#tommy shaw x reader

[mccoys-killer-queen]

Give Me the Lights (Tommy x Reader)- Part 1

Words: 2,905

Summary: You live with Tommy on his farm in Michigan in the late 70s. It's almost time to start recording the next Styx album, but trying to make music seems to be Tommy's enemy lately. He's not acting like himself, and you know something's not right...

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(Michigan, March 1979)

It happens every year; the month of March is cold and gloomy, yet everyone is always surprised. People normally expect it to be springtime the second March rolls around, but mother nature— purely out of spite— never lives up to this expectation. Humanity is normally fed up with the winter gloom by this point of the year, so they like to forget that the majority of the month still qualifies as winter. 

When it came to the inevitable winter gloom, one could normally head indoors in order to escape it. A nice blanket, warm lighting, and a different view were the best ways to do this. You couldn't do this, though. 

The refuge of your own house didn't help alleviate the dreary, early March gloom- because the gloom was now incarnate as a person, and this person lived in the house with you.

Those winter blues had taken the form of your darling boyfriend, and despite the bright golden hair on his head, it seemed the rest of his shine was gone.

You had never known Tommy to experience seasonal depression before, but his strange behavior seemed to fit the bill quite well to you. Often over the past few weeks, you had picked up on him acting rather... differently. He was eating less, sleeping more, and showing little interest or emotion in just about everything.

There was currently a new Styx album in the process of conception. Tommy had been eager to get back to work and get lost in his own musical embryos as much as he pleased. This was normally an infallible source of joy for your bright-eyed lover, so the fact that you rarely heard his strumming or singing these days concerned you just a little. 

You often caught him sleeping in much later than usual, or just caught him in bed too often in general. Nearly every time this happened, there tended to be a guitar on the floor across the room.  He'd tell you he was "just tired", but he seemed to be tired all the time lately.

In addition to his lack of energy and interest in his music, you noticed he had elevated crankiness on some days, too. This side of him would sometimes make an appearance as frustration with an instrument, while other times he'd express self-doubt while attempting to write a song. Even something as simple as cursing out the washing machine or the weatherman let you know how he was feeling inside. A few times, he'd even been short with you over minute things that didn't seem to matter in the past.

What really raised your concern was when you realized that his typical, toothy grins hadn't made any appearances for a while.

Since there was rarely sunshine or warmth at this time in the season, you thought it made sense that a man from the south- who was practically made of sunshine- was acting a bit dulled down. It was no secret that Tommy was a nature-loving man, so you wondered if this meant that when the surrounding nature was down in the dumps, so was he.

You also wondered if he was aware of this himself.

One evening, you softly confronted the subject of his mood problems. You told him you had picked up on how upset and tired he appeared lately, and carefully asked him if something was wrong.

Almost immediately, he became teary-eyed at your intervention. He couldn't deny what you were inquiring about; he was well aware of it himself, and had been for some time.

The ensuing conversation resulted in a lot of physical tenderness from you, and a lot of venting from him. He confessed that he'd been feeling so indescribably "down" lately— both mentally and physically— and that he couldn't seem to be musically productive no matter what.

"I feel so empty-" Tommy told you, head in hands as you held him close, "-like there's nothing left inside me. And my body feels so heavy that I don't wanna move at all. I don't feel like myself, and I can't even tell you why- because I don't even know! Everyone else seems to be doing fine, and then there's me— who just wants to sulk for no reason, can't get out of bed, or write a song to save my life right now."

In addition, he threw in a grumpy comment about the monotonous weather being equivalent to purgatory. It was here you proposed that he might be suffering from a classic case of seasonal depression, and that it was probably interfering with everything; his creativity, his mood, and his energy. You also explained that, since he was acclimated to the mild winters of Alabama, his body wasn't used to being stuck in a real winter like this.

Tommy looked both surprised and a little guilty at your inference, but admitted you were probably right. 

"I'm really sorry, Y/n," he shook his head as he dropped his vision with a sniff, "I know I've been so pathetic lately-"

His eyes sprung open in surprise as you covered his mouth with your hand.

You used your other hand to wipe the wetness from under his eyes, "You're not gonna call yourself pathetic, and you're not gonna apologize for something you can't control, okay?"

He squinted in confusion, then sighed from under your hand and nodded with closed eyes. You uncovered his mouth and kissed him slowly, assuring him that you'd both get him feeling better.

That night, like many others before, Tommy curled in close to you with the hopes that the warmth from your body was reminiscent of the sunlight he didn't know he craved. With his internal conflict identified, he felt less shame about feeling so 'empty' inside. 

Ever since then, you'd done all you could to get Tommy out of this rut. You wanted to make sure he had constant reassurance that there was no need to feel lonely. There were a lot more cozy nights spent inside together where you would both sing for the sake of singing, and nights where you'd play guitar for him so he didn't have to. There were also a lot of nights where you'd simply hold him close to you as you both slipped into slumber. 

All you could do was anything- anything in order to keep his spirits up. Hell, you even got him vitamin D supplements if it meant he might have perked up a little from them.

Something you also attempted to do from time to time was get both of you active and moving. If you yourself were active, then Tommy felt compelled to follow suit. As a simple way to do this, you began to go on walks more often when the winter weather permitted. Your usual walking route made a pass by the nearby lake where Tommy's own little row boat remained covered for the season at the shore. Every time you walked past it, you'd catch his gaze lingering on it. 

"I really miss taking that thing out at sunset," he reminisced one afternoon as you walked hand-in-hand, "I feel like one trip on the ol' boat would automatically cure both of us of any winter blues.

You squeezed his hand, "Well, it is kinda your happy place."

 "We're going out on it the very first chance we get, got it?"

"Maybe on the first day of spring, we can celebrate that way..." you suggested.

There was a quick, fleeting curl of the corner of his mouth at your idea. Getting him to smile at all was always a wonderful accomplishment.

He was appreciative of how much you cared about his well-being, but there were also a few times where he'd whine about being "babied" by you. Sometimes, you had to pull his arms or legs to get him out of bed. One time, you had to roll him. Other times, when his appetite couldn't be found, you attempted to spoon-feed him like an infant (which, at the very least, made him laugh out of embarrassment).

Some days were normal, some days were fine, and some days weren't so fine.

Once, after a rather rough songwriting attempt, Tommy came to you on the verge of tears because he was just that frustrated with himself. He wasn't sure how to exactly say what he wanted from you; what he'd done was take you in his arms and mumble that he needed you to tell him to "stop feeling like this."

Instead of honoring his request, you had him lay in your lap on the couch. As you watched the snow settle down outside the house, you aimed to reassure him that he was simply a little unwell at the moment.

"There's nothing wrong with you, sweetie. You're just a bit in the dark like the rest of the northern hemisphere right now; you just need some light, is all," you reasoned with him. Your fingertips slowly combed through the roots of his glowing locks as you went on, "And someday soon, every little thing that makes you happy— all those little lights in your life— they'll come back. They have thousands of times before when things seemed dark, and this time is no different."

"Hm. Maybe you should write a song," he mused up at you with closed eyes, "You speak like a poet."

"Maybe I should," you joked, "If it'll make you sit back and relax for once."

Tommy hadn't given up on writing songs, but he could also never seem to pull one together. Sometimes there would be random bursts of frustrated ambition, but that usually resulted in papers all over the floor, and Tommy walking away from it all before he tore up another potential idea. 

When you realized him picking up the guitars never led to any good, you suggested he try a new instrument altogether.

"But all my ideas stem from guitar, and I swear I'm close to something!" he acted like what you said was blasphemous, "If I'm finally going to have an idea for a song, it's bound to come from a guitar. I can't just give up on it now...!"

"I get you're afraid the guitar muse won't last, but 'Renegade' did come from a piano, after all," you reminded him, "And I'm not saying give up with the guitar, I'm just saying find something different to take your mind off of guitars for a bit. Cleanse your palette, learn something new, and maybe new ideas will come from it!"

He sighed and shook his head, "Alright... I'll see if anything weird enough catches my eye."

Slowly over a week or two of gently pushing him and nurturing him, you noticed Tommy coming back more into himself. His healthy ambition was returning, he began to eat and sleep normally again, and his usual cheer seemed to be waking up from hibernation. When you first started noticing this, you also noticed Tommy was being more secretive about the potential music he was working on. He wasn't trying to compose often, but when he did, he wouldn't let you peek in on him anymore.

Despite this sudden secretiveness, he told you he still didn't have any songs yet, and that he was experimenting with something new like you proposed. Whatever he was starting to do, you were just glad he found some joy in it again.

One day, you caught a glimpse of a paper he'd accidentally left lying around. In his slightly scribbled handwriting, there appeared to be a few brief stanzas of a potential song.

"Thank you for caring, but tonight the lights will take me where I long to be Just like a thousand nights before

I can't explain It gives me some pain

Give me the lights, precious lights Give me light, give me hope, give me energy

You can turn the wrong into right, precious lights Illuminate me Won't you let me play?"

It was then clear why Tommy was hiding his current work from you; he was inspired by you. Perhaps he was just too bashful to admit it yet.

The lyric melted your heart, not only because he was referencing your own words of comfort in his music, but also because he was now finding inspiration in his bout of gloom. You knew his soul desperately wanted it to be spring, and he knew he desperately wanted to be back to normal. The lights of springtime, to him, meant just that. It only made sense that he was to write a song about this.

As much as you instantly fell in love with it, you didn't tell Tommy that you found the lyrics he wrote. You let it be, and just let him carry on with his own process. You weren't meant to look at it, and didn't want to jinx the wonderful thing he may have started.

After the personal rollercoaster that was the first 19 days of March, the first day of spring arrived at long last. Unfortunately, however, there was still no spring in sight. There was a forecast for freezing rain and wind that day, with no sunshine to be found.

In the days recent, Tommy did show he had more energy for a change, as he could feel the impending season around the corner. Whenever he disappeared to practice whatever new thing he was trying out, you just let him be. That day being no different, you went ahead and slipped out to run some errands before the weather hit. However, the weather did hit while you were gone, leaving your other half on his own longer than expected.

Meanwhile, alone in his own private little work bubble, Tommy strummed his new instrument quietly to himself.

"It's done..." he whispered, "It's actually done... but it's not... right."

It was a particularly frustrating day for him in terms of music- as he was making progress based on your advice, but something just felt off about the finished product he'd made.

Yes, Tommy had finally finished a song. It came rather effortlessly, too- much to his surprise. He was almost proud of it, but he didn't know how to tell if it was truly completed.

He knew you were right about needing to cleanse his palette, so he went out on your word and bought a mandolin. His reasoning for this choice was simply the fact that he knew he was a guitar player, so how different could a mandolin be? He was sure he could play it. The second he tried to, however, he quickly realized that he couldn't. As it turned out, the tuning was otherworldly, it was tricky to try and learn chords on, and it was small. 

In the process of trying to figure out how the hell to play this new tool, Tommy decided to just make up his own chords. The second he strung a few of these 'chords' together, something immediately set off a little spark in his heart.

Finally, at long last, something took to his creative side and awoke it from hibernation. It was something he had wanted so badly, and it was something that felt so wonderful to feel again. 

When it came time to set a lyric to the fresh music, Tommy figured it was only best to write about something else he wanted so badly.

He couldn't wait to play his experimental tune for you and tell you that you were right all along, but there was this inexplicable thing that was missing from it. Naturally, as a musician, he spent several obsessive hours trying to figure out what it was, but had no luck. He just didn't know what needed to be changed- if anything.

On the verge of his motivation burning out on the matter again, sleet suddenly began to pound against the windows outside.

Immediately, poor Tommy felt the musical motivation rapidly leak away from him. His mood and energy suddenly plummeted, and he felt himself slump back into an insufferable, lazy state once more. 

It was here that he realized he was expecting March 20th to be a day of hope and light, but instead, winter was laughing in his face yet again. It was officially spring, yet there he was; still stuck in the cold with another incomplete song.

He missed feeling whole. He missed feeling completely like himself and making complete works of art.

Tommy shamefully hid his mandolin away again, deciding to once again give up for the day. His feet seemed to automatically lead him to the couch, as if they already knew what to do, and he horizontally resigned himself to its cushions.

 You were always telling him to just lay back and relax as best as he could when the thought of making music caused too much stress. You'd additionally tell him, as a joke, to close his eyes and go to his "happy place", just to make him smile. With your voice suggesting this in his head, Tommy figured that at the very least, some extra sleep might flush away the depressive cloud that was eating at him yet again. 

Besides, he had a (supposedly) completed song; he figured he deserved a nice nap as a reward.

Dejectedly letting the sound of the freezing rain scrape against his eardrums, he allowed his eyes to close as every confused thought in his mind began to form the foundation of a midday dream.

----- (Part 2)

[gingiesworld]

Meet Me Underneath The Tree

Leigh Shaw x GN! Reader

Warnings: Fluff

Taglist : @natashamaximoff-69 @canvascoloredin @wizardofstories @louxbloom @wandanats-goodgirl @the-ox-fan20 @ladyqueenxoxo @aemilia19 @wandaromamoff69 @mfd-101 @dorabledewdroop @marvelogic @dopeyouth @karsonromanoff @bimad @lizzieislife94x (if you want to be added to my taglist, please DM me or comment)

18+ MINORS DNI

Y/N and Leigh had been going strong for two years, two years since the fling between herself and Danny ended. Two years since she cut all ties with her dead husband’s family. Needing a new start herself, she found something in the new instructor her mom hired for Beautiful Beast. Y/N was a self defense instructor, helping the women who had paid to be taught self defense, Leigh had also noticed how smooth their voice was as they spoke. Considering what they taught, they had a gentle nature about them, and Leigh had experienced that for the two years of their relationship, even through the arguments that she had started, they remained by her side.

“So, you’re finally popping the question?” Amy asked Y/N as Leigh was teaching her class.

“Yeah.” They answered, a nervous smile on their face. “I know she has suffered a lot, but I want to be there for her, show her that she will always have something to breathe for.”

“She’s so lucky.” Jules groaned as she handed the ring back to Y/N. “So, what’s your big plan?” Y/N explained their plan to them, wanting to make the moment as special as possible. Soon enough cutting the conversation short when Leigh stepped out of the studio.

“What am I interrupting?” She questioned with a raised brow as she dried the sweat from herself.

“Nothing.” Jules answered quickly.

“Jules was just telling us what her plans are with Tommy.” Amy answered her confidently. “The two of them have decided to grace us with their presence this christmas.” Leigh beamed at her sister.

“That’s amazing.” She wrapped her arm around her shoulder. “It was too quiet last year without you.” Everyone chuckled as Jules sent Amy a glare.

Y/N had remained a nervous wreck leading up to Christmas eve. They had their doubts, what if she says no? What will happen to their relationship? But Leigh never failed to make them see that they are just as important to her as she is to them.

“Mom wants my help with the decorations.” Leigh told Y/N as she grabbed her coat. “She said something about Jules and Tommy coming around tonight and celebrating.”

“Ok.” Y/N nodded with a smile.

“I’ll be back in time for our little tradition.” She told them as she pressed a kiss to their lips. Y/N sighed as the door closed behind her, looking at the ring one last time before they made their own preparations.

“So, how is it with you and Y/N?” Amy asked her as the two prepared the food for Christmas dinner.

“It’s great.” Leigh answered her unsurely. “But I can’t help but feel as though they are pulling away from me.”

“How so?” Amy pressed on as Leigh wiped her hands on the towel.

“They’ve been distant with me.” She sighed as she rubbed her brow. “Maybe I’m just too much, my mood swings and outbursts are too much for them.”

“I don’t think that is the case.” Amy assured her as Leigh looked at the time. “I can see how they look at you Leigh, you are their whole world.”

“I just, I can’t shake this feeling like it may be the end.” She whispered shakily. “I don’t want this to be the end because I am so in love with them that it physically hurts me being away from them.”

“Tell them.” Amy told her. “Let them know everything you’re feeling.” Leigh nodded as she received a text from Y/N.

Meet me underneath the tree.

“I have to go.” Leigh sighed as she grabbed her coat, heading towards the little spot that had become theirs over the two year period. Her heart beat in her chest as she spotted Y/N in the distance, just staring out into space. “Y/N.” She breathed out, gaining their attention, watching as they took a shaky breath.

“Hi.” They smiled at her before continuing. “I honestly had a whole other plan for this, but then I figured here would be a better place.”

“No.” Leigh spat out, taking Y/N by surprise. “I am not letting you end what we have!” Y/N was shocked by the words coming from Leigh’s mouth. “We have worked too damn hard to be where we are now and I don’t want to throw that away because I love you. I love you so damn much and I can’t. I won’t lose you or what we have.” She closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, opening them to see Y/N down on one knee, holding a ring in their hands.

“Leigh, I never, ever want to lose you.” They started as Leigh took a shaky breath. “I guess maybe my nerves these past few weeks haven’t helped either of us.” They chuckled lightly. “I have known for a while now that my future is meant to be spent by your side, living each day together, maybe starting a family one day, but I know I need you in my life Leigh. I love you with every fiber of my being and I will love more and more with each passing moment. So, will you marry me?”

“Yes.” She whispered as her tears flowed freely, smiling as Y/N had put the ring on her finger, noticing her wedding ring and engagement ring were no longer on her finger from her previous marriage.

“Your rings?” They questioned as she cupped their face.

“I haven’t worn them for months.” Leigh told them. “I guess I felt ready to let go of Matt and focus on the life I will have with you.” They smiled before kissing her softly, holding her close as the kiss broke, pressing their foreheads together, ready to live for their future together.

[mcavoy-girl]

We need more fanfiction of the following characters/celebs:

Dean Winchester x reader from Supernatural

Charles Xavier x reader from X-Men

Erik Lehnsherr x reader from X-Men

Robbie Turner x reader from Atonement

Beau Arlen x reader from Big Sky

Soldier boy x reader from The Boys

Wolverine x reader from X-Men

James McAvoy x reader

Hugh Jackman x (daughter) reader

Michael Fassbender x reader

Tony Stark x reader, preferably daughter!reader from Marvel-movies

Clint Barton x reader from Marvel-movies

Avengers x reader, any Avenger at all really.

Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) x reader from Fantastic Beasts

Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) x reader from Fantastic Beasts

Jack Dawson x reader, Titanic

Legolas x reader from Hobbit-movies and Lord of the Rings-movies

Aragorn x reader from Lord of the Rings-movies

Eomer x reader from Lord of the Rings-movies

Faramir x reader from Lord of the Rings-movies

Castiel x reader from Supernatural

LOTR/Hobbit characters x reader

Charlie Hudson x reader from Hudson & Rex

Lord Asriel x reader from His Dark Materials

Nick Ryan x reader from McLeod's daughters

Richard O'Connell x reader from The Mummy movies

Wade Wilson/Deadpool x reader from Deadpool-movies

Richard Castle x reader from Castle

Drover (Hugh Jackman) x reader from Australia

Ronan Keating x reader

Christian x reader from Moulin Rouge

Aidan Turner x reader and his characters x reader

James Bond (Daniel Craig) x reader

Bucky Barnes x reader

Steve Rogers x reader

Obi-Wan Kenobi x reader from Star Wars prequels and Obi-Wan Kenobi-series

Ewan McGregor x reader

Anakin Skywalker x reader from Star Wars prequels

Hayden Christensen x reader

Owen Grady x reader from Jurassic World

Bucky Barnes x reader from Marvel-movies

Sirius Black x reader from Harry Potter- movies

Cedric Diggory x reader from Harry Potter- movies

Draco Malfoy x reader from Harry Potter-movies

Indiana Jones x reader from Indiana Jones- movies

Cillian Murphy x reader

Tommy Shelby x reader from Peaky Blinders

Harry Goodman x daughter reader from Pokemon Detective Pikachu

Pete "Maverick" Mitchell x (daughter) reader from Top Gun/Top Gun: Maverick

Tom "Iceman" Kazansky x (daughter) reader from Top Gun/ Top Gun: Maverick

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x reader from Top Gun: Maverick

Jake "Hangman" Seresin x reader from Top Gun: Maverick

Robin Hood/Robin of Loxley (Taron Egerton) x reader from Robin Hood

Rafe McCawley x reader from Pearl Harbor

Daniel "Danny" Walker x reader from Pearl Harbor

Eggsy Unwin x reader from the Kingsman-movies

Colter Shaw x reader from Tracker

I'll add here more as I remember more characters/celebs. I prefer character x female reader. The ones in bold need more fanfiction.

[luci-in-trenchcoats]

I haven't done one of these in awhile! Thanks for the tag @zepskies !!

Rules: make a new post with the names of all the files in your WIP folder, regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them, and then post a little snippet or tell them something about it! and then tag as many people as you have WIPs.

I'm going to stipulate right now these aren't all my WIPs because well, I want to spare y'all the horror 😂

The Villain's Protector (Soldier Boy/Ben x reader)

A Place To Call Home: Redux (Jensen x foster daughter!reader)

Beau & Russell Meet (Beau Arlen x reader w/ platonic Russell Shaw)

Dark Lord Winchester (Dark Lord!Dean x employee!reader)

Love Her: Tommy REDACTED (Dean x foster daughter!reader)

Colter Shaw x reader (Colter Shaw x reader)

The Ranch Series (Ranch Owner!Dean x Ranch Owner!reader)

Havenfield Book #2 (Ty x Reese) (original writing)

No pressure tags: Anyone who wants to join in! (You can reblog this or make a new post.)

WIP Tag Game

Oh fun! I love these. Thanks so much for tagging me, my lovely @venus-haze 💜

Rules: make a new post with the names of all the files in your WIP folder, regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them, and then post a little snippet or tell them something about it! and then tag as many people as you have WIPs.

Lost on You (Soldier Boy x Supe!Reader)

Echoes (Beau Arlen x Reader)

Don't You Forget About Me (Dean Winchester x Reader)

Lost Time (Russell Shaw x Reader)

At least, these are the ones with actual working titles. 😜

No pressure tags: @luci-in-trenchcoats @deanbrainrotwritings @artyandink @tofics @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior and anyone else who wants to join in! (You can reblog this or make a new post.)

[lonely-lost-soul]

Beauty and the Beast

<<Previous part/Next Part>>

(C!Technoblade x Fem!Reader): Beauty and the Beast AU

Cover art is done by: @abovenyx

Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate! I do and this is my gift to all of you because I'm grateful for all of you and your support.

~~~

Chapter 1:

The morning came way earlier than you would’ve liked, and the birds called for you to get out of bed. You got dressed and slid on your work boots, a chill ran through you and you glanced outside. It had snowed that night, the ground was covered in a fresh coat of white and the house was cold and quiet. The cold wasn’t anything new, but the quiet was, your home was never quiet...Tommy was never quiet.

“Tommy?” You called grabbing your shaw and opening your door, “Theseus you here?” You searched high and low around the house and found nothing except for an empty workbench with a half-finished invention on it. Your throat tightened, he snuck out to get more parts, fuck he promised he wouldn’t do it again. At least not without your explicit permission the little shit, you slid on your snow boots and pushed open the cabin door. You didn’t know what time it started and stopped snowing last night, his footprints had long since been covered by the fresh snowfall. “Fuck me,” you swallowed gathering up your dress and heading into the deep woods. You screamed his name until your throat went raw and eventually you came upon a large castle, with large gargoyles and an atmosphere of unease. Tommy could’ve stayed here for the night, after all, he had no concept of danger. You stepped through the gate ignoring the endless howls of wolves behind you, and you knocked softly on the grand castle doors. There wasn’t an immediate response but the opened with a soft creak. “Excuse me, I’m coming in!” You called stepping through the doors, you heard some rustling but saw no one. You swore you could hear whispers in the halls as you wrapped your shawl tighter around your body. “Is anyone home? I’m looking for my brother Tommy?” You walked down the halls shoes clicking on the floor, “Please have you seen him?” A loud crash was heard behind you and you jumped startled out of your skin lights turned on in the hallway behind you like they were leading you.

Even though every fiber in your being was telling you no, you pushed the thought away and followed the lights. You came across a small dungeon hole and your heart sank, “Tommy?”

“Fuck-Shit-(Y/n)!” He ran up to the bars grabbing at them, you ran up taking his hands in your own. “You have to leave right now! This place is fucked as all hell!”

“What? Not without you, what mess did you get yourself into? Nevermind! I’ll get you out of there, just hold on.” You tried foolishly pulling on the bars and they didn’t budge Tommy’s eyebrows knitted together.

“Seriously (Y/n). You need to leave, it’s dangerous and I’m the man of the house so it’s my job to protect you-”

“Bullshit!” You snapped glaring at your little brother, “I’m the eldest and it’s my job to protect you! So shut your mouth, got it? I’ll give up everything for you and I won’t hear a no. Get a grip-”

A low growl came from the darkness and you turned around, red eyes stared at you from the dark. Hands were pressed on your shoulders from behind, Tommy pulling you close to the bars. “Back off monster freak!” Tommy yelled from over your shoulder and from the darkness appeared a giant monster. Seven feet tall with large tusks curling around his snout, pink fur covered his body and he had a large boar-like tail, and pig-like ears sat on top of his head. A large cape sat on his shoulders and draped down to the floor, it was cherry red with white fur on the top, gold jewelry decorated his tusks and body and your face paled. You sucked in a breath and held your head up high,

“You’re intruding, like Sister like brother it seems.” He snarled his teeth baring at your form, “Unwanted visitors aren’t welcome here. Leave. Now.” His eyes flashed in warning, you huffed turning your chin up high, you shakily stood on your feet.

“Not without Tommy.” You hissed back, if he wasn’t going to be kind to you, you weren’t going to be back.

“You don’t get to make those choices here. Get out.” He hissed grabbing harshly at her arm,

“Let her go!” Tommy hissed lunging at the bars, “don’t touch her!”

“Technoblade!” Phil scolded and the monster flinched and immediately loosened his grip on the woman’s arm. “What are you doing? That is no way to treat a young woman.”

“Phil-”

“Let her go.” That was a clock, a fucking clock was speaking to you, you were going to pass out. It seemed the clock noticed and began to fret, “oh! Techno! Release her!” Technoblade listened to the clock and dropped the arm of Tommy’s sister. She leaned back against a wall, “I’m sorry about his behavior. He’s antisocial.” Technoblade snarled in response, hands clenched into fists at his side, “You could help us and save us all.”

“Phil shut up.” He hissed, his eyes narrowed harshly, silence fell over the group before Tommy broke it.

“What the fuck is going on? Am I gonna be let out of here or not?”

Phil looked at Techno, eyes practically looking into his very soul, “Only on one condition.”

“Anything, I’d do anything for Tommy so long as you let him go.”

“Switch places with him. You’ll never see him again, but he’ll be safe.”

“What the fuck! No way!” Tommy shrieked and you took a shaky breath,

“Okay.”

“What?!”

Technoblade shoved you to the side and opened the bars of the cage and picked Tommy up by the back of his shirt. Dragging him out of the cage, “Hey! Let me go you bastard!” Tommy snarled, wiggling in his grip, “(Y/n)!”

“Tom! I’ll be okay!” You called as he left down the hall Technoblade shoved your brother in what seemed to be a carriage that could move completely on its own and your brother was ripped from your life just like that. Your lip trembled and the monster turned to face you, Technoblade grunted rolling his eyes, and made moves to walk away from the woman. However he was stopped by a rather fuming candlestick, Wilbur was giving him such a look that he turned back towards the upset lady.

“Come. It’s not proper for a lady to stay in a dungeon.”

“But it was fine for a kid?” You shot back another growl rumbled in the back of Technoblade’s throat, once more Wilbur cleared his windpipe.

“I have a room available. It’s up to you if you decide to use it.” He huffed, “come.” There were no footsteps for a moment before he heard the soft footfalls of you following behind him. Pride swelled in his chest and he smiled slightly, he opened the door to a gorgeous room. The bed was bigger than you’ve ever seen, the pink wardrobe was a nice touch.

“Oh wow…” You murmured and Technoblade felt his cheeks heat as he stared down at your bewildered expression. He cleared his throat, straightening significantly, “I want to let you know that you’re allowed to go anywhere in the castle since you’re going to be staying here indefinitely. All except the West Wing, it’s always forbidden. You will meet me for dinner tonight, wear something decent.”

“If you think I’ll be eating dinner with you you’re sorely mistaken.”

“Pardon?”

“I said I won’t be eating with you.” You scoffed,

“Yes, you will. Do you know who I am?”

“No, and I don’t fucking care. I will not be eating with the man who locked me up.”

“If you don’t eat with me then you’re going to starve.” He snarled above you successfully pinning you against the wall, “You hear that!” He roared and you steeled yourself so you wouldn’t flinch. “She doesn’t eat tonight!”

Your nose scrunched up but before you could retort he was already out the door. He was stomping his way down towards the wing you were oh so forbidden to go down. What a stuck-up prick, finally alone you let the tears fall down your rosy pink cheeks. Your nails dug into your arms as you fell to your knees, Tommy was just a kid but he was level-headed he’d be fine so long as he didn’t get into more trouble.

He was a good kid and too many people didn’t see it.

Meanwhile from the West Wing Technoblade watched you through his magic mirror with an ache in his chest. He watched you cry on the floor of the bedroom he had given you, he didn’t know why he felt so bad seeing you so upset. He felt like the safety of his staff and friends were on his hands, if she didn’t fall in love with him they’d all be stuck like this for the rest of eternity. It was a lot of pressure on his shoulders, plus how could anyone fall in love with him when he looked as beastly as he did. He huffed running his hand over his face tiredly, he looked over at the beautiful glass case containing the elegant rose and watched mournfully as another petal landed on the ground.

~~~

“Why’re you crying, miss?” You tensed head shooting up to lock eyes with your wardrobe,

“I-I’m sorry,” You whipped your eyes quickly and she tutted, walking over and using her handles to pat your head tenderly. “(Y/n)...”

“That’s a lovely name for a lovely girl. I’m Niki, a professional stylist.” She hummed, “Chin up darling I promise you it’ll be okay. What do you think? Would a new dress cheer you up?” You giggled and gave a little nod,

“What could hurt Miss Niki?”

“That’s my girl!” She squealed, throwing open her drawers and cabinets, throwing dresses upon dresses on top of you. You laughed in delight and were mid-trying on a lovely red dress when there was a quiet knock on the door. Stepping inside was a candlestick, you saw him briefly earlier “Wilbur! You’re lucky she was dressed.” Niki scolded and if candlesticks could blush he would’ve, “I thought Sally would’ve taught you better.”

“Oh hush Niki…” He huffed sticking out his tongue and he turned to you, “You look, lovely Miss. My name is Wilbur Soot, I’ll be escorting you to dinner tonight.”

“Oh no thank you. I’m not going.”

Wilbur blinked, once, twice, and then a third time. “I’m sorry...no?”

“Yeah no thank you. If...Technoblade is going to be there then I must decline.” The candlestick laughed, his fire flickering oh so happily. You gave him a confused look,

“He may say you have to starve but we servants will not let a lovely lady such as yourself wither away in here. Even if you do have Miss Niki as a company. She doesn’t exactly cook.”

“Oh shut up! I used to be able to bake like a star...I can’t exactly do that now…”

Your eyebrows furrowed, “What do you mean?”

“Well you see Miss we’re all…” She looked at Wilbur and gave a nod “cursed.”

“But who would do such a thing?” You asked softly, “You mean to say you were all human once?”

“A rather handsome one at that.”

“Wilbur, you're married.”

“Me being handsome is a fact of life Niki.” You burst into laughter, eyes drying up, Wilbur hummed pleasantly, “Now if you don’t mind I’d like to steal our guest away for dinner.”

“Go ahead. I’ll be waiting here for you.” She waved with her handle before you followed Wilbur out the door. A rather stern looking clock joined in leading you to the grand dining hall,

“I promise to do whatever I can to help you all.” You whispered and if Wilbur or Phil heard you they didn’t comment.

“Technobalde isn’t going to be happy about this Wil. You know better than anyone that he’ll have your head for this.” He ranted, Wilbur scoffed at his father giving him a look of his own.

“What and let this beautiful lady go hungry? Not in your life, old man.”

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to cause trouble. I can go back to my room, I don’t want you in trouble, Mr. Wilbur.”

“Just Wilbur is fine love and it’s alright. I insist, Technoblade is a big softy at heart,” You gave him a disbelieving look but nodded slightly at his response. The conversation on your end trailed off from there, Wilbur kept telling you about the grandiose things around the castle and their historic significance. It was interesting but you couldn’t ignore the way your stomach was rumbling with hunger and nerves.

“Wilby there you are!” A feather duster cooed rushing over to him and snuggling against his...face? “And is this her? My, she’s beautiful! I’m Sally, Wilbur’s wife!”

“Pleasure to meet you, ma’am,” You curtsied and she giggled,

“So polite Sally is fine! Come, come everyone’s so excited to meet you.” Sally the feather duster sat you down on a chair at the head of the table. She let out a loud whistle and the dinging hall came to life, Wilbur cleared his throat and smiled.

“Welcome to your dinner darling.”

It was like magic, the way everything seemed to come alive, food was placed in front of you at an alarming rate. Two tiny teacups popped into your view, one had a chip on its rim, they introduced themselves as Tubbo and Ranboo. They seemed to be in awe of you talking your ear off about the outside world and asking questions.

“How old are you boys?” You asked tilting your head with morbid curiosity,

“Seventeen!” Tubbo declared, your eyes softened and both boys seemed to notice.

“Is everything alright?” Ranboo asked hopping over to nuzzle against your hand, you smiled softly picking him up in the palm of your hands.

“My brothers around your age. Both of you, I think you’d all get along splendidly. It seems you both have a knack for adventure.”

“Oh absolutely!” Tubbo hopped about, “You’ll help us be able to meet your brother someday as people!” He chirped excitedly, “Cause you and Prince Technoblade are gonna fall in love.” You flinched and Phil seemed to catch wind of the conversation.

“Tubbo, Ranboo stop bothering the poor woman and let her eat.”

“They’re no bother.”

“Yeah, she likes us!” Ranboo beamed happily from his spot on your hand,

“Maybe so but still. She needs both hands to eat, plus your families are looking for the both of you.”

“Uh.” Tubbo whined, “Come on Boo.”

Ranboo pouted, hopping off from your hands, “it was nice meeting you Miss!” He chirped, hopping off after Tubbo. Phil sighed rubbing his eyes and you smiled pityingly,

“You have a lot on your shoulders huh?”

“Nothing for you to worry about though, everyone here has their hopes high that you’ll break the curse.”

“But what if I’m not able to do that...I don’t love him. Phil I barely even like him…”

“Then that’s alright love, he’s not as cruel as he seems...I promise.” Phil spoke softly patting you on the hand, “For now just eat. You’ll want your strength.”

Eat you did, everything was scrumptious and you made sure to thank everyone who brought you more food and then finally dessert. “This is the most I’ve eaten in my life!” You laughed as Sally giggled beside you,

“Puffy will be glad to hear you liked it.” She hummed stifling a small yawn, “Excuse me I must head off to bed, Phil and Wilbur will help you back to your room.”

“Thank you for being so kind and welcoming.”

“No need to thank me.” She tutted, “It’s basic human decency. I’ll wake you tomorrow to get some rest.” You smiled as Wilbur and Phil both walked over to you, they seemed to be in a heated debate about something or other.

“Everything alright?”

“Fine, fine nothing you need to worry about.” Phil huffed motioning for you to stand up to follow them back, you did so but they acted like you very much weren’t present. You admired the artwork on your way back but you stopped in front of the hallway leading down to the West Wing. Phil nor Wilbur seemed to notice you had stopped as they kept walking forward in the direction of your room, you knew you weren’t allowed in the West Wing, Technoblade had made that clear. However, much like your brother you never did well listening to authority figures, maybe it was because you both didn’t have parents. Either or you stepped foot into the rather dusty corridor leaving the safety of the other wings behind.

~~~ Tommy tore through the woods like a bat out of hell. Snow sticking to his face and boots, frantically looking for someone, anyone to help him. His sister was trapped by a monster, he sucked up his pride and burst into the nearest pub. A place he knew Dream and his crew would be lurking,

“Help! I need help!” He called as silence fell over the bar, Dream raised an eyebrow.

“Tommy? Aren’t you a little too young to drink?” He snickered, eyeing George who nodded in agreement. Sapnap eyed all three of them from his spot at the bar, his husbands standing on either side of him.

“He has her. Has (Y/n)! Has her locked in a dungeon!” Tommy babbled grabbing onto Dream’s arm,

“Who?” He sounded serious, worried even, that some man had claimed what was rightfully his.

“A beast! A horrible monster has her locked away!”

A beat of silence before laughter tore through the pub and Tommy wilted significantly.

“Is it a big beast?” Dream asked wiggling his fingers,

“With spooky eyes.” George joined in mockingly,

“And fangs!” Sapnap mused, sticking out his tongue.

“This is serious!” Tommy snapped, stomping his foot on the ground, “She’s in danger!”

“And you’ve always been a boy who cried wolf!” Alex chimed from his place beside his husband, “Why would any of us believe you?”

“Because I’m telling the truth!”

“I’ll help you.” Dream mused and Tommy looked hopeful,

“You will?”

“Of course. KICK HIM OUT!”

“No!” Tommy cried as Sapnap and George tossed the boy out into the snow.

~~~ Tag List: @taysgarden, @solivagantlife, @otterly-fey, @reverse-iak, @abovenyx, @luluwinchester, @victory-is-here, @hopefulann, @fandomramen, @fischlvonluftschloss, @honeyco0kie, @judas-draws, @friday-dsv, @blxux, @boiled-onionrings, @pastelmoonwitche, @jupiters-night, @mack4676, @xx-smiley-xx, @dreamslittlebitch, @sandyy-woo, @hee-hee-haw, @theultimatewifu32, @royaltytheo, @fiorenc, @creatorofstars

[griffintail]

I dunno if this is dumb, but hear me out:

Y’know the song “For the Dancing and the Dreaming” from How to Train Your Dragon 2? Well, imagine that song but with Philza or Techno and a reader s/o! Like, they’ve been apart for way too long because of various circumstances, but when they finally see each other it’s just love at first sight all over again.

I was singing that song a lot at work today, and thought this idea might be a cute and wholesome break from the wonderfully tearjerking angst that was that last Parental Dream post. I think that anon woke up and chose violence that morning, not that I’m complainin.

I can’t remember which anon request it was that chose violence but I remember heavily agreeing with you. This request was so fing perfect to do with Techno. I hope you enjoy it.

Dancing and Dreaming

In Game

Pairings: Techno x F! Reader

Warnings: None :)

A/N: There is a poem in this that’s not mine. It’s by Anna Shaw and I found it randomly on the web. So I take no credit for it.

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

I'll swim and sail on savage seas

With never a fear of drowning

And gladly ride the waves of life

If you would marry me

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

        (Y/N) remembered standing on the edge of the Arctic Empire’s border, watching Techno’s ship sail off a year back. Word came that his brothers needed his aid in their own nation. She remembered begging to let him come with him, she was the best swordswoman in the land.

        Who do you think taught her?

        Yet, Techno didn’t want someone to hurt her and made a promise to her.

        “I’ll take these nerds, alright? I’ll come back to you though, no matter what, and…I’ll marry you.”

        The voices went wild in his head for the first time in forever. Running the kingdom kept them sated but with him soon to be leaving, he supposed it riled them up. They were screaming praises and hatred at the same time but he didn’t care. This was what he wanted.

        “I…” (Y/N) was speechless for a few moments and Techno gave a cheeky grin, that helped her break out of it as she laughed. “Ok. But you have to come back.”

        “No scorching sun, nor freezing cold, will stop me on my journey if you promise me your heart and love me for eternity.” He kissed her forehead.

        From there, he boarded the ship and she didn’t see him for a year. She got no word from him or from his brothers, which gave her hope as well that he was ok. Of course, he would be, he was Technoblade.

        She was running the daily duties as Techno’s stand-in when one of the servants of the castle, bowing to her deeply.

        “Ma’am, we’ve spotted a regal ship coming into harbor.”

        “Get the guards ready then, we can’t take chances on this land, I have no patience for royalty, let’s go.”

        There had been a few battles in Techno’s absence, one’s (Y/N) commanded on his behalf that had earned her a few battle scars but nothing that caused her to lose a precious life. She had learned from the best of men. Putting her sword in its sheath and a bow and axe on her back, she set herself off to the harbor.

        As she got to the harbor, she saw a flag she had never seen flickering on the top of the mainmast. It was a half-circle of black on one edge with a line of yellow lining it as three stripes, one blue, white, and red, came off the yellow lining and three Xs in the middle. Two of the X’s were in the white strip as the third was in the half-circle of black.

        She stood on guard still as the ship slowed as it made it to their docks. Many knew nations tried to challenge the half power of their empire.

        Going onto the docks, she stood tall a safe distance from the ship.

        “Hail, who are you!” She called to the ship.

        A face leaned over the front and she stiffened at the grinning young face she remembered.

        “(Y/N)!” Tommy grinned. “Long time no see.”

        “What the fuck are you doing on that ship?!” She scolded, going over.

        “It’s mine!” (Y/N) scoffed at his words.

        “I think you’ll find, it’s mine.” Wilbur came behind the young boy, giving a smile to the woman. “It’s a pleasure (Y/N). Mind telling your men down?”

        “I mean, only if you tell me where Techno is.”

        Then she screamed as she was lifted off the ground.

        “You’ve gotten sloppy perceiving around you.” Techno chuckled as the boys on the ship laughed.

        She couldn’t be angry. She merely grinned as he put her down and hugged him tightly.

        “You’re ok.” She whispered.

        “I promised you I would be. I just had to take down a government.” He shrugged as he hugged her back.

        “My dearest one, your mighty words astound me but I've no need for mighty deeds when I feel your arms around me.”

        He hid his face in the top of her hair as he grinned to himself. He had truly missed her.

        That night, a grand ball was held in honor of Techno’s return, his victory with his brothers, and for the new alliance with the nation of L’Manberg as (Y/N) found out. (Y/N) laughed as Wilbur stole the first dance with her from Techno, having missed his brothers’ antics since the last time they had met.

        The two men kept teasing Techno by stealing the woman away until Techno practically picked her up and stole her away to the dance floor.

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

But I would bring you rings of gold

I'd even sing you poetry

And I would keep you from all harm

If you would stay beside me

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

        “Was someone jealous?” (Y/N) teased as she curtsied to him and he bowed.

        Together they danced in sync with ease. If there was no music, it would still be a beautiful dance to behold. They had done this number before, their own formal dance they always easily moved into.

        “I would like to see my wife to be after a year.” Techno gave a joking eye roll.

        “I’ll always be here for you, Techno. Even if we weren’t going to be married.” She blushed lightly, remembering his promise.

        At the end of their dance, Techno took her hand as usual but instead moved into a position to kneel.

        “This smooth son of a…” (Y/N) thought to herself with a grin.

        Techno went into his pocket, holding out a golden ring up to her. “Allow me to make it official to you after keeping you waiting for a year.” He cleared his throat before speaking clearly.

        “If I have to hold hell ransom,

        In turn for your wayward soul,

        I will.

        And if I must, fight through the depths of Tartarus

        To save what’s left of you

        To save the pieces life didn’t get to destroy,

        Then consider yourself saved

        For there is not a battle I won’t win,

        If saving you is what I am fighting for.

        So, would you do me the honor of marrying me?”

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have no use for rings of gold

I care not for your poetry

I only want your hand to hold

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

        “I mean you win every battle anyways.” She whispered so only he would hear and he gave her a deadpanned face before she spoke a bit louder. “I care not of those things, as long as I have you Techno and your hand. I will gladly marry you for just that.”

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

To love and kiss to sweetly hold

For the dancing and the dreaming

Through all life's sorrows

And delights

I'll keep your laugh inside me

I'll swim and sail a savage seas

With never a fear of drowning

I'd gladly ride the waves so white

And you will marry me!

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

        People clapped as she giggled hearing the hollers of his brothers as he rolled his eyes before smiling as he put the ring on her finger. He gave a sweet kiss to her forehead, neither much for sharing a lover’s kiss in public. The night’s events took on new energy around them but the two simply enjoyed the presence of the other as they glided across the floor.

        Techno regaled her with what happened in L’Manberg, throwing in a few jokes to hear her sweet laugh he had missed through the battles he and his brothers had fought. They had all been such brutal battles, even the ones they had to fight with their words. Yet, each one he fought harder than the rest because he knew, across the savage seas, he’d go home to the most perfect woman and get to marry her.

[struggling-with-time]

Crows and Ravens [Wilbur soot x reader]

Paring: Wilbur Soot x Gender Neutral!reader

Summary: Inspired by the song Ravens by Reno Shaw. How the reader deals with the grief and cope with Wilburs death.

Warnings: Angst, grief, death.

Words: 3.1k words

A/N: thank you to @libbynotfound for being my wonderful beta for this <3 also go listen to Reno Shaw, I've been listening to his music on repeat! His Spotify

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You stand on the porch cradling a hot cup of coffee, watching over the snowy Tundra. Enjoying the peace and calm the secluded place brings. While getting used to the cold took a while, it wasn’t long. After all, a warm fireplace is never far off.

You take a sip, as you watch the crows slowly start to gather in the treetop, indicating the return of Phil. Your dead fiancé’s father. Wilbur’s dad.

You moved up here with Technoblade after Wilbur’s death, needing some peace and quiet. While you never truly agreed with Technoblade’s ideologies, yet you longed to get away from the bustling town that only ever seemed to bring hurt to its citizens. So, you left.

Your cottage connected to the other two, now that Phil had moved up here too.

You follow him with your eyes as he breaks free of the surrounding forest. You watch as he puffs out his black wings to shake off the white snow that has fallen on them.

You give Phil a small wave as he notices you watching over the sunset.

“Good morning! You’re out of your bed today. That’s good to see!”

You nod in acknowledgement, never meeting his eyes, as you are back to being fixated on the rising sun.

You listen to the crows as they have now gathered, a constant murder that never seems to leave Phil alone. You don’t question it. You don’t mind the noise they sometimes bring, although you worry for the man who will sometimes speak to them as though they could understand him.

Phil’s door opens and closes, and you suspect he is dropping off the items from his latest adventure into the deep woods.

What surprises you is mere minutes later when it opens again, and he steps out, a cup of tea in his own hands. Clearly indicating to join you on this windless morning.

You take a step aside, and Phil stands beside you.

You can’t help, but feel as though you have to get further away from the man. It’s an itch that is always around when Phil is close to you. Despite being long ago, you still see it for yourself every time you look at the older man.

The sword sticking out of Wilbur’s stomach, as the debris is slowly settling down. Phil holding him.

You didn’t see it happen, but you saw the aftermath. The shell of the man you loved, truly being a mere shell. While he might have walked the tightrope of manic, there was always hope in your heart for the Wilbur you fell in love with coming back. But a dead Wilbur? There was no hope of bringing him back, he was truly gone.

Your gaze never wavering from the sun rising, as it bathes the white Tundra in oranges and reds.

“Phil?”

“Yeah, mate.”

“Do you think he would have liked it here?”

“No, no he wouldn’t. He always craved more, the peace would bore him.”

“I wish he could have experienced it anyway.”

The two of you settle into silence as you empty your now cold cup of coffee, the sounds of the ever-present crows filling the air. Unsaid words hanging low in the air. But thickening it enough, for neither to be able to speak more.

---

You used to love winter, one of the reasons you moved up here. But now it only seems to drag on and on. Coating everything in its white blanket of innocence. Covering the guilty people living here.

Wilbur used to enjoy the spring, he always told you it was his favourite season, as the flowers bloom and gave you a newfound beauty, in his words. You remember, the two of you spending countless hours underneath the old oak tree. Him strumming his guitar until late in the night, as you would tell him the stories you would gather from the patrons at the bar you used to work at as a teenager.

The two of you dreaming up lives you would live when you were older, a cottage on the outskirts of a town he would create. A kitchen overflowing with food and pots and pans. As you would cook for the town’s citizens, living out your own dream of selling your homemade food.

Talking about watching the sunset on a poach, children running around in the backyard. He wanted two boys and a girl, while you wanted one of each. Hoping to pass down his charm and good looks. The feeling of an ever-present happiness high in the air.

An ever-present happiness you would no longer be able to archive now.

Your dreams shattered the day that blade pierced through him. Held by his father, the man you had come to know as the most calming presence you had ever met.

It took you a while to forgive Phil for what he had done.

You watched as he and Technoblade moved on right outside of your cabin. You watched as you couldn’t get out of bed, and the two of them gained new friends and new lives. Envy and anger filling the air of your cabin, fast and suffocating you slowly whenever you’re alone.

You roll over in your bed hoping to be taken back into your dreams, hoping for them to be the good kind like the ones you used to imagine with Wilbur.

Instead, you are dragged right back into your nightmares watching him slowly descending into madness.

---

You look around your kitchen, ever bare from anything. Never really holding food anymore. Scarce of pots and pans, not wanting to be reminded of the dreams you could never achieve. Let alone reach for these days.

You walk right through, heading for your coat and boots. Suiting up before you step into the cold. But as your eyes grace over the second hook, the one that used to hold Wilburs coat. Now empty. Sends a sting through your heart.

Tommy had gotten it from you when he lived with Technoblade after his exile of L’Manberg. You had watched as he stared after it each time he had been into your house.

The house that never quite felt like a home. Not when Wilbur hadn’t been the one to hang the coat there back in the day. But yourself. Hoping that one day he would walk through the door moaning about the cold and having forgotten his coat.

But he never did.

So, you gave it to Tommy. Committing the way his face lit up at the gesture to memory. He looked truly happy for the first time since he had come out to the Tundra.

You shake the feeling of longing off yourself as you head into the cold, letting the ever-present winter clear your head. On a mission to collect wood for Technoblade. He had asked you for logs the other day, and you had promised to get him some.

Although you were suspecting it was a scheme to get you out of bed, and out of your house for a couple of hours. It wouldn’t be the first time he had done so, and you have a feeling it wouldn’t be the last.

He had been there for you back when Wilbur and Tommy had created Pogtopia. Wilbur’s second nation, another promise for freedom, that had only seemed to tear the one you loved apart, more than fix him.

The nation acting as a band-aid on a cut so deep it was merely the thought that counted.

You remember watching the stars nearly every night as the cave was cold and unwelcoming whenever Wilbur started drinking. You remember hearing him yell at Tommy, but doing nothing out of fear that he would turn his attention to you. Never before had you been so happy for being neglected by the one you loved.

Technoblade had been there some nights, right beside you, telling you stories of Wilbur before the two of you met, which wasn’t many, but it was enough to fill the air with a hope. A hope that this was but a period to pass, and the one you loved would return to you.

He never did.

You track over the snow and into the forest, following the pathway Techno and Phil have created over the time living here. Right into the clearing that is slowly growing larger as the three of you are slowly cutting the forest down. And now that Ranboo is here too, it’s only growing bigger faster. Another constant change in your life.

Another thing you can’t stop or help, as you watch it deteriorate in front of your eyes.

It takes you most of the day to chop down the wood and cut it into small enough pieces, that you can carry it back to the commune. It takes the rest of your day to carry it all back and leaving it to dry in the shed, which Techno built as one of the first things.

“Dried wood is important, you can’t survive without a fire.”

Back then the commune had been even quieter. Due to yourself having gone through the days in a daze, not talking to anyone after what had happened. It had been the only thing on your mind.

Phil’s sword. Your scream. The emptiness that followed.

Phil had been to one to coax you out of your silence, in the end. With the help of Techno, despite the latter enjoying the silence the Tundra brought.

You watch as nightfall comes, and the mobs start to emerge in the dark.

You know you should be heading inside. But you can’t help but stand on the porch watching out over the night. The stars lighting up the sky and making the darkness feel less lonesome.

You miss the sound of Techno’s door opening. Instead, envying the crows as some of them take off. Wishing to be one of them, no care in the world. Only the world to explore, and never having to feel the hurt of losing someone. Twice.

“Y/n, come on, let's get you inside.”

You nod, following him inside his cabin, smelling the potato soup in the air. Thankful for the warm fireplace that has been lit. It would take hours for your own to warm up your house since you let the fireplace burn out yesterday. You let it burn out yet again.

Neither of you mentions that you found the woodshed over half full. Neither of you mentions that it takes over a month to burn through the shed. Neither of you mentions that you are just working to make your life pass, but living.

---

When you returned home that night, your fireplace was lit. He had done it for you. Not letting you return to a cold and lonely house.

That was the night you pulled out a pan for the first time in a long while.

You stocked your kitchen cabinets with food from a nearby village, and then you rolled up your sleeves.

You work in your own kitchen tirelessly for two days and nights. Feeling your grasp on yourself slipping. But refusing to stop.

Stuck in a living daydream of the domestic life you never got. As uneaten food starts to pile up, and your eyes start to drop. You can feel yourself slipping into a slumber sitting on your kitchen floor. Tears streak down your chin, as you cry out for Wilbur once again.

Phil finds you there, the next morning, concerned for not having seen you out of your house for days. And now even more concerned as he takes in the mess you are living amidst. Half-finished dishes still on the stove, that has burned out. The dinner table filled with dirty kitchenware, and dishes he has never seen before in his life.

Phil makes a decision that morning, that refuses to watch another person he cares for wither away in front of him.

You find yourself from that day off, getting woken up by Phil, asking you to share a cup of tea with him on the porch.

Sometimes Techno joins the two of you. But never often, the man as nocturnal as Wilbur used to be.

You look over the snow once again, as you wish winter is soon to be over. But it never seems to be.

---

You take up painting after this, you aren’t perfect at it, never having done it before. But it helps you keep yourself out of your head, and you enjoy the time you spend on creating artwork.

You remember Wilbur owning a small portrait of his mom made in grey tones, back then you had been worried over the sombre feeling the grey tones gave you. A feeling of fear following the sombreness. A feeling of fear you vowed to never induce in others.

Yet, you find yourself drawn to the grey tones whenever you pick up a paintbrush, and so the sunrise gets recreated in sombre colours, the cabins, Phil and Techno. The pictures aren’t great, but they resemble what they are enough to be recognisable.

But one motive seems to come again and again, although as time moves on, Wilbur seems to fade out from your pictures. In the beginning, he seemed to be in every other one. But now he seems to slowly stop showing his face in them, just as in your dreams.

You start not seeing him everywhere you look.

Your kitchen isn’t as scary to move around in anymore, more days than not, you are having guests in the form of Phil, Techno or Ranboo eating over. You even get to meet Ranboos platonic husband Tubbo and their child.

Tommy comes over from time to another telling you of the stories back from the town that has now taken over L’Manberg.

And Phil lets you meet Ghostbur.

Oh, Ghostbur, another shell of the man you used to love. Neither an empty shell nor a dead one. But a cold smiling one.

You let him into your home. And even if you get teary-eyed every time you look at him and his cheerful attitude. Nobody mentions it.

This is the period where your cold house in the Tundra, started turning into a warm and lived-in home. Although the winter is still raging on outside your window, you are never truly cold on the inside anymore.

You still struggle with getting out of bed on the worst days, still grieving the man you had to first watch wither away in front of you, only to be killed. But you refuse to let it be the thing defining you.

You start accompanying Phil and Techno on some of the adventures, exploring places that aren’t the town you grew up in, or the SMP. You walk through your first jungle, painting a greyscale version as soon as you return home, proudly presenting it on your wall when it’s finished.

You listen to Ghostbur as he tells you about the happy memories the two of you have together. Reminiscing sitting under the old oak tree together.

You still sometimes forget he isn’t Wilbur when he knocks on your door, and you are instead presented with a handful of blue and the translucent guy. Instead of your ex-fiancé. But it gets easier, then more times he shows up.

Whenever he talks, you barely ever escape into your own head anymore. The domestic dream starts to fade, as you replace it with happy memories and people around yourself.

The fireplace never left to burn out in the night anymore.

You start getting up before Phil, greeting him on the porch with tea. You smile at the thought. You never really drink coffee anymore. Not needing the caffeine as the nightmares have stopped being the thing that greets you whenever you lie your head onto your pillow.

The sleepless nights get replaced with peaceful slumber.

While you still see Wilbur in your dreams, it’s no longer the shell of the man in Pogtopia, or the shell Phil held that fateful day.

It’s the one that proposed to you when he started a revolution. It’s the hopeful and idealistic one you remember. The one you grew up with.

While those mornings you are quieter to be around, you no longer let it take over your day. As of now, you have a life to live. Truly living and no longer just letting time pass by as you work.

---

You listen to the crows as you stand on the porch, tea in hand, and a cup waiting for Phil. Another one standing beside that one, in case Techno is to join the two of you.

You enjoy the calmness as you can see the red start to spread over the horizon painting the sky and the grey clouds. You know summer is approaching. The snow has started to melt in some places. While it still snows most days, the rain has started showing its face from time to another, and it seems today will be one of those days.

None of you say anything, as Phil comes out of his house, and Techno stalks out of his own too. You all just watch as the sky goes from red to orange and the rain starts to fall.

Winter finally seems to be over. And you let in the feeling of happiness that you thought was unreachable.

But right here, watching the sunrise between two people, who care for you, and whom you care deeply for. Happiness isn’t the domestic life you never got, but the peace you have found with never getting the life you dreamt of.

And right here, in the rain under the sunrise, is where you spot a figure on the horizon.

A figure who, the closer it walks, takes up a silhouette you could recognise any day of the week.

As the silhouette steps closer, your eyes fixate on his face. The wrinkles that now adorn it, the white streak in his hair. The charming face you once fell for.

Time seems to slow down as he makes eye contact with you, and you let go of your cup. Letting it crash onto the porch.

“Missed me, Darling?”

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

[nineteenninety-six]

can I have an Adam x Reader? if that's okay?? like Adam is 14 or something and he likes a girl and it's the first time he feels that way so he goes to his family for advice and they all prepare him and he goes and shoots his shot ??????

I switched up the request just a lil bit soz. Also, let’s say Adam is like 15/16 here. Sorry for how morbid it gets at the end, I didn’t know how to end it.

I’ve got a sibling fic idea with Adam and Rose that I wanna hopefully post this week, along with a Tommy Shelby angst one.

TAG LIST: @shadow-of-wonder @futuristicslimemongerbanana @dayna041101 @captivatedbycillianmurphy @sweetgoodangel

When Adam walked out of school the last thing he expected to see was his father outside, leaning on his car not far out from the school gates. It most definitely didn’t help that he was walking with his crush and Adam knows that his father doesn’t miss anything even if nothings been said.

As soon as he catches his father’s eyes, Adam freezes in his spot causing the girl next to him to stop as well and look at him in concern.

“What’s wrong?”

His father interrupts him before he’s able to reassure her.

“Adam!”

The tilt of his fathers head tells him that he needs to hurry up.

“I-uh, my dad’s here to pick me up but I’ll see you on Monday?”

The girl enthusiastically nods and smiles at him, “Of course, I’ll see you Monday.”

After throwing one last smile at his friend, Adam runs out of the school gates and over to his dad.

“Hey, dad!” Adam had seen very little of his father over the past week or so since he had been busy with work.

“Orright?” Tommy ruffled Adam’s hair before he opened up the car door and motioned him in.

“Uh-huh. How come you’re picking me up today?”

“I finished at the office early so I thought I’ll come pick you up. Is that a problem?” Tommy raised an eyebrow at his son but the teasing smile on his lips told his son he was only teasing.

“I mean…” Adam played along.

“Would you have rather walked home with your friend?”

Adam blushed as soon as Tommy mentioned his friend, his cheek becoming red. 

“Ah,” Tommy said, a glint in his eyes, “Not simply a friend. A crush.”

Adam’s blush increased and he slumped in his chair, embarrassed.

“What’s her name?”

“Matilda…” Adam mumbled, feeling utterly embarrassed. 

“Is she in your class?” Tommy asked

“Yeah.”

Tommy simply hummed and didn’t speak for the rest of the journey and when they pulled up outside of the house, Adam jumped out of the car and ran into the house, not wanting to be confronted about his crush again.

He didn’t leave his room until it was dinner time and he hoped with all his heart that his father didn’t tell his mother about his crush because while his father might tease him, he’ll let him be but his mother would be all over him, blowing it out of proportion and bombarding him questions about the girl.

His mum didn’t act any different than what she usually did which reassured Adam but as he ate dinner he realised that this would be a perfect opportunity to get advice in a non-obvious way.

“Mum, Dad, how did you meet?”

(Y/N) looked up from her plate, an eyebrow raised at the randomness of Adam’s question.

“We knew each other from school, why?”

“Just curious.” Adam acted nonchalantly, “And...uh, how did you start dating?”

A grin came across (Y/N)’s face as she remembers the day they had confessed to each other, “You’re father was too shy to say anything so your uncles ended up telling me that he had a crush on me, so I confronted him and we confessed to each other.”

Adam spied a light brush on his father’s cheeks as his mother revealed what happened, he couldn’t believe that his mum was the one to went to his dad.

“Dad was shy and nervous?!”

 “Hmm, he was the absolute sweetest.” (Y/N) threw her husband a smile before she turned back to Adam. “Now, what’s with all the questions? Is there a girl you like?”

Adam turned to his dad with betrayal written all over his face, “You told her!”

“I didn’t tell her anything!” Tommy countered

 “What are you two not telling me?” (Y/N) asked with wide eyes.

Tommy didn’t say anything as it wasn’t his thing to tell but he shot a look towards his son, urging him to speak.

“...I have a crush.” Adam mumbled.

(Y/N) gasped, “You do? Who is it?”

“Matilda Shaw.”

(Y/N) gasped again and clasped her hands together, “Oh Matilda Shaw!”

(Y/N) turned to Tommy and tightly gripped his arm, “Tommy, he likes Matilda Shaw!”

“I heard.” Tommy rolled his eyes but he had a loving smile when he glanced down at her.

“Matilda Shaw!” (Y/N) repeated again.

“Mummm” Adam groaned.

“Okay! Okay! But, Matilda Shaw!” (Y/N) squealed, “Oh she so pretty Adam, does she know you like her?”

Adam shook his head, “No, I don’t think so.”

“You should.” (Y/N) told her son.

“I-uh, don’t know how.”

“Be yourself. Don’t try and be someone else because that’s not who she likes, she likes the Adam she’s known for years.”

It was Tommy who said, causing his wife and son to look at him in surprise.

“What? I know a few things.”

(Y/N) simply smiled and turned back to Adam, “Your dad is right. Be yourself which is nice, sweet, sincere and honest. And if she doesn’t return your feelings, don’t pressure her to accept it or demand why just accept her answer and move one.”

Adam nodded, taking his parents words as gospel. He hoped Matilda liked him back and that they could go on a date but if she didn’t, then he hoped that they could remain friends.

When Monday morning rolled around, his mother was smothering him before he left, making sure he remembered their words and wishing him luck before she sent him off to school. And he came back in the afternoon he found both his parents standing outside waiting for him to return,

“So? How’d it go?” (Y/N) asked, taking his blazer and bag from him as he walked into the house.

“Good.” 

‘“Good?’” His parents said at the same time.

“Is that it?” His mother continued.

“Yeah and uh, dad can you drop me and Matilda off in town on Saturday? We’re spending the day there as a date.” 

(Y/N) held in her squeal of excitement at Adam’s words, choosing to cling onto Tommy’s arm instead.

Tommy nodded, “Of course son.”

“Thank you. I’m gonna go do my homework now.” Adam told his parents before he ran up the stairs but instead of immediately going into his room, he stayed on the landing and listened out for his parent’s reaction and soon enough he could hear his mother squealing.

“Oh Tommy, our little boy is growing up so quickly, already going on dates and soon enough he’ll be going to university and getting married and having children -oh.”

Adam heard his dad laugh, “Calm down, he’s still a teenager, we have plenty more time with him.”

“You’re right.” (Y/N) sighed, “Time has passed by so quickly, I don’t like it.”

His parent’s voices faded after that, as they moved into a different room and Adam decided to spend more time with them after hearing what his mother said. He was growing up and he wanted independence like every other teenager but he realized, just like his parents wanted the make the most out of the time they had with him before he grew up, he wanted to make as many memories with his parents before they inevitably die.

[viviennes-tears]

Are you following me Mr Hiddleston? Chapter 11

18+ blog: It is YOUR responsibility, as a reader, to think about the content that you consume at your own discretion.

------------------------------

Margot pulled out her phone and pressing the power button, to reveal the notification on the screen. It was Charlie. Charlie had been trying to contact Margot all weekend, but never received an answer from her. Margot took a deep breath and huddled herself into a classroom door, further down the corridor. She unlocked her phone bringing up Charlie's message properly.

"Margot, Please text me back. I'm worried about you."

Margot glanced around her watching students pass her, before returning her attention back to her phone screen. "Hi Charlie, sorry for making you worry about me. I'm fine. I've just been busy with uni and Peyton visited over the weekend. To also answer your previous messages, yes I have seen the photos and yes I am fine with it. I mean I have to get used to that kind of attention if I ever became a good enough actor. Anyway its sweet of you to ask about me :)" Margot tried to make herself sound confident and more upbeat than she was actually feeling. Well she was doing better than she was all weekend mind.

It didn't take long for Charlie to reply "Thank god, you're alive! Haha. I hope Peyton is well and uni has been great so far. Sorry for worrying so much about you. I-I just needed to be sure you were doing ok. No doubt you'll be the next Meryl Streep!"

"I am yes, haha. He is well thanks and it has been. No its fine honestly! I'm fine I promise. Meryl Streep? You sure I won't be the next Anna Kendrick? Or perhaps Amanda Seyfried? Keala Settle? "Margot tried to list well known younger actors who are also known for their singing talents. Well she liked Meryl Streep but she hoped to be compared to someone younger.

"You'll be amazing!" admittedly Charlie has never seen her acting but he believed in her nonetheless.

"Thanks, Charlie! I have to go now, speak to you soon :)"

"Bye Margot enjoy your day :)"

Margot put her phone away and hurried off to her next class, with Mrs Shaw. The improvisation class.

Time skip. Friday.

Friday was here. Tom dropped Bobby off at his sister Emma's the night before, as she volunteered to dog sit for a while. Tom was going to take Bobby with him, but Emma thought he needed to focus on his work, and not having a dog to take care of at the same time. At first Tom wasn't too happy about leaving Bobby behind, although he'd done it before, its just at first he thought he needed a companion with him on the trip. In the end though Emma convinced him it would be for the best, and if Tom were to feel lonely he could Face-Time at any point and she'd put Bobby on screen. It at least made Tom feel a little better about leaving Bobby.

It was now 6:50am. Tom was doing his last checks to make sure he had everything he needed for his trip when suddenly, his phone pinged pulling his attention away from his suitcase.

"Hey Tommy, just wanted to text before you fly off and say don't work too hard. And try not to let anything or anyone keep you down, we all love you bro. Bobby says he loves you too. Stay safe x" Tom smiled a little at his sister's text.

"Hi, thanks Em. Ehehe, you know me when it comes to work but I'll try not to because you asked so nicely. Love you all too, very dearly. Give everyone including Bobby a kiss from me and don't let him pester you too much x"

Once Tom finished up and was just about to head downstairs the doorbell rang. He quickly grabbed his rucksack placing it over his right shoulder, and wheeled his suitcase to the top of the stairs, then he hurriedly carried everything down to the front door. He opened the door and was greeted by his driver Conrad Reed. Conrad took Tom's suitcase off him and put it into the boot of his car, as Tom locked up. Conrad opened the door for Tom and gave him a bright smile. Tom returned a smile although his wasn't as bright. He took off his rucksack before sliding into the car, and placing it down on the seat next to him. Conrad closed the door once Tom was seated and got into the drivers seat, as Tom put his seat belt on.

"Ready Mr Hiddleston?" Conrad asked cheerfully looking back at Tom.

"Yes, thank you. And how many times do I have to tell you to call me Tom?" Tom replied as he settled himself further back in his seat.

"Every time sir...I mean Tom. Right then to the airport." Conrad turned back facing forward and started up the engine.

After twenty minutes of driving they hit traffic. Which was rather unusual at this time in the morning. Suddenly, Tom's phone rang with Luke's number on the screen.

"Hi Luke, no need to worry about me. I am awake and all packed now I'm on my way to the airport as we speak. Although, we've seem to have hit traffic." Tom tried to sound like he was in a much better mood than he was.

"God you're joking, right?" Luke heavily sighed, and not in the mood for pleasantries after he heard the word traffic.

"Well hello to you too, but I'm afraid not." Tom bit his lip wondering what Luke was going to say next.

"Christ, why today? Ok just keep me updated will you?" Luke sounded really impatient now.

"Sure" they soon ended the conversation and hung up.

Tom looked out the window after putting his phone back into his pocket. He sat there in complete silence, with his mind wondering over the events of the past year. He was thinking about Zawe most of all and a little about Margot too. On occasion Conrad would look back at Tom, via his mirror to check on him, without having to disturb his thoughts. He was worried about Tom and he hoped he could find a few words to say once at the airport.

8:55am was the time on Tom's phone when the car finally pulled over. He quickly texted Luke to say he'd just arrived, and hastily got out of the car, not waiting for Conrad to open his door. He simply didn't have the time to wait. Conrad was a bit out of sorts as Tom was doing his job for him. Tom slammed the boot closed once he took out his suitcase. As he was wheeling his suitcase to the curb Conrad stopped him in his tracks.

"Sorry sir, I know you're in a rush and all but...I just wanted to say that I know you're missing Miss Ashton. She was a wonderful woman and I certainly know she was good to you. I'm sure the two of you will keep in touch no matter what happened between you two. Also, I'm sure you'll enjoy your time away for a while and I know you'll meet someone else. Safe travels Mr Hiddleston." Conrad straightened out Tom's jacket and gave him a smile.

"Thank you, Conrad. Seriously thank you. You're a good man. I'll see you when I get back." Tom patted Conrad on the upper arm, and swiftly moved on heading straight inside meeting up with Luke.

Tom was whisked through baggage, and customs as the workers asked if anyone was due for the 9:30 flight. Although, Tom felt guilty for having skip passed others, he still had to make his flight on time. But once on the plane he put his Airpods in to listen to some jazz.

------------------------------

Margot jolted herself awake, with the sudden realisation that she was late. She had no time to shower, although she did have one the night before, and she didn't smell bad or anything. So she figured she would be fine if she skipped it. Margot grabbed hold of whatever was the closest thing to wear, which turned out to be a simple white v neck t shirt, and blue jeans. She threw on her black denim jacket over the top and slipped on her black, and white vans before throwing her work into her bag. Just as she headed for the door handle Margot realised that she hadn't picked up her phone. She sighed loudly to herself and picked it up. Margot rushed out the door of the student accommodation, then ran as fast as she could to the tube station.

Margot had previously stayed in a small flat, that she rented off a couple who had gone away for a few days. It was kind of like a mini house sitting job, without being paid as she paid them. She just needed a place until her student accommodation was sorted, as some idiot hadn't filled their end of the paper work, or hadn't filed it properly before she got to London. She spent her first night in a cheap hotel, while she managed to find the advertised small flat online, which was more than ample for a short stay. Of course Margot didn't really unpack as there was no point, not until she had gotten to her real accommodation, which is for the next two years. Margot could have easily found somewhere to rent what with her inheritance, and for selling her family home, but she deiced to experience the full university life. Besides living with others would make a nice change, at least that was her thought. However, she had yet to make friends, with those she was living with.

It was 10:15am by the time Margot had gotten to the theater at uni. Everybody's eyes were on her as soon as she stepped in breathless. Her tutor Mr Bentley was unimpressed. He stood there tapping his foot waiting for Margot to take a seat. Once seated at the back Margot quickly took out her script, but she hadn't packed it. She had a load of paper work but not what she needed right now. Mr Bentley started to carry on with what he was talking about the current scene, but the rustling and the whisper cursing coming from the back of the room, made it off putting and difficult to keep track of his words. Margot kept thinking the script had to be in there, as she continued to search for it in her bag. After a couple more minutes Mr Bentley paused his lesson once more. Margot never noticed.

"Miss Foster!" Mr Bentley raised his voice enough for her to snap her to attention, but it wasn't quite shouting.

"Yes, Mr Bentley?" Margot answered nervously looking through the fallen strand of hair that was in front of her eyes. She could feel everyone staring once again but only those in front of her were visible.

"Miss Foster, you turn up late to my class disrupting your fellow students, and myself. Then you continue to do so from your seat. Prey tell, what are you fussing over back there?" Mr Bentley stepped forward, placing his foot up onto the bottom step of the seating, staring up at Margot.

"I am truly sorry sir, everyone...I-I was just looking for my script, but I think I forgot to pack it this morning." These words made Mr Bentley sigh heavily, and pinch the bridge of his nose to help him string, his next words together.

"For now you may share with Miss Carlyle. Next time and for all future days, whilst here you better make sure you are prepared, like I told you all on your first day in my class." Mr Bentley cleared his throat, before getting back to his place which he almost forgot exactly where. Internally Margot was kicking herself for causing so much mayhem before 12 o'clock.

Margot turned to Mary (Miss Carlyle) the red head who was sat to her right. Mary was quite pretty with her red hair falling, just to the tops of her shoulders, with a few layers in it to give it some style. And her skin was rather pale like a porcelain doll, she only wore light pink lip gloss, and mascara to make her lashes appear longer, and green eyes stood out without the need for much.

Mary seemed like quite a shy person, as she awkwardly shuffled over slightly, allowing Margot to see her script as instructed. Although, Mary seemed this way Margot would soon see her come out of her shell. Once Mr Bentley was finished talking he grouped his students into groups of fours, and giving them their next task. He asked them to all find two monologues to audition with. One classical and one contemporary.

Margot of course was in a group with Mary, the other two were Bradly Morris and Jeff Wilcox. Bradly has short dark brown (close to black) hair perfectly quaffed at the top, with shaved sides, slightly muscular and small close together facial features. Even his eyes were small round brown ones. Jeff has a generic sandy hair style, twig like frame and rounded brown framed glasses, making his hazel eyes magnified. Margot's first impressions of Bradly, well he seemed to be one of those actors, who already thought he was hot shit. Even from their improvisation sessions with Mrs Shaw, Margot could tell working with him was going to be a challenge. For now though it shouldn't be as bad right? As it's only searching for the right monologues. As for Jeff, Margot's first impressions of him were kind of similar to Mary's. He had more confidence than she had but only just. Once the four of them got together, and all groups were dismissed to the library for the reminder of the lesson, Mary hung back as the group made their way up the stairs. As they walked down the corridor after coming up the stairs, Margot noticed Mary plodding along behind. So Margot waited for her to catch up and giving her a smile once she had. The boys haven't noticed, of course.

Just as Margot thought, Bradly was a pain in the ass. He kept dismissing every monologue she would find, and tried to push the ones he thought would be more ideal for her. Margot ended up just sitting there, with her arms folded with a stern look on her face, while the others carried on searching for their monologues.

Three weeks later. Saturday 3rd October.

Tom was done with his business in New York and heading back to London. It had been a bit of an exhausting time, with all the meetings and re-recordings, although he did quite enjoy himself, at times once he got into working. He spent his days busy hard at work, but most nights he was kept awake by his thoughts. When he did manage to sleep, he'd almost sleep through his alarm clock. He also tried to keep up his running to help clear his head. Tom did Face-Time Emma a few times to see how she was, and to of course see Bobby. He even called his Mum, and his other sister Sarah a couple of times too, even dropping Benedict a text here and there. However when doing voice recording sessions its a rarity if you actually record, with anyone at the same time. He did however bump into Hayley Atwell on his way to the studio, one of the days. They arranged to meet up later that day to have a coffee.

Flash back

Tom took a deep breath and rolled up his white button down shirt sleeves, before heading into the cafe, where he and Hayley had arranged to meet. As he pushed the door open, a little bell above the door rang. Tom glanced around the little cafe, from where he stood by the door. Suddenly, a waving hand caught his eye. It was Hayley. Tom walked over to where she was sat, which was near the kitchen door at a table for two. Hayley stood up and hugged him, as she greeted him with a smile. They both sat down and began to look through the menu. Within five minutes a young girl came over to their table, with her notepad and pencil. She was clearly star struck, when she realised who she was severing. She tried her best to keep it together.

"Hi I'm Catherine, I'll be your sever today. What can I get you?" she asked, with a slight shakiness in her voice.

"I would love a latte and a Danish please" Hayley asked as she closed and popped her menu back.

"And I will just have an espresso please." It was odd for Tom not to order a pudding, but today he thought he would pass on life's little pleasures, like eating something so delicious as pudding. Catherine quickly wrote their order down and hurried off.

"So Thomas...what do I owe for this unexpected pleasantry?" Hayley began speaking as soon as they were alone again.

"Well I saw you at the studio, and thought what the hell. We don't spend much time together and..." Tom paused looking down at his hands which he held together out in front of him on the table.

"And what?" Hayley asked curiously.

"And...It’s nice to spend time with someone outside of work for a change." Tom replied, once he brought his gaze back up to Hayley. Although, Hayley could tell there was more to it than that but she didn't inquire any further. At least not right away.

Catherine soon returned with their order and placed it front of them. She then kindly asked if she could possibly get their autograph before they left. Both Hayley and Tom agreed to make sure they did, before they would leave. This made Catherine grin from ear to ear with delight, and left the two alone to enjoy their coffees. They were sat in silence as Hayley ate, and Tom was done with his espresso, before she could even finish her second mouthful. He ordered himself another, but asked for it to be brought once Hayley had finished eating.

"How did your recording session go?" Hayley asked, as she swallowed her last mouthful.

"Good. Although, I was worried we weren't going to be done by the time we said we'd meet. Luckily we did and it’s all done now. How did yours go?" Tom seemed in a better mood now, which Hayley was pleased about.

"Great, in fact I hope to do more again soon. I enjoy it immensely." Hayley said before taking a sip of her latte, by which time Tom's second espresso had arrived.

"I know exactly what you mean, but I haven't really done a hole lot of animation work." Tom thinks back to when he worked on Early Man, and Tinker Bell and the Pirate Fairy.

"Well maybe you should think about, getting involved with a couple more of those kinds of projects." Hayley suggests with a smile.

"Perhaps, I shall." They talked for a good further thirty minutes, before they realised they were the last two in the place. Catherine approached them to inform them they were closing. Hayley grabbed her bag as they stood from their chairs. And Tom like the gentlemen he is he paid ,despite Hayley's instance in paying it herself. After she gave in for Tom to pay she thanked him generously. And just like they promised they both signed their names, on a piece of paper from Catherine's notepad, as that's all she had for them to sign. Catherine was overly joyed. Especially, because originally she was meant to be on her day off, but she had to fill in for a colleague.

After heading out Tom asked if Hayley would join him on a walk, to which she agreed to and took Tom's arm when he offered it to her. For the first few minutes they simply walked without a word spoken, just taking in the New York air and walking the crowded streets, as Tom slipped on his shades, which a moment ago were hanging from his open shirt collar.

"Tom?" Hayley pipped up, after a while of walking.

"Yeah?" Tom kept his eyes fixed on the direction they were heading in.

"Back there you seemed a little...out of sorts when you first sat down. I didn't want to go into it too much at first but I am now, what's wrong?" Hayley felt Tom tense up a little, while her arm was still looped with his.

"I've not been doing great lately." Tom admitted. "I thought working would help...I mean to has to an extent, but it can never truly stop me from thinking about what's been going on. You know?" Tom felt his stomach churn a little. Maybe the lack of food and the mass of espressos had done it.

"I understand. It can all be too much sometimes." Hayley took a longer glance, at Tom as they continued walking. She could tell that his expression showed there was more to it, than he was letting on. "Tom..." Hayley pulled on his arm getting him to stop to one side, away from the passing people. "Tom I have a feeling there's a deeper reason for your behaviour. Tell me." Hayley pressed her lips into a thin line, as she waited for his reply.

Tom sighed heavily. "Not here." He said close to a whisper, then he took her by the hand leading her forward. Tom flagged down a cab just up the road a bit. He kindly opened the door for her and let her slide in, before he made his way around to the other side, on the busy road. Tom gave the driver the address for his hotel. As they sat there Tom tried to keep a positive conversation going, which had nothing to do with her question, but it saved the awkward silence.

After a twenty-five minute drive they arrived at the hotel. Tom was about to pay but Hayley beat him to it, saying it was only fair for her to pay for something. Tom didn't argue but smiled slightly, before he stepped out of the cab, then opened the door once again for her. They linked arms once more as they made their way to his room, which was on the sixth floor. They stopped at the door with the number saying 609, in black on a golden plate. Tom fiddled in his pockets for the card key then opened the door, holding it open for her and used his other hand, gesturing her to go ahead. Hayley made herself comfortable on the sofa placing her bag down by her feet. Tom offered her a drink, but she turned down the offer. He nervously settled himself down next to her on the sofa. He took a moment to compose himself before explaining everything.

"I'm sorry about your break up with Zawe, I mean I understand why though. Yes, I agree she should have told you, about the other guy she had feelings for sooner, but Tom how do you feel now about Margot?" Hayley sat herself sideways a little closer, as she patted his arm in comfort.

"She's...she's on my mind all the time just like Zawe is." Tom had already said that and he knew he had.

"Yes, but how do you really feel about her, Tom?"

"It doesn't matter how I feel."

"Tom of course it does!" Hayley knew she wasn't going to get a proper answer out of him, so she dropped it. "Have you spoken to Chris Hemsworth or Benedict lately?" Hayley changed the subject.

"I haven't spoken to Chris much. He's been filming and out of phone range for a while. Last we spoke he said he would call once he could. That was before Zawe and I broke up. Ben an I have been in constant contact."

"Does they know about Margot?" Tom knew she'd bring Margot back up.

"Chris kind of knows, we didn't get to speak much last time. However Ben knows everything."

Hayley left after an hour. On her way out she gave Tom all her best and hugging him tight. He quickly kissed her cheek then she was gone. He went to bed that night and fell into a dreamless sleep.

---------------

Once Tom was back on English soil he took a deep breath and was glad to be back. Conrad was right on time as always to pick him, and Luke was with Conrad. Luke never went to New York, he was just at the airport for those finally few things. The usual. Unless he was defiantly required to go. Luke went over Tom's up coming schedule on their way. The schedule was for after Tom's few days off. Tom wasn't exactly listening, but he tried his best. Luke was dropped off back home first. However, Tom didn't want to go home right away, as he wanted to go pick up Bobby as soon as he could. Plus he wanted to catch up with his sister.

"Hi Em, just got back from New York. I'll be over soon to see you. Can't wait to catch up! I hope Bobby hasn't been too much of a handful x"

After waiting for five minutes Emma replied. "Hi Tommy, I hope you had a good trip and that you didn't work too hard, like I told you not to. Can't wait to see you! No he's been an angel the entire time. Also hope you had a safe flight back x"

"Ehehe, well sort of. Oh good glad he's been behaving and yeah, it was alright. I got a bit of sleep on the plane, but not much. Anyway be there soon x"

"I'll make sure to put the kettle on ready for your arrival x"

Fifteen minutes later Conrad pulled the car over, to the curb outside of Emma's house. He then got out to open the door for Tom, and he smiled as he did so. Tom smiled back and instructed to have his luggage dropped off home for him. Conrad had a spare key to drop everything off inside. He closed the door behind Tom and wished him a good afternoon, before hoping back into the car. Tom also returned the well wishes and informed Conrad, that he'd find his own way back home later. Once Tom was at the door step Conrad drove off, heading for his next destination. Tom rang the bell and heard a few barks coming from within. Bobby didn't bark often, but just hearing it now made Tom happy. Then the door swiftly opened.

"Tommy!" Emma beamed, wrapping her arms around her brother tightly. Tom wrapped his arms around her, even tighter and smiling. Bobby was jumping around their feet.

"It's so good to see you!" Tom said, as the pulled away from their hug. Bobby jumped up at Tom. "Ehehe, it's good to see you too, buddy!" Tom ruffled Bobby's hair on top of his head, as Bobby's tail was wagging madly.

Tom followed Emma into the house, closely being followed by Bobby. They walked through to the kitchen, where Emma had prepared their cups for the tea. As Tom seated himself at the kitchen table, bending forward making a big fuss over Bobby, the kettle had just come to a boil. Soon after Emma joined him at the table bringing their teas over. By this point Bobby had started to settle down by Tom's feet. Tom took a sip of his tea. There was nothing better than tea. Earl Grey tea.

"I know we've texted a little but, how are you?" Emma asked, with a worrying look.

"In all honesty...better. I still miss Zawe from time to time, when I think about her, but it was for the best. I have called her to see how she is. She says she's doing good than she has in months. So I'm happy she's happy." Tom smiled slightly with a firm grip on his cup.

"I'm glad, we've all been worried about you Tom." Emma reached out for his free hand, and gave it a reassuring squeeze.

"You can all stop now." Tom lightly squeezed her hand back.

Tom stayed a little over two hours, before he collected Bobby's things putting them into Emma's car. She offered to drive them home, as it saved a taxi ride and saved Tom struggling, to try and carry everything home if they walked. The ride to Tom's was silent, but not in a bad way. Accept the sound of Bobby panting a little from his walk, they went on before they left. Once Emma had gotten to Tom's he thanked her for the lift, and lightly pressed a kiss to her cheek, and hugged her. She had offered to take Bobby's things inside for him but Tom declined, telling her she'd done more than enough for him, while he was away. However, Emma waited outside until she was satisfied, that Tom and Bobby had everything. And left after Tom waved goodbye from his door.

Tom Hiddleston Masterlist

Source: @viviennes-tears

[mccoys-killer-queen]

Give Me the Lights (Tommy x Reader)- Part 2

Words: 4,991

Summary: Read part 1 first. Tommy's laid down for a nap on the first day of spring, feeling defeated from seasonal depression eating away at his motivation and confidence in his songwriting. Little does he know that spring might be coming right on schedule after all...

-----

(March 20th, 1979)

Finally, there were lights. That was all Tommy knew.

It was the only thing he could sense before he even opened his eyes; lights above him, lights before him, and lights all around him. Though he couldn't recall how he found himself in his current setting, all he knew was that the lights had come back at last.

It was apparent that these lights were calling out to him, too, as if the glow from underneath his eyelids was a delicate request to get them to open.

He obeyed this request, letting his eyes unlock the scenery that was there. When he lifted his head, Tommy was intrigued to see that he was sailing on tranquil waters.

But how did he get there? For a moment, he didn't remember going out on the water. Then, the recent memory of him doing so suddenly flashed into his mind. Upon realizing he'd temporarily forgotten where he was, he chuckled to himself and bashfully looked down at his lap. 

"Go on, then," your voice softly urged from nearby.

When Tommy looked up, he could finally see where all the lights were coming from. At first glance, he could've sworn they were coming from you.

You sat on the opposite end of the small boat he was apparently on, a calm but eager smile beaming at him. Once his vision stabilized, Tommy realized that the lights weren't coming from you; they were coming from the liquid gold of the sunset behind you.

You were not silhouetted, but rather haloed, by the glory of this light. The sun was your halo, and your appearance was nothing short of ethereal. In addition to this saintly display, the sunset also hit every little ripple on the surface of the lake, which brought thousands of individual, heavenly reflections into existence.

Every single glowing dot surrounding you both seemed to fill Tommy with music. Every twinkle of divine light on the water was audible; calling out to him. It was as if each sparkle before him had its own unique, singular note.

These notes harmoniously filled Tommy's ears, pairing together in ways that could only be described as right.

After a moment, he realized that the notes were no longer in his ears, nor were they on the water; they were now in his hands. He then felt his mandolin being held close to his chest, as well as his fingers involuntarily plucking and strumming at its strings.

Most importantly, he was playing a song— the song you didn't know about— and it was truly completed.

It sounded flawless to him in that moment. Everything around him made it absolutely perfect. All the little lights on the water acted as amplifiers to every note, and they began to dance to the melody Tommy was singing. 

Finally, there was music.

Tommy continued to go forth with his song, happily playing and playing away with all the joy in his body. He hadn't felt this happy in what seemed like forever. He could feel the smile on his face, the wind in his hair, and the warm salvation of the sun on his body. Everything finally felt so right again. He wanted to feel this way forever, so he kept playing on. As long as he played on, this feeling would never leave him. 

As he played, you began to harmonize with his own voice. The light behind you grew steadily brighter and brighter, until Tommy could no longer see your silhouette before him. He heard your voice getting distant, yet the music carried on- echoing everywhere until he could only hear himself singing.

Eventually, everything around him got swallowed up into whiteness. Only his voice and his joy remained.

There was no more water, no more music; there was only light.

Finally, Tommy knew what had been missing.

***

Tommy could still see the white light from under his eyelids just before his eyes opened. When they did, he saw the late afternoon sunlight falling over him on the couch. He was warm and relaxed where he lay, but it all felt just a little too warm.

He noticed it instantly, and the first conscious thought he had was "why?"

Wearily lifting his head, he received a quick answer to his question; he had been lying underneath a blanket, which he swore he had not put there himself. This made him wonder just how long he slept for, as he'd clearly been asleep long enough to make a blanket miraculously appear.

Tommy glanced at the clock on the wall, which caused him to then do a double-take. He was taken aback when he saw that he'd been lying out cold on the couch for the past three hours. The first afternoon of spring had already passed him by so fast.

With it now being the early evening, this meant you had surely come home a while ago— and that you were most likely the one who tucked him in under the blanket during his nap.

Tommy hoisted himself into a sitting position, scratched his head, and gazed out the window nearby. Expecting to see another winter wasteland, he blinked and did another double-take when he saw that there was no ice in sight outdoors. 

He threw the blanket off of himself and rushed up to the glass. Sure enough, the remaining snow and the fresh ice from earlier was nowhere to be found. The landscape looked rather damp, but the sun was hitting every wet surface, resulting in a fine vapor rising off the ground.

As he gazed around at the misty, golden sight of the fields, music began to play inside his ears once more. Suddenly, something creative took to Tommy's heart again; it was his own song that he was hearing in his head. For the first time, he thought it sounded right. He thought it sounded complete.

Upon hearing the correct notes echoing around his mind, Tommy's eyes lit up in remembrance of the dream he'd just awoken from. He quietly gasped to himself, and looked around the room in urgency.

In his slumber, he had been in his 'happy place'; could that have been what was missing all along?

Eager to find out for himself, he pranced into the next room, calling out for you.

"Y/n?" he poked into the kitchen, "Y/n, you in here?"

You were pulling back from the fridge when he appeared in the doorway. It was nearly supper time, so you were about to get a start on cooking something for you both.

 "Good morning, sleepy," you teased him as you cracked a sweet smile, "I was planning on making-"

"There's no snow outside?" he interrupted you with a bewildered tone.

You broadened your smile as you went over to the window above the sink, pulling back the curtain, "Yeah— crazy, right? The weather actually turned around while you were sleeping. It warmed up a bit, the sleet turned to rain, then the sun came out! How's that for the first day of spring?"

Tommy joined you at the window, and you both peered out together. In the distance, he saw your usual walking path, and let a soft smile overtake his face.

"Get your coat."

"What?" you blinked in confusion at his abrupt command.

"We can go out for dinner later- but we need to go on a walk right now."

"Right now?"

Tommy nodded, allowing his teeth to become visible in his smile. 

"Yeah, right now," he began to look very excited to you, which was something you had not seen from him in quite a while. 

"Why right now?"

"Because it's important" he turned away from the window, baby-blue eyes boggling at you. He put his hands on your shoulders and stressed, "It's very��important."

That eager look on his face was something you missed, and its presence suddenly returning without warning was enough to convince you to roll with whatever he was planning.

"Okay, if you insist," you leaned forward and quickly pecked his lips, "Though now you've got me a little worried."

"I can live with that," Tommy quickly kissed you in return— doing so in such a way he hadn't for a few weeks, "I've gotta go grab something- meet me outside."

With that, he trotted away and pounded up the stairs. After shaking your head and putting your chosen food back into the fridge, you sped to the coat rack in the same manner.

Your lover had piqued your curiosity. Although you knew his idea was spontaneous, it was as if he had some underlying plan that he was trying to keep a secret. His sudden impulse to do an activity so soon after waking up seemed rather abrupt and unprompted to you.

Tommy was very certain of his impulsive decision, however; the time to do it was finally right, and he didn't want to waste one single second.

***

"You're still not gonna tell me?" you huffed as you tried to keep up with him on the path, "Whatever it is, it'll still be there in a few minutes, right?"

Tommy was a few feet ahead of you, eagerly trotting ahead towards whatever he insisted you needed to get to.

He stressed to you, "It will, but trust me— the effect will be better if we get there right now."

Scoffing, you picked up your pace, "The 'effect'? If you told me we were gonna be running in a hurry, I wouldnt've brought my coat..."

As you stayed close behind him, your vision squared in on the drawstring bag he carried on his back. Tommy had met you outside with said bag on his back, and immediately urged you to come along without acknowledging it in any way since. You felt both compelled and tempted to ask him what was in it. 

You knew he wouldn't tell you, however; he was deliberately being vague in every way imaginable and not answering any of your questions directly.

Instead, you reached out and touched the bag, pushing on it slightly. When Tommy felt this light sensation, he turned around and childishly snapped, "Hey! Don't spoil the surprise!"

"Tommy, how I can be sure you're not luring me into the woods to trap me or something?" you chucked with what breath you still had, "I trust you too much, and you know that's my weakness."

"But we live together," he said without missing a beat or a step, "So that means I've already trapped you, right?"

You rolled your eyes with an exasperated smile. You couldn't argue with his logic.

Through your touch, you didn't gather much information about what was inside Tommy's bag. The one thing you did discover was that there was but a large, singular object inside of it. This only raised more questions in your head, so you gave up on your wondering and kept along with his stride.

Eventually, you reached the part of your walking route that led to the lake. Once the lake was in sight, Tommy's speed picked up, and he excitedly took you by the hand to lead you to the shore. When you both reached the edge of the water, he finally stopped his urgent rush, and dropped your hand from his grasp. He stared outwards, gazing upon the scenery with an expression full of what appeared to be relief and contentedness. 

The evidence of the sudden temperature change was still visible on the lake. There was a gentle steam floating off the surface of the water, along with a clear reflection of the post-storm/pre-dusk sky.

"Perfect," Tommy said under his breath, then immediately began to trot again. You didn't follow him this time, however; you wanted to observe his strange actions and try to deduce a rationale from them. You watched as he jogged alongside the shore of the lake, but only got a few yards away until it suddenly became clear to you what he was heading towards. 

The little row boat that'd been anchored on the edge of the lake was still residing there. Tommy approached, and immediately began to uncover it as if he were going to take it out on the water. Once he removed the cover and dusted away the debris that had gathered under it throughout the winter, he turned back in your direction and waved to you from afar.

"Come on over!" he called out, "First outing of the season!"

You could see his smile from where you stood, and thought it to be a bit odd that he appeared so joyful all of a sudden. He'd spent the past few weeks being down in the dumps nearly 24/7, and now there he was, running around and full of the energy that you weren't expecting to see for a while yet.

"Are you serious?" you called back to him, "Right now?"

"Yes!" he motioned towards himself with a chuckle, "Come on!"

You picked up your pace again and jogged over to where he stood with the boat. Before you reached him, you yelled in his direction as you laughed, "You could've just told me you wanted to take the boat out, you know!"

"You said we would celebrate the first day of spring, didn't you?" he began to push the boat towards the dock (with not much success).

Beginning to lend him a hand, you told him, "Oh yeah— I did say that, didn't I?"

"But that's not the reason why we needed to come out here."

Your eyes rolled as you whined at his continuing secretiveness, "Tommy...!"

"Don't worry!" he assured you, "I'll tell you why we're here soon. Just trust me- it's gonna be great- and you'll see why in a sec."

That was your Tommy, alright; his intuition was a force to be reckoned with, and at times he wanted everybody to trust in it as well.

With the boat now aptly in the water, your lover told you to hop on board from the dock. He untied the rope that had anchored the vessel to shore for the past few months, then joined you aboard on the middle seat with him. You each picked up an oar and began to paddle your way out to the middle of the lake.

"How far out are we goin'?" you inquired, "Am I allowed to ask?"

"We're going out far enough— just enough to be in the middle of it all..."

Every so often during the journey on the water, you'd make eye contact with each other, and Tommy would bashfully look away to focus on paddling ahead. It was like he was being shy— or even proud. To you, he seemed as if he were acting shy because he was feeling proud. It made you wonder just exactly what he could've been proud of at the moment.

When you finally seemed a considerable distance from the shoreline, he held up a hand to save his breath, telling you to stop your rowing.

"That's good," he huffed, "Right here. It's perfect."

"Oh thank god—" you didn't need to be told twice; you were just happy the physical labor was over. Wiping sweat off your forehead, you panted to him, "Why did you tell me to bring a coat, again?"

"I just thought you might get cold—" he shook his head while he put his oar up on the stand and caught his breath, "I didn't think this through much..."

You scoffed and put your head in your hands, getting as much laughter out as you could, "Because that's exactly what I wanna hear after my boyfriend lures me to the middle of a lake-!"

Tommy didn't have the breath to laugh, but the sound his voice made was reminiscent of laughter. He leaned forward in the same manner you had— with his hair draping in front of him and his muscles going limp in order to relax from the rowing.

Once he caught his breath, he straightened himself up and began to speak with an air of formality.

"Okay," he got up from the middle seat, and took a seat in front of you at the bow of the boat. He held up one hand as the other touched the drawstrings wrapped around his opposite shoulder, "I wasn't planning on showing you this just yet— but the timing was too perfect."

His eyes seemed to light up as they looked around the surrounding scenery. The sky was far from clear, but the periwinkle clouds and the golden sunlight beaming through them created a sight for his sore eyes, no less. The water of the lake was calm after the nasty weather from earlier in the day, allowing the limited colors of the sky to reflect in it. Gentle sounds of the water moving and the birds singing were all you could hear in the tranquil silence. The evening air had a chill to it, but the sunset was warm and aimed at both of you.

All of this, along with the sight of you there in front of him, Tommy realized his afternoon dream had come true very quickly. Furthermore, his impromptu plan was near-perfect; there was just one last part that was missing from it.

"Close your eyes." he snapped his attention back to the moment at hand once he realized he had frozen while admiring the nature around him.

With a sigh, you decided not to gripe with him, and obeyed his command instead. 

"And no peeking, you hear?" you didn't need to see him to know that he sternly pointed a finger at you.

"Alright!" you giggled and shut your eyes tighter. 

After a slight hesitation, you heard Tommy take the bag off of his back. You could hear him opening it, taking the singular object out, and fiddling with it. Somehow, none of these sounds were quite enough to give away what the mystery item was.

As you listened for more auditory clues, there came silence from across the boat.

You giggled at him, "What are you doing?"

More empty air followed your question, and you considered prematurely opening your eyes- that is, until you heard the delicate strum of a stringed instrument.

"Okay," Tommy finally spoke at last, "Open."

When you lifted your eyelids, you were greeted with the sight of a mandolin draped across your darling boyfriend's chest. He held it in his hands as if he were ready to play it, but instead chose to stare at you with a calm expression of satisfaction.

The initial display of him made you chuckle, as you were so used to seeing him with big, heavy electric guitars. The juxtaposition caught you at first, but in that split second it took you to giggle, you suddenly realized it seemed to suit him so well. 

"A mandolin?" you gave him a tilt of your head, "How long have you had that? Is that the surprise?"

Tommy simply shook his head— his gentle smile aimed at only you.

He strummed only once, and before you knew it, he began to play.

The second his fingers began to coordinate on the strings, you weren't sure what level of skill you were in for. Right away, however, you could both hear and see Tommy's expertise— just like you could with any other instrument he played.

It turned out that Tommy had been taking your advice, after all; he'd been trying a new instrument like you suggested. This was clearly evident, as the rhythm he kept with his high-pitched chords was strong and unbreakable.

Despite this, the song felt so delicate and soft— almost like a folk tune.

"Take me back to my boat on the river," Tommy began to sing, "I need to go down, need to come down..."

It took you slightly by surprise when he began to sing, as you weren't expecting him to do so. 

With his ever-so-smooth serenading voice, however, everything was suddenly perfect. 

How could one man become even more angelic than previously believed? The sunlight in his radiant hair, the setting on the water, and the gentle tune he strummed instantly gave you the impression that he might have looked otherworldly to an innocent bystander.

You were well aware of this, however; you knew very well of Tommy's magic power.

"Take me back to my boat on the river, and I won't cry out anymore."

A portion of your heart sank, while another part of it fluttered. Your eyes met at this point in his song, and somehow, he just knew that you understood everything. He fought back a grin creeping up on his lips as he looked back down to focus on his playing.

"Time stands still as I gaze in her water- which eases me down, touching me gently— with the waters that float past my boat on the river... so I don't cry out anymore."

His head lifted up, and his voice subtly grew in volume and projection, as if he were singing to the water around you both, "Oh, the river is wise... the river, it touches my life like the waves on the sand..."

When he cooed the next line of the verse, he made sure to look at you that time.

"And all roads lead to tranquility base, where the frown on my face disappears..."

The toothy smile he'd been fighting finally won him over when he saw the proud look on your face in reaction to his song. Right then and there, was the happiest you'd seen him in weeks. He was exactly where he was supposed to be, and doing exactly what he was born to do. 

Tommy's eyes darted away from you again, and he felt himself flush up in the face at his own coyness. 

His strumming turned to plucking for a few seconds, then started back up again as his soothing voice continued to sing, "Take me down to my boat on the river, and I won't cry out anymore..."

He wasn't exactly sure why he was being so bashful all of a sudden; perhaps it was because he had been so insatiably blue, and was now showing proof that all your advice to him was right all along. That, and seeing you bop your head and flutter your fingers on your leg to the rhythm was enough reassurance to make Tommy's heart soar with confidence.

While his intention was to make you proud, it embarrassed him ever so slightly to see that it had worked.

Your vision squared in on him now playing his little solo, paying attention to how this new tool was no match for his usual precision and mastery. He hummed quietly over the music he played, slowly nodding his head and tapping his foot along with it. While you did not know the song in the slightest, you couldn't help but feel an urge to sing or hum along with him.

For the whole month, he had been dulled, dimmed, and even drained. Now, there seemed be something glowing about Tommy that you couldn't quite place. It wasn't just the distant remnants of the sunset, either; it was something within him that you noticed. It was as if the golden hair on his head finally matched the energy that was flowing from his heart.

After a moment, your own heart began to soar at the realization; Tommy had gotten his shine back.

When he began to sing again, he closed his eyes and smiled to himself. 

"Oh the river is deep— the river, it touches my life like the waves on the sand..."

His eyes met yours again as if he were informing you of his tale, "All roads lead to tranquility base, where the frown on my face disappears, whoa..."

And yes, the song was perfect for Tommy. It had been perfect all along; he just did not realize it until now.

"Take me down to my boat on the river, I need to go down— won't you let me go down?"

Something had been missing, he believed— and he was correct. What was missing, however, was not within the song itself.

"Take me back to my boat on the river, and I won't cry out anymore..."

The only things he changed about the song were its audience and its venue— and suddenly, everything felt complete again.

"And I won't cry out anymore..."

What was missing this whole time— was you.

"And I won't cry out anymore...!"

He pushed his voice out loudly and clearly, filling the space of the boat and beyond. His strumming quickened as he did this, until he suddenly made himself stop completely. 

Tommy's song ended on a happy note, and he confidently held his playing position once it had finished.

He was smiling down at his mandolin for a few seconds in silence, then said very quietly under his breath, "Yeah... that'll work."

He then lifted his eyes and sheepishly beamed at you, silently awaiting your reaction.

"Oh, Tommy..." you were nearly speechless with joy, "Why didn't you tell me you finished a song?"

"I didn't know it was finished until just now," he chuckled, sounding slightly embarrassed yet impressed with himself.

He averted his gaze for a moment and grinned down at his instrument. When his giggles fell silent, he hesitated before asking, "So what do you think of it?"

You scoffed in disbelief with a few claps of your hands, laughing at what felt like such a humorous and unnecessary question. 

"What do I think? I think it's beautiful, of course!"

"Are you sure?" his eyebrows scrunched together with uncertainty.

"What do you mean?"

He shrugged, shaking his head and rolling his eyes, "I've just been frustrated with it for a few days. It's been bugging the hell out of me and I wasn't sure if it was done... because it just didn't feel right overall."

You saw a glimmer in his eyes as the remainder of the sunset struck his face. His focus shifted to the scenery around you, and he instantly seemed to become lost in a trance.

"But I had this dream just now— this almost heavenly kind of dream— where I was playing it out here on the boat just as it is, and it sounded so..."

He struggled to find the words as a breeze blew through his hair. Swiping the locks out of his face, he finished his thought, "Whatever it was, I knew I just had to play it out here on the water to be sure."

"Well I don't know what you were so uncertain about; it sounded perfect to me, which is no surprise there."

Tommy cracked the tiniest of smiles, looking down at the water, "Yeah, but I knew you had to be the first one to hear it, too. It was only fitting that my boat buddy be the first to hear my little boat song."

Your flustered giggles came out against your will. Every little thing Tommy did always seemed to have the power to make you smile, and every song he produced was always your favorite.

He added onto his last sentence, "That, and I think it might've only sounded right in the dream because you were there on the boat with me."

"Are you trying to woo me?" you teased him, "You seem to be succeeding in that area right now."

Tommy laughed out loud, rocking the boat slightly and strumming his instrument a few times with glee.

He happily admitted, "I'm saying you were right, okay! You were right about everything— that I needed to try something new, forget about being under pressure, remember the 'lights' in my life and all that happy stuff."

"Ah, of course I was right," you sarcastically told him, looking away as you felt yourself flush, "And speaking of lights, what happened to that other song you were writing?"

Tommy looked baffled for a quick moment, then blinked in realization.

"Oh— you saw that one?"

"You weren't as secretive as you thought you were being."

"That one's nowhere near done," he waved his hand to the side, "It's a bit of a mess. I think it's too soft to be a JY thing, so I might run it by Dennis first."

There was no hiding your pride now; you couldn't take your smile away from him if you tried. Seeing him there in front of you with the aftermath of a sunset on his golden hair, talking about what made him happy the most in life while holding his instrument of choice— he felt back to normal. Even if it was just for a fleeting moment, you knew he'd be better than alright very soon.

"What?" Tommy looked completely clueless at the opposite end of the boat.

You didn't break your smile for a second when you answered him, "I just love seeing you happy."

Tommy's body visibly relaxed, and his gaze softened into a bittersweet smile of his own. He slightly rose to his feet, enough to keep his knees bent as he took a step to the middle of the boat. He reached his hands out and cupped your face gently. You could feel his thankfulness and relief when he kissed you slowly, just as you could feel the warmth of his lips contrast with the cold breeze that was blowing.

He pulled back, still holding your face, and quietly spoke, "Thank you."

Another toothy smile of his appeared as he dropped his hands and sat back down. With his mandolin back in his hold, Tommy began to play the tune again. This time, however, he began to teach you the words so you could sing along with him just as you had in his dream. 

All was as it should be; music was in the air, and joy was in your hearts. Though it was barely noticeable in the atmosphere, it was clear to both of you that springtime had finally arrived at last.

-----

Boat On the River- Tommy live solo performance (1980)

[mary-magizoologist]

Series Rewrite|Wendigo - Part 2

Characters: Reader, Sam Winchester, Dean Winchester

Pairing: eventual Sam x Reader

Words: 2748

Summary: based on the second episode of the first season of the show.

Warnings: language, show level angst and violence.

A/N: here goes the second part of my series rewrite. Hope you guys like it! This is not beta’d. All mistakes are mine.

Catch up

Wendigo - Part 2

After your talk with Mr. Shaw, you go to get a room at a motel. The three of you are walking through the corridor trying to find your room.

“Spirits and demons don't have to unlock doors,” states Dean, “If they want inside, they just go through the walls.”

“So it's probably something else, something corporeal,” Sam states.

“Corporeal? Excuse me, professor,” Dean teases, making you snort.

“Shut up. So what do you think?” Sam says.

“The claws, the speed that it moves...could be a skinwalker, maybe a black dog. Whatever we're talking about, we're talking about a creature.” Dean says.

“Yeah, and all of that leads to the same thing, that it's corporeal. Which means we can kill it,” you agree with him.

Dean opens the trunk of the Impala, then the weapons box, and props it open with a shotgun. He puts some guns in a duffel bag. Sam leans in.

“We cannot let that Haley girl go out there.”

“No, we should try to stop her, we don’t know what’s out there yet,” you agreed.

“Oh yeah? What are we gonna tell her? That she can't go into the woods because of a big scary monster?” Dean asked sarcastically.

“Yeah,” Sam said.

Dan looks at Sam, “Her brother's missing. She's not gonna just sit this out. Now we go with her, we protect her, and we keep our eyes peeled for our fuzzy predator friend,” he says picking up his duffel.

“Finding Dad's not enough?” he asks, slamming the weapons box shut and closing the trunk. “Now we gotta babysit too?”

You and Dean stare at Sam.

“What?” he asks with an annoyed expression.

“Nothing,” you and Dean answer at the same time.

He throws the duffel bag at Sam and walks off, you look at him for a little while and then follow Dean inside the motel room.

You arrived at the forest, and when you pull up you see Haley, Ben and a man talking. They all stare at the three of you when you get out of the car.

Sam opens the back door of the Impala and pulls out the duffel bag.

“You guys got room for three more?” Dean asked

“Wait, you want to come with us?” Haley said surprised.

“Who are these guys?” asked the man that was with them.

“Apparently this is all the park service could muster up for the search and rescue,” she scoffed.

Sam heads past everyone.

“You're rangers?” the man asks.

“That's right,” Dean nods.

“Yeah, we are,” you agree.

“And you're hiking out in biker boots and jeans?”

Dean looks down at himself., “Well, sweetheart, I don't do shorts,” he shakes his head.

Dean heads past Haley, you follow him reaching Sam.

“What, you think this is funny?” the guy scoffs, “It's dangerous backcountry out there. Her brother might be hurt.”

You and Sam turn back to look at them.

“Believe me,” you say, “I know how dangerous it can be. We just wanna help them find their brother, that's all.”

Dean shrugs and heads past you, you shrug at the guy and follow his steps.

All of you hikes through the forest. This guy Roy is in the lead, followed by Dean, Haley, Ben, and Sam and you stay in the back bringing the gear.

“Roy,” Dean calls, “you said you did a little hunting.”

“Yeah, more than a little,” he answers.

“Uh-huh. What kind of furry critters do you hunt?”

“Mostly buck,” Roys says, “sometimes bear.”

Dean passes Roy. “Tell me, uh, Bambi or Yogi ever hunt you back?”

Roy grabs Dean by the shoulder and pulls him back, SAM and you look on.

“Whatcha doing, Roy?” Dean inquires.

Roy grabs a stick and pokes something on the floor, and when it snaps closed you realized it was a bear trap Dean had almost stepped in. Haley looks annoyed.

“You should watch where you're stepping,” Roy mocks, “Ranger.”

He drops the stick and retakes the lead.

“It's a bear trap.” Dean smiles, shrugging it off as if it was nothing.

“I’m not used to this amount of exercise,” you tell Sam.

“What do you mean?” he laughs, “We’re always running for our lives.”

“I know,” you sigh, “But on those moments we have adrenaline running through our system, so I don’t feel anything, but let’s be honest, this is boring. I mean, I love hiking and being surrounded by nature, but still… I’m saying a lot of buts”

“Yeah,” he smirks at you, “You are. I get you, though.”

You smile at him and you continue hiking in silence. Haley walks faster to catch up to Dean.

“You didn't pack any provisions,” she points out, “You guys are carrying a duffel bag. You're not rangers.”

She grabs Dean's arm. “So who the hell are you?”

Ben goes past Haley and Dean. Sam and you look at Dean, who indicates with his expression for both of you to go on by, you raise your eyebrows at him but you obey him, Sam following you. As far as you can hear, he’s telling her that Sam’s his brother, you’re their friend and they’re looking for their father, who might be there.

Later that day, you all keep walking through the forest. Roy is leading the way, followed by Sam and you, Ben, Haley, and Dean.

“This is it. Blackwater Ridge,” announces Roy.

Sam heads past Roy. “What coordinates are we at?”

Roy pulls out a GPS, “Thirty-five and minus one-eleven,” he answers.

Dean comes up to you, meanwhile you remain aware, trying to listen to something that can work as some kind of lead to catching whatever creature was there.

“You hear that?” Dean asks.

“Absolutely nothing, no wind... Nothing,” you say taking a look around, “I can hear the blood flowing through my ears.”

“Yeah. Not even crickets,” Sam agrees.

“I'm gonna go take a look around,” Roy announces.

“You shouldn't go off by yourself,” Sam told him.

“That's sweet. Don't worry about me.”

“Dude, seriously,” you try to stop him, “We should stay together.”

Roy takes a look at you, waves his gun and pushes between Dean and Sam, to retake the lead. Dean turns back to the others as Ben and Haley catch up.

“All right,” Dean says, “everybody stays together. Let's go.”

While you wait for Roy, Haley sits down next to a rock, Ben’s leaning against a tree. Dean climbs the rock near Haley. You see Ben spotting something and goes to have a look, you decide to follow him, and Sam does too.  

“What did you find Ben?” you ask him.

He moves a tree branch aside to have a look at what he saw, and it’s a stick figure.

“That’s a hell of a find, Ben,” Sam congratulates,

“Are those… Anasazi?” You ask, amazed.

“Yeah,” Sam nods.

You eye Dean coming over to you.

“What’s that?” Ben asks.

“Ancient Indians…” you answer, “First Nations, they were a whole civilization that just vanished. No one knows what happened.”

Another look at the stick figure.

“I've seen that somewhere before,” Sam says.

“Haley!” you hear Roy call, “Over here!”

Haley hurries to Roy, followed closely by the rest of you, coming to a halt.

“Oh my God,” she breathes.

The tents are torn open and bloody and all the supplies are scattered around the campsite.

“Looks like a grizzly,” Roy points out.

All of you start to walk to take a look around the area, although there is no sign of anybody being there.

“Tommy?” Haley asks.

She takes off her backpack and goes through the campsite. “Tommy!” She yells.

Sam moves to catch up with Haley trying to quiet her, but she yells again, calling for Tommy. Sam steps in front of her and shushes her.

“Why?” she asks.

“Something might still be out there,” Sam answers.

“Sam! Y/N!” you can hear Dean calling.

You and Sam jog over to Dean, and you crouch next to him.

“The bodies were dragged from the campsite,” he tells you, “But here, the tracks just vanish. That's weird.”

You watch a trail of stirred dirt, clearly showing that someone had been dragged. The three of you stand up.

“I'll tell you what,” he makes a pause, “that's no skinwalker or black dog.”

Dean turns around and goes back to the campsite. You take a last look at the trail and you and Sam follow him. When you get back with the rest you see Haley picking up a cell phone with blood drops on it. She starts crying, turns the phone over and the back is open. Dean crouches next to her.

“Hey, he could still be alive,” he encourages her.

Haley gives Dean a look.

“Help!” you can hear someone crying for help, making all of you stop and listen, “Help!”

With the second scream, everyone runs to the aid of the shouter, Roy taking the lead.

“Help! Somebody!”

When you get to the place you all look around trying to see the person who was crying for help, but you find no one.

“It seemed like it was coming from around here, didn't it?” Haley asked.

You listen, but then again, nothing.

“Everybody back to camp,” you tell them.

You run back to the campsite, and once you get there, you see that all the supplies are missing.

“Our packs!” Haley complains.

“So much for my GPS and my satellite phone,” Roy sounded defeated, crouching.

“What the hell is going on?” Haley asks.

“It's smart,” Sam says. “It wants to cut us off so we can't call for help.”

“You mean someone,” says Roy, “some nutjob out there just stole all our gear.”

Sam goes to Dean and makes a sign to you to come closer.

“I need to speak with you. In private,” he commands.

The three of you walk a little away from the group. “Good...” he says, “Let me see Dad's journal.”

Dean hands it over. Sam opens it and flips through until he finds a particular page.

“All right, check that out,” he points to a First Nations–style drawing of a figure.

“Oh come on,” Dean argues, “Wendigos are in the Minnesota woods or northern Michigan. I've never even heard of one this far west.”

“Think about it, Dean, the claws, the way it can mimic a human voice,” he points out.

“It actually makes sense,” you look at Sam, “Wendigos appear a lot in the Anasazi and Cree lore. And that thing Ben had found earlier? It was Anasazi.”

“Exactly,” Sam nods.

“Great,” Dean pouts. “Well,” he says taking out his pistol, “this is useless.”

Sam gives Dean back John's journal and heads past Dean stopping for a moment.

“We gotta get these people to safety,” you tell them.

You get back at the campsite, and Sam addresses the group.

“All right, listen up, it's time to go. Things have gotten...more complicated.”

“What?” Haley asks.

“Kid, don't worry,” Roy dismisses, “Whatever's out there, I think I can handle it.”

“It's not me I'm worried about,” Sam tells him. “If you shoot this thing, you're just gonna make it mad. We have to leave. Now.”

“One, you're talking nonsense. Two, you're in no position to give anybody orders,” he argues.

“Relax,” Dean warns.

“We never should have let you come out here in the first place, all right?” Sam tells him.

“You know, we’re just-” you start, “We’re just trying to protect all of you.”

“You protect me?” Roy defies Sam, stepping right in front of him. “I was hunting these woods when your mommy was still kissing you good night.”

“Yeah? It's a damn near perfect hunter,” Sam tries to warn. “It's smarter than you, and it's gonna hunt you down and eat you alive unless we get your stupid sorry ass out of here.”

Roy laughs, “You know you're crazy, right?”

“Yeah? You ever hunt a wen—” Sam almost slips out, but Dean pushes him.

Haley yells at Roy.

“Chill out,” you tell Sam.

“Stop. Stop it,” Haley says, “Everybody just stops. Look. Tommy might still be alive. And I'm not leaving here without him.”

A long pause remains between all of you.

“It's getting late,” Dean says. “This thing is a good hunter in the day, but an unbelievable hunter at night. We'll never beat it, not in the dark. We need to settle in and protect ourselves.”

“How?” Haley wonders.

Night fell over your heads while you’re still outside in the forest. The group has built a campfire, and Dean was drawing protection symbols on the dirt around the campsite while Haley pokes at the fire.

“One more time, that's—” she starts.

“Anasazi symbols,” Dean tells her. “It's for protection. The wendigo can't cross over them.”

Roy laughs, gun over his shoulder.

“Nobody likes a skeptic, Roy,” you sass him.

Dean heads over to sit next to Sam and you, who are at the edge of the campsite. He looks at you and you shrug.

“You wanna tell me what's going on in that freaky head of yours?” he asks Sam.

“Dean—” he starts but Dean cuts him off.

“No, you're not fine. You're like a powder keg, man, it's not like you. I'm supposed to be the belligerent one, remember?”

A pause.

“Dad's not here,” another pause. “I mean, that much we know for sure, right? He would have left us a message, a sign, right?”

“Yeah, you're probably right,” Dean agrees. “Tell you the truth, I don't think Dad's ever been to Lost Creek.”

“Then let's get these people back to town and let's hit the road,” He looks at you and then at Dean. “Go find Dad. I mean, why are we still even here?”

Dean stands up and crouches in front of Sam, holding up John’s journal. “This is why,” he says. “This book. This is Dad's single most valuable possession—everything he knows about every evil thing is in here. And he's passed it on to us. I think he wants us to pick up where he left off. You know, saving people, hunting things. The family business."

Sam shakes his head and stares at Dean, “That makes no sense.” he runs his hands on his face, “Why doesn't he just—call us? Why doesn't he—tell us what he wants, tell us where he is?”

“I dunno,” Dean answers him, “But the way I see it, Dad's giving us a job to do, and I intend to do it.”

“Dean...no. I gotta find Dad. I gotta find Jessica's killer. It's the only thing I can think about.”

You look down at the floor.

“Okay, all right, Sam, we'll find them,” Dean concedes, “I promise. Listen to me. You've gotta prepare yourself. I mean, this search could take a while, and all that anger, you can't keep it burning over the long haul. It's gonna kill you. You gotta have patience, man.”

Sam looks down, then up at you.

“How do you do it? How does Dad do it?”

Dean looks over at Haley and Ben, you follow his gaze.

“Well for one, them,” Dean says.

You nod, and Sam looks over at them, too.

“I mean, I figure our family's so screwed to hell, maybe we can help some others. Makes things a little bit more bearable.”

A pause.

“I'll tell you what else helps,” you grin, Sam, looking back at you, “Killing as many evil sons of bitches as we possibly can.”

“Hell yeah we do,” Dean smirks at you.

Sam smiles and you hear a twig snapping.

“Help me!” you hear a man screams, “Please!”

You all stand and readies his gun.

“Help!”

Sam shines a flashlight around and you try to take a better look.

“He's trying to draw us out,” you realize, “Just stay cool, stay put.”

“Inside the magic circle?” Roy mocks in a sarcastic tone.

“Help! Help me, ple-!” he screams and then you can hear some growling.

Roy points his gun at the sound, “Okay, that's no grizzly.”

Something rushes past and Haley shrieks.

“It's here,” Sam announces.

“Shit, it moves way too fast” you mumble.

Roy shoots at the rustling one, two, three times.

“I hit it!” he yells and runs to see what he hit.

“Roy, no! Roy!

“Don't move,” Dean commands to Haley and Ben.

Haley's holding a fire stick as a weapon.

“That’s actually a very good idea,” you tell her, staying behind protecting them while Sam and Dean run after Roy.

Next Part

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