#two conversations with them and then decided this was ‘better’

[sunseed-fandump]

Jailhouse Rock

The kids make a new (and very questionable) friend.

AU: Bad Batch Word Count: 3,281

Well, it was official, this was the most awkward moment of Gingerbrave’s life.

The jail cell was a cramped little thing, definitely not something built with the idea of containing more than one prisoner, just like the jailhouse itself didn’t seem to be built with that many criminals in mind, as there was only one cell. He supposed it made sense that a small town in the middle of the desert wouldn’t expect too many criminals stopping by, let alone having the misfortune of all of them being caught at the same time. Yet here they were.

It wasn’t like they had wanted to get caught. This was actually one of the few times they had bothered to keep a low profile. They had stopped into town for supplies on their trip down the Pilgrim’s Path, and figured it would be best for their long journey to conserve their energy. Just get in, grab the stuff, toss the money on the counter, get out. Simple.

Then things got decidedly less simple when a couple of bounty hunters recognized the kids from their wanted posters. (When did those get printed? They looked so cool! Gingerbrave hoped he got to take one home to put up on his bedroom wall.) The scuffle resulted in a lot of property damage, Wizard getting a minor concussion, and all three kids getting hit with tranquilizer darts. Who the hell carries those around? Well, those guys, apparently.

An hour later found the trio waking up disoriented, disarmed, and awaiting transfer to the nearest Kingdom for processing. Oh, and they had a cellmate. A cellmate who seemingly hated their guts if the way she scowled at them from the other side of the tiny cell was any indication.

Resulting in the awkward stare-down that was currently happening. On his right, Wild Strawberry seemingly lost interest and started fidgeting with the drawstrings on her hood. Meanwhile to his left, Wizard had begun muttering something to himself. (A quick glance to the clock on the wall beyond the bars told Gingerbrave they probably had about an hour or two before Wizard started going off the deep-end due to withdrawal from his stupid staff. Gingerbrave couldn’t stand that parasite…)

Luckily, since he was undead, Gingerbrave didn’t have to blink, which meant he could literally stare at this weird angry lady all day if he wanted. He didn’t want to, though, so instead he tried to strike up a conversation.

“So, uh…” He scratched at the stitches on his neck. “What are you in for?”

The cookie’s scowl deepened. She was a spicy cookie if the red hair and strong scent was any indication. Her hair was done up in a ponytail and she had a scar on her forehead. She was dressed in the traditional black-and-white striped outfit one typically associated with criminals. Gingerbrave wondered, when the sheriff came back, if they would be expected to get changed into something similar.

At the cookie’s lack of a response and neither of his friends lending him a hand, Gingerbrave decided to keep talking.

“Right. Anyway, I’m Gingerbrave, and these are my friends Wizard and Wild Strawberry—“ He was cut off by the other cookie’s very clipped response.

“I know who you are.” She crossed her arms and leaned back against the wall. It seemed that was all she felt like saying though as any attempt to talk to her earned the boy the cold shoulder.

Gingerbrave eventually figured she was a lost cause, and judging by Wizard starting to rock back and forth from where he was seated, he was beginning to head into the first stages. So it was time to get going.

“Alright, we’re gonna leave now.” Gingerbrave said with a shrug before getting up from his seat and heading over to the front of the cell. He pressed his face up against the bars to get a better view of the hallway. He could just barely make out the sheriff’s office at the end of the hall. No doubt, that’s probably where their stuff was. Judging by how quiet it was, the sheriff was still out doing whatever it was that sheriffs did, which meant Gingerbrave had to be quick.

The boy tested the bars. Solid as a rock and he had neglected to bring any of his stronger arms with him. Unfortunate, but he’d have to work with it.

“Hey, Wizard,” Gingerbrave looked over to the shorter boy, who seemed to briefly snap out of whatever daze he had slipped into. “If I can get you your staff, could you get us out of here?”

“Yes!” He replied way too quickly, before shaking his head and rubbing at his temples. The migraine must have been setting in. “Yes, get me my staff and I can teleport us.”

“Sounds like a plan!” And without any hesitation Gingerbrave grabbed at his forearm just under the stitches on his left elbow, and snapped it off.

“WHAT THE HELL?!” The spicy cookie jumped back, clearly startled; all the color had drained from her face in an instant. All the kids laughed a little at her expense. (Even Strawberry, with a barely restrained ‘pfft!’)

“It’s fine! See?” The severed hand waved at her like nothing was wrong. “Watch this!” He gently set it down to the floor where, with a bit of awkward finagling he got it balanced on its fingers like a spider. He walked his hand out of the cell, slipping it between the bars, and all the cookies watched as it scuttled down the hall towards the office. Gingerbrave scrunched up his face in concentration, leaning the stub of his left arm out of the cell as far as it could go to help keep his hand within range. His spirit could stretch pretty far, but not forever, and he wanted to make sure he had full reign of the office.

Okay, that felt like the office chair. There’s the desk. He poked around a little to the right and hit a wall so maybe if he…

“Does that hurt…?” The spicy cookie’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts briefly and the boy looked over his shoulder at her. Huh, that usually wasn’t the first reaction he got when severing his parts in front of new cookies. Usually it was fear, panic, and accusations of being a dough-eating monster, but this cookie’s initial surprise had melted into an emotion Gingerbrave wasn’t quite familiar with.

“Nah, they were made to come off.” Gingerbrave said with a shrug before turning his attention back to feeling around the distant room. What was that? A bookshelf? Maybe he should try a few paces to the left.

The spicy cookie gave him an assessing look before turning her attention to the other two, specifically Wizard who was looking a little more harrowed than usual. “Yo, shortstack, you good?”

Gingerbrave snorted at the nickname. Oh! That felt like a chest! Maybe their stuff was in there but… it was locked. Rats. Then again, maybe the staff couldn’t fit? Probably best to be thorough.

“I’ll be fine once Gingerbrave gets my staff back.” Wizard said with a harrumph and a mutter of “I’m not short…”

“What’s the hold up? Any longer and Wizard is gonna start getting all freaky.” Strawberry asked, to which Gingerbrave huffed.

“I’m trying!! This would’ve been a lot easier if I was awake when we were brought in. Wizard, tell your stupid staff to be less stupid—!”

‘BANG!’

A screech ripped itself out of Gingerbrave when pain shot through his hand. He flung himself back from the bars, hitting the opposite wall and clutching at his stubby arm as if it would stop the pain. He heard a few exclamations of surprise from the cookies around him along with a horrified scream from down the hall followed by two more gunshots that (thankfully) missed their mark.

The sheriff was back and he just shot Gingerbrave in the hand.

His hand scuttled wildly around the office, blindly bumping into everything in an attempt to get to some kind of cover. Wild Strawberry had gotten up and put a hand on his shoulder to steady him.

“He shot me…!” Gingerbrave bit out between clenched teeth just as a few more shots rang out, one of them glancing the boy’s dough.

“Screw this.” The spicy cookie flung herself at the cell door and after a few moments it popped open…

Wait, what?

“You could’ve done that this whole time?!” Strawberry voiced what Gingerbrave was in too much pain to say.

“Shut up and move!” Replied the other cookie who sprung out of the cell and down the hall. Wizard was right on her heels, no doubt seeing the opportunity to get his staff and not at all caring about the actively shooting lawman. Wild Strawberry called out to him, cursed under her breath when she was ignored, then grabbed Gingerbrave and hauled him out of the cell to give chase.

They arrived just in time to watch the spicy cookie deliver a round-house kick to the sheriff’s face, sending him flying back and hitting his head on the corner of the bookshelf, knocking him out cold.

“How could a cookie that moves so slow become sheriff? Can’t believe I let myself get caught by this moron…” she tsked and checked his pockets.

“There you are!” Wizard exclaimed happily before flinging himself at his staff that was propped up in an umbrella stand for some weird reason. He scooped it up into his hands, the tension practically melted from his body as he felt the staff’s familiar magic settle once more within his dough. “That fool didn’t shoot you, did he…? No?” He sighed in relief.

Gingerbrave looked at the scene with a small frown, but held his tongue. Instead he focused on trying to find his hand. He experimentally tapped his fingers against the nearest hard surface and cringed at the pain blossoming from his fresh wounds.

Wild Strawberry Cookie got down on her knees and checked under the desk when she heard tapping, sure enough, there was Gingerbrave’s hand with a bullet wound in it. “Got it.” She pulled it out and held it up for her friend to take, who cradled it close to his chest. “I’ll get the extra icing stitches from my backpack and we can stitch everything up.”

“No time.” Wild Strawberry jumped when her backpack and lollipop were shoved into her arms by the spicy cookie. She had picked the sheriff’s pockets clean, gotten the keys to the chest in the corner, and cleaned that out too. She strapped a belt around her waste and clipped two daggers to her side. “All that ruckus is gonna have the whole town coming down on top of us. Pointy hat, if you got magic I suggest you start using it!”

“My name is Wizard–!” The small boy’s correction was cut off by the glass of the window shattering in front of him.

“GET DOWN!” She grabbed Gingerbrave and Strawberry and pulled them behind the desk. Wizard, who had been a bit further away, joined them shortly after just as a hail of bullets poured in through both windows and the open front door. “Unless you wanna have more holes than swiss cheese then I suggest you get us out of here!!”

Wizard growled, but instead of snapping at her, he focused on the vocal components of a well-practiced spell. A magic circle appeared beneath the group of cookies and in a flash they were gone. One moment they were hiding under a desk, the next they were on top of a bluff overlooking the town. The gunshots, once deafening, were nothing but an echo on the rocks at this distance.

The spicy cookie stumbled, not used to the sensation of being teleported around, caught herself, and then let out a huge ‘WOO!’

“Wow! What a day!” She exclaimed with a sigh of relief.

“Tell me about it…” Wild Strawberry muttered as she dug into her backpack and pulled out the icing stitches. “Yo, Gingerbrave, let’s get your arm back on.”

“Y-Yeah…” The other boy hissed, allowing himself to be guided over to a rock and took a seat.

“That was some nice quick-casting there, pointy hat!” The spicy cookie went to pat Wizard on the back, but paused. “Oh, right, I’m supposed to be mad at you guys…” She pondered this for a moment before shaking her head with a laugh and then patting him anyway. “Ah, but it’s hard to stay mad after such a fun jailbreak! Definitely one of my favorite ones yet!”

“Who even are you?” Wizard Cookie turned on her, giving her an absolutely baffled look as he adjusted his hat.

“And, uh, why are you mad at us?” Gingerbrave called over, trying to remain as still as possible while Strawberry worked. It wasn’t like they weren’t used to being scorned by most, if not all, of Crispia, but this strange cookie’s anger seemed rather out of left field. The spicy cookie reared back, as if offended by this line of questioning.

“You mean you guys don’t recognize me?! Seriously? And here I thought you were supposed to be big shots…” She reached into her pocket and produced a rolled up piece of paper which was quickly revealed to be a wanted poster that she unraveled with a proud flourish. “The name’s Chili Pepper Cookie and I’m the best thief in the world! There’s nothing on Earthbread I can’t steal.”

“Whoa! Look at that bounty!” Gingerbrave gasped at the sight of all the zeroes. “But… Uh… What does that have to do with being mad at us?”

“Because!” She rolled the paper back up and jabbed a finger at the trio. “Your collective bounties are higher than MINE! How am I supposed to go down in history if I’m being outclassed by a bunch of twerps?!”

Wizard Cookie sputtered indignantly at this revelation. Wild Strawberry stared at her, thoroughly unimpressed. Gingerbrave, however, burst into laughter.

“That’s what all of this was about!?” He cackled a few moments, clutching his aching gut, before settling down and saying breathily, “You’re a weird cookie. I like you!”

“If you want our bounties, you can have them! They’re what got us into trouble in the first place!” Wizard huffed.

Chili Pepper tilted her head, fixing them with a weird look. “Wait, you mean to tell me you aren’t in this for the infamy? Guess that’s why I haven’t seen you around the usual haunts rubbing your status in everyone's faces. You’re totally out of the loop!” She brightened, as if this revelation was both a massive relief and a big joke at the same time.

“Yeah we’re… not really interested in whatever weird crime competition this is.” Wild Strawberry Cookie shook her head as she finished up Gingerbrave’s stitches and stashed the spool into her bag. “If anything those bounties make reaching our goal harder…”

Chili Pepper Cookie looked at her as if she had grown a second head. “What could a group of kids like you want so badly you land bounties that put you in the criminal elite?”

“We’re going to steal the Soul Jam to free the world!” Gingerbrave proudly announced, jumping to his feet, he was already feeling a lot better now that his wounds were stitched up.

“A world without judgement!” Wizard added with a nod.

“And lawlessness…” Wild Strawberry muttered.

Chili Pepper Cookie gave the three children a thoughtful expression, putting a hand to her chin with a little ‘huh…’ before shooting a wide grin at the kids. “Well, I’m not sure about half of that, but I can definitely get behind the stealing and lawlessness parts! Are those Soul Jam things shiny?”

“They are incredibly powerful magical artifacts that have the capability of changing the world as we know it!” Wizard rattled off. When Chili Pepper gave him a blank look, he sighed and said, “And they’re shiny, yes.”

“Hey, I have an idea,” Gingerbrave cut in with a wide smile. “Chili Pepper Cookie, why don’t you come with us?” He got a mixed reaction of surprise and confusion from the cookies around him. Wizard Cookie and Wild Strawberry Cookie knew that Gingerbrave didn’t just extend offers like this to just anyone. He might have been the more chipper and outgoing of their group, but he didn’t trust others so easily. He must have really liked something Chili Pepper did or said to even think about such a proposal.

“You want me to come with you? Why?” Chili Pepper was just as confused as Gingerbrave’s friends. She couldn’t imagine them wanting her around after she gave them the silent treatment back in the jail cell.

“You seem fun.” Was Gingerbrave’s simple reply. “You helped us get out of that jail cell when you really didn’t have to. Plus, if you travel with us, I’m sure your bounty will sky rocket! And we could use the world’s greatest thief on our team!”

Chili Pepper Cookie seriously considered his proposal for a minute. When she had first heard about them and their rapid climbing of the leaderboard, she had thought they were nothing but a bunch of punk kids who wanted to be rowdy and cause trouble. Now she could see though, they had bigger plans than just topping the charts of the Underworld. She could appreciate such a large ambition.

Besides they didn’t seem to be jamthirsty monsters like all the rumors said they were. They were just… weird. The criminal underworld had plenty of downright monstrous folks who Chili Pepper tried not to associate with, but she could tell, these kids didn’t seem heartless. Mischievous, yes. Troubled? Absolutely. But not heartless.

“You know what?” Chili Pepper grinned. “I’ll think about it. But for right now, I got a job I need to finish.”

“A job?” Wild Strawberry asked just as Chili Pepper turned to walk towards the cliff that overlooked the town.

“Yeah? Do you think the greatest thief in the world would screw up and get arrested in a nothing town like this?” She gestured to the settlement below. “I let myself get caught! The train they were gonna put us on has a massive safe full of gems. I was gonna bust out of my cuffs mid-transfer and clean it out! But now I guess I gotta do it the good old fashioned way…”

Gingerbrave once again laughed, giving Chili Pepper a sharp grin. “Well, if you decide you wanna join up, head to the Bear Jelly Village in the Land of Little Big Dreams! There’s a cookie there who’ll point you in the right direction.” With that he raised a hand in farewell. “Good luck, Chili Pepper Cookie!”

Chili Pepper gave the kids a mock salute. “See you around, stitches! Make sure you stay out of any more jail cells, punks!” With that she jumped over the side as nimble as an acrobat, and out of sight.

“Well, that was certainly… interesting.” Wizard sighed, before clutching his stomach. “But we failed to get any supplies, and teleporting us this far has made me famished…”

“Right… I forgot about that…” Gingerbrave’s brow furrowed. Should they try heading back into town and risking getting arrested again? Did they push forward and hoped they reach the next town before they starved? He didn’t really know much about hunting or foraging, but he doubted they’d be able to sustain themselves with much in this sugar-free wasteland.

“Hey, look!” Wild Strawberry pointed further up the main road where the kids could see a huge cloud of dust being kicked up. “I think that’s a caravan.”

All three kids stared at it for a long moment.

“Welp!” Gingerbrave clapped his hands together. “Fellas, it’s time to commit robbery!”

“YEAH!!” Strawberry and Wizard raised their respective weapons into the air, excited at the prospect of getting some food in their stomachs. With that, the trio ran off to intercept those travelers.

From the bottom of the cliff, Chili Pepper watched the kids disappear. She lingered for a moment, deep in thought…

‘CHOO CHOOOOOOO!’

The thief turned on her heel and raced towards the tracks. Their paths would cross again someday, but for now, she has a train to catch.

[heavyhitterheaux]

40-22

See Me Through You Fic

Synopsis: You and your husband watch the Super Bowl along with your best friends in NOLA

Pairing: Husband!Joe Burrow x Wife!Reader

Requested by: a gorgeous anon 😘💕

Please Do Not Repost My Content Anywhere

Seeing as Joe was doing a press run the week leading up to the Super Bowl in New Orleans, you decided that the two of you should have a party for it at your new house that Joe had surprised you with as a Christmas gift. A party that would literally only be your best friends, but still a party nonetheless. He had noticed that you were missing being in Louisiana more than usual and it had actually been in the works for him to buy it since the beginning of last year.

In order to get your input without actually telling you about it, he would show you different pictures that the designer was sending Joe and as soon as you had given him the approval, everything was a go.

This was your first time actually seeing the house in person and you immediately fell in love. There was a hallway leading to what would be considered the man cave of the house and the walls were decorated with pictures of both you and Joe at your time at LSU. Seeing this definitely made a few tears slip out that you of course blamed on your hormones being all over the place.

Ja'Marr and Justin of course wanted to see the house and essentially invited themselves over, even though they were going to be invited anyway. You had sent a quick text to Erin and Alisha to see if they were free and they of course said yes to be able to spend time with you.

Joe told you that he could order food so that the two of you didn't have to cook and he didn't want you to be on your feet for a long period of time.

Of course he was met with resistance from you since cooking was one of your many love languages the last thing he wanted was an argument to come out of it. He knew once you made up your mind about something that it was the end of the conversation. But if it was something that he was dead set on not letting go, he had no problem letting you know how he felt. But for now, he would just help you with what you decided to make and make sure you got breaks in between.

As you were making your famous chili cheese dip that you knew was going to go in less than ten minutes, Joe had just finished seasoning the wings and was about to put them in the oven.

He had come up behind you and wrapped his arms around you and placed a kiss on top of your head.

“You okay? And are my other two babies okay?” He asked and you nodded your head.

“Yes, babe. I told you that I'm fine. And they're fine too.” You replied and gave him a small smile before he gently moved you to the side to open the oven.

“As soon as we're done, you need to sit down and put your feet up so they don't swell.”

“Yes, Doctor Burrow.”

“Princess, I'm serious.”

“I know, I know and I promise I will. Just have one more thing to make and then I'll sit.” You replied as you reached up to kiss him.

“What else do you need help with so I can make this go faster?”

“They’re just cheesesteak sliders, but if you can start cutting up everything that would be helpful.”

“On it.”

When all of the food was done, Justin was already in the kitchen so you told him to come and get his plate so that way you could sit down yourself.

“Justin, it’s hot on the bottom, take the sides of it.” You told him as he was reaching for it.

“Uh huh.” He replied as he was still looking at the television and not at you.

“Don't touch the bottom. It's hot, move your hand away from it.”

Justin once again nodded and you decided since he wasn’t going to listen to just let him learn the hard way.

“Ow! DAMN, THAT’S HOT.”

“I know and I told your stupid ass two times not to touch the bottom, but you were so interested in looking at the TV instead. And you better not break my damn plate either.”

“Joe! Your wife was nicer before you got her pregnant!” Justin yelled towards him and Joe looked at him confused.

“Says who!?” Ja’Marr asked as he immediately chimed in and you gave them both a death glare.

“No, Justin, you just like to do stupid shit.” Joe shot back and Ja'Marr stifled a laugh.

“Next time I'm not cooking shit for yall. I can't even see my damn feet and they're probably swollen and I'm stressed because I'll have to probably call 911 messing with both of you. Justin, take this plate and get out my face. IMMEDIATELY.”

“But we didn't ask you to cook since I…”

“Ja’Marr keep talking and I'm going to make sure the next time I cook for you will be at your funeral.”

Ja’Marr immediately threw his hands up in defense as you went to sit down while everyone fixed their plate.

“Damn that food is about to be good as shit. Baby, can I request meatballs?” Joe asked you and you stifled a laugh.

“SERIOUSLY?” Ja’Marr asked Joe as he shrugged.

“No, Joe you got it backwards. It's funeral chicken and baby shower meatballs.” Erin told him while laughing and Ja’Marr made a face at her.

“Not you encouraging his nonsense….”

“Well Erin come through with the meatballs for our baby shower.” Joe told her and she quickly agreed.

“All you had to do was say the word. Consider it done.”

“So, no one is going to mention how my twin is planning my funeral?” Ja’Marr asked the entire room and everyone gave him a blank stare.

“No.” Everyone replied and you couldn't help but to laugh.

“She’s older and she's pregnant? Yeah, not getting into that one.”

“Some friends yall are.”

The game was just starting and Joe told you to sit down while he fixed your plate for you. He made sure you were comfortable with your multiple pregnancy pillows and put your feet up for you.

“The Eagles have one damn job and if they don't come through, I will RIOT.” Alisha said as she sat to the left of you while Erin was on your right.

“You and me both.” You told her as you turned up the volume.

It was during the second quarter when you suddenly got bored. The Chiefs were playing like they had never seen a football before in their lives and you honestly couldn't believe what you were seeing.

“Are they really serious right now?” Justin said out loud and in disbelief.

“Apparently they are.”

“I told yall that they aren't as good as everyone thinks they are. Because they are playing like straight ass.” Alisha added and everyone couldn't help but to laugh.

“Jalen is cute.” Erin said and you gave her a small smirk.

“AHT! Princess, wipe that smirk off your face!” Joe said and you held your hands up in defense.

“But I…”

“Nope, don't even try it. I saw it.”

“I only have eyes for you and you know that! Last time I checked I am pregnant with YOUR children."

"Mm hmm. Sure."

"Such a big ass baby." You quietly said, but he still heard you.

"Want to repeat that Mrs. Burrow?"

"Nope, I'm good." You replied while taking a sip of your lemonade while both Erin and Alisha laughed.

“As I was saying before, Joe rudely interrupted. Have you seen the entire team!? It's a TRAIN. And I wouldn't get off until I had a taste of the entire roster.” Alisha exclaimed, and you couldn't help but to laugh.

"Alisha, I heard that." Joe said, and she held her hands up and acted as if she didn't know what he was talking about.

“You know that there's 52 people on the roster, right?” You asked her and she immediately nodded her head.

“Like I said before, it's a train.”

Joe was on his second plate of food and focused on the game when you decided to send him a text.

Wifey- Baby, I'm bored.

Joey- You don't want to watch the game?

Wifey- Yes, but at this point I want it to be halftime. But in the meantime could you do something for me?

Joey- Of course baby. What do you need?

Wifey- For you to put your dick inside me

As soon as Joe read the text, his eyes went wide and he glanced at you with a smirk on his face as he bit his lip.

Joey- We have seven minutes until halftime

Wifey- I'm not missing Kendrick so we have to do it now

Joey- Go upstairs and I need to teach you a lesson for having a smirk on your face about that quarterback who ISN’T me

Wifey- So dramatic as usual. Just like a Sagittarius. Smh.

Joey- Just you wait until I get you alone

Once you got up, Joe was following your lead and Ja’Marr suddenly made a face at both of you.

“Where yall going?”

"Just going to the bathroom." You told him, but looked at you confused.

"And taking your husband with you?"

"Look Ja’Marr! My whole body is swollen and I can't see past my boobs!" You exclaimed as you crossed your arms and continued walking towards the stars as Joe stifled a laugh.

“Those things are going to be Z cups by the time the twins get here.” Alisha said without hesitation.

"So, you don't know where your vagina is located anymore?"

“Ja'Marr, if your twin wants to get her cheeks clapped by her husband who has clearly done it multiple times before since she's pregnant, that's her business. That's obviously where they're going.” Erin told him and he made a gagging noise.

"Bam Bam, keep talking and I will choke you.”

“Wouldn't be the first time.”

"Unless you're volunteering to wipe my ass, baby brother. By all means, come on.”

“NO! I'm good!”

“That's what I thought and that's why you need to mind your damn business.”

“You're my twin so you are my business.”

By this time, you had reached the top step and rolled your eyes before you responded to him.

“Leave me alone, Ja'Marr!”

“Never going to happen!”

As you entered your bedroom, you were attempting to walk towards the bed before Joe tugged your arm in another direction.

“If I take you on the bed, you know for a fact we'll be up here for the rest of the game and you are entirely too loud. No offense, princess.”

“Hmm, good point. Bathroom it is. And if Ja’Marr would have minded his business we would have been up here sooner! We have like 4 minutes now.”

“Then stop talking and let me take care of my wife.” Joe told you as he leaned down to kiss you.

“You don't have to tell me twice.”

As you were coming down the steps, Erin was grinning and wiggling her eyebrows at you and you instantly laughed at her.

“Nasty ass fuckers. Couldn't have even waited until we left.”

“I seriously went to the bathroom, dumbass!” You replied as you took your rightful seat in between your best friends just in time to see Kendrick come on the screen when Alisha leaned over and whispered in your ear.

“I know that white boy be turning you every way but loose.”

You tried so hard to keep a straight face but failed miserably as Ja'Marr shot you a look.

“What are you two whispering about?”

“You'll never learn, will you?” You asked and he shrugged his shoulders before turning back to the TV.

“Probably not. You know I'm nosey.”

“And no lie was told.”

It was now the third quarter when the Chiefs finally decided to score, which clearly still left everyone unimpressed.

“See that's what they asses get for making sure we didn't make it in the playoffs.” Ja’Marr muttered to your husband who quickly agreed with him.

“Look, I'm just happy that I don't have to look at Taylor Swift for four quarters.” Erin confessed with Alisha letting out a laugh.

“And her boyfriend has done absolutely nothing this entire game.” You added before getting up and sitting on Joe's lap.

You sat to the side so that you could put your head on his shoulder and your feet in Ja’Marr's lap who quickly protested.

“Why are these things on me?”

“So they don't swell. Help a pregnant lady out. And besides I fed you and you're in my house. And I just got a pedicure so leave me alone!”

“She has a point.” Joe said and he crossed his arms in response.

“My going rate for babysitting those two when they get here is 50 dollars. EACH.”

“BULLSHIT. We watch baby uno for FREE.” Joe exclaimed in response.

“Because he's a low maintenance baby! Yall kids are about to be spoiled as hell with big ass heads that look like Joe. That last sonogram picture was wild. Count on having a c-section.”

“HEY! MY HEAD IS NOT THAT BIG!”

“Keep telling yourself that, Shiesty.” Justin muttered and it took everything in you not to laugh. You turned away from Joe, but he could feel the vibration of your laugh since you were leaning against him.

“My own wife laughing about jokes about me, I see.”

“Um, pookie… have you seen your baby pictures? It's always been big.” You asked him and he turned up his nose.

“I…forget about that Birkin you wanted for Valentine’s Day.”

“Hold on! Wait! I take it back!”

“Nope. Damage is done. I'm sleeping in the guest room.”

“Okay Mr. Dramatic.”

“AYE! ANOTHER TOUCHDOWN!” Justin exclaimed as he raised his arms in excitement.

“Andy needs to whoop everybody's ass on that field.”

“I think the Eagles got him covered in that department.”

“No 3 peat is happening at this point.”

It was now the final seconds of the fourth quarter and it was now set in stone that the Eagles had won. They were interviewing Jalen when a thought popped up in your head.

"I can not believe they got their ass beat this bad. I feel like a curse has been lifted." Justin said, and you stifled a laugh.

“I expect everyone in this room that has an NFL contract to be in the super bowl next year. Do with that information what you will.” You said and all three of them looked at you.

“If the front office actually gets its shit together so we can keep everyone we need.” Joe said before rolling his eyes.

“Are we going to make bets? I think we should.”

“Sure when the regular season starts, but my husband needs to take me to Disney World after he wins. And Ja’Marr is on babysitting duty.”

“Fine, 250 dollars an hour. EACH.”

"You must be out of your damn mind." Joe told him in response as he looked at him in disbelief while you were laughing.

[allthingswillpass4gnomes]

Mel couldn’t decide what was cuter, Jayce’s abject groveling or Viktor’s abject terror. How lucky she could enjoy both at the moment.

“I really am sorry about your dress Mel.” Jayce picked at his pheasant, doubtless afraid to eat lest he end up talking with his mouth full. “I’d be happy to pay for the cleaning - “

“Really Jayce, that’s hardly necessary. You’ve apologized enough.” Mel sipped her wine, a dry pinot noir. Such a shame her boys had barely touched their glasses, it paired so well with the rest of the meal. “In fact it gave me some food for thought.” Truthfully it was more that it gave her an excuse to suggest an idea she’d been planning but they didn’t need to know that.

“Oh?”

Mel leaned in, letting her elbow and chest rest on the table. “As Hextech moves forward, you both will be facing more and more public attention. And, for better or worse, external appearances do make a difference. Do you two have a free morning or afternoon where the three of us could go buy some new clothes for the pair of you?”

“Three of us?” Viktor finally looked up from his plate, alarmed.

“Of course.” As expected, Jayce looked intrigued, Viktor apprehensive. “Nothing terribly extravagant of course, just visiting a tailor for initial measurements and fabric choices, then a follow-up a few weeks later for finishing and fitting. I know clothes shopping might seem frivolous to men of science - “

“Not at all!” Jayce, probably eager to make amends, interrupted. “V, I think we could take tomorrow afternoon off to go out, right?”

“Ah - “ Viktor’s eyes darted between her and Jayce. “I - prefer to work behind the scenes, a new suit would be wasted on me.”

“Oh come on V you deserve half the credit for Hextech, you’re gonna be at events with me - “

“I don’t know if that’s a good idea - “

“Why not?”

“Gentlemen,” The two looked to her. “May I suggest a compromise of sorts?”

“Sure.” Jayce glared at Viktor out of the corner of his eye, who sighed and nodded.

“Much as I would love for you to come with me for a new suit, Viktor - ” he looked doubtful about her sincerity, unfortunate but unsurprising - “If you’re unable to get away for an afternoon, perhaps Jayce and I could purchase some things for you in your stead? If you gave us your measurements and any preferences we could order pieces for you to try on at your own leisure.”

“Yes,” Viktor rushed to reply while Jayce was still opening his mouth. “Yes - that would be excellent. Jayce, you still have the measurements we took for my braces correct? Would those suffice Miss Medarda?”

“Please, call me Mel. Do you have them with you at the moment?”

Jayce grumbled, but pulled his journal from his satchel beside him on the floor.

The rest of supper passed amusingly. Much to Jayce’s chagrin his detailed notes on Viktor’s proportions would be more than sufficient for the tailor Mel had picked out, and with the threat of non-Hextech related human interaction minimized Viktor lightened up enough to engage in actual conversation. He still proved diffident about color and cloth choices, but he did chime in whenever he thought Jayce’s scientific chatter needed correction, and he seemed pleased by how quickly Mel picked up on their explanations. By the end of the night (and the third bottle of wine) she and Jayce even got Viktor to agree to try the suits on at her apartment when they were finished.

“It’ll be fun, V!” Jayce wrapped his arm yet again around Viktor’s shoulder. “We’ll have a fashion show, the three of us!”

“We’ll make an evening of it,” Mel chimed in. “Dinner and a show, how does that sound?”

Viktor scraped the bottom of his dessert bowl. “Fine.” He licked the remains of his mousse off his spoon. “But only if you make this again.”

Mel led the gentleman to the door, and after an impromptu group hug courtesy of Jayce bid them good night. She’d watched them amble down the hall, ties loose and hair mussed, until they turned the corner to the elevator and out of sight. A shame, really, that she couldn’t convince Viktor to join her and Jayce for shopping tomorrow. But at least he’d agreed to let her update his wardrobe. She couldn’t convince hardly have the founders of Hextech walking around still looking like Academy students in need of handouts from a patron.

And besides, there was the subsequent dinner and outfit trial to look forward to. An evening of wine, laughter, and two handsome best friends in various states of dress and undress held such interesting possibilities.

Sorry about that, Jayce talking to Viktor about how awesome Mel is

I went with some pre-established Meljayvik 💥

(I hope you can read my handwriting--)

(Instagram)

[schluttforschlatt]

I come to you with another silly lil idea

Young Single Mom Reader x Tee-Ball coach Schlatt

(I’m leaving the child’s gender gn bc I played on a co-ed little league team 🤷🏻‍♀️ could also be gn reader, but it will have gendered language)

You’d had your child when you were young (like 18/19) and when your child turned 5, you decided it was time to get them involved in extracurriculars

You were not super knowledgeable about the rules and positions of baseball but figured you would learn along with your child

The first two “practices” were essentially just meetings, going over what gear you should buy and the ins and outs of how the team would work

On the first real day of practice, you sat in the stands of a local sports park, anxiously watching as your child walked up to home plate and took a few swings

After adjusting to holding the bat, one of the coaches gives them a high five, and sends them to the bench for the next kid to go to bat

This continued until all of the kids had gone and the process started over

The other parents had been completely engrossed in conversations with one another except for you

You feared this might have been because of how young you looked. Feeling slightly embarrassed, you got up from your spot on the bench and decided to stand by the dugout, asking your child what they wanted for dinner as a distraction. You’d stand there until practice was over

Just as you were getting ready for the walk back to your car, one of the coaches, the one you recognized helping the kids with their swings, introduced himself to you

You exchanged pleasantries, taking advantage of the moment to ask any questions you had in regard to both the team and the sport

The conversation flowed smoothly and you felt relieved that if you were being ostracized by the parents, at least you could talk to this coach, Mr. Schlatt

You said your goodbyes and headed back to the car, your child excitedly chanting about dinner and telling you about the new friends they made

The next week had started about the same, comfortably sticking to yourself once the kids had made it on the diamond, playing in the grass while waiting for the coaches

You decided to pull out your phone, quickly checking social media and clearing notifications as you waited

“You came back! Happy to see you, Ms (L/N),” the voice of Mr. Schlatt pulled you back to reality

“Oh! Sorry. Of course we’re back, (C/N) really enjoyed it and we plan on sticking this through!” You smiled, the gesture being reciprocated by the young coach. The longer you held eye contact, you couldn’t help but think that he was fairly attractive, causing a slight blush to crawl up your cheeks and ears

“Well, if you ever have any questions, feel free to ask away,” he replied, making his way onto the diamond

This practice ran a little longer than the last, you believed it to be because the kids were actually starting to play the sport. You watched your child at bat, then successfully run to first base

The next few practices were roughly the same, a handful of parents withdrawing from the program over time. Not enough to make a difference, though

Over time, the kids slowly worked on their skills and knowledge of the game. However, as the kids were improving, the situation parents was not. They would gossip and laugh with each other while you would attempt to block it out, focusing on the game

The scene before you brought a smile to your face, hoping that this would be a memorable experience for your child, something that might help define their childhood and your parenting

You starting daydreaming about their future, how well they would do in school, the kind of friends they’d make, while also pondering what you could do as their parent to do better for them. You wanted nothing more than for them to flourish where you had not been able to. You wanted to be the mother you wished to have had

“…or am I just that sexy?” A voice brought you out of your trance. “What?!?” You choked. Mr. Schlatt let out a light chuckle, before repeating his previous sentence

“I said, ‘Are y’ having a nice daydream, or am I just that sexy?’

[malsmind]

the after party

matt sturniolo x influencer!reader

summary: after an event that you attended, sat next to three other youtubers/influencers, you hapen to bump into one of them at an after party another youtuber threw.

warnings: mentions of alcohol and drinking, kissing

wc: 1.3k (sorry LMFAO)

english is not my first language!

today was your first, big event. you've done content creation for a while now, roughly four years. so after having a schedule, uploading youtube videos and creating content on many other social media platfroms like tiktok & instagram, you gained quite the audience. nothing as big as other influencers and youtubers you met at that event, but it was still a huge number. everyone was assigned a table of four, leaving you to be placed with three other people. you barely talked to them, given the fact you didn't know each other and wanting to avoid any awkwardness, but you did some mild interaction.

after the event, another youtuber that you became good friends with over the past year threw a party. the rented out bar had a vinatge design. discoballs and neon signs, even a jukebox. obviously it wasn't used. loud speakers put up in the corners of the room, good music playing trough them. you weren't always one to drink. usually at those sort of after parties or events, you would, but considering you had to drive yourself back home, not wanting to leave your car behind and uber home if you did change your mind and have a drink, you just decided you'd enjoy the night without the consumption of alcohol, interacting with friends and just vibing.

you saw a lot familiar faces, some of which you actually knew, and some who you've only heard of or attended the same events with. in the crowd of people talking next to the bunch of people dancing and singing the song that was currently playing at the top of their lungs, you spotted two of the people who sat at the same table as you at the event, talking to one of your friends that you were looking for. you didn't want to break off their conversation, so you decided to go stand somewhere, waiting until she was free to talk to. you weren't the biggest party person. feeling awkward in big settings full of people, especially if you only knew a handful of them.

you walked into a corner of the bar that had a window pointing to the empty streets, streetlights and the moon shining right into the spot you leaned up against, the glittering lights of the discoballs bouncing off of the window. you sighed, watching the cars that drove by on the street near the bar, crossing your arms and bobbing your head to the song. you didn't even realize someone standing pretty much right in front of you, leaning against the window until your eyes landed on the guy, offering him a smile when your eyes met and recieving one in return. he pushed himself off of the window to walk closer to you for you to be able to hear him better over the loud music echoing trough the crowded room.

"not a party person?" he chuckled, leaning against the wall next to you. "oh no i am, sometimes." you shrugged "so why're you over here then?" you turned your head to look at him, shrugging again, "my friend was busy talking to.. i think those are your brothers, right?" you pointed over at them, asking him in a jokey way since it was pretty obvious that the three of them were triplets, or at least brothers.

his eyes went the direction that you pointed to, feinging surprise, "damn, what gave it away?" he grinned, averting his eyes back to your face. "hmmm, i don't know. maybe the hair" you joked, making him chuckle. "you don't drink?" you asked him, gesturing to his empty hands. he shook his head "nah i gotta drive, what's your excuse?"

"driving aswell" you answered. your friend was still busy talking, but you didn't mind it as much now that you were having conversation with this 'stranger'. "what's your name by the way?" you asked, turning your head back to look at him again. "matt" he answered "i'm-"

"i know." he cut you off, chuckling at your surprised reaction. "we sat together at the event, they have name tags on the chairs?" he tried to remind you. you nodded, remembering.

your guys's conversation kept on going for a while, talking about the typical things that people who just met usually talk about. you found out he didn't live that far from you. you loved the way the conversation was going so smoothly, not awkward at all. you were interested in learning more about him and he matched the energy. your eyes couldn't help but wander over his features. his chain, reflecting the flashing lights, his slight stubble, his blue eyes. you were listeining to something he was telling you about himself when you caught yourself staring down at his lips for a brief moment, regretting the lack of control you had over your eyes. you didn't want to seem weird, weirding him out of the conversation.

matt seemed to have noticed the way your eyes quickly snapped back up to meet his, because he paused his talking, his lips curling up into a small grin. you chuckled awkwardly, breaking eye contact, embarrasment flooding trough you. "sorry" you mumbled. you felt like you just made things extremly awkard, but matt seemed amused at the way you were getting so embarrased over a small thing. he didn't mind you staring. "don't apologzie." he reassured, tilting his head to the side, waiting for you to look at him again, and you did.

his eyes darted down to your lips, almost as if to show you he didn't mind it when you did it. it only made you more nervous for some reason. if you would've had a few drinks, you wouldn't have minded, the alcohol typically making you more bold, more confident. the music and the people singing and talking around you blurred out when he leaned a little closer, the flashing lights pointing at his face every now and then, making his eyes shine whenever it hit them. matt's eyes once again took a small glance down to look at your lips when your tongue darted out to wet them.

he leaned closer, your eyes staying on his, unsure of what his plan was. whatever it was, you didn't mind it at all.

"is this okay?" he asked, his eyes meeting yours as your faces were only a few inches apart. you nodded, and that was all he needed. he closed the gap between you, his lips meeting yours in a gentle kiss, testing the waters, seeing how comfortable you were and how far he could go. your lips moved against his, your hands hesitantly hovering over his shoulders before actually placing them on the back of his neck, pulling him closer and deepening the kiss. matt's hands landed on your hips, kneading the flesh gently, his lips moving against yours more confidentally now.

you were the first to pull back, breaking the kiss. your eyes met and the both of you grinned, holding back a laugh at how your interaction turned into a very impulsive kiss, neither of you minded though. it was clear he enjoyed it and you couldn't deny the fact that you already missed the feeling of his lips on yours.

matt's phone vibrated in his pocket with great timing as you two stepped back, detangling yourselves from one another. he pulled his phone out, staring at the message on his screen before looking back at you, "my brothers are lookin' f'me." he told you, "you guys leaving then i'm guessing?"

"yeah, looks like it" he cleared his throat. you met his eyes again with a smile. "can i get your number?" he asked, returning the smile, your smile widening at his question and you nodded, taking his phone when he held it out for you and typing in your number. you handned matt his phone back and he smiled, putting it back into his pocket. "thank you, pretty"

"text me when you get home?" you asked, earning a nod from him. he leaned in again, placing another quick kiss on your lips before turning around and disappearing in the crowd of people.

to be continued...?

author's note: sorry for any spelling mistakes of if anything doesnt make sense at all i was pretty drunk writing this 💀

@middlepartmatt @emely9274 @impossiblecollectorcat @staargazr @sllutty-sturniolo @shadowthesim237 @sturns-mermaid @courta13 @grace-sturnz @sofia-is-a-sturniolo-triplet-fan @ncm9696 @rcklessheavn @sophand4n4 @amyiasturnl @ivysturnss

[deadtired-highkeyenergetic]

Jealousy

Just an idea that popped into my head. So many jealous!Bucky fics but where's my jealous!reader ones?

Summary: You get jealous when you see Bucky so close to someone and decide to do something to stake your claim

"Staring like that won't do anything."

You glance to your left, raising an eyebrow as Natasha takes a seat next to you. She smiles back, clearly amused at your predicament and takes a sip from her glass of what smells like whisky. Rolling your eyes, you turn back to your glass, poking the large ice cube inside.

"I'm not staring." You scowl, stabbing the ice a little harder with the toothpick in your hand.

"Glaring then. I could feel the heat all the way from the other side of the room."

"Oh please, that's an exaggeration. The only heat around here is the body heat from all the party guests." You look up at Natasha who has this devious look in her eyes. You're a little afraid of what's going to happen next, the last time you saw that look in her eyes was when Tony found all his suits decorated in bright pink confetti that refused to come off for a week.

"Really? Then tell me, how long has that girl been harassing Barnes for?"

"About fifteen minutes give or take." The words slip out before you know it, and regret immediately hits. You just proved Nat's point, and you hate yourself for it.

"Ok fine, I was staring. But it's only to ensure she doesn't do anything shady, or go too far." You raise your hands in surrender. Natasha's smirk lets you know she hasn't bought that excuse one bit.

"Go on." Natasha is clearly trying to hold in her laughter, enjoying it as you fumble for more excuses as to why you were staring at Bucky and the girl by his side.

"Was Y/N caught staring at a certain someone again?" A new voice joins in the conversation and you groan. Wanda slides into view, eyes bright with amusement. "You're getting less subtle as time goes on."

"Please just leave me to drink in peace," you sigh, flopping face first onto the table.

"When the chance is right there?" Wanda chuckles, placing a hand on your shoulder. "You need to go there now and ask him out, or that girl is going to steal him away."

"Couldn't have put it any better myself." Sam comes into view, grinning like a maniac. "I told you before, Bucky's obsessed with you. Man refuses to shut up about you, mentioning your name in his vicinity just sets him off and suddenly he's rambling like some grandfather telling his grandkids about the good old days."

"Will the three of you just scram?" You weakly hit Sam in the arm, causing him to laugh.

"No can do, Y/N. Not when we're the best wingmen and wingwomen in the house." He flashes the other two a grin which they return, clearly delighting in your suffering.

"Hear hear," Wanda chimes in and you give her a small push of annoyance.

"Time's ticking, Y/N. The girl's starting to feel Barnes up." Natasha pats you on the back. "It's now or never."

"I'm going to end all three of you someday." You mutter, pushing yourself upright. Looking at the man who captured your attention the night you found him in the kitchen trying to distract from the nightmares, you realise that he is, in fact, trying to extract himself from the girl whose hands have wandered a little too far.

Something takes over, maybe it's the beast inside that wants to lay claim to everything you consider precious, maybe it's jealousy at how forward the girl is compared to you, but whatever it is, it sends you forwards towards the pair.

Your fingers curl into fists, eyes narrowed as you stalk towards them, a fire coiling inside your chest.

"Hands off my man, or I'll remove those hands for you. Permanently." The words come out as a growl, and your eyes darken. You may be shorter than Bucky, but you're far more intimidating right now, standing by his side as you place a hand on the small of his back.

Bucky blinks, looking at you with surprise written all over his face. He's only seen you like this once — when he'd been badly injured during a mission. Back then you'd stood over him, snarling at anyone who came a little too close and tearing into enemies who dared to try until the medics arrived. Even then, it had taken the combined efforts of Sam and Natasha to calm you down enough such that the medics could attend to him.

"Oh, you didn't tell me you were already seeing someone." The girl smiles, waving at you. "They seem…nice."

Bucky laughs nervously, "they are…nice…"

You narrow your eyes, lips curling and the girl backs off, hands raised in surrender.

"Alright alright, I'll be going on now. See you around, Bucky! If you ever want an upgrade, you know where to look." She winks, waving at him as she leaves, dress swirling around her legs. You hiss, glowering at her retreating figure before turning around, ready to head back to your drinks when a hand rests on your shoulder, giving it a squeeze.

"Hey doll, about what just happened —"

"Nothing happened." You push his hand off but he simply moves to block your way, giving you a poke in the chest.

"You at least owe me an explanation as to when I became 'your man'." His ice blue eyes sparkle with mirth, a finger gently sliding under your chin to tilt your head upwards. "Is this your way of proposing to me?"

"I —" You feel your cheeks heat up. "I just —"

"Speechless? That's a first." He smiles and you hear your heart thundering in your chest. "You know, if you wanted to go out with me, all you had to do was ask."

You swallow, placing a hand on his chest and push. "You just seemed uncomfortable with her, that's all. Go find yourself a better upgrade."

"That's going to be impossible. After all, I've already found the perfect one and they're standing right in front of me." He closes the distance, taking your hand in his. "So where would you like to take 'your man' tomorrow at 7pm?"

You stare up at him, stomach flipping. Your mouth opens and closes but no words come out. Is this real? Did Bucky just agree to go out on a date with you?

"Does pizza night work or would you prefer something fancier?" He probes, giving your cheek a poke. "Earth to Y/N, are you still there?"

"Yeah. Yeah, pizza night works. That…that sounds good. I'll see you then." You fidget nervously, struggling to compose yourself.

"Didn't think all it took to shut you up was ask you out on a date. If I'd known that I'd have asked you out earlier." He nudges you with his elbow, chuckling.

"Shut up. I'm talking now, aren't I?" You huff, glaring at him.

"There's my Y/N, back to being the most annoyed person to ever exist." He reaches over to ruffle your hair but you shove his hand away.

"Well, I wouldn't be so annoyed if a certain idiot would stop being an idiot." You're fighting the losing battle of being irritated at him, weakened by his acceptance of going out on a date with you tomorrow.

"You did just ask said idiot out, what does that make you?" He grins.

"Someone who's stupidly in love with said idiot, I suppose." You lightly punch him in the chest, embarrassed, and he laughs.

"About time I got you to admit it." He smiles softly at you. "Sam told me that you returned my feelings but I never quite believed it until now. I told him I'd wait until you asked me out, and here we are, although I didn't expect your proposal to go like this."

"I'm too sober for this, I need more drinks. Coming with?" You pinch the bridge of your nose and start to head towards the bar.

"Of course. Can't let my doll out of my sight now, can I? Not after they claimed me so dramatically." He loops his arm around yours and you feel the tips of your ears burn. You can smell his cologne, his scent, and he's yours now, officially. It makes you giddier than any alcohol ever could and it's a nice feeling. Maybe asking Bucky out wasn't such a bad idea after all, even if it didn't go as planned. It did turn this party into a memorable one, and you're sure that girl won't be back to try anything funny.

You're still going to end those three wingmen and wingwomen though.

[samgirl98]

Forgotten Demon Twin 14/?

Prev | Next

Bruce put away his phone after confirming with Constantine that they would meet with the Justice League in a few hours by text. He turned his attention toward the Fentons, who were all on one side of the living room. Dick, Damian and Bruce were on the other side, showing a clear divide.

Danny and Jazz had searched the living room and kitchen for bugs and found three. Bruce was itching to know who had been spying on the Fentons and how Danny and Jazz knew. He was pretty sure the Fenton parents wanted to know, too. Unfortunately, no one voiced their thoughts.

Silence reigned for minutes, neither side knowing how to start the conversation.

Eventually, Danny sighed.

“Look, can we just get this over with? I want to talk to my family privately.”

Bruce put his hand on Damian’s shoulder and gave a warning squeeze.

Damian looked at Bruce and scowled, “Tt.”

“It’s obvious you’re keeping secrets from us,” Maddie said. “Honestly, we don’t care about those secrets unless they could endanger our family.”

“That’s fair,” Bruce acknowledged. “To be able to tell you our secrets, my whole family will have to agree. It affects them, too.”

Bruce sent a group text, asking what his children’s opinions were.

“Now, there’s just the matter of the DNA test.”

“We don’t need a DNA test! Akhi, you know we’re siblings; come home with us.”

“I am home. I have a sister and two parents who love, value, and don’t see me worse than the dirt on their feet. You were never my brother. You were another enemy that I had to survive in that hellhole.”

By the end of his rant, Danny was breathing hard. Mr. Fenton had put his hand on Danny’s shoulder while Mrs. Fenton held on his hand. Bruce could admit to himself that he was jealous of the family's easy touch. Damian didn’t look for physical affection often, and Bruce was too stunted to be able to give it. The Fentons didn’t have such qualms.

“I should actually thank you, akhi,” Danny sneered the word brother. “If it weren’t for you showing how weak I was, I would have never escaped and found my true family. I’ll give you your DNA test, but don’t you dare think that whatever that paper says will make me abandon my family.”

“Do you hate me that much?” Damian asked, hurt.

“I don’t hate you; I nothing you. All these years, I wasn’t the only one that was forgotten. I only thought of Grandfather and how he could make my life a living hell if he thought of for even a second. You, Talia, you were never in my mind.”

Danny stood up and went up to Bruce.

“So take your test, Bruce Wayne, it won’t change a thing.”

Damian got up. Bruce flinched at the sound of his son’s knees hitting the floor hard. He put his left hand over his heart.

“Akhi, Danyal, my little brother. I want to formally apologize for everything you’ve been through, for everything I’ve put you through. My words may not be enough, but hopefully, you can see I’m trying. I want to get to know my little brother.”

Danny stared at Damian for a few seconds, his face impassive. Then he looked at Bruce and said, “Let me know when you want to take the test tomorrow. We can talk better tomorrow, and by then, you and your family can decide what you do and what you do not want to tell us. Now, if you can give me some time with my family, I would appreciate it.”

Bruce and Dick got up.

“Of course,” Bruce said, “I’m sorry for interrupting.

Dick helped Damian get up and Bruce’s heart clenched at Damian’s wet eyes. Damian rarely cried; when he did, no one in the family knew how to react.

“We’ll take our leave. You have our number; call us if you have any questions or need anything.”

Mrs. Fenton walked them to the door and watched as they entered the car. Damian gave one last look at Fenton’s work before entering. It wasn’t until Bruce was driving that Damian broke down crying.

“It’s my fault. I messed up so much.”

“No, little D, you were a child. Talia, Ra’s they were the ones who fucked up; not you.”

Bruce’s fist clenched over the wheel. He would find a way to fix this. He had to.

____

Danny breathed a sigh of relief when Wayne’s car disappeared.

He entered the house and went straight to the living room, where his parents were waiting for him.

Crap.

How was he going to do this? Should he apologize first? After all, he had lied to them for years. Their entire foundation was built on a lie, and it just kept piling up until Danny had constructed a tall building of deceit. His parents didn’t have to forgive him. Hell, if they wanted to throw Danny out, he wouldn’t blame them and would accept it gracefully. He wouldn’t go to the Waynes. He didn’t think he could survive living under Damian’s shadow again. That’s what he would miss the most if his parents kicked him out. Here, in the Fenton household, he was his own person.

“I’m so sorry,” Danny said, tears coming down his face, “I’ve lied to you for years.”

“Oh, sweetie, don’t cry,” his mom wiped away the tears, “we understand. You were put in such a precarious situation at such a young age. None of this is your fault. We don’t blame you at all.”

“Yeah, Danny,” dad said, “if anything, we should apologize. We should’ve realized you were our son. We should’ve listened to you and Jazz when you said Phantom wasn’t evil.”

“I was going to tell you. I was going to tell you today, but,” he bit his lip. Should he tell them about Vlad? Would they believe him?

“Ancients, there’s so much I’ve kept from you. I don’t even know where to begin.”

“Oh, sweetie, you don’t have to tell us everything at once or at all,” Mom said.

“No, I want to; it’s just so much.”

“How about we drink some tea and think about this rationally?” Jazz suggested while bringing four cups of tea and some cookies.

They sat silently with their tea and cookies, everyone lost in their thoughts. Eventually, the snacks were gone, and an awkward silence filled the air.

Danny cleared his throat, determined to get this over with.

“Before I begin, there’s something else I feel is important you need to know.” He took a deep breath to calm himself. It didn’t work.

“Remember a while back when Pariah Dark swallowed all of Amity Park into the Ghost Zone?”

Both his parents nodded.

“Yeah, Phantom, you fought him,” his mom recalled.

“You almost died,” dad said.

“Well, in the Ghost Zone, the Infinite Realms as the denizens call it, the king is determined by right of conquest.”

His parents looked confused.

“I beat the old king. I’m the new one. Or, well, the crowned prince. I convinced them to give me a few years before making it official.”

“Not only am half-ghost, I’m the ruler of everything you hate.”

____

Vlad swept everything that was on the table with his arms.

The bugs he had planted in Fenton’s work had been found and destroyed. By now, Daniel had probably told the Fentons, and more importantly, Maddie, everything.

No, he had to find a way to bring Maddie and Daniel to his side. He would be the ruler of the Infinite Realms, with Danny as his son and Maddie as his queen. He would not accept anything less.

[saebyeokbliss]

ALL I REALLY WANT IS YOU

chapter one

"what are you willing to do?" "anything if it's for you."

synopsis: you never wanted to be part of this world—this business built on desperation, where people come seeking hope and leave with nothing but empty promises. but working under mr. lim means you don’t get a choice. your job is simple: take calls, organize paperwork, and never get involved. but when two sisters walk into the office, carrying the weight of the past and the fight for their family on their shoulders, something shifts. you weren’t supposed to care. you weren’t supposed to listen. now, you’re starting to wonder if staying out of it is something you can really do. pairing: kang sae-byeok x fem!reader x kang no-eul warnings: violence, abuse, exploitation, trauma, kidnapping, human trafficking, emotional manipulation, poverty, gambling, debt, crime, corruption, mentions of illness, blood, injury, psychological distress, mild language, substance abuse, family separation, mentions of war, betrayal, moral dilemmas, unethical business practices

a/n: i hope you guys enjoy this series!! and thank you for all the love on JMMATA!!

Lim Do-yun never asked for much—not in words, at least. His demands were implied, expectations set in stone long before you ever had the chance to question them. It was the same every morning: wake up before the sun, get dressed in something professional but not too eye-catching, and take the earliest bus to his office in downtown Seoul. The walls of that cramped, dimly lit space weren’t just where you worked—they were where you existed. Where you endured.

The air always smelled of ink and stale coffee, the scent clinging to the stacks of paperwork cluttering the desk you sat behind. It wasn’t a glamorous job. You weren’t even sure it counted as a real job, considering the only reason you were here was because Do-yun hadn’t given you much of a choice.

"It’s experience," he had said when you first started, sliding a pile of documents toward you without so much as glancing up. "You’re studying business, aren’t you? Think of this as practice."

Practice. Right. Because working as an assistant for a man who made his living exploiting desperate people was exactly the kind of future you had in mind.

But you didn’t argue. You never did.

Instead, you sat at that desk every day, answering calls, organizing files, making sure his schedule was in order. You watched as people came and went, their faces etched with worry, desperation, sometimes even anger. You knew better than to get involved. You were just the assistant—just the girl sitting behind the desk, pretending not to hear the whispered negotiations, the thinly veiled threats.

And when your shift ended, you packed up your things and left, heading straight to Seoul National University like none of it had ever happened.

You had worked too hard to get into SNU to let this job consume you. You told yourself that every time you sat in a lecture hall, surrounded by students who had never known what it was like to struggle, who had never been forced to live two lives at once. They talked about investments and startups, about ambitions that stretched sky-high. You listened, nodding along, pretending that your own aspirations hadn’t already been decided for you.

You were studying business—more specifically, finance. Numbers made sense. They weren’t unpredictable like people, didn’t come with hidden motives or unspoken debts. If you could just hold out a little longer, get through school and graduate, you could find a way out. A way to leave Do-yun and his world behind.

But for now, you were here.

And here, in this world of hushed conversations and unspoken rules, you had no choice but to play along.

"Cheol!"

The moment Kang Sae-byeok stepped into the visiting room, her little brother looked up from where he sat at a small table, his eyes lighting up with a mixture of happiness and relief. He scrambled out of his chair, nearly knocking it over in his rush to get to her. No-eul, standing just behind Sae-byeok, barely had time to brace herself before he barreled into both of them, his thin arms wrapping tightly around their waists.

"You came," he mumbled into Sae-byeok’s coat, his voice muffled.

"Of course, we did," Sae-byeok said, running a hand through his dark hair. "What, did you think we'd forget about you?"

Cheol shook his head, but he didn’t let go. No-eul crouched down slightly, placing a hand on his back. "You okay, buddy?"

There was a pause. Then, slowly, Cheol pulled away, looking down at the floor. His small hands clenched at the hem of his sweater.

"Some kids were saying stuff," he muttered. "That I’ll never leave here. That I’m gonna be stuck in this place forever."

Sae-byeok’s stomach tightened.

"Who said that?" she asked, her voice sharper than she intended.

"It doesn’t matter," Cheol mumbled, kicking at the scuffed tile floor. "They’re probably right anyway."

No-eul sighed, reaching out to cup his cheek. "Hey. Look at me."

Cheol hesitated before lifting his gaze to meet hers. His eyes—so much like their father’s, so much like Sae-byeok’s—were filled with something that made No-eul’s chest ache.

"You’re not going to stay here forever," she said firmly. "We’re going to get you out. We just need a little more time."

Cheol’s lip trembled. "You always say that."

"Because it’s true," Sae-byeok said, crouching down beside No-eul. "We’re doing everything we can. We’re gonna get you out of here, and we’re gonna bring Mom back, too."

Cheol blinked up at them. "You promise?"

Sae-byeok hesitated, knowing better than to make empty promises. But this wasn’t empty. She meant it with everything in her.

"I promise," she said.

No-eul nodded. "Me too."

Cheol sniffled, but a small, hopeful smile tugged at his lips. He launched himself into their arms again, and they held him tightly, neither of them willing to let go first.

But eventually, visiting hours would end, and reality would pull them back.

They stayed with Cheol a little longer, talking about things that didn’t make their hearts feel heavy—his schoolwork, the books he’d been reading, the new caretaker who always snuck him extra snacks. They laughed when he did impressions of the other kids, rolling their eyes when he exaggerated his stories just to make them laugh harder.

But when a staff member stepped in to remind them their time was almost up, that weight settled back onto their shoulders.

Sae-byeok ruffled Cheol’s hair one last time before standing up. "We’ll be back soon, okay?"

Cheol nodded, his smile a little steadier this time. "Okay."

No-eul squeezed his shoulder. "Be good."

"I’m always good."

Sae-byeok snorted. "Sure you are."

With one last reluctant glance, they turned and walked out, leaving behind the little boy they had sworn to protect.

As soon as they stepped outside, the cold air bit at their skin, but neither of them paid it any mind.

"You ready?" Sae-byeok asked, her breath visible in the winter air.

No-eul tightened her coat around herself and nodded. "Let’s go see what this stupid guy has to say."

And with that, they made their way toward the broker’s office, carrying the weight of a promise they refused to break.

The office was just as suffocating as ever. Dim lighting, cluttered desks, and the ever-present scent of burnt coffee mixed with stale paperwork. It wasn’t the kind of place that welcomed people—it swallowed them whole, chewed them up, and spit them back out either more desperate or more defeated than when they walked in.

You had seen it happen a hundred times before.

You sat behind your desk, sifting through a pile of documents, your fingers moving on autopilot as the door creaked open. Two women stepped inside, their presence commanding attention even before they spoke.

The first was sharp-eyed and guarded, her stance rigid with distrust. She wore her exhaustion like a second skin, but there was a fire in her gaze—a stubbornness that said she had been fighting for too long to give up now.

The second was quieter in her strength, but no less formidable. There was something heavy in her eyes, something you couldn’t quite place. She carried herself like someone who had lost too much but refused to let it break her.

They didn’t look around the office, didn’t take in the fading wallpaper or the piles of discarded folders stacked against the walls. They were here for one reason, and they weren’t interested in anything else.

"Mr. Lim is expecting us," the sharp-eyed one said, her voice sharp and to the point.

You nodded, setting aside the documents in your hand. "Names?"

"Kang Sae-byeok," the first woman said.

"Kang No-eul," the other added.

Kang.

Your fingers hovered over the appointment log for a split second before you forced yourself to move, grabbing two clean cups and filling them with fresh coffee from the machine beside your desk.

"Follow me," you said, leading them toward the door in the back.

You knocked lightly before pushing it open, stepping inside just long enough to set the coffee down in front of Mr. Lim. He barely acknowledged you, his focus already on the two women stepping into the room.

"Sit," he said, motioning lazily to the chairs across from his desk.

Sae-byeok and No-eul exchanged a glance before doing as they were told. You remained standing by the side, silently preparing to sort through any paperwork if needed.

"I assume you have an update for us," Sae-byeok said, her voice steady despite the tension in her shoulders.

Mr. Lim exhaled through his nose, leaning back in his chair as he picked up his coffee. "That depends. You have the rest of my payment?"

Sae-byeok’s jaw tightened. "Not yet."

"Then my update is that nothing’s changed."

Silence hung heavy in the room. You could feel the frustration radiating off them, thick enough to suffocate.

No-eul was the one to break it. "Please," she said, leaning forward slightly. "We just need to know if she’s safe. If she’s still in the camp."

Mr. Lim took a slow sip of his coffee, setting the cup down with an infuriating lack of urgency. "Your mother was last reported in Hamgyong. The camp she was in had a tuberculosis outbreak recently. If she’s still alive, she’s not in good condition."

Sae-byeok’s fingers curled into fists against her lap, but she said nothing.

No-eul swallowed hard. "And my daughter?"

You hadn’t expected that.

You glanced at her, but her gaze was locked onto Mr. Lim, her expression carefully composed.

He sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. "I told you before—there’s no way a child that young survived on her own up there."

No-eul’s face remained unreadable, but the way her nails dug into the fabric of her pants gave her away. "You said it was a possibility."

"I said there was a chance. A slim one."

You looked away, pretending to focus on the papers in your hands even though you weren’t actually reading them. You had heard a lot of things in this office—desperation, anger, bargaining—but there was something about this that felt heavier.

Sae-byeok took a breath, forcing her voice to remain level. "If we bring the rest of your payment, how soon can you get her out?"

Mr. Lim shrugged. "Depends on when she’s stable enough to move. And if she’s still there to be moved."

The room fell into silence again, thick with unspoken words.

You cleared your throat lightly. "Would you like more coffee?"

It was a stupid question, but it was the only thing you could offer.

Sae-byeok shook her head. No-eul didn’t answer.

Mr. Lim leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly. "Look, I get it. You want her back. You want both of them back. But things like this take time. And money."

"We’re working on it," Sae-byeok said, standing abruptly. "Let’s go, No-eul."

No-eul hesitated for half a second before nodding, pushing herself up from her chair.

As they turned to leave, something in your chest twisted.

They were getting screwed over.

You had seen it happen before, countless times. Mr. Lim always made promises, always dangled just enough hope to keep people coming back. And most of the time, they had no choice but to play along.

But something about them—about the way they carried the weight of their family on their shoulders, about the way No-eul had asked about a child she refused to believe was gone—made you feel something you weren’t supposed to feel.

You weren’t supposed to care.

But as the door closed behind them, you found yourself gripping the edges of the paperwork a little too tightly.

Maybe this time… you did. Because the office felt heavier after they left.

You could still feel their presence lingering in the air—the frustration, the desperation. The way No-eul had clung to the possibility of her daughter being alive, the way Sae-byeok had clenched her fists so tightly you thought she might break skin.

And the way Mr. Lim—your father—had dismissed them so easily, as if their suffering was just another transaction waiting to be completed.

You swallowed, setting down the paperwork you had been pretending to organize.

"Dad."

The word felt foreign on your tongue in this office, like it didn’t belong here. And maybe it didn’t—not in a place where you were just his assistant, not his daughter.

But you said it anyway.

Mr. Lim barely looked up, his focus still on the papers in front of him. "What?"

You hesitated for a split second. Then, before you could talk yourself out of it, you said, "Is there anything I can do to help them?"

Silence.

For a moment, he didn’t react. Didn’t move.

Then, slowly, he lifted his gaze to you, dark eyes sharp and unreadable.

"You want to help them?" His voice was quiet, but there was something dangerous underneath it.

You nodded. "They’re trying to get their family back. And I—" You hesitated, choosing your words carefully. "I have access to information, to your files—I could help move things along, push the process faster. Maybe even—"

The sound of his palm slamming against the desk made you flinch.

"Are you out of your mind?"

You forced yourself to stand your ground, even as your heart pounded against your ribs. "I just—"

"You just what?" His voice was sharp, cutting through the already tense air. "You think this is some charity? That you can bend the rules just because you feel bad?"

You clenched your jaw. "It’s not about that."

"Yes, it is," he snapped. "You’re letting emotions cloud your judgment. You think you can fix everything just because you want to? That’s not how this business works."

You swallowed hard, but you didn’t back down. "I just don’t see why we have to make it harder for them than it already is."

Mr. Lim exhaled sharply, shaking his head. He leaned back in his chair, expression dark. "You’re weak."

The words stung more than you wanted to admit.

"You’ve always been weak," he continued, voice cold. "That’s why you’ll never last in this world. You get too attached, too emotional. You think people like them wouldn’t screw you over the second they got the chance?"

You knew better than to argue. He wouldn’t listen. He never did.

But still, you couldn’t stop yourself from saying, "They’re not like that."

His eyes narrowed. "And you know that because…? You sat in a room with them for five minutes?"

You pressed your lips together, fingers curling into fists at your sides.

"Stay out of it," he said firmly. "Do your job, keep your head down, and don’t get involved in clients’ business. That’s not your place, and it never will be."

Your throat felt tight, but you nodded once, stiffly.

"Good," he muttered, turning back to his paperwork, already dismissing you. "Now get back to work."

You stood there for a moment longer, staring at him.

Then, without another word, you turned and walked out of the office, closing the door behind you.

You had spent your entire life listening to him. Following his rules, staying in your lane.

But for the first time, deep down, you knew you weren’t going to listen.

Not this time.

taglist: @yenyu1s @monroesturnns @katieschry1 @noeulswifeyy

[mushysquashythingamajig]

Bucktommy Fluffebruary

DAY 16: AU: DIDN'T KNOW THEY WERE DATING

@bucktommyfluffebruary

"So, you're gonna hang out Tommy again today?" Maddie asked him while feeding her daughter her breakfast.

"Yeah, we're gonna grab some breakfast then head out to the gym." Buck picked up Jee's scattered toys, throwing them all into the hamper in the corner.

"Oh, so a date?" Maddie teased.

"Haha, funny." Evan spoke with a deadpan expression.

They had been like this ever since he and Tommy had started hanging out. Never mind that her husband was gayer for Tommy than him. Hell, every man he'd met was gay for Tommy. Well, who wouldn't be? Tommy was like the epitome of masculinity.

Him and Tommy had decided to meet at their favourite coffee spot, Buck LOVED their coffee and Tommy was addicted to their cupcakes. When he reached the cafe, Tommy was their already, waiting for him. And, aw how adorable, he ordered a coffee for both of them.

"Thanks Tommy." He sat in the chair in front of him.

"You're late." Tommy said, matter-of-factly.

"I got held up by Maddie."

"Oh, how's her pregnancy coming along?"

"So far, everything's healthy on all fronts. Both Maddie and the baby."

"Thank goodness." Tommy breathed a sigh of relief.

"So you forgive me."

"Has you ever seen your puppy dog eyes? No one is able to stay mad at you."

"One of the many special things about me."

"Right." Tommy's nose scrunched and Buck felt something warm bloom in his chest. Probably the coffee.

They went to the gym, getting a vigorous workout in, Tommy more than Evan. Evan had a shift and Tommy was on a ;eave and trying to get back into fighting shape. Fire fighting shape that is. Every so often, someone would come up to Tommy to compliment him and Evan had to resist a sneer. It felt weird, but hey, people came up to him too. He did revel in the attention after all. He did catch Tommy glaring at him once. Weird.

After the workout, Tommy and Buck said their goodbyes and Evan went to the fire house. It was a particularly slow day, and Evan was grateful. They didn't many of those nowadays.

"So, Evan. Heard you were with Tommy this morning?" Chimney slid next to Buck.

As soon as Buck saw himself get surrounded, he knew he was in trouble.

"Yeah?" He said, cautiously.

He ignored the money being exchanged.

"Again?" This time it was Hen who spoke up.

"Yeah? Okay, I'm getting uncomfortable." He moved to get up only to be grabbed by Eddie and forcefully sat back back.

"Okay, we gotta know. What exactly are you and Tommy?" Hen continued.

"We're really good friends."

"No, we're really good friends. You and Tommy have some secret third thing going on that none of us really understand." Eddie argued.

"What do you mean?"

"You go on dates."

"Hangouts." Buck corrected.

"You two are joined at the hip whenever you two are together."

"That was a coincidence." It really was not.

"YOU TWO KISSED!!" Chimney screamed.

There was a beat of silence in the entire station before everyone went back into their businesses

"That was a game of spin the bottle." This time, Buck didn't sound convinced himself because when that had happened, when Tommy's spin made the bottle land on him, when Tommy started crawling towards Buck, it felt good. It felt awesome to have Tommy's attention all to himself at that moment. And he wrote this off thinking he was drunk, but the kiss felt better than anything he had ever had before.

"Oh, you guys are idiots." As soon as Hen said that, the bell rung and they had to scatter. Save by the bell. Until he was pulled aside by Bobby who just told him,

"Don't listen to them. Walk at your own pace, okay?" And clapped him on the shoulder.

That day, after his shift, Tommy had messaged him if he wanted to get dinner together. Obviously Buck agreed. But as they were eating together, the usually comfortable silence was a bit weird. Maybe the conversation had finally gotten to him.

"You okay?" A deep voice snapped him out of his head.

Of course Tommy had noticed. That man noticed everything. He really was perfect. Buck wouldn't mind if he fell for him. Woah there Buckley, where the heck did that come from?

"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine." Buck contemplated for a second before thinking, screw it. "Did you know our friends think were dating?"

"I'm sorry, what?" Tommy had an incredulous look on his face.

"Yeah, apparently we've been hanging out so much recently, they thought that there was no other explanation." Evan chuckled out.

"Well, that's obviously not the case. I enjoy hanging out with you."

"I enjoy hanging out with you too."

"Yeah."

"Yeah."

They nodded and continued having their dinner that Evan prepared. Truth be told, Evan was a little disappointed. He didn't really know why, but he was.

"Not that dating you would be bad or anything." Tommy suddenly blurted out.

"I'm sorry, what?"

"Dating you would be a wonderful experience, I'm sure of it. You've got an awesome job. You are an amazing cook. And not to mention, incredibly hot."

"You too. I mean, you're a literal pilot and fly for fun. You have the uncanny ability to turn straight men gay by your sheer masculinity and you've been on the firefighter calendar like several times in a row."

Oh. Oh.

"We've been dating this whole time haven't we?" Tommy finally spoke after a long time.

"I guess." Buck shrugged.

"Evan, can I kiss you?" The flashback from the spin the bottle night started and suddenly all Buck could think about was Tommy's lips on his.

"Yes, please."

If Evan thought the first kiss was great, this was better. This was so much better. Tommy gently used two fingers to push up his chin and met his lips gently. Their foreheads almost met and when Tommy excruciatingly pulled away, his eyes remained closed for a second, savoring the feeling.

Evan wanted to more but Tommy refused, 'not the kind of person to put out on the first date' so currently they just cuddled on the couch. When Tommy fell asleep, he took a picture of his and Tommy's joined hands and uploaded it to the 118 group chat, only to met with one message from Bobby.

"50 bucks."

[lsunstreakerl]

I feel like this is fair game after tentacles (btw 🥵🥵🥵) so for the kink prompt oviposition <3

yeah I really walked myself into that one, didn't I.

here's the unanticipated sequel to the tentacle prompt- and also the last we'll be seeing of these two. 3.7k words, Max POV.

HI: clearly still a kink prompt fill. if you're not sure what oviposition is, do a quick google and then decide if you want to keep reading.

pairings: charles leclerc/max verstappen

relevant heads up: tentacles, now reciprocated breeding kink, brief worries about a potential bad egg, mpreg/eggpreg? I have no idea. charles-typical possessiveness, slight mind break at the beginning.

crackfic notes: once again struggled to take it seriously, sorry. max takes his new parenting duties very seriously, because he likes to be good at everything (even if this now includes carrying eggs)

"We should go on vacation together."

Max looks up from his phone, surprised.

Charles is leaning over the chair across from him, race suit around his hips. They're waiting for the drivers meeting to start, but they're a few people down still, so there's scattered conversations across the room.

Max points a finger back at himself.

"Me?"

Charles nods, and there's something weirdly intense in his eyes as he leans further forward.

"Yes, you and me. Check out a beach somewhere for a couple days- it'll be nice, really."

There are several other people Charles should want to take a beach vacation with before Max.

Several.

Last year when Max had gone to Italy, he'd ended up completely zoned out almost the entire trip- barely remembers anything except warm sand and soft winds, seagulls he could hear through the villa windows. It had been nice, and he'd been very relaxed afterwards, but he'd also gone completely radio silent by accident, and had a lot of explaining to do when he got back.

Still- he'd felt really good when it was over, muscles loose and relaxed, thoughts slowing to a manageable pace. It could be nice to do that again.

He's not sure he wants Charles with him though. At the same time-

"Sure."

What's the worst that could happen?

------

Max is slumped onto a the smooth stone of the cave, drooling into the ground as Charles twists another tentacle inside of him. The viscous secretion that had gone down his throat is definitely kicked in by now- he feels more like a doll than anything, supported only by the tentacles wrapped in and around him.

He goes cross eyed as it pushes against his prostate, moaning as it slides in and keeps going- the fullness feels overwhelming.

Charles rumbles at him, and one of the larger tentacles wraps around Max's waist, pulls him into the air. He's limp as he dangles- if Charles wants him to move he's going to have to do it himself- and the change in the angle just makes everything worse, like he's being split open and reshaped, exactly how Charles wants him. In a way, he is.

He's pretty sure he's doing better than last year- he's been conscious longer this year, and he's not as afraid, he knows Charles won't hurt him- even if it feels like adding another tentacle really will kill him.

"Charles, Charles, s'not enough, need more-"

This problem is new. If he had it last year he doesn't remember it- but Max isn't filled enough. It doesn't feel possible, not with the way there's three of them inside him already, pushing deeper than anything should go, but-

It's not satisfying the deepest part of Max, the spot in his gut that's aching, empty and untouched. He needs it, more than anything else.

A smaller tentacle slides up to support his head, pushes gently against his jaw.

"I know, you need it, need a clutch so bad, I'm almost ready-"

Max sobs as the three tentacles inside him twist together, pushing against him and sliding, hot-thick-wet-hard on a loop in his brain. He's absolutely useless like this, can't focus on anything but being filled, scratching the itch under his skin that demands Charles take care of him.

There's a thick tentacle lifting near his mouth- it's the one with the slime, or whatever it is- makes Max fuzzy and not feel as much. He twists his head away, futility trying to spread his legs further.

"No, no I want- I want to feel it, please-"

Charles sounds incredibly satisfied when he rumbles again, and Max can feel the tentacles inside him start to stiffen, holding him open as Charles carefully lowers him into the water.

"You are perfect, Max. Perfect brooder, you need it so bad- you want to feel it, want to take care of them. You carry so well for me."

Charles' breathing picks up as Max is mostly submerged, head and shoulders above water as he feels the rest of the tentacles swarm over him, pinning him in place, squeezing his thighs, milking at his cock, pulling at his chest-

It's too much.

Max is practically stupid with it, seeing double and crying as he finally starts to feel the pressure- Charles is giving him what he needs.

It feels endless, but slowly the ache inside of him starts to settle, even as Max feels beyond full- he's doing a good job, doing exactly what Charles needs.

Charles is whispering soft words at him, but Max isn't aware enough to catch them, just knows that they sound sweet and encouraging as the pressure builds and builds.

His toes are curling, muscles so tight he thinks he might snap when Charles lets out a low warble, and then Max is coming for a final time, fucked out and thoroughly bred as he passes out.

------

Max is pressed to Charles' chest, lazily floating in the water as Charles' fingers skate along his prostate, playing with him more than anything- Max is too tired to contribute, lets the orgasm flow through him in a gentle wave.

Charles is floating on his back, and there's something being pressed to Max's lips.

He's tired of fish. The babies aren't big enough to want it yet, and Max is sick of it. He would kill for a steak right now.

"Max. You need to eat."

He turns his face further into Charles' chest, hips weakly twitching as Charles pulls his fingers back out.

"I am tired of fish."

Charles sighs, and then he's hooking his index finger behind Max's teeth, pulling his head up to give him a soft glare.

"We are in the ocean. Fish is all we have."

Max closes his lips around Charles finger, toys at it with his tongue- he knows Charles is into that, and the way his face shutters as he presses further into Max's mouth is only proof.

Max lets go, resting his chin on Charles' sternum.

"I want steak."

"You're kidding."

Charles looks annoyed, but also- there's a tiny crack in his expression, enough that Max thinks he might have a shot here.

"Steak and a kebab. From the market."

Charles' hands rest of Max's hips, and there's a few tentacles sliding and squeezing around him, a sign Max is beginning to learn means Charles is conflicted or stressed. Or horny. It's actually a sign of most things, now that he's thinking about it.

"Max- you are carrying, I am not going to leave you here with an undefended clutch to go get a kebab."

Max shifts his hips down, rutting gently against Charles' hip.

"The babies want it."

Charles snorts.

"Sure. Unless you are carrying baby sharks, I don't think so. And they would want fish anyways, so nice try- but no."

Max groans. He's full and hungry, and if he's going to be in this cave for a week, he wants something to do.

It hadn't been a problem last year- he'd been so exhausted that he'd slept most of the carrying period.

This year, however, had gone exactly as Charles had predicted. Max had been building a thin, stubborn layer of fat over his chest and thighs, and it had been stumping him and Jake to no end- no amount of dieting or working out was getting rid of it, but Max was still within his target weight.

He actually got to workout less because of it- though Jake had upped his long runs and endurance training.

Now, he's starting to shed that weight, because even if he hadn't, his body had been preparing for the entire year, waiting until he needed it for the eggs.

It also means he wants steak. The eggs are perfectly well taken care of- because Max is amazing at everything he does, up to and including egg carrying, thank you- but now he needs to be taken care of.

"Charles."

Charles doesn't meet his eyes.

"Max."

Max curls his fingers loosely around one of the tentacles- it's a thicker one, his fingers can't quite wrap around it, but it's firm and slippery, and he's almost not thinking about it as he slides his hand up and down a section of it.

Charles shudders underneath him. The tentacles around Max's waist and thighs tighten- he'll be impressed if he doesn't have purpling bruises on his skin when this is over.

"Max."

"It will be fine, Charles. The clutch and I are perfectly okay. Please?"

Charles sighs, and Max can tell he's won, grinning as he pushes up on Charles' chest, water lapping at his hands.

"Yes! Thank you, you are such a good provider-"

Max is learning what makes Charles tick as well, and the soft rumble Charles makes at his words confirms it. The tentacles give Max a few more soft strokes before he's being rearranged in the corner of the pool- his corner- with the small rock shelf for his legs, the pillow and blankets for his arms and head.

This area has gotten nicer since last year as well. Max has better blankets, the rocky corners and edges are smooth and rounded.

Charles gives him an annoyed look as he floats closer to the edge of the cave- Max has figured out there's an underwater passage there, and that's how they're getting in and out.

"You are ridiculous."

Max gives him his most innocent smile.

"Steak! And kebabs!"

Charles rolls his eyes, and then he's back underneath the water. Max sees the soft rectangular lighting disappear into the darkness as he leaves.

The bioluminescence has been intriguing Max, and he makes a note to ask about it- how deep can Charles dive, to need his own light source?

He settles onto his folded arms. He should've asked Charles to grab his phone too- maybe get some emails answered, sign off with something stupid like 'max verstappen + eggs' and then never elaborate.

Now he really wishes he'd asked Charles to grab his phone.

He loses track of time a bit, half dozing in the water, starting to kind of miss Charles. He has no idea how long it takes him to get to the market and back- or if Charles has to do some kind of weird thing to make the tentacles disappear. That seems important to know, and Max doesn't want to have to wait a year to find out. He'll ask when Charles gets back.

------

Max is startled out of his half nap by a large splash, and then Charles is bursting out of the water, curling over him so quickly Max barely processes what's happened. One moment he's dozing in his pool, and the next he's practically cocooned in tentacles brushing gently over him, almost like they're checking on him.

Charles looks stressed, cupping Max's face in his hands.

"No one- no one has come in here, yes?"

Max frowns. He's not sure why Charles is so freaked out, but he doesn't like it- raises a hand to curl around Charles' wrist, doesn't complain as the tentacles wrap around him, sliding over his skin.

"No, it's just been me. No one else, I promise."

Charles buries his nose into Max's neck, cocoons Max completely, pressed up against him.

Max lets him- doesn't even ask if he's gotten the food, because Charles is distressed, and Max is bitchy but not heartless.

He's running his thumb along the side of Charles wrist, keeps his breathing deep and even as Charles holds him.

"Did you see something?"

He keeps his tone light and casual, tries not to kick his leg as a tentacle wraps around his ankle.

"Someone else has been nearby. I could- I could tell. They were scouting out the cave."

Charles still sounds freaked out, but he also sounds pissed.

Max carefully rolls the information around in his mind.

"Do we need to move?"

Everything tightens around Max at once, and he squeaks as all the air pushes out of his lungs, frantically tapping at Charles arm.

"Merde- sorry, sorry Max. No, we are not moving. It would be too stressful for you."

Max raises an eyebrow.

"And knowing there is someone watching the cave isn't stressful?"

Charles bites at his lip, blood welling up where his teeth sink in. Max reaches a hand up, swipes his thumb carefully across it before pushing down, applying pressure.

"I am not fragile. If we need to move, we need to move."

The rumble from Charles is more aggressive than any Max has heard before- vibrates through him down to his bones.

He's watching Max intensely, eyes dark. Max lets him work through it in his head, waiting patiently. He still wants steak.

Charles sighs, nosing at Max's shoulder again as there's a soft scrape of teeth.

"Maybe next year. I do not have anywhere else set up at the moment- but I also panicked, when I noticed, so-"

He winces.

"My family knows. Lolo will probably come by to help guard the cave."

Max feels his cheeks heat up near instantly, embarrassment rushing through him.

"Oh my god."

This is... not how he wanted to meet Charles' family. Officially, anyways- he's met them all at race tracks many times, but not-

"Ohhhhhh my god."

He drops his face into his hands. Charles is making a smaller rumble, holding Max tighter to him.

"It is okay, Max. They understand, and Lolo will be very nice- you probably will not even see him."

It doesn't help.

Max is never going to be able to look Charles' family in the eyes again.

Charles sighs, brushing at Max's hair.

"I have kebabs?"

Max perks back up.

------

It's been a few days, and Charles is starting to get stressed. Max is as well, because- this time last year he'd had the egg in his lap by now, and this year it's still just the two of them.

Max hasn't mentioned it, but he's not feeling well- flips between hungry and nauseous, spends more time lying on top of Charles as they float in the water than he does anywhere else.

He's been eating the fish Charles brings him, even when he's not particularly hungry. He worries maybe the egg- because at this point surely it's gotten down to a singular one- might somehow not be getting enough from him.

Charles is dozing, floating on his back with Max on top of him. Max has his face tucked into his neck.

"I am doing a bad job."

Charles hums, mostly asleep.

"...what? I did not catch that, sorry."

Max tries to ignore the tug in his chest.

"I am not doing a good job- I'm fucking it up."

Charles is definitely awake now- sits them up so that he can look at Max.

"Don't say that. Don't- you are doing perfect, Max. It is not you."

Max frowns. He can see the guilt written across Charles' face as well.

"Well, it is not you. So I am the problem."

Max knows he's right. He's done something wrong here, and he's going to figure it out. Going to excel at this, just like he does everything he's ever put his mind to.

Charles makes a distressed noise, fingers tightening on Max's hips.

"Max, it is possible that it's neither of us- sometimes it is just a bad clutch. Although, that would also be my fault."

It hadn't felt like a bad clutch- not that Max would know, he has no baseline for good or bad, barely remembers last year.

He can't ignore that he's still been eating more as well- and losing weight, which means there's still an egg, and it's still taking nutrients, it just- hasn't come yet.

Max hasn't fucked up completely. They might still be able to fix it.

He has a brief moment internally, wondering when he'd started caring about taking care of an egg- an egg- that his coworker has given him.

Well- Charles is a bit more than a coworker now.

Max tries to tackle it like a racing problem- he's losing time somewhere, why.

Max is eating enough, he's sleeping enough, and despite the scare earlier in the week he's not distressed- the only thing that bothers him other than the occasional nausea is that he's cold.

He blinks.

He's cold all the time.

Max wasn't cold last year- he remembers this much. The pool isn't exactly cold either, nice and warm, but right now- the only time Max has felt warm is when he's practically trying to crawl into Charles' skin.

That's not Max's needs- it's the egg.

He pokes Charles in the chest.

"I think we need to go somewhere warmer."

"Huh?"

Max frowns, pressing tighter to Charles, trying to get more of his warmth.

"I am cold, Charles, all the fucking time. I do not think it is just me- I just didn't realize until now. I think it needs to be warmer."

Charles' brows are pressed together, hands running down Max's sides. The warmth helps- and it makes Max feel better to realize it's not that he's become about as useful as damn limpet- it's just that he's been subconsciously trying to fix the problem.

"We're already in the Mediterranean- we'd need to go south to get any warmer, closer to the African coast."

Max is fine with that.

"I think- Charles, I don't know what else it could be."

"Okay. That's fine, we can do that."

Charles tilts his head to the side, eyeing Max.

"I'm going to be very confused if you have a tropical egg, by the way."

Max shrugs.

"You are the one who knows the biology here, not me."

------

Max doesn't want to know if Charles' species has an Airbnb service for little dens. He thinks they might- or maybe a very good honor system, because he's been asleep for most of the trip, doesn't even want to ask how they'd gotten here.

He's curled up in a new cave, warm and humid. Charles looks out of place here, deep blue tentacles and bioluminescence stark against the lighter stone and coral.

It confirms Max's thought about regional differences.

He's feeling much better now, even if Charles looks slightly miserable, which Max feels a little bit bad about.

Another head of hair pokes through the surface of the water, deep brown eyes scanning over them both.

Lorenzo had traveled with them, guarding the new cave as well. Max has sort of gotten over the embarrassment- for the moment, anyways- and it's nice to have him here, hunting for food now that Charles refuses to leave Max's side.

Charles lifts his head from Max's thigh.

"Lolo, how the fuck is he having a tropical egg?"

Lorenzo passes Charles what looks like a stingray, neatly sliced open.

Max has developed a taste for the meat, which makes his stomach turn if he thinks too hard about it.

"Human repo is weird, Charlot. The stem cells make things funky- sometimes they give completely different species."

Charles eyes the slice of stingray meat he's passing to Max.

"...are you actually having sharks?"

Max feels his eye twitch.

"Charles, how the hell would I know? They're your eggs."

Lorenzo snorts, patting Charles' shoulder before flashing a smile at Max.

"I hope you feel better soon. Shout if you need anything."

He dips back underwater, and Charles flops his head back on top of Max's thigh.

"Am I going to need caves all over the world for you? Is that what this is?"

Max wrinkles his nose, trying to hide his amusement.

"Well, I am of course fairly wealthy- having multiple properties cannot be that much of a surprise."

Charles laughs into his leg as Max combs his fingers through his hair.

"Of course."

------

Max is feeling ill again, stomach doing flips as he groans, back pressed to Charles' chest.

"I know, but you are doing so well- you have taken such good care of the clutch this time, better than I could've asked."

Charles is speaking softly into his hair, even as Max tips his head back, fingers gripping one of the tentacles. He doesn't remember the egg part being this bad last year, but maybe his brain has blocked it out- the pressure is back, sends roiling shockwaves through him.

Charles is carefully stretching him open, slow and methodical. It helps a little bit, but mostly Max just wants it to be over-

There's a tentacle sliding up his hip, wrapping around his cock, and Max jerks, even though he's pinned down. Charles is squeezing at his chest, and it's helping, taking his mind off of everything, losing himself in it.

Max isn't sure how long he's stuck in the limbo, distracted by wandering tentacles and clever hands, Charles taking his mind off of everything, gently coaxing him through it, even as it builds and builds-

It's gone.

Max comes with a gasp, arching up in Charles' grasp. He can faintly hear a confused noise from Charles, before he's carefully being arranged back in his little coral cranny, and then something is carefully being placed in his lap.

It's not like the last egg. It's- it's squishy.

Charles cocks his head to the side.

"Max, I actually think those might be sharks."

Max gingerly runs a finger along the sack membrane. Little menaces- no wonder it's been hard this year, there must be over a dozen of them in there.

He's weirdly proud of himself. Sharks.

He looks back up at Charles, feels a smile tugging at his lips.

"Unleash the shark?"

Charles groans.

"That was terrible."

------

Last year, Charles had left Max back at the villa, confused and forgetful. This year, Max is traveling back to Monaco with him. Charles is still being weirdly attentive, even without the tentacles- straightening Max's hoodie, pressing against him at the airport in the private lounge, always having water or a snack.

Max hasn't forgotten anything yet- it's crystal clear in his mind.

It's kind of fucking with him a little bit. Charles had said it would take a few years before Max started remembering things- but he's wondering privately if maybe he's rushed this timeline, like all the others in his life.

He's mildly worried he's going to grow gills next.

Max splits from Charles at the airport, tries to ignore the weird feeling in his chest at the way Charles almost reaches after him, shoving his hands into his pockets instead.

"Same time next year?"

There's a wry twist at the side of Charles' mouth.

"Oui. I'll do some cave hunting this year, since you are so picky."

Max grins.

"Have fun with that. Bye, Charles."

Charles flips him off as he walks away.

[shipper4everships]

BuckTommy Fluffebruary: Day 16

~AU: didn’t know they were dating~

It all started by chance. Buck had just started his service at 118th station, while Tommy was in the process of transferring to station 217. Tommy’s transfer was delayed, so they began working together. Tommy was usually a composed and somewhat introverted guy, not quick to let people close, but Buck was so sincere and open that Tommy let his guard down.

They became friends, and Tommy showed Buck some of his secret tricks that helped him on the job, which later came in handy for Buck on calls. 

"Hey, you only told me about them in my second year here - why does the rookie get such privileges?" Eddie asked teasingly. 

On their days off, they sometimes went to the gym together or invited each other to the bar for a beer and to watch a match. 

"I thought you weren't very into basketball before, Buck. Something changed?" Chim in with a grin. Buck just waved off the question.

When it came time for Tommy to complete his transfer to station 217, he briefly thought about refusing it because he was afraid their communication would end. But Buck turned out to be better than he could have imagined and supported Tommy’s decision to transfer.

"If flying is your dream, then you have to follow it!" 

Tommy couldn’t argue with that.

Now they didn’t see each other as often, but they were always in touch. There were nights when they both stayed up until morning, texting or talking on the phone about everything under the sun.

"Buck, you look awful... You were up all night talking to Tommy again, should I tell him to stop messing up your schedule?" Hen said, half-seriously, half-joking.

"He’s not messing anything up, I called him first!" Buck blurted out, then realized what he’d said.

They continued meeting occasionally at the bar, but it became harder to sync up due to shift changes. One day, Tommy suggested Buck come over to his place for a couple of hours so they could see each other, and Buck gladly accepted.

They kept visiting each other to watch movies or cook together. Until one day, the moment happened: Buck cuddled up to Tommy while they were watching a horror movie, and Tommy turned to him and kissed him in the dim light of the room. To Buck’s surprise, he didn’t pull away. On the contrary, he eagerly joined in.

Since that evening, not much changed between them, except that their texts became more flirtatious, their touches more frequent, and that kiss on the couch wasn’t the last, but rather the first in a series of others.

They wished each other safety before every shift, and it was always the case, but now it felt different - as though there was something more behind that wish, as if they started caring for each other more.

Buck wasn’t sure how to feel about it, but he was afraid of losing the connection that was growing between them, so he decided to keep everything between the two of them and see where it could lead.

Was it really a surprise when, not long after, they slept together for the first time in Buck’s loft? They didn’t talk about it or anything that happened between them, but Buck lay in bed in Tommy’s arms the next morning, feeling like he was exactly where he needed to be.

Maddy called him a few days later and invited him to dinner at the Buckley-Han house, and Buck enthusiastically agreed.

"Buck, I just wanted to check… if you want, you don’t have to come alone," Maddy said cautiously.

"…What do you mean?" Buck was caught off guard by her words.

"Maybe you’ll introduce us to your boyfriend?"

"Boyfriend?" Buck asked, glancing at Tommy, who was sitting across the table from him. Tommy had overheard Buck’s part of the conversation and looked at him. In his eyes, Buck saw curiosity and something more… maybe hope?

Buck ran through their relationship over the past few months in his mind, and everything in his head and heart finally fell into place.

"Yeah, you’re right." Buck smiled into the phone. "Set another place at the table because I’m bringing my boyfriend." Buck said those words and caught Tommy’s answering smile.

When he hung up, Buck leaned across the table, and warm lips met him halfway.

He wasn’t sure where this would lead, but now he knew. Now he would do it right. @bucktommyfluffebruary 💗

[meet-the-net]

𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞. 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭.

Two years on the dot. Seven hundred and thirty days. Scattered between had been some off days, but generally, Ned had lived through the better half of a thousand days of hell. An infinite seeming loop of killing and dying. Uncountable rebirths through technology. Each free moment spent trying to get a hold of his displaced parents. Each foiled plan of establishing contact fueling his belligerence. At least the village itself held enough memories to soothe him into reminiscing better days. Until the dreaded letter was delivered.

The unsigned paper informed Ned, that the buildings of Selbyen had been damaged beyond repair and the seal population had dwindled to the point that a seal-feeding-campaign was no longer a viable strategy for the company. Two small passenger airplanes would arrive the following day to take the teams “back” to the USA. Petrified of forever leaving the only place he’d ever known, Ned’s flight instinct overpowered him once more – as it did when Team Fortress Industries had first arrived – and he crammed himself beneath the floorboards in his bedroom that usually held his secrets. That night, he was the secret. An ever so disorganized stampede of indifferent mercenaries boarded the planes, navigated by administratively decreed pilots. A head count only came to one of their minds, halfway across the Atlantic at that. Short of one head – and quite ashamed of not having noticed earlier – the “bravest” member of BLU was determined by vote and pushed stepped forth to gingerly admit their mistake to their purple pilot. To not delay their arrival any further – transporting a bunch of assassins with twitching, trigger happy fingers and immense boredom was a hazardous job – administration decided to deploy their fallback. Ripped from his Manndatory vacation, The BLU Pilot was tasked to either capture and return The Net… or “terminate his contract”.

Caught staring at the horizon that’d swallowed the plane containing the teammates he’d become accustomed to, the roaring of a small two seated plane from behind him left him exposed as a deer in headlights. Hiding quickly turned out to be a futile endeavor with every meter the plane crept closer to the short rocky path serving as an impromptu runway. After short, exasperated exhortation – The Pilot really had better things to do than chauffeur this stubborn fisherman across the globe – Ned agreed that two years of torment would’ve been for naught if he were to cast away his life contract, and therefore his family’s steady income, due to such rashness. After whispering bitter farewells to the sand, the shells, the seagulls and smoking his last cigarette on Norwegian grounds, Ned and his entire life contained in solely the two suitcases they’d found in the cargo hold, entered the airplane. Eighteen hours were spent in the air – it took Ned about four of them to cast a first glance out of the window, viewing the sea from heights he’d never been at in his life – and six hours in different airports for refueling the plane, their stomachs and their minds. After countless amounts of cigarettes smoked inside the cockpit and conversations made unpreventable by the confined space, but eventually appreciated and sought out, the airplane wheels touched American ground. The Badlands await him.

[dementedkittenribbon]

I’ll follow you until you love me

Eddie Munson x fem reader

When Eddie Munson sees you, he’s smitten and once he discovers your online world? He has to have you. Even if it means…following you around.

Reuploaded!

Eddie knew he was breaking some sort of code. But he couldn’t find it in himself to stop. He was…addicted. You weren’t even friends. Friendly was the better word. He knew you for only a couple of weeks. Your parents owned his favorite music store and he was sorting through the collection of Black Sabbath CDs when he saw you for the first time, also going through CDs in the metal section.

He immediately fell for you. Everything about you was perfect. Your body. Your face. Your clothes. Your voice. Eddie was completely mesmerized  when you both had a conversation about why CDs were essential to the music listening experience. It took everything in him not to kiss you and ruin your pretty lipstick.

As soon as he was alone in his van, he yanked out his phone. Typed in your name and hunted for any sign of accounts you have. He didn’t even use his social media but you would be the exception. You were everything. After several minutes, he finally found your pretty picture. He sighed and leaned back in the seat.

It was your instagram. And in your bio you listed your tik tok, twitter and even your Facebook. Jackpot. Eddie’s eyes scanned over your uploads, his breathing getting heavier. It was almost as if he had a taste of your life. Your world. His thumb clicked on one particular picture where you were wearing his favorite color. It was a dress. A form fitting one. Rising to your mid thigh. Showing off your perfect legs that he so badly wanted to dig his fingers in. Your breasts were pushed together, the shiny heart shaped necklace above your chest aching for him to tug on as he pounded into you.

His fantasies didn’t end there. The whole week in between his shift at work and when he came home, he devoured everything you posted. He watched every video you reposted, he needed to know your humor, your likes, your dislikes. He couldn’t tear himself away from looking at you.

One night,  you post your work schedule for the next week at the music store. And that’s when he decided he needed to see you again.

His shift ended at the Hawkins bar two hours after he originally planned because some fuckwad didn’t know how to show up on time. The music store would only be open for another hour so he raced to his van and probably broke three laws speeding to the building.

He speedily parked, exited and practiced in his head what he would say. He needs a copy of the band you liked Bad Omens. You posted about them all the time. Eddie needed the physical copy. Something you both talked about so it wouldn’t be weird if he asked for a disk. He inhaled and pushed open the door, glancing around as the bell rung. A collection of people were here, he tried to keep his cool. The CDS. His hair was tied into a bun and he wore all black. You always wore dark colors too. But would you even notice him? He shook his head and confidently strides to the shelves.

It was different. More organized. All the decades were correct. Everything was straightened. You had the magic touch. Eddie smiled when his fingers grazed over the plastic, you had touched these. He saw Bad omens right away, but he came here for help. He purposely took a step back and wore a confused expression.

“Eddie?” There. There you were. His cock twitched. Goosebumps rose on his skin. He didn’t turn right away, no. You wouldn’t get it that easy. As badly as he wanted to turn around and-

Your hand gently grazed his shoulder. He wanted to rip off his leather jacket to feel your fingers on his bare skin and his breath shuddered. Finally, he shifted in your direction. Eddie almost kissed you. He had to plant his feet heavily on the floor to prevent himself. Your eyes were soft, searching his brown irises. Small crinkles around your brows showed hours of work but your mouth. Fuck. Your mouth was curved into a polite, curious smile. You wore all black, a bad omens shirt, leggings and boots. A small name tag was right above your heart. You looked perfect. But he focused on your lipstick, the same you wore that first day. He wanted to smear your makeup. Make it run down your face while you were on your knees. He wanted to grip your hair and guide you through-

“It is Eddie, right? Don’t tell me I forgot.” He jerked his head.

“Yes. It’s Eddie. I’m glad you’re here. I’m in serious need of a music recommendation,” Eddie internally melted when you flashed him a grin.

“Well, I’m happy to assist you. I’m assuming you want this in the form of a CD?” You gave him a knowing look. 

He clapped his hands. “ You remembered that. Yes. Always.” You giggled and you extended your hand towards the collection of CDs on the shelves.

“What sound are you looking for? I know you like metal. But do you want a classic recommendation, something underrated or unknown?” You sounded so considerate. You were doing your job, he knew that. But he clung to whatever interest you gave him.

“Honestly, what are you listening too? I want something different. You can only listen to so much Metallica and Black Sabbath,” Eddie dramatically pressed a finger to his lips. “Don’t tell anyone I said that.”

You nodded in kind. “Your secret is safe with me. But I can’t believe you’re actually asking for my opinion.”

“Why? I mean, I’d assume someone who shares my appreciation for metal has great taste.” He saw you from the corner of his eye, you dip your head down for a second. He needed to pace this conversation, withhold what he knows. He just needs to keep hearing your voice. He was almost trembling from the way you were accepting his attempts at charm.

“I mean-If I’m being honest. My favorite band is Bad Omens.” Eddie raised his eyebrows and nodded towards your shirt. His shoulders relaxed. Finally. This was how it went in his head.

“I haven’t listened to them. I’ve seen them on tik tok, but I just haven’t dived in.” He hoped you believed his lie.

“Excuse me?” You both turned and a older man stood at the entrance. Wearing a guns and roses shirt and light blue jeans. “I need help.”

Eddie’s chest burned. No, no, no. He just got you talking. You face him with a shadow of disappointment dancing across your features. He wanted to scream at the man but he had to stay calm. He couldn’t risk you seeing him differently. You didn’t hardly know him.

Yet.

“I’m sorry, Eddie. Gotta help him. But the CD is right there, and if you ring the bell someone will check you out. It was nice seeing you! I hope you like it!”

He was struggling to bury his anger even long after he paid for the album and made his way home. Eddie paced his room. You. You were so beautiful. So sweet. He wanted to keep listening to you talk. He wanted to know every single band you loved. He wanted to carve the sounds into his memory forever. He wanted-no, he needed more of you. He dug his phone out of his pocket.

Settling on his bed, knees spread apart, his thump quickly found your profile. You had so many followers. So many people watching, commenting and sharing with you online. He clenched his jaw when he looked at your story. Eddie blinked at the loud music attached. You had a closed lipped smile and your eyes were shut. And the caption talked about how much you hated rude customers. But then he recognized the song. It was Bad Omens.

He chewed his bottom lip. Was that because of him? Were you thinking about him? The same way he thought of you? He turned up the volume. Listened carefully. Was this song on the album he bought? He picked up the bag and yanked out the plastic, reading the song list on the back . Yes. It was. Eddie pressed the CD against his chest. You touched it. He brought it higher, over his chin until his lips pressed against it. He held it against his mouth, while he stared at your photo.

Eddie memorized your work schedule. Maybe he could stop by again tomorrow. Fuck, he couldn’t. He had to work and It was too soon. You would be confused.

He couldn’t fit anymore CDs on his shelf but he was considering fucking building a new one if that allowed him to buy more from you.

The next day he was in his car. Parked across the street with a few cars giving distance from the music store. He didn’t plan it. He was going into work in a hour. But He just needed to see you. Just look. That’s it. A death of Peace of mind CD was playing in his van and his jaw was clenching so hard from waiting for you to step out. He had fell asleep with his phone on his chest from frantically scrolling on your profile last night.

He didn’t know how his resolution disappeared so quickly. But he couldn’t stop thinking about how sweet you were. How quickly his conversation with you ended. He couldn’t stand it. He needed more. Eddie’s breathing shortened when the entrance opened and you stepped out. His chest expanded when you adjusted your bag, shuffled to close the door behind you and cast your search around the direction of the street. Fuck.

He gripped the steering wheel, so hard his hand trembled as you moved aside for a stranger. You smiled brightly then you started to walk in the opposite direction. His eyes trailed down your body. Black jeans, black hoodie and converse. They lingered on the curve of your thighs in those pants. But he frowned. Were you walking home? You didn’t have a car? Fuck. He didn’t know. He didn’t know anything at all. Why wouldn’t someone take you home?

Without a second thought, he turned the keys. In the back of his mind, he knew he was going overboard. He had work. He needed to leave. Soon. But god damn he just needed to make sure you got home safe. His van came alive and he maneuvered onto the street.  There was a stop light coming, and he sped up to try and beat it before it turned red. He didn’t know how he would remain invisible as he followed you, but he had to try.

Eddie wasn’t sure how he managed, but you didn’t turn to see his van. Your apartment wasn’t far from the store thank fuck. He settled across the street, behind two cars. The same tactic he used earlier. You jogged up the driveway, where there wasnt a car. His suspicions confirmed. The complex wasn’t big, it looked similar to his own. But next to the door where you entered, was a large window. Of course, blinds concealed whatever was on the inside.

He glanced at the clock. He needed to get going. He hated being late. But your address was seared into his mind. He would never forget it. Eddie pulled out his phone, frantically clicking on your instagram. You had a new story. You were smiling, an adorable grin and your fingers were held in a peace sign. The caption said you were finally home. He wanted to help you relax. Spread your legs and make you see stars and never think about a stressful day again.

His dick was growing hard. Your sweet face. Covered in his cum. Your eyeliner running down your cheeks. His hand ghosted the center of his pants before he stopped.

No. No he wouldn’t touch himself. He needed you. He needed to cum inside you. You deserved better than him jerking off in his car. Eddie exhaled, forcing himself to drive.

The night shift was always packed. Plus as the manager, he was responsible for training and handling reckless drinkers. His hair was tied up, his usual style for his shift and his sleeves were rolled up, muscles flexing as he slid a glass to a guest. But his mind was a whirlwind. He hadn’t been able to check his phone. What were you doing? Were you relaxing? He was buzzing with energy. He hadn’t even told Steve about you yet, who apparently was busy with his own infatuation. Eddie kept looking at the clock. He had to stay over again but closing was coming soon. Halloween was in just a few days. What were you going to do? Dress up? Go to a party? Fuck, he needed to know.

He fucking fell asleep before he had a chance to look at your instagram when he got home after 3am. He crashed on his couch, still wearing his work clothes with his phone in his pocket. Eddie practically shoved the end of the charger into his phone, his leg bouncing from waiting for it to turn back on. He knew he should have charged it. Now, it would take longer to see you. Fuck, he needed to see you and your perfect face. Perfect body.

He wanted to touch himself. He wanted to imagine your lips wrapped around him, choking on his dick as his hand is pushing you further. His hand even drifted to his crotch until he stopped himself. No. No, he promised himself he wouldn’t cum until it was inside you. You were his. He checked his phone again as it finally came back to life. His fingers were frantic as they clicked on your name.

You uploaded a new story. Eddie sighed in relief. As it came up, your face looked tired. You weren’t smiling, instead you were holding up a glass, clinking it with another glass belonging to your best friend. His chest tightened. He wanted to be there. He wanted to drink with you, hold you and take care of you. You had to walk home. And he had to fucking work. He swiped to the next story.

It was this morning, he knew only because of the time included. Just an hour ago. You were smiling this time. It was your day off and you were thrilled to to go the Halloween store today. Eddie couldn’t stop looking at your bright eyes, the excitement and he needed to see it again. In person.

He had to try. He would go the store. Pretend he was looking for a Halloween costume. But when? You didn’t give a time. It didn’t matter. He would stay all day and wait. It was his day off too.

Eddie threw himself in the shower, got dressed and drove to the store. It didn’t matter if it was an hour away. It didn’t matter that he hadn’t planned dressing up, or that he would have to swap schedules. You were on his mind. Whatever you were doing, he wanted to be a part of it.

Bad omens played loudly in his van as he came into the parking lot. Eddie’s heart started to hammer as he unbuckled and stepped out. His neck was warm at the thought of hearing your voice again so he tied his hair up.

Opening the door, he was greeted with gruesome decor, rows of costumes and several people shopping. Fuck, how was he supposed to find you? If you were even here yet? His shoe tapped impatiently as he was torn on where to go. Costumes. That’s where he’d start. But what kind? Sexy? Scary? in between?

As he walked down the section, he pretended to search. His rings occasionally getting caught in the fabrics and plastic. He wasn’t interested in this. He didn’t want to participate without you. Oh god, who drove you here? Were you going to be alone? He didn’t think about that. He just moved. Eddie dug out his phone from his pocket.

“Hey, Eddie! Is that you?”

He froze.

Eddie turned around and there you were.

This time, you were wearing a dress. A black one. With a matching sweater and combat boots. But his eyes fell to the tattoo on your chest. He hadn’t seen it because you always wore higher neck tops. Eddie almost salivated. Your makeup was dark again with your apparent favorite lipstick. He wanted to touch your skin, run his tongue along the art. He knew you would taste sweet. So sweet.

“Yeah, it’s me.” Eddie dropped into a serious expression. “Are you following me?”

Your eyes widened and you shook your head. “No, I just saw you-“ Then he grinned. He knew he was such a tease.

“I’m joking, sweets. I’m just here for my Halloween costume.” Such a fucking lie. But he needed to establish a common ground.

You sighed in relief.

“Me too. We had the same idea.” You didn’t protest at the nickname. Eddie tried not to smirk. You were happy to see him. He had to ball his fists to keep from touching you.

“What are you going as? I haven’t decided.” Eddie forced himself to sound light hearted but he truly needed an idea. You set the stage on his actions.

You gestured, “Follow me and I’ll show you.”

And then you stuck out your hand. Eddie thought he would bust in his pants. He accepted as you gently guided him to the other side of the store, where a large amount of costumes were hanging on the wall. Your grip was firm, warm and steady. You were confident in taking his hand. Eddie’s eyes were glued to your lower half, covered by the fitted dress. Your calves peeked out from the slits on the side. He saw more ink. How many tattoos did you have? He wanted to explore them. Compare them to his. You came to a stop and released him. Eddie wanted to stop you, grab your hand again.

“I’m going with this,” You pointed to the hanging plastic bag and Eddie followed direction.

The picture was a Sweeney Todd costume. Fake blood included and wig. It would be hot. You could pull off anything. But the wig he wanted to protest against. Covering your perfect hair? The hair he wanted to dig his fingers in and pull? Caress? Both? “That’s a great one. I think you’ll stand out. Not everyone knows that reference.”

You smiled again. Eddie felt like he won the lottery. “I like to stand out from the crowd, I guess. My best friend is throwing a Halloween party this year. And I finally had the day off to come here.” Eddie nodded, swallowing the urge to reveal he already knew that.

“I hope you’re not working too hard but I can’t stop listening to the CD. You knew exactly what I needed.” Your hands reached up, pressing against your chest. “You really like it? I’m not used to someone actually agreeing with me.” Eddie couldn’t believe that. Who could resist you? Who wouldn’t give your favorite band a try? He would fix that problem.

“Why wouldn’t I like it, sweets? I’ll have to get more recommendations soon, it makes my driving more exciting.” You opened your mouth to respond but something caught your eye and you excitedly beamed.

Eddie turned, desperate to find what caught your attention other than him.

“That’s my favorite slasher movie! If I hadn’t already decided on this, I would wear that.” Eddie’s eyes widened. It was a Ghostface costume. Why didn’t he know that? He ground his teeth. He should have looked closer at your posts. Maybe he would have seen it. You had amazing taste in movies.

“An amazing movie. That would have also been a perfect choice. But I’m not sure anyone could be scared of you, pretty girl. You’re way too sweet.” The names slipped out his mouth before he could catch himself. But you dipped your head and bashfully peeked at him through your lashes.

He couldn’t believe this was happening. He itched to say more, compliment you more but he didn’t want to freak you out. Especially considering he watched your instagram everyday to know exactly what you were doing but he needed you. He would do whatever he needed to make you feel the same way.

Your phone started to ring. Eddie wanted to beg you not to answer. No, stay here in the moment. You sighed, holding the device up. “It’s my dad. I need to take this. But I hope I’ll see you at the store again! And maybe we can talk more. You really get me.” And then you turned away, quietly speaking to your father.

Each time he managed to speak to you, get somewhere, it was interrupted. But this wouldn’t be wasted. No. Eddie moved away from you, as painful as it was and quickly picked up the Ghostface costume. He didn’t know how he would make this work but god damn it he would.

Eddies emotions went beyond his limit when he was hunched over, phone glued to his hand as he poured over your story on his bed when he got home. Your stories consisted of showing off the costume you bought and then several memes about Halloween being everyday for you. And then you posted your old looks. Most of them were edgy, skulls, prosthetics and some were even masks. Except one. You were wearing a short, thigh high black dress. Fishnets and heels. Your face painted with the Crow makeup. Your chest ink and your leg tattoos were on display.

The intricate thorns that wrapped around both thighs but on the left center was a large showing of multiple flowers. On the right was a skull, jaw slightly open to allow a dark snake to wrap around.

His cock felt like it was going to burst but he would not give in. He just didn’t know what to do. How would he get into the party? Sneak in? He was going insane.

And that’s when Steve hit him up. When Eddie answered the phone, Steve proceeded to explain that there was a Halloween party at a penthouse. And the owner just so happened to be your best friend.

Eddie thanked whatever universe, energy or even a God if he even bothered to look at him considering what he was doing. It was Halloween night. He wore the long, black gown. A black shirt and jeans underneath. Heavy boots. Most importantly, the Mask. Steve charmed the security, getting them both inside. The lights were off only to be be replaced with LED strips covering the edges of the wall and even the ceiling.

The living room was spacious, modern furniture and sleek tables covered in red cups, beer bottles and liquor bottles. He squinted his eyes, his vision obscured by the mask. No one paid much attention to him, most people had some sort of horror film costume, he wasn’t the only Ghostface. Fuck. How would you tell it was him? He did all of this for you. Music blared, he could feel it in his chest as he walked around the penthouse. Stepping on decorations fallen to the wood floor.

Steve left his side but Eddie knew he was looking for the hostess of this party. Where were you?

There.

His breath hitched and he froze in the doorway of the kitchen. You were pouring a drink in a solo cup. Your costume was perfect. The white puffed sleeves, black vest and striped pants. Fake blood coated your hands, darkening your fingernails. You weren’t wearing a wig, instead you had the signature white streak in your hair. Good. You didn’t need the wig. He opened his mouth to talk but you turned and started walking into the next room.

No. No. Why did he take so fucking long? He was here right now. He used so much effort to be close to you. Eddie took a steadying breath. And he walked directly behind you, he kept trying to tap your shoulder but you were quick. Nearly jogging. His boots hit against the floor, growing louder from speed. You maneuvered through the crowd. Where you going? He almost lost you but you started climbing the  stairs where more cobwebs and pumpkins sat.

Were you running from him? From someone else? Was your best friend up here? His mind raced with endless options as he continued prowling behind you. No one was here. He almost slammed into you as you abruptly halted.

You spun around.

“Eddie, why are you following me?” Oh, fuck.

Up close, your makeup was messy. Eyeliner smudged heavily, your lips were dark and glossy. You looked up at him through lashes. But you didn’t sound angry. Or fearful.

You sounded…playful.

He tilted his head. “I was-“

“It’s okay, Eddie. I know you’ve been following me. I know every time you look at my pictures. I knew that you followed me home. And it wasn’t an accident at the store the other day. I was hoping you would buy this.” You reached over, grasping the material of the cloak between your fingers.

Eddie grew hot. He thought he could be subtle but apparently not. You knew the whole time. But why weren’t you upset? He didn’t want you to be. But that would have been naive.

He clutched your hand. “I couldn’t help it. You’re perfect. The moment I saw you, I knew I needed you. I needed to see you, make sure you were safe. I can’t get you out of my mind. Fuck. And I just wanted to be here tonight to finally talk to you without being interrupted. All I’ve done is listen to the album you love. I know you said you weren’t mad but please, god I need you. I need to feel you. I need to-“

“Fuck me?” You finished. “Did you touch yourself while looking at me, Eddie?”

He was buzzing, ignited from the way your lips were in a smirk. You stepped closer and with your free hand, you removed his mask. His hair was even messier and his nostrils flared as he took in your perfume.

He was almost against the wall but he couldn’t take it. Eddie’s hands gripped your hips and he smashed his lips to yours. You tasted better than he imagined. And you met his intensity. Eddie flipped so you were the one pinned against the wall, diving his tongue inside your mouth. His cock was so hard it hurt and he pressed his pelvis against yours, grinding into you. A moan escaped your mouth and he reached down, grasping your knee and pulling it around his hip. He could feel how wet you were through your pants.

Eddie ripped away from your mouth, moving to concentrate to the soft skin of your neck when you grabbed him by his arm and burst through a door he didn’t notice was there. He only had time to register a bed in the center of the room before you wrapped your arms around his shoulders and pulled his bottom lip with your teeth. “I wanted you the first day you came in,” You murmured. Eddie pushed your back against the bed, landing him on top of you and he straddled your lap.

“I-can I-can I fuck you?” He had to ask, as frenzied as he felt, he needed you to want it as much as he did.

“Fuck, Eddie. Yes, I want it so bad.” You whined, arching your back into him as he buried his face in your neck, peppering kisses against your jaw before sucking the spot above your collar bone.

You tore off the cloak, before taking off his black shirt with it and running your hands down his chest, stomach before tugging his belt. Eddie lifted his head, helping you as he kicked off his jeans. But he wanted to taste you. He slid down, peeling off your tight pants and your underwear. Eddie got impossibly harder as you mewled as he separated your legs.

Your cunt dripped with arousal and he spread it apart, coating his thick fingers. He dove in, flattening his tongue against your clit. Eddie moaned at your sweet taste as he licked down your slit before slipping his tongue inside you. You were jerking your hips to hump his face, his nose continually hitting the sensitive nerves in the center.

“I’m gonna cum.” Eddie didn’t speed up, he stayed hungrily lapping your pussy and your movement locked, your thighs squeezing his head. The entire lower half of his face was glistening as he pulled away.

Eddie crawled over you and captured your lips in a bruising kiss. Smearing cum all over your mouth, messing your lipstick even further. Just like he imagined.

“Please, fuck me.” You whimpered and he clumsily took off his boxers, releasing his heavy cock leaking with precum.

Eddie lined his dick against you before pressing inside, stretching your pussy as you clenched around him. He groaned from deep in his chest and shuddered. Your nails dug into his skin as he started thrusting, deep and hard. The bed was slamming against the wall.

“Fuck, you’re so fucking perfect, baby.”

He couldn’t even speak anymore, you felt so good he saw stars and he loved the pain from you scratching him. “I’m-I’m close.”

He wanted to hold off for you but the way you cried out, burying your face on his shoulder, Eddie spilled into you. Fuck condoms, he thought. His breath came in choked pants as he pulled out and scooped you into his arms. He was completely naked and you only had a shirt on, that he planned on removing once he caught his breath.

“I can’t believe you knew the whole time. And I can’t believe you liked me back.”

Your head turned as he held you close to him, his arms tight around you. He never wanted to let you go. Now that he’s tasted you, he could never stop.

“Eddie, why do you think I let you follow my account? Why do you think I told you to listen to bad omens? I wanted you to think about me. Besides, your friend Steve pulling the same move on my best friend.”

@hauntedfawnn @eerielamb @take-everything-you-can @songbirdmunson @loserboysandlithium

[foreignjaykay]

company (a jungkook fic)

part two - "better late than never, right?"

company - a jungkook fic

can we keep each other company?

their workplace was chaos, but jungkook made it fun. their camaraderie was effortless—until he decided to leave. no big deal. people quit all the time. so why does it feel like everything is about to change?

pairing: jungkook x reader

genre: r18+ (angst, fluff) minors do not interact!

chapter warnings/misc: workplace!au, coworkers!au, event planner!jk, event planner!oc, jk is not famous, angst, fluff, sad, crack, event planner!mingyu, bts in event planning company, unserious friend group, they are so silly and unserious, , ANGST, IDIOTS both of them, OBLIVIOUSNESS LMAO, yeah you might feel like screaming at the screen i know, i know

notes: hello everyone!!! sorry for the delay. here you go with part 2, i really like this one! things will only get more interesting as we progress further -evil laugh- no but seriously this whole fic is just like justin bieber's believe album. heard that while writing this part lol. we also meet a lot of new characters who are so dear to me! anywho, hope you enjoy this one <3

also here is company!jk’s visual vibe

moodboard • playlist • series masterlist

The moment you finished the texts that morning, you knew the office was going to be a whirlwind of chaos. And you were right.

As soon as you punched into the system, and opened the door, you could already hear laughter coming from the cafeteria.

Oh brother!

The 'Survivors' gang was already huddled around a table, with Jungkook right in the center, laughter radiating from him like sunlight. His eyes lit up the second they met yours, and before you could even think about slipping away, Mingyu—Gyu, as you fondly called him—beckoned you over.

“_______! Get over here!” he grinned.

You smiled lightly, already dreading what was going to happen however you nodded your head, and made your way to them anyway.

As you join them, a familiar warmth settles over you. Around the table were all the familiar faces who had become your second family: Mingyu and Shane from CS team just like Jungkook and you, Yuna, Dae, So-hee, Jimin, and Taehyung from design, Namjoon and Jin from production, Hobi and Yoongi from accounts, and Iseul from the same team. Each one of them held a special place in your heart, but after Jungkook, it was Mingyu and Yuna you were closest to.

The conversation buzzed with excitement, actually no, shock, as everyone bombarded Jungkook with questions about his new job, his plans, and his time left at the office. 

“No cause what the fuck were you saying this morning?” Yuna asked, remembering the conversation from earlier this morning. 

“Are you really resigning, JK?” Hobi asked. Just like you, they all couldn't believe it. 

Jungkook nodded with a wistful smile, the corners of his lips curve upwards slightly, but his eyes conveyed a hint of sadness, suggesting a mix of melancholy and acceptance.

So,” So-hee started, leaning back in her chair. “You wanna explain?”

Jungkook chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “I mean… yeah. It’s happening.”

“Where are you even going?” Namjoon asked, arms crossed. “You never said anything about leaving.”

Jungkook exhaled, his fingers tapping against the table. “I got an offer to work on live concerts. Big ones. A-list musicians, full production scale, global tours. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do.”

Your chest tightened. You already knew this, but hearing him say it out loud made it real.

“You and _____ always talked about this,” Jimin murmured. You glanced at Jungkook as soon as you heard that and when you looked at him, you saw his eyes flickering to yours. An emotion you couldn’t describe passing briefly through his features.

“Yeah,” he said, softer now. “We did.” 

You noticed both Yuna and Mingyu glancing at you, and you knew exactly why. Yuna specifically was going to ask you about this later, and you mentally braced yourself for the impending interrogation.

“So you’re leaving because you finally got your dream job,” Yoongil summarized.

Jungkook nodded. “I didn’t want to do these luxury brand launches forever. The dinners, the red carpets… it’s cool, but it’s not my thing. Concerts? That’s different.”

“Shit, man.” Taehyung whistled. “I mean, I’m happy for you, but this sucks.”

“Who’s gonna get roasted in the GC now?” Shane joked, nudging Jungkook.

Jungkook laughed. “Oh, don’t worry. I’ll still be in the GC. I’ll be haunting you all from afar.”

Shane, Mingyu and you already knew. God, you still couldn't believe this news.

He was leaving.

You know it wasn’t supposed to be this dramatic but why did it feel so heavy?

You broke from your thoughts when your phone buzzed with calls and dozens of messages. 

“Guys, I gotta go,” you interrupted when you saw Jungkook animatedly describe his upcoming journey, holding up your phone. “Already getting calls.”

Jungkook’s eyes flicked to your phone and then back to you. “Oh, by the way,” he said casually, but his voice held that familiar teasing lilt, “Natasha asked me to shadow you for the Johnnie Walker Blue Label dinner tomorrow.”

You raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at your lips despite the sudden pang in your chest.

“Maybe this could be our last adventure?” he said looking at you, voice dipping a little. “Gotta make the most of my final days, right?” He added. 

You could feel the rest of their eyes on you.

Your heart clenched when he said that, but sarcasm was your armor. “Jungkook, you leave in a month. We still have Cartier coming up.”

He chuckled, the sound effortlessly charming. “Oh yeah.”

And for a second—just a fraction of a second—you hesitated, watching him.

And he watched you back.

But the moment passed, and you rolled your eyes. “Drama queen.”

His laughter, carefree yet tinged with something unspoken, echoed through the cafeteria. Around you, the rest of the group exchanged glances, picking up on the subtle awkwardness in the air. It was brief, fleeting, but undeniable.

And then you were gone, walking away with your phone glued to your ear, pretending everything was perfectly fine.

The cafeteria slowly emptied after the morning chaos. You had already left, phone pressed to her ear as she dove headfirst into calls for the Johnnie Walker event. One by one, the rest of the ‘Survivors’ gang filtered out, leaving only Jungkook and Namjoon seated at the corner table.

Jungkook sat silently, fingers tracing the rim of his coffee cup, eyes lost in thought.

“Thinking hard for someone who’s got a dream job lined up,” Namjoon teased gently, breaking the silence.

Jungkook blinked, pulled from his daze. “Huh? Oh... yeah. Just... a lot on my mind.”

Namjoon chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Right. ‘A lot.’ Or maybe... someone?”

Jungkook’s brows furrowed, then softened as he followed Namjoon’s gaze. Across the glass partition, you paced back and forth, phone glued to your ear, animatedly sorting out last-minute details.

You have always been like this. Dismissive. Untouchable. And yet, here Jungkook was, wishing you’d just–

Namjoon’s question broke Jungkook’s train of thought when he asked, “You gonna miss her?”

Jungkook’s eyes widened slightly, the question catching him off guard. He opened his mouth, then closed it, taking a moment to collect his thoughts. “Yeah... of course. She’s my best friend here. And... well... my saviour.”

He chuckled softly, pulling out his phone and flashing the contact name — ‘Saviour.’

Namjoon observed him for a moment, the corner of his mouth lifting into a knowing smile. He didn’t say much, but the silence between them felt weighty, charged with unspoken understanding.

Jungkook glanced at him, confused. “What?”

Namjoon shook his head with a small laugh. “Nothing, man.”

Jungkook, oblivious, ran a hand through his hair and stood up. “I should get back to work.”

“Yeah,” Namjoon replied, eyes still watching you through the glass. “You should.”

As Jungkook walked away, Namjoon sat back, sipping his coffee, a quiet smirk playing on his lips.

You sat alone in the bustling cafeteria, the clatter of trays and distant murmurs barely registering in your mind. December’s madness gripped the office, with Natasha’s vacation leaving the team drowning in work. Even Jake Peralta’s comedic chaos on your phone screen couldn’t compete with the storm of thoughts in your head. And that show single handedly was there for you after your 5473829018393th break up with San.

Oh San.

You didn't like thinking about him. At all.

You were glad you were not in that mess of a relationship anymore. So toxic. The constant lying, manipulation and chea-

Oh no. You are not thinking about that.

It had been 2 years since you were really with someone. Enough time to heal, right?  Funny to think that after  you broke up with San, you  got the job here and met Jungkook and the rest of the gang. Work had also consumed you then and still does. It helped distract you from the pain you felt then.

You were glad you did.

Met them, you mean.

Your fingers mindlessly pushed your food around as you stared at nothing in particular. Jungkook’s words from the morning replayed like a broken record in your head. The brightness in his eyes, the laughter, the ache that tugged at your heartstrings for reasons you couldn’t pinpoint.

It’s just a job. People leave all the time. Shane, Mingyu, Yuna, and the rest of them will still be here. Nothing’s changing. 

The weight in your chest whispered otherwise.

Your phone buzzed, pulling you from the spiral.

yuna (work) [2:05 pm]: babe where are you?

you [2:05 pm]: in the cafeteria. whats up?

yuna (work) [2:06 pm]: we need to talk!

You sighed. Here we go. 

you [2:06 pm]: about?

yuna (work) [2:07 pm]: meet me at conference room #2 once you are done with lunch?

you [2:07 pm]: sure

yuna (work) [2:07 pm]: see ya!

You were already bracing yourself.

After lunch, you found herself pacing outside the conference room before finally pushing the door open.

Yuna sat cross-legged on the table, her usual grin replaced with a softer, more curious expression. “Hey, you okay?”

You raised a brow. “Why is everyone suddenly asking me that?”

“Because we care,” Yuna replied simply. “And... because you seem off. Jungkook’s leaving is hitting you harder than you’re letting on.”

You scoffed lightly, though your posture stiffened. “It’s not that deep, Yuna. He’s a friend. People leave all the time. Shane, Mingyu, you... you’re all still here.”

You could feel Yuna study you for a moment. “So, you're fine?”

“Completely fine,” You said, and nodded.

Were you really trying to convince her or yourself?

“Right,” Yuna responded, her tone laced with an almost imperceptible amusement. “It’s just funny how ‘fine’ people don’t avoid eye contact every time someone brings up Jungkook.”

You sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. “I’m just... busy, okay? There’s so much going on, and—”

“And?”

You bit your lip, deflecting. “Look, I’ll miss him, sure. But I’m not losing him. He’s a text away. We’ll still talk,”

“Of course,” Yuna nodded, standing up and smoothing her shirt. “If you say so.”

You narrowed her eyes. “What does that mean?”

“Nothing.” Yuna smiled slightly, walking to the door. She paused just before leaving, throwing a glance over her shoulder. “You’re so oblivious.”

“To what?” You asked confused.

“Exactly,” And with that Yuna is gone.

Your mouth opened to respond, but she was already gone. You stood there, confused and restless. Oblivious to what?

The office hummed with the quiet rhythm of the evening shift. The December chill seeped through the windows, blending with the glow of computer screens and the occasional click of keyboards. You returned to her desk after your client meeting, only to find Shane and Mingyu locked in a heated argument.

“Dude, I’m telling you, Die Hard is totally a Christmas movie!” Shane insisted, arms flailing dramatically.

Mingyu scoffed. “Just because it’s set during Christmas doesn’t make it a Christmas movie.”

“Next, you’ll tell me Harry Potter is a Halloween movie because there’s a troll in the dungeon,” You quipped, trying to suppress a smirk.

“Okay, but seriously,” Shane interjected, “___, back me up here. Christmas is all about family, redemption, and explosions—Die Hard fits!”

Mingyu rolled his eyes. “You just like explosions.”

Their playful banter made you smile, but it didn’t fully erase the weight you felt inside. Your eyes drifted across the room, where Jungkook sat on the worn leather sofa, focused intensely on his laptop. The crease between his brows, the way his fingers moved with precision—there was something magnetic about him in moments like this.

Why does he make this so hard?

An hour slipped by. Mingyu and Shane finally gathered their things.

“Don’t stay too late, ______,” Mingyu called out. “And JK, take a break from being a workaholic, would you?”

Shane and you chuckled.

“Later losers,” Shane joked, shooting finger guns at Jungkook and you. You rolled your eyes while Jungkook chuckled and gave him a mock salute.

The door clicked shut, and the office felt quieter than ever. Jungkook stretched, shutting his laptop and walking towards your desk.

“Long day, huh?” he asked softly.

You nodded, your gaze drifting to his laptop. Curiosity morphed into something heavier.

“Wait... is that your handover sheet?” Your voice cracked slightly.

Jungkook chuckled, though his eyes reflected something bittersweet. “Yeah. Better to start now than rush later.”

“Look at you being all prepared huh?” You said as a joke.

“Isn’t it too soon?” you added, forcing a laugh that barely hid the lump in your throat.

“Maybe,” he replied. “But... better late than never, right?” His smile was soft, almost apologetic.

You nodded and felt a weight settle in your chest.

“You okay?” he asked you gently.

Were you seriously this obvious? Well since childhood, your emotions always showed on your face. You just can’t control it.

These days it feels like a flaw, more than usual.

“Yeah,” you lied. “Just... you know, work. Event tomorrow and all,”

Jungkook didn’t seem to buy it, but nodded anyway. 

“Heading out? I can drop you home.” He asked as you saw him pack his bag and wait for your answer.

“No, I’ve got stuff to finish,” you said quickly.

“I don’t mind waiting,” he offered.

“No, really,” you insisted, eyes glued to your screen. “Go home, Jungkook.”

He hesitated. “If you’re sure...”

“I’m sure.” You said and gave him a smile. It wasn't sincere and he knew that. He didn't want to push it.

Things between the two of you have been a little awkward anyway. As he left, the emptiness felt overwhelming. Better late than never... you repeated in your mind, but it didn’t feel right at all.

The office was eerily quiet now, with only the hum of the air conditioner and the faint clicking of your keyboard filling the space. You leaned back in her chair, stretching, when your  gaze fell upon the corkboard in front of your desk.

Pinned right in the center was a Laneige-branded polaroid, its white sleeve bordered with the brand’s iconic blue. In the photo, you were  mid-laugh, eyes crinkling with joy, while Jungkook stood beside you, grinning mischievously as he held up bunny ears behind your head.

A soft chuckle escaped your lips, and before you knew it, you were  pulled into the memory.

The Laneige event was supposed to be smooth sailing, until it wasn’t.  Your eyes darted between your laptop and the large screen where the AV was supposed to play the brand’s latest product ad. Except, instead of the sleek, high-definition video, there was static. Then a black screen.

“Oh no, no, no,” you muttered, frantically searching your files. The sound team huddled around you, whispering about corrupted files and missing backups.

“I’m screwed,” you whispered under your breath, panic tightening your chest.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Jungkook’s voice cut through the chaos. He crouched beside you, brows knitted with concern.

“The AV—it's all wrong. Somehow the final version is not playing even though we did the tech check this morning. It’s not working, and the event starts in fifteen minutes,” you rambled, barely breathing.

“Okay, hey, breathe,” he said softly. “We’ve got this.”

He turned to the sound team. “Check the codec settings and reload the player. Sometimes it freezes with large files. Do we have the original file on a backup drive?”

One of the techs nodded, scrambling to connect it.

“____, check if the client sent any last-minute updates.”

You nodded, fingers trembling as she searched. “Here! The client sent a backup this morning.”

“Perfect. Upload it to my drive,” Jungkook said, opening his laptop. Within moments, he transferred the file, reloaded the player, and the screen flickered back to life with the flawless Laneige ad.

You exhaled deeply, your heart still pounding. “Thank you,” you whispered.

“Teamwork, remember?” he grinned.

After the event wrapped up successfully, the two of you found yourselves at the instant photobooth Laneige had set up for guests. Jungkook pulled you in, making funny faces while youburst out laughing.

“Smile!” he said just as the camera clicked.

The polaroid printed out, and before they could take another, Mingyu, Shane, Yuna, Namjoon and Jin jumped in, cramming into the frame, laughing uncontrollably.

Back in the present, your smile was bittersweet. You traced the edge of the polaroid with your finger, the weight of the impending goodbye settling heavily on your chest.

“Drama queen,” you whispered softly, echoing your teasing words to Jungkook earlier. But deep down, you knew—this goodbye wasn’t going to be easy.

Maybe he was the saviour all along.

© foreignjaykay

[borrelia]

posting at a stupid hour oh well. feedback on how to write--especially how to better pace and detail descriptions--wanted pleassee.

guys being dudes sonknux thing ft rouge trying to get to her beautiful wife (the master emerald)

Even in the middle of summer, the forested side of Angel Island never really got hot.  The sun beat down bright and warm, but the thin air couldn’t hold its heat. Under the shade of the dense trees and in the shadow of the towering Ice Cap, the air stayed chilled for much of the island’s orbital path.  Out in the open, the ever-constant breeze tugged body heat away from anything more than a foot above the ground.  Only close to the ground in the direct light of the sun could one warm under its rays.  There, or near the Master Emerald, its odd internal light radiating its own kind of heat that seeped into the carved stone shrine like hot coals in a furnace.

Sonic and Knuckles sat at the edge of the shrine, Sonic kicking his legs over the side as they warmed their backs and took in the view.  Birdsong traveled up from the forest below, oddly deadened by the thin air, but beautiful all the same.  The two of them were lightly scuffed, fur sticking out at odd angles and prints of dust on their sides where they’d tapped each other—playfighting or real fighting, it was difficult to tell with these two.

Sonic stretched his arms back over his head with a groan.  “Well, I’d better get going.”  He moved to stand and Knuckles stood with him,

Knuckles folded his arms and raises an eyebrow playfully.  “Someone else needs you to annoy them today?”

“Something like that!” Sonic smiled, matching his gaze.  Then, instead of extending an open hand or even a friendly fist, he leaned forward and casually said “Hey,” slipping a hand up to tangle in Knuckles’ spines, “Gimme a kiss.”

Knuckles’ arms remained crossed as Sonic gently pulled him down into two quick kisses, chaste and playful, then smoothly backed away with a satisfied smile.  Knuckles’ face noticeably reddened, but his eyes remained humorful, his fond smile only barely wider.  

“Don’t come back too soon, hedgehog,” he said, his forceful bravado clearly a routine act, the affection underneath readily apparent.

Sonic laughed and started down the shrine steps, hopping down sideways and backwards so he could continue his conversation facing the top.  “That hurts, Knuckles!” He was almost yelling as he talked, projecting his voice too loud in his usual way.  He only got louder as he put more distance between them.  “You’ll be missing me soon enough!  I know you were dying of boredom up here without me before I got here!”

Knuckles yelled back “You know that’s not true!” and waved a fist in what was quickly becoming genuine frustration, but Sonic mimed not being able to hear and playfully waved him off.  At the bottom of the shrine, still definitely able to hear Knuckles’ aggrieved shouting from above, Sonic took off in a bolt of blue.

The Tornado was parked not too far off, in a grassy clearing marked by ancient worn stones, tucked behind a copse of thin trees.  Wood slats were laid out in a makeshift runway for the little prop plane, its own dedicated tarmac begrudgingly constructed by the island’s caretaker.  

Sonic hopped out of his sprint meters away from the shining red plane, aiming his momentum just right as he turned mid-air to effortlessly plop halfway into the cockpit.  His legs hung over the edge of the plane for just a moment, before he pulled them in, adjusting himself to sit upright.  Sonic hummed happily as he pulled a water bottle out from under the seat and took a swig, swaying to the music in his head.

It was then that the bat decided to reveal herself.  Rouge slid out of the shadows of the trees and with a flick of her wings slipped up to the top of the Tornado’s wing.  Rouge of course prided herself on her ability to move stealthily, sitting on the plane with crossed legs and barely a whisper of fabric on metal, but it was hardly a difficult thing to do when it came to the ever-distracted Sonic.

“Didn’t expect to see you here, Blue.”

“Huh-? Rouge!” Sonic jolted and dropped his water bottle as his eyes snapped up to see her.

Rouge couldn’t help but snort at his surprise.  When his mind was somewhere else, that hedgehog could miss his own nose in front of him.

The shock soon faded, however, and was replaced with a friendly grin.  “Can’t say I expected to see you either.  If you’re hoping the emerald’s unguarded today, you’re out of luck.  I just left Knuckles up there a minute ago.”  Sonic’s gaze ducked back down as he spoke to fish the bottle out from where it had rolled under the seat.  He struggled with it for a moment before successfully recovering it and looking back up at her.

Rouge sighed wistfully, looking back over her shoulder to where she knew the shrine to be, despite the forest and the hills hiding it from view.  “Well I’m sure he can’t stop me from stealing a glance or two while I’m here.” She paused for a moment and glanced back at Sonic.  “I already got a few earlier, but I saw you two were having a moment together and didn’t want to interrupt.”  

Sonic didn’t seem to notice her unasked question.  He took a swig from his water bottle and set it down on his knee.  “Thanks. He’s all yours.” Sonic made a sweeping gesture with his arm, a playful smirk on his face.

Rouge pursed her lips, regarding Sonic pointedly.  “Well I’m sure if it was Knuckles I was after instead of the emerald, I’d be devastated to find out he’s already taken.”

Sonic’s brow wrinkled in confusion.  “What?”

“It’s no problem to me,” she continued, “I’m just a little nosy by profession.  Though with you, I’m not sure knowledge of your little tryst would work as useful blackmail by any means. It’s too bad, I was hoping I could go home with an emerald today.” 

Again, she sighed theatrically, this time much more for Sonic’s benefit.  He loved helping pitiful and sad things, right? Maybe one day she’d convince him her cause was an appropriately pitiful one to drop his guard and let her at those emeralds.

No such luck this time, by the way Sonic smirked and leaned back.  Well, she could see the lightswitch flick behind his eyes as he finally picked up her meaning. 

“Tryst, huh?” He said, folding his arms. “What exactly gave you that idea?” He had that look in his eyes that Rouge had seen when he was negotiating with Eggman or teasing Shadow:  he’d found a new game to play.

Rouge smiled.  Finally he was on the same page.  “Well, I never imagined you were so sentimental about goodbyes.”

Sonic rolled his shoulders. “Only as sentimental as a handshake!”

“A handshake, huh? A secret one just for you and Knuckles?”

“Nah, not ‘just.’” He rubbed his nose idly, then turned that mischievous smile back to Rouge. “Why, you feeling left out without one?”

“I’ll pass,” she said.  She shuffled her wings and leaned back on her hands, appraising him.  “But I’m supposed to believe you’re handing out goodbye kisses like candy and I haven’t seen it once until now? C’mon Blue, you can do better than that.”

“Hey,” Sonic gave a big what-can-you-do shrug, “Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen!  Not like you’ve been trailing me trying to catch me in the act.” He paused, then raised an eyebrow at her.  “You haven’t, have you?”

Rouge scoffed. “Of course not.  I’ll leave that busywork to your private eye friends.  I’d only trail you if I thought I could steal something nice off you.  Which, for the record, I know I can’t today.  Nice job scattering those Chaos Emeralds after your last adventure, Hero.  I haven’t seen any of them pop up yet.”

Sonic rolled his eyes and mumbled something to himself about Tails—great idea, Sonic, she should go pester the boy genius for emerald information!—before addressing her again.  “Well believe me or don’t, it’s up to you.  I don’t see why you’d make such a big deal out of it, though.  Knuckles is my friend, it’s not a crime to show him a little love every once in a while.”

“No, I didn’t think it was,” Rouge sighed.  “I was just hoping if I couldn’t get any treasure out of you, I could at least get a juicy secret or two.”  She hefted herself up by her hands and pulled her feet in to stand upright on the plane wing.  She set her hands on her hips and fixed Sonic with an unamused stare.  “I still don’t believe you, for the record.  I just know when to drop a dead lead.”  

Sonic took her cue and turned his attention to the Tornado’s instruments, readying himself to start it up.  “You can ask Knuckles if you want, he’ll tell you the same thing.  And you know he can’t lie to save his life.”

“Thanks, but I didn’t need your permission.” Rouge flared her wings out dramatically and swooped up into the air just as she heard Sonic start up the motor.  She gained air until she could see the Master Emerald shrine over the trees and began to glide in its direction.

“Hey!” Sonic called from below.  

She stopped and twisted to look back down at him.

“Sure you don’t want that kiss goodbye?” Sonic tapped his cheek, a huge grin splitting his face.

“Hard pass!” Rouge yelled down.

The sound of Sonic’s laughter was drowned out by the sputtering start of the Tornado’s engine. Rouge shook her head and began her long descent across the island.  The sound of the roaring engine faded in the distance as Sonic took flight the other direction and the echo was swallowed up in the empty spaces between the air, leaving only the soft whispers of wind in Rouge’s ears.

She kept her flight path to the shrine less than direct, curving down to hide herself in the treetops in case the Tornado’s flight drew Knuckles’ attention in her direction.  She was in no rush:  unlike Sonic, Knuckles wasn’t going anywhere soon.  By the time she had made her way to the shrine and landed with a soft click of her heels atop one of the encircling stone pillars, the Emerald’s guardian had wandered away for a minute and left his post unguarded…. 

Well, she thought, getting blackmail material out of the echidna would be nice.  But an emerald in the hand is worth two in the bush…  

Rouge leapt lightly down from the pillar, smoothing her descent with her wings until she came down on top of the Master Emerald lighter than a feather, her legs kicked out behind her and her hands gently caressing its glinting faceted surface.  She laid down across the flat top, resting her cheek against it and sighing with contentment as she felt its thrumming warmth through her gloves.  

“Hello beautiful,” she crooned, closing her eyes.  “Did you miss me?”

“Not in the slightest.”

Knuckles’ flat voice jolted Rouge out of her reverie, her body stiffening and her head shooting upright.  Well, that didn’t last long.

“Now get off the Master Emerald!” Knuckles growled, his shoulders squaring up as he reached the top of the shrine’s steps.  

“Hey there, handsome!” Rouge smiled brightly.  “I didn’t expect you’d be back so soon!”

“Off!” 

Oh well, two in the bush it was.  Rouge kissed the glossy surface of the gem goodbye, leaving a perfect pink lipstick print, and gently lifted herself up to land lightly next to where Knuckles stood, gawking with a comically wide mouth and flushed face.  

“You—” he sputtered, looking between her and the Emerald, “You keep your mouth off the Master Emerald!”

“It was just a friendly kiss goodbye.”  Rouge pouted, but was unable to help the corners of her mouth from turning up into a wicked smile.  “You do it all the time, don’t you?”

Knuckles’ blush deepened and his spines puffed up around him.  “I do NOT kiss the Master Emerald!” He shuffled sideways to subtly (“subtly”) position himself between Rouge and the Emerald.  Rouge pretended not to notice him encroaching in her space and kept rooted in place, watching with amusement as it made him squirm.

“Well I’ve never seen you say goodbye to my emerald, but that’s how you say goodbye to your friends, isn’t it? Like Sonic?” 

Knuckles was exceptionally fun to tease.  If she spent enough time with Shadow, she could get some good jabs in here and there, but he never reacted as visibly and predictably as Knuckles.  Rouge could learn to read Shadow’s micro-expressions and his silent pauses to get a good sense of when she said something that hit close to home.  But Knuckles? The echidna wore his heart on his sleeve and his sleeve on his forehead.  Every thought that ran through his mind was as plain to see as the nose on his face—and Knuckles’ nose stuck out much more than most.

Rouge watched in real-time as Knuckles’ expression shifted from teeth-bared indignation, to brow-furrowed disorientation, to wide-eyed realization, to flushed-faced panic.

“What!?” he sputtered. “No I don’t!”

Knuckles backed up half a step, surely unconsciously, and Rouge took the opportunity to more forward half a step, keeping the distance between them close.

“Really? Because I just caught Sonic on his way out.  He said you’re one of his friends he kisses goodbye all the time.  There’s no shame in that.”

Knuckles stiffened.  His cheeks remained flushed as he set his jaw and met her gaze.  “Well,” he started, “I meant I don’t kiss him.  He kisses me.  It’s different.”

Rouge hummed pensively, giving him time to second-guess his defense.  Which, of course, he did.

“I mean, you said I say goodbye to all my friends like that.  But I don’t—it’s just Sonic.  Because that’s what he does.  It’s Sonic’s thing.”

Knuckles seemed much happier with that answer, tilting his chin up to fix her with a challenging stare.  It was a much better defense, of course.  But Sonic was right:  Knuckles couldn’t lie to save his life.

“Really?” she pressed.  “So could I get a kiss goodbye if I asked nicely?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because Sonic is my best friend. And you,” he jammed a gloved hand to her chest, unable to unfurl a single finger for the gesture, “are a lying crook, bat girl.”

Rouge gasped and threw a hand to her chest in mock-dismay. “I resent that remark!”  She watched as her pitiful expression cracked his resolve, then smoothly turned away as if she hadn’t noticed.  

Rouge began to leisurely circle the Emerald, reaching a gloved hand out to run along its side.  She was careful not to let her fingers touch it, lest she raised its guardian’s ire, but she ran them close enough to feel a soft tingle of power emanating from the gem. “Just because I’m a crook doesn’t mean I have to lie to get what I want.” Necessarily.  “I’m always perfectly clear about wanting this emerald here, aren’t I?”

Knuckles pulled back his fist and raised it to his chin, clearly considered her words—as serious as ever. “Well I suppose you are.” He side-eyed her as she finished her lap around the Emerald.

“So could I get a kiss?”

“Still no.” Knuckles crossed his arms and narrowed his gaze. 

“Oh come on.” Rouge smiled.  “We’re friends, you can trust me.”  She continued before he had the chance to object, “So what is it? Am I not pretty enough for you?” 

“No!” Knuckles sputtered, flustered.

“No I’m not pretty enough?” Rouge pouted, unable to resist drawing out another reaction from him.

“No, you are, I—augh!” Knuckles pressed his palms to the sides of his head.  “You’re trying to get in my head!” His face scrunched up as he turned away, blocking her out.

Rouge laughed, dancing around to his front. She tugged at his arms with a sly grin.  “Oh come on,” she goaded.  “I’m not being serious.”

Knuckles cracked one suspicious eye open at her, and begrudgingly dropped his arms.  He was clearly more interested in getting her to move on than to continue with his theatrics.  But of course, she wasn’t planning on it.  She was getting that emerald one way or another.

“Sonic isn’t half as persistent as me,” Rouge said.  Her fingers remained brushing his arms where they’d fallen.  “I can’t imagine you’d hold out denying me, but cave to him.  You two butt heads all the time!  You really expect me to believe this is all Sonic’s idea?”

Knuckles’ expression softened as she spoke, then his eyes flicked downward.  He took a moment to think before letting out a steadying breath, resolving himself.

Gotcha, Rouge thought.

“It is his idea,” Knuckles said quietly.  “That really is just something he does with friends.  Just don’t—” he tensed “—tell him I like him, okay?”

Rouge cringed internally at the melodrama, but maintained her placid expression and nodded encouragingly.  Relationship drama like this never made sense to her.  But it wasn’t about what made sense to her, it was about what would get her leverage for that emerald.

“Of course I won’t tell him, sugar.”  For a price.

Knuckles awkwardly scratched the back of his head.  “Sonic’s friendship means a lot to me.  And I’m happy with what we’ve got.”  He stared off to the side, across the island and into the distant clouds.  “I don’t want to risk losing any of it by asking for anything else.”

Rouge couldn’t help the soft snort that escaped her—playing guidance counsellor was not her forte.  Knuckles looked up at the sound and she attempted to play it off by clearing her throat.  “Well you can’t get what you want if you don’t try, can you? Why all the secrecy? Just get it over with and talk to him or whatever.”

Knuckles shook his head.  “It’s not worth jeopardizing our friendship.  That’s what means the most to me.”

“Afraid you’ll lose your kissing privileges if he rejects you?” Rouge smirked.

Knuckles shot her a glare.  

Oops! Hit the nail on the head!  Rouge pulled her hands behind her back and leaned away slightly, the fragile air of vulnerability clearly broken.

Knuckles remained still for a moment longer before looking away with a frustrated huff.  “I think it’s time you leave.”

Rouge hummed and turned to walk to the edge of the shrine.  She looked out across the tree tops to the empty sky beyond. “I suppose that’s enough catching up for one day.  But I’m not going without my emerald!”

She heard Knuckles shift behind her, probably squaring up once again. “What are you talking about, you crazy bat!? I said get off my island!”

“I’d be more than happy to,” Rouge purred.  “In fact, I’ll probably head straight to Prower’s workshop to look for more emeralds.  I might even run into Sonic while I’m there.” She looked back over her shoulder, a malicious glint in her eye.  “How important would you say it is that I not tell him about your crush? Enough to give me that big pretty rock behind you?”

Behind her, she could see Knuckles was indeed in a fighting stance, fist up in a threat.   He paused for a beat with that exaggerated frown on his face before he caught her meaning. His shoulders dropped and his eyes went wide.

“What-? You-! You said you wouldn’t!”

“I didn’t say for free—what do you take me for?”

Rouge shot upward with a powerful flap of her wings, narrowly dodging the twin spikes of Knuckles’ fist.  Knuckles whirled around and swiped again at her receding legs.  He missed, growling in frustration. 

“Grr—! You two-faced little cheat! I trusted you!”

Rouge landed lightly on top of the Master Emerald, her heels clicking gently over the smudged lipstick print.  “That’s your loss, echidna.” She dusted herself off and watched with amusement as Knuckles continued to growl and stamp his foot below.  “Now, how does that deal sound to you?”

Knuckles snarled, “I won’t let you have the Master Emerald!”

“Not even to keep my mouth shut to Sonic?  If you let me take it, I won’t tell him, promise.” She held her hands up in appeasement.  Her word was only ever as good as she wanted it to be; all that really mattered was that others could tell when she was being really sincere.  “You said his friendship was so important to you.”

Knuckles stilled. He looked down at the cracked stone ground, his fists limp at his side as he thought it through.  After a moment he sighed, his eyes softening in defeat. 

Yes!

“Fine. Tell him.”

No!

“What?” Rouge stepped back, bewildered.  “Did I hear you right?”

Knuckles scoffed, “Of course.”  He straightened up, raising a fist to his chest and meeting her gaze.  “My duty to the Master Emerald always comes first.  No matter what, I’ll endure it.”  His eyes narrowed as he pulled up his other fist, setting his weight back into his fighting stance.  “So don’t make me repeat myself again: Get off the Master Emerald and off my island!”

The two stood in the dead silence of the high air, the tiny scuffing of Knuckles’ shoes on rocks on rock the loudest sound between them.  Rouge broke the moment with a sigh and a dismissive slump backwards.  She hung one hand from her hip while the other gestured lazily at her side. 

“Well, it was worth a try,” she said.  “But what a waste of time.  Listening to all those feelings and not even getting a good payoff for it.  Next time I’ll just skip to snatching the Emerald while you two lovebirds are distracted.” 

Knuckles regarded her warily as she lifted off the Master Emerald and flew to just over the edge of the shrine.  She twisted back to look at him before she left.

“I meant what I said earlier.  Just take what you want for once, Knuckles.  That’s your problem, you know.  You don’t know how to live for yourself.”

Knuckles scoffed, turning to face her without dropping his guard.  “That’s your problem, Rouge.  You have no sense of discipline.” 

Rouge shrugged and turned to fly away.  That may be so, she thought, the sound of her wingbeats and the wind in her ears quickly becoming all she could hear in the empty air, but at least this I can understand:  I’d give up anything for that rock just the same!

[strangersteddierthings]

One Shots/Ficlets

Here's a link to all my fics that are just one chapter :)

Envy, Baby. Written for Rustypeoplekillz for the Steddie Summer Exchange 2024. Eddie makes a new friend and Steve spirals about it. [Ao3]

Steve and Robin talk about how Steve wants to be romanced, instead of always doing the romancing. [Ao3]

Eddie's over dramatic, Steve talks him down, and they're okay in the end :)

Steve reflects on how other people make the decisions in his life and decides, y'know what? No. Fuck that and fuck you. [Ao3]

Beg You to Love Me - Steve and Eddie talk for the first time two and a half years after they break up. [Ao3]

Steve pines for Eddie and carves a pumpkin for the first time. He is completely normal about both things. [Ao3]

Eddie left, and has to face the consequences of that

Steve has great parents and goes to therapy. Too bad he forgot to tell his friends that [Ao3]

Middle School Meet Cute? [Ao3]

One sentence and one phone call are all it takes for Steve to realize he needs to go after what he wants [Ao3]

Steve's sad, Eddie's an (accidentally on-purpose) jerk, and the miscommunication gets solved? [Ao3]

Steve gets Vecna'd and a terrible rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody saves him

Angsty Ella Enchanted AU

Steve finds it funny, the differences between him and Eddie.

#81. “We’re in the middle of a thunderstorm and you want to stop and feel the rain?” [Ao3]

#23. “Just pretend to be my date.” and #60. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were trying to seduce me.” [Ao3]

#60. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were trying to seduce me." [Ao3]

#13. "I dare you to kiss me"

Requested by Anon - Eddie catches Billy throwing Steve around in the locker room; it leads to an unintentional deescalation of the situation and a conversation Eddie's surprised to have. [Ao3]

Steddie Week 2023: Day 1: Pining [Ao3]

Anon Prompt - Robin brags about her boyfriend to Steve. He's a little jealous, because he wants to brag about his own boyfriend but doesn't know if Robin is safe to tell that too. Until, whoops, turns out Robin's BF and Steve's BF are the same boyfriend. [Ao3]

Steve doesn't want to be put on a pedestal. Eddie doesn't understand, and tries to reassure Steve. [Ao3]

Eddie's friends try to prove Steve's cheating on him. Eddie doesn't take kindly to them trying to ruin his relationship for no reason.

Plot Idea I’ll never fully flush out or write but gotta get out of my head or it’ll never let me know peace again. It’s basically Steve sent from the future going all John Wick.

Steve-focused ficlet exploring the idea of Steve becoming a Mean Girl because he learned his tactics from Carol Perkins rather than Tommy, and how he regrets the results of that.

Domestic Bliss fluff fic that ends in a loving blow job. Minors DNI. [Ao3]

Childhood Best Friends AU where Steve and Eddie agree to learn the elvish script from The Hobbit so they can pass notes and no one can read them. Things get a little messy when Eddie moves away with no notice but Steve takes it upon himself to learn Elvish anyway. [Ao3]

Steve doesn't think before he all but crawls seductively into Eddie's lap accidentally. There's also not much thinking once he realizes what he's done, or in the aftermath of it. [Ao3]

Steve, Gareth, and Chrissy Are Cousins

Steve, Gareth, and Chrissy are all cousins, and Gareth doesn't want anyone to know that. For his street cred. [Ao3]

Sad AU [Ao3] The Steve, Gareth, and Chrissy are cousins AU gets sad (Sad AU Part 1). Steve realizes he's the only adult left In The Know in Hawkins; Gareth wants answers, one way or another (Sad AU Part 2). Steve doesn't attend a funeral; Gareth goes with Jason&Co to Reefer Ricks (Sad AU Part 3). The gang arrives at Skull Rock and Steve learns Gareth's now involved. Robin learns the truth (Sad AU Part 4). Vecna gives Steve the vision and forces him to make a choice (Sad AU Part 5). Everyone learns they are cousins now and it goes well. Gareth makes his own plan to save the day. (Sad AU Part 6). Wayne joins the fight and Gareth ensures that Max gets saved (Sad AU Part 7). The cousins reconcile. Max and Steve don't (yet). It's as happy an end as a Sad AU can get (Sad AU Final Part).

Time Travel Fix It Fic

Class of '85 [Ao3]

Save Max [Ao3]

September Prompts 2023

Coffee Smell ○ Horizon ○ Foggy Mornings ○ Jukebox ○ "Kiss me or leave me" ○ "Did you lie to me?" ○ Bonfire ○ Recipe Book ○ Gas Station