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sjsmith56 · 11 months ago

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Brother - Chapter 1, Eyes of the Father

Summary: Taking place after the events at the destruction of the helicarriers a young woman writer finds an injured man in her garage and decides to help him.

Length: 4.7 K

Characters: Named female OFC (described physically but she doesn’t consider herself pretty), named OMC - her brother who’s in trouble, named OMC - FBI agent, recurring character, Bucky Barnes (beefy, long hair).

Warning: Mourning for dead relatives, mistrust of FBI agent, OFC struggling financially. Reference to drug use.

Author notes: There is a long time arc with this story, with some jumps forward being made. Updates will be twice a week.

🏡 🔨 📚

Late 2014.

The sweat kept dripping into Lacey's eyes and she kept using her gloved hand to brush it off. Finally she had enough and she went into the small house, found a large rag and tied it over her forehead, smoothing her blond hair under the edge. She poured herself a large glass of water and stood over the sink, drinking the water down. Then she went back outside and continued to sand the old paint off of the window trim. She noticed some of the caulking coming off and she added replacing that to her list of things to fix on the old house that her grandfather had left her. The list, which had grown considerably from the day she took possession, had already overwhelmed her meagre savings and unless she sold another article was perilously close to being insurmountable. Still, she had inherited the Williams stubborn streak and remained convinced that she could turn this ramshackle abode into someplace she could live and write in peace. Her concentration was broken by the sound of a cough and she looked up to see her older brother, Tom, watching her.

"I heard that Grandpa left it to you," he said, as he stepped up onto the porch and ran his hand over the railing. She hadn't even heard his car when he drove into the yard. "What memories I have of this place. I liked him too, you know. He didn't leave me anything."

"You hadn't seen him in over five years," replied Lacey. "None of you had really. I was here every chance I could get, and I lived with him for a year while he was dying. Someone had to take care of him because he wouldn't go into a hospice."

"I'm not disputing that you don't deserve this," stated her brother. "I just wish you had reached out to me at least. I didn't know he was dying and I would have made an effort to help."

Lacey nodded. "What have you been up to?" she asked. "By the clothes and your car it would appear you're doing well."

He shrugged. "Being a stockbroker comes with financial rewards but it's a killer career," he admitted. "It's not what I planned to do with my life but I'm good at it so ...."

Lacey stopped and put the sander down. "Why are you really here, Tom?" she queried. "I'm pretty busy trying to fix everything Grandpa couldn't fix while he was sick."

"Let me help," he said. "No strings attached. You must have run out of money already and I know that the taxes are probably due soon. I have the money and if you let me I'll help with the work. It might help me begin to like myself again."

She looked at him. Out of her three siblings he was closest in age to her and they had got along for the most part. He bought her alcohol when she was underage, had been with her the first time she smoked pot, showing her how to roll the joint and properly inhale the smoke. They had drifted apart when he went to college and fell in with a rich crowd of friends. Looking closer at him she saw the lines in his forehead and the dark circles under his eyes.

"What's going on?" she asked, coming closer. "You don't look well."

He took a breath and looked around, trying to decide what to say. "I fucked up," he whispered. "I got involved with a shady deal and I'm terrified that if I'm not arrested someone is going to come looking for me and hurt me or worse. I need a place to hide out while I figure out what to do and you're the only one I trust. Please, help me."

Leaning against the railing his whole body deflated as if he had been keeping this terrible secret for so long it had overwhelmed him. Lacey looked at Tom, and noticed his hand shook as he lit a cigarette.

"We should put your car in the garage then," she said. "It's a dead giveaway ... sorry for the words."

He smiled grimly then hugged her desperately. "Thank you," he whispered. "I didn't know who else to turn to. Mom would have freaked out. Nancy is caught up in her divorce and Terry is ... well he's always been an asshole, hasn't he?"

A bitter laugh escaped Lacey's lips at the mention of their oldest brother Terry, who was an asshole. Blessed with exceptional athletic ability he had been drafted by the New York Giants and had forged a successful career as a wide receiver. He had also surrounded himself with a circle of like-minded friends who lived to hit the stripper bars and date starlets. Everything in his life was about him and keeping the gravy train going.

While Lacey opened the doors of the ancient garage Tom backed his car in, got his bag out, and together they closed the doors, locking them with a padlock. Her brother followed her into their Grandpa's house and she left him in the small, spare bedroom. In his condition she didn't think he could sleep in their grandfather's bedroom where he had breathed his last breaths but she had no qualms about it, having been with him at the end. She returned to the porch to continue sanding and was joined by her brother ten minutes later. He had changed into blue jeans and a T-shirt. Handing him a hammer and nails she asked him to nail down any loose boards on the porch. He smiled and got to it right away. They worked together without comment until they heard the sound of thunder and put the tools away just before it started to rain.

While Tom washed up Lacey fried up some burgers for them in the cast iron pan that she placed over the gas burner. She sliced some tomatoes and onions, broke apart some lettuce leaves and put the condiments on the table. Then she pulled out a couple of cold beers. Tom opened them and took a long drink from his bottle. They both made up their burgers and took a good sized bite, saying nothing except making contented noises as they chewed. Lacey finished chewing her second bite and looked at her brother.

"Who would want to hurt you?" she asked.

"The Russian mob," he said reluctantly. "I didn't know the deal was money laundering. It was one of my colleagues that asked me to set it up. When I found out I panicked. I took off and drove here."

"It's not like you stole their money, is it?" she looked him directly in the eyes.

He didn't make eye contact at first. "I put it into a secret account," he replied finally. "In case I decided to go to the police with it. I wanted proof of the money trail and I don't have that. So I'm screwed either way."

"Fuck," muttered Lacey. "Does your colleague know about me? Or any of us? You have to figure they might come after any one of us to force you into the open."

"I didn't think of that," he admitted. "Shit, I'm sorry. I should leave. Draw them away."

"Tom, just go to the police," she pleaded. "At least they can give you protection and they probably have forensic accountants who can help you with the money trail. If not the local police then the feds, FBI maybe."

"When did you become so smart?" he asked. "I never thought of that. Look, I'll stay here tonight and tomorrow I'll go to the FBI. I promise."

She searched his face, looking for any sign of lying but as far as she could tell he meant everything he said. After cleaning up the dishes Tom went into his room while Lacey sat in front of her laptop trying to write. She still tried to write 1000 words per day while she was working on the house, not wanting to get out of the routine. After a few hours she had enough and decided to go to bed. It was raining pretty heavily and she figured it would help with falling asleep. Gently she knocked on Tom's door and he opened it.

"I'm going to bed," she said. "I've turned everything off out here. I'll see you in the morning."

He hugged her. "You bet," he said. "Good night. I love you, little sister."

"I love you, too, big brother," she replied, and turned to her room.

Settling under the old quilt that her grandmother had made she listened to the sound of the rain hitting the roof and slowly drifted off to a deep sleep. She awoke before sunrise with a start, thinking she heard the sound of a car leaving. Getting out of the bed she went to Tom's room and found it empty. His bag was gone as well. On the kitchen table was a piece of paper with Tom's handwriting on it and five hundred dollars paper clipped to it. She put the overhead light on to read the note.

Lacey,

I'm going to the FBI with what I know. Hopefully, they believe me. I'm sorry for disappointing you and for running out before you got up but I was afraid if I saw you I would lose my nerve.

I'm glad Grandpa left you the house. You deserve it. You deserve so much.

I love you.

Tom

Stepping outside she walked across the damp grass to the garage and found it empty. He really had left and she suddenly felt sick, in a frightened sense. The padlock had been left open, with the key still in it, and she began to close the double doors when she heard a noise from inside. As quietly as possible she reopened one of the doors, stepped inside, and grabbed a shovel, holding it in both of her hands.

"Who's there?" she asked. "This is private property and you're trespassing. If you leave now I won't call the police."

Stepping further inside the dim interior she could feel her heart pounding. Then she saw him, a man moaning on the floor of the garage. He was a big man, dressed in jeans, boots, and wearing several layers of clothing as if he was cold, which he likely was as he was soaked. A back pack lay beside him. His long hair covered his face and he had several days beard growth on his face.

"Please," he said, raising his hand with his palm out. "I won't hurt you. I just needed a place to hide out of the rain until I got my strength back. I saw the man leave and he left the garage open. I didn't know you were here."

Slowly she approached him and kneeled down to see him better. She saw his leg was bleeding and that he had tied a belt on it to act as a tourniquet. His voice was soft and non-threatening. He moved his head and she saw a flash of blue eyes, the bluest eyes she had ever seen, even in the dim pre-dawn light.

"What's your name?" she asked.

"James," he said in that deceptively soft voice. "I just need to rest for a few hours then I'll be on my way."

She placed the shovel against the wall. "Come on, James," she said, offering her arms to him. "I have a first aid kit in the house. You need to get out of those wet clothes as well."

He began to protest but he saw the look on her face and he slowly got up, leaning on her as she helped him stand. His size surprised her. She guessed he was at least six feet tall but he seemed bigger with his broad shoulders. He grabbed his back pack with his left hand and put his right arm around her shoulder as she put hers around his waist. Slowly they walked out of the garage and into the house, where she helped him to the couch.

"I'm sorry to bother you but do you think I could have some water?" he asked politely, looking up at her with those blue eyes.

Lacey brought him a glass of water which he drained while she went to the bathroom, bringing out the first aid kit. He looked intently at her as she approached.

"What's your name?" he asked.

"Lacey Williams," she replied. "I live here. The man was my brother, Tom. He's ... in trouble and is turning himself into the FBI. I'm guessing you're in trouble as well."

He smiled slightly and she saw a flash of white teeth. "Oh yeah," he replied. "Big trouble. That's how I got shot. Certain people want me back and I don't want to go back to doing what they made me do."

"Well, I'm not going to ask for details right now," she decided. "I'm going to have to rip your pants open to fix your leg. I can fix the pants but they need washing with all the blood that's on them. You could probably do with a shower as well ... no offence."

"None taken," he smiled again and she felt a sudden heat inside her at the sight of it. "If you help me to your bathroom, I can shower and remove the bullet myself. I've done it before. I'll take you up on washing my clothes, if that's not too much of an imposition. Then I'll be on my way."

"I have a robe you can wear," she offered. "It's old, belonged to my Grandpa. I keep it to remind me of him."

He nodded and she helped him to the bathroom, then brought the robe to him. "Thank you," he said softly, then he closed the door, opening it shortly after while wearing the robe. She saw a flash of something silver coloured and he changed his position, hiding his left hand from her. Handing her a bundle of clothing he nodded his thanks and closed the door. She heard the shower come on and she waited until it stopped before putting his clothes into the washer, not wanting to use up all the hot water. She looked down at herself and realized she was still wearing what she had worn to bed. She went in her room, locked the door and changed. There were no other sounds from the bathroom when she came out so Lacey began making some breakfast. Guessing he hadn't eaten for a while she made a lot and when he did come out in her Grandpa's robe his eyes widened at the spread she put out.

"I figured you were likely hungry," she said. "Go ahead. I don't mind. Did you get the bullet out?"

"Yes, I did," he answered as he sat at the table. "It will heal quickly."

She watched him as he ate. His long hair was slicked back over his ears, and she noticed that under the unshaven face he was really quite handsome. Even with just the robe on he was a big man; his broad shoulders and chest hinted at the muscular body she was sure was underneath. His manners were good. He commented on how tasty the food was and he was well on his way to eating all of it. She noticed he wore a glove on his left hand and stared at it for a bit drawing his notice.

"You're wondering about the glove," he said quietly. "I have an artificial arm and hand. It ... bothers some people."

"Why?" she asked. He stopped eating and for a moment she saw anxiety on his face. "I'm sorry. It's really none of my business."

"It's because of what I was," he finally said, after much deliberation. "What I was forced to do. The people who gave me this arm made it very distinctive, as a sort of calling card, I guess. It was supposed to make my targets afraid."

He had stopped eating and looked intensely at the surface of the table, as if he was afraid of revealing more. Lacey said nothing, but a thought had grown in her head and she took a deep breath. Was this soft spoken polite man really him?

"You're him," she said softly. "The assassin for HYDRA that everyone is looking for, Bucky Barnes."

The man still said nothing but his demeanour had changed to that of a man filled with regret and sadness. When he looked at Lacey she could see the pain in his eyes as he slowly nodded his head. "I meant what I said in the garage," he stated. "I'm not that man anymore and I won't hurt you. Once my clothes are clean I'll be out of here and you'll never see me again."

"Who shot you?" She had an idea but she wanted confirmation.

"HYDRA," he replied. "They're still looking for me, along with the CIA, who have shoot to kill orders on me. I was in New York, trying to find a ship to Europe I could stowaway on and they cornered me on the docks. I had to jump into the Hudson River and swim to Staten Island. It was a long way and cold but it was the only way to escape them in the dark. I made it, barely. I'll try to get on a ship in Philadelphia or Baltimore instead."

Lacey swallowed. It was November and this man had just told her he swam from New York to Staten Island with a bullet in his leg. He had said it so matter of factly that she had no doubt it was true. She tried to remember what she had read or seen on TV about Bucky Barnes. After Natasha Romanoff leaked HYDRA and SHIELD files there were investigative journalists who had been trying to find out more about this legendary assassin.

"You're really as old as they say you are?" she asked.

"I was born in 1917," he replied. "HYDRA kept me frozen between assignments so I barely aged. I'm still trying to sort out my memories from before but I remember a lot of what they did to me after the war. I wasn't a person to them. I was an ... asset, a weapon."

She began to gather the empty dishes from the table and he placed his right hand on one of hers. "Thank you for the meal," he said. "I hadn't eaten for some time. It will help my bullet wound heal faster."

His hand was hot, as if he had a fever and at first she was going to say something but she realized the heat was likely a byproduct of his treatment from HYDRA. It would explain how he could swim so far in cold water. She made an impulsive decision.

"You can stay for a while, Bucky," she offered, seeing him smile slightly as she used his name. "I have a spare room, although I'll have to change the sheets on the bed. This place is out of the way and no one should come looking for you here. I can check the internet and find a ship that's headed to Europe for you."

"Why would you do that for me?" he asked, puzzled. "You don't know me."

"Let's just say I empathize with your situation," she replied. "Everyone deserves a second chance. You're different than how they describe you."

"Okay," he agreed after being silent for some time. "Thank you, I'll stay for a while."

As she washed the dishes, he dried them and asked where they went. She put his washed clothes into the dryer and came back to see Bucky looking at the books on her shelf, holding one in his hand. He gestured to her Grandpa's LPs.

"You have some good music here," he noted.

She smiled and nodded her head. "They belonged to my Grandpa," she replied. "They kind of grew on me while I played them for him when he was dying."

Her face must have shown she was still grieving because he bowed his head slightly. "I'm sorry for your loss," he said. He raised the book he was holding. "You wrote this? Confessions of a Broken White Girl."

"My first," she replied. "It didn't sell a lot but it got some good reviews."

"Do you mind if I read it while I wait for my clothes to dry?"

"Go for it," she said, then headed outside to continue with the sanding of the window frames, tying the rag around her forehead again.

She sanded for some time then saw the flash of a silver hand reach for the sander and straightened up to see a fully dressed Bucky standing beside her. "I can do that for you," he offered. "It's a thankless job but my artificial hand can take more abuse than your hand can."

Handing him the sander she saw he was right. With his artificial hand he could put more pressure on it.

"Did you finish the book?" she asked.

"No, but I liked what I read of it," he said. "Reminded me a little of Virginia Woolf except for the fact she used stream of consciousness in her writing and yours was more straightforward."

"You've read Virginia Woolf?" she asked sceptically.

"I've read a lot," he replied. "I initially read some women writers to impress college girls before the war but I did get something out of it."

"You remember that?" Lacey said sarcastically. "What did you get out of it, sex?"

He laughed and his perfect smile was very prominent. "Touché," he said. "I'll admit that I had a bit of a reputation."

Lacey laughed as well. At least he was honest. He finished sanding all the windows and asked what he could do next. Before she could say he tensed and listened, tilting his head slightly.

"You have company," he said. "Several vehicles by the sounds of it. If you don't mind I'm going to make myself scarce but I'll be nearby. I just don't want to risk being caught."

"Go," she said decisively.

She turned towards the road and didn't even hear him leave. Picking up the hammer she started looking for loose nails on the railing and hammering them back in. About a minute after Bucky left three dark vehicles pulled up and several big men with dark suits and wearing sunglasses got out of each vehicle. As the others spread out over the property four approached her. One took his sunglasses off and showed her his ID.

"Lacey Williams?" he asked. "FBI. I'm Agent Dan Jones. Have you seen your brother Thomas recently?"

"He was here yesterday," she replied. "He stayed the night and left before I got up. He left me a note saying he was going to report to the FBI. What is this about?"

"May I see the note?" asked Agent Jones. "Please?"

She turned to go into the house and was aware that he and the other three men from his vehicle had followed her in. She had put the note on her desk and handed it to him. After he read it he looked at her again, then nodded at the other three who spread out.

"Now wait just a minute," she protested. "I've been truthful with you. If you're going to search my house I want to see a warrant."

He pulled a document out of his inner jacket pocket. "Did your brother say anything more?" he asked.

"I was going to tell you but this is bullshit," she said. "I'm calling a lawyer and I won't say anything until I speak to one."

"That is your right," he said. "Your brother is in a lot of trouble. There is a substantial amount of money missing and until we find your brother we're going to assume he stole it."

Lacey kept her face grim and dialled the lawyer who handled her grandfather's estate. When she explained what was happening he said he would be there right away. Fifteen minutes later the lawyer arrived and read over the warrant. Then he pulled Lacey into the bathroom. For a moment she panicked slightly when she saw the bullet and some bloody gauze from Bucky's wound in the small garbage can beside the sink. She blew her nose with a tissue and dropped it over the gauze.

"Did your brother say anything to you about the money?" asked the lawyer, drawing her attention.

"He said he was tricked into a money laundering scheme for the mob," she replied. "Then he said he transferred a large sum of money into a secret account so he could find the money trail. I told him to report it to the FBI and let them find the money trail. He left before I got up and wrote a note that he was going to the FBI with his story."

The lawyer took a deep breath. "If you want my advice I would tell them everything," he said. "If he's in trouble you need their help to get him out of it, especially if the mob is involved. If he's the one who is in the wrong, you need to distance yourself from him immediately."

Lacey swore, thought for a moment and made a decision. She left the bathroom and approached Agent Jones.

"My brother told me he was tricked into a money laundering scheme involving the mob," she said. "He admitted to transferring the money into a secret account in order to find the money trail. I have no idea of the account details. He said he would report to the FBI so that your forensic accountants could find the money trail. That's all I know. If he's being chased by the mob you need to find him first."

Jones looked grimly at her and took out his cell phone. "Put an APB out on Thomas Williams, as a material witness in a money laundering scheme," he said, then he paused. "Are you sure it's him? Okay, cancel the APB but I want his vehicle examined fully and the autopsy done as soon as possible." He hung up and looked at Lacey apologetically. "I'm sorry. Your brother was found dead in his car just half an hour ago. He had been shot in the head. It would appear that the mob found him before we did. I am sorry for your loss."

A roaring sound filled Lacey's ears and she stood there absorbing what Agent Jones had just told her. Tom, dead. She knew Jones was saying something to her but she had no idea what it was because the roaring sound blocked everything out. He looked at the lawyer, who helped her sit and kneeled in front of her.

"Lacey," he kept saying until she finally began to hear words again. "Lacey, did your brother say anything about the money laundering, what it involved?"

"No, except it was one of his colleagues that asked him to set it up," she said as she felt a lump begin to form in her throat. "He didn't say which one. I have to phone my mother."

"We already have two agents on their way to your mother's house," replied Jones. "We're going to finish searching your property and see if your brother left any clues here. Do you have someone who can stay with you?" She nodded, remembering Bucky was nearby. "Good. I would suggest you keep on the lookout for any strange vehicles or people that approach you or your property. If you do notice anything please call me directly. Whoever your brother crossed is going to want their money."

He handed her his card and she took it. Absently she sat on the couch for the next two hours, watching but not really observing the agents search the inside of her house. She did note they didn't go into the bathroom. When the FBI was finished with their search Agent Jones again expressed his sympathies. Then he ordered his men to leave and the lawyer went with them, leaving her alone with just the sound of the birds outside.

Chapter 2>>

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#bucky barnes #bucky barnes fanfiction #buckybarnes original female character #beefy bucky #buckyontherun #struggling writer #james buchanan barnes fanfiction #james buchanan barnes #bucky barnes fic #buckybarnesfanfiction #Buckybarnes FanFiction

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zhiroaesthetics · 6 months ago

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Mid-Summer Writing Updates

Was told that giving updates about non-major works is also valid to prove that this page is alive so...teehee!

Mental Check

To say that I've been slacking this year is a grave understatement. It frustrates me because posting in December 2023 (Kaveh) then January 2024 (Haruaki) truly made me believe that I had found my groove, then I saw my stats and gave up, yay! It's just hard writing when I already don't have the healthiest approach towards writing (it's really bad, like I cried so much writing both of those drafts), and that level of effort goes unnoticed by both the audience and myself. But I've slowly been accepting the fact that I can't gain the audience I want if I don't prove that I exist. After all, posting since 2021(?) but not even having ten entries is silly. With that being said, I have been writing consistently over the summer, but have been slowed down because I've been active, like this is the first week that I've been in my room this entire month.

Goals for Pre-Fall 2024

I'm definitely going to have at least three posts before the end of the year. I always try to have more than the year prior, and considering how little I have to my name, it's been pretty doable.

I've been going back and forth between Bowman (Granblue Fantasy) and Kyo (King of Fighters) for the past two months, and I know for the latter that his second draft is going to be posted before fall, though I'm not sure about the former. My writer's block on his draft isn't the worst despite the fact that I have to rewrite the first half of what I currently have, but I struggle trying to prioritize that draft over Kyo's given that I don't know how well a NSFW Bowman entry would be perceived. Regardless, if I post twice before Late August, expect for it to be these two bums.

Goals for Fall 2024

This is tricky, as it HIGHLY DEPENDS on what I end up fixating on, but definitely expect Tai Gong Wang (Fate/Grand Order). I've been wanting to write him since the beginning of time, but lack of knowledge on his character thanks to me exclusively playing FGO on the global server and things implied under mental check made it hard for me to prioritize writing the idea that was practically given to me. But what was initially supposed to be a collector's item ended up being NP3 and LVL 100, so I'm taking it as a sign to - at some point - lock in, and I think doing so right after clearing out my current drafts would be perfect timing.

Do, however, look out for these people:

Blade (Honkai: Star Rail)

Diluc (Genshin Impact)

Charlemagne (Fate)

Goals for Winter 2024/5

Yae Miko. Despite her being a December 2024 goal, she's one of my more ambitious projects due to research and it not being a one chapter entry. Even as I'm currently working on Kyo and Bowman, I'm immersing myself within The Pillow Book, as Sei's story is what most of Yae Miko's story will be in reference to. Also Haruaki, again, hopefully January 1st.

Do, however, look out for these people:

Kaveh (Genshin Impact)

Saichi Sugimoto (Golden Kamuy)

Miscellaneous

Girl if you saw how far I made it into my Senji draft, when I started, and when I stopped, you'd be wondering why my #1 isn't in any of my defined goals. And I'd say shit happens! Senji's draft had a very extensive outline, and I lost that very extensive outline, so I lost my motivation yay! Nevertheless, I still want to get it out there because I think it's a really funny one chapter entry.

Also Toji. Very much an outlier, but I've been putting him on the backburner because his draft is also one of my more ambitious projects, but one that challenges my writing skills in a duller way because of the amount of mundane scenes present. Also not a one chapter entry.

Anyways uh, thanks for peeping the yap session, meow!

#zhiro update #zhiro aesthetics update #writing update #long post

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demonslayedher · 2 years ago

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How do you think Obanai (and my favorite little dude, Kaburamaru) interacted/got along with all the other hashira realistically on a daily basis? Like did he actually enjoy being around any of the other hashira and talking with them? Did he consider himself to be close with any of them besides Mitsuri? We've never really gotten a look at the daily life of Obanai (or any other Hashira for that matter) and how he feels about any of them, besides the tiny bit in the fan book, so I think this would be an interesting topic. He has such a complex personality due to his backstory, which really changes how he interacts as well. This question is kind of just asking what you personally think, feel free to answer it however you would like. I really love how you realistically analyze the characters so I would love to get your opinion on this :) Thank you for all the awesome content!

Thank you for reading and enjoying the analysis! Let's dive into Iguro, especially his relationships with others!

Iguro is one of those characters who didn’t capture my interest for a long time, especially because I was so worked up over the raging battle with Muzan and Tanjiro’s condition that when I got the weekly update that was Iguro’s backstory, I was like, “no, not this! Keep the story going!! AAAAHH! I waited a week to see what happens next!” I still feel like that timing was a disservice to his character, as I didn’t digest his complexity until much later (speaking of digesting, I never liked the design of the snake demon lady in the first place, as she felt comically evil for her baby-eating and contrived torture of “save this one and make him look more like me” approach).

And he truly is a complex character, and once that clicked for me, he’s remained as interesting to me as everyone else in the cast. Part of the reason he doesn’t stand out as much as first is because the interesting sides of him are subtle, as opposed to the surface level stripes, bandages, heterochromia, and snake buddy. But, all those factors together certainly make for an impactful design. And hanging out up the tree and judging people, really, what a statement of an entrance.

Since the first appearances we get of Iguro all showcase his tendency toward harsh judgement of others, it’s easy to type-cast him as grumpy and hateful, unless you happen to be Mitsuri, whom he likes enough to bequeath socks to. Sure, even, the most grouchy of and touchy of people can have a crush and gain a soft spot for someone; this made Obamitsu initially not very interesting to me too. Like, yeah, duh, of course he likes Mitsuri, who wouldn’t like her, I love her, and because I love her I guess I can’t help but like Iguro too because I want her to be happy.

Which just kind of brought out my frustration with him. Why can’t you get over yourself and just let her be happy!? She doesn’t care about your “tainted blood,” man, just let her love on you!! You’ll BOTH be so-o-o-o-o much happier, dummy!!

These being my feelings, I was twice as irritated with the Iguro backstory chapter appearing where it did. However, there was still some time before the final chapters were published, and this gave me more time to spend with Iguro in the context of fighting alongside Tanjiro, and going in as a Muzan-sized choking hazard. And then I had a vivid dream one morning about an AU in which he and Mitsuri were, in fact, married with small children, but due to a brain injury, they had a 50 First Dates sort of situation in which Mitsuri still thought they were in the “friends but not lovers” stage and Iguro was doing his best to care for the children (who missed their mother as they knew her but did their best to be understanding) as well as keep Mitsuri blissfully unaware so she wouldn’t be sad that she forgot about her children. In true KnY style, this had Tanjiro finding out by accident around the time of Pillar Training, and being shocked (and thinking it’d be kinder to let Mitsuri know she actually does have a happy marriage), and Iguro warning Tanjiro to back off and pretend he saw nothing. And then, after this emotionally involved dream, I woke up and immediately saw spoilers that Obamitsu was canon! They confessed love to each other and promised to get married! And then died. So yeah, that was quite a morning for me. And then after the Obamitsu shock I saw spoilers about dead!Tanjiro, so yeah, that was quite a morning.

So then where did this take me later? Ah, yes, I took an interest in Kaburamaru’s origins first, and this was my backdoor to pondering more about Iguro’s past. I remained interested in Kaburumaru’s origins and went to visit those snakes in person, and I wholeheartedly love those snakes now, especially the one who came up to the glass to say hello to me. I love you, little snake out there in Iwakuni.

While thinking more about the island (not exactly a place you’d expect to find rich people) and family upbringing is intriguing, what truly interests me about Iguro is his emotional complexity. The fact that poetry is his pastime (including senryu, which have more flexibility for cynicism) is what really got me. He’s not just a ball of hate sitting up there in the trees judging people, he’s appreciating the beauty of nature too, d’aaaaw. His personality is as striped as his haori!

However, he doesn’t seem like the type to express any of his sensitivities, he doesn’t mind that people generally only see him for his harsher side. Maybe he doesn’t hide his sensitive interior world, but he lacks people with whom to share those bittersweet appreciations for life put into elegant form. Sure, this awareness makes him look at Mitsuri for her natural cheer and brightness, loving her exactly for who she is, but she’s kind of bubbly and bad with words so she probably wouldn’t make a conversation partner for poetry appreciation. Again, it seems like a private activity for him, so I don’t think this would make him sad in any way.

However, as he prefers not to talk about himself and these interests, that makes his relationships with others very interesting, and I had a lot of fun with writing a short fic from his perspective to dive into more of these aspects of his character. I’ve found it fascinating that he and Uzui ever would have found themselves in a conversation about their pasts (as described the second fanbook), and I had a mad, mad desire to see how that ever would have happened, and what would had prompted it and made them feel inclined to put their trauma on display to each other. Not that I think they’d have been buddy-buddy after an experience like that, but at least open and frank with one another (clearly, Iguro feels his relationship with Uzui is one in which he can say, “you can’t retire, but good job on the lowest of the Upper Moons, I guess”). In this fic I also had Iguro meet Oyakata-sama, whom, among the whole cast, I suspect would have the best understanding of Iguro’s sensitive side.

The next most likely character to see this is Himejima, as he’s sensitive to everyone’s sensitives, as evidenced in the second fanbook. What with Iguro’s deep respect for Himejima, I don’t think Iguro would trouble with conversations about anything more than typical Pillar duties, though. I say respect because Iguro’s black-and-white judgements of others are based on how reliable he finds him, and he finds Himejima reliable. He wouldn’t say that about just anyone. It also squeezes my heart to picture him having a relationship with Kyojuro that goes far back, in any range of what sort of relationship this was. For instance, if Iguro stayed at the Rengoku estate initially and little Kyojuro was actively involved in Iguro’s care, that means Kyojuro probably kept a vested interest in Iguro getting stronger and learning Breath technique and passing the Final Selection and climbing the ranks, and this might had looked like checking in with him on a friendly basis once or twice a year. Or, perhaps their encounter in childhood was brief, and Iguro was initially embarrassed when he ran into Kyojuro later who happily inquired about his health and acquisition of Breath technique, and Iguro might had been a bit shy as first because Kyojuro KNOWS his past and how frail and helpless he was a child. However, what with Kyojuro having such a bright and cheerful personality like Mitsuri’s, he’d probably feel as ease with him very soon.

His relationships with Shinobu and Muichiro seem purely professional. He wouldn’t want to spend much time with Shinobu in the first place purely on the basis of gender, but he wouldn’t dislike her for it, and his respect for her is genuine (she’d probably be the most likely to appreciate poetry in the same vein as him, though). For Muichiro, I love that he has concern for him, but he would respect Muichiro’s skills in a way that wouldn’t make him feel like he needs to keep an eye out for his wellbeing like he does for Mitsuri, on account of Mitsuri not always being as level-headed as she should in battle. I like to imagine that instead of feeling inadequate seeing Muichiro’s genius levels of skill, Iguro instead has observed it here and there, and realized aspects that he can incorporate into his own short-person swordsmanship.

Okay, but speaking of my own fics again, and seeing as this one was purely for indulgent Pillar interactions, I had SOOO MUCH FUN making Iguro the second most uncomfortable person in this fic.

Iguro hating the sight of Giyuu is pure and simple hilarious to me. Moving on.

What I truly wish we could had seen more of is Iguro and Sanemi hanging out together; I imagine this looked like griping sessions about Giyuu following Pillar meetings. If Mitsuri brings out the white in Iguro’s personality, then Sanemi brings out the black. Sure, the black is always on display for everyone, it is the side of Iguro which best suits his Pillar duties, but in Sanemi’s presence, it’s not just professional, it’s fun. Venting is a bonding experience and they can both relax in each other’s presence with this, and I imagine that makes them open to hanging out in any other kind of context, too. They’d have that level of comfort with each other that, say, if anyone else approached Sanemi while he’s smiling and enjoying the company of a stray dog, he’d probably be embarrassed and defensive if approached by anyone else who might comment on that nice side of him, but if Iguro were to come up and say, “hmmm, so you like, dogs?” Sanemi would probably be like, “yeah, I love dogs” and continue enjoying the dog. Iguro, being at ease in Sanemi’s presence, may even be inclined to pet the dog too, even if he doesn’t connect with that animal as much as Sanemi does.

I also really, really love how Iguro’s complexity comes out in his treatment of Tanjiro. If it’s his choice, he has nothing to do with that annoying brat with the demon sister and who got him scolded by Oyakata-sama, and even worse, that brat is buddy-buddy with Mitsuri. However, in battle, that means nothing. He and Giyuu both are worthy comrades and Iguro treats them as realistically as the situation calls for, similarly to how he will admonish Mitsuri if that is what the battle requires. He can set aside his black personality with such ease that he can adapt to and sync with Tanjiro instantly, and this also means entirely setting aside the ire and accepting Tanjiro into the white side of his personality as soon as Tanjiro has gained his trust. Iguro’s a polite man who knows how to express his honest gratitude, too.

If he chooses to express himself, he does it well. It’s always a matter how of “if”, though.

Those who get to know the real Iguro, who are shown the multiple facets of his personality instead of only the professional ones, are few and chosen. Like how the stripes of his haori obfuscate his true form underneath, choosing when and how to reveal himself, to whom, is such a core part of Iguro’s character. He’s got a lot of self-knowledge, which also makes him able to read others well.

If he chooses to, anyway.

EDIT: Forgot to add my take on Kaburamaru's interactions!! My take exactly is here in this fanart. Kaburamaru is friendly dude.

#iguro obanai #kny fandom theories and meta

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sequinsmile-x · 2 years ago

Text

Stained Glass Windows - Chapter Twenty Two

Life was complicated, but they wouldn't have it any other way.

-x-

Hi friends!!

Thank you so much for the love on this fic, it means so much!! I hope you still are enjoying it and would love to know what you think <3

Also, the flashbacks have kind of come full circle now, with most things that I wanted to cover in any previous time jumps covered. There will be flashbacks again in future chapters when relevant, but going forward there won't be one every chapter!

So, here's another, mostly, fluffy chapter...which I hope you enjoy and make the most of 😬

-x-

Words: 3k

A full list of warnings for the fic can be found on the Series Master List and will be updated as we go along. Please note that more warnings have been added.

Read over on Ao3, or below the cut

Emily straightens her dress, pulling at the material that was laying over her stomach, looking at herself closely in the mirror.

“You can’t tell.”

She turns to look at Aaron, smiling tightly at him before she looks at her reflection again, “She’s critical of everything, Aaron,” she says, blowing out a steady breath, “I don’t want her to be able to tell just by looking at me.”

She was nervous to tell her mother that was pregnant, feeling every bit as terrified as she had been at the prospect of her finding out back in Rome even though the circumstances couldn’t be more different. Elizabeth had always found a way of making her feel bad about things that made her happy, and she didn’t want to feel anything other than joy about this. It was part of the reason why they were telling her before Jack or the team, so they could get the, hopefully, last potentially negative reaction out of the way before they could tell people who would be happy for them.

Aaron walks over and wraps his arms around her from behind, his palms on her stomach and his chin resting on her shoulder, “She won’t be able to see it,” he says, turning his head to kiss her neck, smiling against her skin as she rests her hand over his on her abdomen, “I can see it,” he says, kissing her neck again, “But that’s only because I’m intimately familiar with what you look like naked.”

She chuckles, and turns in his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck, “Is that right?” She asks teasingly stamping her lips against his.

“I take my research very seriously.”

She shakes her head at him and leans in to kiss him, but is interrupted when her phone rings from where she’d thrown it onto the bed when she came upstairs to get ready for the evening. She detaches herself from Aaron to pick it up and frowns when she sees her mother’s name on the screen, sighing as she shows it to Aaron.

“I hope she isn’t cancelling again,” she says, frowning as she looks down at the phone, “I don’t like being the one to insist we get together.”

Dinner had already been rearranged twice at Elizabeth’s request. Both times had been short notice, a call coming through like this just before they were due to leave their apartment. It was usually the other way around, a case pulling Emily and Aaron away from an arrangement they’d made weeks prior. Something about Elizabeth cancelling on them made Emily feel uneasy. She couldn’t name it, couldn’t figure out why it made her stomach twist for an entirely different reason than the morning sickness that had plagued her for weeks now.

She sighs and answers the phone, putting it on speaker so Aaron can hear too, “Mother, hi, we were about to leave.”

“I’m sorry to do this again Emily, but I’m going to have to cancel I’m afraid,” Elizabeth says, and Emily closes her eyes, sighing as she sits on the bed, followed by Aaron who puts his arm around her.

“Mother-”

“It’s not like you haven’t cancelled before, Emily,” she says, cutting over anything Emily could have said, defensive before she needs to be, “I work too.”

“I know you do,” Emily says, shaking her head as she looks at Aaron, “But…this is the third time in two weeks.”

Elizabeth sighs down the phone, the sound followed by a glass being put down, and Emily can picture the look on her face, the barely covered irritation she’d grown up surrounded by.

“And why is it so important we get together, Emily?”

Emily looks at Aaron, and he smiles at her, a slight nod letting her know without words that it was up to her, that she could say whatever she wanted to and he’d support her. Just like he always did.

“I…I didn’t want to tell you over the phone,” she starts, and Aaron pulls her closer, his hand on her shoulder as he kisses the side of her head, “But I’m pregnant. 11 weeks along.”

She braces herself. Prepares herself for disappointment or derision. The few seconds of silence that follow her reveal feel like they last forever, and Emily is sure this is somehow worse than sitting across the table from her mother. At least in person, she’d be able to read her. Her emotions clear even if Emily was never entirely sure what her motivations were. Her mother a book she’d never been able to completely decipher.

“Oh,” Elizabeth replies, before clearing her throat, “Does this mean you’ll actually be having the wedding soon?”

Emily rolls her eyes and Aaron squeezes her shoulder again, another silent show of his support at her mother’s lacklustre, but also predictable, reaction, “No, mother. We’re going to wait until after the baby comes.”

It was something they’d agreed on shortly after they found out she was pregnant, neither one of them wanting the stress of a wedding and planning one before the baby arrived. Part of her wanted to elope. To go somewhere just her, Aaron and Jack and get married. Being able to call him her husband, to be able to say she was his wife, was what was important to her. Not a day surrounded by everyone she knew, and many she didn’t if her mother had something to do with it, because that was what tradition insisted she did.

She’d never been one for tradition anyway.

Elizabeth sighs, “Emily-”

“Please don’t argue with me on this,” she says, leaning her head against Aaron, “It’s my decision.”

“I was going to say congratulations,” Elizabeth says, her words always merging into one as she uncharacteristically trips over them before clearing her throat, “You’ll make a fantastic mother.”

“Oh,” Emily says, tilting her head to look at Aaron, furrowing her brows, “Thank you.”

There’s a moment of silence before Elizabeth speaks again, a rare moment of vulnerability between mother and daughter gone as quickly as it had bloomed, “I should go, but we will re-arrange again soon. Tell Aaron I said congratulations too.”

“Of course,” Emily says, staring at the phone in confusion as she exchanges goodbyes with her mother, still frowning at her phone as she hangs up, “That was…odd,” she says as she looks at Aaron, “Not at all what I expected,” she licks her lips before sinking her teeth into her lower one, “Did she seem…ok to you?”

An old, yet familiar, feeling creeps up her neck. Something she thought she and her mother had put to bed years ago rearing its ugly head. Distrust and concern she’d run away from after the physical scar she bore from her mother’s choices had healed.

“She seemed happy for you, for us,” he says, tucking some of her hair behind her ear, pushing his own concerns down, not wanting to make her worry in case his instinct was incorrect, his own past making him hyper-sensitive.

She smiles tightly and nods, swallowing thickly as she pushes her fears down, blowing out a slow breath as she convinces herself she’s wrong, shaking it off as if she’d never thought it at all.

“Yeah, you’re right,” she briefly presses her forehead into his, “Now we’re all dressed up with nowhere to go.”

He kisses her and pulls back, cupping her cheek, “What do you and baby want for dinner?”

She chuckles and looks down at her stomach as if the baby could answer, before she looks back at him, “Tacos. We want tacos.”

Aaron kisses her once more before he stands up, offering her his hand to help her up too, “Taco’s it is.”

___

“We’re the first ones here.”

Emily glares at her fiance as she hands him her go bag, watching as he places it in the overhead storage on the jet, “Of course we are,” she complains, not even trying to stop the yawn that escapes her, “You wouldn’t know how to lay in if you tried.”

The call had come in early, but he’d told the team to meet at the jet at 9 am, the flight to where they were heading in New York only a short one. Despite that, he’d got out of bed anyway and Emily had struggled to get back to sleep without him next to her despite her exhaustion.

“It’s better than getting caught in traffic,” he says, leaning in and pressing a kiss to her cheek.

She hums, “That’s easy for the man who’s allowed to have caffeine to say,” she grumbles, the mere thought of coffee turning her stomach.

He doesn’t miss the way she groans as he sits down, and he reaches out for her hand, squeezing her fingers, “You ok?”

She nods, grimacing as she briefly covers her mouth, “I think part of me really hoped I’d wake up in my second trimester and feel immediately better.”

“I’m sorry, sweetheart.”

She smiles but feels a familiar lurch in her stomach and she turns, rushing for the bathroom as quickly as she can, unable to acknowledge how he calls after her that he’ll make her some of her mint tea.

She makes it just in time, the breakfast Aaron had forced her to eat repeating on her in a way that makes her briefly hate him. She groans as she spits into the toilet, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand as she tries to breathe in and out slowly, giving herself a few moments to make sure that the nausea has passed before she stands up, closing the lid and pressing the flush before she turns to look at herself in the mirror. She blows out a breath and shakes her head, washing her hands and drying them quickly. She places her hand on her belly, smiling to herself as she feels the small bump that is more bloating than anything else.

“You’d better be cute,” she grumbles, looking at herself in the mirror once more before she unlocks the door and walks into the main cabin, “This kid is going to be the death of me,” she says, clearing her throat, “I thought the nausea was supposed to go away after the first trimester…” She drifts off as she looks up, her words catching in her throat as she comes face to face with the whole team, including Penelope, all of whom had arrived on the jet whilst she was in the bathroom throwing up what felt like everything she’d ever eaten. “Fuck.”

For a moment, that is all too brief, there is silence. Blissful silence as the team stare back and forth, wide-eyed, between her and Aaron, who was sat frozen in place where she’d left him, a cup of mint tea and some chewing gum on the table in front of her seat that hadn’t been there when she’d dashed to the bathroom. Any lingering resentment she may have felt towards him for making her eat breakfast disappear, once again replaced by adoration for him and how well he loved her and the baby.

“Oh. My. God,” Penelope exclaims, squealing as she breaks the silence, standing up as she throws her arms around Emily, “You’re pregnant?” She asks, squeezing her tightly, almost lifting her from the floor.

“Yes,” Emily says, laughing as she hugs her friend back, “Yes I am,” she says, her smile turning into a grimace, “But please put me down otherwise I’ll throw up on you.”

“Oh god,” Penelope says as she lets her go, “Of course. Congratulations.”

“Thanks,” Emily says as she breathes deeply as soon as she has some room again. She slips into the seat next to Aaron and smiles apologetically at him, a small of his head and a sparkle in his eye the only response she receives, “This isn’t how we planned on telling all of you,” she admits, slipping a piece of gum from the packet Aaron had left out for her, as she looks at her friends, their shock giving way to obvious happiness for them. “But yes, I am pregnant.”

Aaron places his hand on her thigh and squeezes tightly, exchanging a smile with her as their friends all congratulate them, the happy response to their happy news that he knew she’d wanted from the start. The response she deserved.

He felt guilt that he could never quite shake whenever he thought of Haley’s reaction to Emily’s pregnancy, to the idea of him being a father again with someone else. He knew it wasn’t easy, and knew himself well enough to know he likely wouldn’t react well if things were the other way around. If Haley had been the one to move on already. The one building a new family.

As much as he understood, he also understood Emily’s irritation that she always had to consider someone else's feelings whenever she had something good happen to her. He’d mentioned once, the same night she’d told him about what Haley had said to her, that she’d have had it easier if she’d fallen in love with someone with less baggage than him. She’d gotten mad at him. She’d pulled away and glared at him, her eyes shining with tears as she told him to never say something like that again. That loving him and Jack was worth everything that came with it - the good and the bad and everything in between.

The questions come in full force when Emily is settled down, and she’s grateful the team at least gave her the chance to get comfortable first.

“How far along are you?”

“When did you find out?”

“Why haven’t you told us yet?”

Emily chuckles at the barrage of questions, all overlapping each other as they all speak at once, all of them settling down as the jet is prepared for takeoff.

“I’m 12 weeks along,” she says, unable to fight her smile getting any wider at the thought of the new scan photo tucked into her purse. “We found out when I was in that car crash in December.”

Aaron squeezes her leg a little tighter at the memory of it, and she places her hand over his to link their fingers together.

“I knew you were at the hospital longer than usual,” Dave says, leaning back in his chair and Aaron shakes his head.

“No, you didn’t,” Aaron deadpans, and the team all laugh, Derek patting Dave’s shoulder with fake sympathy.

“Ok, no I didn’t,” he admits, shrugging in defeat, “You two are worryingly good at keeping secrets.”

“We rarely have anything just to ourselves,” Emily says, “Which is why we decided to keep it that way for a while.”

“Were you trying?” JJ asks, her eyes sparkling with joy, excited for her friend, and at the prospect of having a baby to spoil that wasn’t hers. Her question makes Derek groan, everyone’s attention turning to him.

“Don’t ask them that, I don’t want to think about them having sex.” He says, and Emily rolls her eyes and kicks him under the table, raising her eyebrow when he looks affronted, “I’m happy for you Princess, but I really don’t like to imagine you and Hotch doing the dirty.”

“Then you probably shouldn’t go into the bathroom at O’Shea’s next time we go there for a drink,” she replies, and his disgust visibly deepens. Aaron sighs next to her but chooses not to say anything as she laughs. She turns to look at JJ and nods, “Yes, we were.”

JJ smiles and looks at Spencer, stopping herself from laughing at the look on his face, his confusion evident, “Are you ok, Spence? You’ve been very quiet.”

“Am I going to have to explain sex to you again?” Derek asks, smirking, “When a man and a woman love each other very much-”

“I know what sex is, Morgan,” Spencer replies, cutting him off, “I’m an adult,” he looks back at Emily and Aaron, “I’m just confused why everyone is surprised that Emily is pregnant. I thought it was obvious.”

“What does that mean?” Emily asks, her eyebrows furrowing and her eyes narrowing, unsure if she was impressed or annoyed by the fact Spencer had apparently already known.

“Well, you haven’t had a period in quite some time-”

“You track that?” Penelope asks, her mouth falling open as she exchanges a look with Emily and JJ, “Little creepy, boy genius.”

“It’s a pattern, I’m good at recognising patterns,” he explains, “Plus Emily had a nosebleed at work and that is a fairly common, although not well-known, symptom in the first trimester. And her-”

“That’s enough, Reid,” Aaron says, cutting him off with a glare as Spencer indicates towards Emily’s chest. Spencer nods and swallows thickly, making the rest of them smother a laugh before Aaron carries on, “I’m sure you’ve all got a lot of questions, but we are at work and this is a short flight. I want us to be prepared when we get there.”

Emily looks up at him as the rest of the team murmurs their agreement, the sound of shuffling paper as they open their casefiles filling the cabin. They exchange a smile, and his hand shifts from her thigh to press his palm against her belly, an all too brief moment between the two of them before they carried on with the rest of their day.

She half pays attention as the rest of the team talks over the case, half distracted by nausea that creeps back up her throat as the jet takes off, half by the image of her future that got clearer by the day. The colours bright and beautiful, bursting to life in front of her.

-x-

Tag list:

@ssa-sparks, @lukeclvez, @lyds102, @glockleveledatyourcrotch, @hotchnissenthusiast, @danadeservesadrink, @ssamorganhotchner, @emilyprentissisgod, @notagentprentiss, @freesiasandfics, @emilyshotchniss, @thecharmingart, @paulitalblond, @hancydrewfan, @camille093, @whitecrossgirl, @moonlight-2-6, @rawr-jess, @florenceremingtonthethird, @jareauswife, @ms-black-a, @beebeelank, @aubreyprc, @zipzapboingg, @psychopath-at-heart, @criminalmindsgonewrong, @fionaloover, @kinqslcys, @prentissinred, @ccmattis-22, @denvivale317, @thrindis, @hotchsguccitie, @cmfouatslota77, @alexblakegf, @aliensaurusrex, @prentissxhotch, @emobabeyy, @victoiregranger, @stormyweatherth, @wanderingdreamer009, @ssablackbird, @luhwithah, @lex13cm, @prentiss-theorem, @dont-emily-me, @mrs-ssa-hotch, @jocyycreation, @itsmytimetoodream, @hotchnissgroupie, @controversialpooh, @capsshinyshield, @canuck-eh

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#hotchniss #hotchniss fanfiction #hotchniss fanfic #aaron x emily #aaron hotchner x emily prentiss #hotch x prentiss #aaron hotchner fanfiction #emily prentiss fanfiction

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flowermountainpress · 7 months ago

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Embers & To-do list (progress update)

February 24

(Cross-posted from Patreon)

I folded and am about to awl Embers-- vol 1-- my husband's birthday present for next month. I noticed so many mistakes on the typesetting, which is from May of 2023. The good news? I don't have to go through the painstaking process of changing the word doc, exporting the PDF, imposing it, downloading it, and printing again-- I can just live with the issues!

Mainly a spacing issue in the first chapter, all the new chapter pages having left-aligned page numbers, and a weird issue with the drop cap spacing. All things I can live with.

Unfortunately the margins are fucked. Plenty of top and bottom and even fore edge margin for me to trim, but it's going to be very slightly awkward on the inner margins due to the sewing. Still perfectly readable, though.

I didn't print a test signature BECAUSE I wasn't willing to change anything (long ass process described above) and I'm happy to live with the mistakes *because* this is something that's not leading my house.

I reread a small bit but caught myself... XD Embers has incredible re-readability so it's a great choice to bind.

After I get stabby, I'm gonna press the signatures overnight to reduce swell. Then sew! Typesetting, which used to be easy to me, is recently a pain in my ass. I find that with doing my day job on the computer (temporary work from home situation) and doing college on the computer, I don't wanna fucking touch it for bookbinding. The practical side of things, however, is nice. I wish I was past the typesetting stage on any of my "owed" projects; the two free paperbacks folks won (Domino and Mouse's).

I've included a picture of my silly to do list that let's me visually track progress on these projects. The first free paperback was easy because it was a fic I'd bound before. Only minor adjustments needed. I'm going to think long and hard about doing so many at once, ever again! Haha. It would have been fine if not compounded by the holidays and IRL work issues, actually-- but I've found it's the height of foolishness to make plans based on my *top* speed at completion things. Fall of last year, I was breezing by everything, and getting everything done soso fast!

Hopefully after this hill, and the break I plan on taking that I can see in the distance, I'll be able to be Speedy™️ once again.

As an aside, I can't remember if I mentioned, all the stickers and bookmarks (and tea and earrings) were mailed out earlier in the week, so February prizes are a bit early this month! Enjoy!

Domino project: 2/20

Mouse: 0/20

Embers: 6/20

Technological struggles: I bought affinity publishing last year when it was on sale, but this week when i tried to upgrade to using it instead of Word for typesetting (high learning curve but highlt recommended program for bookbinding), it crashed twice. The "why" is not a mystery. My laptop has been operating at almost maximum disc space, memory, and cpu, so I drug out my older but nicer laptop.

Re-installed a clean copy of the operating system, ordered a new battery, and have been slowly working my way over. It's a more heavy duty machine and despite being older, has better specs. So that's also been slowing me down. Every time I have spoons to do typesetting (or write), I run headfirst into these difficulties, and by the time I've made progress there, the spoons are gone.

However, slow and steady progress IS being made. I've pretty much vowed to keep trucking on with Word until I finish my current roster of projects, then fuck around with Affinity when I get 5 seconds.

Anyway, long post! Many update. Some progress.

#wip #bookbinding #fanbinding #tim speaks #embers

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flfverse · 1 year ago

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i love promising things and not following up. it’s awesome. superrrrr cool. anyway, little life/fic update for you all. it’s 4am, please bear with me.

i wanted to wait to do this until i had more work done so i could drop snippets and have an actual date for the hiatus to end, but you know.

to be honest, the brain? is not great. where’s the halloween meme. mental is hocus. health not pocus. etc etc. and the thing is i have a support system of sorts, therapy, all that good stuff. i also have, like, four or five mental illnesses. and because of the logistics of College, none of my support system is actually physically nearby most of the time. so. that kinda sucks. <3 i miss people. horrified to discover i might actually be an extrovert and just anxious.

but you know, ups and downs. this week, or at least this weekend, we’re on an up, which is good. the shitty part is, this time last year i coped by writing so, so much fanfiction. truly, look at my ao3 september-december 2022. wild.

and i just. can’t really write these days, for whatever reason. not easily. and it sucks! because i love this story! i want to tell it so bad! but the initial hyperfixation has worn off and my motivation to do anything at all is a bit….how do you say….nonexistent. so like. halfhearted cheers. sorry.

the best timeline i can give right now is this: i have a fandom trumps hate auction due december 31st. it’s about half done. that is obvs first priority (after silly things like school and work) because there are actual material consequences if i don’t finish. i am also launching something original in january, if i can get myself together enough to do so. i think i will. i’m mostly ready (and hey, my main is in my pinned if queer fantasy pirates sounds up your alley?).

and also, there’s FLFverse. i would really like to get back to posting before the year is up, but :/ not sure. definitely want to by january. i’m not sure if i’ll be able to keep up with two chapters a month or if i’ll have to drop to one or something even more sporadic than that.

hey, be honest, would you rather wait longer for me to build a backlog for regular updates, or get the ball rolling sooner but with no schedule?

we have a poll now i guess. it’s seriously 4am and i’m about to go back to making paper mache bones on the floor, mkay. don’t ask me to be normal.

so anyway. that’s the update. i wish it was more positive. if you made it all the way to the end and want to toss an ask, a little prompt, a question, whatever, that would be very cool. i think i have a chill week coming up and i miss this ‘verse a ton, wouldn’t mind some dopamine.

#wren.txt #this is so MELANCHOLY god damn #i feel bad yall #i just cant make my brain make words #oneshots and little things seem to go better though so i mean it about prompts #maybe i cant do free falling but i can do a little dabihawks drabble. a little bkdk scene. puppy kiri is still a thing #and to anyone who’s still hanging around two months after i said i’d be back you’re an angel ily <3

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canirove · 2 years ago

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Professor Rice | Chapter 6

Previous chapter | Next chapter

Masterlist

Veronica’s POV

Papers were done and all the studying was kinda done, so I decided to go to the gym. I was not a big gym person, but I liked to go from time to time to let some steam off.

So I put on a sports bra, some leggings, my hair up in a ponytail, and headed to the gym.

“Don’t forget your water bottle” Jo screamed from the sofa.

Again, what would I do without her?

I jogged on my way to the gym to warm up a little and then I picked one of the empty machines to start my workout. My “let’s get shit done” playlist was working particularly well today.

I moved around the gym, trying to put all my muscles to work before I found an empty space where I could stretch for a second.

And then, I saw him.

Declan was lifting weights. Yes. The most attractive man I’ve ever seen in my life, who also happened to be my professor and who had kind of broken my heart, was lifting weights in front of me. He usually wore jeans and smart shirts to class, but he was now wearing shorts and a white shirt that stuck to his sweaty chest. I think I forgot how to breathe.

Ok, right. I needed to move and stop staring at him. But I also had to walk past him to go to the only empty machine in the whole gym.

Just breathe, Veronica. Walk fast and don’t look at him. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

“Veronica?”

Well, that went well.

“Yeah... oh, hi. I didn’t see you there!” I lied. I mean, at least my blush was not that noticeable since I was already red from working out.

He looked from my head to my toes twice before forcing himself to look away. Wait, was he checking me out?

“I didn’t know you came to the gym, I’ve never seen you here” he said.

“Yeah, uh... I don’t. Often. I just had some free time and thought it’d be good to clear my mind.” Funny, it was working until I saw him. “I can tell you come here often though... I mean. You know, muscles.” What am I talking about?

“These? Yeah, I guess” he laughed while flexing his arms, which gave me a clearer view of how massive those biceps were.

He’s trying to kill me.

“Right, I was just leaving so... have a good time working out.”

The smile fell off his face and he bit his lip.

“Don’t go!” he said while he grabbed my arm.

What?

Declan’s POV

Why am I holding her arm?

“Sorry” I said as I dropped her arm. “I just wanted to ask you if you were ok?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Well, you know. There are a lot of assignments due this week and tests. So I just... I just wondered if you were doing ok.”

“I’m fine. Thanks for asking” she said while she looked at the door. She really doesn’t want to spend any time with me.

“Veronica, you know you can come to me whenever you need help, right?”

“Can I?” she said bitterly.

So I hurt her. Great job, Declan. I felt like I needed to find the right words right now if I didn’t want to lose her.

“Yes, you can. I’m sorry if I ever made you feel otherwise. I… ” I struggled. “Come have some coffee with me and we can talk. Outside of campus. Please.”

Veronica stared at me for what felt like hours before she agreed.

“Ok. Let me shower first, though”.

My laugh shook my entire body. I was so relieved she agreed to talk to me.

We exchanged numbers and decided on a place where we could meet. After that, I went home to shower and get ready for our... meeting? Date?

I don’t know what this is, and I shouldn’t think too much about it.

I didn’t want to look like I had tried too much but I also really wanted to look good for her. So I decided on some black jeans and a nice black fitted short-sleeve t-shirt. I was not an idiot, I saw the way she looked at my arms at the gym.

Once I was ready, I sat on the sofa and petted my cat, Winnie. She was definitely going to leave white fur all over my black outfit but oh well… The life of a cat dad.

I took my phone out of my pocket to text Mason. Apparently, I had to send him an update every ten minutes.

What does he think is going to happen? Well, probably what you hope will happen, you idiot. What am I doing?

#declan rice #declan rice fanfic #declan rice imagine #football fanfic #football imagine

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eirian-houpe · 2 years ago

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TMI Tuesday

Welcome to Tuesday.

So, today, I’m putting myself out there emotionally, and posting one of these for the first time in many, many weeks. I made a post last week, and I’ve also seen several posts recently about the whole “engagement” issue, and - sensitive soul that I am - I’ve been feeling the effects of that lack quite acutely of late.

I’m not sharing this angling for sympathy, but to point out to some (after reading comments on the last engagement post about not reading unfinished fics etc.) that the whole, ‘I’m too busy to waste my time/energy engaging in reading fics that have been abandoned, or are not updated in a timely manner, (for some measured in ‘weeks’ between posts), just doesn’t cut it.

I’m entirely unapologetic about that call out, and here’s why:

I (as many other fic writers) work a full time job that is a) very stressful, and b) extremely time consuming even outside of ‘working hours.’ add to that, I have a family to take care of, and often don’t have the hours it takes to plan, write, edit and post a chapter of any given fic, on every day of a given week. So yeah, it will often be weeks - maybe even months - between posting a new chapter.

The expectation of a fast turnaround between fic chapters is - frankly - entitled, and shows a complete lack of empathy and respect for fandom creators (writers, artists, videographers, gif makers, etc.) Knowing that. feeling that from fellow members of your fandom is demoralizing, and contributes to lack of inspiration, lack of excitement, and a sense of “why do I bother?” - not just for me, but for many fandom creators. Creators are real people with real lives and real issues, just as readers are.

Additionally, fandom is about community and if we’re not supporting our fellows in fandom, where is that community? Writers supporting writers, (creators supporting creators), has dropped off too, which is perhaps as big a blow as any other lack of engagement. Is it really so hard to send a fellow creator an ask once a week?

"We rise by lifting others." - Robert Ingersoll

We keep fandom active by behaving as a community, and not blindly adopting the “I’m all right, Jack,” attitude when our own engagement is high; by turning a blind eye to all of our fellow creators lack in that respect.

I know, I know, I sound like a tired old broken record, but wake up and smell the decay, peeps. A fandom is only as vibrant as the least included and inspired member of that fandom, and I don’t think any of us want to see the Rumbelle fandom pass into nothingness, and right now, our creators are being ‘driven’ to other fandoms over Rumbelle due to feeling that no one cares.

And don’t get me started on the ‘hate,’ that’s been an issue for some people. That, my friends, is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE.

Okay - rant over. (sorry/not sorry).

Here’s what I’ve been doing this month:

The biggest thing for me this month has been Camp Nano. For those unfamiliar, NaNoWriMo also runs a ‘camp’ twice a year, in April and July. Writers set their own word count goals during these months and endeavor to write each day during those months. I’ve been working on a number of fics during Camp Nano, and I’m very close to achieving the modest goal I set for myself for this camp. (15,000 words). I have worked on Disparate Pathways, Time’s Curse, Storybrooke’s Best Kept Secret, Still Waters (Lover’s Leap Series), Secret of the Seas, and a couple of other new WiPs that just wouldn’t stay quiet. You can ask about any of those fics if you’d like.

Otherwise, here are some other suggestions for you…

Ask suggestions

Ask something about any of my fics (full list is below the cut). If you want specifics from some fics that are already outlined, you can ask about:

Disparate Pathways, Chapters 53 through 57 All Our Past Mistakes, Chapters 11 through 44 Lover’s Leap Series, Stories 15 through 31 Time’s Curse, Chapters 5 through 10 Laer o Faen, Chapter 27 & 28 Stargate: Atlantis, Harms Way or any of the 20 fics in the series.

Ask something of any of my characters in general or you can get really specific if you like - for example you might want to ask Gold from Pawn Shop a question about a chapter, a thought, a feeling… (the world is your oyster really)

Ask about my process as a writer, what makes me tick,, or even ask about me personally. Almost nothing is off limits.

Also, if you want to see a specific character or fic featured in Three Things Thursday, or Saturday Secret, feel free to send in prompts, if no one does, then either the choice will be random or they just won’t happen at all. I made an analogy for why that might be in a different post about a car stuck in the mud with spinning wheels. Those wheels are still spinning!

Please remember: if you read a fic you enjoyed on AO3 or on Tumblr (not just mine), please take the time to comment and/or leave kudos, and to reach out on TMI Tuesday. It means a lot to the writers and artists.

You can find all my fics currently on AO3 here, and there is a full list under this cut.

Storybrooke’s Best Kept Secret - Rumbelle

Darkness In Hyperion Heights - Woven Beauty au

Seven Tastes - Rumbelle

Tuesday - Rushbelle AU

The Language of Flowers Series - Rumbelle

Disparate Pathways - Rumbelle AU

Scattered - Rumbelle AU

All Our Past Mistakes - Rumbelle AU

What the Actual Fuck! - Sutherelle

Breathe - Rushbelle

The Lover’s Leap Series - Rumbelle

Awakening - Rumbelle

War Is Coming To Storybrooke - Rumbelle

Given No Choice - Rush

Thoughts On A Happy Ending Series - Rumbelle

Darker Hearts Series - Wish!Rumbelle

Modern Wonders - a OUAT/Alice crossover

Time’s Curse - Rumbelle

The Pawn Shop On Main Street - Rumbelle

The Mansion On the Edge of Town - Rumbelle with a side of Jefferson

Cobra: In Your Prayers - Cobra/FatWS/UC:Undercover et al

To See Series - Rumbelle

Nobody Knew (Bingo) - Rumbelle

Secret of the Seas - Rumbelle AU

Butterfly and Phoenix - ST:DSC

Laer o Faen - Tolkien

Ship’s Rats - ST: DCS

I Amar Boe Men Heb - Tolkien

Coming Down - Halt and Catch Fire

Armor of Ice - Halt and Catch Fire

Duath i-Achas Eriol - Tolkien

Balance of Terror - Sleeper Cell

What To Believe - UC: Undercover

If: In The End - UC Undercover

Precious - The Mummy Series

Forbidden - The Mummy Series

Power Is - The Mummy Series

Angel of the Heart - The Mummy Series

Star of the Morning - The Mummy Series

Not Yours To Keep - Foundation (TV)

No Saving Throw - Stranger Things

ILP (or IEP) for Rumple.

“Only Remembered For What We Have Done.”

Here are fics that haven’t yet been started, but are in the Muse’s bucket.

The Miner’s Day Festival - Rumbelle

Aftermath - Rumbelle (with a side of madness)

Saving The Dark One (WT) A twist on a twist of Rumplestiltskin.

Brought To You By The Color… (Red)

Calcul(us)

(In)consistent equation

The Boston Storybrooke Line

Breaking the Waves (Movie AU)

One Last Wish

In Service to My Son

Playground Games

Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed

Librarian: UC

Exquisite Harmonies

Resolutions - Rushbelle in the Deck the Halls universe.

#TMI Tuesday #asks #send asks #send me asks #ask me anything #ama #feel free to prompt me

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arlecchno · 2 years ago

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mission accomplished [ scaramouche x reader ]

eight | someone new

prev masterlist next

case has been going slow, and you suddenly met someone new after a month of being in campus, resulting in you becoming friends with them. signora is highly concerned about you, making her question on your twisted relationship with scaramouche.

warnings: mentions of blood, swearing (as usual), spoilers for signora’s real name, i think that’s it

a/n: uh huh this chapter came pretty late… 😔 i know i said that i’d update twice a week but i don’t think i can do that due to my writer’s block so i might change it to once a week,, and this chapter is kinda short too,, sorry y’all 💔 i hope you’re enjoying the series at least 🥲 happy reading!

grammatical errors may occur so please let me know if i've made any mistakes!

the past few weeks have been a bit slow and boring for you. classes went by like usual, and you didn't achieve anything groundbreaking for your case, which made you and scaramouche even more dumbfounded.

you two have been on a slump lately due to the lack of leads for your case, other than the dried blood and secret basement you found a while ago.

the results to the dna for the blooded carpet came back last week, and childe informed to you that it belonged to viktor, much to your distaste. you're really on the verge of giving up on this case, even if it's only been a month.

today isn't any special either. it's monday, so you didn't have any classes. scaramouche went out earlier for his appointment and you haven't even made a single friend here that is not viktor. and scaramouche, you guess. you don’t know if you’d consider him as a friend.

you really don't have anything to do.

you groaned. you needed to do something to fill out your boredom. everyone is probably busy at the precint as of now, mondays aren't usually the best days to be working in a police department.

you faintly banged your head against your bed frame, groaning once again. an idea popped up in your head, but you slumped against the pillows once you've realised it might be too boring. it took you a moment before you think about it again.

ah, screw it.

you guessed it won't hurt to head down to the campus cafe to get a drink, and maybe find some friends.

darn it. it’s starting to feel like you're reliving your university days.

the campus cafe was busy like it's always been, only a little quieter and less crowded than the norm since people were attending class at this time.

you ordered a cup of coffee and some pastries to side it with, taking a seat by the window.

the quiet and peaceful autumn morning made you relax and take your mind off the case. it's always the best when you stop thinking about work, the amount of workload you do for the department is undescribable.

being a detective isn't always the dream job people thought it was. sure, the paychecks are generous, and you have been dreaming of becoming one ever since you were a teenager, but archons is it exhausting.

you don't think you've ever recalled being completely off duty, other than the incident last year. you don't even use your day off's and annual leaves for vacations and trips, instead opting to either laze off in your apartment or stay at work.

your hold at the hospital wasn't that delightful either, spending time by staring off at the window from the hospital bed or eating boring hospital food. you can still remember the sterile scent of the place, just thinking about it makes you nauseous. as people always say, you will come to dislike the hospital once you’ve been admitted to one.

you didn't even realise you were zoning out until someone approached you.

“—hello? can you hear me?” a soft voice asked, poking your shoulder.

you perked your head up from the voice, turning your gaze from the window to the young woman standing next to your seat.

“...huh?” you said dumbly, still not completely out of your lingering thoughts.

“oh! hello!” she said, bringing up her hand to wave at you slightly. she had beautiful dark purple hair that goes until her hip, with some lighter highlights to pair it up. her eye makeup was absolutely flawless, the red eyeshadow and eyeliner suited her so much.

and the best part? her outfit. amazingly alluring and appealing to the eye. most of the outfit looked hand-sewn, given how they seemed eccentric and never-to-be-seen before.

ah, she's probably a fashion student.

you cleared up your throat. “um– hello there. anything you need?”

“well, uh– yes and no, actually. do you mind if i take a seat here?” she asked, pointing to the empty seat in front of you.

you shook your head, bringing up a hand to gesture her to sit. “no, no, i don't mind at all. please, get comfortable.”

the girl smiled at you sweetly. “thank you!” she chirped, taking a seat at the empty seat.

“nice to meet you! i'm yun jin.” the young woman said, introducing herself to you.

“hi yun jin, my name is luna, and vice versa.” you introduced yourself. “i love your outfit! are you a fashion student by chance?” you complimented, whilst shooting a question at her.

the girl chuckled, bringing a hand up to dismiss your words. “hehe, i get that a lot. but no, i'm not a fashion student, unfortunately. i just like sewing my own clothes, you could say that it's kind of my hobby.”

she placed her arms on the table. “i'm actually taking a course in criminology! it's the reason why i approached you, i saw you in a couple of our classes and i thought it'd be nice to say hi.” yun jin continued.

damn, you really did not expect that answer. she has a cute and sweet aura, so you thought she'd at least be majoring in courses that fit her personality, not the complete opposite.

“oh.” you said, mouth slightly open.

yun jin's facial expression slightly faltered. “i know i don't really look like someone who'd be interested with this kind of field, but it won't stop me from liking it! i've been wanting to become a police officer since forever, and i did not miss the opportunity when i was given one.”

ah, now you feel bad for your reaction.

“well, i guess it is nice to be in criminology. a lot of job offers could be given, and the pay is quite the bunch.” you shrugged, sipping on your coffee. “i wouldn't miss out either if i was you.”

“right! oohh, if i do become a police officer, i really hope i'd get transferred to the fatui precint! i heard great things about it, oh how i'd love to meet the captain tsaritsa...” yun jin said excitedly, already day dreaming about becoming an officer at the prestigious precint, your precint.

you almost choked from your drink, coughing up loudly, making the young woman in front of you worried.

“oh my! are–are you okay?! i didn't say anything wrong, did i?!” yun jin asked profusely, concerned on your reaction.

“augh– ugh, no. you didn't say anything, don't worry.” you reassured, calming down from the scene you made earlier.

this case is seriously going to kill you one day.

you spent the whole morning in the campus cafe talking with yun jin. it was kind of nice to make a new friend, you're gonna be less lonely now in the campus grounds. seeing scaramouche and viktor every single week can be quite boring.

you learned that yun jin is from liyue, and is a descendant of the yun-han opera troupe, a well known troupe in liyue. you also learned that she also does opera performances from time to time, usually whenever she goes back to liyue on breaks.

though born into a family of opera singers, yun jin decided to further her studies to snezhnaya instead. she still does keep up her talent in opera singing, but pursuing to become part of the police department was her main priority.

you admired her determination. she can still keep her name as a well known opera singer while still furthering her other interests at the same time.

it's kind of ironic, because you're the complete opposite, you're just a lazy bum. which made you to kind of rethink about your life decisions.

the sound of keys jingling from the outside of your dorm can be heard, and the door opens. scaramouche walked in, taking off his shoes and throwing his keys in to the key bowl.

“oh, look who's finally back.” you said flatly. you were at the kitchen island, propping one leg up on the stool you're sitting at while eating a cup noodle.

scaramouche rolled his eyes at you. “yeah, no shit. traffic was crazy as hell today, not sure why. probably a car accident.” he said, walking over to the kitchen where you were currently at.

“don't you have anything else that's more healthy to eat?”

“nope. don't really feel like it today.”

the ravenette took a seat next to you, propping his arms on the kitchen island and turned his gaze towards you.

it was silent for a few seconds, the both of you didn't know what to talk about.

you decided to say something to kill off the silence. “i met someone today.” scaramouche hummed in return, a sign for you to continue. “it's a girl from our criminology class, she's actually pretty sweet. though she did have dreams of becoming a police officer in our precint, so there's that.” you bellowed, stirring the cup noodle in boredom.

“that's kinda weird.” scaramouche snorted. “though, i'd pay so much to see the look on her face when she finds out we're actually detectives in that precint she loves so much.”

you giggled. “oh man, that's actually going to be kind of hilarious!” your laughter became louder, scaramouche joining you a second later. “imagine she finds out that she's been hanging out with a bunch of detectives being undercover at a university full of youngsters while the said detectives are almost in their late 20's?” you said, though trailing off at the end when you've finally registered your own words.

you and scaramouche went quiet from the laughing because of your statement.

yeah, you two really are not the best people for this case.

“how are things going there?” a female voice popped up from the speaker of your phone.

you're currently on the phone with signora, one of your co-workers and your closest friend right after childe. she's not the type to be personally involved in other people's lives nor does she like making friends, but you seemed to be the exception.

you figured the reason behind that was because you're not as irritating as your other colleagues. sure, everyone in the precint are mostly kind and updated with their work, but they can be petty and absolutely stupid. hence why signora is closest to you the most.

you huffed in exasperation. “fine, i guess. this month's been pretty slow. we haven't managed to get any more information on the case for a while now.” you said, folding up your one week worth of laundry on your bed.

this is monstrous, i should really stop being lazy and do my laundry more often. everything's a mess here, you thought.

“what about you? how are things with your husband?” you asked. “if i remember correctly, it should be your anniversary around this time. you guys have anything planned?”

signora sighed on the other line. “no... not really. we've been busy these past few weeks, with him and his company, me and my sergeant duties, you know the drill. our anniversary didn't even come to mind until you mentioned it just now.” signora said, sighing once again.

“i didn't know you were so busy. is that why you haven't been contacting me ever since i went for this mission? that's not a way to treat your best friend, rosalyne.” you say in amusement, chuckling to yourself. guess i should lighten up the dull mood.

“in my defense, it was for your safety! i don't want people to find out that you're undercover, so i try to limit my conversations with you as much as i could. it just so happens that i'm also busy, making it even the more easier.”

you laughed. “ah, it's nice to make someone else annoyed once in a while. annoying that gremlin all this while can be tiring, you know.” you muttered, talking about scaramouche. you haven't bothered anyone else other than the short ravenette for this past month, and it's kind of making you bored.

you finished folding all of your clothes and set them aside. i'll keep them later.

“how are you keeping up with him? i thought you two would be back at the precint the second you arrived at that university. you guys aren't the most admirable pair, after all. you two argue like children.” signora groaned, thinking about you two already makes her sick. this case gives an opportunity for signora to lessen her worries on the precint, since it was always you two who would make such a ruckus there.

you tapped on the speaker button of the call so that only you can hear the other line instead of the whole room. “we're fine, i think. it's kind of different than i thought.” you shrugged. “we do bicker at times, but we kind of stopped being complete assholes. feels kind of relaxing, actually.” you remarked, flopping onto your bed. you stared off at the ceiling while your phone is still in your hand, right next to your ear.

signora cleared her throat. “i beg your pardon?”

“what do you mean 'i beg your pardon'? didn't you hear me?”

“no, no. i heard you clearly. what i meant to say was...” signora trailed off for a second, finding the right words. “what the actual hell?!” she shouted at her phone, making you wince from the sound coming from yours.

“what is so shocking? i think you, of all people, should be the least to be shocked. even childe didn't make such a fuss.” you said, frowning your brows.

“well, i didn't know it just took you going undercover with him and no guns with you for you to get along. you two practically look like you want to shoot each other every day here.” signora replied. “though last time you two went on one together, things didn't end that well.”

you groaned, turning your body to the side. “archons, people need to stop bringing that up. it was a minor accident— i don't think i should explain it again.” you muttered. “i don't even know why scara is affected by it the most. that guy keeps worrying about everything, can't even go on a day without him scolding me about safety.”

you didn't let signora speak as you continue off with your rambling. “oh and mind you he keeps treating me like a baby! not letting me drink alcohol, not letting me go off on my own, not letting me even do anything!”

“goodness, sometimes i feel like i just want to slap that stupid face. he thinks after the incident i should be more careful of everything to avoid it happening again, most of our arguments revolves around that topic. it makes me sick.” you rambled. “he thinks i can't take care of myself. always thinks he knows the best and thinks that i'm obligated to follow his orders like a stupid dog.”

silence engulfs the line and for a moment, you think that your relationship with scaramouche might have gotten worse, contrary to what you've seen and experienced.

signora sighed, tone clearly upset. “y/n... are you sure you're actually a good detective?” signora asked finally after your heated rambling a second ago.

“of course i am. why do you even ask such a question?”

“because you don't seem to know how to solve the only problem that’s keeping you away from your worst enemy.”

ooo signora finally speaks up about your personal life

taglist: @beriiov @hopesandlegacy @cloudsandrenoswife @salamiwrites @thenightsflower @bleedingwhiteroses222 @lisiastak021 @yuuki4646 @lez-zuha

dm, comment or send an ask to be added to the taglist!

or if you're feeling shy, fill out this form with your tumblr user~

#genshin impact #genshin x you #scaramouche x reader #genshin impact imagines #genshin impact x reader #scaramouche #scaramouche fluff #genshin scaramouche #slow burn #genshin x reader #scaramouche x you #h✧˖—mission accomplished

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hellfirehaley · 2 years ago

Text

Strange Love Chapter 3

CW: drug use (marijuana), language, angst, memory of infidelity.

Word Count: 5.1K

AN: Shoutout to @mvnsoneddie86 for being an amazing human being who supported me throughout my entire writer's block last week.

A few things:

This chapter was originally twice as long but after discussing it with my showrunner (aka my husband); I made the executive decision to cut it in two and edit the second half a little more diligently. So let me know what you think and what you'd like to see. I'll try to have the next part out on time next week (I promise).

I'm not sure who has seen it but I do mini updates throughout the week on my progress under the tag 'Strange Love An Eddie Fic' so it'll be easier to find my ramblings as opposed to digging around for it. There's also a masterlist pinned to my blog if you ever get lost. If there was anything you wanted to tell me you liked or disliked, message me. My DMs are ALWAYS open.

September 21, 1985

School had been in session for a month and you were already stressed from homework and pressure from Mom to participate. You went to one game last night to support Ali and Robin to prove a point. Your mom, temporarily pacified, let you have the girls over today for a girls day/sleepover. You felt you had barely seen them due to band, debate and photo obligations.

You got up around 10 and called both girls asking what they wanted to do today and you all decided on a spa day: deep conditioning or masking your hair, mud facial masks, cucumbers (for the eye bags) . Upon ending the call, you ran up to your room and got dressed in a pair of tights, your Runaways shirt, a red and black flannel that was a little too big for you, grabbed your keys and put on your Converse before running to the grocery store (grabbing cookies, cupcakes, chips, assorted candies and the latest Tiger Beat and Cosmopolitan issues. You also grabbed a new vial of nail polish, wanting to try the new blood red color from Revlon, a green for Robin and another bottle of dye for Ali’s color touchup.

By the time you arrived back at your house, Ali’s Buick was parked out front of your house. You waved at them as you pulled in the driveway, putting it in park. They walked up to the car, pulling up their sleeves ready to help.

“Hey Y/N. Ready for some gossip and girls day?” Robin said chipperly. You giggled and nodded, closing the door behind you. They grabbed the bags and followed you into the house as you unlocked the door.

“I feel like I haven’t seen you in forever. How have you been? Tell me everything!” Ali gushed, walking in and going straight to the kitchen, Norm on her heels. Robin followed behind as you closed the door behind you. You got out all of the bowels as Ali set out the candy and Robin fixed everyone a drink. You really loved having such an unspoken bond with the girls. Not having many friends made you appreciate the ones you did have.

“So Vickie noticed my hair in the band yesterday and I almost choked on my own tongue. She said and I quote “Hey did you do something different to your hair? It looks shinier than normal.” THAN NORMAL? Does that mean that she noticed it before? That she was aware of what my hair normally looks like so she can tell when I do something different?” Robin said, handing each of you a glass of New Coke before pacing the kitchen while she went on.

“I mean do you wanna do something different to it? Wanna tease it or crimp it next time?” you offer trying to help as you took a sip of your own soda

“No, maybe next time I can get some highlights done before the weather drops. I’m sure we will figure out something ladies cause I wanna keep this streak up of Vickie noticing me.” Robin gushed, thinking about her red-haired amore.

“Plus we need to update Ali’s color so that pink really pops for Steeeeeve.” you tease, poking Ali in the side as she swats you away.

“Oh my god stop. You already know he is never gonna see me like that. I’m doing this for myself.” Ali said powerfully as you and Robin applauded her, hyping her up.

“Now we need music.” Robin said, going to the record collection in the dining room. She immediately chose the Escape album from Journey, the sounds of Don’t Stop Believing blasting through your house.

“Just a small town girl living in a lonely world; she took the midnight train going anywhere.” Robin sang as she started dancing towards you two

“Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit. Took a midnight train going anywhere” Ali sang, holding Robin’s hand dramatically.

“A singer in a smoky room, a smell of wine and cheap perfume. For a smile, they can share the night. It goes on…” you sang as the other two girls joined in singing the rest in harmony (loudly) while getting the mud mask materials mixed together and cutting up some cucumber slices. It was a cooler day so it was perfect for your masks. You applied Robin’s first since she was always antsy and couldn’t sit still, then Ali’s. Cucumbers in hand, you opened the screen door letting Norm come hang out with you, the sounds of Journey playing faintly on your patio. You set a timer to 15 minutes before you wash off the masks.

“So I like Vickie, Ali likes Steve so that leaves you Y/N. Who do you like this year? Any potential suitors?” Robin asked as you were applying the goopy mess to your face.

“I don’t do crushes ladies, you know that.” you state spreading the thick mix around your nose.

“Yeah yeah we know but we’re talking hypothetical” Ali urged, really curious. You told her everything and she knew your type but wanted to hear it from you.

“Well hypothetically it would be someone who challenges me. Someone who makes me feel like a better person without relying on them constantly. Someone who can make me laugh but also talk to for hours about nothing. Someone who I don’t have to hide who I am from” you admit.

“That sounds amazing Y/N” Robin gushed, taking a drink of her soda.

“Yeah too bad he doesn’t exist in Hawkins so I guess I’ll settle for Patrick Swayze” you say laughing

“You never know, I mean look at how Joyce Byers was with Chief Hopper. They were in the same town for years and then BAM! I mean you saw them holding hands at the 4th of July bash before the Mind Flayer shit happened.” Ali said, recalling a few months ago when Hawkins was (once again) almost destroyed by an interdimensional creature trying to go after your friend. You could only think now of Joyce, who lost the love of her life twice. Once back in November of 1984 when she lost Bob and now losing Jim a few months ago. You don’t blame her at all for packing up the kids and getting the hell out of Hawkins.

“As your best friend, I must say that I approve of whatever is going on with Eddie Munson.” Ali stated, her hand up like a Scout’s Honor.

“Nothing is going on Ali. We’re friends who happen to both be really into music,” you say shrugging.

“That explains why you’ve been listening to a lot more metal than normal.” Ali noted, remembering you picking her up to school listening to Metallica.

“Or I just like metal as you should be aware of” you say laughing.

“Yeah. You like Motley Crue more but you’re going old school and discovering like the foundations” Ali said.

“Maybe but on the other hand ladies, I’ve got Eddie Munson listening to everything but metal and personally that’s a win for everyone,” you say, taking a drink of your soda in satisfaction.

“How the hell did this unorthodox friendship start? It feels like suddenly you guys are thick as thieves, he walks you to your locker after class; you say hi in the halls and lunch. He asks how your day is,” Robin rambles, her inner detective coming out.

“Honestly it was O’Donnell’s class. He was assigned to be my peer editor and he caught me singing ``Smokin In The Boys Room,” you say, remembering back to how his curls moved back and forth with his rhythm, those damned rings, his fingers tapping to the beat. The surprised smirk on his face, maybe a little pride behind it too.

The sound of the alarm startled you from your thoughts of the metalhead as you three headed inside washing off the dried mud mixes off your faces in the tub, using the shower head. Once all three of you were fresh faced, you changed the record over and got started with mixing the color for Ali’s hair. You could hear Ali and Robin arguing about Ali’s feelings for Steve and it was to the point you were about to step in and start matchmaking the hell out of it.

“I give it til Prom and they’ll be together,” you yell, stirring the chemicals trying to get a nice shade of pink.

“Fuck off L/N. We weren’t asking you,” Ali said, appearing before you in an old shirt, stained from previous color sessions.

“You know what Roberts, for that comment, I take it back. I give it til Winter Formal, hell make it Christmas. Final answer.” you state, putting on some rubber gloves as Ali sits down.

“You’re horrible Y/N” Ali whined as Robin started to section out Ali’s hair.

“Duh that’s why I’m your best friend Ali” you laugh, satisfied with the pink bowl before you.

“Plus it’s cute how you don’t see how Steve is when you’re not around” Robin said, smirking like a madwoman

“WHAT” Ali yelped, trying to face Robin

“He’s a mess dude. Always wondering what you’re doing or what you’d think of a new release at work. He’s in DEEP. Like way worse than he was with Wheeler” Robin said, remembering him freaking out over his picks for Movie Night last month. Ali couldn't fight the blush on her cheeks.

“Yeah and he’s always asking me what you prefer- I mean remember when we went to the Sunrise Diner last week and he sent your food back because it had condiments on it and he knows you HATE that” you said.

“Okay smartass. Then how do I break that barrier if you two single bitches have it ALL figured out,” Ali said, frustrated by her conflicting feelings.

“Well he likes your boobies so you could start by showing them off next time we hang out,” Robin said giggling as she put some pink on Ali’s roots.

“What?!” Ali said, surprised.

“Oh yeah! Wear that striped off the shoulder sweater you have. Your boobs like AHMAYZING in that” you say, working on your own section of her hair.

“It’s like 2 sizes too small Y/N” Ali says.

“Exactly!” you say, twisting the strand up with your other finished strands “Robin back me up here as our resident Boob Expert” Before she had the chance, your doorbell rang. The girls looked at you confused since you weren’t expecting company.

“You invite anyone over?” Ali said, confused as the three of you looked at each other like confused chickens.

“Not that I can remember,’ you say as the doorbell goes off again. You take off your gloves, tossing them into the trash. Norm was barking his ass off by the time you got to the door, petting him gently, soothing the dog as you opened the door.

To say you were surprised to see Eddie Munson was an understatement. He was wearing a stressed out Iron Maiden shirt, ripped jeans and his Reeboks. His hair was wind blown and damn…he looked good.

“Eddie…hi…�� you say, surprised. What was he doing here? You didn’t remember making plans with him.

“Hey Y/N.” Eddie said, smiling as he took in your appearance. You looked so comfortable and at home.

“What are you uh…doing here? Not to be rude but I wasn’t expecting more company,” you say nervously. You then realize your outfit and blush.

“Well, according to my schedule, you ordered a delivery m’lady.” Eddie said smiling. You felt like a ton of bricks dropped on your head. You DID make plans with Eddie today and completely forgot. You’re never one to double book yourself.

“Oh god Eddie I'm so sorry I forgot. Ali and Robin came over for a girls day and I totally spaced it. Here come on in,” you say, opening the door to let him in. Eddie followed you but not far as Norm jumped up on him, tail wagging.

“Aw this must be Norm. Hey buddy,” Eddie said, getting down to Norm’s level, indulging the dog in pets and rubs. You look over at the girls who are watching the ENTIRE thing with Robin mouthing “Oh My God” slowly.

“Yep, that's Norm. He’s the best boy,” you coo at him while his tail thumps harder at the sound of your voice.

“Told you I’d meet him someday” he teased, scratching the dog’s belly, earning a round of quick foot kicking. It was amazing how Norm was so happy with Eddie; it took Norm months to warm up to men.

“Guess you were right Munson” you say, looking over at the girls for help on what to do as you went to get the money for Eddie.

“So what are your plans today Eddie?” Robin yelled, taking your cue. Eddie’s head snapped up at Robin’s voice, temporarily forgetting they weren’t alone.

“Uh…was just gonna drop off this delivery for Y/N then probably go back home,” Eddie admitted, shrugging.

“You should join us!” Robin yelled from her spot above Ali.

“Yeah we’re having a beauty day and no offense, Munson, but those curls NEED a deep condition,” Ali gushed, already thinking about getting her hands on those curls and the look on Y/N’s face when she spends time with Eddie.

“Oh no no no, I couldn’t impose on your day ladies,” Eddie said, trying to protest but they were having none of it. Y/N had changed over the last few weeks and it was nice to see the old her back. If Eddie was the source of it, they weren’t about to let him leave.

“Oh no Munson, we insist,” Ali stated, her tone similar to the one you had used during the photo shoot. Eddie knew he was stuck. It was 2 against 1 but he didn’t wanna make it weird for you in your own home.

“I don’t wanna make it awkward for you girls. You don’t have to worry about me,” Eddie tried again.

“Oh please. Y/N would love to have you join us. Besides, Steve is coming after his shift so you won’t be the only guy for too long,” Robin added. Eddie pondered it; I mean he didn’t have any other plans for the day and he did like hanging out with Y/N.

“Sure I’m in. How can I be of assistance?” Eddie asks, standing up and walking towards the kitchen.

“Y/N and I were putting color in Ali’s hair so grab some gloves,” Robin tries

“Ohhhh no. Noooo way. I’ve got a better idea. Eddie can DJ for us but no super heavy metal Munson. Plus he can roll for us while we do your nails.” Ali stated matter of factly.

“Aye aye Captain,” Eddie saluted, sitting himself at the counter by the kitchen. You returned downstairs and found them all seated.

“So here’s the $20 for the sack,” you say, walking over to him.

“Oh it’s $15 cause the ladies over here offered me a sweet deal I couldn’t pass up,” Eddie said, winking at Robin and Ali. You were so confused like you had missed something.

“Oh? Well I’ve only got a 20 so call it a tip for the delivery fee and an apology for me neglecting our scheduled appointment,” you say, still missing something; like why Eddie wasn’t already almost out the door. Not that you were complaining but you were definitely out of the loop.

“Much appreciated L/N but unnecessary. I’ll get you back tomorrow,” Eddie said, opening his black pail just like he had 2 weeks prior. At this point, you weren’t gonna question it and grabbed a fresh pair of gloves.

“Thanks Eddie” you say anything as you get more dye on the brush once again going back to your task.

“No problem and again, ladies, thank you for the invitation and let me apologize for crashing your day,” Eddie said, grabbing two papers from his pack.

“Oh please Eddie, Steve usually ends up crashing anyways so don’t sweat it.” Robin said.

So THAT’S why. Those sneaky little minxes playing Cupid, you thought.

“So ladies. What’s the first album you’d like to hear? What are we feeling?” Eddie asked, grinding up some bud between his fingers.

“Ooh that mixtape Y/N made last month. Oh it was so good,” Ali said, already hype.

“Oh? And where might that be?” Eddie inquired, feeling out of his element here.

“In the cassette player by the record player in the dining room. Just make sure you turn off the record player before you turn on the cassette player,” you say, working on Ali’s hair, not able to move.

Eddie got up and went to the indicated spot. He did as instructed, turning off the record player before going to the cassette player. He opened it and checked the tape. Sure enough, it was a tape labeled “Girls Night Remix💙🦋🦋 “ decorated in hearts and blue butterflies. He rewound it until he heard the click and pressed play. The house immediately flooded with the flourish of a piano and vocals. You three immediately yelled in excitement, harmonizing before breaking into Dancing Queen. Eddie took his seat and watched as you girls danced and sang, completely free. He tried to focus on rolling those joints but his eyes were trained on Y/N, how she moved when a certain lyric hit, how concentrated she was on making sure Ali’s hair looked good. How you giggle at Robin’s joke. Sure he had moments with you but this was like seeing you at your fullest potential.

“What do you think Eddie?” Ali asked, breaking his concentration. He hadn’t been paying attention and he was caught.

“Uh sorry what? I uh got super into the song and zoned out,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck. They all laughed at his response “What was the question?”

“Nothing, nothing, never mind.” Robin laughed. Clearly he had missed something; probably some inside joke they had between them. They finished up Ali’s hair into a grocery bag (which Eddie thought was the weirdest shit he had seen in a minute)

“So would you ladies like a break?” He says,offering up a joint he had ready to go.

“God yes,” Ali said, feeling the restlessness from sitting for over 30 minutes.

“We can go to my room but we have to–” you started to say

“Light the incense and candles. We know Y/N.” Robin said, rolling her eyes. They know you too well but you didn’t need Eddie knowing your micro mannerisms.

“Lead the way,” Eddie said, grabbing the joint and his lunch pail. You led them upstairs to your room, the second to the right. Your room was clean apart from a thing or two out of place like yesterday’s sleepwear. Robin and Ali got right to work opening the windows and lighting the candles, which gave Eddie time to look around your room. Immediately when you walk in, you’re greeted by a gigantic poster of luscious red lips with a man in lingerie sitting on them with the title Rocky Horror Picture Show in bloody print. By it were posters of Motley Crue, Kiss, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and a few bands Eddie didn’t recognize. On the opposing wall was a poster of Stevie Nicks, holding her tambourine to her face, fabric falling in front of her face. There was a vanity mirror below the poster with a dark haired celebrity posing like he was mysterious. For some reason, Eddie felt a pang of jealousy. But why? You were friends. So what? He had Heavy Metal magazines out when you were over and you said nothing (Thank God!). There was a pale delicate fabric draping over your dresser, your vanity and bookshelf, which fit Eddie’s “ethereal” theory about you.

“Shit; my lighter’s out. Hey Eddie, can I borrow yours?” Y/N asked, standing on the opposite side of the room. Eddie made his way over, fishing out his lighter as he crossed to her.

“Of course m’lady. Here you are,” Eddie said, without even thinking. It had become his little name for you but you didn’t mind honestly. You take it from him, fingers touching. It sent an electric current through you, like nothing you had felt before. It makes your heart beat faster, your breath hitch slightly. Your touch lingered a few seconds before you pulled away.

“Thanks Eds,” you say smiling before turning towards your dresser. He noted that you had a lot of different types of crystals there but they were more shiny; more clean and colorful. You lit the incense and waited a moment for the end to cherry before blowing it out.

Robin and Ali watched the entire interaction from their spots on your desk chair and bean bag chair, looking between the two of you and each other.

“M’lady?” Robin mouthed, shocked

“Eds?” Ali retorted.

“We have to do something,” Robin said as Ali gave her a thumbs up. Y/N sat on the bed as Eddie followed her. He lit the joint and took his turn.

“What should we watch tonight?” Robin asked after a minute, taking her hit before passing it to Ali.

“Hmmm good question. I definitely wanna watch Sixteen Candles again” Ali said, taking the joint and bringing it to her lips.

“Steve will probably wanna see some Tom Cruise movie so buckle up for that shocker,” Robin said to Eddie.

“We could go see Back to the Future and watch Robin and Steve try to explain the plot AGAIN,” you say laughing.

“What about you Eddie? What kind of movies are you into?” Robin asked as he inhaled.

“I’m more of a horror fan or like science fiction or fantasy,” Eddie admitted as he passed the joint to Y/N.

“Would we completely reject the idea of Rocky Horror tonight?” Y/N asked, blowing out her hit.

“You saying you wanna Time Warp again Y/N” Ali asked laughing.

“Absolutely!” Y/N said, joining in.

“Have you seen it before Eddie?” Ali asked, curiously.

“Nope. I’ve only recently heard of it,” Eddie said, smiling as he looked at Y/N for a moment.

“Alright that settles it. Sixteen Candles, Rocky Horror, Steve’s choice and whatever our guest would like to watch,” Robin stated as they finished the joint.

“Why don’t you and Y/N go get the movies while I do Robin’s manicure?” Ali offered “I don’t want you to get bored out of your mind.”

“Yeah? Sure if that’s alright with Y/N” Eddie said, looking at you as you nodded.

“Excellent, so meet back up in like 45 minutes.” Robin said, getting up with Ali following suit.

“I just need to grab some cash then we can go,” Y/N said, going to her bookshelf. Eddie looked at the titles from afar and recognized some Tolkien, King, most of the “required” reads from the curriculum and some of those sappy romance novels. That immediately piqued Eddie’s interest. Part of him was dying to know what you looked like reading one; getting sheepish at a particularly steamy scene.

Eddie shook his head, not wanting to go there NOW. He stood up, putting his hands in his pockets. “Do we need anything else while we are out?” Eddie asked.

“Umm just tell Steve he’s getting dinner” Ali said

“Yes! Pizza!” Robin chirped.

“Any requests ladies? Cheese? Pepperoni?”

“Both!” the girls said in unison

“Alright I’ve got everything. Are you ready?” you ask, grabbing your denim shoulder bag, slinging it over your shoulder.

“Yep. I’ll drive since you let me so graciously crash your day,” Eddie said, extending his arm for you to lead which you did.

“45 minutes KIDS!” Robin yelled as you and Eddie exited the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The drive to Family Video was full of you and Eddie jamming out to his mixtape, even getting an exclusive haunting cover of Fever out of him. You felt so free with Eddie; like all the barriers you had built had shattered when he came around. You could be your full self around him without having to filter a part here and there because it didn’t fit his “scene”. Eddie accepted you for you.

He parked right next to Steve’s car burgundy BMW, the sounds of a Motley Crue chorus blasting as he shut the car off. You got out of the van and Eddie raced to the door, opening it for you.

“Why thank you kind sir,” you say walking in. Eddie followed suit, the bell ringing behind him. Steve was with another customer, trying to help her choose between two movies so you immediately made your way to the Comedy section, trying to get to the S portion.

“So how did you and Harrington become friends?” Eddie asked. He kept trying to picture it but it was too weird.

“It was a little before his breakup with Nance. He uh–gave me some really good advice at a party last year and helped me when I felt lower than dirt. Been friends ever since. When he and Nancy were donezo and he stopped caring about the King Steve reputation, he and Ali got close because of the kids we all look after,” you explain, grabbing Sixteen Candles, “He and I really became close, close friends because of Dustin. We’re both hyper parental over the shitheads and try our best to keep them in linee. It was actually Steve’s terrible Ewok impression,” you recall laughing.

“You mean AWESOME” a voice said to the side of you. There stood Steve Harrington, hands crossed over his chest in defense, his striped polo under his dark green vest crinkled slightly by this action.

“Absolutely not. 0 out of 10 stars Steve.” you joke.

“I thought you were having a girls day since I’m covering Robin’s shift today.” Steve said, looking between you and Eddie, wondering what he was missing. He was told by Ali last week that they would be doing this and even gave Steve the week off from picking up/dropping off the shitheads. So why was Y/N here with Eddie Munson?

“Robin and Ali are working on Robin’s manicure so they sent us to the store to grab movies. Speaking of which, we need Rocky Horror.” you say as Steve groaned.

“Again Y/N? You know how I feel about musicals” Steve said, going to the drama section.

“Shut it Harrington. You’re lucky we’re letting you choose a movie at all tonight,” you warned laughing.He returned successfully with the tape in hand, turning towards Eddie.

“So how did you get roped into this?” Steve quizzed, curious about Eddie’s presence still as the longer haired boy was browsing the horror films.

“Came to deliver a package to Miss Y/N but the ladies insisted I stay for movie night and help play music while they do their thing” Eddie recalled. Steve had no idea what Robin and Ali had up their sleeves but he did know that he wanted nothing to do with it but he did wanna know what you were doing with Eddie.

“Alright then,” Steve said, now wondering what they were up to.

“Also you’re buying pizza tonight,” Y/N said, browsing for a copy of Animal House.

“Wait what? Who?” Steve said, not in the mood to be roped into any shenanigans.

“Aliiiiiii. Consider it a part of your payback for babysitting duties,” you say grabbing the desired VHS tape. You knew Steve liked Ali but was too bruised to try anything and you were sick of it.

“Ugh fine. The usual?” Steve said, rubbing between his eyebrows to mask the blush at her name. But when he looked up, he noticed something else. You and Eddie walked up to the counter and you were eying the candies, putting your nail between your lips. Eddie watched you pick up one candy before going to another, taking time to really debate your choice of sweets. Eddie sat the tapes on the counter and waited, grabbing the $20 you gave him earlier and sliding it on the counter towards Steve.

“Movies and candy are on me Harrington.” Eddie said, smiling as you decided on M&Ms and Reese’s Pieces “Couldn’t decide?” he pondered at you.

“It’s so hard to choose between a classic chocolate or the best combo of peanut butter and chocolate.” you whine while putting the candy on the counter. Eddie laughed at your childish reaction, finding it adorable.

Steve gave back his change and watched them, noting Y/N brushing her hair behind her ear shyly and Eddie watching over her like a hawk. Steve had always felt protective over Y/N. She really helped him come out of his breakup with Nancy and he did the same for her last year when she got her heart shattered by Rob: the douchebag who used to hang out with him during his King Steve days. Rob worshipped Steve so Steve thought nothing of it when Rob and Y/N started dating. They were together a year until Halloween 1984. There was a big party; Steve was at the end of his relationship with Nancy but Y/N and Ali were there too. You were both dressed up like slutty witches and were fine at first. After Nancy got wasted and fought with Steve that night, he went to find you and Ali to talk about everything but that wasn’t what he found. Instead, he found you crying by the bonfire alone. He sat next to you and learned everything, How you found Rob balls deep in his chemistry partner Misty Norwood after swearing for months they were friends. Apparently he had been going on the entire time and you felt so blind, so stupid, foolish even. You punched him in the face then and there; Steve noted your bloodied knuckles. He took you and Ali back to his house and you guys had been friends ever since, Steve becoming the real big brother you need.

“I’m off at 5 tonight so I’ll be over after I pick up the pizzas okay Y/N?” Steve asked, looking at Eddie still, watching his every move.

“Yeah of course Steve. You know you’re always welcome.” Y/N said, smiling as she gathered up her goodies, putting them in her bag.

“Alright. I’ll see you guys later then,” Steve said as Eddie grabbed the stack of tapes. Steve watched as Eddie raced to the door to open it for you, thanking him and going to the GMC G2500 Gaucho with Eddie opening your door yet again, waiting on you to get comfortable before going to his side, a little more pep in his step. Steve could already tell he would be seeing more of Eddie Munson with his dear friend.

So what do we think? I know it’s not as long as promised but I am working on chapter four right now so I’m curious: what movie did Eddie choose? How will that play out? Send me what movies you think😉

Taglist: @realeddiemunsonstandup @eddies-blunt @scooprtroopr @sharkbaitouhaha @bobbiewritesstuff @eveieforeve02 @awkwardlioness @apublicnotebook @madaboutmunson2 @grungegrrrl @riffcrusader @stardustworlds @sunflowerharrington

#strange love an eddie fic #haley talks shit #haley writes shit #haley writes fanfic #eddie munson fic #eddie munson fanfiction #eddie munson fanfic #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson slow burn #fic recs

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fific7 · 4 years ago

Text

Cold Day in Hell - Part 2

Logan Delos x Reader

A/N: This does not completely follow canon, it’s mainly lemon zest 🍋 because the world needs more Logan Delos.

Warnings: 18+ NSFW due to sexual content, including oral, between consenting adults* in some chapters. Drinking and swearing.

*Irl, please don’t go wild in the country without protection.

(My GIF)

Logan went back to his own office after showing her to hers. He sat down in his plush office chair and swivelled slowly from side to side, picking up his pen and tapping it on the desk as he did so. He was thinking. How was he going to approach this?

Unusually for him, Logan wasn’t 100% convinced that she was attracted to him. That was something of a departure for him; the norm was that he would just look at someone and that was it, they were putty in his hands. Not this gal. He thought she might be interested but he could tell that there were walls up there, that was for sure.

Should he ask Juliet? She was dead set against him getting involved with this new lady, but it might be worth listening to one of her lectures if he got some useful ’women’s perspective’ advice at the same time. He got up and strolled the short distance down to her office, knocking and popping his head round the door. Juliet looked up from her screen at him, “Hey, Logan... what can I do for you? I’m right in the middle of something here.”

Irrespective of her comment, Logan went into the office and sat down in the chair opposite her. Sighing, Juliet put her screen lock on and lounged back in her own chair. Knowing him as she did, she could tell just by looking at his face that he was in thinking mode, in fact he wasn’t even looking at her; he was staring at the back of her big computer screen, a sure sign that his mind was off somewhere else. “Logan!” she said firmly, and his eyes snapped to hers, “I’m busy here, darling brother. What’s on your mind?”

As Juliet had been expecting, he said the name of their new secondment. Then he held up a hand, “Now I know you don’t want me to go there, Jules - but I’m serious here. She’s not a one-and-done in my mind.” Juliet snorted, “What then? A two-and-done?!” Logan rolled his eyes, “Ha ha, very funny. No. I’m thinking of something a bit more... established than that.”

Juliet’s eyes widened, “You mean....” her voice took on a mock awestruck tone, “...a relationship, Logan?” He nodded, “Well... yeah. I suppose you could call it that.” She sat forward, eyes boring into his, “No! I just don’t believe you. Look, you’re the guy who’s out on the town every night with a different person. Or occasionally someone you’ve taken out once or twice before. You are just not a monogamous kinda guy! I don’t want you to mess around with this girl!” Logan crossed one leg over the other and made a point of studying his nails, “I know you don’t, but I want to take her out. And I’m gonna take her out, Jules. She can make her own mind up if she doesn’t want anything to do with me from there on.”

Juliet muttered something and Logan leant in a bit, “Whaddya say, sis?” She looked him straight in the eye, “She probably doesn’t want anything to do with you right now, never mind after you’ve taken her out. Your reputation proceeds you, Lo.”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You’d spent a little time arranging the few items you’d brought with you onto your new desk. Your laptop, your favourite pens, a ruler and a stapler. That was it - you liked to travel light. And anything else you needed, you were sure Delos Destinations would be able to supply by the kilo-load. Logan had said to you, before disappearing back to his own office, “I’ll leave you to settle in, and anything you need.... just ask!” There had been the merest hint of a wink accompanying that last comment, but you’d poker-faced it and just said, “Thanks, Logan.... I’ll bear that in mind.”

You so wished that he wasn’t as handsome as he was, as you had to admit that this made it quite difficult to concentrate on your projects. Shaking your head, you pulled up the folder for one of said projects on your laptop and began work on it.

Hopefully Logan would just keep to his own office. Otherwise you weren’t sure how much work you’d actually get done. Your eyes would be too busy drinking in the male masterpiece that was Logan Delos.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan walked dejectedly back to his office. The visit to Juliet for advice had been a complete and utter waste of time. All he’d got was one big rant about keeping far away from his new love interest. Well, he wasn’t about to do what she said, he’d be damned if he would.

Back in his office, he took to swinging from side to side in his chair once more. He really didn’t have a clue how to start his campaign to win her over. Logan just wasn’t used to having to chase down anyone he was interested in, so this was a bit of a new challenge for him. Should he go all out and whisk her off somewhere in one of the private jets? Take her out on the company yacht? Pick her up in a limo and take her to a premiere?

Or should he go low-key, ask her out for a coffee and see how that went down? Build it up from there? He’d picked up his pen once more and as he got more and more frustrated, threw it across the room where it bounced off the door, dropped and skittered across the floor. A couple of seconds later, his secretary knocked and opened the door, “Did you need something, Mr Delos?” “Uhhh.. no, no, it’s fine, Stacy, sorry about that.” She gave him a bit of a look, nodded and closed the door.

He sighed and thought to himself that he’d better get ready for these upcoming investor meetings in Seattle the following week. He sat bolt upright in his chair, smacking his forehead. Of course! Why hadn’t he thought of that sooner!

Three days in Seattle... just the two of them.... perfect!

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You heard a small tap and then Juliet’s head appeared round the door. “Welcome!” she smiled, coming into the office and over to you, giving you a big hug. “I’m so pleased you’re here!” You agreed, “Yes, I’m pleased to be here. It’s lovely to see you, Juliet.” “It’s going to be so much easier all round,” she said, before sitting down opposite you, “...it’s going to make a big difference to the status of the projects.” She paused, her eyes - so like Logan’s - gazing into yours, “And.... I don’t mean to sound off-putting, especially on your first day... but I’m guessing you already know that my brother is really quite taken with you?”

You gave a small smile, “Umm... yes I kind of did get that vibe.” She nodded, “You’re a damn good engineer and that’s a big part of the reason you’re here, but this was Logan’s idea and I’ll be straight with you, he’s busy working out how he’s going to get close to you.”

Laughing out loud, “Juliet, no offence to your brother - who’s a very good-looking guy - but it’ll be a cold day in hell before I go out with him. I know he’s a complete player.” She laughed too, “I’m glad you’re already aware of that. I mean, I love my brother to bits but he is just terrible at relationships! He doesn’t mean to be, but he says he doesn’t know if he could ever love anyone, any one person. It’s not really in his DNA.”

You took a breath, thought to yourself, why not? - and asked, “Is his ...uhh... substance abuse a thing of the past now? Well, as much as it can ever be.” Juliet nodded, a pained look on her face, “Yes, thank god. We had a pretty awful time with him for a while, especially after a... a particular situation in Westworld, but he’s clean now and still goes to meetings every so often just to keep himself in line. I really thought we’d lost him a couple of times, so yes, he’s done really well. I’m proud of him.” “You should be,” you agreed, having seen tears welling in her eyes when she’d mentioned losing him. “I’m sorry I brought that up, Juliet, I shouldn’t have said anything.” She smiled, “Hey, it’s fine. You should know what you’re getting into... or rather not getting into!”

You both laughed at that.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

In the meantime, Logan had asked his secretary to book one of the private jets and two hotel suites in downtown Seattle for the dates of the investor meetings. He was almost bouncing around his office, he was so pleased with himself and his new plan.

He thought he heard the sound of laughter coming from her office, and couldn’t stop himself from going right next door to see what was going on. He opened the door after a brief knock on it, and saw his sister sitting with the object of his affections, the two of them still laughing.

Juliet turned round and said with a smile, “Lo! We were just talking about you.” His eyes narrowed suspiciously, “Oh yeah?” She nodded, “Yeah. Are your ears flaming?” Logan scowled at her, “What have you been saying, Jules?” with a quick, anxious look over at the other woman in the room. Juliet stood up and said, “Oh, nothing too bad, Logan,” giving him a wicked little smile and striding out of the room.

Logan watched Juliet go before clearing his throat and turning back just in time to see her hiding a smile. “C’mon,” he said, “...what did she say?” She shook her head, “Honestly, nothing bad. She was just pulling your strings.” Logan just managed to stop himself saying that she would be more than welcome to pull his strings, before sitting down in the chair which Juliet had just vacated. “Okay... well, what I came in to tell you is that we’re going to Seattle next week...” total surprise on her face, “....to some investor meetings,” Logan carried on smoothly. “Oh now, Logan, why on earth would you want me to go to them?” “You’ll be able to update them on a few of those middleware projects you’re working on. You were so much better than that boring asshole they let do most of the presentation. You’ll wow these guys.”

She was still looking at him as if he’d asked her to go to the moon. “It’s all booked,” he said quickly, a tiny bit of confidence leaving his voice, “...so I’ll give you the dates and schedule, okay?”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Oh, he’s booked it already has he? you thought. Sighing, you could feel your shoulders slump a little in defeat as you agreed to go with him. You knew that your boss wouldn’t be very impressed if you didn’t, as apart from helping Delos Destinations get more investment, you’d be floating your own company’s name out in front of them.

“Who else is going?” you asked, and saw a distinct gleam in Logan’s dark eyes as he answered, “Uhh.. just the two of us. Don’t want to overwhelm them with too many speakers.” He slapped his hands down onto his thighs, “Well, I’d better get back, I’ve got a meeting in 5. I’ll get those details to you asap.” He stood up, “See you later,” and left your office.

Okayyy - just the two of you? This trip was shaping up to be something out of a bad romcom.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan had mentioned the proposed Seattle trip to Juliet as they were both leaving the office, casually dropping in who was going amongst all the other details. She stopped in the middle of the corridor, looking round to see if anyone else was within earshot before saying in an exasperated tone, “Really, Logan? Are you serious? And I suppose there’s only going to be one room available when you get there?!” Logan held up both hands, “No!! You can check, there are two rooms booked!”

Juliet scowled at him, “Logan, I swear - you better be on your best behaviour. She’s only just arrived, so you piss her off this early in then I’m going to be super pissed too!” Logan did one of his over-exaggerated eye rolls, “Oh for fuck’s sake stop worrying, Jules, I’m not about to piss her off. I’m out to charm her.”

“Oh god help her then,” muttered Juliet as she stalked towards her car.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan took your hand as you stepped out of the chauffeur-driven car at the private airstrip. You’d thought about ignoring his outstretched hand but instead placed yours in his. A smile appeared on his face, “Now, this is how it’s gonna be over the next few days - us holding each other’s hands through the investor meetings.” You rolled your eyes, “Whatever you say, Logan.” “I do say,” he smirked, hand going to the small of your back as you reached the bottom of the steps up to the aircraft and guiding you onto them. You knew that his eyes were glued to your rear as you made your way up the steps, but tried to ignore the feeling. Every so often you’d catch Logan’s eyes on you, looking at you as if you were a prey animal and this made you even more determined to avoid getting involved with him.

But lordy it wasn’t easy, you admitted to yourself as you watched him settle his tall frame into the extremely comfortable seat facing yours. You’d never been on a private jet before, but you were having difficulty paying attention to all its facilities when Logan was looking absolutely edible in an impeccable dark blue suit and light pink shirt, unbuttoned quite low as usual and showing off a little chest hair. Your eyes met his after you’d finished exploring his body, and he was looking so smug you wanted to punch him. Damn! You’d better be more guarded in future when drooling over him.

Now you started showing an interest in the interior of the plane, but every time you caught Logan’s eye he was still smirking at you.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Ha! he laughed to himself, he’d obviously chosen the right suit then. He’d taken particular care when dressing that morning as he’d wanted to look really good for her and it seemed he’d made a good choice, judging by the look on her face when she’d finished eyeing him up and down.

He lounged back in his seat, still gazing at her. He wanted to fuck her so badly! His mind supplied a vision of himself climbing on top of her as she sat there, undoing her top, pushing her skirt up and.... He could feel himself getting hard just from that short clip playing in his head right now.

“Wanna fu-...”, he clamped his jaw shut, before carrying on, “...wanna drink, sweetheart?”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You were under no illusions as to exactly what was running through Logan’s mind at that moment.

You’d noticed how his eyes had glazed over slightly as he stared at you, his lips parted, and you could literally see his trousers tightening by the second over his groin. The dead giveaway was when he almost asked you if you wanted to fuck instead of what you wanted to drink. You couldn’t stop a smile making its way onto your lips. There was an undeniable thrill that you could turn him on like this ...but No!!! your brain said. This guy’s middle name is ‘Player’ and even his own sister had warned you what a hound-dog he was.

“I’ll have a G&T, please,” you said sweetly, “...and nothing else, thanks.”

Logan looked stunned for a second, then pressed the call button for the attendant.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Oh shit, Logan thought, she knows exactly what I was thinking. I guess I’m being a little obvious here, I’d better calm it the hell down. He just wasn’t used to playing it cool in the pursuit of someone. Usually he went from 0 to 90 in sixty seconds, and the people he hung out with expected that from him. Not this gorgeous example of womanhood though. He was going to have to majorly change his approach.

But being with her like this - so close, just the two of them - was driving him crazy as it felt really intimate, and while his thoughts were still firmly planted in the sexual receptor of his brain, the longer they were on the plane together the more he realised that he was enjoying just being with her. Which surprised him to be honest, that wasn’t something that normally entered his sphere of relations with other people. She had a very calm demeanour, and it made him feel at ease. Conversation flowed, and he felt like he was getting to know her a lot more.

Initially he’d hinted to his sister that he wanted more than sex from his new love interest to get Juliet off his back, but now it appeared that karma had got him fair and square. It felt like that he did really want something more.

What that was, he wasn’t exactly sure yet.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Checking in to the fancy hotel in downtown Seattle, you noticed the receptionists - male and female - checking out Logan and not being discreet about it. He, meanwhile, was in his element, flirting up a storm with them while handing over his black Delos card to register for the rooms. You shook your head, smiling to yourself. This was exactly what put you off him. You were more than certain that he’d be sharing a bed with one or all of them that night.

He handed you your keycard, and quickly noting your room number you took off like a shot towards the elevators. Logan had been surprised when you’d set off so briskly, and scrambled to grab his bag and suitcase beside the reception desk before following you.

He reached the elevator just as you turned, smiling at him and commenting, “Have fun with your new little friends,” and nodding your head back towards reception.

Hitting the ‘close doors’ button, you were still smiling at him as the doors closed.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan scrabbled at the ‘call’ button but not quickly enough to stop the doors closing in his face. Damn it! The other elevator arrived after a couple of moments and he rushed into it, wanting to catch up with her. What had he done wrong? She’d seemed pissed off underneath that smile. And what did she mean by his ‘new little friends’? Then he realised what had ticked her off - he’d been doing his usual flirting with the hired help who of course had been flirting right back.

But it didn’t mean anything to him, it was just his usual m.o., didn’t she realise that? He’d obviously need to introduce her to the Delos way of doing things so there’d be no future misunderstandings.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You were just putting your toiletries out in the bathroom when there was a knock on the door. Knowing it would be Logan, you opened the door to find him standing outside still with his suitcase and bag in hand. “Come in,” you invited and he walked quickly inside. You went back to the bathroom and finished laying out your shower gel and shampoo.

He stopped next to your bed and sat on it, waiting until you emerged from the bathroom. You had to admit he looked good on your bed but dismissed the thought and headed over to your suitcase to start unpacking. “I always flirt with the staff,” he said, “...it gets you a better level of service.” “Or just gets you serviced,” you said before you could stop yourself. You heard his deep chuckle as you kept taking items out of your case.

“No, that’s not the aim,” he said, “truly it’s not.” Walking over to the unit underneath the giant flat-screen TV attached to the wall, you began putting the garments away in the drawers then became aware of Logan invading your personal space to look over your shoulder. He was smirking at you and you suddenly realised you were holding a handful of your lingerie. Long fingers stroked one of the silky pairs of panties you were holding and you abruptly shoved them all into the drawer and slammed it shut. “Logan!” you admonished him, but his only reaction was to keep smiling mischievously at you.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan had tried to persuade her to come out on the town with him but she’d decided to stay in the hotel and have an early night. So he’d gone out on his own, heading to a restaurant he’d eaten at before and ordering a steak and some wine. The waitress had been very interested in him, hitting on him shamelessly but he’d politely brushed her off.

There was only one person he wanted in his bed. Not sure how long it’s gonna take me to get her there though, he thought glumly.

What did surprise him was the fact that he was willing to hang on in there until that happened.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Drifting off to sleep, aware of the low sound of the TV in the background, you couldn’t even be bothered to sit up to grab the remote and switch it off. There was a low knock on your door, then a second one - louder - when you didn’t answer the door. Groaning, you got up and went over to it, looking through the peephole to see Logan standing outside.

Sighing, you opened the door and he swept into your room as if he owned it. Then with typical Logan braggadocio he threw himself gracefully onto your bed, propping up some pillows behind him, crossing his ankles and linking his hands behind his head. You rolled your eyes heavenwards and closed the door, making your way towards where he lay. You were damned if he was going to chase you out of your bed. Standing beside it with your hands on your hips, you demanded, “Logan... what do you think you’re doing exactly?” Those dark eyes of his roamed all over you in your short little silk nightdress and he smiled, “I’m lonely.”

“Lonely!” you laughed, “You’re... you’re just... unbelievable!” His smile got wider, “I’m more than willing to prove just how unbelievable I am, but you won’t let me.” “Do you blame me, Logan?” His smile faltered, and he looked away from you, gazing at the TV, “I guess not.” But then those dark chocolate eyes were back on you, “But you could at least give me a chance,” he said with a small but genuine smile.

You felt yourself melt a little, you couldn’t help it. So against your better judgement, you lay down next to him on the bed, under the covers. “Can I get myself a drink?” he asked. “Oh, I see, it’s my mini-bar you’re after, is it? Help yourself.” He got up and headed over to it, laughing and turning back to you, “You know only too well what I want, sweetheart.”

“You can have a whisky, Delos, but that’s all you’re having.”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan sighed as he poured the whisky miniature into a glass and made his way back over to the bed. But then he perked up, after all he had made it into her bed - in a manner of speaking - and against all expectations. Now he just had to make sure he didn’t screw it up (again, in a manner of speaking) by hitting on her.

If he got to spend the night in her bed, that would be enough for him - for now.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Your eyes slowly opened and you gave a little yawn, wondering what time it was and thinking that today was the first round of investor meetings, when you suddenly realised that you could feel someone’s breath on your ear and that there was an arm slung over your stomach. You were lying on your side and you moved your head slightly to look over your shoulder, but you knew what you’d see before you did.

Logan. His eyes closed, hair tousled, lying on top of the covers but he’d still managed to more or less wrap himself around you. He shifted slightly, giving a little sigh and burrowing his nose even further into the nape of your neck.

Oh hell. This was really not a good plan, but you couldn’t deny how good it felt to be lying here with him. He looked so deliciously handsome while he was asleep. But also vulnerable. You turned away from him and studied the bedroom wall opposite you.

You really did have to watch how you were handling this, or despite your best intentions you were going to end up getting badly hurt.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Logan awoke from the very horny dream he’d been having, only to remember that he was partly living it in real life. He sensed she was awake - he could tell by her breathing - and he decided to push his luck a bit. He gave a small sigh as if he was still sleeping, and gently rubbed his erection against the back of her leg. He heard a quick intake of breath, and smiled to himself as he felt her trying to squirm away from him but he tightened the arm he’d sneaked over her during the night.

“Logan!” she hissed, “Get that away from me!” He chuckled, “Aw sweetheart, get what away from you?” He further pushed his luck by moving her hair aside and kissing her behind her ear.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You shivered, he’d kissed you somewhere you wished he hadn’t as it made you want to kiss him back so badly. You were very aware of his body pressed up against yours, how good he smelt, how good it felt to be lying there with him almost wrapped around you....

You’d better get him out of this bed before you made a catastrophically bad decision.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

(Not my GIF - credit to owner)

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

@obscurilicious @theshadowkingsqueen

#logan delos #logan delos x reader #logan delos fan fiction #ben barnes #westworld #logan delos imagine #logan delos fanfic

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emospritelet · 3 years ago

Text

Heatstroke - chapter 24/24

Last time, Gold confronted Zelena over trying to frame Regina, and Lacey caught the whole show on tape. This is the final chapter! Happy endings FTW!

[AO3]

Lacey set down the camera on the shop counter, and raised an eyebrow at Gold.

“So,” she said. “What do you want to do?”

He inclined his head, lifting a hand and letting it fall.

“It appears you have a story to tell about Miss West,” he remarked. “I feel the choice is very much yours. Perhaps Mr Glass can be persuaded that running an exposé is in the public interest.”

Lacey hesitated.

“Yeah, I think he would,” she acknowledged. “It’s just - Mayor Mills doesn’t know, does she? About Zelena.”

“I don’t think so.”

“I think maybe we should tell her,” said Lacey. “Before it all comes out, I mean. That would be the decent thing to do, wouldn’t it?”

“It would,” he agreed, and let out a heavy sigh, his head rolling back. “Well, that’s unfortunate.”

“What is?”

He raised his head again, sending her a stern look.

“It appears I’ve discovered a conscience,” he said. “The rumour was I didn’t have one. I blame you for this outrage.”

Lacey giggled, and leaned in to kiss him.

“Does that mean you’ll come with me to break the news?” she asked, and he offered his arm.

“To the Mayor’s office,” he said. “I’m sure Regina will be just delighted to see us.”

“This can’t be true.” Regina was staring at Lacey’s phone, having watched the recording twice. “This - this is impossible!”

“This must be a hell of a shock,” said Lacey, and Regina shook her head.

“I always thought she disliked me, but Mal told me I was being paranoid,” she said. “All this time she was plotting to ruin my life because my mother abandoned her? The nerve of the woman!”

“I guess sibling rivalry’s tough to deal with,” said Lacey. “Makes me glad I’m an only child.”

“Well, she certainly has my mother’s ambition and vindictiveness,” said Regina, with a sigh. “I don’t suppose you know anything about the father?”

“I’m afraid not,” said Gold. “Did your mother ever hint that you had a half-sister?”

Regina shook her head.

“She never spoke about her youth,” she said. “Other than to tell me she had to fight for anything she could get and I should do the same.”

She handed the phone back to Lacey and frowned at Gold.

“Exactly how long have you known about this?” she demanded, and he smiled.

“I heard what you did,” he said.

“That wasn’t what I asked,” she said coldly. “I know you, Gold. Were you holding onto this information until it was of use to you?”

“You think I’m working against you?” he asked, in a mild tone.

“I think you never do anything that doesn’t benefit you.”

“Well, perhaps you don’t know me as well as you think,” he said. “Or perhaps we assess risks and benefits differently. Either way, you have Miss French to thank for the investigation of her past and this recording. I merely - encouraged a confession.”

“Quite the sleuthing team,” said Regina, in a dry tone. “Can we expect a new office in town? French Gold, Private Investigators?”

“I don’t mind investigating his privates,” said Lacey, and Gold shot her a very level look as Regina curled her lip.

“Thanks, I’m going to spend the rest of the evening trying and failing to get that image out of my head.”

“You’re welcome,” said Lacey cheerfully.

“The question for you,” said Gold, “is how are you going to handle this? Miss French has quite a scoop on her hands, but she wanted to bring it to you first before raising it with Mr Glass.”

Regina shot Lacey a grateful look before sitting back in her chair with a sigh.

“There’s supposed to be a debate,” she said. “The two of us up on stage. You think it’s her intention to reveal the whole sordid story in front of the whole town?”

“I don’t believe she wants the rest of the town to know,” said Gold. “If they did, then her whole campaign reeks of sour grapes. She’ll want to play on the image she’s created while she’s been here. However inaccurate it is.”

Regina growled under her breath.

“I can’t believe I’m having to go through this charade!” she snapped. “I’m supposed to stand there and - and debate her when she’s trying to frame me for corruption and destroy my life!”

“We don’t have any actual evidence that she’s tried to frame you,” said Lacey, and Regina nodded impatiently.

“I know, I know. Nothing court worthy on that tape, however much she hinted at it,” she said. “If it’s okay with you, I’d like to hand it over to the Sheriff, get him to look into it.”

“If you agree to an exclusive interview with me after the debate, sure,” said Lacey quickly, and almost blushed as Gold shot her an approving look. Regina drummed her fingers on the desk.

“She’s far too good for you, Gold,” she said abruptly. “I hope you know that.”

He smirked at that, winking at Lacey.

“Oh, I’m well aware.”

Gold was finding it hard to stop grinning like an idiot now that he and Lacey were dating, and even found himself unexpectedly granting rent extensions, much to the surprise of nervous tenants. He made dinner for her again later in the week, and she stayed the night, Darcy curled at their feet as they drifted into sleep. It was pleasant being nuzzled awake by a purring cat and finding Lacey in his arms. It was a feeling he could get used to.

They had eventually managed to finish the interview, most of which was carried out in bed, and he had found himself telling her things he had previously had no intention of revealing. He blamed that on Lacey; it was difficult to maintain his usual cool distance when she was wearing his discarded shirt and looking at him as though he was a particularly delicious snack. She kept her word about giving him the final say on the article, however, and upon reading her draft, he noted that she had kept some of the more personal details to herself. He only felt the need to redact a couple of minor points about his early life, but was happy to let the remainder stand as it was. If the rest of Storybrooke was surprised at the intimacy of the piece and his sudden desire to be open about his life - well, they could all go and fuck themselves, as far as he was concerned.

The only opinions he cared about were those of his family, and it wasn’t too long before Neal called. Gold sighed as he looked at the number flashing on his phone. They’re gonna tease me relentlessly about this. Emma especially.

Shaking his head and smirking to himself, he picked up.

“Dad, hi,” said Neal. “Thought you might have called to let us know how your big social occasion went. You’re not avoiding the issue, right?”

“Of course not,” said Gold. “Been a busy week, that’s all.”

“Uh-huh. Emma thought you’d say that.” Neal sounded amused. “She’s been dying to find out about the dance, so I said I’d call for an update.”

“Tell her she needs a better hobby than worrying about my social life,” said Gold dryly. “How’s Henry? I was wondering what to get for his birthday.”

“Nice attempt at deflection, but I’m not done with you,” said Neal. “Come on, how did it go?”

“Uh - it was fine,” said Gold.

“Did you ask Lacey to dance, like I said?”

“Yes.” Gold hesitated. “We’re - uh - sort of dating now.”

Neal whooped, making him grin.

“Way to go! See, I knew you could do it!”

“Yes, well.” Gold scratched the back of his neck, feeling awkward. “It’s early days, I suppose. Very early days, but it’s going well.”

“I am so happy for you, really. Wait until I tell Emma.”

“She’s gonna tease me, isn’t she?” said Gold dryly.

“No more than usual.”

“A lot, then.”

“Hey, her teasing comes from a place of love.”

“Hmm.” Gold was amused. “Well, you can tell her I love her too.”

“And you can tell Lacey we can’t wait to meet her,” said Neal, and Gold’s grin widened.

“I believe the feeling’s mutual,” he said.

“Good. How about in two weeks’ time?”

Gold smirked to himself.

“Excellent timing,” he said. “It’s the Mayoral debate and election.”

“I’m almost certain we can find something better to do than listen to some crusty old politicians.”

“I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised,” said Gold. “It could be an interesting night.”

The evening of the debate arrived more quickly than Lacey thought possible, and she was nervous about more than just reporting the evening’s events. Gold’s son and daughter-in-law were due any minute, and there was a tiny part of her that kept whispering that they wouldn’t approve, that they would wonder why the hell Gold, with his money and power and class, was dating the likes of her. Stressing over her coverage of the election was a welcome distraction from the unwelcome internal monologue, and she concentrated on getting her things together for the debate, checking the recording equipment on Gold’s kitchen table and fretting about the sound quality.

“You’ve already checked it three times,” he said. “It’s fine.”

“I’m supposed to be writing the front page article!” she snapped. “What happens if I fuck up and don’t get anything recorded? I’m gonna look like a total idiot and Sidney won’t trust me with anything more complex than the hot dog eating contest!”

“I can record everything on my phone, if you’re worried,” he said. “Besides, don’t you do shorthand?”

“Yeah, but—”

“You’ll be fine,” he said gently, and kissed her head. “I promise.”

The doorbell rang, and Lacey started, heart thumping.

“Relax, that’ll be Neal and Emma,” said Gold, heading for the door. Lacey frowned at his back.

“Relax, my arse,” she muttered, shoving the recording equipment into its bag.

There were voices from the hall, and a sudden burst of laughter, and she closed her eyes, willing herself to calm the hell down. Footsteps from the doorway made her look up, and she was greeted by a warm smile and an outstretched hand. Gold’s son had his eyes, and curling dark hair above a ready grin.

“I’m Neal,” he said. “Really pleased to meet you.”

“Lacey,” she said, shaking his hand. “Uh - likewise.”

She was reminded vividly of the fact that she had flashed him on their first encounter, and felt a blush start to rise in her cheeks. If Neal was thinking of it too, he was better at hiding it than she was. His wife was a pretty blonde, with a kind look in her eyes and a plump baby in her arms, who was glancing around curiously at everything.

“This is Emma,” added Neal, “and that’s Henry.”

“We’ve heard a lot about you,” said Emma, shooting Gold a teasing look.

“Well, I won’t ask if it was all good, because I’m willing to bet it wasn’t,” said Lacey, and they chuckled.

“Maybe not at first,” admitted Emma. “Don’t hold it against the old bastard, though.”

“Oh, believe me, the feeling was mutual,” said Lacey.

“I’m standing right here,” said Gold evenly.

Lacey caught Emma’s eye and returned her grin. She felt herself relax a little, and leaned over to kiss Gold’s cheek.

“We got there in the end,” she said. “Uh - how hungry are you guys? I didn’t even think about dinner.”

She shot Gold a look, hoping that he would suggest something, and he nodded.

“We’ll head to Granny’s after the debate,” said Gold. “I have no doubt that Lacey will be demonstrating her excellent skill as a journalist, and I’d hate for you to miss it.”

“No pressure then,” said Lacey, and he smiled.

“You’re writing the article for the Mirror front page,” he said. “You have an exclusive with the Mayor herself after the debate. Sidney Glass clearly believes you to be as capable as I do.”

“Yeah, because I got that interview with you,” she said. “I didn’t tell him we were naked when I got most of that info.”

Neal closed his eyes with a pained expression.

“Shows ingenuity if you ask me,” said Emma abruptly. “I can usually get a ton of stuff out of Neal when we’re naked. Must run in the family.”

It was Gold’s turn to look pained. Neal put his hands over his face with a heavy sigh, and Lacey and Emma chuckled. Lacey decided that she liked both Emma and Neal very much. She zipped her bag and nodded to Gold.

“Okay,” she said. “Wish me luck.”

The town hall was filled with residents, chatting amongst themselves and casting curious glances at the empty stage. Ruby was seated next to Leroy on the third row back, and she winked at Lacey as she and Gold took their own seats. Ruby had been delighted to hear that the two of them had started seeing one another, and had only made a salacious comment to Gold on one occasion. Maybe two.

“Big turnout,” said Neal, glancing around. “I had no idea the people in this town were so into politics.”

“Usually they don’t bother,” said Gold. “The Mayor getting some competition appears to have piqued their interest.”

As though his voice had summoned her, Regina walked onto the stage, chin held high, looking calm and competent in a sharp black suit. Zelena followed, in a green dress with a soft silk scarf around her neck and gold hoops in her ears. A green folder was tucked under her arm, her hair tied up, and Lacey thought she was going for the image of a respectable school teacher. A gleam in her eye spoiled the look.

Dr Hopper was moderating the debate, and Lacey quickly checked her recording equipment and opened her laptop, rattling off a few sentences about the tense atmosphere of the hall and the opening statements from each of the candidates. Zelena gave a speech about decency and traditional values, at which Regina seemed to be stopping herself from rolling her eyes with some difficulty. Regina spoke of her record on town planning, law and order—she shot Zelena a look at that point—and prosperity.

“Thank you, ladies,” said Dr Hopper, when she was done. “Now, perhaps we’ll go to some questions from the press before we deal with those the townsfolk have submitted.”

“I have a question for Miss West,” said Lacey, in a loud, clear voice, shoving her laptop at Gold as she got to her feet.

Zelena’s mouth twisted, her smile more of a grimace.

“Of course,” she said lightly. “It’s - uh - I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.”

She waved a languid hand, and Lacey felt her mouth flatten.

“Lacey French, Storybrooke Mirror,” she said evenly, and Zelena let out a tinkling laugh.

“Of course, silly me,” she trilled. “How could I forget Storybrooke’s eager young reporter? Lending the local newspaper such an air of class in that - lovely - outfit.”

There was a muttering amongst the townsfolk, and Lacey distinctly heard Ruby say ‘What a bitch!’, but she smiled sweetly as though she hadn’t understood the insult.

“Yeah, I have a question about your motivation for running for Mayor,” she said. “You said yourself you’ve never been involved in politics, so what inspired you to make this move now?”

Zelena smiled widely.

“Well, as I said, I thought about where I could do the most good,” she said. “Storybrooke is a wonderful town, with many excellent qualities, but talking to its residents has made me realise that there’s a feeling that it may be lacking direction. I sense a need for a return to the basics of community. Neighbourliness. Family values. The traditions of small-town America that we all grew up with.”

“But you grew up in England,” said Lacey. “Wasn’t your father a diplomat? How do you know this view of America is either accurate or desirable?”

Zelena’s nostrils flared as she continued to smile brightly.

“Well,” she said. “Who’s been doing her homework?”

“Yeah, it’s just that people hear politicians mention tradition and family values, and all too often it’s a smoke-screen to hide racism and homophobia,” went on Lacey. “How would you address those concerns?”

Zelena spread her hands.

“I’d say look at my record,” she said. “Since I moved here I’ve made it clear that I’m happy to work with people of all backgrounds. It’s important that no one feels left out, and my initial conversations have led me to believe that there are concerns, and that some residents feel that their interests are not - fully appreciated - by the Mayor.”

“What kind of interests?” asked Lacey quickly, before Zelena could turn away, and her mouth twisted again as she tried to keep smiling.

“As I said, some feel that traditional family values are being lost in the push for modernity,” she said. “I’d like to reassure them that I stand for everything that Storybrooke represents. Decency. Morality.”

“Does that mean you think the Mayor is immoral?” asked Lacey, and Zelena pulled a face.

“I think there have been some questionable decisions at city hall under her watch, yes,” she said. “Does anyone really think that a seedy bar called Queens of Darkness is fitting for this town?”

“It’s a jazz club,” said Regina. “And there’ll be dance lessons each week. A perfectly respectable establishment, run by three accomplished businesswomen.”

Zelena let out that insincere laugh again, and Lacey sat down, retrieving her laptop from Gold and opening it up as Zelena addressed the room.

“Well, it’s not only the company the Mayor keeps,” she said. “We’ve all heard the rumours. Missing money, accounts not holding quite as much as people thought…”

“That’s an outrageous lie,” said Regina coldly. “Where’s your evidence, Miss West?”

Zelena smirked, as though she had been waiting for that very question. She held up the green folder, showing it to the room.

“I have the evidence right here,” she announced. “A brave employee of city hall managed to smuggle this out to me. Evidence that the Mayor has been embezzling town funds!”

There was a shocked intake of breath around the room. Lacey typed furiously.

“How dare you!” snapped Regina. “That’s a lie and you know it!”

“I believe this is my allotted time to speak!” Zelena snapped back. “I think the people of Storybrooke deserve to know exactly who you really are, don’t you? They should understand the choice before them!”

The doors at the end of the hall opened, and there was the sound of heavy boots on the floor. Zelena looked surprised, and then somewhat nervous, and a low-level muttering started up in the audience. Lacey glanced over her shoulder, watching as Sheriff Graham Humbert walked towards the stage with his deputy Dorothy Gale by his side. Regina appeared to be drumming her fingers on the lectern, and Lacey couldn’t work out whether it was anxiety or impatience.

“Miss West,” said Graham. “We’d like you to come with us, please.”

“Why?” demanded Zelena. “I’m a little busy winning this election, in case you hadn’t noticed.”

“It’s a matter of obstruction of justice,” said Graham. “If you could come to the station, please.”

Zelena opened and closed her mouth, a sudden flicker of fear in her eyes.

“What if I say no?”

“I’d prefer not to have to handcuff you,” said Graham.

“But we will if we have to,” added Dorothy, folding her arms.

“This is a conspiracy!” blurted Zelena, waving a finger at Regina. “Did the Mayor put you up to this? This is exactly the kind of corruption I’m talking about! The Sheriff being used as the Mayor’s enforcer!”

“Miss West…”

“Mayor Mills will do whatever it takes to silence me!” she went on. “She’s scared I’ve exposed her for what she is!”

“Miss West, I didn’t want to have to arrest you, but…”

“One hint of competition and she calls in her - her goon squad to crush it!”

“Oh, for God’s sake, I know you’re my sister!” said Regina loudly.

Silence fell, and Lacey hurriedly typed a few sentences, describing the shocked atmosphere of the town hall. Zelena was staring at Regina, eyes wide and nostrils flaring.

“I wasn’t going to mention it,” said Regina, curling her lip. “I wanted to give you a chance to be a decent person and deal with this in an honourable way. But since you’re determined to try to ruin my life for no good reason, then yes. I’m well aware we share the same mother, and frankly she’d be disappointed at this pathetic bid for attention.”

“How dare you—”

“I believe it’s my turn to speak,” interrupted Regina. “We’ve listened to enough of your rambling this evening. Since you’d been dropping hints about corruption in my office, I had Sheriff Humbert investigate. He told me earlier this evening that someone had been planting evidence to try to frame me. No doubt that’s what he wants to speak to you about.”

“This is—”

“The residents of Storybrooke know how seriously I take my duties as Mayor,” Regina went on, addressing the room as a whole now. “They know that I value their support and their trust. Of course I’d want any threat to that to be investigated. I’m just - I’m beyond disappointed that the threat comes from my half-sister.”

Her voice echoed around the silent room. Lacey was watching the townsfolk avidly, their eyes fixed on Regina as she spoke.

“I had no idea that my mother had had a daughter before me, no idea that I had another family member out there in the world,” she went on. “Her coming to Storybrooke should have been a time of joy and reunion. But instead of her reaching out to me, she tries to undermine me, to take away the most important job I have in this town.”

She looked down, shaking her head, and Gold leaned in close.

“I wonder how much of this is for the benefit of the voters and how much is genuine,” he murmured.

“Maybe fifty-fifty,” Lacey whispered back, and he nodded in agreement.

Regina raised her head, taking a deep breath, as though steeling herself for something unpleasant. Graham and Dorothy had edged towards the stage, Dorothy removing the cuffs from her belt.

“All I can do now,” said Regina, “is trust that justice will take its course.”

“You know nothing about justice!” shouted Zelena, as the Sheriff started reading her her rights. “You’ll pay for this! All of you!”

She was still yelling when Dorothy handcuffed her and marched her from the room. The sound of the doors closing was very loud in the silence that remained.

“Well,” said Regina, placing her hands on the lectern and looking around the room. “I think we can all agree that this was one of the more - eventful - political debates this town has seen.”

There was a ripple of nervous laughter, and she smiled.

“I truly hope that Miss West gets the help she so desperately needs,” she went on. “And when she has, I want her to know that she’s welcome to visit with Mallory and I. After all, we may not be able to choose our family, but that makes it all the more important to nurture the bonds we share with those around us.”

There were noises of agreement from the audience, and Gold leaned in close again.

“Ever the politician,” he murmured, and Lacey nodded.

“Storybrooke is like an extended family to me,” went on Regina, “and all families have their moments of conflict and frustration, but underneath that there is respect for one another, and a common set of values. I believe I have lived by those values for every year that I’ve served as your Mayor. I will always reach out to those in need and I will always act in the best interests of this town. Under my leadership, Storybrooke will continue to prosper. I guarantee it.”

There was applause, and a couple of cheers, and Regina nodded, looking extremely self-satisfied. She started taking questions, and Gold kissed Lacey’s cheek and whispered that he would see her in the diner when she was done. She watched him leave with his family, Emma balancing the baby on her hip and Neal pushing the stroller after them. Lacey turned back to listen to Regina field a question about the state of the town’s roads, bent her head to her laptop, and began typing up her article on the Mayoral debate.

She emailed the article over to Sidney before leaving for the diner, and walked back there with Ruby, who was chattering about the drama that had unfolded. Regina had been in her element when answering the remaining questions, and Lacey had felt a surge of satisfaction over her part in exposing a crime. Perhaps small town life offered the chance for rewarding work after all. She could see Gold and his family through the window, and his face lit up as she entered, making her stomach flip. Damn the man. I’m falling in love with him.

“Excellent job this evening,” he said, getting up to pull her chair out and kissing her cheek. “I got you a rum and coke, I hope that’s okay.”

“Perfect,” she said fervently, and took a slurp, relishing the taste on her tongue.

“How’d the Mayor look at the end of all that?” asked Emma, and Lacey pulled a face.

“The whole place gave her a round of applause, and she was looking about as satisfied as she could, I guess,” she said. “I still feel kind of sorry for her. Not every day you find out you have a half sister. Especially one that’s out to get you.”

“Well, it could have been a lot worse,” said Gold. “I very much doubt Miss West will present much of a challenge from a jail cell.”

Lacey nodded, taking another sip of her drink.

“Does this mean you and Regina are friends now?” she asked, and Gold smirked.

“Oh, I wouldn’t go that far,” he said. “What’s that term the kids use these days?”

“Frenemies?”

“That’s the one.”

“Kind of like we were,” she observed, and he laughed.

“Regina would fillet me with a letter opener if I even contemplated looking at her the way I look at you.”

“No, I don’t mean that,” she said. “I just meant - well, we kind of had that thing where we poked at each other to get a reaction, right?”

Gold looked as though he was trying very hard not to laugh, and she swatted his arm.

“Stop thinking about dirty stuff! You know what I mean!”

“I do,” he acknowledged. “And I, for one, am very glad that we - er - got the reaction we wanted.”

“You’re still thinking about dirty stuff, aren’t you?” said Emma shrewdly, and Gold shrugged.

“Maybe a little.”

They ate ribs, sticky with Granny’s special sauce, licking it from their fingers and washing it down with beer and wine and rum. By the time they got out into the cool night air, Lacey felt wonderfully tipsy, and regretted putting on her high heels earlier in the evening. At least there was no one else around to see if she fell on her arse, she supposed. Neal and Emma were walking ahead, pushing the stroller and talking quietly, and Lacey let out a sigh, slipping her arm through Gold’s for support, and resting her head on his shoulder.

“I ate too much,” she said, and Gold chuckled.

“We all ate too much.”

“You didn’t throw half of it over your lap, though.”

“No, I thought I’d leave that to you.”

“Stupid gravity,” muttered Lacey, and he laughed, squeezing her arm with his.

“Tired?” he asked.

“Yeah. Long day.”

“Maybe you should have an early night.”

She glanced up at him, and he was grinning at her, his eyes twinkling.

“How’s that gonna work?” she asked flatly. “Your family’s staying over. No way I’m letting you give me screaming orgasms while they’re in the room next door.”

“In that case I could sneak over to yours,” he suggested. “You could scream to your heart’s content.”

Lacey giggled, barging him affectionately with her shoulder.

“I think I love you, Mr Gold,” she said, and Gold stopped dead, turning to face her with a stunned look on his face.

“Really?”

Lacey turned to face him, taking his hand.

“Really,” she said. “I mean I’m kind of drunk, but that’s not why I’m saying it. I think I’ve sort of been in love with you for a while now. Is that okay?”

He was staring at her, wide-eyed, and a softness seemed to spill over his features, making his eyes gleam as he smiled.

“Well,” he said. “I think I love you, too, Miss French. Is that okay?”

“More than okay.”

He seemed to hesitate for a moment, then raised his chin.

“D’you want to move in?” he asked.

“Can I bring Darcy?”

“Of course.”

“Then you got a deal.”

He was grinning, and she found herself grinning back, her heart swelling with love for him.

“Let’s wait until after Neal and Emma go before I move in, though,” she said. “I think you said something about screaming orgasms?”

Gold’s grin turned wicked, and he bent his head to kiss her.

“I’ll be over later.”

She let his lips pull at hers, leaning in to feel the warmth of his body as his arms went around her, and let out a sigh of contentment. Yes. Life in a small town could be amazing.

#fic: heatstroke #golden lace fic #rumbelle fic #golden lace #rumbelle #my fic

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