#things have been busy and I managed to finish this during lunch oof

[dleep-deprivation-idk-jelp]

Memento Mori

Happy 2nd anniversary unus annus :)

[creativeskullcreations]

Outside chapter 12: Move Out!

Whoo, got this up in time! :D

And we're meeting Stacy's other two friends! I hope y'all like them, or at least grow to like them cause we'll be seeing them a lot more in the coming chapters. They're important to the story. ;D

The apartment was full of boxes of Stacy's stuff that Will had spent however long packing for her. To the young woman, who hadn't been home in weeks, it was an odd feeling seeing her home in boxes, with her shelves and closet empty. Currently she was helping to move said boxes into the U Haul outside. By which I mean she was holding the door for Will and Mason, who were the ones actually moving the boxes. While the boys were busy, Lisa was cleaning out the cupboards and fridge, which Will had forgotten about completely despite being there so often.

"Seriously, Will! You've been over here for how many days, and never thought to check the fridge for leftovers?" Lisa asked as she threw the food, Tupperware and all, into the trash. "What, were you just bringing food from home everyday?"

"Yes." Will answered seriously, not looking up from his work. The blonde woman stared dumbfounded before rolling her eyes.

"Unbelievable! Mason! You hearing this shit?" She called. Mason gave a thumbs up as he walked by, arms laden with shoe boxes. Stacy watched him closely, not wanting to lose her old games in case he dropped them. Not that she could do much to catch them with only one arm, but she could at least yell at him for it.

"It's not that big a deal, Lisa." She told her friend, after making sure Mason could navigate the stairs okay. "Really, most of the stuff in there had probably already gone bad anyways."

"That's not the point! It's still a waste!" The blonde insisted, dumping a bottle of juice with clouds of mold floating in it into the trash. Stacy winced, knowing she'd bought that back in December and then forgotten about it. It was still mostly full, too.

"Yeah..." She moved back to the couch, where she'd left her bag. Inside the bag was Scout with the Switch. It was a risk bringing her while they did this, but somehow Stacy felt it would be a bigger risk to leave her behind. So she'd brought her along, making her she had the Switch to stay entertained, even if she had to keep the sound off. And so far, nobody seemed to have noticed.

She opened the bag, peering inside. The Puppet was curled up in the bottom, the Switch off and sitting next to her. "Hey, you okay in there?" She asked quietly.

"I'm fine!" Scout hissed back. "Close the fucking bag!" Stacy did so, zipping it all the way shut and leaving it on the couch. She sat next to it, watching the others work to pack up her home, moving the boxes down to the U Haul in the street. She wanted to help, but the few times she attempted to she dropped stuff, and then Will finally made her stop.

Still, she felt restless, so much so that eventually she grabbed her bag and stood up. "Hey, I'm going for a walk! I'll be back later!" She called out. Mason, who was nearby, gave her a wave of acknowledgement.

"Don't get eaten by the gators." He told her. She waved back, but ignored him as she went down the stairs, pausing just at the door to open it back up and grab Scout out of it.

"Hey!" She protested, but Stacy ignored her, holding her in the crook of her right arm as she swung her bag back on. It was difficult to do one handed, and she did need to try and maneuver around Scout, but she managed to get it back on

"We're going for a walk. You need some air." She told the Puppet as she did this. Said Puppet still struggled to try and break free, pounding fabric fists against her arm.

"No I fucking don't! I need to go back in the bag!" She fought against her Host, but was ignored as Stacy continued out of the lobby and walked down the sidewalk outside.   Eventually she gave up, realizing that her fighting would only attract the attention of strangers. Instead she huddled back against Stacy's body at the largeness of the world around her, that she only now viewed completely unobscured. She stared with wide eyes as the human hurried her way down the street, crossing it periodically, until she came to a place empty of buildings.

Greenery covered the area, a shade the Puppet had never seen before in fact. There was a large body of water in the middle, and some odd, colorful object in one "corner" of the area. Tiny Hosts, children, were playing on the objects, but Stacy went right by them. Instead she headed down the path to a more secluded and wooded area. She sat cross-legged by a tree, finally letting Scout go. The Puppet flopped over in her lap.

"Why are we even out here?" She griped, staring at the grass. There was a weird red bug not far away, that she hoped wouldn't come close to them. If it even tried she would smack it.

"Because you need fresh air. You can't just hide in the bag all day, no matter what Will says." Stacy told her. "Besides, I don't like watching them do all that for me, knowing I can't help them." She very much did NOT look at her stump, absolutely not. Instead she stared through the trees at the still somewhat visible lake. There were ducks on it, and she could see a couple of people feeding them.

She wondered if Scout would like feeding them.

Rather than getting up, though, she stayed seated, letting Scout look around instead. She'd been meaning to bring the Puppet out here, but hadn't had a chance before the hospitalization. And then there was the remainder of the healing, taken place at Will house - now her and Will's house - during which he'd barely let her out of sight. It was only after an intense, whispered argument that he'd even begun to let up and allow her to do stuff for herself again, though he'd still hovered.

And now they were finishing packing up her apartment, ready to make the move complete. It was a shame, in her mind. She really did love her independence. But, it was better for everyone involved if this move happened. Especially Scout. If her and Will staggered their schedules, someone could be with her at all times.

(Stacy didn't know yet why that was so important, though. She just knew she didn't want Scout alone.)

But now, at least, she could take Scout out to enjoy some nature. And even now she had crawled down to the ground to pick at the grass, and Stacy winced when she thought of the grass stains that would form. But, she didn't stop her, letting her explore around a little, and look at things. Scout even picked up a stick, though she only used it to swat a ladybug.

Soon the Puppet climbed back into her lap, looking mildly disgusted and agitated. "I hate it here. It smells fucking weird, and I want to go back to your house."

Stacy snorted, but complied, getting up with only a little difficulty. Scout climbed up to her shoulder, stick still in hand. "Fine, we'll go back. It's almost lunch time anyways. Also what you're smelling is the trees and grass."

"The trees and grass fucking stink." Scout grumbled, and Stacy did laugh quietly at that, and got smacked lightly with the stick for it.

"Well, you're not wrong." She admitted, grabbing the stick away from the Puppet and dropping it on the ground. "It can be kinda an acquired taste, so to speak."

"Ew." Scout muttered, covering her nose as they started back the way they'd come. She glared suspiciously at the plants as they passed, as though she was worried they'd spray their stench right at her.

Stacy wondered what she'd think about skunks when she found out about them.

They made their way back to Stacy's apartment in silence, though it was a more comfortable silence than before. As Stacy made her way back upstairs to her apartment, Scout took the chance to hide in the bag. Stacy may believe her friends were good, but that didn't mean Scout did. Not that it mattered much, anyways.

Soon after Stacy got back, the group decided to go for lunch, which really just meant that Mason went to get McDonald's. Stacy asked for a Happy Meal, then slipped the opened toy into her bag for Scout when no one was looking. She didn't know if the Puppet would even want the little Barbie, but it certainly didn't hurt to offer it up.

They all ate quickly, talking and laughing as they did. Lisa ribbed Will on when he would propose, now that they were living together. "You only have so long before her other hand goes." She pointed out jokingly. "Then where will you put the ring?"

Will just shrugged, and Stacy pelted her with chicken nuggets. Mason laughed.

"The neck, obviously. She'd need a nice collar to help keep her out of trouble." He explained. "I could even make you a fancy chain for night time if you need it."

"Wow!" Stacy gave an over exaggerated gasped, though she wasn't really offended. Far too often had she sneaked out at night to go explore some place or another. "And right after I threw my nuggets at Lisa, too!"

"Don't fault me on my timing!" Will smacked a ketchup packet on the back of his head, making a horrid squelching sound. "Ew! Will!" The man's voice jumped up several octaves, but Will just kept on chewing his burger.

"Oof. That's gonna need a shower. You're showering when we get home Mason." Lisa said as he tried to clean his hair with some napkins.

Eventually, though, they managed to finish eating and get back to packing. And after that it wasn't long before all of the boxes loaded up into the U Haul. As they filtered out, Mason, Will, and Lisa carrying the last few boxes, Stacy paused to take one last look.

The living room looked just like it had before she moved in. Kind of sad, really, even with the memories it brought back. She could almost see herself and her family helping her move in four years ago, and remembered the excitement she'd felt back then. Or when she'd bring Will over, before he'd moved out here himself, and how much fun they'd have.

She didn't want to leave. Will had to come back up and lead her out, then drop the keys off at the office with her.

Stacy got into the U Haul with Mason and they made their way to Will's house. They would unload it tomorrow, with another fast-food lunch somewhere in there. Until then they were all due for a good night's sleep and some real food for supper.

After Mason and Lisa left and Will started on dinner, Stacy opened up her bag to finally let Scout out. "Finally!" The Puppet gasped out dramatically, flopping out onto the couch. "I though I was going to fucking die!"

"Oh please, you were fine." Stacy snorted. "And don't worry, tomorrow we'll be working here and you can stay in the bedroom. I'll make sure Lisa and Mason stay out of there."

"Uuuuugh!" She groaned, rolling onto her back. "How much longer do I have to deal with them?!" She yelled at, and Stacy almost did laugh at that.

"You aren't dealing with anything but being in the bedroom." She told the Puppet, standing up to go set the table. "Do you wanna eat supper with us tonight?" She asked, more than a little hopeful.

"Nah, you guys go on ahead." She said, already making her way across the couch to the remote. "I found this cool show I wanna watch instead."

"Oh. Did you want me to bring you some food, then?" Stacy hoped she would say yes. She didn't know for sure if Scout needed to eat, but didn't want her to go hungry either way.

"Nope." The Puppet said, in a tone that signaled the end of any discussion on it. Stacy didn't push, and instead went into the kitchen herself. She leaned on the counter on her good hand and sighed heavily.

"You can't make her eat or join us if she doesn't want to." Will told her, deadpan. Stacy pouted.

"I know. But!" She shot up. "What if she needs to eat? What if she starves herself because of something I did? Or because she hates it here?" Will stopped stirring the meat in the pan, fixing his girlfriend with a hard stare.

"Stop freaking out." He told her, then blinked as he realized something. "Wait... Did you take your meds today?" He asked.

"No they need to be refilled. But I'm fine without them, these are real concerns, Will!" She insisted, and he just sighed, turning back to the pan.

"Yeah... we're getting those refilled as soon as possible." He muttered, though not quietly enough.

'Will!" Stacy smacked the counter, but was ignored.

[insanely-creative-things]

Big Hero 7: The Series Holiday

 Big Hero 7 : the series

www.fanfiction.net

Big Hero 7 S2

The Present

The City of San Fransokyo is all abuzz over the holidays. the Lucky Cat Café decorated head to toe with snow flakes, wreaths and ribbons to join in the festivities. As the café is busy with customers and Aunt Cass' jovial mood, two brothers are in their room as the eldest showed the younger his latest invention. Those two, are Hiro and Tadashi Hamada.

"What does it do?'' asked Hiro.

"Its a snow machine.'' answered Tadashi.

Hiro looked closely at the small machine with an eyebrow raised in confusion.

"Don't those already exist?''

"Not one like this. It lowers theometric pressure, generating real climate creating snow. No water pumps. No compressers.''

Hiro looked at the machine more before letting out an inquisitive hmm.

"Interesting..''

" I take it you have notes?'' said Tadashi.

" Well, it sounds like this would require a lot of energy. You could reduce that by adding insulation.''

Hiro handed back the snow machine back to Tadashi as the elder looked at the machine with thoughts.

"Not a bad idea.''

"I know!'' quipped Hiro.

" OK genius, then how about you hand me that screw driver.'' chuckled Tadashi.

Hiro handed over the screw driver as he watched his brother make a few adjustments to the small snow machine until he finished.

"Time for a test run. Ready?''

''Ready!'' replied Hiro.

Tadashi pressed the center button which quickly activates to show little legs as the glass dome starts to change the temperature around them, falling from 70 to 40s.

"Theometric pressure lowering and...!''

Hiro let out a puff of warm air, making him chuckle lightly. That's when he sees the frost building up in their windows, increasing the excitement in both brothers as the first snow falls in their room.

"You did it!'' cheered Hiro.

Tadashi smiled brightly at his brother's enthusiasm until he heard rapid beeping from the snow machine behind him. And that's when he sees its ready to fritz out of control.

"Oh no no Hiro! Get back!'' yelled Tadashi.

Tadashi pushed Hiro to the side of the younger's bed to duck and cover form the impending explosion.

Aunt Cass sings her holidays song as she delivers her funny side up eggs in the equally decorated café until.. a rumble is heard...then felt. Next thing they all knew they were buried in snow.. so much that it piled outside the café and onto the streets. The people manage to pop their heads out of the snow, especially Aunt Cass and her nephews.

"Is everyone OK?'' asked Tadashi.

And immediately, Aunt Cass knew who were responsible for this mess.

"You two?!''

"Sorry Aunt Cass.'' humbly replied Hiro and Tadashi.

*The channel seven news is playing as Buff Dunder, dressed in an elf hat and ears greets the views.. with a misplaced pot of gold by his side.*

Dunder: *Irish accent* Top of the morning to ya- *Whispers to the staff offstage* I thought I was a leprechaun. Oh, an elf... got it.

*He pushes away the pot of gold as he retains his normal voice to broadcast this news.*

Dunder: It looks like another bea-utiful day here at!-*Whispers to chief* Was that chief? Can elves be Irish?

*As that plays on the TV, Hiro is doing his best to carry three boxes of Christmas decorations to the living room. As he places it down to the floor he grabs another three, which catches Baymax's attention.*

Baymax: May I be of assistance?

Hiro: No, I think I got it.

*Hiro slowly walks off, his view limited to the sides and the boxes in front.*

Hiro: *Calling out to Aunt Cass* Aunt Cass? Where should I put the Christmas decoration-Woah!

*And so Hiro trips over his own back, resulting in the three falling boxes to collide with the other three... spilling out some of the contents.*

Aunt Cass: Perfect! Thanks guys!

Hiro: No problem..

Baymax: You're welcome.

*Cass steps out of the kitchen to pick Hiro pick up the decorations with a smile on her face.*

Cass: Hey Hiro, we can decorate the lucky cat after we close tonight OK? I'll make Cocoa, sing carols?..

*That's when she sees Hiro holding one piece of Christmas decoration... Tadashi's stocking. Hiro looks onward before turning his attention to Aunt Cass.*

Hiro: S-Sure... sounds uh.. great...

*Aunt Cass looks on with sad eyes before they perk up with an idea and memory.*

Cass: You know what? I'll get started while you're at school. By the time you all get back, it will be a winter wonderland!... And sides, Cora and her family are coming over tonight remember?

*As Aunt Cass continues doing what she's doing, Hiro picks up the stuff and puts it back to the box, but his long face remained.*

Baymax: Hiro, you appear to be distressed. would you care to talk about it?

Hiro: N-No I'm fine. Don't worry.

*That is when among the ornaments she spots two lone presents inside.*

Hiro: Hey, I think I found some Christmas presents.

*He looks half hearted at the first tops of the tags before shoving one into his backpack.*

Hiro: I*'ll just put mine right here and leave the other for later.

Baymax: Christmas presents are traditionally placed under the tree. And what is the second present for?

Hiro: The other's one for Cora. Guess Aunt Cass went ahead and bought one for her ahead of time. And I won't bug Aunt Cass what she got me... though a little curious what she got for Cora...

*That's when Baymax starts scanning both presents.*

Baymax: Scanning now.

*But Hiro is quick on his feet to stop the scanning process to prevent spoiling the surprise for him and Cora.*

Hiro: Ah! Don't tell me! That's cheating! I have to figure out my present on my own, and Cora should be surprised for her present too... sides. I think she'll like mine. When I get back, I'll put it back before we open presents tonight. K?

*As Hiro is heading out to the stairs, Baymac brings up something.*

Baymax: What about the present for the secret Santa Project?

*Hiro stops in his tracks before he turns his head with a half hearted smile.*

Hiro: Just adding the finishing touches for Miyuki's present, but I'll get it done! See ya Baymax!

*As of while, Cora is at her house checking over the presents for her family and friends, hidden behind her closet as to hide the surprise. She went downstairs to find her family together along with their Baymax. In the past, when it had only been herself, her father, and grandmother, the way they celebrated Christmas had been a little melancholic. Back then her father had been going through wage cuts and therefore did not have much money for decorations, and much less presents. and so they started making their own presents for each other. Then... last year with Hiro's hamada, they got together and celebrated Christmas with them as she had told Hiro before at the meet up. Her smile went down as the reality of it set in... this is their first Christmas without Tadashi... that's when she looks up and saw them. Kage and Chara were talking together over coffee, the former making the latter laugh. She knows its not going to be the same since Tadashi is gone.. but her family had grown as well. And they are now going to Aunt Cass' place tonight to celebrate Christmas as always.*

Baymax 1: Cora, you have 20 minutes before your first class starts.

Cora: *Snapping back to attention* Oh?.. Oh! OK! Thanks Baymax!

*She quickly grabs a piece of toast, kisses her grandmother and father on the cheek, and hugs her uncle and honorary aunt before running out the door. And its on this pathway that she runs into Hiro, always speeding his way out.*

Hiro: Hey Cora!

Cora: Hi Hiro! running late for school?

Hiro: *Raising a coy eyebrow* Shouldn't I ask the same to you?

Cora: *Giggling* Lets just get there! See ya at the cafeteria!

*And so they made it on time for their classes, time passing by in their classes before it finally became lunch time. Hiro and Cora arrive at the table where the gang, plus Miyuki and Esme are at, waiting for the other two.*

Wasabi: Hey Hiro!

Esme: Hiya Cora.

Wasabi: How are you two doing?

*Hiro places his backpack down... where the Roomba slightly pushes it next to Fred's backpack.*

Hiro: I'm OK. though I'm a little worried about this last final.

Cora: But we can get through with this.

*But that's when Wasabi places a hand on Hiro's shoulder while Miyuki holds Cora's.*

Wasabi: We're not talking about school.

Fred: We know things are probably tough...

Honey Lemon: Since its the first Christmas without-

Hiro: I-I know...B-but I'm doing alright. I promise.

*That's when the rest of the gang gather round and hug Hiro, with Cora holding him close to her heart.*

Gogo: We're all here for you if you need us.

Hiro: Thanks guys.

*That's when their phones buzz with a reminder.*

Hiro: I better get to my final.

Cora: Me too.

Fred: Yeah, I got lots of last minute Christmas shopping to do. Off to the comic book shop again.

*While he said this, Fred had inadvertently grabbed Hiro's back pack, leaving his own... and Hiro grabbing Fred's in its place. Soon enough, Hiro and Cora are at Granville's class for their final.*

Granville: Everyone, take out your pencils, and get comfortable. Today's final exam will take approximately... two hours and thirteen minutes to complete.

Class: *Groaning*

Cora: Oof...

Granville: Happy Holidays.

*But as Cora is getting out her sharpened pencil, she notices Hiro next to her rummaging through his backpack... only to realize that its not his backpack... it was Fred's.*

Cora: Oh. no... Fred must've grabbed yours by accident!

Hiro: I should call him quick-

Granville: No talking during the final... and definitely no phones.

*She then holds out a small holiday basket for the students to place until they completed said test. And so they handed it over and back to their desks. Cora is quick to give him her pencil as they pass by. And so, with everyone seated and all with pencils, they set to work, with Hiro giving his all to complete it as soon as possible while passing so he could contact Fred about the had though over every problem, puzzled over each equation, but enough time had passed that Hiro is the first to finish, with Cora being a close second. He places his exam on Granville's desk, with Cora waiting by holding hers.*

Hiro: All done.

*He then goes to the basket and gets his phone. Cora then places it next to Hiro's while giving a small smile before joining them. But as they exited the door, Granville steps out and reaches out to them.*

Granville: Just a moment Mr. Hamada, and you too Miss Mizichio.

*The teens turn their heads to let Granville tell them whatever she had to say.*

Granville: *To Hiro* I realize this must be a difficult Christmas for you..

*Hiro had nothing to say and neither does Cora... But that is when Granville surprised them both when she gave a comforting hug to Hiro, to which he hugs her back.*

Hiro: Thanks Professor Granville.

*that's when Granville's hand over a candy cane for him.*

Granville: In the spirit of the season.

*That's when Granville turns to Cora.*

Granville: Would you mind... if you could wish Kage happy holidays for me?

Cora: I will Professor...*Gets an idea* Or... if you want... You could come by the lucky cat café and wish him yourself... if you want to of course...

*Granville blinked at Cora's invitation as Hiro widened his eyes. Eventually Granville gives her another candy cane, this one striped blue and white, with the same small smile.*

Granville: I'll think about it. *To the teens* Happy Holidays.

Hiro and Cora: Happy Holidays.

*Soon enough the two are in the busy hall with Baymax as Hiro tries to get a hold of Fred to tell them about the mix-up. As of while, Fred is doing his best to wrap a humongous present.*

Fred: *Answering phone* Hey Hiro! *grunts* can't really talk right now! *Straining* I'm having a bit of a situation!

*That's when Mini max falls down from the large Christmas present wrapped in ribbons.*

Minimax: This decorative material is confounding.

*But Hiro is quick to explain.*

Hiro: I just need to know if you have my backpack.

*Fred is quick to find it.*

Fred: Oh yeah, sorry. I must've grabbed it by mistake.

Hiro: There's a present inside, will you make sure its still there?

Fred: Will do. *Throws away phone* Minimax! Hold this please?

*Minimax jumps up and holds the ribbon in place as he checks it out. From Hiro's phone they hear Fred.*

Fred: You sure there was a present here?

Hiro: Yeah.. why?

Fred: Sorry Hiro. But its gone.

Minimax: I cannot hold it much longer!

*Finally the wrapping explodes, resulting in Fred and Minimax trapped in wrapping paper and red ribbons.*

Minimax: Holidays are stressful.

*Back at the school, Hiro looks mortified as Cora and Baymax let out a simple phrase.*

Cora and Baymax: Oh no..

*They dash through the city in a cable car all the way to Fred's mansion. Over there, Hiro and Cora look through every nook and cranny for the present while Hiro explains the situation.*

Hiro: We have to find it before Aunt Cass and I exchange presents tonight!

Fred: OK, not much time. Where should we look?

Baymax: It is likely that you lost the present between the institute and your house.

*Minimax hops over to Baymax and clings to him like a koala.*

Minimax: Excellent use of deduction.

Baymax: Thank you.

Minimax: You are welcome my large, huggable, robot associate.

Hiro: We just need to retrace your steps, everywhere you've been today.

Cora: What did you first after you left SFIT?

Fred: Heathcliff drove me to the comic book store-

Hiro: OK! Lets check the limo!

*Soon enough all four of them are at the limo, looking through the seat in case it fell onto the floor or behind it.*

Fred: Its got to be here somewhere...

*Fred looks at the back and quickly pulls out whatever his hand could feel.*

Fred: A hundred dollar bill... old gum... Oh! I think I feel something! It feels like a bow!

Cora: Really?!

*However, the bow in question wasn't one on top of a present.*

Minimax: It is I! Minimax!

Fred: Sorry Hiro I don't think its here...

Hiro: Nevermind, you said you were going to the comic book store right? Well maybe its there!

*And once again Hiro, Cora, and Baymax dash through the city in the cable car and joined with Fred all the way to Mole's comic book store. Over there Mole is sipping on his smoothie as he stares at the four.*

Mole: Well well well, back so soon?

Fred: Richardson...

Mole: Oh yes, hello. How can I NOT help you.

Hiro: Its about a present-

Mole: Ooh~! Watcha get me this year Fred?

Hiro: You guys get each other gifts?

Cora: Despite being sworn enemies?

Fred: Of course, this year I arranged Richardson a date with Jennifer Lawrence... buts scheduled for the same night Richardson holds his annual worsties.

Cora: The what now?

Fred: The Fresno Worst awards.

Mole: And I got Fred a signed copy Captain Fancy number one...

Fred: *Gasping in excitement*

Mole: but he must accept it with a life time achievement award at the worsties.

Fred: Nuts.

Hiro: So wait... every year you guys get each other gifts you can't enjoy?

Mole: Well, you can't have a fair rivalry without sacrifice.

Fred: Alright *Holds out his hand* Here's to another year of tormentation.

*And so the two shake hands, first as a truce... then as a heated thumb war. A thumb war Cora quickly ended as soon as she got between them and talks to Mole.*

Cora: Look, somewhere around the time Fred got here he dropped a present that was for Hiro from Aunt Cass and we're wondering if you found it.

Mole: A present? You mean a little one with a bow that fell off Fred's backpack?

Cora: Yes! Do you have it?

Mole: Ooh.. ya see, when it fell off I kept it. Finders keepers you know..

Cora: *Face turning red as she grabs Mole by the collar* Give. Hiro's. Present. Back.

Mole: *turning slightly scared* I would if I still had it!

Hiro: But you said finder's keepers! Where is it?

Mole: Who knows? I was on my way to pawn it.

*He then recalls that he was at the cable car when Globby's glop got over it and his pants. And when Globby missed his stop he went off and along with it the present.*

Cora: At least we know its with Globby… but first...

*Cora's grip on his collar increased as she gives a hollow whisper*

Cora: If you ever think of pawning of someone's present, whether it be an enemy or not... you are gonna answer to me you privileged piece of-

*After dragging Cora out the store, while having Fred apologize in Cora's behalf, they get to the cable where they rush towards Globby's apartment. Along the way, Cora' thought ring back to Fred's present for Mole.*

Cora: Wait a minute.. how did you arrange a date for Mole with Jennifer Lawrence? Isn't she an actress?

Fred: Well, Mole wanted to go with Gogo but you know, Gogo and Honey Lemon are dating. So I asked who his favorite actress is and he told me Jennifer Lawrence. After one phone call we arranged it.

Cora: Oh.. well that explains a lot. And a good thing for Gogo too.

Fred: Yeah. Gogo would kill me if even dreamed of setting her up with Mole, even if it would take the time at the worsties awards.

*And before they knew it they had arrived. They found Globby decorating the tree with little Rosie, both wearing Santa hats as they get out the star for the tree.*

Globby: Hi guys!

Hiro: Hey Globby.

Cora: Hiya Rosie.

Rosie: Goo!

Hiro: We're trying to find a small present that looks like this.

*Baymax lets out a scan of the present he took earlier to show Globby. Rosie babbled on her baby talk as Globby looks at it.*

Globby: Believe it or not I did see a present like that.

Cora: You did? Where is it? Do you have it?

Globby: Well... no...

*And so Globby recounts on how he was passing through the city when he passes through Lois Carter, Krei's assistant, and inadvertently has the present stuck onto him. And during that he gives Lois the present that was stick to him, thinking it was another of the presents in Lois' arms.*

Hiro: OK, Lois has it. Thanks Globby.

Cora: Merry Christmas you guys!

Globby: You're welcome!

*And Rosie waves her little hand to say bye just as Felony Carl comes out with the gingerbread men.*

Felony Carl: Who's ready to decorate some cookies, of the gingerbread variety.

Globby: *Morphing into a gingerbread man while holding Rosie* Ooh me! me! me!

Rosie: Bah!

~~~~

*At Krei tech, Krei is signing off his books until Hiro, Baymax, Fred, and Cora arrive.*

Krei: Ah, if it isn't my intern, his girlfriend, and Fred. So what do I owe you this visit?

Hiro: We actually came to talk to Lois.

Cora: Its something important.

Baymax: *Pulling up the image* We are attempting to locate this present.

Lois: I wrapped so many presents today...

Hiro: *Sighs* Maybe it fell of the street.

Cora: Thank you anyway.

*That's when Lois looks at her watch and noticed the time had come.*

Lois: Well, its time to go. *To Krei* Merry Christmas Mr. Krei.

Krei: K, bye.

*Krei reaches for another pen from his desk as he continues signing his books while Lois heads out, with a small smile on her face. But that's when she hears this as Hiro and Cora talk to him.*

Cora: So... you got any plans? Holiday parties to go?

Krei: *Continues signing his books* Not really. This is just an opportunity to just catch up on work.

Hiro: Wait, you don't go to Christmas parties? Or at least spend time with your family?

Krei: Hadn't even talked with my family in years. There's nothing this holiday will bring aside time to catch up. Sides, I'm fine being alone.

*Lois's brow furrow in thought and slight pity before an idea dings in her head. And so she continues on her way while pulling out her phone to contact a few friends.*

Cora: OK... But are you sure you hadn't seen it?

Krei: Well.. maybe... I think it may have been carried to the trash.

Hiro: The trash?!

Krei: Look I didn't know it was present!

Cora: Mr. Krei where does the trash go?

*And so they four look at the garbage can outside... only to find it empty.*

Hiro: I guess we're going to the dump.

*Another cable car drive later they arrive at the dump where they spent hours searching through every piece of scrap metal and discarded boxes. But as the sun begins to set Hiro lets out a sigh after looking through the metal pile for the fifth time in the row.*

Hiro: We're never going to find it in time! Aunt Cass and I are supposed to open presents in a few hours!

*And so, Baymax FINALLY uses his scanner and quickly locates the present.*

Baymax: I have located the present.

*Hearing that and quickly spotting the present Hiro runs first as Cora and Fred cheer for the present finally being found. But when Hiro got closer, he noticed that the bags underneath the present is moving around until it goes the opposite way. Hiro chases after it with Cora close behind. It was then that the Present is revealed to be on top of Noodle Burger Boy, cheerily singing his holiday themed jingle for Noodle Burger. Hiro and Cora reached and ran to snatch back the present, but Noodle Burger Boy kept dancing away and not paying attention to the duo, finally reaching to his sleigh where its being driven by the buddy guards, flying far away.*

Hiro: Noodle Burger Boy come back!

Cora: *Stomping her foot* Dang it!

Hiro: Really? *Turns to Baymax with a defeated look* I'm just gonna tell Aunt Cass I lost her present.

*Cora places an arm around his shoulder to comfort her boyfriend until Baymax reveals what the present truly is from.*

Baymax: But that is untrue.

Cora: What do you mean?

Baymax: The present is not from Aunt Cass. It is from Tadashi.

Cora: *Eyes widened and gasping softly* What?

Hiro: Baymax, no that's impossible-

*But Baymax shows the truth as the scan from earlier shows that the tag is written from Tadashi.*

Hiro:*Gasps* Why didn't you tell me?

Baymax: You requested I not tell you anything about the present.

Hiro: So Tadashi's present is now gone?

*Cora's eyes start to well with tears as she covers her mouth.*

~~~~~~~

*Eventually, they contacted the gang and the SFAI students to meet up at the base and told them all what had happened and who had given Hiro the present. Honey Lemon hands Hiro a cup of tea as Miyuki and Cora hug Hiro close.*

Honey Lemon: Hiro I'm so sorry...

Fred: No… I'm sorry.. I'm the one who took your backpack.

Cora: It was an honest mistake.

Hiro: I should have never taken the present in the first place.

Gogo: We'll still get it back.

Miyuki: Gogo's right. We're gonna help you get back Tadashi's present.

Wasabi: Baymax? Can you scan for Noodle Burger Boy?

Baymax:*Scanning* I have located Noodle Burger Boy... here.

*Taking a closer look, Fred quickly realizes what it is.*

Fred: That's Steamer's lair!

Esme: Why would the bot go there?

Hiro: Lets suit up. We'll find out.

Miyuki: I'm going with you.

Cora: OK. *To Esme* Esme, could you go to the Lucky Cat and keep Aunt Cass till we get back.

Esme: You got it baby.

*And so the team suit and fly across town with Ice Frost following suit. Esme goes on her way to the Lucky Cat and finds Cass busy with her orders and the café decorated with holiday cheer.*

Esme: HEY!

Cass: Hmm? Hey Esme! Surprise seeing you here!

Esme: Yup! *Looking around the café* Woah, you certainly kept up the festivities in the café. I mean, Berry Merry mint boba? That sounds interesting!

Cass: Aw thanks. Though, I gotta warn you though, I'm gonna close up shop in a while.

Esme: I completely understand!

Cass: So... is there anything you want?

Esme: Hmmm...

*The gang reach the hide out where they stand by the door.*

Hiro: Everybody be careful.

Wasabi: Mhmm, there's no way we can know whatever schemes those two have cooked up.

Fred: We go in on three. One... two..

*And so they land in from the rooftop, ready to face off Noodle Burger Boy and Trina.. except the place is oddly decorated with Christmas cheer.*

Cora: *Looking around* I have to admit, this is really pretty!

Sparkles: Why thank you Big Hero 7, despite you crashing it. Rude!

Steamer: Didn't anyone teach you millennials to RSVP.

Sue: And they didn't bring jack for Secret Santa.

Fred: Oh that's funny! We actually have a secret santa at our place-oof!

*Miyuki elbows Fred in the gut to keep him quiet.*

El Fuego: What do you want for dinner? Chiecken? Or fist?!

*He lunches his robotic fist towards the team.. only for Steamer to block his attack.*

Steamer: Hold it! There will be no fighting! Its Christmas Eve!

El Fuego: B-Bu-

Steamer: No buts! Christmas is the time for peace. I will destroy anyone who disagrees!

Sue: You're getting soft steamer.

Steamer: *Whispers to Hiro and Cora* You two might wanna skip Sue's fruitcake.

Sue: I heard that!

Hiro: Look, were here cause I lost my Christmas present and I want back.

*That's when Noodle Burger boy comes up and removes the Christmas present from his head.*

N.B.B: You mean this present?

Hiro: Yes!

Steamer: Ah ah! If you want it, you got to give a present in return!

*Hiro looks at team but they had no gift to give to them... that is until they felt a slight chill in the air. That's when they all spotted Miyuki, finishing up ice statues of all five of the villains in their likeness.*

Miyuki: Would these do?

N.B.B: Ooh~!

El Fuego: Nice, very nice!

Sue: Not half bad.

Steamer: Alright. Now we can do the gift exchange.

*Noodle Burger Boy places the present among the Christmas presents, where one by one, each villain grabbed their present, with Noodle Burger Boy choosing an ice sculpture of himself. El Fuego looks over and just when it seems its going to grab Hiro's present... he chose the one next to it. But just when Hiro is gonna take his present back, Sparkles grabs it.*

Hiro: Give it back!

Cora: That's my boyfriend's present!

Sparkles: Says who?

*Cora's frown deepens as the rest of the gang prepare for war along with El Fuego, Sue, and Noodle Burger Boy. But once again, Steamer stops them.*

Steamer: everyone calm down-

Sue: Can it Steamer! This party could use a little excitement!

*That's when el Fuego picks her and Noodle Burger boy up and launches them to the air. The fight is one as Gogo faces off super Sonic sue, Honey Lemon vs El fuego,Wasabi vs Steamer, and Miyuki against Noodle Burger Boy. Hiro and Cora chase after Sparkles to get back Hiro's present amidst the battle field. Back at the café, Esme had order a large meal with a large dessert for tonight to keep Cass busy, to which she also started telling her stories about her youth.*

Esme: So then the next thing he knew, I took his keys and ran out to his corvette and drove downtown! *Laughing at her own story* Man, that car trip was worth it.

Cass: I... see.

*When she looks up she sees Mizuchi, Kaguya, Kage, Chara, and their Baymax arrive at the café, which made Cass smile and Esme to spit out her berry merry boba.*

Cass: Guys! You're all here! How have you been?

Mizuchi: We're good miss Cass.

Kaguya: I say, the café looks lovely Cassandra. You did an outstanding job.

Cass: Thanks. *To Kage* Kage, hows its going? You and Chara doing OK?

Kage: Yes, we're fine, aren't we sweetheart.

*Chara nods, still wearing her mask and head scarf.*

Cass: I don't mean to intrude but... you guys look like you've been crying..

Kage: Oh?... Um...

Cass: Are you sure things are OK?

Mizuchi: Its fine Miss Cass... its just.. well.. I hadn't seen my brother for a very long time till now... its hard to believe that we're all together this year...

Cass: I get what you mean...

*That's when Cass turns quiet and a drop of tear slides down her right eye.. to which Kage, Mizuchi, and Kaguya catch on. Kaguya is the first to comfort her.*

Kaguya: I understand that its hard this year... especially since Tadashi is no longer with us...

Cass: *Sniffs* I know… But, *Wipes away tear* I can't dwell on it now, gotta finish up and get ready for the gift exchange tonight... though I hadn't seen Hiro anywhere...*Noticing something* And where's Cora?

*that's when Esme steps up.*

Esme: Sorry to intrude, but Cora texted me that she's out making some last minute shopping with Hiro... they'll be back later.

Cass: OK... you guys go and wait upstairs, I'll handle the last few orders.

*The family nods before going up stairs, while Esme turns around and whispers to herself.*

Esme: Come on guys, any minute now.

*The fight continues on, where now Sparkles thrown it over back to Noodle Burger Boy. The remaining three were brought down trapped or down for the count. Gogo had just used her disc to knock Super Sonic Sue off balance.*

Gogo: Oops, Grandma got runover.

*With that Honey Lemon properly incapsulates them in her gooey traps. But that still left Sparkles and Noodle Burger Boy, to which the former is caught by Fred.*

Sparkles: Please don't hurt me! I don't have any powers! *Spots opportunity* Oh! We're under the mistletoe~!

*When Fred looks up to see he Sparkles used it to slip off and make a run for it, but Honey Lemon is quick to use her chem purse to trap him in a ball of goo. Miyuki then uses this as the opportunity to freeze him in place.*

Sparkles: Not cool!

Miyuki: *Cheeky* Wow... I hadn't heard that before.

*With Baymax, he is busy flying around trying to find the opportunity to catch the robot without damaging it up on the chandelier with Cora on his back. At that time, Hiro shoots out his magnetic disc to create form of rope to which he swing forward and swipes it off Noodle Burger Boy's hands.*

N.B.B: Hey!

*And immediately, Miyuki freezes Noodle Burger Boy in place. Hiro lands down safely along with Baymax and Cora. As they hop down Miyuki got an idea.*

Miyuki: Hey guys... *pulling out three markers that are red, green, and gold* wanna doodle something?

*The guys held in their chuckles as they drew on some of the villains' unconscious faces,. But before they head to Sparkles, Cora remembered something and went to ask.*

Cora: Wait a minute... before we doodle your face... how exactly are you all outside of prison? You were arrested along with Diane and Liv Amara.

sparkles: Well to keep a long story short, some guy with a hot German accent broke us out of prison, but took those Amara sisters, their assistant and Momakase with him. Said we're only staying behind as a just in case.

Cora: Wait... The Amara sisters are what?!

Sparkles: They're gone. But looking at that guy, he did say, and I quote, ''make these miserable wenches suffer for their actions and betrayal''. So something tells me that whatever that guy wants with them, they're good as dead.

*A cold blast of wind blows strongly inside, making them shiver.*

Fred: Well that sounds freaking ominous.

Sparkles: Like that answer.

Cora: Its OK... still gonna draw your face though.

*Now Sparkles had the creative holiday themed doodles on his face. And so they leave the imprisoned villains to their place.*

Honey Lemon: Merry Christmas!

Cora: And happy new year!

*Because they were in a joyous mood, they all decided to take a cable car to head back to the café in full speed and hearts filled with joy. Finally, they reached back, after removing their disguises, and went inside where they were all waiting. The gang wait outside as Hiro and Cora join in with their families.. along with Tadashi's present. After telling them that they gathered round the Christmas tree as Hiro holds Tadashi's present close, with Cass sitting next to him.*

Hiro: I found it.. in the closet... *realization*… it wasn't the only one!

Cass: What do you mean?

Hiro: There was a present for Cora with it. Hold on!

*With his present close by, he goes back to the box and finds the second present. Heading back he hands Cora the present... a present also from Tadashi.*

Cora: W-What? Tadashi got me one?.. But-but-

Hiro: I found it with mine and thought Aunt Cass bought it. And since my backpack can't carry two Christmas presents I left it be... good thing I did.

Cora: It doesn't matter Hiro. This present means so much to you.

Cass: Tadashi always planned ahead.

Hiro: Yeah.. he did..

*And its there that Hiro's tears land down on his present, to which Cass holds him close in a warm hug... joined by Cora... then the rest of her family... Though Kage had only known Tadashi from his videos to study his behavior.. he now understood just how much he truly meant to this family.. to Hiro's and his own. Both Baymaxes lower their heads in respect for Tadashi, their creator and brother to their patients. After that, the grown ups let go and start to head downstairs.*

Cass: We'll be at the Café to finish up decorating.

Hiro: We'll head down to help.

Cass: Thanks.

Mizuchi: Merry Christmas.

*With the teens left alone, they look at each other's presents before they thought of something. Heading downstairs they rush to the street and quickly caught up with them.*

Hiro: Hey... umm.. since I have Tadashi's present... c-could you guys want to see what he got me?

Honey Lemon: Of course Hiro.

*The meet up at the front of the café, where Hiro's heart pumps fast as he finally opens his present. It was the snow machine that his brother created years ago.*

Hiro: Tadashi fixed the snow machine.

Baymax: Yes he did. Accessing video

*He pulls up a video showing Tadashi with the snow machine.*

Tadashi: I think Hiro's gonna love this. I even took his note, he was right. Totally helped. Because of him, this Christmas, will be a white Christmas.

*The group smile as Hiro checks inside the machine to see the new improvements... only to see the main chip fractured.*

Hiro: Oh..

Cora: What is it Hiro? * Looks inside and gasps* Oh no!.. its broken...

Hiro: Being tossed around the city does that do a chip...

Esme: I'm sorry Hiro...

*Miyuki looks at the teens as Hiro looks at the snow machine with its chip fractured... but that's when she gets her best idea of all.*

Miyuki: Hiro?

Hiro: *Looking at Miyuki* Yeah?

Miyuki: Could you hand it to me? I think I can fix it.

*Hiro wanted to say that there was no way she could fix a chip that was created by Tadashi's unique coding. But he knew that Tadashi was as important to her as much to him. And so he reluctantly hands it over to her hands, who held it as if it were the precious thing on Earth. Using her free hand, she waves it around where tiny snowflakes flow inside, giving a soft periwinkle glow. Satisfied she hands it back, where looking back inside, the chip is no longer fractured. Instead its held together by the snow flakes she created which formed to a bigger snowflake. Hope rises before he gives a sigh, closing its casing.*

*He places it on the ground and turns his head to thank the gang once more.*

Hiro: Thanks guys, for helping me get Tadashi's present back.

Wasabi: Of course.

Hiro: I'm lucky to have you guys in my life.

Honey Lemon: We're lucky to have you Hiro.

Cora: Me too.

Hiro: *Letting out a deep breath* Here goes nothing.

*Hiro presses the button , its legs activating, the temperature decreasing... Cora lets outs a puff of air to her surprise. Looking up, they see snow falling from the sky. The gang look on in awe and amazement along with the teens.*

Wasabi: Its a winter wonderland!

*Fred lets out his tongue to catch the first snow flake, where Gogo catches one quick without anyone looking, but none the less smiling. And its there that Cass and Cora's family step outside to find snow falling. Miyuki's eyes trickle down as she quickly wipes them away.*

Miyuki: Out of all snow flakes I've seen snow machines make.. Yours are the greatest Tadashi..

*Hiro and Cora walk over to hold Miyuki's hand.*

Hiro and Cora: Merry Christmas.

*Soon they are surrounded by their friends and family in a group hug, where Honey Lemon pulls out her phone to take the photo.*

Honey Lemon: Merry Christmas guys!

*And so the photo is taken, making everyone beam with warmth. And there, Mizuchi holds out a small box for Cora.*

Mizuchi: Come on... you can open it.

*Curious.. she looks opens it and gasps. Pulling it out was her mother's necklace, but it had added features such as gleaming cowrie shells sitting on the opposite sides of the Rose Petal telling shells that formed the flower. There, she places it over her head, her eyes beaming as her father and grandmother smiles.*

Kaguya: Your mother always wanted you to have this necklace, even when you were a baby. Now its yours.

Cora: Thank you.

Cass: Come on guys, lets head inside while I make hot cocoa.

*Mizuchi, Chara, and Kaguya head inside along with the gang, leaving Hiro, Cora, Miyuki, and Kage outside.*

Kage: I have to admit Hiro... You're brother did amazing things... I'm glad he gets to share it with you this way.

Hiro: Thanks Kage...

Granville: Kage?

*The four turn around and see Granville, her arms wrapped around herself to keep warm.*

Kage: Professor Granville... How are you?

Granville: I'm good... I came by to wish you a merry Christmas, Kage.

Kage: Thank you...

*He walks over and hugs his mentor and old mother figure, to which she wraps her arms around him back. After letting go, Kage cleared his throat.*

Kage: Come on now, lets head inside before we freeze.

Granville: Of course, *turning to the teens* Couldn't imagine how it got so cold all of a sudden.

*And so the teens are left with just Miyuki, to which they hug her tightly.*

Hiro: *Chocking up* Thank you... for fixing it...

Miyuki: Y-Your welcome Hiro.

Cora: *Slightly shivering* Well, I know the cold doesn't bother you, but heading back inside sounds like a good idea.

Miyuki: Agreed.

*And so they all head inside, where Hiro, Cass, Cora, and Mizuchi set up the final touches of the decoration while the other adults chat. The gang are telling their jokes and stories and whatever misadventures they have. And there, Cora finally opened her present from Tadashi... a cute Orca whale plushie with blue eyes. Cora hugs her plushie close as Aunt Cass and Hiro hug her again, while the rest of them smile at their warmth and happiness. Eventually, as they are seated with hot cocoa in their hands Cora gets up and grabs a microphone.*

Cora: H-Hey... so.. wow... a year goes by before you know it right?.. this year we have lost him before this season...*sighing* But I know Tadashi would be so happy to know that we grew despite this tremendous loss.. .Last year my family and I celebrated with my boyfriend Hiro and his family... Tadashi and Aunt Cass... before that we were a broken family... but with him and Hiro we came together... and gained so many friends today.

*The gang smile at her along with Esme and Miyuki.*

Cora: Found a mentor that showed theres more than meets the eye.

*Granville smiles in return.*

Cora: And reunited with family that we thought we'd lose forever.

*Kage and Chara smile, holding each other's hands. Finally, Cora sighs before continuing.*

Cora: I'm going to sing a song that's from one of my favorite Christmas movies of all time, the Mupper Christmas Carol. That song depicts what I believe is the spirit of the novel and Christmas... I hope you like.

*She then pulls out a tablet where she punches in the code where soon, jovial music plays along.*

Cora: Its in the singing of a street corner choir, its going home and getting warm by the fire, its true wherever you find love it feels like Christmas~

*The group smiles, with Kaguya and Hiro smiling the brightest. This is a song from the heart.*

Cora: A cup of kindness that we share with another, a sweet reunion with a friend or a brother, in all the places you find love it feels like Christmas~

*She sings her song as all the future things that will happen plays out. The family exchanges presents, the most notable being Cass giving Mizuchi his own sweater that fit him; Chara giving Kage a new red scarf to which he gave her a book of Japanese folk tales and a passionate kiss; and from Hiro he gave her a music box shaped like a scallop shell that plays 'Proud Corazon' from Coco, to which she gives him his own set of tools and a mosaic picture of a heart made from her best sea shells and starfish.*

Cora: It is the season of the heart... a special time of caring.. the ways of love made clear~ It is... the season of the spirit, the message if we hear it, is make it last all year.~

*Around that time Krei is heading downstairs with a raised eyebrow as he follows one of his employees down... to which reveals a small holiday party made by some of his employees, wishing him a merry Christmas... to which he found himself smiling and his heart touched by this surprise and kindness from his employees. The villains had managed to free themselves from their prison, and instead of chasing after them, they decided to let bygones be bygones for now and celebrate this holiday together.*

Cora: Its in the giving of the gift to another, a pair of mittens that were made by your mother... its all the ways that we show love that feels like Christmas~ A part of childhood that we'll always remember, it is the summer of the soul in December... yes when you do your best for love it feels like Christmas~

*Back at Globby's apartment they had just decorated the cookies and are now sitting on the couch reading a Christmas story to Rosie, who naps close to felony Carl, her other father.*

Cora: It is the season of the heart... a special time of caring... the way of love made clear~ It is the season of the spirit... the message if we hear it, is make it last all year.

*In the following morning the gang would meet up once more to finally exchange their presents as part of the secret Santa. Honey Lemon got from Wasabi a cute sweater in a soft shade of pink to compliment her yellow attire; Wasabi got from Gogo an electromagnetic tray to carry his cleaning equipment which made the man smile; Gogo received from Fred the latest model of her old motorcycle, complete with helmet and gloves; Fred got a pair of chem balls that make a luxurious bean bag chair from Honey Lemon, who smiles happily. Esme and Cora turned out to be each other's secret Santa. Cora gives Esme her own sea shell chandelier to hang, and Esme gives Cora a beautiful green coat and dress for the winter.*

Cora: Its in the singing of a street corner choir... its going home and getting warm by the fire... its true wherever you find love it feels like Christmas~

*Finally, its revealed that Hiro and Miyuki are each other's secret Santa's. Miyuki gives Hiro a small pair ice sculptures that resembled him and Tadashi in their happiest memories. And from Hiro... Miyuki received her own lantern decorated with snow flakes and hearts to commemorate her memory of Tadashi.*

Cora: Its true wherever you find Love... it feels like... Christmas~

*Miyuki wraps her arms around Hiro to which he hugs her back, then soon his girlfriend and his friends join in. These are what tomorrow will bring for them all, and they could hardly wait. Cora's heart soared as she continues singing her song to her family and friends, happy to sing a song from her heart by her own choice. Not because of Mr. Sparkles, not to sooth a crowd of annoyed customers... no.. this is a song from the heart.*

Cora: It feel like Christmas!~

*Somewhere at the island... Tadashi looks out at the stars above, his smile giving its warmth as he wishes his family, friends, and loved one a merry Christmas despite being so far away. And in someway, they all felt it too. Deep in their hearts, where this Christmas will bring more to them than they could think... they all knew that no matter what comes next, they'll be there for each other through all their heart aches and joys.*

Cora: It feels like Christmas~...

A.N: Finally!  I was a little concerned since I've heard some fans get a little rabid at the idea of Tadashi being alive and back (which if you didn't know I suggest you read the previous chapter to understand). Now, at this point I know that Krei's assistant is named Judy; however I'm keeping the name Lois Carter. So yeah, she's not an OC. Now that's out of the way, I'll be heading to my finals! Then afterwards I'll work on my third original chapter... that one you'll find VERY interesting. I wish you all happy holidays and Merry Christmas! I hope you enjoy this chapter! Love you guys!

[monlunetaeil]

NCT 127 Reaction: s/o faints during dance practice

This is part 2!! : Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Winwin, Mark and Haechan!

Requests: open!!!

Request: *I’m dramatic af so bare with me🌚🤦* …. Can you do nct127’s reaction to their s/o fainting during dance practice please? hsjsj mood

I legit wrote this twice and accidentally deleted it I’m sorry this took so long shsnan

—————————————————————

Jaehyun

♡ He's prime boyfriend material,,, like his dimples and soft feATURES OH LORD

♡ No clue what to do to make sure you're ok physically,, but SO GOOD and calming you down,,,, like you've been together a while and its basically second nature to him??? like he knows how you like your hair to be played with and how you like it when he rubs small circles on your hands and kisses your knuckles

♡ Like he doesn't give you time to get scared after you wake up because he's just there reassuring you and looking after you straight away

♡ Of course he's worried but he won't show it because he doesn't wanna scare you,,,

♡ He's more on the chill side like,,, he's not angry or anything,, because things like this happen yanno,,, so he's not gonna scold you or blame himself

♡ Will maybe give your manager the side eye tho

♡ Overall,,, he's just so sweet,,,,,, I want a jaehyun

Winwin

♡ Kinda like Taeil

♡ He just doesn't know what's happening???

♡ But he's more with it??? if that makes sense,,, like he'll follow directions well like Yuta

♡ Doesn't know what to do when you wake up tho,,, normally you don't like skinship and your not clingy but your so out of it and all you want is Winwin

♡ He'll let you cling to him tho because ur not ok and he understands that,,,, doesn't mean he's thrilled about it,,,, jk he definitely is,,, he'll let you lean your head against his shoulder whilst you wait to get checked out,,, might even play with your hair

♡ He's super light with his touches tho because he thinks you're so fragile and he'S SCARED

♡ You have to tell him "Winwin babe, I'm not going to break if you touch me pls just play with my hair or something"

♡ will 100% ask if you're good a lot :((( he's so cute I'm cryin

♡ Overall kinda panicked but really sweet and trying his best

Jungwoo

♡ this boy is so s o f t

♡ Wouldn't know what to do,, He hates it so much,,, he'll probably cry

♡ Like he just feels so overwhelmed because that's his baby and he can't do anything to help

♡ He'll give you the biggest hug once you wake up and are like,,, ok,,, and he'll sob into ur shoulder

♡ Will 100% blame himself :((((((

♡ HE'LL POUT AT YOU WITH TEARS IN HIS EYES AND APOLOGIZE I'm sobbing

♡ You have to calm him down and tell him he did nothing wrong :(((((((

♡ Clings to you after because he was so scared and never wants anything bad to happen to you again

♡ Lots n lots of kisses and hugs

♡ Will do everything in his power to make sure it never happens again because,,, his heart really cannot take it

Mark

♡ so everyone thinks this boy is pure panic,,,which is correct but he's also a lot more mature than people give him credit for

♡ so y'all are busy people but you try to see each other as much as possible,,, which is why mark was at ur dance practise uwu

♡ so you finish up and walk over to a very smiley mark,,, smiley because look at his girl!!! wow so talented uwu,,, he'll hand you a bottle of water and you chug it because wow that really took it out of you

♡ and maybe its a combo of the hard ass dance and the fact you held ur breath to chug a large ass bottle of water or the fact that your exhausted but suddenly your legs feel like jelly and you start seeing black spots and the only thing u can get out is a weak "mark" before ur out

♡ he'll see you start to drop and he'll grab you and be like "OK, ok I got you,,, uh can I get some help?" and he'll lay you on the floor and put his hoodie under ur head or smthin

♡ so when u wake up your SUPER out of it and confused n scared

♡ n marks all like "Hi baby,,, ur ok I promise just stay laying down for a minute ok?"

♡ and ur still freaked out but u trust mark and the way he's holding your hand and placing kisses on your knuckles is really calming

♡ He'll make sure you get checked out at the hospital and he'll come with u and hold ur hand the whole time uwu

♡ if he has to let go he'll get all pouty until u see because,,, he's gotta be a strong man for u uwuwuwu,,,

♡ He'll come and see you the next day to check up on you even if you insist ur fine and if he can't come see you because of schedules u bet ur ass he'll facetime you or something uwuwu

Haechan

♡ He genuinely thought you were joking at first

♡ like when you finished running through your dance and came over to him saying you didn't feel right he laughed a little because well,,,, the two of you always joked around

♡ but as soon as you started to sway and eventually dropped to the group,,,, he knew you weren't joking

♡ scared as fUCK

♡ like his eyes go fucking huge and he's like "oh shit! y/n,,," and he's calling your members and manager because kajsj he has no clue what the heLL IS GOING ON H E L P

♡ snaps out of it tho

♡ he'll be the first person you see when you wake up

♡ like he'll be holding your hand and stroking your hair

♡ not necessarily good at dealing with the situation but he'll try his best

♡ he just goes really soft and mushy because,,, ur his baby and it hurts his heart to see you like that

♡ will deny ever worrying afterwards tho oof

♡ but he secretly sneaks an extra sandwich into your lunch and on days off he'll set your alarm an hour later just so it doesn't happen again

[thethotwithoutfear]

Shine Bright Like A Diamond

Chapter 2

Chapter 1

Word Count: 1,886

Warnings: None other than the usual swear word here and there

Chapter Summary: Reader takes a chance and actually puts her walls down a little and befriends Ned and Peter instead of letting loneliness add to her growing stress

It scared you really. The idea of making friends. You never really feared talking to people, you were quite good at it actually and you liked them. You liked watching them for all their cons and all their pros. But you just never dared to get too close to anyone, except your father of course, to be burned. You weren't even particularly close to your Aunt either, as hard as she tried to get close to you, it always felt like the only thing between you was an awkward respect and awareness of each other. You had enough on your plate to be having friends to worry about and it only seemed that things were piling up higher and higher. Even with your Aunt's help, her act of aloofness however, infuriated you and added more to the list of things you seemed to worry about. She pretended as if nothing was absolutely wrong, like her brother wasn't god knows where kept for ransom and away from her home, it only added to your feeling of solitude in suffering.

The day before at school had been an act of momentary weakness, probably even loneliness when you'd accepted to sit at  lunch with Ned and Peter. These days had been exceptionally lonely, you came home after long school days and long evening rounds of pick pocketing (even if you had promised your Aunt you'd quit) to an empty apartment. Your aunt was too busy keeping up 3 jobs to ever be home, her only state of presence was always in a state of sleep. Not even the occasional beep from your dad's medical equipment making a peep now. It was a cold hollow kind of lonesomeness that would hit you right in the chest when you'd unlock your door to be met with no one. Plus the waiting for instructions for the next big heist constantly buzzed around in your skull, amplifying how alone you felt in tackling your biggest problem.

So as you approached the back table of the cafeteria where you'd often seen Peter and Ned  frequent, you took a bigger than usual breathe of anxious air and sat waiting at an empty table. You thought they would have been there by the time you had arrived and a small doubting voice in the back of your head kept wondering if maybe they had forgotten you. To hush it the best you could, you decided to slip your headphones over your ears and think about something you hadn't given much thought to since it happened: your quick but thrilling fight with Spider-Man.

The dark thumping of a bass line in the song that over took your senses made you recall the hard pounding of your heart as you found yourself sticking to the side of the ever sparkling Gem Tower, the heavy sack of diamonds secured to the belt of your suit. During the entirety of the heist the most overwhelming feeling had been one of breathlessness and as you had quickly made it out of the laser cut hole you had made into the blustering cold air; you caught every breathe you could. You stayed gripped in place to the smooth glass of the building for what felt like hours, breathing in and out before a small and bizarre laugh of relief took over your body. You had done it, you had done your father proud, freed him so you thought. It died quickly of course when you heard an airy voice disrupt the symphony that had been your laughter and the blowing wind.

“ What's up, Spider got your tongue?” it said with a chuckle as you felt whoever it had been hover behind you. You turned, only to be met with a pair of giant white eyes and an overwhelming amount of red and blue. Your instincts kicked into high gear immediately as you recognized New York's most beloved superhero. You released the grip on all your wall crawlers, shooting straight down the side of the tower like a rocket until you shot a grip hook to the nearest building and swung toward it. You heard the unmistakable sound of Spider-Man's web shooters launch webbing to follow you. As you landed on the nearest roof top you ran for it ready to make the next leap until you felt something grip your ankle.

“Oh no no no, you're not getting away that easy!”, Spidey said as he yanked the web he'd caught your foot with, you felt your body hit the ground like a tree trunk. You spun around quickly as he dragged you towards him, kicking him in the face as he tried to reach for you, launching him a few feet away from your place on the ground. Standing up slightly crouched, you readied yourself for a fight claws unfurled and prepared for a fight. “Sorry Spidey but you're gonna have to kill me before you get these babies off of me. Don't yah know diamonds are a girl's best friend?” you said, laughingly. You didn't know where the strange confidence came from but you caught yourself by surprise and apparently Spider-Man felt the same as you watched one of the eyelits of his suit raise in surprise. He gave a faint chuckle as he began approaching slowly, a funny kind of swagger in each step.

“Sorry m'am, but if you don't got a receipt for those ,” he said with an almost squeaking tone as he launched himself at you, “I'm afraid I can't just let you go!” He managed to get a grip on your arm for two seconds before you stunned it away and began throwing punches at his sides and high kicks at his head. He managed to dodge a majority of them, a few punches making contact with his ribcage. He caught a break from your fury when he found an opening to back flip away and to try a new method. He launched super quick and semi-wide web nets at you, underestimating the speed at which you could leap and roll and bend your body to dodge the sticky traps.

“Woooaahh! And I thought I was bendy! This is kinda fun.” he said giggling in the most irritating manner as he continued to rapidly shoot at you. You gave out a incredulous huff at his childish delight, only the pause to let it out had allowed for one of the small web nets to plaster one of your hands against a near by air conditioning unit. “Gotcha!” he said, raising his hand to attempt to catch the other until he saw you do the impossible and something YOU didn't think was possible. With your free hand you took a wild chance and used the claws of your suit to tear through the sticky netting and free the other only to be momentarily surprised that it had worked. “WHAT THE FUCK!? THESE THINGS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE IMPERVIOUS TO  TEARING A-AND METAL!”he screamed.

You gave a triumphant smile and reached for the belt on your suit. What you pulled out was a small silver ball, giving it a quick turn and a toss you simply shouted “Catch!” In a blurred state of shock as he stared at his torn web net, Spider-Man actually HAD caught the ball. As it landed in his hand a cloud of pink gas burst forth floating about his head, a funny kind of shriek escaping from his mouth as he realized what he'd just fallen for. As you watched his body slowly inch down to its knees and fall you approached him chuckling to yourself as he began to unconsciously babble. Before launching yourself on to another rooftop to the drop the Boss had indicated, you simply uttered a soft, “Sweet dreams Spiderboy.”

The memory was suddenly shattered when you heard the high tone of Peter's voice break through with a “Hey y/n!” You shook your head a little startled and turned in your seat to greet him. “Oof! Sorry to interrupt your daydreaming,” he said with a laugh, “And for being late, we got a little too enthusiastic doing a chemistry project and lost track of time” finished Ned as he set his tray down on the table. “Ah and look who's right on time too” Ned continued with a laugh as you all turned to look at whoever was approaching. “Y/n this is Michelle, but we call her MJ. MJ this is y/n, she's the girl from robotics class we were telling you about!” Peter said. He waved his hand between the two of you as he made the introduction. MJ was a rather statuesque almost scrawny girl covered in layers and layers of comfy but stylish clothes, a cascade of flowing curly hair that seemed almost effortlessly but still prettily tied back framed her face. A section of it fell softly over one side, and it was beautiful, a wise, confident, and even charming spark lingered in her eyes. All of this however, was masked simultaneously by an almost bored and tired smirk which you assumed was kept there as a defense mechanism. Something about her however gave you an air of comfort and maybe even understanding.

“Hey. Nice to meet you.”she said. Her voice a little dead pan but still light and kind, all while extending her long slender hand to you. You shook it, a warm feeling rising to reveal itself as a blush on your cheeks as you gifted her a smile. “So what did these losers do to get someone as cool as you to join their two man island of misfits,” she said nodding at your headphones, “you gotta be cool if you're blasting Depeche Mode these days.” You gave out a light laugh and replied, “Umm not much, just thought it would be nice to eat around people for a change. They seemed nice enough to be around.” She nodded a few more times with a small grin on her face, clutching the small batch of books she had come in with to her chest.

“I've seen you around before in the library during lunch period, you're always drawing buildings and stuff. You wanna be an architect or something?” She said, something about the overly curious look in her eye made you squirm in your seat a little, it was almost as if she was trying to look through you. “Not really just, umm- it uh reminds me of my dad. He was in engineer for a while when I was little. I used to like looking at his blueprints”, you replied. She noticed the way speaking about your father made you uncomfortable and dropped the subject, “Well don't hang around these two for too long, the NERD might rub off on you.” She walked down to the end of the table and sat, only to open a book and start reading, seeming as if she had turned on a switch that whisked the world away.

You hadn't noticed yourself smiling at her for too long a time. You had just met a kindred soul and you couldn't help it. “Told you you'd like her” said Ned. You blushed again, as you turned to hide your face you caught Peter looking at you with a sweet smile. Maybe making friends wasn't so bad after all?

PLEASE leave kudos and comments on my ao3 or hit me up on my main blog if you just feel like saying hello @chrisevansheartofgold

[emotionalties]

I spent my sick day at home writing this. It started out as an exploration of the fact that TOS Bones has Joanna but AOS Bones doesn’t. It includes a few other things I’ve been thinking about lately, like AOS Bones’s parents asking about his love life.

Title: Uncertainty

Summary: TOS and AOS Bones visit with family members during shore leave.

Ships: McKirk

Other Star Trek works referenced: Star Trek: Ongoing #17 comic

TOS

“Will you be able to visit?” his mother asked for the fifth time.

“Definitely,” he said at first, then paused. “Maybe.”

Leonard wanted to be reliable, but he knew there was a chance shore leave could be canceled because of strange or important situations that arise on their way back to Earth. He regretted the possibility of letting down his family again.

His mother always knew what to say to make absolutely certain that he wouldn’t flake out on them again – or at least make him feel guilty about it if he did. “Joanna misses you.”

He sighed. He wished this week would finish quickly and uneventfully so he could get the hell out.

AOS

Leonard’s heart sank when he realized the two events that coincided next week: The day Jenny, his last young patient before he left for Starfleet, lost her battle against an incurable disease, and the day he would visit Demora during the crew’s shore leave. Demora always liked to catch up with the crew members her dad worked with and hear their stories. Jenny would have loved that, too.

He sighed and wished he could somehow get out of it. He wasn’t feeling up to pretending to be happy while Jenny’s ghost lingered in his memory. “Maybe I can fake an illness,” he said jokingly. He sat back in his chair at his desk, knowing he had no choice but to wait and see what adventures the week ahead threw at them.

TOS

He knew the owner of the hushed, worried voice right away. “Jim!”

Jim turned around to see the doctor in the turbolift, beckoning him inside before the doors closed. “What is it, Bones?” he asked, cautious as he entered. His friend looked very agitated. He hoped he hadn’t done anything wrong. Had he skipped a medical exam? Probably.

As Leonard hesitated, Jim realized he almost looked… guilty. He put a hand on his shoulder. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m sorry, Jim,” he said while bouncing very slightly on his toes in a worried fashion. “I know this mission has pushed back our shore leave, but I need to request to be dropped off on Earth anyway.”

Jim wasn’t thrilled about the idea, but he knew his friend must have a good reason. “Are you going to tell me what’s wrong or am I going to have to pry it out of you?”

He put his hands behind his back. “Well, as you know, for shore leave I was going to visit my parents and my daughter, Joanna.”

“Yes.”

“At first it sounded like it would be okay to delay the visit, but they told me some upsetting news.”

“Out with it, Bones.”

Leonard sighed. “Joanna is sick.”

Jim suddenly had both hands on his shoulders and he looked him in the eye. “How sick? Is she okay?”

“She’s fine, it’s nothing serious,” Leonard looked guilty again. “She just needs rest but I…”

“You want to be there for her.”

“Yes, very much.”

Jim smiled and softened his grip. “Shore leave granted.”

Leonard instantly perked up and smiled. “Thank you, Jim. I really appreciate it.”

AOS

Leonard was a bundle of nerves as he exited the ship. He couldn’t believe he felt so much anxiety getting off the ship and putting his feet back on the ground. Normally solid ground for short leave was a good thing. He left the terminal, following Hikaru out. Uhura and Spock passed by him. No one had any idea what significance this day had for him.

Demora of course ran up to her father first. Uhura waved at her excitedly as she looked at them from over her father’s shoulder. She made everyone’s hearts melt as she smiled and waved back.

Beyond Hikaru and Demora stood Ben, also smiling, and two people he did not expect to see. The tall woman looked just as anxious as Leonard was. As everyone gathered around Hikaru and Ben, her eyes were wide as she asked who the helmsman was.

“I have no idea how you crazy people do it,” she said, but she gave Hikaru a thumbs up. “Space travel is terrifying and you’re a brave, brave man.”

The members of the Enterprise crew all turned and looked straight at Leonard as if to say “Sounds familiar.”

“Mom? Dad? What are you doing here?”

He was so shocked to see them that he doubted his own senses for a second. Then he felt a slap on his back. Suddenly Jim was next to him, winking. “Your parents are here? Imagine that!”

“Did you have something to do with this?” Leonard asked him.

“Maybe,” Jim said. He smiled. “Definitely.”

Leonard couldn’t help but smile as Jim immediately jumped forward to shake hands with his parents. “It’s so nice to finally meet you, Mr. and Mrs. McCoy,” Jim said eagerly. “I’m Captain James. T. Kirk.”

“The pleasure is all ours, Captain,” Mrs. McCoy sounded impressed as she emphasized his title. “I was just telling your helmsman here-”

“All right, all right,” Leonard pushed his way through the crowd to finally greet his parents with a hug. His mom squeezed him tightly while his dad nodded clapped him hard on the back. “When are you two going to tell me why you’re here? How are you here?”

His mother cleared her throat, suddenly conscious that there were many people listening. “Well, sweetheart,” her hand trailed down his arm and gave his hand a squeeze. “We missed you and figured it was time to pay you a visit instead of the other way around.”

“We had some help from the captain, here,” his father said warmly.

The hand squeeze was enough to let Leonard know that they were worried about him. Great, just what he needed. Worried parents butting into his business.

“How did you manage to get mom onto a spacecraft?” he teased instead of acknowledging the hand squeeze.

“I know how hard it was for you,” she defended herself. “I’m your mother. If you can do it, I can do it.”

Demora, sitting in Hikaru’s arms, tapped Leonard’s shoulder with her tiny hand. He turned his head to her and was met with a quizzical face.

“Uncle Len, are you leaving with your parents?”

“Oh, uh,” Leonard wondered what to do. This could be the “way out” he desperately wanted a week ago, but he couldn’t say no to that adorable face. “Tell you what. You can go play with your other uncles and aunts now while I take my parents out to lunch, then later we can have some one-on-one time to discuss the latest gossip from sickbay.”

She smiled and nodded, satisfied with his answer. He smile and waved to everyone as the groups split up. He heard his mother sigh. “She’s a darling.”

“She sure is.”

He felt a hand squeeze again. Now that everyone was gone, he rolled his eyes. “All right, Mama,” he said, squeezing back. “What are you worried about now?”

She raised her other hand to his face and rubbed his cheek, her eyes now moist. “Oh, sweetheart,” her tone was now serious, but the kindness was still there. “Don’t think I don’t know how much you want a family.”

Several feet away, Jim turned to look back, catching them in a small, emotional family huddle.

TOS

When Leonard entered the second bedroom at his parents’ house – what used to be his bedroom – where his daughter was supposed to be resting, he did not find her sleeping even though it was getting late. Instead, she was watching a children’s movie. He took a few minutes to stand in the doorway to watch her before going into Doctor Dad mode. He put his hands on his hips and cleared his throat loudly. “Joanna.”

Her head whipped around and she smiled widely at him. “Daddy!”

“Shouldn’t you be sleeping?”

Before the divorce, Joanna would make a cute “I got caught” face and quickly hide under her blanket. Now that he was gone so often, times like this were a special occasion. Instead, she threw the blanket to the side and jumped out of the bed.

“You came!” she ran into him and wrapped her arms around him.

“Oof!” he said. “My my, you’re getting so big now!”

He was still able to sweep her up and plop her back on the bed. “Word on the street is you’re sick!”

She pouted as he pulled out his scanner. “Dad, it’s my vacation,” she grumbled. “I can’t be sick.”

He paused as he read the scanner’s results. “According to this, you need lots of rest.”

She crossed her arms and stared at the floor, clearly very upset that her father was being her doctor as soon as he arrived.

“It’s ok, Jo,” he said, relenting. “Tell you what. We can finish the movie as long as you promise me you’ll get plenty of rest afterwards.”

Her blinding smile returned. “Deal!”

She scooted over on the mattress to make room for him. He obediently sat down and swung his legs over to stretch out in front of him. The movie playing was an oldie Disney movie called Treasure Planet.

“Boy, that robot sure is annoying,” he said after a few minutes. Joanna giggled.

As he expected, Joanna leaned her head on his shoulder and was soon falling asleep. He turned the movie and the lights off and slowly drifted off with her.

AOS

“I promise I’m fine. I’m looking after myself,” Leonard pleaded his parents to believe him. They were sitting across from him in a booth at a restaurant. “Don’t I look good?”

They stared at him, neither one looking convinced.

“Honey,” his mother began. “When was the last time you were romantically intimate with someone?”

“Oh god,” Leonard covered his eyes with his hand. “Is this really why you’re here? To check up on my love life?”

“It’s been years, Len!” his mother said. “We haven’t heard about anyone in any of your letters in a long time.”

“Well, to be fair, we have heard about one person,” his dad interjected. “That captain of yours.”

“Yes! He looks like a fine young man. Are you sure there’s no one here you could be happy with? It is possible. I noticed two beautiful couples we met earlier.”

Leonard groaned. To his relief, the waitress came by with their drinks. He nodded, gave his thanks, and quickly brought the glass to his lips to avoid speaking. He could feel his ears go red. His parents were having nothing of it.

“Put that down, Len,” she pulled at his arm. “Look, I’m not asking for too much. I just want to know if you’re really okay. It’s the anniversary of Jenny’s death and your divorce. It’s been years but you’re still alone.”

“I got divorced because I was too consumed with my job to commit, remember?” he said. “I can’t even commit to revealing every detail of my life to satisfy you two!”

A silence descended over the table after his outburst. He looked away and took another sip from his drink. Finally, he felt a hand on top of his.

“You’re not holding yourself back as a punishment, are you?” his mother asked quietly. “Are you happy?”

He didn’t answer. Their food arrived.

TOS

The next morning Leonard woke up early to make a healthy breakfast with his mother. Joanna didn’t wake up until he reentered the room with a tray of oatmeal and fruit. She blinked at him groggily and shifted up against her pillow as he carefully placed the tray over her lap. She grimaced.

“Oatmeal? How boring.”

“Oh, well if that’s how you feel, I’ll take it back.”

“No!” she quickly shielded the tray with her hands. “It’s okay.”

He looked carefully over his shoulder as if he might get caught doing something wrong. “If you eat all of this, I snuck in some chocolate.” He flashed a peek of the piece of chocolate in his hand.

She beamed and held her hand out. He shook his head and pointed to the oatmeal. “Eat this first.”

She wrinkled her nose at him, but picked up the spoon anyway. “Tell me about the Enterprise.”

“Tell me about school.”

Now she looked over at him irritatingly. “The Enterprise is way more interesting than school.”

“In my day I thought school was fun, but I haven’t been at school in a long time,” he twirled his hand, trying to egg her on.

“I’m on vacation,” she said with a wicked smile. “No talking about school allowed.”

“All right, fine,” he said.

“What happened on your last adventure?”

“Let’s see,” he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “It might be too scary for you.”

“Oh come on,” she complained. “If I want to be a doctor like you when I grow up, shouldn’t I be prepared for the scary?”

“You want to be a doctor?”

She looked at him for a moment and then laughed. “Just kidding. I want to be a ballerina.”

He raised an intrigued eyebrow at her. “A ballerina, huh?”

“Yeah. If I wasn’t sick right now I’d show you some moves.”

“A ballerina. I like it,” he said. She looked at him suspiciously. “There’s nothing scary about ballet.”

AOS

“I might be a nurse when I grow up,” Demora said. She used Leonard’s scanner to monitor her stuffed animal at the park.

“A nurse, huh?” Leonard said. “Not a helmsman like your dad?”

“Nah, Daddy talks so much about it that I’m kind of tired of hearing it.”

Leonard, Hikaru and Ben all laughed together.

“Did you always want to be a doctor when you grew up, uncle Len?” she asked.

It took a few moments for Leonard to answer. He had this exact conversation with Jenny those years ago. Jenny had wanted to be a Starfleet Captain, but she only lived long enough to tell him about it. He swallowed his sadness for Demora’s sake.

“To be honest, I wanted to be a pro-basketball player.”

Even louder laughter from the dads resulted from his words. Leonard glared at them. “Everyone always laughs when I say this!”

“I’m sorry,” Hikaru said, wiping away tears. “I just can’t imagine you on a basketball court.”

“I can!” Demora raised her arm in the air.

“Well, thank you. You’d be the first,” Leonard said, smiling sweetly at her but glaring at her fathers.

“How do I read this?” Demora finally asked, holding up the small scanner. Leonard laughed and took it back. He quickly scanned himself so there would be actual results. “Like this…”

***

Leonard finally collapsed into the bed in the room he was staying in while on shore leave, now with his parents. They were due back soon. He heard a knock at the door. Who would that be? His parents wouldn’t knock at their own room…

He pulled himself out of bed and answered the door. “Jim! What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to check up on you,” he said, clapping him on the shoulder and pushing through into the room.

“You too?” Leonard grumbled as he shut the door.

Jim smiled. He put two hands on his shoulders and looked him in the eyes. “Look, about your parents… They contacted me because they were worried.”

“I figured,” he said. He felt himself blushing again, remembering their earlier conversation mentioning Jim.

“I scheduled the surprise for you behind your back. I hope you don’t mind.”

He waved a hand carelessly. “Oh, it’s fine. You worry too much, Jim.”

He sat down on the couch and rubbed his temples. “Everyone worries about me too much. I’m fine.”

To his surprise, he suddenly felt Jim’s hands rubbing his shoulders.

“I don’t know, Bones,” Jim said as he started giving him a shoulder massage. “Your shoulders are very tense.”

“Gee, I wonder what made me so tense,” he teased. “When did you learn how to give a massage?”

Jim just smirked and kept going. Soon Leonard was closing his eyes.

“Mm, right there is good.”

“Here?”

For a few minutes Jim continued in silence, smiling every time Leonard let a satisfied noise escape. After a while he seemed really out of it and finally relaxed. He took the opportunity to kiss him behind the ear. On the neck. On the collarbone.

“Mm,” Leonard said each time. Before he was even fully aware of what was happening, they were both on the couch, kissing and pulling at clothes. This was certainly a surprise, but there was no way he was going to fight it.

Suddenly the door opened and an excited squeal sounded from behind them. Through the fog in Leonard’s brain he knew exactly what happened, but it took a few moments from his body to obey and regretfully pull away from Jim. He turned and faced his parents, his mother looking for elated than ever and his father raising his eyebrows. “I knew it!” How humiliating.

He stood up quickly. He rushed them back out the door as his mother giggled. “Come back later!” he yelled.

“Take your time!” she said gleefully.

He slammed the door shut behind them, then collapsed against the door, breathing hard. He watched as Jim walked toward him. “Where were we?”

“Right here,” Jim said, slipping his hand back under his shirt.

TOS

“Daddy?” Joanna said just as Leonard was turning off the light after telling her a story.

“Yes?”

“Are you lonely up there in space?”

Leonard hesitated, his back still facing her. Was he ready to talk to her about this? He turned to her. He could see her face in the hallway light, but he probably looked like a shadow to her. “Yes. Yes, I am.”

“I’m lonely when you’re in space, too.”

“You?” he came back and sat on the edge of the bed. He put his hand on the blanket on top of her knee.

She nodded. “When I come here and you’re not here, I’m lonely.” She looked at the bookcase, dresser and closet that all once belonged to him in his youth.

“Well, you always know where to find me. Just look out your window at the stars and I’ll be there, thinking about you.”

“It’s not the same,” she said, resting her head against his shoulder again.

“I know,” he said quietly. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’m so far away.”

“I sent a letter to Captain Kirk once,” Joanna suddenly admitted. “Asking him to bring you back for good.”

“You did?” Leonard looked concerned in the dark. “How – ?”

“He told me that I’ll always have you in my bones,” she said. Leonard laughed at that one.

“You’ll come back again soon, right?”

“Definitely.”

Maybe.