Shelby's subdued clapping, echoing off the walls of the empty church.

"Congratulations, I wish you nothing but happiness, truly" Elizabeth wished, hugging Lucy tightly and patting Jeremiah's shoulder. As for her husband, he was already outside, smoking a cigarette and probably trying to make a pass at any woman who passed by. "Now would be the time to leave your bouquet at the altar and make a wish. I'll wait outside"

"Oh, I forgot" Lucy let out, turning to the altar and trying to think of a wish. "You have anything you want to wish for?" she asked Jeremiah, who in all honesty, was just happy to be alive and married to the girl he loved.

"Not really, I'll leave the wish to you" he replied, accompanying her back to the altar, where a figure of Jesus Christ on the cross looked over them.

"Well, I wish for..." she started, a sweet smile on her features. "I wish for a happy and healthy baby. And since my husband doesn't want to make his own wish, I'll take his and ask for some te ability to carry my child safely"

"That's a good wish" Jeremiah replied, wrapping his arm around her waist. "Both of them are, really. Can't wait to have a little one with you"

"Me either. You reckon it will take long to... should we be talking about this in church, though?" Lucy laughed, putting down the simply bouquet of flowers and taking Jeremiah's hand as they exited the temple. "I feel bad now, for talking about baby-making at church"

"God doesn't care, don't worry" Jeremiah assured, as they walked over to the Shelbies, who were waiting for them. "Can't wait, though"

In the end, it did take a fair bit for a baby to make its appearance in their life. Elizabeth Shelby had four children by the time Lucy Jesus managed to carry a pregnancy to term. Her disappointments had taken its toll on the girl, who became more and more fragile as time went by. Her coughing became constant, and her body slowly started giving in. However, Lucy had gathered every bit of strength she had, and, in 1905, Isaiah was born. He was healthy, beautiful, and strong, much stronger than his mother. In due time, the little boy had to say goodbye to his father, who departed for war, and then, to his mother, who couldn't survive another miscarriage. Elizabeth Shelby and Polly Gray, her sister-in-law, raised the Jesus boy, who grew up playing with the Shelby boys, and who would, in time, become one of them.

The second part of this (focused on Isaiah) is on AO3

[jungnoir]

i'm so glad your requests are open!!! could i please request “Friends can kiss each other a little from time to time, right?” for nct's mark?

a fairy king and an elven warrior walk into a nerd convention;

mark lee | “Friends can kiss each other a little from time to time, right?” cosplay!au. | 4.4k words. | fluff, humor, v awkward mark lee and v awkward u as well.

a/n: because I received this prompt a few times, I’m doing my best to change each one up somehow so here’s a lil cosplaying with markiepooh

“I’m sorry, (Y/N),” Donghyuck’s words comes through the phone after a cacophony of violent coughing and groaning, voice drenched in regret despite the strain to speak clearly at all, “I don’t think I can stand around a crowded con for hours in plastic armor today. I can barely walk to the bathroom without getting dizzy… I have to bow out.”

“W-What?” You really hate how distinctly sad your voice sounds even as you muster all your might to stay calm. You were supposed to march into that convention center today in five pounds of armor that you’d meticulously spray-painted and tweaked to look just like your character’s, your face caked in makeup to create that flawless elven look that only existed in the world of warrior elves and demon fey, and your suffocating wig trimmed and styled to defy gravity itself with Donghyuck at your side. You and Donghyuck were famous for cosplaying as the married brave warrior elf Greer and dark fairy king Egi (respectively) at many conventions across the country, spending months on top of months perfecting your costumes and winning contests for your spot on depictions of the characters, but now you were a Greer without an Egi, and you didn’t know if you could do this alone. “Donghyuck, we’re a team. We always cosplay together.”

You hear Donghyuck sigh and feel instantly terrible for making him feel bad when he’s already suffering so much. The stomach bug that came like a thief in the night took your poor best friend out before the morning of the con came, and you were left sitting dumbfounded on the edge of your bed, half a face of concealer and heavy, heavy contour having to take a backseat to the bad news. You had been in such a good mood today, too.

You’re about to reassure him that it’s alright, that you’ll clean up and stop by his place to check up on him later and, if he’s up for it, maybe even bring your laptop so the two of you can binge watch the new anime you’d both started together when Donghyuck cuts in suddenly, “I figured you’d say that, so I got to thinking… how would you feel if, say, someone else took my place?”

“Someone? Take your place? You sure whatever you caught isn’t invading your brain right about now?” Your nervous joke falls on deaf ears as Donghyuck’s wheels begin to turn.

“I’m serious. Have someone take my place as Egi at the con. Granted, you won’t find anyone with nearly as much charisma and personality as me but… it’s worth a shot, isn’t it?” “But who? People will know it isn’t you!” You honestly don’t mean to sound so indignant. Hell, you grimace right after complaining, but if there’s one thing you can’t warm up to, it’s the idea of a stranger taking Donghyuck’s place today.

You and Donghyuck had been doing this for years together, the two of you inseparable. Granted, there were times you did cosplay as other characters, but your interpretations of Greer and Egi were always top notch. Many a time would you find yourselves being praised on other cosplayers’ instagrams, people gushing about how realistically you both portray the characters compared to any other cosplayers they’d ever seen. You were a package duo always; anything that could disrupt the dynamic you both had was subject to distaste… until you were both two hours away from having to cancel a con you’d been promising your online following you’d be at for weeks. “I know people will know it isn’t me, but that’s not the point. It’s the characters that are the point. People are gonna be more focused on the costume than the person underneath anyway.” 

“No, no… no. Do you remember all the different movie versions of Batman, Hyuck? Who plays the character matters.” Snorting, Donghyuck shifts the phone around while you whine. “This isn’t canon, edgelord. And it’s only for a few hours!” 

The reminder of how long you’ll really be out there, half-heartedly cosplaying and meeting your followers only to have to inform them that no, that isn’t Donghyuck with you and yes, yes you are on the verge of an emotional breakdown because it feels all kinds of off looms over your head like a metaphorical storm cloud.

Maybe you were being dramatic?

…nah, not likely.

You’re so deep in your pity party that you just faintly pick up tapping on the other end of the phone, your attention quickly grabbed, “What’re you doing, Hyuck? What’s that sound?”

“I’m sending help your way, oh great warrior Greer. If you see a big dork in my outfit dawdling outside on your front porch in half an hour, don’t panic and let him in.” “But-” “(Y/N), you’ll be fine. And hey, he’s better than a total stranger.”

He? Donghyuck has already left the conversation by then, your next calls for clarification going straight to voicemail. Even your texts go read and ignored, the plotting little bastard. You had a plethora of cosplay friends but none of whom you could recall who were both not already cosplaying as someone else today and around Donghyuck’s size to wear his costume. For all you know, he could be sending someone like Jaemin or Jisung to your rescue.

Yours and Donghyuck’s cosplay life was no secret to your small group of high school friends, though it was fairly clear none of them were quite interested in it either. No one would bat an eyelash if you and Donghyuck had to cancel plans to go to the movies on the weekend because a con was coming up and the two of you wouldn’t miss it for the world. Aside from what you’d both upload on your instagrams, your friends didn’t delve too much into the world you two were enveloped in. In fact, the only one of them that actually did show interest was Mark.

Mark was the eldest of all your friends, sometimes out of place when he tried to act like it. Deep down he was just like all of you, just as confused about life as the rest of you. You would never go as far as to say he was a mature friend, far from it even, but he did always have such a calming aura about him that you didn’t often find in the rest of your group. 

He was simple, sometimes incredibly naive, and easy to have fun with. He was also Donghyuck’s punching bag from time to time, but you’d seen the eldest snap back once in a while too. Where the others might tease you and Donghyuck about your cosplaying and be done with it, Mark would be attentive. He wouldn’t know the terms or the lingo but he’d always perk up when you’d mention how your outfit for (insert character he’s never heard of) was coming along, would even dare to ask you what it looks like so far. When you’d show him side by side pictures of the original and your creation, he’d always praise you on how identical they looked. Mark liked to see that spark in your eyes when you felt listened to by someone besides Donghyuck for once.

And maybe you liked Mark a bit. Maybe more than a bit.

Your crush was small, easy to hide and even easier to deny if the troublemakers of your group ever deigned to point out your lingering stares and unconscious smiles when Mark was in the midst of a story no one else was listening to. If it was that imperceptible, then you were confident Mark was none the wiser, and that’s all that mattered. God forbid you liked someone like Jaemin, what with his sixth sense being reading you like an open book. 

You spend the next half hour in a fit of anxiety, forcing yourself to finish your makeup and getting dressed. Every moment you’re doing something repetitive, you find your thoughts drifting to who Donghyuck might have sent to go to the con with you. With each possible choice, your heart thumps louder in your chest. Who could he have possibly picked, and moreover, who would have even bothered to say yes to him?

You’re just about finished with setting on your wig when the doorbell rings, and you’re quick on your feet to go get it. Just as you get to the front door, you pause. You haven’t got the faintest idea what might be waiting for you on the other side of that door, of what might be lurking and deciding your fate for the rest of the day. You don’t know what you’re in for, and the only thing to do now is get it over with.

Tugging the door open tentatively, you’re met with the back of a head of shaggy chestnut hair haphazardly tucked into a bleach-blond braided wig. It’s clear that whoever Donghyuck had sent your way couldn’t have been able to get ready in half an hour on such short notice. They’re dressed in the armor that Donghyuck usually wears, and you can see the tiny details that had since been added to complete the look more. You’re unsure why they’re faced away from you, that is, until you hear a muttering voice saying “you can do this, you can do this” on repeat. 

Your earlier anxiety is replaced with curiosity. You clear your throat to catch their attention and- oh.

With the makeup Donghyuck applied (heavy eyeliner, glimmering cheekbones doused in golden highlight, dramatic mascara), you almost don’t recognize Mark as Mark until his familiar voice reaches you, “H-Hyuck said you’d help with the wig…?”

“This place is so awesome- another Deadpool! That’s the third one we’ve seen since we got here!” You feel momentarily glad that a train of Spidermans (Spidermen?) haven’t come through yet because you’re fairly certain Mark would lose his absolute mind if they did. In fact, just as you think you’re in the clear, a cluster of them enter from one side of the con and you begin tugging Mark in the other direction before he can notice. 

Honestly, showing Mark his first con is a bit like showing a baby their first “magic trick”; he’s all wide eyes and squealing, and while it’s freaking cute (I mean, how could anyone be that adorable while gushing over how realistic the fake blood looks on someone’s samurai sword?), you’re unfortunately in a perpetual state of worry, a feeling you haven’t felt since your first few conventions with Donghyuck. You worry that people will notice you, will want to take pictures of you, and you worry that those who recognize you will then recognize that the boy beside you is definitely not Donghyuck and be upset.

Mark had made it very clear on the ride to the con that he was more than happy to accompany you and take Donghyuck’s place, but he also placed great emphasis on the fact that he had absolutely no idea who he was dressed up as and would be more of a dead weight at your side than part of a complete pair. He’d stressed time and time again that he’d be willing to get on his bike and head home if you decided to go in alone, but by then you were receiving threatening texts from Donghyuck that promised more than just a royal smackdown if Mark turned up at his door before the day was over. 

Why Donghyuck was so insistent on you attending the con with Mark was beyond you, but you very well couldn’t turn tail and run now. 

The firecracker made an apologetic post before you arrived detailing the reasons he wouldn’t be attending, encouraging others to still seek you and your new “friend” out for pictures. He even asked to be tagged in them. It was almost like he was… no, that couldn’t be right, could it?

Whatever diabolical plan the kid had up his sleeve, you had other things to worry about. 

“I know some of these characters,” Mark points out as you both stroll through the large room, completely tuned out to the shouted compliments he was receiving on his outfit, “maybe I should come to these things more often… but I don’t really have the talent to dress up like you and Hyuck.”

You just finish greeting a few people who recognize you when he says this. Glancing up at the boy, he doesn’t pay any mind with his arm hooked around your own, still surveying the room for things he’s familiar with.

“You don’t have to dress up to go to cons, Mark! They’re open to everyone.” You even point out a few people in jeans and tees, all having a fun enough time just being around people who like the same things they do, “It’s about having fun. Some people have fun in costumes, others not so much.”

“Well, yeah, but…” Mark trails off a little, making eye contact with you for a moment. You read him as being nervous, those gentle eyes not daring to look your way. You wonder if you’ve said something wrong. “…I don’t know. I wouldn’t mind going to something like this with you… and Hyuck too, of course… but I’d feel so out of place. You know? You guys go all out, like really all out.”

You aren’t able to ask him to elaborate on his thoughts because a pair of girls rush up to you immediately upon spotting you, calling your name with a mix of excitement and nerves. You shoot Mark an apologetic look for leaving him hanging and quickly greet the girls, the both of them asking if it’s alright to take photos. You grant them the permission, doing your character’s signature poses and even doing some silly selfies with the girls just for fun. Your nervousness of not having Donghyuck there is starting to melt away a bit, but leaving Mark all alone nudges at the back of your mind while you have all the fun. 

You’re sending the girls off finally when you turn to find Mark standing like a deer in headlights, more than a few people standing around him and applauding his outfit. Some mention how he looks so much like Egi, others saying how he plays the stoic king perfectly. You’re glad they can’t tell because Mark is having a brain fart over what to say or do without you present and it’s really kinda cute.

You sidle up to the boy and he immediately slackens his tense shoulders when you start to speak, “Our friend made the outfit!”

One guy in leather pants and and slicked back hair is really impressed, shifting to the side while a greatsword hangs off his shoulder lazily, “That’s so cool. Can we get a pic of you two?”

Your knee jerk reaction is to say yes; you’re always proud to take photos in your costumes. After all, you put so much work into them. However, you quickly remember that this isn’t just you and Donghyuck right now, con veterans who get their pictures taken at every con like usual. Mark is new to this and has already voiced his uncertainty with “playing” the role of Egi.

Readying yourself to turn them down, you’re surprised when Mark suddenly chirps in instead with a “Sure!”

There’s a shaky smile on his face, the nerves very clear in his eyes but he does his damn best to hide it when you give him a concerned look. You ask him with your eyes if it’s really okay, and his answer is an almost too-tight grip on your waist with one hand while the other rises to make a peace sign. You and the others know that his character would never make such a gesture, but the entire group bursts into giggles at it anyway. They snap pics of you in a few more silly than serious poses and are on their way, thanking you for your time and disappearing to find the next cosplayer to talk to. 

Mark doesn’t remember to release your side, his smile bordering on beaming, “That was actually really fun!”

How the mousy boy has suddenly found all the confidence in the world isn’t totally beyond you. You remember your first times cosplaying in public and being approached by so many kind people boosting your self-esteem that it made your nerves turn to mush and your excitement skyrocket. Even though Mark is red from his neck to his ears, he’s also grinning like an absolute fool. You can’t help but return the same enthusiasm, “Wanna walk around some more?”

He nods vigorously, tugging you along and bursting with questions about Egi all of a sudden (”How long has he been king? He’s in love with Greer, right? How did they fall in love?”). In between canon and non-canon explanations for it all, you get stopped by all kinds of people. You’re starting to lose count of the amount of pictures you’ve had taken, and Mark is so much more relaxed than when he first came in. You almost forget you’re not with Donghyuck… keyword: almost.

“Do you mind reenacting the kiss from season 3, episode 12? I always thought the kisses you and Donghyuck shared were so cute, but I haven’t seen you do this one yet!”

You’re aware that Mark is looking at you, but you’re frozen still. You had an inkling that you’d forgotten to tell him something important while showing Mark the pictures of you and Donghyuck cosplaying as Greer and Egi. Of course, the one thing you’d forget in your haste to get Mark all caught up on what he’d have to do was the one thing that actually mattered.

Every kiss you shared with Donghyuck was always innocent in nature and intention; never had you indulged in the fact that you and Donghyuck had lip-locked on more than one occasion all for the sake of the cosplay and staying in character. Silly kisses and reenactments for fans and photoshoots was all that it was, and at the end of the day, it meant nothing. Tons of cosplayers did the same all the time! 

But, knowing that the others still followed your cosplay accounts to be the good friends that they were, neither you nor Donghyuck would ever post those kinds of pictures on your accounts. Ever. Which is why, when showing Mark your collection of photoshoots and the like, you had completely forgotten that some fans would ask for a quick kiss or two. 

The fan’s smile seems to fall the longer it takes you to answer and she hastens to fix the atmosphere, “I-I’m sorry! I realized you’re with someone else this time but I still wanted to ask… I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you or anything.”

Desperately, you want to tell her you’re not offended at all. That it’s not her fault. That if you had remembered this tiny detail about your cosplaying (in your defense, it was always such a nonchalant part of the entire cosplay that you didn’t find the need in making a big deal about it anyway) and warned Mark about it or even let Mark go back home in favor of attending by yourself, you wouldn’t be stuck here gaping at her like a blowfish at the very thought of kissing Mark Lee, your Mark Lee, your crush-who-doesn’t-know-he’s-a-crush-and-neither-does-anyone-else-but-goddamn-Donghyuck crush. Well, at least the thought of doing so in a situation where the opportunity is actually there and not just a daydream of yours again.

The words refuse to leave your lips and now it’s just getting awkward. Are you sweating? You’re pretty sure you’re going to perspire right through the pound of makeup it took to give yourself Greer’s battle scars and shining skin. 

“…episode 12, you said?” You hear Mark ask. You make out the fan showing him her phone with a picture of said kiss. You probably also remember watching that episode and fawning over it with Donghyuck over text when it first aired but now the entire thing is lost on you.

Next thing you know, Mark is carefully turning you around by a hold on your hips and you’re completely pliant as he does. A few people are standing around now, looking on, and is he…?

“Is this okay?” Mark asks, setting one hand on the back of your neck while his free arm hooks you around the middle loosely. He’s in position, but he isn’t putting in the work until you answer.

It’s okay, you find yourself thinking instead of actually saying, this is so okay. I also might have a stroke if you really put your mouth on mine so I hope that’s okay too. 

In that moment, you’re absolutely certain that this was on Donghyuck’s mind since this morning. You know that he was prepared for it, picking Mark for more than just being available. No, you know he picked Mark because he knows you like him, and he knows you wouldn’t tell him that you and Donghyuck kiss in costume sometimes for people because you’d forget under the pressure of being alone with Mark like that and you wouldn’t have the heart to send him home when he was so excited to go with you, would you?

Damn you, Lee Donghyuck. Damn you for helping fulfill even the nerdiest of my fantasies and damn you Mark Lee for playing along without a worry in the world (and for looking so… kissable).

You give him the go ahead, a small nod and a fluttering of eyelashes. The arm around your middle tightens and wakes you from your dazed state just in time to feel the absolute wave that washes over you when Mark Lee kisses you. You’ve forgotten how to breathe, you think. Maybe it’s because Mark is taking all of the air when his lips meet yours and he kisses you like he was the one who’d rewatched that stupid kissing scene over and over. You aren’t deaf to the hoots and hollers of the crowd; no, you never kissed Donghyuck like this and anyone who’s ever seen you cosplay with him would know that well. But even if you and Mark are total strangers to this crowd, everyone who stopped to watch is cheering you on like you’d just slain the dragon and won the heart of the handsome fairy king like all those heroes in the cheesy fantasies.

Mark pulls back, still holding you to his armored chest, but it’s only then you realize that the things are super huge and really in the way when he’s not kissing you anymore. Despite his feigned-cool expression, he’s totally shy and redder than ever. He turns to the fan who is covering her mouth in surprise, “Was… that okay?”

“More than okay…” She breathes, and then sends a flurry of thank you’s your way and promises to tag you in the photos later. Somewhere in the midst of your after-kiss shock, Mark had given her his handle and she’d been on her way. The crowd of people watching began to disperse, though a few hung around to ask for pictures as well, politely waiting for the stars in your eyes to disappear. You really couldn’t focus on much when your lips still tingled the way they did. 

Mark starts to get concerned when you continue to stare at him like he’s grown two heads, “Hey, are you alright? I’m sorry for how forward that kiss was but… I uh…” The poor boy begins to forget how to speak halfway through, glimmers of the Mark you know and love coming through, “Well, you know. Sorry.”

He looks away from you, absolutely shameful. “Why?”

He looks up again, lips parted, “Oh… because I kissed you like that.”

“But I wanted you to,” you say softly, hands furiously wringing each other out behind your back, “and… I wouldn’t have given you the go ahead if I didn’t.”

This was starting to sound a lot like a confession. 

Mark studies you as you study him, the world around you practically nonexistent otherwise. Licking his lips, your eyes immediately follow the movement and you start to really miss them on yours. “I see.” He answers simply, at a loss. “Well, did you… like it?”

You nod, forcing yourself to look in his eyes for this part. Your mouth is moving on its own accord even as every cell in your body feels like it’s on fire. “Hyuck doesn’t quite kiss like that.”

Mark’s eyes widen at the sudden mention of Donghyuck, “Oh, um, that’s- that’s good. I mean not good! Interesting, I meant interesting. God, um… I’m still trying to figure out how to deal with the fact that I just… did that to you. You’re my friend! Though, friends can kiss each other from time to time, right? I mean, I like you too so there’s that but- I- wait. Uh. Sorry.”

It’s comforting to know that you’re not the most awkward person right now at least, but you know that if you aren’t careful, you might confess to more than just liking him back, “Would you… would you like it if we kept… doing that… between us? Because I wouldn’t mind that. At all.”

“What about your cosplay with Hyuck? That girl said it’s your thing… I don’t want to get in the way of that.” Mark, bless his soul, is more worried about your hobby than the fact that you want to kiss him and him only. You couldn’t fall more for this boy if you tried. 

You twist back and forth in lieu of having something to do with your body that isn’t falling to the floor in a fit of nervous giggles and disbelief. If people got a photo of that, you’re certain you would be no more, “If I’m being honest, I’d really rather kiss you more than Donghyuck anyday.” “Oh? That’s good. That’s… that’s… good. Yeah, I’d rather you kiss me too.”

(1) Unread Message(s)

received: 7:42 p.m., april 14th, 2018

hyuckieee 🙈: I’m being tagged in so many photos of you and lee kissing, it’s kinda making me jealous

sent: 7:45 p.m., april 14th, 2018

you: what can i say? everyone knows who the superior lee is here

received: 7:45 p.m., april 14th, 2018

hyuckieee 🙈: TAKE IT BACK

[coolkat122]

Spider-Keith (Voltron AU Reader Insert) Part 1

"Would you stop staring?" Keith asked sounding annoyed at my lack of a response and staring in shock after showing me that he had mother-trucking Ceiling crawling abilities! Probably not as cool sounding as it looks (plus I'm sure he can climb other things too!)

"What else am I supposed to do? You are sticking to the ceiling! That's not normal" He frowned as he climbed back down to stand in front of me glaring down at me.

"Because of you and I want you to fix it" I blinked from confusion...

"What do you mean because of me? What did I do?" I don't recall doing anything that would make my best friend gain the ability to climb shit you wouldn't normally be able to climb.

"Do you not remember the spider you bought over to my place?".... My brows frowned.

"You mean Kevin?"  I've brought over a LOT of spiders to his house just so I could show off the little cuties I was able to get my hands on but Kevin was my most recent so I figured that's who he meant.

"Who else!" He raised his voice, "Somehow he got out and into my bed and bit me, and next thing I know I'm like this" As he gestured his arms to his body I looked over to my left wall that was covered in random fandom poster of various shows I watch before shifting them back to his angry form.

"Uhh, I don't think that's possible... in comics sure  but I don't think a spider's bite can give someone the ability to climb things in reality" That's just not how things work if it were I would have cat powers from all the times my cat scratched or nip me but I don't.

"Then how do you explain this?" He waited to hear what I would say but I don't know what I could? It had to have been something else like maybe he ate something maybe the government is testing something and they used it on...him... for... okay maybe not that one.

That one was nice sounding before I thought it out more and now it just sounds stupid but not as stupid as a spider granting power bite.

"I don't know" I shrugged," but I doubt it's from a spider bite..." Right?

"Where did you get Kevin?"

"From my house, I found him crawling around on the wall and I caught him" I also noticed that he had strange color patterns and didn't look like any spider I've seen before so I tried looking him up but found nothing.

So I kinda thought that maybe I might have discovered a new species went over to Keith's house to show it off and then I lost him somehow...

"Your house? Are you sure?" I nodded before rolling my eyes.

"Yes I'm sure" How would I forget that? His frown deepen as he started pacing so I decided to re-ask my first question when he first showed up.

"So where are your glasses?" He raised his brow , sighing.

"(Y/n) seriously not important"  

"Yeah it is, you're blind as fuck without them and you don't like contacts so how did you ride your bike here and not die?" He shrugged still not as hung up about as me.

"I don't care, maybe it's another side effect from the bite but that's not what's important, what's important is how do I go back to normal?" Why is he asking me? How in the hell would I know? I'm not some science chick that knows how to take away spider crawling better eye-sight sciences.

"Okay hold on a sec" I went reaching under my bed where my comic/manga storage cases were and fished out a few to see what I could use.

Just how was this going to help? fudge if I know but if he wants to believe a spider bite did this then we need comic and manga knowledge to help us out here since it's basically the same logic behind it all right?

"What are you doing?" Keith not looking amused at all at my sudden comic reading but I literally can't think of any other way to help without consulting an adult which he is 100% against for some reason cause he doesn't want them to 'freak out'.

"I'm trying to find a clue any clue that could help me help you but honestly all these are telling me is that your uncle needs to die and you need to suit up....problem is your uncle is already six feet under so I got nothing" Bad joke I know it's a real bad joke to be making right now especially since my friend is probably not in the mood but I didn't know what else to say.....

"...... you aren't taking this seriously" Keith did his signature scowl he always does when I'm not taking something serious enough or something along the lines.

"I'm sorry... I just" I sighed as I sat the comic down (thanks a lot comic for offering nothing useful!), "I just don't know how to help you and I'm still finding it reaaaaaally hard to believe that Kevin's bite could do something like this but I know you wouldn't lie about this so either I'm wrong and Kevin is some kind of special power granting spider species or it really was something else" 

"But what? What could have done this?" I tried to think about anything that could have possibly do this but all I keep going back to is the government theory.

"....I'm sorry" I snapped my head up confused as to why Keith was apologizing all of a sudden? What does he have to be sorry for?

"I came here acting kind of like a douche and dropped all of this on you and..... I don't know expected you to have answers for some reason when honestly I just wanted to talk to someone about this... and now it's stressing you out" He sighed as he slumped against my wall sliding down it till he was sitting on my floor (which apparently not sure if he noticed but there was a sock under him...one of mines I tossed off when it got too hot when I was sleeping). 

"Keith it's fine, besides isn't that kind of our thing? You put up with my lame attempts at humor or more like my lame attempts with anything really and I put up with your titude" Case and point another lame attempt at trying anything from yours truly. 

I'm honestly glad he's my friend, my best friend to be exact (and kind of my only friend) so if he needs my help with this then I want to do it so goddamn much I just need to think how can I be of help?

"Well what should we do to fix this? If we can't tell the adults just how do you want to go about this then?" Keith still sitting on my floor sighed as he shrugged.

"I don't know... we literally  have nothing to go on except for me thinking that the cause is the bite since I was fine before I got bite and now I'm not and you don't know where the spider came from, you only know that you found it crawling around your house.... that's not a lot.. that's hardly anything" I could tell that he was getting upset over our lack of knowledge on this situation and I get that.

I would be too and I kinda am already. "Okay we gotta Sherlock Holmes this and just go with what we do know and what we know is.....the spider was in my house...maybe that's something? Wait no we know that the spider is at your house at least it was when it bite you so let's go look for it there" With nothing better planned Keith agreed so we hopped on our bikes and rode our butts over to his place.

His parents were at work so we had nothing to worry about there as we got to searching.... but there was a tiny problem his house was kinda trashed in a sense since I was last here to be more specific his room was, it was like a hurricane came through which is just weird...

"Well how did you think I found out about this" He gestured his left hand to his right referring to how sticky (that's what I'm calling) it gets so he can climb things.

"I didn't think you trashed your room upon discovering it" Aw he even broke the stupid picture frame I made him when we were like five (going on six for him)....

"Can we start looking" I nodded still slightly broken hearted about the frame as we got to searching  high and low for the little bugger and as luck would have it we actually found it sadly though it was dead.

"Is that a good or bad thing?... I mean it's kinda sad for me cause I like spiders so seeing his dead little body is not the best but it was possibly the reason you are like this and anything that messes with my friends are scum but at the same time I'm not sure if we needed it alive?" And I'm rambling Keith please be a friend and shut me up...pls?

"I....don't know probably good..might make easier to study" I hummed as I nodded my head before asking the question that was running through my head when he said 'study'.

"Uh-huh sooooo then you know how exactly we need to study it and what to look out for?" Keith shook his head as he placed it's dead body carefully into my spider cage that I originally had it in.

"No, I thought you might since you were, you know the spider expert" I now shook my head as I did a kind of a huff ish type thing while crossing my arms.

"I'm an expert compared to you but I'm not like some spider wizard, I only know what I looked up which is just some trivia here and there along with whatever peaked my interest about them" I like spiders I do but not enough to be like well a spider expert on them (yeah that was the best I could think of).

"Great" 

"We could take it to someone who probably does know what to do?" Keith shook his head at my suggestion in disagreement.

"That would mean I'd have to tell them in order for them to know what to look for anyway" Damn it!

"Okay well then let's hold onto until we figure it out cause I have no other ideas" Maybe paying attention in science class would have came in handy.... 

"Sounds good" With the Kevin's body in our possession we then tried to figure what to do next? I tried to think of what I could do or what Keith could do to help with his situation.

"Oh Keith wait a sec" He stopped what he was doing as I went back to his room to grab his glasses and handed it to him, he looked at them confusingly.

"I don't need them anymore, my eyesight is fine now" 

"I just think maybe it would be weird if all of a sudden you don't need these when just yesterday you were blinder than Stevie Wonders" 

"With my new eyesight these will make me blinder than Stevie wonders so no" He pushed them back but I still kept insisting upon it.

It's going to raise questions and yes he could lie about having contacts but what if they want proof or something? It might be a bit troublesome to go through idk maybe no one will care?

"Will find some way around it like maybe get you some fake but realistic looking ones? I don't know"  He sighed in defeat placing them on his face like I wanted but he looked really uncomfortable which just made me feel weird about it so I took them off.

"Yeah nevermind, it will be a dead giveaway with the faces you keep making might as well not wear them and go with the contacts story or something" 

"There's no way my Mom's going to believe that though"  Uh shoot...... she is a tough one to fool.

"Okay then let's get some clear lens"  We went to a store I was checking out and tried to find ones that would pass for his old ones I found some that looked like his but a different color....

"We could paint them?" I nodded my head.

"That works" I was the one to buy them because and you probably won't believe this but one of our classmates was working here part time why is that a problem? He might be suspicious as to why Keith was buying fake glasses so I did it instead should be no questions why I was doing it.... right?

"Hey I know you!" The tall male exclaimed cheerfully as he recognized me and I just awkwardly nodded my head not really sure if I should say anything but I did anyway.

"Yep" Was yep the right thing to say or did I make this weird? Nah it's fine....

Awkward silence great, greaaaaaat, but what would be super great is if he would just ring me up already but it looks like the machine is having problems which is... just... super. 

"Hey Hunk are you on break yet?" GREAT ANOTHER CLASSMATE! I happily cheered in my head for this gracious reunion outside of class with not one but two classmates! And one of them is the self-proclaim rival of what exactly I don't know.... I mean one time Keith tried out for the swim team back in like middle school almost got on the team but decided it wasn't for him so Lance got put on instead. 

So you would think their rivalry would stop there but nope for some reason that neither I nor Keith understand Lance just keeps pushing for something that's not there to begin with.

I mean is it really a rivalry if the other person has zero interest?  

"What's Keith's girlfriend doing here?" G-girlfriend!? He thinks Keith and I are ewwww god no! 

"Whoa hold it! I'm not Keith's girlfriend!" Lance taken back a little before replying back.

"Uh okay...it's just that you guys are always together and you were even there to cheer him on in tryouts back in middle school so I just kinda assumed" 

"You and Hunk hang out all the time and you two aren't dating....unless you are..?" They quickly jumped in replying back that they weren't.

"What no we're not!" I raised my hands as I backed off though I really wasn't up on it in the fast place I just didn't want to assume like a certain someone (we all know who I'm talking about).

"Okay...." I turned back to Hunk, "is the register working now?" 

"Huh? Who right yeah I got it working" I paid for the glasses and left as fast as I could as not to get dragged into a conversation. 

Keith and I went back to his place and got to fixing up those glasses and voila a perfect look-alike, damn I'm good and now no one will know the wiser. 

"Are we good now?" 

"Wha, Keith yes you act like this was a pain?" 

"It kinda was though" I personally feel attacked right now and unappreciated. 

"Well you didn't have to go through the trouble of human contact and fixing these things up like your old ones so you don't know true pain" I was in that store longer than I would have liked. 

....."Are your wrist okay?" I asked after seeing him rub them for like the sixth time today and it's kinda worrying cause he has this pained look but he fights it so I won't notice unfortunately for him I did.

"Yeah their fine, don't worry" Don't worry? Why do people say that? Like do they honestly think that the person they say it to will be like "oh sure if you say so, I mean you don't look fine but you said don't worry so it be cool" like what the heck! No!

If that person cares about you a stupid don't worry isn't going to make them magically stop worrying ESPECIALLY IF YOU SHOW NOTHING BUT THINGS FOR THEM TO WORRY ABOUT! Case and point; you constantly rubbing your wrist like your in pain and that's where it's originating from.

I bite my lip as I could feel myself just fuming and working up all the stuff I want to say but I just don't know how but as my crap ass luck would have it my MOM CALLED! And you are required by child law to answer any and all calls from your Mother less you face her wrath when you get home.

I sighed as I bought the phone to my ear and answered the stupid call. "Yes Mom?" Dang it she wants me home looks like I have to lecture Keith later.

"I gotta go..." He nodded seeming totally fine that I was going home and I'm not sure if this should have but it kind of bothered me (stupid right?), why should it bother me? I mean like this isn't the first time I went home cause ya know I live there obviously I would have to go back eventually.

But I...actually I really don't know what I wanted him to do so how can I expect him to do it? Doesn't matter, I grabbed my bag and Kevin's home and left. 

While Keith did whatever, when I got home Mom had dinner ready and told me to go wash up, like the good dau wait no like the great daughter that I am I went to do just as I was told before eating the dinner my Mother so lovingly slaved over a hot stove to make.

But right after I was finished I went searching up everything I could about spiders some more and tried even harder to find Kevin but to no such luck....

I was getting pretty desperate so I went on a very trustworthy nerd blog I followed because why the heck not nerds are smart and I was hoping to perhaps absorb some of that nerdy-smarty intelliagence (And I totally didn't follow it because the dude's profile pic is like the cutest looking spider I've EVER SEEN!) and after that weird ass sentence I just made I'm sure you can see that I really need it.

(ThatWeirdGirlInTheBackground122): Hey sorry to bother you but um how well would you say you know spiders? Like on a scale of 1-10? 10 obviously being the highest and the most anyone can know about Spiders?

(TheManWithABlogAboutSpiders): Uh....a 9...maybe? I feel like there's always something to learn so I am going with a 9...

(ThatWeirdGirlInTheBackground122):.....yeah that's good

(ThatWeirdGirlInTheBackground122): So listen I have a question and it would be greaaaaat if you can answer it oh and thanks for actually replying back on your pm really awesome of you to do so *Thumbs up emoji*

(TheManWithABlogAboutSpiders): No problem, so what's your question?

____________________

Don't Forget to Heart, Comment and Follow if you haven't already. I would love to hear your thoughts on all of my stories.

99% sure Keith was so out of character

And I regret not showing more Lance and Hunk and having better moments with them but I WILL TRY TO FIX THAT IN PART 2! 

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