#then he's hanging out by a lake waiting for his lunch

[aashiyancha]

I decided to be insane and drew another comic page

Derek x MC Week Day 3: Pining

And a little bonus (after successfully driving over and spiriting him away from football practice)

@derek-week-event

[pretentious-blonde]

for you? always

pairing: steve harrington x reader

summary: you’re unravelling—badly—but steve refuses to let you fall apart alone

warnings: toxic work environments, crying, SWEET STEVE OMG

a/n: i made a part 3 but can be read as a STANDALONE, and once again, it is hurt/comfort. i just love sweet steve!!

series masterlist

It might be an exaggeration, but Steve Harrington didn’t think life could get much better than this. 

He was standing behind the counter at Family Video, half-listening to Robin as she complained, not really giving her his full attention. She could have been ranting about his terrible sorting system, or the stain on the carpet neither of them had managed to get out since last week. He wasn’t too sure. His focus was more invested at the clock on the far wall, waiting for it to hit 6 p.m. 

It was Friday night, closing time. Normally, he’d be stoked to clock out and get home, maybe lounge around or hang with the kids. But for almost four weeks now, his evenings had been filled with something—someone—more exciting. 

He was aware of how annoying he had gotten. Hell, even Robin teased him about it, calling him the “lovesick puppy,” for the amount of times he was caught staring out the door wistfully, hoping you would wander in on your lunch break. 

She wasn’t exactly wrong, but he couldn’t find it in himself to care. Plus, if he could put up with months of her pining after Vicky, she could put up with it for a little while longer. 

Four weeks—four perfect weeks since that first time you let him take you out for dinner. He brought you to Enzo’s, the fanciest spot in town, really trying to impress you.

He couldn’t wipe the grin off his face remembering it: the two of you tucked into a booth, your eyes lighting up when you tasted the pasta, holding it up for him to try it from your fork, your giggle when he got some of the sauce on the side of his mouth. He became acutely aware of your laugh, actually. It was quickly becoming one of his favourite sounds. 

After he’d driven you home that night and dropped you off at your door, he’d stood there, wanting so badly to kiss you, but also not wanting to assume just because you let him before, he could do it again. 

So, he’d leaned in awkwardly, maybe an inch too far, and you’d given him the sweetest little smile that told him to relax and pulled him in the rest of the way. That moment was etched into his memory, something he found himself revisiting over and over. 

And from there, it had only gotten better. 

The second date at the local diner (you’d shared fries with him and stole a sip of his milkshake), the movie night where he insisted you pick the snacks—any snacks, your call—and still ended up grabbing M&Ms halfway through the film, claiming it was for “variety.” Then there was the afternoon you invited him over to bake cookies—insisting it would be a fun bonding activity—only to end up with flour in your hair and half the dough on the floor, while Steve practically bent over double laughing at how grumpy you looked in your patterned apron. 

And that perfect night at Lover’s Lake. God, he was happy you hadn’t grown up around here. He took full advantage of your lack of knowledge about the location. It was magical, lying on a threadbare blanket underneath the stars. You’d called him “a total sap” when he waxed poetic about constellations he barely remembered the names of.

He had caught you smiling at him like he’d hung the moon himself. He’d stolen a kiss—okay, maybe two, or three—when you’d turned your head toward him, and the surprise on your face melted immediately into something so soft. It made him sure you were feeling the same as him. By the time he was driving you home, hand resting on your thigh, you both felt like you’d just lived out a scene in one of those old romance movies he pretended not to like.

Then came your visits to his territory. He could still picture the day you stepped through the door, a shy smile on your lips. He tried to maintain some level of professional cool, but the moment Robin saw you, she took it upon herself to tease him relentlessly. “So you’re the one Harrington won’t shut up about.” 

He’d glared but couldn’t hide the flush in his cheeks. You’d just grinned, leaning against the counter, and introduced yourself to Robin, who then spent the rest of the shift chatting with you while Steve tried to play it cool and failed miserably.

Yet somehow, that failure felt okay—good, even—because seeing you click so easily with his best friend just made his day sweeter.

Yes, the last month had been a whirlwind—one that left him with a permanent giddy glow.

He liked you, really liked you, in a way he hadn’t felt in a long time. Maybe ever.

And it wasn’t just because you looked great in every light—though, let’s be honest, that didn’t hurt—but because you seemed to get him. You found humour in his dumb jokes, shared your own stories with him, and let him into your life without any of the hesitations or expectations he’d grown used to.

Even Robin had mentioned how he didn’t snap at customers as much. He threw a glance in her direction, who was now tapping her fingers on a shelf impatiently. 

“Dude,” she said, rolling her eyes, “if you stare at that clock any harder, it’s gonna melt.”

“Give me a break,” Steve smirked, flicking his gaze back at the time. “I’m just… in a good mood, okay?”

“You just want to get out of here to see your girlfriend,” she teased in a sing-song voice.

“She’s not my—” He paused, the flush creeping over his cheeks again. “We haven’t exactly— I mean, yeah, we’re kinda… I dunno, it’s been a few weeks. She might be my girlfriend.”

Robin laughed, smacking him lightly on the arm as she approached. “You’re so far gone, it’s painful to watch. Honestly, it's jarring watching you be all heart-eyed lately.”

He wanted to deny it, but instead he found himself laughing too. Was it that obvious? Judging by the glances from Robin and the kids—especially Dustin—it definitely was. But he couldn’t bring himself to care; if being obvious meant you were in his life, then so be it.

Finally, the clock hit closing time. Steve turned, circling the counter to the front entrance. He flipped the sign to “Closed,” already imagining what he might do for the rest of the night. 

You told him to come over that evening at around half past, maybe order some late-night takeaway, or go for a drive, or just hang out on the couch, do nothing but talk about your days. It all sounded equally perfect to him. 

As he began turning off the main computer, the store’s phone rang, shrill and unexpected in the quiet. He exchanged a puzzled look with Robin. 

Who the hell was calling this late?

You arrive at your apartment with shoulders hunched. Your day at The Hawkins Post had been a complete train wreck. You’d expected to face challenges when you got into journalism—no one just handed out dream assignments on a silver platter—but you hadn’t expected to be treated like the office errand girl.

All day, you’d been fetching coffees, photocopying pages, and biting your tongue whenever they cracked jokes at your expense.

You told yourself you could handle it, that it was just part of paying your dues. But this afternoon, when they were brainstorming story ideas for the week’s paper, you’d jumped at the chance to volunteer something—anything. Before you could even get more than a sentence out, they’d laughed it off, practically shooing you out of the room.

You clenched your fists, trying not to let tears burn at the back of your eyes as one of the senior editors—some balding guy who’d never bothered learning your name—actually said: “Why don’t you just get us another round of coffee, alright hun?” 

You’d never felt so small in your life.

Now, alone in your living room, the tears finally came. Hot, embarrassing, unwelcome. You kicked off your shoes and tossed your bag aside, your mind buzzing with memories of the condescending smirks you’d gotten. It felt like a punch to the stomach. Made you question what you were even doing there. 

The clock on your bookshelf read 6:00 p.m. That meant Steve was probably about to close. You’d said something about grabbing dinner, or even just hanging out at your place to watch that cheesy horror flick you’d both joked about. Normally, the thought would make your heart lift. But right now? You felt too raw to face him.

Not that you didn’t want to see him—you did, desperately. But something inside you balked at the idea of letting him see you like this: tear-streaked, puffy-eyed, humiliated.

It’s too soon for that, you had only known him for about a month. No point in handing him your emotional baggage just yet. Maybe that was a two or three-month sort of milestone. 

With trembling fingers, you picked up the phone and dialed the number he’d scribbled on a scrap of paper “just in case” you needed him. A part of you wished you had the strength to ask for him, to ask for comfort, but you couldn’t bring yourself to do so.

It rang a few times, and your stomach twisted painfully. Then, his voice came through, warm and cheerful, exactly what you needed and exactly what you felt you didn’t deserve right now.

“Steve?” you asked hesitantly. 

“Hey, sweetheart,” Steve’s tone instantly made your eyes sting with fresh tears. “I’m just finishing up here. Shouldn’t be too much longer. You alright?”

You swallowed, forcing your voice not to crack. 

“Uh… yeah. I mean—no, not really.” You cringed at how shaky you sounded. “I’m not feeling so great, so, um… I think I’m gonna have to cancel tonight.”

There was a moment of silence, and you could practically hear his eyebrows shooting up. “Wait, really? You sure you’re okay? Like fever or something? I can—”

“N-no, I promise, I’m good,” you cut in too quickly, wiping at your cheeks even though he couldn’t see you. “Just think I need some rest.”

“Right. Yeah, okay.” He sounded so disheartened. You didn’t like disappointing him. “If you need anything, will you call me? I can be there in like ten minutes.”

You squeezed your eyes shut, guilt gnawing at you. He was so sweet, and you were lying. Well, half-lying. You weren’t okay. But you couldn’t tell him that. At least not yet.

“I’ll be fine,” you murmured instead. “Just… sorry to cancel.”

He hesitated, that warm voice going even softer. “No, don’t worry about it. Feel better, okay?”

“Yeah. Thanks, Steve,” you said, barely keeping it together. “Talk later.”

You hung up before your voice could betray you. The moment the line clicked, you tossed the phone aside, heart feeling heavier than before.

God, you just hoped he wouldn’t be upset—or that he wouldn’t pry deeper. You didn’t trust yourself not to break down if he asked the right questions.

Still, a tiny part of you wished he’d come anyway.

Steve set the receiver back on its cradle, staring at the phone for a moment longer than necessary. His stomach did a little flip, the kind it did when something was wrong. He could usually read you pretty well by now—your moods, the subtleties in your tone. And that phone call? It screamed distress.

Robin, who’d been watching from across the store, raised an eyebrow. “What’s going on?”

Steve ran a hand through his hair, glancing at her. “She canceled.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry.” Robin’s face immediately fell into sympathy. “That really sucks.”

He shook his head, grimacing. “No, I don’t think it’s… I mean, I hope it’s not that. She sounded off, like… said she wasn’t feeling well.”

Robin tilted her head. “She’s sick? Flu or something?”

Steve chewed on his bottom lip, trying to reconcile the tension in his gut.

“She said she just needs rest. I offered to bring her something, but she shot it down.”

Robin gave him a long look, then sighed dramatically, piecing together the puzzle. 

“Harrington, come on. You told me she just moved here, right? She’s got no family around? No close friends yet?”

“Yeah, she’s new,” he admitted, mind flashing back to the time you mentioned how weird it was living in a town where you barely knew anyone.

Robin folded her arms. “So, if she’s not feeling great, she’s gonna be alone.”

“Yeah,” Steve repeated, slower this time. A prickle of realisation stirred in him.

“Which might mean,” Robin continued in her usual exasperated tone, “that you, as the devoted whatever-you-are—boyfriend? friend? something—should maybe check on her anyway.”

His eyes widened. “But she said—”

“People say a lot of things,” Robin cut him off. “Sometimes they don’t want to feel like a burden. Or they’re embarrassed. You, of all people, should get that, right?”

A flicker of memory—Steve himself blowing off concerned offers because he didn’t want to look weak—made him swallow hard.

“Shit,” he muttered under his breath. “You think the pharmacy’s still open?”

Robin gave him a small, genuine smile. “Definitely. Swing by, grab some tea or cough drops, or whatever else might help. And maybe the grocery store for soup.”

Steve nodded firmly, adrenaline already buzzing in his veins. You’re alone. You’re upset. He sure as hell wasn’t going to let you suffer through that. Not if he could help it.

“You’re a genius.”

“Yeah, yeah, get out of here.” She waved him off. “And call me later—if you’re still alive. Just in case she actually has the plague or something.”

“Ha-ha,” he shot back as he flew around the counter, grabbing his jacket and headed for the door. 

Steve hovered outside your apartment door, bouncing nervously on the balls of his feet, an overstuffed bag clutched in one hand. He’d stopped at three different stores, grabbing tea, soup, your favorite candy, a variety of painkillers—everything he could think of to help you feel better.

Maybe he was totally wrong about the situation. I mean, hey, it wouldn’t be the first time. Maybe you truly wanted space. Maybe he’d overstepped. Maybe he’d come off overbearing. 

But the memory of your shaky voice on the phone nagged at him. He couldn’t just stay away. You’d insisted you were fine, but your voice cracked at the edges. Better to let you tell him in person than for you to suffer in silence.

So he took a breath, rang the doorbell, and braced himself.

When you opened the door, it was worse than he expected. Way worse. Every bit of resolve he’d mustered wavered.

You were still in your wrinkled work clothes, eyes red, cheeks blotchy. It was obvious you’d been crying, and the sight of it knocked the air from his lungs. Instantly, all of Steve’s doubts vanished, replaced by a need to do whatever he could to help.

“Hey,” he said softly, attempting a small, reassuring smile. You looked ready to apologise, but before you could say a word, your eyes brimmed with fresh tears. His heart clenched as he gently pushed the door open wider and slipped inside, letting the bag drop beside him.

“Hey, c’mon,” he murmured, pulling you toward him immediately. Not expecting to find you in this state, but nonetheless prepared to help. “It’s okay. Talk to me, yeah? Are you—are you feeling sick, or…?”

You stood there, overwhelmed, arms shaking as you let yourself cling to him. Steve’s heart ached—the same way it did when he saw one of the kids upset, except this was deeper, more urgent.

Your lips parted, but the words wouldn’t come. Instead, you closed your eyes and sank further against him, your breath catching in a muffled sob.

It was all he needed to hear.

He readjusted his arms to fit you better, cradling the back of your head, letting you cry into his shoulder. He could feel how shaken you were, how close you were to coming completely undone. It made him want to bury you in every comfort he could possibly give.

“Shh,” he whispered, voice steady. “I’ve got you. You’re okay. You’re alright.” He didn’t know if those things were true, but by the end of the evening, he would make sure they would be.

You pressed your face into his chest, holding him like he was the only solid thing in your life right now. He felt the tremor in your shoulders, the ragged rise and fall of your breaths, and it lit that familiar spark inside him—he needed to fix this. Except he didn’t know how yet. But he would try. So for now he just held you, gently running his hand across your back.

Eventually, he guided you away from the door, nudging it shut behind him with his foot. He decided it would be better to get you settled before trying to get you to talk.  

“C’mon,” he murmured, leading you to the couch. “I…I brought a bunch of stuff—tea, soup, that candy you like…” He tried a tentative smile, but worry still ached in his gut.

Those things seemed rather redundant now that he spoke them aloud. When he looked at you, it appeared you didn’t even register what he was saying. Whatever was ailing you, it certainly wasn't the flu.

“Hey,” he said again, voice hushed so as not to scare you. “Please tell me what’s wrong.” His gaze flicked over your tear-stained cheeks, and you could practically feel the genuine concern radiating off him. “I just… I want to help. I can’t help until you tell me what’s wrong. So… let me try, okay?”

His words hung in the air, soft and pleading. There was so much earnestness in his eyes, it almost hurt. He was trying so hard, and you could tell he was moments away from offering every solution under the sun.

That was who he was—a guy who dove in headfirst, wanting to protect and fix. And though part of you still felt hesitant, the rest of you knew you needed him right now. His soft, brown eyes begging you to let him in. 

It would be cruel to tell him not to worry, especially since he already saw the state you were in. You took a deep breath as you tried to gather your thoughts. 

“Work was… hard,” you start, voice trembling on the last word.

Steve nods, encouraging you to continue. “Yeah?” He scoots a little closer. “Tell me about it, angel.”

You bite your lip, hesitating. The humiliation still burns in your chest, but as soon as you see the concern in his eyes, the words begin tumbling out.

“All the guys at the paper,” you say, swallowing hard, “they basically laughed in my face today. I wanted to pitch an idea—I thought, maybe if I showed some initiative, they’d take me seriously.” You pause, a bitter laugh escaping your throat. “Turns out, they don’t.”

He inches forward, the couch creaking beneath his weight. “They laughed?”

“Yeah,” you confirm, blinking away tears. “The whole room, practically. They didn’t even let me finish. Just told me to go make more copies or bring them more coffee. I felt so stupid. Like I’m not cut out for any of this.”

Your voice cracks, and Steve’s expression tightens with empathy. He raises a hand to your cheek, carefully brushing away a stray tear with his thumb before tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“I know how you feel,” he says softly. Then he corrects himself with a small shrug. “Well, not exactly. I know someone else who went through that crap. I don’t know the full story, but from what I heard, it was awful.”

Nancy let slip here and there snippets from her time at The Hawkins Post. The incessant ridicule, the constant demeaning remarks. It irked him then, but now? He was vexed. Grown men picking on you all for a power trip? Unbelievable. 

He had to school his anger before he said something regretful, he always did have a sharp tongue. What you needed now was comfort, not someone going on a rampage on your behalf.

“Really?” You ask.

“Yeah. But you know what I do know?” Steve continues, his voice dropping to a firm, truthful tone. “Those guys? They’re idiots, alright?”

“Maybe…” A shaky laugh escapes your lips, and you sniff, wiping at your nose with the back of your hand. “They made me feel like a complete joke.”

“No way. Not even close.” He shakes his head firmly, like he wants to banish that thought forever. He won’t allow you to linger in self-doubt. “You’re brilliant. Look, you picked up and moved across the country by yourself, found a place to live, and started a brand-new job in a town where you barely know anyone. That takes guts.”

You wrap your arms around yourself, feeling the weight of the day pressing in again.

“Feels like it was a dumb move,” you admit, voice quieter. “Like I’m playing dress-up in a grown-up’s world, and everyone else can see I’m an imposter.”

A flicker of protectiveness flashes across Steve’s face. He can’t stand the idea of you belittling yourself—he’s seen how you throw yourself into your work, how bravely you uprooted everything to move here, how determined you can be when you set your mind on something.

“Hey,” he says, tilting your chin so you’re forced to meet his eyes. “Don’t say that. You’re strong, you’re smart, and if they can’t see that, well…” He shrugs. “That’s on them. They’re the ones missing out. I swear half those guys probably haven’t stepped foot outside of Indiana.”

When you lean into him, relief flickers in his chest. 

Thank God, maybe he’s getting through. 

He tucks you closer against his side, letting you rest your head on his shoulder.

“Whatever you decide to do, you’ll crush it,” he murmurs, pressing a soft kiss to the crown of your head. “I believe that.”

“Yeah?” you ask, voice thick.

“Absolutely.” He gives you a little squeeze. “You want a new job? You’ll find one. You want to stay and prove those assholes wrong? You’ll do that too. Just say the word, and I’ll be right there to cheer you on. Or beat them up, if that’s easier.”

Despite the tears still threatening at the corners of your eyes, you let out a half-chuckle. “I’ve never really been much of a quitter,” you admit, the first spark of determination returning to your tone.

“Didn’t think so,” he says with a grin, admiration evident in his voice. “Strong girl like you? You’re gonna do just fine.”

You nestle closer into him, thankful beyond words that he’s here, that he understands in a way you desperately needed someone to.

Steve’s just relieved that you’re letting him be the one to help you shoulder the weight. Something else he realised this evening was that he hates seeing you hurt, but if being here—listening, comforting—helps even a little, then it’s worth every second.

You exhale a shaky breath and smooth down the front of your shirt, eyes still puffy from crying. You feel lighter, like a burden’s been lifted just from having Steve here. Even with a hint of embarrassment. 

“Sorry,” you say, voice quiet. “For making you worry, I mean. I should’ve just told you what was going on.”

Steve’s gaze flicks over your face. “You didn’t—well, okay, maybe I was worried,” he admits, a tiny wry smile tugging at his lips. “But I’d prefer it if you just told me when you’re sad. I mean, I can’t fix everything, but I want to help—when you’ll let me.”

You nod, fingers picking at a loose thread on the couch cushion. “I still feel bad for lying earlier. Telling you I was sick.” You let out a soft, self-deprecating laugh. “You got me soup and everything.”

“Yeah, well,” he says, shifting with a touch of bashfulness. “What kind of boyfriend would I be if I didn’t at least try to look after you?”

A beat passes, and then your eyes snap to his. 

“Boyfriend?”

Steve freezes, colour blooming across his cheeks. 

Shit.

“Uh… yeah?” He rubs the back of his neck awkwardly. “I mean, that’s—what did you think we were doing? I figured we were… you know, dating. I pick you up, I pay for stuff, sometimes we—uh—we kiss—” He falters, stumbling over his words. “Not all the time, but—”

You press your lips together, fighting a smile as you watch him ramble. Something tender wells up inside you. It’s like he’s laid himself bare—admitting out loud how he sees you, how he sees this. And it’s so damn endearing you can’t help the small giggle that escapes.

“You’re cute when you’re embarrassed,” you tease, reaching to gently poke his cheek.

He groans, cheeks going even pinker. “You’re unbelievable,” he mutters, covering his face with one hand. “I can’t believe—”

You place your hand over his, coaxing him to look at you. “I like the idea of you being my boyfriend,” you say softly, each word weaving comfort through the space between you.

“Yeah?” His eyes widen, and for a second, he looks almost boyish with relief. “You do?”

A small smile curves your lips as you lean in. “Yeah.” 

You slide a hand to his cheek, guiding him into a kiss—slow, sweet, and laced with the warmth of everything you’ve been lacking back all day. He exhales against your mouth, shoulders easing with the gentle press of your lips. His thumb strokes lightly over your jaw as he returns the kiss, and you taste a hint of peppermint from the candy he’d been snacking on in the car. When he finally pulls back, breath a little unsteady, there’s a stunned happiness in his eyes. 

“So…” he murmurs, voice catching in his throat. “I’m your boyfriend.” He tried to make it sound like a joke but you could see the question behind his statement. He wanted full clarification here. He wanted to hear you say it out loud. 

You can’t help the grin that spreads across your face. “Yes, Steve. You’re my boyfriend.”

“That’s—God.” He laces his fingers through yours, a giddy laugh bubbling from his chest. “That’s—yeah. Glad we cleared that up.”

You both end up in the kitchen soon after, unpacking the soup he brought. It’s nothing fancy—just store-bought chicken noodle—but it warms you from the inside out as you eat together, perched on stools by the counter. He slides you half the candy he picked up, and you pass the bag back and forth, bumping shoulders with quiet smiles. There’s something so normal about it—the day’s troubles left behind in another world.

Later, you curl up on the couch together, switching on the TV. Steve insists you get first pick after the day you had. You flick through the channels until you settle on some old sitcom that neither of you pay much attention to. You’re more focused on the weight of his arm around your shoulders, the steady rhythm of his breathing.

Eventually, the clock inches toward midnight. The hum of the television plays softly in the background as you shift to look at him. 

“Hey, are you working tomorrow?”

He winces a little. “Yeah,” he says, regret threading through his voice. “’Fraid so. Saturdays are insane. I tried to switch shifts, but Keith was being a total pain. I’m sorry, sweetheart.”

“Don’t apologise,” you shake your head. “I was just wondering if… you wanted to stay here tonight.” Your cheeks warm slightly at the invitation. “I live closer, and I’ve got a spare toothbrush somewhere. Plus…” You clear your throat, dropping your gaze momentarily. “I’d really rather not be alone tonight.”

Steve’s eyes flicker with surprise and then a rush of tenderness. “You—you want me to stay? I mean, I don’t want to impose. Not like in a—like we don’t have to—I mean—”

You cut off his rambling by resting a hand over mouth.

“Steve.” Your smile is gentle. “Stay the night, please? I’m asking you to.”

He searches your face, seeing sincerity there, and his entire demeanour softens. You’re too damn sweet for your own good, he swears. 

“Alright,” he breathes. “Yeah. I’ll stay.” Then he leans in, pressing a slow, grateful kiss to your temple. “Thank you.”

Eventually, the two of you shuffle into your bedroom, quietly laughing as you rummage around for that spare toothbrush you promised. You lend him an old T-shirt that’s slightly snug across his shoulders, which only makes you giggle more. By the time you both slip beneath the blankets, the mood has shifted from the sadness of the day to the tenderness of tonight. 

He wraps an arm around your waist, and you snuggle into his chest, breathing in his soft scent. For a moment, neither of you says anything—it’s enough just to lie there, safe and comfortable, heartbeats syncing in the quiet. 

“Night, sweetheart.” He murmurs and you sigh in agreement, already being lulled into sleep. It’s a happy sound—one that makes him pull you closer as you drift off. 

You stir awake to the warmth of Steve’s arm still draped over your waist. Morning light filters through the curtains, illuminating the little dust particles swirling in the morning light. The alarm you set starts to go off and he lets out a quiet groan, burying his face in the curve of your shoulder as if he can hide from the responsibilities of the day. You can’t help but smile, tracing idle patterns on the back of his hand.

“I don’t wanna go,” he mumbles, voice muffled against your skin.

You push a sleepy chuckle past your lips. “You have to—Robin would miss you too much.”

“No she wouldn’t.” He sighs dramatically, rolling onto his back and turning off the blaring sound. “Probably count it as a blessing not to put up with me for a whole Saturday.” But there’s a small, silly grin on his face that betrays the fondness beneath all the complaining.

A short while later, you’re both in the kitchen, sipping hastily brewed coffee due to your shared reluctance to get up. You lean against the counter, watching as he rubs sleep from his eyes and nurses his mug like it’s the only thing keeping him upright. You don’t say anything about the state of his hair, enjoying the way it falls messily across his forehead. 

“You sure you’re feeling better?” he asks, gaze flickering over you, still laced with concern even though you’ve assured him more times than you can count.

You nod, a softer smile pulling at your lips. “I am. Thanks to you,” you add, nudging his foot with yours, blushing with how sappy you’re both being.

He tries for a humble shrug, but the flush creeping up his neck is unmistakable.

“Anytime, angel.”

Before long, the clock reminds him that time is up. He slips into yesterday’s shirt—grimacing a bit at the wrinkles—and heads for the door. You follow, hands clasped around your mug. At the threshold, he turns to you, pressing a gentle goodbye kiss to your lips.

Then another.

And another.

“Steve, you’re gonna be late.” You let out an exasperated laugh, placing a firm hand on his chest.

He grins like a kid caught stealing candy. “What—trying to get rid of me already?”

“You know I’m not,” you sigh, rolling your eyes as you gently shove him. “I’m literally seeing you after you clock out!”

His voice lowers playfully as he backs out the door. “Damn right you are.”

He winks, then sets off, leaving you with a warm, tingly feeling long after he disappears from sight.

When Steve finally strolls into Family Video, he finds Robin already at the counter, re-shelving tapes. She glances up, raises an eyebrow, and greets him with a lazy wave.

“Hey. So… how’d it—” She stops mid-sentence, narrowing her eyes at him. “Wait a second.” She points accusingly at his shirt. “That is the same outfit from yesterday! You did not—”

“Whoa,” Steve lifts both hands defensively. “It’s not like that, okay?”

Robin sets down the tapes, folding her arms over her chest. “Then enlighten me. Because it sure looks like you had a fun night.”

“Ugh,” he groans, scrubbing a hand across his face. “It was—look, it’s not what you think. She was having a rough time, I went to check on her, and… well, I stayed over. Nothing crazy.”

Robin cocks her head, curiosity replacing her initial look. “So she’s okay?”

She may not know you as well as Steve did, but if you were important to him, you were important to her too. 

“Yeah. She will be.” He nods, and a small, proud smile graces his lips. “My girl’s tough.”

Her eyes light up. “Your girl, huh?”

He bobs his head, trying to hide the giddy surge that washes over him. “Yeah. Officially.”

Robin squeals—actually squeals—and Steve flushes, glancing around to make sure there are no customers to witness it. 

“We have to do a double date!” she says, practically bouncing on her heels. “We’ll get Vickie—”

“Rob,” Steve pleads, fighting to keep the corners of his mouth from curving up too high, “let’s not scare her off, okay? One step at a time.”

“Fine,” Robin huffs, but she’s beaming at him. “But soon. I’m serious.”

He rolls his eyes, yet there’s no denying the warmth in his expression. The truth is, he’s never felt so content. The memory of your smile still fresh in his mind, and the knowledge that, yes, you’re his girl. Officially.

“Yeah, we’ll figure something out,” Steve says quietly, stocking a few tapes behind the counter. His voice is softer than usual, carrying a note of contentment Robin hasn’t heard in him for a long, long time.

She shoots him a conspiratorial grin. “I’m happy for you.”

“Yeah,” he murmurs, thinking of how you looked in the morning light, how sweet it felt to hold you close and kiss you goodbye. He looks out the window toward your apartment, knowing you’re going to be there when he leaves in a few hours. “Me too.”

[theereina]

Big Mama Pt. 6

Pairing: Terry Richmond x Plus Size Fem Black!OC

Wordcount: +2.3K

Warnings: MDNI (18+) mature content, such as cursing, teasing, heavily dialogue-centered, no smut, use of pet names (Daddy, Mama, lil' mama, pretty girl, good boy, b*tch, etc.), fluff, dirty talk, choking, Dom/Sub(brat)~relationship established

A/N: I don't know how many parts there will be. However, I'm open to critiques. I am a little 🤏🏽 sensitive about my writing. Please, don't be too harsh.🥺 Feel free to bring my attention to any typos. Divider by @firefly-graphics. Also, this work is not to be plagiarized or reposted (on any site other than here on Tumblr). I do NOT give consent for any form of republishing or rewriting.

Big Mama Pt. 1 => 🦋

Big Mama Pt. 2 => 🦋

Big Mama Pt. 3 => 🦋

Big Mama Pt. 4 => 🦋

Big Mama Pt. 5 => 🦋

*Masterlist: 🔥🔥🔥

“So, where yo’ man at? He still ain't back yet?” asked Monica. We had been on the phone chatting all morning. “I guess on the lake. He's still probably fishing,” I said, leaning against the counter. “Oh, so he out fishing, and you at home being all domestic and shit. Okay, housewife!” Monica laughed. “Shut the hell up,” I laughed.

I had been cooking all morning since Terry left. I packed his lunch in a cooler before making breakfast earlier that morning. “So, we cooking three meals a day now?” she said being messy. “Listen, you messy whore. Stop picking on me,” I said, smacking my lips. I turned back to the stove and stirred the pot of collard greens. “You right! I'll leave you alone,” Monnie said.

I walked to the fridge and pulled out the variety of shredded cheeses I bought. I poured all of them into a glass bowl I placed on the counter. Since it was too soon to cook it, I only wanted to start preparing the macaroni and cheese for now.

“We both know you're lyin’!” I said into the phone. “Girl, it's just crazy seein’ you like this. It's so fuckin' cute. You all soft and shit,” she said giggling. “Whatever!” I yelled back while rolling my eyes. “You and I both know you ain't never did no shit like this. I'm used to Big Mama who be pressin’ niggas. Now, yo’ ass in the house cookin’ for one,” she hollered. I scoffed at her remark. Was I really that down bad?

I opened the oven and checked on the cornbread. The sweet smell of honey wafted through the air. I lightly pressed the top of the bread checking the firmness. I put on an oven mitt and pulled it from the oven. I sat it on a towel on the counter. “Girl, I wish you could see this cornbread. It's beautiful,” I said smiling. “Only you would call cornbread beautiful. Keep teasing me, and imma pull up, bitch. I'll bring my own Tupperware, so don't worry!” she cackled. “So, you just gone show up to eat, then leave?” I asked. “Well, what else am I supposed to do? Y'all too busy playin’ house and shit!” Monnie stated.

“You know what? Fuck you! I'm getting off the phone,” I snorted. “That's right! You betta have Mister’s plate on that table by the time he make it home. Oh, and bring me back a niece or nephew while you at it,” she giggled. “Bye, and it's still fuck you!” I said, hanging up the phone.

At this point, I was floating through the kitchen— mixing Mac and cheese, stirring collard greens, frying and flipping chicken, and whipping up a banana pudding. It felt so good to be in my happy place.

4 hours later ~ around 7 p.m.

Rinsing off the day, Terry was upstairs taking a shower, and I was finishing the final touches for dinner. The mac and cheese was browned to perfection. The collard greens were flavorful and savory. The fried chicken was chef’s kiss. The cornbread smelled like heaven. The banana pudding was just waiting in the fridge. I had outdone myself. Maybe Monnie was right. Was I in my housewife era? Had Terry put me in soft girl mode? Ah, shit!

As I reached to retrieve the plates from the cabinet, I felt something press against my back. “I got it, mama. Let me,” Terry said, reaching over me. “Thank you,” I said, kissing his cheek. He put the plates down on the counter in front of me. “Shit, I didn't realize you had done all this. You really weren't playin’, huh?” Terry asked, wrapping his arms around my waist. He leaned over and started planting small kisses on my neck.

“If you wanna eat, you gotta leave me alone. The plates haven't even hit the table,” I giggled while shrugging my shoulder to get him to stop. “It’s a shame that a man can't have dessert before dinner,” he said, turning me around to face him. He pressed his body against mine and trapped me against the counter. “Terry, you promised to behave. Come on!” I said, pushing my hip towards him. “No, I promised to try. I did. I swear, but you look so damn good,” he said, placing his arms on the counter beside me. I whined and scrunched my face. Did I want to fuck Terry’s brains out? Yes! However, I had also spent all day cooking his favorite meal and dessert.

I folded my arms across my chest. “Ah, mama! Okay, I’m sorry. You’re right. I asked you to cook for me, and you did just that. Thank you, love,” he said pulling me into him. His lips crashed into mine. He held my face in his hands and tilted my head to look him in the eyes. “Forgive me?” he asked flashing that devious smile. This sneaky bastard knew how to get me. “Yes, now move!” I said nudging him away from me.

Terry reached for the plate in front of me. “I said move. Didn't I? That means sit down, Terry!” I said rolling my eyes and laughing. I turned towards the counter, blocking him. “My bad. I don’t know what it is, but you knowin’ yo’ way around a kitchen like this makes me wanna…,” he said backing away from me. “Makes you wanna what?” I questioned as I turned around to look at him. Terry’s eyes lingered on my face and slowly dropped to my abdomen. A smile so sinister spread over his face. “I know damn well you aren’t suggestin’ that. A baby, Terry?” I scoffed while smiling. “I mean… You love me, right?” he asked while sitting at the table.

“First, it was Monnie talkin’ about bring her back a niece or nephew. Now, you! I can't deal with this. Why does everybody want me to get pregnant?” I laughed. “I don't know Monnie’s reasons because I wouldn't trust her to watch a pot of boiling water. However, I know mine, and I have… well,… many,” he said leaning back against the kitchen chair. He raised his arms so that they rested across the back. “And what might those be? Hm? I really wanna know, sir. Tell me,” I said as I turned to the food waiting on the stove.

“Don't worry about it, Mama. Just know I haven't found a reason not to. I'm just waitin' on you,” he said smiling. “Yo’ ass gone be waitin' a long ass time, too. A baby? Terry, you can't be serious!” I squealed. “A long ass time, huh? That's what you think. Imma get one out of you, ‘Vana. Best believe, I'm not gone have to trap you to do it either,” he cackled. “You know what? I'm not doin' this with you!” I said beginning to plate the food.

20 minutes later

“Done, baby?” I asked Terry while standing with my plate in my hand. “Uh,… Yeah,’’ Terry said. “You sound unsure. Baby, I ain't gone ever tell you you can't have more,” I said placing my plate in the sink. Terry’s eyes rose to meet my backside. His eyes lingered on my ass since my back was still turned. “More of what?” Terry asked biting his lip. I could sense a hint of something in his voice. I peeked over my shoulder to see him watching me. I giggled at his antics. “Terry? You know I can see you, right?” I said walking back to the table. I leaned over so that my face was close to his. If this was the game he wanted to play, let’s do it!

“Mmm. Why you playin’ wit’ me, ‘Vana?” he said shifting in his seat. “It’s easy,” I responded. “Oh, really?” he said licking his lips. I could feel his breath on my face. His chest was rising and falling rapidly. I could tell he was becoming more aroused by the second. “You never answered my question, honey. Do you want more?” I asked squatting down in front of him. “And you never answered mine. More of what?’” Terry asked as he leaned up to gently grab my chin. “You want my honest answer?” I asked placing my hands on his knees.

Terry's eyes watched my hands. “Of course, I want honesty, mama. Talk to me,” he said letting his thumb stroke my cheek. “If Daddy wants more, he can have whatever the fuck he wants,” I said trailing my hands up his thighs. Terry’s movements stilled, and his eyes shot up to my face. His eyes clouded with lust and darkened with desire.

Terry’s grip on my chin tightened as he used it to pull me forward. My knees hit the floor so I was kneeling in front of him. I leaned over and let my cheek rest on his growing erection. “Mamas, don't start something you can't finish. If you aren't ready for this, find you something safe to do,” he said. “The fuck is that supposed to mean,” I snapped as I looked up at him. “Aye, watch yourself. You heard me, little girl. I meant what I said,” he said grabbing my chin again. “Me? A little girl? Does someone need a reminder of who the fuck I am?” I asked leaning back on my calves and folding my arms across my chest. “You got one more cuss word before I…,” he said lowering his eyes into slants.

I couldn't believe I was doing this. I was initiating “playtime”. The excitement of the unknown pulsed through my veins. I was about to allow Terry to fully indulge in his needs and wants. I calmed my breathing before looking up at Terry again. “Before you what? You ain't gonna do shit, and we both know it. There ain't shit you can give that I can’t take,” I said fully committing to brat mode.

“You sure you wanna take this route? Once we begin, there's no turning back. You know that, right?” Terry asked leaning over me. His posture had changed and so had his energy. His shoulders were stiff and squared. It was as if his body was blanketing my entire aura and being. I sat for a minute contemplating my next move. How could I outdo myself?

I smiled as a thought crept into my head. I pulled my hands away and placed them in my lap. With the confidence of a goddess, I said, “You created this monster. Deal with it.” Terry's breathing halted before a smirk spread across his face. His hands instantly grabbed a handful of hair at the back of my head. “You got a lotta mouth, lil mama. I don't like that. I don't like it all,” he said tightening his grip. I moaned loudly. I could feel a puddle growing in my panties.

I was fully committed to my role as a brat. I laughed at Terry in an attempt to piss him off. That was having little to no effect on him. I knew I had to make him execute his fantasy to the fullest. I took a deep breath before speaking. “Fuck all that! What you trying to do, huh?” I asked biting my lip and cocking my head to the side.

All sentiments of expression left Terry’s face, and his body grew in anger. His hand quickly left my hair and found my throat. He squeezed tight enough for my breathing to stop. Ironically, all I could think about was how good this felt. My pussy quivered and ached as I released what felt like a mini orgasm. It soaked through my panties as he loosened the grip he had on my throat. “Look at you. Daddy’s little slut. You just couldn't help yourself, huh? That’s fine, mama. Just know this— when we get in that room, I’m gone turn yo thick ass every which way but loose. Don't run. Don't speak. Don't touch shit. It's my turn. Got it?” he said, releasing me with a push.

I looked up at Terry with big doe eyes before speaking again. “Yes, Big Daddy. I understand,” I said while struggling to hide my excitement. “Oh, you think those pretty brown eyes gone help you, huh? Ha! Too late for that. I’m trying to see the monster I created. Bring her out. Fuck all that cute shit!” he said leaning back into the chair. “But…” I started. “Aye, I don't remember asking you to speak. The only thing I want you to do with that there pretty mouth of yours is to suck, lick, slob, swallow, and do it again. You nasty, bitch!” Terry demanded.

As if activated on cue, I could feel the heat between my legs. I wanted this man’s hands all over me. RIGHT THE FUCK NOW! It was Terry’s turn to indulge in his fantasy as a dom. I loved the idea since he would show hints of it sometimes. His only request was not to be easy. He didn't want me to fully submit without any pushback. He liked the idea of me talking shit and provoking him. Terry’s plan involved leaning into a darker side of himself that he had never completely let out, and I trusted him enough to agree to do it. I felt he deserved this moment especially since he didn't judge me about mine.

So, let’s see where tonight takes us.

Taglist: @brattyfics @avoidthings @5headsupremacist @insidefeelingofanadult @creartivefairy @kirayuki22 @nayaesworld @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @ariiijestertheklown @miyuhpapayuh @megamindsecretlair @nayaxwrites @jimmybutlrr @gg-trini @vivaalenaa @slutsareteacherstoo

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@onherereading @blyffe @beenathembo @helloncrocs @thiccc-c @persethegawd

[cloudluvrrr]

Before.

boothill childhood sweetheart headcannons.

—

a/n: A PROMISE IS A PROMISE 🤞🤞🤞 and I delivered 😍💪 srry ab being mia been busy playing splatoon. My bootyhill is almost MAXXED out yall 😛😛.Boothill gives me Adrianne Lenker vibes yk I can’t be the only one help anyways enjoy this 😛 long asf and I don’t believe in proof reading.

— Precyborg: Boothill x g/n reader

tw warning : fluff and sad ending bc we can’t have a happy one according to hoyoverse !! 💕

—

ingyadar - Adrianne Lenker

my kind of women - Mac de Marco

The hitchhikers guide to the galaxy - ARTMS

-

-I feel like you and Boothill would be childhood lovers yk? Like you two were close friends and ended up catching feelings (I would too) always hanging around each other and getting into trouble l together.

-because to me he grew up in a small town with a big family (I think of like those towns in cowboy movies 😭)

-especially in highschool, but not for long. I’d think Boothill dropped out during freshman year(?) to help with his dads but you continued your studies.

-when confronted about it he scoffed and said ‘don’t need no fancy algebra or biology.’ He’d say.

-he’d see you at school (during lunch) and you two would usually hang out after school. Or during festivals or parties.

-scenario-

You two would always sneak away to the lake when it would get boring, giggling and laughing along the way. This time it was during a town festival, everyone in town went so of course no one would notice if two highschools went missing.

So off you two went giggling as you stumbled behind him holding his hand (in a platonic way ofc). “Boothill wait up!” You’d giggle as you slid down the hill. “Hurry or the sheriff will get us!” He’d shout as he helped you up, and the two of you began to splash water on each other. Up until night and his dads caught him with you again

—

-things like that would often happen, anytime one was missing they’d always assume the other would tag along

-your families of course always shipped you two. And knew eventually you’d date (spoilers you do)

- he’d confess to you on a random summer afternoon. While you two sat on his bed in his room

— you two sat on his bed looking around nervously and awkwardly. It was never like this, Boothill would usually say something but he didn’t, he’s open his mouth but nothing came out. His mouth felt dry, unable to confess. But he mustered up the courage.

‘hey.. I, uh” he began before sighing “I really.. really REALLY like you” he finished with a red face as he looked you in the eyes. As you’d giggle nervously and soon turned into a good laugh. “I really like you too Boothill” you said softly kissing his cheek. As he nearly fainted and tackled you into a hug. ‘Finally’ he’d think to himself

-

- now that you two are dating nothing much has changed. Other than kisses and leaving the door open when you two hang out (his dads are concerned about him doing funny stuff to you)

-not a day went by that you wouldn’t be with him, at his house or yours.

-he liked pet names mostly using ‘baby’ or your name.

-he knew how to play guitar they taught him in school, but he learned it on his own and would often serenade to you.

-he’d love cuddling though, in his bed specifically. Yours is too crowed for his liking. (He has one pillow). And play a few records he managed to snag that were imported from a different planet

- the sun painted the sky a pink and orange hue, as your laid in boothills arms dozing off to the soft music in the background. As he whispered sweet nothings to you and some jokes that kept you up giggling. “Your cute you know” he chuckled kissing you temple as she squeezed you

-

-an example of how you’d spend your days, other than teasing and bullying each other 😜

-he was dirt poor. So often he’d ask you for money, which would end up in you hitting his head. But giving in as long as he got you something (most of the time it was burgers 😔)

— up until your graduated, he’d always say how he wanted to leave his dads and live alone with you. So secretly (somehow I don’t know) he’d built a small house with his buddies. ( I feel like you’d move until you were like 20 ig)

-so you’d pack up everything and moved in to the small Cabin. It was small a two small rooms and bathrooms with a big enough kitchen. Also including a farm (of fucking course). Housing his horse, two cows, and a chick coop. A barn dog and cat :3

-you lived comfortably and happily, you’d stay at home and he’s venture off to help others or sell your farm goods.

-he couldn’t propose, he barely had any savings left after buying your couch. So it often got postponed, you didn’t mind (your parents did)

—

-it was a winter night. Boothill was god knows where and you worked in the kitchen making a simple stew. As your pregnant house cat meowed for a piece of beef, you were scolding the cat as Boothill entered the home with a small bundle of blankets in his arms as he closed the door. “Your home.. what’s that?” You’d asked before he walked over showing you the small girl.

“WHOS KID DID YOU KIDNAP” you shouted, startling the little who began to fuss “you idiot I found her..!” He hissed “we don’t have anything for a baby boothill, you know that” you said sighing “I know.. but I couldn’t leave her out there! That’s how my dads found me ya know, aren’t you glad they didn’t leave me to die?” He asked huffing “..sometimes” you shrugged.

—

— there began your journey as parents, you’d sew dresses and onesies for her. As well as ask both of your parents for old baby things, Boothill had a rough time setting up basically everything

‘You can build a house but not a crib’

‘Shut up nerd’

—

You stood outside putting the laundry out to dry on the clothesline. And watched from the corner of your eye the little one and Boothill. As he sat in the shade holding her small guitar he’d made for her, as she sat in the middle and giggled at the kittens playing around her. She’d grown, about 8 months and beginning to walk.

“Da” she said pointing to a certain kitten “yup that’s a kitty” he chuckled watching her gently touch the fluffy ball of fur and giggled. Eventually waddling up to him and falling into his lap as she snuggled him and fell asleep. The sight tugging at your heart strings.

-

-most of your days were spent like that, her playing with the cats. Her waddling around the home or her touching her guitar Boothill made her.

- up until that fateful day, he’d planned to propose to you before he overheard the damn ipc officers joking about burning the town. He didn’t believe it until he saw it. Everything covered in flames, making sure to leave no survivors. And all he could do was watch as the tears fell from his eyes.

- after

he’d often lay in a run down hotel room, in his own head. Admiring the cheap ring he’d finally gotten you, and one you’d never get to wear. Fiddling with it with his metal fingers as he returned it to the small box.

‘I miss you baby’

-

_ 😜😜

STREAM ARTMS 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️

THIA IS CHAOTIC BUT these r my thoughts

comment like and subscribe 😘😘

I’m not ready for Ruan mei & Argenti rerun 😔💔

my requests open 🤞 look at my pinned post for rules and who I write for 😈😈

[ursuburbanmother]

I’m On Fire, But I’m Trying Not to Show It || Chapter One

Pairing: Angus Tully x fem!Reader

Summary: You and Angus have been best friends since you were little children. Now in high school the only thing that separates you is a lake between both your schools. Due to what was describe by your headmaster as "Unfortunate circumstances due to chance, and poor planning on our part," you are forced to stay at the Barton Academy for the holidays with the company of your best friend or maybe more.

a/n: hi guys! I’m new so try to be kind to me lol. Anyways this is probably not very good. It’s slow paced cause I wanted to establish their friendship. Not sure where this is going so if you have any suggestions let me know! Also not grammar or beta read so…

Word Count: 3k

Find: Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Enjoy!

December 17th, 1970

You hadn’t spoken to your parents in months. You figured they would call or write a letter or something. In October they wished you a speedy little, “Happy Halloween,” before hanging up. You could hear the loud party in the background. Always the socialites, they were probably eager to get back to enjoying themselves by downing flutes of champagne and appetizers. Now it was December, and you had not received a peep from either. When the holiday plans form was passed out to the girls of your boarding school at the end of November, you ignored it. Then the deadline came, and you hastily checked off the box that said, ‘Plan to stay on campus.’

Your parents hadn’t called to dispute it and now you’re stuck at mass, sitting in a pew, watching other happy families and their daughters anxiously waiting to leave. You wondered if there was still a way for you to get away. Your friend, really only friend, Angus Tully was headed to St. Kitts and with him gone, your only true escape was gone. If he knew you were stuck holding over, he would beg his parents to take you, but you knew it would be too much of an imposition, so you kept that fact secret.

Life had always seemed to throw you two together. Even at the age where cooties were still a very legitimate fear. Born in the same snobby Boston neighborhood you two were often the only kids at your parent's parties. You remember that humid night on the Fourth of July when you had met the lanky boy with a mess of brown curls. The fireworks had begun to go off and everyone wore white dresses and suits. You had become restless and started to wander the halls of your home aimlessly. Streamers of blue, red and white hung from the ceiling and servers walked around passing out sparklers.

You found him on the patio. He tugged, annoyed, at his tie. Your own dress was stifling in the heat and for a pair of seven-year-olds, you found the best solution to your ailment was to jump into the shallow end of the pool.

“I’ll do it, if you do it,” you had promised under the hum of cicadas and floating fireflies.

“Deal,” you shook hands.

The water was cold and clear. You swam around for a while, splashing each other and playing Marco Polo. It was at the same time your mother had decided to move the party outside so people could watch the lights in the sky a bit better. You two were pulled out of the pool and shook like wet dogs.

Livid, your parents fed you the line all parents wait to say to their troublesome child, “If your friend jumped off a bridge, would you?” You decided at that moment that yes, you would.

After that you two were inseparable. Because when you're a kid all you need is one single act of solidarity to devote your life to someone. Throughout elementary school you were practically fused to one another. You’d exclude people from your game of hopscotch and eat lunch in secret nooks. When you two were headed to high school your parents enrolled you in a posh all-girl boarding school and Angus to some prep school in another rural part of Massachusetts. Phone calls rang long. You remember the groans you would get from other girls who would give up trying to use the payphone. At some point you had run out of quarters and so to save money you had begun writing letters. Angus being Angus, he’d write as if he was off at war and the letters were the last things keeping him sane.

You knew he never enjoyed school but after he was kicked out from his first preparatory, then his second and third, you had turned into a scolding mother.

“What are you going to do now?”

“Die if I’m lucky, shave my head at Fork Union if not.”

“I want to go to college with you Angus. If not college then I at least want to be able to be an adult with you. One with a diploma so we can get easy jobs as regional salespeople or something,” you mumbled, twirling the phone cord around with your finger.

“You really thought this out,” he laughed.

“I’m serious, Augie.” You heard him sigh across the line.

“Okay. I’ll do better. No screw ups next time.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

When he was sent to Barton, your sister school, you couldn’t have been more excited. It was a short walk away; you could see it from across the lake that separated you. Your mom had been the one to call you about the change. She said his mother thought having him near you would make him less fussy. Something about you being the good influence he needs. You doubted that yet bit your tongue, knowing it would create more trouble than anything. Now it had been over a year and Angus had kept his word. When the opportunity arose for you to meet up, you would take it. Football games or talent shows, you were there. To anyone outside, it would have appeared as though you two just held a lot of school spirit. Like that beach boy's song.

“Be true to your school now,” you’d sing into Angus' ear.

He’d roll his eyes but always join in, “just like you would to your girl or guy.”

“Rah-rah-rah-rah sis boom bah! I love that part!” You’d giggle.

He’d try to hide his smile, but you could always tell. He’d put his arm around your shoulder and say, “Yeah okay.”

…

Once you were dismissed from mass you sighed and trudged all the way back through the snow to your dorm building. Having it so empty was eerie, you could hear your own footsteps echoing down the halls. You made your way into the common room to wait for Ms. Orchard.

She was meant to be your babysitter for the next few weeks. She was your Renaissance literature teacher. Ms. Orchard was nice but on the older side, which meant she was traditional. You often thought she would be better suited to be a Home Economics teacher if she was so invested in being ladylike.

You sat in the corner of the couch and opened a book. Minutes passed and it seemed obvious no one was coming to join you. Not even Mrs. Orchard. She probably broke a hip trying to make her way back in the snow.

“Ms. Orchard has broken a hip while walking in the snow,” the door suddenly bursts open hitting the side of the wall so hard it shakes the room.

“What?” Your mouth drops at the news. Shit, had you jinxed it?

Your Dean, Mr. Jameson says as he walks in, covered in snowflakes. “Yup. She slipped on ice on the way here. By the parking lot. Didn’t you hear the ambulance?”

“Uh… no?”

“Hmm,” he hummed, looking around the room, “where are the other girls?”

“I think it’s just me sir.”

“Ah, right. Well that makes this easier. You’ll be spending your Christmas break at Barton. Now, it’s awfully last minute so we hope they take you. Why don’t you go get your bag ready and-,”

“Hold on. Barton the boys' school?” You could almost gag at the idea. No offense to Angus, but you could remember the endless horror stories he would tell you of life in a boys' school. The air always smelled weird, and cleanliness was the least of their worries. “Isn’t there somebody to replace Ms. Orchard?”

“This place cleared out thirty minutes ago, Ms. L/n,” he said, “And I have a family to get back to.”

“But-, I just-, isn't there a rule against this or something?”

“I have no doubt that the teacher supervisor there will ensure you have a safe, jolly time Ms. L/n.”

“But I-,”

“That’s enough. I understand this is an unprecedented situation, but the only alternative would be to leave you here alone and that just is not going to happen. Please Ms. L/n, make this easy for everyone.” With his hand he motioned towards the door.

“Fine,” you gritted out. You got off the couch and went to your room. You half-heartedly crammed anything you could into your suitcase. Some shirts, sweaters and pants. You ran out of space and resorted to carrying your books in your hands along with your potted plant. You felt bad leaving your lavender to just sit and wilt, so you took her with you.

“I made a few calls. Everything should work out. You all settled then?” Mr. Jameson said once you had made your way back to the common room. Nodding with a tight-lipped smile you headed out. You two could have walked but apparently, he was in a hurry to catch a six o’clock flight and you ended up taking his car.

It was a short drive and with reluctance you made your way inside the school. “Come on. Put a pep in your step,” Mr. Jameson clapped.

He navigated you around. You had only been in the main building, never the dorms. Blindly you let him guide you until you found yourself in a room with four other boys and Angus. Angus who was supposed to be half-way to the airport by now. His sulky face shifted into one of shock. You took a step towards him only to be stopped by your dean's arm in front of you. The other guys were looking at you with mouths wide open. It was like their eyes were about to fall out of their sockets. You grumbled, not knowing what else to do.

Mr. Jameson took the lead, “Mr. Hunham? Correct?” He outstretched his hand for him to shake. Hesitantly the older man took it.

“What’s the meaning of this,” he pointed between Mr. Jameson and you.

“Unfortunate circumstances due to chance, and poor planning on our part. This is Ms. Y/n L/n. Come introduce yourself.”

“I’m Y/n L/n,” you shrugged, looking at Angus for guidance. In unison they all say hello.

“Can we speak in private,” Mr. Jameson asked.

“Alright,” Mr. Hunham says, “no funny business,” he gives a pointed look to the boys.

The two teachers leave, and you quickly move to Angus to encapsulate him in a quick hug.

“What the hell? What are you doing here?”

“Funny, I was going to ask the same thing.”

“What the hell Angus. You have a girlfriend?” A blonde boy with a red tie says as his eyes scan your figure. You shift uncomfortably at the action. “A smoking one too…”

“Shut it Kountze, you’re catching flies,” Angus scoffs.

The door creaks open as both gentlemen return from their brief chat. You and Angus move away from each other like you were caught doing something wrong.

“It seems we will be extending you an invitation to Ms. L/n,” Mr. Hunham says, “you okayed this with Woodrup?” He verifies again with Dean Jameson.

“Yes, it’s all settled. We at Janie Patrick’s School thank you. We owe you one,” he turns to you, “goodbye L/n, you’re in good hands.”

He was halfway through the door when Mr. Hunham cleared his throat obnoxiously loudly. “As I was saying, we will be following a standard school schedule.”

“Uh, sir? We’re on vacation.” Kountze points out.

“Which means we’ll be taking our meals together. And you will observe regular hours of study.”

“Are you kidding me?”

“The Peloponnesian War awaits, Mr. Kountze, you and Mr. Tully. The rest of you can get a jump on next semester. It’ll pay off. You’ll see.”

“We’re already holding over, and now we’re being punished for it?” Angus says bitterly and on fast reflex you rub his arm comfortingly. Mr. Hunham is just as fast to notice.

“Oh no, no, no. Do not tell me this is your girlfriend Mr. Tully.”

“Wh-what. No! We’re just friends.”

“Yeah, we were born on the same street!”

“I do not intend to break apart your romantic escapades all break long.”

“We. Are. Just. Friends,” Angus reaffirms, venom on his tongue. You could see the blush rising on his pale cheeks. You could feel your own as well.

“Mhm,” Hunham hums skeptically, his gaze lingers on you two for a second before glancing back at his clipboard, “Alright… You will be afforded limited windows for recreation and supervised physical activity.”

“The gyms are not even open yet.”

“Yeah, they only lacquered half the floor,” another boy points out, this one has long blonde hair that reaches his shoulders.

“Fresh air will do you good,” says Hunham.

“It’s like 15 degrees outside.”

“And the Romans bathed naked in the freezing Tiber. Adversity builds character Mr. Tully. Uh, speaking of which, the school will be cutting heat to dormitories and faculty housing and so we’ll all be bunking in the infirmary. With separate accommodations for Ms. L/n of course.”

They all groan. You're just upset. You had thought you would spend the next two weeks avoiding Ms. Orchard and lying to Angus about your whereabouts while he admiringly described the beaches of St. Kitts to you over postcards. Although you supposed it wasn’t all bad. You could spend more time with him, under the watchful glare of Angus' teacher of course.

Together you all get ready to haul your things to the infirmary before being stopped by Mr. Hunhams tsking in disapproval.

“You philistines are just going to let the lady carry her own things? I’m sorry to see Barton has failed in ingraining a sense of chivalry into you.”

“Oh no, it’s alright really, I can do it,” you protest but they all scramble to help you anyway. “Can I carry your suitcase Y/n?” Kountze says, in an odd way, that was meant to be suggestive.

“Okay Kountze, piss off,” Tully pushes him away, leaning down slightly to get your things, “let’s go.” He walks quickly out the door, leaving the rest of you to follow him.

As you are slapped in the face by the harsh winds you curse the idiots at your school who refused to let you wear pants. You were forced to put on double the tights and your warmest coat. It did not do anything to aid you and your shivering made that clear. It was like they wanted to torture you when the boys stopped halfway down the quad and in front of a truck. You're still holding your books so it's not like you can rub your arms to help you out a little. They were complaining about Hunham, who they so endearingly nicknamed “Walleye.”

“Hey, guys, hold up for a second,” Angus tells the young kids in front of you. He sets his, and your things, down on the grimy paved road. He searched through his pockets and lit a cigarette. “Want one?” he asks you and Kountze.

“No. I got something else. Give me that,” he grabs the lighter from him and sparks a joint.

“Hey, don’t smoke that out here. I don't want to get busted by Walleye.”

“Don’t be such a pussy,”

“I’m not a pussy, I just don't want to end up at Fork Union paying for your mistake.”

He ignores Angus and instead turns his attention to you instead, “You're not like a total priss right?”

You shake your head. At least you didn’t think you were.

“Alright,” he smirks and stretches his hand out for you to shake, “Teddy Kountze.”

“Nice to meet you,” you say. The other unnamed boy is the next to greet you.

“Jason Smith.”

“We know who you are. You want to hit this,” Teddy offers the jock the joint.

Jason scans his surroundings before agreeing, “Uh, yeah.”

“You got a great arm man,” he compliments,

“Yeah, well, it’s just football.”

“How’d you get stuck holding over?”

“I’m supposed to be skiing with my folks up at Haystack, but my dad put his foot down. Said I can’t come home unless I cut my hair.”

“So why don’t you cut your hair?

“Civil disobedience, man.”

“I dig that,” you comment. “You know that when they tried to cut that tree between our schools, I organized the tree-sitting.”

“Holy shit that was you? Figured it was some hippies from Boston,” Teddy snickers.

“Nope. I sat in that tree for hours, drinking from water bottles that Angus tossed up to us.”

“Did it work?” Jason wonders.

“For now, yeah.”

“Awesome…. But no, he’s cool. It’s just a battle of wills. Still, I was hoping he’d cave first, because the powder up at Haystack is so sweet right now.”

“What about you, Mr. Moto? Why are you here?” Teddy asks one of the first-year boys.

He appears embarrassed to be singled out, “No, my name is Ye-Joon. My family is in Korea, and they think it’s too far for me to travel alone.”

“I figured it was because your rickshaw was broken,” Teddy laughs to himself. Angus didn’t exaggerate when she said this guy was a jerk.

“What a rickshaw?”

Angus intervenes, “You’re an asshole, Kountze. Your mind’s a cesspool and a shallow one at that.”

“Who’s the asshole Tully? You’re the one who blew up history.” Jason notices the tension and brings the group's conversation back to the freshman.

“What’s your story man?”

“Alex Ollerman. I’m here because my parents are on a mission in Paraguay. We’re LDS. “Mormons, right?” Alex nods yes.

“Don’t you guys wear some kind of magic underwear?” It's like Teddy loves to hear himself talk, you think.

“Common misconception. Actually, it’s called a temple garment, and we’re only supposed to wear it when-.”

“Hey, what's with the townies?” Kountze spots two men emerging from the chapel with a large, heavy green tree in their grasp.

“Hey, what are you doing with our Christmas tree?” Angus shouts, tapping you on the shoulder in a way that says can you believe this?

“The school sold it back to us. Scotch pine, still fresh.” The stranger shouts back.

“Yeah, we’re going to put it back on the lot. We do it every year.”

“This is the most bullshit ever.”

The boys put out their separate smokes much to the relief of Alex and Ye-Joon. You fall behind the rest of them and Angus naturally finds his place next to yours. You stroll in silence until he decides to break the ice.

“You going to tell me what happened?”

“You tell me first. You were so excited to go on vacation.”

“One word. Stanley.”

You grimace, knowing what that means. “Shit. I’m sorry.”

“It’s whatever. They want to spend their honeymoon forgetting my existence then they can do just that. I’m almost an adult anyway. Then I can go anywhere I want anytime.”

“Is that what Judy said?”

“That was the bullshit excuse, yes.”

“Hey, you got me though. We’ll make this fun.”

“We have no tree, Hunham will be breathing down our back, and Kountze hasn’t stopped ogling at you since you arrived. Does that sound like the perfect Christmas to you?”

You laugh softly, “Ignore Hunham and Kountze. As for the tree, we could always Charlie Brown it. What do you think the lavender is here for?” You shake your plant a little. The purple bush sways in the wind.

He smiles, “Yeah… It’s not a bad little tree,” he begins to quote.

“Maybe it just needs a little love,” you say together and break into a fit of giggles.

[bradleysass]

Why can't we be friends? - Word Count: 886 - Starchaser

Regulus Black had a lifetime of sneers perfected—cool and cutting, a shield forged in the fires of family expectations and Slytherin pride. So when James Potter lobbed a crumpled piece of parchment onto his desk in the middle of Advanced Potions, the response was instinctual. Regulus unfolded the note, staring at the single, cheerful hi :) with barely veiled disdain. Without a word, he crumpled it further and let it drop onto the floor, as though it had burned his fingers.

James, across the aisle, frowned. Not a deep one—more of a twitch, fleeting disappointment in his hazel eyes. But it wasn’t enough to deter him. He never backed down from a challenge, and Regulus Black was quickly becoming his favorite puzzle.

The next attempt came the following week. James, sly as ever, nicked Regulus's Arithmancy textbook during lunch, only to use it as an excuse to approach him in the library later. He slid the book across the table with an infuriating grin.

“So, hey, since I’m returning this book that you…” James leaned closer, dropping his voice to a stage whisper, “dropped, I was wondering if we could hang out or whatever?”

Regulus looked at him as though he’d grown a second head.

“Why would I want to hang out with you, Potter?” His voice was sharp, but there was an undertone of something else. “The guy who stole my brother from me?”

The words hung in the air, heavy and raw, and James’s grin faltered. Before he could respond, Regulus snatched the book and swept out of the library, his robes billowing behind him.

Yet, later that night, as Regulus replayed the interaction, something niggled at him. The way James had asked—it hadn’t been cocky or self-assured. It had been… tentative? Nervous? And James Potter was never nervous.

By the time James tried again, the setting was as unfortunate as it could get: the boys’ restroom. Regulus was washing his hands when James strolled in, his usual swagger undercut by a flicker of hesitation.

“Fancy seeing you here, Regulus… in the men’s bathroom… yeah,” James said, his words fumbling over themselves.

Regulus, exhausted from the day and utterly bemused, raised an eyebrow. He leaned back against the sink, arms crossed, waiting for James to explain himself.

“This is the part where you tell me why you’re stalking me,” Regulus said, voice as dry as parchment.

“I’m not stalking you,” James blurted, his tone defensive. “I’m just… trying to get to know you.”

Regulus blinked, and for a moment, James could see something unguarded in his expression—curiosity? Vulnerability? But before he could decipher it, James panicked.

“Okay, this was a bad idea. I’ll just—yeah. Bye.” He spun on his heel and all but ran out, leaving Regulus staring after him, faintly breathless.

Weeks passed without any further attempts, and James has all but given up. But Regulus hadn’t left his thoughts. He was a contradiction, a mystery James couldn’t help but want to unravel. One gray afternoon, as James sat in the courtyard, he spotted Regulus across the way.

For a moment, James considered going over. Then he thought better of it. Maybe he should stop trying. Regulus clearly didn’t want anything to do with him, and chasing after him… well, maybe it wasn’t fair. He sighed, running a hand through his hair as spiraling thoughts took hold. Was this just a waste of time? Why did he even care so much?

He decided he needed a change of scenery. Standing, James tucked his hands into his pockets and made his way out of the courtyard, heading toward the Black Lake.

Regulus, from his spot under the archway, looked up just in time to see James leaving. Something about the slump of his shoulders, the absence of his usual energy, tugged at Regulus in a way he couldn’t explain. Almost without thinking, he got up and followed, keeping his steps light and his distance careful.

By the time he caught up, James was sitting by the lake, tossing rocks into the water with none of his usual enthusiasm. His posture was slouched, his face shadowed with a distant, uncharacteristic sadness. Regulus lingered in the trees, unsure whether to approach, when James’s voice broke the silence.

“You’re not as sneaky as you think, Black.”

Caught, Regulus stiffened, but he didn’t retreat. Instead, he stepped closer, his boots crunching against the gravel.

“Why are you out here?” Regulus asked, his voice softer than he intended.

James finally looked up, his hazel eyes meeting Regulus’s stormy gray ones. He shrugged. “Needed a break, I guess. Thought I’d get some fresh air.”

Regulus hesitated, then sat down a few feet away. They sat in silence for a while, the only sound the gentle lapping of the water and the occasional splash of a pebble.

“You’re persistent,” Regulus said eventually, breaking the quiet.

James grinned, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, well, I don’t like giving up.”

For the first time, Regulus didn’t sneer or glare. He just watched James, something unspoken passing between them—a tentative truce, perhaps, or the first fragile thread of understanding.

And James, for once, didn’t push. He simply let the moment settle, content to sit beside Regulus by the lake, waiting to see what might come next.

[mar3ggiata]

the night of the tarantula - 5

simon riley x oc

'Deep rivers run quiet.'

‘You wanna know something?’

She cleaned the corner of her mouth with a napkin. She propped her feet up on the stool, adjusting the hood of her sweater on her head. Copenhagen was incredibly cold in the winter mornings

‘What?’ She asked.

He was shirtless, leaning against the kitchen counter. He had a bowl of yogurt in his hands, spoon hanging from his mouth. He preferred anything sweet for breakfast, yogurts or any cake she baked. Fruit sometimes, frozen grapes. She had a bagel on the plate in front of her, crumbles of bread and egg on the plate and on the table, she was a messy eater.

‘Every morning, or like before lunch, I squeeze the mayo for you… I-‘, he mimicked slamming the mayo on the table to make it fall to the opening of the tube, ‘I make sure it’s all to the very end… cause it can get stuck on the sides of the bottle, you know, and I’m stronger than you…’

Her eyes lit up and she smiled. Her shoulders were shaken with a sincere laugh.

‘Really? You’re calling me a little bitch cause I can’t squeeze the mayo?’

She smiled. He scoffed and nodded, setting his empty yogurt bowl in the sink.

‘Yeah, my little bitch…’

She took another big bite or her sandwich, smearing egg yolk all over her cheeks. She grabbed the napkin again to clean herself, rubbing her feet together to feel some warmth. As she placed the half eaten bagel on the plate, Simon’s large arms wrapped around her. He scrunched down enough for his body to completely envelope hers. One arm around her neck, the other up her shirt. She felt his lips kiss her cheek, the bridge of her nose, her jaw. She was almost lifted from the chair by the force of the hug, she let her head fall back against his chest.

‘The things I do for you…’

‘Do you know what I do every day for you?’ A giggle escaped from her lips as he squeezed harder, a kiss on her neck sent tickles down her spine.

‘I know what you do for me every night…‘

She laughed out loud. His chest filled with warmth and he closed both arms around her. Still standing up behind her, he nuzzled his nose in her hair, she moved her hands on his naked arms. She squirmed in his grasp. ‘I move your blanket every day from the bed to the couch so you can have it when you nap’, she argued. She turned in the chair, freeing herself from his embrace. She cupped his cheeks with both hands, cradling his face and forcing his close to her. ‘I make sure your blanket is on the couch during the day if you wanna nap and then I take it back to bed with me so you can sleep with it.’

'The green one?'

'The green one.'

He closed his eyes, jaw unclenching, eyebrows relaxing. He felt her thumbs soothing the skin of his under eye bags, the crooked bridge of his nose, coming down to his jawline. He leaned into the chair, into her, almost wishing he could crawl inside her, he was never close enough. So soft, so tender, so indulging. When the palm of her hand caressed his cheek, he turned his head to kiss it.

‘You're saying I’m a little bitch cause I need my blanket?’

She laughed again. It felt like her chest cracked and happiness was finally flowing in her veins.

Eva was allowed to go teach ballet the next day. They escorted her car to the school, they watched her park and go up the stairs. They waited three hours for her to finish teaching a class and rehearsing with her dance partner. The same morning at 7, they has two soldiers walk ten feet behind her as she walked her dog, to the park, around the walkway of the lake and back home. Fucking terrifying. She felt imprisoned, she felt like she was gonna get shot by a sniper or some shit through the windows of the ballets school.

'Remember, arms in fifth position here…' Even teaching was harder than normal. She felt dizzy, she wasn't strong enough to lift her legs where she wanted them, the girls weren't listening today, she couldn't find the right music.

'Let's see it from the top, please…' She knew they were watching her from downstairs, the thought made her throat close up. '…and one and stay! And two, piqué! And rond de jambe…'

It was weird, knowing the fucking military was at the door, knowing her, the dance teacher, was being watched as the girls rehearsed. By authorities of the government.

After rehearsing with Blake, for both Arabian and Snow Queen, she took five minutes alone to regain her strengths. Or so she thought she was alone. She walked in circles around the room, head down, hands on her hips. She felt like a stranger in her own body, in that stupid leotard wet with sweat, feet bleeding, arms sore. But at least, alone. Away from the barking of her dog, away from Salvo, he was kind and considerate and made sure she ate and took care of herself but God, did she want to be alone… Away from that interrogation room, from the pictures, Price and… well, even him.

Ghost was standing by the door, as he did a million times before. Like a fucking dog he follower her scent and took his usual spot in the corner. Watching her, admiring her body, the way she danced. He watched her pace around, breathing still laboured from dancing for three hours, leotard slick with sweat. She went to the corner of the room where she usually had her bag and sat down. He had to slightly crane his neck to see her, risking getting caught. She had a pink bag, never seen that bag before. She took off her pointe shoes and winched in pain, he supposed she had blisters on her feet. She inspected her toes, the tape and those blue patched he saw her put on once to protect her skin. She discarded the old shoes and threw them in her bag. In the pink sack were a pair of brand new shiny pointe shoes.

She sat on her heels, got out a needle from a small flower printed box. She sawn two pink ribbons one at each side of the shoes. The ones she tied around her calves. He watched her fingers work with the fabric, brows furrowed while trying to get the ribbons symmetrical on the shoe. She cut the excess lace with her teeth. Still on the ground, she took the inside sole of the shoe, shank is what it's called and ripped it. She bent the shoe in half, pressing with both hands. He watched her biceps contract while she squeezed the shoe in half and then released it. The violence, the accurate, pondered violence she was putting in her movements made him think she was relieving some anger on the shoes. When she was done, she got up and he thought she was finally ready to leave. She wasn't.

She pressed the heel of her naked foot on the shoe, bending the shape of it and popping the toe box. A loud crack left the shoe looking lifeless. She repeated the procedure with the other shoe, putting her whole weight on it, bending and pressing. Crack. As he wondered why she was destroying the new shoes, she turned her back to him. Facing the wall, she let her fingers travel to an unspecified spot. A step back, she slammed her pointe shoe on the wall. Again, and again, and again, a rhythmic and incredibly loud bang, bang, bang, bang. He nearly flinched at sound. At the force. The front of the shoe connected with the wall several times before she was satisfied. She repeated with the other shoe. Bang, bang, bang, he stared at her back, the flower tattooed on her back distorted by her movements. He imagined the wall would dent and break and collapse and the whole building would crumble on itself. When she was done, silence filled the room again. She was panting. She put the shoes back in the pink bag, that's when he felt like he could knock. She turned in one sudden movement, frightened. By him, that is.

Her ponytail messy, her skin red from exhaustion, she looked at him betrayed. Disappointed. When he was the one who was supposed to be hurt in the situation. He knew why she was mad, don’t get me wrong. He had told the captain to contact Salvo, he gave in the only ally she had outside this situation. He had a job to do, that was the thing that she didn’t understand. So, she really had no right to look at him like that.

She stood next to her bag, jaw clenched, her eyes empty of emotion. It was the first time he was alone with her in what felt like months, he felt so detached, so disconnected. She was a stranger. And yet, there he was. Chasing her, again. Longing for time alone with her, following her, feeling privileged enough to get alone time with her out of all his colleagues. He was sitting in the car, staring through the windows of the ballet school. He would see her move around the room occasionally. He saw her students leave at 10, when the lesson was done. He saw Gemma, remember Gemma? He saw her dance partner, the guy who plays the prince, enter the school at 10.02, joining her in the rehearsals room. He found himself wondering, did she eat that morning? Was she tired, dancing for those many hours? Did she have something to drink with her? Was she busy with her patients later, how was her dog, did she need any help?

What the hell was she thinking?

He watched her from the corner of the room, she looked like she wanted to disappear into the wall behind her.

'All good?'

His voice was so low she barely understood what he said. A whisper, like he didn't even want to speak. Masked and cruel. She didn't know who that person was and the thought of having had him so close to her made her sick to her stomach. She didn't reply, she packed her bag. She put on a sweater and stripped of her skirt. He had seen her dance before, her legs in pink tights. He had seen everything, why bother to care at this point.

'What?' He asked, reacting to her silent treatment. Louder this time.

She pulled a pair of sweats on her legs and undid her ponytail, she slipped on her running shoes. She started walking towards him. She didn't look up from the ground, she knew why he was there, to collect her. To take her back home and then to work after lunch. After work, she was gonna being interrogated again. Standard procedure.

His words vane, she still wouldn’t speak. She stormed towards him like a deadly, terrific hurricane. She passed him, squeezing herself between his body and the door frame. He acted out of instinct.

His hand grabbed her wrist as she walked past him, he snatched her close to him with too much force making her nearly lose balance. She looked at him with fire in her eyes, shocked at his move.

'Lasciami stare!' She yelled, freeing her wrist from his grip.

He registered, as he didn't understand what she was saying, she spoke Italian instinctively. She took a step back and he shivered at the thought she might be fearing him. He attempted to close the distance between them with a step. He didn't have a plan after that. Yell at her, corner her against the wall, question her about her lies now that they were alone, hold her, kiss her. It was insulting to his rank, to his persona, to everything he was. This feeling, this emotion towards her. He craved her presence, he craved being close to her, physically in her space. He realised it just then, he realised that's why he was in the interrogation room, why he was escorting her to class, offering to go fetch her from the school and bring her to her car, it was to be close to her. And now that he was he didn't know what to do.

She was still looking at him baffled at him move, chest moving quickly with every breath, hand gripping the strap of her bag tightly out of anger.

'Why? He spat out, and it came out louder than he intended it to be.

'Uh?

'Why did you do that?'

'What?' She squinted her eyes at him.

'Lie.'

She scoffed, 'Oh please…', she was ready to run down the stairs.

'That's not an answer!'

She turned her back to him and the thought of her leaving made him step foreword one more time. She would not get out of that conversation.

'Oi!' He grabber her arm once more, tighter.

She tried to free herself by simply pulling in the direction of the stairs but she soon realised his hand on her forearm wasn't just lingering there. She turned back around to face him, delicately placing her small, soft hand on his, on her arm. He thought for a moment she did change her mind. This was all a big mistake. He thought they would sit on the dance room floor like they did before and talk, and she would explain everything, everything was just a big misunderstanding and maybe -

'Get the fuck away from me.'

Her eyes betrayed the harsh sound of her voice and he noticed. A shadow passed through her green irises, of fear. Of disappointment and longing. For him, maybe? He didn't move an inch despite her request. Instead, he gently pulled her closer and closer. Her running shoe squeaked on her floor, a sign she didn't want to move but she wasn't resisting either. He bent foreword to get a good look at her, trying to read her feelings through her expression. She strangely enough, didn't stop him. She looked up at him, the hand she had placed on his falling at her side. Like she wanted to see how far he would push himself. He felt like their noses were about to touch.

'You could have told me.' He said, he didn't need to raise his voice, she was close enough to hear him even whisper.

She seemed hurt by his words, her brows furrowed. She opened her mouth but no sound came out. He wouldn't understand. Never, no. His entitlement, the audacity of coming here and demanding thing he know she can't give him, after seeing her crying her eyes out during the interrogation, no. He knew too much already, he knew everything, her mom, her brother, no...

'No…'

She finally managed to speak. He sounded desperate at that point, considering they should have been back to the cars at least 10 minutes ago. He scanned her face for any sign, anything that would tell him she was being honest and open, anything to make him believe her.

'You could have told me, I-'

She shook her head, like she was getting back to her senses, like he put a spell on her. She pulled her arm back and he didn't try to stop her this time.

'No…' she mumbled, and before he knew it she was out the door.

notes: uh damn

taglist:

@random-fandom-smoothie @lucienofthelakes

@ghostlythots @sweetfemmefatal @natxpat @chavarriakeren647 @ravenmoore14 @farther-than-pleiades @internallyscreamings @hwromi @atoxicrat @cuti3maddi3 @deafeningkittenblaze @its-celeste @serene-hills @lexidoll12 @poohkie90 @lunatiquess

@warmedbythebody @katzykat @iristhemuse @azkza @keiraslayz @abbyandermine @jennyjencakes @dest-nai @corset-briefs @nutze-kekse @ilytsukiw @b3anspr0ut

@pondsblog @missyouzoe @fallenkitten @bigauthorrascalturkey @bethtay @angelynn-nicole @starluv @stargirlisworld @giyuuslittleslut @impossiblecupcakelight

@rkrivees-blog @ghosts-hoe @kam1snotverysmart @gauky76 @freyjaaasstuff @spicyspicyliving @scottpilgrimvsmyfists @courtney0-0 @shinchanboi @darling006 @my-therapist-hates-me @asteriadisera @sigynxlokiwifelover

[lillypad910]

It’ll Get Better

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Cheerleader!f! Reader

Word Count: 3717

Warnings: cussing, talk of sex, but no smut, breakup, depression, talk of suicide (and almost doing it), teen pregnancy, forced abortion, abusive relationships, tones of healing.

Summary: You are Andy’s girlfriend, friends with Jason and Chrissy and the rest of the popular kids of Hawkins High School, but your life flips upside down when you find out your pregnant. After a harsh breakup with your boyfriend and being discarded by all your friends, you find yourself at the Sattler Quarry, standing on the edge of the rocky cliff, will you jump? Or will a certain freak save you from your dark space?

A/n: Sorry for the long pause in posting! I’ve been working on this for a could days now, but it’s been a slow rolling with writer’s block and school work (I’m in a summer class this month and it’s been kicking my butt a little harder this week). Please enjoy!

You sat at the lunch table, your arms crossed as you listen to Chrissy tell everyone about her exciting date with Jason. “He took me to dinner at Enzo’s, then out to a movie, THEN we went to the lake for a light night dance! Isn’t that so romantic?” She chirps, practically glowing with joy. “Yeah, Chrissy, that’s lovely!” One of the other girls smile.

You stay silent, glancing over at the end of the table where Jason and your boyfriend, Andy, were practically slapping each other for fun. You love Andy, you really do, but god was he a bad boyfriend. All he ever does for you is take you out to dinner before dragging you out to the lake to fuck you in his car. “(Y/n),” Chrissy’s sing-song voice calls you back, “how are things with Andy?” Every fellow cheerleader looks at you and you smile. “Good…! We actually just went out last night too.” You immediately regret mentioning it. “Oh? What did you two do?” All the girls you call friends hold their heads up by their palms after sitting their elbows on the table. “Uh…” you hesitate, the still red handprint on your thigh just covered by your skirt as you pull it down lower. “We ate and then also went to the lake…”

Chrissy smiles, “how sweet!” And just then Eddie Munson decides to jump on top of his table. He talks about how everyone is annoying, besides his table, honestly you really weren’t paying attention, you could care less about what the freaks do. “You want something, Freak?” Jason stands up, going over to get closer to him, Andy following him.

The whole dilemma is squished quickly, with a teacher calling them all to relax. When the bell rings you walk up to your boyfriend, smiling at him. “Hey, you ok? Don’t let that freak get to you.” You place your hand on his chest and he groans. “He just pisses me off.” Lucas glances away nervously. “I know, Babe, but you need to control your anger more.” You remind him. He sighs and wraps his arms around you, “You’re so pretty.” He smashes his lips to your and you giggle.

You sit on your bathroom floor a week later, tears streaming down your face as you chunk the positive test across your floor. It had to be a faulty test, there was no way. Sure you weren’t on birth control because you couldn’t tell your mom you were sexually active, but he takes precautions. He… oh god, the lake.

How the hell are you gonna tell your basketball jock of a boyfriend that you’re pregnant? His entire career would go down the drain, hell his life.

You pick yourself up off the floor, shaking so bad your legs start hurting when you stand up completely. You feel like you’re gonna faint or throw up. Maybe both? You couldn’t tell anymore. Your stomach was tossing and turning, as you stepped closer and closer to the phone on your dresser. Dialing his number, you hold your breath.

“Hello?” His groggy voice echos out of the speaker. “Andy…?” You call out, still extremely nervous. “(Y/n)?” He groans, “Babe, what ever it is it can wait until tomorrow? I’m too tired tonight, ok? Bye.” He hangs up on you before you can get a second word out. You sigh, “Love you too…”

You place your phone down and turn towards your dresser, panning the pictures of the basketball team, some of you and the rest of the cheer squad. You all look so happy. One image catches your eye, Andy and you at a ballgame. He’d thrown the winning shot that Friday, and after cheering with the boys you ran up to him, so proud of him. He was so happy.

The memory calms your nerves. You could tell him, you knew you could. He’d probably panic, but he wouldn’t just drop you, right?

You sit on the floor of the gym the next day, your short cheer skirt barely covering your ass as you sit on your knees. The basketball team scurries across the gym floor, dribbling the ball between the teams, the ball flying through the air. You watch Andy carefully, nervous to tell him later after the game.

The game was won by Hawkins High, and your entire friend group decides to go out to dinner to Benny’s. Standing out in the cold with Andy next to you, hugging his jacket around himself, you huddle closer for warmth. “Hey, Andy?” You get his attention, “what?” You feel your nervous coming back, that aching feeling in your stomach. “Can… can we talk for a minute before the others get here…?” He looks at you confused.

You both move to the side of his car, “Im gonna say this and I don’t want you to freak out, ok?” You tell him. He raises a brow at you, “freak out? Babe, come on, I’m Andy.” He pulls you closer by the waist and you smile softly to yourself. “I know but…” you hesitate, pressing your palms against his chest. Your fingers grip around his basketball jersey under his letterman. “Andy,” you take in a deep breath, “I’m pregnant.” You don’t look at him, keeping your head lowered at you wait for his reaction.

A scoff leaves him, his arms dropping from your waist. “This is a joke right? You’re fucking with me.” His voice is colder than normal, hurtful, spiteful. “What? No, Andy,” you look up at him, “Why would I joke about this? I’m serious.” You frown at him, upset that he thought you would joke about something so serious. He shoves you away and you stumble back a little shocked by his sudden change in care. “Who did you fuck? Are you fucking kidding me? You fucking cheated on me?” “What?! No!! Andy,” you reach back out to him but he slaps your hand away, “I didn’t cheat, Andy, it’s yours.” You tell him, your eyes watering as your emotions get the better of you. He glares at you. “Bullshit.” You scoff, “Andy, why the hell would I cheat on you? I love you.” You try to tell him, tears now pouring down your face. Andy glares at you. “Well thats a problem.” You freeze, your heart suddenly stops as your breath hitches. “What…?”

Andy scoffs, “Come on, (y/n), you didn’t actually think I loved you, did you?” He laughs, a new smirk forming on his lips. But you just feel like your whole world is shattering around you. “What…?” Andy groans, rolling his eyes. “Of course no one would believe you cheated, shit. Why would you?” He smirks to himself, “I’m gonna be honest with you, at least this once.” He leans down a bit so he’s at your level. “I’ve cheated on you, with a couple of different girls. All on the cheer squad, all your friends.” Your breath hitches, fresh tears falling down your face. “But… but at the lake you… you said you loved me…” your voice is soft, hardly audible. He laughs at you.

Andy scoffs, “Come on, (y/n), you didn’t actually think I loved you, did you?” He laughs, a new smirk forming on his lips. But you just feel like your whole world is shattering around you. “What…?” Andy groans, rolling his eyes. “Of course no one would believe you cheated, shit. Why would you?” He smirks to himself, “I’m gonna be honest with you, at least this once.” He leans down a bit so he’s at your level. “I’ve cheated on you, with a couple of different girls. All on the cheer squad, all your friends.” Your breath hitches, fresh tears falling down your face. “But… but at the lake you… you said you loved me…” your voice is soft, hardly audible. He laughs at you.

“I lied, (y/n). It’s easy to do it to get what you want, even when I guess the girl is stupid enough to get herself knocked up from it.” You sniffle rubbing your palms over your eyes to get rid of your tears. “But… it takes two…” you mumble. He breaths in harshly, “No. It takes one girl being stupid by being active without being on birth control.” He glares at you. “It’s your own fault, Babe. Not mine.” He chuckles, “maybe if you weren’t such a whore this wouldn’t have happened.”

You stare at him in disbelief as the cars of your friends pull up. “You better leave.” His voice catches you off guard once more, “best tell them we ended it rather than let them know the truth huh?”

It’s been three weeks, you sit in the medical bed, your mother screaming at the gynecologists as they try to calm your mother down. “Ma’am, please. The operation was successful. There is no need to yell.” You mother’s face just gets more red. “No, the reason to yell was when my 17 year old daughter decided to have sex before getting on birth control!” Her head whips towards you but you don’t look at her, keeping your eyes looking out the window, your hand on your stomach. “Miss (l/n)?” A nurse smiles at you getting your attention. “Are you ok?” She asks. You expression is numb, your voice is monotoned, it worries them. “I’m fine.” You reply. “Mom, can we go home…?” You ask, your hand dropping into your lap. It’s not like it was rubbing anything anymore, anyway. As they said, it was successful.

You should be happy, thankful even. Your life isn’t uprooted or drastically changing. But it has, your friends don’t talk to you anymore, Andy made up some shit about you and now the entire team and cheer squad hates you. Chrissy wont even look at you.

It was just three weeks ago that your heart was shattered in that parking lot of Benny’s, two since your mother brought you in and you first saw that clump of cells in your belly on that monitor, and now today, when they showed you that screen again, now empty. You should be happy.

But you’re not. How could you be? You were thinking you would tell your boyfriend and somehow, some fucking miracle he would become that perfect boyfriend. He should have held you, told you everything was gonna be ok, that you would raise it together. But no. Here you are inside a planned parenthood nearly forty miles away from your home.

Your mother practically drags out to the front desk, her hand squeezing your wrist tightly. “Mom, please, you’re hurting me…” you tell her, trying to pull her clawed fingers off your wrist. “Oh I’m hurting you?” She signs the papers and drags you out to the car. “Ungrateful! Had the perfect boyfriend, perfect future husband and you wasted it away!” “Mom, I didn’t-” “Hah! When your father hears about this-” your eyes widen, “No, Mom, please! I’m sorry, just don’t tell Dad. It’s already taken care of we don’t need to get him involved!” You practically beg her, the fear of your dad making you grasp at her.

She told him.

You got home the next day from school and we’re greeted with a slap across the face. “You bitch!” Your dad yells at you, grabbing at your hair and pulling you outside, “You think that kind of behavior is acceptable in this house. Fucking hell no.” Your mother stands behind him, arms crossed. “Get the hell out!” He throws you back out the front door, “and don’t come back. You fucking filthy whore! Get out!”

You wandered the streets of Hawkins until you found yourself on the cliff of Stattler Quarry. As you stared down into the water bellow, maybe a couple hound red feet under you, you could practically taste the release. You step closer to the edge, your sadness being the most prominent thing in your brain. You wonder how deep it is down there, 20, maybe 30 feet?

You could do it. You could just walk off the edge, no one would miss you. Not your “friends,” not your mom nor your dad, Andy would probably joke about it at your funeral, if there even was one.

You wonder if it would hurt, if the slap of your body against the water’s surface would sting at all.

“Hey,” a voice calls out to you and you swiftly turn around. The one person you never expected to see stands there. Eddie Munson stands a good ten feet away from you, his hands out defensively. “Don’t come any closer!” You yell at him. “Don’t do it.” He tells you, his voice soft, “That’s a long drop, the collision would feel like your skin was being ripped off.” He takes a step closer and you heart races, setting father to the edge.

He glances around. “I’m telling you it’s not a good way to go. I know right now it probably looks promising, like a clean fresh start. But it’s like jumping straight into a bucket of ice.” He elaborates. You hesitate, “How do you know? You don’t get it!” Eddie takes a deep breath, taking a single step closer to you.

“I’ve dived into that water before, (l/n). Sure not the same circumstances, but I promise it hurt enough to make me never do it again.” He takes another step. “And what if I don’t care?” You ask him. He gives you a soft smile. “I heard you know, about what happened. Andy’s a dick, we all know it.” You let out a soft laugh, “He wasn’t always. That’s the point! He only became a dick to me after.” Eddie holds out his hand to you, which makes you step farther to the edge, so he recoils.

“Hey, hey, it’s ok. I know you’re scared. Everything feels really shitty right now, but,” Eddie stares at you as you turn to look away from him back over the cliff, “look at me, (y/n).” You look at him, your eyes wide with fear and he feels like his heart is breaking. No matter how cruel your friends were to him, he never thought you were a bad person. He’s not the type of person to wish death upon you because of your shitty friends. Hell especially not this way.

“Just…” he holds out his hand to you, slower this time not to startle you, “take my hand. We’ll get you down from there and we can go, I don’t know. Get a milkshake?” He chuckles softly and you eyes soften at the suggestion. “I can’t go back to school, Eddie.”

His eyes widen when you say his name. To be entirely honest, he had no idea you even knew his name.

“It’s ok, you don’t have to right away, but you will eventually. I know I’m not the best person to say this, but dropping out isn’t a great idea.” He chuckles lightly. For the first time in your life it wasn’t a chuckle you ignored, his words reach you now more than anything he’s ever said had before.

“Hey,” Eddie grabs your attention again, wiggling his fingers to bring your attention to his hand that’s still reaching out to you, “when you do decide to go back,” he smiles at you, “I’ll be right there with you, trust me they’ll pay more attention to the freak than an ex cheerleader.” You feel yourself laugh a bit, not because he said something funny, because what he said oddly gave you a sense of relief. Not because he was the ‘freak’ but because he said he would be there. You slowly reach out to his hand, going to step down from the rock you were standing on.

Just before you could grab him your foot slips. In those few seconds you realize you weren’t ready to die, your scream was probably heard miles out. But you never felt much air. Eddie had grabbed you so fast you didn’t even notice it, pulling you quickly away from the edge and against him, back on solid ground.

“Hey hey, it’s ok. I’ve got you.” He rubs his hand against the back of your hair, your sobs are muffled by his shirt as you cry, harder than you have ever cried before.

He stands there letting you cry it out against him, before pulling you even farther away from the edge, slowly getting you closer and closer to his van. “Here,” he opens the passenger side door and helps you inside, letting you get comfortable, or at least as comfortable as you could get with how tense you look. He buckled you in, pulling the seatbelt over your shoulder and lap, making sure it sits comfortably on you.

After getting into the drivers side he watches you carefully as you finally start to calm down, rubbing your eyes with your sleeves. He gives you a minute before holding out his hand to you. You look at him confused and he smiles. “I just… thought you would like to feel grounded.” He explains.

You lay your hand in his, your fingers locking perfectly together and you feel yourself smile. His hand is rough, something you didn’t notice before. You knew he played guitar, his band being talks about quite often amongst your group of ‘friends’ when making fun of him. You never realized until now how fucked up your friends were, how their idea of this guy was so misguided.

“Thanks…” your voice came out soft, and his hand squeezed your as he pulled out of the quarry, leading you both the an ice cream parlor for those promised milkshakes.

It had been a month since that faithful day, the day you realized the ‘freak’ was actually the nicest guy in all of Hawkins. He was calm, made sure you were comfortable, and didn’t bring up the subject ever again.

“Eds,” you had started calling him the nickname shortly after you moved in with him, his room becoming yours as he moved to the living room with his uncle. You were heavily against the idea of taking his room when he gave it to you. Obviously you could go home, but you were willing to sleep on the couch until you could get in contact with your aunt or cousins.

“Can we get some of these?” You hold up the container of Planter’s Cheez Balls. They were one of your newer favorite snacks. He laughs a bit, “sure, put ‘em in the cart.” You do so, throwing the snack in.

After finishing your grocery shopping, you make it back to his trailer, bringing all the bags in from his van. “Is Wayne working tonight?” You ask him, emptying out the bags on the counter before putting things away. “Yeah,” Eddie joins you, sitting the remaining bags down on the counter, “He said he’s gonna be at work until 7am tomorrow, so we need to figure out dinner on our own.” He helps you empty out the bags and put away all the groceries. When you finish, you both plop down on the couch, his arm behind your head as he turns on the tv. You pop open the container of cheese balls in your lap.

“Open up,” you hold a ball in between your index and thumb, turning towards him. He tilts his head back and opens his mouth, you throw, and the ball lands safely in his mouth, “good catch!” He smiles as you giggle happily continuing to eat your snack. He puts on a movie he knows you will like, before getting comfy into the couch cushions. You lean into him subconsciously. He stiffens up, shocked by you leaning in, which makes you freeze, “Sorry…” you go to pull away but his arm throws over your shoulders and holds you close to him. “Nothing to be sorry about, sweetheart.” He smiles at you, laying his head against yours. You smile as you both sit there on the couch, snuggled up together.

Eddie is very different than Andy was. Andy could be rude, refuse to cuddle you when you desperately wanted physical affection, but Eddie doesn’t. He leans into it, he may be a bit taken aback at first, but he doesn’t stop you, he encourages it.

About half way through the movie you catch yourself not watching anymore, glancing at the man you know would call your best friend, honestly he’s your only friend now. “Eddie,” you grab his attention, making him turn to you. “What’s up?” “Thank you.” He looks at you confused, “For what?” You smile at him. “Everything, you took me in, saved me from doing something stupid, told me everything was gonna be ok, and it has been, because you made it ok.”

Your words hit him hard, and he stares at you for a moment, “(y/n), I…” he hesitates, removing his arm from around you and turning so his full body is turned to you, making you a little anxious. “I don’t need a thank you, I did what any decent person would do. You don’t need to thank me for that.” “But I want to!” You practically yell at him, you hands balling up into fists and pressing against your chest. You know you look like a kid right now, but you don’t care. “I want to thank you…”

Eddie smiles and leans forward pressing his lips to your forehead, “Well then, you’re welcome. I’m glad you’re still with us, Sweetheart.” You blush at his physical affection, your cheeks burning as he pulls away, and you realize something. You like Eddie. You like him way more than you thought possible. “Eddie,”

He looks at you a little concerned seeing your scrunched forehead. “Yeah?” “I-I like you…” Eddie freezes, his heart racing as the words left your lips, those soft pink lips he’s been dreaming of kissing for the past few weeks.

Maybe it was the way you looked when he bought you that milkshake that day after he found you at the quarry, the soft smile you had as you excepted the treat. Maybe it’s the way you would jump up and down with joy when he bought you your favorite movie for you to watch together after a week of you living with him. Maybe it was the way you hugged him when you cried, remembering the fact that you weren’t alone anymore.

Maybe… maybe it was the way he wanted to be there for you for the rest of your life that makes him say his next words. “I love you…”

Your head tilted up, eyes wide when the words left him. “Y-You what…?” You eyes watering as you stare at him. “I love you, (y/n). I know you said you ‘like me’ but maybe given some more time-“ you cut him off, your lips smashing into his, practically falling on top of him. His arms throw around your waist, pulling you close to him as he kisses you back. It was everything you both had dreamt of, soft, sweet, and dreamy.

Tag List!

@cagethemunson @spikeybatt @cherrycolas-things

@r-a-d-i-0-n-0-w-h-e-r-e

[ticklygiggles]

Summer fun | Tengen + his wives & Rengoku Kyojuro

Collab with sweetest @otomiya-tickles

A/N: Another amazing and precious collab with my bestest girl Ginny! I had lots of fun as always baby, thank you for being so patient with me. I love you!

Summary: Rengoku gets invited to a summer tradition by Tengen and he hopes this tradition involves lots of water and summery fun, but... are they only having a picnic?! How boring!

Words: 2k

Rengoku was humming to himself. He tightened the straps of the bag that he had hanging on his back and felt a funny sensation swirling inside his chest, his smile widening with excitement.

He was happy. 

It had been a long time since he felt like this- he couldn't deny that he always felt happy to see Senjurou after a long time, his little brother was the light of his life, but seeing Senjurou meant that he had to go back home, and coming back to that place always made him feel… awkward, melancholic and sad.

He also felt happy every time he killed a demon, but mixed with that little moment of ecstasy, there was always that feeling of utter sadness, thinking of all the innocent lives this creature had taken with its own hands and fangs, killing them for nothing but its own entertainment.

So he knew what happiness was, but it was always accompanied by a feeling of guilt and sadness, but right at that moment, he truly felt happy, excited even. He was not used to it and he couldn't help but feel a bit nauseous and lightheaded, but he tried to embrace it, and thinking about the lots of fun he would have that day made him feel even better. 

He chuckled to himself and his pace quickened. The weather was getting better, summer arriving at its own pace, making days longer and nights shorter. Rengoku always liked the summer: swimming, festivals, water battles; nice, fresh beverages and sweet, juicy watermelons. 

Summer was the perfect time to enjoy time together with friends and family, so when Tengen invited him earlier that week to be part of a little summer tradition he had with his wives, Rengoku couldn't help but accept the invitation right away. Tengen told him to be in a certain place at a certain hour, and as he made his way over there, he wondered what kind of activities they would do. He couldn't wait to get into fresh water and maybe even catch some fish to eat later!

He grinned. Oh, he was sure they were going to have lots… of… fun? 

Eh?

"Ah! Rengoku-san! Over here!" Suma waved at him and three heads turned over to look at him, warm smiles on their faces. 

They were sitting in the grass beneath big trees, a cozy looking picnic stalled out before them.

“You’re here,” Tengen greeted when Rengoku approached them. Rengoku smiled brightly as he scanned the scene. There was some food, like not necessarily summer-food, just plain lunch which did look delicious but…

“Ah, so we will eat lunch first! And then the summer tradition, right?” Rengoku said, putting down his bag and sitting down between them. 

“Hehe, this is the summer tradition, dummy!” Suma said playfully. 

“It’s our summer picnic. We’ve been wanting to invite you before but you were always busy,” Makio explained as she handed Rengoku a small bowl of rice. 

“A picnic, right here?” he asked, looking around. He couldn’t deny it, they definitely chose a pretty place. But it was just a park? No lake? No beach? He didn’t want to say it. He didn’t want to. He didn’t want to….!

“That’s so boring!” Aaaah! Stupid mouth! Rengoku even smiled brightly when he said it. 

“Eh?” Suma said, and she cocked her head. “Did you just say boring?” 

“Let’s pretend we didn’t hear that! He won’t be bored when he tastes your delicious homemade food,” Tengen said brightly, placing some more food in Rengoku’s direction. 

“It’s delicious!” Rengoku chirped with his mouth full. But he was still bored! 

“What is even inside that bag?” Makio asked, pointing at Rengoku’s bag that was now resting in the grass with its contents useless for this summer tradition.

Rengoku hummed, swallowing a mouthful of food before smiling brightly at them, opening his bag and pulling out the insides to show them.

“I bought everything for summer fun,” he said with a rather sarcastic tone for someone like him, making Tengen bark out a laugh. “Look, here I have a towel, this ointment to protect your skin from the sun, and look! I even brought my swimwear!” He pulled out a pair of short pants that were, strangely, the exact same pattern of his haori. "However, it's a shame I won't get to use them just because you guys have this… really boring tradition."

Tengen laughed again as Hinatsuru chuckled awkwardly. "N-Now, Rengoku-san, we'll have plenty of fun, I assure you," she said with a kind smile and Rengoku looked at her with a smile too, but he knew that Hinatsuru was wrong. This was just boring. 

"Yes, Rengoku-san!" Said Makio, placing another bento box between Rengoku's hands. "Isn't the weather nice here? And the food is also very good, isn't it? We even have salt grilled bream, isn't it your favorite?"

She was basically pushing the fish into his mouth, so Rengoku opened his lips to let her do so. Instantly, there was an explosion of salty flavors inside his mouth that made his taste buds tingle and his mouth water as he chewed on the fish enthusiastically. 

The weather was nice, yes. He couldn't deny that they had chosen quite the place to make their summer picnic. The food was also fantastic, he hoped they kept refilling his bento boxes, but this was not what he was expecting. 

He didn't want to sound like a spoiled child, but perhaps he really wanted to go to the beach and have a water war, but he shouldn't act this rude, right? 

"Delicious!" He exclaimed again, wanting to avert the conversation from that topic as he kept himself busy, eating happily. Tengen’s wives seemed relieved to see him enjoying himself and they continued to eat and chat as well. However, Tengen’s eyes were on him for quite a while, and Rengoku wasn’t very sure why.

“Is there anything on my face?” he asked merrily, accidentally losing some food since he was talking with his mouth full. He quickly wiped it off his robes, leaving only a minor stain, and he licked his fingers clean.

Tengen chuckled and shook his head. “No. I’m just worried you’re not really enjoying yourself here, and that we might have burdened you by inviting you to this picnic,” he said.

Rengoku gasped and shook his head. “Not a burden! No, no!” he cried.

“Perhaps we could think of something that will make you enjoy yourself more? Ladies?” Tengen asked his wives for support. Oh oh? Like going somewhere for a swim? Rengoku watched them hopefully.

“Really, even if I’m just a little bored, don’t feel forced to HYa!” Rengoku jumped when Suma suddenly leaned over and pierced his side with her finger.

“You mean this, Tengen-Sama?” she asked sweetly, poking Rengoku again and making him shriek and jump to the side. The other side where Makio’s finger was awaiting him, also poking his side and tickling him.

“Exactly,” Tengen encouraged them with a smile. Rengoku clenched his lunch box in his hand and cackled.

“Hey! Hehehey what are we dohohoing?” He danced awkwardly in between them, but they kept poking him, a pink blush spreading across his cheeks. 

Oh, this sensation. It had been a while, he didn't even think he was still ticklish, but it seemed that he was, the gentle pokes were making him laugh so much already and he tried to not drop his precious lunch box, but then Hinatsuru gently took it away from between his hands and Rengoku laughed when Suma's fingers turned those gentle pokes into firm squeezes against his lower ribs.

"Wahahait!" He laughed, pulling his arms tightly against his sides and bending over, his forehead almost touching the blanket where they all sat. "N-Nohohoho! I'm tihihihicklihish!" 

"Oh? Are you now?" Tengen teased, making his wives giggle playfully. "I'm sure you're not so bored anymore, huh?"

Rengoku lifted his head to look at Tengen. Little tears were already present at the corners of his eyes and a big, bright smile pulled at his lips. 

"I m-mehehean, y-you ahaha-are f-fohohorcihing me to lahahaugh so- ahahaha! I'm sohohohorry!" 

He flopped onto the blanket when he felt thumbs digging into the back of his ribs, loud laughter poured out of him as he turned onto his back. 

"Oh-uh, not a good choice," Hinatsuru said with a big grin on her face and soon Rengoku found out why he had made a huge mistake. 

Four hands viciously tickled his exposed torso. Clawing at his tummy, squeezing his sides, digging into his ribs and even pinching his hips all at full speed. 

“Lahahadies! Plehehease! Wahahah!” he howled, curling up, flopping and thrashing in between them.

“Watch the feet, girls,” Tengen said, casually leaning back when Rengoku almost kicked his lunch from his hands. He was so mean!

Makio was the first to get up while Suma continued to attack Rengoku’s torso. She sat down on top of his legs to pin them down effectively, and while she was at it…

“Nonono nohoho!” Rengoku cried when she took off his sandals so she could tickle his feet. Tengen laughed at this too, impressed by her move. Not only were Rengoku’s kicking feet and legs no longer a threat, they also proved to be pretty good tickle spots for her to torture. 

Giggling, Makio tickled his feet and also tested the sensitivity of his legs, scribbling her skilful fingers all over his calves and the back of his knees before returning to his ticklish feet.

“Rengoku-san is ticklish all over!” Suma observed from the other side. Her fingers were still massaging Rengoku’s sides and ribs and it tickled! so! bad!

“HEeeheheheee! I cahahan’t! Ahahahah! It tihiihicklehehees!” he roared. Little tears had already become big tears as they dripped down his flushed cheeks.

He had forgotten he was this ticklish! He sure had his fair share of tickle fights with Senjurou, (that would last only a few seconds before their father would snap at their loud laughter), and he had also had some tickly moments with Kanroji Mitsuri every now and then, but he couldn't remember the last time he was tickled like this! 

Tengen's wives were vicious in their attack, and strong enough to pin him nicely so he could barely do anything to stop them. Their nimble fingers would find their way through all of his defenses and he could only throw his head back with intense laughter. 

It was a little embarrassing that he couldn't stop them, but at the same time he thought… that was a little fun. The little ache he felt in the muscles of his stomach from laughing and the ache at his cheeks and the funny sensation making his brain feel fuzzy. It all felt nice. He felt nice to let go and just… laugh. Truly laugh. 

"It looks like you also want to join." Rengoku heard Tengen say and knew he was talking to Hinatsuru, who was still beside her husband, looking at the scene in front of her with a smile and flushed cheeks. 

"Would that be okay?" She asked and Rengoku shrieked out a laugh, shaking his head. 

"N-Nohohoho! Hi-Hihihinahahatsuru-sahahan! Hehehelp mehehe!" He said through his laughter, jerking heavily when Suma found a weak spot in the middle of his stomach, around his belly button and Makio's long nails had settled underneath his toes, carefully scratching at the tenderness of his skin. 

Tengen laughed, a bit too excited by Rengoku's reactions. "Of course it's okay! Tell you what, we'll both join in~'

The sudden movement of both Tengen and Hinatsuru advancing on him actually disturbed all of the tickle chaos that was going on. Suma and Makio leaned back to make space for them, and Rengoku’s sudden kick and wild move shook them right off him - and before any of them could grab him, he got on all fours and started running, messing up the last of the picnic blanket as he kicked his way into freedom. 

Not that he came far, of course.

“HEHehehe Tehehengen wahahah!” he cackled when Tengen caught up to him quickly, wrapping one arm around his middle and dragging him back down. 

“Now where are you going huh?” he growled playfully. The others followed suit, and while Tengen dug with crazy madness into his sensitive sides and ribs, he felt how the soft delicate and feminine touches returned to his other tickle spots. Laying on his stomach, his feet were turned upwards and could be perfectly targeted by ten flexible fingers.

He could smell the sweet fragance he noted to be Suma’s as she kneeled down by his side where she pried one of his arms out of the way to tickle his underarm. Another tickled his neck and ears with her long tickly nails. Ah yes. Rengoku was really getting tickled to death by the four of them.

"NAHAHAT THEHERE!" He pleaded and he could hear Tengen and the girls laughing above him. 

"Now, you gotta be more specific," Tengen said, clawing at the back of Rengoku's ribs, making him cackle like a mad man. "We're tickling you pretty much everywhere, where could 'there' be? Your feet?" 

At the mention of that spot, Rengoku felt the tickling intensifying, especially under his toes and the balls of his feet. He tried to kick his legs, but they were pinned by Makio. 

"Or maybe your legs?" Tengen asked again and Rengoku couldn't help but focus on those maddening squeezes to his inner thighs and the quick scribbles to the back of his knees from Hinatsuru's gentle hands. 

"Plehehease, I'll dihihie!" 

"Or maybe right here on your hips?" Tengen continued, his own fingers moving down to squeeze at Rengoku's hips, making him dance, trying to dislodge Tengen's hands from his hips. "Or your sides? Stomach? Ribs?" 

Rengoku's face was on fire. The pleading had died down and he could only laugh his head off as he squirmed weakly, jolting every time Tengen moved to a different spot and shrieking when he dug his fingers into his sensitive skin. 

"Or maybe under your arms or neck?"

Suma's fingers were very present under his arm, wiggling and digging into the middle of his armpits, making him laugh in hysterics, bubbly giggles mixing in-between when he felt long fingernails gliding across his neck and ears. 

"EHEHEVERYWHEHERE!" Rengoku laughed, snorting and scrunching his nose up adorably. 

Tengen laughed at that, a low and charming sound, but Rengoku could barely hear any of it as his own shrieking laughter surrounded all of them.

“Alright, that’s enough entertainment I think. His voice is doing things,” Tengen noted the pitchy and gaspy noises Rengoku was making, and finally, all fingers stopped tickling him and they moved off him so he could breathe like a normal person. Rengoku rolled on his back and sighed.

“You guys!” he whined, but he spread his arms and breathed out. Woah. He hadn’t laughed that much in…. forever? 

“I don’t think he is bored anymore,” Suma giggled.

“But surely he’s feeling a little hot now,” Hinatsuru said.

“Even I am feeling hot, bwaha!” Makio laughed. Rengoku panted and wheezed. He felt a little hot and sweaty indeed after all that. 

“Then… how about we skip desserts and go for a swim after all? We’re not near a beach, but I know a lake that’s pretty close,” Tengen suggested. Rengoku gasped and lifted his head, staring at him with wide and sparkly eyes.

“REALLY?” he squeaked, his voice still hoarse. Tengen smiled and held out his hand.

“You deserve a refreshing dive into the water. We all do. You’re right, it’s summer after all,” he said, helping Rengoku get back on his feet. 

Rengoku was nearly dancing in excitement, his smile blinding as he quickly helped get everything ready for their departure to the lake, not without letting out some ridiculous squeaks and giggles as he was victim of some sneaky pokes and squeezes to his sides and ribs by those extremely playful ladies. 

This was fun. Even being tickled until he was sweating was fun. And he was sure they all would have lots of fun once they arrived at the lake because what’s summer without a water fight? Rengoku was excited and happy.

He wished he could feel like that all the time…

“C’mon, Rengoku,” Tengen patted his back and pulled gently at his clothes. “Weren’t you so excited about the lake? Let’s go!” 

“A-Ah,” Rengoku said, looking at his companions, all ready to have his so wanted summer fun. He chuckled, smiling brightly at them. “Yes, let’s go!”

He knew he couldn’t always feel this happy, but right now, he was going to indulge into this wonderful sensation and enjoy every second of it with these friends of his!

“Hurry up, Rengoku-san,” Makio said, smiling brightly. “Or else we’ll tickle you again.”

Rengoku laughed, “I am not even ticklish!” He laughed brightly when suddenly four hands reached out to tickle him at the same time. “Fihihine! Lehehet’s huhurry uhuhup!”

Ah yes, he was going to enjoy himself to the fullest!

[fashion-whore]

The Man He Sees in Me LS2

He’s Spider-Man in Walmart boots and a camouflage hat.

It was summer break and the Sargeant family was back in Florida spending time with both of their families. The youngest Sargeant Hunter, was running around pretending to be Spider-Man in his brand new boots that his mom knew were going to get ruined in a matter of days. His favorite hat resting on his head, his daddy had bought it for him and he rarely took it off especially if his daddy was away for a race.

“Daddy, look at me I’m Spider-Man.” Little hunter yelled as he jumped off of the play set in the back yard.

With a baby blue Zebco that gets hung up every cast.

He thinks he’s learning fishing from the man that taught Bill Dance.

“Okay buddy, so you remember what Daddy told you last time we went fishing.” Logan said after he untangled Hunters line for the first time that morning. They were on the lake for the first time this summer, Hunter loved hanging out with his dad, especially if they were anywhere near the water. Splashing in the water as he waited for his dad to hand him his fishing rod.

Hunter nodded his little head making his blond hair fall into his face. “To have fun, but daddy I want to catch a fishy.” He said with a little pout in his face.

“I know buddy, we are going to try our best to catch you a fishy.” Logan said putting his hand on Hunter’s head, before handing him the fish ing pole.

I hope he never finds out that I didn’t hang the moon

And I’ve never scared a monster out the closet in his room

Knock. Knock. Is all Hunter heard from his closet. The small dark space that scared him more than anything in the middle of the night. Even his night light couldn’t prevent him from crying out for his parent. He felt frozen on his head just waiting for whatever was in his closet to come get him. “MOMMY, DADDY” he let out the most gut wrenching scream.

You were the first to react to your babies scream it absolutely terrified you the sound that came out of his mouth. In an instant you were in his room with Logan right behind you. Once you were close enough Hunter jumped into your arms hiding his face in your neck. You can feel the tears from his face wetting your skin as you try to comfort your terrified child.

“Hunter baby what’s wrong.” You say as calmly as you can still trying to get your heart rate under control from his scream.

“Monster” Is the only thing that he says pointing toward the closet. You look over at Logan not knowing what else to do to help your crying child. Logan starts to make his way towards Hunter’s closet when he whimpers in your arms not wanting his daddy to get close to the monster. As Logan went to touch the door handle Hunter tucked his head further into your neck.

“Don’t worry buddy, Daddy’s not going to let the monster hurt you.” Logan stated as he opened the closet door before walking into the small space. “I don’t know what you are doing in here but you need to leave. You aren’t welcome in this house.” Logan made some kind of knocking in the closet making it seem like the monster was leaving before loudly saying “ And stay out.”

Once Logan walked back out of the closet Hunter finally looked back up seeing his dad unharmed. He reached his arms out for his dad to grab him to thank him from scaring the monster away. Seeing the way Logan would do anything to prevent his son from being scared made you realize that you couldn’t have picked a better man to spend the rest of your life with.

He waves that blanket like the checkered flag pullin' offa the interstate

With a Happy Meal cup held high like I won the big race

When we get home, his mind is blown when I untie his shoes

And he smiles and says, "Daddy, there ain't nothin' you can't do"

Hunter loved being in the car especially going fast. That’s why the two of them often drove around when you needed some time to yourself. Logan would usually stop and get Hunter a happy meal for lunch during their outings. Every time Logan pulled off of the highway Hunter would cheer as if they came in first on a Grand Prix weekend. While Logan may not know the joy of winning a Grand Prix he doesn’t need it when he sees the joy on his child’s face while he was doing a simple task.

In Hunter’s eyes Logan was everything that he wanted to be. He loved watching his daddy drive around and help him with anything that he didn’t understand. He was Logan’s little buddy that was like a shadow to him following him around wanting to do anything that Logan did. He could do no wrong in his child’s eyes.

Note:

This is my first attempt at writing anything please be kind.

-M

[fizzyfizu]

Accursed in the Lake’s Depths

THE ARCHIVES ₊˚.༄

(MASTERLIST)

Prolouge:

      It is common knowledge that at the start of every term in Hogwarts, a short speech is held by the headmaster to welcome back students.  But one thing that the students have noticed is that ever since Armando Dippet was headmaster—it is always mentioned that if you're looking for a place to study or hang out, the Black Lake is a great place to do such things; since then the Black Lake has become even more littered with students.  But the sudden mention of the lake caused the rise of rumours related to it on why the sudden interest, courtesy of bored students.  One of the most popular rumours involves a girl who disappeared from Hogwarts grounds in her 4th year decades ago.  The tale goes that the girl has been bound to the bottom of the lake as punishment for something she had done, what she did is still speculated though, and that Dippet encourages students to congregate around the Black Lake to further punish her—as if to show her what she is missing out on if only she didn't do what she had done.

Chapter 1.1 - A Late Start

Summary: - After being woken up by Dobby 10 minutes before the start of the 2nd task, Harry finds himself rushing to get to the venue. The venue being the Black Lake, otherwise known as the Great Lake. Once again thanks to Dobby, Harry is now in the possession of more than enough gillyweed to last him the full 1 hour limit.

Chapter 1.2 - A Cold Reception, Literally

Summary: - Professor Moody approaches Harry to ask for an update on his game plan, and much to his pleasure, Harry has one. After Bagman's count, Harry enters the cold, freezing waters. For a moment he panics, but after a few moments he finds himself mentally thanking Dobby profusely.

Chapter 1.3 - An Odd Discovery

Summary: - Harry finds himself in a thick grove of seaweed and murky waters. Yet, even with low vision, he saw glimpses of multiple merpeople who were clearly guarding something. Wrongly assuming the merpeople to be guarding the task, he ventures deeper, eventually finding himself in a clearing. What he found made him question the clue given to him, but he pushed those thoughts aside and went to retrieve his discovery anyways.

Chapter 2.1 - The Taste of Freedom

Summary: - You have finally been freed from your temporary prison. While being carried by Harry (who thinks you are still unconscious), you decide that you cant wait to feel what it feels like to move again anymore and stop the act. The two of you exchange incredibly awkward greetings for the first time.

Chapter 2.2 - Thanks & Introductions

Summary: - After Harry helps you to your feet once more, you find it within yourself to be the icebreaker between you two as the situation gets increasingly awkward. After exchanging names, you offer your thanks, during all this you notice the student-packed stands in the near distance. Harry is immediately surrounded by his friends and Dumbledore requests that you make a visit to his office soon.

Chapter 3 - Fawley? F-A-W-L-E-Y

Summary: - After being dismissed, you finally get to buddying up with Harry's friends. After a short introduction from Ron, Hermione bombards you with questions, some being concerningly..close. She decides to wrap up her ramble after Ron's interruption, and it's decided that the four of them will make their way to the great hall for lunch. Guess you'll have to postpone the meeting with Dumbledore..

Chapter 4.1 - Navigate Through Hogwarts

Summary: - You excuse yourself from the group as the four of you near the great hall, you start to navigate yourself through Hogwarts, during the process you run into Peeves (and get drenched). You also run into the Fat Friar, who helps lead you to Dumbledore's office.

Chapter 4.2 - Discussions with Dumbledore

Summary: - You are finally going to smoothen things out with Dumbledore. After admiring his office for a few moments, you start discussing future plans now that you are no longer restrained in the Black Lake.

Chapter 5 - Trouble with the Caretaker

Summary: - After taking your time to freshen up in your new dorm room, you decide to roam around the school to refresh your memory. You end up getting caught by Hogwarts' caretaker.

[bibewilderedandbuck]

Because this poll is doing so well

Ok imagine Tommy starts hanging out with chimney and hen bc he missed them and didn’t realize how much until he sees Hen at the gym and she invites him over after or sees Chim out grocery shopping and they get lunch and he just realizes that they are just like Really Good People that he missed having in his life

Sort of how he hung out w eddie like five times in the span of two weeks after meeting him. Tommy has spent so much of his life letting good opportunities pass him by and bad people push him around that he finally decided, fuck it if/when i see something good I will chase it

Thats the same thought that had him ending the date early with buck, he doesn’t think less of buck and he certainly would love to go out again. But he’s not pushing someone out of the closest. He’s not waiting for a good thing to maybe happen down the line. Tommy wants to be openly loved. He wants to walk down the street holding hands and do cutesy couple things. Hell if Tommy didn’t tell Eddie about the boat on the lake i would be shocked.

ANYWAY, i was going somewhere with this….

Buck starts to get jealous of Hen and Chimney and they have a heart to heart about why Tommy wants good people around. BECAUSE he let some pretty awful people and ideas steer him wrong for so long. and maybe thats how Buck gets the idea to take a swing at Gerrard when he sees him.

[delayed-affection]

Just Friends

Navigation   Oneshots

Cole Caufield x reader

Warnings: None (I think)

Word count: 1.3k

You and Cole lay in his bed, his head on your stomach. You start to stroke his hair, feeling the softness of it between your fingers.

He closes his eyes and you feel a sense of peace. You feel so connected to him in that moment, and it's a feeling you never want to lose.

You stay like that for a while, both of you just enjoying the moment and soaking in each other's company. You both know that no matter what happens, you'll always be there for each other.

The moment doesn’t last too long, his phone starts to ring, it’s Nick. He picks up the FaceTime but doesn’t move his head off of you.

Nick is telling him some news, but he is too focused on you to fully comprehend what he is saying. You can hear the excitement in Nick's voice, but it is hard to understand with your headphones on.

He finally pulls away and stands up, turning his back to you and continuing to talk to Nick. He turns around and looks at you with a huge grin, and you can see the joy and excitement in his eyes.

He hangs up the phone and tells you the news, “Nick proposed to Caitlin!”

“Shut up!” You exclaims taking off your headphones, “What did she say?”

“She said yes!” He cheers

You both erupt into laughter and celebration. You can’t help but feel happy for him and excited for the future. You both hug and you can feel the joy radiating from his body.

You both know that this is the start of something special and you can’t help but feel a little bit giddy.

You pull away when your phone starts to ring, it’s Caitlin.

~

A few days later

You and Cole pull up to a restaurant to meet up with Nick and Caitlin. Cole has been smiling since he’s heard the news and honestly it might take a week or two for him to calm down.

Cole holds your hand, pulling you over to the restaurant, where they’re waiting to be seated. Caitlin is quick to spot you guys, jumping out of her seat and pulls you into a hug.

You’ve known her for awhile, she was the one to introduce you to Cole. She never anticipated that you guys would’ve hit it off like you did. But she’s not mad about it, she honestly hoping that you two get together.

She pulls you down to sit next to her, making the boys stand in front of you two.

You hold your hand out to her, “Let me see!”

She places her hand in yours, “It’s perfect.” She gushes, “Everything he did was perfect.”

You look at the ring on her finger, “Took him long enough.” You tease

“I know, right?” She jokes

“Hey, I wanted to make it special.” Nick argues

Two kids, no older than nine, walk over to you guys with their parents. “Can we get a picture with you guys?” They ask

“Yeah, of course.” Nick answers

They move to the side and make small talk with them.

Caitlin turn to look at you, “Is there something you want to tell me?”

You give her a confused look, “No, why?”

“What do you mean, no?” She asks, “Cole looked pretty cozy laying on you the other day, not to mention he was holding your hand when you came in here.”

You softly laugh, “We’re just friends, nothing more.”

She gives you a look telling you to be serious, “You spend more time with him than you do me, let alone anyone else. Not to mention you basically live with him at this point.”

The two of you watch as they take pictures with the boys.

You let your eyes linger on Cole, a well known feeling consumes you.

~

After lunch you and Cole head to a his spot near the lake.

You sit on the grass looking out at the water with Cole laying down next to you.

He pats the grass, “Lay down with me.”

You hesitate for a moment, but then decide to join him. You lay down next to Cole, feeling the soft grass beneath you and the warmth of his body beside yours.

The sky above is a canvas of blue with a few wisps of white clouds gently floating by. The breeze picks up, and you can feel the cool air brushing against your skin.

Cole turns his head towards you, and for a moment, his eyes lock onto yours. His gaze is warm and inviting, and you can't help but smile.

He breaks the silence, "You know, I've always loved coming here."

You nod in agreement, "I can see why, it’s very peaceful."

He continues, "I used to come here by myself but I felt like you would enjoy it here."

You look back at the water, watching the ripples dance across the surface. "Well thank you for sharing your spot with me."

Cole grins, "I wanted to share this place with you because, well, I feel like we connect on a deeper level. We can talk about anything and everything, and that's rare."

You blush slightly, feeling your heart swell with warmth. "I feel the same way, Cole. I'm really grateful for our friendship, you know?"

He reaches out and gently takes your hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Yeah, me too.”

Hearing you call it a friendship does something to him because he doesn’t want to be just friends.

His eyes flicker with a mix of surprise and disappointment, but he quickly tries to hide it. He laughs it off, attempting to make light of the situation.

 "Just friends? Well, I guess that's a good start, right?" he thinks to himself, forcing a smile. But you can tell there's a hint of sadness in his eyes. 

~

 It’s been a week and you both continue to spend time together, enjoying each other's company, but it seems like there's an unspoken tension between you.

As much as he tries to act like everything is fine, it's clear that he's struggling with the idea of just being friends.

He can’t take it anymore, he has to do something even if that nagging voice in is head is telling him that he’ll ruin everything.

He looks over to where you sit on his couch, taking a deep breath he sits next to you.

You look up from your phone and ask, “Hey, you ready to go?”

He shakes off his nerves, “Yeah but can we talk before we go?”

You turn in your seat to get a better look at him, “Yeah, is everything okay?”

He shrugs, “Yes- no- I don’t know.”

You give him a confused look.

He huffs, “I don’t wanna friends.”

Your face falls, “What?”

He places his hand on yours, “No, no, no. Not like that, never like that.”

“I want to be more than just friends.” He tells you

“Are you being serious?” You ask

“No not at all.” He says sarcastically, “It’s not like I look forward to seeing you after every game or that every time I see you I want to kiss you. Or the fact that I find everything about you absolutely mesmerizing. Don’t even get me started on the little things you do when you think no one’s watching.”

He continues on, “Oh, and it’s definitely not like I talk to my mom about you or that she asks about you more than me. Or the boys constantly chirping me about how much I talk about you.”

He takes a deep breath and looks at you for a response.

You smile but are unsure of how to put your own feelings into words.

“Is that a good smile or a bad smile?” He questions

You softly laugh at his worried look, “Good.”

He looks at you with eyes full of hope, “So…”

“We can be more than friends.” You say bringing your lips to his.

[musicmystics-world]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞

𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐆𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥 𝐱 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫

It’s the early hours of the morning. The sun peeking its way into my room through the curtains. Last night me and Phantom had a sleepover and after watching a bunch of movies, we fell asleep next to each other. I decide that it’s time I get up to start my day when I feel Phantom’s arm tighten around my waist. He mumbles, “Noooo, not yet.” I smile at him and say, “I have to get to my chores.” I try to push his arm off me, but he just tightens it more. He then mumbles, “5 more minutes.” I sigh and give in. As I’m lying next to him, I remember the day we met.

Phantom and I met a few days after him being summoned. I was on my way to Imperator’s office when I accidentally bumped into him. After a few minutes of just staring at his beautiful purple eyes, I broke out of the trance and quickly said ‘sorry’ and introduced myself. He looked at me with a smile and said, “I’m Phantom.” I smiled back at him and said, “It was nice meeting you, Phantom, but I really have to go.” I was about to start making my way to Imperator’s office when he grabbed my arm and nervously said, “Could we…. possibly……. hang out sometime?” I stared at him with a smile and said, “Sure.” He then let go of my arm and his tail started wagging profusely. I then said, “We could hang out after lunch.” He then said happily, “Great!!” I then started heading towards Imperator’s office and when I looked back I saw him still staring at me with a smile.

That happened 5 months ago. Ever since then, me and Phantom had gotten very close, always hanging out with each other. After lying in bed for what was supposed to be 5 minutes, which turned into 15. I decided to get up and as I did Phantom let out a whine. I start getting ready for the day, when Phantom comes up from behind me and puts his arms around my waist and his tail around my leg, and says, “Meet me down by the lake at 2:00PM.” I turn myself around to look at him. I then say, “Why?” He just stares at me with a smirk on his face and says, “It’s a surprise.” He then walks past me and I groan and say, “You know I hate surprises.” He just laughs and says, “I know, but trust me, you’ll like this one.” He then walks out of my room and heads to practice, while I finish getting ready for the day.

I’m sitting at my desk doing some paperwork for Sister Imperator when I look at the clock and realize it’s 1:55PM. I quickly put the paperwork somewhere safe and tidied up my desk. Then, I rush down to the lake to meet with Phantom. As I’m walking down to the lake, I see Phantom standing there waiting for me. He then stretches his hands out to me, I take it and he guides me towards a blanket with food around it. I look at him wide-eyed and say, “What’s this?” He says, “It’s your surprise. I made you a picnic.” I look at him with awe and say, “Aww, Phantom. This is amazing.” He smiles at me and says, “You deserve it. You work so hard.” I smile at him and we both go and sit on the blanket and start eating. As we’re eating, I see Phantom is very tense and nervous. I think to myself, ‘Why is he so nervous.’ After a few minutes, I finish eating and so does Phantom. Phantom then says, “Y/N….. there’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.” I look at him with curiosity and say, “Okay?” He then takes a deep breath and says, “Over the past few months we’ve known each other….. I’ve found myself having feelings for you. Every day we spend together those feelings have become harder to keep to myself. Every time I look at you, I find myself falling more in love with you.” I stare at him in shock. He continues, “I understand if you don’t feel the same way. I just couldn’t keep it to myself any longer.” He stays silent for a few moments with his head down. I then speak up and say, “I’m in love with you too.” His head whips up and turns to look at me with a smile on his face. He then says, “You are??” I say, “Yeah, I am.” He then puts his hand on my cheek and looks into my eyes and then asks, “Can I kiss you?” I don’t even answer him and just smash my lips into his. He pulls me closer to him and wraps his arm around my waist whilst his hand is still on my cheek. After a few moments, he pulls away and pounces on me so hard that we end up rolling to the ground and he starts hugging me. As we’re hugging, I can’t help but giggle at his happiness. Phantom then speaks up and says, “You have no idea how happy I am.” I giggle at him and pull back from the hug to see his face with a smile on it. I return it with a smile of my own and then he says, “I’ve been waiting so long for this.” I then say, “Me too.” He then kisses me with so much passion and love. We both get up from the ground and then I realize how dark it is outside and say, “We should head back before it gets too dark.” He nods his head in agreement and we both clean up the picnic and head back to the ministry.

When we reached the ministry, both of us headed to our rooms to shower and change. After I finish showering and changing, I hear a knock on my door. I go to open it and it’s Phantom. I let him in and we both go to lay on my bed. As soon as I got in the bed, Phantom wrapped his arms around my waist and his tail around my leg and pulled me close to him. He then placed his face in the crook of my neck. I turn the light off and start to drift off to sleep, but before I do, I hear him mumble, “I love you so much.” I smile and say, “I love you too.” I feel him smile into my neck and then he says, “Promise?” I lightly giggle and say, “Promise.” I then drift off to sleep in the arms of my favorite ghoul and now lover.

[lilac-hecox]

If you're still accepting Damien fic requests, maybe a camp au with a puppy love crush on one of the counselors (Ian or Anthony) and/or having a reciprocated crush on Shayne

I wrote this in the camp au that was written by @wow-ihateithere

Damien/Anthony and Damien/Shayne - Summer Camp

--

“You’re acting like one of your kids,” Angela says with a grin.

“Huh?” Damien says, coming back to his senses, turning his gaze away from where he had been watching Anthony animatedly eating with his campers.

“You’re staring at Anthony like a thirteen-year-old with a crush,” she adds, mimicking a love sick expression.

“Stop!” Damien says, feeling his face get hot. “I am not.”

“You are!” Angela says around giggles. “I hang out with the same age, but the girl version. I can spot a crush a mile away.”

Damien scoffs. That absolutely wasn’t true because if it were Angela would know that Amanda’s been into her since the beginning of summer, instead of being utterly oblivious.

“I don’t have a crush on Anthony,” Damien says more firmly, but his face gets red.

“Okay,” Angela says in a sing-song voice, going back to eating her lunch.

--

Okay, so, maybe Damien did have a small crush, but it’s small! It’s manageable! He just thinks Anthony is cute and funny. He’s good with the kids too. Damien finally accepts the crush on Anthony when he watches Anthony strip off his colorful camp shirt and toss it on the grass up beyond the shore. Anthony is muscled and lean and gorgeous in the bright light of the warm summer day. Damien watches as water splashes on to Anthony as he begins to wade into the lake, Anthony letting out a shriek as the cold-water splashes on him, Ian laughing from where he had committed the crime and swimming away before Anthony could retaliate.

“Mr. Damien! Come on!” one of his students yells from the water. “We need you for chicken!”

Damien smiles and peels off his own t-shirt as he wades into the cool water of the lake.

--

Damien catches Ian and Anthony kissing after one of the staff bonfires in the deep warm night of summer. They are sat together on the same log, Ian’s hands in Anthony’s hair and Anthony’s hands on Ian’s waist. They kiss urgently and fervently in the night, the warm glow of the fire illuminating them.

Damien isn’t crushed. He didn’t need Angela’s supposed ability to see crushes developing to realize that the two counselors liked each other, to see the momentum between them building like an unstoppable freight train where they were always meant to collide.

He vows to let go of his crush that day out of respect for both of the other counselors.

--

What takes him by surprise is when they do the camp talent show Shayne sits next to him while they watch the acts. How whenever Shayne laughs it is so bright and cheery and how more often than not, he’s looking at Damien to see if he’s laughing too.

Damien and Shayne’s talent is performing an improv skit together. They make it cheesy, making the younger kids laugh and the older kids roll their eyes and “die of cringe.” At the end of the skit Shayne gets down on one knee and then offers Damien a plastic flower, declaring his love.

The younger kids giggle, the older one’s groan, the other counselors crack up laughing. Damien accepts the plastic flower, and he sees Shayne smile with bright blue eyes crinkling in the corner, a big cheesy grin on his face. What takes Damien by surprise is the fondness in his heart, the way it speeds up when Shayne pretends to plant a kiss on his cheek, big, wet, and sloppy.

Angela gives him a knowing look from the stands and Damien pointedly ignores her.

--

It’s August when Shayne presses Damien against the side of the staff log cabin and kisses him in the darkness of the night. When he presses his nose against Damien’s and says, “I’ve been waiting all summer to do that.”

There are fireflies all around as Damien leans in and kisses him back.

[legacyshenanigans]

Hello! :D I LOVE your little script posts! They let me fangirl SO much! xD Would you mind writing one with Sebastian getting jealous of Garreth talking/hanging out with MC? :D

Hi! 😊 Aw thank you so much! I'm so glad! 💚

Of course! That could be fun! 😀 here you go:

Damn Weasley.

Jealous Sebastian 💚

Sebastian sat at his potions table next to Ominis, glaring across the room at MC laughing and giggling with Garreth Weasley, of all people. He couldn't stop his nose from twitching and his fists clenching at the sight. The skin on his hand rubbing together from clenching catching the attention of Ominis.

Ominis: What's the matter?

Sebastian: ..Nothing.

Ominis: Tell that to your fists. I know that sound Sebastian..Tell me.

Sebastian: Its stupid..Forget it.

Ominis put down the vile of liquid he was holding and turned to face Sebastian with an irritated sigh.

Ominis: Just talk to me.

Sebastian: MC is over there, laughing with Weasley, giggling at his jokes, smiling at him, and he's over there loving every second of it..I..It makes me feel some kind of way, and I hate it.

Ominis: *chuckles slightly* You've always been the jealous type, don't let it bother you, they're just working together, that's all.

Sebastian: *under his breath* Damn Weasley..

He turned to his work book, reading the pages, trying to not focus on MC, but with every giggle and laugh he heard from her it made his body stiff and a ringing in his ears, why was he so bothered? Why was he threatened?

He looked up again, catching MC playfully hit Garreths arm, and then Garreth laughing putting his hand on her shoulder, the most minor of contacts driving Sebastian crazy, but still, he tired to just get on with his work.

After class, everyone was packing up and leaving, he quickly gathered his things and scanned the room for MC, seeing her already just outside the door in the hallway speaking to the red haired Gryffindor, his eyes wernt focused on anything else as he made his way over there, catching the tail end of their conversation

Garreth: So, in 20 minutes?

MC: Of course, I'll meet you in Central Hall and then afterwards we can get it over and done with, with help I'm sure it'll be a breeze.

Sebastian approached them, a small scowl on his face as he stood next to MC, Garreth glanced over to him, a look of slight confusion on his face from Sebastians intimidating energy.

Garreth: Oh, Hey Sebastian.

Sebastian: ...Hi.

With that Garreth smiled at them both before walking away. MC turned her attention to Sebastian.

MC: That was a very cold "Hi", what's wrong?

Sebastian: Nothing, wanna go and get lunch together?

MC: I'm actually going to have lunch with Garreth today, you and Ominis are free to join us if you like, afterwards we're going to the library to get this Potions paper done.

Sebastian tried his best to not show his emotions to the situation, fist clenched again behind his back out of view from MC.

Sebastian: *clears his throat* No..Nevermind, have fun, I guess *walks off back towards Ominis in class*

MC: Sebastian? What's wrong? *confused expression*

Sebastian: *ignores her*

Much later that day at around 7pm, He waited in the common room by the windows, looking out into the lake, anticipating MC's return, he turned harshly hearing the doors open, and saw her, she smiled and waved over at him.

MC: Sebastian! *Sweet grin* you're here, good.

Sebastian: Is it? Is it good that I'm here?

MC: Yes? *confused* what's your problem today? You've been very odd..

Sebastian: Nothing, come on, wanna go for a walk with me? I need to go to Hogsmead. We'll grab a Butterbeer after I've done what I need to do.

Sebastian took MC's hand and began to practically drag her towards the doors, clinging on to any kind of hope of spending some decent time with her today before ANYONE else could interrupt it.

MC: Woah, wait, hang on Sebastian.

Sebastian: *let's go of her hand* Please don't tell me you're going to be spending more time with Weasley today? I've barely seen you..

MC: *realisation* is this what THIS is about?

Sebastian: What?

MC: Your attitude today? Is it because I did some homework with Garreth? *giggles*

Sebastian felt his face flush at those words and her giggle.

Sebastian: N-No..Its not that, anyway shut up let's go *goes to take her hand again*

MC: *pulls away and gives him a cheeky grin* Admit it..You got jealous.

Sebastian: Dont be an idiot..

MC: *giggles again*

Sebastian: *sighs in irritation* I'm not "Jealous" I just don't like the way Garreth was looking at you, and putting his arm on you..Thats all it is, now drop it...I'm not Jealous.

He didn't know who he was trying to kid..MC, or himself. MC leaned forward, planting a small peck on Sebastians cheek, snapping him out of his irritation for a moment.

MC: You have nothing be jealous of *Sweet smiles*

Sebastian: ....*soft grin* So, Hogsmead?

MC: Let's go *holds her hand out*

~