#they just live together because i pair them as *siblings* only (as i pair hank and the rks as father and sons) (only)

[kittynugg]

heres just a quick one i thought up eons ago probably at one am, found it in my phone's notes

Sixty: Wake up, Nines! Come on, birds are singing! It's a beautiful da- Nines: ITS SIX AM.

[lag1995-fics]

Hiii! Can i request a dadneto where Peter has a secondary mutation that also makes him metallokinetic like Erik? And then when he finally shows the X-men, Erik finally connects the dots? 😳😳

Of course you can love I’ll never say no to dadneto ❤️❤️❤️ sorry for the wait I just started a new job. I hope you enjoy the story ❤️

Forks

Pairing: none

Warning: I drop the f-bomb a bit

Words:1480

Summary: When Peter and Scott get into an argument, Peter loses his temper revealing his secondary mutation.

Masterlist

///::::///

Peter had always been really careful about hiding his secondary mutation. If people saw him moving metal it wouldn’t be hard to jump to the correct conclusion about his and Erik’s familial bond. It was just easier to keep that bit to himself. He wanted to tell Erik but he also didn’t want to be a 27 year old man trying to take the place of his dead 8 year old sister. He wanted to naturally build a relationship with his father, maybe then he could tell him.

They were supposed to be having a team building dinner that night. Peter knew why as well, he and Scott had been bickering constantly. It was obvious that Scott blamed Peter for his brother's tragic death. Scott had no way of knowing that the flames had already engulfed Alex. Peter also didn’t want to harp on that but too much Scott needed to grieve lord know he lashed out like an asshole when Wanda disappeared. If Scott needed to blame someone Peter didn’t mind being that person.

Everyone else thought it was obvious that Scott was being a major jerk wad and would often try to come to Peter’s defense. Scott rarely saw it but Peter would always wave off the defenders, often with comments of “let him have this” or “it’s okay, he needs to get these emotions out.” He could be the bigger person he was ten years older than Scott, it was just part of being a grown up.

***

The time came for the team building dinner and Peter’s mouth was already watering at the prospect of delicious ooey, gooey pizza. His mother had often told him his stomach was like a bottomless pit. Peter burned a hell of a lot of calories though and he had to constantly eat to make up for that.

He took his seat between Raven and Hank rubbing his hands together in anticipation. They looked at him with various looks of both disgust and amusement. Peter could care less pizza was the food of gods right behind twinkies.

It was no time before everyone had a seat at the table and Peter immediately started inhaling the Pizza. He was halfway through his 8th slice when Scott decided to open his mouth.

“That’s disgusting” he sneered and Peter could only grin at him.

“I burn a lotta calories plus Pizza is delicious!” Peter exclaimed brightly he was unbothered by Scott’s half hearted insult.

“Can you lay off for once this is supposed to be about team building,” Jean groaned, fed up with her boyfriend's childish behavior. Peter remained unbothered though, he knew what Scott was going through. It had been the same for him after Wanda disappeared.

“It’s fine Jean he’s just a kid, he doesn’t bother me,” Peter told the red haired girl light heartedly.

“Well it bothers me. Scott, what happened to Alex was not Peter’s fault, Alex was closest to the blast,” Jean shot out to her boyfriend obviously fed up with his shit.

“What bothers me is how nonchalant he is about the whole thing, it’s like he doesn’t even care” Scott was starting to get worked up and Peter wished that Jean could have just left it alone. He managed a glance at Erik who was ignoring everyone in favor of his newspaper. Charles who was beside him looked like he had a migraine starting. It was Charles idea for team building after all and Erik had the look of I told you so without even saying a word.

“You think I don’t care?” Peter asked, he didn’t want Scott to think he didn’t care. It weighed heavily on his mind that he hadn’t gotten there in time to save Scott’s brother. He was always too late for someone with super speed.

“I know you don’t fucking care!” Scott’s face was inflamed and red.

“Scott! Language!” Charles snapped.

“Well you’re wrong Scott I do care. I’m always too late and I’m sorry I didn’t get to Alex in time.” Peter was sincerely sorry that he hadn’t been in time. He would never wish the pain of losing a sibling on anyone.

“Well fuck you! You don’t know what it’s like to lose a sibiling! Alex was all that I had!” Scott screamed and Peter felt a trill of Anger run down his spine his fork started to vibrate subtly and Raven looked at it with wide eyes before looking at him sharply. Peter didn’t notice his mind was full of images of his sister.

“Don’t act like you know me Scott, the only reason I’ve let you go on and on like you have is because I know exactly what you’re going through.” Peter seethed and he knew he should be embarrassed that he let a seventeen year old goad him like this.

“Fuck You! Alex died, you didn’t save him. You don’t know what it’s like to lose a brother” Scott spat. By now Erik had lowered his paper watching the interaction with veiled interest. Charles had a look of anger at the boys for ruining his team building dinner.

“Oh I might not know what it’s like to lose a brother but I lost my twin sister when we were your age! She just disappeared. I have no clue if she’s alive or dead and I promise you that’s worse!” Peter spat and the silverware began rising into the air with his skyrocketing temper. If he had been looking he would have seen the color drain from Erik’s face.

“Erik you’re only making it worse!” Charles snapped thinking it was Magneto getting irritated and wanting to silence the boys. Peter realizing what he had done let the silverware drop with a metallic clatter. The anger drained rapidly.

“Charles it’s not me.” His tone was choked as he stared at the silver haired mutant with new eyes. Peter unsure of what to do in the rising tension decided the logical answer was to bolt from the room.

He was by the fountain in second trying to calm his ragged breathing and approaching panic attack. The cat was truly out of the bag now. He placed his head between his knees, tears streaming down his cheeks.

Inside Erik was still staring at the spot Peter had just disappeared from. His mind was trying to catch up. He had another child, a living child. Peter was clearly Magda’s son, he had her sunny disposition, he obviously hadn’t inherited that from him. Then his stomach sank again. He had twins and one of them was missing for over ten years. Peter had been dealing with this pain on his own.

“Fountain,” Charles' voice whispered in his head, “go to him he needs you. He’s afraid you’ll reject him.”

Erik wondered how such a brilliant person like Peter could ever think that he would reject him. If anything Erik wasn’t worthy of the boy, he was such a bright beacon in the dark miserable world. He began to walk to the fountain, his mind replaying a very specific memory. Almost ten years ago a silver haired teenager had broken him out of his prison with a grin and a sharp wit. He had also made an off hand comment.

“So you can control metal?” Peter had asked and Erik who was still disoriented had only nodded.

“That cool my mom knew a guy who could do that,” the statement had been so off handed and nonchalant. Erik should have known then but he had been distracted by a walking Charles who promptly punched him square in the jaw. The off hand comment had been pushed to the back of his mind.

He found Peter with his head between his knees close to a panic attack. He sat next to the boy and laid a hand on his shoulder. Peter jerked looking at him in surprise.

“Your mother was Magda,” it was a statement not a question. Peter only nodded with wide brown eyes. His mother’s eyes, it felt like a punch to the gut.

“I’m not trying to replace Nina, I swear!” Peter choked out, “I wouldn’t want someone to try and replace Wanda.”

“You’re not replacing anyone my boy, you are your own person. A good person that I don’t deserve. You’re my son and I love you. I may not have known you for very long but family is forever,” Erik declared and Peter sniffles before throwing himself into his fathers arms like he was five and not twenty seven. Erik hugged his son back as they both fought back their tears.

“Forever” Peter agreed and one of the cracks in his heart healed. He wasn’t whole but he had one more person to add to his list of loved ones. He only hoped he could find Wanda one day. Erik would love her; they were both so much alike.

Thank you for reading feel free to drop a request.

[zalrb]

Ive seen all your chemistry posts and i agree with most of your arguments so i wanted to ask..... Is it possible that two people can have raw, intense (also unintentional) chemistry in a show and then in the next... Its so different? Bc of this I've seen people say that this pairing has no chemistry bc of their latest project as love interests but in the previous one they were family but it certainly didn't feel that way they were even dubbed poison siblings bc of the unintentional romantic feel their scenes had. But now that they have a chance to show off their romantic chemistry it doesn't hit the same. Even though i dont love this pairing as much as their previous one i still feel things now and then watching them in their latest show, im going back and forth if they have chemistry or not so i feel crazy. I blame the narrative for setting them up like this, bc ive noticed i may be a shipper but all my ships have amazing dynamics and a narrative behind it (thank god stelena has an amazing story). Like for example the grim reaper and sunny were amazing in goblin and i don't deny their chemistry but in touch your heart i felt nothing and i had to force myself to finish it even though it wasn't really worth it and i LOVED them in goblin so i was confused and disappointed. Im not delusional or projecting right? I choose to die on this hill so pls tell me im making sense

It's interesting you mention Goblin and Reaper and Sunny because I would disagree, despite having emotional chemistry, I couldn't ship them as much as other people because their scenes narratively were not dynamic, they just did the face-off and cried 99.9% of the time

Sure, we were told this epic, beautiful, love story that haunted them centuries later but we see the same like three scenes of their past lives over and over and over and over: he watches her walk with bowls on her shoulders.

He kills her.

And he catches her with the blossoms going wild.

Oh and we see the ring over and over and over and over. That isn’t enough.

And as Sunny and Reaper they spend virtually no time together because he's avoiding her and she's waiting for him to call her so the only reason why I went with the idea that they'd be so into each other without spending any time together is because it was made super obvious they were lovers in a past life but because I didn’t see them interact much as Reaper and Sunny and see them fall for each other with this historical, cosmic feeling in the background, it was flimsy, so while their chemistry made their scenes pop and added emotional nuance to the scenes, the scenes themselves lacked dynamism. Whereas in Touch Your Heart, we saw the full range of their chemistry from being light-hearted and giddy

to being intense and lusty

I don't know what other ship you're talking about, I tried to look through the tag 'poisonous siblings' but saw nothing so I can't speak to that. It could just be you like certain dynamics.

But it is possible for a duo to have a specific kind of chemistry and then it can't be translated into something else, of course, i.e. Steroline work as friends but not as romantic partners or I would never want to see Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan attempt at an epic, angsty, love story, they're firmly a romcom couple.

[stachmousworld]

Avenge me tomorrow (Ch.6)

Pairing: polyavengers x Black!reader 

Previously: The team couldn’t find Thea.

Tag: @thedarkplume​

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5 -  Part 7 - Part 8  - Part 9 - Part 10 - Part 11

The journey to the compound went faster than she thought. Thea had made sure to block every call from the Tower and thanks to JARVIS, they wouldn’t be able to find her before she would be long gone.

She watched the forest surrounding the compound and relaxed a bit. She still checked in the rear-view mirror if no one was following her on the road or in the sky. It wouldn’t be surprising if they sent Thor or any Stark Drones after her.

Thea sighed. It was getting ridiculous. She wasn’t a kid, and she could do whatever she wanted. Leaving the Tower should have not felt as if she was doing something wrong. They were not bounded to each other. They weren’t even together to begin with. So why did she feel guilty?

She parked in front of the large building, almost expecting someone from the Tower to come out and…and…but there was no one. She looked around for the last time, enjoying the birds chirping, the wind in the leaves whistling some mysterious tunes.

Thea waved at a few young teenagers eating on the grass. Interns, maybe? They looked at her quizzically but reciprocated with a joyful smile. Why did she wave? She cringed, accelerating her pace and keeping her head down until she was inside the building.

The first thing she noticed was the lack of security. There were no security guards in the building and seemingly no cameras. She squinted her eyes looking above her. Did they really believe that no one would try to attack them from the inside? They were isolated but the barrier would be no obstacle against intruders. And what about the airways? Anyone could land a jet in the middle of the “park”. It was – a blue streak passed in front of her. Thea froze. Was that?

“Hello!” a soft chirpy voice said behind her.

She spun around quickly, heart beating fast. The blue strike disappeared in a pop.

“Are you Thea?” 

She slowly turned around and faced…Diablo. Excitation and happiness rushed through her veins. She bit her lips hard enough to stop herself from jumping on him. Diablo. She was in front of…She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

“I’m sorry! I didn’t want to surprise you,” he apologized in a chirpy voice.

A few unintelligible words escaped her mouth and she flushed, embarrassed. Get a grip, she admonished herself. He is going to think you are a groupie. Her Diablo plushie and posters would prove otherwise.

 Before she became an Avenger fan, she has been totally invested in the X-Men. How many times had she played as Diablo, Hank, Storm or Wolverine…his name alone made her blush. Let’s just say that Wolverine has been the main actor of her fantasies for a long time. He is also the main reason why she never clicked with people her age. They all felt bland and childish compared to her heroes. They didn’t understand her, or her struggle and would change subject whenever she’d talk about deep subjects.

During high school and college, she had been isolated. No one wanted to be seen with her. And it didn’t help that she was pansexual. She may have gone to a prestigious university, but they had been pretty close minded. Fortunately, her family has supported her. At least the members that counted. Her mom, her siblings and her godfather, Rhodey.

“Hello?” Diablo said, waving his hand in front of her face. “Are you alright?”

She nodded not yet trusting her voice. Diablo tilted his head and started signing. Thea’s eyes grew wide.

“I don’t know how to sign,” she replied quickly, grabbing his hands.

“Oh.” He looked down to their hands. She jerked away, suddenly conscious of what she’d done. Really, could this day be worse?

“I’m sorry, I…I should have never touched you without your permission.”

Diablo was still staring intensely at his hands. He turned them upwards and caressed where her hands touched his. He then raised his eyes. She opened her mouth but quickly closed it. His eyes were unreadable. His chirpiness has tone done down. Diablo didn’t seem mad at her. Maybe?

“I’m sorry?” she repeated, unsure.

“You are not afraid of me?” he asked slowly.

The question took her by surprise. What? “No.”

“Really?” He asked, his voice full of hope.

“Yeah, you are not scary.”

Diablo took a few steps forward stepping into her comfort zone. Thea noticed the dark blue tattoos on his skin. She hadn’t been aware of that. She frowned. Even the pictures she had didn’t show any tattoos and they spread everywhere, on his face, arms and to rest of his body, she presumed.

“I’m not scary”, he repeated slowly as if the words were foreign.

“You should see my mom,” Thea pretended to tremble from fear. “She’d make your worst nightmare seems like a dream.”

Her tentative to joke fell flat. Diablo kept examining her. His eyes roamed her face for an answer she wasn’t sure to have. He may have found it because he smiled a little and finally stepped back. He wasn’t back to his bubbly self. Or was that a façade? Something to help people relate to him and see him as less of a threat. His tail swayed slowly behind him. Thea looked at it, entranced. It looked bigger than in pictures and more agile.

She was so concentrated on the appendage that she didn’t notice the quick movement. She blinked once and the next moment, the tail was in front of her face. The triangular tip brushed softly the tip of her nose. She twitched her nose refraining her sneeze.

“And now, are you scared?”

Thea shook her head and wiped her nose to erase the sensation of his tail. Chill ran down her spine making her shiver. She froze. The shiver turned to trembles. The snake appeared in front of her and hissed a warning. Someone is coming.

The rumble of a storm buzzed in her ears.

“We need to go now,” she urged Diablo, who stopped rambling. He stared quizzically at her. “One of the Avengers is coming for me. We have to go.”

Diablo quickly gripped her arms and transported them.

 The ship was way bigger than the Quinjet. It looked more spacious and colorful. It didn’t look like a jet, at all. She followed Diablo through a corridor. He walked quickly and glanced sometimes behind to make sure she was following. Her eyes tracked the paintings on the walls. Who’d put paintings in a jet? What purpose did they serve? She wasn’t well versed in arts, but these looked expensive.

“Why are they –”

Wolverine. Wolverine was in front of her. She squealed and jumped round him. Oh my God, Oh my God, this is Wolverine. She fumbled with her bag to get her phone and barely got it out without dropping it.

“Kid, you’re going to have stroke. Calm down,” he said, in a deep rumbly voice. It sounded like a growl. She barely had the time to register that he talked – actually talked to her, that she babbled.

“Why did you choose Wolverine as a nickname? Is it because wolves are “supposed” to be solitary animals? Although they do live in a pack so that’s ridiculous…”

“Kid,” he cut her off. “Calm down.”

She gulped some much-needed air and exhaled. Wolverine nodded silently and encouraged her to breath some more. As she let herself relax, she couldn’t miss the overall beauty of the man. His beard, the muscles rolling under his shirts and jeans. His stance seemed normal, but with her godfather in the military she was able to notice many things. Wolverine was favoring his left. He was consciously bracing himself for any attack. His muscles seemed tensed and ready. He thought she was a threat. Despite his soothing tone, he didn’t trust her at all. Good. Because she didn’t know what she was capable of. She felt somewhat reassured that he took the situation seriously.

“Come sit down and you’ll tell me why Xavier made us pick you up.”

They entered a room behind the cockpit. A blue hand appeared briefly.

“Is that Mister Hank?” She whispered.

“Kid,” Wolverine warned her.

She made a step in the direction of the cockpit. Wolverine stopped her.

“Don’t,” he growled.

Thea narrowed her eyes and moved, only to be stopped by adamantium claws. She couldn’t believe it. She…it…she was touched by his claws. Her squeal came back full force. She brushed her fingers against the claws. The metal was warm and deadly sharp.

Wolverine sighed but didn’t move.

“So, you have a fan, finally,” Diablo joked.

“Fuck you, Blue Devil.”

Diablo hissed in disapproval, Wolverine growled and Thea, well, she was now holding on dear life onto his callous hand.

“Kid, if you go sit down and buckle yourself, I’ll show you what I can do with these.” He raised his right arm and retracted his claws.

She yelped and ran to her seat. Her legs bounced nervously. Wolverine shook his head and raised his eyes to the sky.

“Last time I trust you, Xavier, last time,” he grumbled.

 If Logan had not really expected Thea to stay silent during the trip, he certainly regretted his wish.

She suddenly stopped chatting. Her head snapped to the right and she stared at the wall. Logan glanced at Diablo who shrugged, as uncertain as he was.

“Kid? Are you okay?”

“He is coming,” she mumbled, still out of it.

Hank who had been making his way out of the toilets stopped a few steps from them.

“Who is coming?” He mouthed at them.

They both shrugged. Hank rolled his eyes and came in front of Thea. She still didn’t react. Her eyes were unfocused and her shoulders high. The more they looked at her the more she seemed tense.

“Thea, who is coming?” Hank asked in his soft voice.

She finally drew her eyes away from the wall and looked at him in the eyes.

“The God of lightning.”

Logan narrowed his eyes. Xavier hadn’t told them they’d have to encounter some obstacles. He felt his claws breaking his skin. He didn’t know if he was strong enough to fight a God, but he’d try.

“Who is –”

“Drop it Hank.” Logan stood up and went to the cockpit. He looked at the board looking for the radar. Besides the normal interferences, he noticed something small coming in their direction at full speed. He snapped his fingers a few times to call Hank, who grumbled (“I’m not a dog.”)

“What?”

Hank dropped his eyes to the screen.

“Oh. The God of lightning, huh? Just that,” he sighed.

Logan’s frown was still firmly attached to his face. He stared at the clouds expecting at any moment to see Thor. The seconds turned into minutes. Then, nothing. Loga checked the screen again.

“Wolverine! She is down!” Diablo screamed from the other room.

Logan reacted quickly and ran to them. He almost broke the door of the cockpit and cut Hank’s hand in his urgency.

Thea’s body was bent in two. The only thing that prevented her fall was the chest belt. Wolverine assessed the situation quickly. Could Thor have an impact on her? Had he cursed her? Or was her “unknown” power weakening her?

He pushed Diablo away into Hank’s arms and kneeled in front of Thea.

“I can teleport her. I can do. I know I can. Let me do it,” Diablo babbled, panicked.

“Calm down, Diablo, everything is going to be ok. Xavier told me she was a bit on edge when she called him. She may have fainted from all the stress.”

Hank pushed Diablo to the side and forced him to sit.

“If we need you wi –”

The jet trembled and tilted on the right. Logan rolled on the floor, claws grazing the metallic floor. He bounced on the right wall, then ran to the cockpit. Hank followed him quickly. The cockpit was pure cacophony. All the screens were blinking, and the alarm was blazing. Logan quickly looked for the anomaly. Was it one of the reactors? Had they been attacked by something?

“Do you see the problem?” Hank screamed, as he looked for a way to turn the alarm off.

Logan shook his head, eyebrows frowned. Thea’s words about a certain God echoed in his mind.

As he was to voice his thoughts, the alarm stopped. The jet stop swaying. After a few minutes of this hell, the silence was as deafening.

“What the fuck,” Hank sighed, flopping on the seat. He took of his glasses, swiping his eyes and forehead.

“What? So, I thought you loved Norse mythology?” Logan joked, half-serious. He unclenched his fist retracting by the same his claws. His heart beat fast and loud. It was ringing in his ears. What the fuck, really.

The adrenaline slowly seeped out of his body, leaving him raw and drained. He took a big breath and sagged.

“You think it was him?” Hank asked genuinely.

Logan stayed silent. He looked behind him where the prostrated body of Thea was. Xavier, are you sure to know what you are doing?

 Thea took a few more minutes before waking up. Logan sat next to her and watched over her. Hank was back in the cockpit with Diablo. He hadn’t wanted to go. Hank had to physically restrain him. Logan had been surprised that Diablo hadn’t even think of teleporting himself back. They were all used to his personal level of anxiety but today he has reached his peak.

Logan played with his claws cleaning them with a wet tissue. A few movements on his left attracted his attention. He narrowed his eyes. Thea slowly rolled her spin out and groaned. She massaged her neck with shaky moves. Logan observed silently. His hands were clenched. If he wasn’t on high alert before he was now. He should have known what Xavier had in mind. Sending Hank, Diablo and him… The only time he did that was when he wasn’t sure of how powerful the new addition was and how dangerous their power could be.

“What happened?” He asked, serious.

“What?” Thea replied, still stretching her body. “I’m the one who should ask you that? Have I sle—”

“Don’t lie. I know you remember what happened.” A brief flash of fear appeared in her brown orbs. “You talked about the ‘God of Lightning.’”

She opened her mouth, then shut it in a click. “What about it?”

Logan counted to three. Why did Xavier thought he was patient enough to deal with this kind of bullshit?

“The jet almost crashed because something – someone flew past by with such a velocity that we almost lost control of the engine.” He sharpened his claws against each other, eyes still on her. She swallowed with difficulty. Good. That’s where he wanted her. “Now, spill it.”

 The rest of the journey went uneventful. After telling her story to Logan, Thea has been chatting with Diablo. Logan didn’t know what kind of story Diablo was telling her, but she looked beyond shocked.

“So…” Hank said, next to him.

Logan barely acknowledged his presence.

“What do you think of her?” The scientist kept going.

“What am I, a fortuneteller? If you wanted someone to read people, I’m not the right one,” Logan replied, with enough sarcasm to surprise him. He didn’t know why he felt like that. Worried and anxious. He was still on the edge from the near encounter with a God, but it didn’t explain the deep roots of his anxiety.

Something bad was going to happen. And for once in his life, Logan felt powerless.

Next chapter

[adiwriting]

Flash Fic Prompt: “For your request for prompts, I don’t know if you are interested in doing crossovers but what about Klaine and Malex. In 2020 they would be kinda close in age. As for the prompt, I was thinking of « I didn’t know you guys knew each other ». Their universes are very different so I understand if you are not interested in writing both pairs in the same story so you can just ignore me!”- @youdrathersleepalone

Rules: Write for 30 minutes uninterrupted. At the end of the 30 minutes, post whatever you come up with, unedited.

There is 100% no plot to this, but here! Have a Glee/Roswell crossover. 

****

Michael pushes his way to the bar and attempts to wave the bartender down. He’s not a fan of this place. He’s not a fan of any of the bars or clubs in NYC. None of them have the small town feel of The Wild Pony and he’s yet to find a bartender as good as DeLuca. But NYC is where they live now and this place let’s Alex play his music, so he guesses it’s not the worst place in the city. 

Alex and he moved out to NYC two years ago when Alex had retired from the Air Force and mentioned wanting a change. He wanted to really try his hand at music and Michael was feeling like he was finally ready to go back to school. Project Shepard was no longer a threat, Mr. Jones had been dealt with, and all of his siblings seemed content in their own lives. Nobody needed him to hold them together anymore, so he could finally focus on himself. 

Himself and Alex. 

They’d talked about Los Angeles, but California was really more Max and Liz’s scene. So Michael had toured campuses in Chicago, Denver, and New York. The deciding factor had been their first night in New York after touring NYU. Alex and he had ended up at this coffee shop that had a guy playing music and he’d actually let Alex come up to sing with him. Michael had seen a light in his eyes that he hadn’t seen since high school and he’d been sold. 

So here he is. In New York. Sharing a tiny studio apartment, paying way too much for his beers and bribing their landlady to let him grow vegetables on the roof because it’s the only bit of “land” they’ll ever get. It’s miserable but it’s somehow the happiest he’s ever been. 

“Hey, science nerd,” somebody practically yells into his ear. When he turns around, he sees Blaine Anderson, the boy he’d met last year while he was getting some volunteer hours in at the local school. 

“Comic nerd,” he says with a laugh.

“Here to crush anyone else’s dreams by pointing out the scientific inaccuracies of their favorite comic books?” he asks, pushing his way to the bar and getting the bartender's attention in no time. 

“How do you do that?” Michael grumbles. The bartenders always act like they can’t see him. Yet another reason to miss DeLuca. She isn’t snobby about her customers. She’ll serve anybody. Including racist Hank. Here, it always feels like he’s being tested for cool points and failing miserably. 

Blaine shrugs and hands Michael a beer. 

“For the record, you can’t be mad at me for teaching your students science. They asked, I gave them the facts,” he says. “It’s not my fault you hung up posters of superheroes that are scientifically impossible.” 

Blaine rolls his eyes but smiles. Michael has always liked him. They run into each other often enough to be friendly, and it’s one of the few people he’s met in this city that isn’t too pretentious. Michael had thought growing up with Max was bad… but this city is the worst. 

“What brings you here?” Blaine asks. 

Michael nods at the stage. “My boyfriend is playing tonight.” 

Blaine gives him a curious look. “Mine, too.” 

Michael does a double take. He could have sworn that Alex said they were the only band playing tonight. They’d been allowed a full set, which was a big deal for them. Except, he’s met everyone in Alex’s band. 

“Who’s your boyfriend?” he asks. 

“Kurt Hummel,” he replies. “Fiance actually.” 

“You’re Kurt’s fiance?” Michael asks, his eyes going wide. “That’s crazy.” 

“Wait a minute… Yeah, no that makes total sense. You’re Alex’s cowboy boyfriend!” 

“I stopped wearing the cowboy hat, people kept giving me shit for it,” he explains. 

“But held onto the belt buckle I see,” Blaine teases. 

“Hey, this city will have to tear this belt buckle from my cold dead hands,” he says. 

“Weird, I don’t seem to have a problem getting the belt off of you,” Alex says, coming up behind him to wrap his arms around him. 

Michael leans into the touch and hums happily as Alex kisses his neck in greeting. “I’m glad you made it,” he whispers so that only Michael can hear him. 

“The subway was a bitch today and my boss was extra salty about me taking off early, but I’m here,” he explains. 

He looks up to see that Kurt and Blaine are in a similar position. 

“I didn’t realize you two knew each other,” Kurt says. 

“Michael volunteered to do some science groups with my kids a few months back. Now we keep running into each other around town,” Blaine explains. 

“So you’re the cute music teacher Michael was talking about, making me jealous,” Alex says with a laugh. 

“Cute, am I?” Blaine teases. 

“I did not use the word cute once,” Michael argues. “I’m pretty sure my exact words were nerdy and annoying, but halfway decent at his job.” 

“A glowing letter of recommendation,” Alex teases. 

“We should get back there to warm up,” Kurt says. 

Alex turns to Michael who gives him a good luck kiss. “I’m glad you won’t have to watch alone.” 

“I’d be fine even if I did,” Michael says. “You know I just like watching you play.” 

Alex’s eyes go to Blaine then back to Michael like he wants to say something. 

“You’re not honestly jealous are you?” Michael scoffs. 

Alex shakes his head. “No, it’s just… it’s nice to see you have friends.” 

“You mean who aren’t my siblings, my ex, or dating my sibling?” he asks. 

“Exactly,” Alex says. “And I love your belt, don’t let anybody tease you about being a cowboy.” 

“Don’t worry, Isobel told me what to do next time somebody gives me shit. Just make a joke about riding their boyfriend,” he says with a smirk. 

Alex lets out a surprised laugh. “Yeah, that’ll probably work. But please don’t. Only person you get to ride is me.” 

“Promise,” he says. “As soon as you’re done kicking ass with your new set, we can go straight home and I can show you just how much you don’t have to worry about me riding anyone else. Ever.” 

[fourteendaysinaweek]

Show Recommendations

Grimm

Platform: Amazon Prime

Official overview: Portland detective Nick Burkhardt, descended from a long line of warriors known as Grimms, defends his city from magical creatures known as Wesen, which are part human and part animal. Fighting alongside his partner, Hank, colleague Sergeant Wu and friends Monroe and Rosalee, Nick faces off against internal and external forces, including his police captain, Sean Renard.

My overview: Portland detective Nick Burkhardt thinks he's going insane when he randomly starts seeing monsters at the time his aunt goes into a coma. Turns out he's not, in fact, going crazy. He deals with shit trying to kill him and his girlfriend and friends CONSTANTLY and in reality all he wants to do his keep his city safe, and he accidentally saves the world in the process.

Thoughts on the show: I love it, it does have a habit of setting up for recurring characters and then never mentioning them again, so that's annoying. There are 6 seasons. There are some great romances in the show, and also some iffy ones, but the iffy ones are definitely regarded as such in the show, and eventually either develop past the weird stage or die before anymore harm can be done. Aired from 2011 to 2017

Thoughts on the fandom: Wayyyy too small, I know of 0 people around my age who like it, and 90% of the fan base is obsessed with Sasha Roiz who plays Sean Renard (not that I'm judging). Definitely not enough fics out there, and the ones that I've found seem to be poorly written or basically just pwp.

Warehouse 13

Platform: Amazon Prime

Official overview: Following an abrupt transfer, Secret Service agents Pete Lattimer and Myka Bering find themselves in the middle of South Dakota at a massive, top-secret storage warehouse that holds every strange artifact, mysterious relic, out-of-this-world object and supernatural souvenir ever found by the U.S. government. Lattimer and Bering's new task, as directed by the warehouse's caretaker, longtime agent Artie Nielsen, is to investigate reports of unexplainable and paranormal activity in an effort to secure more peculiar and dangerous objects, and to help Artie manage the warehouse itself.

My overview: imagine the TARDIS except it's a warehouse and not a police box (bigger on the inside) and it's full of cursed objects to be kept there so it doesn't destroy the world.

Thoughts on the show: I love it. It accurately depicts trauma and has decent representation such as a black woman everyone is intimidated by because she's the boss, a gay man who isn't sexualized and has development and a personality other than "gay". There is even an incredibly homoerotic friendship between two women that the actress of said women played up because they wanted their characters together, even if one turned out to be not-so-good. The show deals with sexism and victims of neglect. You'll learn a lot of random history while watching the show as all of the artifacts tend to be historically based (the guillotine blade that cut of Marie Antoinette's head, for instance). There are 5 seasons and I'm s3 or 4. Apparently the show does something weird with Pete and Myka at the end, which probably means they get together. Ran 2009 to 2014.

Thoughts on the fandom: again, way too small, although a lot bigger than Grimm. There are quite a few fics out there, mainly for the two women which I ship with my whole heart. There might be some controversy with Eddie McClintock (Pete Lattimer) but I'm not very well-versed in it. I wish Grimm's fandom was as big as W13's.

The Umbrella Academy

Platform: Netflix

Official overview: On one day in 1989, 43 infants are inexplicably born to random, unconnected women who showed no signs of pregnancy the day before. Seven are adopted by billionaire industrialist Sir Reginald Hargreeves, who creates the Umbrella Academy and prepares his "children" to save the world. In their teenage years, though, the family fractures and the team disbands. Fast forward to the present time, when the six surviving members of the clan reunite upon the news of Hargreeves' passing. They work together to solve a mystery surrounding their father's death, but divergent personalities and abilities again pull the estranged family apart, and a global apocalypse is another imminent threat. The series is based on a collection of comics and graphic novels created and written by My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way.

My overview: adult survivors of abuse with increasingly weird/out-there superpowers due to the weird circumstances of their birth come together to celebrate *cough* I mean mourn the passing of their "father" And accidentally cause the apocalypse.

Thoughts on the show: I love it. I've finished season 2,currenfly there are only 2 seasons, it's still in progress, I love it. I'm sure most of you have already watched it because what is the supernatural fandom if not emo? Also a good one for representation. Mexican man with a stutter, black woman with a daughter she is in a custody battle for, gay druggie veteran, Ellen Page, Asian ghost boy, 58 year old man in a 13 year old's body, and a half-chimp man.

Thoughts on the fandom: big. Big big big. Haven't found any fics that cater to my specific wants in a fic, but there are fics. Some of them have weird pairings, but since the show made two (adopted) siblings canon, I can't exactly blame them.

Lost Girl

Platform: I actually have no idea

Official overview: Bo is a small-town girl on the run after a disastrous sexual encounter with her boyfriend ends with his death. Bo learns that she is not human, but a succubus, who feeds on the sexual energy of humans. She and her kind are members of the Fae, creatures of legend, who walk among humans and feed off them in different ways. As she searches for the truth about her origins and runs from her inhuman urges, she vows to help those she meets along the way -- human or Fae -- who need to right a wrong.

My overview: bisexual woman finds out she's a succubus and she has to choose to be either good Fae or bad Fae (I think it's light vs dark but it's been a Hot Minute) she has a thing with a werewolf and also a thing with a Fae doctor who is human and a woman.

Thoughts on the show: it's good, 5 seasons, don't think I've finished the first season. Back when I started watching it it was on Netflix and has since been removed. It's on Vudo but it costs money which is bullshit. It's a little weird at first, but I like it. Ran 2010 to 2015.

Thoughts on the fandom: have not interacted with the fandom for fear of spoilers. I'd imagine this show's fandom is about the size of Grimm.

Being Human (USA version)

Platform: again, I don't know.

Official overview: "Being Human," based on a BBC series of the same name, features three 20-something roommates who each try to keep a secret from the rest of the world -- one is a ghost, another is a vampire and the third is a werewolf. The three roomies try to help one another navigate the complexities of living double lives.

My overview: again, weird starts off in almost the middle of the story. It deals with abuse, death, fighting urges, dealing with past sins, and, well, being human. The characters are Sally (Ghost) Aidan (vampire) and Josh (werewolf). The three of them are trying to live like normal, Aidan and Josh as workers at the local hospital as Sally works to deal with her death.

Thoughts on the show: I love it I just wish I could find it on a reliable site, again, it's on Vudo but it costs money. It definitely had the set up for a good mlm relationship but from what I've gathered they end up forcing heterosexuality.

Thoughts on the fandom: again, too small, roughly the size of Grimm. I have seen 0 fics.

The Librarians

Platform: Hulu I do so believe

Official overview: Cued by TNT's popular 'The Librarian' trilogy, this series introduces new members of an ancient group protecting mystical artefacts. Hidden below the Metropolitan Public Library, the secret society's longtime leader is Flynn Carsen, whose job has become very complicated. To help, the Library recruits Eve, a counterterrorism agent responsible for organizational security; Jacob, who has encyclopedic knowledge of art, architecture and history; Cassandra, who links auditory/sensory hallucinations to memory; and Ezekiel, a skilled thief and master technician. Overseeing them is Jenkins, the reclusive caretaker of the Library's sleepy little outpost in Oregon. Noah Wyle executive produces and recurs as Flynn, the role he played in the movie series.

My overview: very similar to W13. This time imagine the Bunker, and the Warehouse, and boom, you've got the Library.

Thoughts on the show: good! I love it, I just found out it was on Hulu and am going to be binging it as soon as I finish Grimm and Warehouse. I'd love to see a crossover between W13 and The Librarians I feel like they'd have a feud.

Thoughts on the fandom: probably the same size as W13 if not bigger as the series came from movies. Again, haven't finished the series so I haven't interacted with the fandom.

Eureka

Platform: Amazon Prime

Official overview: In the years since World War II, the U.S. government has been relocating the world's geniuses (and their families) to the Pacific Northwest town of Eureka. Daily life there shifts between amazing innovation and total chaos. U.S. Marshal Jack Carter learns this first-hand when his car breaks down in Eureka, stranding him among the town's eccentric citizens. When they unleash a scientific creation still unknown to the outside world, it's up to Carter to restore order. Subsequently, he's let in on one of America's best-kept secrets.

My overview: a small town but make every person a genius. Has some crossover with Warehouse 13, they exist in the same universe.

Thoughts on the show: I love it so far. Just the kind of weird shit I enjoy.

Thoughts on the fandom: I'd imagine about the size of Warehouse 13's but I've yet to interact considering I'm still in season 1.

[agatharionicky]

Sugar and Salt

Chapter: Eight of Ten

Summary: The Lance-Sharpe household and Sara’s belly is getting bigger. Ava and Gary make room for Sara, Sin, and the new baby and the rest of their family learns about their secret.

Fandom: DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.

Relationship: Sara Lance/Ava Sharpe and Amaya Jiwe/Zari Tomaz.

Characters: Sara Lance, Ava Sharpe, Sin Lance, Gary Green, Amaya Jiwe, Leonard Snart, Quentin Lance, Dinah Lance, Dot Heyward, Nate Heyward, Hank Heyward, and Kendra Saunders.

Chapter Rating: General Audiences.

Additional Tags: Bakery and Coffee Shop, Mutual Pining, Non-binary character, Trans Character, Fake Marriage, But Real Feelings, Food.

Read at AO3

Read at FFN

……………………………………………………………………

“Hey,” Ava said as she swung open the door to greet Sara and Sin. Sin gave her a wave before running off to find Gary and Sara let out of breath as she stepped past her into the house.

“We have got to tell the kids today,” Sara said, spinning around to look at her as Ava closed the door.

“What? I thought we agreed on next week. I know we’re into the second trimester now, but we just have one more week left of school and then we’re in the clear,” Ava said, crossing her arms as they stood in the hallway.

“Well, we’re going to have a hard time keeping this from them,” Sara said as she pulled up the black blouse that hung off her frame to reveal her baby belly, not a bump, a full belly, that rounded out from under her ribs.

“Your showing!” Ava instantly smiled as she walked up and put her hand on Sara’s belly. 

“Yeah,” Sara said, breaking out into a smile as well. “I noticed that I was showing last week, but since then, they’ve just gotten bigger.”

“Yeah, that’s partly because it’s your second,” Ava said, still marveling at their baby.

“I never got this big until I was about fifteen weeks along with Sin. Hey, do you still have that bouillon chicken base from the soup you made last weekend?” Sara asked, turning away and already heading towards the kitchen.

“Yeah, it’s in the fridge,” Ava said, dutifully following her. “Well Gary was bigger than Sin so this one is bound to be bigger too, but hopefully not by much.”

“Ugh, don’t remind me. I can’t believe he was over nine pounds, I got so big with Sin and she was only seven pounds. I can’t imagine how big I’m going to get with this one, and there is no way I’m pushing out a nine pound baby.”

Sara opened the fridge and started rifling around as Ava smiled down at her belly. It was obviously there and was definitely noticeable as Sara had a flat stomach before. 

Sara found the jar of bouillon and turned around to grab a spoon from the drawer. She spun off the top and sank down to sit on the floor up against the cabinets. Then she grabbed a large spoonful from the jar, stuck it into her mouth, and sighed in content. Ava made a face, not knowing how Sara could eat the salty chicken flavored seasoning, but also knew how crazy pregnancy cravings could be. 

“How are you doing Sara?”

Sara sighed and looked up at her. “I’m pregnant.”

“I know,” Ava gave her a little smile and sat down next to her on the floor. “Anything else?”

“Well, I’m not throwing up anymore and now I eat everything in sight, but then I get heartburn. I’m getting big and I’m so hormonal. I bought a pair of compression socks because I’ve got Varicose veins,” Sara lamented as she swirled her spoon around the jar. “And I’m dizzy and I keep forgetting stuff and things, and with you and me and the kids. It’s just a lot right now.”

Ava put her arm around Sara’s shoulders. “Whatever you need right now, I’m here for you. I’ll get you a whole truckload of tums and those compression socks that are super cute. I’ll keep you steady, I’ll write you notes and set reminders, and I’ll help you in any way I can.”

Sara gave her a small smile and leaned her head against Ava’s shoulder. They sat against the kitchen cabinets until Sara’s ass started hurting. Ava pulled Sara into her lap and wrapped her arms around Sara’s waist, holding on to her as Sara closed her eyes. Ava thought she would fall asleep until Sara turned and looked up at her.

“I just can’t keep this a secret from the kids anymore. I hate lying to Sin about why I’ve been acting differently and why I’m sick. This morning, they asked me why my stomach was so big and I just froze. I wanted so badly to tell them the truth, but I didn’t. Instead, Laurel just told them that it was because I’ve been eating too much ice cream. I don’t know, I just want everything to be settled. I want us to be a family and I just, I don’t know.” 

As Sara spoke she cradled her belly and Ava put a hand over hers. “Also the nesting instincts have kicked in early and they are strong! I got out Sin’s old clothes, the bassinet, I even bought diapers, and I bought a set of mountain pictures to hang in the nursery. So I hope you like them because that’s our theme.”

Ava listened as Sara lamented to her and waited until she was sure Sara was done speaking. “I get it. I also kind of got a little carried away when I was cleaning out the spare room this weekend.”

“You got excited,” Sara said with a knowing smile.

Ava smiled down at her and their wonderful little surprise. She had forgotten how exciting it was to have a baby and she had gotten a bit swept up in putting together the baby’s room the past few days. She had brought out all of Gary’s old baby things into the new baby’s room. 

“Can I see it?” Sara asked, setting her snack down.

“Of course and I have a surprise to show you as well,” Ava said, getting up and holding out her hand to Sara who rejected it. 

With one hand on the counter and the other cradling her belly, Sara got up by herself. “I’m not helpless yet.”

“I can’t imagine you ever being helpless.”

Sara just smiled at her and put the chicken bouillon away. Ava made a mental note to break out a new one before she started on dinner that night. She led Sara up the stairs and down the hall. They passed Gary’s room and peeked in on him and Sin setting up a Lego City. 

When they got to the door, Ava had Sara close her eyes. Ava put an arm around her waist and led her into the middle of the room, where Sara could get a view of everything.

“Okay, open them.”

Sara opened her eyes and looked around the room. Ava had bought out the old rocker and placed it in the corner, there was a little bookshelf, and a bare white crib was up against the wall. She had opened a few boxes of old baby clothes and the few toys that she had and put them on the shelf. It looked like the beginnings of a nursery and the photo of all four of them that hung above the crib brought it all to life. 

The photo was one that Ava had captured rather spontaneously while the four of them were at the park last weekend. Both Gary and Sin smiled up at the camera as Ava and Sara stood behind them. They each had one hand on each kid’s shoulders and one hand on Sara’s belly. Sara walked up to it and put her hand over her mouth and Ava could see the tears welling in her eyes.

Ava came up behind her and put her arms around Sara’s waist. She pulled her blouse and put her hands on her belly, cradling it. Sara’s belly was just big enough to fit in both of her hands. 

“It’s us as a family, all five of us.” 

“Yeah,” Sara whispered as she stared up at the photo.

They stayed like that, staring up at the picture, and Sara put her own hands over Ava’s. They had only just agreed a few weeks ago that Sara and Sin would move in with her and Gary before fall. Ava had also cleared out the other guest bedroom for Sin and made space for Sara in her room. The kids already knew that they were dating and the four of them were all getting along better than they could have imagined. 

“Hey Ava, can Gary and I go jump on the trampoline?” Sin called out as they came barreling down the hallway and into the room with Gary behind them.

Ava quickly removed her hands from Sara’s belly, but Sara’s sweater stayed up, leaving the very evident bump. There was no hiding it. With all of the baby clothes, the crib, and Sara’s belly, it was obvious. 

“What’s all this?” Sin asked, looking around the room and then over at them. 

“Yeah, Mama?” Gary said, stepping into the room and picking up one of the toys on the shelf. “Why do you have all this baby stuff?” 

Sara looked over at Ava and Ava looked back at her. “Sin, Gary, we have something to tell you.”

……………………………………………………………………

Sara sat down on the coffee table in the living room with Ava next to her. She took a deep breath and thought about what to say. Ava’s knees bounced and Sara put a hand on her knee, soothing her. Ava glanced over at her and Sara gave her a reassuring smile, hiding her own nerves. 

“Gary, Sin,” Sara started, unsure how to break the news to them. She had just blurted it out to Ava, but she didn’t want to shock them.

Ava looked over at her and squeezed her hand. Sara nodded and took a deep breath with her as they turned back to the kids.

“You two know that Sara and I were dating before we told you guys about us. We wanted to make things work out between us so that we knew for sure we could all be together,” Ava said, as she talked in a steady clear voice.  “But that’s also because we’re going to have a baby, and you two are getting a new baby sibling. Since we’re having a baby, things are going to change around here.”

Ava explained it so well and Sara just watched her talk. She had this whole big speech that she had more or less come up with on the spot, and it was perfect. Sin and Gary seemed to take things in strides and nodded along at certain parts, but looked confused at others, so Sara jumped in and added to Ava’s explanation. They both talked together and parented together for the first time. It came so naturally to them and Sara took a second to smile over at Ava. They were officially a team, and soon they’d be a family. 

“So, because the baby needs both of its Mom’s, we need to live together when the baby comes in December. It wouldn’t be right away, and we’ll see how it goes. We want to do this because if we live together, we can take care of the baby and you and Gary. You both will get the same amount of time with your new sibling and you can get some special time with each one of us. We don’t want either of you to feel left out.” Sara explained to them as she put a hand on her belly now that she could without worrying about what Sin or Gary would think.

The kids seemed to be in a bit of shock as they just sat and looked up at both of them with different expressions. Sara watched each of them process it at different rates, before Gary smiled widely, while Sin still processed it. 

“A baby?” Gary asked as he wiggled with excitement.

“Yeah, bud a baby,” Ava said, with a nod that matched his excitement. 

“Wait, so we have to move in with Ava and Gary?” Sin asked, throwing out their hands. 

“It wouldn’t be right away, probably in a couple of months, but I’m telling you now because I want to know if it would be okay with you?” Sara leaned forward to hold Sin’s hands. 

“Would I have to share a room with Gary or the baby?”

“No, we have enough bedrooms so there’s one for you too. I actually cleaned it out and was wondering if you wanted to pick out a color for it?” Ava added, looking over at Sara briefly.

Sara nodded and they both looked back at Sin who was doing some more thinking. 

“I don’t know.” 

“That’s okay, honey,” Sara said, giving their hands an extra squeeze. “We can try it out and see how it goes okay?”

Sin nodded and sat back against the couch. 

“How did the baby get in your tummy?” Gary asked, his question like a record scratching.

“Did you have sex?” Sin asked, Sara had given them the sex talk, along with the period and babies talk a couple of months ago.

“What’s sex?”

Ava looked over at her with wide eyes and Sara met Ava’s anxious expression with a shrug. Sin was old enough for the talk and Sara had told them that it was an adult act. But, she was never one to beat around the bush when it came to how bodies worked. 

“It’s a grown-up thing,” Ava said as she struggled to find the words to explain it. 

“Like kissing?” Gary asked, tilting his head as his eyebrows knitted together. 

“Yes,” Ava said, smiling as she relaxed, leaving her explanation at that.

“No,” Sara interrupted, she could tell where this was going and watched as Sin and Garry got more and more confused. “Do you remember when I said that not every parent wanted their kids to know about it until they were ready?”

“Yeah,” Sin said with a nod, seeming to understand it more. “We were talking about delaying puberty hormones for me too.”

“Mama you take hormones because you used to be a boy,” Gary said, the look of confusion was gone and he seemed to be happy to understand what they were talking about.

“That's right,” Ava said, reaching over to grasp Sara’s hand and smiling as she whispered ‘thank you,’ to her. Sara nodded and they turned back to the kids together as Ava spoke. “I'm transgender which means that I take hormones to help me feel more like a girl.”

“But that still doesn't explain why the baby is in Sara's tummy?” Gary said, with a shrug. 

Sara and Ava smiled and Sara pulled up her shirt and pointed to her baby bump. “The baby is growing in my uterus, here. Right now the baby is still very small, about the size of a pear. They need to be inside me to grow. Like how a plant doesn't come out of the ground until it's ready, the baby won't come out of my uterus until they grow big enough to live outside of me.”

“Oh,” both kids said as they sat back, seeming content with everything Sara and Ava had said. 

Sara looked over at Ava and Ava nodded at her. They both let out a sigh of relief, having done the hard part of all of this. 

“Do you guys have any more questions?”

“What’s sex?” 

“I’ll tell you later Gary,” Ava quickly said, silencing everyone including Sara with a look.

Sara sighed and leaned forward towards Sin. “Do you have any questions kiddo?”

“No, I think I get it.”

“Good.”

“That’s great,” Ava said, clapping her hands together. “But remember the baby is still a secret, so we’re not going to tell anyone right away.”

“But Auntie Laurel knows, so it’s okay to talk to her about this,” Sara added as Ava looked over at her surprised. “She fingered it out when I threw out her candle.”

“Wait, so is Sin going to be my sibling?”

“Kind of, if you want them to be,” Ava said, with a smile, and Sara could see how happy she was that their family was coming together.

“They can be your sibling like the baby or you could call them your Nibbling like Aunt Laurel calls you her Niblett,” Sara offered Gary the options as he smiled.

“Like a chicken nugget?” Gary asked with a giggle.

“I mean, not really,” Sara said, trying to think of a better way to explain it to him, but Gary and Sin broke out into giggles and fell back onto the couch.

“Gary I’m your nugget. Bak bak.”

“Well, then I’m going to eat you!” Gary declared, opening his mouth wide and pretending to bite at the air above Sin. 

“Bak bak.” 

“Nom nom.”

Ava looked mortified, but Sara couldn’t help but laugh as well. She got up and joined them on the couch, laughing and playing alone, by clucking at Sin. Ava let her embarrassment go and sat next to Sin, joining in on the fun. Sin would bak and Gary would open his mouth to bite the air and even Sara joined in with a cock-a-doodle-doo and Ava pretended to bite at Sin and Sara. 

The giggles seemed to never end because as soon as things settled down, one of them would start it all over again. Eventually, they sat down together. Sin leaned against Ava at one end of the couch and Ava put her arm around them. Sara laid down on the other end and Gary crawled over to lay next to her and put his hand on her belly. 

“Hi baby, I’m your brother Gary and I love you,” Gary said, leaning down to kiss her belly.

Sara couldn’t hold back the tears that streamed down her cheeks and Ava looked up at her and rubbed her leg. She put one hand on Gary’s head and reached out to hold Sin’s hand as well. 

“The baby and I love you too Gary,” Sara whispered to him. “And Sin, we love you, and we love you too Ava.”

Ava paused and tears collected in her eyes too. It was the first time Sara had said that she loved her and Sara didn’t just say it to her, she said it to Gary too. It was all that Ava could have ever wanted.

“I love you too, and I love you Sin and you too Gary,” Ava said, never taking her eyes off of Sara, but reaching out to give both of the kid’s hands a little squeeze.

“Mama, you didn’t say I love you to the baby,” Gary said, sitting up and looking pointedly over at her. 

“And I love you too baby.”

Sara looked up and caught her eye as she smiled and brushed away her tears. Ava loved this woman, so much that it took her breath away and she loved the family that they now had.

Sara’s phone dinged and she looked away to read it. “Hey, do you want to meet my Dad at lunch next week?”

Ava paled, oh boy there was no way they were keeping the baby a secret. Not at the rate Sara was growing and with both kids knowing. So she would be meeting her girlfriend’s father while said girlfriend was visibly pregnant with her baby and both of their kids were bursting with excitement for a new sibling. Ava bit her lip and caught Sara’s eye. Sara looked over at her and she knew that it would mean the world to Sara if they met. 

“Yeah, just so long as he doesn’t yell at me for getting you pregnant,” Ava said, patting Sara’s legs. “And it would probably be good for you and Sin to meet my family as well.”

“We could meet everybody’s family all at once for a big family reunion,” Gary said, getting excited again and jumping off the couch to go grab one of the family photos Ava had on the mantle. 

Sara looked over at Ava a little apprehensively, and Ava shared in her worry. “We’re both adults and we have a plan. We’re not rushing into this and they have to be excited for a new grandbaby.”

“Yeah,” Sara nodded, still not completely sure about this, but on board with the plan.

“Yeah,” Ava nodded as well. “What was the worst that could happen?”

……………………………………………………………………

“Over here Papa,” Sin said, waving him over and Sara looked up to see her dad excitedly walking over to them.

It had been a few weeks since they had agreed to meet up with their families for lunch, and the day was finally here. They had arrived at the restaurant and had been seated in the backroom allowing for the private announcement. 

Sara took a deep breath and put a hand on her belly before moving it away. She had to remember that she couldn’t do that for the rest of the night until after they had announced it, as it was a dead giveaway to her pregnancy. She instead got up and greeted her father after he pulled Sin for a Papa bear hug and said hello to Laurel. 

“Hey Dad.”

“Hey sweetie,” Quentin said, leaning in to hug her.

“Hello Mr. Lance,” Ava said, holding out her hand for him to shake. Ava got up and stood tall next to her.

“You must be Ava,” Quentin said, looking her over with scrutinizing eyes as he shook her hand with a firm grip. 

“Yes sir,” Ava said, shaking his hand, probably with the same amount of force that he was using. 

“Well, it’s nice to meet you Ava. I’ve heard that you’ve been good to my daughter and grandchild,” Quentin said, as he gave her an approving nod and Sara let out a breath of relief.

“Well, they’re easy to be good too,” Ava said, looking over at Sara fondly, before putting her arm around Gary, who had shrunk back into his seat. “And this is my son Gary.”

Quentin gave him a more laid back and happy smile as he reached over to shake Gary’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you Gary.”

Gary smiled as he shook Quentin’s hand and relaxed against Ava’s side.

“Mom’s here,” Laurel said, giving them a heads up and they looked over to see Dinah walking towards them.

“Grammy!” Sin shouted, getting up and running over to her as Dinah crouched down and held her arms wide open for her grandchild. 

Sara always felt better when her mom was around. Growing up, Sara had always been particularly close to her Mom. Dinah was more accepting of Sara’s wild ways, letting her daughter experiment and make her own path. Dinah made it a point to visit them at least once a year. However, since she had moved to Central City after the divorce, Sara hadn’t seen her as often as either of them liked. So Sara was happy to have her back for a few days.

After having a little moment together, Sin and Dinah made their way back to the table where she quickly greeted Laurel and then Sara with a hug. As always Dinah took things with ease and greeted Ava.

“You must be Ava. I’ve heard such wonderful things about you from Sara and Laurel,” Dinah said, pulling her into a hug. 

Avis gave Sara a nervous smile over her shoulder but seemed to relax in Dinah’s arms.

As quickly and as warmly as she greeted Ava, Dinah also greeted Gary, holding out her hand for him instead of a hug as he had eyed Dinah warily. “And you must be Gary, Sin said you’ve been a good friend to them and that you enjoy magic.”

“Yeah, do you want to see this card trick I learned?” Gary said, instantly warming up to her.

“I’d love to,” Dinah said as he sat down next to Sin and Laurel.

Quentin quietly nodded at Dinah and they both exchanged a cordial hello. As both Dinah and Quentin settled at the table and Gary began to show him the card trick, Sara and Ava secretly shared a look. Ava smiled gently and she reached over to take Sara’s hands and put it over her belly. It was an action that eased both of their worries and Sara felt the baby flutter inside of her. 

“Two down,” Sara whispered to her.

“And two to go,” Ava whispered back, looking past her and waving to Dorothy and Hank as they walked into the restaurant. 

Both Sara and Ava got up at the same time to greet them. Sara straightened out her dress and tried to smile naturally. 

“Hello dear,” Dorothy said as she greeted Ava, pulling her in for a hug and a quick kiss to her cheek.

“Hi Mom,” Ava said, quickly pulling back and reaching out to shake Hank’s hand. “Hello Hank.”

“Ava, it’s good to see you, honey,” Hank said with a warm greeting, despite their formal handshake.

Sara stood nervously next to Ava and watched her parents greet her before they finally turned to her with warm eyes.

“Mom, Hank, this is Sara,” Ava said, introducing her and putting an arm around her waist.

“It’s so nice to meet you Sara,” Dorothy said, pulling Sara in for a hug.

“It’s nice to meet you as well Mrs. Heyward,” Sara said, trying to breathe as Dorothy squeezed her a little too tight.

“Oh please call me Dot. I’m only Mrs. Heyward at school,” Dot said, finally letting go of her and pulling back to smile warmly at her, putting Sara at ease.

“Sara, it’s good to meet you,” Hank said, holding out his hand for her to shake. He gave her a firm grip and a tight smile that Sara was expecting, given what Nate and Ava had said about their father. That he was a very formal man, but with a soft side that he reserved for only in private.

“It’s nice to meet you too Mr. Heyward,” Sara said as she retreated to Ava’s side. “Ava always speaks very fondly of both of you.” 

“Oh yes and Ava has said such nice things about you as well,” Dot said leaning back against Hank and putting a hand on his chest. “Hasn’t she Hank.”

“She has,” Hank said, merely acknowledging it.

Dot sent Sara a knowing smile and a wink, before going over and saying hello to Gary and Sin. Sara and Ava introduce both sets of parents to each other and so far everyone seemed to get along as they all sat down at the table. Ava pulled out Sara’s chair for her and Quentin noticed. He caught her eye and gave her an approving nod, to which Ava smiled and nodded back. 

“Where is Nathaniel,” Hanks said, looking around, as the waitress came over to take their drink orders.

“He is on his way Dad, everyone is a bit early.” Ava explained as she pulled out her phone to send Nate a quick text. 

“I’m sure he’ll be here any minute,” Dot said, as she sent Hank a look. 

Ava gave them a nervous smile and Sara put her hand between Ava’s shoulder blades, gently rubbing up and down.

“So Ava,” Dinah said, looking over at her pointedly. “Sara said you were Sin’s school teacher. Is that how you both met?”

Sara could see how the smile Ava had put on her face betrayed how nervous she was. “Actually we met at the bakery, two mutual friends of ours were getting together and Sara was kind enough to hang out with me.”

“That’s so sweet,” Dot said, putting a hand on her chest and tilting her head to smile at them. “Ava mentioned that you were a partner in the business, Jiwe’s Bakery, yes.”

“Yes, I run the business side of the bakery for Amaya Jiwe,” Sara replied, matching Ava’s nervous smile as she spoke.

“A small business, that’s a good nice stable job I’m sure,” Hank said in more of a questioning tone.

“It is,” Dinah answered for her. “And it pays more than a teacher’s salary I’m sure.”

Hank looked like he was about to reply with another quip, but Ava managed to cut them off. “The Star City school district pays quite well actually and if you’re asking whether I am financially stable I assure you I am.”

“Okay,” Sara said, holding her hand out before this turned into a full on argument. “Let’s just clear a few things up. Ava and I are both financially stable enough to provide for each other and our children. We have seriously considered this relationship and how it will affect our children. We’re both equally committed to each other and we love each other very much.”

The last part was said as Sara reached over to grab Ava’s hands and held it on the table. Ava looked at her with soft eyes and the first genuine smile Sara had seen since they had sat down. 

“Well, I guess that settles it, for now,” Quentin said, taking a sip of his water as the waitress came back to pass them around.

“I suppose so,” Hank said, as both of their families exchanged a mutual nod of agreement, and Sara and Ava let out a sigh of relief.

“Hey,” Nate said as he approached their table and leaned down to give Dot a quick kiss before he sat down. “I hope I didn’t miss anything.”

Sara couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled up in her throat and quickly hid it as she took a drink of her water. Everyone settled in and the rest of the meal went off without a hitch. Both of their families got to know each other as they talked and laughed and exchanged family stories. Ava looked over at Sara, putting an arm around her chair, she pulled her close and reached over to put a hand on Sara’s belly, under the table. 

When the waitress came and took away their plates, Sara and Ava gave Laurel the signal to take the kids for ice cream at the place across the street.

“Alright, who wants ice cream?” Laurel asked, standing up and grabbing her purse.

“I do, I do,” Sin said, jumping up and down in their seat.

“I can have two scoops, right Mama?” Gary asked, looking over at her. 

“Yes, I said you could baby,” Ava said smiled over at him as he wiggled with excitement.

“I think I’d like some ice cream too,” Quentin said, getting up from his seat.

“Actually Dad, why don’t we let Laurel and the kids go grab ice cream for us?” Sara said, trying to be nonchalant about the whole thing. Of course, her Mom picked up on it and sent her a questioning look, but grabbed Quentin’s arm and pulled him back down.

“Sara is right, let’s go,” Laurel said, ushering Gary and Sin out.

The mood in the room immediately shifted as Laurel and the kids walked out of the restaurant and then both sets of parents immediately turned their eyes to Sara and Ava. Ava took a deep breath. They had both agreed to speak together to both of their parents and had gone over what they would say on the phone the night before.

“Sara and I wanted you both to meet so that we could all get to know each other as a family, because we are going to be a family.” Ava began as she nervously looked between Sara’s parents, her own, and Nate who seemed to be stuck in the middle. 

“It wasn’t planned, but Ava and I have chosen to do this. We’ve fallen in love and are ready to have a family together.” Sara continued where she had left off and put a hand over Ava’s on her belly.

“Sara, sweetie,” Dinah interrupted her. “If you two want to get married...”

“It’s not that Mom,” Sara said, looking over at Ava who nodded at her. “I’m pregnant. We’re having a baby and co-parenting together.”

The silence that filled the room could have been cut with a knife. Even Dinah, who was never one to judge her daughter, sat in silence as she absorbed the news.

“Oh my God, congratulations,” Nate said with a large smile blooming across his face. He immediately got up and went over to wrap them both in a hug. 

“Thank you Nate,” Ava said as she and Sara let themselves smile and enjoy Nate’s enthusiasm. 

“This is so exciting! A new niece or nephew!” Nate said as he looked between both of them. 

“It is very exciting,” Dinah added as she stood up and walked over to them. “And as adults, I trust that you both know what you’re doing.”

Sara got up as her mother walked around and felt the stress fall off of her shoulders. No matter what, if Sara knew she had her Mom on her side, everything would be okay. Dinah pulled her in for a hug and when she pulled back, Sara pulled at her dress to outline her belly. Dinah gasped and placed her hand on her belly. Sara glanced up to see that everyone was looking fondly at her baby.

“Dinah is right. These two are both adults and they haven’t taken this lightly. We should trust them and support them,” Dot said, getting up and walking over to hug Ava and Sara as well. 

Ava let herself melt into her Mom’s arms. When she pulled back, she looked over at Hank and Quentin who seemed to still be mulling over the announcement.

“You both have thought this through?” Hank asked, looking over at them. 

“We have,” Ava answered, putting her arm around Sara's waist.

“Sara, can you promise me you won’t run out on my daughter?”

Sara glanced over at Ava and Ava knew from the loving look that Sara would never do that to her.  

“I can promise you that I love your daughter very much Mr. Heyward and I know what it takes to raise a child, as I have one of my own. I would never willingly abandon either of them.”

Hank gave her one of his signature approving nods, as he was never one for hugs.

Quentin was the last one to get up and walk around to them. 

“I want you to take care of my daughter and grandbabies,” Quentin said as he gave Ava a hard look.

“I will. I promise,” Ava said with a nod as she looked over at Sara with a fond smile.

Quentin’s hard look fell as he smiled and pulled both of them in for a hug.

“I suppose I shouldn’t judge, you’ve got everything figured out and I can see that you're not rushing into this,” Quentin said putting a hand on Sara’s belly. “Besides how can I be anything but happy when you're giving me another grandbaby.”

Laurel, Gary, and Sin came back at that moment, with ice cream across their faces. Quentin pulled his hand back and ruffled Sin’s hair as they handed him the ice cream. 

“Did you tell them about the baby?” Sin asked as Sara grabbed a napkin to wipe their face. 

“We did,” Ava answered with a smile as she did the same with Gary.

“I’m gonna have a new niece or nephew!” Nate said, practically bursting with excitement. 

“Or nibling.” Laurel added matching his smile as Quentin and Dinah looked over at her with the same amount of surprise that they had for Sara and Ava, and Laurel just shrugged. “Sara was terrible at hiding it.” 

“Yeah, I’m going to be a big brother,” Gary said standing up tall and proudly until Ava wiped his face.

“And I’m going to be a big chicken.” Sin loudly proclaimed to the whole restaurant. 

……………………………………………………………………

The doorbell rang and Sara smiled as she swung open the door to see Mick, Lisa, Lita, and Sin piled to the small hallway.

“Hey you, Sara said, putting her arms around Sin. “Did you have a good time ice skating?” 

Normally Sara would have gone with them to their ice skating rink, but with Laurel and Tommy off on a picnic lunch and Ava and Gary at some magic show that Constantine was putting on. Sara opted to spend the afternoon getting back into her workout routine and doing some sparing with Kendra. Something she had finally been able to do now that she was fifteen weeks along and in the second trimester. 

“Yeah, I was practicing going backward, but Uncle Mick made me wear too much protective gear and I couldn’t see,” Sin said with an eye roll. 

“Yeah, because protecting your head is such a drag.” Sara laughed and sent Mick a wink as he just smiled and nodded his head.

“You should have seen the butt pads your dad made me wear when I first started ice skating,” Lisa said, turning around and mimicking the butt pillow, earning a laugh from everyone around her. “Overprotectiveness runs in the family.”

“Yeah, well there’s a good reason for it,” Sara said as she took the backpack from Sin’s shoulders. “You guys are always getting into way too much trouble.”

“Trouble is part of the fun,” Lita said with a smile.

“We should get going. You said you had a summer reading list to start,” Mick said, putting a hand on Lita’s shoulders.

“Ugh, summer homework is the worst!” Lita scowled as she crossed her arms.

“We should do some reading too kiddo,” Sara said, as she ran a hand through Sin’s helmet hair. 

“Having your teacher date your mom is no fun,” Sin said as they scrunched up their face.

“Yeah, I’m out,” Lisa said, holding up her hands. “There’s a reason I went to Nationals and not college.” 

Sin turned and hugged Lisa, who gave them an extra squeeze and a wink before she pulled back and hugged Sara.

“Bye Sin,” Lita said, as they did, their special cousin’s handshake ending in a fist explosion.

“See ya kid and take care Blondie,” Mick said, with his usual nod of approval and gave her belly a little pat.

The little baby in her belly kicked and fluttered and Sara put a hand on her stomach, feeling them wiggle around. They all looked down at her belly and Lisa made little grabby hands before putting her hands on Sara’s belly. Lita did a modified version of the cousin’s handshake with her belly and Sin joined her for the last fist bump and explosion. Sara was relieved that they were so excited about the baby. They were also so supportive of her relationship with Ava and it meant the world to her.

“Bye!” Sin yelled after them with a wave, watching until they disappeared onto the elevator.

“It sounds like you guys have fun,” Sara said, as she shut the door and they walked back into the apartment.

“Yeah, but do I have to read?” Sin asked as they knelt down to take off their black converse.

“Why don’t you bring out your book and we can start reading together,” Sara offered, with a yawn and Sin nodded, before running off to their room. 

The sun streamed in through the windows and the heat seemed to seep in through the bricks. Sara propped up a box fan in the window and set it to blow on the couch as she sat down. It was one of those lazy Sundays where all you wanted to do was nap, but they had a book to read, so Sara settled in.

As she waited for Sin, thoughts of Leonard filled her mind. Now that she was pregnant again, she couldn’t help but remember what it was like when she was pregnant with Sin and the memories of Leonard that came with it. He was so sweet with her and helped her out with everything, from late night food runs, to doctors appointments, and getting the nursery put together. He would massage her feet and hold back her hair as she was sick. Leonard took care of her, and after she gave birth to continue to take care of her and Sin. Leonard was so in love with both of them and they were his world. 

Sara still dreams of him sometimes, and she often dreamed of the last day they were together. The way the waves sounded as they hit the rocky coast, the way they curved around the corners, the way the engine revved, and the way Leonard smiled over at her. 

He picked a spot just against the cliffs where they could watch the sunset and pulled her into his lap. She still remembered the way that he smelled, like wind and sea salt with touches of his cologne that lingered on his collar. She remembered the way he held her, whispered in her ear how much he loved her, and how much she meant to him. Sara felt like they would be together forever. He looked at her like no one else did. 

They stayed there till the night grew dark and he drove slowly around the curves as they drove home. He told her to go to sleep and relax, he’d carry her into the hotel and promise to wake her up if her Dad called about Sin. She drifted off, but the next thing she knew they were rolling over the road. She remembered how the blood was everywhere, and the car seemed to be smashed around them. She remembered how his arm was bracing her against the seat. She remembered screaming, trying to get him to wake up, but no matter how loud she screamed he didn’t wake up.

“Mom, Mom.”

Sara startled awake and sat up. She looked over to see Sin just standing next to her, looking just as frightened as she felt. Sara leaned forward and wrapped her arms around them, trying to hold back the sobs that shook her body. 

“I’m okay, it’s okay baby,” Sara said, she didn’t want to frighten them and took several deep breaths, to try and calm herself. “I’m sorry I scared you. It’s okay.”

“Did you have a bad dream?” Sin whispered as they patted her back. 

Sara took a deep breath and squeezed Sin a little tighter. “Yeah baby, but it’s all over now and it was just a dream.”

Sin nodded and wiggled out of her arms. “I’ll go get Leo.” 

They quickly rushed off and then came back with Leo the lion and the picture frame of Leonard and them that sat on their nightstand. 

“Here, Leo will scare all the nightmares away,” Sin said, as they crawled back into her lap.

Sara laughed as she placed Leo on her chest while holding the picture. Sara turned so they could both hold the lion and look at the photo. 

“Your Daddy was the best at scaring away the nightmares, wasn’t he,” Sara said as they looked down at the picture and Sin gently outlined his face with their finger.

“He still is,” Sin said, hugging Sara tighter. “Daddy will always watch over us and keep away the nightmares.”

“That’s right.” 

Sara held Sin and just watched them for a moment. Sometimes missing him felt like an ache in her soul. Having Sin around made it feel both better and worse. She had the best reminder of him and a lifetime of things he would never see them do. 

She barely even knew when the door to the apartment opened. She just assumed it was Laurel getting back, but was greeted by Gary rushing up to them. He leaned down, half falling on them, to wrap them both in a hug.

“Hello.”

“Gary, remember what we said about personal space,” Ava smiled as she walked over and picked Gary up, tickling his sides. 

Sara looked up at Ava and smiled, happy that she was there. Yet, Ava seemed to freeze at the sight of them and stared down at the photo in their hands. 

“Who’s that?” Gary said, pointing at Leonard in the photo as he wiggled out of Ava’s arms. 

“That’s my Daddy,” Sin said proudly. “He used to run a figure skating rink with my Aunt Lisa. He took her to nationals and he taught me how to ice skate. This is Leo, a part of my Daddy lives in him and he scares away the nightmares.” 

“Cool, it’s like magic.” 

“Yeah.” 

Sin and Gary continue to talk and Sara looked up at Ava who seemed to close herself off. She briefly caught Sara’s eye as she walked away. “I should get going on dinner or something.”

Sara just nodded, knowing Ava needed time. It was easier for her, Ava’s ex-wife was the bad guy and Sara didn’t have to like her. Ava’s past was all said and done. Even if they did have to see her again, Sara knew that she didn’t have to play nice to the girl who broke Ava and Gary’s heart. 

Things with Leonard were different. Leonard was part of her and he was Sin’s dad. He would always be a part of their family. She and Ava had talked about it before, but only briefly and Ava seemed to deal with Leonard as if he was just a piece of her past. Sara decided just to let her deal with it on her own, with Ava knowing that Sara loved her. 

……………………………………………………………………

A few nights later they were all over at Ava’s place getting ready for bed. Sara stopped the dryer and pulled out two warm blankets for Sin and Gary. She quickly wrapped it up to hold the heat and walked down the hall. Gary was in his room with Ava who was helping him pick up the last of his toys. 

Sara opened the blanket, coming up behind him to wrap it around his shoulders. Gary cuddled into the warmth and gave her a hug.

“Thanks Sara, goodnight,” Gary said, turning around to kiss her cheek and pressing an extra kiss to her belly. It was something he had started doing after they told the kids and something she was still getting used to. “And goodnight to you too baby.”

Ava put the box away on the shelf and tilted her head as she smiled over at then. Sara smiled at her as Gary untangled his arms from her waist and crawled into bed. 

“Goodnight Gary,” Sara said, leaning down to kiss his head. 

“Ready to be tucked in?” Ava asked, already pulling the covers up to his chin. 

“Yep.”

Sara smiled at them and let them say goodnight to each other, going off in search of Sin, who was probably still in the bathroom. Instead, Sara heard Sin’s voice coming from the baby’s room. The room was dark as Sara opened the door and peeked in. Sin was standing in the crib and had put something into the corner of the framed photo of them.

“There you go Daddy, now you can watch over all of us at Ava’s house,” Sin said, looking up at the photo, it was the one from the frame on top of their dresser of Leonard sitting at his desk at the ice rink. “Today I played with Gary and we made a huge fort. Then we watched a movie and we had s’mores in the backyard because Ava has a campfire pit!”

Sara let Sin have a moment alone as they talked with their dad. It was something they often did, mostly before they went to bed and especially when they were missing him. 

Sara didn’t realize she was holding the blanket tightly up against her chest until Ava put a hand on her arm. She turned to look at Ava and let go, taking a deep breath. She went to put her arms around Ava, but she stepped away and just looked down. Ava gave Sara’s arm another squeeze and nodded her head, before walking away towards their bedroom. 

Sara took a step to follow her, but she wasn’t sure what she would say. So she decided to put Sin to bed before she talked to Ava. Sara peeked in the door again and wordlessly walked in greeting Sin with a smile as they turned around. She walked over to Sin, putting the blanket around their shoulders and hugged them close. 

“Hey Mom, I was just telling Dad about the s’more you made and how gross it was,” Sin said wrinkling up their nose. 

“It wasn’t that bad,” Sara said as she bopped their nose. “Besides, I ate much worse things when I was pregnant with you.”

“Ugh like Broccoli,” Sin said, sticking out their tough and doing a full body wiggle.

“Yeah, I ate all that Broccoli and you still don’t like it,” Sara said, giving them an extra squeeze and tickling their sides. “Are you ready to go to bed, or do you want to keep talking to your Dad?”

“I’m ready,” Sin said as they turned around to look at the photo and leaned in to kiss it. “Goodnight Daddy.”

Sara smiled and blew a kiss to the photo as well. “Goodnight Len.”

Sin turned back and hugged her. They tried to put their weight on her and make Sara carry them, but Sara put her hands on their waist holding them into place. 

“Sorry kiddo, I’m already carrying one baby. I can’t carry you too,” Sara said with a frown as she pulled back. 

“Sorry Mom, I forgot,” Sin looked down and let go of her.

“It’s okay,” Sara said as she put down the side of the crib.

Sin crawled out and Sara put her arm around them as she let them down the hall back into Gary’s room, where he was already snoring. They hadn’t set up the bedroom for Sin yet as the grey paint, a compromise from black, was still drying. Sara pulled Sin in as she climbed into bed and lay down next to them. “But that doesn’t mean I can’t hold you like this.”

Sin smiled and snuggled close to her, wrapping the blanket around both of them. Sara ran her fingers through their short black hair. When they were a baby Sin would only fall asleep in either Sara or Len’s arms. They wanted to spend the entire day being held and Sara carried them around in a wrap for the majority of their first year. She was so honored to still be her kid’s safe space and she would never pass up the chance to hold them. 

Sara stayed with them and held them until they fell asleep. Then she slipped out from their arms and put a pillow into the space she previously occupied. She ran her fingers through their hair one last time and pressed a kiss to their forehead before she left the room.

Sara walked down the hallway and popped into the nursery seeing that the light was on. She paused to see Ava standing in front of the crib looking up at Len’s photo. She snuck up behind Ava and wrapped her arms around their waist. Ava didn’t jump this time, but she did startle and looked back at her before leaning in and holding Sara’s arms around her waist.

“Sin wanted their Dad to watch over the new baby too.”

Ava reached up and took the photo out, before turning around and handing it to Sara. “You should give it back to Sin. I know how important the picture is to them, besides this is our baby, we’ll watch over them.”

Sara just shook her head, she untangled herself from Ava and put the photo back. “Yeah, but Leonard is Sin’s father and he’s a part of their family, which makes him a part of our families.”

“Sara, he may be Sin’s father, but he’s not a part of our baby’s family. You, me, Gary and Sin are,” Ava said, grabbing the photo again and handing it back to Sara.

Sara looked at the photo and then looked over at Ava as her eyebrows knitted together. “Ava...”

“I get it Sara. I don’t mind Sin having Leonards’s photo in their room and stuff, but this baby is yours and mine alone. We’re going to be a family just the four of us.”

Sara gave Ava a hard look and put Leonard’s photo back in the corner of the picture, before crossing her arms and standing in front of the crib. 

“Len is a part of our family and when you committed to having a family with me and Sin that includes Leonard in whatever capacity Sin wants. This isn’t just about you and me is about Sin and I won’t force them to keep their father to themselves. If they want the photo in the nursery with the baby, then that’s where it’s going to be.”

“Sara, that’s not what I asked,” Ava said, trying to walk up to her and reached out to her, but Sara turned away.

“That is what you asked. Look Ava, we both have a past. We have past relationships that still affect us. We both have baggage.” Sara said, throwing up her hands, she hadn’t realized that she had raised her voice and took a deep breath. “You have Gary’s mother and I know that you’re not as open about her with Gary. I don’t even know her name. You don’t have any pictures of her up and I respect that, but Leonard is a part of my family and a part of Sin. I won’t erase that.”

Ava looked down and crossed her arms as well. “Things with Gary’s mom and I are completely different. She chose to leave and have nothing to do with me or Gary.”

Sara took a step towards her. “I know, but that doesn’t mean Gary doesn’t want to know about her. Sin wants to know about their father. I won’t keep Leonard from them and neither should you.”

Ava looked up and unfolded her arms, taking a step towards her. Sara reached out to hold Ava’s hands and gave them a squeeze.

“You and me and Sin and Gary and this baby,” Sara said holding Ava’s hand and putting it on her belly. “Are a family and nothing is going to change that. But our past led us to this moment and they are still a part of us. They deserve whatever place we choose to give them. Please let me and Sin have this place.” 

Ava moved her hands to hold the curve of Sara’s belly and looked up as she felt a drop of water. Sara had silent tears falling down her cheeks as she looked down at their hands. Ava reached up to hold Sara’s face and Sara leaned into her, wrapping her arms around Ava’s waist. 

“You’re right,” Ava whispered in Sara’s ear as she brushed away her tears. “I’m sorry Sara, I shouldn’t have tried to take Leonard away from you and Sin.”

Sara just nodded as her tears fell. Ava rubbed her back and let Sara cry as she led her out of the room. She led Sara down the hallway and into their bedroom, sitting down in a chair, and pulling Sara into her lap. The tears slowed and Sara’s breathing became even again, and she pulled Ava’s hand back to her belly.

Ava took a deep breath trying to settle her own nerves as she reached over to her nightstand. She opened the drawer and pulled out a photo, handing it to Sara. 

“Her name was Anna. She was a realtor and we met when I was house hunting back in Fresno. She was wild and spontaneous. She was never one for marriage and a family but she did it for me. I thought she would be happy but, I guess domestic life was too boring for her.”

“She said that?” Sara said, looking down at the photo of Ava with her arms around Anna as they both laughed in the photo. 

“When she left, I threw out everything that reminded me of her. I just felt so angry. I got rid of everything except for a few photos of her and Gary and this.” As Ava spoke she looked at Sara rather than at the photo.

“Does Gary know about this?” Sara asked, turning to look up at her. 

“Sort of,” Ava said, with a shrug. “He knows what happened, but he’s never really asked many questions about her.”

“I won’t tell you what to do with this,” Sara said, handing her the photo. “But if you want to give her photo to Gary I’d understand.”

“She doesn’t deserve a place in his life. She made that very clear on the day she left,” Ava said putting the photo away and shutting the drawer. “But I think Gary deserves to know more about her.”

Sara just hummed and nodded against her shoulder. They sat in the moment together letting themselves adjust and take in the emotions of the night. Ava noticed that Sara started to drift off and picked her up again to lay her down on their bed. She quickly changed and brought over a pair of pajamas for Sara, and Ava helped her change. By the time she crawled back into bed, Sara was asleep and Ava pulled her against her chest before she turned off the light. 

Ava thought about what Sara said as she lay awake. Sara was right, despite how much Anna had hurt her, she was Gary’s mother. He at least deserved to know more about her and when the time came, if he wanted to reach out to her, she would let him. 

She turned and looked out at the stars that glowed against the black night. A gentle early summer breeze came in through the open window and she caught a glimpse of the Moon. Ava was never one to believe in heaven or hell, but as she looked up she thought of Leonard. 

Leonard was a piece of Sara and of Sin, without him, they would have never met. She would have never had the family that she had today. She didn’t have to compete with him and as she looked up, she thanked him for the family she had now. Ava held Sara tighter and put a hand on her belly as she thought about the two perfect kids sleeping down the hall, she knew she was never letting go. 

[cyoza]

joy

I’m slightly late with this one but I wasn’t feeling very Christmassy but I spent yday with my whole family and it got me in the mood and its still technically december

I kinda just mimicked the relationship I have with my siblings and applied it to the gang. In this everyone’s alive and not so traumatised bc let’s face it we deserve a little positivity during the holidays

from the december @dickkorysource prompt of joy

happy belated crimbo lads! I hope you all had/are having great holidays!

Update: I edited it because I completely forgot Rose omg I'm so sorry there are so many people and I am very tired and still slightly hungover from christmas please forgive me 

-

‘Wake up, lovebirds! It’s Christmas baby!’

The last thing Dick wanted to hear first thing at 7am on Christmas morning was Jason’s obnoxious voice followed by loud thumps at the door. Thankfully however, soon enough his quiet pitter patter of footsteps were disappearing down the hallway. Those early training sessions that accustomed them to early mornings felt like a mistake right then. Especially considering the dull ache that pulsated at his temples; the several ghosts of the beers he’d had the previous night haunting him severely.

He let out disdainful groan, rolling over to his side and was immediately met with Kory’s sleepy smile. The calmness that settled over him was jarring and unsettling as he gazed at her. Even so early in the morning and jostled from unconsciousness, she still affected him like no one else ever had.

‘Good morning.’ Her voice was husky and low with sleep and so, so spellbinding.

But there were a minimum of three teens waiting for them in the living room. So, instead he greeted her with a soft ‘ ‘Mornin’ ’

‘Merry Christmas.’ Her smile widened, lackadaisical and laced with drowsiness.

She looked so content and adorable that he couldn’t help himself and the next thing he knew he had his lips pressed against hers, swallowing the surprised gasp she let out. But then she melted into him, threading her fingers through his hair and sending sparks of warmth all over his skin. But Dick reminded himself that there were people waiting for them and he pulled away from her, lifting his hand to cup her cheek, wanting to keep the contact he craved.

‘Merry Christmas. Are you ready for today?’ He asked, to which Kory let out a humorous snort.

‘It’s only Christmas Day, Dick, it’s not like we’re going to war or anything.’

‘Trust me, after spending the entire day with Jason and Gar together, you’ll feel like you did.’

Kory’s laughter burst out of her in a short, loud chortle prompting a wide smile from Dick. He didn’t think there was a time that he loved her more than when she was carefree and untroubled - just allowed to be herself. He leaned forward to capture her lips yet again but this time kept it short and sweet before he shuffled to the side of the bed and got up to make his way to the shower.

He threw a glance back at Kory to find her scrutinising him with an impish glint in her eye. Again the corners of his mouth lifted as he turned to face her, leaning on the doorframe of the bathroom.

‘Why’re you looking at me like that?’ He questioned, knowing exactly why she was looking at him like that.

‘Oh, just thinking about how much water we would save if we showered together. Save the planet and all that.’ She elaborated, sitting up onto her elbows.

‘Oh right,’ He feigned shock and folded his arms. ‘Well then, I guess for the good of the planet we have to don’t we?’

Kory chuckled loudly as she flew out of bed and past him into the bathroom, getting rid of her button up pyjama top along the way.

-

Dick emerged from his room to find Christmas music blaring from the stereo in the kitchen, Dawn, Rachel and Donna singing along as they prepared what appeared to be a feast of breakfast foods - eggs, bacon, hash browns, sausages, a selection of fruits; anything that was considered acceptable for breakfast was littered across the kitchen island and dining table.

‘Wow, you guys went all out didn’t you.’ He remarked.

‘Hell yeah, it’s Christmas man. When else would we get the chance to go all out.’ The reply didn’t come from either of the women but from Jason who sat next Conner and Gar  who were playing some car game on the tv. Hank, who was also sat next to them rolled his eyes at him before continuing faffing about with something on his mobile.

‘Um excuse me, there’s no we here except for us three. You guys just played video games all morning so I don’t wanna hear about this collective ‘we’ ok?’ Rachel said drably.

‘Hey, I helped!’ Gar protested, dropping his controller to the side.

‘I don’t know if I would call chopping fruit for 10 minutes entirely the same but it’s definitely more than Jason so I’ll thank you for that.’ She retorted, flipping a pancake.

‘Listen, no one here wants me to help with any kind of cooking for all our sakes, alright?’ Jason defended himself sliding down the sofa and throwing his arms behind his head.

‘Where’s Rose?’ Dick asked, glancing around the room for the silver haired girl. 

‘She’s still asleep.’ Hank replied, rolling his eyes again. 

‘Yeah, well I still need the sleep, I’m a growing girl. Unlike you, old man.’ Rose retorted as she shuffled into the living room to flop herself onto the sofa next to Conner. As much as she protested it when Kory picked it out, she still managed to wear the Home Alone themed Christmas jumper that Kory had picked out and matching fuzzy socks; obviously not wanting to ruin things for everyone else.  

‘I’m not old! At most I’m a cool uncle you little brat.’

Dick watched as they continued bickering, a small smile danced on his lips as he felt his heart grow warm with fondness. It was rare to see them just acting like teenagers, arguing over something so trivial and stupid without being plagued with life threatening problems. His smile only broadened when a pair of arms slide across his sides and wrap around his waist, his body coming alive with the action. He spun around and was taken aback immediately, laughter threatening to bubble its way out.

Everyone was wearing some variation of Christmas jumper, by request of Kory herself, who quote unquote wanted to make the day ‘as Christmassy as possible’ but nothing could have prepared Dick for her own Christmas outfit. She wore an oversized green jumper, a shade that complimented her eyes but in the middle of the jumper was a Christmas tree flashing bright with lights and dotted with giant baubles that seemed to have every one of their faces stuck to each of the baubles, paired with a metallic gold mini skirt and stripy red and white tights.

‘Kory, what the hell are you wearing?’ He asked incredulously.

‘D’ya like it?’ She pulled it down and the baubles jingled as she did. ‘I bought it and then Gar helped me modify it.’ She looked up at him with a giant grin that was impossible not to return.

‘Babe, it looks ridiculous.’ He stated, finally letting out a small giggle.

‘I happen to think you look great, Kory.’ Donna called from her place in the kitchen.

‘Thank you, Donna. At least someone appreciates my hard work.’ She huffed, crossing her arms as best she could over the baubles.

‘Yeah, Dick why’re you hating on Kory’s awesome jumper.’ Rachel added, stirring the pot even further.

‘Hey, no ganging up on me on Christmas! I never said it looked bad, just ridiculous.’ He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her to him. ‘Ridiculously adorable.’ He professed before pecking her on the lips.

‘Ughhhh, gross you two. Get a room.’ Jason groaned but was immediately quieted by the orange Dick grabbed from the bowl on the side table and threw at him, inducing a laugh from everyone in the room.

‘What do you guys need help with?’ Kory questioned before detangling herself from Dick’s arm.

Donna began to give her instructions on what to do as she replaced Dawn in the kitchen who came to stand next to Dick, leaning her hip to bump into his.

‘You okay?’ She enquired. ‘I remember how tough Christmas is for you.’

‘Sure, I’m okay. How could I not be?’ He answered.

‘Good, I’m glad. I just wanted to make sure, you know?’

‘No need, I’m good. I’ve got everyone I need in this room; safe and happy. It’s impossible to be miserable.’ He declared honestly. ‘Plus Bruce is coming later after he ties up some business in Gotham, so the whole family will be here.’

He meant it slightly sarcastically but on some fundamental level he knew these people really were his family. Lost souls who floated aimlessly until they gravitated towards each other, who would then on be forever stuck in each other’s orbit. He thought it the thought would terrify him, another family he could potentially lose but no. Instead he was filled with such joy and love that he thought he would combust with it.

They were his family now, no matter what happened.

[thehelleniclunarwitch]

Fear (four)

Pairing: Diego Hargreeves x Reader

Fandom: The Umbrella Academy

Warning: Dark Themes, Dark take on a character

Author’s Note: Part One     Part Two     Part Three

Tagged: @dawnson-hargreeves @ryans-mad-queen @alysweets @hyradun @lollipopdomination@awesometheydontknowiamhere@buckyandstevegayornay@anotherfanficreadingblog  @not-so-epic-iii @ampbian   @hank-mcdank-blade  @liveitdoll   @ynm1505

“Y/n! Come on! Come on!” Five urged with a laugh.

Diego sat back in between Luther and Klaus. Ben was off in the corner reading. Allison was in training with mom. Vanya was tucked away in her room practicing her violin. Their father was gone for the day. Which was very very rare for the Hargreeves siblings to have the day off.

Five was quick to go and bring Y/n back here for the day. She was everybody’s friend. Five’s best friend. He talked to her about things that he didn’t talk to anybody else. They had just finished a game of soccer, but Y/n and Five were still running around like maniacs just having a good time.

Diego was watching her. He was always watching her. He loved her. Well, he didn’t realize he loved her until mom had helped him sort out his emotions. Diego had never felt love before. The love he had for mom and his siblings were different. Diego didn’t even think he was capable of loving somebody the way he loves her.

But he kept quiet. He never acted on it. The way Y/n and Five were so close and spent so much time together, Diego was so sure that she was in love with Five. He knew his brother was in love with her. It was obvious. All of the siblings liked to tease Five about his crush on Y/n.

Five always fought them on anything and everything, but not when it comes to Y/n. He never argues about having feelings for her. He just stays mum. Diego couldn’t do that to his brother. He couldn’t just push him to the side just because he too was having feelings for Y/n.

Diego sat up a little straighter as he watched the two run full force at each other. Diego winced as they slammed into one another. They both went crashing backward. He moved to go check on them, but Klaus distracted him by showing him what he had done to his hands.

Five crawled over to Y/n and fell back next to her. The pair broke into a fit of laughter. Allison stepped outside looking around the yard. Luther jumped up leaving Diego and Klaus behind. Diego looked up as Ben walked over and pulled Klaus away leaving Diego alone.

Diego felt something wet hit his face. He looked up at the dark clouds above him. The sky opened it up and a storm fit.

Y/n shrieked as she jumped to her feet. Five followed close behind Diego made his way to the door hoping that once inside he could spend some time with Y/n, but he noticed that Five and Y/n weren’t following his lead.

He dragged his eyes across the yard looking for his brother and his friend to see them sneaking through the gate. A low growl rumbled out of his chest as he watched the pair disappear.

“Diego?” Mom’s voice was soft and sweet.

Diego looked up at her.

“Come inside silly before you catch a cold,” she said.

Diego gave her a curt nod and then followed her into the kitchen. She handed him a towel and he was quick to dry his sopping wet hair. Grace and Diego both looked up at the sound of running footsteps. Ben came sliding into the kitchen.

“What is it, Ben?” Grace asked.

“Dad’s home,” Ben whispered.

Diego could see the fear in his brother’s eyes. He handed mom the towel and then hurried after his brother. Father was shouting for all of his children. They were all lined up. In numerical order like they have always been trained to do. There was a spot left open between Klaus and Ben. Reginald stopped in front of the empty spot. A small scoff could be heard from him.

“Has anyone seen Five?” Reginald asked.

The siblings all glanced at one another. Diego knew that if their Father knew that Y/n had come over without his permission and distracted the kids all day long that there would be hell to pay. Diego didn’t want Y/n to get in trouble, but if Five was to be punished as well that would open up the opportunity for Diego to sneak away and see her.

“I have, sir,” Diego spoke up.

All of the other siblings looked at Diego in shock. They couldn’t believe that he would be so willing to give up Y/n and get her in trouble.

                                                 ##########

Unaware that Reginald himself was waiting for the pair, Five and Y/n entered the academy through the front door. They were soaking wet with full bellies of ice cream and sweets from the candy shop on Main St. Their laughter echoed through the quiet academy.

“Five! Y/n!” Reginald’s voice bellowed through the halls.

Five and Y/n both fell silent. Y/n looked over at Five with wide eyes. Five grabbed her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.

“Follow my lead,” He whispered.

Y/n could only nod and follow close behind Five as he lead the pair to his father’s office. Y/n sucked in a deep breath as she and Five stepped into his office. His cold beady eyes were looking them up and down.

“You’re wet,” He complained.

“It’s raining, sir,” Five pointed out.

“Do you have not training and studying that needs to be done every day?” Reginald asked.

“Yes, sir,” Five answered.

“Then why are you running around with Miss Y/n?” Reginald asked.

“Because she is my friend,” Five said.

“Miss Y/n don’t you understand by now that my children have more important things to do than playing in the rain?” Reginald asked.

Y/n lowered her head. “Yes, sir,”

“I am extremely disappointed in the both of you,” Reginald began.

Five and Y/n looked at each other.

“Miss Y/n, you’ll be banned from the academy and my children until further notice,” Reginald said.

Y/n’s mouth fell open.

“Father!” Five shouted.

“You’re excused Miss Y/n. Five you and I will discuss your punishment at a later time,” Reginald said.

Y/n said nothing as she rushed out of the office. Five glared at his father but kept his insults to himself as he chased after his friend.

“Y/n!” Five shouted.

Y/n didn’t stop. She continued running. Diego stepped out of the library just as Y/n went running past me.

“Y/n!” Diego yelled.

“Sorry, I can’t be here,” She tossed over her shoulder before running right out the front door.

Diego looked down when Five came to stand next to him.

“What’s going on?” Diego asked.

“Father,” Five hissed.

“What happened?” Diego asked him.

“Nothing,” Five growled, turning on his heels, and storming away.

Diego couldn’t help but smile to himself. Y/n was banned. Five was in trouble. Now all he had to do was sneak away and have her all to himself.

                                                     ##########

You shot up in bed with a gasp. You scanned your room. It was pitch black. Looking over at your nightstand you glanced at the clock. It was just shy of six thirty in the morning. Groaning, you flopped back against your pillow. Your dreams were just riddled with memories of your childhood.

Knowing full well that you weren’t going to be able to fall back asleep you rolled out of bed and headed to your bathroom to shower and get around for the day. You weren’t quite sure what you were going to do with yourself. Five was supposed to take care of everything by explaining your disappearance.

It was weird having Five back in your life. Not only because he looked the same as the day he went missing, but he was your best friend. You had loved him all of those years ago. More than just as a best friend. He was your first kiss. Your first love. And now after growing up without him, you fell out of love with him.

That’s how you became so attached with Diego. It just made sense to you. You couldn’t even remember when exactly you fell in love with Diego, but you did. You felt disgusted though. Diego was Five’s brother. You felt as if you were betraying Five when you moved on with your life and falling for Diego.

Deep down you knew that’s what Five would have wanted for you. For you to move on. Having Five back was great, but the two of you would never be able to be the same ever again. And now with Diego, you were even more confused. You loved him. He knew that. He claimed to love you as well, but he scared you.

How could you be with someone that scared you? That tried to control your every move and keep you trapped with him? Part of you wanted to pack a bag and run away. It seemed like the most logical thing to do, but you knew you wouldn’t be able to bring yourself to do it.

There was a bigger part of you that hoped deep down inside of Diego was the Diego from your childhood. The boy you leaned on after Five’s disappearance. Diego had become your best friend not long after that. There was something going on with him and even with Five’s warnings, you couldn’t bring yourself to give up on Diego. He needed you now more than ever and no matter what it took you were going to try your damndest to bring Diego back.

“Y/n!” Five called out.

You darted from your bedroom to find Five standing in the middle of your living room bruised and bleeding.

“Five, what the hell?” You demanded to know.

Five slowly lifted his head to look at you.

“Five?” You softly said.

“The world is ending,” Five said.

“Wait, what?” You said in confusion.

Five dropped to his knees in exhaustion. You dove forward to kneel next to him and keep him from crashing to the floor.

“I can’t stop it. We’re all going to die,” Five said.

“Five, talk to me,” You pleaded with him.

Five leaned into you.

“I wanted to save them. My siblings. You. But I can’t,” Five sighed.

“It’s going to be okay, Five,” You said.

“I just,” Five paused. “Need a nap,”

Five slunked into your arms and passed out. You groaned at his weight and shifted so you could lay him flat. You grabbed a pillow off your couch and stuck it under his head. Once he was on the floor you covered him with a blanket. Concerned, you found your phone on the table and dialed a familiar number.

“Hey, it’s me. I have Five, you might want to come to my place. Something’s wrong,” You said as you watched over a sleeping Five.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #242

“i don’t miss you, i miss the misery.”

How many pairs of converse shoes do you own? Hm... three or four? Any other names your parents planned to give you? The only one I *think* I remember is Katelyn. Thank fuck I dodged that bullet. Which is the most beautiful place you know? The mountains between NC and TN, if I remember correctly. I was very young. What do you work with? I don't work period & I hate it. Have you ever hit an animal with your car? Thank Christ no. Favorite ride at the amusement park? I guess ferris wheels. Favorite beauty essential in your bathroom cabinet? I don't have a "favorite" considering I don't use any regularly. Do you have many followers on your Tumblr? Nah. Do you tan easily? I burn like toast, man. Are you expecting something in the mail? No. Do you inspire others? Idk. What do you collect? Meerkat stuff and Silent Hill merch. Do you like cats? Hell yes!!! Are you healthy? If you excuse my weight and muscle atrophy, I'm actually pretty healthy, according to a billion tests I've gotten done when trying to discover *why* I had such awful pain in my legs. Have you ever been out of state? Yeah. Can you always blame your acts on that you were just too drunk? Fuck no. Three things you try to avoid as much as possible: Well dying lmao, getting hurt, public speaking. How many times have you been overseas? Zero. Do you use to have someone in mind when shopping for underwear? Wait what the fuck- What accent do you have? I don't really have one, although I do have a southern tone with some words sometimes I suppose. I also do say things like "y'all" or "fixing to (do something)," so I use some Southern terminology. Where would you like to live? The mountains of western NC. Sigh. Do you follow fashion? No. Do you have a big butt? Ever heard of Hank Hill Ass Syndrome? I have Hank Hill Ass Syndrome. Your worst job nightmare is: Customer service EVER again. Who’s the coolest rapper in the world? Idk and idc. Do you count how long you and your gf/bf have been together? I mean yeah, I think anniversaries are worth celebration. Healthy relationships aren't always easy to maintain; to remain in love takes forgiveness, loyalty, dedication... all that. It shouldn't be hard, but it takes effort. Have you graduated? High school, anyway. Rihanna or Lady Gaga? Lady Gaga, definitely. Do you use fake eyelashes? No. What’s your worst interior design nightmare: I dunno. Probably just being very crammed? What makeup brands do you use? I don't have any particular ones; I don't wear makeup enough. What’s the worst kind of rejection you could give someone? I genuinely feel it to be how Jason did so with me. Three and a half years in a very serious relationship, and he out of the blue breaks up with me over Facebook because my depression became "too much." Like by NOW I understand I can't shame him for wanting to be happy, but the way he did it was fucking cruel and tore me apart. Like especially when this person was your refuge from daily pain and pretty much your god and future (never make someone that, holy holy HOLY shit don't), that individual just suddenly having enough and breaking contact off like that was emotional murder. Do you have a crush on someone right now? Well yeah, but it's like... a "tamed" one? Is that an accurate word? Like I understand it just can't work right now, but it doesn't stop me from liking her. Is there anyone that many people think is hot, but you don’t? I'm sure there's someone. Do you sort and organize your clothes in some kind of way? Sorta. When somebody intimidates you, how do you usually act around them? Nervous, skittish, more awkward than usual. Is your favorite singer in a band or does he or she ride solo? Brendon Urie is in P!atD and Patrick Stump is in Fall Out Boy. Freddie Mercury was the vocalist of Queen. Did your parents ever hang your old artwork up on the walls? Yeah, Mom still has some up lmao. How often do you wear chapstick? Only when my lips are actually chapped. Do you walk around your house with your shoes on or do you take them off? Definitely off. What is the weirdest obsession you’ve ever had? Collecting stickers, maybe? How many of the seven deadly sins have you fulfilled today? Sloth is on the daily lmao, gluttony, and lust. Should guys always kiss the girl on a first date? Not always, of course not. It depends on the comfort level, and I would ALWAYS ask first. Which band has the corniest music videos? Corniest lyrics? I don't really watch music videos, and idk about lyrics. What subject is/was hardest for you in school? Math. Have any songs ever inspired you to play an instrument? No. Do you ever use Pandora? No. Are you better with creative writing or writing essays? I think I'm good at both, but I probably excel in creative writing. When was the last time you were rick rolled? No clue. What is the weirdest animal you’ve ever seen as a pet? Seen, I guess a chinchilla, though that's not really "weird." If you had to change one, would you rather change your hair or your eyes? Eyes. When was the last time you had a ‘she-mergency’? I had to look this up to be certain what that even was lmao. Probably some time I started my period at school and had to use folded toilet paper or something for a while. Which sounds creepier: sleeping in the attic or the basement? I'd say it depends on the make-up of each and its cleanliness. What was your favorite computer game as a kid? I think it was called The Amazon Trail 3? It was a damaged disc however, so it froze a lot. I think I only finished it once or twice; even knowing it would likely crash, I just liked playing it as far as I could. Have you ever tried on your mom’s wedding ring? No. Any shows on TV that you flat out refuse to start watching? 13 Reasons Why, to name perhaps the #1. What is your opinion on fruitcake? NO. Here’s a tough one. Would you rather marry your cousin or a dog? Oh fuck off, neither. Who did you last dream about? I can't remember what it was about, but I know Mark was in it lmao. Do you have trouble remembering important things? Sometimes. My memory is atrocious. Which animal can you imitate the best? Audibly? Probably a cat. Which is harder - walking in the snow or sand? Sand. I FUCKING hate walking through sand. It's one reason I don't like the beach. Do you like sour candy? oml YES. If anyone, who did you sit with at lunch today? N/A Have you gotten any injuries lately? If so, what and how? Not anything I can remember. Are you a clumsy person? You have no idea. How about disorganized? I'm oddly split down the middle. Last male you talked to in person? My dad. Have you ever had a sunburn? Oh boy, I've gotten past that. Try sun poisoning. Are you thinking about asking anyone out? No. Pink lemonade or regular lemonade? PINK! Chocolate or strawberry milk? Oh boy, chocolate. I tried strawberry as a child and absolutely loathed it beyond words known to man, and I will not be giving it a second chance. I remember it pristinely. Disgusting. What volume is the ringer on your phone? It's on vibrate. Have you ever won a contest on the radio? No. Do you often write on yourself? I never do, 'less we're talking about tattoos lol. Is there writing on the shirt you are currently wearing? No. Frosted flakes or frosted mini wheats? I hate the latter, so I guess frosted flakes, though I don't really remember how they taste. Do mushrooms really add flavor to food? I hate them, so they obviously have enough flavor for me to notice them... What about onions? Yes. Are you a fan of Thai food? I've actually never had Thai food. How about Indian food? Same as above. Have you ever tried sushi? No. In your opinion, who would be the best president? I don't know. What was the last thing you spent more than $20 on? I have no ide- oh wait I paid for Teddy's surgery with... money I don't know from whence it came? Was it financial aid money? Idr. Do you wear actual designated ‘pajamas’ to bed? Pj pants and a tank top. When was the last time you were tempted to do something you’d later regret? Probably take a nap late in the day, ending in me being unable to sleep well at night. Thankfully, I decided against it. Have you ever had feelings for your best friend’s significant other? Yes. Well, not current best friend, but a former one. How many times did you ride in a car today? Zero. Are you comfortable in your own skin? Fuck no. What's absolutely splendid is even when/if I lose the weight I aim to, I'm going to have loose skin that literally might make me hate my body more until I without argument muster up the money to get it surgically removed. Are you in a good mood right now? I'm alright. When was the last time you had an ice cream cone? Been quite a while. Did you eat breakfast this morning? Yeah, had some cereal. Have you ever been in a cemetery at midnight? No. Do you live on your own? No. I don't even think I could tolerate living alone because of my depression and how loneliness can severely trigger it. I'm realistically probably not moving out until it'll be with an s/o. If not, who do you live with? I live with my mom, my sister's dog, and my cat and snake. How old are your siblings, if you have any? I have a lot, and I don't know the ages of all of them, only my two immediate sisters: 26 and 21. Have you ever had a crush on a sibling’s friend? No. Have you donated blood in the last 2 years? No. What was the last free t-shirt you received from? School. Is there anything you are looking forward to at the moment? February 4th, baby. Tattoo gets fixed up by an artist I like far more. Him not having an open booking until then should say enough. Are you an atheist? No. Are you Asian? No. Are you fluent in another language? No. Are you in the military? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Are you an artist? Not professional, but I enjoy making art. Are you a musician? No. Are you an athlete? Oh, hunny- Do you have a favorite flower? I really like orchids. Where was the last place you went that was more than an hour away? Great question... The trip to my therapist is about an hour, but not over. Why were you going there? For therapy. Who was the last person to tell you you looked nice? Probably Mom, idk. Have you ever been to a nude beach? Hell no, I wouldn't even if I was in great shape. How many websites do you have an account for? WHEW I have no idea, A LOT over all the years. Have you ever paid for any kind of online membership? Well, WoW is an online game, so a subscription, though because I obviously don't have my own money, I'm sadly rich enough in the game to use monthly tokens. Do you try clothes on before you buy them? Not always. I try to avoid it because I just hate doing it. What would you do if you knew a robber was in your house? Well I obviously don't know how I'd react on impulse, but I'd imagine myself locking my door and then climbing out the window. Then run like a motherfucker up the road some to a neighbor's, or hide in the nearby woods and call Mom. What’s your favorite type of pizza? Meat lovers sobs in wannabe-vegetarian. Have you ever been afraid of falling in love? Yes, very. Who’d you last see in a tux? I don't know. Do you record any TV shows and watch them later? No. Do you have difficulty pronouncing any words? Yeah, particularly "breakfast." I tend to put a "t" after the "k." Do you have your own computer? Yeah. Out of everyone you know, who was the most heart? My mom. Who’s the bravest person you know? Oh man, that's hard. I know a lot of brave people. Who would you want to have your back if things got tough? More than anyone in the world, Mom. Have your friends ever given you answers to homework, last minute? Yeah. Have you ever dated someone who was real sportsy? No. Have you ever done something terrible, but took forever to feel bad? By this point in time, I consider how I spoke to Jason before going to the ER multiple times absolutely terrible, and yes, it did take a very long time for me to realize just how cruel it was. Now it's fucking HARD to accept I ever said what I did. Have you ever read Shakespeare? Yes. Can anyone really change anyone that doesn’t wanna change? Nope. Do you think that anyone currently has a crush on you? I would assume Sara still does, but again, we know a relationship between us just isn't wise right now. What profession do you admire the most? The most? Man, that's hard to decide. Probably those that risk their lives for others, like firefighters, cops (yes, I am aware some abuse their power, but good cops deserve all the respect in the world), etc. Have you ever made a fake profile, for any reason? I don't believe so, no. What’s the hardest lesson you’ve ever had to learn? Bad things happen to good people and no, the universe does not care. Have you ever questioned your sexuality? Well obviously.

[starlight-parkers]

Like Him (Peter Maximoff x Reader) (Run Out On Me PT 2)

Summary: Peter regrets everything and you dont feel a thing.

Authors Note: Hello angels! I’m sorry for not posting recently, I’ve had a lot on my plate during the past month or so BUT I’m back for now. Anyways here’s the highly requested Run Out On Me Part 2! Enjoy <3

Warming(s): Swearing and angst.

Like Him

You remember crying that night, to the point where you had no tears and your throat was dry from all the sobs you'd let out. You didn't dare move from where you were, scared that if you returned to your bedroom, you would break down all over again.  So you stayed seated on the floor of your once shared living room, watching a re-run of friends and running through all the possible scenarios of what could have been your future.

If you were scared before, you sure as hell were now. The thought of raising a child on your own scared you, especially with how unpredictable your mutation was and how it was more than likely that your child would end up with one too. You knew absolutely nothing about parenting , let alone looking after a newborn since you'd never had any younger siblings to help care for.

You had no clue what to do with yourself that night, so you just slept. The next day you'd called up your good friend Jean Grey, who you knew from the X-mansion and told her everything. Of course you'd ended up breaking into tears again, but you were happy to know that someone supported you and was ecstatic  for you. You remember laughing as Scott threatened to hunt Peter down and beat him up, but you didn't care for him. Not anymore. You were also lucky enough to have a secure job teaching along side Charles Xavier, so you knew you were supported in that department too.  

Over the course of your pregnancy Jean helped set up necessary appointments and often tagged along with you if you were feeling nervous, you couldn't ask for a better friend. Jubilee organised your baby shower at the X-mansion where the gender of your baby was revealed, you were delighted to be reunited with your friends from school as well as your old teachers.  You were practically glowing that day, and even cried due to the overwhelming support you had gotten from everyone.

Practically the whole X-men team had been with you for the delivery of your baby, and you'd never felt so grateful for anyone in your whole life. They were like a family to you and you'd finally gotten that sense of security back.

So here you were, almost four years down the line with a beautiful baby girl. She was your everything and you couldn't be more content with your lives at the moment.

A wail from the living room brought you out of your reverie, your head whipped over to the little girl who was playing on the floor in front of the TV. You put down the knife you were using to chop some vegetables and made your way into the living room. There you saw your little girl, eyes watery with tears.

"Hiya baby" you cooed to the silver haired girl. You swear she was the spitting image of Peter. It was like a curse. Every time you looked at her you felt an overwhelming sense of anger that couldn't replace the love you shared with Peter. This little girl had been brought into the world because of the love you'd once shared. A constant reminder of what could have been. "What's the matter angel?"

The little girl looked up at you, reaching out for what you could only assume, was a hug. Grinning, you leaned down to pick up your baby before balancing her on your hip. "I'm hungry mama" she whined, looking up at you with those big doe eyes.

You rolled your eyes and sighed, weaving through the various toys scattered around, in order to get back to the kitchen. "But Amara, baby, dinner's almost ready" you chided "Can't you wait a little bit longer babygirl?"

Once in the kitchen, you seated your daughter in her chair and placed some paper and crayons in front of her. She pouted before stubbornly getting to work on her drawing. "No mama! I'm hungry now!"

You looked back at her from your place at the stove, a knowing look gracing your features. You opened your snack draw (which you usually kept locked because Amara was a sneaky little thing) and pulled out a Twinkie, she was obsessed with them, just like her father. "Alright baby" you cooed, your back still to the little girl "You can have one but you have to promise to eat all of your dinner alri-"

You gasped, dropping the snack as you turned to face your daughter. Her eyes were glazed over with a silver light. Amara's mouth hung open, it too with a glimmering light. Her hair was floating behind her, along with the objects in her orbit. You quickly went to reach for her, but within an instant, it stopped.  

"Mama"

"Yes baby? Are you ok-?"

"Are we going to the x-mansion soon?" She asked, calmly returning to her colouring. Your brows furrowed, wondering if she was okay.

"No baby I didn't plan on it. Why?" You questioned frantically, coming to crouch down by her chair. You brushed some hair out of her supple face as she worked.

"I saw you-us and Mr Xavier" she babbled, smiling to herself. "He was doing test thingies. You thought I had a mutation, what's a mutation? I thought it was just a memory but then I realised I've never been before"

You sat back on your knees as she continued her babbling, your hand forming a firm grip on the edge of the table. You looked down at the floor, realising that this was it. This was your daughter's mutation. You quickly pulled yourself together, running to the counter and grabbing your phone. Swiftly, you turned around, running a hand through your tangled hair as you dialled a number.

It rang once.

Twice.

Three times.

All the while you observed your  daughter, who was minding her own business as if nothing happened. "Hello?"

"Jean how fast can you get here?"

"Why? What's wrong?"

"I think Amara's found her mutation"

You twiddled your thumbs nervously as you walked beside Charles. Hank had just ran some tests on your three -nearly four- year old daughter. You let out a shaky breath, as you followed the man to the lab. When Amara was just a baby, you prayed that she wouldn't get a mutation. You didn't want her to grow up, feeling the same way Peter did, especially if they were going to be similar.

"Don't be worried (Y/N)" Charles reassured you, disrupting your chaotic thoughts. You felt your mind come to a stop at the sound of Charles' voice in your head. "We'll know what to do"

Silently, you nodded your head as the pair of you made your way through the lab doors. Desperately, you wanted to flick your wrists and slow down time - just for a second - so you could withhold the moment you found out if your daughter had a mutation or not. Yet, the suspense was killing you, you wanted to know.

"Hello (Y/N)!" Hank chirped as he met yourself and Charles at the entrance of the lab. You gave him a sheepish smile as you twiddled with your fingers nervously. "I haven't seen you in a while! How's things?"

"Everything is going well" you breathed out shakily. "Amara's growing up nicely."

Hank smiled sadly, shaking his head at your nervousness. "I know, but my question was directed at you"

Before you could respond, Hank had turned to face a computer. You looked down at Charles, who also had the same look of sadness etched onto his features before he wheeled his way over to her h the computer. You furrowed your brows. Why were the worrying about you?  You were just concerned for your daughter. Livid, you marched over to Hank and pulled on his shoulder. "What are the results Hank? That's what I'm here for"

"Be calm (Y/N), everything will be fine" Charles assured you. You softly bit your lip and dropped your hand to your side. Silently, you made your way over to a nearby desk and took a seat on its surface, desperately trying to calm your nerves.  Hank tapped away at a few keys before the results appeared on the screen, you heard a faint gasp and instantaneously looked up.

"What? What's wrong?"

You saw the look of concern the two men shared, before standing up and crossing your arms over your chest. Hank looked up at the results briefly before meeting your nervous gaze, he clicked away for a second before showing the results to you. "Your daughter" he began anxiously. "has a mutation-"

"As if that wasn't obvious enough" you snapped as Charles put a hand on your arm reassuringly.

"A rare mutation" Hank continued, his eyes piercing through yours. "Your daughter, Amara, has the ability to see the near future in short bursts. It's a result of a  combination of yours and Peter's mutations. Linking time and speed has allowed your daughter see briefly into anyone's future"

You gasped, feeling weak in the knees. You fell back against the table, holding onto it for support. Hank rushed over to you, placing a soft hand your back and checking you over to see if you were okay. Your body shook, you were angry at yourself for letting this happen, you were angry at Peter for leaving you when he did. You kept your head down as Charles spoke up.

"Only few mutants have received these abilities before, so we know very little about this mutation but I can promise you that we can help your daughter as soon as you're ready for us to. We know that being able to see every possible outcome for everyone's future can be overwhelming and we will do our best to help Amara" Charles spoke carefully, afraid to scare or overwhelm you. All the while you listened silently, weighing out all possible options in your head. Would Amara fit in here? Is she too young?

"You don't have to make up your mind now, (Y/N)" Charles whispered, comfortingly. "She's still  young, we can give it a few years"

You nodded silently, thanking the two pen for their time before making your way out the lab to find your daughter. You still had time to talk to her about this, you still had time to give her a better life than Peter's.

Peter grinned down at the little girl who'd latched herself onto his leg. She was cute. She had a small button nose, her pale silver locks were combed back into a fishtail braid. She had large doe (eye colour) eyes  that stood out against her supple skin.

He'd learned her name to be Amara, she was three and a half years old. How the girl came to be in Peter's care was quite miraculous. He'd been speeding down the hallway after a long mission (as you would after being extremely exhausted), a little girl had ran out into his path causing him to veer to the right and crash. She laughed at him.

Peter couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity as he held the little girl, gently tossing her up and down in the air, watching her laugh with a toothy smile. She was missing her two front teeth and had these warm (eye colour) eyes that he swore he knew like the back of his hands.  It was like he knew them, knew her.

The little girl - or better yet - Amara clapped her tiny hands together as Peter threw her up one last time before catching her and resting her on his hip. She grinned at him as he crossed his brown eyes and stuck his tongue out at her. "You're funny" Amara giggled again, reminding Peter of a certain someone. "Just like my mummy"

"Well your mama must be a comedian 'cause I'm s'posed to be the funniest guy around" Peter teased playfully, boooing the little girl's nose. She shook her head slyly.

"Nuh-uh my Mummy's the funniest" Amara argued.

"Is not"

"Is too"

"Is not"

"Is too"

"Is no-!"

"Amara!" A worried voice cut through the conversation and the little girl jumped out of Peter's arms, she quickly ran over to the doorway of the common room she and Peter had been playing in before rushing into someone's arms. "There you are baby! I was so worried! Kurt said he'd be watching you and-"

"S’okay mama! Peter was watching me!"

Peter's eyes snapped up to meet the gaze of someone he thought he'd never see again. He could see how her worried expression had twisted and contorted into one of anger and bewilderment. She still looked the same, only better. Her hair was longer, thicker - Peter took note of that. Her curves were more enticing and enunciated than before. Her eyes shone and were brighter than the day Peter had left her. She looked so much better without him, Peter had decided.

"Peter" he hated how his name dripped, oh-so venomously from (Y/N)'s soft pink lips. The pair of adults stood opposite each other, it was like a stand off. Amara looked between the two, slightly confused whilst hugging her mum's legs tightly.

"(Y/N)... H-how've you been?" The silver haired male stuttered, afraid of what his ex-fiancé would say. She tsked in response, looking down and shaking her head.

"Better without you"

The speedster looked down, regret filling his veins, pumping  round his body and flowing back to his heart. He looked at the little girl who stood behind her mother's legs with a shy smile. He felt stupid for not noticing it before, he had his suspicions but-

"Is she mine?" The question tumbled out of his lips before he could stop it. He watched as the anger engulfed her body, she shook with rage but he could see the hurt swirling in (Y/N)'s softened (eye colour) hues.

"What do you mean? - of course she's yours- I never" (Y/N) paused, begging, willing herself not to cry. Her whole body shook as the fire of rage took over her. "I never cheated on you, Peter. It was you who left me, remember? And what does it matter to you?"

Peter frowned. "I want to be there for her, (Y/N)" he gestured to Amara. " I want to be in her life"

That was it, the final straw. If (Y/N) was angry before, she sure was livid now. Amara could feel the rage radiating off of her mother's body, the young mutant tugged at her mother's sleeve, a silent plea for her to calm down but at this point Peter had gone too far.

"Amara go wait outside, baby" the young mother started, clenching her fists.

"But mama, I-" the little girl begun, looking up at her mother.

"Outside...now"

The two adults watched as the girl backed out of the room, most likely to go look for Jean or Kurt. (Y/N)'s gaze slowly crept back to meet Peter's, a whirlwind of emotions taking over her. "Fuck you Peter"

His brows furrowed. "What?"

"Fuck. You" (Y/N) spat. "You don't have the right, you don't get to do this anymore. When will you get it through your thick head that, you. left. me. You made the conscious decision to leave me, knowing I was pregnant and now you want to come back? I don't think so"

"I raised her, all by myself for three and a half years, and you think I'll let you waltz back into my life, her life without a fuss? I'm not a push over anymore Peter, I'm not someone you can take advantage of." (Y/N) let her eyes fall shut as she felt the tears well in her eyes. She clenched and unclenched her fists as her gaze fell on Peter's. She wanted nothing more in that moment for Peter to fall at her feet and beg her to take him back, she wanted him to apologise, show his emotion, let her in. For once. She knew what she was doing was selfish but she was doing  what was best for a her daughter. Or was it so that she didn't get hurt? She started at the man she once loved expectantly, the tears threatening to spill over her eyelids.

"Don't you think she'll need a father figure" the fast-moving mutant defended quietly, looking at (Y/N) with sorrow-filled eyes.

She was crying now, god how he hated to see her cry. The tears streamed down her cheeks like a salty river. Her slightly hopeful expression faded, and Peter winced as a cold hearted glare graced her features. "You decided that you weren't going to be a father when you left us ,Peter"

Peter watched as his only love called back his daughter to pack up her things. The small mutant grabbed her backpack and tucked away her toys, once she was done she gave Peter a sad smile and a soft kiss on the cheek before running out to meet Jean in the hallway. (Y/N) checked the room over to make sure her daughter hadn't left anything. She turned to leave, before she changed her mind and glanced back at a crestfallen Peter Maximoff.

"I wish I could say you were different from him, Peter" (Y/N) whispered softly, a sad tone evident in her voice. "Your father I mean, when in truth... you're exactly like him’’

And with that, she turned away and walked out of the room, out of Peter's life... just as he had done to her.

Authtors note: HAHAHA SORRY TO THE PERSON WHO ASKED FOR A FLUFFY ENDING

Tag list: @babyhollands @miss-nerdalots  

PLEASSE LET ME KNOW IF I FORGOT ANYONE XX

[creative-frequency]

Bad for Me Ch. 27: The Surprise Visit

Word count: 3757 Pairing: Nyx x OC (Eve Leonis) Warnings: SFW Notes: Eve and @lucianhuntress‘s OC Caitlin hanging out!

Previous Chapter

Bad for Me Masterlist

Eve woke up to a persistent buzzing and she stretched her hand to fumble over the nightstand.

“Hello?” she answered the call, eyes still firmly shut.

“Eve? Did I wake you?” Caitlin’s voice carried over from the speaker.

It was rare occurrence indeed and one Eve was not prepared at all to come across so early in the morning. She frowned and glanced at the faintly glowing digital numbers. It was 6:48 a.m., a time she did not want to see on the phone display on her day off.

“Mhm. What’s up?” Eve mumbled in response. Nyx rolled to his back from his side and groped her chest, pulling her back to his arms.

“I’m on my way from Hammerhead to Insomnia right now. Wanna meet up? Or are you busy with work?” Caitlin asked, blissfully unaware of what was happening on Eve’s end of the call.

“Put the phone away, baby,” Nyx said loudly on purpose, his voice hoarse.

“Ooh, you are busy then!” A hearty laugh echoed in the small apartment.

Eve sneered at Nyx, who was laying small kisses on her shoulder. “No, I’m free. What’s your ETA?” She tried to shove the doting man away.

“I’ll be there in two hours. Should be more than enough for you guys to complete your… business.”

Eve sighed loudly in exasperation, but also a little bit from the warm feeling coiling inside her from Nyx’s kisses. “…Right. Let’s meet at the gate, call me when you get through.” Eve closed the call after hearing Caitlin’s goodbyes.

‘Speaking of city gates…’she turned to look at Nyx, who was gazing at her through his lashes, eyes twinkling like he had something in mind.

“Shouldn’t you be guarding the said gates in ten minutes, Nyx Ulric?” Eve asked amused at the sudden realization that hit the man. Drautos had resumed Nyx to guard duty for giving him the lip in the training yard. It was actually unfair of him, but everyone knew the captain sometimes did it just because he could and just because Nyx could get really annoyingly smug with his warping abilities.

“Shit. Drautos will kill me!” Nyx jumped from the bed cursing. Grinning Eve settled to admire his half-naked body in motion as Nyx was getting his gear on with haste.

“It’s so unfair that you’re allowed to stay here sleeping while I have to get to work,” Nyx complained and bent down to give a peck to Eve’s lips, but she grabbed his collar and didn’t let him go without a proper kiss.

“Guard our city well, hero,” Eve flashed a grin.

“Screw you, Eve. Bye.” Having said that, Nyx hurried from the door, leaving Eve to lay in the sheets alone. She would have to get up soon too anyway, so she rose from the bed, spreading her arms in the air.

Eve didn’t want to stay alone in Nyx’s apartment, so she soon headed out to find a nice café to eat breakfast in. The morning traffic of Insomnia was as terrible as ever, but for once she didn’t have to care. At least the weather was warm with the sun peeking from behind the scarce white clouds.

Having finished her breakfast, Eve was already on her way to the West gates of Insomnia when Caitlin finally called.

“Took you long enough,” Eve greeted her friend.

“You know it takes forever to find a place to park here,” an annoyed complaint reached her ears.

“I’m on my way now. Where are you?” Eve asked fastening her pace.

“Uh, I can see a giant statue at a four-way crossing and there is a Chocobucks near it,” Caitlin said. Eve knew the parking hall she had found. It was easily one of the biggest in the whole city as it was connected to a huge and popular shopping mall.

“Okay, I’ll be there in five, see you.”

Eve arrived at the crossing Caitlin had talked about and tried to distinguish her in the busy streets. It was not hard. Her black hair was flowing in the wind and stylish sunglasses covered her eyes. The amount of skin she was showing due to her short skirt and top was really gathering some lavish stares.

“Hey you!” Eve greeted and for her surprise Caitlin gave her a tight hug. ‘Whoa! Aren’t we barely on first name basis?’

Apparently killing a huge behemoth together forged a bond that rivaled that of two siblings. They had called each other a few times after the hunting trip to catch up, but as Eve couldn’t just leave the city and Caitlin was always busy, they hadn’t had time to actually meet.

“It’s good to see you,” Caitlin said looking at the tall buildings around them. “Uff, Insomnia. It really makes my head spin.”

“I know that feeling very well,” Eve smiled, “So, what’s up?”

“I’m good, but first I need food. Then we’ll talk!” Caitlin said.

They headed to the nearest convenient store and Caitlin bought some snacks and a bottle of water.

“Wouldn’t you rather go to a café or something?” Eve asked watching her unwrap a protein bar.

“Nah, I’m good. I was having breakfast at Takka’s when I called you.”

They walked towards the centrum, not specifically heading anywhere. Caitlin pointed at advertisements and at the tallest buildings asking Eve to explain what they promoted or were in depth. Gradually the morning traffic had calmed down. It was the second time Caitlin had visited Insomnia, the first time having been with her father when she was only a child. She was really taking everything out of her personal tour guide, but Eve was only happy comply since she didn’t have often the chance to enjoy the company of a friend.

“So are you here on business or pleasure?” Eve asked again now that Caitlin had had her food.

“I came to see how Nyx is doing,” Caitlin teased.

Eve pressed her lips into a thin line. “He’s just peachy,” she replied in an icy tone.

Caitlin burst out cackling. “Don’t be like that, Eve. How are things between you two? And don’t tell me it wasn’t him this morning,” she said as sharp as ever.

‘Why does everyone tell me not to react like– me?’

“Things are hush-hush and puffing up like a balloon,” Eve confessed with hot cheeks.

“Ooh, I didn’t think you had it in you!” Caitlin beamed and gave her an appreciating pat on the back.

“Thanks…” Eve muttered, not so sure if dating a colleague in secret was a feat to be praised.

“And?” Caitlin urged her to go on.

“And what?” Eve blushed even more.

“Aren’t you still living with your dad? Does anyone else know about you guys?” Caitlin could hardly hold back her grinning.

‘She’s so thirsty for information that it’s almost intimidating,’ Eve thought and let out a weary sigh, ‘Oh well, I guess there’s no harm in telling her.’

“Uh, I am and he doesn’t know – he can’t know. Gods only know what he’d do to Nyx if he found out,” Eve chuckled nervously. “Some of our mutual friends in the glaives know, but we are trying to stay under the wind in this.”

“Ow, that’s too bad for you. You shouldn’t have to hide your love,” Caitlin said nonchalantly.

Eve’s brain hitched hearing the word “love” associated with her and Nyx, and she almost tripped. Caitlin quickly grabbed her arm to stabilize her; hunter reflexes proved useful once more.

“So you aren’t there yet,” Caitlin grinned at Eve’s flustered face.

“You are a terrible information glutton!” Eve accused.

“Yup I know. It’s a bad habit that comes in handy when you have to track something down that doesn’t want to be found. You’re just especially bad at hiding you feelings, you know that?” Caitlin said with a straight face that soon melted into an impish grin. “Where is he by the way?”

“The usual – keeping the city safe,” Eve chuckled after recovering from her shock. Yeah, she was really bad at hiding her feelings, but there was no need to remind her about it.

“Uh-huh?” Caitlin nodded with furrowed brows, not catching Eve’s meaning.

“Guard duty.”

“Ah, right… Hey look, there’s an ice cream stand, let’s go buy some!” Caitlin steered them towards the stand and a brief moment later she was happily bouncing onwards with a melting cone of yumminess.

“Can we talk about you now? How have you been? Last time we spoke, you were going to the Rock of Ravatogh,” Eve said taking a bite out of her ice cream. It was simple vanilla with chocolate sprinkles. The weather was maybe a bit too cool for the cold dessert, but it was delicious nonetheless.

“Yeah, that was a bust. There was a pack of some fiends killing the local wildlife, but I couldn’t find anything,” Caitlin explained shrugging.

“That’s odd,” Eve remarked.

“I know right? There weren’t even tracks – as if the beasts had just vanished, leaving a trail of carcasses behind them!”

“Daemons?” Eve suggested.

“Could’ve been. I went out there in the night too, but same thing,” Caitlin said. “It was a major waste of time and I didn’t even get paid.”

Eve laughed at her bitter tone. “What about that guy you were seeing? Uh, Hank? No? Hale? Yeah, Hale. Is he still around?”

“Oh, Gods no. The Infernian should take him to hell,” Caitlin spat out.

Eve laughed even harder. “You are one to give relationship advice,” she grinned.

“You want life advice? Buy a car you need to glance at while you walk away from it,” Caitlin said.

“That’s not helpful at all!” Eve snorted.

“That’s all I got for now, Eve. And since you asked earlier, I am indeed here for business. I need to visit this arms dealer. I need a new scope and the ones made in Insomnia are the best.”

“Okay, let’s go then. What’s the address?”

The shop resided in a back alley in the busy market area. Eve had never actually been there, but she knew the place. The shop looked rugged on the outside with metal bars on the windows. There were a few weapons in the showcase. They marched in and the door let out a high-pitched clink to inform the shopkeeper of new customers.

Eve looked around her. The walls were filled with arms. Mainly pistols, rifles and all sort of things related to them. There were also a couple of blades on the display with a sizable advertisement: “You design, we craft! Order your unique blade now! Ask for the details.” Eve was about to say something about it to Caitlin, but she had already seen something more interesting and didn’t notice Eve’s motioning.

“Well hello there,” Caitlin grunted low and whistled so that only Eve could hear. She took off her sunglasses. Eve turned to look at what she was gaping at.

It was Gladiolus Amicitia.

They walked further in the store. Caitlin’s eyes were flashing towards Gladio. Eve sighed and went straight to him. Caitlin was almost hissing at her in confusion about her intentions to approaching this well-sculptured male.

“Hey, Amicitia. Fancy meeting you here,” Eve said holding back laughter at seeing Caitlin’s bewildered face. Caitlin skittered at her heels.

“Oh, hey Eve,” Gladio turned noticing the two women, “What’s up? Who’s your friend?” His eyes travelled from Caitlin’s exposed legs to the sunglasses resting on top of her black hair.

“This is Caitlin Felineia. She is a hunter, one of the best,” Eve gave a quick wink at Caitlin when Gladio was busy staring at her body.

“Pleasure to meet you,” Caitlin purred and stretched out her hand.

“Nice to meet you too. I’m Gladiolus Amicitia. We used to work together with Eve.” Gladio shook hands with Caitlin.

Eve snorted at Gladio’s apprehension of working. It had been more like two parents tossing a child between them, trying to figure out whose turn it was to babysit the prince.

“So what brings you here?” Eve asked after clearing her throat.

“I’m checking up a Crownsguard arms shipment for my old man,” Gladio explained, still eyeing Caitlin who had an inviting smile on her lips. She seemingly enjoyed the attention.

“Sounds like you’re doing my father’s job too,” Eve said.

“What?” Caitlin turned to look at her, frowning in confusion.

“What ‘what’?” Eve raised an eyebrow back at her.

“Who exactly is your dad?” Caitlin asked suspicious.

“Uh, the commander of the Crownsguard?” Eve said slowly. It occurred to her that it had never come up with Caitlin. Not that she usually advertised that fact. It usually gave off too much bias about her too.

“And who is your dad?” Caitlin turned to Gladio.

“The King’s Shield,” he replied briefly and crossed his arms. Caitlin was awed though Eve wasn’t sure whether it was because of what she had just heard or Gladio’s biceps.

“Does that mean you also know the crown prince?” Caitlin turned again to ask from Eve in excitement.

Eve squeezed her eyes shut and grinned. That was definitely something she did not like to advertise to anyone. “I guess I kinda do?”

“You’re officially my new best friend. Now please introduce me to all your other famous and important friends,” Caitlin smirked jokingly, making Gladio chuckle.

“One can never have too many friends,” Eve said, smiling wistfully. Caitlin and Noctis meeting would be a sight to behold in all its awkwardness.

“So Gladiolus, what do you do?” Caitlin asked and Eve could distinguish the purring flirt in her tone. It made her grimace inwardly.

“I’m the crown prince’s Shield,” Gladio said modestly. Caitlin’s eyes widened and she stared at him frozen.

Eve snorted.

“So how does that rank you in the Crownsguard?” Caitlin inquired, quickly reverting from the surprise.

“Pretty high,” Gladio said with a flirty half-smile.

“Oh, maybe I should enlist then,” Caitlin cooed. Eve rolled her eyes.

“We always have use for talented individuals,” Gladio smirked and winked.

Caitlin flashed a smile back to Gladio. “I find myself in high company. I could get used to this,” she said dramatically. Eve wanted to roll her eyes to the ceiling.

“So how long are you staying in city? I could give you a tour around the Citadel,” Gladio asked, “uh, unless Eve already has.”

“No, I just arrived today,” Caitlin said with a seductive tone, “I haven’t decided yet how long I’ll stay. I guess that depends on whether I find anything interesting to do.”

Eve was really starting to feel like the third wheel. “By the way, how is your girlfriend?” she said wanting to remind Gladio about the fact that he was supposed to be taken.

Gladio took a confused moment before answering. He looked at Eve as if he had only remembered she was standing there too. “We broke up about a month ago.”

“Oh, that’s too bad,” Caitlin hurried to condolence. She looked positively exultant and was poorly masking it.

“That’s a shame. Well, we should get on with our business now,” Eve said sharply, trying to stir her entranced friend. Caitlin didn’t react at all as she was busy holding eye contact with Gladio.

“Caitlin? That scope you needed…” Eve reminded her. ‘Another eye-fucking session I did not want to witness.’

“Oh, right!” Caitlin snatched a slip of notepaper and a pen from the shop counter. Gladio looked at Eve bemused, who shrugged indifferently. Caitlin finished scribbling, folded the paper and placed it delicately into Gladio’s chest pocket.

“Text me, when you are ready for that tour,” she said and winked.

“I will,” he smiled back.

Eve had to practically drag Caitlin back to the table where the scopes were on display.

It didn’t take long for Caitlin to find the model she was after, though stealing glances towards Gladio slowed down the process. She paid for her purchase and they stepped back out to the fresh air.

“Whew, you can keep Nyx. I have a new target in my sights,” Caitlin said waving a breeze to her face.

“You’re not one to aim low. He must be the second most wanted bachelor in whole Lucis,” Eve laughed.

“He won’t be a bachelor for long,” Caitlin said and dropped her sunglasses on.

Eve smirked. ‘You have to admire her determination.’

They returned to walking around Insomnia. Eve showed Caitlin where the Kingsglaive headquarters resided and told her what it was like inside. Caitlin would have been interested in taking a tour there, but since it was a military building, it wasn’t exactly open for civilians.

“The Citadel on the other hand has scheduled tours,” Eve said apologizing, “But I think Gladio will give you a more personalized experience.” An experience she was not eager to find more about, considering the flirting earlier.

“I do hope so,” Caitlin said sounding awkwardly lustful for Eve’s ears.

“You’re hopeless,” Eve remarked shaking her head. ‘I should make a bet with Nyx whether she’ll sleep with Gladio before she leaves. Though we both want to bet ‘yes’ so there’s no sense.’

“On the contrary, I have very high hopes of tomorrow. So what time does Nyx get off work?” Caitlin patted Eve’s shoulder and grinned.

“Late,” Eve said and the corners of her mouth dropped slightly. Caitlin noticed it.

“Ow. Well good thing I’m here to keep you company then!”

Eve smiled impishly. “Yup, I have to enjoy it today for as long as I can since I’ll lose you tomorrow to Gladio anyhow.”

Caitlin giggled in excitement. “You think so?”

“Well… I’m not gonna lie, it was bad how obviously you looked at him there, but I think it’s safe to say he was pretty taken with you too.”

Caitlin bumped her fist in the air in triumph, making Eve burst into laughter.

After taking Caitlin’s new toy to her car, mostly because Eve insisted it was not wise to carry it around in the city even in the company of a glaive, they drove to the centrum and continued shopping. It was certainly not how Eve had imagined spending her day off, but she was glad for the company of a friend.

Caitlin was surprisingly into trying out new clothes and she forced Eve to buy a new outfit too, “To show off your best sides to Nyx.”

While shopping, Caitlin questioned about Eve’s life in Insomnia and how all the things with the Kingsglaive and the Crownsguard worked. She was genuinely interested in the systems inside the city and Eve got to tease her how her interest was piqued only because of meeting Gladio. Nonetheless, Eve answered the questions as best as she could, while Caitlin dumped pieces of clothing onto her arm, which she were supposed to try out.

“Here,” Caitlin said and reached out to give another shirt to Eve, “This is totally your color.”

“Uh, I like black…” Eve mumbled and with a cocked eyebrow regarded the electric blue shirt.

“Yeah? Humor me, girl.” Caitlin showed her towards the fitting room and was not satisfied before Eve bought the shirt, because it looked so good on her.

Eve had no idea how she had just bought three new outfits, but undeniably, they had looked good on her. Caitlin really had an eye for fashion, even if her taste in clothing was a bit too revealing for Eve’s tastes.

“You should switch careers into fashion design or something,” Eve said, trying to wrap all the plastic bags on one hand.

“You think so? Thanks, but I love hunting. Hey, are you hungry yet?” Caitlin asked smiling at the compliment.

“Yeah, I could eat a garula. Shopping is hard work,” Eve replied with a chuckle. Her arms were getting tired from carrying the multiple bags and her feet ached from the walking.

They made their way into a lunch place inside the mall. Eve dug her phone up to check for any messages. There was one from Nyx and her heart jumped a little at seeing it on the display.

“Having fun?” it said.

“You bet,” Eve typed in reply.

Caitlin smirked at the love fool smile on Eve’s face. “So, how long has it been? Seven months?”

Eve lifted her gaze from the phone with a confused look. “What?”

“You and Nyx. You said you weren’t dating yet at the Chocobo Post, right?” Caitlin said and her smirk widened into a grin. Her memory was way too good with insignificant details such as that.

“Oh… Yeah, around six, I think. It’s been a bumpy ride with all the secrecy and stuff,” Eve said nonchalantly and placed her phone carefully on the table.

“Would it really be so bad if people knew?” Caitlin inquired.

Eve swirled the spoon in her tea cup. “Yeah, I think it would…”–she let out a wry laugh–“I can’t think of a one good reason why the captain would allow something like this between two glaives. And my father would make sure Nyx gets deployed to Cleigne or something.”

Caitlin hummed in compassion. “I’m sorry to hear that, Eve. But stuff like this tends to work out in the end, so don’t worry too much.”

“Yeah, I sure hope so.” Eve’s cheeks felt warm.

“Isn’t it really difficult to date when you’re still living with your dad?” Caitlin wondered aloud, gaze searching the hint of pink on Eve’s cheeks.

“Don’t even get me started… I’ve been trying to find my own place to live, but so far no luck.” Eve’s phone buzzed against the wooden table surface, giving the perfect escape from the topic she was not really comfortable with yet.

“Dinner with Cat tonight? I’m off at 6,” Nyx asked in the text message.

“Nyx is asking if you wanna get dinner with us tonight,” Eve said, ready to type in a reply. Truth be told, she was pretty much assuming that Caitlin would hang out with her and Nyx and maybe some other glaives too for the rest of the day. She didn’t know anyone else in the city after all.

“Sure! Sounds good. Any chance you could invite Gladio too?” Caitlin joked, “Or His Highness?”

Eve snorted. Wouldn’t that be an interesting dinner to witness. “Sorry, but I don’t think so.”

“Damn…”

“But I’ll make sure you’ll get to meet some of the other glaives too, if you’re interested. Just… please don’t say a word about me and Nyx to anyone.” Eve’s tone tilted towards a pleading one.

“You have my word, girl,” Caitlin assured with a smile.

TBC - Currently on hiatus!

[unofferable-fic]

The Flower & The Serpent (Arthur Morgan x OFC)

Chapter 8 - A Blight for the Ages

Summary: In the early 1890s, the Van der Linde Gang were truly at their finest. Experts at stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, they’ve made a name for themselves across the West. Two of their newest recruits, a pair of rebellious Irish siblings with an unknown past, slowly find their footing and settle into their new lives as outlaws. And yet, as they grow older, threats from all sides begin to appear. A strained relationship with Colm O'Driscoll spells disaster for the gang, and no matter how far they roam across America, the world continues to change around them. If they want to survive, difficult choices must be made. No one is as they seem and the impending arrival of law and order threatens to tear the siblings, and everything they hold dear, apart. Is it too late for anyone to find a happy ending?

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Pairing: Arthur Morgan x OFC

Warnings: Language, fluff.

Word Count: 5,728

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Playlist: “Little Lies” — Fleetwood Mac, “My Sweet Love Ain’t Around”— Hank Williams, “Where Did You Sleep Last Night” — Nirvana

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A/N: Also available on AO3.

5th September, 1893, outside Winterset, Iowa

A couple of days have passed since Maebh, William, and I headed into Saint Charles to get information for the train, and a couple days since they bumped into an old friend. I enquired after Mícheál (and how to spell his name) this morning over coffee. According to Maebh, they met him on the ship that brought them to America. His land was bought out by the British and he was given the choice to either leave or be shot dead. It’s not like he had much of an option. After meeting on the ship, he bought a new farm not far from their own, meaning that they saw him regularly growing up. Now he owns a farm a couple miles outside town and invited them over for tea whenever they wanted to see a familiar face and catch up. It would probably be good for them to do just that — maybe speaking their own language and reliving fond memories with an old friend would be a welcome break from stealing and shooting.

Today, we got plans. Trelawny is due to swing by after being away for a while. Apparently he was contacted once Marston and Dutch has settled on a plan of action for the heist. I suppose we’ll have to wait and see how that goes. I also have to leave tomorrow to pay Eliza and Isaac a visit before we take on the train. It’s going to be a busy few days…

* * *

Josiah Trelawny’s arrival was always something that brought with it a flamboyant and grandiose flair. He could disappear for months on end and still somehow have everyone happy to see him upon his return. He was also the only one in camp who got away with this manner of living. Arthur supposed it was because he always brought useful leads and ideas with him. That, and he was a great connection for them to have. They wouldn’t have been able to do many of their heists without his intel and input.

So, when the luxurious man rode into camp, Arthur shouldn’t have been surprised to see him carrying a large sack of what he presumed to be helpful contents.

“Good to see you, Arthur!” Trelawny greeted him as he strolled up to Dutch’s tent. “And you as well, Dutch.”

“Josiah,” Arthur nodded in return. “It’s been a while.”

“I suppose it has.”

“A while or not,” Dutch began, offering the newcomer a cigar. “You’re always welcome, my friend.”

Trelawny accepted the cigar with a grin and proceeded to light it. “Such hospitality from a band of filthy degenerates!”

Dutch chuckled. “We may be filthy, but we ain’t degenerates.” He was quick to call John, Maebh, and William over to join them.

When the trio approached, Trelawny greeted them with enthusiasm. “My, you three have gotten so big since I last saw you.”

John was quick to defend them. “We ain’t kids.”

Josiah only offered sarcasm in return. “A pleasure as always, Mr Marston. I am merely stating that you were all smaller the last time I saw you.”

“It’s only been a few months,” William responded, though he greeted the man with a firm handshake. “Relax yourself.”

“Young William! Good to see you!”

“Took your time gettin’ back to us,” Maebh teased him. “Welcome back.”

“And Miss Maebh,” he said, taking her hand. “It is good to see you, dear.”

When he placed a kiss on her knuckles, the young woman only laughed. “Relax with the charm for a sec — you only just got back.”

“Why’d you call us over here anyhow?” John asked with a frown. “To flirt?”

William gestured to his shirt collar. “If you’re dyin’ for Trelawny's attention, you’ll have to undo some of those buttons first.”

“For clothes, son,” Dutch replied. “New clothes for the four a’you.”

“Wait,” William cut in, smiling slightly. “Are they new clothes for the heist?”

“As sharp as a nail, my good man,” Trelawny said before shrugging the large sack off his shoulder. “Dutch sent for me in Des Moines a few days ago once he and John had agreed on a rough plan for your upcoming heist. Knowing you would be going in disguises, I picked up outfits for you all.”

Arthur couldn’t help but smirk as William stood up straight, visibly excitable at the concept. Within the sack was four smaller bags. Trelawny had a peak inside each before he handed them out. “That is for… Arthur. And this is young William… Miss Maebh… And Mr Marston.”

Arthur peered into his bag and looked through the contents. It appeared to contain a simple but expensive looking outfit. He noted black pants, a grey shotgun coat, a waistcoat that matched, a white dress shirt, and a black dress tie. He noticed that it was expensive, but nothing too ostentatious that would draw unwanted attention or make them stick out in a crowd of wealthy travellers.

“What the hell is this?” John asked, pulling out a worn-looking black vest and white shirt.

“You’re going as an employee, of course,” Trelawny replied, smoking his cigar casually. “Dutch told me you would need one, so I contacted a friend who owed me a favour.”

Arthur noticed Maebh trying to hide an amused smirk before he too was pursing his lips together.

“Well, yeah,” John stuttered before shoving the clothes back into the bag. “But I thought you’d give ’em to Hennigan, or somethin’…”

“William? Preposterous! We thought it would suit you better.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Well, you know…” Trelawny waved a hand up and down John’s frame dismissively before quickly continuing on. “Now, I also have covers for you to use if you find yourselves in conversation that requires it. John will simply be one of the train workers. William, you will be a young salesman travelling alone across states for business, and Maebh and Arthur shall be a newlywed couple looking to buy livestock in the next state over.”

The revelation had Arthur grinning. It was always good to know that he would have someone he could trust watching his back on such an important heist. He looked at Maebh to see her already smiling at him. “Lookin’ forward to it, husband.”

“I ain’t husband material,” he admitted with a laugh. “But I’ll try my best.”

“‘Ain’t husband material’,” she repeated with a look of disbelief. “Don’t make me laugh.”

“I do love a good backstory,” William said as he studied a grey crusher hat he pulled from his bag. “It gives me somethin’ to work with so I can get into character.”

“You and Arthur will also need to trim those beards,” Josiah added, gesturing to their furry chins. “But we can wait until the day to have that done.”

Arthur let out a grumble, but said nothing when Dutch gave him a disapproving look. “It’ll grow back, Arthur.”

“Never come between a fella and his facial hair, Dutch,” Maebh joked, noting Arthur’s sour expression. “Especially not these two.”

“Here are their tickets,” Josiah announced and handed them on to Dutch for safe keeping. “You will all be seated in the carriage closest to the front of the train, and John should have the ability to move freely between most areas. That should be everything you’ll need.”

“Thank you, Josiah,” Dutch said earnestly as he placed the tickets beside his cot. “We wouldn’t be able to do this without ya and I’ll have you reimbursed for the clothes.”

“Are you goin’ t’stay for a bit?” Maebh asked curiously.

“But of course, my dear!” Trelawny replied with gusto and offered her his arm. “I have much to tell you and your brother about my travels.”

“I was hopin’ you learned more magic tricks while you were away.”

“Trust me, this magician has much to show.”

William was quick to take his sisters bag as she accepted Josiah’s arm. Arthur simply chuckled and shook his head as his old friend began a rambling tale of his apparent adventures. Once he had dropped off his own clothes in his tent, he joined the rest of them by the campfire where he continued to recount embellished stories that were probably mostly waffle. Regardless, the gang spent most of the evening around the fire, drinking and allowing Trelawny most of the floor in-between bouts of singing and music led by a happy and drunk Uncle.

Arthur was merely cheerful knowing that their plans for the train were thankfully moving swiftly and positively. The confidence within the gang was growing with each successful move — this take was going to be big.

* * *

Maebh sat on her bedroll, unable to keep her eyes from leaving her book and focusing on a busy figure not far away — Arthur.

The older man was packing a small bag with clothes and food, much like he did every few months before he dipped out for weeks on end. In that time, she had no idea where he went or what he was doing, but she couldn’t help but be inquisitive.

“Good book?” her brother asked, announcing himself as he returned from a hunting trip. He plopped himself down on the bedroll beside her. “You still on Othello? How long does it take you to bleedin’ read?”

“You ever wonder where Arthur goes on his trips?” she asked, completely ignoring his question.

William followed her stare before he offered a reply. “Uh, not particularly? I never put much thought into it.”

“I have,” she admitted, watching intently as Dutch came to offer Arthur some form of a goodbye. She got the feeling that most people in camp knew where he went on these trips. “I’m kinda curious ’bout it.”

“Why?”

“I mean, why not? What does he do in the time he’s away from camp? Is he visitin’ someone? Doin’ jobs on the side? Bounty hunter work? Oh! Or maybe he’s secretly a stage performer?”

He blinked, eyes narrowing slightly at the thought. “Okay, so maybe the possibilities are a little interestin’...”

“See? Now you’re speakin’ my language.”

As she shut her book and got to her feet, her younger brother frowned. “You goin’ to harass him?”

“Jesus, I’m only goin’ to say bye, alright? You comin’?”

He shook his head. “I already had a chat with him earlier and I promised to help Pearson with the deer I brought in. I’ll leave you to it.”

Maebh was quick to exit the tent, stretching as she stood. She ventured over to where Arthur was attaching his bag to Boadicea’s saddle. Copper the dog sniffed around nearby, circling his owner inquisitively. She grinned as Arthur gently patted the mare’s neck, cooing kind words that made the horse bob her head in delight. “You off again, Mr Morgan?”

He offered her a polite smile. “I am indeed, Miss Hennigan.”

“Will you be back in time for the train?” she asked, gently rubbing Boadicea’s muzzle.

“O’course. I’m only goin’ for a couple days this time so I’ll be back beforehand.”

She nodded before pointing to the dog. “Is he goin’ too?”

“He usually would be, but considerin’ I’m goin’ for a shorter trip, ain’t much point in bringin’ him along before leavin’ again.”

“Myself and William can keep an eye on him if you want?”

“You sure?” he asked as Maebh called the dog over. “I don’t want him to be a bother.”

“He’s no bother at all,” she assured him, reaching down to scratch Copper’s floppy ears. “I know we’re not as good company, but you’ll be alright with us, won’t ya, boy?”

She could see Arthur’s eyes flitting between them both, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Thank you. At least now I know he’ll be in good hands:”

Maebh watched as Arthur reached into his satchel and pulled out a small piece of dried meat. Copper’s ears perked up at this development and he immediately sat down obediently.

“This’ll keep you busy, boy,” Arthur cooed, handing the treat to his pet. Copper took it gently between his teeth and quickly trotted off to enjoy his gift. “He won’t bother ya much, I promise.”

“Again, he’s no bother, Arthur,” she replied with a scoff. “He’s a lovely dog so I don’t mind it.”

Even still, Arthur expressed gratitude again before mounting up and grasping the reigns in his large hands. He carefully placed his gambler hat on his head and then sighed. “I think I’m good to go...”

“Got everythin’ you need?” she asked, blocking the sunshine with her hand as she looked up at him.

“Sure do. I’ll see you in ’bout a week, Miss Hennigan. You take care o’that brother o’yours.”

“I’ll try my best.”

She stood back and gave him a wave as Arthur lead Boadicea out of camp and out of her company for a week’s time. Even still, she couldn’t ease the curiosity welling in her gut. She never asked where he was off to, mostly because she knew he wouldn’t tell her regardless. She was certain that anyone who was part of the gang before her arrival knew, but anyone after definitely did not. They all just eventually gave up asking when they never got an answer. Either way, she wondered where Arthur was going for months at a time and whether she would ever find out.

In the days after their first trip to Saint Charles, both Maebh and William had been back on a few occasions, most of which involved scouting the area down south where the robbery would be taking place. There were still details they had to sort here and there, but Dutch seemed quite happy with how things had been so far. They had time yet to get a handle on the finishing details, like more details around who they would be on the train. Or in William’s words, ‘what parts we’re playin’’. It seemed that Trelawny’s original proposals had sent William off on a tangent.

Deciding that it was best to be productive that morning despite Arthur’s absence, Maebh approached Mr Pearson as he stood over the massive stew pot. William stood nearby, skinning a deer. “Mornin’, Mr Pearson.”

“Good mornin’ to you, Miss Hennigan,” he offered in return. “What can I do you for?”

“I’m just wonderin’ if you’ve any jobs that need doin’.”

Pearson paused at his work before clicking his fingers and grabbing a small piece of paper on his table. “I have a list of supplies that need buyin’ if you’d like to take that on?”

“Might as well,” she replied and took the list he offered with a smile. “Cheers. I’ll head over to Winterset and pick them up now.”

“I’d take the wagon with ya — it’s a fair amount.”

As she strolled towards the gang’s supply wagon, she called for her sibling. “William! Tar anseo, le do thoil!”

He was quick to approach once the deer was taken care of, and asked curiously. “Where you off to?”

“Town. Pearson needs some more supplies from the general shop. You want’a come?”

“Yeah, gewon. I’ll join you. Just let me wash my hands.”

“Best bring Copper too actually. I told Arthur we’d keep an eye out for him.”

At that, William quickly cleaned his hands in a bucket of water and then whistled for the dog, who came running over. He was rewarded with scratches behind the ear and pats on the head from the young man. It didn’t take much for his tail to begin wagging enthusiastically.

Maebh was just about to climb into the front seat of the wagon when Bessie approached. “Where are you two off to?”

“A supply run for Pearson,” she replied. “We’re headin’ into Winterset to grab what he needs.”

“Mind if I join you? I have to pick up some things myself.”

“Sure!” Maebh offered her a smile before adding. “You feelin’ up for it?”

“I’m certainly feelin’ better than what I was,” Bessie explained. “I may be old, Miss Hennigan, but I ain’t dead yet.”

“It takes a lot to knock you down, Mrs Matthews. Hop on.”

“You take the front seat with Maebh,” William insisted as he offered Bessie a hand up. “I’ll hop in the back with Copper.”

“Such a polite young man,” the older woman teased as she climbed into the seat with his assistance. “When you ain’t holdin’ up a bank.”

He shrugged at the joke and cracked a small smile. “What can I say? I’m a man of many talents.”

“And endless charm to boot.”

“Ya see? This is why you’re one of my favourite people.”

At that moment, Uncle came towards the wagon and directed a question to her brother. “Did I hear y’all say you’re goin’ into town?”

“Sure did, old man,” William replied, patting Copper’s head. “Why?”

“Think you could pick me up some booze?”

Maebh rolled her eyes while William shrugged. “Sure, if you gimme the money.”

“I’ll give it to ya when you get back.”

“Ye will in your hole,” William scoffed. “I’m not buyin’ you drink with my own money, Uncle.”

“You ever hear of respectin’ your elders, kid?” Uncle retorted in an offended tone.

“You ever hear of not bein’ a scab?”

There was brief stare down before Uncle grumbled and reached into his pocket. He tossed the younger man a couple of coins before speaking again. “I think Arthur is havin’ a bad influence on you, Willy.”

“You’re lucky I’m even pickin’ this up for you at all,” the blonde replied before waving Uncle off. “Now geway before I change my mind ’bout doin’ you a favour.”

Once William was sitting on the back of the wagon with Copper safely beside him, Maebh slowly lead them out of camp. Upon reaching the main road, she urged the shire horses into a steady trot. The rolling hills of Madison county were some of Maebh’s favourite landscapes to travel through. She found something oddly relaxing about the gentle undulations of the land and the cool morning breeze. The wagon’s wheels cut through the soggy ground, moistened by a rainy night, so she was careful to take bends in the road with ease.

“What’re you pickin’ up then?” Maebh asked after a few moments of silence.

“Nosey girl,” Bessie replied with a smirk. “Some provisions mostly, and bait that Hosea needs for one of his huntin’ trips.”

“He plannin’ to go off for a few days?”

“Mm hmm. Said there’s a big buck been spotted a few counties over, so we plan on investigatin’ once the train job is outta the way.”

Maebh nodded in understanding and quickly cracked the reigns in her hands. “That’s good. We’ll be missin’ Arthur ’round camp so we could do without you and Hosea goin’ now too.”

“Arthur is always missed,” Bessie agreed a shake of her head. “I know everyone pulls their weight, but I feel like he sometimes carries the load of two men.”

Letting out a small huff, Maebh couldn’t help but agree. “He does an awful lot, I’ll give him that. He deserves the break, in all honesty.” She paused momentarily before pressing on. “At least, I think he’s takin’ a break. What’s he doin’ anywho? Huntin’? Fishin’?”

She hoped her attempt to learn some more about Arthur hadn’t come off as pushy or nosey. If she was, Bessie certainly wouldn’t have an issue warning her of the fact.

“He runs some errands,” she replied, not giving much away. “Pays some visits — the usual.”

Bessie didn’t leave much room for asking more questions about it, something Maebh figured to be intentional. Unwilling to push her luck, she simply nodded her head slightly and focused on the road ahead.

Despite the silence, Bessie continued. “What Arthur does is Arthur’s business.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to—”

“I didn’t mean that you should apologise,” she hushed her gently. “All I’m sayin’ is that Arthur’s errands are personal and if and when he’s ready to tell you ’bout them, that’s his place, not mine. Much like how you two came to Hosea and I the other night. We weren’t gonna force you to say anythin’, even if we had suspicions.”

Her words were, as always, laced with a kindness and wisdom that only she and Hosea seemed to embody. Maebh appreciated the non-answer because it was certainly better than a lie or a scolding. “Noted, keep my mouth shut. Got it.”

“It ain’t that, not exactly. I’m sure when he’s ready to tell you he will.”

“I just hope it’s not ’cause he doesn’t trust me,” she explained, releasing a sigh. “He’s a good man, y’know? So I can’t help but value his opinion.”

“I do know. How ’bout you tell him that he’s a good man and maybe he’ll start believin’ it himself.”

“It’s not for lack of tryin’, I promise.”

Bessie was quick to place a comforting hand on her arm. “I know, I know. It ain’t a trust issue. You can tell Arthur is fond of the two of you.”

“For the record,” William called from his seat at the back of the wagon. “I love that big grumpy bastard too.”

“Oh I know, Mr Hennigan,” Bessie answered, brushing some greying hair out of her eyes. “There ain’t no doubt in my mind about that. You can see the mutual respect between the three of you. But don’t be puttin’ any pressure on him to talk, alright?”

“We won’t,” Maebh assured her. “The last thing I’d want to do is make him feel under pressure.”

William spoke up again. “You have our word on that, Mrs Matthews.”

Their short trip continued with some casual conversation on lighter subjects before they eventually arrived in Winterset. At the general store, they put the owner to good use, giving him the list and waiting outside as he brought everything to them one by one (including bourbon for Uncle). Together, Maebh and William loaded it all into the supply wagon while Copper watched on inquisitively, quickly sniffing the boxes and bags if he got the chance.

“Is that everythin’ I can help y’all with today?” the shop owner asked, slightly out of breath from all the heavy lifting.

“I’ve a list of my own,” Bessie said before quickly adding. “But don’t worry, it ain’t that long.”

“Well ain’t that a relief!”

Maebh quickly handed him over the pay before he and Bessie headed back inside to pick up what she needed. While they waited, she took a seat on the shop steps with William, who tossed a stick for a happy and playful Copper.

“He seems okay even though Arthur isn’t ’round,” he noted, accepting the stick once the dog returned it to him. “I thought he’d be a bit more down considerin’ he usually goes with him.”

She watched as he threw the stick again and the dog went running. “Guess it helps that he’s got good company.”

“That must be it.”

“You seem in better form lately,” she noted, turning to look at him. “Less... on edge, or somethin’.”

“The lack of events at camp have helped with that.”

“Ah. You talkin’ ’bout your watch?”

He nodded slowly with his lips pursed. “There’s been no sign of whoever that fucker was, so hopefully he stays away from us unless he fancies me stranglin’ him…”

“Hopefully it was just some idiot playin’ a dumb joke.”

“It’s an awful lot of trouble to go to just for a joke.”

“Yeah well, some people are stupid, William…”

“Whether it’s some idiot or not, as long as he stays away from camp I’ll be happy out.”

They weren’t waiting too long for Bessie to return with her goods and soon the four of them were once more riding the wagon back to camp. The journey was a pleasant one as Bessie requested they sing a song of Irish heritage, and a happy singsong ensued with everyone becoming involved. The process of unloading all the supplies was completed swiftly with Pearson’s help and the siblings were happy to help him pack it all away for future use. With little else to do, they helped him prepare lunch by chopping some vegetables and cleaning cutlery and bowls in the late morning sun. With their assistance, Mr Pearson fixed the gang some venison chilli con carne that seemed to go down quite well. After her surprisingly pleasant meal, Maebh sat by the campfire making split point bullets, meticulously carving x’s into her ammo over and over with a hunting knife. Copper lay next to her on the ground, his attention focused on a bone she’d given him earlier. She had gotten through a fair number of bullets when she heard her name being called. Looking up, she saw Dutch standing over her.

“Any chance you’d join me for a walk, Miss Maebh?” he asked, offering her his hand.

Quickly shoving the bullets into her satchel, she accepted his hand and got to her feet. “Sure. Where you off to?”

“I’m gonna go collect some ginseng for Hosea,” he explained. “Cedar Lake ain’t too far away and we should be able to find some up there. I already promised I’d help him find some, considerin’ he’s still worried ’bout Mrs Matthews. Figured you could bring Copper along.”

Upon hearing his name, the dogs ears perked up curiously.

Maebh offered Dutch a smile. “Sure, we’ll come along. You fancy a walk, boy?”

Copper’s affirmative bark was enough to go by, and the pair strolled out of camp arm in arm, the dog running alongside them with a perpetually wagging tail. It had been a while since Maebh had spent any time one-on-one with Dutch, so his characteristic advice and theoretical ramblings about the work of Evelyn Miller were a welcome change of pace. The walk was a pleasant one, and it was nice to get out of camp on foot instead of riding horseback for once. Upon arriving at the lake, they passed by the odd fisherman here and there who offered them polite hellos from a distance. One of them even pointed in the direction of a spot where ginseng usually grew. They both found what they were looking for with relative ease, as the plant was quite common to the area.

After collecting any American Ginseng they could find, they carried it all in a small bag and then headed back towards camp.

“How’s your brother been lately?” the older man asked. “I’ve noticed how he’s been somewhat on edge since the whole escapade with his pocket watch, not that I blame him.”

“He’s a bit better,” she confirmed with confidence. “I mean, he hopes he gets to squeeze the life out of whoever caused all that mischief, but I think he’s calmed down a bit since there’s been no more sightings.”

“Honestly I’d fear for anyone who suffers his wrath,” he admitted with a slight laugh. “That boy can be so eerily calm one minute before he loses all reason and sees red.”

“He can be ruthless alright. Arthur said a similar thing to me before.”

“I know that Arthur thinks quite highly of William. I would say that so do I, as do the rest of the gang, but I know that perhaps we know him a little better havin’ known him for longer. And you two grew up together, so o’course you would know him inside out.”

“I understand.” Maebh frowned and watched Copper as he happily trotted along the dirt path. “I think sometimes people can be a little afraid of William when they don’t know him. He can be very standoffish with people he doesn’t know, and has no qualms with fighting his way out of something if he’s no choice, but he would also lay down his life for those he holds closest to his heart.”

“I see what you mean,” Dutch agreed. “I think that’s why Arthur is also so fond of the boy. He sees a lot of himself in ’im, and I feel that Arthur could’ve been a lot different had Hosea and I not taken him in. The same could be said for John… I think that you two were in a similar place when we first met you in Wisconsin. Ain’t somethin’ that’s a certainty, but I like to think that we’ve been a good influence on you two.”

Maebh contemplated his words for a moment. While she had discussed ‘what could have been’ with her brother many times, openly admitting their possible downfall to the gang leader was something yet to be done. He knew a bit more about their past than Arthur did, but since meeting with Hosea and Bessie a few nights ago, they were the only ones to know of their skeletons in the closet. There were plenty of occasions where she found her thoughts drifting when lying on her bedroll at night, conjuring up vivid images of where she and William could have been had things not played out as they did. The thoughts of what they would have done to survive had the Van der Linde Boys not also tried to rob that stage caused her stomach to twist. Dutch was, by all accounts, an intelligent and honourable man. He held contempt for the rich who refused to help those suffering, and decided that someone had to bloody well do it. He invited lost souls into the fold; into his family. If he openly expressed worry for what William might have become had things been different, there was probably some truth to it. If she was honest with herself, her brother was one of the only things in this life she worried about.  He was all she had left of her old life and the urge to protect him from any outside threats had only grown over the years. She was foolish to think that them growing into young adults would make her feel less determined about keeping him safe. Now, it seemed perpetual. Even still, she refused to have William be anything other than his best, which was something she took great pleasure in witnessing.

As long as he was happy in life, she would find her own joy in seeing him so content.

“Dutch, I really don’t know where William and I would be if it wasn’t for this gang. God knows how things would’ve turned out.”

“I wouldn’t worry yourself with those thoughts, my dear,” he reassured her in his usual assertive manner. “Ain’t no point in spendin’ time worryin’ ’bout what can’t be no more. No matter what might’ve happened to you and William back then don’t matter, because you’re with us now. Loyalty, Maebh. It’s what keeps us together, keeps us strong. We’re a family, and family will always have your back. I know I always say it, but the reason why we are strong is because we have faith. Faith in each other, faith in this land, faith in this life — not the one these Pinkertons say we gotta live. Ain’t nothin’ quite like a close gang like ours with unshakeable faith and the urge to do what’s right. Whatever might have been for you and for William — or even Arthur and John — don’t matter no more. What matters is that while we walk through this land of degenerates and government pets and immoral men, we walk together. Each step takes us further away from the other lives we might’a lived had we not been so lucky… It won’t be easier neither, but if we stick together, why we can create our own paradise in this land on our own terms. We do what’s right, and we do it together. Remember that, my friend. You have a good head on your shoulders, and this life can be whatever you want if you keep it that way. Don’t let the past spoil what you have now.

“I don’t want you worryin’ unnecessarily. If you ever feel your concerns with anythin’ gettin’ the better of ya, you can always come and talk to me or Hosea ’bout it. Understand?”

She had to be honest, she really did appreciate these talks with Dutch. He had a habit of always managing to get rid of any doubts she had tucked away in her mind.

“I understand, Dutch,” she replied firmly. “I have to keep my head up and my eyes forward.”

“That’s what I like to hear.” He gave her arm a squeeze. “You ain’t got nothin’ to worry about, Miss Hennigan. Not when we’re here to look out for each other.”

The comforting silence of their walk was cut short at those words. From behind a tree a large figure came barrelling from the woods, wrapped in a large, brown leather coat and hiding the lower half his face behind a bandana. Maebh’s eyes fixed on the rifle he carried, now pointed directly at them. As soon as he appeared, Dutch brought her to a steady halt.

“Right, you know how this plays out,” he grumbled with a slight slur. “Gimme your money!”

His tone was not lost of Copper who began to growl deep from his furry chest. Maebh was quick to release Dutch to grab at the hound’s scruff, uncertain whether this man would hesitate in shooting the animal. His morals seemed as far receded as his hairline. The last thing she needed was to tell Arthur she got his dog shot the very day he left her alone with him.

“You shut that dumb animal up ’fore I put a bullet in ’im!” the robber snarled, visibly losing patience. “Empty your damn pockets!”

Maebh’s revolver lay holstered on her hip. Had she not been holding Copper, she might have been quick enough to draw on this unsteady man without losing any valuables, but it was becoming apparent to her that this wasn’t an option — she was completely reliant on Dutch, who hadn’t yet said a word.

The barrel of the rifle was set on them both, moving back and forth between its two targets. The thief’s brow shone with a thin layer of perspiration from either the heat of the afternoon sun, or stress of the situation.

Maebh looked to Dutch, a man who always had a plan.

She had not been expecting, however, the only response he offered their masked attacker.

He laughed.

[glassofgaytea]

FYI: A Case for Johnlock: Why SHERLOCK Should Embrace Its Ship of Dreams | ScreenSpy

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A Case for Johnlock: Why SHERLOCK Should Embrace Its Ship of Dreams - By Chris. B

Modern television has more “ships” than the Pacific Ocean. Virtually every character on the airwaves has been matched with another, fancied relationships dreamed up by eager fans, either to generate laughs or to satisfy personal passions.  Every fandom has its favorite pairs, but if you’re a follower of the BBC’s Sherlock, the most discussed coupling by far is that John and Sherlock, or Johnlock.  The desire to see these two together in more than a simple platonic friendship is one that is played out in blogs and fan fiction regularly, but is this something fans will ever see developed on screen? 

There are many factors to consider here.  Sadly, in 2017, there is still a certain amount of controversy about showing a gay couple in an everyday relationship, one that is not present for purposes of comic relief or sideline plot support.  Would the network and affiliates allow it?  How conservative are its politics and those of its advertisers?  Given the overwhelming popularity of the show on an international scale, I would wager their wallets would easily trump any qualms that might exist.  It is amazing how capitalism can solve all manner of perceived ills. 

Regardless, do Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat even want this to be the dynamic of their characters?  According to them, the answer is no.  In an interview with Valerie Parker in July of last year, Gatiss claimed, “…we’ve explicitly said this is not going to happen – there is no game plan – no matter how much we lie about other things, that this show is going to culminate in Martin and Benedict going off into the sunset together. They are not going to do it.” 

That sounds pretty final.  Maybe. 

Since these two have made the most of The X-Files philosophy that a lie is most conveniently hidden between two truths, there is always room for doubt.  (Really, how likely is it that a seasoned professional like Gatiss suddenly mistook the names of his characters for those of the men who portray them?) 

In any case, I think an openly romantic relationship between John and Sherlock would be well worth it.  Consider the following points and determine for yourself if this match is a just a forgettable fantasy, or if it could be an ultimate destiny. 

 5. The characters are already tightly bonded 

No one would argue with the idea that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s original characters of Holmes and Watson are best friends; through each of the numerous variations presented over the intervening century plus, this is one of the few facets has remained consistent.  They are a team. Individually, though, each member of the team is lacking.  At one point, Sherlock confesses in “The Great Game” that he’s been “reliably informed” that he has no heart, going so far as to declare several different times that he is a high-functioning sociopath.  John, on the other hand, is “abnormally attracted to dangerous situations and people”; he misses the war that left him behind.  Both have a hole that they need to fill, and that is exactly what the other satisfies. 

In Sherlock, this is reinforced repeatedly.  John and Sherlock are clearly presented as two halves of the same whole, each needing the other to be a complete version of himself—John, the heart and inspiration; Sherlock, the excitement and intellectual challenge.  When Sherlock is baffled why a woman would be upset about her child’s death after fourteen years or when he too gleefully investigates a child kidnapping, John is there to mediate his reactions.  Then, when Sherlock returns in “The Empty Hearse,” he insists correctly of John, “You have missed this…the thrill of the chase, the blood pumping through your veins, the two of us against the rest of the world.”  Later, in “The Abominable Bride,” John quips to Moriarty, “There are always two of us.”  There must be.  Inevitably, all roads they take lead to Baker Street, back to their roots together.   

4. There is already plenty of precedent for it 

Sherlock has never shied away from the suggestion that Sherlock and John are more than friends.  From the outset, John is mistaken for Sherlock’s date, and the man who will “outlive God trying to have the last word” makes no correction, nor does he when a reporter in “The Reichenbach Fall” asks for a quote about whether he and Dr. Watson are “strictly platonic.”  Further, the two gay owners of The Cross Keys Inn from “The Hounds of Baskerville” assess John and Sherlock as a pair; and Mrs. Hudson, who lives just a floor below them and knows them very well, refers to one of their arguments as “a little domestic” and is shocked when John is ready to move on (to marry a woman?) a full two years after Sherlock’s supposed death.  Then, Irene Adler, who sizes people up as adeptly as Sherlock, calls out John’s jealousy about the 57 unanswered texts that she’s sent (yes, John kept track) and flatly counters John’s insistence that he and Sherlock are a couple:  “Yes, you are.”  Finally, in “The Abominable Bride,” when John saves his other half from the precipice and Sherlock gushes about John’s intelligence, Moriarty himself rolls his eyes and scoffs, “Oh, why don’t you two just elope, for God’s sake!” 

There are innumerable instances of extreme devotion shown to us as well.  In “His Last Vow” Sherlock literally restarts his own heart because John is in danger, then commits murder to protect John from the thumb of Magnussen’s extortion.  In “The Great Game” John throws himself on Moriarty to allow Sherlock to escape the bomb he wears, and in “A Scandal in Belgravia,” he dumps his girlfriend and their holiday plans to stay home and look after Sherlock, a choice he makes easily after she demands, “Don’t make me compete with Sherlock Holmes!”  (Oh, he won’t, dear; there’s no contest.)  Further, images abound of the intense and meaningful stares shared by these two, traded like stocks on internet forums and social media, all screaming of something bubbling beneath the surface.  Thus, to transition to an official couple would not be much of a stretch.  

3. It fits the transformational model of the show 

Gatiss and Moffat have shown a penchant for pushing the envelope with their version of Doyle’s characters. Would Doyle have raised his eyebrows over John’s sibling being a divorced lesbian who’s taken to drink?  I doubt the original author could have imagined Mrs. Hudson as a former exotic dancer who had been married to the head of a drug cartel.  And certainly no one anticipated that the lovable Mary Morstan would turn out to be a former intelligence agent and ruthless trained assassin. 

The creators have not been afraid to add their own special spice to these characters.  In a 2014 interview with Phil Ittner, Gatiss and Moffat asserted, “Most of [the series] is actually completely new, so there’s not a drying-up of the source…we’re slightly broadening out the world a bit and being slightly more heretical than we probably would have been at the beginning. But then that’s good, it feels like this is our version…”   To go all-in and apex this concept with the core pair would allow them to make a truly indelible mark on the enormous canon of Sherlock Holmes iterations. 

After all, side characters are only so revealing; in this universe, John and Sherlock are the only ones who matter.  The series has been proposed as the story of the development of a genius, hence its very specific title, so building Sherlock Holmes to the point where he can freely give and receive love, achieving true intimacy, would be the greatest development possible.  Gatiss and Moffat could provide that humanity for him, to create their own warm center to the notoriously melancholy sphere of the private life of the world’s only consulting detective.   

2. Proper representation matters 

All segments of society can and should have a right to see themselves recognized unabashedly by the media they consume, whether it is fiction or non-fiction.  In the twenty-first century, this should not still be the struggle that it is, yet any in the LBGTQ community know how resistant this practice is to change in the machine of social institutions.  Too often, gay characters are used as statue pieces or comic relief, sidelines or after thoughts; they are not permitted to be real and valuable human beings, but are stock characters and stereotypes, extras who inevitably get the axe if the Grim Reaper comes calling.

 Steven Moffat has been most emphatic on the issue that the showing of gay or bisexual characters in popular culture should not be approached with triviality, that it is a serious issue that should be offered (particularly to young people) in a way that denotes true acceptance.  In his Parker interview, he asserted, “You don’t want to essentially tell children that [being gay is] something to campaign about. You want to say this is absolutely fine and normal. There is no question to answer. You want to walk right past it, in a way. You don’t want to…say, as sometimes other kinds of literature or movies might, we forgive you for being gay. You’re just saying you’re gay and it doesn’t matter. There’s no issue.” 

Essentially, one’s sexuality is just an average, marginally interesting, non-personality-defining, run-of-the-mill reality.  Thus, no matter what your sexual bent, it is not odd; it is not special or different, wonderful or terrible.  It just is, as mundane to one’s whole character as eye color or shoe size.  Indeed, until this matter does not flutter pulses with its rakish novelty, true acceptance has not yet occurred.  Having Sherlock and John integrate their sexuality seamlessly into the roster of the other attributes that the audience has witnessed, to roll it into the entire picture of who they are, we would be granted a relaxed and genuine portrayal of a devoted couple that happens to be gay, one from which we could all ultimately benefit.   

1. It would count Sherlock is a global phenomenon.  

According to the Radio Times, it is shown in 224 countries and territories around the world, making it the most watched of any of the BBC’s programs, surpassing even Dr. Who, which has decades of history.  It has spawned blogs and merchandise and a number of Sherlocked fan events, which are major affairs to rival the most popular comic cons, where every artifact, set detail, and image from the show is cherished and applauded. 

The series’ leads, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, are beloved international stars.  Thanks in no small part to this show, they are in constant demand and headline massive studio projects, like The Hobbit series of films and Marvel’s Dr. Strange.  Each has a immense following of fans, and rightly so—they are award-winning craftsmen, extremely versatile talents who deserve every bit of success they’ve acquired. 

This degree of influence and appeal leverages a lot of power. 

What this show brings to the table, the world eats; what it points to as its guides, people would notice, and what’s more, follow.  What, then, could be accomplished in social terms if Sherlock were to subtly demystify gay relationships?   What might result if a stellar product and the highly popular individuals involved indicate that a homosexual relationship is every bit as complicated and trying and boring and wonderful as every other kind? 

Respect. And with luck, progress.

Thanks, Chris. B