#update changed the descriptions to say sake cup

[gumdefense]

Judging from official art drunk Phoenix is either happy little guy or eepy and I don’t have a conclusion I just think it’s cute

[limitlessgojo]

Blood Bound: Blackened Bond (Ch 14)

Warnings: Action, Coarse Language, Fighting, Descriptions of Blood

Previous SFW Chapter: Home Sweet Home

Previous Chapter NSFW!: The More You Know

Next Chapter: Shadows Fall

Tags: Soulmates AU, Angst, Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, Fem!Reader

Taglist: @lessie-oxj @rizzo-nero @whoreuc @fkngkumiko @isl3t @gojoussunglasses @onepotatostand-blog @s-t-f-u-b-i-t-c-h @sunaswife @lordguameow @track5enthusiast

Notes: If you want to be tagged for every update, and specify if you're okay with NSFW posts or not, please mention it in the comments below ty ❤

Extra Notes: This is my favorite chapter by far in this book, I've been wanting to drop this for weeks! I hope you enjoy reading. Part 2 of the story starts from here on until the end. Feel free to scream in the comments as usual XD

Chapter 14: Big White Lies

As the days passed by, the seasons changed. You started class in Spring. Summer has long passed and it is now the beginning of Winter. Noritoshi, as usual, was really busy so you didn’t see him as often. But you let it go.

You wanted to do something nice for him, so you had the idea to surprise Noritoshi. Having some cupcakes in a small bag and a fresh cup of coffee in your other hand, you were outside his door, hiding your presence and cursed energy to mask your identity.

As you raised your hand to knock on his door, you heard a second male voice.

"I'm glad to hear that you've been getting along with your soulmate son." His father's voice was heard over a speaker. Oh he was on call with his dad!

Yikes, not the best time to interrupt. It is impolite to listen into the conversation, but you were too excited to surprise him that you decided to wait for the call to end.

"Is Y/N really deeply in love with you? Make sure to not let her go. That will surely help our clan's reputation rise above with her skills being integrated into ours. She can definitely bear strong heirs for our clan. For centuries it was the Zenins that harnessed various types of jujutsu shi with strong techniques. It's time we continuously expanded ours as well. Starting with her." The Kamo clan head sternly ordered his son.

'Huh?'

"Yes of course father. Don't worry. She has already confessed her love to me so there's nothing to worry about. I'll do my best to make this clan proud and powerful. I definitely won’t let you down." Noritoshi replied.

The smile on your face slowly faded as your face turned to stone. Ah. Was that it?

Is that what you amounted to only? A tool for their use. A stepping stone for the Kamo clan to get stronger. You started to feel nauseous. Is this the so-called secret he didn’t want to tell you about…

You stood quietly as you continued eavesdropping.

"Excellent. Heh, looks like you can actually be a womaniser if you wanted to. Women are way too easy. As I told you before, give her sweet touches, use pet names, give her lots of encouragement and make promises here and there and they'll be by your side before you know it." His father snorted.

"Yes, I've taken your advice into consideration and did as you said." Noritoshi spoke firmly. Your heart was breaking with every word spoken.

"If you don't like her or how she looks, you can have several concubines and wives anyways. Have your pick. Remember Homura chan? Now she's a stunner. Didn’t you also say you found her cute?"

‘What on earth is this? Who is Homura? Why?’ Your hands start shaking badly, pulse thundering in your ears.

You felt light headed from the brutish words the Kamo clan head was saying, and silently retreated, not wanting to hear Noritoshi's response to his father. Keeping your presence and cursed energy hidden and as minuscule as possible while you walked back to your dorm room.

Because you had left you didn't hear the remainder of the conversation.

"Father, I respect that the older clan heads had several wives and concubines. And I’ve told you time and time again that I’m not interested in Homura san. But I've decided to be loyal to my one true soulmate. I think I am falling in love with her as well, and can't bear to see her hurt. I won't be taking in any concubines." Noritoshi politely replied.

It was the first time he had spoken about his true feelings out loud and he felt vulnerable. He braced himself for any harsh words from his father but none came.

His father only raised an eyebrow. "Suit yourself. The fact is, even if she doesn't give birth to an heir with the inherited Blood Manipulation, she is more than enough of an additional asset to our clan. And it ties us together with the Abe/Tsuchimikado clan as you know."

Clan politics. Noritoshi is getting more and more sick of it every day, but he just silently nodded. As long as he has you and his mother by his side, nothing else matters. "Yes I understand father."

Noritoshi hated talking about his family with you, because of this exact reason. He didn’t want you to be disgusted by this side of their family and get pulled into their family problems. The worst thing would be for you to have a terrible first impression of the Kamo clan.

He understood that you already had a lot on your plate as your missions grew harder and harder. You were often assigned to grade 1 missions alone already. The worst case was for you to get roped into doing messy tasks to please the clan elders.

◇◇◇

You paced around your room, staring at the cupcakes and coffee on your desk. They were getting cold.

Cold. That's how you felt inside and out. You had to confront him. Or else your relationship will just drag you down. You definitely didn't want him to have any concubines. Didn’t want to have a partner who didn’t love you after all.

You were so lost in your emotions that you didn’t realize you were jumping to several conclusions on your own without considering Noritoshi's feelings for you properly.

'But it was starting to make sense' Your mind was screaming at yourself. 'He never explicitly confessed his feelings. He does indeed give me mixed signals from time to time. He shuts me out of private matters to him. He could be using me.’

The one question that was breaking you apart now is: "Was everything a lie? How much of his actions were sincere? He could lie about anything. To get power, that's something the big 3 clans are capable of doing. Satoru told me of some of the horrors already…"

The doubt and feelings of betrayal piled up, until you came to one conclusion: You’ve had enough.

◇◇◇

The next day, you suppressed all your emotions and distracted yourself. You tried your best to act normal around Noritoshi, smiling brightly at him.

It wasn't too effective. Everytime he called you his angel, instead of the delight you usually feel, you felt hurt thinking he was forcing himself to do this.

This can't go on forever. And eventually Noritoshi could start to feel the pain in your heart on his end as well. He hurried to you one afternoon after class, dragging you out to the plum tree away from the buildings.

You looked up at Noritoshi. As handsome as ever. Gentle and concerned (lies), with a strong hand reaching to cup your face (lies lies), speaking so carefully, "My angel, how are you? Why are you troubled? Have I done something to offend you?" (Lies, it was all lies).

He must be lying. Must have been since day 1. The way your brain just jumped to the most terrible scenarios in which he never liked you. There's no other reason. Your breathing quickened.

Both of you were still in the first stage of the soulmate bonding; therefore, you couldn’t share all emotions yet. Just urgent and strong random flashes of it, especially negative emotions. This is why both of you weren’t able to feel the love the other has through the bond yet.

You stopped smiling.

"I overheard your conversation with your father. I'm sorry for eavesdropping, but I had a present for you that I wanted to give you yesterday, so I waited outside your room. But that doesn't really matter anymore." You said, cooly shrugging off the hand on your face.

He stiffened, whole body tensing. 'No it was going so well with you, this can't be happening.' He thought to himself.

"Y/n I can explain-"

"Did you even feel anything for me? Besides our red string of Fate appearing?"

The marks on your wrists flowed in warning, searing hot pain flashed across both of you. But you ignored it. The devil on your shoulder pushing you to break things with him.

"Tell me the words you and your father spoke about yesterday were a lie." You begged him.

He couldn't say it was, because the conversation yesterday was only filled with truths. He was so confused, so he stayed silent.

You laughed at him without any real meaning or humor. The light had gone out of your eyes. Noritoshi felt himself shiver at the sound of it.

"So it was all true. Did you like me for me? Or because I'm your so-called soulmate whom you forced yourself to “love”- pshhh not even love, probably to tolerate, for the sake of power?"

Noritoshi’s head felt unfocused and his palms were sweating.

“I’m just a fucking game to you huh Kamo?!” You were freely crying now. He winced at the use of his family name.

Noritoshi found that he couldn’t breathe properly, much less reply to you. He had never seen you like this. What’s worse is your intense fear, sorrow, and disgust towards him was radiating so strongly through your bond.

“No you’re not.” He could hardly get the words out with how hard he’s breathing. It actually felt like the red strings were tying themselves around his neck. You scoffed at him unbelievingly.

He trembled as he lifted both hands to cup your face, but you stepped out of his reach. His hands dropped.

"You liar. I don't want this. If you just want to use me for my body, and to use me for your gain and for your family's benefit only to toss me aside for other women, then I don't want it." You spoke hoarsely. Your entire body was stiff, hands cold and voice quivering.

Your bond was hanging by a thread. The emotions of pain and betrayal bleeding over and muddling the delicate bond.

"I'm out. Go find some other bitch to breed for your sake of your precious heirs. I don't care if we are a fated pair. If you don't wanna put even an ounce of trust and honesty into our relationship then just fuck off." You turned around and walked away.

"Wait, no I-" Noritoshi gasped out as he snapped out of his shock, but you didn't turn back. You walked faster trying to ignore the voice you loved hearing so much.

Even if it hurts to break apart from him now, it is better than to have your heart broken again and again by staying with him.

"Y/n I do care about you. I do think of you everyday. You’re not a game to me. Didn't you hear what I said yesterday?" He called out desperately, stepping forward.

You ignored him, digging your nails into the palms of your hands at the pain from your soulbond falling apart. 'I won't be fooled any longer'.

Your bond was screaming at you to turn around and believe him. To believe that everything you've felt with him these past few weeks were real. That he truly loved you.

"Listen to me!" Noritoshi cried out.

You halted in your tracks. "I'm nothing to you. If you want to have other women as your concubines, go ahead. I know you can pick up as many women as you want with your standing. You clearly don’t need me. So I don't need you." Your last 4 words are a harsh slap to his face.

Snap. And your bond was left barely hanging with the smallest red thread that stubbornly refused to let go. But the damage was done. He couldn't feel your emotions anymore as his head filled with white noise.

Panic overcame Noritoshi like never before. This wasn’t like his normal self. He didn’t let himself think about anything else, but to run and pull you back in his arms.

Until he was physically stopped by an invisible barrier. Your solid air barrier that blocks all sound and forms of matter on the other side, keeping him away from you.

“No, no, no, no. Y/n Come back! I’m sorry! Speak to me!” He cried, furiously pounding at the invisible wall between the both of you. But you couldn’t hear him, much less know how he is feeling. After all, you’ve ended it with him already.

After you left, he remained rooted to his spot. His forehead leaning against the barrier, tears streaming down his face, as he stared at the place where he saw your figure disappear. It wasn't long ago that he had just fallen in love with you.

Your warmth, your laughter, the touches you give to him. Now everything felt so cold. "But I need you." He whispered out, sounding so broken.

The last few wilted leaves of the plum tree fell, leaving it bare to the cold winter. He remembered the words in the soulmate records of the Gojo Clan. “A soulbond can be rejected.”

Maybe he should have told you everything from the beginning and not hold back any secrets. He was terrified that your opinion of him would change, if you found out about his background and his mother. So he wanted to slowly ease you into the Kamo clan.

This was the worst.

As the sky grew dark, he went back into his room and for the first time, didn't bother studying. Just went straight to sleep.

What he wouldn't give to feel anything from your end. Even if it was anger or hatred, it would be better than this empty feeling.

Author's Notes: This chapter was the first chapter I've written before all others and is how Blood Bound came to be. You could say this is the core of the story, since it's the origin. Just had an angsty afternoon one day and chose violence🥰🤧

Blood Bound: Table of Contents

[idonthaveanyurlideas]

The Lionett Estate Scene Ep92 Transcribed

So that final scene of the episode absolutely destroyed me, but so much was going on and I didn’t want to misremember any of it.

So I transcribed the whole thing while watching the rerun because I’m not a subscriber lol. Anyway it’s under the read more, including everything up to the gang arriving at the Lionett Estate to the end of the episode! I might’ve missed my body language, but I think I got everything else right.

Jester: Beau… whatever happens… he was an asshole for being mean to you. You’re a wonderful person… [Looks at Nott, and the others.] Nott: You’re a wonderful person! Jester: You’re a wonderful person he was lucky to have you for a daughter, hopefully he will realise that now. If he doesn’t, remember what you told me. Fuck him. You have us, and we love you so much, okay? Beau: Thanks Jes. [They hug, and then Beau exhales.] They added an arch. It’s even more pretentious now. Okay lets go. Nott: Do we knock? Or call? [Description from Matt. Yasha looks for flowers, of which there are none. Fjord looks for guards. There’s about two. They walk to the gate, which Beau unlocks with a hair pin. They hitch their horses.] Nott: After you, Beauregard.
 Jester: If you want us to attack anyone at all, just say armadillo. Beau: Armadillo, got it. [Deep breath.] Okay. Lets go. Fjord: Do you want us with you? Beau: Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, I roll deep, that looks fucking awesome. Jester: You’re in charge of us, you’re the leader of the group, cool cool, cool? Beau: It’s fine it’s fine- Okay, let’s go. [They walk to the front door. Beau uses the door knocker. Door knocker jokes ensue.] Servant: Hello, can I help you? Beau: Is the lady or man of the house here tonight? Servant: May I ask who’s inquiring? Jester: Tch. Beau: Beauregard Lionett. Servant: [visibly shocked] Oh, um, I’m afraid the master is attending to the vineyards at the moment, he’ll probably be back shortly for dinner. Ms Lionett is inside, please enter. Jester: Oh shit. Beau, what if your dad recognises my voice? Beau: He probably will. Jester: shit- [chatter between Jester, Beau and Nott about Jester changing her voice.] Servant: Wait just a moment. Madame? Madame? [Beau walks over to the fireplace and stares at it.] Nott: Yeah, I mean, looks pretty awful here. Right? No? Caleb: The family has done alright for themselves. Jester: How you are- how- how- Nott: How you are. Jester: How are you? Are? [Nott and Fjord both mess around with the order of ‘How are you’] Clara: B e au re gard- Beau: Hey Mom. Clara: I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know you were coming. Uh- Beau: Yeah its kinda a trend I have going on. Clara: Well- uh- hehe- [Walks down stairs, approaches, halts, uncertain.] [Awkward, kinda warm, kinda stilted hug between Clara and Beau ensues.] Beau: I’m sorry to barge in, I know you were wanting to kinda keep me distant from the family but, um, I need to talk to Dad its important. And then we’ll be gone and you don’t have to [unintelligible] anymore- Clara: Oh you can stay as long as you like and who are your friends? TJ: Mommy? [runs downstairs and hangs onto Clara.] [Clara takes Beau’s hands.] Clara: It’s good to see you. Beau: Yeah? Clara: Would you like to stay for dinner? Someone, probably Jester: mmm- Fjord: That’s most gracious of you. We are the Mighty Nein, we are esteemed friends of your daughter. Clara: Well any friends of Beauregard are friends of ours. So, uh- Nott: How you are? Clara: Uh- I’m Clara Lionett. Beauregard’s mother but I assume you know that by now. Um- I’ll ensure some places are set. Beau: Hey Mom, remember that year we had that, like- mudslide that ended up happening and took out half our stock and we only have a few bottles left can we grab one of those. I’ve been talking about that a lot and uh- Clara: Yes, of course [sends a servant for a bottle] Anyway, uh, Oh my goodness oh my goodness I didn’t even, Beauregard- Clara: Thoreau Jr, I’d like you to meet your older sister Beauregard, Beauregard this is Thoreau Jr. TJ: That sister? Clara: Yes, that’s your sister. [TJ walks up, Beau crouches down. They hug. I die.] Beau: He’s has that uh smell to him. Like all the fuckin kids in Kamordah. Clara: Uh, we were hoping you’d come by sometime to meet him. Beau: Did you know- It was the timeline was always interesting to me. Did you know you were pregnant with him when you sent me away? [Long, very awkward silence] Fjord, very randomly: The Mantle is LOVELY uH-Jester would you help me out for a moment, Nott- perhaps uh [clears throat] if everyone- [Beau leans down to TJ] Beau: Hey little man. TJ: Hey. Beau: What’s your favourite colour? [TJ looks totally stumped before he points at Clara’s dress] Beau: Green? [TJ nods] Beau: Well here, you might like this then. [Passes over her jade necklace. He begins to eat it.] Yeah. It’s been in some dank places little man so uh, it’ll really build up your immune system. [TJ continues to eat it.] Clara: Look. Beauregard… Things are challenging all around, I didn’t- You’re father didn’t mean things to- become so tense. When you went away. Beau: Well it was a hell of a goodbye, you know. Not entirely sure why anyone would think that was a good fuckin idea to handle a situation. With a daughter that was clearly just wanting your fucking attention. Clara: I’m sorry. And it doesn’t mean much. Your father was under a lot of stress and- Beau: [scoff] Clara: Things should’ve been handled differently, you’re right you’re absolutely right. Beau: Fuck Mom. So you’re just as passive as you were back in the day. Did you get that bottle of wine? [Jeanine appears with wine] Beau: JEANINE. MY HERO. Clara: Here’s the thing- Beau: Jeanine! Jeanine! Jeanine! Give- [Passes out wine.] It’s like, one of our most expensive bottles of wine, so, enjoy. [Door opens. Thoreau Arrives. He is Surprised.] Thoreau: Beauregard. Beau: Hiiiii. [Waves loosely.] I’m home. Thoreau: I can see that. I… was not expecting to see you today- Beau: or ever. Thoreau: Welcome, welcome. Friends of yours, I assume? Beau: Yeah, mum, dad, this is the Mighty Nein. Nott: Hi. [Thoreau looks at Nott and instantly gets weird.] Beau: Dad, don’t. Don’t do that, Dad. Nott: Oh. It’s fine. [Clara picks up TJ] Beau: Fucking embarrassing. Nott: Cute kid. Yasha: Looks very tasty. [Clara looks very concerned.] Clara: I’m gonna put TJ to- put him down. [Clara and TJ leave the room.] Thoreau: Well it’s a pleasure to have you all. I’m glad you’ve all been… been… travelling, I assume. [Nott rifles for cups] Thoreau: I’ve been receiving updates about your work with the Cobalt Soul. Apparently been doing quite some fine work. I-I guess I should say Expositor Beauregard? That’s incredible, I mean- Beau: Still sending you tuition updates, huh? Thoreau: Well, it’s important for us to know how our Beauregard’s doing. Caleb: Unparalleled, she is. Thoreau: Mhmm, as she would be. [Jester makes a 23 Insight Check to see if Thoreau is being genuine and gets a whisper] Nott: Found a couple cups. Caduceus: This I will try. Nott: Ooh. Thoreau: Well, I- uh- A toast to Expositor Beauregard Lionett, heh. Fjord: Cheers. [Everyone raises their glasses.] Thoreau: I know you well enough, Beauregard, to assume you haven’t come for the sake of pleasantries. [Jester moves next to Beau and puts a hand on her back] Jester, whispering: Do you want us to stay? Beau, very quiet: please. Beau, louder: Uh- yeah, you know me Dad, wouldn’t be here if I didn’t want something. Um- listen, that story you love to tell at every family gathering and for bedtime and any chance you had, uh- that old hag that you talked about. We need to find her. Is that story even real? Or is it just meant to terrify me. [T finishes drink and sets it down.] Thoreau: Of course it’s real, Beauregard. Look, I know you- I know we’ve had our differences. And I’ve not- I’ve not been the pinnacle of a father in the same way that you’ve been the pinnacle of a daughter. I accept my responsibilities in the things I may have been a bit harsh on. But look what you’ve become. Beau: This feels like a- a weird justification of your behaviours, but I’d like to hope that I became had fucking nothing to do with you but maybe I’d be lying to myself. Yeah, I was difficult. I had my onus(?) in everything that happened. But I thought a dad was supposed to stay by their kid when they’re having a fucking hard time. [pause] Mom already fucking mentioned that life gets difficult and its hard. So you’re right maybe it’s easy to justify the easy way out, just get rid of the problem. Thoreau: That’s not what this was about. You were on a self-destructive path. We didn’t know what to do. I’ve never been a- no one teaches you how to be a good father. [pause] I regret choices I have made, and you think I don’t hold myself responsible for- I thought I was doing what was best for you, truly. Beau: You did. It was probably the best thing you could’ve done for me, so thank you. [pause] Beau: Tell me the story again, and then I’ll go. [pause] Thoreau: It’s true. I haven’t lied to you or made anything up. Why are you asking about this? [Beau looks at Nott] Beau: She has information we need. Thorau: You’re trying to actually.. go to her? Beau: We need her. Thoreau: What for? [pause, Beau looks at Nott again.] Beau: Why are you afraid? Thoreau: I’m not afraid, I’m just curious. Beau: We think she has something to do with why… Jester, in some kind of southern accent: We need it to break a curse, that’s all. [The cast break into giggles.] Nott: Your daughters trying to do what she always does. Help a friend. Thoreau: Well… I mean I just heard the stories. Growing up about the witch in the mountains. Beau: What was her name? Thoreau: I don’t remember she was just the witch in the mountains- Beau you know how I grew up, I had nothing. I was in the street I had nothing to lose. I mean if I was lucky, it would work. If I wasn’t quite as lucky she’d chop me up and eat me, I didn’t have anything else waiting for me. So I-uh just went and wandered north, through the mountains through the forest and my shoes began to split and chased by wolves and worse til eventually one day I just stumbled upon this little shack. And there was the witch, right when I began to think it was all a lie and I’d thrown myself to the wolves for nothing, there she was. With her crooked smile and hungry eyes. Jester: did she have long arms? Thoreau: Longer than natural, yeah. She asked me how I come here and threw myself so withered before her and I said I had nothing to lose and had heard that she can help people. She said she could. She said she was a fortuneteller. She said fortune was her specialty. And so she threw her runes and played her cards and said that there was a way to get what I always wanted. For just a fragment of… my fortune. And I said well I don’t have a fortune. She said, not that fortune. Your {pointing at beau] fortune. And I agreed because I had nothing to lose. So this woman I wanted to marry doesn’t deserve an impoverished man. Whatever it takes. And so, she said, I’ll be a great craftsman, working in fine spirits, to pick a place in the mountain land and wherever I picked, the ground would grow. She said that a young Beau/Bow(?) would take on the great name, to continue the success. Til everything, eventually, will humble me by that which I desire most. [pause] And then she sent me on my way. [Pause] Thoreau: We came back, we built our land, the last bit we could borrow from our family, and she was right. And we had another blessing [gesture to Beau]. And the fact that it all worked means I don’t know what else she took, and I don’t know what’s coming to humble me, and I just wanna protect my family, so if you intend to actually go and see this witch, just be careful. Beau: For me? Or for you and yours? Thoreau: For Us, Beauregard. [Pause] Beau: Maybe I’m the one that’s sent to humble you. Thoreau: [inhale] Beau, don’t think for any moment that your mother and I haven’t loved you from the depths of our hearts this entire time- I’m sorry if we didn’t show it properly. [Pause. Beau shakes her head, before chuckling.] Beau, tearful: I don’t know if I feel validated or vindicated or what! Jester, quiet: It’s so confusing. Thoreau: My apologies. I didn’t realise this would be- the evening I think any of us was coming home to. I’m a bit caught off guard, and unprepared. Beau: Yeah. Well, some things never change, do they, Dad? Jester: Beau? [pulls her aside] Beau: I’m like seconds away from losing my shit- Jester: I know, I know you are. Um, I just want you to know that, um, he looks like he’s telling the truth. Beau, obviously he was terrible to you, obviously he didn’t terrible things and he sent you away and that’s horrible, but I do believe they love you. I do. And- I don’t expect you to forgive them right away by any means.  But I would just encourage you to maybe, maybe, listen to them the way you listen to us, with open ears. Beau: How did you do it? Jester: Do what?
 Beau: Forgive your dad so quickly. Jester: Well… I mean, he seemed pretty earnest… and, there’s not a lot to be gained from holding grudges. You know, it feels like poison inside of you. How much better would it feel if you could just… be clean. Beau: But I’m so good at holding grudges. Jester: I know, you’re really good at it. [pause] Beau: You make… an interesting point though. [unintelligible] Caleb: This is an excellent bottle. Thoreau: Well, looking at the bottle its an extremely rare one that I would have preferred to keep in the cellar, but it’s a special occasion, so, enjoy it. Caleb: A most special occasion. A reunion. With Beauregard. [pause] Beau: Im gonna go find this woman that you based so much of our entire lives around, and hope that I can better understand, why and where you’re coming from. Because- what you and mum didn’t do, a lot of the footwork into understanding me, it doesn’t mean that I can’t do my research to better understand where I came from. You’ve done a lot. To reflect on- what choices I’ve made to put me in the position that I”m in. And I guess I’m just mildly disappointed to see that the same amount of work hasn’t been done, or at least even remotely attempted- Thoreau: That’s not entirely true, Beauregard. [pause] Not entirely wrong, either. Beau: I gave Thoreau Jr the jade necklace. Make sure he doesn’t choke on it. Thoreau: D-don’t leave and go to his woman without any sort of protection, hold on just a second [He leaves.] Nott: You’re doing great, you’re doing amazing- Jester: You’re doing a really good job, Beau- Nott: Protection? You think that protects you? Beau: I told you, he’s incredibly superstitious. Jester: We never actually checked if it did anything it could be really valuable- [Caduceus casts Detect Good and Evil, then Detect Magic. Liam casts Fireball. Sadly, Caleb does not. Thoreau comes back with a new jade necklace. Lights are magic, necklace is not.] Thoreau: This is your mothers, but, just please, please, for me. If you’re going to do this. Beau: [unintelligible] -kind of an upgrade. Thoreau: I only hope… hope that I can make up to you, the missteps that I can plainly see behind me. It’s rare that a child’s damage at that age and- behaviour doesn’t reflect how I - misstepped in my parenting. [pause] Beau: … thank you, for that. Um- Thoreau: Your grandfather was no peach either, and there’s- there’s difficulty in realising how much you intended to be different. And then to realise that you’ve become so similar. So I hope that with the company you keep, maybe you won’t repeat the same mistakes I have. By treating the people around you. Beau: I’m trying to do better. [pause] I’ll let you know how it goes. Thoreau: Good, good. Jester: Are we staying- are we going- Nott: Are we leaving? Beau: We should go. Yasha; Yeah? Beau: Tell mom, thank you. [pause] MOM! [Clara appears] Clara: Yes? Beau: I’m going, mom. Clara: Oh, oh alright. [Brings TJ out as well] [Hands TJ to Thoreau, takes Beau’s hands] Clara: I’m sorry things- things are strained tonight, but it’s good to see you. Beau: [leans in, whispering] You’re allowed to have an opinion too, mom. I’ll let you know how it goes. Clara: Of course. [squeezes hand and lets go.] [TJ comes up, starts sucking on necklace again.] Clara: No-no- [Tries to stop him.] [Beau fist bumps TJ or something] Thoreau: Be safe. Beau: I will. I promise. Thoreau: [At M9] Keep her safe. Jester: Always! Caduceus: Of course. Jester: You won’t wanna give her an awkward hug or anything she’s gonna face a pretty powerful being. Beau: I think we’re good. Thoreau: Right. Jester: Okay, just checkin. Nott: Good luck to you too. Beau: Any landmarks to look out for?   Thoreau: If you hear noise, run. There was a thick, bramble, tangle. Partially grey and petrified, like many of the woods there. That means you’re close. If the ground begins to tar, it looks like, you’re almost there. And if I recall, it’s pretty straight north from here. Beau: Alright. Jester: Should we take horses there, or should we go on foot?
 Thoreau: You can take horses as far as you want but there’ll be a point where you won’t be able to bring them with you. Jester: So leave the horses here? Or- Nott: Take em for a bit Jester: alright. Nott, quiet: if we care about horses- Thoreau: Well, uh- the Mighty Nein. It’s been a pleasure having you. Welcome to the Lionett Estate and travel safe. We look forward to seeing you again. Nott: You too. Many years ago I was granted a wish by that same witch and I turned into this as a result so I hope the same doesn’t happen to you. Bye. Beau: Bye dad. [swipes a bottle of wine] [Nott takes the cup she was drinking and also steals some jade rabbit sculptures.] Nott: When our friend [Fjord/Travis, who was absent from the table at the time] gets out of the shitter tell him to meet us outside. [Yasha hangs back] Yasha: You should be very proud of your daughter, you are very lucky to have her. Thoreau: I agree. Yasha: You should show her that more then. If for some reason, we end up killing this hag, will all of this go away? [pause] Thoreau: I don’t know. Yasha: Well. Maybe that would help you remember what’s important. Have a good night. [They leave. Thoreau stands with the door open for a moment watching them before closing the door. Beau, crying a little, pulls the Nein into a group hug.] Beau, quiet: Yeah, that’s good.

[Episode Ends]

[ptersparkers]

at the end of the day (chapter one)

summary: there are two gigantic mysteries in your life and one of them includes peter parker not seeming to like you. you can stand him not being your friend but being in the same friend group? that should be easy, right?

a/n: sO i have this idea for a story in my head and there will be some slow updates coming but i’m excited about this one and lets HOPE i finish it hA. also i don’t know if this is gonna be more than a few “chapters” so we’ll see when i do with part two and i’ll decide from there! 💖

warnings: some angst but it’s not too serious

editied by: @jinxes-and-hexes! (everyone say ‘thank you’ because we all know i make too many typos).

masterlist / taglist / series masterlist

Peter Parker did not like you.

The reason? You didn’t know. You joined Midtown Tech your sophomore year and became friends with Peter’s “group” during February of the second semester. It was now the start of your junior year and you still couldn’t figure out why Peter had always given you the cold shoulder.

At first, you rationalized that he wasn’t keen on meeting new people. You got that, really, because meeting people you don’t know can make for an awkward situation and make people anxious overall. But weeks flew by and even MJ warmed up to you but the ever so bubbly Peter Parker that Ned was always talking about was nowhere in sight.

He was never outwardly mean to you but it was the little things you noticed. Like when he would scoot further away from you in the cafeteria or not invite you to a small get together if he was the one planning, even when you were with him. It was when he avoided eye contact and asked MJ to switch seats with him so he wouldn’t have to sit next to you in the backseat of Betty’s car and it was when he ignored you whenever you talked about the high marks you got on your biochemistry final.

You think that those subtle gestures hurt more than him telling you he doesn’t like you.

You hadn’t really spoken to Peter, per se. In the beginning, you both were trying to make awkward small talk for the sake of making friends, but when you clicked with Ned, Peter gave up. You quit trying a little later and you were positive the rest of your friend group tried to act like nothing was out of the ordinary.

You were accustomed to people not telling you things, but you wish you weren’t. You learned from your mother that it was best not to pry if people didn’t want to tell you something. After all, you learned you should never ask about your father when she had threatened to pull you out of Midtown Tech if you asked her about him one more time.

So when Peter completely stopped talking to you unless necessary, you didn’t bother asking him why he didn’t like you.

Not that you weren’t intrigued by the reasoning behind it, if any at all, but you were in no place to ask him because you didn’t really know him and you had just met him that year. Talk about an awkward situation.

So you’d sit in the cafeteria and laugh at Ned’s Star Wars puns and peek over MJ’s shoulders when she’s reading or on her phone, and listen intently to Betty’s school gossip to distract yourself from looking at Peter. You felt so uncomfortable and awkward knowing one person in your friend group wasn’t making an effort to be your friend.

But you pulled through because you hadn’t managed to become close with other people like you had with this group and you weren’t about to let one bad seed ruin the bunch.

“I think I failed the Spanish quiz,” Ned said with a sigh.

“Oh, why’s that?” you asked.

“I tried to remember everything I studied but nothing worked. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong,” he said, groaning.

“I’m sure Anna wouldn’t mind tutoring you,” you suggested. “She helped MJ get pretty good test results.”

“You’re a lifesaver,” Ned said dramatically as he gripped the straps of his backpack. “I gotta run to a doctor’s appointment. See you tomorrow?”

“See ya!” you said with a two-finger salute. You turned around in the opposite direction to walk home when you collided with Peter.

“O-Oh,” you said, regaining your balance. “Sorry Peter.”

“It’s fine,” he said quickly before walking away and ducking his head, not making eye contact with you once. You sighed, not expecting anything less but still disappointed in the outcome.

“He’s being weird,” MJ commented. “I think this is one mystery I can’t solve.”

“Great,” you said, exasperated. “You’re the most perceptive person I know and if you can’t figure out what’s wrong with Peter, no one can.”

“He’s been a bit strange, lately,” said MJ. “Disconnected, for sure. He leaves us a lot and backs out of plans last minute. Peter didn’t use to do that but after getting that Stark Internship, he’s been at Stark’s beck and will.”

“Oh, right, the internship,” you said. “Well, I wouldn’t know.”

“None of us would. He doesn’t talk about it and when he does, his job description seems to be all over the place. I mean, who fetches coffee and works with technology?” she asked rhetorically. “It’s whatever. Don’t take it too personally, okay?”

“It’s hard when he literally ignores me all the time,” you said, falling into step with MJ.

“The kid’s weird.”

“You guys are the same age.”

“I’m wise. Like, in my seventies, wise.”

“Touché,” you said. “I’ll see you tomorrow, MJ.”

***

You sat against the bed frame with a pillow propped up against your back, an iced coffee by your nightstand, and your computer on your lap. The bottom was warm after long use but you paid no attention as your eyes scanned the monitor. A digital copy of your birth certificate sat right in front of you with your mother’s name, your name, but no father listed. The blank space filled your thoughts with doubt and curiosity.

You didn’t know where to look. Being that your mother despised talking about your father, she gave you a copy of your birth certificate to prove that your father was a no-good person and she meant for that to be a reminder that you didn’t need to worry about him. But it fueled your interest even more.

You weren’t sure where you got your love for computer science from, but you were able to type on a keyboard at an early age. Add in a few extra classes during summertime at a community college, and you were good to go. Now, you were skilled enough to locate backdoor entrances to mainframes and encrypted hotlines in order to access data that wasn’t being shown to the public. Was it legal? Perhaps, perhaps not. It was still a gray area but you didn’t venture very far when you had accidentally gained access to Midtown’s security system and found out you could change student information from your computer at home, much like Ferris Bueller did when he lowered the amount of days he had been absent.

With this knowledge, you tried everything you could. Whether that be trying a family lineage website or hacking into your hospital medical records (to no avail), everything seemed to turn up empty and lead you down a path that was always cold.

You had considered asking the Avengers for help, but you didn’t know if they made house calls or responded to teenage girls who wanted to know who their father was. You didn’t think your conundrum, compared to what they dealt with, was that important.

So, you sighed and closed your laptop in frustration with yet another afternoon of relentless curiosity that led you nowhere. You sipped on your iced coffee from the metal straw before hearing a slurping sound and put the cup on the stand, telling yourself you’d take care of it later and decided to take a short nap, dreaming of two things: finding the identity of your father and finding out why Peter didn’t like you.

Across town, Peter and Ned were casually hanging out in Peter’s bedroom when Ned asked a question.

“How come you don’t like Y/N?”

Peter looked at him with surprise.

“W-What do you mean? Of course I like Y/N. She hangs out with us all the time.”

“Yeah, but you never talk to her,” he pointed out. “And when she tries to talk to you, you try to cut the conversation short or try to avoid her altogether. That’s weird, man.”

“I do not,” Peter said. Ned gave him a look. “I just don’t think we click.”

“How would you know that? You’ve never spent time with her alone and you don’t talk to her.”

“Call it a gut feeling,” he muttered.

“Peter, that’s really unfair to Y/N because you’re not giving her a chance to prove herself. You’re judging her without getting to know her.”

“Can we just drop it, Ned?” Peter pleaded. “You sound like MJ and I don’t need to be scolded today.”

Ned sighed, obviously torn between wanting to respect his best friend’s wishes, but also trying to put you in a good light because he genuinely cares for you. He was in the crossfire and in an awkward spot but he knew that he didn’t want to lose either of you any time soon.

“Maybe you should ask her to hang out.”

“Ned,” Peter said, more sternly this time.

“Okay, okay. No more Y/N talk, got it.”

There was an awkward minute of silence before Ned spoke up again.

“So, uh, how are things going with your Spider-Man gig?”

“Pretty good,” Peter said, his mood changing almost instantly. Ned was grateful that he was distracted with Spider-Man talk. “Mr. Stark’s upgrading my suit a little and he’s updating Karen, adding some defensive-combat skills. I don’t really know what that means but he said he’d show me this weekend.”

“Being an Avenger must be so cool.”

Peter became flustered. “I mean, it’s pretty cool.”

“Maybe I can meet Tony one day. What do you say?” Peter gave him a look. “One day,” he said nonchalantly. “Do you think Y/N likes the Avengers?”

“Ned,” Peter said sternly. “I don’t want to talk about Y/N right now, okay? If you really need to know, something about her rubs me the wrong way and until I can figure out why, it’s for the best.”

“Why don’t you just ask her?”

“Oh yeah,” said Peter, sarcastically. “Like she’s going to tell me. What if she tells me a lie?”

“You have a point,” he said. “Well, do I stop talking to her?”

Peter sighed. “Do what you want, man. All I’m saying is we can’t trust her.”

“Is this Peter or Spider-Man talking?”

“I don’t know,” Peter confessed. “Just be careful, okay?”

“I think you’re thinking way too deeply into this,” Ned began. “You’ve barely spoken to her and you’ve done nothing to figure out why you hate her so much.”

“I don’t hate her,” Peter replied.

“Well, it sure looks like it. I can see that she gets a little hurt when you don’t invite her to things and MJ and I have to cover for you and say we didn’t know you didn’t invite her.”

“What can I do, Ned?” Peter asked. “Everything in me is telling me not to trust her because she’s got some weird thing going on with her.”

“And you would know if you spent more time with her,” Ned suggested. “Look, I’m not asking you to become her best friend, but she’s been a part of our friend group since last semester and you’re giving her the cold shoulder.”

“It’s probably for a good reason.”

“No, you’re just being a dumb teenager, Peter.”

“So you don’t believe me?”

Ned shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t know what to believe. I’ve never doubted you and I’m not doubting you now, but you’re not giving Y/N the benefit of the doubt, and you’re making assumptions without even getting to know her. Even MJ likes her.”

“Okay, I guess you made a point. And yeah, if MJ liked her right off the bat then I guess that counts for something.” Ned smiled and held up his hand for a high-five.

“There you go! I’m sure Spider-Man will figure something out, but Peter Parker needs to be a good friend. She seems so defeated whenever you’re around because she knows you don’t like her.”

“I don’t not like her. I’m just…cautious.”

“You being cautious has never worked well for anyone,” Ned said, rolling his eyes. “But then again, neither has being reckless. Just stick in the gray area, okay? You can operate there.”

“Jesus, you even sound like Mr. Stark,” Peter said, rolling his eyes with a laugh.

“Wanna grab some sandwiches from Delmar’s? I’m kind of starving right now.”

“You read my mind.”

***

Taglist:

@kath94210 @sessi03 @olliekookie @edgyhargreeves @simonsbluee @meraki--me @sleep-i-ness @amourski @zaynjawy @captainlarsonn @katiemcrae @holyhellthatbook @madeismyname @bands-and-shietz @janndishstuff17 @janndishstuff17 @knightofreaders @rororo06 @unfortunateshelbyrt @princessizzy36 @psychicforest.

[keen2meecha]

Novel Prep Tag: gifted

Thanks for tagging me, @aziz-writes! You’re a gem as always!

Note: I’m talkative, so most of my side comments are crossed out don’t mind me

First Look

1. Describe your novel in 1-2 sentences (elevator pitch)

After nearly failing the application test, a young girl rejected by a superpowered society for not having a superpower* of her own is accepted into Falks, a school that teaches kids how to be superheroes. But after an attack on the school nearly kills her and her classmates, she must learn to work with her new friends before one of her oldest friends is lost forever. 

(*’superpowers’ in this universe are called Gifts, and those who have them are called Gifted. The minority who don’t have Gifts are called Ungifted. The title is ironic and also a reference to a running joke Sofia has with herself)

2. How long do you plan for your novel to be? (Novella, single book, book series, etc.)

It’s the first book in a series! Right now I have four books, but since I’m a chronic overwriter, that may or may not have to be extended to five books.

3. What’s your novel’s aesthetic?

Honestly? Aesthetics aren’t really my thing, so I’m not sure. Maybe soft warm colors, that surprised flutter in your chest when someone gives you a thoughtful present, the ache after yet another workout, that scratchy feeling in your throat when your right on the edge of crying but no one else can tell? This started out as a lighthearted superhero story I swear-

4. What other stories inspire your novel?

If you’re an anime fan, you’ll probably look at the general premise of this and some of the basic details of some of the characters and go “Wait a second, that’s a lot like My Hero Academia” and listen. I know. It’s not the same plot though, I promise! Really, at this point, I’d like to think that it’s undergone so many changes that the two are pretty decently removed, but *shrugs*. I’m not as pressed about it anymore. 

I was also loosely inspired by Harry Potter, simply because my book also takes place throughout a school year, so I’m using Harry Potter as a frame of reference for pacing (theoretically). That being said, trans rights and fuck JK Rowling am I right?

5. Share 3+ images that give a feel for the novel

For the sake of saving space, I’ll not do that this go around. But imagine fireworks, a freshly brewed cup of tea, and an overwhelmingly expensive weight room and you’ve got a pretty good image of three important things in this book.

Main Characters

6. Who is your protagonist?

Sofia Smith! The Ungifted girl with a chip on her shoulder! Also an utter jock who usually wears athleisurewear and trust me, I’m as thrilled as you are about that. I don’t work out! I don’t even know what a healthy workout routine looks like! What have I done-

7. Who is their closest ally?

I’d say it’s a toss-up between Leona Kita, a girl she meets during the application tests who quickly becomes her new best friend and is not all that she seems, and Romilly Quirke, a teacher at Falks with whom she develops a close mentorship and is not all that she seems

8. Who is their enemy?

In the beginning, it’s Kyran ‘Kruze’ Cinege, Sofia’s childhood friend-turned-enemy. However, the turning point of the novel is when it’s revealed that while she and Kruze are always fighting (physically or not), there’s someone out there who’s actively trying to kill her and that person might be a more pressing threat than Kruze.

You may also see me occasionally mention The Prophet’s Daughter, who, like all of the important antagonists in this series, hilariously still doesn’t have an actual name. It’s fine. Everything’s fine.

9. What do they want more than anything?

To become the top Hero it’s not bnha you weeb

10. Why can’t they have it?

She’s Ungifted, so no one believes she can do it. Not only that, but also every single other person in her class at Falks is highly qualified - they’re the most promising kids in the country, after all - and also highly motivated to do the same, so she’s got... a lot of competition.

11. What do they wrongly believe about themselves?

That she can hold up the weight of the world on her own - worse, that she has to hold up the weight of the world on her own. Among other things

12. Draw your protagonist! (Or share a description)

Not an artist, but I can freely say that Sofia’s face claim is Amandla Stenberg (especially Hunger Games era Amandla Stenberg because, you know, high school).

Plot Points

13. What is the internal conflict?

She’s desperately lonely, but to admit she needs other people is to admit weakness, and to admit weakness is to admit defeat - something she absolutely cannot do. I mean, not really and it’s okay to ask for help, but she doesn’t know that. We’re working on it.

14. What is the external conflict?

Sofia is fighting the entire world to become a Hero and also someone is trying to kill her and her classmates. 

Oh and each book revolves around her relationship (platonic or otherwise) with one of what I call the ‘core five’ changing and developing in a radically game-changing way. In this book, it’s her and Kruze struggling to come to terms with elements of their past and maybe overcome their conflict to become friends again...? Except their both stubborn assholes and have been fighting for so long they can’t remember how to exist in the same room without one of them blowing up eventually (literally, in Kruze’s case) (I’ll probably talk more about the core five in a different post tbh)

15. What is the worst thing that could happen to your protagonist?

Oof. Well. If someone died on her watch, that’d be pretty bad for her. Good thing that’ll never happen though! Haha...ha...hm.

16. What secret will be revealed that changes the course of the story?

Of this story? Shit maybe they weren’t after me after all. The story as a whole? Wait, you’re my what?

17. Do you know how it ends?

I actually have the epilogue of the last book already planned out! I will cry when I actually write it. But the end of the main plotline? Eh... I know who all is involved, and what all of the characters have evolved into at that point. But how Sofia and co. actually defeat the BBEG? I am... less sure.

18. What is the theme?

In this book specifically: it’s okay to step back and ask for help when you’re struggling - just because you can’t do it on your own doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to be where you are.

In the overall series: something something found family something the power of friendship.

19. What is a recurring symbol?

Oh damn, this is a really good question. In fact, since I’m still in first draft mode (although I did write maybe a good quarter or so of a zero draft) I don’t think any have really emerged that I’ve noticed yet? But I guess I’ll come back and update this if I think of anything.

20. Where is the story set? (Share a description!)

It’s set in a very fancy, very modern private school that’s on the edge of a city somewhere near Washington D.C. I’m... not great at describing environments/settings, though, so that’s all you get haha

21. Do you have any images or scenes in your mind already?

Oh yeah, plenty. I have this whole book outlined, actually, on a chapter-by-chapter level! I got excited and also bored during my three-hour-interim between classes, and there was a whiteboard just asking to be filled... I even have some disconnected scenes from future books floating around in my mind - some incredibly emotional and poignant, some glorified shitposts. Ah, writing. It’s such a magnificent hobby.

22. What excited you about this story?

The characters! No joke, there are sixteen kids in the Falks class including Sofia, and every single one of them has their own complex backstories, motivations, and character arcs - not to mention I’ve spent a significant portion of time outlining each of their Gifts and figuring out how exactly they work. I could ramble about any of them for hours.

And that’s not even mentioning Sofia’s family, the villains, the teachers... I just really love every single character in this book!

23. Tell us about your usual writing method!

Step one: watch or read something. Anything. A movie, another book, a commercial, a music video, a tiktok, I’m not kidding just about anything will do. Step two: think ‘oh, I could do that better’. Step three: jot down some early lines or general ideas. Step four: leave it to stew for a little while as you think ‘oh jeez maybe I can’t do it as well as I thought’. Step five: get suddenly inspired on it and feverishly carve out several rough chapters. Step six: let it stew some more. Step seven: get newly inspired, realize how much has changed in your mind about that earlier draft, call that the zero draft, and actually do an outline this time. Step eight: ...Write it for realsies this time!

Whew, that was a doozie! Super fun though! So, according to the rules, you’re supposed to tag the same number of people as questions you answered. So there are 23 questions, and it turns out I’ve got exactly 23 people who (I don’t think) aren’t opposed to tag games, so here, have something besides a last line tag for once! Enjoy!

REMEMBER! You are under no obligation to do this - especially since this one can seem overwhelming. I’ll be thrilled if you do it, but I won’t be disappointed or upset if you pass.

Anyways, tagging: @alcego-writes, @alanwrites, @ajbrooks-writes, @evergrcen, @jewellsfrommaruss, @brookswriting, @signedjordan, @writhoelogy, @the-violet-writer, @dustylovelyrun, @linarious, @cookiecutterwrites, @honeyprincerising, @acaptainandhisrunaway, @angelolytle, @dogwrites, @mxxnwishes, @magicalwriting, @bisexual-in-progress, @writerfae, @ocmaker, @fullydevoted, @hanboggsbooks

[i-dont-look-good-i-look-great]

Hearts of Bittersweet Tears 7

Oh gods. How long has it been since I last updated this?! I AM NOT WORTHY!   I feel like my life has turned upside down busy. Anyhow enough talking. I hope you all don’t mind me changing the format a little

NOTICE: Tumblr has been changing and I haven’t been here for a while so things may have changed. I would leave a link to my master post for those who just started reading this long story of mine, however, I’m sure a lot of you heard about linking posts by now. You will be able to find it in my bio description!

It’s been quite a while. I don’t know who to tag anymore.

As always, many thanks to @frywen-babbles for sticking with me for so long! *cries*

@kitty-kat-ty @parawhore212  @amigoingbananas  @jemchew @kurotenshi1900

@khanummyra @edakurti ( As you asked on last chp)

____________________

Hearts of Bittersweet Tears Part 7: The Feelings left Untold 

5 years ago.

It was the morning after the big celebration of Nobuyuki’s younger brother’s marriage. Nobuyuki looked at his brother, who seemed to be in daze and a little down.

“You look lost Yukimura,” he spoke. “What’s on your mind?”

Yukimura blinked a few times before coming back to reality. “It’s nothing.” he lied.

He may have said nothing happened but judging from his reaction, some things did probably happen.

“Tell me.” Nobuyuki chuckled. “What’s on your mind?”

Yukimura looked up him and puts a hand on his chin. “Hmm…” He mumbled, his eyes gazing at Nobuyuki then up then down. “I… don’t think Hiyori wants to sleep with me.”

Nobuyuki’s eyes grew wide. He began to slightly chuckle and soon started to laugh. “Pfft hahaha!” He covered his mouth with his sleeve.

“H-hey!” Yukimura blushed. “Don’t just laugh! This… this is serious!”

“I’m sorry Yukimura.” Nobuyuki apologized. “It’s just. Don’t take things too fast. Let her take her time to open up to you. Remember that this is her first time in Ueda.”

“B-but!” Yukimura started, however, his mind was blink and nothing came out.

He couldn’t just tell his brother that he tried last night, and she had rejected him and had her back towards him the whole night. It’ll be embarrassing telling his brother. Back when he first met her, she seemed to be getting along with him. But maybe his brother was right.

Nobuyuki happened to hear a soft and calming voice humming as he passed by the chamber of his brother’s wife. Peeking his head inside, he saw Hiyori sew. He never knew she had such a skill. Remember what Yukimura had said back in the main hall, he cleared his throat and knocked on the door.

“Hiyori.”

Hearing her name, Hiyori flinched and hid her embroidery quickly behind her. “L-Lord Nobuyuki!” She almost screamed out his name. “H-how long have you been standing there?”

“I just got here.” He said, leaning on the door. “What are you working on?”

Hiyori looked down. “It’s nothing.”

Nobuyuki laughed nervously. It seems that she had no intentions of opening herself up to him neither. “I just happened to pass by, please enjoy the rest of your day.” He took one last glance at her and walked away. It was best to leave her alone for now.

A few days later, Nobuyuki saw both Yukimura and Hiyori out in the garden. What a coincident, he thought. They looked cute together however the situation seemed awkward and there seemed to be a heavy, gloomy air around them. When Yukimura stepped closer, Hiyori stepped away. Yukimura tried to reach to touch her, she took another step away. When Yukimura tried to talk to her, Hiyori covered her mouth with her sleeve and hesitated before only saying “Right… Yeah”.  It seemed like Yukimura was out of ideas as his head and shoulders drops and Hiyori walked away after a light bow.

This is no laughing matter, Nobuyuki told himself as he covered his mouth.

“Ah. Aniue.” Yukimura spoke as he saw Nobuyuki. “How long have you been there?”

“I just got here,” Nobuyuki replied as he watched Yukimura walk towards him. “Still no luck?”

Yukimura looked at the way Hiyori walked then down and shook his head. “Well then, I’m off.”

What was going on? Why was Yukimura suddenly down today? And why was it that Hiyori looked so uncomfortable with Yukimura around her? With a relationship like this would not work out.  Nobuyuki watched Hiyori walks one way while Yukimura walked the other. It was like they are one piece but broken in two

A few months passed, Yukimura had departed for war. Nobuyuki was strolling out in the garden when he saw Hiyori walking out from her chambers holding a red cloth neatly folded in her hand. She was holding it tightly, next to her chest. He studied her for a while and noticed she was leaving somewhere. Where? He knew that it was weird and suspicious to follow her however he couldn’t help it. She stopped at Yukimura’s chambers. She opened the door and glanced inside. But after seeing that he’s not in, she sighed heavily as she closed the door, walking back into her chamber. Had no one told her he left for war? A few moments later she walked out of her room with her maid and out of the castle, disappearing for a long period of time before they returned. She left and came back as if nothing had happened.

When Yukimura returned, Nobuyuki noticed Hiyori was not present. Why? Maybe she wasn’t informed?

The next war came and again Hiyori was not there. Nobuyuki stood where he saw Hiyori the last time Yukimura left for war. Again, holding the red cloth, she walked to Yukimura’s chamber, leaving after taking a single glance in his chamber. Then she left the castle and returned.

“Lady Hiyori has been acting strange,” Nobuyuki overheard a retainer speak. “Maybe she’s having an affair?”

“Don’t say that!” Another one spoke. “You’re risking your head!”

An affair. Maybe. Maybe not. Nobuyuki ignored it. However, a rumor spread around the castle quite quick. Of course, locked in her room, Hiyori would not know. The only maid she allowed by her side was Aiko.

“What do you think Lord Nobuyuki?” Someone asked.

“An affair…” Nobuyuki spoke without thinking. “Mmm…”

One day, Nobuyuki spotted Hiyori sitting on the veranda, holding the red piece of cloth. She looked lost. Wanting to know what’s going on, he approached her.

“Hiyori,” he called. “How are you?”

Hiyori didn’t answer him. Plopping down next to her, he lightly blew air at her. She flinched once she felt the cold air.

“Ah!” She dropped the red cloth. “Lord Nobuyuki?!”

Eyeing the cloth, Nobuyuki was about to pick it up but Hiyori snatches it so quickly it was gone right before his eyes and tucked it into her sleeve.

How cute. Nobuyuki smiled. “What’s been on your mind lately?” He asked.

Hiyori didn’t answer him. She looked out at the garden for a long time. “You don’t seem to leave me alone do you, Lord Nobuyuki.” She spoke in a cold voice.

His heart skipped a beat. “What do you mean?”

Hiyori glared at him a little. “I noticed you’ve been around here a lot lately.” She sighed. “Leave me alone.”

Nobuyuki widened his eyes a little before chuckling. “I’m afraid I can’t do that.” He stood up.

“Why not?” Hiyori asked. “Do you like me? Do you happen to like the woman married to your brother?”

Fighting with words really did hurt. However, Nobuyuki smiled at her. Seeing her challenged him, he thought it is best to leave her alone. “Anything but that.” He stood up and walked away with a heavy heart.

Sitting in his room. Nobuyuki thought what Hiyori had said. He noticed he’s been watching her for the past two years. He looked down at the cup of tea brought to him.

“She’s interesting,” Nobuyuki spoke to himself, touching the teacup. “I should get to know her more.”

One night, Nobuyuki happened to see Hiyori out sitting on the veranda. Is she always out at night? It was quite cold out and yet she’s out there in nothing but her white sleeping robes.

“Aren’t you going to sit?” Hiyori suddenly asks. “If not, please don’t stand behind me like that.”

“Bold of you to ask.” Nobuyuki laughed and sat down. He held up a bottle of sake to her. “Share a drink with me?”

She looked at him with cold eyes. She grabbed the cups and bottle and poured sake for them both. They drank in silence. Each time their cups were empty, she filled them up. They drank until the bottle was empty. Nobuyuki stared at the moon and looked over at Hiyori. Her face was flushed red and she was staring at him.

“What’s wrong?” Nobuyuki asked. “You like my face that much?”

“No,” Hiyori replied without hesitation. “Your eyes… Are like Lord Yukimura’s. However… Lord Yukimura’s eyes are softer… gentler… smoother… nicer… They look at me with passion. They look at me warmly… What about yours?”

Nobuyuki frowned, a little confused. There was a little pain in his heart. Was he jealous of being compared to his brother? How rare. What was this emotion he was feeling?

“What about me?” Nobuyuki starts. “How do you see me? In those eyes of yours?”

Hiyori closed her eyes, taking in a few deep breathes before opening them. She reached out her hand, touching his cheek and caressed his cheek tenderly.

“You look at me with loneliness. You look lost. You seem to always smile at me. You look happy but your eyes… they remind me of… Sa…ne…”

Sane? Who is Sane? He thought she was quite considerate about Yukimura because he had caught her trying to find him a few times. Why was it that she just spoke some else’s name? Could she still be in love with that person? Even after two years?

Her hand fell to her side and her eyes closed. Nobuyuki reached over, supporting her in his arms. His hand removed a piece of hair blocking her face. He looked at her face closer and closer noticing how beautiful she was. He noticed her long lashes, her water colored red lips and her pale skin along with her long black hair that she had braided. At that moment, it was like everything stopped. He didn’t know what was happening or what was going on in his mind. He inched in and his lips lightly touched her forehead.

~~~~~~~~

Walking down the corridor, Nobuyuki pulled to a stop and looked at the garden. His heart sunk for a moment, recalling what happened a few nights ago. He watched as his brother and Hiyori stood next to each other, laughing happily together. He tore his eyes away from them as if watching any longer will be more painful than how it already is.

Nobuyuki sat down in his chambers. He rests his head in one hand and stared into nothing.

“Why her out of all women?” Nobuyuki laughed a little. “It’s been cold lately… hasn’t it?”

Hiyori had noticed that it has been growing colder and colder each day. Still in Yukimura’s arms, she gently pulled herself away from his embrace to get ready for the day.

She grabbed her kimono from the floor and wrapping it around her, she murmured. “It’s so cold.”

Properly placing her kimono on, she opened the doors and gasped. A wave of excitement hits her. She dashed back inside the room like fire and picked up Yukimura’s clothing.

“Lord Yukimura!” She beamed happily. “The snow is here!”

“Mnnnngh….”

Was all that came from Yukimura. Narrowing her eyebrows, she grabbed the blanket and flipped it up. Feeling the cold air kiss his skin and remembering he was probably still nude, Yukimura’s eyes snapped open.

“Hey-!”

“Don’t worry.” Hiyori grinned at him, handing him the blanket and his clothing. “Get ready! I want to go out today.” She smiled as her poor husband was left blushing as red as a tomato. “Lord Yukimura. We’ve slept together more than once, you’re still shy?”

“H-Hey!” Yukimura began to protest. “It’s not that!”

Hiyori chuckled. “Come here. I’ll help you dress.”

~~~~~~~~~~

I love the snow. I don’t normally like the cold, but I love how the snow covers everything. Everywhere you look, it’s white. When I first saw the snow this morning, I was so excited I randomly dragged Lord Yukimura out with me. Now that I think about it, there really isn’t anywhere we can go.

We both walk side by side down the streets of the town while the townspeople greet us. I never felt happier before. I don’t know why, but I feel happy that Lord Yukimura is standing here with me today.

“Lord Yukimura!” A shopkeeper greets out. “Out on a stroll with your wife?”

Lord Yukimura hesitates for a moment before he responds, “Oh of course!” He smiles. “What do you have today?”

“Oh!” The shopkeeper seems like he has something in his mind that he wants to show us. He disappears to the back for a while before he comes out with a small box. “Take a look, Lord Yukimura! I just finished crafting these yesterday!”

Both Lord Yukimura and I peeked into the box.

“Bracelets?” I ask. “It’s… quite small.”

“Oh, Lord Yukimura!” The shopkeeper laughs suddenly. “How innocent is your wife?! These are for babies! Babies! That’s why they are small of course!”

I choked. For what?!

“Oh!” The shopkeeper continues to laugh. “Look at how adorable both of you are! Let me tell you, I’ll give these to you as a gift!”

“Oh no don’t!” I try to stop him, but he has already shoved the box into my hand and disappeared into the back quickly.

I can feel my cheeks burning. I try to look up at Lord Yukimura, but I couldn’t bring myself to look at him. When I finally do, he is staring at me, not saying a word. I try to think of something to say but after what just happened, my mind is blank. I hurry and grabs his hand while clutching the box in the other hand leading him away.

We enter the woods and walk down a path. I have no idea where the path leads but I follow it anyways. At the end of the path, there was a small running by. I crouch down to touch the water even though it’s freezing cold. I picked up a few rocks nearby and start to throw them into the river. I want to say something to Lord Yukimura, but I don’t know what to say to him to not make things awkward. Finally taking in a deep breath, I decide to ask him a question.

“Lord Yukimura,” I turn towards him. “Do you… want a child?”

Lord Yukimura looks at me blankly, not uttering a single word out. I laugh nervously.

“Of course, you wouldn’t,” I say, looking down. “I mean… look at both of us… I don’t think we’re~.”

Lord Yukimura cuts me off before I can finish. “No.”

“Ready… yet…?” I look up at him, finishing my sentence.

Lord Yukimura steps towards me and reaches out for my hands. He holds them both close to him and kisses each hand, making sure that they were warm instead of freezing cold.

“I’m ready whenever you are ready.” He gives me a warm smile. He reaches out and wipes my cheeks. I wonder why he did that until I realized I was crying. I quickly hid my face away from him. “Don’t cry.” Lord Yukimura chuckles. “Come on, I’ll carry you home.”

I didn’t even get the chance to protest before Lord Yukimura tucks an arm around my knees and under shoulders and lifts me up suddenly.

“Lord Yukimura!” I cry out. “Put me down!”

“I refuse.” He replies. “As a husband, I cannot let you get cold or get your shoes and feet wet.”

I knew that at this time, no matter how much I try to protest, he will not let me down until we get back to the castle. Giving up, I wrap my arms around his neck and cling onto him close.

~~~~~~~~~~

Hiyori sat out on the veranda alone, looking at the sky, watching the snow fall.

“Hiyori?” A voice called her out of nowhere.

Turning around, Nobuyuki was standing behind her, carrying a tray of hot tea.

“Lord Nobuyuki.” Hiyori smiles. “Would you like to join me? Lord Yukimura left just a while ago to go grab some things. He’ll be back to join us soon.”

Nobuyuki sat down next to her, offering her a cup of hot tea. “The snow has fallen hasn’t it?” He began. “Are you not cold?”

Hiyori shook her head. “I mean… at some point I am, however, I love the snow seasons. I always stay out like this. It’s peacefully.”

Nobuyuki watched as she smiles and took a sip of the tea. She placed the cup down and rubbed her hands together to warm them up.

“It’s delicious. Thank you.” She thanked him.

Nobuyuki watched as Hiyori extended her hand out to catch the falling snow, she looked beautiful and so pure. Nobuyuki had to hold himself back for a moment. He stared at her, nothing but her beauty filled his head, he almost feels guilty for thinking about this. She looked happy.

“Have you found someone special, Lord Nobuyuki?”

Hearing those words, Lord Nobuyuki snapped back to reality. He puts a smile on his face.

“Of course, I have.” He replied. “However, she will never be mine.”

Hiyori peered into his face, lost. Of course, she would do that. After all, she does not know that that special someone is her herself.

“It’s okay!” She raised her voice a little. “I’m sure that she will be yours one day. I mean, I’m sure she must be very special to you and you’ll just need to confess… you know?”

“Confess?” Nobuyuki grinned a little. “I’m afraid my confession is too late. Even if I did, will she accept me for what I did?”

Hiyori narrowed her brows. “Um. I hope she will forgive you. And what do you mean by too late?”

“Hiyori! Aniue!” A cheerful voice stopped Nobuyuki from speaking.

“Lord Yukimura!” Hiyori too called his brother’s name in such a cheerful voice. “Welcome back!”

Nobuyuki stood up. “It seems like it is time for me to leave. I will be leading back first.”

“Huh? Aniue, I just got here though. Stay with us a little bit.” Yukimura said in awe.

“No need.” Nobuyuki turned down the offer. “I’m afraid I will get too jealous of you.”

“Stop joking!” Yukimura laughed. “Well, good night then.”

“Good night Lord Nobuyuki!” Hiyori bid him farewell too.

“Enjoy your time.” Nobuyuki walked off.

Nobuyuki stood afar, watching his brother and Hiyori. What are you doing Nobuyuki? He asked himself. Of course, she’ll never forgive you. Not once will she ever forgive you. Heavy-hearted, he walked away, silently through the cold and snowy night.

To be continued ~

[weconfoundingsolutions]

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Think of yourself as a big data compny, say, for instance, Google. Search, learn and provide what your users want because that is the most advanced SEO technique 2020.

Feedback from customers, therefore, carries any, say, for instance, Google. Search, learn and provide what your users want because that is the most advanced SEO technique 2020.

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With all their sweat and blood, internet marketers wish to convert their leads into customers. Amongst the latest SEO techniques, 2020 is SEO optimized landing pages.

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MINIMUM WORD LIMIT SHOULD BE 1,890

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Social media may be filled with a lot of garbage but you as an internet marketer have to create valuable content on social media.

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8. ADVANCED SEO INTERNAL DEEP LINKING

Quite a lengthy heading! Let me make it short- deep linking.

Use deep linking- a practice to link your anchor text to other pages inside your blog for the sake of more traffic. It’s easy to get visitors to your homepage but ranking your internal pages high is difficult. Thus it’s suggested that link your older blog posts to your landing page.

Note: Before linking check how many inbound links go to your website page; and avoid over-optimization of your anchor page.

Furthermore, deep linking also lowers the bounce rate.

LINK JUICE TO LOWER RANKED PAGES

Link juice- one of the latest SEO techniques 2020!

Link juice is the outbound link from a high authority source to your content. As your content receives links from high authority source it automatically raises your reputation and Google gives consideration to your blog.

From pages 2 and 3 you can move to the 1st page by sending link juice to the lower-ranked website thus elevating your content value.

LINK TO HIGH DOMAIN AUTHORITY EXTERNAL SITES

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Take any profession there is neck to neck competition everywhere. But real smartness lies in getting the best out of this competition.

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Keywords are usually associated with blog posts. However, keywords are an integral part of the SEO page title as well. The SEO page title is the one that appears on Google during a web search.

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14.REGULAR UPDATE

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[pcyxiukai]

Oh, Bartender (8)

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9

Description: Sehun is the bartender at your favorite bar

Notes for update: Not required (already finished series, reuploaded)

Pairing: Oh Sehun x Reader

Mobile Masterlist | Twitter

I was grateful Euna waited to ask questions about anything to do with this before we got into the car. I wondered how I’d even let it happen, how I didn’t have enough of a brain to realize something like getting impregnated. My mind flashed back to the last time I had sex with Sehun, which was just over a month ago. I was really pregnant with his baby.

“Who’s the father?” She asked as soon as I closed the door. I cringed, although I expected her to ask.

“I-I don’t know.” I refrained from looking at her. She knew me too well.

“Bullshit. Who’s the father?” She repeated herself. I felt the tears well in my eyes but I couldn’t keep this from her. Maybe if I wasn’t pregnant with his child, I’d be able to pass it off as if I’d never even talked to him after that day.

“Sehun.” I said it quietly, hoping she wouldn’t hear it. The air was more tense by the second, I could tell she was in shock without looking at her.

“Se - Baekhyun’s friend Sehun?” She was absolutely astounded. I ran my fingers through my hair and attempted to take a deep breath even though I could barely breathe as it was.

“I don’t know any other Sehun.” I shrugged.

“Holy shit, everything makes sense now. Why did you guys even - when? Why didn’t you use protection?” Euna was floored, she didn’t know which questions to even ask. “That’s why you were hanging around Chanyeol. Oh my - and you were looking at Sehun and - I’m such a bad friend, I didn’t even realize -”

“Euna.” I interrupted her. She looked at me and I continued. “It wasn’t a one time thing. The last time I had sex with Sehun was a month ago. At the time I was too caught up to even realize he didn’t use a condom and then he just - you know - and when it was over I was just...so tired...I’m so dumb. Fuck.” I buried my face in my palms and she touched my arm, rubbing it gently.

“You can’t just blame yourself, he’s the one who fucking shot a load in you.” I could tell she was angry with Sehun. She was mad at me too, but being so protective over me made her pissed at him more than me.

“But I let him.” I was defending him again.

“Don’t fucking defend his ass.” She snapped at me, pointing her finger. “I know how you are, and this is not okay. He convinced you to have sex with him multiple times and then he fucking just impregnated you, I can’t believe you’re defending him. Where does he live? I’m gonna bust his ass -”

“No.” I cut her off, her eyes widening in surprise when I kept talking. “I don’t want him to know. If he knows that means he’s in my life for the next eighteen years and eight months and I do not want that. I just got away from him.”

“No, you can’t do that.” Euna shook her head. “He may have fucked up a lot, but that’s still half of him growing inside you. You can’t keep that from him.”

“Well what do you expect me to do?” I snapped unintentionally. “We both know damn well what he’s going to do if I show up there and tell him I’m pregnant. He’s gonna throw a fucking fit and he won’t want anything to do with me. That’s what’s going to happen.”

“If you’re so sure about that, why don't you just see? Because you’re scared that he’s going to stay. What’s so bad about that?” Euna made a good point, however, I didn’t want to tell him. Especially if I knew the outcome. Sehun wasn’t exactly an unpredictable person.

“Because he’s fucked up and I’m fucked up and what kind of combination is that?” I scoffed. “What kind of parent could either of us be?”

“And I understand that, but you can’t keep this from him. You might be parents together but there’s no way you’re going to be able to do this by yourself.” I hated when Euna was right, which was ninety nine percent of the time. “Now, where does he live?”

“Above the bar.”

“Everything starts in that fucking bar.” She rolled her eyes. She wasn’t wrong, in fact, she met Baekhyun at that bar, everything with Sehun started in that damned bar.

We got there and she said she would wait outside for me. No matter how much I wanted her to come with me, that would’ve been wrong. I expected to go up there and immediately be sent away, considering I’d cut Sehun off. It was unfair of me to come back.

It was Minseok who answered the door when I knocked. He was more than surprised to see me because he hadn’t since the night I stormed out of the building in tears. He told me Sehun was moping in his room.

I must’ve stood outside his room for at least ten minutes, I didn’t want to see him as I was sure he didn’t want to see me - we’d gone back to how it was before we started sleeping together, except there was a plus one this time.

I knocked, hearing his voice through the door. He did say ‘come in’ so I hoped it’d be a little bit civil. He did invite me into his room. I swallowed my pride and opened the door. I walked in, closing the door behind me.

“What’re you doing here?” He narrowed his eyes at me and I sighed.

“I’m not here for you and I’m not here for me.” I replied simply, only serving to confuse him even more.

“What does that mean?”

“It means get up, we have to talk.” I watched as he grumbled before rolling out of his bed and stood up.

“I thought you were done.” He towered over me and I inhaled deeply before continuing with what I had to tell him.

“As I said, I’m not here for me. I wouldn’t be here at all if Euna hadn’t forced me to come here.” I tried to keep my nerves from being evident, but I knew how he would react, I knew how Oh Sehun worked, how his brain worked.

“Baekhyun told Euna?”

“No, I did. Actually, I had no choice. I went to the hospital.” It was now or never, but why did I still want to choose never?

“What? Are you okay?” His cold demeanor dropped for a second and I laughed bitterly.

“Not that it’s much of a concern to you, but no, I’m not.” I quickly wet my lips before I continued. “The doctor had some exciting news for me. I’m pregnant.” Sehun froze, his whole body tensed as he struggled to find words to say.

“I don’t - no - you -” It was clear that he was being thrown into panic. “A-are you sure it’s mine? Chanyeol -”

“Oh, for fucks sake, I didn’t fucking have sex with Chanyeol!” I yelled. “You’re the only person I’ve had sex with for the past three months. I’m not like you, Sehun.”

“W-what are we gonna do?” His eyes were wide and I didn’t think I’d ever seen him so vulnerable.

“We’re not going to do anything. This doesn’t change anything that I said earlier. I don’t want this.” I shook my head. “I’m going to do this and I don’t want or need anything from you.”

“You can’t be serious.” His jaw dropped. “I-I know you don’t want me in your life but that’s my kid too -”

“That neither of us wanted to begin with!” I moved towards the door. “I don’t want your pity or your charity and I’m fed up -” He grabbed my arm and pulled me to him, the breath catching in my throat as I looked up at him. I hadn’t been this close to him in a long time.

“It’s not pity and charity if it’s my kid. I’m not letting you do this by yourself. I thought I was always careful, I don’t know when -”

“The last time. A month ago, Sehun.” I remembered it clearly now, although until it was revealed that I was pregnant I didn’t notice at all. “I didn’t know until I thought about it but you...you know - in me and I didn’t get that morning after stuff. I didn’t even think about it.”

“I’m sorry.” His voice was quiet as he looked at me. “I’m usually responsible and I guess I just...got caught up.”

“I’m scared.” I admitted, he pulled me close to him, wrapping his arms around me.

“You don’t have to be. I’m going to be here through this with you, even if that doesn’t make anything easier, just know that you’re not alone.” I was overwhelmed at this point, this was not the reaction I expected, but somehow this one scared me more.

“I’m too young to have a kid.” My voice was muffled by his shirt. “I should’ve been paying attention.” I attempted to blink away my tears.

“I didn’t do a much better job.” He cupped my cheeks, making me look at him. “We’ll get through this together. I do a horrible job at showing it but I...I love you. You don’t have to believe me, but I do.”

Not only was I too shocked to respond, his lips were brushing against mine. I melted into his kiss that I’d yearned for since the last time. I couldn’t stop the tears from falling this time.

“Hey, why are you crying?” He wiped the tears away with his thumbs.

“Stupid fucking hormones.” I smacked his arm lightly. “Don’t think too much of it.”

“Is it because you love me too?” He bit his lip to keep himself from smirking. I narrowed my eyes at him

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Now, he may have been fucked up and I may have been fucked up - but at least we could be fucked up together.

[what-is-sibling-test]

from 'RittenhouseTL' for all things Timeless https://ift.tt/2NNf3dL via Istudy world

visnjicpreston: For @hilariousness142 Live and Love [Garcy Prompt] [AN: Disclaimer: Fictional...

For @hilariousness142

Live and Love [Garcy Prompt]

[AN: Disclaimer: Fictional portrayal of some blood and injury. Medical descriptions may not be 100% accurate.]

“Oh my god.” Lucy’s hand flies up to her mouth involuntarily, and the other reaches out to Garcia as he stumbles out of the shadows of the tree line. A dark red bloodstain on the right side of his white shirt is spreading quickly under his fingers. He takes her outstretched hand in his free one as a reaffirmation to her, but relies a little to much on her to steady him to make it believable. She hesitates, freezes. She doesn’t know what to do.

“He stabbed me. He’s dead now.” He fills in. He must see the blood drain from her face, because he squeezes her hand. “I’m fine, Lucy. Let’s get back to-” He cuts himself off with fit of coughing, and a trickle of dark blood spills from his mouth.

“Garcia!” He takes a gargled breath, gasping for air. “Wyatt! Rufus! Help!” She calls out, tearing off her period-appropriate jacket and pressing it to Garcia’s side as he sinks down into a sitting position at the base of a tree. They’re close to the Lifeboat, but maybe too far away for the others to hear her yelling at the top of her lungs. “Please stay with me Garcia.” She can only hope someone who knows what they’re doing shows up soon.

“You’re not getting rid of me that easily, draga.” He laughs. Her heart breaks at his attempt at a joke while he’s critically injured after pulling a sleeper off of her. She regrets listening to him when he told her to run, even though rationally she knows she wouldn’t have been much help. He reaches up and cups her face, his other hand helping hers to staunch the bleeding. “Just don’t die on me.” She humors him, even though she’s sure he worry is very present on her face. Please don’t die. I love you, I need you, I love you, just stay alive.

He was losing blood, her jacket was already turning red, and he was breathing strange. “My lung. Collapsing.” He manages to half grunt half gasp out. His face said it was becoming painful to talk.

Lucy’s brain is in panic mode, and she frantically calls for the Wyatt again. He would know how to fix a stab wound. And apparently a collapsing lung.

As if on cue, Wyatt bursts into the clearing with gun drawn and Rufus hot on his tail. “Ah, hell.” He tucks his gun away and crosses to where Garcia lays incapacitated.

“Let me guess,” Rufus manages a semblance of humor though clearly nauseated. “Heroically saving Lucy at your own risk.”

Garcia manages a partial smile before again coughing and spluttering up more blood. Lucy suppresses a gag. “He said his lung was collapsing.” Lucy tells Wyatt, who’s currently cutting away the fabric of Garcia’s shirt, though it’s almost a question. Despite everything, she’s hoping for good news.

Wyatt grimaces at the wound, pressing Lucy’s jacket back on the bleeding. A sickly feeling forms in the pit of her stomach, her hopes for good news crushed. Garcia looks pale, and sweat is beading on his brow. It almost hurts her to watch how much pain he’s in. He keeps his eyes on her, like she’s his lifeline, so she doesn’t look away. She doesn’t look away when his eyes fall closed either.

“Rufus, help me carry him. Lucy, keep firm pressure on the wound. If you don’t, air will get, his lung will collapse, and he’ll die. We have to get him to a real hospital.”

Under normal circumstances, Lucy would correct him; he meant a modern hospital, not ‘a real’ one. However, the semantics of time travel aren’t exactly on the forefront of her mind. Her adrenaline is on high, especially at the prospect of the man under her hands being close to death. He can’t die. She hadn’t told him. She hasn’t been able to so much as kiss him on missions. The claustrophobic panic of a closing door, a lost opportunity, of loss before gain is rapidly setting in.

Garcia’s face twists in pain as Rufus and Wyatt help him to his feet. “I’m sorry.” She’s not sure exactly why she’s apologizing. The only thing she knows is that Garcia has to be okay. She needs him. “Stay with me. Focus on my voice.” She doesn’t know if any of what she’s saying is helpful, but she repeats it anyway.

The hike to the Lifeboat is unbearably long. It feels like hours by the time the get back to the safe house, and days by the time they get Garcia to a hospital.

Lucy hasn’t seen him since he got to said hospital, and Denise denied her visits for twelve hours. (It had started at twenty four, but Lucy had managed to talk her down through tears and a lot of yelling.)

“He needs time, Lucy.”

“I have to know he’s okay. I have to talk to him. Please.”

“He has a hemothorax, it’s going to take some time for him to be settled. We should give him space.”

“He was stabbed because he pulled a sleeper off of me, I’m not waiting twenty four hours!”

Lucy had only even changed and showered when Jiya had literally helped her strip down and get into the shower. She had hid away in Garcia’s room, though it was technically their room since she hasn’t bothered to start sleeping alone since they left the bunker. She wrapped herself in one of his sweaters and tried not to cry. I love you. Please be okay. I need to tell you.

Now, sitting on the couch after being alternately comforted by everyone, she stares blankly at the dark tv screen and counts down the minutes. Garcia made it through successful surgery, which Lucy knew through Denise’s updates, but her nerves are frayed nonetheless. She hasn’t even eaten.

With ten minutes left on her given time frame, Lucy stands in front of the safe house door. Out of her peripheral she sees Jiya stop momentarily, looking on with concern, before stepping quietly away. At eight minutes, Denise shows up and escorts Lucy out of the safe house.

Lucy doesn’t even bother to look out the car window as they drive. She just loses herself in her thoughts. She wonders how Flynn, the time terrorist she didn’t understand, had become her Garcia, the friend and confidant who trusted her, understood her, and cared about her more than anyone else. At some point she had realized he loved her. And while once she would have been put off by the idea, considering how her heart had been crushed in the not too distant past, she now found it comforting, and safe, and wonderfully exciting.

Exciting is not the word she wants to feel right now, as the hospital comes into view. Her mind clears away the thoughts as she waits for Denise in the empty waiting room that smells like chemical cleaner.

“You can go see your husband now.” A nurse steps into her line of sight. “He’s been asking for you. He might be a little out of it because of the pain killers, but otherwise he’s doing ok. Room 316.” Lucy doesn’t even blink at being referred to a his spouse. After so many missions, she falls so easily into the role. She smiles, though it doesn’t reach her eyes and it falls from her face the second she turns down the hall.

She nearly collides with Denise in the hall in front of the room, just narrowly managing to slide past her and open the door. She ignores Denise calling her name, entered the room, and stops short. The door swings closed behind her, with a slow whoosh of air and a click.

His hair is a mess, sticking up in various angle. She notices the edges of angry bruises peeking out from the neck of his hospital gown, on the right side of his chest. His eyes flicker open at the noise. He smiles softly. “I told you, you weren’t getting rid of me that easily.” Lucy can hardly find the wherewithal to laugh. Maybe she would have been able to find humor in the situation before she loved him, but now it was too terrifying of a thought. Hot tears fall involuntarily from her eyes, and she moves to side of his bed. His smile is replaced with a hard line, and he takes her hand in his. “What are the tears for?” He sits up slowly, and swings his legs over the side of the bed, face contorting momentarily in pain.

“You almost died.” She whispers artlessly. Her voice is raspy, probably an effect of both tears and shouting at Denise, but he doesn’t seem to notice.

“Wouldn’t be the first time.” He shrugs. She hears the silent ‘won’t be the last’ on his tongue, though for her sake he holds it back. “It’s okay. I’m the grunt, I’m supposed to take the hard hits for you.”

She drops his hand, sending a jolt of pain through his face, and shakes her head, taking a halting step backwards. “But you aren’t. It’s not-” She tries to take as a deep a breath she can manage and squeezes her eyes closed. “You aren’t just a grunt. I don’t want you get yourself killed for me.”

“Lucy, I will never regret protecting you.” He cuts her off, and her eyes flicker open. “If it comes at my expense then so be it. You are so much more valuable than me.”

Her heart drops to her stomach. “Would you stop?” She can’t help but raise her voice, even if it feels like sandpaper in her throat. “I need you. Do you understand? I can not lose you.” It’s probably the closest she’s been to saying it.

“And I can’t lose you either!” He stands up rapidly, making a pained noise at the movement, at which she winces. It isn’t a secret, she knows how he feels about her. But he isn’t getting that she feels the same. Swallowing it down, he brings his fingers to his eyebrow in frustration. “I understand that you don’t want to lose a team member. But Lucy, my death is not consequential to the missions.”

“It’s consequential to me, Flynn! It’s not about the damn missions and you are not just a team member!” His jaw tightens when she uses his last name, but his expression softens as she continues. “You are valuable to me, I need you, and I can’t- I won’t lose another person I love.” She hadn’t wanted to say it. At least not now, not like this. But one second it was threatening to tear itself out of her chest and the next it was simply there, in the open. A tear, then two, fall from her cheeks, leaving imprints on his sweater that she’s still wearing from earlier. “I don’t want you to die for me, Garcia.” She whispers. “I want you to live for me. So please, just shut the hell up, and live. I want you to live. I want-” Her voice falters, and she lets it hang in the air.

Garcia stands still for a long moment, while she tucks her face into her hands and cried. For a moment, she thinks maybe he disappeared. But then she feels firm arms come gently around her, tugging her to sit on the bed. And he just holds her. No questions, no revelations, no clarifications. No confessions. And she’s surprisingly grateful for that. Grateful that he just holds her, his hand tucked into her hair while he presses his lips to her head. He whispers gently in Croatian, she can feel the reverberations of his voice, and though she doesn’t understand, she knows he understands now more than ever.

“Lucy, I promise. I will do whatever it takes to live for you.” He finally speaks in English, as her ragged breathing shudders to a steadier pace. She nods visibly, holding back another surge of tears, and she twists her hands into his.

“Lucy, I want to ask,” He prompts her later, while she lays carefully next to him on the hospital bed. He takes a breath to speak, holds it, and releases it. A nonverbal 'nevermind’.

Lucy turns to him, props herself up, and presses a light kiss to the corner of his lips. “I meant it.” Her voice is shy, but determined, and she appreciates her vocal chords finally cooperating with her. “I love you.” She smiles, finally feeling hope, and control over her life, for the first time in a while. “I love you.” She repeats, just for good measure.

“I love you, Lucy. I have for a long time.”

“I know.”