#this au gives me joy and delight

[rafecameronssl4t]

Golf day || Rafe Cameron x fem!reader

Summary: INSPIRED BY THIS TIKTOK

Warnings: pure fluff hehehehe

Word count: 497

A/n: if anyone has any tiktoks that they want me to turn into a Rafe fic, send them thru pls!!!! I love finding random vids on my fyp that are so Rafe coded. ALSO BEGGING FOR MORE DAD!RAFE REQUESTSS

MASTERLIST (dad!rafe au masterlist)

divider by @h-aewo

“Do you think she’ll enjoy it?” Rafe questions, turning his head to you, his eyes lingering on Mabel, comfortably nestled on your lap. He looks genuinely concerned, his brow furrowed with worry.

“You know she loves watching you do anything,” you reply with a reassuring chuckle, trying to soothe his anxiety. As you adjust the tiny hat on your daughter’s head, you can’t help but smile at her innocent excitement.

It was Mabel’s first time at the golf course, and Rafe had been on edge all morning. He’d peppered you with questions like, “Don’t you think it will be too hot?” and “What if she gets bored?” His nervousness was palpable, a stark contrast to his usual composed demeanor.

You had spent the morning reassuring him, reminding him repeatedly that Mabel would be perfectly fine. You knew she would be thrilled just to watch her dad play golf, her eyes following his every move with awe and admiration.

“Do you think she’ll like this spot?” Rafe asks as the golf cart comes to a gentle stop under the shade of a large oak tree. “Babe, you’re the one playing,” you giggle, enjoying his overprotectiveness. Rafe laughs softly, his eyes crinkling with amusement. “Mabel, do you like it here?” he asks, his voice tender as he tickles her chin. Mabel responds with a delightful giggle that melts your heart.

You adjust Mabel on your lap so she’s facing Rafe, her wide, curious eyes tracking his every move as he unloads his golf clubs. The sun casts a warm glow over the course, and you can’t help but admire how handsome Rafe looks in his golf gear. “Doesn’t Daddy look so handsome, Bels?” you murmur to Mabel, pressing light kisses on her rosy cheeks. She giggles uncontrollably and tickling sensation.

Rafe turns at the sound of her infectious giggles, a broad smile lighting up his face. “You girls doing alright?” he calls out, his eyes sparkling with joy. You chuckle, giving him a thumbs-up and lifting Mabel’s tiny hand to wave at him.

Remembering that Rose wanted a video of Mabel’s first time at the golf course, you quickly pull out your phone and aim the camera at Mabel’s expressive face. She’s watching Rafe intently, her anticipation palpable.

As Rafe lines up his shot, you can see the concentration etched on his face. The moment the club makes contact with the golf ball, sending it soaring through the air, Mabel flinches in surprise. You can’t help but laugh, immediately clamping your hand over your mouth, feeling a bit guilty for laughing at her reaction.

Rafe shields his eyes with his hand, squinting into the distance to see where the ball landed. Satisfied with his shot, he turns back and walks towards you and Mabel, a broad smile lighting up his face. “Daddy’s pretty good, isn’t he?” Rafe chuckles as he reaches you, gently lifting Mabel from under her armpits and pressing a loving kiss on her round cheek.

You quickly snap a photo of the sweet moment. Their joy is infectious, and you can’t help but chuckle as you send the video and picture to Rose. Mabel’s earlier reaction to the sound of Rafe hitting the ball plays in your mind, making you smile.

Rafe notices your amusement. “What’s so funny?” he asks, his curiosity piqued as he sees you smiling at your phone. You glance up, grinning, and show him the video of Mabel’s startled reaction to his golf swing.

“Aww, I’m sorry, babygirl,” Rafe says with a laugh, his eyes softening as he watches the video. “I’ll let you know when I’m going to hit the ball next time.” Mabel, already captivated by her dad’s presence, giggles and reaches out to touch his face, her earlier surprise forgotten.

Rafe’s heart melts as he cradles Mabel in his arms, swaying gently. “You’re my good luck charm, you know that?” he murmurs, his voice filled with love. Mabel coos in response, her tiny hands grasping at Rafe’s shirt.

[iloveacaibowls111]

Mama's Boy

synopsis: i think megumi likes you a little more than toji. AU! where you are Megumi's mom and Toji's wife.

A/N: I'm sorry, fight me, but Megumi is the biggest mama's boy in the whole entire world.

“Say ‘Dada.’ Daaa-daaa!” Toji repeated, his voice softening with exaggerated sweetness as he tried once again to get Megumi to look at him. But Megumi, stubborn as ever, just glanced back at you with an adoring gaze, his small hands reaching out for you with a delighted giggle.

Toji let out a dramatic sigh, falling back onto the couch beside you with a hand over his heart, feigning defeat. “You spoil him,” he teased, nudging your shoulder playfully. “Now he’s got no time for his old man.”

“Oh, please,” you chuckled, leaning over to ruffle his hair. “You know that’s not true. He adores you.”

Toji raised a skeptical brow, glancing down at the baby nestled in your lap, who was still staring up at you with pure adoration. “Sure doesn’t look like it,” he murmured, but the gentle smile on his face betrayed his mock jealousy.

You glanced down at Megumi, who was now curiously tugging on the edge of Toji’s sleeve with a tiny hand, his eyes bright with interest. “See?” you whispered to Toji, giving him a wink. “He loves his dad. Right, Megumi?”

Toji softened, his hand coming up to gently brush Megumi’s hair back from his forehead. “Yeah? You do love me, don’t you?” he murmured, a warmth filling his voice as he watched Megumi’s little fingers curl around his thumb.

Just then, Megumi let out a small, babbling sound that vaguely sounded like “Da.” Toji’s face lit up instantly, his eyes wide with excitement. “Did you hear that? He almost said it! Come on, buddy, one more time—say ‘Dada!’”

Megumi just blinked at him, then promptly turned back to you, letting out a gleeful squeal as he grabbed for a lock of your hair. Toji let out another groan, though you could see the pride in his eyes as he watched you and Megumi together.

“You know what?” Toji said, scooping Megumi up and holding him over his head as the little boy giggled. “I’ll take the second favorite spot—just as long as I get my turn for some attention, too.”

Megumi reached out, grabbing onto Toji’s nose with a giggle, and you laughed as Toji let out a surprised laugh of his own, his eyes crinkling with joy. For a moment, he just held Megumi close, gently bouncing him in his arms as he looked at you with a soft smile.

“Alright, alright, maybe he likes me too,” Toji conceded, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of Megumi’s head before glancing back at you, his gaze filled with pure affection.

[minisugakoobies]

It's You - Choi San | All Yours

Pairing: San x Reader Genre: smut, crack, fluff, angst, roommates to lovers, BFF’s Lil Bro!AU Series Rating: M (18+) Drabble Warnings: sneaking around continues, this is just a very soft little holiday gift from me to you, San remains the sweetest and OC remains fully whipped for him Word Count: about 900 words Disclaimers: SFW, obviously I don’t own ATZ - they just inspire me

Summary: He was only supposed to be a temporary roommate. Your best friend’s little brother, crashing on your couch for a few weeks. That’s it. How did this happen?

A/N: All San wants for Christmas is Noona 🥰 I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season if you celebrate and if you don't then I hope you have a lovely day ❄️

Taglist is open! Reblog, comment, or send me an ask to be added! You can also send me any ideas/thoughts you might have for a future scenario - who knows, it might end up in a drabble! 💕

It’s You Masterlist 🐈‍⬛ ATZ Masterlist 🐈‍⬛ Main Masterlist

It's late on Christmas Eve when the last of your family finally leaves, and you can excuse yourself from your parents and lock yourself in your bedroom. It's late, so late that you consider for a moment not calling, but you're pretty sure San's still up. He'd made you promise him several times that you would call him today. But you've been too busy dealing with nosy aunts and loud cousins at the family party to do it any earlier.

It's late, but it doesn't matter. He's as happy to see you as you are him, his dark eyes crinkling in delight, and then his smile turns shy, like he's embarrassed at how much just the sight of you lights him up inside.

There's no reason for him to be embarrassed. Your glow mirrors his.

You don't want to hang up long enough to wash your face, so he joins you at the sink. You glance at the screen while drying your face to see him delicately scrubbing his skin with sudsy fingertips, and he sees you and pulls a face, making you giggle. It almost feels like a normal night, hanging out together. Almost. You sigh.

"I miss you."

San surprises you by looking surprised at your admission.

"What? Is that news to you?" It shouldn't be. The two of you haven't stopped texting since you'd left the apartment three days ago to head home for Christmas. San and his sister had left as well to have a quiet holiday with their parents. Since then, you've had to invent a million excuses to slip away from your family and disappear into your phone. The device has barely left your hand, every alert making your heart jump, knowing San is thinking about you as much as you're thinking about him.

"No," San scoffs, face relaxing into a pleased expression, a soft half-smile that fully melts your heart. "Of course you miss me. I'm amazing."

"Nah, I changed my mind, I don't miss you," you say, pretending to frown, and San plays along, pouting dramatically, and you can't help but sigh again. "Okay, fine, I do."

"You always give in to me so easy, Noona," he informs you, that spark back in his eye, the one that makes your stomach flip. "I think I’m your weakness."

He's joking, except maybe he's not, and you both know it. You settle in your bed, burrowing under the layers of covers, shivering because your personal heater is several hundred miles away. San does the same, lying on his side as he gazes into the phone, humming lightly. If you close your eyes, it’s like he’s lying right beside you.

The two of you chat a little about your days. His was spent watching holiday movies with Hanuel while his parents prepared a big dinner together for the four of them. You talk a little about your extended family and the chaos they brought to your house today. 

This is the happiest you’ve felt all day. Even when having fun with your family earlier, you’d felt a little off, like something was missing. Making San laugh now, watching those delicate lines around his eyes crinkle with joy, fills you with such a strong contentment that you can’t stop smiling. 

San’s laughter turns to amused hums the longer you talk, and he nestles lower and lower into his pillow until his eyes are struggling to stay open. You don’t even bother to finish your story, too busy adoring the sight of him. 

"Go to sleep, San. Or Santa won't bring you what you wanted."

“Mmm,” he yawns, pressing one hand over his mouth, “but Noona, all I want is you.”

“I knew you were going to say that,” you roll your eyes, giggling.

“It’s true,” he protests, quickly growing serious, “it’s true, though. I wish you were here right now.” 

You sigh. “Stop making me miss you so much.”

Both of you fall silent, watching each other through the phone. There’s a tension now, and it makes you nervous for some reason, and there’s only one thing you can think to say to clear the air. You’re not sure if it’s the right thing to say, but it’s the truth and you really want to share it all of a sudden.

“You already have me, you know.” 

You’ve known for weeks now. Weeks full of longing glances, lingering touches, and hurried kisses -  and sometimes more, in the rare moments the two of you had the apartment to yourselves. It’s time to admit it.

San takes your confession with a long silence of his own. Just when you think you’re about to have a cardiac event waiting for his response, he speaks. “I do?”

You nod. “If you want me. I’m all yours.” Can he hear your heart pounding through the phone?

San exhales quickly. “Mine.”

It’s an agreement. A declaration. 

He traces his finger down his screen, pretending he’s stroking your cheek, and your skin buzzes from the mere suggestion. A warmth like you've never felt before spreads over you, soft and tender, so like the man gazing at you through the phone. 

Tiredness begins to tug at you. Only one more sleep ‘til Christmas, then one more ‘til you’re back home.

And back in San’s arms. 

"Merry Christmas, San," you whisper.

"Merry Christmas," he echoes softly. "Sweet dreams, Noona."

If you liked this fic, please consider reblogging! Likes do not help it get seen by other readers. 💕

Taglist: @sweetnspicy-noona @krystal-a @jennylychee @hiefisch

© 2023-24 by minisugakoobies. Crossposted to AO3. Please do not copy or repost. I do not allow translations of my work.

[thesoulspulse]

Danny Phantom Randomness (The Family Man)

Haven't made one of these in a while, but what better way to start off the new year? So this idea really hit me hard while working on one of my fanfics (plus a christmas movie I watched) and I started thinking about a timeline where Vlad was just your normal everyday guy. No powers, no fancy gadgets, no expensive suits, and nothing close to billions in dollars in his bank account.

In this AU, Vlad did end up marrying Maddie too but also became a work-at-home dad to support her dreams and help her move on after the accident with the proto-portal. This time, Maddie got upset with Jack and both she and Vlad tried to warn him not to turn it on. Furious, she threatened to storm out but as usual he didn't listen though. But instead of standing there like an idiot in front of the damn thing, Vlad managed to dodge the blast and it hit Jack who was right behind him. Jack runs off but Vlad stays behind to check on Maddie who collapses to her knees, sobbing because she blames herself for what just happened since she never meant for anyone to get hurt, especially not her best friends.

Vlad consoles her and against his better judgement they try to make amends with Jack at the hospital, however, feeling ashamed and being as stubborn as a mule he refuses to let anyone see him. Devastated, Maddie gives up researching ghosts altogether and in an effort to keep her from spiraling into a terrible depression Vlad suggests she switch her major, promising to support her no matter what. And he does just that. Giving up his tuition money to help her get into an even better college and working odd jobs to pay for his apartment now that he didn't have a roommate anymore.

Eventually Vlad and Maddie start dating after she graduates with honors, get married, and have two kids together. She's become a successful business woman while Vlad finally achieves his dream of becoming a husband and father. Problem is...he doesn't remember any of it because it all happened to a different person!

One day, Vlad wakes up in an unfamiliar house with someone nudging his shoulder, telling him the kids will be late for school if he doesn't get up. He's shocked and delighted to find out that the person in question is Maddie, his beloved college crush. That joy transforms into confusion but Vlad doesn't have time to worry about that and uses his quick wit to play along so she doesn't suspect anythings wrong. After that, for obvious reasons, Vlad tests to still see if he has his ghost powers intact and of course the answer is no. It bothers him at first, and he becomes quite a klutz himself when it comes to certain everyday things. However, apart from having a beautiful wife Vlad is also happy to discover Danny doesn't treat him like the enemy anymore. At least, no more than most teenagers do.

This gives Vlad the chance to get to know Danny as a person, not the son of his former best friend Jack. Its unfortunate neither of them have ghost powers anymore but strangely enough, just having Danny smile at him awkwardly from time to time more than makes up for it. Meanwhile Jazz is on the debate team at Casper High and his wife Maddie owns her own business while their home is, unfortunately, a bad knockoff of Fentonworks called Masterworks where he's a mechanic that mostly repairs computers and such so neither of them really keeps anything there that reminds them of how they used to research ghosts.

For the most part Vlad's new life isn't bad despite not having money to burn and it feels like Maddie's gone all the time. It gets lonely sometimes despite being married, but he makes the most of it until one day Jack suddenly shows up after years of isolation and kidnaps Jazz and Danny! Powerless to stop it himself and knowing he can't go to the police, Vlad hurries to tell Maddie during an important business meeting at her company. He can't exactly tell her how he knows about ghost powers, relying purely on their shared passion on the subject of the paranormal back in college, but to his surprise she seems unphased by the whole thing.

That means its up to Vlad to stop Jack without very good weapons and no powers to get their kids back because again, the police can't do anything against someone with ghost powers. The thing is, Maddie isn't totally wrong about Jack since he doesn't want to hurt the kids. He just wants to duke it out with Vlad because he blames him for his life being so lonely and miserable, which is ironic.

He does his best to stop Jack with a weaker version of the Plasmius Maximus that he haphazardly made out of computer parts that can only short out ghost powers for a few minutes, but unfortunately Jack's still a tank in his own right and knocks Vlad to the ground. After that, somehow Danny unties himself and his sister and once she's somewhere safe enough to call for help he runs back in and tries to shield Vlad, who is barely clinging to consciousness. As for Jack, seeing Vlad all battered and bruised he thinks this should make him feel better but it doesn't. It makes him feel worse after realizing, he just kidnapped two innocent kids to get back at someone who tried to fix things between them, yet Jack was the one who refused to let him all these years...

The last thing Vlad sees after that is Danny's tear-streaked face, pleading with him not to die and talking about all the things they wanted to do together. Things like visiting the local planetarium, stargaze some more on the rooftop, go fishing on Lake Eerie, teach him to drive a stick shift, and go to the next Packers game together. Vlad attempts to comfort his son, accidentally calling him his little badger which isn't a thing in this timeline, then everything goes dark.

Vlad wakes up in his Egyptian cotton sheets and silk pajamas, a freshly ironed suit ready and waiting for him in the closet and the smell of his favorite cologne hanging in the air. He's home. Yet, it doesn't feel like home. For the first time in years Vlad truly feels how empty and cold these halls are without the warmth of a friendly face to greet him in the morning. And even when he had a version of Maddie all to himself, she wasn't the woman he fell in love with, just a stranger who only cared about her career rather than her family.

Then Vlad remembers Danny's face in those final moments before this dream or whatever he had just experienced abruptly ended. There was so much love there, fear of losing his father, and the familiar determination of the original Danny to protect his loved ones whether he was strong enough to or not. Now, having experienced something similar himself, Vlad finally understands what that feels like. How it feels to put someone else first before anyone else.

Eventually this leads up to Vlad showing up one day in Danny's bedroom, looking around at all the little things that hint at what loves and what his hobbies are. It makes Vlad realize, he doesn't really know Danny at all. Not the boy he is anyway, just another hybrid Vlad assumed they'd instantly share a deep connection with because of their shared trauma. Of course, when Danny does finally show up he assumes Vlad's up to no good and is ready for a fight when Vlad shocks him by asking if they can just...talk. He's suspicious at first, seriously considering refusing to do anything, but there's something in Vlad's eyes he can't quite place. Almost like, for the first time, this brilliant man seemed lost.

I could go on but I think you get the idea. Phew, I'm glad I finally got this out of my system because it really had a death grip on me today lolz. Hope you enjoyed reading it! Oh and feel free to borrow this idea for fanart or your own story if it inspires you. I'd do it myself, however, in this new year of 2025 I REALLY want to try and fully complete a couple stories before writing anything new even as a short story/oneshot.

[days-until-burnout]

Day 109 -

Characters - Gem + Pearl, brief Gem & Joel Words - 909 Time - 60 mins Content - Modern AU

“Hey, Joel?” Gem calls out as she tosses a dirty towel onto the bench, keeping an ear out for any sound. She hears little, just the sweeping and closing doors. “Need me for anything? If not, I'll head out now!”

“What? Oh, no. Go away. You're devaluing the shop!” 

She rolls her eyes, but smiles. “See you tomorrow!” 

“See ya!”

With that, Gem ties her jacket around her waist before grabbing her helmet, pushing the door open with her shoulder. She spins the keys into her hand then locks the door, sighing after a long day of work. 

As she makes her way to her bike, she thinks about the cars waiting for repairs. She reads through her messages and skims through her emails, hoping there is any news about the parts even though she just ordered them a couple hours ago. She knows Joel is doing the same, both of them the same flavor of impatience. 

Still, nothing can be done and the sky is getting dark, so she slides her helmet onto her head and herself onto her bike. She starts it then kicks the kickstand, reveling in the rumble of the engine and slow warming of her machine. 

Only a couple minutes too long, she is revving her engine to let Joel know she is finally leaving, and shortly after, she is turning out of the lot onto the streets. 

The wind welcomes her naked arms, slipping into her shirt and drying her skin, offering an instant relief to a long day of work. Her jeans freeze and heat up, the fabric worn to her shape. And she scolds herself for not loosening her hair first. 

At this time of day, the streets are filled with cars. She hmphs, knowing everyone has the same goal. 

Get home. 

Still, she sighs at a red light, weaving through some openings to get ahead. There are a couple waves, and even some engine revving to make kids and frat boys erupt in cheers. Though they cannot see it, she smiles at their joy.

She is a simple woman, that is all. 

With another turn, she joins the thrill of the highway.

Speed courses through her veins even if she just follows the usual path. Cars overtaking her, her overtaking them, her reflection on their windows. The pebbles and rubble, the grit of her soles, and delightful heat and cold embracing her body. 

She sweats again, but she only smiles wider. 

Until something catches her eyes, something in the shape of someone pulled to the side, standing behind their car on the phone. 

Gem switches lanes and slows down until she comes to a stop behind the car. The person has long, cinnamon hair. And after Gem takes her helmet off, the person turns to face her, relief on her face. 

Gem pushes her bike closer as the stranger meets her halfway, a tired smile on their lips. 

“Something wrong?” Gem asks. 

“I, I don't know? It's a rental, so it should be fine, you'd think it'd be.”

Oh, stranger has a nice voice and funny accent.

“I'm a mechanic.”

Stranger beams, “Oh! That's great. Could, could you take a look? I just arrived in this city so I don't know which number to call.”

“That so?” Gem entertains and she slides off her bike, assuming Stranger's lingering eyes are because of movement. She tries to not think about it as they walk over to the car, it being silent. 

“I was calling my cousin. But I told him I'd give him a call if you couldn't sort it out.”

Gem giggles, “So you assumed I would help?” 

“You look like you would help!” Stranger laughs, and Gem smiles. Absentmindedly, she finds herself tucking a curl behind her ear, tracing the curve of Stranger's lips. “My name is Pearl, and I am thankful for being right!” 

Gem rolls her eyes, smiling. Fond, almost. Pearl reminds her of Joel a tad. “Alright, let's see what we're dealing with. Oh, and I'm Gem.”

As Gem pops the hood and begins examining the engine, Pearl scoots beside her, looking over her shoulder curiously. And softly, Pearl speaks. 

“Thank you, Gem.”

After a couple minutes, Gem sighs, crossing her arms on the edge of the hood. Pearl makes a worried sound beside her, but there is no point sugar coating it. 

“Aside from running out of oil,” Gem starts, getting on her tiptoes to close the hood. Her shirt rises slightly, the breeze touching her lower stomach and back. “You've got some transmission problems. Looks like whoever serviced the car last didn't do a, uh, let's say careful job.”

“Not something I'm liable for, right?”

When Gem looks over, Pearl is smiling with mischief. 

“Not if we can prove it. If you let me make a call, I can get someone here.”

“Oh thank you! I promise to pay you as soon as my cousin is done with work.”

“No problem.”

One call later, the pair is seating on the hood of Pearl's car, chit-chatting about Pearl's flight and Gem's mechanic job. Conversation comes as easy as the cooling day, and Gem finds herself sliding into her jacket. 

Gem looks down at her hand, the side of it dirty. She fixates on it for a bit, before the feeling of eyes heavy on her person. When she looks up, Pearl looks away, casually tucking a strand of hair back. 

Pearl looks pretty, Gem thinks.

_____

would you still love me if I was a worm. or if I was unoriginal in characters/pairs 👉👈

also, i wrote this on the way to the airport. and then got a headache and finished it on the airport. i am commitment. also, i might post again tonight. am i compensating? yes. do i want to out of my own free will? partial yes.

[click for a random day]

[newtonsheffield]

Every single chapter of Surprise Neddy AU is literally balm for my soul. Whenever I think it cannot get any cuter, you prove me wrong. There are so many touching moments in every chapter that I cannot possibly choose a favourite one.

Thank you for this wonderful story! 💖

I just think the level of comfort Neddy and Anthony both deserve is Neddy being able to sit on his Dad’s lap and run his toy cars along Anthony’s arms and legs like he’s a racetrack. And in fact; Kate deserves to watch her son have that amount of joy from quality time with his Dad. Because that’s special for all three of them. Sometimes it’s not exciting trips out and going to the cinema or to an amusement park. Sometimes a relationship is built on moments just like that. Just Anthony getting to hold his son, and Neddy getting to feel the closeness and Kate watching them love and be loved. Those moments are special as well.

Neddy is already a favourite amongst the Bridgertons. He’s such a little sweetie in his light up dinosaur shoes telling everybody about him and Anthony and Kate having dinner this week and how Anthony does the best walrus face with the breadsticks. Kate’s a favourite as well honestly. None of them had really given much thought to what Neddy’s Mum would be like and Violet’s a bit ashamed to say she’d been almost too scared to think about it. But Kate’s obviously… kind of excellent. She’s sharp enough to keep Anthony on his toes and she’s obviously beautiful and smart and kind and everything else and it’s clear Anthony’s interested in more than just co-parenting with Kate.

But really, what Anthony’s family finds truly the most heartwarming is the way Anthony’s slipped right into the role of being a Dad. Sure he’s had practice with Gregory and Hyacinth but this feels different again. He’s there holding a tissue for Neddy to help him blow his nose. And he looks absolutely delighted to do it. He’s got Ben pondering his own life.

“Do I want to be a Dad?”

“Not right now you don’t.” Daphne rolled her eyes. “Neddy’s just cute enough he’s tricked you.”

“I do like being able to give him back.” Ben agreed. “That’s super convenient.”

“You also like competing with Kate’s sister.”

“It’s not a fair competition!” Benedict hissed, “Edwina wears torn jeans so effortlessly and she’s had ages to work on her act with him! They make my knees look weird! She’s in a band! All I can do is draw a comic about Newton!”

“Sounds like you’ve already lost”

[halfhoursonearth-writes]

Can you recommend fanfiction that you personally really like?

Yes! Love this ask. I’ve never made a Zutara fic rec list partially because I’ve read so many wonderful stories over time that I find the prospect daunting! 

But there are absolutely certain stories that I have a personal soft spot for, that I return to again and again. And that’s my criteria for what’s included below. This is a sampling of fics that I find myself coming back to, in no particular order. I may come back and add more, because this list is so far from exhaustive. A mix of ratings (marked), so keep that in mind.

Wish I Was the Moon by Like a Dove (T), post-canon: There’s so much that I love about the way this one-shot explores Katara’s character and what she faces post-canon, how she frees herself, strikes out in the world and finds her way home. Her feelings for Zuko, and her inner-conflict around them, are rendered tangibly, both through scene and subtext. A really good example of how an author can show a character’s lack of/journey to self-knowledge without breaking voice.

Refraction by caroes3725 (E), post-canon: When I started reading Zutara fanfic (for me this was in 2020), this was the fic I was looking for—a deep, realistic-to-canon, in-character exploration of how Zutara could unfold after the events of ATLA in a way that gives Katara in particular the arc she deserves. Really well-done development of the Fire Nation court world, well-developed characters, shining dialogue. An amazingly well-worth-it slow burn.

Wildfire by rainstormdragon (E), post-canon: To me this story is kind of a steamy Zutara thesis. The characters are so spot on and alive, their flaws are on full display in a way that feels realistic, and their chemistry is powered by their compatibility—matched in passion and stubbornness, and also in what they want from life. And I think it really gets Aang, too, which is something that can be hard to find in ZK fic. Also really hot, but that's only part of what makes it really shine.

Partners in Learning by evergreenonthehorizon (T), Modern AU: One of the things I love in modern AUs is watching an author weave that invisible string between these characters. Sometimes, it’s by writing narrative arcs that parallel the series, and sometimes it’s by drawing out the personality traits that make the characters both lovable to readers and such a compelling match and watching that spark bloom into flame. This beautifully written story does that so, so well in a really compelling Modern AU setting. Zuko and Katara here are so wonderfully lovable, and it’s a joy to watch them fall for one another, too.

Journeys by Smediterranea (E), Modern AU: In real life, I want to see my friends in relationships with people who can recognize why they’re so particularly amazing. That potential, I think, part of the appeal of ZK as a ship, and that’s part of the special magic of this fic. Watching these two characters get to know one another—really see one another—and fall in love deliciously sweeps the reader up. Plus, really fun, in character cameos from the rest of the Gaang along the way.

Spark, set fire by marijayne (T), Modern AU: literary fanfic, and I mean that in the best way. This story is beautiful and bittersweet, the latter is not often something I seek out in fanfic (where I hide from life), but here it’s gorgeous and worth it. The world building here is really cool—allows the author to explore some of a set of cultural issues/interactions that both echo the ATLA world and ours. The characters are so tenderly drawn (dadko especially)—and the connection between them builds beautifully and tangibly—and the longing is…chef’s kiss. 

Wrong when it's right by nire (T), Book 1 Canon Divergence: Before I read this, I couldn't imagine wanting to read a Book 1 Zutara. After, I wanted more. Bickering, bed-roll sharing, shared heat, tenderness and common ground. A delight from start to finish.

Anyway, thanks for asking and happy reading! <3 And if you want more recs, let me know.

[smilesatdawnmain]

ETERNAL LMK AU (Part 9) (Interactive Story)

Forgiveness. A beautiful thing...

Blind forgiveness? ....We'll see where that goes.

The rules are simple.: I will give the written passage, and then at the bottom there will be a vote on how the characters act next!

Story: Eternal Au

Ships: Shadow Peach

The air around them shimmered, and for a heartbeat, a flicker of light danced between their souls, pulsing with fierce recognition. Macaque's instincts wrestled within him.

The look in Wukong's eyes—a cocktail of guilt and yearning—brought memories flooding back. Memories of laughter shared under the stars, heated arguments turned into playful banter, and soft touches that felt like home. Each recollection twisted his insides until he felt as if he might shatter, caught between two worlds he could never fully inhabit.

"Moon," Wukong pleaded, his hands held out in the air, knowing he couldn’t touch, but so desperately wanting to. “You’re really here, right?” A vulnerability Macaque had never seen before—a raw ache that mirrored his own wounds.

A twisted sense of loyalty forced itself upon Macaque once again, despite his better judgment. Years of enduring Wukong's endless apologies and empty promises- a cycle that had woven itself into his very being. Each time, Wukong's actions grew more destructive until they ultimately resulted in Macaque's untimely demise. But even in death, Macaque's heart couldn't fully release the grasp of forgiveness on his treacherous Mate. His everything. To deny forgiveness was to deny Wukong. He didn't want to deny his Sun....

The shadows could not exist without the light.

Macaque's breath, or what felt like breathing in this half-life, hitched in his throat. The darkness that clung to him shimmered, almost invitingly, yet he remained tethered by that unbreakable bond. For a moment, he fought against the encroaching urge to rush into Wukong’s embrace, to bask in the warmth he'd lost.

His instincts screamed at him: "Run!" But here was Wukong—with open arms and a quivering lower lip—and Macaque felt himself weak to it. Always so weak. Always so desperate for Wukong. For Wukong to be desperate for him. To want him- fight for him- choose him!

Even with his anger and fear, his adoration and love just wanted to keep the man in his life. whether that be through clawing to keep Wukong close or offering forgiveness at the cost of himself.

With a trembling resolve, Macaque took a cautious step forward, the chasm of his existence shrinking between them. “I’m here, Wukong,” he confirmed.

Wukong's eyes widened, shimmering gold pools glistening with unshed tears, every flicker of emotion radiating the sheer force of his longing. He smiled in relieved joy when Macaque acknowledged him. That smile was an undoing. He seemed to sense that Macaque was not approaching him with anger.

His Moon was willing to forgive. That got him eager, stepping closer with a weak exhale and airy sound of joy. "Moon," he cooed in delight. It cracked something deep within Macaque, a fissure that widened as he took another step, despite the sharp bite of his past clawing at him like a pack of wolves.

"Don't," Macaque's voice trembled, fragile like glass yet full of unyielding force. "Don't smile like that, Wukong. You don’t get to smile after- don’t look at me like that…." Each word sliced through the tension like a blade, carrying hurt and betrayal.

Wukong's ears flattened, understanding he was moving too quickly. Smart enough to backtrack just a tad, yet still close enough to keep Macaque in his sights, “I-I know. I’m so sorry…” His hand quivered midair, reaching towards the ephemeral outline of his mate. It was an invitation wrapped in desperation- pleading for him to go easy on him. To forgive and forget. To stay with him.

Sometimes Macaque wondered if Wukong was even aware of what he was doing. If he maliciously knew what kind of power he had over the Moon, or if this was just a habit he too had unknowingly learned. That Macaque had allowed blind forgiveness for so long, that Wukong thought it natural. It was just their way. An expectation. Not an ill one, but just how things were between them.

Still- Wukong seemed earnest and desperate, so that was a change. A little one. Like a siren's call drawing him back to a place he thought he had escaped.

Wukong took another tentative step forward, unwavering in his hope yet visibly trembling at Macaque’s words. “Tell me! Tell me what I need to do to make it right.” His urgency dripped from every syllable. “I’ll never let you go again. I’ll never hurt you again…!” how often had Macaque heard such apologies? How often had the situation been swept away by handsome smiles and seemingly heartfelt assurances that were never planned out?

Bold promises. Empty promises. What could Wukong do to him now that he was a spirit? Of course, he could never physically hurt him again…

And yet foolishly, Macaque still believed such honeyed lies. A shadow who bent over backward just for praise of the Sun.

What could Macaque even ask right now with his body like this??

“I-I don’t-” he shakes his head, “Wukong look at me,” he gestured to himself, broken and upset. “I’m not even here. I’m intended to be dragged down into the Diyu.” he covered his eyes, shaking. "My soul is meant to be punished...."

Wukong's eyes ignite with a fiery rage, his body coiled like a spring ready to strike. He hisses through gritted teeth, each word dripping with venom, "The Diyu?!" The mere mention of the underworld, the Ten Kings, sent a shiver down his spine. How dare they even consider approaching his mate! Touching him with their vile hands! Taking what was his!? "Have they approached you?!" His voice echoes with a primal ferocity that sends shivers down even the bravest of spines.

Macaque's body tenses, his wide eyes darting around frantically as he stammers out a response. "I..." At that moment, he considers spilling the truth to Wukong. The existence of that invisible golden thread that binds them together, never allowing them to stray too far from each other. A curse and a blessing all at once. Yet, he paused. Should he tell Wukong that?

Should he reveal they were soul mates?

Previous

Next

[asamary]

the fact in the lil redraw dogday has the heart on his mouth broken while catnap doesnt

it is a nice detail i like :3

(ﾉ)•ω•(ヾ) thank you!!

And if y'all didn't see, the others are smiling because of the poppy gas, just like the cartoon where they all laugh maniacally:3

And also about this au⤵︎

Angel and the player from the original poppy playtime are one and the same. They are the same person, but the path they trod were different, creating this mirror like world angel resides in.

The player wanted to work in playtime co, while angel only wanted to live with their grandmother. In angel's the hour of joy, the prototype didn't order the toys to kill everyone, but only wanted all the scientists who tortured them . The VHS tapes of their experiments were giving to a kind employee who went to the police to report playtime co's dark secrets. After the police came in to investigate, the scientists and elliot ludwig himself were gone without a trace. The employees left, and the children were given to the other orphanages. But some children also wanted to live near the toys.

Months past and the toys are given a town as their home, away from the city to not draw attention to them. Some of the toys have the children living with them. And there is also a school up to 6 grades, Most of the miss delight are the teachers and the smiling critters visit once in a while as the special guests.

There are times where they explore the other town sides, it was here where bobby first met angel. Angel who was making flower crowns by themself. It was here where they two became close.

Years past, but the prototype still persuade to find the missing scientists, some of the toys also joined in this search, but instead of giving them to the police, they want to do the deed themselves.catnap was once the most to kill some of the scientists, lying to his roommates about him with his midnight shift. But when angel came, the prototype saw how close he became to them. Told him to rest and have some bonding time with his roommates. At first he wanted to reject it, but the prototype doesn't take a no for an answer. He saw the toys as a family in this town, and all he wants is for them to live happily.

(Practically the prototype is not a manipulative person but a support dad for catnap in this au:3 pls note my english is not the best soo if some sentence doesn't make sense pls tell me (＞人＜;) )

The player can see angel, and they are envious of angel, but is also happy that angel doesn't have to go through what they had to. Like a big sister from the shadows.:)

[feyd-meowtha]

@middlingmay's Fic Rec Questions

I saw this list and thought it would be fun to give it a go!!

1) Fic that's made you laugh the most

He May Be The Reason by @c-goldthorn. It's a Clegan Notting Hill au and it makes me squeal with delight. So cute that I got distracted while reading it and missed my stop on the train.

2) A fic that made you cry

my kingdom for a kiss upon your shoulder by pillar of our community @swifty-fox. I'm sure most ppl have probably read this one but it's such an amazing post-show continuation that really doesn't pull it's punches when it comes to both PTSD and the realities of being gay in the 40s

3) Fave comfort, silly fic

It's a little rogue but I'm gonna say Awake, Alive by the wonderful @whirlpool-blogs. It's a pet sematary au so not exactly what you would call traditionally comforting but the ending makes me so happy and the whole thing is just a joy. The fact that this came to mind when I thought 'comfort fic' is probably pretty telling about me as a person....

4) The fic that made you try a genre or trope that you don't usually read

This is also a bit rogue but it was tricky since I'll read anything, so I'll go with Strings of the Strings of Life by the lovely @weimarweekly, not because of any of the content but because I don't, as a general rule, read Dune fic that was written after Dune 2 released. I've bored everyone to tears with my complaints about that version of Feyd but it is what it is so I tend not to like any fics written about that version of the character BUT the prospect of a feydpaul Berlin techno au was too delicious to resist and the whole fic is so fun. It makes me miss Germany sooo bad.

5) An author who has inspired your own fic writing

This one has got to go to the anonymous author of both Close And Yet Closer and The Replacement. Both of these fics are god tier and their character psychology and willingness to allow their versions of the characters and relationships to be ugly and messy are so inspiring to me. They were also the first person in the John/Hausman tag on ao3 which is currently just me and them. I think about the replacement all the time and it was a HUGE influence on 3am Eternal. If I can ever write half as well as them I will die happy.

6) What are your fave underdog authors? Those that you feel are underappreciated and deserve a bit more love

Hmmm, this is kinda hard cus the MOTA fandom is pretty small so I feel like a lot of stuff gets decent buzz. Imma shout out @whirlpool-blogs again and especially their fucked up clegans fics, I have read and reread all of their works and they're always so so good. I will also add @steeseman for Up In Our Bedroom. It's another great post-canon fic and while it has a lot of hits, I don't think I've seen anyone talking about it on here.

7) What's one thing you wish writers/readers did more of when it comes to fanfiction.

The obvious one is comment, it really does make my day when I get a nice comment, even just a couple words or an emoji mean a lot. The other thing I would say is writing curt/Kenny fic, there's not much out there and I want more please. Also more fics where characters relationships are like genuinely kind of fucked up and toxic. I love that shit.

8) What's one thing you wish writers/readers did less of when it comes to fanfiction.

Oh man, I really do not know. The only thing I can think of is that I hate the word 'yap' or 'yapping' so if I see it in a fic I shudder. Hmmmm, I guess I also wish that there was a little more consideration when writing Gale's dad as an alcoholic because it's often treated as the basis for him being a shitty person. Addicts aren't automatically bad people and I sometimes feel like it's portrayed that way. @blixabargelds wrote an excellent post on this

9) I'm adding an extra one and that is current WIPs I am reading

Sympathy For The Devil by @blixabargelds, it's a modern ghost hunting AU and the set up is AMAZING. I will also throw Superstar in here even though it's not releasing main story chapters yet, everything Frankie writes is so tailored to my personal tastes it's crazy and I am so excited to read @mildharm's John POV chapters too. Literally foaming at the mouth thinking about it rn. When it starts being released fully, I fear it may kill me.

Love Song From A Dog and The Heart Is A Muscle by @swifty-fox. I've only just started THIAM but I'm so hyped for their take on the tattoo shop/flower shop au.

Hit Me Where The Heart Is by @london-cowboy makes me legitimately insane. I jump for joy whenever there is a new update, these versions of the characters and their stories are, as Paris Hilton would say, beyond. I do not have the words to say how much I am loving this fic. The characters and setting feel so real and it's just so creative. AMAZING.

I need to get around to starting let us not desert one another; we are an injured body and also the time skip fic whose name escapes me by @irregularcollapse and also catching up with @weimarweekly's rodeo fic, Looking For Eight

Writing this was very fun and I encourage anyone reading to give it a go if they fancy it!!

[avonne-writes]

Having an intimate talk about the bedroom scenes(don't skip this people!)

Oooh this for Clegan? Perhaps

Thank you! 🩷 A short drabble about canon au John and Gale post-sex. Bottom!Bucky and implied switching.

Before the first kiss he pressed to Gale's lips - in that dark alley behind the pub, pretending to be drunk - Bucky thought Gale would be the type who was sparing with his affection, always careful not to give too much away. But, for the first time in years, he misjudged his best friend. Perhaps it was because he never saw him in love before or because Gale hid this side of himself behind the closed bedroom door, but either way, Bucky's surprised.

Here, in the privacy of their hotel in London, Gale is sweet and relaxed, matching the greediness of Bucky's questing hands with his own. They've made each other come three times already, but he still smiles in delight every time Bucky noses his way up his neck to kiss his lips, and he pulls Bucky's thigh over his naked hips like he wants to fuck him again. His eyes look shiny with joy when Bucky looks into them.

"How was that?" Bucky asks, voice hoarse from having Gale's cock down his throat just moments ago.

"Good." Gale says, his smile pulling at his lips slowly until his teeth peek out. His cheeks are round and pink as he stares at Bucky with his head tilted to the side.

The sight grips Bucky's heart like a vice, and he’s helpless against the pull of Gale's hand that draws him into another lazy kiss.

"I like it when you do that." Gale says against his lips. His voice is so deep that it sounds like a purr.

"Do what?" Bucky grins. He wants to hear him say it.

Although a part of him still expects Gale to shy away from the conversation, considering the past few hours, he’s not that surprised when Gale replies without hesitation. "When you suck my cock."

Bucky snickers against Gale's cheek, feeling like he can’t stay still in his joy. "Tell me what you liked the most."

This does make Gale falter for a moment, words catching in his throat as he tries to work through his embarrassment. "You know it was my first time." He says evasively, weaving his fingers between Bucky's.

"Hmm." Bucky hums, hand-wrestling with Gale until Gale rolls them over to sit on him and pins Bucky's wrists to the mattress. The wetness on Bucky’s thighs smears on his legs, but neither of them minds. "Come on, tell me what you liked."

Again, Bucky thinks that Gale might pull back in some way, but he doesn’t. He folds himself down until he’s lying on Bucky with his full weight and he cradles Bucky's cheeks to kiss him through a smile again. "When you said you loved me."

Bucky barks a laugh, even as the butterflies in his stomach flutter. "I didn’t say that."

Gale kisses his temple, then his jaw. "Sorry. You said you loved my cock."

"Jesus Christ, Buck."

Gale leans close over Bucky's face, blue eyes sparkling with mischief. "That too."

They share another kiss, then Gale pulls away to pillow his head on John's chest. They fall silent, just listening to each other's breathing. The quiet feels comfortable, relaxing. John strokes Gale's arms. He marvels at the deceptive strength of them and the way they tuck so close to his torso, like a hug. Wonders if Gale was just as starved for this as he was. Smiling, he traces the shell of Gale's ear with a finger.

"I wanna show you what it feels like the other way around." He says.

"Okay." Gale sighs, as if the thought of getting fucked made him happy. "Whenever you're ready, John."

Bucky makes an incredulous sound. "Jesus, doll, give me a minute here. It ain't a race now, is it?"

Gale nips at the curve of Bucky's pec. "S'pose not." He raises his head to look into Bucky’s eyes. He takes a deep breath.

"I like knowing that you're a man." He looks away, his smile fading into something more serious.

"I liked that I could feel your mustache when you kissed my thighs. I liked your hands and your ass and the sounds you made. I liked pulling you off. Liked it too much, I reckon." He chuckles, self-deprecation dark in his voice. "It was even better than I imagined. And yeah, I imagined it before. What does that make me?"

Bucky pinches Gale's chin gently between his fingers and turns his head back until their eyes meet again. "It makes you my lover."

Gale casts his eyes down, then smiles softly to himself before he looks back up. "I could do worse, I guess."

Bucky grins and pulls Gale into a kiss.

[tubbytarchia]

In my head I'm constantly rotating around the idea of Ranchers and Pearl... This is largely unfounded but I just. can't help it... I just think they'd make such a cute trio and it's what all of them deserve in DL especially. Further thoughts below but please also have this from Pearl's POV

I have never been able to stop thinking about how Pearl was the first person to genuinely help the ranchers when they requested it, and the way she only asks for food in exchange because she's hungry, gets some steak thrown at her and she immediately gobbles it up. Then Pearl watching them try their best to get goat horns, doesn't even judge them for their complete incompetence (does snicker to herself a little but that's just cute), offers to try it herself, gets it immediately followed by Jimmy's unbridled joy and Tango's unbridled praise

Then Jimmy went and broke my heart by shooing Pearl away in session 3 like everyone else </3, but then pearl comes back later offering him a horse and this time she only asks for friendship in exchange <3. But then she HAD conversed with Scott before and Scott basically just said "I've emotionally reduced Jimmy into nothing before and you can too". In the end Jimmy gives her the horn that she got for him in the first place </3 Then Pearl and Martyn steal the horse back but Pearl pretty quickly feels remorseful and returns to Jimmy to once again ask for friendship in exchange for the horse. Jimmy refuses but Pearl gives him the horse anyway and RAHH Jimmy being genuinely surprised like, baby... he just doesn't expect much at all from anyone at this point does he lol. And Pearl all "No, that's not me, I felt too bad" and Jimmy still asking for reassurance "You sure? Are you sure?". Then they kind of established a friendship before parting ways when Pearl admitted she no longer had Jimmy's horn (had given it to Martyn already)

So obviously that didn't amount to much, they didn't interact a lot before Tango and Jimmy died but COME ON THEY'D BE SO CUTE... The ranchers who are most everyone's laughing stock and Pearl who has been largely ostracized for not even doing anything wrong, and completely alone. Except she does have Tilly, she loves her dogs and she also ushers a donkey into her tower all "here you go my little lovely", ALSO housing Oreo, the very horse that'd been traded back and forth and that the ranchers had so desperately wanted. Oreo WAS left there by Scar because he had to make a swift escape from the top but... you know. Anyway point is I think her and the ranchers have a little bit in common in that, I could totally imagine Pearl enjoying taking care of the animals. Also don't forget how she was struggling for food in the beginning just like the ranchers. But they managed to make do because they had each other, unlike Pearl. So the ranchers could give her supportive company!! Can you imagine how delightful they'd be towards her... The same way Jimmy would usher Tango into the ranch as he fled from mobs, scared and starving

That's about it but PLEASE. SURELY I'm not the only one who can see this. Ranchers housing Pearl would be the absolute cutest, they don't judge each other etc... Imagine an AU in which she does score a proper allyship with them, finally finding happiness in some human company only for them to die first and Pearl being left all alone again with all the other Lifers who considered her crazy

[yuujispinkhair]

Separation Anxiety (Chapter 15 - Epilogue)

Put your lips on my scars and teach me to love

When a ritual separates Sukuna from Yuuji, Sukuna is delighted to find that besides having his own body, there is also another gift handed to him: The brat has lost all his memories and is now the perfect little plaything to take home and manipulate. At least, that's the plan. But the King of Curses isn't prepared for the feelings that come along with being human again. And another complication is how cute the brat is when he has no idea who Sukuna is and, instead of hating him, treats him with genuine love and affection. So, without realizing it, Sukuna suddenly finds himself on a journey of learning how to be loved and how to love.

++ Masterpost ++

Pairing: Sukuna x Yuuji Genre: Memory Loss AU, fluff, smut, light angst Word Count: 2.8k Playlist: Separation Anxiety Warnings: 18+, smut, mentions of violence, dub-con (Yuuji has lost his memories, and Sukuna lies to him about being boyfriends). All characters are of age. This story is 18+. Minors don't interact.

Chapter 15 - Epilogue

We can meet in the middle, bodies and souls collide. Dance in the moonlight when all the stars align for you and I. (You and I - Stripped by PVRIS)

Sukuna's hand is clutched tightly in Yuuji's as they enter the small park in front of their apartment. Not for their daily morning run this time but for a stroll in the evening. Yuuji wants to see the fairy lights and LED decorations that have been put up all over the park for Christmas. And, of course, Sukuna can't say no to him, and so he lets Yuuji pull him excitedly along.

Yuuji is marveling at the pretty lights, and Sukuna has to admit that it looks pretty the way all those colorful lights turn the park into a magical-looking winter wonderland. Though Sukuna's gaze, more often than not, strays from the decorations along the path to the young man beside him.

He smiles softly as he watches Yuuji and sees the childlike happiness on his face as Yuuji takes in all the decorations. No matter how many terrible things have happened to Yuuji over the years, he is still able to find genuine joy in these simple things. An admirable trait, Sukuna thinks. Something he used to see as naivety, but now he knows it is part of the immense strength that Yuuji has.

Yuuji catches Sukuna staring at him and grins broadly, giving Sukuna's hand a squeeze as he jerks his chin towards the decorated park,

"Do you like it? It's beautiful, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is. Just like you, my love."

Sukuna smiles at Yuuji, and Yuuji throws his head back, laughing that delighted laughter that lights up his whole face, before he bumps into Sukuna's side and presses a firm kiss onto Sukuna's cheek,

"Aww baby, you are making me blush!"

He keeps peppering little kisses all over Sukuna's cheek, making Sukuna laugh and call him a huge brat affectionately, gently pushing at Yuuji's shoulders until the boy stops and smiles at him, big golden eyes gazing pensively at Sukuna as Yuuji adds in a much softer voice,

"I am so happy to be here with you. I'm so happy we are together."

He is still standing so close to Sukuna, and his golden eyes gaze deeply into Sukuna's, holding absolute sincerity and that unwavering conviction that only Itadori Yuuji has.

Sukuna's breath catches in his throat. A few weeks ago, he thought he had lost Yuuji and everything that had been between them. He thought he didn't deserve Yuuji's kindness and love. And yet, now they are here together again, and no words could ever be powerful enough to convey how grateful Sukuna is for that. But he tries anyway,

"Yuuji?"

"Yes?"

Those golden eyes look at him with so much love, and Sukuna feels himself falling even deeper into the warmth and safety that Itadori Yuuji has become to him. All the people around them disappear. There is only Yuuji standing in front of Sukuna in the middle of their park, the place they have made so many memories in, and the words tumble so easily from Sukuna's mouth all of a sudden, so honest, so raw but unafraid because he knows Yuuji will always be gentle with Sukuna's heart.

"Thank you for wanting to stay by my side even after you discovered the truth. Thank you for giving me a chance to learn how beautiful it can be just to exist as a human being. For a thousand years, I thought the moment I would be reincarnated, I would bring a reign of terror over humanity and gradually destroy this world. But now I don't want that anymore. How could I destroy this world when you live in it and when I can find so much happiness in it with you? You taught me love and how to enjoy all these little human things, like this Christmas garden with those fairy lights.

There is a red string of fate tying us together. I didn't realize it initially, but it was always meant to be. You were made for me. And I was meant to find you in this life. Even when I forcibly separated us, I couldn't walk away from you because something bound me to you. Do you know that I felt a phantom pain in my chest because we weren't sharing a body anymore? I needed you near me to make it stop.

My first life wasn't a good one. But I am one of the few blessed ones who got a second chance, and I want to do it better this time. I want to walk a different path, and I think with you by my side, I can do it. Will you stay with me, Yuuji? Will you walk on this new path with me? Will you help me live a better life? Will you help me be a human man instead of a monster?"

Sukuna's breath comes out as little foggy clouds in the freezing night air, adding to the magical atmosphere the park has tonight. And Yuuji is smiling at him while tears glitter in his beautiful eyes.

"Of course I will. I will always stay with you. And as I said before, you aren't a monster to me, Sukuna. Let's try our best to live a happy life and be as human as possible."

A pair of strong arms wraps around Sukuna's waist, comforting him, anchoring him to this world, to this life.

Sukuna wraps his arms around Yuuji, too, holding him while he tells him,

"I used to think the only things that mattered were power and strength. But you showed me other things. These things that I have with you... going to the park, watching movies, cooking together, and all those other small things that bring so much joy and peace. I want this. I want what we have. I want this quiet, happy life with you."

Sukuna cups Yuuji's cheek, caressing it gently with his thumb. And he adds after a moment, with a soft voice full of tenderness,

"I want this until my last dying breath. You and me. Yuuji and Sukuna. I want us to be together in this life and every other life that comes after it."

He knows it will happen because he knows their souls will always find each other again in every life in every alternate universe. Their connection has been woven into what holds this universe together. There is no doubt about it.

And Yuuji seems to know it, too, with the way he beams at Sukuna and smiles that sweet, happy smile. He leans into Sukuna's touch and reaches out to mimic Sukuna's gesture, cupping Sukuna's cheek with his hand and cradling Sukuna's face gently in his palm,

"I want that, too. You and I, that's how it's supposed to be. You're my home, and I am yours. Forever. I promise you, Kuna."

Sukuna smiles softly. The phantom pain in his chest is gone completely, replaced by a comforting warmth. He closes the remaining distance between them by pressing his lips to Yuuji's in a slow, tender kiss.

Sukuna doesn't know how long they stand there in the park in front of their shrine, just kissing and holding each other while the world moves on around them. But Sukuna becomes aware of a cold sensation on his forehead, and at the same moment, Yuuji pulls slightly away to look up at the sky and exclaim loudly,

"It's snowing! Look how pretty!"

Of course, Sukuna is used to snow. There was a lot more of it back in Heian times than there is nowadays. Back then, it was a nuisance. Too cold, too wet, turning the paths that lead to Sukuna's temple into mud that stuck uncomfortably to his feet. But right now, here with Yuuji, Sukuna can appreciate the beauty of the thick white snowflakes that slowly fall down around them, as if time has slowed down and everything happens in slow motion. It's peaceful. Beautiful.

Yuuji laughs and takes a step back, grabbing Sukuna's hands and giving them a squeeze as his eyes sparkle happily,

"Come on, dance with me in the snow! I always wanted to do that!"

Sukuna huffs and laughs, but he reaches out immediately when Yuuji slips on some snow-covered leaves on the ground, catching him before he can fall, and it only makes Yuuji laugh louder.

One of Sukuna's arms is wrapped around Yuuji's waist, holding him, and their eyes lock. For a long moment, they just look at each other, two people lost in each other's eyes. Two people who are each other's world. And suddenly, Sukuna knows that, yes, he will dance with Yuuji in the snow. Because why not? In this life, he can have all those little joys. The boy he loves wants to dance in the snow with him, and Sukuna would be a fool to say no.

He grins at Yuuji and tightens his arm around Yuuji's waist, pulling him closer. Sukuna is leading the dance, steering Yuuji in the right direction, spinning him slowly around while the snowflakes fall down around them, joining in on Sukuna's and Yuuji's slow dance.

Yuuji is laughing unrestrainedly, loud and happy while Sukuna tries to keep an aloof expression, but he fails and instead begins laughing too, as he continues to spin Yuuji around, careful not to let him fall, a strong arm wrapped safely around Yuuji's waist, the fingers of his other hand gently interlaced with Yuuji's. Sukuna dips Yuuji down, causing Yuuji to laugh even louder as the snowflakes tumble down around him and land on his pink hair like a crown. Sukuna can't stop staring at him, mesmerized by Yuuji's beauty, not just by the beauty of his face but also by the beauty of his soul.

5 years later

Sukuna wakes up to the feeling of a warm, heavy body lying half on top of him and soft hair lightly tickling his chin. The feeling of Yuuji wrapped around him like a lazy cat. And Sukuna smiles softly to himself as he runs a large hand through the soft pink hair, caressing it in a gesture so tender it still manages to surprise him even so many years later.

Yuuji never got his memories back, but he told Sukuna he doesn't mind. We are creating new memories every day, and that's all that counts. That's what Yuuji said to Sukuna, smiling that sweet sunshine smile at him, a typical display of his optimistic nature. And Sukuna smiled back and kissed him.

Yes, that is all they need. Yuuji is happy with his life, with the here and now and the future that lies ahead of them. And Sukuna plans to make it a bright future for them both. Another thing Yuuji taught him. Seeking happiness and peace instead of war. Creating a life that is beautiful because of its ordinary nature, a peaceful life filled with little joys like eating your favorite dinner, watching a movie or reading a book you enjoy, taking a walk in the park with the man you love by your side, or making love to him on your shared bed while you look deeply into each other's eyes.

Sukuna hums softly in the depths of his chest as Yuuji stirs lightly, but only to cuddle even closer to Sukuna.

"I know you are awake, darling."

Sukuna says, his low voice full of affection. Yuuji whines and hugs him tighter, mumbling sleepily against Sukuna's chest,

"Just a few more minutes, baby."

And, of course, Sukuna gives him those few more minutes. They still have all day to celebrate their anniversary. Five years of being married to each other. Sukuna booked a table at their favorite restaurant, and hidden in his nightstand is another gift. A poem. Just like people used to write them in Heian times to court their beloved. Sukuna had been an enjoyer of poetry back then but never wrote a poem on his own. The themes of those poems, love and beauty, had seemed too far away from him. Unreachable for a monster like him.

Now, Sukuna can't seem to stop the words flowing from his pen anytime he sits down to write. Poems about golden eyes and warm smiles. Poems about the person who became his home. Poems about true love.

Love.

It used to be something Sukuna thought he'd never be able to feel. Something he didn't even want to feel because it terrified him. But things have changed. Sukuna has changed. But he knows that he would have never been able to learn love by himself. He needed Yuuji to teach him. Sukuna needed the man who is the other half of his soul.

That's why Sukuna was never able to love before. Because no one else was Yuuji.

- The end -

OMGGGG THIS WAS IT 😭 Thank you so much for staying until the end!

Separation Anxiety was my biggest project. I started writing it in 2021. But at that time, I knew I couldn't do this idea justice because it was a very complex story to write, and I feared I wasn't skilled enough to write about the gradually changing emotions in a convincing way. So I kept it in the drafts and occasionally added something to the story. And then, as I grew as a writer, I finally decided it was time to start editing and posting this fic.

I had wanted to finish it for months but never got into the right headspace to put the finishing touches to the final chapter. And then Gege dropped those amazing epilogues and that beautiful art of Sukuna and Yuuji dancing in the snow, and it gave me the motivation to finally finish this story!

I have been crying for days over the new content Gege gave us 😭😭 I wrote the first draft of the final chapter after going to a Christmas Garden three years ago, and now everything has come full circle after Gege finished JJK with an epilogue about snow and that picture of Sukuna and Yuuji dancing in the snow. It just feels so right. The ending for Separation Anxiety was always planned to happen during Christmas time. And now I decided to also add the dancing scene after Gege blessed us with that picture 💗

I hope you enjoyed the ending. Separation Anxiety is a work of love, and I hope you can feel this love when you read it. No other characters have ever touched me as much as Yuuji and Sukuna, and I am so happy that I could explore them and their relationship in this story.

Thank you again for sticking with this story until the end and for all the sweet comments and patience. I am so sorry that I wasn't able to respond to all of your comments, but I read all of them, and I cried so many happy tears about them. I will always be grateful for all your love and support!

THANK YOU SO MUCH TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU WHO WENT ON THIS JOURNEY WITH SUKUNA, YUUJI AND ME 😭😭💗

[cursedhaglette]

Shoutout Sunday

it is so freaking kind of @littlejuicebox and @tallymonster to tag my work in their shoutout posts, so i wanted to add my own recs of fics i am currently wishing I could leave 1000 kudos on.

also fair warning, i'm a long fic girl. give me an OC to be obsessed, someone i can imagine my own hanging out with, and hopefully one that their author is also obsessed with. i wanna feel that through the writing. and with these, you can.

Pieces Left Stuck in Your Teeth by @howlsmovinglibrary / @wetcatspellcaster - i couldn't put this down when i started it, to the point i was reading it in the car when i should have been grocery shopping. i couldn't stop. it is witty always, devastating at times, and this version of Astarion is just terrible and hilarious in all the best ways

Not Your Sweetheart by @kittenintheden - the most natural dialogue I've ever read, and also the most hilarious. kitten also has such a talent for writing every character in a way that has me laughing each time anyone in her fic speaks. unless it hurts, in which case, it's gonna hurt a LOT

I Want to be Better; Let's Make Each Other Worse by @redrook - my frequent writing bud who's ideas outdo my own more often that not, Jack is an absolute genius and their fic shows it with every word written. the strange ox like you've never seen him before, dolphin riding, ceiling sex - you name it, it's in here AND it makes sense

Pour One Out by the absolutely delicious mind of @aevallare - auristarion supremacy for always. we all know kindred but if you aren't also reading Pour One Out you are, unfortunately, a fool

Sonnet of the Lone Cardinal by @brain-rot-central - neech is doing something truly different with this devastating and delicious A!A piece. and for it to be her first long fic??! the talent is insane

Made for This by @olivedrop - Olive's fic brings me so much joy, not just because Olive herself is an absolute delight, but because her writing is so real and the way she captures the companions feels like it was cut dialogue it's so good

now you want some SMUT? OKAY lets talk - take these and call me in the morning

Think of Me by @scaryanneee is the smut fic of all time for me. i've recced this an unhealthy number of times, probably bordering on it being obsessive

inevitable by @aevallare the smut fic i rec the second most because it's just so easy to place myself in the moment alex writes and as always, i love when the tadpole gets thrown in while folks get nasty

Where were you when I was new? by @kittenintheden - just shut the fuck up and read this and you'll get it. also i'll never stop thinking about how kitten writes dialogue in smut because holy cow

Pent Up by @underdark-dreams - this isn't even Astarion I'm sorry. it's Rolan. i don't even know if i like Rolan. BUT I LOVE THIS FIC. it is so fucking good oh my god.

Careless Whisper by @tallymonster - okay i might be biased because Tally offered to mention Halia here and made her the goddamn prima ballerina, but this is also just So Good and such a fun read. modern AUs don't usually work for me, but this one is that charming

and of course, though i doubt you need my rec to know her by now, anything written by miss @fangswbenefits will make your toes curl. and i mean anything.

[anaconamor]

a taste of something sweet - ruben dias x reader.

quick sum: fiance! ruben coming home after the cwc final, and not being able to spend a single second away from reader. seeing her with family has him confessing more than he originally proposed for. insta au included at end! tiny smut, so minors dni! 🤍🎄

wc: 1.7k | masterlist | ruben’s masterlist

psa🗣️: hi angels!🤍 miss you all! it’s been a MINUTE since i posted for ruben, but here’s something for us ruben girlies for christmas time! hope you enjoy! 🤍🎄

“ruben!” you squealed, waiting for him to fully come in before throwing your arms over his shoulders. ruben let out a deep chuckle, and picked you up behind your thighs, sighing in content at being with you again. you had the biggest fear he wouldn't be back before christmas eve, and that your plan to have both families over would be ruined. expect that wasn't it, and here stood your world champion. 

“i missed you so much princesa,” ruben set you down and kissed you deeply, grunting in delight at tasting your cherry lips again. “me too you have no idea, but you're back and that is all that matters to me,” your foreheads leaned into each other, as you ran your hand through his hair. 

“i passed by to get the last minute stuff so we could pack into the coolers, and i got you these as well,” ruben walked to where his luggage stood, locking the door first and then pulled out a bouquet of white and red roses, smirking at your awe reaction. “they’re are gorgeous ruben,” your finger traced the petal, bring the bouquet to your nose and smelling the flowers. “thank you belo.” 

ruben blushed at acknowledgment, wrinkled crinkling in his eyes. he kissed your forehead before dragging you into the kitchen. “i know i called you earlier, but i want you to know how proud i am of you handsome. a treble winner, supercup, and now a world champion? you have no idea the immense feeling i have for you, and to see you smiling after these past weeks? my heart is just full of joy.”

ruben had been quiet these past week, from training, to recovery, to the games and unexpected results, it was taking a toll on him. he didn’t show much emotion, let alone tell anyone how he truly felt, but you could read him from the back of your hand. if he needed you there he was, you vowed to that after he proposed after the unforgettable night in istanbul. 

if he needed space you would respect that, waiting as much as much time he need to process and then come find you fully. if he wanted to talk and express how he felt, he would pull you into his chest, whispering and not fully saying too much out loud, just enough for him to get into a stable mindset. if there was anything ruben looked forward too or longed for, it would always be you.

“my heart is complete with you, always princesa, eu te amo,” ruben said with a deep and groggy voice, enlightening a spark inside you hearing the three words you would never get tired of hearing. it didn't feel real, to have a man like him make you feel this way, to be head over heals, to finally find that stability and security with a man who never has taken you for granted and appreciated you through the good and bad. 

ruben and you spent the whole night finishing last-minute gift wrapping, and he went on to teach you his favorite portuguese cookies, opting to also make some for his family and yours. you hadn't seen your parents or sibling in weeks, and this time was perfect, being all together in a cabin, and spending your favorite holiday all together. 

ruben couldn't go to sleep for some reason, continuing to talk about the season they were having, and also about the final they had just won. he also made some wedding talk, surprising you since he usually wasn't one to give an opinion unless it was about a venue, food, or invites. part of him was also nervous to see your families all together, unsure how it would play out. 

he eventually fell asleep, feeling slightly guilty since he knew you were tired, and stayed up specifically to wait for him to come home. he kissed your nose and whispered a small goodnight, eventually falling asleep on top of you, finally getting the earned sleep since he could only do that when you lay with him. 

ruben ensure your luggage and coolers were safely secured in the car, making the trip up north to meet your families together. the two of you were the first to arrive, having time to go buy some groceries, and unpack. although that became hard as ruben couldn't keep his hands off of you, whispering dirty words into your ear that finally made you cave in. 

he longed for this. craved for this. he took his time with you, relishing every single second before your families came. groaning at the sounds you made, his name falling from your swollen kissen lips, the scratches you were leaving all over as the pleasure became to much. he was utterly obsessed with you, hitting every spot till you crumbled beneath him, ruben not far behind. 

maybe it was your hormones, but you shed a tear or two when seeing you parents all over again, especially your brother who brought his wife and newborn baby up to the cabin. it was not different with ruben’s family, giving them a hug and kiss on a cheek, asking how their drive up went. catching up with his mom, and cousins.while making dinner for a whole. 

it was a great idea you had gone shopping prior or else you'd be stuck, as the snow immediately came down after 4 pm. that night was spent with pure laughters, sharing old memories, drinks being poured every other few 30 minutes, and proposing goals for the new year to come. 

the day of christmas eve, everyone was up to go skiing, the tour guide showed the spots you could go and safely succeed skiing. you were more than grateful it was a private part of the cabin, no cameras or fans coming up to you, you knew it came with a footballer boyfriend, now fiance, but you would never quite get used to it. 

ruben was attached you, some could say maybe had separation anxiety as he always looked around to ensure you were okay, like a lost puppy. he would plaster a huge grin when he met your eyes, sending you a glance to check in if you were okay, you would nod and send him a wink. 

after coming back from skiing, everyone either took a nap or began to get ready for the evening. the tree was filled with gifts, the kitchen smelt like homemade ingredients and scents, and every corner you turned was decorated with lights. you turned on a few candles and set the table, ensuring everyone had a glass and utensils. 

ruben and you snuck in a shower together, avoiding his hands as he clearly desired more, but it felt too risky. you wouldn't have been able to look at anyone the same if you did had done something, or even heard you in the smallest way possible. 

“gatinha, you look so beautiful,” ruben whispered, as he came up behind you, wrapping his muscular arms around your waist and placing a small kiss on your neck. his nosed traced all the way way to your shoulder, not being able to get enough of how you looked and smelled, it was driving him crazy. you wore an emerald-colored silk dress, with small white kitten heels, and your hair down. 

“I know we have been together all day, but it feels like i havent been able to see let alone hold you,” ruben sighed, sounding slightly upset about it. you swiftly turned around and kissed his lips, feeling as he suddenly pulled you closer, releasing a small giggle from you. “i know me too, but i promise, once everyone is asleep we can make good use of the fireplace okay?”

ruben reluctantly agreed, walking out hand to hand out to see everyone either playing a game of poker, cooking, or watching tv. you insisted on helping in the kitchen, even if it meant washing dishes or almost slightly burning yourself. your mom and his mother conversation flew, as they talked about their teenage/ adult years, and apparently a romance show the two couldn't stop gushing about. 

later on, so your sister-in-law could get a break, you offered to help her watch the baby. to ruben’s surprise, he found himself glancing from time to time, a part of him wanting that with you one day. the way you cradled the baby, swayed side to side, kissed their cheek, and adjusted their beanie and blanket to make sure they weren't cold. right then and there ruben knew you were forever for him. 

“come here, i know your still cold,” ruben said, bringing you to his lap, the weighted blanket covering both your bodies as you watched the fire grow slowly. it was late, too late, but the two of you couldn't sleep. ruben rubbed your back, constantly placing kisses on your head and the bridge of your nose. 

you held onto the mug filled with hot chocolate, ruben dipping the cookies he made into the drink and eating them from time to time as you discussed your futures. he loved the sound of your voice, just like you did as well, it was a common thing shared among you. “i hope you know one day you'll be the mother of my kids one day y/n…” he randomly rambled.

“What?”

“you’re gonna be such a great mom one day, and i can’t wait for us to finally have mini us in the house. you mean so much to me i never want to be apart from you, i want to share everything with you,” ruben confessed, watching as your eyes went crazy to search for a tint of lies or regret. but with ruben? everything was always honest and serious, which you loved, as you valued communication. 

“thank you for staying through my best and worst. for keeping my head up high and never letting me down. for me to able to come home to the woman of my dream waiting for me. to have an inspirational and loving person along my side anywhere i go,” ruben continued.

“we made that promise no? when you proposed to me? nothing will ever separate us, and i hope you know that you won't get rid of me that easily. you’re it for me ruben, have been since the first day i met you. and i can’t wait for what's to come for us,” you said smiling, kissing the red tip of his nose and then lips, where he immediately closed his eyes and snuck in. “i love you querida.” just like the fire grew in the fire place, the fire inside your chest did as well. “merry christmas, ruben.”

“merry christmas, y/n.”

———————————

rubendias posted on their feed!

rubendias

liked by: johnstones, bernandosilva, cancelo, yourusername, joaofelix, nathanake, pepteam, and 534,274 others.

rubendias: lovely way to spend christmas after being a world champion! merry christmas cityzens! 🩵🤍

tagged: @yourusername

comments:

username6000: handsy aren’t we now ruben…

johnstones: sure that picture wasn’t meant to be left in your photos?

↪️ rubendias: nope ☺️

bernandosilva: love you two! merry christmas 🩵

↪️ yourusername: thank you benny 🤍 tell isa we send our hello’s 🤍

user19: HE IS SO BEAUTIFUL WTF?

username3928: y/n why are you allowing him to post these selfies? 🙄🙄

↪️ yourusername: i haven’t. he knows he can’t post stuff like this knowing i’ll go 😵‍💫😵‍💫

joaofelix: tu mano ruben 😂🤣

username1087: y/n my gf 😣

↪️ rubendias: she’s actually my fiance ☺️

mateokovacic: 🩵

[luveline]

for your dad!steve au, can we see steve making the girls laugh? or just any slice of life? thank u!

thank you for your request! dad!steve x mom!reader, 1k

Steve doesn’t play rough with the girls because he’s a schmuck who’s constantly terrified of dislocated elbows (shockingly common in young kids —all you have to do is pick them up wrong), but Avery has discovered via soft play club after school that landing on or being thrown at a soft surface is extremely enjoyable. 

“Please, dad, just chuck me! I won't get hurt,” she insists. 

You, sitting on the floor by your bed, look up from the clothes you’re sorting into piles to smile at him. “Go on, handsome, just throw her.”

“I don't want to throw you,” Steve says unhappily, trying to ignore Avery where she’s sat pleadingly on the edge of the made bed. He’s putting your folded pyjamas away in the dresser. 

“Please, dad, please, please, please!” she begs, climbing from her knees onto wobbly feet.

Steve sighs. Today hasn’t necessarily been long or anything, as it’s a Sunday, so you’re home. When you’re home, you insist on handling the majority of childcare to give Steve as much of a break as he can get, which isn’t often a break at all because you have three kids and a house and a lot of chores that are unavoidable. Steve reveres your efforts. You work all week just like he does, and at least he gets the pleasure of being surrounded by the people he loves. A full work week and everyday you come home tired but willing to keep on fighting until bedtime. 

He closes the dresser drawer. Realistically, there is no reason to say no to Avery. He isn’t so tired as to not be able to play for a bit, and he knows himself well enough to know he won't hurt her. 

He crouches gently and opens his arms. “Fine. C’mere, Ave.”

She launches herself at him. Steve picks her up, and he rocks her lanky but still so small body in his arms, each rock a threat that prompts an excited laugh from his oldest. She screams with joy when he finally throws her into the bed, her body bouncing up toward the pillows (two for you, about six for him).

“Oops, sorry, didn’t mean to drop you,” Steve teases.

She giggles giddily and crawls back to the end of the bed for another go. 

You pause with clothes unfolded in your hands. Kids wear altogether too many clothes. Dove must change three times a day, Bethie too, your youngest girls both burdened with a penchant for mess. Avery is much better, but even if they were the neatest girls in the world they’d still make a mountain of laundry at the end of the week. 

Simply put, you’re sick of clothes. It’s much more fun to watch Avery scream with joy as Steve scoops her up and drops her down again. He looks nice tonight, like he always does, lean but tough, not as fit as he once was because there’s no time for swimming when you’re raising kids but really, really pretty. The suggestion of his biceps strain against his short sleeve t-shirts, and when he pulls Avery up against his chest his shirt gets caught and you can see his soft tummy. 

“What is happening?”

You turn to the source of the new voice. Your second oldest, Bethie, stands in the doorway in her white nightie, hand in hand with your toddler, Dove. Dove is in very sweet, very small pyjamas, thin white cotton dotted with dainty blue flowers. They wear twin expressions, an apprehensive sort of confusion. They can hear the laughter and they want to be involved. You can’t blame them; Avery’s squealing in her disorientation, having way too much fun. 

“Dad’s throwing your sister,” you say. 

Bethie takes a step back. Not from fear, never, but because she’s a shy girl who doesn’t like asking for things. You don’t understand how you managed to make a daughter so different from your first, but you're delighted anyways. You love her exactly how she is. 

“Do you want to play, too?” you ask her, setting aside the last pile of folded clothes.

“No,” she mumbles. 

Steve tosses Avery at the pillows again and turns to the newcomers as she rolls. “Hello,” he says sweetly. “Now all my favourite girls are in one place! Come here, Beth, let me see you.”

Bethie is the world’s biggest daddy’s girl, immediately dropping Dove’s hand to crowd Steve’s knees. Dove’s happy to be set free. She squeezes through all the hubbub to flop into your lap, kicking over a neat pile of laundry as she goes. 

“What’s this?” Steve asks Bethie as he picks her up. He smooths a hand down her face. “What have you done here? You have a little mark.”

“I don't know,” she says. 

“No? You know what I think? I think it’s–” He tosses her in the space Avery vacated. Bethie is shocked beyond words and delighted by his deception, screaming as she lands in the rumpled sheets. Steve laughs at her laughing, and quickly moves around to the side of the bed to check he hasn’t done any lasting damage. “I thought you’d like that,” he says, hands sliding under her shoulders. 

“Do you want a go?” you ask Dove.

Dove can’t speak much yet. She knows lots of words and fractions of sentences, but all her pronouns are messed up, and she doesn’t like speaking anyways. She’s a quiet girl like Beth, though she doesn’t quite have her older sister's happy disposition, and she frowns at you. 

“Want boppy,” she says. 

You wrap your arm around her to feel her stomach like that might reveal a certain truth. “You’re hungry?” you ask, rubbing her side. “Okay, baby, let's go get your bottle.”

“She had loads at dinner,” Steve says. “I’m not sure why she’d be hungry.”

You laugh, because when he turns to you he has the two girls under his arms like bags of flour. They laugh and squirm to be released. Steve pretends to drop them, hiking them up again with a grin when their giggles thicken. 

“She’s a growing girl. Why don’t we all go have some milk, milk and cookies?” you ask, giving Dove an indulgent kiss. 

“Two seconds,” Steve says over the sound of excited agreement, “just need to–”

Steve throws the girls into your bed again. 

“Dad!” Avery scolds, her hair ruffled, her t-shirt collar rolled. “I’m fragile.”

“That’s what I’ve been saying!” He turns to you with a showful glare. Vindicated at last. 

Bethie stands up, an uncharacteristic loudness to her as she says, “Again, dad, please!”

Steve has trouble saying no to any of the girls but especially Beth. he drags her onto his chest and gets ready to toss her.

“I’ll meet you downstairs?” you ask knowingly.

“Yeah, yeah.”

—

more of this au &lt;3