#the look on her face when she realizes he's gone

[81pastrys]

Missing Mama

Summary— When Lando is left so his wife can have a girls trip he thinks it’ll be a breeze, however he was wrong.

Warnings— none

A/N— little Norris is a bit sassy in this one.

Lando knew the routine, until he didn’t. Usually he would go and do quadrant things or business things and then be home. However, when his wife wanted to have a girls trip, he took a few days off and insisted she go. When he did business he would leave before his girls got up, and return close to bedtime. Obviously home on the weekends, but those differed.

The first night would go smoothly, or so he thought, he’s done them before. Although when he went to tuck her in, she refused to even look at the bed. “I want to sleep in mamas spot.” She pouted angrily at him. Her arms crossed and stomping a foot on the ground.

“You want to sleep in my room?” He asked serious. “Acting like that?” He scoffed and walked out of her room and into the main area. She followed him out, tears now present. The day was already hard with her mum even leaving and now her daddy won’t let her sleep in his bed?

“Daddy please?” She sobbed. He looked at her. His expression was firm. She had been acting out since her mum left and he had enough, she didn’t usually act out. “Why not? Daddy please!” The little 4 year old begged, when he didn’t respond.

“You’ve been acting out.” He stated. She pulled on his pant leg now, tears still streaming down her face. He stood looking down on her with his arms crossed. He sighed when she sat back and dramatically continued on crying on the floor.

He crouched down and looked at her. She sniffled and contained her cries. “Mama lets me sleep in her bed when you’re gone.” She hiccuped from crying. His entire mood changed when he realized she wasn’t acting out on purpose, but didn’t know how to express her feelings otherwise.

“I know, sweetheart.” He said comforting her now. She was just upset at her mum leaving. He reached out his arms to hold her. “You miss mama huh?” He asked, her head on his shoulder and arms wrapped around his neck.

She nodded her head on his shoulder and then he sat her on the counter. He wiped her face off , from any stray tears. “I’m sorry daddy.” She said softly. He gave her a small smile and walked to the fridge.

“How about a warm glass of milk before bed hm?” He asked. He made them both a glass of milk before heating them up and handing her the cup. “Alright, now we’re ready for bed.” He said. They finished their milk and he walked her to his room. She tried to hide her excitement.

“You sleep there.” She pointed to her mum’s side of the bed after jumping onto his. He lightly chuckled at her. She giggled at his facial expression. He picked her up and moved her to mums side of the bed.

“Nooo you sleep there!” He joked with her. “This is my side.” He stood his ground with a sly smile. She giggled again but stayed on the side he put her on. He walked to her side and tucked her in with a kiss on her forehead.

He took a shower and changed for bed. When he returned she was asleep. He crawled in bed next to her and gave her one more kiss on her forehead before turning his lamp off and allowing sleep to claim him as well. She wiggled into his arms and he moved his arm to rest around her.

I love this one sm

[nightingale-prompts]

Danny had promised the movie was kid-friendly but also said the previous movie "Her Melody" was technically kid-friendly too. So the better question was if it was emotion-friendly because this family was full of sensitive people.

"It's based on my puppy Cujo." Danny said holding up the movie case called "Echo & Ash"

It was hard to say no to Danny. He looked hopeful and sad. So movie night would happen.

Damian was not giving a proper memo. Last time Danny brought a movie Damian slept in Dick's room and everyone was super clingy. It was....new. Not a bad feeling but it was pathetic how a single film did this. It was actually Alfred's favorite as well.

***

Movie: "It's your new friend Eddy. She's a girl so give her a good name." "She barks everytime I talk so her names going to be Echo." "That's a wonderful name"

The movie started with a feel-good story of a boy named Everest and his first pet. A puppy named Echo. Echo followed him everywhere and loved running in the woods with Everest. The family sighed collectively that nothing sad had happened.

But this was a Danny movie so emotional trauma will be had.

One clear day the two were playing when the camera suddenly shifted to the woods. Nothing could be seen other than trees. The camera shifted like it was being held by someone and you realize. The threat isn't out there...there was someone there and they are currently holding a camera as they watch the boy.

Uncertainty builds as Echo suddenly stops. Her ears stand at attention as she zeros in on the camera, her eyes laser-focused.

Then she begins pulling Everest away. She makes him chase her out of the woods. But the camera stays stationary and not moving to follow.

The scene lingers a little too long before the view shifts upwards and in another direction as heavy footsteps follow.

Stephanie: Oh god, I hated that.

Barbara: I don't think I remembered to breathe.

Movie: One afternoon as Everest walks home alone after running from a group of bullies a car races down the road. As the car rears closer a series of barks rang out. Echo chased the car like a mad dog. Everest felt a shove on his side as the dog's body pushed him aside.

There was sharp bark, a thud, and a whimper.

Then the scene shifts to a vet office. There is no sound other than a soft piano. Everest cries with Echo in his arms as a vet kneels next to him, probably explaining what's going to happen. Echo pants heavily before she slowly stops and closes his eyes. Then she is gone.

Damian: *bitting his lip and trying to hold back emotions* Nightingale...What. Is. This.

Danny:*smiles gently and shrugs*

Damian: Daniel! No!

Danny: It'll be okay.

Bruce: It's okay Damian. Come sit next to me.

Movie: Echo wondered around the endless woods for what felt like forever until a voice called put.

"Hey, puppy! What are you doing here?" The boy asked.

Echo sniffed around searching.

"You looking for someone?"

Echo whimpered as she turned in every direction searching for her family.

Duke: Ah, nooo. She's so cute.

Movie: "Well, I'm Ash."

Echo sniffs the boy briefly before turning to keep looking elsewhere.

Echo wondered for a long time. Night and day passed but she wasn't getting tired or hungry.

"Only other spirits pass through here. No one stays like you do. Did you come to keep me company?"

The boy was very talkative but Echo didn't seem to mind. Slowly she warmed up to him and spent time playing with him. Her ghost friend was happy to have her.

But she would still think about her family.

In the real world, Everest couldn't stop thinking about Echo. He was all alone now.

"She probably hated me."

But he didn't feel like she was gone. Sometimes he felt a brush against his leg or strangely a push on the swing. A ball rolling on the ground towards them alerted him one afternoon. He had been hiding in the backyard again from the neighborhood boys when he felt it.

"Echo?"

The wind blew against his face and somehow he knew for sure she wasn't alone.

Damian: Daniel, tell me now that they see each other.

Dick: Damian, be nice. Just watch the movie.

Movie: "Is that your friend doggy? That human?" *bark* "Why is he crying like that?"

Ash hovered near the boy making a cold wind brush past.

"Hey, you shouldn't cry. Your dog is right here. She's been badgering me to help her visit so the least you can do I put on a smile." Ash said. "Come on! Get up!"

Evening he couldn't see Everest heard something in the back of his mind. He knew he wasn't alone.

Dick: He kind of reminds me of Jason.

Jason: What's that supposed to mean?

Dick: nothing bad...not good either.

Movie: Over time Everest learned to see and not just hear the spirits. Playing with them after school. He was able to run with Echo again and have a friend like Ash. Ash also played tricks on his bullies.

However, Ash would always look over his shoulder, and when it got late Ash said it was time to go.

"Can't you just stay a little longer? The sun still up." Everest complained.

"But it's still winter. It'll be gone in minutes. Besides we can't stay on this side for long. We have to go." Ash's eyes didn't leave the horizon as he scanned it.

Duke: Calling it now. Ash died after the sun went down.

Stephanie: No shit, Sherlock.

Bruce: Language.

Movie: "Ash? I've been wondering. How did you die?"

Echo whined pawing at Ash.

"Don't worry Echo it's fine. I don't remember. Most ghost I've met do but I don't really know."

"The other ghosts?"

"Yeah, they come over from the other side sometimes to visit but they have to go back. They are all older so they take care of me. I can't go there with them though."

"Why not?"

"I don't know. They said that I couldn't move on until I get what I needed and let go. But I don't know what that is. I'm scared though, of leaving the woods."

"Oh...is these something you want now?"

"I wanted a friend and then Echo showed up and now I can visit you. So I think I'm happy now."

Barbara: Am I insane or does Ash look like a slightly younger Phantom.

Cassie: (in sign) I thought so too. But I'm not sure. That guy rarely shows up.

Movie: "It's dark! You need to leave! Hurry!"

"Not until you tell me the truth! You're hiding something! You've been hanging around looking for something! You won't tell me anything! Then when I found that burnt-up shack you yelled at me to leave and not come back! I thought you were my friend!" Everest screamed at the ghost.

"Ever, please! Go home! It's not safe here." Ash pleaded with tears in his eyes.

But it was too late. That monster came. The same one from Everest's nightmares. The visions he had gotten after seeing Ash. Instead of just a black shadow, it was a man.

Bruce: *takes a sharp breath*

Jason: No. God damn it. Don't do this.

Tim: Danny. Tell me this isn't-

Danny: *holds Tim's hand* It'll be okay.

Movie: The man who lurked in the shadows had waited look enough. He had always been there in those woods just out of frame watching and hidden in the tree line. You couldn't see him but you felt him every time the camera panned around the woods. The barren leafless trees giving the illusion of safety since you could see more than in the summer and the noisy leaf litter on the ground would warn you. But not when it was dark and certainly not now that the noisy dog wasn't around.

Everest had forgotten that even with ghosts he was still alone.

Everest was taken to that shack deep in the woods as Ash screamed unheard to the ears of the living and knowing very well what would happen next.

But spirits like Ash can't say after nightfall. Not when they feared the dark. But Ash persisted, fading but still hanging on. His ghost form flickering like a flame. Echo was dead but her mission and life were the same in death. She would protect her boy.

The ghost dog sprinted into the night back to her old home. She bumped into anything she could to cause a ruckus and catch the adults' attention. Knocking over family photos until they noticed Everest wasn't home. Making the worry enough to look for him.

All the while a pyre was built for another soul.

Damian: Come on...

Movie: The climax rushed by as the fire burnt and a search party was launched. But when it was over all the sound stopped and a body was zipped into a bag. A family held eachother and cried. A serial child killer was put in handcuffs.

The worst part was how believable it was. Even Ina story of talking to ghosts and pranks the reality of these cases still exist.

But there are small blessings. As Ash cried in the dark a pair of arms wrapped around him and a wet nose pressed against his cheek. His two best friends were here and they all felt ready. It was time to see the other side now that they were together and not alone.

Dick: I am..not okay.

Barbra: I hate that I actually enjoyed that.

Bruce: *brooding*

Damian: I'm going to bed.(he didn't and went to check on his pets)

Jason: ...

Tim: I trusted you.

Danny: But it's a beautiful ending.

Tim: Okay yes but...still sad. They died!

Danny: But they are together. That's a happy ended. Not the happiest but it's not the end for them. Death is just a new chapter not a bad one.

Tim: You optimism scares me and it is unneeded in this family.

Danny: I'm family now~

Tim: You're mine at least.

A continuation of this

Danny: I got another movie for us!

Tim: Danny, I love you so much...but I can't take another sad movie.

Danny: But it's really good and it has a good ending.

Tim: Really?

Danny: It's about a boy and his dog. You see his dog dies-

Tim: Danny no.

Danny: Let me finish! The dog dies but meets another boy who's a ghost on the other side. It beautiful story about a dog who goes back and forth to keep his friend safe. The two boys become friends and unravel the truth behind the ghost boy's death. Come on Tim...I worked hard on this one.

Tim: Fine, but only if I can sucker everyone else to watch it with us.

(Danny doesn't consider death to be a sad part of a movie or a bad ending.)

[chrissssssmut]

can i request sakura being punished all day with a vibrator in front of her members until she squirts

BEHIND THE SPOTLIGHT

Le Sserafim Sakura x Abusive Manager Male reader feat. Le Sserafim

AN: Second Smut! Hope y'all enjoy this one!♥️ (Sakura is so fine in this pic😭♥️)

Sakura had always been resilient. Years of training, scrutiny, and expectations had built a quiet endurance within her, a silent strength that kept her standing even when her body threatened to collapse. But this was different. This was a kind of torment she was never prepared for.

The hiatus was supposed to be for her health. The company agreed. The members supported her. But not him. Not the manager who had spent years molding LE SSERAFIM into a powerhouse. Not the man who saw every delay as a direct betrayal to the group’s progress.

At first, it was little things. He made her stay late after check-ups, forced her to sit through unnecessary meetings, made sure she knew how much she had ‘failed’ the group by stepping back. But then it escalated. A shove when she was too slow. A whisper in her ear reminding her she was disposable. A punishment for every day the group was forced to wait for her return.

Sakura stayed quiet. She had to. If the others found out, they would fight for her. And that would make things worse. So she endured. Every insult, every bruise hidden beneath the long sleeves of her hoodie, every degrading remark that chipped away at the light she once carried.

That night was the worst. She was in her room, barely able to sit up from exhaustion when the door slammed open.

“You’re still in bed?” his voice was a growl, low and venomous.

Sakura scrambled to sit up, her body trembling. “I—I was just—”

“Resting,” he spat. “Being useless. Holding everyone back.”

She flinched, her throat tightening as she bowed her head. “I’m sorry.”

“Sorry?” The word came with a cruel laugh. “You think that’s enough?”

Before she could react, he yanked her up, his fingers digging into the fragile skin of her wrist. A sharp gasp escaped her lips, but she bit down the pain. No. She wouldn’t give him that satisfaction.

“Get up,” he ordered, dragging her toward the door. “It’s time your group sees what their ‘leader’ has become.”

Sakura’s breath hitched. “No—please, don’t—”

He didn’t listen. He never listened.

The training room was silent when they arrived. The other members were there, restrained, confusion and fear painted on their faces. They had been called in urgently, no reason given. Now, as Sakura was shoved inside, their confusion turned into pure horror.

“Sakura?” Chaewon’s voice wavered. “What—what happened to you?”

Bruises, cuts, exhaustion. She looked fragile, barely able to stand. The image of the strong, confident Sakura they knew was gone.

“She happened,” the manager said coldly. “Her weakness. Her selfishness.” He turned to them, eyes burning with contempt. “And now, you will all see firsthand the consequences of failure.”

Sakura trembled, her breath shaky as she took a step back. There was no escaping this. Not anymore. And as his shadow loomed over her, she realized—

This nightmare had only just begun.

The other members fought against their restraints, eyes wide with desperation. “Let her go!” Yunjin shouted, struggling against the ropes binding her to the chair. Kazuha thrashed wildly, tears forming in her eyes. Eunchae sobbed, shaking her head as she desperately tried to free herself, her young face contorted with panic.

Before they could do anything, security stormed in, forcing them back down. The members screamed, pleaded, but it was useless. Strong hands held them in place, ensuring they could do nothing but watch.

Sakura’s breath came in short, panicked gasps as she looked at them, silently begging for help she knew wouldn’t come.

And then the door locked behind them.

With a slow, deliberate motion, the manager reached into his coat and pulled something out. The moment it came into view, the room fell into a stunned silence. The members’ eyes widened in pure shock, their struggles momentarily forgotten as the reality of what they were seeing sank in.

A vibrator. 

Without a second thought, the manager ripped off sakura's clothing, leaving her bare on the floor. Her voice trembled as she fell to her knees, desperation lacing every word. "Please… don’t do this," she begged, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

The manager's eyes darkened as he folded his arms. "I've made my decision. You've been testing my patience for too long. It’s time your fellow members learn the consequences of slacking off.”

The manager’s grip was unyielding, his fingers digging into her arms as she trembled, too weak to resist. No matter how frail she was, he refused to let her go.

The other members called out for Sakura, their voices breaking with desperation, but their pleas fell on deaf ears. It was hopeless.

As the manager tightened his grip on her, he slowly began to rub the vibrator on Sakura's wet folds, each movement drew a reaction, every touch provoking a response. Sakura bit her lip, resisting at first, but eventually, her resolve crumbled. Her moans and cries intertwined, a bittersweet symphony of pain and pleasure.

Sakura had begun to crumble.

The manager relished the sight of her in that state, taunting her with a smirk as he teased, "You love being treated like this, don’t you? You fucking slut.”

Sakura could barely form a response, her mind clouded and body trembling under the overwhelming waves of pleasure. Every sensation crashed over her, leaving her breathless, lost in the intensity of it all.

The other members watched in anguish, their hearts sinking as they witnessed Sakura endure her punishment, powerless to intervene. “Please… just stop,” Chaewon’s voice trembled, desperation cracking through as she stepped forward. “She doesn’t deserve this.” Yunjin clenched her fists, her breath unsteady. “She’s had enough! Just let her go!” Eunchae’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, her voice barely above a whisper. “Please… I’m begging you… she’s hurting.” Kazuha swallowed hard, her usually calm demeanor shaken. “You’ve made your point… we’ll do whatever you want. Just leave her alone.”

As the manager’s pace on her intensified, Sakura’s moans filled the room, growing louder with every breath, her body trembling as she edged closer to the peak of pleasure. The manager’s grip tightened around Sakura’s face, his fingers pressing into her soft skin as he forced her teary eyes to meet his. His gaze was dark, unyielding. "Look at me," he ordered, his voice slow, deliberate. "Say it. Tell me you’re mine. That you belong to me. That you’ll listen to me and only me."

Sakura’s breath hitched, her vision blurred by the fresh wave of tears slipping down her cheeks. Her body trembled, her lips quivering as she tried to resist—tried to hold onto the last shreds of defiance within her. But under his relentless stare, her resolve shattered.

With a broken whisper, her voice barely above a breath, she finally obeyed. "I’m yours… I’ll listen only to you."

“Ahh…! I-I’m cumming…!” Sakura moaned loudly, her body trembling as she reached her peak, completely lost in the overwhelming pleasure.

Within a few minutes, Sakura’s body arched as a sharp gasp tore from her lips, her fingers gripping onto anything she could find. A wave of overwhelming pleasure crashed over her, leaving her breathless, her mind hazy with the intensity of it all. Her trembling legs threatened to give out, her voice breaking into shaky moans as she reached her peak, completely lost in the moment. Her body trembled uncontrollably as her fluids spilled onto the floor, some splashing against the manager, marking the aftermath of her release.

The manager let out a deep, satisfied moan, his grip on Sakura still firm as he leaned in close. “This won’t be the first or last time I do this to you,” he murmured, his voice laced with dominance. His gaze then shifted to the rest of LE SSERAFIM, eyes cold and unrelenting. “Let this be a warning—if any of you even think about taking a hiatus, you’ll suffer the same fate… maybe even worse.” A heavy silence filled the room as the members, trembling and helpless, nodded in fearful obedience.

The manager ran his fingers along Sakura’s trembling body, collecting some of the lingering fluids. With a slow, deliberate motion, he brought them to his lips, tasting her. His eyes darkened with satisfaction as he looked down at her, making her shudder in fear.

The members of LE SSERAFIM were finally released, and without hesitation, they rushed to Sakura’s side, their footsteps echoing in the tense silence.

Chaewon dropped to her knees first, gently cupping Sakura’s face, her voice trembling. “Sakura… are you okay? Say something, please.”

Yunjin wrapped her arms around her, holding her tightly. “We’re here. You’re not alone,” she whispered, her own voice cracking with emotion.

Eunchae clutched Sakura’s hand, tears slipping down her cheeks. “Unnie, we’re so sorry… we couldn’t stop him…”

Kazuha swallowed hard, her expression conflicted as she draped her jacket over Sakura’s trembling shoulders. Her fists clenched at her sides before she exhaled shakily. “Let’s just… follow him,” she muttered under her breath. “We have no choice.”

The weight of her words settled over them like a suffocating fog. One by one, the members lowered their heads in silent resignation, their hands tightening around Sakura as if trying to shield her from a reality they couldn’t escape.

The manager stood over them, his gaze cold and indifferent, showing no trace of mercy or remorse for what he had done. He pulled out a stack of papers and tossed them onto the floor beside them.

“Enough of this,” he said, his voice sharp and commanding. “You all need to prepare for the new comeback.I better not hear a single tear or complaint. Not a word.”

The weight of his words settled over them like a heavy chain, tightening around their throats. The members barely had time to process what had just happened, yet he expected them to move on as if nothing had changed—as if Sakura wasn’t still trembling in their arms, broken and exhausted.

No apology. No hesitation. Just another order.

[ari-ana-bel-la]

Hiiiii can you do a dad!Lando where his young daughter gets surrounded by media and interviews and starts stressing out and is saved by Oscar or someone

Thank youuu x

Safe and sound

Lando had always been careful. No, scratch that—he had been downright paranoid when it came to his daughter, Yn. From the moment he held her for the first time, she had become the center of his world. Everything he did, every choice he made, revolved around the little girl with the brightest smile and the sweetest giggle.

It wasn't that he didn't want to share that joy with others—he did. But the world he lived in, the world of Formula 1, was intrusive. The media could be relentless, the fans too curious. And the last thing Lando wanted was for Yn to be exposed to any of it.

His parents had tried to ease his worries.

"She'll be fine, Lando," his mum had reassured him over the phone. "You know how much she loves watching you race."

"And we'll be there the entire time," his dad added. "You need to trust us."

Lando wanted to believe them. But even with their words echoing in his mind, he hesitated. He had seen how wild things could get on a race weekend. Cameras flashing in his face, fans crowding him the moment he stepped into the paddock. Did he really want to bring Yn into that chaos?

Still, his home race felt different. It was supposed to be special. Maybe it was time.

That was how he found himself parking his car outside the paddock entrance, heart pounding as he turned to glance at the backseat. Yn was happily swinging her legs, her little hands clutching the stuffed bunny she never went anywhere without.

"You excited, bub?" Lando asked, his voice softer than usual.

Yn's face lit up with a smile. "I get to see you drive, Daddy!" Her excitement was infectious, and for a moment, Lando's fears eased.

"Yeah, you do." He reached back, brushing a stray curl from her cheek. "Just stick close to me, okay?"

"Okay, Daddy." Yn nodded solemnly, her bright eyes full of trust.

Taking a deep breath, Lando stepped out of the car and circled to her side. The moment he opened the door, the faint hum of the paddock buzzed around them. Before unbuckling her car seat, he positioned himself carefully, using his back to block the view of any wandering cameras.

"Arms up," he instructed, and when Yn lifted her arms, he scooped her into his chest. Her tiny arms wrapped around his neck as he held her close.

The paddock was already busy, the familiar noise of mechanics and engineers mingling with the distant cheers from the grandstands. Lando tried to focus, tried to push down the rising nerves as he walked briskly toward the McLaren garage.

"Daddy, your shoelace," Yn whispered into his ear, her warm breath tickling his neck.

"Shoot," he muttered under his breath. He crouched down, carefully setting her on her feet. "Stay right here, bub. I'm just gonna tie it real quick."

Yn nodded, her bunny clutched tight in her arms. Lando bent down, fingers working quickly on the knot. It only took a few seconds, but when he stood back up, his heart froze.

She was gone.

Panic hit him like a freight train. He spun around, eyes darting in every direction. The bustling crowd blurred as he searched desperately for her small figure.

"Yn?" he called, his voice tight. "Yn!"

The media had already started to gather, recognizing him immediately. Microphones and cameras were shoved in his direction, questions flying at him from every angle. But he barely heard any of it.

Where is she?

---

Yn, meanwhile, had spotted something far more interesting than her daddy's shoelace. A butterfly, pale blue and delicate, fluttered past her nose. Without a second thought, she followed it, her little legs carrying her farther and farther from where Lando had left her.

When the butterfly finally landed on a flower, Yn stopped and giggled softly. She stretched out her hand, hoping it might come closer. But then, realization dawned.

Where was her daddy?

Her chest tightened as she looked around. The sea of unfamiliar faces suddenly felt overwhelming. People walked by, too busy to notice the small girl standing there, frozen in fear.

Then, the cameras came.

"Is that Lando's kid?" one voice whispered excitedly.

Yn flinched as a group of fans nearby spotted her. They approached quickly, phones out, snapping picture after picture. Some girls knelt down, their voices syrupy sweet as they tried to talk to her.

"Hi, sweetie. What's your name?" one asked.

"Is your daddy nice?" another chimed in.

"Does he bring you to the races a lot?"

Yn took a step back, her bunny hugged tight against her chest. Her lip quivered as the questions piled on, too fast, too loud.

"Please..." she whispered, her eyes stinging. She wanted her daddy.

And then, everything changed.

A warm, steady hand slipped around her waist, lifting her effortlessly into the air. Yn's heart pounded in her chest until she opened her eyes and found herself face to face with Oscar.

"Hey," he murmured softly. "Got you."

The relief was immediate. She clung to his shirt, burying her face against his shoulder.

Oscar turned to the fans, his usually calm expression tight with anger. "Don't ever do that again," he said sharply. "She's a kid, not a spectacle."

The fans shrank back, guilt flashing across their faces as he turned on his heel and walked swiftly toward the McLaren garage. Yn's heart gradually slowed, her tears drying as she felt safe again.

"You okay, munchkin?" he asked after a moment.

She nodded against his shoulder.

"Here," he said, pulling his cap off and gently settling it on her head. It was much too big, sliding down over her eyes. When she peeked up at him and giggled, Oscar smiled. "Better?"

"Better," she agreed, adjusting the hat with her little hands.

---

Back at the garage, Lando was losing his mind.

"Where is she?" he demanded, running a hand through his curls. "She was right there, Mum, I swear. I looked away for two seconds—"

"We'll find her," his dad said firmly, though concern lined his face. "Just breathe."

But Lando couldn't breathe. Not until he knew she was safe.

And then, as if the universe answered his prayers, he saw her.

Oscar emerged from the crowd, Yn still nestled securely in his arms, wearing his oversized cap. The moment Lando's eyes landed on her, his knees nearly gave out.

"Yn!" His voice broke as he rushed toward them.

"Daddy!" Yn wriggled free from Oscar's hold the moment they reached him, and Lando caught her instantly, holding her close as if he might never let go again.

"Oh, bub," he whispered, kissing the side of her head over and over. "I'm so sorry. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?"

Yn shook her head, her small hands clutching his shirt. "I got lost, Daddy. But Ossie found me."

Lando's eyes lifted to meet Oscar's, a world of gratitude in his expression. "Thank you. Thank you so much."

Oscar shrugged, though there was warmth in his smile. "Anytime, mate. You know that."

Lando held Yn even tighter, pressing his forehead to hers. "I'm never letting you out of my sight again," he promised softly.

Yn, comforted by her daddy's warmth and safety, just giggled quietly. "Okay, Daddy." And in that moment, everything felt right again.

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

Authors Note: Hey loves. I hope you enjoyed this story. My requests are always open for you!

-💙🦋

[brainddeadd]

Quinn and Luke watching Jack fall in love

The First Game You Attend

The arena is buzzing with excitement, but Jack’s focus has narrowed down to a single point: the section where you’re sitting, bundled up in his team’s colors, eyes bright as you look down at the ice. Jack sneaks glances every chance he gets, his usually cocky demeanor giving way to a barely-hidden softness.

Quinn, catching his little brother’s gaze flicker to the stands, nudges Luke. “He’s practically looking for her approval every shift,” Quinn murmurs with a smirk. “Bet he’d trip over his own skates just to impress her.”

When Jack scores, his grin spreads wide, and the moment he gets off the ice, he looks up, finding you in the crowd. Luke snickers. “Did you see that? He’s totally gone.”

Back in the locker room after the game, Jack’s still riding high, but Quinn and Luke are ready to bring him back to earth.

“So, Jack, didn’t know you were out there just playing for her,” Quinn teases, feigning a concerned look.

Jack’s cheeks redden instantly, but he tries to shrug it off. “Nah, it’s just another game.”

“Oh, sure. Just another game. That’s why you looked like a love-struck puppy every time you looked up in the stands,” Luke snickers.

Jack rolls his eyes, but he can’t keep the smile from his face. And Quinn and Luke, for all their teasing, can’t help but be a little thrilled to see him so happy.

The Double Date Disaster

The evening’s supposed to be relaxed—a casual double date with Jack, you, Luke, and his own date. But when Luke’s date cancels last minute, he shrugs and decides to tag along anyway, figuring he’ll grab a drink and keep an eye on things. But as soon as he realizes how smitten Jack is, he pulls out his phone and quickly texts Quinn.

Within twenty minutes, Quinn’s at the bar too, claiming he “just happened” to be in the neighborhood. Jack glares as his two brothers settle in at the table, turning what was supposed to be a romantic night into a full-blown family gathering.

“So, did Jack ever tell you about the time he tried to jump off the roof pretending to be Batman?” Luke starts, leaning forward with a mischievous grin.

Jack groans, turning pink. “Luke, don’t.”

“Oh, come on,” Quinn cuts in with a grin. “You should know what you’re getting into.”

You laugh, completely charmed by the stories, and Jack, despite being mortified, can’t help but melt a little at the sight of you genuinely enjoying yourself. He lets out a resigned sigh, finally surrendering to the chaos as you smile at him, his heart skipping a beat.

The Teammate Gossip

Practice is winding down, and the team is gathered around the benches, catching their breath when Quinn overhears a few of the guys teasing Jack.

“I swear, man, he’s always texting,” one of them laughs, glancing over at Jack, who’s grinning down at his phone. “Guess he’s got a mystery girl.”

Quinn can’t resist, striding over with a smirk. “Oh, she’s real alright. Trust me, he’s got it bad. I’d bet good money he’d trip over his own skates next time she’s around.”

Jack’s head jerks up, a mix of embarrassment and irritation flashing across his face. “Come on, man,” he mumbles, trying to defend himself. “I’m just—texting.”

Luke chimes in with a smirk, walking up with his stick over his shoulder. “Guess you’re in love if you’re making us look like the stable ones, huh?”

Jack just groans, but the flush in his cheeks doesn’t go away, and the guys all laugh, patting him on the back as he looks away, still smiling.

The Midnight Confession

It’s a rare night where all three brothers are home, sprawled out on the couch with pizza boxes and empty soda cans littering the table. They’re laughing, sharing stories, but Jack’s mind keeps drifting elsewhere, and his phone screen keeps lighting up with your messages.

Quinn notices first, nudging Luke with a knowing grin. “You gonna tell us, Jack? Or are we supposed to guess who’s got you smiling like that?”

Jack sighs, fighting a smile. “I don’t know, guys. She’s just…different.”

Luke leans in, intrigued. “Different how?”

Jack shrugs, searching for words. “She makes me feel like I don’t have to be anything but me, you know? Like I can just…show up, flaws and all, and it’s enough.”

For a moment, his brothers are silent, sensing the depth in Jack’s words.

Quinn clears his throat, breaking the quiet. “Well, I’ll say this—don’t screw it up. ‘Cause I think she’s got you in a way no one else has.”

Jack chuckles, looking down, but there’s a look in his eyes that tells Quinn and Luke this is more than just a passing romance. As they drift into easier conversation, both brothers can’t help but feel happy to see Jack falling, finally finding someone who makes him feel at home.

[steddieas-shegoes]

as the poets say

for @steddielovemonth inspired by the quote “he is half of my soul, as the poets say” from the song of Achilles by Madeline miller

rated m | 2589 words | cw: injury, hospitals | tags: angst with a happy ending, soulmate au, canon adjacent but diverged like two roads in a yellow wood, friends to lovers, first kiss

💍💍💍💍💍💍💍💍💍💍💍

He walks into the room, bleeding, crying, wishing that death would take him. He feels ripped apart, and maybe he is. The wounds he’s suffered externally are minor in comparison to the pain in his heart.

Steve can’t be found.

He’s gone.

Eddie failed him.

_______

It’s easy to lose your mind when you find your soulmate, to forget that the world continues to spin, that good things and bad luck continue to happen around you. The fullness of your heart clouds your brain, that’s what his mom always told him when he was young. She would know better than anyone.

When his Uncle Wayne took him in, he said the same thing. He’d never found his soulmate, had never felt the need to go looking.

If they’re out there, we’ll find each other.

Eddie didn’t want to find his. Not after what happened to his mom, not after seeing the faraway look in his uncle’s eyes when he saw two people holding hands or laughing together in public.

A soulmate would just cause heartbreak.

_______

Steve is easy to get along with. He joins the group despite Eddie’s hesitation, and he fits right in.

Gareth is the least enthused, but even he gives in when Steve bakes him his favorite cookies. It’s not a bribe. Allegedly.

Eddie is immediately drawn to him, but keeps his distance. He pretends that the effect he has on him is nothing more than an easy friendship.

It lasts roughly six weeks, three days, eight hours, and 52 seconds. 53 if you count how long it takes Steve to start kissing him back.

He realizes the moment their lips touch.

He almost backs away, but what good would that do? The damage is done.

Steve’s eyes blink open as they part.

“I knew it was you,” he whispers.

“I hoped it wasn’t you,” Eddie replies.

His words ruin what should be a joyous moment. Steve flinches, backing away as if he’s been burned.

Eddie regrets the words immediately, feels the ache he caused Steve like a wound in his chest.

“Oh,” Steve breathes out, looking lost. “Okay.”

“It’s-” Eddie tries to backtrack. “It’s not you.”

“No, right. It’s not you, it’s me. Got it.”

Eddie hates what he’s done, and the pull in his body is screaming at him to shut up, to take it all back, to apologize and kiss him again. Steve deserves better than this, better than him.

“No, it’s…that makes it sound like I’m brushing you off. I-”

“That’s kinda what you’re doing,” Steve interrupts. “And it’s fine. I get it. I’m not what you expected and no matter what I do to try to make you see me for who I actually am, you’re not gonna.”

Steve leaves and Eddie goes home.

He doesn’t tell Wayne about it, but it’s easy to hide shit from Wayne when he works so much. It’s even easier when all he does is lay in bed and cry into his pillow like the pathetic loser he knows he is.

Eventually, Wayne catches him hobbling to the bathroom with red, swollen eyes and hunched shoulders and he can’t keep it in.

“You go tell that boy you didn’t mean a damn thing and you’re sorry for turning him down,” Wayne says when Eddie explains. “You’re not gonna be a sad sack in my home for the next 50 years just because you’re scared of having a soulmate.”

“I’m not scared!” Eddie argues, but he knows he’s lying and he knows Wayne knows he’s lying.

“Ed,” Wayne sighs. “I know I’m a little to blame for this. I coulda told ya so much sooner about why I get so worked up about soulmates.”

“Yeah, you coulda,” Eddie crosses his arms defiantly, leaning back against the couch.

“Watch your mouth,” Wayne points at him, then rubs his hand over his face. “Your mom was the greatest person I ever met.”

“I know.”

Where is this going?

“Losing her is somethin’ I never recovered from.”

Wait…what?

“Me…either?” Eddie feels like he’s being tested on a subject he never took a class on all of a sudden, like the answers are obvious, but not to him.

“She was my soulmate and I was too late,” Wayne continues, dropping a bomb on Eddie’s lap with no instructions on how to defuse it. “She said we could lie and say you were mine and Al would never know, but I didn’t feel right doin’ that to him at the time. I’ve come to regret it.”

“You were…” Eddie stands, pacing the floor of the trailer. “You two were soulmates? Why would she stay with my dad if she belonged with you?”

Wayne gives him a sad smile. “Because she didn’t believe in soulmates before she met me. She’d been with a few guys in high school, and then stuck with Al for a bit before she met me. They’d broken up when we started talkin’, but she was already pregnant with you. Couldn’t do that to my brother no matter how shitty he turned out to be.”

“But,” Eddie opens and closes his mouth for a full minute as he realizes what Wayne’s saying. “But if you loved her and she loved you, and you were soulmates, something could’ve been figured out.”

“Maybe. Lookin’ back, I think we coulda done things different. But we made our choices then and I gotta live with ‘em now.” Wayne stands, puts a hand on Eddie’s shoulder. “Don’t live with the regrets I have just because you’re scared, son.”

_______

Eddie drives to Steve’s house, ready to apologize, but finds his eyes rolled back in his head, unresponsive.

He doesn’t run, but he wants to.

Something tells him to call Dustin, the freshman who gets on his nerves, but has looked up to him since the first day he joined Hellfire.

The next three days are chaos. Steve is barely present, headphones covering his ears as much as physically possible to keep this Vecna guy out of his head. Eddie doesn’t leave his side, can’t.

They don’t talk about the soulmate thing. There’s too much going on outside of that. It’s awkward, conversations between them stilted at best, but Steve accepts that Eddie isn’t leaving his side.

When Eddie is sitting across from Steve, watching as his eyes roll back in his head, waiting to be the distraction for Vecna so everyone else can kill him, it’s like his entire heart is outside his body, beating against the floor and the walls.

He’s not supposed to interfere unless he starts to float.

But even when he does, Eddie can’t do anything to stop it. He tries to sing, he tries to pull him back down, but it’s useless. Vecna’s going to win this battle, even if they do manage to win the war.

_______

The hospital is packed when he carries Steve into it, broken and bleeding, unconscious with the barest pulse to prove he’s still alive. Only one person is manning the front desk, turning people with minor illnesses and injuries away and telling them to come back tomorrow. The moment she catches Eddie holding Steve out of the corner of her eye, she pages a code and two nurses come running with a bed.

He sets Steve down and tries not to think that this will be the last time he touches him.

He promises himself that when Steve wakes up, when he makes it through this, he’s gonna make everything okay again.

_______

Steve doesn’t wake up.

The doctors don’t quite know why, but they also aren’t being given the entire story. They can’t have it until Owens shows up, and even then, it won’t be everything.

El got here four hours ago and hasn’t left Steve’s side, but she keeps giving weird grunts of frustration. Dustin didn’t tell him everything about El, but he knows she’s a government experiment with superpowers and if she’s frustrated, the situation isn’t great.

Dustin and Robin are inconsolable, and Eddie feels like he’s one more hour of unknown futures away from joining them.

He sneaks off to call Wayne to check in, let him know he’s alive. Wayne tells him not to leave Steve’s side, he’ll bring him clothes and food soon. Eddie tries to wash his hands and face, get rid of as much of the blood and dirt smudged on his skin, but realizes too late that it won’t matter.

Wayne will know he’s been hurt, too.

“He is gone,” El says quietly.

“What?” Eddie steps to the bed, checks the monitors still beeping to prove that Steve’s heart is still pumping and his lungs are still working. “He’s not gone.”

“He is not there,” she continues, tears gathering in her eyes. “I cannot hear him or see him. He is not in his mind.”

“What the hell does that even mean?” Eddie knows he sounds crazy, and this is a kid he’s talking to, but he’s confused as to how she can make that determination.

“El can see into people’s minds when she concentrates. It’s easier with people she knows, but she didn’t know Steve as well as some of us do, so it’s taken her a while to get in there,” Will explains. “If she can’t find him in his mind, Vecna may have gotten to him faster than we could save him.”

“But he’s right here!” Eddie yells, much too loud for the quiet in the room.

Robin is crying in the corner, too scared to be close to where Steve is practically lifeless in the bed. Dustin is shaking his head. The others are just staring at Steve as if they can blink and he’ll be awake and telling them all how they’re annoying the hell out of him.

“He is physically here, but he is not in his mind.”

She leaves. Mike and Will follow her, and everyone slowly leaves the room while Eddie just watches Steve breathing.

_______

El doesn’t come back. No one does for over a day.

Eddie sits.

He waits for any sign that El is wrong.

He tries not to blame himself, but he knows deep down if he hadn’t rejected Steve, if he hadn’t been so fucking scared, maybe he could have seen this coming sooner. Maybe he could’ve stopped it from happening at all.

Robin swings by the next day, says she begged her mom to bring her for hours. Her parents want to leave Hawkins, and she’s already said she’ll run away before she leaves Steve here alone.

He isn’t alone, but he knows what she means.

She must not know about the soulmate thing. She wouldn’t want to be near him at all if she knew about him breaking Steve’s heart into a million pieces.

Except she makes a comment a few hours later, after a nurse has stopped by to once again check on Steve’s vitals, about how lucky Steve is for having such a great real soulmate.

So she knows, but she must not know.

He’s gotta tell her.

“Robin, I-“

A few quick beeps interrupt him, followed by a sharp intake of breath, and then a choking sound.

Eddie jumps up and Robin rushes to press the call button. Steve’s eyes are open and he’s trying to claw at the tube down his throat. Eddie grabs them as gently as he can, whispering that it’s okay, the nurse will take care of it, he just has to wait a minute.

Steve’s eyes are wide with panic.

He’s squeezing Eddie’s hands with a surprising amount of strength for someone who was basically dead only a minute before.

Eddie cups his cheek, and he falls in love.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. They’re gonna help you. I’m glad you’re here,” Eddie says quietly while Robin decides to run to the hall to get help.

He feels it growing the longer he’s awake, the more they touch. The reason he didn’t accept El’s words was because Steve was still there, Eddie could feel half of his heart still beating in Steve’s chest and half of his soul still deeply intertwined in Steve’s.

Steve won’t let go of him, even when the nurses try to get him to so they can check him. Eddie apologizes to the nurse closest to him, and while she must be annoyed at the inconvenience, she gives him an understanding smile.

“I wouldn’t let go of mine either,” she whispers to him before turning back to Steve’s IV line in his arm.

Eddie doesn’t let go.

Doctors come and go. Steve can barely talk, but they expect him to gain his voice back within a day or two. They suggest he have honey sticks and ice chips to soothe his throat and prescribe a breathing treatment to help clear up anything in his chest. He’s told to take it easy and stay as horizontal as possible until they can get him in for more scans. They don’t want him to start bleeding anywhere before they can reassess wounds.

Most of his physical injuries are broken bones, and there’s nothing to do for them except wait for them to heal.

He may never walk again, at least not without help.

His vision is worse than after his third concussion, but they’re already planning on prescribing glasses for him.

Things aren’t great, but they’re moving forward.

Robin has to leave before she gets a chance to really talk to him, which Eddie is secretly grateful for. He wants to have a minute alone with him, even if all they do is sit in silence, holding hands.

Which is all they do for a while. The hospital is still packed full of people in surprisingly worse condition than Steve, and extremely understaffed, so they just enjoy the peace of the room while they can. Now that Steve’s awake, they may put someone else in here to free up a room.

Steve taps his wrist.

“Hm?” Eddie watches as Steve tries to speak.

“Okay?”

Eddie knows what he’s asking.

“Everyone’s fine. Just worried about you,” Eddie smiles, rubs his thumb along the back of Steve’s hand as he answers. “You got the worst of it.”

“Sorry.”

“Not your fault the evil mind wizard clockmaker decided to try to kill you one bone at a time, Stevie,” Eddie picks up his hand and kisses the back of his fingers. “But let’s try to avoid other evil mind wizard clockmakers in the future.”

Steve doesn’t quite laugh, but his smile is enough for Eddie.

He’s quiet for a bit, his eyes closing like he’s falling back asleep. It only makes Eddie a little nervous.

“I’m sorry,” Eddie says when he thinks Steve did actually drift off. “I was scared. I shouldn’t have pushed you away.”

Steve smiles, but keeps his eyes closed. “Mhm.”

“And I will make it up to you in any way I can for as long as it takes. Even if that’s forever.”

“Mmm.”

“And I can’t tell if you wanna yell at me or not right now, but if you want to, you can. You should, actually. Wayne was way too nice to me when I told him.”

Steve opens one eye and raises a brow. How the hell is he doing that?

“Do you?”

Steve snorts and closes his eye, settling further into the pillow and squeezing Eddie’s hand.

It could be a yes or a no, but either way, Eddie’s fine with it.

His soulmate is alive and he’s not afraid anymore.

[artemisiasmuse]

always known | CH.4

PAIRING: rafe cameron x fem! kook reader

CW: 18+ mdni, smut eventually, angst, mean rafe, jealousy, possessive rafe, kook typical classism (not from y/n tho), abusive family dynamics, not really canon/au, swearing, drinking, no coke tho, ward cameron

SUMMARY: rafe’s childhood best friend y/n returns to figure eight by herself and finds rafe hates her for some reason, their friendship has gone down the drain and they can hardly remain cordial, and there’s one thing causing all of it: why can’t rafe just move on?

TROPE: childhood best friends to enemies to lovers

WORD COUNT: 2.7k

MASTERLIST

< previous

there was no ignoring your festering affection to rafe cameron when a girl is in his face, very obviously flirting. you’d stepped away for a few moments to greet your college friends when she took your place, well much more than just your place. jealousy flares in you hot and omnipresent and you can’t pretend you don’t recognize it so instead you try to dull it. you drink more than you should and none of the boys at the party look anywhere near attractive compared to him. even at school you had staved off the advances of anyone approaching you because no one seemed to cut it. not when your best friend was becoming your ideal man, he always had been if you were honest. if anyone looked at your ex’s next to him they would’ve realized it before you did. You hated how easy it was for her to make her intentions known, how he seemed to be enjoying the attention, when you couldn't even own up to your own feelings. topper noticed your continued return to the kitchen and eventually cut you off in your warpath.

“hey easy there, ‘can’t have you drinking us all under the table.” you stumbled into him, not really watching your steps and his hands steadied your shoulders, retreating like it burned him, in case rafe saw of course. the thought made your frown grow deeper, even if rafe shared an inkling of your feelings you couldn't make him jealous, you’d been off limits for as long as you or anyone else in figure 8 could remember.

“move topper, i flunked an exam okay?” it was a lame excuse, one that would’ve worked had you not known topper for the majority of your life. you’d never failed an exam, that still hadn’t changed. clearly your excuse didn’t work because rafe found you in the kitchen moments later, you relished slightly in the absence of the girl on his arm.

“hey kid, how much ‘you drink?” it was a nickname from your childhood, that and “baby” which now was also tarnished by your desire. you had constantly reminded him he was only five months older but in elementary school that meant a world of difference. you stopped correcting him, you would never admit it but the nicknames rolling off his tongue in that earth-shattering deep voice of his made your brain a bit foggy. he would never admit that he had long since learned the implications of calling you “baby” in public and it only spurred him on more. standing across the island from him, you took a few seconds to respond, walking yourself down from the jolt of need in your core. at least you could blame your slow reaction on the alcohol.

“i lost count.” rafe made his way around to you, an eyebrow raised at your response. by the looks of it you were already drunk. unfortunately you weren’t drunk enough to black out and ignore the eventuality of him leaving with the pretty blonde, not yet at least.

“let’s stop hmm? i know you’ll be mad at me tomorrow otherwise.” he took the cup from your small hands, fingers grazing against yours and it jolted you. his voice was low and smooth against your senses, lulling you into submission, you were sure you’d do anything he asked if he said it like that. you looked up at him with crossed arms, rafe did his absolute best to ignore how your breasts propped up from the action, but really he couldn’t. you were too drunk to notice. you hoped you weren’t obvious when you looked at how his fingers wrapped around the plastic effortlessly, so much bigger and thicker than yours. he was too distracted to notice.

“it’s fine, go back to blondie.” your words slurred off at the end, you shouldn’t have said that out loud. again you could blame it on the alcohol.

“you jealous?” rafe found himself smiling at the notion, despite the glare you were fixing him with, he couldn’t pretend to be even slightly upset with you drinking yourself into a stupor if it was over him. he was sure that was unhealthy, whatever, you could lecture him later. you were always so good at telling him off, and he’d listen.

“what? no.” your immediate denial gave you away easily and rafe smiled wider, he felt too close all of a sudden and you stepped back, your back hitting a counter. rafe watched you try to make a distance between you two, adorably failing. he scanned your body for any sign that it actually hurt but from the way you were still trying to avoid his eyes he could see you were too preoccupied.

“it’s okay baby, i was jealous when you were hanging with top and kelc without me.” he practically purred the nickname, your hand clenching by your side. rafe wouldn’t tell you that he had purposefully been stringing along ‘blondie’ to make you jealous. your glares weren’t exactly subtle after a certain point. your heartbeat picks up at the pet name, at his honeyed voice lowering just for you. your fingers twitch at the urge to pull him close, as close as she had him, maybe even closer.

“okay yeah i am, but it’s not the same.” you huffed out, proud of yourself for sounding coherent. you really should be better at holding your tongue but rafe looked too good today and you burned with jealousy that another girl had been able to ogle him all night. not to mention he was wearing the cologne he knew was your favorite, you’d even said so when he hugged you goodbye before class. the scent alone was making your frown deepen.

“what?” rafe couldn’t believe how transparent you were, he hoped you’d remember this tomorrow or at the very least you’d feel the same tomorrow. there was no way you were being serious though, you were just fucking with him. either way he really hoped he was understanding you right because he couldn’t let this go.

“forget i said that i’m drunk.” you looked away, embarrassed by how little rafe was reciprocating.

“no no, what do you mean?” he stepped closer, an inch away from you, sandwiching you between the counter and his body. you had to look at him, your expression cracking, you couldn’t pretend much longer, your eyebrows pinched and rafe recognized that you might be about to cry.

“rafe please-“ a plea whispered into the space between you two and rafe’s heart skipped a beat. the sound of you so desperately calling his name would haunt him forever but despite his mind fracturing into a million pieces, he still had to know.

“it is the same, it’s the exact fucking same, baby.” he leaned down to your height, his palms flat on the counter on either side of you, blue eyes bore into yours, commanding you to listen. he wasn’t teasing you. he was being sincere and you couldn’t believe it.

“are you sure?” there was barely any space between you two and the way he was looking at you should’ve been your answer but your vision was hazy.

“of course i’m fucking sure, did you think i cut contact with you cause i was tired of you? i did it cause you got a boyfriend.” he looked upset, you almost cupped his face with your hands, your fingers itched to press down the crease forming on his forehead from frowning. he watches the words sink into your pretty little head, how can you be so insanely adorable even now? he didn't plan for them to come out like this, in fact he had rather assumed it would be better if you didn't know the reason but it slipped out before he could stop himself.

“that’s fucking stupid rafe,” you say without any malice, your lip is jutted out in a pout and your eyebrows pinch together, god he wants to kiss you so badly. he’s a bit tipsy but not enough to think your first kiss should be at a party where anywhere can walk in while you’re struggling to stand.

“i know sweetheart, just-let’s do this when you’re sober yeah?” rafe worries you might not even remember this tomorrow.

“yeah…can you take me home?” he knows you mean tannyhill, you’d been staying there ever since your place flooded and he wonders sometimes why you don’t just move in. one time out of sheer curiosity, and maybe the fact that you were passed out on his bed, he looked up how much rent you’d get for your place.

“sure.” you lean into his side, his arm curling protectively around you as he moves you through the party, your eyes flutter closed cause as stupid as it is you trust him to get you out safely. the room spins around you but even if you stumble he holds you upright. you must have fallen asleep at some point cause the next thing you remember is being coaxed out of rafe’s car to get inside. the next twenty minutes or so are a blur as the sequence of shots hit you at once, you remember relaxing into rafe’s bed, the scent of him and his cologne lingering on the sheets and it soothes you enough to sleep.

your headache is the first thing that you feel before you can even open your eyes, you groan as you shoot up and see that you’re for some reason in rafe’s room, with him nowhere to be seen, in his shirt with no pants on. you’re greeted by the framed picture of you two in middle school, pimply and greasy but somehow still adorable.

you pray to god that you didn’t embarrass yourself too much with him as you pull on a pair of sweats you find in his closet. there’s a glass of water and a bottle of pills next to you and you know who left it there for you. you text him asking if he’s awake, you can’t wait to see him, can’t wait to confirm if you dreamt your conversation in the kitchen. rafe knocks at his door before entering and you’re still sat up on his bed, he still can't get used to the sight. he’s wearing a plain white shirt and sweats, his chain peeking under the collar and you think he might be the hottest man alive. he sits down across you on his desk chair swiveling it to face you, adjusting his hips as he does it. you might just pass out.

“i didn’t do anything too embarrassing right?” you ask while trying to ignore how good he looks. rafe looks up at you with a grimace and you groan.

“you really wanna know?” he asks with a glimmer in his eyes and you massage your temples in anticipation for the oncoming headache.

“oh god…kill me now.” rafe laughs at your expression, your eyes are closed and he can’t help but appreciate how you drown in his clothes. that coupled with you sleeping in his bed makes his hands itch to take a picture. he doesn’t know if he’ll ever be this fortunate again.

“i’m messing with you, you were pretty sweet actually, makes me kinda miss it now.” your pretty eyes snap open to meet his and you grown at the vague comment. sweet could mean a lot of things and most of them would be embarrassing.

“fuck off, you gotta give me more than that rafey, im going crazy.”

“how much do you remember?” he’s giving you an out, one that you won’t take. rafe holds his breath, there’s no going back from your answer.

“i remember getting out of the car after we left the party and then it’s kinda fuzzy.” he breathes out in relief, nodding at your words and blushing at the realization that you were actually owning up to the conversation. he can’t meet your eyes for a few seconds as he responds.

“okay so you insisted on sleeping in my room, you actually kicked me out.” he said and you winced, forcing his gaze to yours.

“sorry-“ you start but he waves you off.

“something about you always sleep better there, but i made sure you washed your face and stuff before sleeping.” you already feel hot from embarrassment but this can’t be the worst of it, you’d told this to rafe sober.

“i can tell you’re holding back.” rafe should realize that you know him as well as he knows you. you’re too observant for your own good.

“fine okay, you may have been repeatedly telling me i’m pretty.”

“yeah okay so i’ll see you in a week.” he couldn’t help but laugh at your reaction. you got off his bed to leave, far too embarrassed to hear the rest, but he caught your wrist from where he sat near the door. he looked good looking up at you, you could get used to the angle.

“hey come on, i didn’t finish, i'm the one who started it for what it’s worth.” the hand around your wrist smoothly drifted to your hand, fingers intertwined with yours. you start to think crazy things like why was he was smooth? how many girls had he-rafe short circuits your brain as he brings your interlocked hands to his lips, pressing a kiss to your ring finger. you like to think it’s an accident for your sanity, it’s not.

“really?” your voice comes out small, nearly a squeak. you hardly notice it because you’re so entranced with his actions, by how small your hand feels and looks in his, how large his fingers are and the cold press of his signet ring against you. all the embarrassment flushed out of your system by a thrumming of need, of adoration, of-

“uh huh you look pretty right now too.” your gaze snaps to his, narrowing at his words, rafe hasn’t stopped smiling since he’s seen you today. how can he? he’s finally getting everything he’s ever wanted. you look so stunned by his words, mouth slightly agape and he’s relishing in the fact that for the first time in your lives he has the upper hand. he lightly tugs you closer by your hands and there’s zero resistance in your steps, you think you might be under a spell. it’s a miracle you can even respond.

“i definitely do not, i'm a hungover hot mess.” you know you look bad, you’re not fishing for compliments. you’re pretty sure you still have mascara smudged under your eyes and your hair is a whole other entity. but rafe doesn’t see any of that, he sees the girl he fell in love.

“nah you’re the prettiest girl i know.” he’s practically grinning up at you and the blue in his eyes is just right. he’s not lying to you and there’s a thick haze of feelings and unspoken words between you two. you know it’ll take a few words to change everything forever, the thought scares you, and you can’t handle the label you know you’re avoiding. the word that perfectly encapsulates what you already should’ve known for twenty years.

“can i shower and then maybe i’ll agree with you?” rafe lets you pull back, he knows he has you, and you know you have him. you just need a bit of space to catch your breath. he imagines these feelings sprouting up after so long can be overwhelming, they’re still overwhelming for him but he’s gotten used to relinquishing any rational thought when it comes to you. you just need time to get used to it too. you return to the guest room and hop in the shower. rafe put a set of his clothes next to yours and you don't even hesitate, they feel comfier on your skin and they smell like him, you wear his clothes and dry your hair before seeking him out. you feel more like a human, the sins of last night washed off you, and now you can finally give in.

you lean against his doorframe, his eyes already on you, as you say, “you’re gonna make me say it first aren’t you?”

a/n: i was geeking writing this (don’t hate me for the cliffhanger)

taglist: @clar2aa @ggraycelynn @rafestoothbrush @woweewoowa @mattyskies @always4tuesdayss @ashy-kit @chalahyung01 @rafeysslut @beabogsims @someoneisreading @rlalliehayes @artbymin @pogueprincesa @crvcified-kinx @ltristessedureratoujours @lilithblackkk @pluviophilis

[cheynovak]

Special thanks to @mysteryenchatress for the idea and @deanwinchestersgirl8734 for the request 🥰

No warnings this time

Left Behind

Castiel stood at the edge of the bunker’s library, watching as Dean laughed at something Y/N said. His laughter was easy, warm in a way Castiel hadn’t heard in a long time. It wasn’t that he begrudged Dean happiness. No, that wasn’t it at all. But it was difficult—more difficult than he had expected—to feel the space between them growing wider.

Dean had always been his anchor, the one who taught him what it meant to be human, to care, to belong. But now, Dean barely noticed when he was there, let alone when he wasn’t.

He tried not to let it affect him. He was an angel. Attachment was supposed to be beneath him. And yet, it wasn’t.

“Cas.”

Castiel blinked, realizing Sam had been speaking to him. The younger Winchester had been watching him carefully. “You okay?” Sam asked, concern lacing his voice.

“I am fine,” Castiel replied automatically.

Sam sighed, glancing toward Dean and Y/N. “You should talk to him.”

Castiel tilted his head slightly. “Dean is happy.”

“That doesn’t mean he doesn’t still need you,” Sam said. “And it doesn’t mean you don’t need him.”

Before Castiel could respond, Dean looked up and groaned. “Cas, man, I thought I finally had some alone time with her.” His tone wasn’t harsh, but it wasn’t welcoming either. Y/N nudged him in the side, giving him a pointed look.

“Dean,” Y/N said gently, “I think Cas feels a little left out.”

Dean scoffed, taking a sip of his beer. “Left out? Cas is a big boy. He doesn’t need me holding his hand every second of the day. Do you Cas?"

Castiel felt something unfamiliar stir inside him. He wasn’t sure what it was—anger, hurt, resentment? Perhaps a mix of all three. He had fought by Dean’s side, died for him, and now… now he was a nuisance.

“I see,” Castiel said, voice quiet.

Y/N frowned. “Dean, come on—”

But Castiel was already gone, vanishing with a flutter of wings.

For the first time in a long while, Dean didn’t go after him. And that was what hurt the most.

Dean watched as Sam walked away, shaking his head. “See what you did?” Sam had said.

Dean huffed, turning back to Y/N, expecting her to take his side. Instead, she just stared at him, arms crossed, disappointment written all over her face.

“What?” Dean asked, genuinely confused.

Y/N sighed. “I love being with you, Dean, but don’t you think you’ve been a little harsh on Castiel?” She sighs" I'll try calling or playing to him."

Dean rubbed a hand over his face but didn’t answer. The truth was, deep down, he knew she was right. Cas had been his best friend for years—his family. And he had been pushing him away without even realizing it.

Later that night, after crawling into bed, Dean pulled Y/N close, pressing a soft kiss to her shoulder. “Heard from Cas?" Y/N shook her head no.

"I’m sorry, baby,” he murmured. “You were right. I should apologize to him.”

Y/N turned to face him, a small smirk playing on her lips. “Of course, I’m always right.”

Dean chuckled before launching into a surprise tickle attack, making her squeal and squirm beneath him. “Dean! Stop—stop!” she gasped between laughter.

When she finally caught her breath, he leaned over her, brushing his lips against hers. “I love you,” he whispered.

“Love you too, D,” she said, eyes soft with affection.

Before the moment could settle, the familiar sound of fluttering wings filled the room, and Castiel awkwardly appeared at the foot of the bed.

“You… called?” Cas said hesitantly, clearly realizing this might not have been the best time.

Dean dropped his head with a sigh, but there was no frustration this time—just tired amusement.

Y/N peeked up from under Dean, grinning. “Yeah, I did. I… no, we love you too, Cas.”

Castiel blinked, clearly touched by the statement. His gaze flickered between them, uncertain, but the warmth in Dean’s eyes was genuine. "Thanks, I was feeling left out."

“Yeah, buddy,” Dean said, turning to face him properly. “We love you.”

Cas shifted awkwardly, clearing his throat. “A-all right,” he said, clearly flustered. Then, after a moment, he turned on his heel. “I’ll, uh… wait in the kitchen. So you… you know.”

Y/N burst into laughter. “Good night, Cas!” she called after him.

Dean shook his head with a smirk. “Damn angel has the worst timing.”

Y/N just giggled, pulling Dean back down beside her. “Maybe, but he’s family.”

Dean sighed, wrapping his arms around her. “Yeah. He is.”

--

Tagist Jensen: @jackles010378 @libby99hb @winchesterwild78 @suckitands33 @mostlymarvelgirl @deans-baby-momma @ancles @tulipsvanilla @thesilmarillionblog @jays-bonnie-on-the-side @kr804573 @kamisobsessed @hobby27 @globetrotter28 @kindollss @muhahaha303 @shadysoulangel @lyarr24 @spxideyver @impala67rollingthroughtown @panickedbitch @deansimpalababy @livya99 @yvonneeeee @ladykitana90 @stoneyggirl2 @imsiriuslyreal @panickedbitch @roseblue373 @n-o-p-e-never @ariasong11 @lmpala1967 @sherlockstrangewolf @spnaquakindgdom @writtenbyhollywood @mishkatelwarriorgoddess @healojane @star-yawnznn

*At night in the bunker*

*Dean cuddling Y/n*

Dean: I love you darling.

Y/n: I love you too De.

Dean:

Y/n:

Y/n: We both love you as well, Cas.

*Castiel standing in the corner of the room*

Cas: Thanks, I was feeling left out.

[raven-dor]

kiss from a rose

in which steve rogers gets the girl… and then loses her?

PAIRING: steve rogers x avenger!reader, steve rogers x fem!reader

WARNINGS: jealousy, slight angst, typical marvel violence, witty banter (thank you Natasha), yearning!!

WORD COUNT: 3.9k

🎶 : kiss from a rose - seal

AN: yay steve!! successfully brought back my Marvel obsession!! reader has nature powers, plus telekinesis but it's green!! SUPERHERO NAME IS TERRA

It was late when he realized it. They’d just gotten back from a two-week-long recon mission when it clicked. Her hair glistened in the dim lights of his apartment, his apron wrapped around her waist as she made them dinner. 

He’d offered to help, she’d said she’d wanted to. “After this mission, you deserve a break, Cap.” 

He glared playfully, fighting the blush forming on his already rosy cheeks. “Please don’t call me that.” 

“Why not?” She smirked. “That is your title.” 

“But not my name.” He muttered, staring at her intently. “I like it when you call me my name.” 

It was her turn to blush. “Fine, fine.” He held her hand, rubbing the back gently with his thumb. Of course, she gave in. “Steve. Now, go set the table.” 

He’d never set a table faster in his life. 

And then, when he turned around and watched as her face focused on their dinner, tongue peeked out from behind her lips, his heart fluttered. He stalked over, holding the crook of her arm gently as he spun her around. Her eyes widened, pupils growing for every second she stared at him. “Steve? What are you-” 

He dove down, kissing her like it was his last moment on Earth. Like he needed her. In a way, he did. 

Her eyes fluttered shut, arms wrapping around his neck. He smiled, pulling away ever so slightly. “You’re beautiful.” 

Her cheeks felt like he’d lit them on fire. “Steve. What’s gotten into you?” 

He shrugged, nudging her nose with his. “Thought I should make a move.” 

She laughed, and his heart fluttered. “You have good instincts.”

“Are you sure?” He asked for the millionth time. “Peg’s been dying to meet you.” 

He was too nice, she told herself. She knew Peggy could not care less about seeing her. “Steve, I’ll be just fine waiting for you here.” 

“I-” He nodded. “I’ll be back.” 

“Go on.” She smiled, kissing his cheek. “You’re already late.” 

He hadn’t been gone long when she received two texts from Nicholas Fury. She frowned reading it, their boss had always had the most inconvenient timing. Walking down the hall, she gazed into Peggy’s room, smiling at the pair. Steve sat diligently at her bedside, every week, like clockwork.

“I couldn’t leave my best girl-” 

Jealousy ripped through her like a disease. 

Peggy and Steve had had their time, but she was married. She wasn’t even someone Steve was remotely interested in anymore. 

But when Y/N watched the man she’d grown to love staring at her like that, she couldn’t help but listen to the tiny devil on her shoulder. It’s not like they were dating, they’d only kissed for the first time last night. She shouldn’t care, she told herself over and over.

She shouldn’t be jealous. 

A tear fell down her cheek, and she gasped, turning away from the door to wipe it away.

“Something wrong?” His voice pulled her from her thoughts.

Shaking her head, she turned back around, smiling lightly. “Not really. Fury texted. Said we still needed to turn in some paperwork for the mission.”

“Ah.” He looked disappointed. She didn’t blame him. 

“I can do it, no need to leave her or-” 

“No! No, I’d be happy to help.” He smiled, reaching for her hand. “I would love to.” 

God, he was charming. It was hard to be jealous when he looked at her like that. “Maybe it would be best…” Her voice grew quieter with each word. “It would probably be quicker if I did it by myself.” 

“Oh.” He sounded weak. “If that’s what you want.” 

She nodded, not trusting her voice. Handing him the keys, her heart skipped when his fingers brushed hers.

His head tilted. “Are you walking?” She nodded once more, and he looked utterly confused. She would be too, considering she had been the one to drive here. It was a company car, but still. “Let me drive.” 

“It’s fine, really-” 

“I would never forgive myself if something happened to you.” He spoke like he meant it. She knew he meant it. “Please.” 

How could she say no?

She’d been home for approximately four hours when she realized how stupid she’d been. Using the spare key Steve had given her months ago for ‘emergencies’ she slipped into his apartment, smiling to herself when his cologne fell out of the shadows. Throwing her coat on the counter, she walked over to the light switch, about to flip it on when a voice broke through the quiet. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” 

She pulled her gun out of its holster, aiming at the corner. Fury’s face peeked out from the dark, and her shoulders loosened, lowering her aim. “What the hell, Nick?” 

“What the hell to you too.” His voice was gruff. “What is my little green thumb doing in Captain America’s apartment?” 

“None of your-” 

“Business?” He raised an eyebrow. 

Her cheeks flushed. “I could ask you the same question, sir.” 

“My wife kicked me out.” 

She raised an eyebrow. “What wife-” Fury raised his phone, the text reading ‘Shield compromised.’ 

“Shit.” She hissed. “Did she-” 

“Y/N?”

“Steve.” She turned around, glad for the dark. It hid her hot cheeks perfectly. “I-” 

“Did I do something earlier?” He threw his coat next to hers, walking down the hall with a horribly beautiful look in his eye. “If-” She tilted her head toward the corner, and his eyes darted to Fury, glaring. “I don’t remember giving you a key.” 

“Do you really think I’d need one?” The old man looked at Y/N, smirking. “It’s a select group, I see.” 

Y/N glared, avoiding Steve’s gaze. “Fury-” 

“My wife kicked me out.” 

She fought the urge to roll her eyes. He was using the same line he’d used seconds before. Steve stepped in front of her, turning on the light. “I didn’t know you were married.” 

“A lot of things you don’t know about me.” 

“I know Nick. That’s a problem.” 

“Cap.” She hissed. “Be kind.” 

“Cap?” Steve hissed back. “What did I-” 

Fury held his phone up, the words he’d shown her still typed in large bolded letters. Steve’s eyes widened, and he gazed around his apartment. His arm stuck out behind him, pushing her behind him. Her heart fluttered. “Stay.” 

“I’m sorry to have to do this.” 

“Who else-” Steve sounded tight. “Who else knows about your wife?” 

“Just my friends.” His phone read ‘us three.’ 

Steve scoffed. “Is that what we are?” 

“That’s up to you.” Fury stood up, barely out of his seat when an attack of bullets shot through Steve’s wall, hitting him square in the chest. 

They dropped to the floor, pulling Fury behind the kitchen counter. “Shit,” Y/N whispered, checking for his pulse. “Shit, Cap.” 

He glared. “We’ll talk later.” 

“Why would-” He raised an eyebrow, and her cheeks flushed. “Just be safe, yeah?” 

“I will.” He nodded, smiling lopsidedly. “Are we-” 

Fury stuck a shaking hand out at Steve, a grey flash drive with Shield’s logo in his palm. “Trust no one.” 

The operating room was cluttered, with doctors and equipment at every corner. Her hands gripped the windowsill tightly, staring at her boss getting cut open on the table. “C’mon Fury. Please don’t die.” 

Steve’s hand laid over hers, a comforting presence. He said nothing, just staring at her with his mouth slightly agape. She dared to look over, frowning. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Y/N-”

“How is he?” Nat’s voice was panicked. Y/N pulled out of his hold, hugging her friend quickly. 

“Not good, Nat.” 

All they could do was watch helplessly as Fury died. And when Steve held her in his arms, flash drive digging into her back, she knew their talk would have to wait. Fury’s body was presented to them minutes after he’d been declared dead. 

She’d never seen Natasha so shaken. 

“I need to take him.” 

Nat stayed firm by Fury’s side, and Steve stepped forward. “Natasha.” 

The redhead took one last look at her boss before stalking down the hall. Leaving Maria by herself, they chased after her. She whipped around, anger flooding her normally playful gaze. “Why was Fury in your apartment?” 

“I don’t know.” God, Steve was a horrible liar.

“Cap.” Y/N turned around, looking at Rumlow with disdain. “They want you back at Shield Headquarters.” 

“Yeah, give me a second.” 

“They want you now.” His voice held something else, a secret that Y/N couldn’t decipher. 

“Okay.” 

“You’re a terrible liar you know,” Nat shot back, walking away. 

“I should-” Y/N whispered. “I should go.” 

“No.” Steve shook his head, holding her hand tightly. “Fury trusted you with this too.” His eyes looked wild. Not with passion or love, but with confusion, and worry. “I need you with me.” 

She could never say no to him. One thing stuck in the back of her mind, one thing Steve had told her without saying anything at all. Trust no one meant something bigger than a single person. It meant a system, an organization they’d both worked for, that they both protected. They were going to take down Shield. 

Shields headquarters, much like its field of work, was dark. Gloomy, grey, and dark. Absolutely no green or foliage to be seen for miles. Like always, she complained to Steve as they walked. “I understand why we have to wear our suits, but I’ve never felt more uncomfortable in my life.” 

Steve laughed, a smile cracking from beneath his normally hard exterior. “As soon as we-” His smile faded. “As soon as you get home, you can change. I promise.” 

“Steve-”  

Pierce and Steve’s supposed neighbor were huddled outside his office door, speaking in hushed tones. Y/N made an effort to stand taller, their talking coming to a halt as they approached. ‘The neighbor’ smiled, greeting them both as she left. “Captain, Terra.” 

Steve didn’t even bother to look in her direction. “Neighbor.” 

“Captain.” Pierce stuck out his hand. “My name is Alexander Pierce.” 

Y/n fought the urge to roll her eyes. The older man had always given her an unsettled feeling in her stomach. They had met multiple times before, and she saw no reason to shake his hand for the millionth time. 

“Mr. Pierce. It’s an honor.” 

Y/N raised an eyebrow. What an honor indeed.

“Nick ignored my direct order and carried out an unauthorized military operation on foreign soil, saving the lives of a dozen political officers, including my daughter.” 

“So you gave him a promotion.” Steve seemed skeptical. Good. 

“I’ve never had any cause to regret it. Captain…” His voice held a sort of curiosity. In Y/N’s opinion, it was closer to nosiness. “Why was Nick in your apartment last night?” 

“I don’t know.” 

“Did you know it was bugged?”

“I did,” Steve confirmed, leaning forward. “Because Nick told me.” 

Y/N placed a reassuring hand on Steve’s arm. “Fury told him months ago. And, between you and me Mr. Pierce, Nick’s been having family issues.” 

“Ah.” Pierce’s hard gaze hadn’t moved from Steve's. “Did he tell you he was the one who bugged it?” She hadn’t known that. “I want you to see something.” 

“Is that live?” Steve turned around. 

Her eyes widened at the video. “Where is that?” 

“We picked him up last night in a not-so-safe house in Algiers.” 

“Are you saying he’s a suspect? Assassination isn’t Batroc’s line.” 

“He may be a deranged man, but he wouldn’t put a hit out on Fury,” Y/N whispered. “No way.” 

“It’s more complicated than that. Batroc was hired anonymously to attack the Lemurian Star. He was contacted by email and paid by wire transfer, and then the money was run through seventeen fictitious accounts. The last one going to a holding company that was registered to a Jacob Veech.”

“Am I supposed to know who that is?” 

“Veech died six years ago. His last address was 1435 Elmherst Drive.” Her heart dropped. She and Fury were by no means close, but after working with him for longer than she cared to admit, she came to know his past, just like he came to know hers. She knew things, like his first pet's name, or his family’s home address. Shit. “When I first met Nick, his mother lived in 1437.” 

“Are you saying Fury hired the pirates?” 

“The prevailing theory was that the hijacking was a cover for the sale of classified intelligence. The sale went sour and that led to Nick’s death.”

“Mr. Pierce, with all due respect, Fury would never do that. You know-” Her eyes welled. “You knew him, I knew him. He may have played dirty occasionally, but he was no traitor.” 

“Why do you think we’re talking?” The older man replied. “I took a seat on this council because Nick asked me to because we were both realists. We knew despite all the diplomacy and the rhetoric, that to build a better world, sometimes you have to tear the old one down. You two were the last people to see Nick alive. I don’t think that’s an accident. And I don’t think you do either.” Y/N held her breath, remaining cool under his suspicious stare. “So I’m going to ask you again. Why was he there?” 

“He told me not to trust anyone.” 

“I wonder,” Pierce murmured. “If that included him.” 

“I’m sorry. Those were his last words. Excuse me.” He grabbed his shield, and both of them walked toward the door. 

“Captain.” The pair turned around, and she ignored the annoyance that grew in her stomach. Pierce tended to only respect the men in the room. “Somebody murdered my friend, and I’m going to find out why. Anyone gets in my way, they’re going to regret it. Anyone.” 

“Is that a threat?” Y/N stepped in front of Steve, her hands glowing ever so slightly. 

Pierce simply shook his head, a strange sort of smile on his face. “Simply a promise.” 

“There’s always been something off about him.” She muttered as they waited for the elevator. “That is exactly the person we shouldn’t trust. The type of person that Fury warned us about.” Steve just stared out the window, arms crossed. She frowned. “What’s on your mind?” 

The elevator door opened, and he walked in, Y/N trailing after him. “Operations Control.” 

“Cap-” 

“Not here.” His eyes looked gloomy, like the beginning of a storm. 

“Keep all S.T.R.I.K.E. personnel on sight.” Rumlow walked in, accompanied by three agents Y/N had never seen. “Cap. Terra.” 

“Rumlow.” 

“Evidence response found some fibers on the roof they want us to see. You want me to get the tac team ready?” 

“No. Let’s wait and see what it is first.” 

“Right.” Rumlow looked jittery. Odd, she thought to herself, he was normally quite calm. Four more agents entered on the next floor. With no warning, Steve grabbed her hand, pulling her in front of him. She could feel his breath on her neck. Rumlow’s voice was hushed. “I’m sorry about what happened with Fury. It’s messed up, what happened to him.” 

“Thank you,” Steve muttered. 

Three more agents entered on the floor after that, and she squeezed Steve’s hand. A fight was imminent. Steve squeezed back before letting go. Summoning the small bit of energy in her hands, she stood tall, her face hardening. 

“Before we get started-” Steve’s voice was confident, firm. “Does anyone want to get out?” 

It was all a blur. She threw three agents against the door, knocking them out. Steve broke out of their hold, smacking the one who’d held him in a chokehold against the window. Rumlow pulled out his taser rod, slamming Steve in the back. 

“Hey!” Y/N yelled, building up an energy blast in her hand and breaking the rod out of his hand. “That’s not very nice, Rumlow.” 

Rumlow scoffed, pulling his two backups out of his belt. “Whoa, big guy.” Y/N rolled her eyes. “I just want you to know, Cap, this isn’t personal!” He jumped forward jabbing Steve in the side before he was thrown into the ceiling.

“It kinda feels personal.” Steve grabbed his shield, turning around and looking her over for injuries. “Are you alright?” His voice was barely a whisper, pushing a stray piece of hair behind her ear.

She hummed, leaning into his touch. “I’m fine.” She wiped his brow with her sleeve, the smallest bruise forming. “Are you?” 

“Fine.” He lied. He canceled the emergency stop, the doors opening to reveal twenty Shield officers aiming straight at them. He stilled, placing a protective arm in front of her. 

“Drop the shield and put your hands in the air.” The lead yelled out. 

Without any warning, Steve spun around, cutting the elevator lines with one fell swoop. After the elevator stopped, he tried to door again, even more agents waiting for them than before. 

“Steve-” She hissed, watching as he eyed the window. “Don’t-” 

“There’s no other way out.” He quipped. 

Her hands glowed as she shook them in the air. “Hello?” 

“I have to say-” She whispered, burying her face in her hood. “Hiding the top secret hard drive in a public vending machine is not your smartest idea.” 

Steve rolled his eyes. “Did you have a better one?” 

“Keeping it on my person crossed my mind.” She teased, nudging his side. “It’s not like all of the secrets Fury has been hiding from us are on it.” 

“Stop worrying. It’s-” Empty. All the gum had been bought, along with, Y/N thought to herself, a free flash drive. Nat’s face reflected off the glass, popping a bubble from the gum she had bought. In any other situation, she would have laughed. 

Steve grabbed her arms, pushing her into the room behind them. “Where is it?” 

“Safe.” 

Y/N watched with mild fascination. 

“Do better.” 

“Where did you get it?” Nat questioned. 

“Why would I tell you?” 

“Fury gave it to you. Why?” 

“What’s on it?”

“I don’t know.” 

“Stop lying.” He shook the super spy.

Y/N’s smirk broke. “Steve-” 

“I only act like I know everything, Rogers.” 

“I bet you knew Fury hired the pirates, didn’t you?” 

“Well, it makes sense. The ship was dirty, Fury needed a way in so do you.”

“I’m not going to ask you again.” Steve was practically seething. Y/N reached out, placing a hand on his arm before Nat spoke once more. 

“I know who killed Fury. The Winter Soldier. Five years ago, I was escorting a nuclear engineer out of Iran. Somebody shot out my tires near Odessa. We lost control, went straight over a cliff. I pulled us out. But he was there, and I was covering my engineer. So he shot him, straight through me. Soviet slug, no rifling. Bye-bye, bikinis.” 

Steve rolled his eyes. “Yeah, I bet you look terrible in them now.”

“Going after him is a dead end. I know, I’ve tried.” She held up the hard drive. “He’s a ghost story.” 

“Then let’s find out what the ghost wants.” 

“How much time do we have?” The three of them huddled around the computer as Nat tried to access the hard drive. 

“About nine minutes from…” She plugged the drive in. “Now. Fury was right about that ship. Somebody is trying to hide something. This drive is protected by some sort of AI, it keeps rewriting itself to counter my commands.” 

“Can you override it?” 

“The person who developed this is slightly smarter than me.” 

Y/N laughed. “I thought that wasn’t possible.” 

“Ha-ha. I’m running a tracer, so if we can’t read the file, the least we can do is find out where it came from.” 

“Can I help you guys with anything?” 

Nat laughed, shaking her head. “Oh, no. Just fulfilling my maid of honor duties. Helping my brother and his fiance find some honeymoon destinations.” 

“Right,” Steve spoke through his gritted teeth, slinging an arm over Y/N’s shoulder. “We’re getting married.” 

She felt like she was on fire. Steve looked down at her with heart eyes, and she melted, relaxing in his hold.

“Congratulations.” The employee smiled. “Where are you guys thinking about going?” 

“Jersey.” She smiled back. 

“Huh.” The employee stared at Steve, too long for it to be nothing. “I-” Shit, he knew. “I have the exact same glasses.” 

Oh. “You two are practically twins.” Y/N teased. 

“Yeah, I wish.” The other man laughed. “Specimen. If you guys need anything, I’ve been Aaron.” 

“Thank you.” Y/N smiled, looking up at Steve as she mouthed the words ‘perfect specimen.’ His cheeks grew red. 

“You know it?” Nat gestured to the screen, breaking the moment in two. 

Steve looked solemn, nodding. “I used to.” 

Nat hissed as they moved out of the Apple store. “I’ll meet you in the parking garage, don’t get caught.” 

“What?” Y/N widened her eyes. “Why-” 

Steve grabbed her hand, pulling her onto the escalator. “It’s alright, we’ll get out of here soon.” He tilted his head, taking his turn to tease her. “Scared to be alone with me?” 

“Steve.” She gasped, smacking his chest. “Don’t fish for compliments.” 

“Oh?” He smirked. “So you had a compliment?” 

She turned around, eyes widening when she saw Rumlow step onto the adjacent escalator. “Kiss me.” 

He looked pale. “What?” 

“Rumlow-” She sighed. “Public displays of affection make people very uncomfortabl-” Steve’s lips smashed against hers, his arms snaking around her waist. Her eyes fluttered shut, and she received a sudden burst of deja vu. Pulling away, she turned around, walking the rest of the way down. “I wasn’t finished.” 

Steve shrugged. “I got the point.” 

“So-” Nat leaned forward, looking between the two. “What happened?” 

Y/N tensed, looking back at her friend. “What do you mean?” 

“You two haven’t looked at each other since you got in the car.” She wiggled her eyebrows. “What happened?” 

Steve cracked the smallest smile, and Natasha gasped, smacking Y/N’s arm. “You kissed him!” 

“What?” Y/N yelled. “Why was it me that kissed him?” 

“Oh.” Nat’s smirked widened. “So it happened then?” 

Steve laughed. “Is this something you talk about?” 

“I-” She felt like she was going to burst. This was much too much attention on her. “It was for the mission, Nat.” 

Steve frowned. “I wouldn’t say so.” 

Nat was fully grinning. “He wouldn’t say so.” 

“Natasha.” Y/N hissed. “Leave it be.” 

“Fine, fine.” She held her hands up in defeat. “Where did Captain America learn how to steal a car?” 

“Nazi Germany. And it’s not stealing, it’s borrowing.” 

“All right.” Nat nodded. “I have another question for you. Of which you do not have to answer. But I feel like if you don’t answer, that sort of answers-” 

Steve sighed. “What?” 

“Was that your first kiss since 1945?” 

Y/N choked on air, and Steve placed a hand on her back, rubbing it gently. “Breath.” 

She glared, flipping him and Natasha off. Nat smirked. “I was just wondering how much practice you’ve had.” 

“You don’t need practice.” 

“Everyone needs practice-” 

“It was not my first kiss since 1945. I’m ninety-five.” He cut her off. “I’m not dead.”

“Nobody special though?” Nat egged on. If there were no repercussions, Y/N would blast her out of the car then and there. 

Steve quickly looked over at Y/N before looking back at the road. “There’s someone.”  

“Do tell.” 

“Nah.” He shook his head, smiling to himself. “I don’t think I will.”

taglist:

[sturniololuvz]

a fic where matt ran out for groceries while his 2 year old daughter was napping, she wakes up and starts crying so nick and chris take care of her and try to get her to stop crying but she doesn’t stop until matt comes home xx

okayyyy!

“Only Daddy Can Fix It”

Sturniolos x matt’s daughter

Matt had only stepped out for a quick grocery run. His two-year-old daughter, Y/N, had been sound asleep when he left, and he figured he’d be back before she even stirred.

But of course, toddlers never work on your schedule.

Nick and Chris were in the living room, watching YouTube videos, when the baby monitor crackled to life, followed by a heartbreaking wail. The brothers exchanged a look.

“Oh, no,” Nick muttered.

“You go get her,” Chris said, shaking his head.

“No way, dude. You go,” Nick shot back.

The crying got louder.

Chris groaned, pushing himself off the couch. “Fine, but if she throws something at me, it’s your fault.”

When he entered Matt’s room, Y/N was standing in her crib, her little fists rubbing her teary eyes as she sobbed. Her face was flushed, her curls a mess from sleep.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay, baby,” Chris cooed, lifting her up. But as soon as she realized it wasn’t her dad, she wailed even louder, kicking her tiny feet.

“No, no, no! Wan’ Daddy!”

Chris winced, bouncing her gently in his arms. “I know, kiddo, but Daddy’s out for a little bit. You got Uncle Chris, though. That’s just as good, right?”

Y/N screamed in protest, fat tears rolling down her chubby cheeks.

“Guess not,” Chris mumbled, carrying her out to the living room. “Nick, help.”

Nick turned at the sound of her cries, his face softening. “Aw, she’s all worked up.” He reached for her, but Y/N clung onto Chris for dear life.

“Daddy,” she whimpered into his hoodie.

Nick sighed. “Alright, let’s distract her. Where’s her stuffed animal?”

Chris looked around before spotting her favorite bunny on the couch. He grabbed it and held it up. “Look, Y/N, it’s Mr. Hops!”

She sniffled, barely glancing at it. “No…”

“Damn, tough crowd,” Chris muttered.

Nick tried next, pulling out his phone. “Wanna watch Cocomelon?”

Y/N peeked up with watery eyes but quickly shook her head, her lip wobbling. “Daddy…”

Chris groaned dramatically. “Bro, we’re losing. What else do toddlers like?”

Nick smirked. “Food?”

Chris gasped. “Y/N, do you want some fruit snacks?”

Y/N blinked at him, considering. Then, just when they thought they had her, she broke into another fit of tears.

“Okay, that’s it,” Nick huffed, pulling out his last resort—Matt’s hoodie from the back of the couch. He wrapped Y/N in it, hoping the familiar scent would calm her down.

She sniffled, gripping the fabric, but still mumbled, “Daddy…”

Just then, the front door opened.

“Guys, I’m back—”

“DADDY!”

Before Matt could even register what was happening, Y/N was squirming out of Chris’s arms and practically launching herself at him.

“Whoa, baby girl,” Matt laughed, catching her. “What’s wrong?”

She sniffled, burying her face in his chest. “Missed you.”

Matt rubbed her back, pressing a kiss to her messy hair. “I was only gone for twenty minutes.”

Chris and Nick, looking utterly defeated, plopped onto the couch.

“Dude,” Nick groaned. “We tried everything.”

“She didn’t care about food, toys, not even Cocomelon,” Chris added. “She just wanted you.”

Matt smirked. “Well, what can I say? I’m her favorite person.”

Nick rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah, whatever. Next time, we’re leaving you with her, and we’re going grocery shopping.”

Chris nodded. “For real, bro, she broke us.”

Matt chuckled, rocking Y/N gently as her sniffles faded. “Nah, you guys did good. But let’s be real—nobody beats Dad.”

And judging by the way Y/N was already dozing off again, wrapped securely in his arms, that was definitely true.

[matchalovertrait]

An intimate talk under the stars.

Start from the beginning (Gen 2)

Previous | Next

[Once they arrived at the park, Dulce and Antonio changed into a fresh pair of clothes. Running around in skintight costumes all night was NOT comfortable! They wouldn’t recommend it.]

[They also took this time to catch their breath. The crisp air felt rejuvenating while they embraced the comfortable silence, taking in the crazy night they had. What an insane idea. But they did it. Together.]

[After a few minutes, Dulce cleared her throat.]

DULCE: ..Antonio. I want to say I appreciate you for doing this with me. I know it was ridiculous. You’ve already helped me a lot, and I can’t thank you enough for it.

[Antonio shifted with discomfort.]

ANTONIO: Don’t thank me just yet. We haven’t won the case.

DULCE: Many things could’ve gone wrong, though.

ANTONIO: Technically they did... but we got through them, right? And we got the notebook.

DULCE: We did!!

[Dulce took out her notebook and flipped through the pages in awe.]

DULCE: I wish I could see the look on Caruso’s face once he realizes the notebook is gone.

[The “security”, Caruso, and Isabela should be able to put two and two together. Dulce and Antonio knew that. However, Caruso and Isabela had no proof. The Operation Fox team covered their tracks, and Matthew was able to erase any surveillance camera footage once the power came back on.]

[She looked up at Antonio with a soft smile.]

ANTONIO: I’ll guard that notebook with my life when I take it for the ink dating in the morning.

DULCE: I almost didn’t take it when I was in his room because I felt bad... We’re kind of the same.

ANTONIO: What do you mean?

DULCE: Maybe his video about me was some weird karmic stuff for the Alto exposé video I made. Maybe Caruso is just me as a man and I deserve what I got.

ANTONIO: You’re mistaken. You’re a lot smarter than Caruso. In your video, you didn’t give any names and you were very vague. Quite impressive if you ask me. How old were you? About 16? 17?

DULCE: Around there.

ANTONIO: Second of all, you have more love in your heart. It’s that simple.

ANTONIO: Alright. Picture this: Alfonso Alto watches your video. He laughs but is secretly freaking out. What if people start suspecting his shady business? He contacts his legal team to try to stop you.

ANTONIO: They rewatch your video repeatedly in an attempt to find something to sue you for—which, by the way, only adds onto your view count—but, they have nothing. Absolutely nothing. He’s furious to have been outsmarted by a teen girl. Things lead to another and he’s in prison all because of one video.

[Dulce nodded. Antonio would know from experience.]

DULCE: Hm, yeah.

ANTONIO: Think about all the lives you probably saved too. Caruso can’t live up to that. That’s probably why he’s so vengeful.

DULCE: ..Speaking of which, what about you and Isabela? Is she a vengeful ex-girlfriend of yours?

[Antonio waved his hand in dismissal.]

ANTONIO: Absolutely not.

ANTONIO: Actually, she hates me because I turned her down.

DULCE: What??

ANTONIO: We used work closely as interns at the same firm. We had to. Along the way, she somehow developed feelings for me. When she asked me out, I declined. I explained to her that I’m dedicated to my work. I don’t have time or energy for love.

[Dulce’s heart dropped.]

ANTONIO: I thought she took it well. Then, she started screwing me over in subtle ways. She would provide me with incorrect deadlines or “forget” to tell me about important calls.

ANTONIO: I couldn’t say anything. Isabela was untouchable because her uncle was a senior attorney at the firm. When my internship ended and I looked for jobs, many places rejected me because I received a bad reputation.

DULCE: I’m sorry that happened to you. Isabela’s a witch for doing that.

ANTONIO: It all worked out. I’m fortunate that the firm I work at now took a chance on me. I get to do what I love. And that place has allowed me to meet some incredible people.

DULCE: ..Sometimes I think about possible alternate timelines. “What if I didn’t do that?” or “What if I had done this instead?” ..Maybe I would be in a more fortunate situation.. but maybe I wouldn’t have experienced the good things in this timeline.

ANTONIO: Like what?

[The two looked up at the starry night.]

DULCE: Like adopting Cosi! Caruso was the one who insisted we get a dog on that day, actually. Maybe someone else would’ve taken her.

DULCE: Okay, your turn to name something.

ANTONIO: Hm..... One time I broke my leg. If I didn’t have all that spare time to watch movies, maybe I wouldn’t have found out I like Star Wars. Your turn.

DULCE: I got lost in the city once. If I didn’t make a wrong turn, I wouldn’t have run into the person selling the refurbished iMac G3. I love it! Your turn.

[Suddenly, the two of them turned to face each other at the same time. They hadn’t realize the closing distance between them.]

ANTONIO: I..

DULCE: I think we should leave. Isabela and Caruso could be out looking for us right now.

ANTONIO: Yeah, and it’s getting late.

DULCE: Mhm.

ANTONIO: C’mon. Let’s get you home.

[halfofozsfavouriteteam]

“Yes, that was Boq.” Elphaba confirmed with a nod. “He and Nessa…they got into an argument, when I went to see her. He wanted to leave, and she got angry. She tried to cast a spell on him with the Grimmerie to get him to fall in love with her, but she was saying the words all wrong and it almost killed him. So then, I had to find a spell that would save him…and that’s how he ended up that way.” she explained.

When she saw the look on Glinda’s face at the realization that Fiyero had gone with her, she shook her head. “It wasn’t like that anymore, not for me. He…he wanted it to be, but I think even he knew that I didn’t love him like that, and that I really loved you.” She took her face in her hands. “It’s always been you, and it always will be you, Galinda.”

At the mention of Nessa again, she took her fiancée in her arms. “I know. It isn’t your fault. For all we know, Morrible would have remembered Nessa on her own. You didn’t kill her, love.”

Elphaba smiles reassuringly and kisses her fiancée’s forehead. She figured that this would be an emotional night for both of them, with so many years they had spent apart, and so many things unsaid. And although they would have the rest of their lives to make up for that time, that didn’t take away the pain. Those memories would always be there, but Elphaba was determined to create newer, happier memories.

She ran her other hand along Glinda’s arm before taking her hand and raising it to her lips tenderly. “What is it, my sweet?”

[dollyzdaydreamz]

Arthur Morgan x Reader (fluff)

A Sip of Mayhem

Description: Arthur captures a bounty who'd drug his customers by offering them “juice” just to rob them blind. He confiscated a bottle to show the sheriff, but forgot it in his satchel, deciding to deal with it the next day. That night, when he witnesses your stumbling figure practically catcall him from across camp and found the bottle on his desk, empty, he faces a lot of trouble getting you to settle down. ⚠️Warnings: reader is basically drunk, tries to jump into a stream, mentions of religious upbringing, being orphaned. this aint dark, just stupid and funny `(*>﹏<*)′

The small jeweled bottle of strange liquid sat on Arthurs desk, glowing softly under the moonlight. He’d meant to take it to the sheriff first thing in the morning after catching a bounty–a man who’d drug his customers and rob them blind, but after the long ride back to camp, his legs had screamed at him to sit down for a while, and he’d forgotten all about it.

Now, with the party in full swing celebrating Sean’s return to Horseshoe overlook, the bottle was the last thing on his mind. Laughter and the sound of a badly played fiddle filled the air as Sean drunkenly exaggerated some story during his time as a captive, waving a bottle of whiskey around like it was a prop in a stage play.

Arthur wasn’t much for parties, so he sat back in his chair, rolling a cigarette and letting the chaos unfold. He was half expecting you to join him, usually not one to enjoy loud gatherings or drinking yourself. He remembered you told him that your folks were real religious-like prior to their passing, before you had stumbled upon the gang of outlaws as a child. He enjoyed those quiet talks with you. He chuckled a little, outlawing was one thing, but drinking was where you crossed the line. That was until he heard your voice cut through the camp, slurred and way too loud.

“Well! aren’tchu a fiiine cowboy,” you practically purred from across camp.

Arthur’s head snapped up.

You stood there, dressed in your casual attire, a comfortable blouse and a long skirt. But you were unusually swaying like the wind was about to knock you over, a loopy grin plastered on your face. Your normally calm nature was nowhere to be found, gone, vanished, replaced by whatever nonsense had taken hold of you. 

You pointed at him dramatically, eyes nearly crossing,

“Arthur Morgannn,” you drawled, dragging out his name like it was the most fascinating thing in the world. “You got nice-“ you hiccuped, clutching your chest for a moment, “nice hands, made for holdin’ a lady, you know that?” You slurred as you stumbled toward him. 

Arthur’s cigarette nearly fell out of his mouth as his face reddened under the brim of his hat. “What the hell-”

Dutch, who had been dancing nearby with Molly, chuckled, “Now that ain’t normal.”

Arthur narrowed his eyes. It was then he noticed you hiccup again, looking oddly glassy-eyed. It didn’t take a genius to realize something was wrong. Then, like a switch flipping in his brain, he remembered.

The bottle.

It was on his desk, but opened, empty.

“Aw, hell,” Arthur groaned. He shot up from his chair and started toward you. “You didn’t—tell me you didn’t drink somethin’ off my desk.”

You hiccuped again and winced like he’d just accused you of murder, “Well..I did!” 

Arthur pinched the bridge of his nose and you spoke again, “it was a pretty lookin juice, Arthur! You’ gonna tell me juice is a crime now?-“

“Oh it weren’t no juice, woman!” Arthur snapped. 

“Well, what was in it?” Hosea, who had heard the ordeal nearby, appeared at his side, eyeing you with a suspicious yet concerned look. 

“It was a drug from a bounty! One I meant to turn into the sheriffs…” he trailed off, feeling foolish for the slip up.  

Hosea let out a long-suffering sigh beside him. “Great. She can’t even handle a cup of coffee without buzzing, what the hell’s a spiked drink gonna do to her?” 

“I don’t know,” Arthur muttered, reaching for you, but you took a dramatic step back, swaying. 

“Noooo, no, no,” you wagged your finger at him, “I don’t need your help.”

Arthur groaned before holding you by the shoulders and looking into your dilated pupils “Now, darlin’,” 

“Yeah?” Your gaze drifts here and there, seeing the world bend him in a funny way, before his finger snaps in front of you,

“You’re drunk off your ass, so you gotta let me and Hosea sit you down and-”

“Drunk?!” You gasped again, stumbling back from his hold. “I am not!”

You absolutely were.

“I do not-I don’t drink!”  You shout.

Then, before they could grab you, you turned tail and bolted.

Your brain was working at half-speed. Or maybe it was working at double speed. Who knew? Who cared?

All you knew was that Arthur was chasing you, and that was hilarious.

“You ain’t gonna catch me!” you whooped, dodging around the campfire, startling Uncle so bad he nearly fell off his log, 

“The hell’s wrong with you?” you heard the old man yelp, “knockin me round knowin’ i got lumbago-”

Arthur swore behind you. “Damn it— get back here girl!”

You tire out eventually, surrendering for a bit, “Fine! Fine I’ll sit down” you gasp catching your breath. 

“You better,” Arthur warned.

You plop down near Sean and Karen, looking back at Arthur who stands there half expecting you to bolt off again. 

Sean was running his mouth about something-something dramatic, no doubt. His accent was thick, his hands flying everywhere, and for some reason, that was hilarious too!

You scoot closer beside him,

“Ah, yes,” you said in a mock Irish accent, your voice dropping to a ridiculous brogue, “and then I took on ten men at once with only me fists and me Macguire bullocks!”

Sean blinked at you. “What the-”

“And I won the day for you lady!” you continued, grinning, wagging a finger in Karen’s face.

Sean’s face scrunched up. “Are you mockin’ me, lass?”

You gasped, “Mocking? I’d never!”

Sean turned to Karen, who was already laughing so hard she had to clutch her stomach. “Is that what I sound like?” He asked, genuinely curious.

“Exactly,” she wheezed.

Arthur called out for you, but you were already on the move again, stumbling toward where Abigail, Tilly, and Mary-beth sat at a bed roll a few feet away.

You plopped yourself down between Mary-Beth and Tilly, sighing deeply, 

“Ladies,” you slurred, looking utterly exhausted.

They turned to you, amused.

Abigail chuckled seeing the obvious drunken flush in your face. “Well, if it ain’t our resident good girl. Thought you didn’t drink?”

“I don’t,” you huffed. “I was tricked. Hoodwinked.” You sighed dramatically, placing a hand on Mary-Beth’s knee before laying down entirely and resting your buzzing head in her lap.

“And now there’s some…admittedly, handsome fella, chasin’ me!” You whine with furrowed brows, stuffing your face into Mary-Beth’s torso.

Mary-Beth gasped, playing along. “Handsome fella? Who?”

You picked your head up a little too quickly, feeling the world spin a little. 

You looked around wildly, seeing Arthur linger a few feet away before whispering “Arthur.” 

The women exchanged a look before breaking into exaggerated gasps.

“No!” Tilly gasped, “that ruthless outlaw out to get you?” 

You nodded solemnly, “Yes ma'am.”

Abigail shot a look over your shoulder, and you turned, following her gaze, right to Arthur, who still stood with his arms crossed, rolling his eyes but, notably, fighting back a blush.

You pointed at him. “See? There he is.”

Mary Beth leaned in conspiratorially. “What’s he gonna do when he catches you?”

You considered it for a moment before your gaze caught the pistol tucked into Arthurs holster. Gasping, you felt a wave of fear overcome you, “Probably shoot me!”

“I wish,” Arthur scoffed, before leaning down to your level “Alright, time to go.”

He grabbed your arm gently, but you yelped and recoiled, flinging yourself back into Mary-Beth’s arms, hiding your face as if the boogie man was right there in front of you

 “See? He’s grabbin’ me!”

Arthur sighed, ripping you away from the girls and holding you up, “Pardon me ladies, just-gotta get this one to rest.”

But you were already wriggling out of his grasp. 

Nope. No way. You weren’t about to let him take you away like some unruly sack of potatoes. 

You were free. You were fast. You were-

“Gonna jump in a river!” you declared proudly, running full speed away from the camp and toward the small stream near camp.

“The hell you are!” Arthur hollered running after you, grabbing the attention of John who was keeping watch of camp. 

“The hell's wrong with her?” He asked Arthur, gesturing to you running off. 

“Long story,” Arthur groaned, before motioning John to help him out. 

You giggled maniacally as you turned back to see two fuzzy figures chase after you, “Try ‘n’ stop me you demons!”

“How the hell is she faster drunk?” John yelled through a strained breath.  

“I don’t know,” Arthur replied, darting through the foliage leading up to the river.  

Finally you reached it, a stream but it wasn’t just any stream, it was a darker blue with speckled stars and clouds stirring and swirling below it.

A perfect portable to jump through and explore, maybe it was the gates to heaven itself! 

You giggled, 

Who would’ve thought paradise was out here in the middle of nowhere? Were your parents there? 

You wondered if they were looking at a similar stream from the other side, waiting for you. 

Maybe they’d lecture you for accidentally drinking…and robbing…and killing…and stealing.

Well, there’s only one way to find out-

Right before you could fling yourself into the water, a pair of firm arms caught you from behind. The world really did turn upside down as Arthur lifted you right off your feet and tossed you over a shoulder.

“Agh! Put me down!” You flail wildly.

“This is for your own good” Arthur drawled, adjusting you like you weighed nothing.

John scoffed, flicking your forehead as he trailed behind, “Now who gave you a drink?” he asked incredulously. 

“Arthur.” 

The two escorted you back toward camp, your limbs flailing the whole way, mouth conjuring up the most unique insults directed at the two as you could. 

When you tried to grab John’s rifle, he leaned away quickly, “You better watch your drunk self.” 

“I ain’t drunk,” you insisted. “I’m just—” 

A hiccup cut you off and Arthur finally set you down. You staggered violently, grasping onto Arthur’s vest as John held out his hands in case you fell. 

Hosea met the three of you, arms crossed, looking more amused than anything. 

“Well?” he asked.

Arthur scoffed, motioning to you, “Crazy girl was about to drown herself.”

Hosea smirked. “So, what’s the plan? Tie her up like a runaway calf?”

“I ain’t a calf!” 

Arthur rolled his eyes. “Nah. Just gotta wait it out, get her to bed I guess.”

Hosea nodded and John huffed,

 “Good luck with that.” 

“Now,” Arthur turned to you and shook his head with a smirk, “don’t go drinking any more of my…” 

He paused, not wanting you to go off on a rampage about not having drunk alcohol, “Juice no’ more, you hear me woman?” 

You sulk a little and mutter, “Fine.” 

“Good, you don’t need any more of that,” John rolled his eyes as he walked off, “already a damn smart mouth when you’re sober.” 

“Come on now y/n, let’s get some rest, alright?” Hosea said, gently guiding you. 

“So, the ‘handsome cowboy’ did save her?” Dutch chuckled from where he stood outside his tent, smoking a cigar as he watched Hosea coax you into your tent. 

Arthur rolled his eyes, but as he turned away, he flushed a little as he recalled your drunk flirting. 

As much as he hated to admit it, he was amused by your flirtatious slip ups. 

But then his mind went back to you almost lunging into the stream.  

He is never going bounty hunting again.

[deltarogers]

FEELINGS

PAIRING: Steve Rogers x Best Friend!Reader

SUMMARY: You’ve always thought of him as an older brother, but something changed…you’re not sure when.

WARNING: Vulgar language, man receiving head, female receiving head, mutual pining, just overall filth, MDNI, 18+, NOT PROOFREAD YET!!

A/N: I’m back from my hiatus! I’m writing for Marvel, so if you guys have any requests, message me or send them to my requests box!

You’re not exactly sure how this happened. The feelings.

That’s what you tell yourself, at least. You damn well know how this happened.

Steve Rogers had been there for you since you’d become an Avenger. He was always someone you looked up to, and someone you went to for advice. Not to mention, he’d taught you everything you know about fighting.

You two were as thick as thieves, much like Clint and Natasha. You were best friends, he was like the older brother you never had, only physically being a few years older than you.

Until two nights ago…

Stark was throwing a celebration party for the Avengers, inviting a lot of a-list celebrities and high end individuals, thus the nice occasion.

Steve knew you didn’t like parties. So, he opted to stay with you most of the night, making you giggle, while regulating how much you drank. He didn’t want you to be hungover the next morning.

All would have gone smoothly if you hadn’t noticed the same woman trying to talk to Steve over and over again, only to get shooed away by him.

“Steve, go talk to her, she seems interested” You spoke and he raised a brow “You need to put yourself out there, Natasha and I have been trying to find someone for you, and this woman is begging for your attention.” You urged and he sighed.

“Alright, but no more drinks, and go find Peter, I’m sure he could use a friend” He suggested and you rolled your eyes, going off to find the younger boy, who should be in bed; not at this party.

After talking to Peter for what felt like hours, he finally had to go home. Thank god. He was sweet, but all he ever did was talk.

You’d most definitely disobeyed Steve, having a few more drinks. You weren’t drunk, but you were tipsy, and you had to use the bathroom, so you went searching.

Walking through Tony’s house wasn’t hard, but finding the bathroom in your semi-drunk state was proving to be a challenge.

That’s when you heard it.

The sound of…moaning? Who on earth was having sex at a Stark party?

Okay, that’s not a surprise. But the voice you heard crying out sounded familiar.

It was coming two doors down from where you were standing, and you wanted to investigate. You were nosey, and drunk. You admit it, you were drunk.

Upon reaching the door the sounds were coming from, you realized it was cracked open, a little too much. And so, you peeked.

What you saw nearly sent you into shock.

There Steve was, leaned back on the bed as the woman from earlier sucked him off. His head was thrown back, so he couldn’t see you, and neither could the woman, since she was faced away from you.

That’s when Steve looked up, and his eyes immediately caught yours.

Oh fuck, you thought to yourself, and you wanted to move, but you couldn’t, you were mesmerized by him.

“Oh fuck!” Steve groaned out, as if he could hear your thoughts.

His hand had that woman’s hair bunched in it, as he helped her suck him off. And his eyes stayed locked onto yours, a smirk pulling at his lips.

What. The. Fuck.

You almost couldn’t believe that this was real. He was just, looking at you, while he was getting head.

You regretted peeking, especially since he came, thrusting up into her mouth as his eyes burned into your soul.

That’s when you came to your senses and pulled your head away, rushing down the hall and towards the front door, searching for your keys frantically.

Thor noticed and gently grabbed your arm. “Y/n…I don’t think you need to be driving home like this” He said “Are you alright?” He added.

“I’m alright, I promise…would you mind driving me?” You asked, and he nodded his head. You grabbed all of your things and turned as you walked out, spotting Steve one last time before the door blocked your line of sight.

And now, two days later, you were pacing in your office, having told Natasha what occurred. You couldn’t hold it in any longer, especially when she asked you why you’d been avoiding Cap.

“I don’t know what to do, Nat!” You nearly cried “I’ve always seen him as family, but now…I don’t know”

Natasha sighed and shook her head “I would just- act like you don’t remember” She said “For now, until I can figure something out” She added and sighed.

“You can’t ignore him, he’s been worried” She mentioned “It’s only been two days, you can say that you drank too much and you were feeling terrible” She said. “It’s not a good lie, but coming from you…he’ll believe it”

And so, that’s what you did. You lied to him the next time you saw him.

“Hey Cap” You said as you made your way into the kitchen to get coffee.

“I’ve felt like shit the past two days” You said “I had way too much to drink, Thor had to drive me home I was so drunk” You joked and he looked to you, his brows furrowing in worry.

“You should have listened to me, sweetheart” He said and patted your head. “How’s your memory?” He asked. Why would he ask- oh. Oh.

“I can barely remember anything…I just remember talking to Peter and then being at home” You lied straight through your teeth.

With the way he was looking at you, you swore he knew you weren’t being truthful.

“I’m just glad you’re okay…I thought you were upset with me” He said and laughed a tad.

“I could never be mad at you, Steve” You said with a sweet smile.

Steve isn’t exactly sure how this happened. The feelings.

At least, that’s what he told himself. He knew damn well how this happened.

And it wasn’t two nights ago.

He’d developed feelings for you prior to that. You were always so supportive of him, you stayed by his side, not to mention that pretty face of yours.

So, when you told him to go off with that woman at the party, he took that as his sign that you didn’t feel the same way about him.

He went off with her, allowing her to flirt, pretending that it was you. That’s the only reason she ended up sucking him off, because he was pretending she was you.

Steve was more than surprised to find you watching them, but he didn’t mind. This was perfect.

He honestly wouldn’t have cum if he wasn’t looking directly at your face.

He nearly scrambled after you when you left. He didn’t want you to go, but you’d left with Thor by the time he came back.

And now here he was, in the office. He knew why you were avoiding him. He just hoped he hadn’t scared you, or came off as weird.

When you told him it was because you had felt sick, he partially believed it. He could sense the tension though.

Just two days after you’d told him you were fine, he couldn’t take it anymore. He needed you. He hated how distant you seemed now.

“Y/n. My office” He said sternly one morning, noticing how everyone became dead silent at the prospect of him angry.

You looked the most shocked, tensing up before nodding and following him to his office.

“What did I do, Captain?” You asked meekly and Steve huffed.

“What has been up with you lately?” He asked once the door to his office shut behind you. “And don’t tell me you don’t know” He said, stepping closer.

“I- fuck…Steve, don’t make me do this” You plead with him and he quirked a brow.

“Jesus fine, I have…feelings for you, Steve” You finally admitted. You’d been harboring that for longer than you thought. “I tried to push them away, and then at the party…when you…” You trailed off and huffed.

“I feel the same way…I just wasn’t sure if you did so that’s why I went off with that woman and-“ Steve rambled and you cut him off by pulling him by his collar towards you, pressing your lips to his in a searing kiss.

Steve let out a guttural groan at the feeling of your lips on his. He moved his lips against yours, pressing you up against the nearest wall.

When you pulled back for air, your eyes met his and he nearly melted. “My girl” He muttered and you were pretty sure your knees gave out, but Steve had one arm wrapped around your waist, preventing you from quite literally sinking into the floor.

Steve trailed kisses from your jawline and down to your neck, leaving a few marks as he went along, much to your dismay.

“Steve, please…” You muttered and he hummed against your skin, a smirk pulling at his lips.

“I think my girl deserves a reward” He muttered “As an apology for me forcing her, what do you think?” He asked and you nodded your head profusely.

“Alright…I won’t make you wait” He said and helped you out of your pants and panties, kneeling down in front of you while you were still pressed to the wall.

“Hold on” He said and moved you, your legs now being over his shoulders. He held you up while also pressing you against the wall in a sitting position.

He didn’t warn you, he just dove in, his tongue swirling around your folds, finding your clit almost immediately.

“F-Fuck! Steve, oh my god!” You cried out immediately as he began to suck and lick at your clit. He had no mercy, devouring you like you were his last meal.

He was moaning himself, gaining some sort of pleasure from the sounds of yours.

It didn’t take you long to get close, gently tugging at his his long hair. “Steve, I’m close…” You warned, but he only sped up, which made you throw your head back, crying out his name as you finally came.

Your hips shook against his face, your legs too, as he lapped up your juices and rode you through your high.

Steve finally placed you down, only having to catch you. Your legs were way too numb after that to be standing properly.

“Shit, what are we going to tell the others?”

TO BE CONTINUED…?

A/n: I have ideas for a Part 2 if you guys are interested!!

[makelemonade]

The Harbinger’s Daughter; Series; They don’t know much.

authors note; hello it’s not exactly like a series where you have to read each part it’s just all under the same name. - wanna make this into a continuous “series” with just little stories or ideas so if anyone has any ideas or stuff they wanna see my inbox is open only for that!!!

pt1

- reader is in last year of high school, female reader, it’s kinda modern but also kinda isn’t do with that what you will

basically the harbingers realizing they don’t know much abt reader and Pantalone decides to find out

The lounge room was quiet, only the sound of the crackling fireplace filling the room along with the clicking of Dottore’s pen since he was frustrated with his current work- no one was annoyed, this was usual for him. Pierro sat in his specific sofa chair, it was large enough to fit him perfectly. However he wasn’t as comfortable as he looked, no, instead his face was one of concern and annoyance.

The others were scattered around the room, Signora was flipping through a magazine, Childe was just staring up at the ceiling with Capitano- the both laying on the floor, Pantalone was flipping through a bunch of papers with complicated equations, and Dottore was looking over his science whatever notes.

“I need to ask you all something,” Pierro spoke up, folding his hands together. Everyone looked over. “What does Y/N like?”

Everyone’s eyes lit up, and yet a heavy silence settled over the room.

They realized they knew nothing.

Childe shifted uncomfortably, “Uhh, she trains with me sometimes?” he offered hesitantly.

Signora grimaced. “She borrows my perfume. She….likes perfume.”

Dottore sighed, throwing away his papers and pen. “She’s smart, likes learning new things. Dunno.”

Capitano just didn’t say anything.

Pantalone just pressed his lips together, a little disappointed in himself for not knowing.

Pierro waited for more answers, and when none came, he was also disappointed, and a little frustrated. He spoke with a scoff, “How could we raise her and know nothing about her?”

He was a lot more disappointed in himself though, he was your father- how did he know nothing?! You were almost an adult, he’s raised you since you were a baby with the rest of them.

He stood up, exhaling. “I’ll go ask her. I wanted to spend some time with her.”

He left the room, listening to his own footsteps echoing in the hall as he walked the long way around the castle, making his way to your room.

“Y/N?” He called, knocking lightly. He waited a few seconds, but there was nothing. “Y/N?” He called again.

No answer.

“Okay, I’m coming in.” He turned the doorknob, opening it slowly. His frown depended once he scanned the room, you weren’t in your bed, your bathroom door was wide open, and your purse was gone- everything that connects to you was fine.

An uncomfortable feeling settled in his chest and he immediately turned out of the room and walked down the hall to the guards. “Where is she?” He demanded.

One of the agents stiffened. “She left a few hours ago, sir. We assumed she had your permission.”

He felt his heart quicken, turning away from the guards to rush back to the lounge room.

“She’s gone,” Pierro announced, his eyes scanning each face in the room.

Childe and Capitano say up, with Childe’s meditating expression replaced with concern. “What do you mean gone?”

“I mean she left the castle.” Pierro sighed. “Without anyone knowing. She found a way,”

A long pause followed.

Signorae ran a hand through her hair, visibly worried. “Okay, she’s obviously gonna come backs right?”

Silence followed again.

Capitano cleared his throat. “Although I find it worrisome she left without a word, I doubt she means any harm. I believe she just wanted to go out without having to tell any of us.”

Dottore chuckled. “I’m not surprised she left without saying anything; we know absolutely nothing about her.

There was no retort.

Pantalone stood up, “Hold on.” He said, before rushing out of the lounge room and down the hall to Pulcinella’s office.

He knocked 3 times, hearing a mumble of a “come in.”

Pulcinella was sat on his high chair, looking over files on his messy desk. He looked up and his annoyed feature was replaced with a smile. “Ah, Pantalone. What can I do for you?”

Pantalone gave a small, worried smile back. “Y/N is gone. She left and we don’t know where she is and she didn’t tell any of us.”

Pulcinella frowned. “Oh, well that’s not good- thé not telling you part. She’ll be back soon.”

Pantalone gave him a curious look. “What do you mean? Does she normally leave?”

Pulcinella nodded. “She asks me most of the time, since you’re all not around as much as I am.”

Pantalone knew he didn’t mean that as anything rude but it still sting him a little bit. “Do you know where she could be?”

Pulcinella gave a knowing smile, looking back down at the papers he was reading over. “She loves books. I’d start out at the library.”

~~

The library was quiet, save for the movement of pages as you sat at a small table in a far corner, surrounded by four books. Shopping bags were piled at your feet.

Pantalone slipped into the seat across from you, his presence imposing despite his calm persona- you hadn’t even noticed he’d entered the library or was walking towards you.

You blinked in surprise. “Uh. What are you doing here?”

He rested his chin on his hand, “What are you doing here? How did you even get out of the castle?”

You hesitated for a moment, slowly putting down the book before a sly smile crept across your face. “I put on Capitano’s jacket. No one questioned me.”

Pantalone laughed. “Of course you did.” His have moved to the books aroubd you. “You like reading?”

You nodded, pulling your book closer. “I come here a lot.”

Pantalone’s sharp eyes narrowed. “How many times have you snuck out?”

“Well, it’s not exactly sneaking out it I ask Pulcinella.” You giggled, giving a cheeky grin.

His gaze shifted, this time landing on the shopping bags on the ground by your feet. “And shopping?”

You smiled proudly. “I love it.”

He raised an eyebrow, his voice laced with curiosity. “I don’t recall giving you any money.”

You shrugged casually. “Oh, I paid for it myself.”

Pantalone’s brow furrowed slightly. “You don’t have a job.”

“I do.”

Now he was shocked. “Since when?”

“I work at the daycare,” you said it so casually that it just made him feel more shocked and, honestly, worst about himself. “After school, for about four hours.”

Pantalone blinked, looking at you as if he were seeing you for the first time. “…And what exactly do you do there?”

“We teach the kids sometimes. I help with karate.”

He stared at you, disbelief written across his face. “Self-Defense?”

“Mhm,” you confirmed, your voice light, beginning to feel a little awkward.

The silence that followed felt thick.

“…How do I know nothing about you?” He mumbled.

You hesitated, then reached into your pocket and pulled out a folded paper. “Actually, I wanted to ask you something.”

He took the paper, scanning the question quickly. It was a prompt for your economics class; Thé questions were about market trends and financial stability- he could do this in his sleep.

“You’re taking economics?” he asked, surprised as he looked up at you.

“Yeah, I was interested in it.”

Pantalone tapped the paper thoughtfully. “What do you want to do when you’re older? You’re in your final year aren’t you?”

You hesitated for a moment before answering. “I think I want to go into sciences. I was thinking of applying to the Academia soon.”

He smiled, brows raising. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“…Because of Dottore.” you confessed softly, grimacing.

Pantalone let out a long, sad sigh, his expression softening. “Just because Dottore had a bad past with the Academia doesn’t mean he wouldn’t want to help you. In fact, he’d probably be thrilled.”

Your eyes lit up with hope. “Really?”

“Of course,” he affirmed with a small nod.

You both sat in silence for the next while. You were just thinking of what next, while he was thinking too much. He knew nothing about you, but now seeing all this, he kind of does know you.

Because you’re him. You’re the others.

Your interests in economics- Pantalone. Sciences - Dottore. Your love for shopping - Signora. Working with little kids - Arlecchino. Teaching said little kids karate - Childe. Reading - Pulcinella and Capitano. Your intelligence and curiosity - Pierro.

You were all of them combined.

After a while, he glanced at the time on his watch. It was 5pm, dinner was at 7pm. “It’s best we go now.”

You gave a small pout but still stood up, closing the book. “Let me go return these.” You piled the books together, and he made a mental note of the title of the book you were reading before he got here.

~~~

At dinner that evening, Pierro’s voice cut through the awakward silence. “I was really worried when you left today.”

You winced, guilt creeping in. “I’m sorry.” It was a little awkward, and you were glad not all the Harbingers came for dinner.

He put his utensils down, “You aren’t confined here.” He said gently. “However I do prefer you let us know when you leave. I’ve already got white hairs, don’t make it worse.”

You laughed and he smiled, and a few others giggled, the tension easing.

~~~

The next morning, you woke to find new findings on your tables. Curious, you stood up and walked over to them, only to end up shocked and heartfelt.

Dottore’s old notes from his academia days were stacked neatly, along with folders with even more. There were piles of fancy clothes and new makeup. The economics assignment you gave Pantalone was completed, and he had wrote notes to explain the questions and answers.

Right beside it, was the book you hadn’t finished the other day. There was a small sticky note on it, reading “Meet in the lounge.”

Your heart was racing with anticipation as you hurried over to the lounge room, excited for what was awaiting you. Capitano was there and gestured for you to follow him, laughing at your eagerness.

He has taken you to a room down the hall- you’d never entered this room and you honestly didn’t even know it was there.

Upon entering, you gasped.

It was a library. Shelves upon shelves of books; They were all new, shining and hardcover, waiting for you. Pierro and Pantalone stood inside, watching you closely and laughing at your reaction.

“H-how…” You trailed off, spinning to look at everything and feeling overwhelmed. “When- how-?!”

Pantalone smirked. “Pulcinella and I placed orders for books- he knew which ones you’d like. We’d sent agents out to do the pick ups, and the rest of us put up the shelves, while signora and Childe decorated. We had some agents give the finishing touches.”

You felt tears in your eyes and you immediately threw yourself into their arms. “Thank you thank you thank you!!! It’s beautiful!”

Pantalone hugged you back tight, placing a kiss to the top of your head. He let you go to give you a moment with Pierro.

Pierro patted your back gently. “I’m your father. I always want to know what’s going on in your life.”

You pulled away, shaking your head and sniffing. “I didn’t want to bother you.”

Pierro’s expression softened, his voice full of warmth. “You could never bother me.”

And for the first time, you truly believed it.

[cherubcameron]

Igual Que Un Angel

Chapter Four

Synopsis: Sofia is pregnant, and the last thing she needs is for Rafe to find out. It’s her dirty secret, it’s not like he’s barging down her door to speak to her. He looks as if he’s done with her for good. Will outside forces, force Sofia to confront the situation at hand. Or will she be able to keep this secret up? Not like, her belly isn’t growing everyday or anything.

Trigger warning: mentions of throwing up

MASTERLIST

Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

Sofia sighed; her legs were killing her. She was glad the swelling in her feet wouldn’t start until four months in. But god, she thought the nausea would have gone away by now. She held herself against the sink at the Pelican Yacht Club. Thankfully, it was for workers only. So no one would see her, nearly dying. She was starting to think this was going to be a recurring thing for her. Always holding the sink for support.

“I love you, but I’m pretty sure you’re trying to kill me.” She whispered to her baby, rubbing her belly. She’d thrown up three times now, she hated this. Hated feeling nauseous all the time. It didn’t help that she was always surrounded by food.

“Sofia! You okay in there!” Shit, it was her manager.

“Ye-yeah.” Shit, her voice sounded wobbly even to her own ears.

Sofia quickly washed her mouth, the room still felt like it was spinning. But she needed this job. She opened the door slowly, smiling up at her boss. He looked concerned, his eyes scanning her face.

“You look a little green. You sure everything’s okay?” He asks, his eyebrows raising. Leaning a bit forward to see her face.

“I’m good, promise. Just a little bit under the weather.” She attempts at a smile, but she knows it doesn’t look right on her face. She feels so weak, she rather be sitting.

“Rick says he heard you throwing up. Not once, not twice. But three times. Plus you don’t look too great. You know, if you’re not feeling well. You’re free to go home.”

Sofia tried to speak but he cuts her off.

“Just go home, my wife was the same way. When she was…” Sofia blinked several times, he smiled at her softly. “I can recognize it now. My wife has gotten pregnant three times.”

Sofia nodded, a smile appearing on her face. Just for a little while, it felt nice to share that weight she was carrying. That she wasn’t as alone as she thought.

“Thank you, Phil.” She couldn’t help but feel her heart warming as she stared at her boss.

“No worries, just don’t make a habit of it. We still need you. Rest as much as you can. I’ll ask my wife for advice for you. Oh and you’re lucky Rick didn’t suspect a thing.”

Sofia stops herself short. “How did you know I don’t want people to know?” She asks, almost shyly.

“Well, you did come to the furthest bathroom from the bar. So it wasn’t hard to put two and two together.”

Phil smiles at her, and as Sofia walks away, she nods. Smiling back at him. Happy that she didn’t feel like everything was crashing around her. For once at least.

Rafe hadn’t returned any of Topper’s nor Kelce’s calls. So he was surprised when he saw Ruthie approaching him, near the docks.

“I hate this just as much as you. But Topper says I’m just as scary as you. And I could get through to you.” Ruthie folded her arms against her chest. “Whatever that means.”

Rafe shook his head, tying the anchor rode. “Didn’t realize I needed, not one but two babysitters. Tell them I’m fine. I just need space.” He made sure the anchor rode was tied to the dock securely before finally meeting Ruthie’s eyes.

“Look, we get it. You and Sofia broke up. I know it’s not easy seeing your ex. But—”

He scrunched up his nose, squinting at her. “Not everything is about Sofia. Why does everyone always assume I’m hurt over Sofia? I could care less.” But even as he says it, he can feel the lie come out of his mouth like peanut butter sticking to the roof of his mouth. Difficult and hard to chew down.

Ruthie smirks, raising an eyebrow. “I never understood. One minute, you were saying you two weren’t a thing. That you wouldn’t stoop so low to be with a Pogue. Then Topper tells me, the two of you broke up. I mean, poor girl, I would’ve had whip lash.”

Rafe jaw clenched, he was sure if he kept clenching it, he’ll inevitably break a tooth.

“You just never know how to mind your own business!”

His outburst doesn’t make Ruthie flinch. It just made her smirk more. A little laugh escaping her lips. Rafe clenched his hands into fist. Did no one ever know how to leave him alone?

“If I were you, I would leave.” He says, through his clenched teeth. Ruthie tilts her head, a small fake pout on her lips.

“Or what? You’ll hurt me?”

“Ruthie, I swear to god—”

She rose her arms up in defense. “I’m leaving. I’m leaving. Don’t worry. I’ll just tell Topper and Kelce, you need your space. But you know you can’t ignore them forever.”

Rafe watched her leave, his hands still clenched in fist. Once she’s out of view, he turns towards the water. Puffing out his lips, he didn’t have the heart to tell them, he didn’t want to be their friends anymore. He never knew it would hurt. But it did.

He just didn’t feel like he belonged with them anymore. He didn’t think they’ll resort to getting Ruthie, of all people to try and speak to him. He untied the anchor rode once more. He needed to get back on the water. Try to clear his head a bit more. Clearly, he needed to do some more of that.

So Topper had resorted to going to his sister to get him to talk. Rafe threw his phone on the couch, not wanting to talk anymore about Sofia. Wanting to forget that she even existed. Forget the pain she’d brought into his life. The pain burned, he placed a hand over his heart. Shit, don’t cry, don’t cry. Fuck, stop.

Before he knew it, sobs were erupting out of him. He couldn’t control them no matter how much he tried. He held onto the wall, as he had tried to make his way to his room. Why’d she hurt him? What did he do to her, to make her turn her back on him like that?

He let out another sob, tears sliding down his face. He wanted to punch something. He wanted to forget. But he couldn’t. He loved her. He loves her so much, it burned.

He rubbed his nose, little hiccups escaping his lips. He hated how much he missed her. Hated what she’d done to him. And the worst part was, he didn’t think he’ll ever stop loving her.

There was two ways Sofia managed to reduce him into a boyish like state. When she was sweet, when she was giving him the kind of love he craved. Not realizing how much he truly wanted to just be accepted. Unlike his dad, she never used it to weaponize against. It was real, or at least he thought it was.

And then there was this, where he felt so much emotions. Things he couldn’t handle, that it just lead to anger. And pure melancholy. He didn’t know how long he stood there near the hallway of his house. Sobbing like a child. But once he was done, he fell into a fast sleep.

Sofia wasn’t sure if she regretted telling Lupita. Usually, she could confide in her. As childish as she could be. She was never one to go around spilling others secrets. She knew so much and kept it all hidden. Sofia knew she could trust her to keep her secret.

But she knew, this wasn’t a kind of secret you could keep forever. Eventually, her belly will begin to show more than it already was. She was going to have to eventually tell Rafe. But the idea of it, the thought of how he’d react. It scared her. And the last thing, she wanted was to abort the baby. She wasn’t the kind of person who would dictate how others decided. But for her own choice, she wanted this baby. More than anything in the world.

She covered her hand over her belly, “Mi bebe.” She cooed, as she glanced towards her belly. A small smile crept onto her face. For now, this was her secret. Her baby.

Well, now it was also Phil’s and Lupita’s secret too. But she didn’t want to think of all the logistics of the situation.

She sat back on her bed, she’d been standing as she read the messages Lupita send. She knew her mom was going to have a fit. Then she’ll go on a long lecture about how, this isn’t why she left Mexico for. How disappointed she was going to be. Sofia physically winced at the thought. The last thing she wanted to he was a disappointment to her family.

But the more Sofia did, the more she did just that. And not only that, she wasn’t even married to the father of the baby! Her mom was going to strangle Sofia. Sofia already felt strangled by the traditional views her mother held.

“Just you and me, baby.” She continued to rub her belly. “You and me against the world.”

She shook her head, Lupita just had to live in Georgia.

Two weeks later

She finally hit the three month mark. Her head was in the toilet, her eyes red from crying and throwing up. She was thankful, that her mother nor her father weren’t home. Her siblings were all at school. Leaving Sofia alone.

She grabbed for her phone, clicking Lupitas name. “Please, tell me you know how to cure morning sickness.”

Lupita laughter lilted through the screen. “Yeah, cause I’ve been pregnant before. Why didn’t you google it?”

Sofia slaps her forehead, “Oh wow, why didn’t I think of that.” But she sounds as sarcastic as she feels. Lupita groans on the other line. Sofia could practically hear her rolling her eyes.

“Espera, you’re the one who called someone; who doesn’t know shit about babies. Or pregnancy.” Sofia frowned. Yeah, she should have just called Phil instead. “I’m here for you all the way. But you have to remember. I can’t really help you with advice. I’m also like two years younger than you.”

Sofia felt her stomach begin to churn again. “Hold on.” She placed her head back into the toilet, throwing up more of whatever it was she’d eaten. Which wasn’t much.

“Jesus! Gross! You could have muted yourself!” Lupita says, Lupita laughed. Making Sofia know, she wasn’t being serious.

“Sorry, can’t help that this baby makes me nauseous.” Sofia let out a deep sigh, closing her eyes. She hated this, she’d always hated throwing up. Even as a kid, when she would get really sick. She was always crying how she didn’t want to throw up, as she threw up. It wasn’t something Sofia wanted to relive. Unfortunately, now she was.

“Google it, prima!” Sofia opened her mouth to speak but as she did so, Lupita hung up the phone.

“N-no, no! Lupita!” Sofia hung her head low.

She called the next person, she knew could actually help. No offense to Lupita or anything. She dialed Phil’s number. Her heart rate speeding up as she did so.

“Hey, it’s uh me Sofia. I’m sorry to call you like this but—”

“Hey, no worries. Is there something I can help you with?”

Sofia tried not to look into the toilet bowl. Her eyes glazing up at the ceiling.

“How did your wife deal with morning sickness?”

Phil laughs softly on the other lane, “is that the employee who’s pregnant?” It sounds like his wife and Sofia can’t help but notice that she sounds almost excited.

“I can—”

“Hello! Is this Sofia?” His wife says on the other lane. Sofia is fighting the urge to throw her head back into the toilet bowl.

“Uh yeah, that’s me.”

“What’s wrong, honey?” Her sweet voice lilted through the phone screen. Sofia felt her heart warmed. Finally feeling like she could truly express how she’s been feeling. Plus, Sofia trusted Phil. Therefore, she trusted his wife too.

“I’m so nauseous and it’s been like this for days. It’s never ending.” Sofia says, her hand going over her stomach.

“Morning sickness, yeah. Not for the faint of heart. Just make sure to have ginger with you. Ginger tea. But do it in moderation! If you find it makes you sensitive. Banana is great too. Lots of fluid, so basically water. You should also be resting hun.”

Sofia nodded, she didn’t have much of an appetite. But she rather do anything she could to stop feeling like the world was spinning. And like she was going to throw up every second.

“Thank you so much Mrs. Collin’s.”

“Oh please, call me Jane. If you need anything else. Don’t forget to call. Hold on, let me give you my number.”

Sofia quickly put herself on mute, so she could flush the toilet. Then laid herself against the seat. Finally, feeling less alone, it felt nice to confide in someone who knew what they were talking about. She finally manages to get herself up from the toilet, carefully walking herself to her bed.