#they won’t follow them and even refused to add the ones I need

[raindropsandstardust-blog]

I am LIVID right now, fuck American public schools

[aviiarie]

⊱ ۫ ׅ ✧ LOST & FOUND platonic arlecchino & reader !

synopsis. hell hath no fury like a parent whose child has been taken from them. contents. PLATONIC. description of blood and injury (mildly graphic but not gory), violence, mentions of kidnapping, swearing (like once), implied murder. house of the hearth!reader. angst & slight hurt/comfort. 2.5k words. notes. LAST REPOST!! my house of the hearth series is all moved here now :'D

It had been fifty-eight hours, and twenty-seven minutes since [Name] had vanished.

Freminet sat curled up in a velvet armchair that dwarfed his small frame, with Pers on his lap and his brother and sister flanking each side. They had both refused Father’s offer of a seat, which showed the severity of the situation more than words ever could.

No one ever refused Father. Even she had raised an eyebrow at their sudden rebellion.

“Lyney, Lynette. Defiance will not make [Name] come home faster. Take a seat.” Father sipped her tea, poised as ever. Even with that impassive mask, Freminet still noticed the tension in her shoulders.

He always noticed.

“There’s no need,” Lyney said shortly, adding on a respectful “Father.” as an afterthought.

“What my brother means—” Lynette cut in smoothly. “—Is that we do not want to draw this conversation out any longer than necessary. We only came to get permission to postpone our current assignment and search for [Name]. I’m sure you can see the circumstances are dire enough to warrant such action.”

“I’m afraid I do not, Lynette.” Father placed her cup down and folded her hands over her lap. “They are a very skilled agent, and this mission was hardly out of their ability. No need to compromise your current—and very important, I might add—mission, for trivial matters.”

“It isn’t trivial, it’s our sibling!” Lyney burst out, causing Freminet to flinch. He reached out a hand blindly to settle on Freminet’s shoulder, squeezing it quickly in both a comfort and apology for startling him.

“I would be mindful of your place within this household, Lyney.” Father said mildly, the warning clear. “I have given you a direct order, and you will follow it. Do not stray from your assigned mission. [Name] will be fine.” She paused for a beat. “You are dismissed.”

“That’s it?” Lyney hissed. “So, you’re going to just leave them to die?”

It sounded like less of a question and more of an accusation. Freminet winced, feeling Lynette stiffen beside him as well as they waited for the consequences of Lyney’s bluntness.

Arlecchino rose from her seat, the tension in the air thick enough to choke all three of the siblings.

“I never said that. [Name] will be home in due time.” Her gaze shifted from the left to the right side of the armchair. “Lynette, you will have tea with me later, won’t you?” Father asked, causing the girl to freeze.

She bit her lip, answering carefully. “I may. Maybe if [Name] returns, we can all have tea together.”

“A good plan,” Father agreed, ignoring the quiet angry undertone of her words. “When I see them, I shall invite them.”

“It had better be soon; it’s getting late.” Lynette countered. Freminet’s eyes darted back and forth between the two of them. Lynette was always better at matching Father’s games. Freminet crumbled under the weight of her gaze, and Lyney wasn’t any better at handling the pressure without his emotions causing him to crack and splinter.

“Lynette, Freminet. Let’s go.” Lyney said sharply.

Throughout the entire exchange, Lyney’s hand had not moved from where it was planted firmly on Freminet’s shoulder, as if he was refusing to let another of his siblings out of his grasp. Freminet might have remarked that Lynette was handling her worry better, but he noticed how her tail kept curling around his leg when they walked into Father’s office. Neither of the three was willing to part with the others for even a second; not when one of their own had gone missing by doing just that.

As he drew back his hand and moved away, Freminet caught his arm.  

“Just… a moment, please. Wait outside, I’ll join you soon.” Freminet murmured, letting go. Lyney pursed his lips.

“Be quick.”

The twins vanished through the doorway, leaving Freminet alone with his Father.

“Freminet dear. You’re hesitating.” Father raised an eyebrow. “Are you waiting for something? Do you want me to give Pers a kiss on the head before I leave?”

Freminet flushed at the memories of holding the toy up to Father when he was young, insisting the penguin deserved a proper goodbye too. “Ahem. I’m not a child anymore… Father.”

“No? Then why are you still here?”

He swallowed awkwardly, forcing himself to look her in the eyes. He met her stare

“I know you’re just as worried as I am.” He said bluntly.

Father’s expression was almost impossible to read, but Freminet managed to catch a hint of surprise at his words. “I see. How did you come to that conclusion?”

It wasn’t denial, nor was it defensiveness. That was a good sign. Freminet continued, “There is a pinch between your eyebrows that you keep trying to smooth over. You’re gripping your teacup much tighter than usual. Your shoulders are tense. And you were far too quick to dismiss the twins’ concerns. You of all people would know that the situation is severe enough to allow a brief pause to their investigation, but you were swift in making sure they were kept as far away from the situation as possible.”

Arlecchino stared back at Freminet silently. She always had that unsettling way of watching him, as if she was picking apart the cogs and wheels spinning in his mind to know exactly what he was thinking.

“Observant as always, Freminet.” Freminet stood up straighter, pink touching his cheeks. “So, tell me this: what am I to do next?”

“You’re… going to find them yourself?” He asked slowly.

“That is correct. I will be.” Father agreed, and something inside him swelled. If only Lyney was still in the room, he would have collapsed with relief. “And what will you be doing?”

“Helping.” Freminet said without a thought.

“Incorrect. You are going to return to your room, go to sleep, and not say a word to your siblings.”

“But—”

“No. You are not involved here.” Arlecchino turned her back on him, looking out the window with her arms folded behind her.

“Father—”

“Do not forget that if you or your sibling’s interference costs me my mission, [Name]’s blood will be on your hands.”

Freminet recoiled sharply, as if she had struck him across the face. Arlecchino refused to lay a hand on any of them, but her words were more than enough to wound them.

“I—”

“I’m not looking for an argument, Freminet.”

Freminet shut his mouth with a click, lowering his head. He forced back the wave of emotions sweeping across him, sinking them so far into the depths of his mind that not even a champion diver like himself would be able to reach them.

“I am looking for an answer.” Father raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, Father.” He said quietly.

“Good child,” She murmured, laying a gentle hand on the top of his head. “You are dismissed.”

-----

Arlecchino made her move at the stroke of sundown.

It was disgustingly easy to track them down, and the sheer incompetence only fuelled her rage until it burned brighter than the flames that curled beneath her skin. The assailants were sloppy, leaving plenty of traces for her to find, as if they were waiting for her to find them.

One of her agents had returned with a slip of paper that evening—a ransom note, crudely explaining that they had captured a House of the Hearth agent, and demanding a hefty sum in exchange for their safe return. She had chuckled at that last part. They would be lucky for her to leave them with their lives after what they have done, let alone a reward.

Their hideout was located in a quiet cave near the ocean, with an entrance half-hidden behind a curtain of vines. It was a quaint spot, a cosy place to sit back and watch the sun set over the water. She was sure the view behind her was breathtaking, but she made no move to take a glance for herself.

The vines made way for a long, narrow tunnel, ending with a wooden door. Arlecchino quietly turned the handle, scoffing under her breath when it turned without a key being inserted, and slipped through without making a single sound.

Six were scattered around the dingy room; one woman, five men. Seeming to be aged between their mid-twenties at the youngest, and early-forties at the oldest.

“Have we got a response yet?” The woman muttered impatiently, tapping her foot against the floor.

“How should I know?” One of the men grunted. “We left the note. Eventually it’s gotta make it’s way to the boss herself, and we’ll get the reward.”

“Just gotta be patient,” Another murmured. “Gotta be patient.”

Slightly past them was a wooden cage, secured with a metal lock.

They were in a heap on the floor of the cage, breathing weakly—Arlecchino quietly thanked the Tsaritsa that they were breathing at all—and looked to be passed out.

The fire inside her sang, and she could hardly breathe under the heat of it all.

“How long is this woman gonna take?” The woman rolled her eyes. “I’m tired of waiting.”

Arlecchino chuckled, causing all of the six to jump. “Oh, then allow me to assure you that you won’t have to wait much longer at all.”

Instantly they were on their feet, grabbing whatever weapon was closest. Their expressions ranged from outright fear, to an egregious amount of confidence for how weak they were in comparison to her.

“Knave,” the closest man grinned crookedly. “How kind of you to join us. I’m assuming you’re here for—” he jerked his head towards the figure still unmoving. “—that one?”

“‘That one’?” Arlecchino repeated slowly, drawing her scythe to her side. “I am here for my child.”

Two of the men—the ones closest to the cage—looked at each other nervously. Arlecchino smiled. It was a pity the rest of the group didn’t share the sense to fear her, but they would learn soon enough.

“Well you see, we’ll be happy to hand them over—” the man’s grin widened. “For a price, of course.”

“A price, you say?” She mused. “How about this. You step aside, I retrieve my child, and offer you a quick death. I would say that is more than fair, considering what you have cost me.”

The smile dropped off the man’s face. “That ain’t an option, lady.”

“Then I think you misunderstand.” She took a step towards him, then another, eyes glinting dangerously in the low light. “I wasn’t asking.”

“Boss—” one of the men tried to say.

“Shut it.” the first man hissed, bringing his shovel up in a defensive position. It was almost laughable, how he thought that would protect him.

“You made four mistakes tonight,” Arlecchino said smoothly. The tip of her scythe brushed the floor, sending a loud scraping sound across the walls. All of the people inside the room winced at the sound, but Arlecchino was unfazed as she continued prowling towards them.

“One… you failed to cover your tracks, making it remarkably easy to track you down.” In one swift motion, she lunged. The group barely had time to blink, before her scythe sliced across the chest of the closest one.

There was silence, before the man made a low gasp, bright crimson blood spilling down his shirt. He collapsed forward onto the ground with a thud, and the room erupted into chaos. A scream tore from the throat of the woman, and she dropped to her knees at his side, desperately clutching his shoulders. Arlecchino aimed a quick strike at her back, and she fell against the man heavily.

“Two, you left the door unlocked.” A pair charged towards her, hammers and shovels swinging. She knocked the weapons from their hands with one hit, and knocked them down with a second.

“Three—” One snuck up from behind, quickly tossing a string of rope over her head and around her neck, pulling harshly to cut off her breathing. An elbow in his ribs winded him enough to loosen his grip, and a knock to the head with the hilt of her scythe sent him to the floor. “You brought far too few people to last in a fight against me.”

The final man stumbled backwards until he hit the wall, shrinking against the bricks. Arlecchino walked with slow steps, stalking towards him like an animal cornering their pray. He shielded his face with his hands, in a desperate attempt to protect himself. Once she was about a foot away, she stopped, leaning in close.

“And four.” Arlecchino grasped the man by the throat, digging her nails into his skin hard enough to draw blood. “You hurt my fucking child.”

She tossed his body to the side, watching him hit the wall with a thud and collapse to the ground like a ragdoll.

“Pathetic.” She scoffed under her breath, stepping over his limp body. Her anger wasn’t nearly quelled—an inferno is not easily cooled, after all—but seeing them all lying lifelessly across the floor of their own base at least brought some vindication. She turned her back to the man, looking over at her child.

They were curled up in the cage like a trapped animal, rattling breaths ringing through the bars. Arlecchino gritted her teeth at the sight, making sure to step on the nearest captor’s fingers as she walked over. She swung her scythe against the lock, shattering it into bits of metal.

Her hands were gentle in reaching into the cage, hooking a hand under their knees and cradling their back with the other. They made a pained cry, and Arlecchino hurried to pull them out. She held them close to her chest, letting their cheek rest where her heartbeat pounded against her chest. Her face didn’t falter from that stony expression, but inside she was burning with fury.

“My child,” She murmured, more to herself than the shivering form in her arms. There was something dangerous in her tone, a note of warning to the assailants still conscious enough to hear her voice. She kissed their forehead, a tender gesture out of place among the bloodshed. “Didn’t I promise you that while you’re with me, no one can hurt you?”

“F-Father…?” A broken whisper slipped through their lips, followed by a sob, first sinking Arlecchino’s heart then shattering it into two.

“Shh… it’s okay. It’s okay, darling, I’m here.” She crooned, carrying them out of the room and through the tunnel. All throughout the journey through the tunnel and back onto the beach, she didn’t stop murmuring comforts and pressing kisses to their head in the most maternal way she’d ever remembered acting.

“I’m sorry, Father…” they mumbled, cheek pressed against her chest.

“Darling…” Arlecchino hummed, even as the smouldering ashes in her chest began to spark and flicker. “You have nothing to apologise for.”

The night was cold, but her child was a warm weight in her arms. She revelled in the warmth, a gentle reminder that they were still alive.

“We’ll be home soon,” Arlecchino promised, even though they were barely conscious enough to hear her. “Soon.”

© aviiarie 2024. do not copy, repost, translate or use my work to train ai.

[stellar-skyy]

♡ - LOST & FOUND - Platonic Arlecchino & reader

i. SUMMARY: Hell hath no fury like a parent whose child has been taken from them. ii. CWS & NOTES: description of blood and injury (mildly graphic but not gory), violence, mentions of kidnapping, swearing (like once), implied murder. PLATONIC arlecchino & gn!reader. house of the hearth!reader. angst & slight hurt/comfort. 2.5k words. iv. A/N: i am... so normal about parental arlecchino... so normal... i hope you enjoy because i loved writing this!! i have a little written for an epilogue featuring the lyntwins + freminet reuniting, so stay tuned for that ♡

It had been fifty-eight hours, and twenty-seven minutes since [Name] had vanished.

Freminet sat curled up in a velvet armchair that dwarfed his small frame, with Pers on his lap and his brother and sister flanking each side. They had both refused Father’s offer of a seat, which showed the severity of the situation more than words ever could.

No one ever refused Father. Even she had raised an eyebrow at their sudden rebellion.

“Lyney, Lynette. Defiance will not make [Name] come home faster. Take a seat.” Father sipped her tea, poised as ever. Even with that impassive mask, Freminet still noticed the tension in her shoulders.

He always noticed.

“There’s no need,” Lyney said shortly, adding on a respectful “Father.” as an afterthought.

“What my brother means—” Lynette cut in smoothly. “—Is that we do not want to draw this conversation out any longer than necessary. We only came to get permission to postpone our current assignment and search for [Name]. I’m sure you can see the circumstances are dire enough to warrant such action.”

“I’m afraid I do not, Lynette.” Father placed her cup down and folded her hands over her lap. “They are a very skilled agent, and this mission was hardly out of their ability. No need to compromise your current—and very important, I might add—mission, for trivial matters.”

“It isn’t trivial, it’s our sibling!” Lyney burst out, causing Freminet to flinch. He reached out a hand blindly to settle on Freminet’s shoulder, squeezing it quickly in both a comfort and apology for startling him.

“I would be mindful of your place within this household, Lyney.” Father said mildly, the warning clear. “I have given you a direct order, and you will follow it. Do not stray from your assigned mission. [Name] will be fine.” She paused for a beat. “You are dismissed.”

“That’s it?” Lyney hissed. “So, you’re going to just leave them to die?”

It sounded like less of a question and more of an accusation. Freminet winced, feeling Lynette stiffen beside him as well as they waited for the consequences of Lyney’s bluntness.

Arlecchino rose from her seat, the tension in the air thick enough to choke all three of the siblings.

“I never said that. [Name] will be home in due time.” Her gaze shifted from the left to the right side of the armchair. “Lynette, you will have tea with me later, won’t you?” Father asked, causing the girl to freeze.

She bit her lip, answering carefully. “I may. Maybe if [Name] returns, we can all have tea together.”

“A good plan,” Father agreed, ignoring the quiet angry undertone of her words. “When I see them, I shall invite them.”

“It had better be soon; it’s getting late.” Lynette countered. Freminet’s eyes darted back and forth between the two of them. Lynette was always better at matching Father’s games. Freminet crumbled under the weight of her gaze, and Lyney wasn’t any better at handling the pressure without his emotions causing him to crack and splinter.

“Lynette, Freminet. Let’s go.” Lyney said sharply.

Throughout the entire exchange, Lyney’s hand had not moved from where it was planted firmly on Freminet’s shoulder, as if he was refusing to let another of his siblings out of his grasp. Freminet might have remarked that Lynette was handling her worry better, but he noticed how her tail kept curling around his leg when they walked into Father’s office. Neither of the three was willing to part with the others for even a second; not when one of their own had gone missing by doing just that.

As he drew back his hand and moved away, Freminet caught his arm.  

“Just… a moment, please. Wait outside, I’ll join you soon.” Freminet murmured, letting go. Lyney pursed his lips.

“Be quick.”

The twins vanished through the doorway, leaving Freminet alone with his Father.

“Freminet dear. You’re hesitating.” Father raised an eyebrow. “Are you waiting for something? Do you want me to give Pers a kiss on the head before I leave?”

Freminet flushed at the memories of holding the toy up to Father when he was young, insisting the penguin deserved a proper goodbye too. “Ahem. I’m not a child anymore… Father.”

“No? Then why are you still here?”

He swallowed awkwardly, forcing himself to look her in the eyes. He met her stare

“I know you’re just as worried as I am.” He said bluntly.

Father’s expression was almost impossible to read, but Freminet managed to catch a hint of surprise at his words. “I see. How did you come to that conclusion?”

It wasn’t denial, nor was it defensiveness. That was a good sign. Freminet continued, “There is a pinch between your eyebrows that you keep trying to smooth over. You’re gripping your teacup much tighter than usual. Your shoulders are tense. And you were far too quick to dismiss the twins’ concerns. You of all people would know that the situation is severe enough to allow a brief pause to their investigation, but you were swift in making sure they were kept as far away from the situation as possible.”

Arlecchino stared back at Freminet silently. She always had that unsettling way of watching him, as if she was picking apart the cogs and wheels spinning in his mind to know exactly what he was thinking.

“Observant as always, Freminet.” Freminet stood up straighter, pink touching his cheeks. “So, tell me this: what am I to do next?”

“You’re… going to find them yourself?” He asked slowly.

“That is correct. I will be.” Father agreed, and something inside him swelled. If only Lyney was still in the room, he would have collapsed with relief. “And what will you be doing?”

“Helping.” Freminet said without a thought.

“Incorrect. You are going to return to your room, go to sleep, and not say a word to your siblings.”

“But—”

“No. You are not involved here.” Arlecchino turned her back on him, looking out the window with her arms folded behind her.

“Father—”

“Do not forget that if you or your sibling’s interference costs me my mission, [Name]’s blood will be on your hands.”

Freminet recoiled sharply, as if she had struck him across the face. Arlecchino refused to lay a hand on any of them, but her words were more than enough to wound them.

“I—”

“I’m not looking for an argument, Freminet.”

Freminet shut his mouth with a click, lowering his head. He forced back the wave of emotions sweeping across him, sinking them so far into the depths of his mind that not even a champion diver like himself would be able to reach them.

“I am looking for an answer.” Father raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, Father.” He said quietly.

“Good child,” She murmured, laying a gentle hand on the top of his head. “You are dismissed.”

-----

Arlecchino made her move at the stroke of sundown.

It was disgustingly easy to track them down, and the sheer incompetence only fuelled her rage until it burned brighter than the flames that curled beneath her skin. The assailants were sloppy, leaving plenty of traces for her to find, as if they were waiting for her to find them.

One of her agents had returned with a slip of paper that evening—a ransom note, crudely explaining that they had captured a House of the Hearth agent, and demanding a hefty sum in exchange for their safe return. She had chuckled at that last part. They would be lucky for her to leave them with their lives after what they have done, let alone a reward.

Their hideout was located in a quiet cave near the ocean, with an entrance half-hidden behind a curtain of vines. It was a quaint spot, a cosy place to sit back and watch the sun set over the water. She was sure the view behind her was breathtaking, but she made no move to take a glance for herself.

The vines made way for a long, narrow tunnel, ending with a wooden door. Arlecchino quietly turned the handle, scoffing under her breath when it turned without a key being inserted, and slipped through without making a single sound.

Six were scattered around the dingy room; one woman, five men. Seeming to be aged between their mid-twenties at the youngest, and early-forties at the oldest.

“Have we got a response yet?” The woman muttered impatiently, tapping her foot against the floor.

“How should I know?” One of the men grunted. “We left the note. Eventually it’s gotta make it’s way to the boss herself, and we’ll get the reward.”

“Just gotta be patient,” Another murmured. “Gotta be patient.”

Slightly past them was a wooden cage, secured with a metal lock.

They were in a heap on the floor of the cage, breathing weakly—Arlecchino quietly thanked the Tsaritsa that they were breathing at all—and looked to be passed out.

The fire inside her sang, and she could hardly breathe under the heat of it all.

“How long is this woman gonna take?” The woman rolled her eyes. “I’m tired of waiting.”

Arlecchino chuckled, causing all of the six to jump. “Oh, then allow me to assure you that you won’t have to wait much longer at all.”

Instantly they were on their feet, grabbing whatever weapon was closest. Their expressions ranged from outright fear, to an egregious amount of confidence for how weak they were in comparison to her.

“Knave,” the closest man grinned crookedly. “How kind of you to join us. I’m assuming you’re here for—” he jerked his head towards the figure still unmoving. “—that one?”

“‘That one’?” Arlecchino repeated slowly, drawing her scythe to her side. “I am here for my child.”

Two of the men—the ones closest to the cage—looked at each other nervously. Arlecchino smiled. It was a pity the rest of the group didn’t share the sense to fear her, but they would learn soon enough.

“Well you see, we’ll be happy to hand them over—” the man’s grin widened. “For a price, of course.”

“A price, you say?” She mused. “How about this. You step aside, I retrieve my child, and offer you a quick death. I would say that is more than fair, considering what you have cost me.”

The smile dropped off the man’s face. “That ain’t an option, lady.”

“Then I think you misunderstand.” She took a step towards him, then another, eyes glinting dangerously in the low light. “I wasn’t asking.”

“Boss—” one of the men tried to say.

“Shut it.” the first man hissed, bringing his shovel up in a defensive position. It was almost laughable, how he thought that would protect him.

“You made four mistakes tonight,” Arlecchino said smoothly. The tip of her scythe brushed the floor, sending a loud scraping sound across the walls. All of the people inside the room winced at the sound, but Arlecchino was unfazed as she continued prowling towards them.

“One… you failed to cover your tracks, making it remarkably easy to track you down.” In one swift motion, she lunged. The group barely had time to blink, before her scythe sliced across the chest of the closest one.

There was silence, before the man made a low gasp, bright crimson blood spilling down his shirt. He collapsed forward onto the ground with a thud, and the room erupted into chaos. A scream tore from the throat of the woman, and she dropped to her knees at his side, desperately clutching his shoulders. Arlecchino aimed a quick strike at her back, and she fell against the man heavily.

“Two, you left the door unlocked.” A pair charged towards her, hammers and shovels swinging. She knocked the weapons from their hands with one hit, and knocked them down with a second.

“Three—” One snuck up from behind, quickly tossing a string of rope over her head and around her neck, pulling harshly to cut off her breathing. An elbow in his ribs winded him enough to loosen his grip, and a knock to the head with the hilt of her scythe sent him to the floor. “You brought far too few people to last in a fight against me.”

The final man stumbled backwards until he hit the wall, shrinking against the bricks. Arlecchino walked with slow steps, stalking towards him like an animal cornering their pray. He shielded his face with his hands, in a desperate attempt to protect himself. Once she was about a foot away, she stopped, leaning in close.

“And four.” Arlecchino grasped the man by the throat, digging her nails into his skin hard enough to draw blood. “You hurt my fucking child.”

She tossed his body to the side, watching him hit the wall with a thud and collapse to the ground like a ragdoll.

“Pathetic.” She scoffed under her breath, stepping over his limp body. Her anger wasn’t nearly quelled—an inferno is not easily cooled, after all—but seeing them all lying lifelessly across the floor of their own base at least brought some vindication. She turned her back to the man, looking over at her child.

They were curled up in the cage like a trapped animal, rattling breaths ringing through the bars. Arlecchino gritted her teeth at the sight, making sure to step on the nearest captor’s fingers as she walked over. She swung her scythe against the lock, shattering it into bits of metal.

Her hands were gentle in reaching into the cage, hooking a hand under their knees and cradling their back with the other. They made a pained cry, and Arlecchino hurried to pull them out. She held them close to her chest, letting their cheek rest where her heartbeat pounded against her chest. Her face didn’t falter from that stony expression, but inside she was burning with fury.

“My child,” She murmured, more to herself than the shivering form in her arms. There was something dangerous in her tone, a note of warning to the assailants still conscious enough to hear her voice. She kissed their forehead, a tender gesture out of place among the bloodshed. “Didn’t I promise you that while you’re with me, no one can hurt you?”

“F-Father…?” A broken whisper slipped through their lips, followed by a sob, first sinking Arlecchino’s heart then shattering it into two.

“Shh… it’s okay. It’s okay, darling, I’m here.” She crooned, carrying them out of the room and through the tunnel. All throughout the journey through the tunnel and back onto the beach, she didn’t stop murmuring comforts and pressing kisses to their head in the most maternal way she’d ever remembered acting.

“I’m sorry, Father…” they mumbled, cheek pressed against her chest.

“Darling…” Arlecchino hummed, even as the smouldering ashes in her chest began to spark and flicker. “You have nothing to apologise for.”

The night was cold, but her child was a warm weight in her arms. She revelled in the warmth, a gentle reminder that they were still alive.

“We’ll be home soon,” Arlecchino promised, even though they were barely conscious enough to hear her. “Soon.”

reblogs are appreciated ♡

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Just Friends: Can I Take Your Order?

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

Character: Bucky Barnes

masterlist

Summary: Bucky pays you a surprise visit.

It’s giving

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging ❤️

Your work isn’t hard per se, but it can be chaotic. Still, your tips more than make up for all the running around, but not necessarily the ridiculous attire. You’re not entirely unhappy, it’s exciting even if it can be stressful. 

The diners always keep you on your feet. Literally. You run around, table to table, that night dressed as the infamous Dorothy who’s too far from Kansas. Somewhere around their, a lion, scarecrow, and tinman are taking orders and entertaining children at their seats. 

The themed restaurant isn’t really the place you would go, but it’s a family-friendly venue in a city overcrowded with more adult attractions. The money keeps a roof over your head. You won’t complain for that. 

The Oz room is overflowing and you can see more customers in the lobby. Please send them over to Mary Poppins’ Pop-In. You don’t have time to dread the new wave of diners as you bring a tray of desserts to a table with three blustering toddlers. You could never. 

“Anything else?” You ask as you put out the stemmed cups of banana pudding pie. 

“The check--” the father demands before he’s hit in the face with a stray straw. He grits back his agitation and forces a smile, “thanks.” 

You pick up the straw and leave him. As you do, you pass Graham, that night’s scarecrow. He lowers his voice as he follows you to the till. 

“Can you get the next table, please? I’m dying for a smoke. Any longer and I’m going to smack one of these brats,” he mutters. 

You smile at him. You find the nights go by quicker without breaks. “No problem! On it. I just need to get this bill printed out.” 

You toss the straw and tap the till. You pull up that table and print it out, tucking it into one of the little folders. You grab a handful of hard candies and sweep back across the dining room. 

“Here ya are, enjoy your desserts,” you say and carry on. 

You peer around, searching for the new diners. Right there in the corner. You head over in your pig-tailed wig and red shoes. As you near, your chest flickers. You think you know the back of that head. No, it’s not. He wouldn’t be here... 

You’re all but assured of your suspicions by the golden hair of the man across from him. A third to round out party. You cringe before you muster a smile and come to the side of the table. 

“Welcome to the Land of Oz,” you recite your mandatory introduction and avoid looking at Bucky, “don’t stray too far or you might find a wicked witch or flying monkey to carry you off. May I start you with some drinks?” 

“You got cocktails at a joint like this?” Bucky scoffs. 

You refuse to look at him, “the menu’s right there.” You point beside the centerpiece. He chuckles. 

“This is cute, how’d you find this place, Buck?” The blond asks. The man better known as Captain America. 

“Hmm, this place would be fun to you two geriatrics,” their other companion says. That’s the Falcon. 

You can feel Bucky watching you. He’s smirking. You know it. At least when you see him, you only ever have your stupid dress on. You take the wig and makeup off before you go home. It attracts less weirdos. 

“So, we do have beer, despite what you might think,” you offer. 

“Got prune juice? These two need it--” Falcon, rather Sam Wilson, chortles and receives an elbow to the ribs. 

“We have cranberry,” you suggest. 

“Where’s Toto?” Bucky asks. 

You hold back as sigh and finally meet his eyes, “no dogs allowed.” 

“Damn, sounds like you should go then, eh, Buck,” Sam adds. You grin as he cackles. 

“Hey,” Bucky sneers. “Just water for me.” 

“No milk to keep your bones strong?” The Captain, or Steve, kids. 

“You’re a year younger, shut up,” Bucky huffs. 

“I’ll get a water too,” Steve smirks. 

“Get me a Miller,” Sam says, “please.” 

“No problem. I’ll be back with that and some menus.” 

You spin and strut away. It feels good to see him getting teased because you know he only came here to mock you. You can’t exactly follow him to his work and make fun of his arm. Not that you would. 

You get the water and beer and return to the table with menus under your arm. You hand them all out and give them some time to look over it. You check in with your other tables before you go back again. 

“So, have we made up our minds?” You smile. 

Steve smiles at you, “uh, can I ask what kinda fish it is?” 

“Cod, sir,” you answer as you lean in to see where he points on the menu. 

“Ah, thanks.” 

“You got any recommendations?” Sam asks. 

“I usually go straight to dessert,” you smile, “but the spaghetti is yummy. And you can get it spicy.” 

“Oh, you like it spicy?” Bucky snickers. 

You look at him and Steve clears his throat, “Buck.” 

“Yikes, dude. You got lines, huh?” Sam teases. 

“No, I just--” he gets flustered and rolls his eyes. “Can I have the cheeseburger and fries?” 

“Sure thing,” you take out your notepad. 

“I’ll have the fish and chips,” Steve says, “is it possible to add an extra filet?” 

“Yeppers,” you nod and jot it down. 

“Think I’ll get the meatball sandwich,” Sam says, “apparently, I like meatballs.” 

Steve scowls again and Bucky sighs. You tap your pen on the pad, “alrighty. I’ll go put your order in.” 

“Thanks, doll.” Sam winks at you. 

You smile and as you turn, you hear Bucky hiss, “doll? Since when do you call anyone doll?” 

You make a face but don’t pay much mind to their arguing. He did mention his other friends could be a bit much. Based on that interaction, you’d say he’s just as bad. 

You put the ticket in the window and turn back. As you go back to the family to get the bill and your tip, your eyes snag on Bucky. He cranes around to see you and waves at you with two fingers. Oh, you have to get him back for this. 

[rafesbunny]

golf- r. c 🎀

where r gets bored watching rafe and his friends play golf

(sorry if this is bad or inaccurate 😭😭 when i go to the club i also do just sit there and look pretty i never actually pay attention on how to play golf fr 😭😭)

you sat in the buggy inspecting your freshly done nails, with many thoughts running through your head and you were insanely bored: what colour should you get done next time?; what food will you get from the club afterwards?; what should you wear tomorrow?; when will rafe be done with playing golf for the day?. the last one was especially heavy on your mind. it was a lovely day out and the uv index was high, and there was a light breeze in the air- perfect conditions to add to your tan. however, rafe had other plans for you today, he made you come and watch him play golf with topper and kelce. you knew you didn’t actually have to go but how could you say no when rafe swooned you over when he said, “y’know i can’t play without my pretty girl there, your my good luck charm” and that’s how you ended up bored in the buggy.

rafe had yet to notice your bad mood but topper caught on immediately after walking back after his play. as rafe stepped away after swinging and stood next to topper, topper asked, “is your girl okay? seems bored” before walking away from your boyfriend for his turn. rafe turned around to face you and lifted his eyebrow, which was his silent way of asking if you’re okay. but you didn’t give him the answer he wanted, instead you huffed and lightly rolled your eyes at him. as he chuckled at your behaviour and started walking towards you he shouted back to his friends, who were waiting on him to play his turn, “give me two seconds boys”. being the stubborn girl you were you refused to look at the boy looming over you, but rafe grabbed your jaw with one hand and forced you to look up at him, “whats up with you, huh?” but again you just huffed, “nah, none of that now, talk to me baby” unable to resist your boyfriends charm, you told him honestly, “so bored rafey. s’not fair we always have to do what you want. i don’t play golf, it’s so boring for me to jus’ watch you” you whined. rafe just started back at you with a plan forming in his head, “come on get up gonna teach you how to play. you gonna stop whinging if i do?”

reluctantly, you followed after him as he dragged you to where he put his golf ball and he shoved his club into your hands. he stood behind you and adjusted the club into the correct position as best as he could as it wasn’t the right size for you, when he was happy with that he said, “show me your swing babe” and pathetically you did, you were sure a four year old could do a better job than you. to make matters worse you could sense rafe smirk and suppress a laugh. trying to wiggle your way out of his grasp you whined, “don’t laugh at me rafe! s‘ not funny, i’m really trying.” he pulled you back into the original position, “ ‘’m sorry baby. promise i won’t anymore” with a kiss to the side of your head, “need to fix your stance” he muttered while kicking your feet more to the side, “and bend your knees slightly” he put some of his weight onto you, to get you into the position. for innocent people walking past, this would’ve looked very perverted, and topper and kelce laughed from a distance at the scene, clearly enjoying watching you struggle and rafe bend you in whatever way he wanted. you scowled at them and rafe guided your focus back to the task at hand, “ignore them baby, focus on this, it’s jus’ us” and with rafes assistance you swung and actually managed to hit the ball, though to your disappointment it didn’t go far at all. this made the two boys laugh even harder and a chuckle slip from rafe, causing you to storm back to your original spot in the buggy, “ugh, just take me home rafe! now!” and as rafe made his way over to you, he gave his friends a look that said “cut it out” and they followed after him. kelce was the first to speak, “better luck next time girl” and topper said, “yeah, y’have good form” you could tell they weren’t being sincere and this only added fuel to the fire but rafe was quick to extinguish it, “how about i take you to lunch and then shopping? as a sorry?” you tried to keep the mad act up but a smile crept onto your face, “really?” you asked meekly. lowering down to your eye level rafe said, “of corse baby, anything for my girl” you squealed and wrapped your arms around rafe. how could you ever say no to him?

[livelaughlovesubs]

what do you think bsd men would be with a girl who is really hyperfeminine (ex loves sanrio, short skits and stuff) but still loves topping?

It literally does not matter what you like and how you look as long as you click. (Also tell me if you want any specific characters I didn’t mention)

I imagine them not minding it neither way, because you can wear a skirt or pants and still fuck them into oblivion. Though there are some that might get fooled by your appearance. It’s the first impression after all.

Dazai would probably tease you about it from time to time, “when I first saw you, I thought you were such a nice and innocent girl! Who knew you were into such freaky stuff?” He’d joke about it all the time, just to provoke you. Then he’d add, “but I love all woman, even if you are a beast in bed.” And wink at you. Now it’s your choice what you will do to him later, maybe you should punish that cheeky tongue of his.

Atsushi would probably be a bit embarrassed, that he needs a girl to take care of him, especially if you are shorter or look younger than him. You just have to assure him it’s alright to feel this way, and it’s alright to show emotions, cry, whatever. He gets embarrassed easily, or flustered, so it’s almost the same no matter what body Typ. You could be taller than him and hug him from behind, he’d blush already. Or as mentioned be shorter and nuzzle into his chest, and he’ll turn red. Also if you flirt with him, and he does catch on, then it really doesn’t matter if you look very feminine or not, he’d be nervous and fumbling with his thumbs the entire time.

Kunikida, I gotta say, he feels like the traditional reserved type of person, though secretly (unbeknownst to him) also a freak. Probably wrote in his book something about a nice and healthy relationship, a girly girl who is mature and gentle, and vanilla. Maybe someone who works part time so that they could take care of the household? He works full time after all. So consider him surprised when he found out about you, cuz your appearance made him believe you were very.. well, basic. (There is nothing wrong with basic) though to think you’d make him so such humiliating stuff.. you better not leave him now, not after seeing all those sides of him.

Sigma likes people who knows what they want and want to be, who can decide. Because he has a few problems with his identity. That’s why he really admires how you carry yourself, and know what you like. Fashion wise or others. You know what you like and you stand behind it, go for it girl. Also, I think sigma likes the high fashion, like a small hobby he has, so he’d love to go shopping with you and discuss outfit ideas. He probably enjoys a wide range of styles.

Fyodor also thought you would be a total sub, he just guessed. Turns out he guessed completely wrong, his mistake, can he make up by drinking a shot? Anyway, as long as you are useful, he doesn’t really care how you present yourself. The skills are what’s important. But to be honest, at first, he was trying to find a very traditional partner. It’s what he believes in. A good wife who cooks and takes care of the house, and obeys. That’s what he was looking for, if he wanted a relationship in the first place. It’s what’s written in the bible, he wanted to follow it. After spending a night with you, he had to think about it again. It felt too good to give up, and honestly, just because you top or dom doesn’t mean you won’t fulfil the requirements, no? Even if you didn’t, well, he was god’s chosen one he can make a special case just for you.

Nikolai would ask you to dress up as a clown with him. If you refuse, he’ll keep asking. So yea, he doesn’t really care what you like or look, he will make you into clowns and magic shows. It’s a part of getting closer to him, there is no roundabout. (Rip those who have a phobia against clowns, but if you do why would you like Nikolai in the first place) jokes aside, I’m sure he won’t really force you into liking all that. Probably…

Chuuya would find it pretty practical, cuz similar to sigma, you know what you like or who you are so you are easy to read. He doesn’t need to think that long to guess what kind of stuff you’d like, it’s practical. But he’ll still take ages to find the *perfect* present for you. Most of the time he’ll buy more than one, if you don’t like it throw it away. If you are even shorter than him, it’d boost his ego, cuz, yea, short people struggles. Though that ego would be gone after you show him who’s top, and he’d be pouting for a while. He thought he could finally stand over someone! He was taller but somehow he didn’t feel like he actually was! It’s not a negative feeling though, not at all. And you being girly didn’t matter, you look gorgeous anyway. Just say the word and he will silence anyone who thinks otherwise.

[daddy-suguru]

Congrats on 9k followers dear~

If you’re still taking event requests, would it be fine to ask for sex worker!choso x virgin!reader + overstimulation?

- sᴡᴇᴀʀ ᴛᴏ ɢᴏᴅ ɪ’ᴍ ᴅᴏᴡɴ, ᴀʟʟ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴏᴛᴛᴀ sᴀʏ ɪs…;

ɪɴᴄʟᴜᴅᴇs | sugarbaby!choso, rich!virgin!reader, best friends to friends with benefits, overstimulation, fingering/clit rubbing, outdoor sex/sex on the balcony (no near by neighbors), high sex (bud), praise, daddy/princess, pussy kisses, oral, begging, squirting, tattooed!choso with a tongue ring, some making out

ᴡᴏʀᴅ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ | 1.6k

sᴜɢᴀʀ’s ʀᴀᴍʙʟᴇs | thank you, also this prompt got away from me, i blinked and it turned into a drabble. sugarbaby!stoner!choso is going to be rotting my brain for a while now

Choso tilts his head to the side, and his fringe covers one of his dark eyes. He insists, "Think it over, are you sure you want to throw away your first time?" Wapping his lips around the butt of the thick blunt.

The end of the tip glows red with his inhale. Illuminating his handsome pale face in a soft red light. Which is already catching the bright light of the full moon.

The dark tattooed line over his nose adds to how pretty he is. While his dark, fluff hair, was taken out of its spiky ponytails, framing his face. With his high cheekbones, pointy nose, full, glossy lips, and sharp jawline. Even the dark circles around his eyes look endearing.

Choso's shirtlessness and his low-hung sweatpants while he leans against the balcony of your private home. Looking like a very tired model. With his toned, brawny build and inky tattoos.

You were trying to get him out of the city, away from his normal profession. Giving him a peaceful night in the woods out of the city Yet here you are offering him some money to eat you out. Since you were curious as to how it felt and didn't trust anyone else than him.

Huffing, "It's not throwing it away if it's you." Choso is one of four people in your life who didn't care about your money. Your friendship always seemed more than enough for him.

Your friendship bracelet Choso bought with a cute little charm, which he said reminded him of you. You had gotten him a bracelet of his own. Something he got into a fight to keep since someone tried to steal it from him once.

Unbeknownst to him, you've fought with your parents for the right to wear. Since the jewels weren't real it was deemed trash to them. You still refused to take it off no matter what snide comments you still got over it.

You say, "But if you don't see me that way. I understand, it's just I'm curious about what it's like to..." You trail off your face heating up as you focus on the blunt that Choso passes while saying nothing. So you ramble,

"And you said you needed some money. I'm tired of you living in that scary motel. So yeah the more I think about it more I want you to be my sugar baby. You won’t let me just give you money, so I thought - I understand if you don’t find me unattractive and don’t want to." Looking off the side of the railing taking a slow drag while Choso pushes off the railing.

He walks up behind you, pressing his body against yours. Whilst grabbing your hips. Something he has done more times than you could count. After you cuddled him on the second movie night Choso would find a reason to have his hands on your body.

The higher Choso gets, the more talkative and touchy he becomes. Choso’s sweet forehead kisses, lingering hugs, and gentle squeezes from his hand, always left you wet and warm. His touch is so comforting, exciting, and safe.

Hitching your large baggy shirt over your hips. Exposing your clothed pussy to the cool wind. Before he reaches in front of you, pushing your panties aside, dragging his fingers along your lips to your clit.

Arching your hips back, his finger following your clit. Taking your second hit while Choso ensures, “Lil’ princess if it’s me it isn’t a waste, as long as you don’t regret this, I don’t want to lose you.” While nudging one thick finger past your lips,

“Tell me if it hurts, or if you're becoming uncomfortable and I’ll stop darling.” He kisses the top of your head, pumping his finger slowly. The blunt shakes between your fingers as you clench around Choso's fingers.

Softly wondering, "Does this mean you're my sugar baby?" Choso gently massages slow tight circles into your sweet spot when he finds it. Squeezing his finger while your knees cave in, pressing against each other.

"I'm all yours since you are insistent on taking care of me, this way I can do something for you to. So when you do move on from me you pussy knows what it's like when someone takes their time showing you how much they adore you." His sweet words are just a part of him playing his role as your sugar baby.

This is something you remind yourself of, Choso still sees you as a friend. Even if he is finger fucking you. Yet you still end up confessing,

"I don't want to share you with others, want you to stay here with me so I can take care of you." The tension building in your stomach is alike to the pleasure you gave yourself. Yet so different, so much more demanding. Turning your brain to slush, and your legs to jello.

Reaching back and grabbing onto Choso, slipping your fingers into his long hair. While wrapping your hand around the back of his neck. Plastering your body against Choso's more so.

He slides his fingers out, while he keeps rubbing your clit. Your cheeks heat up as you realize that Choso is licking your pussy juices off of his fingers. His loud groans fill the night air and you whine for the first time.

Covering your mouth as your eyes widen, "Let me hear you, that was beautiful." Rubbing your clit faster, his rough finger pads stroking small circles onto your soft nub.

"So needy for me aren't you?" Nodding your head, whimpering as you gush, your thick slick soaking your thighs. Yet Choso doesn't stop rubbing your clit. As your legs tremble and your knees lock, giving out.

Choso places the blunt between his lips. Before wrapping his arm around your waist, while asking you, "You can cum for me princess one more time, can't you? Let your beautiful, tight pussy make a mess for me to lick up." Lifting you off your feet, holding you tightly against his body. While he moves to the love chair, sitting down with you on his lap.

He blows out a puff of smoke while he ashes out his blunt. "Tell me how needy you are, have't hear ya sweet voice." You can't form the words as Choso curls two fingers past your lips. As he rubs your clit with the same, quick speed.

The pressure of his thumb is too much. As he rubs your sweet spot relentlessly, "Please! Please!" Sweet, loud mewling begs slip from your lips. Mixing with the wet squelching of Choso's fingers in your pussy.

There is a tighter tension building lower in your gut, "Please what darling?" Looking up as Choso leans over while you mumble,

"Please help me cum daddy." Choso roughly kisses you, biting into your bottom lip. His loud groan tells you that you struck a nerve with that name.

Parting your lips for him to slip his tongue past. Rubbing his tongue bar before mimicking the actions of his tongue. As he pumps his fingers faster, matching the pace he is rubbing your clit.

Thick clear cum squirts from your pussy. As you break the kiss and Choso speeds up the pace of his finger. while you look down. The moonlight glints of your cum. Which coats Choso's hand and wrist. While soaking Choso's sweatpants.

Panting as Choso pulls his hand out and lifts his slicked-up fingers to his lips. While you catch your breath he licks his fingers clean. When your breathing steadies you slip off Choso's lap.

Your legs wobble as Choso grabs your hips to steady you while musing, "Princess, I haven't even given you my cock yet, did you squirt that hard?" He drops his hand as you push your panties down. The long thick string of your cum stretches and snaps.

Bending over in front of Choso, spreading your pussy apart for him. While admiting, "I'm so needy I keep thinking about the way your cock looks straining in your sweatpants. Please Daddy! Cho, nnng Daddy!" He kisses your pussy before slipping two thick, tattooed fingers past your lips.

Spreading your squishy self apart to spit inside of you. Stuffing his spit inside of you while asking, "You want me to be your sugar Daddy and be sweet on your pussy?" Rubbing your clit with his thumb. Which is still so sensitive from cumming so much. Yet you don't want him to stop.

Choso groans, "Fuck I've seen so many pussies but none as pretty as yours. And the way you taste!" He replaces his fingers with his tongue. His tongue ring drags along your squishy pussy. While he keeps stroking circles into your clit.

Whining to him, "You're my daddy cho, I love how you always check up on me if I've eaten. And you encourage me to take care of myself, along with how well you listen to me." Groaning as you reach back and grab a handful of his hair.

You're going to make his hair softer with the right self-care products you can splurge on getting for him. While using him being your sugar baby as the reason for him to finally accept your gifts.

Choso pulls away, crooning, "One more time, whose your Daddy princess?" Standing up and dropping his sweatpants. Pushing them to the side, swiping his thick head along your slit. Swirling himself at your small hole while softly pushing past.

The burning of the stretch has you whimpering and Choso pulls away. While you shift your hips from side to side, telling him, "You are! You've been taking care of me already for so long, I want you to be selfish for once and let me make you feel good." He steps out from behind you, as you stand up.

Furrowing your brows as he walks in front of you. Your confusion is short lasting as Choso confesses, "I'm getting off on your pleasure. If you really want to help me be selfish, then sit down, spread your legs, and let me eat your pretty pussy till I'm finished." He grabs the bottom of your shirt as you raise your arms, for him to slip it off.

Sitting down, spreading your folded legs apart. As Choso turns on the balcony's lights he stands in front of you. "Princess you're so beautiful, such a yummy pussy all wet for me."

[breakfastteatime]

Today's Fallen Order request is Biohazard for @ledeni-tm

“No.”

Cal stands at the bottom of the ramp and stares up at Greez, haloed in the ship’s internal lighting. “Huh?”

Greez points, specifically at the poncho Cal as clutched in his hand. “No more. Not a single one. By the gods, Cal, I can smell the damn thing from here.”

Cal holds it up to demonstrate the very funky pattern it has. Best of all, it’s a nice, thick wool. Once it’s clean and dry, it’ll be a favourite for sure. “I need it, Greez. It’s mine.”

“I understand and accept that five years on Bracca has ruined your sense of smell, but me and Cere? Ours is fine. And as such, we can smell that little poncho selection of yours no matter what we do. So, the following are your options – get rid of them all and we’ll find you a nice new one in a store that doesn’t sell actual biohazards.”

“Not happening.”

BD backs him up with a rude squeal.

Hands held up in a pacifying gesture, Greez waits for silence. “Or you stay out there and do some laundry.”

The sky overhead is thick with the promise of a snowstorm. Cal’s hands are cold and stiff from his journey across Zeffo. He’s tired and hungry, thoughts of dinner getting him through the lengthy journey back to the ship. He doesn’t particularly want to stay outside, but he also refuses to give up a single one of his ponchos. They’re his. All of them. He found them, and sure, maybe some are coated in mildew, and others have a smell he can’t quite get rid of, but none of them are actual biohazards…

…are they?

“Are they?” he asks BD.

BD’s scans suggest a couple might host bacteria unsafe for most organics, and while he has no capacity to smell, scans would indicate unpleasant odours would be a side effect of said bacteria.

“Fine,” Cal says. “I guess it’s laundry day.”

Greez’s ominous laugh echoes down from the ship. “I knew you’d say that.” He returns with a large container (honestly, it’s large enough to stuff Greez himself into). “Fill this with water. I’ve got various detergents to clean these things up.”

“I do wash them!” Cal insists.

“With appropriate laundry detergents, or with soap when you shower? Or does going for a swim in a poncho count as washing them?”

Opting for tactical silence, Cal places the new poncho into the container and plods onto the ship with it. He fills the container in the shower as it won’t fit under the sink, then lugs it back outside. He places it down and returns to the engine room to fetch all his ponchos. He puts them all inside.

“Now, watch a master at work.” Greez adds a blend of detergents and something called fabric conditioner to the water. It all sounds like a waste of credits to Cal. Greez also adds an entire bottle of disinfectant and gives the whole barrel a mix with a stick. “We’re gonna let this stew for a while before you heft it all back inside and stick them in the machine to spin. After that, we’ll bring them back out here to air dry. Might take a while, given how cold it is, but it will help with the stench.”

“Are they really that bad?”

“Worse.”

“I’m sorry, Greez.”

Greez looks up from his stirring. “Why do you always make me feel so bad about stuff, even when you’re in the wrong and I’m definitely in the right?”

BD suggests it’s a Jedi thing. Cal smiles. “I didn’t mean to,” he offers.

“See? There you go doing it again. Listen, kid, honestly, I wish you wouldn’t bring back stuff you find on these planets. I’m sure we can find you something during a supply run. However, I get that you like them and therefore you gotta meet me midway – keep ‘em, but clean ‘em. Properly. None of your wash your clothes while you shower or swim nonsense. And if you’re taking a breath to tell me that’s how it was done on Bracca, I do not wanna know.”

Cal breathes out and closes his mouth.

“You don’t have to live like you’re a credit away from financial ruin. We’re not multimillionaires, but we’re not broke. And if you don’t know how to use the machine, ask. I’m not gonna judge.”

“Thanks, Greez.”

“And maybe don’t stuff wet clothes into a box under your bed.”

“But – ”

“Ah! What did I say about Bracca?”

“You don’t wanna know.”

“Atta boy.”

[daryltwdixon]

The Promise of Us: Chapter 7

“What’re we gonna feed it?” Daryl’s voice cuts through the void of chaos and crying, his tone steady but urgent. Rick stands, his gaze distant, shock settling deep as he processes the loss of his wife.

“Do we even have anything a baby can eat?” you ask, moving closer to Hershel as Carl gently hands the newborn to him.

“The good news is, she looks healthy,” Hershel replies, his weathered hands carefully holding the baby, “but she needs formula—and soon—or she won’t survive.”

“Nope, no way,” Daryl interjects, his voice gruff with determination. “Not her. We ain’t losin’ nobody else. I’m goin’ on a run.”

“I’m coming,” you say firmly, holstering your gun and preparing to move without hesitation. You catch Maggie’s eye as she steps forward, her voice raw from crying, but still resolute.

“I’ll be your backup,” she says. You give her a nod, appreciating her strength.

“I’m coming too,” Glenn adds, his tone leaving no room for debate.

“Okay, think where we’re goin’—Beth,” Daryl says, pulling the younger girl over to the side. You follow them, your senses on high alert despite the exhaustion.

Daryl leans down to whisper to Beth, his voice gentler than usual. “Kid just lost his mom—his dad ain’t doin’ so hot.”

“I’ll look after him,” she promises, her big blue eyes brimming with worry but filled with resolve. She catches your eye, and without thinking, you pull her into a tight hug, holding her close.

When you pull back, there are unshed tears in her eyes, and you bite back your own, refusing to let them fall now. There’s no time for that. You have a job to do.

“Somebody get to the fence! Too many are piling up out there,” you shout over your shoulder, feeling the weight of responsibility pressing down on you.

“Glenn, Maggie, vámonos!” Daryl shouts. But before you can move, Rick suddenly lunges for his hammer, taking off toward C Block without a word. Daryl barely glances in his direction, barking orders to the others. “Get the gate! C’mon! We’re gon’ lose the light!”

You fall into step beside him, your heartbeat syncing with the adrenaline pumping through your veins. As you run, Glenn calls out, “There’s a store nearby with a baby section—”

“No, it’s already been cleared,” Maggie interrupts, shaking her head.

“Any place that hasn’t been completely looted?” you ask, reaching the nearest car. Daryl pulls open the side door for you, his movements quick but careful as he hands you his crossbow. You take it, hopping into the car, but leaving the door open to hear the rest of the plan. 

“We saw a sign, a shopping center just north of here,” Glenn adds as Daryl slides into the front seat.

“There’s too much debris on that road, a car can’t get through,” Maggie says, her voice edged with frustration.

You lock eyes with Daryl, and without saying a word, you both know the solution. The motorcycle.

“I can only take one,” he grunts, throwing his poncho around himself.

Maggie steps forward, “I’ll go,” her voice steady despite the wear of the day. But Glenn stops her, gently placing a hand on her arm.

“Maggie,” he say softly, meeting her gaze, “You’ve been through enough today.”

She hesitates, then sighs, her shoulders dropping slightly, “The two of you work better in tandem anyway,” she mutters, handing you her backpack. “It’s like you guys can read each other’s damn minds sometimes— you go.”

You give her a small, grateful smile, securing the backpack over your shoulders. Daryl revs the bike, the familiar roar of the engine filling the air, and without another word, you climb on behind him.

With a final glance back at the group, you hold on tight, and the two of you take off, the wind whipping past as the world blurs around you.

❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥

Daryl pulls the bike to a stop near a chain-link fence, the rusted metal surrounding what looks like an abandoned daycare. The overgrown lawn is dotted with a jungle gym, the swing set creaking eerily in the light breeze. His eyes narrow as he scans the area.

“Company’s close,” he grunts as you swing your leg off the bike. “Stay tight—got ammo?”

You nod, and with that confirmation, the two of you make your way up to the side of the building, staying low and quiet. You cup your hands against a dusty window, peering inside. It’s a scene frozen in time—cribs, changing tables, all the remnants of a world long gone.

Breaking the window with ease, you climb inside, landing on the old, worn carpet. The bright blue walls are covered in children’s art projects, colorful reminders of a life once lived. A TV sits in the corner, the decorations still neatly arranged, as if the place is just waiting for someone to return.

You shrug off the backpack Maggie gave you and start grabbing anything that looks remotely useful for a baby—diapers, wipes, clothes. You rummage through cabinets and drawers, not letting yourself dwell too much on the haunting stillness of the room.

Daryl climbs in through the window behind you, his presence steady as always, and leads the way down the narrow hallway. You follow close, careful to avoid stepping on anything that might make noise. The air is thick with quiet tension as you move, your ears alert for any sound out of place.

There’s a faint rattling ahead. As you quietly enter another room, Daryl turns to you, the flashlight clamped between his teeth casting a soft glow over your face. His blue eyes flick toward you before he pushes open a door that leads into a kitchen.

The rattling comes from a lower cupboard. You move toward it cautiously, your fingers tightening around the handle. You glance back at Daryl, who gives you a nod, and with a quick breath, you yank the door open.

A hissing sound erupts from inside. You lock eyes with a possum, its beady gaze flashing in the light just as Daryl’s arrow flies, hitting it square in the heart.

“Hello, dinner,” he mutters with a smirk.

“You’re so gross,” you roll your eyes, unable to suppress a smile. “That is not goin’ in my bag.”

As you cross the room to check another cupboard, your breath catches when you find exactly what you’ve been searching for—containers of baby formula, untouched. You could almost start singing Hallelujah. 

You turn to him with a small smile on your face, “Lookie here,” you say, stuffing the packages into your bag. You meet his gaze as he pulls the possum up, but when his eyes land on you, you can see the sadness in them. You can see past his eyes that he has the events of the day on his mind. The people lost.

“Dare…” you begin, your voice quiet, “about Carol–”

But before you can say more, Daryl is suddenly crossing the space between you, his crossbow left on the ground behind him. His hand moves with purpose as he pushes you gently but firmly against the counter. His lips crash into yours, catching you off guard, but there’s no hesitation in the way you kiss him back. It’s raw, the kind of kiss that says more than words ever could. His hands grip your waist to pull himself against you, and for a second, all the fear, the loss, and the uncertainty dissolve in the warmth of his touch.

You know him well enough by now to understand this is his way of saying everything’s going to be okay, his way of telling you he’s alright without having to speak about the pain he’s holding onto. When he finally steps back, breathless, he brushes his knuckle along your cheekbone—something he’s been doing more lately, a soft, almost sentimental gesture that always makes your heart skip. His eyes, stormy and pained, linger on yours, and for a brief moment, all you know is to hold onto him as long as you can.

“We gotta get back,” he says, his voice rough, but there’s something soft behind it, something steady.

You nod, knowing this is enough for now.

❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥

The road ahead is dark as Daryl drives the motorcycle toward the prison gates, the roar of the engine loud in your ears, sending vibrations through your body. Axel and Oscar stand at the gate, pulling it open just in time for Daryl to ride through, the bike rumbling into the yard. He parks by C Block, and you dismount, your legs stiff from the ride.

Inside, the only light comes from the moon filtering through the high windows, casting a pale glow on the group gathered around Carl, who cradles the crying newborn. You shrug your bag off your shoulders, swinging it onto the table. “Beth? Maggie?” you call out, your voice slightly breathless. They rush over, immediately digging into the supplies.

Beth is the first to stand beside you, her hands moving quickly through the contents as you open the formula and tear into the new bottles you found. From behind, you hear Daryl’s low voice asking about the baby, but you don’t turn. You’re focused, moving with urgency to get the formula ready.

Finally, with the bottle mixed, you turn to hand it over—and freeze.

Daryl’s holding the baby. His strong, muscled arms cradle her with a tenderness you’ve never seen. The sight of him, this rough-edged man who’s faced down death a hundred times, holding something so small, so fragile—it catches you completely off guard. Your breath hitches, and for a moment, it feels like the world tilts on its axis.

Beth gently takes the bottle from your unmoving hands, stepping forward to pass it to Daryl. But your eyes don’t leave him, your chest tightening with a swell of emotions that are so strong, they almost overwhelm you. Daryl, the man who is always ready for a fight, looks at the baby with such care, feeding her as if it’s the most natural thing in the world.

“She got a name yet?” he asks, his voice gruff but softened by the warmth in his expression. His gaze sweeps the room, landing on you. The smile falters for just a second when he catches the look on your face, something unspoken passing between you. But then the twinkle in his eyes returns as he glances back down at the baby.

“Not yet,” Carl replies, shaking his head. “I was thinking... maybe Sophia.”

The name hits you hard, tugging at the corners of memories buried deep. Sophia. It felt like a lifetime ago when you were all searching for her in those woods. Carl continues, his voice quieter now, listing the names of those lost: “Then there’s Carol, too. And… Andrea, Amy, Jacqui, Patricia… or Lori, I don’t know.”

Daryl listens, his attention now fully on Carl, though the baby remains cradled securely in his arms. He’s quiet for a moment, then a smile slowly spreads across his face as he looks back at the baby. “Yeah? Would you like that? Little ass-kicker?”

You can’t help it—a real, unexpected laugh bursts from your mouth, the sound surprising you as much as it does him. Daryl’s head snaps up again and his eyes lock onto yours, the glint of surprise mirrored in his expression. But it’s the softness, the way his face lights up at your laugh, that makes your heart swell even more.

“Right? That’s a good name, right?” he continues, turning back to the baby with that same quiet warmth, “Little ass-kicker, huh? You like that, sweetheart?”

❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥・・❥

The next morning, the sound of locusts hums through the open windows, a constant reminder of the world outside. You sit up in the guard tower, eyes scanning the yard below as the early morning light stretches across the prison grounds. From your vantage point, you spot Daryl walking slowly, his steps deliberate as he approaches a small cross stuck in the ground.

You watch in silence as he kneels down, something small in his hand. He places it carefully at the base of the cross, lingering for a moment before standing back up. It’s only when he moves away that you notice the small white flower resting at the bottom, a quiet offering to someone lost.

Your heart tightens as you watch him make his way back to the yard. Without thinking, you rise, leaving the tower to meet him at the bottom of the steps just as he reaches the gate.

“Mornin’,” you say softly, your voice gentle in the stillness of the early hour.

He grunts a low hello, his eyes flicking up to meet yours briefly before shifting away. There’s something quiet in his expression, a heaviness he’s not putting into words.

You don’t need to say anything more. Without hesitation, you step closer and slip your arm around his waist, drawing him into you as you both turn back toward the prison. The gesture is simple but full of understanding—no words needed as you guide him inside again, both of you silently sharing the weight of everything left unspoken.

A few hours later, breakfast is a quiet affair. You quietly stir your oatmeal, the spoon scraping lightly against the bowl as you sit on the steps leading up to the warden’s office. Daryl is sitting on the step below, his back resting between your knees, his presence a quiet comfort. The clinking of silverware against bowls echoes softly through the room as everyone eats in near silence, the weight of the morning heavy in the air.

Your attention shifts when you hear footsteps approaching from across the room. Daryl’s head tilts up too, both of you watching as Rick enters.

“Everybody okay?” Rick asks, his voice subdued as he surveys the room.

“Yeah,” you answer softly, offering a small nod. “We are.”

“What about you?” Hershel asks, his gaze steady on Rick.

Rick’s eyes are distant, vacant, as he approaches the table where Glenn, Maggie, Hershel, and Carl sit in a quiet huddle. He looks like he hasn’t slept in days.

“I cleared out the boiler block,” Rick says quietly.

“How many were there?” Daryl asks, breaking the silence that had settled around him all morning.

Rick’s eyes flicker toward you both. “A dozen. Maybe two.”

You suck in a quiet breath, your stomach twisting at the thought of him facing that many walkers alone. There hadn’t even been a gunshot.

“I need to get back,” Rick mutters, already turning away. “Just wanted to check on Carl.” He pats his son’s back, his touch brief and mechanical, before he heads toward the door.

“Rick—we can handle taking out the bodies,” Glenn stands, his voice gentle but firm. “You don’t have to do everything.”

Rick shakes his head, his movements stiff. “No, I do,” he says, but he doesn’t stop moving until he reaches you and Daryl on the stairs.

“Everyone have a gun and a knife?” Rick asks, his voice low, but there’s an urgency behind it. You glance around the room, mentally counting the weapons each person carries, before Daryl responds with a nod. “Yeah. But we’re runnin’ low on ammo.”

“Maggie and I were planning to make a run this afternoon,” Glenn adds from behind Rick. “Found a phonebook with some places we could hit—look for more formula and bullets.”

“We cleared out the generator room,” you tell Rick, hoping the news might ease some of the burden he’s shouldering. “Axel’s working on it in case we need it.”

“We’re gonna sweep the lower levels too,” Daryl chimes in, his voice steady, grounding.

Rick nods, already half-turned to leave. “Good. Good,” he mutters, his words rushed as he strides out of the room again.

Hershel calls after him, concern thick in his voice, but Rick doesn’t stop. He’s already lost in his own world, slipping further into the weight of everything he’s carrying.

Your hand lands in Daryl’s hair softly, brushing it with your fingertips, and you feel him sigh beneath you. 

Once everyone finishes breakfast, Daryl stands, stretching slightly before turning to you. “I’m gon’ go check on the boiler block, make sure everythin’s alright,” he says, his voice low. You nod, knowing he’s not expecting you to come with him. He needs space right now, and you understand that instinctively.

You reach for his bowl and spoon, stacking them with yours when Oscar approaches, offering to join him. Daryl nods in quiet acceptance but pauses before leaving, his eyes lingering on you. His fingers brush gently against the side of your face and you lean into the touch, just for a moment, letting the warmth of it settle in before he drops his hand. Without another word, he turns and heads off with Oscar.

You rise from the table, gathering the empty bowls in your arms, preparing to take them outside to clean. As you pass by, Beth smiles warmly, the baby nestled safely in her arms. You return the smile before heading toward the door, Carl trailing behind you, collecting scraps and bits of trash from the table without a word.

As you work, you glance over at him, watching how he’s methodically picking up the trash, his face drawn and serious. “Hey,” you say softly, not wanting to push too hard but needing to ask. “You doin’ okay?”

Carl pauses for a moment, his hand stilling as he picks at the ground. He doesn’t look up immediately, but eventually, he gives a small nod. “Yeah,” he mumbles. “I’m fine.”

You can hear the weight in his voice, the unspoken emotions lying beneath the surface. But you don’t push, knowing he might not be ready to say more. Instead, you reach out, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, letting him know you’re there. “If you need anything… you know where I am,” you offer, your voice calm, steady.

Carl looks up at you under the brim of his hat then, his eyes meeting yours for a brief second before he nods again. You go back to scraping the dishes, the quiet moment between you stretching on, a shared understanding settling in the space. Carl stays close, helping as you finish the task in silence, and you can’t help yourself as you pray for just one good, normal day.

[scoonsalicious]

Unwanted: Chapter 30, Epilogue - Pt. 1

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Avenger!Fem!Reader

Summary: When your FWB relationship with your best friend Bucky Barnes turns into something more, you couldn’t be happier. That is, however, until a new Avenger sets her sights on your super soldier and he inadvertently breaks your heart. You take on a mission you might not be prepared for to put some distance between the two of you and open yourself up to past traumas. Too bad the only one who can help you heal is the one person you can no longer trust.

Warnings: (For this part only; see Story Masterlist for general Warnings) Language,

Word Count: 634

Previously On...: You and Bucky are probably going to be okay.

A/N: IT'S OUT EARLY!

This is it! The last chapter! OMG!

NOTE! The tag list is a fickle bitch, so I'm not really going to be dealing with it anymore. If you want to be notified when new story parts drop, please follow @scoonsaliciousupdates

Banner By: The absolutely amazing @mrsbuckybarnes1917!

Thank you to all those who have been reading; if you like what you've read, likes, comments, and reblogs give me life, and I truly appreciate them, and you!

Taglist: (Sadly, tag list is closed; Tumblr will not let me add anyone new. If you want to be notified when I update, please Follow me for Notifications!) @jmeelee @cazellen @mrsbuckybarnes1917 @blackhawkfanatic @buckybarnessimpp @hayjat @capswife @itsteambarnes @marygoddessofmischief @sebastians-love @learisa @lethallyprotected @rabbitrabbit12321 @buckybarnesandmarvel @fanfictiongirl77 @calwitch @fantasyfootballchampion @selella @jackiehollanderr @wintercrows @sashaisready @missvelvetsstuff @angelbabyyy99 @keylimebeag @maybefoxysouls @vicmc624 @j23r23 @wintercrows @crist1216 @cjand10 @pattiemac1@les-sel @dottirose @winterslove1917 @harperkenobi @ivet4 @casey1-2007 @mrsevans90 @steeph-aniie @bean-bean2000 @beanbagbitch @peachiestevie @wintrsoldrluvr @shadowzena43

Tumblr will not let me directly tag the following: @marcswife21 @erelierraceala @jupiter-107 @doublejeon @hiqhkey @unaxv @brookeleclerc

10 Months Later

“I refuse to accept this.”

“Well, unfortunately, Boss, it’s my decision to make, not yours,” you told Tony as you finished stacking up the last of your moving boxes. Sixteen years– almost half of your life, now condensed into neat stacks of cardboard, waiting to be loaded into the van that was waiting downstairs.

“What the hell am I supposed to do without you?” Tony asked, dramatically flinging himself on your now bare mattress. “How am I supposed to survive?”

You rolled your eyes at him. “It’s not like you won’t see me every fucking day, dude,” you admonished him. “I still work here, for fucks’ sake. Besides, you refused to let your realtor show me any place you couldn’t see from your terrace.”

“I thought it would be nice if we could wave to each other during breakfast,” he said, his face drawn into a pout now, “that’s all.”

You sat down next to him and put a gentle hand on his shoulder. “It’s time to cut the umbilical cord, Tony,” you said. 

“But you’re still such a kiddo, Kiddo,” he sighed.

“I meant your umbilical cord, Boss,” you laughed. “And who knows? Maybe I’ll try it for a year or two, figure out I absolutely hate it, and come crawling back, begging for my old room.”

“Don’t press your luck,” Tony said, sitting back up. “I’ll probably turn it into a sauna, or an indoor golf simulator as soon as you walk out that door.”

“Ah, there’s the Tony I know and tolerate,” you said with a smile.

“I’m just going to miss having you around,” he said, his voice now laced with sadness. “Sixteen years together– probably the longest stable relationship I’ve ever had. It’s not going to be the same around here without you.”

“I know,” you sighed. “I’m going to miss you, too. But you know I need this. After everything that happened last year with Carthage, and Barnes… me spiraling, losing a baby I didn’t even know about, getting shot, and the… complications; all that shit with Steve. I just think I need a fresh start, some place where I’m not reminded of her every time I walk around a corner. It’s the only way I’m going to truly heal.”

“I told you I’d move you to another floor. Hell, I’ll tear down the entire Tower and start from scratch. We can build a whole new compound Upstate or something. You’d never have to set foot in this hallway again,” he said. And you knew he was telling the truth– there was little Tony wouldn’t do to ensure you were comfortable in your old home, but you couldn’t rely on him forever.

“You’ve saved me so many times already, Boss,” you said, looking back at him fondly, “and you know I’m always going to be thankful for that. But it’s time I started working on saving myself.”

“Well, when you make it sound all empowering and shit,” he began, “I start to feel like a dick for protesting.”

You laughed as your phone beeped. Looking at the message, you told him: “Movers are on the way up. I guess this is really it.” You both stood and embraced, Tony leaning down to speak softly in your ear.

“You know you always have a home here, Kiddo,” he said. “Whenever you need it. Even if it’s just for a night, or if you decide you want to come back for good. Door’s always open.”

“And even if it’s not,” you said as the two of you broke away from one another, “I can always hack the system to break myself in.”

“I’ll have you arrested for trespassing.”

“You think Mr. Mitchell’s still practicing law?” you asked with a grin. “I can definitely afford to have him represent me, now.”

<- Previous Chapter / Next Part ->

[fluentmoviequoter]

Hi,

I have a request for you. Deacon and reader have to pretend to be into a relationship for a undercover mission. But both of them love each other secretly and actually don't want to pretend.

💕

This is such a good idea!! Writing this was a ton of fun. I hope you enjoy and please let me know what you think!🤍

Warnings: angst, fluff, canon typical danger/action/violence, OC Andres Cabrera, references to drug trafficking, Deacon gets protective and a lil angry. I think that's all!

Word Count: 2.7k+ words

A/N: Does Metro go under cover? I don't know. But I do know that SWAT doesn't, so I brought Metro in. Also, I proofread and fixed a few errors after posting, but let me know if I missed anything!

Picture from Pinterest

The Real Us

You fell for Deacon quickly and continue to fall deeper every day. You refuse to tell him because you are too scared to risk your personal and professional relationships. If only you knew he feels the exact same way; maybe everything would be different. Working with Deacon, seeing the good, bad, and ugly at work and in each other’s personal lives showed both of you that the other was worthy and deserving and impossible not to love. As Deacon got used to you during your probationary period, Hondo thought he was like a Doberman puppy, a vicious, lovesick combination as he follows you around while threatening everyone that comes too close. Now, you both resign yourselves to be friends and teammates, hoping it’s enough.

When Hondo yells your name attached to Deacon’s, your heart beats faster. “Hicks’ office,” Hondo finishes before he turns on his heel.

You fall into step beside Deacon, glancing at him.

“What did you do?” he teases, bumping his arm against your shoulder.

You struggle to remember to keep work first. Even if your safety wasn’t on the line, your fear of rejection keeps you from opening up completely. Likewise, Deacon is concerned you won’t want to date a superior or that you’re secretly in a relationship.

“Nothing, that I know of. Maybe Hicks found out you told Luca he could use the food in the fridge. After removing Hicks’ name,” you respond, smiling at him.

“Keep your voice down,” Deacon hisses.

“Here goes nothing,” you whisper as he opens the door for you.

Stepping into the office, you stop in front of Hicks’ desk and place your hands behind your back as Deacon joins you. Several officers from Metro are talking to Hicks and Hondo, who glances over and gestures for you to wait a minute.

“They’re going to steal one of us,” Deacon muses. “20-David won’t be the same without you.”

“Why would they take me? You’re way more experienced.”

“You’re prettier,” he says with a shrug. “Metro has a type.”

Your eyes widen as you turn to him, but you don’t get to ask what he means by that. Knowing that Deacon thinks you’re pretty, assuming he wasn’t still joking, sends a shiver down your spine.

Hondo nods at you before explaining, “Metro needs your help with a case.”

“Your Sergeant Hondo has already told us that we’re incompetent,” one of the officers adds.

“You’re the one that came to me for help,” Hondo shoots back. “They need a UC couple. Known drug trafficker Andres Cabrera is throwing a gala on his yacht, and there’s sure to be product, use, and purchasing.”

“Why not send actual UCs?” Deacon inquires.

“We’re stretched pretty thin, for one. But this also has a very high risk of getting dangerous. We’d rather have officers more prepared to deal with an ambush,” the Metro sergeant answers.

“What exactly is the purpose of the operation? I assume being under cover means we have to get firsthand proof of something,” you say.

“We need to find the leader of the trafficking operation, but we’d like to get proof of a purchase and find the hidden product if possible. The more we can get on this guy, the better. Most importantly, though, is to locate our guy. When you do, the rest of your team and my guys will be able to move in.”

You nod as Deacon agrees to join the team.

“So, for the most important question,” Hondo begins, winking at you, “what are they wearing?”

“I’m sorry,” Hicks says to you.

Sighing, you drop your shoulders. You knew when you heard gala it would be over-the-top, but you hope it’s not too bad.

✯✯✯✯✯

Your hopes are crushed. It’s terrible. The silky fabric is tighter than you’d prefer through the waist, then flares out. On the bright side, your gun is concealed. That’s the only plus, however. Stepping out of the locker room, you nearly run into Deacon.

“Sorry. Oh,” you say, gripping Deacon's biceps to stay upright. “You look great.”

Deacon’s three-piece suit matches the color of your outfit and makes him look even more handsome and dreamy than usual.

“Are you serious? You, you look perfect. I mean, you always look beautiful, but this is- I can’t catch my breath.”

You roll your eyes and laugh, stepping back as Deacon smiles. Tugging the outfit into a slightly more comfortable position, you feel Deacon’s eyes on you.

“You look amazing,” he says genuinely. “You’ll do great.”

“Whoa!” Luca and Hondo yell when you walk out, your arm looped through Deacon’s. 

“You two clean up nice,” Hondo adds.

“Thanks,” Deacon says, shaking his head. 

“Go get your sneak on, Deac,” Luca yells as Deacon pulls you away.

Tan is driving the limo to the docks and whistles obnoxiously before opening the door for you. The attention is funny from your friends, but from strangers and drug traffickers, it won’t be as enjoyable.

✯✯✯✯✯

“Are you two prepared to play a couple?” Tan asks as you near the coast.

“I think we can handle it. We know each other pretty well,” Deacon answers.

“And PDA?”

You shake your head at Tan, who is watching you in the rearview. It would be a last resort because one touch from Deacon might ruin you. There is no going back once you start something, especially something you so desperately need. 

“I’m going to keep you close,” Deacon whispers into your ear as you exit the limo. “Is that okay?”

You nod, smiling at him as his arm circles your shoulders, leading you to the oversized yacht.

“What do rich people do on yachts paid for by drugs?” you ask through your smile.

“Right. Because I’m the expert on that,” Deacon jokes. “Just act like we belong. Blend in.” You don’t hear him say, “As much as you can looking like that, anyway.”

✯✯✯✯✯

Deacon’s hands are all over you. When you’re close enough to touch, Deacon tucks you under his arm against his side. Otherwise, you find yourself in his arms as you dance or linking your fingers with his as you socialize with people you will never understand. You’re like a magnet, and he can’t resist you.

“Dance with me,” Deacon says, leading you to the dance floor with a hand on your waist and his other hand in yours. “I think there’s something happening portside. Check it out and tell me what you think.”

You look over his shoulder, turning your chin toward Deacon. “You’re right. I can’t tell what they’re talking about though.”

You jerk your head down toward Deacon’s chest suddenly, and he instinctively pulls you closer.

“What?”

“I think one of them was looking at me.”

Deacon spins quickly, confirming what you thought. “He’s coming over here. Your call.”

“Let me dance with him if he asks. I’ll see what I can find out.”

“I’ll be close.”

“Excuse me,” the man interrupts, looking at you as he talks to Deacon. “Mind if I cut in?”

“Not at all,” Deacon answers, though the look in his eyes says the opposite. 

The man takes one of your hands as his other finds your waist. He pulls you close, too close. Deacon held you against his chest, and it felt right and safe, but being against this man’s chest is completely different.

“My name is Andres,” he introduces himself. Your target. “And I must say, you are the prettiest woman on my yacht tonight.”

“Well, I like to dress to impress,” you reply, moving your hand on his shoulder toward his collar.

“I don’t think it’s just the dressing.”

His hand on your waist moves slowly, but it’s easy to deduce he’s reaching down and around.

“One of my friends was on your yacht last week and told me how beautiful it was, so when he got an invite I begged him to bring me.”

“That’s your friend?” Andres asks, looking at Deacon.

You turn your head, seeing Deacon with a too-tight grip on a champagne glass and a forced smile. Tipping your head to the right, you signal that you’re okay just before Andres turns so you can’t see Deacon anymore.

“Yes. His wife is one of my best friends and she offered to watch the kids so he could bring me. She gets seasick when she steps foot on a boat, so I guess he decided I was a better date option.”

“You, dear, did not need to prove it, I am sure.”

“He also told me that you might be willing to show me your operation. Like I said, I dress to impress.” You pull yourself closer, looking up at him as you flirt. It makes you sick to your stomach, but it’s necessary.

“Has your friend seen my operation?”

“No. He’s more of a buy it and move on kind of guy, but I find your product, and you, fascinating.”

“Impress you did,” he says quietly, his hands moving to their original positions. “Meet be on the top deck in ten minutes, and we can work something out. Bring your friend’s wallet and we’ll show him exactly what you’re worth.”

You nod, batting your eyelashes as he steps back. Walking toward Deacon, you shake your arms and try to lose the feeling of Andres’s hands on you. Deacon’s jaw is clenched as you walk past him. He follows you behind a pillar, his eyes boring into yours as you reach up and cup his jaw.

“He told me to meet him on the top deck in ten and bring your wallet,” you tell him.

“My wallet?”

“He wants to show you what I’m worth.”

“Trust me, I know exactly what you’re worth,” Deacon says under his breath.

You look to your left, and before Deacon can see what you’re looking at, you rise to your tiptoes and hide your face in Deacon’s neck.

“Drop your head,” you whisper.

His breath fans against your collarbone as his head dips beside yours. You circle your arms around his neck, guarding your faces from passersby. The man you saw approaching walks behind you as Deacon’s arms tighten around your waist. His touch removes the discomfort you felt after dancing with Andres. Trying not to lose yourself in the moment, you reluctantly pull away from Deacon.

“I’ll come to the deck with you,” Deacon says, his hands dropping from your sides.

“You can’t come all the way. He’ll know,” you argue. “Stay close enough to hear me?”

“I’m not letting you face down a drug lord by yourself.”

“I’ll be okay. I know I’m not alone with you nearby.”

✯✯✯✯✯

You wander around the top deck, close to the staircase where Deacon is hiding.

“There she is,” Andres announces, spreading his arms as he approaches you. “Did you bring it?”

You flash a fake credit card and an overly flirty smile. “Yes, I did.”

“Perfect. We’ll go to my,” he brushes a finger over your cheekbone before finishing, “private area, below deck.”

His hand moves down, over your arm, and to your hip. He’s nearing your gun, and you rush to grab his wrist.

“Is that where you keep everything? Below deck?” you ask.

He looks over at an armed security guard before speaking. “Everything, yes.”

Your arm twists as he jerks his hand, pulling you close harshly.

“There you are!” Deacon exclaims as he walks onto the deck.

Andres shoves you sideways as his guard aims his gun at you.

“What’s going on?” Deacon asks.

“Something private. So maybe you should go,” Andres spits angrily.

“Maybe we should both go, yeah?” Deacon asks, raising a hand toward you. “We haven’t seen anything, we’ll stay quiet.”

“You won’t see anything. Get him out of here.”

Another guard barges onto the deck behind Deacon, and you pull your gun out of its holster, firing a shot before Deacon has time to turn around. The man groans as he hits the deck, cradling his arm against his chest. You move your gun to Andres as Deacon covers the other guard.

“You’re out of time,” Andres threatens. “More men are coming.”

“Yeah,” Deacon replies with a smile. “I know.”

A helicopter approaches, and Luca and Tan prepare to drop onto the yacht as it passes overhead.

“We got ‘em,” Luca tells Deacon. “Get back in there.”

Deacon grabs your arm gently, pulling you into the stairwell as he leads you below deck. You run into a locked door and turn toward Deacon.

“This has to be it,” you say.

He pushes against the door and freezes as footsteps descend, nearing you quickly. You look at Deacon and apologize before shoving him against the wall opposite the locked door. You pull yourself up and kiss him, deaf to the footsteps as boots scrape to a stop.

“Uh,” someone says, clearing their throat, “this is a private area, no guests are allowed on this level.”

Deacon gently pushes your hips back as you separate from him. He wraps an arm around your waist, giving an easy smile to the guard blocking the stairs.

“Sorry, man, but you know how it is,” he says.

The guard looks you up and down, ignorant of Deacon’s grip tightening on you as he rumbles, “I sure do.”

“So, we’ll just get out of your way and go back up.”

The guard raises a hand, stopping Deacon as his eyes remain on you.

“You head up, I need to ask her a few questions.”

“Not happening.”

You look at the guard and press a hand between Deacon’s shoulders. “Unless you answer a question for me first. Right, handsome?”

Deacon looks at you from the corner of his eyes, warning you not to do this.

“Any question,” you add. “And you have to tell the truth.”

“Deal,” the guard agrees quickly.

“Are there drugs in that room?”

He hesitates, then nods once.

“Move in,” Deacon says, his smile growing as you both step back.

“Don’t move,” you tell the guard. “LAPD S.W.A.T. You’re under arrest.”

The guard hesitates, then sighs and lowers his weapon before kicking it to Deacon.

“They’re always too good to be true,” he mumbles.

You hear yelling and footsteps as your team and the Metro squad enter the boat, breaking up the party. Hondo appears behind the guard with the Metro sergeant from earlier.

“This is why we chose you instead of a UC,” the sergeant says, winking at you.

“That was quite the kiss,” Hondo teases, pulling you into his side.

Deacon pulls you back into his arms as you ask, “Cameras?”

“Everywhere,” Hondo says. “There isn’t an inch of this place that isn’t covered.”

“Wish I’d known that before I went for my gun,” you mumble.

“Ready to get out of here?” Hondo asks as the guard is hauled away in handcuffs.

“Yes,” you and Deacon sigh together.

✯✯✯✯✯

Back at S.W.A.T. HQ, you change quickly and sit in the locker room, your head in your hands as you wonder if you and Deacon should talk about the kiss. It was just for work, but it felt like more. Maybe that’s just your heart talking, though.

“Hey,” Deacon says as he enters.

You look up, smiling when you see him. “Hi.”

“So…”

“I’m sorry.”

“I- why’d you do it?” Deacon asks, leaning against the lockers beside you.

You keep your eyes away from his face, knowing that if you see him you’ll tell him everything. “It seemed like the right move. We are- were pretending to be a couple, and you know, that’s what couples do. We needed an innocent reason to be there and that’s all I could think of.”

“Were we?” Deacon asks.

You pause, glancing up at him. “Were we what?”

“Pretending,” Deacon answers, turning to sit beside you. “Because that felt really real. All of it, the dancing, the kiss, the touches.”

You fall silent, looking at Deacon’s hand resting beside yours.

“Sorry,” he begins.

“I wanted it to be real,” you admit quietly.

Deacon smiles, and turns your chin toward him. Kissing him the second time is just as magical as the first. He pulls you close, uninhibited in how or why he touches you. Breathless, you pull away but keep your forehead pressed to his.

“What took us so long?” you ask.

“I was wondering the same thing. We should go on a date. One where we don’t have to run for cover or kiss just to stay alive.”

“Your kisses are pretty deadly,” you joke, “they make me breathless and make my heartbeat too fast.”

“Not funny,” Deacon says, chuckling.

“But they also make everything better,” you whisper.

Deacon smiles before kissing you again, a promise to never pretend again. After pretending not to love each other and pretending to be in a different relationship than you were, you both decide that keeping secrets and being someone you aren’t only delays what you really want. Being someone else with Deacon helped you to admit that you’re in love with the real Deacon, just as he loves the real you.

[deanwinchesterswitch-events]

FriendSHIP Challenge

May 1 through December 31, 2024

Through fandom, I have come to know so many wonderful people and, in turn, have made a few fantastic friends. In honor of those fabulous individuals, I am hosting a challenge about FriendSHIPS.

Create mood boards/aesthetics, fanfic, fanart, edits, and fanvids celebrating characters' friendships within a fandom, add your best friend or yourself as an OC in a story, or create a piece with characters from different fandoms you think would make great friends. Love isn’t just about romance and sex. Join the fun and share the love of friends and the soul of friendship.

Below are the fandoms you can create for. The list includes some of my favorites, along with a few of my friends’ favorites. The use of a prompt is not required, but a few have been added below the cut for inspiration.

Rules/Guidelines/FAQs

Tag for the challenge: #dwfriendship24 and mention @deanwinchesterswitch-events in the post.

No sign-up is required. The challenge runs from May 1 through December 31, 2024.

All creations should be friendship-themed.

No romantic ships or smut.

No implied romantic relationships or smut.

No friends with benefits.

Crossovers and OCs are welcome.

No RPF (there are so many fandoms, and my knowledge is minimal for a few of the actors).

Everything has to be your own work! Works created with AI will not be reblogged.

If a work created with AI is inadvertently reblogged, it will subsequently be removed from the events blog and the master list.

Feel free to send me an ASK or DM me if you have questions.

All tagged (#dwfriendship24) creations will be added to a Master List.

Use warnings if they are needed!

There is no word limit, but if the text is more than 500 words, please use the read-more link.

Fandoms

Big Sky

Daisy Jones & the Six

DCU/DCEU

Doctor Who

Leverage/Leverage Redemption

MCU

Shadow and Bone

Sherlock

Sons of Anarchy

Supernatural/The Winchesters

The Boys TV

The Librarians

The Vampire Diaries

The Walking Dead

Top Gun/Top Gun: Maverick

Prompts for inspiration (use is optional)

They cultivated a secret language between them over the years that no one else understands

"Just don't laugh." "I/We would never!”

B loves baking but can't eat everything they make before it spoils, so they regularly feed A with the extra.

“I seriously don't know how you came this far in life.”

Share a love of the same music

Argue over musical choices

"I can't even describe how important you are to me. You've changed my life. I wouldn't be the same without you.”

“I think I’d follow you into hell just to see what you’d do.”

“Everyone said we’d never be friends, but look at us now.”

A falling out/Argument

Being a good wingperson

Being a bad wingperson

Museum visit

Cooking together

Hurt/Comfort

Rekindling a friendship

A is a horrible friend, but B won’t give up on them

Drunk conversation(s)

Road trip/Vacation together

"You can't eat that. It has peanuts in it. Here, I got you something else."

They're not each other's favorite person but still appreciate each other's presence. 

"Stop screaming at me! I never asked to be involved in all this."

A: So ...you set it on fire? B: Yes, and you let yours die. A: I see why we're friends.

“Who’s your new friend?” “I dunno. I found him/her/them bleeding on the street. He/She/They wasn’t/weren’t really in a position to refuse my friendship.”

“I’m aware of who I am when I say this, but your friendship is weird.”

“You are my best friend, and unfortunately, there is very little that you, I, or anyone else can do about it.”

Why are they friends

Fake friends

A brush with death

“You already are a handful. Together, you guys are insufferable.”

Long distance friendship

"Don't you dare to blame this on me! I wasn't the one who suggested it."

Getting a tattoo together

As always, I hope you have fun!

[h0neytalk]

Mango v. LingQ v. Anki

I’ve been using the above apps for a while now and I couldn’t find a ton of somewhat easy to understand comparisons/explanations of how to use these various cult favorites. I figured I would make one if anyone is wondering where to start or making a departure from Duolingo.

Standard langblr disclaimer: I am ultimately just a person on the internet, I’m not an expert in language learning or a world renowned polyglot. I’m not even an expert in any of these apps/programs. These are all just thoughts and opinions I have about the value of each app to myself as an average consumer trying to learn a language and intended to help other people decide where to spend their time.

Anki

Anki is an open source spaced repetition flashcard program. It has an incredibly loyal fan base of med students and people who just want to learn things. This is also the one I have the least experience with so I recommend diving into forums and other blogs who go in depth on all the ways you can use this program. The web version is completely free and there is an official paid mobile app. There are also unofficial paid apps, this is the source of great drama and discourse and I’m not touching that here. Spaced repetition essentially means that the program will present you with cards at intervals designed to maximize your retention. When you flip over a card, you have four options that boil down to: fail, hard, good, easy. This is how the program determines what to show you and when.

Key Features:

The main draw is obviously the spaced repetition system. It’s much easier and more effective than sorting manually.

Because it’s open source, there is a way to customize the settings and cards to do basically whatever you want. There are also tons of premade decks to import and either use as-is or use as a base.

The online web version is completely free.

You can add really any media type to the cards. You can add sound clips of pronunciations, images, even drawings and diagrams.

Having the four options is particularly useful for the nuances of learning a language. For example, for general vocabulary decks I’ll assign one “point” to general meaning, tense/part of speech, and pronunciation. Getting the general meaning but not the other two means I select “hard” when I flip the card.

Best uses:

Vocab or learning a new alphabet. Specifically for drilling any of those “slippery” words. I don’t know if this happens to anyone else, but there are some vocab words that just refuse to stick with me. I’ve found the Anki SRS does help pin them down.

Potential downsides:

While there are decks to import, there could always be errors that you won’t catch just seeing single vocab words with no context.

The available customization is labor intensive.

The UI for the official app and web version isn’t super slick and intuitive.

Even the best flashcards are ultimately just flashcards and have limits to their usefulness.

Mango

Mango is similar to Babbel or other programs that focus on speaking (and doing so quickly). I much prefer Mango to Babbel or any other similar app and find that it does what it says it will. Languages are split into units. Each unit has chapters and each chapter has lessons. A lesson will start with an optional pre quiz and a brief recording of a conversation that you will be able to follow by the end of the lesson. Each lesson concludes with a listening and reading quiz. It also utilizes spaced repetition and gives you daily flashcards to review.

You learn based on phrases rather than individual words. A long sentence will be presented in its entirety. The lesson will then go through each word individually before combining them into phrases and, finally, the full sentence from the start. Then you will learn vocabulary needed for variations. The activities are fairly standard for a language app: speaking, listening, multiple choice. You can also turn off the interactive feature and have the lesson run as a “speak and repeat” style podcast. It tracks the hours you’ve spent learning a language and there is an activity log, but no in depth stats.

Key features:

It is focused on speaking immediately.

Has a ton of languages and several dialects for those languages.

Focuses on phrases and patterns that are most useful if traveling or having brief, friendly interactions.

Presents information in a digestible way and isn’t overwhelming.

Includes culture and grammar notes.

$12.99 a month but most public libraries and schools give you free access. You can also set up a household account for multiple people and split the cost with friends/family.

The first lesson of any language is free, and some rare and indigenous languages are completely free to access.

Audio is native speakers. When you record yourself, your vocal wave pattern appears that you can compare with the native speaker.

Best uses:

If you are traveling soon and want to navigate basic, friendly interactions, this will get you there quick. Within 1-3 months easily, depending on the language and how often you practice.

I also recommend this as a starting place when you are totally new to a language or to learning a language in general. The structure is excellent for getting a feel for things.

This is also great if you studied a language previously and need to refresh your memory or get back into it.

Potential downsides:

The “record yourself” feature is fairly buggy and often freezes up. It can also be annoying to try and match the timing of the native speaker, but you don’t have to record audio to progress past those lesson points so it isn’t too much of an inconvenience.

It isn’t meant for total fluency. As stated, the lessons (at least that I have done) are focused on speaking while traveling and making small talk. Some of the early lessons teach you to say “sorry, I don’t speak [x]”. Which is very useful if going abroad soon, but less so if you would rather just be able to speak that language.

The regimented nature can make it feel slow/too easy if you are also using other methods.

The review flashcards only have a binary “yes/no” option which feels annoying for longer phrases or after using Anki-style cards.

With any course like this, you aren’t going to have much choice in the vocab you learn or prioritizing topics.

LingQ

I am honestly surprised I don’t see more about this. I think they have been making a bunch of updates recently so maybe the version I’m using is miles above previous ones, but it is shockingly powerful. It’s also the hardest to explain (which may be why I don’t see much written about it and why this is going to be a long section.) LingQ (pronounced “link”) operates on a hybrid comprehensible/massive input model. While Anki prioritizes memorization and Mango priorities speaking, LingQ focuses on comprehension and listening. LingQ is comprised of courses which are made up of lessons. There are pre-built courses made by LingQ but the real goal is to make your own (more on that later).

Each lesson within a course has an audio recording and a written transcript. Words you haven’t seen before are highlighted blue (when you start, that’s every word). You click the word to see the definition and assign it one of 5 statuses: ignore, new, recognized, familiar, learned, or known. “Ignore” is used for things like names or borrowed words, they won’t be counted in your stats. “Known” is for words you knew before seeing them. You likely won’t have any of these if you’re starting a new language with no prior experience. Levels 1-3 highlight the word yellow and it becomes a LingQ. You can create a LingQq using as many words as you want. You can manually change the status of a word when you see it. You can also do various review activities similar to Mango, and if you get a word right twice in a row it will automatically bump up a level. You can always adjust it back down if needed. LingQ is very focused on the value of listening to a language. You can add lessons to playlists and listen to them like a podcast.

My personal favorite part of LingQ is the ability to import lessons. Especially YouTube videos. The site has a browser extension that will import any content in your target language into a lesson as an embedded item. You can then read/listen to/watch that content right in the app and get “credit” for it. LingQ’s statistics are some of the coolest/most motivating I’ve seen. You get coins for completing tasks but those are really just to see a number get bigger. It also tracks the words you’ve read, how many words you know, the hours listened, and speaking/writing if you utilize their tutor marketplace or writing forum.

The free trial is very limited but it’s enough to poke around and get a feel for things before signing up, not necessarily to learn anything substantial. The monthly membership is $12.95 and there’s a $199 lifetime option as well. I definitely recommend spending some time playing around at the free level and then upping to monthly if you like it.

Key features:

The ability to import lessons. It will also create a simplified version of shorter content. This is an AI generated summary of whatever you’ve imported. I use this for videos where natural speaking cadence can make it hard to parse things sometimes. It’s easier/more productive if I know generally what’s going on.

The creation of LingQs. I just think it’s a really cool and useful way to approach comprehensible input. You can visually see the yellow fading as you understand more and more of a lesson.

You can export LingQs to Anki (theoretically). I’ve never done this myself and I’ve seen some forum posts saying it doesn’t work super well all the time but it is a built in feature.

In-depth stats tracking and the ability to consume all the content easily in app. The stats would be annoying if it wasn’t literally easier to watch a video via LingQ than on YouTube.

Community features. There are community challenges (like Duolingo) but also a forum to submit writing that will be corrected by native speakers and a marketplace of tutors to easily sign up for speaking lessons. The forum is free and volunteer based, but scrolling through I didn’t see anyone who didn’t have at least one reply. The tutors are paid at an hourly rate and you can also pay by the word to have them correct written work.

Super flexible. There really isn’t any one right way to use this app so you can structure it however you like and set your own goals/metrics.

Playlists and focus on listening. It really does help to constantly be immersed in what a language sounds like, and being able to read and listen to the same thing has been so nice.

Actually decently helpful emails and not just spam.

Best for:

Hardcore language learners. The app/site provides some guidance on how to get started and the basic idea, but you’ll need to play around with it and spend some time reading forum posts or the emails they send to find what works for you.

Getting to higher levels of fluency after maxing out other apps/self study methods.

People looking to spend a lot of time on language learning because they enjoy it. This isn’t snarky, but there’s a difference between wanting or needing to learn Spanish to communicate at work or on vacation and just really enjoying learning languages. This is an app for language nerds.

Potential downsides:

Very overwhelming. They technically say you can jump right in with 0 knowledge of a language and be good to go, but I think it would be hard to make a lot of progress unless you’ve learned other languages before. If you’re looking to learn a new language for the first time, I recommend starting with Mango to get your bearings.

Doesn’t teach new alphabets. This isn’t a huge issue for Mango since it’s speaking focused, but I wouldn’t jump into Arabic or Russian on LingQ without spending some time learning the alphabet with other methods.

User generated definitions. This is a double edged sword. The definitions being linked to sites like Globse can lead to wrong definitions, but because you’re seeing things in context it’s easier to catch. And looking into what a phrase means is a great way to learn if you are really into languages.

The import feature isn’t 100% perfect when it comes to videos. It will only create a transcript when the video has captions enabled or a transcript provided, otherwise it just shows up as an audio file. It will also sometimes randomly just not be able to import a video which can be annoying, but in the grand scheme of things these are very minor annoyances.

Time commitment. The method doesn’t require a ton of actively sitting down and reviewing vocab or reading new words, but it does assume that you’ll swap out listening to music or podcasts while going about your day with listening to content in your target language. This is all well and good unless you really enjoy listening to specific content while doing tasks or need help not getting distracted. It’s going to be a lot of incomprehensible noise for a while before you can parse it. This might not be a downside as much as something to keep in mind when considering how effective it’s going to be for you.

Not as active of a community. Maybe it’s just for my particular languages, but there definitely aren’t a ton of people actively doing things like challenges. This really doesn’t matter much to me but it could be a bummer if you’re looking for that.

tl;dr just tell me how to learn things

If you need to learn a new alphabet, start with that. Otherwise, Mango to get your bearings, Anki to add to your vocab as you get bored with Mango, and LingQ to realistically get “fluent”. Then start writing and speaking either using tutors or people you know or local language groups.

[nottskyler]

I’m really disappointed in the amount of history we get in the book of Helaman. I don’t know if it was caused by poor record keeping at the time (mildly supported by Christ telling them to add Samuel the Lamanite’s prophecy to the record) or if Mormon just didn’t think it important (supported by Helaman 3).

Because literally this is a period of time where race is a problem. Helaman 3:1–3 tried to claim there was nothing wrong and then all of a sudden a whole bunch of people who used to be comfortable with the Nephites move north and the majority of these people happen to be descendants of Laman (Helaman 3:12). Hmm, I think someone thought racism wasn’t contention and wasn’t actually a problem. I don’t think large groups suddenly up and migrate for fun. Did the Nephites enact a black priesthood ban or something? We don’t know except for the fact that Samuel the Lamanite’s prophecy was not considered important enough to record.

There is also the prosperity gospel that seemed to be mainstream enough that the record writer first said the Church had pride entering into its heart, only to remember that the organization is made up of people and they were truly the ones culpable (a truth we need in our “corporations are people too” era).

And even though Nephi and Lehi were the prophets and imprisoned, it was the dissenters and the Lamanites preaching to each other and the voice of presumably the Lord. Nephi and Lehi did nothing, which makes me wonder if the Lamanites and Nephite dissenters were the only ones being called to repentance that day. Especially since Nephi and Lehi went home and the Lamanites became more righteous even though the Nephites had their prophets back (because they were rejected by the people up north, you know the people who moved because of racism).

I’m fairly certain I’ve already expressed my disdain for Nephi praying on a public street and prophesying murder and how it doesn’t really feel legit. Also, he only goes on about stop seeking gain over everything else (while he can afford a garden next to a major road in a city) but Samuel goes on more than that and warns them about lifting up false prophets and following them while decrying true prophets as false (though Nephi does not seem to be included in this group so maybe he did repent). Nephi just doesn’t seem like a great prophet because of all these things.

So yeah, the best part of Helaman is always the prophecies of Samuel, but I’m wondering what we could’ve learned if we had better records of race and what actually caused the strife between the former Lamanites and the Nephites. If we were given insight as to what was convincing people to dissent (though most of the time this fact isn’t shared except when they want to have a king; we never learn why Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah dissented from the Church even) so we can better relate in our day.

But sometimes we are forced to learn the same lesson because people refuse to admit they had the same problem. We are forced to make mistakes that could’ve been prevented if previous generations were more willing to share their learning process. It’s just that I see an excellent lesson on race issues that we have needed forever but it is only a vague outline and so we have nothing.

Honestly, I feel the lack of repentance for the Priesthood and Temple ban is why the Church is going through something similar for LGBT people. Because we haven’t had a true change of heart in our doctrine that eradicates oppression. The Church still glories in being better than others through things we can’t control. Hopefully our history won’t be recorded with such broad strokes to hide our mistakes so that no one else has to go through a similar process of repeating these mistakes.

[theshynerdsworld]

THE MUSE part 4

Benedict Bridgerton x female oc

(I forgot to add, that Mary is 21 and it is set loosely around season 2)

Warning: talks of sex, kissing, flirting (I sort of took idea from when the duke explained the Daphne )

——

The very next morning, Benedict walked into the house of Miss Mary Francis as he walked in, he told the servant, that he was here to see Mary. He followed the man and saw no one there “she has had no suitors?”, “she did earlier, sir.” He nodded as he waited “a Mr. Benedict Bridgerton to see Miss. Mary Elizabeth Francis.” She looked up as stood up to greet him “Benedict? Hello.” She smiled as he walked to her, holding candies and flowers “I heard you are partial to babies breathe and peony’s.” He handed her them, which Mary took and smelt, smiling “thank you, they’re beautiful.”, “also! I heard a certain candy with strawberry syrup in, from Nigel’s convenience is also a favourite.” She did a tiny giggle as she gave the flowers to her hand maid, who went to put them in water “thank you” she took them “why don’t you sit” he nodded.

Benedict took the seat next to her as Mary sat, Johnathon was sat at the table, reading keeping a close eye on them and max came running in, as they spoke “who’s that?” He sat on Johnathons lap “that’s Benedict Bridgerton.” He whispered, as he shushed him as Mary laughed at Benedict, she put her head to the side and blushed “this one is going better.” The six year old said, Mary excused herself, quickly and stood up then walked to Johnathon “is it ok, if we had a walk in the garden?” He nodded “take greta with you.”, “can I come!” She shook her head “sorry max..” she walked back to Benedict and told him. The two walked out of the sitting room doors, outside along with greta of course.

As the two walked, greta followed behind “so.” They both said at the same time, she blushed “go on.” She said, linking arms with him “I am to be apart of George’s exhibition.” She nodded “how wonderful! Will you be showing your fruit paintings and landscapes?” She asked, innocently “I was wondering.. well, if you want to pose for it.” Mary stopped and blinked “I cannot..”, “even if you wore a mask?” He asked, as they started walking again “and a sexy outfit.” She smacked his arm gently “you are terrible, Benedict Bridgerton.”, “me? I’m innocent, Mary Elizabeth Francis.” She cringed “don’t use my middle name.. I hate it.. It was named after my great aunt.. she is awful.”, “she’s still alive?” He looked at her “she refuses to die” she laughed morbidly and alittle breathlessly “why don’t we sit.” He suggested as he noticed her breathlessness “are you alright?” She nodded “yes, just happens sometimes..” she held her stomach alittle “do you need a doctor?” He asked concerned and he shook his head “no, I’m fine now.” She breathed “I haven’t been honest.. I have asthma..” he nodded “right.. my brothers are fine.. I’m the one who got it unfortunately.”

He gave her a sympathetic look “I do not need pity.” She scolded “no pity here.” He held his arms up as he took his jacket off “put it on. I don’t want you getting sick.”, “I can’t wear your jacket! What will people think?” He looked around, and waved at greta “only people I see is Greta.” He cleared his throat “Greta? You won’t judge and spread gossip to the rest of the people, about this will you?” The older women laughed and shook her head “see.” He helped her put it on and it swamped her “when are your grandparents back?”, “tomorrow.. with great aunt Elizabeth…” wrapping the jacket around, she looked sad “why the face?”, “I had a suitor here and he spoke of marriage..” Mary whispered “a Lord Jack Rippleton.. he wants four children..” she looked around, nervous even though Greta wouldn’t say anything “what happens.. during..” he watched some dukes in the pond “during what?” He questioned, as he smiled softly, as they waddled “the wedding night.” She whispered, softly. Benedict looked at her and laughed nervously.

“Did I offend you?” Mary asked “I didn’t mean to.. I’m just curious.. my grandmother and my mother, when she was alive never told me..” Benedict kept starting to talk then stopped, getting closer “she won’t say anything. Greta.. she has many of my secrets.” She whispered “what secrets?”, “I’ll tell you one day, maybe..” she innocently nibbled her bottom lip “a man and a women, will… become intimate” he stopped and she nodded for him to go on, he searched her eyes ‘I shouldn’t be telling her this’ he thought ‘oh well’ he added then said “a man will.. better way, have you ever touched yourself.. down there.” She blinked and blushed “once, when I was nine

Benedict swallowed alittle then said “he can use his lips.. his tongue” she gasped alittle getting closer, Greta looked the other way “his penis..” she raised her eyebrow “he inserts it..” her lips hovered over his “is that it..”, “there’s more..” he nudged his lips against her, Benedict tried to resist “a women can..” their lips touched and smashed against each other, they made little moans as they made out. He pulled away from her and bit her lip alittle “what can a women do..” she whispered as the heavens opened and rain started to pelt down “shit!” He said as he stood up “come on, we should go in.” She nodded, holding his arm as they walked up, using his jacket to shield himself and Greta used an umbrella, they walked in and saw max passed out on the floor and Jonathan, was not around but came in, holding a blanket for max “are you two ok?” They nodded, their hair wet and Mary breathless alittle “I will see you another time Mary.”, “I will walk you out.” He nodded as Greta followed, she smiled as they reached the door “what did you see, in order for you..” he whispered “i will tell you one day..” she whispered back. He smiled and said “until we see each other again.” Then whispered “tomorrow night. Studio” she nodded quickly and he left, Greta came up behind her “I’ve ordered a bath to be drawn and you need to change out of them wet clothes.” She nodded as she followed.

“Um Greta.”, “I won’t say anything miss. I never do.” They walked up the stairs “so you think he likes me?” Greta sighed and said “he’s smitten. He’d make a good husband.” She giggled at Greta as they walked into the room “could you deliver a letter to him… it can only be handed to him.. or his butler..” Greta nodded “I hope you know what you’re doing miss.. if your gran..”, “they aren’t gonna find out. Trust me.”

Half an hour later, she laid in the bath and yawns, as her hair floated around her neck and Greta knocked on the door and Mary groaned “go away! I’m relaxing.” Greta sighed and said “miss, your grandparents are back with your great aunt…”, “nooo! How am I meant to go to Benedict’s!” She whined as Greta walked in “come on. Out! You’ve been in for nearly an hour” Greta held the towel and she got out, wrapping her around. “You’ll find away.”, “i wanted to surpise him tonight.” Greta shook her head “no, Mary. You are to stick to when he says.” Greta scolded “do you think, if he should propose.. I should.. accept.”, “in my opinion, when that man looks at you.. I’m surprised, he hasn’t applied for a special licence.” Mary blushed as she walked into her room.

“Time to face the grandparents and great aunt.”

(I dunno if I will redo this.. I’m not sure..)

[cal-daisies-and-briars]

⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️🧟‍♂️

🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨

🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸(this may or may not be my favorite)

Hope you have fun at your Music Festival, may it being you the best comfort and inspiration ✨️

Thank you so much! Other than hurting myself immediately, it was very fun!

74 for ⚡️:

—-

“Oh,” Buck realizes. “Okay, well I guess those are two separate things to think about?”

“Well, until they’re not.” Eddie says.

“Meaning?” Buck asks, frowning.

Eddie feels like a buzzkill. He doesn’t want to bring the mood down. It’s just now that he’s been thinking about it all, wanting it all so badly, the more he’s realizing it’s not exactly a snap of the fingers, simple achievement.

“Well, when do you want a kid?” Eddie asks.

Buck scratches his chin thoughtfully.

“I’m not picky,” Buck shrugs after a moment. “Like whenever you feel is good for you. But the longer we wait, the bigger the age gap with Chris. That would be my only concern.”

Eddie nods. “I agree with that. So then, we need a bigger house sooner rather than later.”

“Oh. Right. Yeah, I guess we would.”

“Which we can’t exactly afford while paying for a wedding and helping Adriana with your loft,” Eddie says.

Eddie watches the variables stack behind Buck’s eyes.

“Right,” he says.

“So we have to figure that out and really think about the order we want things.” Eddie adds. “Be realistic, you know?”

For an uncomfortable moment, he thinks of the arguments he used to have with Shannon. Talks of plans or the future causing one or both of them the spiral a little. Stuck in their own fears and needs and flaws. He used to hate when it felt like Eddie was trucking forward the best he knew how, and her questions and concerns seemed to claw him backwards. Even if they were probably all incredibly valid, in hindsight. He doesn’t want Buck to feel like that about their future.

Luckily, Buck doesn’t seem upset.

“You’re right,” Buck exhales. “That’s complicated. All of this is expensive. Having a baby will be expensive for us too.”

“There’s different options for that,” Eddie says.

He’s done some research. Probably not as much as Buck has done.

Buck nods. “For sure. Yes. I’m not set on any one thing.”

“I’m not trying to be a downer,” Eddie tells him. “I really want this all as badly as you.”

Buck smiles sympathetically. “Eddie, I know. I know you do.”

“I just don’t want this to come up later and us feel in a corner or unsure what the other wants.”

“No, you’re right.” Buck agrees. “So what do we do?”

“Figure out what we want to prioritize most, I guess.” Eddie shrugs.

“That makes sense,” Buck agrees. He thinks on it for a moment. “Well, I really want to be married to you. I don’t want to delay that. But I also don’t need it to be complicated or expensive. I’m happy with something small.”

“I don’t want to delay it either,” Eddie agrees. “And, honestly? Small and easy sounds good. Intimate sounds good. I’d rather spend the money on a house or on a kid.”

“Okay, so there. We do that, soon, then work on the rest of it?” Buck suggests.

Eddie nods. “That was easy, I guess.”

“Well, I try not to make things difficult,” Buck shrugs.

—- 54 for 🧟: —-

“Thank you. I promise you won’t be hurt.”

Hen and Bobby exchange a concerned look. Buck steps forward towards the police cruiser, not looking to be dissuaded.

Athena holsters her gun and hurries towards the cruiser’s back door. Buck follows behind her, running the signs of infection through his head. The ones they were told over and over look out for on TV, on the radio, on the internet. Until none of those things worked anymore.

First sign, a yellow tinge to the whites of their eyes. Like jaundice.

Second sign, profuse sweating and restlessness.

Thirds sign, fever and delirium, characterized by a staunch refusal to hydrate.

Fourth and finally, rage and aggressive behavior. Biting. Seeming inability to feel pain.

After that, they just keep going until they burn themselves out. If they can cannibalize enough other people, they can persist for a few months maybe. If not, the dehydration gets them pretty quick. It’s like they run themselves to the ground. The most Buck can hope for is that eventually they all will. And the virus will somehow be gone.

Between exposure and the end stage, can be anywhere from eight hours to a day. If this girl is forty-eight hours through, there's a good chance she won’t turn. Buck thinks. Hopes, anyway. Just because he’s never heard of it doesn’t mean it isn’t possible. Athena opens the back passenger door and steps aside. Buck looks inside the vehicle, to where two kids huddle, frightened, inside. A boy of maybe nine or ten. And a teenage girl, not too much older. The girl is laying, shivering a little, her head on a pillow on her brother’s lap. He’s got two skinny arms over her, protectively. Buck sees a long, patchy bandage job on the girl’s leg, extending up the majority of her calf. That’s where she must have been scratched.

“Hi, there,” Buck says to the kids calmly. “I’m Buck. I just need to look at your sister, okay?”

The little boy tightens his grip over his sister’s shoulders.

“Let him help, Harry,” Athena tells him. “He’s going to help us.”

Buck smiles as best he can, through his nerves. He tries to look disarming. He’s literally armed, though. So that doesn’t help.

Harry relaxes his grip so Buck leans further into the cruiser to check on his sister. May, was it? He reaches and, hesitantly - like she might turn and bite him - places the back of his hand across her forehead. It’s clammy. Hot. She’s definitely feverish. But her skin isn’t very sweaty and, while she is shivering, she seems to be otherwise still.

“Can you open your eyes for me?” He asks her.

She does. She tries.

—- 51 for 🚨: —-

“Just do what you can,” Bobby says. “It’s not your fault that this-”

“Got it.” Buck, clearly struggling, interrupts. 

“Oh my god he did not,” Hen exclaims. 

“What?” Bobby asks her. “What did he do?”

Eddie flies around the pool deck, abandoning his task. He scrambles to a small, open spot of ledge beside Hen and looks over, down at Buck and Alan. His stomach drops as he sees the end of the line, clipped to the backboard haphazardly, swinging uselessly a few feet from the tree. Buck is no longer attached to it. Instead, he is disconnected, positioned in the tree, underneath the branches that are suspending Alan, wedged at such an angle that his back is holding Alan up. 

“Oh fuck,” Eddie exhales. 

“What the hell does he think he’s doing?” Bobby demands, coming up behind Eddie. “Were my instructions not clear?”

He realizes that Buck cannot hear his chastizing and repeats this into the radio. 

Which, fair. Because Eddie would also like to know what the hell Buck is thinking. He is too horrified to be properly angry about. Like if he so much as twitches, Buck will fall and be killed. 

“Now he… won’t fall… Before the choppers… Get here…” Buck answers. 

“That idiot,” Hen seethes. “That absolute idiot.”

“Why would he do this?” Eddie mutters as quietly as he can. 

Hen whirls on him.

“Maybe he learned this from the man who cuts his own line forty feet down.” 

Well… Okay. Eddie supposes he doesn’t have a leg to stand on. But that had been a little boy. This is Alan. As shitty as that is to think, Eddie is thinking it. It’s Alan and it’s Buck. Eddie can’t lose Buck for anything. He simply couldn’t bear that. 

🔸🔸🔸

Between unclipping himself and air support arriving, roughly three and a half minutes pass. Really, it’s not that bad. He’s absolutely going to make this argument to Bobby. It’s not that bad. 

Which, sure, is also sort of a lie. It’s agonizing, for one. Buck’s back and neck muscles are on fire, quivering, by the time he is relieved by a team which includes a pilot everyone but Buck and Eddie seem to recognize. And who Hen doesn’t seem entirely happy to see, despite the necessity of his arrival. It’s also sort of terrifying. Every time there’s a strong gust of wind or Alan shifts unconsciously, Buck is nearly thrown off balance. His foot could easily slip. Then they’d both be dead. 

Buck doesn’t want to wind up a heap of broken bones at the bottom of this tree trunk.

---

138 for 🩸:

---

It happens quickly. Not unexpectedly or without warning. But quicker than Eddie expected, nevertheless. 

On a Monday morning in the beginning of February, after days surrounded by his son, Buck, and Sophia, celebrating birthdays and reunions, Eddie is left entirely alone for a day. It shouldn’t be an issue. It isn’t really an issue. He’s used to being alone. He got very, very good at it out there. That’s actually probably what the issue is. 

He’s a little fucked up now, maybe. 

Now, after nights spoiled by sharing a bed with Buck, and waking up to hugging his son, and moving about the day under the constant presence of his sister’s snark, the moment everyone is gone, Eddie feels hollow. Hollow and cold. Buck leaves first for work. Then Sophia leaves for work herself, taking Chris to his first day back at Durand on her way. Which Eddie can’t do because they can’t know about him. Buck and Sophia are the only people listed to drop him off or pick him up. So just like that, Eddie is home and purposeless. Waiting on them. Wondering if it has all just been a dream. 

Of course it’s not. He knows he’s being dramatic and anxious and they will, all three of them, come back. First Sophia and Chris, this evening. Then Buck tomorrow morning. It will be okay. Except, actually, then it will just happen again. Again and again and again, day after day, as their lives move around them, and Eddie is trapped in fugitive limbo. 

He tries things to pass the time. He gives it a little effort. He cleans the house. He exercises. He even meal preps. Which really, for him, is a sign of desperate boredom. But it’s something he can do to make himself feel like a useful father again. Still, he has hours to himself. 

For this reason, he does something he might not usually do. The only thing he can think of, really, to stem the increasing listlessness in him. 

He calls May. 

She gave Eddie her information when they visited her. And since then, with Chris returning and demanding a way to contact Eddie no matter what, Buck has made sure Eddie has cell service. In case Wi-Fi is ever not an option. So he calls May. 

“How do you do it?” He asks her, the moment she picks up. 

“Eddie? Do what?” 

“Hi, yes. It’s me.” Eddie says. “Sorry. How do you deal with all the time? Hiding.”

“Oh. Well, how did you do it before?” 

“I was surviving,” Eddie explains. “My hours were filled with trying to not die. With trying to get stronger. Now I’m just sitting at home, doing chores, waiting for people to come back.”

“I get that.” May replies. “I felt like that for a while, too. Probably put a lot of pressure on Harry to spend all his free time with me.” 

“Yeah,” Eddie sighs. “Unfortunately Sophia and Buck have to work to pay for my child, who has to go to school. I don’t know who to bug. Other than you, evidently.”

May laughs good-naturedly. 

“Well, you can bug me all you want. You’re kind of the only other person I know who gets it. Other than some online connections. But that’s not the same.” 

“Thank you,” Eddie says. “Really.”

“To answer, getting an online job helped,” May says. “And I’ve been reading more than ever. Got back into art, which I haven’t done since high school.” 

“Are you telling me to get a hobby?” Eddie pretends to be offended.

“Pretty much.” 

“It’s a fair suggestion,” Eddie admits. “I guess I’ll look into it.”

“Do you want me to ask my mom to try and get fake papers for you? So you can apply to a job online as someone other than yourself?” 

Eddie’s not sure, after his time at Dispatch, if he’s meant for working on the computer. But it may be his only option, all things considered. Who is he to turn away a chance? 

“That’d be great. Thank you.”

“You got it.” May says. “And maybe we can do something one of these days where you’re on your own. If that’s not weird. I know some safe places where we could almost be normal.” 

“That sounds really nice,” Eddie admits. “You’re right, if it’s not… Weird.”

“Guess it’ll just have to not be, then.” 

Eddie smiles. “Thanks, May.”

When they end the call, he already feels a bit better.

💧💧💧

Work is just automatically better now that Bobby knows the truth. Like instantaneous.Bobby claps him on the shoulder when they greet in the morning, a warm, almost apologetic smile on his face. 

“Glad you’re back,” Bobby says. 

It could be about the eight days it’s been since Buck last worked. Or, it could be that they’re back. The way they used to be. The way they should be.

Hen, Chim, and Ravi notice, too. If Eddie’s dumb fucking replacement Andy does, Buck doesn’t know. He doesn’t pay attention to that lemon. But Buck’s actual team, his family, shoot Bobby and Buck weird glances all morning. To the point that Bobby calls Buck into his office for an impromptu meeting. 

“We should tell them,” Bobby says. 

“About Eddie and May?” Buck asks.

“Yes.”

Buck swallows, uncertain. “Why haven’t you told them about her, yet?”

“Because I couldn’t tell you,” Bobby replies.

Buck’s chest hurts a little. 

“Oh.”

“We can trust those three. Plus Karen and Maddie. I mean, I’m surprised you haven’t told Maddie yourself.”

Yeah… He hasn’t even called her in well over a week. He’s fairly certain his quick answers to her text inquiries weren’t good enough. Fuck. He knows he should have told Maddie. He knows he should have confided in her from the start. 

“It’s hard, now. Now that I haven’t.” Buck admits. 

“I know what you mean,” Bobby nods.

“We could tell them,” Buck exhales finally. “If Eddie is on board.” 

“Talk to him,” Bobby says.