#top ten songs that remind me of my ocs

[thedndgoblinwholivesinyourwalls]

Sober To Death by Car Seat Headrest is the best song actually and everyone should listen to it/nf

[anonymousewrites]

Adolescent Antichrist (Book 6) Chapter Six

Father Figure! Lucifer Morningstar x Teen! Reader

Demon! OC x Reader

Chapter Six: I worked through a Mental Breakdown with Song

Summary: (Y/N)'s predictions come right, and a sad song starts playing.

            (Y/N) hummed to themself as they headed back to the Penthouse. The night was dark. Clouds had blown across the sky, the stars were obscured, and it was a new moon. There was barely any light as (Y/N) made their way to get ready for bed. They yawned and untucked the long-sleeved shirt they’d been wearing the whole day.

            They hesitated. As soon as they removed their shirt, their compression top (not a binder but helpful when they wanted to go out dancing) would be all that was left, and it was sleeveless. (Y/N)’s scars would be on display. Every time they had to see them, (Y/N) was sent into a spiral of anxiety. So far, they’d dealt with it by closing their eyes as much as possible.

            But (Y/N) couldn’t do that forever. They needed to get a handle on themself. And…(Y/N) refused to cower. They’d gotten a chance to speak back to Michael, and they’d said they’d “survived.” That’s what the scars were—proof that.

            (Y/N) damn well meant what they said. They’d face their marks, their tattoos, their scars, their proof of life. They’d do it.

            (Y/N) pulled their shirt off with a flourish and kept their eye closed. They could feel the cold night air fly over their skin, and they shivered. It reminded them of the darkness they’d fallen into, the one they would’ve sunk the world into.

            Swallowing, (Y/N) squared their shoulders. They weren’t backing down now. They were going to face themself.

            (Y/N) opened their eyes and faced their bedroom mirror. Even in the darkness, they could clearly see the black marks snaking up their arms. Their chest constricted at the sight, and (Y/N) took deep breaths.

            Shutting their eyes, they counted to ten with a deep breath in and out on each count. When they reached ten, (Y/N) opened their eyes again.

            They focused on the marks and let their eyes trace them. From the tiny tendrils like veins on their wrists to the thick darkness that twined around their back to where their wings would extend, the black marks seemed like a stain in their skin. (Y/N) raised their chin and examined the slight point—sort of like flames—of black on their neck. They owned plenty of black clothing, but this was the remnants of nothingness. This was the scar of breaking creation itself, and it was a void.

            (Y/N) reached their hand up and touched the scars. Cold. Chilled. Icy.

            This was the scar of breaking creation itself, and it was a void. It was the void they had created that they were afraid they’d never truly escape. Every night, every blink of darkness, every time their shadows moved for them, all they could feel was the void closing in around them again, ready to take them to that place of nothingness where they were alone and unloved.

            (Y/N) couldn’t let themself fall back in the void.

            In the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, in the void, the void, the void, void, void…

(“Void” by Melanie Martinez) (Y/N) “Baby, I’m spinnin’ ‘round the corner, It’s tasting kind of lonely, And my mind wants to control me.”

            (Y/N) looked at their reflection and dragged their hands through their hand and down their shoulders over the marks.

(Y/N) “E-e-e-empty, There’s rotten things left in me, Injected by society.”

            The shadows swirled around (Y/N)’s feet, mimicking the marks splashed across their skin. Their heart clenched, knowing that was the darkness that lingered somewhere in them, the power that threatened people.

(Y/N) “No one here but me to judge me.”

            They turned their face from the mirror, unable to look at themself as they dealt with the thoughts. (Y/N) shook their head and clamped their hands over their ears as the negative thoughts swirled in their head.

(Y/N) “Pipe down with the noise, I cannot bear my sorrow.”

            (Y/N) looked at their hands, the hands that had ripped the word in two.

(Y/N) “I hate who I was before.”

            They hugged themself.

(Y/N) “I fear I won’t live to see the day tomorrow.”

            The shadows crept up over them. Part of (Y/N) knew they were trying to comfort them, but (Y/N) couldn’t stand the chill of the darkness just yet.

(Y/N) “Someone tell me if this is Hell.”

            (Y/N) pulled away from the shadows and stumbled into the dark corridor of the penthouse.

(Y/N) “I gotta escape that void, There is no other choice, yeah, Tryna turn down the voices, The void ate me.”

            (Y/N) trembled as they gazed at their marked arms, but they were in too deep and weren’t going to stop in confronting everything that they were—hurt. They had to face it.

(Y/N) “Look at the mess I’ve done, There is nowhere to run, yeah.”

            (Y/N) tried to move away from shadows, but they were at every corner, ready for (Y/N).

(Y/N) “Holdin’ a loaded gun, The void.”

            They ducked under the shadows swarming the corridor. They fell to their knees and put their hands over their hand as the shadows tried to move up around them.

(Y/N) “Like a priest behind confession walls, I judge myself, Kneeling on a metal grater, Bloody like a body that has died and it’s myself, Tangled in my own intestines.”

            (Y/N) fell onto their back and let the shadows move over them. For the first time since the Apocalypse, (Y/N) let their own ability touch them, and the coolness sent shivers down their spine.

(Y/N) “I gotta escape the void, There is no other choice, yeah, Gotta escape the void.”

            (Y/N) lay there until the shadows moved back, and they pulled themself to their feet. In the dark penthouse windows, they and the hallway were reflected like swaths of shadow against the night sky outside.

(Y/N) “So strange, I’m tryina find a doorway, My eyes are starin’ at me, And they seem so damn unhappy.”

            They moved to the window and touched their reflection, watching the figure that was them move with the marks on their arms. They felt separate from the being, still unsure of accepting the marks.

(Y/N) “C-c-c-collect, My fickle insecurities.”

            And yet…what if (Y/N) did? What if leaving the darkness behind meant they invited it in? What if (Y/N) was just themself and knew they were who they were, Apocalypse be damned?

(Y/N) “And turn them into beauty, Alchemize the dark within me (Ah).”

            (Y/N) summoned the shadows this time and let them swirl up over their body. They lifted their hands and moved with the shadows, movements jerky but growing more fluid as they grew more confident.

(Y/N) “Pipe down with the noise, I cannot bear my sorrow, I hate who I was before.”

            They did. They were so afraid before, and (Y/N) couldn’t be that anymore. They had to be stronger and face themself as they were—flaws and all.

(Y/N) “I fear I won’t live to see the day tomorrow, Someone tell me if this is Hell.”

            (Y/N) flopped back on the couch, bending back with the shadows that loved them and were them.

(Y/N) “I gotta escape that void, There is no other choice, yeah, Tryna turn down the voices, The void ate me.”

            They sat up and arched to their feet. They refused to let the void of their own self-hatred swallow them. They had started the Apocalypse and were sorry. It had been an accident. Like God said, it came because they loved their friends. (Y/N)’s marks were proof of their survival and strength.

(Y/N) “Look at the mess I’ve done, There is nowhere to run, yeah, Holdin’ a loaded gun, The void.”

            (Y/N) moved to the center of the room and let the shadows swarm over it. They closed their eyes and allowed the chill of darkness settle over them. They pushed away the thoughts of the deadly void that had swallowed them whole and shoved away their own mind threatening their own self-esteem.

(Y/N) “Like a priest behind confession walls, I judge myself, Kneeling on a metal grater, Bloody like a body that has died, and its myself, Tangled in my own intestines.”

            (Y/N) knew that mental illness would be something they worked on for their entire life, but they refused to let Michael or any other asshole (Celestial or otherwise) make them into a shell of themself.

            So (Y/N) embraced their shadows and who they were. They would work to. They would try to. It’s what they deserved—self-love. Not a void of self-hate.

(Y/N) “I gotta escape the void, There is no other choice, yeah, Tryna turn down the voices, The void ate me.”

            The shadow settled on (Y/N)’s arms and back, covering the marks with living darkness. It moved with (Y/N) as they danced amongst the shadows and blackness of the empty night.

(Y/N) “Look at the mess I’ve done, There is nowhere to run, yeah, Holdin’ a loaded gun.”

            (Y/N) threw their arms up, and all the shadows swirled up before exploding downwards. They flew over them.

(Y/N) “The void.”

            As they finished, the shadows retreated to their previous places, and (Y/N) stood staring out at the terrace. Their bare arms, covered in their marks, felt the cool night air. (Y/N) wasn’t completely free of the trauma of the Apocalypse or the fear they could cause something like it again, but they knew they could face it.

            If (Y/N) was anything, it was stubborn, and what better way to put obstinacy to good use than proving to assholes that they were a goddamn good person and not a monster seeking to destroy the world?

            “I’m not familiar with much alternative music, but I’m hoping that the depressing lyrics could be interpreted well for you?”

            (Y/N) smiled, turned, and faced Lucifer. “I don’t really know. But I feel better now.”

            Lucifer moved closer. “You do?” He had seen the tail end of the song, and seeing how sad it was, he was worried (Y/N) was having one of their worse mental health days.

            (Y/N) shrugged. “I worked through a mental breakdown with song and didn’t self-destruct. Yeah, I feel better.” They frowned. “One of the weirder tactics to fend off an anxiety attack I’ve used, though.”

            Lucifer smiled and hugged (Y/N). “I’m glad it helped.” He stepped back and kept his hands on their shoulders. “But you know that if you need any outside resources, I’m here, alright? Dr. Linda knows plenty of people who are good therapists.”

            “That’s a nice offer, but I don’t really know how to tell a therapist that’s not Linda that I’m the Antichrist and accidentally started the Apocalypse and then stopped it and am traumatized because of that,” said (Y/N).

            Lucifer paused awkwardly. “Fair point.”

            (Y/N) sighed. “It’s just hard, you know? I’m working through everything, but every time it gets easier, some new obstacle appears.” They ran their hand through their hair, and Lucifer looked at the black marks on their arms.

            “You���ll make it,” said Lucifer firmly. “You’re strong. And you have an entire family of people who love you.” He held them. “You just need to ask.”

(“Endlessly” by Muse) (Y/N) “There’s a part of me, you’ll never know, The only thing I’ll never show.”

            They were aware of their powers and struggles, and though they knew their support system was strong, (Y/N) still hesitated to, as their anxiety would put it, “burden” people.

            Lucifer shook his head, smiled, and steadied them.

(Lucifer) “Hopelessly, I’ll love you endlessly.”

            He squeezed their shoulders firmly as if he could impress the words upon them.

(Lucifer) “Hopelessly, I’ll give you everything.”

            Lucifer smiled and dipped his head so that (Y/N)’s lowered gaze would catch his eyes and look at him.

(Lucifer) “But I won’t give you up, I won’t let you down.”

            He meant every word as he pulled (Y/N) into a hug.

(Lucifer) “And I won’t leave you falling, If the moment ever comes.”

            Lucifer would never abandon his kid. (Y/N) was the person he loved more than anyone else, and he would honor that feeling with every part of him. He swayed them comfortingly as they hugged him back.

(Y/N) “It’s plain to see it’s trying to speak.”

            (Y/N) knew how tough they could be but needed Lucifer to know that they were trying to communicate and not isolate, so they whispered the words to him as he held them.

(Y/N) “Cherished dreams forever asleep.”

            (Y/N) had always wanted connection, and now that they had it, they feared it leaving. They held Lucifer tighter.

(Lucifer) “Hopelessly, I’ll love you endlessly.”

            He made sure they looked at him and could see him smiling as he spoke (sang) honestly.

(Lucifer) “Hopelessly, I’ll give you everything.”

            Lucifer lifted their arms and didn’t flinch at the chill of the black marks on their skin. He didn’t care about them, they were just a part of his kid, another part of them to love.

(Lucifer) “But I won’t give you up, I won’t let you down.”

            (Y/N) smiled, and Lucifer’s grin widened knowing that he had brought that expression to life.

(Lucifer) “And I won’t leave you falling, If that moment ever comes.”

            (Y/N) held his hands tightly and smiled at their dad.

(Y/N) “Hopelessly, I’ll love you endlessly.”

            Lucifer playfully spun his kid, and they laughed.

(Lucifer) “Hopelessly, I’ll give you everything.”

            He hugged (Y/N) and swayed with them again, giving them the grounding and comfort they deserved.

(Lucifer and (Y/N)) “But I/You won’t give you/me up, I/You won’t let you/me down. And I/you won’t leave you/me falling.”

            Lucifer smiled at (Y/N).

(Lucifer) “But the moment never comes.”

            He squeezed them once more before letting them go. “You’re a strong individual, (Y/N). You’re already making it through this challenge, and you can face every single one that appears.” Lucifer smiled. “And I’m here to give you the support you need. We all are. You’re never going to fall.”

            “Thanks, Dad,” said (Y/N), smiling. They looked down at their arms and traced the marks going up their veins. “I think I’ve faced one of the hardest parts of what happened.” The scars that it left.

            Lucifer smiled. “I’m proud of you.” And, in an effort to lighten the mood and help (Y/N), he added, “the marks are pretty cool, too. Artistic.”

            (Y/N) cracked a small grin. “You think so?”

            “Definitely,” said Lucifer. “And a designer like you will find the best outfits to show them off, I’m sure.”

            (Y/N) stood straighter. Right. That was who they were—a creator an artist. This was merely a new piece of art that could be part of them.

            Ding!

            The Penthouse elevator doors slid open, and God of all people walked in. Instantly, Lucifer tensed (obviously therapy hadn’t gone as well as he’d hoped). (Y/N) glanced between them.

            “Dad,” said Lucifer.

            God looked at Lucifer and (Y/N). It was as if He could feel what had just transpired and knew that (Y/N) had been in a fragile moment and Lucifer had helped them.

            “I’m glad you have one another,” He said.

            I forget God is kind of omniscient, thought (Y/N) as they heard His knowing tone.

            Lucifer huffed. “Yes, I’m happy I have (Y/N). If they weren’t being made to cry and feel bad about themselves in a song, I’d be much happier.”

            “Dad, it’s alright,” said (Y/N), touching his arm.

            “It’s not,” said Lucifer. “He spent the entire day controlling me through song, and I was fine when you were having fun, but that was not fun for you.”

            God looked down and swallowed. “I’m sorry.”

            “If you were, you’d stop it.” Lucifer had been having such a nice moment with (Y/N), but his hackles were raised the moment God approached since their relationship was still struggling.

            (Y/N) frowned as they saw God’s strange expression. “Is something wrong?” they said, perceiving the slight changes of His face.

            God looked up, and Lucifer and (Y/N) were shocked to see tears in His eyes. “I don’t think I can stop it.”

            “What…What do you mean?” said (Y/N) slowly.

            “I’m not sure that I can,” said God. A soft sob broke the end of his sentence, and now (Y/N) and Lucifer were alarmed.

            “What does that mean?” said Lucifer, trying to keep a scoffing tone but growing worried.

            “My powers, son, grandchild,” said God. “I think I’m losing control of them.”

            Apparently, (Y/N) wasn’t the only one having a mental breakdown today.

Taglist:

@sammyscreencaps-13

@grippleback-galaxy-galaxy

@scarlettqueen190

@ziro-the-null-god

@sammy-13

@zeros-rot

@ceridwyn3

@technikerin23

@poetoflawed

@slytherinroyalty16

@ilse235

@theurbannoodle

@lookitseddie

@amberforest08

[lord-madmyth]

Ten people I’d like to get to know better!

I was tagged by @pepa-brainrot (love you Pookie) , @ladyvandaele , and @emberkyrlee so I figure I’d better do it.

Last song I listened to: Kiss the Girl (from the little mermaid, specifically a piano cover).

Favorite color: Warm dark gray because it reminds me of my first Bunny Percy.

Last book: I do not remember off the top of my head I’m so sorry.

Last movie: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (still can’t believe that almost made me cry)

Last tv show: Law and Order SVU (I was watching with my grandparents)

Sweet/spicy/or savory: depends on my mood.

Last thing I searched online for: I think it was looking for a flower my grandma had growing on a tree in her yard (a saucer magnolia for those curious).

Current obsession: my ocs and my Pookie @elliee-doodles / @pepa-brainrot ‘s ocs. I love them all so much!

Looking forward to: Pookie’s birthday on February 9th! And Valentine’s Day since it will be our first as a couple.

I don’t even know ten active blogs to tag so @dororoxpenana and @chronic85doodler since I don’t believe they have done this

[idiotwithanipad]

Dwelling

(How my OC's Amy and Nathaniel met. Mention of @roseofithaca's OC Silver. TW: Hidradenitis Suppurativa/swearing)

The group sat awkwardly still and quiet, unsure where to look. Pat was certain that later on, the rest of the ghosts would thrash him for suggesting an alternative to music club; a top ten songs list. It was Amy's turn, and predictably, she'd gushed about her favourite band: Insane Clown Posse.

They'd already been exposed to the grimy, macabre, goofy, sinister hellride of a duo that Amy adored, and their reactions had all been midly similar; spooked, shocked, questioning their own sanity and pondering Amy's. They shifted awkwardly, glancing over at Humphrey's head leaning on the back cushion of a small chair that Amy had propped him in while she stood before them, eyes blinking at him as though asking him what the hell he was thinking putting up with all this every day.

Amy released a sigh and held up a hand, fingers counting down.

"In no particular order really, they all kick ass. 'Piggy Pie', 'Tilt-A-Whirl', 'Halls Of Illusions', 'How Many Times?', 'In My Room', 'Imma Kill You', 'To Catch A Predator'-"

"That what I'd do if I caught one.." Robin interjected, remembering the song from the time Amy had requested it to be played. The dark lyrics at first scared him, but as he listened on, he nodded along and began to agree, a satisfied smirk stretching onto his lips. A concern? Maybe not; he was a father after all, it's only natural to want to rid the world of pieces of human trash...

Amy winked at the caveman in agreement and continued.

"'Cemetery Girl', 'Toy Box', and 'Dead Body Man' ... And a bonus 'cause fuck you all, 'Crossing Thy Bridge'" Amy took a lazy bow and gave two middle fingers before retreating back to her chair without another word.

Pat fumbled and rose to his feet.

"Okay, well- sounds lovely, Pet" Pat smiled, awkwardly and stiffly. Amy leaned back in the chair, placing Humphrey's head on her thighs. She gave a sloppy shrug and waved a hand at him.

"It was the same last week, it'll be the same next week... And for the rest of all time"

Pat gave a short nod, grimacing at the morbid reminder of their existences. As Pat rambled on, Amy leaned to the side, her elbow lifting to plant down onto the armrest, only for her face to screw and her body to jerk in a tiny moment.

"You alright?" Humphrey inquired, his eyes blinking and straining to glance back at her. Seemingly, he'd felt the shift as Amy moved. Amy stiffened, glancing around, checking to make sure nobody saw her uncontrollable jolt.

She collected Humphrey into her hands and silently fled the room, passing through the wall and halting, merged between the previous room and the next. A tight, narrow channel full of brick dust and cobwebs no more than two feet wide. She looked down into Humphrey's eyes regrettably and pained.

"Another flare..."

Humphrey blinked.

"Ah..."

"I'm just gonna go for a bit. You want me to find body bit for you, or are you alright with the others?" Amy asked, feeling guilty. Humphrey chuckled, feeling lucky to be one of the few people Amy genuinely softened around.

"Heh, nah I'm alright with that lot, Poppet, don't you worry."

Amy gave a half hearted smile and a shrug.

"I always feel like shit for ditching you just 'cause of a stupid fucking lump under my arm"

Humphrey rose a brow.

"Well, dealing with those things doesn't exactly sound like a picnic". He'd be right, it was fucking shit. Amy's head dropped back as she groaned.

"Ugh, why couldn't they also fuck off when I died?.."

Humphrey hummed in agreement and rose his eyes again.

"Never mind. Go on then, drop me off with the rest and go take it easy for a bit. If He comes along later I'll come see you, yeah?" 'He' being the rest of Humphrey, wandering around aimlessly somewhere. Amy nodded.

"Okay"

--

Mick and Jeff stood outside the spa, watching as the manager held a card of colour swatches, deciding which one to pick for the new coat of paint they were planning for the changing rooms. The dead men's eyes glanced at each colour as they nodded and shook their heads, as though they'd become connoisseurs of decorating.

"I still think they should go with 'Duck Egg Blue'" Jeff remarked, crossing his arms. Mick gave a scoff and rolled his eyes.

"No way, mate. I'm tellin' ya! 'Mint Green'!" Mick combatted. Jeff brushed him off with a wheeze.

"Down 'ere? That'd be rubbish! Won't go with the lights" Jeff motioned upwards towards the stark white bulbs imbedded into the ceiling. Mick's brow furrowed in confusion. He turned slightly to face his taller friend.

"What's the lights got to do with it?"

Jeff practically reeled, his mouth dropping.

"'What's the lights got to d-?'-"

"Hey guys" Amy muttered, approaching from the staircase. Mick and Jeff turned and spotted the teen approaching, and their boil splotched faces lit up.

"Aw, you alright, Amy? We've been wonderin' when you'd come for a chat" Jeff smiled.

Amy put her thumb up, answering with bitter sarcasm, feeling in an instant as a wave of fatigue washed over her brain.

"Swell.."

Mick nodded forward knowingly.

"Under your arm again?"

"You got it" Amy grimaced.

Jeff cringed.

"Those are the worst"

Mick reached over to pat the girl's back.

"C'mon then, come 'ave a sit down"

The three ghosts retreated through the halls and shifted along till they reached the sauna; their regular hangout.

Luckily, the steam room hadn't been occupied by any livings yet, not that it really mattered, but it still felt weird to be able to talk out loud and not have to worry about being heard. Their scarred and oozing faces turned in the neon blue lights and brightened when they saw the teen.

"Aww, 'ello, Amy!" Agnes chimed, her curvy frame edging closer, reaching to place a gentle hand on Amy's shoulder.

Nigel, Walter and John scurried closer, also beaming that their upstairs friend returned again.

"Alright, guys?" Amy sighed, giving a reluctant smile. They rounded off with 'fine's, 'good's and 'yeah's. Walter stepped forward.

"Another boil come up?"

Amy nodded and pointed with her good arm to her left armpit.

"Yep. This little bitch is out of commission for a day or four"

Nigel nodded.

"Oh, good-" He was cut off by Walter quickly slapping at his arm, eyes glaring at him to shut up.

Agnes tutted and rubbed at Amy's shoulder.

"Oh, that's not too good, is it? Well, you know you're welcome down 'ere as long as you need, swee'art"

Amy gave a thumbs up and plodded over to the wall to sit down on the tiles. Through the small crowd of chatting plaguers, a little frame emerged and practically skipped over to Amy, straw doll in hand.

"We missed you" Jemima muttered, her chapped lips barely moving as she held her doll up, waving it's arm.

Amy gave a little wave back to humour the tiny girl and shifted over so Jemima could sit.

"You know me, can't go more than two weeks without coming down to see you. Laid up as always" Amy droned, rolling her eyes.

Amy's eyes scanned the group, noticing a missing face.

"Wait a minute, where's Maude?"

Jemima placed her doll into her lap and pointed her arm into the corner opposite them. Beneath a small towel rack, Maude sat on her knees, comforting someone. Whoever it was had their hood up, at least- it looked like a hood. The unmistakable texture of sheep wool stitched crudely to a sack cloth hood. Odd, she didn't remember anybody wearing that before.

"Who's that?" Amy asked, brow arching suspiciously. Jemima kicked her legs lowly as she slumped forward where she sat.

"That's Nathaniel. He's Maude's nephew" There was an almost matter-of-fact tone in Jemima's statement, if not for her constant monotone that rivaled Amy's. Amy's eyes widened briefly, slightly flummoxed.

"Dunno how I missed that. Never seen him before. I've been coming down here for, what- a good eight years now and I've never seen him. Maude never said anything" Amy stated, almost sounding like she was trying to make the case that she was innocent until proven guilty.

Jemima glanced up at Amy with her adorably piercing eyes.

"He's shy"

Amy blinked, glancing back over to Maude and the young man.

"Fair enough..."

--

Hours passed until the group had decided to go about their own business amongst themselves and let Amy rest in the corner by herself. Jemima had fled at the mention of a rare occurrence of a child staying upstairs and decided to find their room to 'play' with them.

Across the sauna, the young man still sat with his back against the wall, head down, hood pulled up obscuring his face. Not that Amy was primarily focused on him, more trying to go to her happy place to distract herself from the hot pain under her arm. She was unaware of her uncomfortable grimace, the way she sat and tried in vain to lean to her right to eliminate the pressure to the left side of her body.

"You alright?..." An unfamiliar voice called from beneath the towel rack. Amy felt no reason to lie at this point; she's dead, what dignity does she have left?

"No. It's fucking killing"

A short paused passed between their exchange before the voice spoke again.

"You still had the plague? I thought it'd stopped?"

Oh. Right. They'd never actually met, he doesn't know about her... Predicament. She sighed.

".. Yeah, sure. But it only affects a small handful of us for no reason, and it's complete bullshit"

The voice stopped, prompting Amy to glance over to the boy. He was looking at her now. His flesh pasty, boils and clusters of scabs littered the right side of his hairline and his jaw, blotches of reddened rashes sat beneath his nose. His messy hair reached his ears and bared the colour and texture of dry straw. His eyes looked irritated and darkened by nights without sleep. Despite his gaunt and sickly appearance, he looked young, about Amy's age, possibly a year or two older. The whispy stuble lining his chin and upper lip made it clear, as did the shape of his face and neck.

"Under your arm?" He commented.

Amy nodded, tense and grimacing. For a shy guy he sure does ask a lot of questions.

"You look awful" He observed, blandly.

Amy growled.

"You don't exactly look like a porcelain doll yourself, mate"

He looked knocked for six, realising his statement and it's possible misconception. He held up his darkened hands.

"Nah, nah, not you! I mean- the pain. It's making you look aw-"

"Yeah, whatever, just leave me the fuck alone!" Amy barked, a slight, pathetic wince in her voice; her affliction taking the sting out of her venom.

His hands lowered sloppily. He watched as Amy shuffled away, trying to reach the wall to lean against. Anything to stop her arm from falling down against her side and worsening the pain. Yet, it was futile; being put in the familiar pain she experienced in life made her forget ghost physics, her elbow passing straight through the tiles. Damn it.

She could cry if she wasn't in a room with a multitude of people. A pair of barely surviving shoes and burgundy stockings beneath a dark grey tunic came into her downward view.

"Budge up"

Amy looked up to see that boy again, he was lankier than he looked when he was huddled in the corner earlier. Amy's good arm dropped down in defeat.

"What is it now?"

He gestured go the row of tiles she was sat upon, waving his hand to move her along. Amy glanced at the many feet of empty space at her side and along the other half of the room. Her eyes popped open, thinking he had a cheek to tell her to move over when she was wedged in a corner.

"Fuck off, you wanna sit down use the rest of this shithole"

He rolled his eyes.

"Just do it"

Amy muttered and got up in defiance, stomping over to the right side of the room to plop down into the far corner.

"There!"

He glared at her for a second, waiting for her to look away. But she didn't. The two simply stared each other down, daring one or the other to make a move or speak up. Amy grizzled.

"You think you can out-glare me?"

"I'm tryin' to 'elp you 'ere!" He protested.

Amy scoffed.

"You keep pesterin' me! What do you want?!"

Finally, he moved, taking the space right beside her, his scrawny leg almost touching her's.

"Thought you'd never ask! Now put your elbow on me shoulder!"

Amy stilled.

"Why?"

"To rest it. You can't sit with your arm out for days, y'know?"

Amy grimaced but realised he was right. When she was alive she'd prop it up on pillows or stuff a hot water bottle under her arm. With those luxuries no longer at her disposal, she had to come up with alternatives. Time for the walk- or lean of shame I guess?

Amy reluctantly lifted her pained arm and rested it carefully atop his shoulder, the higher angle almost immediately helping to relieve some of the horrible pain.

"... Better?" He asked, gently.

Amy nodded slightly.

"Yeah. Yeah it is actually... Thanks"

"Alright then..."

Some time in awkward silence listening the the rest of the chattering ghosts passed.

"So, when did you catch the plague then?" He asked.

Amy, glanced to the wall.

"What I've got isn't exactly the plague. You don't die from it, but it lasts for life apparently. I was seventeen when I got diagnosed"

He nodded, sympathetically; he could understand the fear and pain surrounding something that would ruin your body and confidence forever.

"I dunno how old I was when I caught it, but it was over really quick. Wasn't nice though" He admitted, glancing over and pointing at the rather obvious abscess on his right cheek. It looked fit to break open and cause a huge mess. Amy had never had one on her face, thankfully; she dreaded to think that that pain must feel like.

Amy softened.

"I bet. Partly why I was kinda relieved to find out about you guys" She motioned to the rest of the large gang.

"Nobody upstairs can understand. Some of them try to, but- it's hard to get across how painful this shit is without making it sounding over-dramatic" Amy admitted.

"I think out of all of them, my best friend Silver is the only one who kinda gets it. She gets cold sores so she at least knows how painful skin conditions can get" Amy sighed.

He glanced at her.

"Who's that?" He pointed upward.

"I don't go up there a lot"

Amy shifted, a smile tugging at her lips.

"You'll have to come meet her when she wakes up. It's a long story, but she only wakes up three days out of the month. Something to do with the moon? She knows more about that stuff than me, she's the expert" Amy chuckled fondly.

He seemed to shrivel, picking at the freyed hem of his tunic

"I don't like it up there. That lot give me bad looks. They probably think I'm grim" He admitted, shrugging. Amy scoffed.

"You're not the worst thing in this shitty house, mate. They've got clapped taxidermied animals! And there's a guy up there who died whilst porking his secretary-"

Nathaniel cut her off with a short.

"He did what?!"

Amy nodded.

"I'm serious! He kicked the bucket during all that and now he walks about with nothing below the waist"

Nathaniel took wheezing breaths through his laughter, trying to clear the image from his head.

"Then there's Da-...Humphrey. You must've seen him at some point? He died getting his head cut off and about ninety percent of the time his body is walking around on it's own. You're not the worst guy in this house. A few boils is nothing!" Amy proclaimed.

Nathaniel nodded.

"Yeah, I've seen the body half before. It walked right through 'ere reaching about for something" He confirmed. Amy smirked.

"Yeah, like I said, he does that a lot. He's cool I guess, he's like my own personal zombie" Amy chuckled, prompting the boy to chuckle along with her.

A pause.

"What's your name again?" He probed, brow arching.

"Amy. You?"

"Nathaniel. But the others just call me Nate for short"

Amy took a breath.

"Well, Nate..." She started, a sincere glisten in her blue eyes.

"Sorry for earlier. I'm a bit defensive..."

He gave a scoff.

"Moody, more like"

Amy allowed herself an embarrassed breath.

"Yeah, in short, I'm a bit of a judgemental shitlark at first"

--

Maude and Jeff whispered and glanced at the two kids, as the hours drew on, they exchanged many topics. Alison and Mike, their fellow ghosts, food, music, movies, what day to day life was like when Nathaniel was alive. Most of the modern things he hasn't yet seen, Amy had to summarize for him, but he didn't comeplain. She promised to introduce him to Silver and Kitty so that he might get more friends when he's ready.

The pit dwellers couldn't help but chuckle and whisper amongst themselves as the two youngsters got lost in their own world far away from here.

[offsidekineticist]

(I wasn't sure if you were doing these but if so:) 💎💎💎 about Sia from your choice of OC please

I'm always doing these! This one is below a cut because of spoilers for the secret ending (let me know if you'd like a take without the secret ending stuff). Brief reminder that relations between the church of Irori and the church of Iomedae can be frosty because Irori sees the Starstone as cheating (he and his nephew both ascended through achieving perfection without the help of a magic rock).

Qweck's eyes flash in a vicious rage at the mention of Siavash. "That man is no god. He is a mortal playing with stolen powers. He lacks the wisdom and discipline godhood demands. I can name at least a dozen mortals off the top of my head who would be more worthy of godhood than he is, but not a single one would accept such power because they have the wisdom to recognize they are not worthy.

"And as if stealing his own place in the outer planes wasn't enough, he raised ten others with him, none of whom had even come close to proving themselves worthy of such power." Qweck's ears twitch. "Two of those he raised with him were hellknights. He claims to be a god of freedom, but he raised two hellknights. One of whom might have - " she stops herself. She takes a breath to steady herself, face smoothing as she reaches for that Irorian calm she has honed for so many years. "There are people - innocent people - that those men have brutalized and tortured in the name of their cause. And now those people have to live with the knowledge that their tormentors have the powers of the gods. But that's beneath the notice of the Almighty Lark. He's forgiven them, so surely those they've wronged can, too.

"His hubris will be his downfall. Mortals are easily charmed, but the forces he will have to contend with now that he's decided to play at godhood are, in many ways, immutable. He can't placate them with a smile and a song. Diplomatic duplicity will do him no good here. He will fall, and so will the false gods he raised with him. May they enjoy it while it lasts."

[stillbelievinginfireflies]

So I have somehow managed to delete this post instead of posting it three times now, because I am very talented. That said - hi there @novafire-is-thinking and thank you so much for the tag, sorry it’s taken me so long to reply! Always good to hear from you - I tried to theme my list along transformers too. :)

Rules: List ten songs you’ve been enjoying and tag ten people.

Two Minutes by The Amazing Devil (yt | spotify)

So funny story, I made a DND character initially based off Brainstorm and somewhere down the line he turned into Ratchet. This is on his playlist and effectively serves as one of his theme songs, and reminds me a lot of everyone’s favourite grumpy medic too. It’s one of very few songs that I’ve found that actually fits him, I think, and I definitely am gonna cut myself off here before I go into a rant analysing this song from the perspective of IDW Ratchet.

Angelica’s Room by War is Over (yt | spotify)

This one’s on here for two reasons. First of all, I’m teaching myself guitar, and this is one of the only songs I’ve managed to learn well enough that I can more or less sing and play it at the same time, which of course means I’ve listened to it about a thousand times. Secondly, it reminds me of Chromedome - it’s about growing up and changing from who you used to be, and my favourite lines in it are ‘When you look down on me/will you promise to/forget who I once was/ and know me for who I’ll be?’ and every time I hear them I think of OG Rewind and Domey in the aftermath of choosing not to forget him.

Adhd by Truslow (yt | spotify)

This one’s on my Scavengers playlist, and the title probably gives away who it reminds me of. What can I say? It’s a cheerful song and it makes me smile, very much so like Misfire himself.

Moscow by Autoheart (yt | spotify)

First off, Autoheart is one of my top bands (both because they have wonderful songs and because their singer is one of relatively few artists who stays reliably within my vocal range.) Moscow is on here specifically because the vibes and energy reminds me of the Lost Light crew and the reasons that I love them. Fair warning - it’s really catchy, and I take no responsibility if it gets stuck in someone’s head.

What Have You Become? by MNQN (yt | spotify)

This song is on two playlists: Soundwave’s, and a TF OC of mine who I am not yet quite self-indulgent enough to make his friend but who I nevertheless think would have been a good friend for him. The album art also matches TFP Soundwave’s colour scheme, but that’s not the point - this one is very atmospheric, Tron Legacy type vibes with a fun little added emphasis on internal mutation into something unrecognisable! :)

Conspiracy of Silence by The Swoons (yt | spotify)

Like the song above, this song is on Soundwave’s playlist and another TF OC’s playlist. (Different OC this time - the previous one was a Decepticon general, but this one is for a Neutral-ish Empurata’d ex-medic who has some... let’s call them issues.) Something about the way the song gets super dramatic and then goes quiet is just a really good vibe, I think.

Teach Me To Fight by YONAKA (yt | spotify)

Obligatory song off my Whirl playlist, hehe. Not only is this song great for blasting through headphones when I wanna feel like a badass or quiet rage, it also fits him well. The whole ‘let’s make this public, let’s take it outside’ always makes me think of him meeting Cyclonus and immediately starting a fight with him in IDW.

All Is Well (Goodbye, Goodbye) by Radical Face (yt | spotify)

This one might be cheating a little, since it’s only on a TF OC playlist and not one for a canon character, but I’m throwing it on anyway because Radical Face has some beautiful storytelling with their music and this is my favourite song of theirs. Also, some lines do remind me a little bit of Rodimus (which is fitting, given that this OC is also from Nyon). in particular: ‘So I collected all our plans and crimes/and set them all alight/ The only thing that held me to this place/ You took with you when you died/ So goodbye, goodbye’.

First Defeat by Noah Gunderson (yt | spotify)

This is partially added because Noah Gunderson is sorely underrated and I love this song, and partially because it makes me think of MiniMegs/MagsMegs in IDW. It’s a very sweet, very sad song that I think very much encapsulates the bittersweet nature of the ship for me - the fact that it’s kinda doomed from the start, but that they both care and pay attention to little things and this isn’t a fight they can win but they sure did fight it anyway - I’m gonna stop myself, before I ramble. I really like this song.

Kiss Me by Rob Vischer (yt | spotify)

Aight this one isn’t transformers, BUT I’m adding it anyway, because I’ve been listening to it daily for weeks now. It’s tied into an RP I’m doing for TLOU, and I feel the second verse in my bones every time I listen.

I am henceforth tagging @lovewithagirl @nevershootamockingbird @babblythings @eldritchcorvidae @eldritchjackalope @thetragicallynerdy @rubixpsyche @shakenbaeky @belasupremacy and @orionhong to also inflict your music taste on the world and share some recs if you wanna!!

[beiraswrath]

18 50 33

#18: Army Dreamers - Kate Bush. You listened to Army Dreamers because it went viral on tiktok. I looped Army Dreamers because my friend sent me a Thoschei edit with the song and said they reminded him of our ocs. We're not the same. (The edit was probably made because the song went viral on tiktok)

#50: The Devil You Know - X Ambassadors.

This one was on my writing playlist for a roleplay, top ten evil women who let you sleep in her bed and eat her food. (Also the OC that was mentioned previously) #33: Taking Whats Not Yours - TV Girl

Not from any writing/oc playlist this time! It's just a banger. YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND ME! I KNOW WHERE TO LOOK!

[craftpunky]

my top 5 songs ft. Hatsune Miku!

5. Matryoshka - 7/10, just because i hold grudges againsts songs with binaural sounds bc i tend to only use one headphone speaker at a time

4. Freely Tomorrow - 7.5/10, i put this one here mainly bc of the pre-chorus

3. Tawagoto Speaker - 8/10, i really love the instrumental. THANK GOD i dont relate to this song anymore

2. Patchwork Staccato - 9/10, amazing use of odd sounds, the ringtone-like sound, the thingy that sounds like some little gears turning, also the little coughs. idk it reminds me of my oc

AND NUMBER FUCKING ONE !!

MKDR - 10/10, im working w a ten out of ten scale here but i honestly think its so good it deserves a 100/10. everything about it is just perfect to me, well except for the binaural sound COUGH and the little break before the final chorus HOOOOLY SHITTTTTT its so good it makes me want to cry!!!!

[reidsaurora]

Part One: "In Doctors' Office Lighting" ~ S. Reid

Summary: After ten months of being away on cases, Spencer Reid is finally able to visit his mother. Upon arriving at the sanitarium, he meets the person who's been keeping her company while he's been away.

Pairing: Spencer Reid x Imogen Sterren (bipolar!OC)

Word Count: 2,536

Content Warning: takes place in a hospital, mentions of food, lmk if i missed anything!

Genre: mostly Fluff i'd say

Extra Notes: as i said the first time i posted this series, this is my first time writing a character with bipolar disorder so if it is in any way inaccurate, please let me know so i can make it better! i am in no way trying to glorify or glamorize having bipolar disorder!

Based On the Song: Soon You'll Get Better by Taylor Swift

Originally Written/Re-Written: 05/11/2022, 06/15/2022, and 11/03/2022

Beta Read By: @theghouligan and @reidsbookclub

Criminal Minds masterlist can be found here!

"Soon You'll Get Better" series masterlist can be found here!

"𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈 𝐬𝐚𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐰." - 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞

Spencer Reid gave himself one last glance over in the mirror, still deciding between leaving his cardigan buttoned or unbuttoned.

Huffing to himself lightly, he couldn’t help but think, "It's just Mom. There's no one to impress." He attempted to remind himself not to fret, still fidgeting with the fastenings of his favorite gray sweater.

He decided to leave the top two unbuttoned, showing off the white button-up shirt and pink tie—one his mom gifted him for Christmas—that lay underneath. He nervously exhaled one last time before exiting the bathroom and entering the main lobby of the Bennington Sanitarium for the fourth time that day.

"It’s just Mom, it’s just Mom," he kept reminding himself. Though, he had chickened out of finally greeting his mother three times already.

It wasn't that he was afraid of her disapproval of his company. If anything, he was afraid of the disappointment he'd feel when she inevitably brought up the fact that he hadn't visited in ten months. Since the day after Christmas, to be exact.

He stayed in the habit of sending her letters every single day, just like he had on the days leading up to Christmas. He'd even promised his mother in one of them that he was going to visit her in October, whenever he had some vacation time that was soon to expire.

He always loved visiting his mom during the fall. The trees vibrantly fading into orange, the perfect mixture of cold and warm weather, watching a Halloween movie in the entertainment room together. His favorite part was when he was allowed to accompany her for a stroll through the nearby park.

The park was next to the hospital and was opened specifically for the patients. Though nurses and guards were spread throughout the park for the patients' safety, for the most part, the park was there to provide a sense of normalcy for the Bennington residents.

Spencer always loved the days when he'd been granted permission to take his mother outside the hospital. He hated the way she looked in that dreaded doctors' office lighting: pale, sad, bored. It was like Diana Reid was a different person when she was basking in the rays of the October sun: her paranoia practically disappeared, color would suddenly flush back into her cheeks, and—Spencer's personal favorite part—she seemed hopeful.

As Spencer finally walked toward the help desk, he remembered why he was here: to see the hopeful version of his mother.

With every step he took toward his mother after consulting with the receptionist, he felt anticipation shoot through his body. Spencer had never been on a roller-coaster before, but he was sure his excitement was equal to, if not more than, waiting in the queue for the Tilt-A-Whirl.

However, that odd mix of anticipation and fear of disappointment quickly changed to apprehension when he noticed the woman sitting with his mother.

She was beautiful, even in that horrid hospital lighting. Spencer noted her perfect porcelain complexion, the perfect teal color of her eyes—in fact, upon Spencer's simple observation of the lady's presence, he thought everything was perfect about her.

The only thing that wasn't perfect about her was the fact that she was wearing the exact same Bennington pajamas as his mother.

He didn't care that she was a patient—in fact, he was glad this stranger was spending time with his mom when he couldn't. But, in Spencer's mind, there was a clear problem with finding his mother's fellow patient attractive.

He shook off his thoughts, reminding himself, "Mom. I'm here to see Mom."

After all, it wasn't like he could do anything about finding this stranger attractive. He lived in Washington D.C, while she lived in Las Vegas—2,423 miles away. Even in some form of this life where he'd have time to get to know her, it wasn't like he could just hop on a plane every weekend and come visit this woman and his mother.

He swallowed the last of his thoughts away and took the last few strides towards them. He took a moment to look the two of them over before saying anything. The pair were quietly chattering amongst themselves, each holding a copy of what appeared to be the same book.

Spencer wanted to comment on how beautiful the woman looked with her cappuccino-colored hair falling down over her face as she intently read the words on the page, but stopped himself for obvious reasons.

"Hi, Mom," he managed to get out once he'd finally walked around to face the couch they were sitting on.

"Spencer," Diana said, looking up from her book. "I forgot you were coming today."

Spencer gave her a small smile, unsure of what to say. He wanted to introduce himself to the lady beside Diana, but he knew the second he tried to speak to her, a big bowl of word salad was sure to fly out of his mouth.

"That tie looks nice on you," she told him. Spencer knew she'd said that as a way of conveying how much she loved the color pink.

"Thank you," he smiled. He took a moment to steal a quick glance at the girl beside Diana, though she was intently focused on the text in front of her.

"Imogen, this is Spencer," Diana took the opportunity to say.

"Oh, hi," the lady smiled up at Spencer, placing the bookmark in her book. Spencer noted her voice was quiet, meek. It was refreshing for him to hear a soft voice, unlike all those deep, business-type voices he heard at work every day.

"Hi," he grinned back, sitting down in the chair kitty-cornered to their sofa. "May I ask what the two of you were reading?" he inquired, nodding toward the copies of what he assumed was the same book in each of their laps.

"Pride and Prejudice," Diana was quick to answer.

"It's a bit modern for you, isn't it, Mom?" Spencer said with a joking inflection. His mom was a lover of all genres of literature, but nothing kept her quite as content as a book that predated the Early Modern Era.

"Well, it was Imogen's turn to pick the book of the month for our book club," she explained.

"We're on chapter 59, close to the end," Imogen said, still using the same soft tone from earlier.

Spencer swallowed nervously. He'd never had a pretty girl talk to him before, much less continue the conversation past greetings. He shook off his nerves, continuing on with the conversation. "Well, I promise I won't spoil the ending for you," he chuckled.

"You won't," Imogen giggled back, "I've already finished it three other times."

Quick to change the subject, seeing as he was afraid of awkward silence, Spencer asked, "Mom, would you like to go for a walk through the park today?"

"I'm supposed to be giving a lecture on Christine de Pizan later," she answered, seeming dead-set on her plans.

"Oh, well, don't about worry me, Miss Diana. I was the only one who signed up for that lecture anyway," Imogen mentioned.

Spencer wanted to ask her to join them for their walk. Even though he'd said a total of eleven words directly to her, he felt like he could talk to her all day if she'd let him.

"What am I doing? She's one of Mom's fellow patients," he scolded himself.

Just then, Imogen spoke up once more. "I have an idea. I could come for a walk with you guys," she suggested, "You could tell me all about Christine de Pizan then."

Spencer couldn't lie. He felt a wave of excitement come over his stomach when Imogen said this.

"Are you sure?" Spencer blurted out. "I can take my mom for a walk tomorrow if you guys want to wait. I understand how much Mom's lectures mean to her," he rambled. "Stop rambling, Spencer," he thought to himself.

"I'm sure. I'd actually really like to go for a walk," Imogen answered. "If that's OK with you, Diana."

Diana simply nodded in response, noticing how dead-set the two seemed on going for a walk together. She finally stood, giving Spencer a short hug.

Neither Diana nor Spencer were physical touch fanatics, but Diana always made it a point to give Spencer a hello and goodbye hug. Even in her state, she understood the importance of hugging Spencer one last time when he visited.

"Would you like to go now?" Spencer asked as she let go.

Again, she silently nodded, walking toward the front desk, ready for Spencer to sign her out of the hospital for the afternoon.

Soon enough, the three had made their way over to the park, basking in the sunlight of a Las Vegas afternoon.

"Isn't the sunlight nice, Mom?" Spencer asked, attempting to make small talk with Diana, who was currently enjoying the view of the trees from her wheelchair.

"I wish I got to see it more often," she commented. Spencer was unsure if he should've taken this as an insult for not visiting, but alas, he took it as an insult anyway.

Spencer didn't say anything in response. He just kept walking and admiring the sea of orange trees in front of them.

"Spencer, I need to use the bathroom," Diana blurted out as they continued down the trail.

Spencer internally chuckled at his mom's straightforwardness, but obliged, seeing as they were near the bathrooms.

Spencer passed his mom off to one of the nurses, continuing to walk beside Imogen.

"Do you get to come here often? Take walks with your family too?" he asked, attempting to make small talk.

"No, actually. I usually just come on supervised walks with Diana in the afternoons," she explained. "I'm not really sure if any of my family knows I'm here."

He looked at her with a puzzled look, his eyebrows furrowed.

"Voluntary," she confessed with an awkward smile.

"Oh," Spencer replied shyly, unsure what to say next. He found himself drawn to the question of why she'd been admitted, but he didn't want to seem insensitive, so he held his tongue.

"You know, Diana talks about you a lot," Imogen mentioned, changing the subject.

"Really?"

"Yeah," she giggled, "She says you're off saving the world, catching bad guys."

Spencer chuckled. "Well, it's not so much catching bad guys as it is catching up on paperwork," he joked.

"Is that all it is? Paperwork?"

"Oh, far from it," he laughed. "There's just a lot more paperwork involved than I thought there would be."

"You know, I always wanted to be an undercover spy when I was a kid," Imogen admitted.

"Huh. That's cool."

"Yeah. I always thought it would be cool to have an epic alias," she giggled. "Although, I guess having bipolar is kind of like having two aliases sometimes," she mentioned.

Spencer was quick to change the subject, seeing as he could tell she felt uncomfortable confessing that to a stranger. "So, how long have you been attending Mom's lectures?" he chuckled.

"About two months. She sort of took me under her wing when I got here," she explained.

Spencer smiled. He always knew how much his mother secretly wished she could've had a daughter, too. "Mom always has been an excellent teacher," he mentioned. "She always made me sit next to her in bed when she was going through a rough patch. She'd read through a novel a day on the days she was able to stay awake for a long time."

Spencer felt his cheeks turn red when he realized he was rambling again. "You didn't ask," he chuckled awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck.

"No, it's alright. I like having someone here who's my age. It keeps me young. Especially when you consider that your mom is my best friend," Imogen confessed, immediately feeling embarrassed herself. "You didn't ask either."

"Dr. Reid!" a nurse called from the bathroom area as she wheeled Diana down the walkway.

"Doctor," Imogen noted. "So, he's smart and he saves lives," she laughed.

Spencer could listen to her laugh all day if she'd let him. Her laugh was as sweet as honeysuckle, as comforting as your favorite childhood blanket, and as beautiful as a beachfront view.

He couldn't find any words to say, something he'd noticed himself doing a lot that day. Instead, he just sprinted over to his mother, ready to finish their afternoon walk.

A few hours passed by, hours filled with contemplations racing through Spencer's mind. He tried to focus on his mom, which he was somewhat successful in doing, but every so often, he thought back to how kind, how gentle his new friend was.

Once Diana and Spencer had finished dinner (which happened to be from Spencer and Diana's favorite restaurant that he happily obliged to drive across the city for), the two found themselves lounging around in the rec room, sleepily watching It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

"You know, you loved all the Charlie Brown movies as a kid, but this one was always your favorite," Diana smiled up at him.

Diana lay stretched across the couch, her feet propped up on Spencer's lap, while Spencer sat up straight with his legs propped up on the coffee table in front of him.

Spencer recalled a memory from his childhood, extremely similar to the current situation. She lay across the couch, nearly asleep, while he sat at the end, intently focused on his favorite childhood movie, Babar.

"I guess I've just always loved Halloween," he mentioned, a small smile playing on his lips. "You know, Imogen kind of reminds me of Sally, in a way."

He didn't know how he'd let that slip, and immediately regretted saying it. Was he really still thinking about her?

"Yes, I could see that," Diana replied back, keeping her attention on the movie in front of her.

"She seems loyal to her friends. Loyal to you too, Mom."

"Yes. She is one of the kindest friends I have here," Diana commented.

"You know, I wonder if she'd like this movie," Spencer said, not having taken his eyes away from the TV.

Diana sat up, scooting close to Spencer. She ran a hand through his hair, giving him a knowing smile.

Spencer knew what that face meant. "What?" he asked, attempting to play it off.

"Spencer, I know what's happening in that big brain of yours."

"I don't know what you're talking about," he insisted.

"If you wanted Imogen to join us, all you had to do was ask," she said with a smile.

He panicked, stuttering some form of words that tried to imply this was all a misunderstanding.

"A mother knows, Spencer."

Spencer shook his head with an awkward laugh, in disbelief that he was acting this way. "No, Mom, it's not like that," he pressed.

"Suit yourself," she shrugged, returning to her previous position.

Spencer grinned at the sight of his mom, who fell asleep almost immediately after lying back down. He continued to watch the movie, soon dozing off himself, dreaming of a day where he wouldn't have to see Diana, or Imogen, in that drab, doctors' office lighting.

"𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬." - 𝐒𝐮𝐳𝐲 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦

GUYS!!! I can't believe it's out!!

I am so so so excited to share the rewrite of SYGB with y'all. I've been holding on to this idea of a rewrite for a little while and I am so excited that it's finally time to share it with you guys.

For those of you who read the original, I know it's not completely the same, since it was originally a Reader Insert, but I have a feeling you guys are gonna fall in love with Imogen over time. I love her so much and I hope you guys will as well.

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[whiteravengreywolf]

Angels Like You Can’t Fly Down Here - an Avatrice fanfiction (in Space)

Hey everyone! Here’s an extract from the first part of my new fic, where Ava is a pilot/smuggler taking a job for the OCS. It’s all very angsty (but with a happy ending). If you enjoy the link to the full story is at the end!

There was a time when Ava used to like this song. That was the reason why she had thought it would be a good idea to set it as her alarm. Now, she hated that song. It blared in every room of her small ship, much louder than it had any reason to be. Her head was pounding with the base. She opened her eyes a crack and found far too much light on the other side. She forced them shut once more.

“Michael,” she mumbled, but it sounded like a shout to her. “Michael, turn it off.”

“I'm sorry, Ava, I'm afraid I can't do that,” the ship's AI answered. “You told me to keep playing your alarm until you were awake, and to wake you before ten.”

“What time is it?” she asked, her dried tongue struggling with every word.

“9:59.”

She let out a sound, half a sigh of resignation and half a groan of pain, and sat up, her eyes still partially closed.

“Alright, I'm awake. I'm awake. You can turn that shit off.”

Finally, blessedly, the music came to a stop. Ava rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. She had slept on the leather booth in the tiny space she used as a living room, both legs and one arm hanging off the side. Her shoulder was killing her, but the pain was nothing compared to her massive headache. As she sat, she realized her belt had been undone, but not much else. Had she brought anyone home the night before? Were they still here?

“What happened last time?” she asked as she scooted out of the booth, stretching her right shoulder.

“You brought a woman back with you then promptly fell asleep in the living room,” Michael explained. “She left soon after.”

Ava groaned.

“Did she steal anything?”

“She did not.”

Well, at least that was something less to worry about. Ava took off her leather jacket – she needed to stop sleeping in that jacket, it made her sweat what little water she had left in her body – and threw it on top of the pile of stuff already on the small, circular table.

“I need a shower. And breakfast.”

“I suggest a cream cheese bagel this morning.”

“Again?”

“That is the only thing you have in your kitchen. You forgot to go grocery shopping again yesterday.”

Ava wished she could blame the AI for not reminding her sooner, but she knew Michael had reminded her every morning before she left the ship for at least three days now. She could only blame herself on this one.

She took a too long, too warm shower, letting the previous night run down the drain. She should drink less, she knew, but it was difficult when the best place to find work was a bar. She could order non-alcoholic beverages, sure, but who would want to hire a smuggler who couldn't hold their liquor? She had a reputation to maintain.

 She came out feeling better and even more dehydrated than before. Once dressed in clean clothes – a rare commodity on this ship, because she had forgotten to do the laundry again – she went into the kitchen to get the biggest glass of water she could find, and spread whatever cream cheese she had left on half a bagel. She would kill for some takeout, but until she'd scored another job, she had to be careful with her money, and she was slowly accumulating a tab at the bar that would need taken care of.

She chewed her bagel without thinking about it, her mind a thousand years away. She wasn't disappointed that the woman had gone last night before anything could have happened. She was somewhat glad. She knew what her drunk self had been trying to do. She was trying to forget Helen.

Helen wasn't her real name, Ava knew. She hadn't given her real name either. When the tall, beautiful young woman had introduced herself at the bar, and given the name Helen, Ava had decided to play along, and had introduced herself as Ariadne. Helen had seemed distracted at first, glancing about the bar, but as the night progressed, they had gotten along well. Ava had convinced her to go back to her ship. Helen had seemed nervous, but she had come along anyway. One thing had led to another, and they had slept together. When Ava had woken up in the morning, Helen had been gone.

Full story here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/44800671/chapters/112718467

[standardizedbogey]

Cyrus 1, 2, 9, 12, 15, 16, 19?

Meme is here

1- Favourites thing(s) about this character?

Someone (I would link but I don’t remember who) had said that Cyrus is hilarious in meta, terrifying in reality, and deeply sad in backstory. And that’s basically my favorite combination for a blorbo. He’s really easy and fun to write because of it.

2- What song(s) remind you of this character?

I Melt with You -Modern English (the official anthem of Galactic)

On a side note, At the Ballet from A Chorus Line is the commanders (in order: Saturn, Jupiter, Mars) talking about why they joined up. Kinda literally but mostly just in vibes.

9- What’s your favourite headcanon(s) for this character?

His relationship with Saturn is as close and deep as he ever managed with another person. That closeness is unsettling for Cyrus, which is why he lies to Saturn more than anyone else.

12- Have you read any fics about this character? (if it’s not an OC)? Can you recommend anything good?

There are plenty, but I have two off the top of my head.

Ten Years Differant by annasofroma 

It’s a really interesting post game fic, and their descriptions of the distortion world and the after-effects on Cyrus are great. Also the poly relationship that develops is adorable.

it is a natural urge, right? by anonymous 

Fantastic (if NSFW) character study

15- Favourite line of theirs?

"...The shadowy Pokémon isn't here. It abandoned me here, then disappeared somewhere farther down... Was it content to merely interfere with my plan...? Incidentally, do you understand the concept of genes?"

Gets effectively pulled down to hell and his immediate reaction is to infodump. Immaculate.

16- What do you think would improve this character? Like, character-arc wise?

It actually kind of drives me crazy how the franchise just keeps dropping characters off at the beginning of their arc instead of seeing what’s next. Cyrus has been hinted to be capable of growth, if not redemption, on multiple occasions. But that’s always where it stops and I would like for once to see what comes next for him rather than the same plan but slightly to the left this time.

Also give the man a Rotom already.

19- What would the show/book/movie be like if this character wasn’t present? (if it’s not an OC)

Mostly comparing him to the RR lineup, I think he’s a really good contrast to the other villains that would make things too samey if he wasn't around. There’s just so much enthusiasm, hands-on effort, and maniacal laughter among the others.

Then you get to this guy who does basically nothing but threaten an old lady and give one speech (in platinum only. He does jack all towards his goals in diamond and pearl). Presumably, he spends most of his games taking depression naps while his commanders do all the work.

It's diversity lol

[jj-babebank]

Camp Willowdale / JJ Maybank AU / PART 5

Synopsis: Camp Willowdale is buzzing with new campers. It’s Caroline Windsor’s first year as a camp counsellor after attending the camp as a camper for ten years. Little does she know that this year Willowdale Lake is going to be a little different from what she is used to it being… Warnings: future chapters may include curse words, mentions of drugs, mentions of alcohol, mentions of sexual activities, mentions of death. Pairings: JJ Maybank x fem OC Part 1 ; Part 2 ; Part 3 ; Part 4 Masterlist

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

Part 5 -

53 days of camp left

The first day at Camp Willowdale was usually pretty straightforward – campers arrive, sign in, move into their designated cabins where they meet their counselors, then all gather in the Wildcat Lodge to get their schedules, maps, badges and compasses. Ever since Pricilla’s daughter left her, she ditched the idea of having a stable with horses at camp (saying it reminded her way too much of Wendy, and also cost a lot of money to maintain), and settled for scavenger hunts in full scout mode in the forest, hence the compasses and badges. Every camper was given a first badge for participation and would get the chance to earn new badges to add to their collection during their nine week stay. Pricilla made sure that there was a badge for literally everything – from successfully starting a fire to throwing out the trash. She liked to do this to make all the campers feel included and special, which on its own sounded like a wonderful thing, however her actual motives were selfish – happy kids meant happy parents, and happy parents meant money. She also liked to turn everything into a competition, so she established a scoring system that nobody but her understood, where she’d award or deduct points from different groups and the group with the most points at the end of the summer will be crowned conquerors of the camp at a made up end-of-summer event Pricilla named the “Camp Will-all-hail banquet”. Caroline always found the name to be extremely tacky, but much like mostly everything that Pricilla put her finger onto, it wasn’t surprising.

JJ and Caroline had gotten assigned to Teens 2. Unsurprisingly, everyone in their group was almost their age, which seemed like somewhat of a recipe for disaster, as Caroline feared that this could result in the teens refusing to follow orders from someone who is basically their age. She was pleasantly surprised to find out that their group of teens was actually quite well-mannered and well-behaved. John B and Sarah’s teens, however, were a whole different story.

“You sure you got T2 and not T1?” panted Sarah after finally sitting down at the counselors table beside Caroline for dinner.

Caroline smirked, “Positive,” she confirmed, not being able to hide her amusement at the sight of an already tired Sarah, “Why’d you ask?”

“Oh, no reason,” said Sarah sarcastically, “Well, besides all the girls, and I’m pretty sure one of the boys, having a massive thing for John B, and them all quite literally being the spawns of Satan, hm… no reason,”

Caroline laughed at Sarah’s words, looking over at the table where her group and Sarah’s were seated at. Two of the T1 girls were giggling while telling a story, while everyone else’s attention was on them. Caroline came to the conclusion that they would be the It Girls at this year’s camp, bossing everyone around. She couldn’t help but laugh at the irony that it was Sarah who got these two as they were literally mini versions of her.

“Heard my name being called,” John B slid onto the bench across the table from the girls. Now that everyone had been sorted, the Wildcat Lodge seating area had been rearranged so that the groups would be sat together according to their ages, and the counselors would be sat together according to their groups. The head staff had their own table at the very foot of the podium, right next to where the food was, conveniently.

JJ was quick to join their group at their respective table, “What’d I miss?”

“Oh, nothing,” Caroline said nonchalantly, “Just Sarah being jealous over her girls liking John B, no biggie,” Sarah kicked her under the table, earning an, “Ow!”

John B’s eyes immediately shot up, that familiar twinkle of excitement swimming through his honey orbs, “Jealous?”

“As if,” barked Sarah, squinting her eyes at him threateningly.

“We’ll see about that, baby cakes,” John B winked, diving into his dinner.

“So,” said JJ, lowering his voice in case any of the neighboring tables were listening, “What’s the plan, guys?”

Caroline shook her head, “I don’t even know where we could start, I mean, the only clue we’ve got so far is that message we had to scrub off the rock this morning before the campers arrived…”

John B thought for a second, “Hey, wasn’t Topper paired up with her?” he said suddenly.

Caroline’s eyes widened in realization, “John B, you’re a genius!” she said, earning a proud smile from the boy, “Last night at the counting, Topper said something about feeling guilty for not offering her his jacket!” the four of them turned to look towards Topper’s table. He was sitting quietly, barely poking at his food, while the rest of his fellow counselors were having an animated conversation around him. Caroline turned back towards her friends, “Chances are he was the one who saw her last!”

“Yeah, and judging by the look of his face, he doesn’t seem too excited about it,” remarked JJ.

“Can you blame him? I’d be pissed if I was paired with Madison, too,” muttered Sarah, scrunching her nose at the leafy salad in her plate.

“Tonight at the bonfire,” said Caroline, “Sarah’s going to offer him some help with his girls, seeing as he’s dealing with all of his kids alone,”

“Hey, why me?” Sarah frowned at the plan.

“Because you’re the one who had a massive crush on him back in the day,” Caroline whispered in Sarah’s ear, resulting in Sarah kicking her under the table again. Caroline bit back a groan as she smiled forcefully, looking at the two boys in front of her, “Okay, well, sounds like we’ve got a plan.”

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

After handing out the songbooks and marshmallows to all of their teens, Caroline, JJ, Sarah and John B took a seat at their designated log next to their groups, which had somehow bonded during dinner and were all laughing together.

“Alright, settle down kids!” Pricilla said, causing everyone’s chatter to die down, “As you have already been informed, it is a Willowdale tradition to perform our very own rendition of Bomfiara every morning and night until the end of camp. The songbooks you’ve been kindly given by your counselors contain the lyrics to all of the camp songs we’re going to be singing this summer, but I’m sure that by the end of it you won’t be needing the books anymore,” Pricilla fake-laughed at her own joke while everyone just started at her blankly, “Okay, well, let’s sing!” she gave the tone and everyone started signing.

“This is so lame,” said one of the girls Caroline proclaimed as “It Girls” earlier that evening, “We’re too old for this BS,”

“You got that right,” mumbled Sarah.

“Oh, come on, I love it, it used to be our favorite tradition!” whined John B.

The two girls squealed and started pinching each other, immediately opening their songbooks and joining in on the singing, making intense eye contact with John B with their best seductive looks. Sarah rolled her eyes at the scene.

“See?” she whispered to Caroline, “This is what I meant!”

Caroline smirked at the blonde girl, “Am I sensing… jealousy?”

Sarah scoffed at the remark, “Pf, yeah right,” she said defensively, “I’m just annoyed that they’re only listening to what he’s saying and we’re supposed to be counselors together.”

Caroline nodded slowly, pretending to be buying the story, “Yeah, sure,” she turned to look at Topper, who regardless of the fact that he was surrounded by his group and fellow counselors, still seemed down, the camp fire illuminating his distant face, “Speaking of together, when do you wanna go talk to Topper?”

Sarah followed Caroline’s gaze towards the boy, “Once this stupid song is over,”

Caroline nodded and both girls turned towards their group again, where the It Girls were still making sexy eyes at John B, who seemed totally clueless to their approach as he was belting the lyrics of the much familiar song out loud, waving JJ’s hands every so often.

Once the song was over and everyone got back to their regular chitchat, Sarah stood up and straightened her shorts and camp sweatshirt as she made her way towards Topper.

“Hey, Top, this seat taken?” she said, referring to the empty spot on the log next to him where Madison was supposed to be sat.

Topper looked at Sarah as if she’d just said a distasteful joke, “Hey, Sarah…” he muttered, “Obviously not,”

“Awesome!” Sarah smiled widely, plopping down next to the boy.

“So,” Topper started awkwardly, “What brings you here?”

“Saw you from across the pit,” she explained directly, “Couldn’t help but notice that you seem lonely,”

“Yeah, well,” Topper looked at her with a look of disapproval once again, “I sort of am,”

Sarah pretended to only just realize what he was talking about, “Riiight… So, about that,” she chirped again, “Last night you said something about a jacket?”

Topper sighed, “Yeah, Madison said she was cold when we were in our cabin and instead of offering her my jacket, I sort of felt… relieved that she was going to leave me for a second to go grab hers. I should’ve known that something was wrong when she was gone for over 10 minutes, instead I just laughed around with Kelce and the boys and then we heard the scream…”

Sarah rolled her eyes, “Oh, please, you’re not blaming yourself for it, are you?”

“I mean, I kinda am,” Topper confessed, “If I wasn’t too caught up in being annoyed that I’d been paired up with her, I’d have just given her my jacket or followed her to your cabin to get hers and none of this would’ve happened,”

Sarah tried putting on her best apologetic smile as she reached for Topper’s hand, taking him by surprise, “Look, Top, I hate Madison just as much as the next person, but I hardly think any of this was your fault. She probably just used the jacket as an excuse to ditch and got excited to see her rookie boyfriend, hence the scream,”

Topper frowned, “Don’t tell me you actually believe all that?”

Sarah shrugged, “I mean, she was a drama queen,”

Topper pulled his hands away from Sarah’s, shaking his head, “Just go, Sarah,”

Sarah looked over towards her friends across the fire pit who were all staring at her in anticipation, as she shrugged her shoulders and mouthed them a, “Sorry, I tried,” making her way back to where they were seated.

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

A/N: Camp has finally officially begun and so has the search for truth ~~ As always, let me know what you think, I hope you are enjoying the story so far, I'm super excited to be writing this xxx

tags: @k-k0129 ; @hayleyy-l ; @marvellover04

Part 6 here

[aymayzing]

34 & 38 for Lys, Brenan, and Imisława 🕺✨

Thank you! And sorry it took me so long to answer, I had to search all of my OC playlist for the quotes haha

Here are the questions

34. Do they have any guilty pleasures? How guilty do they feel about it?

Lys - he is so caught up with his inquisitorial duties that he barely has anytime for himself. His guilty pleasure during his time in Skyhold is tending to the garden - he likes plants and is very good with them. Every now and then he'll wake up early to run down to the garden. He does feel guilty about it. He feels as if he needs to be on top of his duties at all times, push back his own needs in order to save the world. Using the time he has on plants instead of correspondence with monarchs seems silly and wasteful. Thankfully his friends (and the occasional panic attack) are there to remind him that he needs a break every now and then

Imisława - my Red Hawke, very down to business, always ready to throw hands and get dirty. No one suspects every week she and her mother and sister put on nice dresses and have a lovely calm teaparty where they gossip about their friends and neighbors. Later on they start throwing those for their friends and neighbors and other members of Kirkwall elites but they still have the small private party of their own on another day. I don't think she'd feel very guilty about it, if anything, she'd dread her friends catching her in a fine dress when they are used to seeing her in a dirty armor

Bren - oh, he has a bunch and he doesn't feel guilty AT ALL. He is my purplest purple Hawke. He gets drunk at the Hanged Man, eats both fancy foods and the simplest, most grey looking Fereldan dishes, he sleeps around, he reads Varric's stupid novels. Anything to entertain himself (and take his mind off of the stuff ha has to deal with but shhh)

38. Find one quote from a book, a song, or a piece of media that would make them feel at peace.

Lys - You are the light that is blinding me

You're the anchor that I tie to my brain

'Cause when it feels like I'm lost at sea

You're the song I sing again and again

All the time, all the time

I think of you all the time

- The Anchor by Bastille

Imisława - Tylko ten człowiek wart nazwy człowieka, który ma pewne przekonania i potrafi je bez względu na skutki wyznawać czynem.

(Only this man is worthy of the name of a man who has certain beliefs and is able to profess them with deeds, regardless of the consequences.)

- Józef Piłsudski which I guess isn't technically from a book but I am sure someone put it in one of his biographies, so we'll let it slide

Bren - Oh, you think I'm unfit

Little did you know that I was cut for it

No glass slipper will ever fit

'Cause I could never see a diamond in it

- The Family Jewels by Marina

[helenazbmrskai]

Not Alone

Title Not Alone

Pairing Yoongi x OC

Summary University is kicking your ass so you always make sure to dedicate a day for yourself and take time to pamper your body and soul. However, you’re cautious around Yoongi your roommate and double-check the d-day to prevent accidents. You're not a fan of revealing any skin because of your insecurities but it’s just happening to be the day when you are - not so alone.

Genre university au, roommate au, romance and fluff, smut

Warning(s) smut (body worshipping, oral (f receiving), penetrative sex, messy sex, first time, virgin reader, dirty talk, vanilla sex, yoongi has a virgin kink but not explicitly mentioned) implication of insecure reader, shy and curvy reader

Word count: 9k

Masterlist

This universe is related to my other fic I wrote recently ’one time boy space friend’ you can read that one here.

Washing the excess shaving cream off of my hand I grab my phone I previously placed on the toilet’s folded lid lightly humming the outline of the song currently playing. The new playlist Yoongi recommended is full of bangers as always I have no doubt his fate was eventually to end up as a music major. I take a glance at my reflection when I was able to secure the new position for my phone on the laundry basket with the top slightly open reminding me that I need to do laundry if I want to have clothes to wear.

I take a glance at my reflection removing the fog that made the lines of my face blurry with a towel hanging next to the sink on a hook realising later that I used Yoongi’s looking back at the sheepish smile that greets me in the mirror I placed the fabric back hoping that Yoongi won’t mind.

An unknown rap song’s first beats suddenly interrupted by an incoming call that the familiar piano version of my favourite song signalled. I smile seeing the callers ID, placing the toner back to its dust-filled spot next to Yoongi’s shaving cream I make sure to use the right towel this time to dry my hands with before swiping right on the call.

”Hey, What’s the matter?” I answer it with a huge grin plastered on my face making my cheeks ride up into a chipmunk-like smile.

Our class was cancelled at the last minute so I wasn’t expecting a call from her she told me while we were waiting for the instructor to arrive that she has plans with his boyfriend Jimin. Only having calculus that day after an exchanged heated curses for our lazy professor for not e-mailing about the reschedule I happily took a sweet nap and made an easy breakfast I normally don’t have time to consume or even make in the morning I was able to get my relaxing time to start earlier so it meant more time for me since Yoongi supposedly took the afternoon shift.

This piece of information I remembered while chewing on my sandwich as I thanked the gods that I overheard his conversation about the shift change last night when I went to get my late-night snack but seeing the date expired on the comfort food I had to engage in a yoghurt instead.

”Y/N. Are you home?” She asked matching my good mood in the background I heard clinking noises of a pan she must be cooking. I insert my head through the large black t-shirt’s hole as I started to freeze standing here only in my undergarments the effect of the hot shower faded leaving me in the significantly colder bathroom.

”Of course. I started my pamper routine. I cannot tell you how good it feels to be hairless. If only my hair would grow this fast.” She chuckles hearing my banter the faint sounds of crepitation usually the hot oil makes overpowering her giggle for a few seconds. I remember the sandwich I ate this morning around ten-ish that did not prove to be enough. I get sidetracked with what should I make for lunch.

”Oh, so Yoongi is working?” Knowing about my only one rule regarding this d-day I like to call it is that no man should be around when I’m wearing this revealing clothing. He only saw me wearing jeans and yoga pants before these jelly-like legs cannot make a debut in front of eyes outside of mine.

”Yep.” I confirm. I take a look at the time I still have lots of time to relax before I should start that assignment I postponed.

I have everything planned out since Yoongi usually comes home from work in a grumpy state he likes to shower first and then he retreats into his room to do his assignments and sometimes he writes a song or the song even could be the assignment itself I honestly don’t know how’s everyday life as a music major. Yoongi is not exactly the talkative type.

My silent activity is helping his concentration and the best thing is that I have the apartment by myself to do what I please and leave the comfort of my room wearing what I please without worrying.

The best would be if I could rent out my own apartment but I know I wouldn’t be able to pay it by myself and the fact that Yoongi and I share the expenses of the bill makes things so much more easier.

”Why did you call though? I’m sure it’s not because you already miss me.” Tired of holding the phone up I place it back where it was before leaving the call on speakers so I can rub the cocoa scented lotion into the skin on my legs.

”Right. I almost forgot. Jin taught you that Mexican dish that I don’t know how to pronounce its name, right?” Her voice fades a little mid-sentence probably changed ears hearing the cooking noises seeping through the background she seemed very busy.

”What about it?” I question closing the lid of the lotion after I rub the remaining cream on my hand onto my neck so nothing goes to waste.

”I need the recipe.” She demands. I laugh how desperate she sounds through the phone. I make my way out of the bathroom I need my notebook since I didn’t memorise the dish I only made it once and as it was previously stated with the help of Jin.

”Hold on I don’t remember where I left the notes.” I arrive at the kitchen area placing the phone on the counter I begin rummaging through the drawers bending down to peek at the content of each. Spoons and forks. The second one where Yoongi placed the aprons and towels my notebook must be in the last one. ”So, what are the plans for today?” I ask while still searching for the black shiny cover of my notebook.

”Well, I wanted to cook something Italian since Jimin told me once he wanted to try it out but a crucial ingredient is missing so I thought about making that one you told me about a few weeks ago at Jin’s birthday party. After I’m finally done with this shit I’m going to sneak into his room to give him the blowjob of his life while he’s playing some shit games boys do and tell him lunch is ready.” The huge breath she took before starting the word vomiting makes me praise her lung capacity.

Finally. The book was under the aprons what a hassle. I straighten up turning the pages when I hear the front door opening and shut soon after. I turn to see the face of the intruder as I’m still standing in the middle of the kitchen with my hair evidently wet from the shower I took earlier only in my panties and a huge ass shirt to cover myself with.

Yoongi drops his coffee-stained shirt by the foot of the couch the angle is letting me see the living room area without a problem but he can’t clearly see the kitchen from there but my relief is not long-lasting as my friend decides to choose that moment to speak drawing Yoongi’s attention to where I’m standing.

”Y/N are you still there? Shit. I burnt my finger.” Grabbing the phone off the counter I switch off the speaker option and push the device against my ear.

”Yeah, um, I’ll send you the recipe via message. Good luck. Bye.” I aggressively push the red phone button at the bottom left side of the screen until the call ends. Hearing my voice Yoongi walks through the door separating the living room and the kitchen to halt his steps when he takes the image in.

It’s not one of those best times to ponder over how good looking he’s after finishing work and how he always smells like freshly brewed coffee which is not a surprise knowing the fact that he works at a coffee shop near our rented place.

He doesn’t wear the shirt uniform it must be the one he got rid of because of the stains today he wears a simple white t-shirt with washed-out blue jeans. Focusing on his face again I see that his eyes no longer studying my face instead his gaze dipped lower and I swear he's not so subtle about ogling at my exposed legs. My legs!

”You’re … early.” I talk first considering my options. A, I can still make a run for it but the damage is already done. He saw me. Or B, I can try to make small talk pretending that nothing is embarrassing at all just to later enter my room and dig a hole with all of my self-pity and scream into my pillow.

”Um, there was a shift change but I finished 2 hours early in return.” He explains this time his gaze was on my face the entire time no more strayed glimpses. Fuck. I should have paid attention to the whole conversation. ”Don’t you .. have class normally this time around?” He trails off a faint trace of blush appears on his porcelain skin. I use the notebook to hide my panty line that peeks out of the shirt.

”Class cancelled.” I’m horrified how my voice sounds so high pitched the embarrassment paints my cheeks bright red. ”Um, I have something to do in my room so I’ll be there.” I use the lame excuse to escape from Yoongi when I close the door behind me I close my eyes as well because of the extreme humiliation I had to go through.

My phone buzzes in hand I suddenly remember the recipe I promised. I write a quick message to her attaching the picture of the ingredients and notes to help her with the preparations. Now since I’m done with the responsibilities I can swim in my tears for the time being.

I can’t believe after months of caution fate decided to take away from me the deserved me time days. Yoongi is probably weirded out by me too I don’t know how to look him in the eye from now on and it’s a serious problem. For lords heaven, we live together! There’s no way I can avoid him without being obvious about it.

I mean maybe I’m just overreacting. It’s Yoongi we are talking about. He most of the time doesn’t give a flying fuck about anything he certainly won’t mention it and for obvious reasons I won’t either so I can just leave things like that. Just acting as usual like he didn’t saw my legs and my black underwear not to mention he is the very first one to see it I mean outside of my family of course. He’s a boy. No. A man. And he saw me underdressed like that.

It’s okay Y/N, let’s see the bright side at least he saw me when I was shaved. Well, that doesn’t help. Not at all.

”Shit. I’m hungry.”

I waited an hour and forty minutes to be exact despite the rumble of my stomach I sat down to start the book one of my friends lent me to read and I’m over a quarter of the pages when I decided enough is enough.

I waited long enough so he must be cooped up in his room slash studio for the rest of the day. But to be extra cautious I peeked out before fully leaving the safety of my room. I stop once I step into the corridor listening for any noises that might indicate Yoongi has indeed occupied his nest the soft sounds of the synthesizer helps me to relax I leisurely make my way then in the direction of the kitchen.

As I flip the switch the room is enveloped in light. My favourite mug is sitting on top of the counter even though I don’t remember leaving it there. I walk to take a closer look the mug is filled with coffee it’s in a light brown colour so it must a latte. It smells like latte indeed.

My favourite drink. There’s a note glued to the bottom of the mug it’s a messy handwriting and I don’t have to guess to know to whom this belongs to. How did he know my favourite coffee order?

”Sorry for startling you earlier. - myg”

The simple worded note even had his initials at the end. Realising that I never tried out his coffee made me curious about the taste. He works as a barista so It cannot be bad. I’m always late for class so I never had the chance before going into the shop when he’s on duty and order a drink from him.

Most of the time I’m saving on it and just use the shared coffee machine. Don’t blame me I’m just a broke university student.

But if I drink this I won’t be able to sleep it’s pretty late. Fuck it. I’m going to drink it. Not that the unholy time for coffee consumption deterred me before and picked up on some of Yoongi’s personal characteristics I think I can confidently say he doesn’t care either.

I bite into my lip while carefully straightening the lines out on the sticky note. After I was convinced the note won’t come off of his door I leave to go to bed.

”Thanks for the coffee. I liked it. – Y/N.”

***

”Can you guys stop shovelling food into your mouths for a millisecond. I’m serious!” Hitting the table for further emphasis.

Rori and F/N digging through a pile of food before our morning class is something I got used to first as I befriended them and it doesn’t bother me any other time but I wanted some serious advice for once and they don’t even stop digging to say well that’s was awkward. Or shit that sucks.

Not that I don’t know that without them telling me. I appreciated the note and the subtle apology he didn’t phrase it like hey dummy I’m sorry for seeing your sausage legs my bad. Also, it would be unlikely, too wordy for him he’s tight-lipped even in messages. I don’t remember he ever told me like a two full sentence in one go.

”Serious for what Y/N? He saw your underwear and legs. Tell us if you display your boobs or something. Now, I would be interested.” Rolling my eyes at the sarcastic remark I steal one of her favourite apple pie sticks for good measures.

”Hey! I was going to eat that.” She pouts but I take another big bite out of it. It’s too sweet for my liking but everything for the even sweeter revenge. If there’s one thing I learned about these two throughout the years of knowing them is that they take their food very seriously. ”Look. We love you, that’s why I’m going to tell you this. It’s not a big deal.” She pats my cheek before picking up her fork again.

”So what happened F/N. Did you gave Jimin the blowjob of his life?” I used a quote mark at the end of the sentence just how she phrased it yesterday. Rori is more interested in that, of course, there’s nothing more important than sex.

”Let me say the food was cold once we were finished.” She chuckled bashfully. Do I have the right set of friends? Maybe I should be pickier about who I call as a friend.

”So he’s big?” Rori asked with a smirk and I almost spitted out the diet coke onto the dining table. We are in a fucking coffee shop for god damn good. Thankfully not the one Yoongi works for but I think he has morning class so he won’t be working either way.

”Please don’t go into details.” I plea and Rori presents me with a devilish grin while picking the chicken breasts out of my salad.

”It’s fine Y/N. I was a virgin too before Jimin. Your time will come, not that it’s a choice.” F/N tries to console me.

”It’s a choice just not mine.” I murmur it under my nose stabbing my salad with the fork before chewing on it without the meat it’s quite sour.

”Yeah. It’s because you and F/N are both have big sticks up your asses.” Used to her blunt remarks I’m not even hurt or surprised for that matter. The busy cafe drowns out the voices of their inappropriate talk at least.

”It’s not our fault that you fuck every man with a pulse.” F/N retorts back with a giggle satisfied with the remark we exchange high fives.

”How do you know it’s a requirement?” Rori lifts one of her brows making us do gagging motions.

”Ugh, That’s disgusting.” I abandon the food on my plate that was a bit too much and we are in the middle of breakfast.

”A person cannot even joke here? I wasn’t serious. Duh.” I should really search for those new friends.

”That’s something I can believe.” The insult wasn’t even spoken out too loud but she heard me all the same and it earned a kick under the table from Rori with his high heels, I returned the glare she sent my way.

***

”Oh, hi.” I step aside to let Yoongi enter, he furrows his brows in concentration if I wasn’t running late I would ponder over the fact how he measures my body by centimetres. I fidget with my earrings but without a mirror, it’s a difficult task to carry out.

”I thought we’re going to meet with the guys at 8.” Realising the motive behind his stare I nod furiously.

”Yeah. But Rori accepted that guy’s offer to taste wines and she’s afraid she’s going to be abducted so me and F/N will accompany her.” I tell him and he doesn’t seem pleased I wasn’t either at first but I hope he won’t do anything with three girls there.

”Be careful. Anyone else knows about this?” He asks with evident worry lacing his voice he steps closer helping to finally get that chape snap into place.

”Jimin knows and I think Jungkook knows too.” Once he’s done he restores the distance between the two of us. ”Also you know F/N she’s apt to be violent.” Yoongi nods.

”Fuck. I’m late.” I swear as I look at the time. With hurried steps, I pick up my boots and size up my keys ready to leave.

”See you later.” Hearing his voice calling out to me I look back smiling a little managing to whisper back a ’see you later’ of my own. I think this was the longest conversation I held with him so far, what a shame I couldn’t stay to talk more.

The wine tasting went better than I expected. That guy is filthy rich he gave us a little tour around the house before letting us each pick out 5 wines of our liking. We learned that he’s a sports major he’s a swimmer and he told us stories about his practises with the swimming team and talked awfully long about his wins and trophies. To be honest he seemed like a bit eccentric and pompous for me but Rori liked him.

We were late because our taxi on its way to the bar got into a little traffic jam. I got a text from Yoongi at the same time F/N got one from Jimin they were curious about where we are and how we are. We wrote back a short text that we’re almost there.

”So? Whose’s the guy?” Jin asked once we are seated down. F/N took her place next to Jimin and Rori beside her leaving me with the only option of sitting down next to Yoongi at the other side of the table.

Once I’m comfortably seated I look around the table I catch in the corner of my eye Namjoon and Jungkook taking shots. Yoongi grabs his alcoholic beverage before him from the table our shoulders brush against each other due to the motion. I bite the inside of my cheeks don’t want to fidget in place.  

”He’s a sports major.” Rori told Jin she told him about our little tour but she conveniently left out the offer about a threesome that I politely declined.

”Oh Y/N you remember that guy who wanted to get your phone number?” Scrunching my nose as the scene flashed before my eyes, of course, I remember. That was one of my most awkward moments and believe me when I say there’s a lot of option to choose from on my list and it’s still the worst. As far as I know, that guy was a sports major too and he was very persistent.

”Yes, what about him?” I nod. I try to shoo the pictures out of head but a forming blush creeping up my neck quicker than I realise.

”Well he’s here. And he’s coming this way.” F/N tells without looking my way her eyes trained behind my form probably to report back his every move. I physically have to hold myself back from whimpering and its not the good kind.

”Shit.” I bite my lower lip don’t want to make things more obvious I don’t turn around to confirm it.

”Oh. I remember. You gave him Rori’s number, don’t you?” Jungkook, you traitor. He was with me when it happened I was flustered enough that he asked Jungkook is my boyfriend or not that I didn’t want to expand my suffering so I gave him my friend's number. She told me if someone I don’t want tries to get into my pants and bothers me I can use her number as a bait knowing her even though my pants were not on the line I still did that. Well, she did more than that after.

”Then what’s the problem?” Jin asks so invested in our conversation that I want to smack him on the neck.

”I was sexting with him and we fucked.” She shrugs. That was what I tried to say. I really don’t want to face that guy.

I stand up with so much vehemency that I almost knock down a glass from the table it’s Yoongi’s empty glass at the bottom of it there’s a thin line of whiskey left. Yoongi grabs my thighs to stabilise me. Looking over his shoulder I saw that said guy indeed walking into this direction.

”Uh, please dance with me?” I grab Yoongi’s hand surprising him for a moment or two but lets me pull him up.

”You have a habit of running away, huh?” I look back to get a grip at the situation. I led Yoongi into the dance floor even though I don’t even know how to dance. He sees the panic settling in my face so he starts guiding me with his hand flat against my lower back. There’s a lot of bodies to avoid so Yoongi is extremely close.

”I don’t like confrontation.” I subtly hide behind his broad shoulders I can see it on him how he tries to stop himself from laughing. I like the sound of his laugh.

”I’m aware.” He purrs into my ear pulling me closer by a hand wrapped around my waist the sweet scent of his cologne hits me like a tone of bricks. I’m painfully aware how his body touches mine my breast pushed against his flat ribcage I can feel him inhaling and exhaling the used oxygen.

”Y-your hand Yoongi.” His hand is dangerously low on my back I’m sure he feels the curve of my ass under his fingers. The bar is dimly lit so my blush remains subtle in a certain extent seeing me blush so many times I wouldn’t be surprised if he would recognise it before it fully blooms on my face.

”What about it?” He clearly wants me to say it but there’s no way I’m going to bluntly say that his hand touches my ass. Rather die.

”What are you doing? Are you drunk?” I defensively ask answering the question with my own questions. He openly finds my antics amusing because this time he laughs. That gummy smile makes my knees weak for him he strengthens his hold on my waist like he knows it.

”My car is here. I’m as sober as I can be.” The hand I placed on his chest when he suddenly pulled me closer itched. He’s touching me and he’s sober. Heaving a sigh he replaces them around his neck I can’t relish in the feeling as his hand on my ass beyond doubt gone since he places it back soon after even lower. The grin he shows me makes me want to give him my fist instead of my virginity.

”Then why are you touching me?” My confidence wavered significantly as he lowered his head his lips closer than ever but instead of kissing me, he blows air into my ear riling me up with the gesture.

”This makes you uncomfortable?” I wanted to say yes, but the full truth would be it’s undeniably uncomfortable and exciting it makes my blood boil under my skin and it scares me how much I want him to touch me tossing aside my insecurities just to feel him like this. At least he knows his boundaries. I don’t know what would I do if his hand suddenly moved.

”No. I’m just embarrassed.” I nervously twist a hair at the nape of his neck didn’t realise the act just when I did it.

”You ran away because you were embarrassed yesterday too?” I stop toying with his hair once the words register in my head. Is he talking about the kitchen incident? And here I thought that there’s nothing more that could make the situation more awkward.

”Y-yes.” The confidence I felt before left me I shy away from his eyes the way he sized me up that day still vivid in my head.

”Why?” A perfect arch of his eyebrows indicating that he wants his answer this time and I am about to give him.

”Because you were staring at me.” I tell him oh so matter of factly. He practically beams at the offered answer the glint in his eyes telling me that’s the answer he seeks in the first place and he has his own set of words in return.

”Wanna know what I thought about while staring at you?” His eyes pinning me to my spot I wouldn’t dare to move away even if I wanted to he seemed determined to get under my skin and maybe under my clothes too.

”No.” I challenge drunk by the boldness maybe the gin tonic I consumed earlier and the wines finally appearing be to be the liquid courage I needed. Reading between the lines Yoongi tells me despite the answer.

”I imagined how you would look like wearing my shirt. It would cover you below your knees since you are tiny. Tell me you’re wearing one of those black panties I saw before?” I don’t answer but I let him pat my knee I can feel his warm palm under the fabric of my jeans he continues with more words even bolder than the first.

”I imagined how you would look like under me on my bed wrapping those long legs around my waist.” Affected by his words I mirror his hungry expression. He’s normally not a man of so many words and hearing him talk this much makes me feel special that he’s talking to me because he feels the need to let me know what’s plaguing his mind. I entertain the idea that maybe he wasn’t sure how to convey the message since I’m so shy he didn’t have a lot of opportunity cornering me before the kitchen incident. Perhaps it was the undo he needed.

”Tell me Y/N. Do you find me attractive?” His fingers stroke the flesh of my jaw he’s getting confident as I don’t push him away.

”You are attractive.” I tell him honestly and he grins but not in a malice kind of way his grin more like a boyish grin that boys wear after hearing that their high school crush likes them back. The happy kind of grin.

”Have you thought about me too? Like I did.” The next question hits differently it’s not so innocent and I wasn’t in the illusion he is.

”Yes.” Holding onto the boldness I agree.

”Tell me.” He urges. He’s sober I remember. Avoiding his stare I let my shyness getting to the best of me he brushes a strand of hair behind my ears coaxing out the reply. It feels nice to be touched by him.

”It’s embarrassing.”

”I told you mine. You have to tell me your fantasies so I can make them come true.” He trails a finger following the line of my collarbone my outfit leaves literally everything to the imagination the only skin he can feel is on my arms.

”You’re unfair.” I whine the words out Yoongi stops his movements to see the emotions behind my eyes. He seems confused by my conflicted expression. His eyes were always expressive and I loved staring at them. Those rare moments shared, eating together at the weekends letting me hear one of his song he proudly introduces.

”How so?”

I take a deep breath cupping his cheeks. ”You look good with dyed hair but I prefer it black. You look the best when you come home from work all sweaty because the air conditioner still not gotten repaired in your workplace so you always take a shower before doing anything else.” There’s glint catching the light in his orbs watching me closely while I tell him the things I locked away in my memories. He caresses my wrist with a raised hand the other directly resting upon mine as it's his face still trapped between the heels of my palms.

”I like your voice.” I let the words flow out like a river caught up in a thunderstorm. ”I always wanted to know how it would sound like moaning my name. I like your hands too.”

”What about them?” A big smile stretches his face knowing too well he won. I don’t feel the frustration of losing I’d gladly accept this fate again and again if it will give me the same results at the end of this.

”Yoongi.” I whine.

”Did you imagined this? Or this?” His hands leaving their position fondling the flesh on my hip hiding me behind his body he walks a hand up my decolletage.

”Stop, we are in public.” I hiss.

”No one pays attention Y/N. But I’ll gladly take this to the bedroom.” The offer temps me but I remember the boys.

”We can’t. You are the only sober one and the guys need their ride home.” I reason and Yoongi groans in frustration. He forgot about them already. He looks at the booth the others are drinking and laughing.

”If I tell Namjoon to stop drinking he would be sober enough to drive them back.”

I shake my head it would be too dangerous and considering he competed with Jungkook about who can take more shots I bet he’s drunk like a donkey alongside with the younger boy. ”I’m drunk too.” I tell him when he tries to come up with more solution.

”Fine.” Yoongi hugs me close probably to hide his displeased face doesn’t want to sound so desperate maybe he’s embarrassed.

”Don’t be like that. I promise if in the morning when I sobered up you still want to do it I’ll let you.”

He perks up gently pushing me away to look into my eyes. ”Let me do what?”

”Let you take me.”

 ***

I feel something warm tickling my sides a sudden wave of cold air hits my stomach but the cold soon replaced with a warm and wet feel against my skin. My eyes narrowly open I try to fidget away wrapping my fingers around the comforter when I feel that wet and warm feeling on my thighs.

Hands and tongue. The fog in front of my eyes clears I don’t remember when did I fell asleep or how did I end up here. Where am I? I spot the synthesizer in the corner Yoongi’s synthesizer. Yoongi’s room.

”Yoongi, what .. ah” My voice raspy from sleep the way he rubbed his nose into my neck just to deliver a long kiss to it after halted my question before I was able to voice it out.

”Did I wake you up. My bad.” He smiled into my skin loving the way my heart beats erratically with his every touch, his hand above my breast feeling the movements of it.

”You don’t sound so sorry about it.”

”Do you have a headache?” He caresses the side of my face helping to curl the locks behind my ear that interfered with my vision. The thoughtful gesture made me smile up at his face mirroring his expression of tenderness.

”No I’m good. I didn’t drink that much.” My fingers itch to touch his face maybe it’s because of the dreamy state I’m currently in that I have the confidence in doing so. I brush my hands through his bangs his eyes closing the caress urges a smile he grabs my hands once I’m about to pull away to move it against his mouth giving a small kiss onto my palm before intertwining them with his much larger ones.

I could get used to this. The image of him looking so raw and so vulnerable his eyes puffy with sleep lazy motions of his fingertip exploring my body under the duvet. My shirt is rolled up just below my breasts the shirt’s neck hangs around my shoulder in a loose coverage it smells like Yoongi just like the covers. Looking down I realise it’s not my shirt. It’s his.

”Glad to hear that. I want you to repeat your promise to me.” Yoongi burrows his face into my neck again his hair brushing against my bare skin the hand that’s not holding mine drops under the covers finding my hip guiding me to drape my right leg over his waist facing each other sideways.

”Promise? Can you be more specific?” I boldly move my hand caressing with feather-light touches his side I can feel his bare torso and hips under my fingers he shivers and not because of the cold. He’s shivering because I touched him and he’s not wearing a shirt. The thought crosses my mind that the shirt I’m wearing is the one he did wear the whole day but not now. Every other day I would be embarrassed but I quite liked the idea of wearing his clothes in his bed.

”A tease I see.” He recovered quicker than I would like he gave a quick peck onto my shoulder where his shirt didn’t cover that much skin. He cupped my breast above the fabric of my bra the sudden feel of him squeezing me there I whined a little bit too loudly. I pulled my hand away shielding my face due to embarrassment.

”Yoongi.” I shyly call his name. He let his hand stay there but he remained motionless giving my hands each a kiss just where my eyes would be if I didn’t hide behind my limbs. His hand felt warm against me where my bra wasn’t covering his two fingers rested directly on the skin of my breast.

”Do I have your consent baby?” I gulp my shy personality says no but my body says yes for me.

”You can have anything.” I place my palm against his that lays on my body my eyes still closed but I don’t shield my face anymore. The words came out as whispers even though I wanted him to hear me say it. I wanted him to go on.

”Love. Answer me.” I open my eyes again when I feel his hand leave my boobs to cup my face with it instead.

”You can have me. You can fuck me. Did it answer your question or should I be more specific?” I wet my lips poking my tongue against the inside of my cheeks trying to calm down the rapid movement of my heart my hands shook as I grip his hair moving my mouth against his to not just say but show my consent. I want this. I want him.

”No. I think it was explicit enough, I like seeing you blush.” Hearing him say that makes me blush harder and he gifts me with a gummy smile basking in the responsive reactions. I would be more embarrassed if I wouldn’t feel the sticky substance dampening my underwear.

”Do you have something in mind? A preference? Or can I surprise you.” The way he explicitly asks about my sexual preferences makes him appear hotter a new wave of arousal hits me making me grind my thighs together forgetting that Yoongi’s leg is between them. I know he felt the wetness but doesn’t comment on it he instead pushes his knees further up parting my legs.

”You d-decide.” I moan when his knee brushes against my crotch. He hummed delighted by my answer. Placing back his hand once more squeezing my breasts before undoing the clasps behind my back. He slowly lets the material fall he strictly looks into my eyes not wandering downwards seeking out my every reaction. I gave him a little nod he takes it as the permission he needed he moves the cover so he can take a look.

”So pretty.” He sighs into my skin he turns my body to be flat against the bed the cold sheets meeting with my back goosebumps travelling up my spine. ”So soft.” He mumbles the endless of praises dragging his fingers over a nipple before licking it with his tongue a choked moan leaves my parted lips his hair gently caressing the skin. He circles the nipple with his poked out tongue kneading the other neglected one with his free hand. Mewls and sighs, in turn, filling the room trying to keep my voice quiet but it’s hard since the only thing I can concentrate on is his mouth on me and his hands those long fingers as he drags them down on my body a finger slides under the waistband of my panty he stretches the material out before letting it snap back into place. The uncomfortable feeling of it sticking to my folds gets frustrating by every passing minute.

”You smell good.” His raspy voice helps me return from my sudden astonishment I scrape his scalp with my long nails as I weave my fingers through his hair he lets out a low growl my skin covering up the noise the vibration he sends up my body by it makes me tighten my legs around his waist my underwear covered cunt pressed against his firm chest forces a not so silent whine out.

”It’s m-my lotion.” I reply absentmindedly. He hums into my collarbone not sure my answer registered truly in his brain I feel him taking a big inhale before pulling away he pushes himself up with the help of his hands planted beside my head looking with heavily lidded eyes taking in my hazed eyes and swollen lips before connecting our mouths. I almost forgot how good of a kisser Yoongi is.  

The light touch against my inner thigh makes my hip jolt up in surprise Yoongi’s eager mouth swallows all the sounds and whimpers. ”Relax.” He purrs aiming for my hips soothing circles into my skin. I take a few deep breaths Yoongi waits patiently for me to calm down a little the way his eyes sizing me up like I’m some kind of goddess eases some of my nerves. Once he’s positive I’m not going to run away he lets his palm touch me the barrier that’s my underwear stays in place as he drags his fingers directly onto my heat. I feel it throb under his ministrations having confidence after a few moans I let out he gets bolder using more pressure to dip between my folds the underwear’s silky touch lets him move smoothly. ”Can I feel it? I want to make sure you’re wet enough before I do anything else.” Nodding even before the question was fully out I anticipate a laugh or something to tease me about my eagerness. I don’t think I wanted someone this bad before to touch me. But he doesn’t laugh he seems as eager as I feel. He slides a finger under the damp material but he retreats too soon. ”Please, can I take it off?” To persuade me further if his plea wasn’t enough he rubs his fingers where my clit is over my panty. The plea was enough but I’m not complaining. I manage to signal him with a breathy yes. Don’t have to tell him twice he slides the ruined material down my legs his big warm hands gripping my inner thighs preventing my legs from closing before he can take a look.

”Look at that. So pink and swollen for me.” Previously he was careful with every move waiting for approval before doing anything bold but like he’s lost all the continence in him Yoongi drags two fingers up my folds coating his fingers with my arousal letting just the tip of his fingers penetrating just to pull back. I let out the loudest moan blushing as I realise just how loud I sounded but Yoongi doesn’t seem to mind, not at all. He wanted to coax more of those sounds as he bent down parting the lips with his tongue letting out his own moans while tasting me and if it’s even possible at this point I feel more turned on than ever.

”Warm too. Sorry, my love, my hands are a little cold but I hope you don’t mind.” He finally slips a finger in my eyes slightly open he watches me with a grin loving the way I squirm wanting it chuckles deep and I don’t mind at all. The stretch his one digit means feels familiar reminding me when I was chasing relief on my own but his fingers are so so much better longer and thicker. I can’t wait to feel the second one.

”I want to make you cum on my tongue.” Delivering a kittenish lick sucking on my clit for the demonstration before he goes on. ”Just to bring you another orgasm with my fingers.” Yoongi curls the one finger in me rubbing it into my throbbing walls ”Lastly let you cum around my cock.” He throws his head back moaning sinfully just thinking he’s about to make everything he said come true. ”You deserve at least three orgasms but I shouldn’t be greedy your virgin cunt can’t handle three.” He eases another finger in this time the stretch is a bit more uncomfortable.

”Let’s start with two.” He says settled with the idea he places a wet kiss onto my hip before finding my abused clit again sucking and rolling it around his tongue my walls contacts around his two digits I feel the sticky substance coating my inner thighs and dripping onto the sheets the mess, the way Yoongi’s hair tickle my thighs, the way he moves his fingers inside me, the pleasure gets overwhelming something starts to build up promising a relief I never had the chance of feeling before.

”Yoongi fuck, Yoongi” His name spills from my mouth and it seems to encourage him to be faster.

”It’s fine.” He tells before sucking harshly on my clit. ”Cum for me.” The proud grin he forms still buried between my legs and the vibration of his hum makes my legs shake I let my head fall back into the pillows closing my eyes until I see literal stars.

He stops lapping my juices once I’m finished the proud smile still plastered on his face licking his lips capturing the remaining of my pleasure. He looks so hot. I never knew I’m capable of coming this hard.

”Good?” Placing a kiss onto my nose he caresses my arms I didn’t realise I was grabbing onto the sheets this tight I let Yoongi place my hands onto his shoulder blades he moves to get between my legs once more.

Instead of answering, I can’t help but impatiently point out. ”You’re still wearing clothes.” I grab his hips pulling on his sweatpants playfully.

”Wanna take it off?” He asks smirking. I roll my eyes at his cockiness not that he’s all talk when it comes to his skills but he has more ego than he can manage and I’m not going to increase it for him.

”So what? Don’t tell me you are not eager even more than me to bury your dick into my virgin pussy.” His eyes grow bigger for a split second before it regains its original state, so he can be startled too. I’m surprised by my boldness, but god, it’s worth it seeing him so fucked up by those words.

”You’re playing a dangerous game Y/N. I need my self-control right now.” Something shifted in his eyes he looks like he’s about to devour me. Yoongi shifts onto his knees to get rid of the final barriers between us. I close my eyes my shyness returns too soon but Yoongi doesn’t mind it I open my eyes again as he positions myself above me placing a firm kiss onto my lips he senses I’m anxious.

”Do you trust me?” Seeing the open vulnerability in his shiny orbs, not entirely clouded by lust makes my head swim with a lot of suppressed emotion. I feel the urge to smile lifting my head from the pillows beneath me I give him a peck.

”Of course I am.” I kinda like you. I bite into my lips before the next sentence could slip through we’ll talk about this another time. Right, the only thing I want to focus on is Yoongi. Only Yoongi. His tip brushes against my stomach, shit, I haven’t seen how big he is. His lip pressed to mine swallows the tiny moan leaving my lips as he pushes the first inch inside parting my walls in a painful stretch. Fuck. He’s big.

”Tight.” Yoongi moans, more in pleasure than I am currently in but it’s ok. He made me cum I want to see him cum too. ”Relax for me angel I won’t hurt you I promise.” Relishing in the way he caresses my side I try to relax my body he pushes another inch in slowly his tip must be fully buried by now.

”That’s right. You’re doing so well.” He praises his eyebrows knit together in concentration he’s holding himself back because of me. Touched by the gesture I move my hip to meet his advances he slips in deeper than he intended his groan significantly louder by the sudden pleasure.

”Does it hurt?” He pulls himself together to keep the eye contact he caresses the skin under my eye I nod before answering.

”A little.”

”Let’s try a few more thrusts if it still hurts after that I’ll stop and eat you out again. Shit. Maybe I should have made you cum again for the extra lubrication.” Yoongi regretfully gazes at my face.

”It’s fine. Just go slow.” I say the burning is bearable I’m getting used to the feeling slowly but not sure if I can cum again.

”My baby is so tight.” I’m definitely a sucker for those pet names. It helps me focus on his words instead of his slow thrusts. ”I want to make you feel as good as you make me feel. Feeling you wrapped around me a dream come true.” I experimentally squeeze around him and he lets out a loud moan his head nestled into my neck groaning and moaning between filthy words his pace got quicker but I don’t stop him even though it’s not feeling as good as him eating me out. I want to please him though and by the sounds, he seems very pleased.

”Are you alright?” He stops after hearing a louder whiny moan on my part but I don’t let him I circle my hips in place dragging out moans from him but he forces himself to reset his previous slower pace. I’m not having any of it. I want him to cum and want it soon.

”Yoongi” I whine out his name an idea foggily forming at the back of my head. ”Yoongi, I wanna ride you.”

”Are y-you sure?” He stills inside of me waiting for the confirmation and I nod inviting him into a kiss that turns slopy by time. I feel his hands grabbing at my waist to change position this way he sinks in deeper.

Holy shit it feels so much better.

”Fuck. Do you like this?” He grips my hips dragging his cock touching every sensitive part in me as my walls swallow his shaft he pulls me up just to let me sink down with a needy moan I’m starting to feel the appeal.

”Yes. I-ah-think.” I can almost picture the way my eyes roll back behind my skull right now. What was I saying? ”Go faster.” I choke out and Yoongi with a following set of groans obligates I’m too far gone to pay attention to how Yoongi watches with hungry eyes that I ruin the bedsheets.

”I like that you are so messy.” He places a stray hair behind my ears our chests pressed together so he can thrust up faster and harder. Yoongi holds me in place taking control the way his eyes shuts involuntarily and his member twitching inside of me signals that he’s close.

He’s breathtakingly beautiful as he reaches his high he’s so lost in the pleasure my walls provide so tight around him that he doesn’t have the mind to kiss me back so I just press them together for a minute longer. My legs ache because of the exercise but I let him use me to ride out his high the pretty sounds and satisfied look he gives me once seated firmly inside me with our mixed cum spilling out he looks down where our body connects rubbing the skin of my hip lovingly while watching me ruin his sheets. He likes that I’m messy.

”I hope you like me back because I don’t think I could fuck anyone else from now on.” I end up in a pit of laughter leaning my head on his shoulder he feels my body shake with the motion Yoongi whines in overstimulation when I accidentally squeeze his spent member. I peck the skin where my head previously rested before searching for Yoongi’s eyes.

”I do like you back.” I admit it shyly even though there’s nothing to be shy about his dick is still inside for fuck’s sake.

”Glad to hear that.” His grin returns faster than the speed of light. ”I thought I fucked your brains out when you suddenly started laughing. I was concerned for a minute.” I try to hit his shoulder but he’s faster grabbing my hand by the wrist and gives the flesh an attentive kiss the gesture is sweet and melts my heart.

”How are you feeling?” It’s cute how he seeks my reassurance. He lets me move away careful when pulling out so I can finally take the previous position lying down.

”Hm, sore but good. I just need .. some time. I don’t think I can stand up just yet.” I offer my honest reply burying my nose into the duvet that got tossed aside. He leaves the room making me confused but once he’s back with a towel in hand I pierce two and two together. It’s his towel. The thought is enough to make me blush furiously.

”Spread your legs for me.” I take the request as an order shyly spreading my legs so he can clean me up. ”There. All cleaned up.” The bed squeaks under the weight of his one knee pushing me further into the sheets. Yoongi bows down to kiss me his tongue teases my lips as we kiss asking for permission that I eagerly permit.

[wiypt-writes]

Riding On

Ch21: Her Hooves Set The Beat, My Heart Sang The Song

Summary: There’s a feel good factor at the Gallagher-Adler’s as Alex hits another milestone, but their happy little bubble his shattered with some bad news at the stables, and Fliss is forced to say a heart-breaking goodbye…

Warnings: Bad language, 18+, animal death.

Pairing: Frank Adler x OFC Fliss Gallagher

A/N: So, for those of you who don’t know, Heidi was actually real. She was my beloved horse of a lifetime who I lost in July 2018 to complications associated with old age. At 28 I she had a good life, and for the 20 years I had her she gave me everything. Writing this brought back a lot of memories and was quite therapeutic in a way, but if anyone wants to skip over it for fear of being triggered, I won’t be offended.

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Fliss Gallagher and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Riding On Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Chapter 20

 April 2020

“Go away!” Mary laughed, pushing Fliss’ arm as she tried to peek over at what she was writing on the piece of card upon which she’d been designing the Wedding Invitations.  “You can see when I’m done!”

Fliss chuckled and backed away, hands raised, palms up.

“Okay, okay.” She walked backwards a few steps before she turned and her eyes fell on Alex who was in his pack and play loudly banging some coloured blocks together. He looked up at her and gave a huge smile before he shuffled a little to the edge of his pen and reached up, curling his hands onto the sides. As Fliss watched, he tried to pull himself up into a standing position but only got so far before he landed on his butt, and waved his arms and legs shouting something in, what Frank called Bean-Babble. Fliss grinned and moved to pick him up.

“Not quite mastered that yet have you, baby?” She smiled, kissing his cheek.

Alex let out another loud squeal of contentment as he perched on her hip and she made her way over to the kitchen area. There, she settled him in his high chair and headed into the fridge to grab him an apple. Since he had started eating solids it had fast become apparent that he was particularly partial to the fruit, something Frank directly attributed to the fact that Fliss had eaten so many of them when she was pregnant thanks to her craving. Fliss carefully chopped the fruit into large pieces before she placed them down on the tray of his chair, kissing his soft hair again as Alex grabbed a slice in his hand and promptly jabbed it in his mouth, making appreciative noises.

Happy that he was content, Fliss then turned her attention to their dinner. She soon had the base of the cream and garlic sauce for the seafood linguini simmering nicely in the pan so she then turned her attention to shelling and de-veining the fresh, king prawns Frank had brought home the night before, along with chopping up the squid and cleaning the mussels before she turned her head and looked over to the table across the large family room.

“Mary, do you want mussels in yours?”

 “No, they taste like snot.” Came the simple response.

“You know what snot tastes like?” Fliss pulled a face. “Gross.”

Mary didn’t reply, her hand was busy scribbling on the paper. Fliss shrugged and placed some of the sauce into a separate pan before she dropped some of the seafood through to cook, before pulling a cod and mash potato puree out for Alex for his dinner. Whilst that was in the microwave, she tossed Mary’s sauce through some of the pasta, before sprinkling over a little bit of parmesan and setting it down on the breakfast bar.

“Mary, dinner.”

Mary hopped down from the table and made her way over to the counter. With a thanks to Fliss she tucked in as Fliss smiled and sat next to her, feeding Alex.

“What time is Dad home?” Mary asked.

“I’m actually expecting him any time now.” Fliss glanced at the clock. “He has no meetings tonight so he shouldn’t be too long. Did you want him for something? I can call him.”

“No, I was just curious.” Mary swallowed her mouthful of food. “Do you mind if I don’t ride tonight?”

 “No, of course not.” Fliss gave Alex another spoonful of his dinner before she turned to Mary. “Is everything ok, Stack? It’s not like you to pass up an opportunity to ride.”

“Well, I thought I could spend some time with Frank.” She shrugged. “I haven’t seen him properly this week.”

“I’m sure he’d appreciate that.” Fliss smiled, giving Alex more food.

 “Just figured if you’re at the stables and Alex is in bed, it’ll just be the two of us. No offense.”

“None taken.” Fliss chuckled, as Mary grinned and continued to eat. And she meant it. Over the past two weeks or so, Frank and Alan’s son had decided to expand a little and as such had been meeting with potential new suppliers, often working until later in the night, something Fliss knew was hard on him because it meant his time with the kids had really been limited to a quick hour over breakfast, the morning school and crèche drop offs and weekends. Fliss had assured him that the kids were fine, she was fine, and reminded him that he was doing this for the family, for their future but it didn’t stop him feeling guilty.

It was kind of ironic, when she thought about it. As she’d been expecting to feel the same guilt after going back to work full time but as she was self-employed, she’d been able to work her time-table quite well around the kids. She’d taken on another stable hand to help with the day to day chores leaving her free to teach more freelance in the area and school horses when they came to her for training. Joanne was now taking the group lessons completely, having passed her final teaching exams earlier that year, and Alex had settled really well into his day care, going two days a week to the centre round the corner from Mary’s school which had come recommended by Bonnie’s sister. The other two days a week Verity (and nine times outta ten Bill) came look after him or take him out, meaning on those days Fliss worked later- scheduling in evening lessons for clients as Verity would sort the kids dinner before Frank got home, and then on Friday, Fliss did her paperwork so Alex stayed with her . It was busy, and often required military planning as to who was picking which child up and when, but they worked it well, and Fliss had been very surprised at how easily they had picked it all up.

They continued chatting, and just as Mary had polished off her desert, Thor gave a little woof and padded to the back door as it opened and they heard Frank giving his usual jokey greeting.

“The boss is home.”

“Yeah I know, she made dinner.” Mary shot back and Fliss laughed, giving her a hi-five.

Frank walked into the main room and smiled at them both, giving Fliss a quick kiss before he ruffled Mary’s hair as she shoved him away, rolling her eyes, jumping off the stool to escape him.

“Good day?” He asked, and Fliss nodded.

“Yeah, not bad. You?”

“Busy, but productive. We got the final Price Lists negotiated so…” he trailed off, nodding to Alex who was smiling at him. “Looks like he enjoyed dinner.”

“So did Mary.” Fliss mused, nodding to the empty place on the side. “She ate a full dish of linguini and a massive piece of Mum’s chocolate cake. Think she’s going through another growth spurt.”

“Great, more clothes to buy.”

Fliss chuckled as she fed Alex the last of his peach and apple puree before she reached for a baby wipe and scrubbed his face and hands clean, much to the baby’s annoyance. She stood up to clear away his dish, leaving the spoon in Alex’s hand as he was busy banging it against the tray of his chair. Frank sat down on the stool she’d vacated, kissing Alex’s head. .

“Hey, Pal. Meet any hot girls today at crèche?” He asked. Alex shrieked in response, banging the spoon harder and Frank nodded. “Oh really? Well, you play it cool and she’ll be putty in your hands.”

“Like I was in yours?” Fliss asked, turning to face him and Frank grinned as he settled on the stool.

“Think we both know it was the other way round.”

“Don’t you forget it.” She smirked a little.

“Like I’d have a chance.” Frank winked at her and Fliss smiled.

“Do you want your dinner now or-“

“Oh, can I show you the invitation first?” Mary suddenly piped up from across the room and Fliss nodded.

“Sure.”

She jumped off the table at the chair and approached them, placing the card on the breakfast bar in front of Frank. Fliss stood behind Frank, her hands sliding round his shoulders as she kissed his cheek, both of them glancing down at the design Mary had come up with. 

The front was a simple square piece of card. Across the top Mary had cut letters out of a magazine to spell out the words “WE’RE GETTING MARRIED” and underneath it she’d stuck a copy of a photo of the four of them which had clearly been taken at Bill and Verity’s a few weeks ago. Mary and Alex were both looking at the camera, whereas Frank and Fliss were both laughing as they looked at each other as Frank held Alex, the baby’s back to his chest, supporting under his butt with one arm, the other held across his front.

“Where did you get that?” Frank asked, grinning as he looked at it.

“Poppa Bill.” Mary looked at him. “He said it was like the five thousandth attempt at trying to get us all to look at the camera.”

“That was Frank’s fault.” Fliss laughed, “He kept nipping my ass.”

Frank shrugged, before Fliss spotted one of his arms snaking backwards, blatantly intending on doing the same and she slapped his hand, making him give a dirty chuckle as he pulled it away.

“Turn it over!” Mary urged. Frank obliged and they both smiled instantly at the back. It was written in Mary’s untidy writing, in bright multi-coloured felt tip.

“Oh Mary, this is just what I wanted!” Fliss grinned. “For it to look bright and unique.”

“You haven’t read it yet.” She looked up at Fliss rolling her eyes, but before she could comment Frank started to laugh as he had and his chuckles continued as Fliss read the words out-loud.

“Mary and Alex Adler would like to invite you to their Mom and Dad’s wedding.” Fliss took a deep breath at the word, looking at Mary who gave her a small smile. Whilst Mary had referred to Fliss when talking to other people as her mom, she’d never actually used the word directly to Fliss yet. But, now wasn’t the time to dig into that. Fliss cleared her throat and read on “Frank and Fliss met at the stables. Frank was smitten, Fliss was too. But they were too dumb to admit it straight away. And then Frank took her sailing (not driving) on a speedboat. They kissed, made a baby and now it’s time for a party. (And a wedding too).”

Fliss burst out laughing, as Frank tried to gain enough control to read the final bit at the bottom, which was situated underneath the details of time and venues, before it went on to state their address.

“RSVP to Mary (not Alex, because he can’t read!)” He managed to wheeze out, wiping at his eyes. “Oh, Stack, you’re killing me.”

“You like it?” She grinned and Frank nodded.

“Mary.” Fliss’ laughter died down as she took a deep breath. “It’s absolutely perfect!”

Once they had finished laughing at Mary’s Invitation Prototype, Fliss and Frank ate dinner together, Mary chatting away to the pair of them as she sat at the end of the breakfast bar, sipping a milkshake, informing them both about her day, before Frank took Alex to get him bathed and changed into his pyjamas.

“This bath is supposed to be for you.” Frank grumbled as Alex enthusiastically splashed at the water with his little hands, those little babbling noises emitting from his mouth as he glanced up at Frank with his big blue eyes, making another sound that could almost have been interpreted as a question. Which, maybe it was. “You heard me.” Frank looked at him. Alex studied his dad for a second before continuing with his splashing, laughing loudly as he tossed a plastic boat to the end of the tub before he stretched towards it, then realising he couldn’t reach the toy, promptly burst into tears.

“Seriously, Pal?” Frank rolled his eyes, stretching his right hand over to retrieve the precious item. As soon as he passed it back, the over the top tears stopped and Frank raised an eyebrow. “If you wanted it so badly why did you throw it away in the first place?”

Alex responded with another noise, this one a gurgle and Frank nodded.

“Okay, understood.”

At that Alex looked at him, cocking his head to one side, making another puzzled noise and tossed the boat this time over the side of the bath, a grin spreading across his face as he studied his dad.  Frank arched an eyebrow. “You know, just because I love you doesn’t mean I sign up for this whole throw and fetch shit you got going on.” He picked up the toy and tossed it back into the water. “That’s Thor’s job.”

“You know, if his first word comes out a swear, you’re in deep trouble.” Fliss arched an eyebrow as Frank turned his head over his shoulder to look at her as she stood in the bathroom doorway. At the sight of his Mumma, Alex gave a huge grin and let out another gabble of noises.

“There are worst things it could be.” Frank shrugged, looking back at him.

“Like what?”

“Trump.” Frank deadpanned and Fliss let out a chuckle as once more the plastic boat came out of the tub onto the floor.

“Right, I think play-time is done pal.” Frank looked at Alex, who glanced up at him as he made sure to keep one hand behind his son’s back whilst reaching for his little hooded towel, which was patterned with tiny little ducks. “Come on.” No sooner had he lifted Alex out of the tub, the eight month old started to protest, dramatically, screams once more hitting Frank’s ears. “Oh, hush…” Frank chuckled as he lay him down on the towel before wrapping him in it and picking him up, rising to a stand and gently jiggling the now hysterical baby up and down.

“Anyone would think we’re tryin’a kill him, not simply dry him off after he’s spent fifteen minutes in the bath.” Frank rolled his eyes, an amused expression on his face at Alex’s dramatics.

“Well, he’s a right little water baby, aint you Bean?” Fliss leaned over to kiss Alex’s head as his cries suddenly died down as he had become instantly distracted with the buttons on Frank’s shirt. He made a little “oooh” of approval, his tiny fingers reaching to the ones near the collar. “Ha, look at that, he’s easily distracted, just like his daddy.”

“Yeah, well, I won’t deny, I quite like undoing your buttons.” Frank teased, dropping a kiss to her mouth. “Shall I dress him or do you wanna do it?”

Fliss took a deep breath, of course she wanted to dress him, she wanted to do everything for her baby, but she also knew that Frank had been out of the house early every morning and this was the first evening since Monday he’d made it home before bath time. With a smile she shook her head. “It's okay, you can do it. I’ll clean up in here.”

“Leave it, I’ll do it later.”

“It won’t take me five minutes. Then once I’m done and he’s settled, I’ll head over to the yard so I can ride and finish off. I won’t be too long, just an hour or so.”

“Then we got some us time?” Frank asked, almost pleaded and she smiled.

“Then we got some us time.”

“Perfect.” Frank gave her a soft smile before he kissed her again and carried Alex into the nursery. Before long he’d managed to wrestle a very wriggly baby into a clean diaper, a fresh romper suit and headed downstairs. Mary was now sat on the couch, her eyes glued to something on the TV as Fliss was warming Alex’s bottle up.

“You going with Fliss, Stack?”

No answer. With a raised brow he turned to look at Fliss who was biting her lip, trying not to laugh as he switched his attention back to Mary.

“Earth to Mary.”

With a groan she looked at him. “What?”

“Less of the attitude.” Frank looked at her. “I asked if you were going to ride?”

“Oh, erm…” She hesitated and Fliss chuckled.

“She wants to stay here and spend some time with you.” She smiled as Frank looked at her, then to Mary.

“Wow, me over Monty, I’m flattered.” He smirked. Mary rolled her eyes.

“Don’t get used to it, it’s only because I’ve not seen you properly this week to hang out.”

Frank snorted before he sighed. “I know, I’m sorry. It won’t be forever.”

“It’s fine.” Mary shrugged, her eyes back on the TV. “Not like I’m neglected, is it?”

“Good to know you feel that way.” Frank nodded seriously, before he caught Fliss’ eye and she gave him a wink.

He placed Alex down on the play mat in front of the TV and within seconds the baby had flipped himself over and pushed up onto his hands, rocking back a little onto his knees, emitting more excited noises.

“Mary, I’m just gonna grab a drink.” Frank looked at the Alex, before he turned to Mary. “Keep your eye on your brother will you?”

“Sure.” She shrugged, her attention now completely on the baby as she dropped onto the floor and shuffled over to him, talking to him as she did so.

Frank watched for a moment, giving a silent groan as Alex flopped gently down face first onto the mat.

“Oopsie!”  Mary grinned, and Frank braced himself for the dramatic screams, but they never came as this time, Alex managed to right himself and roll back over onto his back, giving Mary an excited grin and a loud shriek as Mary waggled one of the toys from the baby gym over the top of him.

Satisfied they were okay, Frank headed into the kitchen where Fliss was busy finishing off the lunches for the next morning, dropping a kiss to her cheek as he reached into the fridge, grabbing a beer.

 “You wanna do bedtime as you’ve not had chance this week?” Fliss asked, nodding to Alex’s bottle where it stood in the jug of boiling water.

“He’s my son, course I wanna.” Frank frowned as he looked at her, flipping the top off his beer. “You know, it’s not like I’ve been working late on purpose, Fliss.”

“That’s not what I meant.” Fliss narrowed her eyes at him as he took a long pull of his drink. “And you know it. So less of the shitty tone, thank you!”

“Sorry, Honey.” Frank sighed, dropping a kiss to her lips. “Just, well, I didn’t think Mary would have bothered as much as she had.”

“She’s fine.” Fliss shook her head. “And she isn’t bothered as such, she just wants to get you to herself for a little while. I mean, let’s face it, how often does she get chance to do that now?”

“True.” Frank nodded. “Maybe I should take her out on Saturday somewhere, just the two of us. Would you mind?”

“No, course not.” She shook her head. “I can take Alex down to the beach with Bonnie. You can always join us later on.”

“Yeah.” Frank nodded. “Sounds good.”

“And tonight, why don’t you spend a bit of time in the pool before she showers?” Fliss suggested, as she slid her hands up round his neck. “Then maybe when I get back, me and you could-“

But whatever filthy water-based shenanigans she was about to suggest, Frank never found out, as at that moment Mary let out a yell.

“Oh my God! Alex is crawling, quick!”

In a flash the parents rushed over to where Mary was sat at one side of the play-mat, waving Alex’s huge stuffed elephant at him, as he unsteadily made his way over to her, one hand and knee moving at a time.

“Frank, quick!” Fliss nudged him as she dropped to her knees behind Alex, her hands settling either side of his little body, getting ready to catch him if she needed to.  

“I got it…” Frank muttered, as he crouched next to Mary, his phone out. “Alex, buddy, you reckon you can make it all this way to Daddy, huh?”

Another few little movements later, Fliss’ sharp eyes saw the baby’s arms beginning to wobble and, just as they gave way she grabbed him and pulled him backwards, swinging him up and pressing her to his chest, smothering his face in kisses.

“My clever little man!” She beamed as Alex laughed, grabbing at her hair as she kissed him. “Oh my baby, you’re getting so big!”

Alex clearly decided that his crawling efforts were done for the day as he made no attempt try again as Fliss held him in position on the mat. With a shrug, she gently placed him on his back where he began to grab once more at the toys hanging over him.

“Obviously had enough excitement for one night.” Frank chuckled as he reached over and tickled the baby’s belly, drawing a gaggle of laughter from him.

“I’m so glad we all got to see it.” Fliss beamed round at them both and Mary nodded enthusiastically. “Right…” She rose to her feet. “I’m going to go ride and finish off. I’ll be back in an hour, hour and a half.”

Once she was gone, Frank turned to Mary. “Fancy playing in the pool for a bit before bed?”

“Errr, yeah!”

“Okay, well give me half an hour or so to get him down and then we’ll head out. I wanna see if you can master a back flip this time instead of a front one.”

***** Alex went down, as usual, with minimum fuss and once Frank was happy he was settled he changed into his swim shorts and headed downstairs. Grabbing the baby monitor screen from the side in the kitchen, he and Mary headed out to the pool, Mary wasting no time in cannon-balling straight in. Not one to shy down from a challenge, when Mary told him to beat her splash, he did just that. The two of them enjoyed a fun filled forty minutes or so, racing one another (Frank let Mary win a few, but not all) play fighting, diving and generally larking around as the sun dipped behind the eye-line of the fence and the lights in the pool kicked in, reflecting against the bright blue tiles which lined it.

Frank climbed out of the pool to check the time on his phone, and realising it was now almost eight, he told Mary it was time to get out. She protested, but he shot her a no-nonsense stare and with a loud groan about how unfair life was, she climbed out and Frank wrapped her in a towel before giving her a drink of water and then packing her off upstairs for a shower, promising her she could read in bed before lights off at nine.

He showered himself, pulling on a pair of sweats and a well-worn light blue T-Shirt, and by the time he had finished and headed across the landing to tuck Mary in, she was already out for the count. With a smile, he placed her book down on her night stand, gently kissed her head and then flicked off the lamp before he moved to the next room to check on Alex. He was also fast asleep.

He headed back downstairs, grabbed another beer and settled in front of the TV, giving a snort as he glanced at the time. It was now ten past nine. So much for Fliss being just an hour. No doubt she’d ended up chatting to one of the clients about something, as usual, which had delayed her locking up. Firing her a good humoured, sarcastic text about how he should grow a mane, tail and two extra legs so he could get a look in, he tossed the phone down onto the coffee table, frowning as it instantly began to light up. It was Fliss.

 “Hey, Honey, I was only joking, take as-“

“Frank, there’s something wrong with Heidi.” She cut him off, her voice cracking. “She’s got colic and it’s bad. I called the Vet and he’s on his way but she won’t get up. I can’t get her on her feet to try and walk her round she’s just…”

Frank took a deep breath, his stomach falling as he digested her words. He wasn’t clued up on a lot of horse lingo or issues, but he knew colic was fatal to some horses, depending on the severity. And even without the fact that Fliss was clearly concerned, he knew that with Heidi being as old as she was this wasn’t good.

“How long is the Vet going to be?” he asked.

“They said about half an hour, he’s on his way but as it’s night it’s an emergency call so he’s coming from home.” She took a deep breath. “Frank, I’m gonna lose her.”

“Look, you don’t know that for sure.” He placated her gently as he stood up from the sofa. “Listen, let me grab the kids and we’ll come over.”

“Frank, they’re sleeping.” She began to protest, “And Mary will be so upset to see Heidi like this, and if the vet has to put her to sleep then…”

“Then she’ll be mad as hell she didn’t get to say goodbye.” Frank reasoned as he made his way into the hallway. “I don’t want you over there on your own, sweetheart. Not if…”

There was a pause. “I don’t want to do it on my own either.” She whispered and he took a deep breath as he headed up the stairs, taking the steps two at a time.

“And you don’t hafta.” He replied. “Give me five minutes. Do you need anything else?”

“No, I got everything here.”

“Okay.” He nodded, pausing outside Mary’s bedroom. “We’ll be with you in five.”

She sniffed. “Thank you.”

Frank stuck his phone in the pocket of his sweats before he opened Mary’s door and headed over to her bed. Standing on the bottom rung of the ladder of the cabin he gently leaned over. She was led, facing away from him, face snuggled into her pillow as Fred lay by her side. He raised his head questioningly at Frank as he softly brushed Mary’s hair off her cheek, pressing a kiss to her face.

“Stack, hey…come on, wake up.” Mary gave a groan as she pulled her covers up further, her eyes still closed. Frank spoke a little louder, his hand softly shaking her shoulder. “Mary, sweetheart, I need you to wake up, come on.”

She stirred a little, before she rolled onto her back, blinking sleepily at him before she frowned.

“Frank, it’s still dark!” She glared at him and he bit back the smirk at the fact she’d reverted to Frank, not Dad. Something she always did when she felt he was being a jerk.

“I know you haven’t been asleep long, but Fliss is at the yard and we need to go be with her. Heidi isn’t well, the vet is on his way.”

At that she sat up, all tiredness evaporating from her system. “What’s wrong with her?”

“It’s colic, Sweetie.” Frank answered gently. “But Fliss is on her own, so I need you to get dressed whilst I grab Alex, okay?”

“Okay.” She nodded, and Frank smiled softly before he turned and headed over to the nursery which was quiet bar the soft sounds of Alex’s little baby snores. In the stream of light that illuminated the room from the landing, he could see his son sleeping, halfway down the crib, head tilted to the side, the pair of them meticulous in the way they set him down at night. He crossed the room and gently picked Alex up out of the crib, the baby giving a little sigh as he did so but other-wise remaining asleep. He grabbed a little fleece blanket and as he made his way back out into the hallway, Mary appeared in her jeans and a red t-shirt.  

“Why don’t you bring your laptop or something, just in case we’re there for a while and you get bored?” Frank asked. “You can sit in the office with Alex.”

“It’s downstairs.” She answered. “I’ll go grab it.”

They headed down stairs and Frank settled Alex in his stroller which was by the kitchen door as Mary grabbed her stuff. Frank slipped his feet into his sneakers as Mary stuffed on her boots and he wandered into the laundry room and found a warm top for them each.

“Frank it’s like almost summer outside.” Mary looked at him, “It’s hot!”

“I’m well aware of the climate, thanks.” He looked at her, stashing the hooded tops and cardigan on the underneath space of the stroller, before he made sure that Alex’s little blanket was set around his legs. “But it might get a little breezy if we’re there later.”

Truth be told he had no idea why he was taking them, other than the fact it felt like something he should do even though it was still in the low 70s at night. He was a little lost, this was something he’d never dealt with before, and there was a sick feeling in his stomach that it wasn’t going to end well. But, there was no point worrying about it until they knew what they were dealing with. He had to be strong, be calm. Taking a deep breath he looked at Mary and nodded. “Get the door, Stack.”

By the time they had reached the Yard, Fliss had managed to coax Heidi to her feet. As Frank and Mary walked round the side of the barn Fliss was heading to the paddock, Heidi trudging behind her.

“Hey.” Frank looked at her, and she gave him a tight smile, not stopping.

“I’m sorry, but if I stop she’ll…” She began to explain but Frank waved her away.

“Do what you gotta do.” He watched as she cast a look over her shoulder. “I’ll settle these two in the office and then I’ll be out.”

After doing just that, instructing Mary to keep an eye on Alex and promising her he would come get her once they knew what was going on, he wandered back to the paddock and without a word simply took Fliss' hand in his as she continued walking Heidi. Frank could hear the horse was making grunting noises and every so often tried to stop and kick at her stomach, but Fliss kept walking, her face set. She didn’t say much, making a little small talk, but Frank simply stayed by her side as every so often they changed direction.

“Where the hell is this vet?” Fliss gave an exasperated sigh and looked around, almost as if she expected to see him.

“It’s not been that long yet, Sweetheart.” Frank soothed her.

“Well it feels like forever.”

Frank kissed her head as they continued walking and about five minutes later a dark blue Hyundai pulled up the drive and Fliss let out a sigh of relief as she saw it was Scott, their usual vet and not some random on-call one. She led Heidi onto the main area of the yard, the horse rapidly becoming even more agitated. Fliss gently ran her hand down her neck, as she turned to Scott and gave him a quick low down and he nodded, patting Heidi.

“Okay old girl, let’s see what’s going on…” Scott hooked the stethoscope into his ears and moved to listen to her belly, taking a deep breath as he looked at Fliss. “Yeah, there’s absolutely no gut noise at all. It’s definitely colic, but you know that already…” he unhooked the ear pieces, leaving the item hanging around his neck before he moved to her head and examined her nose to get a look at the mucas membrane colour, then did a quick check on her gums which Frank noticed were pale instead of the usual pink.

“She’s in shock.” Fliss sniffed a little, noticing the change in colour and Scott wrinkled his nose.

“Not uncommon if she’s in a bit of pain.” He stood back. “Okay, I’m going to give her an anti-spasmodic and some pain relief which should help, and a mild sedative so I can do an internal examination.”

 “Yeah, whatever you need to do.” Fliss nodded as Scott turned to head back to his car to prep what he needed.

“Internal examination?” Frank looked at Fliss, “Like, is he…” He mimed fisting something and despite herself, Fliss let out a snort of laughter.

“That’s exactly what he’s gonna do.” She shook her head as she gently stroked Heidi’s face, the mare giving another grunt and huff as she butted Fliss out of the way a little. “Still a sassbag, eh girl?”

“Like her mom.” Frank looked at Fliss and she shrugged, turning over her shoulder as the vet approached, two large syringes in his hand.

“Look, can you call my mum and dad?” Fliss looked at Frank. “I don’t think…well, Dad especially is going to want to be here if…”

“Sure.” Frank nodded and turned away, obligingly.

He wandered back into the office, Bill who answered the phone instantly asked him what was going on and when he explained he simply stated they would be there as soon as they could be and hung up.

“Is she going to be okay?” Mary asked, as Frank checked on Alex where he was still sleeping in his stroller.

“I honestly don’t know Stack, but as soon as I do I’ll tell you okay?”

“Okay.”

“You’re doing a good job in here, watching him.”

“Don’t patronise me, Dad.” She rolled her eyes. “He’s asleep, and I’m reading. Not like it’s hard.”

Frank blinked, before he gave a little scoff and turned to head back onto the yard.

The Vet was just finishing giving Heidi the first jab and he gently rubbed the horse’s neck and then nodded to Fliss.

“Okay so that’s the pain relief and anti-spasmodic administered. Take her back in the paddock and give her another couple of minutes’ walk round whilst it kicks in.”

Fliss nodded and led the horse away, waving off Frank’s offer to come with her, Thor trotting behind.

“What’s the chances, Scott?” Frank turned to the man and he pulled a face.

“It’s hard to say.” He sighed. “If she was younger I’d be optimistic but with horses that age, well everything like this can be a risk. If this doesn’t work then I’ll know more after I’ve done an internal.”

To their despair it didn’t work, and if anything after another minute of walking around Heidi had gotten even worse and her bright, chestnut coat was now damp with sweat, her chest area and parts of her chest covered in a thin sheen of white foam.

“Scott, she’s in agony.” Fliss sniffed as Frank curled an arm round her.

“The sedative will help more with the pain.” Scott assured Fliss, pulling out the second needle which he administered into the horses neck. “Atta girl. We’ll give that a minute to work.”

As Scott snapped on a pair of rubber gloves, Frank and Fliss both turned to look as they heard another car heading up the gravel driveway onto the yard. Verity and Bill appeared shortly after, exchanging a look before Bill headed straight to Heidi, giving her a soft stroke on the nose before Verity did the same.

“You okay, Titch?” Bill asked, dropping a kiss to her head and she swallowed.

“Not really.” Her eyes flicked to Scott as he moved behind Heidi whose head was now slumped down, resting on Fliss’ shoulder as the sedative had kicked in. No one spoke for a moment, before they all heard a heavy sigh from Scott as he pulled his arm back and shook his head.

“I’m sorry, Fliss.” He sighed, and immediately her face crumpled and she took a deep breath.

“Don’t say it, please.” She begged, her chest tightening painfully as her voice cracked.

“Her gut’s twisted. The only option is surgery, but given her age and the stress that would put on her heart…”

He trailed off as Fliss shook her head, wiping her nose on the back of her sleeve. “I’m not putting her through that.” She whispered, “It’s not fair. She’s too old.”

“In that case then, well, you know what I’m gonna say.” Scott dropped his head as Frank softly placed his hands between Fliss shoulder blades as she nodded and took a deep breath “I really am so sorry.”

“It isn’t your fault.” Fliss shook her head, sniffing loudly. “I don’t want her in pain longer than she needs to be. Can we…can we get on with it, please?”

The Vet nodded. “I won’t be able to arrange for her body to be collected until the morning.” He looked at Fliss who took a shuddering breath, more tears rolling down her face. “So errr, where do you want to….”

“Why don’t you use the barn at the back?” Bill cut in gently. “I can move the tractor out for the night. There’s enough room for her to go down peacefully and she can stay in there until someone can collect her.”

“Yeah, it’s clean in there and a soft landing for when…” Fliss took a deep breath before she began to cry as she pressed her face into her beloved horse’s neck, her shoulders shaking as Frank gently rubbed at her back.

“The kids are in the office.” He turned to Bill and Verity, “Mary’s gonna…”

“We’ll sort it.” Verity assured him. “I’ll take Alex back to the house.” She turned to Fliss and gave her arm a gently squeeze before she gently scratched at Heidi’s wither, her head bowing as she walked away.

The next five minutes passed in a blur for Fliss, and somehow she found herself in the barn at the back, as she led Heidi in, the mare following her faithfully.

“Do you want another couple of minutes?” Scott asked kindly.

“Just one, for us all to say goodbye.” Fliss nodded, as she stroked down Heidi’s nose, the tears pouring down her face. She turned to Mary who was stood with Frank, her eyes wet and Frank picked her up, carrying her over as the family crowded round.

“Goodbye, Heidi.” Mary sniffed, pressing a kiss to her nose as Frank gently gave the horse a scratch on the neck. “Frank says we all end up in the same place eventually, so we’ll see you again.”

At that Fliss let out a loud sob and clamped her hand over her face as she broke down. Bill wiped at his eyes as he dropped his arm round his daughter.

“Do you remember when we went to see her before we bought her?” He asked and Fliss let out a choked laugh. “She was in that field, and she came straight over, but so did that big black horse…”

“And she kicked it.” Fliss laughed. “Then she bit Steve. That’s why I picked her.”

At that Frank let out a soft chuckle.

“Yeah, he held a grudge about that, still does.” Bill smiled softly. “God, you had some moments with her. Falls, disagreements, battles of wills, but you got there in the end.”

“She’s been amazing.” Fliss smiled, pressing her nose to Heidi’s. “Turned herself inside out to please me. The best horse I could ever have had.”

Bill smiled, before he reached up and stroked Heidi’s face. “Night, old girl.”

At that he stepped back a little, the three of them plus the vet giving Fliss a moment alone with her old faithful.

“Dad’s right.” She smiled, her hand stoking Heidi’s nose, “You were an asshole for the first four months but, I knew you’d be special, I just had to get your trust. You gave me everything, baby girl, and I’ll never forget you. I’m gonna miss you so much. Your stupid temper tantrums if I don’t pay you enough attention, the fact you rule the pastures…” the tears poured freely down Fliss’ face as she took a shuddering breath, pressing her head to Heidi’s, taking a deep breath. “Sleep well.”

At that she turned to Scott and nodded, and he stepped forward.

“Okay, you’ve seen this before, right?”

“Yeah.” Fliss nodded, “But Mary hasn’t so…”

“Right, so, Mary, I’m gonna give her the first shot and that’s gonna knock her out pretty much, she’s likely to rock back and sit down like a dog before she flops sideways so, be prepared okay.”

“Kay…” Mary spoke in a quiet voice from where she stood in front of Frank. He gently placed his hands on her shoulders and bent down.

“You sure you wanna watch this?”

Mary nodded. “Yeah. Heidi doesn’t know what’s going on. She should have her family here.”

Frank smiled, pressed a kiss to the top of her head and stood up, his hands remaining where they were as Bill gently strode forward and grabbed Thor’s collar, removing him from the barn and out of the way.

Within seconds of Scott administering the first injection, Heidi did just as Scott said. Fliss gently pushed back with the lead rope, guiding Heidi back and the horse fell onto her haunches before flopping sideways, her head landing heavily on the straw bales that Bill had positioned to cushion her blow.

With a loud sob Fliss dropped to her knees and cradled the horse’s head in her lap as Scott then bent over to give her the last injection.

“So now she’s just basically gonna fall asleep and never wake up.” He looked at Mary who nodded, giving a loud sniff as she reached up to grab Franks hand.

“You okay?” He asked and she nodded, wiping at her face with her other hand. Bill moved, dropping a large hand to the back of the small girl’s head as Fliss gently stroked Heidi’s face as the animal’s eyes closed.

With a final, laboured breath, the animal’s chest grew still and Scott bent over.

“She’s gone.” He looked at Fliss, who gave another loud sob, bending over to press her face into the side of Heidi’s cheek.

“I’m so sorry I couldn’t fix you.” She cried, her voice broken. “I’m so sorry.”

Frank was surprised to find his own eyes misting up, and as Mary turned to him, pressing her face into his T’shirt just above the waistband of his sweats, he glanced up at Bill who had tears trickling down his cheeks. He nodded to Frank who gently looked down at Mary, who stepped back and moved towards Bill as he opened his arms, allowing Frank to move into the barn.

“Hey, Lissy…come here.” He dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms round his girl who turned and pressed into him, her body wracked as she almost screamed out her sobs.

*****

It was pushing midnight before they made their way back to the house. Fliss had broken down once more as Frank and Bill had pulled the huge barn doors shut where Heidi’s body lay, covered by a tarp, ready for collection in the morning. The Vet had been nothing short of fantastic, as sympathetic and understanding as he could and for that Frank had thanked him profoundly as he’d been packing his kit up.  Without a word said between any of them, they walked down the little pathway and through the gate that connected into the gardens of the house and walked slowly across the gravel driveway. Fliss was walking a little ahead of them, every so often Frank would notice her hand falling to Thor’s head, almost as if she was checking her faithful dog was still with them as well.

She opened the back door which led into the mudroom and walked in, kicking off her boots and then headed into the family room where Verity was sat watching TV. She stood up immediately, took one look at Fliss and then she held her arms out.

“Mum…” Fliss choked and Verity swallowed, her own face creasing into sadness as Fliss stepped into the comfort of her mum’s arms, sniffing slightly.

“Oh, Sweetheart.” Verity pressed a kiss to her daughters head. “I know this is no consolation but she had the best life ever with you, she was so loved and looked after.”

Tearing his eyes away from Fliss, who continued to sniff softly as her mum held her, Frank gently turned to Mary who had tugged on his sleeve.

“You okay?” He asked, his hand gently cupping under her cheek and she shook her head.

“I’m just sad.”

“I know.” He agreed. “You will be for a while, and there’s nothing anyone can say or do that’s gonna make it better, but if you wanna talk about it…”

“No, I think I just wanna go to bed.” She shrugged slightly. “And give Fred a hug.”

“Alright.” He nodded. “You go up, I’ll come tuck you in, in a second.”

She nodded and then walked towards Fliss, hesitating a little, before she continued and gently reached up to lay her hand on Fliss’s elbow. Fliss broke away from her mum and turned to look at Mary, wiping her eyes. Mary blinked and Fliss gave her a soft smile, crouching down to give her a hug, kissing her head.

“I love you, Mom.” Mary’s voice cracked and Fliss pressed her face harder into her hair, pulling her even closer, before she pulled back a little bit and smiled.

“I love you too. And I’m proud of you. You were so brave then.”

Fliss straightened up as Mary walked from the room after bidding everyone a goodnight, before she turned to Frank who was watching her carefully, knowing from the way her face was crumpling that her emotions were about to boil over completely. “Frankie…she…” Fliss stuttered, her chest heaving as Frank stepped forward quickly. “She just…”

“I know…” He wrapped his arms round her and pulled her close as she began to sob, her face pressed into his t-shirt. He stood, his large arms holding her against him, one hand gently resting on the back of her neck, his thumb gently arching over the skin at the back of her ear as he slowly rocked her to-and-fro on the spot, pressing a kiss to her head.

“I’ll make us some tea.” Verity swallowed, and Frank looked at her gratefully as she passed, Bill following, the man gently squeezing Fliss’ shoulder. The room was silent apart from the clinking of mugs as Verity gathered the items she needed to make them all a drink, and Thor’s soft little whines of concern, the dog eventually sticking his head in between Frank and Fliss, nudging Fliss’s thigh with his nose, his noises of distress becoming more and more high pitched. Fliss looked down, Frank’s arm curling over her shoulder as she reached down and scratched behind his ear, before the dog stood on his hind legs, his large paws reaching Fliss’ shoulders as she stooped towards him as he gently licked the tears from her face, his noises dying down a little. Frank watched the animal, a warm feeling in his chest. He’d never seen him react in this way before. He knew from tales Fliss had told him that he’d often comforted her before once her shit bag ex had given her a battering, and he’d seen the dog seek her out when she was upset or worried, but never in such an overt way like this.

“I know you’re not keen on the idea.” Fliss sniffed, looking at Frank and he turned his eyes from the dog to her. “But, can he sleep on the end of the bed, just for tonight?”

Frank looked at her, then back to the dog. Having never had pets as a kid, the bond between a human and an animal was never something he’d really given a second thought to, that is until Mary had found Fred. But since meeting Fliss, seeing the way she was with Thor and her horses, seeing how Mary was with Monty, he’d started to really comprehend that the ties went beyond a simple love. They were bonds, bonds that transcended species, bonds that snaked their way around your heart and latched on with barbs and having one of those bonds wrenched away was not only excruciating but it was devastating.

In simple terms, it was like losing a member of your family, and that Frank could relate to. It was a physical pain, a searing knife which twisted in your heart every time you thought about the person you’d lost.

The lump in Frank’s throat grew even larger as he reached out and scratched Thor behind the ear, the dog turning to him and licking the underside of his forearm, his bushy tail wagging against Frank’s leg.

“I think we can make an exception for one night.” He smiled, looking at Fliss before he pressed a soft kiss to her temple.

*****

Frank was glad their bed was a kingsize. Whilst he never minded particularly that Thor would lounge on the bed with them before they were going to sleep, or in the mornings when they got up, having the big animal on there all night could have been a problem, but as it stood, the dog was perfectly happy to curl up round the peak in the covers which Fliss’ feet made, and she pointed out to Frank that he’d probably hop off and get on his basket at some point during the night.

“He used to do that, anyway.” She shrugged. “When I was in the annex that is. Asshole never let him on the bed. If he was ever away for a few days and I let him or Loki up, I used to have to change the bedding so he wouldn’t find out. One day I forgot and…well, you can figure the rest.”

“Shhhh.” Frank kissed her neck softly as he pulled her closer, her back pressing into his chest wrapping his arms around her. “Try and get some sleep, Sweetheart. It’s late.”

“Thank you.” She whispered.

“What for?”

“Just being you.” She let out a deep breath and turned her head so she could look at him.

“Well, that is one thing I’m pretty good at.” He quipped and Fliss gave a soft chuckle before she took a deep breath.

“I know you’re busy at the shop, but is there any chance you could start late tomorrow?” She asked him softly. “I don’t wanna be on my own when they come to take her.”

“I’m not going in tomorrow.” Frank shook his head. “And Mary’s not going to school. We’ve had a late and upsetting night so I think we should all take it easy, spend some family time together. I thought maybe we could go for a drive, head down to Bay Vista Park.” He suggested. “There’s plenty of shade to sit in. We can take a picnic, climb some trees, me and Mary can have a game of Ultimate Frisbee, perhaps a swim. Hey, we might even spot some manatees.”

“Sounds great.” Fliss agreed, turning her head back round and laying down on the pillow. It was silent for a while, and Frank thought she’d drifted off to sleep until he felt her take a shuddering breath and her shoulders began to shake.

“Hey, come on.” Frank pulled her closer, pressing another kiss to her neck and she turned in his arms, pressing her face into his chest.

“I can’t believe she’s gone.” Fliss sniffed, as Frank’s hand ran up and down her back.

“I’m sorry, Sweetheart. I wish there was something I could do to make this better.”

“This is helping, a little.” She spluttered and Frank gave a soft chuckle, kissing her head again.

“Then you can stay like this all night.” He replied, closing his eyes as he simply held her close.

Eventually, Frank felt Fliss’ breathing grow even, and even though he couldn’t see in the dark of their room he knew she was asleep.

“Night, Baby.” He whispered, kissing her forehead and at that he heard Thor give out a little huff as the dog hopped down off the bed, his basket creaking before there was a soft thud indicating he’d bedded down there.

And, as Frank drifted off, he couldn’t help smile at just how the faithful dog had waited until he knew his precious human was asleep before he left her side. 

***** Chapter 22

Dedicated to  my gorgeous, wonderful, bad tempered but oh-so-loyal and loving chestnut mare, Sandybrook Hideaway. Keep waiting on that rainbow bridge until I find you again.

[brattyfics]

Savage

Summary: Miguel Galindo’s wife accidentally shows off her new lingerie set to Nestor and other members of the security team. Inspired by @sheeshgivemeabreak head cannon of Miguel’s significant other being seen by Nestor in her lingerie.

Pairing: Miguel Galindo x Black!OC

Warnings: Some cringy use of the word savage, Miguel Galindo quoting Beyonce and Megan Thee Stallion, exhibitionism (sorta?), rough sex.

Word count: 2K+

Placing the Chanel #5 perfume on the vanity, Ava, leaned back to admire her handiwork. 

Her normally big, thick hair had been pressed and curled to perfection, falling down into beautiful barrel curls past her shoulders. Long-lashed eyes blinked back at her in the mirror, glossy, pink lips gleaming despite the low lighting. 

Ava’s eyes trailed down to her breasts, shifting and adjusting to make sure everything was perfect. A white lingerie set from Agent Provocateur’s latest line clung to soft curves. The set was see-through for the most part, exposing her chocolate nipples and brown mound. Lace frilled the edges of the bra cups and panties, completing the naughty angel look. 

Satisfied, she turned from her reflection to strap on a pair of vintage designer heels, one of many gifts from her fiance, Miguel Galindo. She spared one final look at herself in the mirror before embarking on the mission to get her man in bed.

It wasn’t unheard of for him to spend long lengths of time in his personal study, the nature of his business called for it. Ava understood, but that didn’t mean she liked it. She tried to let him work uninterrupted for the most part, but sometimes he needed to be reminded of what was waiting for him in bed.

The short silk robe that covered her body did very little to preserve her modesty, so she was extra careful when scanning the hallway for bodies. Miguel normally kept his men off the second floor. It was hard for her to adjust to having someone watching her at all times, and this compromise did give her a small semblance of normalcy.

Confident no one would see her, she crept towards the office door, wanting to maintain the element of surprise. The two of them understood that she should know everything or nothing at all. Before getting married, they agreed on full disclosure. Still, Miguel didn’t want his two worlds completely fused together. Ava could tell he didn’t like her to be in the office, but she figured she would quickly be forgiven. As soon as the ties of her robe opened, Miguel would be focused on one thing.

Ava had seen Marcus leave earlier, it was rare that he did so. Being Miguel’s advisor meant he needed to be accessible 24/7, but everyone needed a break sometimes. For that reason, Ava was confident the two of them would be alone when she twisted the door knob and entered.

As soon as the door closed behind her, her fingers went to work at undoing the silk ties, and with a quick shrug Ava let gravity do the rest. Miguel’s head lifted from his papers in just enough time to watch it hit the ground, his mouth falling open, eyes widening in surprise.

Then movement to her right caused her to shriek and stumble back into the door. It was Ava’s turn for a surprise. 

Her own mouth fell open in horror. To her right stood a stunned Nestor, who had previously been occupied with something on the bookshelf.

“Shit!”

All three of them seemed to curse at the same time. Nestor scrambled to cover his eyes, books raining down with a thud in his haste. Eventually, he managed to turn so his back was facing Ava. Miguel dropped the papers he had been holding, locking eyes with Ava, communicating without saying a word. Your ass is in big trouble, missy. 

That tore her out of the shocked, frozen trance she had been in. She spun to open the door, her palms sweaty and clumsy, making the task ten times harder. Her heels clicked against the floor as she shuffled her feet impatiently. The tops of her ears burned, the thump of her heart sounding off within them.

The door opened, but not because of Ava’s doing. Hearing the scream and thump had caused the security team to run up the stairs. 

“Shit!” She shrieked again, bending down to scoop up the silk robe. Her nipples pebbled against the thin fabric as the gust of air from the door swinging open hit her. 

Nestor took that as his opportunity to make a dash for it, Miguel right behind him to slam the door in everyone’s face with a swear.

Harsh breathing were the only sounds to be heard on their side of the door, sounds of dress shoes clicking away on the other side.

Without a doubt, this was her most embarrassing moment. Ever.

The two of them stood there, Miguel’s hands above her head on the door, trapping her against it with his body as a gate. She tried in vain to calm herself and she was sure her man was trying to do the same. Waves of anger radiated off of him, and she knew there was an epic punishment coming her way.

“I-I’m sooo sorry, babe.” She apologized, slowly turning so she was facing him. 

He reminded her of an angry bull in that moment-- full of rage with a clear (and easy) target in front of him. Unfortunately, she happened to be the target stupid enough to provoke him. His eyebrows pinched together, lips downturned in that dangerous scowl he usually reserved for employees that disappointed him. The dark look in his eyes told her to stop while she was ahead, but she felt the urge to break up some of the tension.

“I didn’t--” His hand rose, and there was no more room for explaining. She gnawed on her gloss covered bottom lip.

“You are without a doubt the most disobedient, infuriating person I’ve ever met. I deal with bikers, drug traffickers, hitmen, all kinds of fucking degenerates and yet no one manages to piss me off more than you.” His hand found its way back to her collarbone, tossing her hair back behind her shoulders.

“I give you everything. Try to treat you like the princess I know you can be, but you insist on being an insolent brat. I give you free reign of this house-- this fucking city, but you have to show up in the one place you shouldn’t. Why is that?” He leaned down to look in her eyes, fingertips ghosting over her neck until she shifted to stare up at him. 

Miguel watched, fascinated as she transformed into the most demure version of herself, one she reserved for times like this when he was really angry. Her arms left her sides to lock around his neck, batting her eyelashes in hopes of a little mercy.

“Don’t act like a good girl now.” He scoffed, enjoying the closeness despite himself. He leaned in to nibble at her neck. “We both know you’re not.” She hisses at the sting, fire back in her eyes as if she was telling him she would bite back.

“You’re a bad bitch, right? A savage— or whatever that damn song you’re always singing says, right? So act like it.” He always acted as if he was annoyed by her mini-concerts, but she knew he was secretly her biggest fan. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing out loud. He didn’t allow her amusement to distract him. “Get on your knees. Now.”

Back in submissive character, she dropped to her knees.

“Now you listen.” He tsks, hands moving to unbuckle his pants. “Probably because you think there’s something in it for you. Sucking cock is your favorite pastime. Isn’t that right, sucia? You get off on being on your knees but I can promise you, this isn’t for your pleasure.” 

Ava tried her best to look disappointed. No matter what he said, there absolutely was something in it for her. They both knew it. She resisted the urge to help him undress and instead watched him, resting her weight on the backs of her legs. He finally stepped out of his dress pants and underwear, tossing them to the side.

He stood in front of her, stroking his thick cock in her face. Her eyes watched him stroke, back and forth, milking it until precum puddled around the tip. She leaned forward, her lips puckered to give it a kiss, only to be pushed back into position. 

Ava gave him a cross look. “Don’t look at me like that. You don’t decide. I do. It’s time you learned that.” She felt hypnotized as he continued to pump his hard dick. She felt like a puppy, eager, desperately wanting to drool and wag her tongue. Her eyes darted back and forth between his beautiful brown dick and his face, squirming and shifting her knees.

“Open your mouth.” She presented her long, pink tongue to him.

He teased her with the tip at the opening of her mouth, tapping it on her tongue. She begged him with her eyes to continue. 

“Take it as deep as you can.” He used that firm tone that always made her pussy throb, the fat tip invading her mouth. She sighed in relief, her tongue softly massaging the bottom of his dick as she struggled to take it all with no build-up. When he hit the back of her throat, her eyes closed, concentrating on controlling her gag reflex.

He withdrew from her mouth, causing her eyes to snap open. “Look at me while you suck my dick.” Ava nodded in understanding, letting the storm brewing in his eyes egg her on. She let him feed her dick, her eyes trained on his.

More often than not, Miguel was soft with her. She was always mi amor or bebita, perched in his lap while he read the newspaper or holding his hand across the table while they breakfast. He loved to shower her with expensive gifts and lavish trips. In return, she was his oasis. She navigated the duality of her complex man with grace, always managing to be exactly what he needed. Still, she lived for the moments where she could get under his skin.

He groaned as he watched her gag around his dick, water welling up in her pretty eyes. She pushed herself further, thick lips moving up and down his length. Her face alone could do him in-- but the looks she gave, the sounds she made, the way she expressed her love all over his dick had him ready to melt. He could barely breathe from trying to hold his moans in, stroking the top of her head with affection.

Her hands went up to rest on the tops of his legs as she throated him to the best of her ability, moaning and making it as wet as she could. Tasting him, breathing him in, swallowing him, and looking at him all at once overwhelmed her. Her panties flooded, eyes fluttering closed again.

She heard the sound ricocheting off her ass before she felt the sting, hands going back soothe her ass cheek with a whimper. Her mouth fell open in surprise.

“Did I tell you to close your eyes?” 

“No, sir.”

Miguel’s hand gripped her neck firmly.

“Did I tell you to take my dick out of your mouth?”

Another negative. “No--”

“You can’t do anything right.” Her eyebrows pulled together, lips falling into a pout. “Don’t worry, princesa, I’ll do it for you.”

He guided her by the neck, pushing her back towards the door, reaching down to pull her legs from under her, so her head could rest flush against it. The only way his dick would leave her mouth would be if he took it out. 

He used her mouth like a pussy, pumping in and out to soothe his temper. Ava was sure to maintain eye contact this time, even as spit dribbled out of her mouth onto his dick and down her chin. Down it went and Miguel didn’t let up, watching it spill between the valley of her breasts. 

She tracked his eyes, reaching up to pull down her bra straps to free her breasts. He could see the mischief in her eyes as she jiggled them at him.

He slapped her hands away with a grunt, replacing them with his own. He tugged on each nipple, loving the feeling of her moaning around his dick.

Her drenched panties clung uncomfortably to her womanhood. She needed him to take his frustration out on her pussy next.

Tears spilled from the corners of her eyes, but she refused to look away, telling him with her eyes how much she wanted his release. I want that big load so bad. Come all down my throat, daddy. Feed your princess. 

Miguel cursed under his breath, thrusts faltering as he looked up to the ceiling. Relishing in his moment of weakness, she hummed around his length. “Fuck…” He pulled out immediately. “Get up.” He grabbed her up by her shoulders, spinning her so she faced the door. 

He clawed at her panties like a lion with its prey. The mushroom tip poked at her entrance, further coating the tip in the moisture. “You’re so fucking wet.” He slid himself between her fat lips, trying to prepare himself before he came prematurely. 

Ava jumped forward when his tip met her clit. “Stop moving.” He hissed as she rocked back against him, begging to be put out of her misery. His hand rained down smacks in retaliation.

She tired, but couldn’t stop her wiggling, desperately needing relief. She felt near tears. “Please.” She whined.

With a forceful thrust in, he knocked the wind out of her, giving her no time to adjust. “So fucking hardheaded.” Ava bit her lip, turning to look at him only to find his eyes focused on her ass, watching it ripple with each thrust in. 

“Fuck me.” She whimpered, using the door for leverage to push back against him. Ava fucked him the way he liked, making it nasty while looking at him innocently. “I’m sorry for being bad, daddy. I wanna be your good girl again. I wanna be daddy’s princess--” His hand came up to cover her mouth, silencing her before she made him bust. 

“Shut. Up.” He breathed harshly, whispering dirty words in her ear. “Just do your job and fuck me. Shake that fat ass.” No, you do your job and fuck me. She couldn’t talk so she licked the palm of his hand in retaliation.

He rained down slaps on her ass until he could see a red undertone on her brown skin. 

She wailed his name and he did his best to muffle her screams, but there was no doubt everyone in the house knew what they were up to.

“You want everyone to hear you being a desperate slut?” He pounded into her, no longer caring about the sound of her hips thudding against the door. “You’re the most cock-hungry bitch I ever met. You don’t care who knows as long as I pound you the way you like, baby?” 

She tried to deny his accusation, shaking her head. There was always someone around to watch their backs so being heard and occasionally walked in on didn’t bother either of them much. 

But men that worked for Miguel, amongst them his very best friend had seen his wife practically naked. He poured his anger into every stroke, pulling on her hair until it rested on his shoulder. His fingers snaked down to massage her soaking clit, sending her over the edge. 

“Fuckkkkkkkkkk.” She cried out as he continued his assault, more frenzied than ever in his movements. Her legs shook as she tried to remain upright, her pussy walls clenching and pulling him in even deeper. 

“Fuckkkk.” He groaned his own release, strokes slowing as he filled her pussy. 

Ava’s head fell forward out of exhaustion but before she could lose her balance, his arms wrapped around her midsection. He pulled her into him, peppering kisses on her neck, behind her ear, and finally in her fruity smelling hair. 

Even as he held her up soothing her, Ava worried he would hold onto his anger as he sometimes did because of pride. Her worries dissipated when he spoke. 

“I’m definitely the savage in the relationship.”