#we were outside for an hour i was so shocked none of them picked up a phone at any point

[anotherpapercut]

I was watching the pre teens today (normally I'm with the teens) and they were being fucking crazy so I asked one of them if they're like that for the normal pre teen staff or if they're just acting like that because I'm there and they said "oh yeah we are not normally this bad" so I asked the room "hey why do y'all act so much more insane for me than the other staff? what's up with that??" and one of them said "it's because we know you can handle it. the other staff give up way faster" LMFAO???

[strawbeerossi]

August || Chapter Five

Pairing: Fem!Reader x Spencer Reid, fem!reader x Emily Prentiss 

Description: After a conversation with Emily, Spencer drowns in a sea of regret and guilt. That’s when JJ gives him a harsh reality check.

Content/Warnings: Spencer/JJ centric chapter, friendships are threatened, drama, emissions of guilt, regret, Spencer thinks of you and Emily to a deep degree, a break up ensues, one use of Y/N. 

WC: 2.1K

Y'all know the drill. 450 notes for next part!

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The sound of the ceramic shattering on the ground had you looking at the floor first, the overly sugary coffee surely going to make the floor sticky and give everyone’s shoes that annoying sound of them getting stuck to the ground.

“That’s going to be a pain to clean up.” Was all Emily could say, unphased by his reaction. Truth be told, he had no reason to react the way he did. He had made his bed the moment he got with JJ, losing every chance that he had with you. “Pick up the pieces, don’t need anyone getting hurt.” She added.

“So this is what you two do whenever you're supposed to be working? Not very professional.” Spencer huffed, kneeling down to pick up the remains of the navy blue coffee cup, his head shaking. 

“Everyone is entitled to a lunch break for an hour every workday. What anyone else does outside of this office is absolutely none of your business.” The unit chief countered back while she was heading over to the bullpen doors. “When you’re finished, come to my office. We need to talk.” 

You were looking between Spencer and Emily, hands pushed into your pockets while the both of them had their little back and forth. “Can we all just calm it down? There’s no need for any more drama than this team already has.” The voice of reason. How fitting.

“I am calm. I just find it shocking that you’re kissing our boss in the elevator.” He commented, the shards rested in the palm of his hand as he pushed himself to stand up straight.

“You have no right to be mad and you know that.” You countered, deciding against furthering the argument as you approached the doors to the bullpen. How dare he act angry at you after what he did. He had no logical reasoning to act like a child over your decisions.

You knew that this was him lashing out, showing that deep down, he really is bothered and has noticed what he lost out on. That could’ve been you and him kissing in the elevator instead of you and Emily, the both of you could be going out to lunch together… He knew where he went wrong and this was going to haunt him. 

Spencer was always dramatic in that way, needing to see just what he lost before it was hitting him like a freight train. It was something he did with JJ, then he got with her and things haven’t exactly been smooth sailing in the department of their relationship.

He felt immense guilt, especially whenever JJ and Will had to make plans for the boys to visit with her. She should’ve been home with her children, not with him. Although it was seemingly too late, he highly doubted Will would take JJ back. 

He made it known on several occasions that she made her bed and she had to lie in it, to suffer from the loss of a loving marriage. In a way, it made Spencer feel dirty. What would Henry think of his beloved uncle when he got older? What would Michael think? In their story, as well as yours, Spencer was the bad guy. 

Those thoughts were in his mind all day after that. Even whenever being scolded by Emily, he just wasn’t present in the conversation. All he could think about was how happy you seemed with her, the way you looked at her. It made him feel nauseous. 

He knew Emily would take care of you at the end of the day but all he could do is think about what he lost. Emily was the lucky one, the one who didn’t break your heart into a million pieces. She got to hold you, to kiss you, to bask in your love and presence. 

His mind wandered farther, the idea of you two being intimate together. The idea made jealousy tug at his heart. She would be the one to worship you, to bring a rush of euphoria over you so strong that you wouldn’t dare think about another person in the same manner. 

It made him irrationally angry, upset at Emily because she was lucky enough to step in to the relationship that should’ve been shared between you and him. 

“Are you even listening?” Emily’s voice made Spencer look over at her, his eyes searching her features. She was angry at him, the comments he made earlier being the driving force behind it. He understood why, however this talk was unnecessary. 

“Yes. I’m listening. I just think this is all a waste of my time and yours. I’m sorry for making the comments I made but you have to admit, you are our boss at the end of the day. If you can’t handle what I have to say, imagine hearing what other people will say.” He stated. 

“I can guarantee you that nobody would care as much as you do. There will have to be a tedious paperwork process done for this to continue, but I don’t mind it.” It was a wonder how Emily kept her composure despite Spencer’s shitty attitude. “I am just asking you to stop with the comments and quite honestly, you need to grow up. The Spencer that I know would be happy for his coworkers who are also his friends. He wouldn’t be throwing a hissy fit over jealousy.”

“Look. I am happy for you, for her. I’m not jealous either.” Debatable. He didn’t care to admit things like that. “I just don’t like how I didn't know. She used to tell me everything!” 

“And then you ruined that for yourself. You know that I love you but you’re acting foolish. I don’t want to constantly have battles between us, alright? Just take this time to reflect and realize what you did wrong and then let all of that built up anger go. Now, go and wash your face. Get your shit together.” 

That was the end of the conversation, the male slowly pushing himself to stand before making a slow retreat from the office. Washing his face was good, would clear his head, settle his nerves.. So, he made a b-line straight for the men’s washroom. Although unbeknownst to him, JJ was hurrying out of the bullpen right behind him.

“What happened in there?” She made her presence known as she grabbed Spencer’s arm, startling him in the process. “What are you trying to pull now?”

“Trying to pull? Are you serious? Emily wanted to have a private discussion with me. I suggest you mind your own business, Jennifer.” He spat, the built up aggression causing him to breathe heavier thn usual, his face red. He needed to get to the bathroom now. 

“Woah, hold on. You think you are allowed to get rude with me because you don’t know how to leave things alone? Spencer, don’t be ridiculous.” She began although the male’s hands were raised in self defense as he looked in her direction. He had no time for this.

“I know how to leave things alone. I’ve proved that enough these past few weeks. You just don’t like that all the attention isn’t on you for once. Nobody really cares what you have to say in regards to this situation. I don’t care. You don’t like the way I carry myself and that is your problem. I can’t change myself just to make you approve.” 

“Are you crazy? I’m just telling you to leave them alone.”

“Yeah, well how about you leave me alone?” He spat, now turning on his heel to get to the bathroom. He knew taking out his anger on JJ wasn’t fair but she just always poked and prodded at him. He hated that. 

As he made it to the bathroom, he was staring at his reflection, the man in the mirror being someone who he could barely recognize. The old Spencer would’ve never taken things this far. He would’ve been too afraid of backlash, would’ve pulled away entirely once he saw the hectic nature of what his decisions could unleash.. 

With the sink water steadily running, he was leaning down to splash some cold water on his face. He just needed to calm down, to think through this situation and what his options were. His brain was amazing with conjuring up ideas and theories, although it was like as of late, he was lacking.

“Get your shit together.” Spencer spoke to himself, his eyes closing to avoid looking at himself, at who he became over the years; a man who broke someone’s heart, broke a family, and broke a team dynamic. Hell, he might’ve even broken himself in the process.

The sound of flowing water coupled with his breathing was all he could hear, blocking out the rest of the world as he was bringing himself back down to a more calm and collected state. His decisions have never haunted him like these past few ones have. 

Once calm, his hand was turning off the water, his eyes watching a steady pour slow down to nothing. Alright. He was alright. 

Upon exiting the bathroom, JJ was still there, arms crossed as she was waiting patiently for him to come out. “I can’t help you if you don’t talk to me.” She stated, looking up at the man in front of her.

“I don’t want your help. I just- I feel like this isn’t working. I don’t like this relationship or whatever we have anymore. I can’t keep up with it, I just can’t.” He blurted out, heart beating like a drum in his chest, threatening to burst out of his chest cavity.

A tense silence came over them as JJ pursed her lips together. “After I left my husband to try and make this work?” She asked, not giving the man time to answer as she took in a breath. “Fine. Maybe you’re right. You can’t do this anymore. Because now you’ve realized the weight of your decisions. I always wanted you to reflect and realize what you did wrong, to take accountability. I just didn’t expect it to lead to this.”

“I just can’t do it. I can’t look at Henry or Michael without feeling immense guilt. I broke up the dynamic they were used to, at least contributed to it. We’ve both lost important things to us. The only difference is, you’re lucky enough to have your children. You could salvage a cordial relationship with Will. I’ve lost everything.” 

“You’re unbelievable!” The blonde stared at the taller male in disbelief. “You are throwing a pity party for yourself because suddenly you feel the need to be jealous over what Emily has? After this whole experience, I can tell you that Y/N is much better off with her than she is with you.”

The ugly truth that hit Spencer harder than a train derailed from the tracks.

“I have to agree that this needs to end. You also need to leave those two alone. If anything, take my advice on that. Let them live. Let them be happy.” She frowned while bringing her hands up to tiredly rub at her face. “She doesn’t love you and you need to realize that.”

Those words stuck with Spencer, even whenever he made it to his apartment later that night. He was pacing around his living room, arms over his chest, as he really had time to think about everything. The silence never did him any favors, but he couldn’t even ignore his thoughts with a book like he usually could. He tried. 

Every conclusion that he conjured up was the same; he needed to leave you alone. Not that easy, though. You knew him better than the others did. You two talked and shared a lot in the time frame of knowing each other.

He got a horrible idea, one that he knew he shouldn’t have had, but it was an idea. 

With his hand digging into his pocket, he was eventually retrieving his phone, getting into it before getting to his contact list.

There wasn’t much scrolling that had to be done, eventually finding a familiar name. Your name. He was silently outweighing his options. You could answer, you could block him, or you could flat out ignore him.

So, throwing caution to the wind, he hit call, slowly sitting in the middle of the floor as he patiently waited for an answer.

[ordowrites]

fatherhood

hopping on the hybrid bandwagon i'm sorry but it's not entirely the focus i just wanted to write diluc being a dad. just a small snippet in the day of the life.

cw: none, mdni, minors do not interact, sfw, fluff, afab reader, hybrid!reader (fox), family fluff. diluc is desperately in love with reader and vice versa, they have a child. diluc is a total girl dad.

Diluc knew he was screwed when he first held your guys daughter in his arms - the way she looked up at him with those eyes of hers and small hands reaching to grip his finger and a soft coo escaping her, he knew, right then, he was screwed. He didn't know how to hold her and Adelinde had to gently guide him - elevate her head, cradle her, if she cries, don't panic.

She gotten his hair but she inherited your ears and your tail, and soon enough, that personality trait of yours that's ever so curious and playful. While she has a name - Aelia - he still only really calls her little one, or his sunshine because it feels right, correct, to only call her those things. You smile when he holds her, tucked under his arm as she blabbers away about some interesting thing she saw in the vineyard or stories her little imagination makes up. And Diluc engages with her because he adores her, and her innocent existence. When he wears a little tiara on his head because she demands him to, all you can do is stifle a giggle and a head shake.

Diluc knew he was screwed when he's with the maids, in the kitchen, helping them with some cooking and he sees a familiar poke of ears from behind the island. Little fingers grope about until they find what they're looking for and he frowns a bit. It's an hour to dinnertime and she's sneaking cookies. Since Aelia was born, there'd been an uptick of baked sweets available in the manor.

Well, actually before that - your pregnancy cravings always consisted of some sort of cookie or another and all he could do was give you what you wanted and needed. And now, they're kept on hand for his mischievous daughter whose sweet tooth matches his own.

"Aelia," he says, his voice firm. "What are you doing, my little one?"

A soft giggle and his heart flutters. "Nuffin'."

"Oh? Doesn't sound like nothing." Diluc answers as he watches her little hand reach up again to search around for another cookie, that he gently slides over. He shouldn't be giving her these things before dinner, considering all of your warnings for him to not do so. A tuft of red hair meets his eyes with those little triangular ears that poke out, before finally, her entire face.

"Hi, daddy." There's some crumbs and melted chocolate on her face. "'m just sayin' hi."

"Oh? And what about the cookie in your hand?" She looks at it, faking the best shocked look she could. "Sunshine, we have an hour before dinner."

"'s for you." Aelia answers, after a moment of consideration, holding it out to him.

"Oh? And here it looked like you were about to eat it yourself." He watches as Aelia's expression falls for a moment.

"Please, daddy? I want a cookie."

At her doe eyed looked, small pout, Diluc found himself agreeing to letting her have another cookie. "Just don't tell your mother." he gently tells her. "Or Addie, okay?"

Aelia's grin is victorious and Diluc knew, right then, how right you were about him being wrapped around her tiny finger as she reaches to be picked up. With her perched on his hip, he leaves the kitchen to go find you.

When he finds you outside, amongst the vineyards, his face lights up as Aelia waves at you.

"She's a handful." Diluc murmurs as he leans in and kisses you in greeting. Of course, Aelia gives you big, sloppy kisses on the cheeks.

"Of course she is," you hum as you offer to take her from his arms, but Aelia seems to choose to latch onto him. So instead, you give her a kiss on the top of her head. "She is your daughter. I think you enable her too much."

"I do not." He protests. "I merely encourage her to be curious and try new things."

You're brushing some crumbs off of your daughters face, giving a soft laugh. "Sure, sure." A pause. "Seeing you with our daughter makes me want us to have another kid."

"Well if you're offering..." Diluc says, grinning a bit. "I won't say no."

[cupidcures]

When Tulips Kiss | Hwang Hyunjin SMAU

CHAPTERS: 𝜗𝜚 TWENTY-ONE | TWENTY-TWO | 𝜗𝜚 TWENTY-THREE

WORD COUNT: 6.2k (not proofread)

CONTAINS: hyune gets a little touchy, BUT ONLY A SMIDGEN, short tension between gyu and hyune

guitar hero

It was yet another slow and peaceful day working at the boutique, not that you were complaining about it. You enjoy tending to your flowers and helping them grow to their most beautiful prime state, but there’s only so much you can do in the span of 5 hours spent inside a small flower boutique, so you often feel lonely while working by yourself. You had wonderful friends though, and they would frequently come to visit and keep you company, you were always thankful for them. Unfortunately for you, none of them had shown up today so you were left with no choice but to scroll through your phone, occasionally helping out a customer and ringing them up.

The majority of the people who would come in to support were often people who came here regularly, you assumed to buy flowers for the significant others. You still get new people here and there, especially whenever your beloved Jeongin would post about it on his Twitter, or if he were to come here during one of your vlogs. You couldn’t be any more grateful for him.

The bell to your boutique rang and interrupted your thoughts, indicating that someone had walked in.

“Welcome to Song of the Flowers, let me know if you need any help!” You greeted joyfully without looking away from your phone.

3:50 pm, 10 minutes before closing. 10 minutes before Beomgyu comes to pick you up for the date.

You thought of the possibilities of where Beomgyu could be taking you for the date before stopping all your thoughts with a question.

Was this a date? You wondered to yourself, recalling the conversation between the two of you, right before the only other person that was in the store with you cleared their throat.

You looked up to give your attention to the customer, and to your surprise, Beomgyu was standing there, looking pretty as always. He waved one of his hands, while the other one held onto a pink gift bag with a bow garnished on top of it.

"Gyu! What a surprise! You're a little early so I haven't started closing up the shop, I'll start on it right now though!" You hummed and gave the boy in front of you a hug, and he immediately returned it.

Beomgyu pulled away from the hug and gave you a bashful smile before lightly pushing the gift bag to your chest. “Hi Y/N! I didn’t wanna come here empty-handed so I went to the toy store near campus to get you something, I hope you like it.” He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly as he waited eagerly to observe your reaction to the gift.

Undoing the ribbon that connects the two handles of the bag together, you opened the gift only to see the space filled with a large amount of packaged Sonny Angel boxes, inflicting a gasp from you. “Holy shit!” You exclaimed in shock as you looked back up to make eye contact with the boy in front of you, who held a look of bewilderment mixed with concern on his face.

“Is it okay? Is that a good or bad holy shit?” Beomgyu asked nervously as you tied the handles back together with the ribbon it had come with.

“Gyu I love it! But one singular box costs 15 dollars ALONE, and the bag is filled! You didn’t have to get me a gift, you know? But either way, I’m grateful, so thank you!” You sighed with a soft smile on your face.

“I know I didn’t have to, but I wanted to. A little over a hundred dollars is nothing to me if I get to make you happy and see a smile on your face.” Beomgyu winked and pinched your nose as your nose turned bright red. Rudolph, much?

“Okaaaaaay smooth talker. I’ve gotta close up the store, but once I’m done we could leave right away.”

“I��ll wait outside on the bench for you, take as long as you need.” Beomgyu took your hand and brought it to his lips and gave it a gentle kiss before walking out the door, the bell ringing behind him. You giggled and went to go close the curtains of your shop and turn the sign around to indicate that it was now closed. You walked around the small boutique and checked the florals on display to see if you needed to replace anything, and thankfully, they were all in good condition.

After taking one final lap around, just in case there was anything out of the ordinary, you took your purse from behind the counter and made your way towards the exit, locking the door behind you with the key before finally approaching Beomgyu.

Tapping him on the shoulder to grab his attention, you flashed him a smile as he turned around to look at your face.

“Ready to go?”

“Yup! Lead the way!”

“Great! Let’s go to my car. It’s all the way across town, and I wouldn’t want your pretty feet to hurt.” Beomgyu chuckles and stands up from the bench as you roll your eyes at him in a joking manner.

Looking both ways to make sure there are no upcoming cars, he takes your hand into his and crosses the street to where his car is. He led you to the passenger seat of his car, opening and closing the door for you before going to his own side and starting the car.

“I made a small playlist that we could listen to together, I hope you like it.” Beomgyu grins and connects his phone to the Bluetooth on the car, music soon filling up the car as he proceeds to drive.

Beomgyu was a great person, nearly perfect in your eyes. He was handsome, ambitious, he knew when to be serious and when he could be chill, he had an amazing personality, and he never failed to make you laugh. If you were being completely honest with yourself, you didn’t pay much attention to him back in high school and you really only knew him as the cute guy that Seungmin tutored.

But now that you really think back on it, you remember how you would always catch him staring at you from time to time whenever you both were in a group setting together. His crush went unnoticed by you up until this very moment, and it made you giggle to yourself at how blind you were.

Then again, it’s not like you were single at that time either, so technically it’s a good thing you didn’t notice.

The bass and melody of the music reverberating throughout the car brought you back to reality and focusing in on the song that’s currently playing. The instrumental of the song, specifically the synth, gave off a dreamy and fairytale-ish vibe to it, the rejuvenating and fresh vocals in the track helping you come to that conclusion. When the chorus came around, the addition of the soft trumpets playing in the background topped it all off and pulled everything together to create a masterpiece of a song. You just HAD to ask about it.

“I’ve never heard this song before. I really like it, LOVE IT, even! What’s the name of the song?” You questioned and looked to the screen on the car to check if it was on there, but unfortunately for you, all you saw was a GPS.

“I’m so glad you like it Y/N. It’s actually a song that me and four other friends created together, but we haven’t officially released it just yet. I wanted you to listen to it first. We called it Fairy of Shampoo. Cool, right?” Beomgyu spoke proudly of the song and you couldn’t help but clap in awe.

“Seriously?? You guys are crazy talented!! When you become famous, don’t forget about me.” You pouted and lightly punched his arm as he chuckled, a small smile painted on his lips.

“I wouldn’t, I COULDN’T, ever forget about you.”

~

After a good 30 minutes of screaming singing songs with Beomgyu until both of your throats were sore, you guys finally arrived at the place he wanted to take you.

“And here we are! I went here a lot during middle school and high school with my friends, and I wanted to take you here too!” Beomgyu declared ecstatically as you giggled before unbuckling your seatbelt and opening the car door.

Right as you were about to get out, you were pushed back in your seat in a flash and had the door closed on you. You looked at Beomgyu through the window, eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he opened your door for you.

“I’m sorry I really hope I didn’t hurt you, but I don’t want you to open any doors when you’re with me, that’s my job!” Beomgyu laughed nervously as you got out, for real this time, and you couldn’t help but laugh and pinch his cheek, receiving a groan in response.

“You didn’t hurt me, it’s okay Gyu. You’re suchhhh a gentleman thank you for pushing me back inside.” You teased him as he closed the door behind you with a pout on his face.

“I’m sorry! But I couldn’t let you do that. What kind of guy would let the girl he’s into open her own doors?!” He raised his arms up defensively as you laughed, covering your mouth.

“You’re such a dork.”

“You like that about me though.”

“Do I?”

“I hope you do. Now c’mon! Let’s go inside the arcade and beat every damn claw machine and game in there!!”

~

You guys, in fact, did NOT beat every damn claw machine and game in there.

“This game is fucking rigged!” Beomgyu scoffed as the claw missed the plushie you were asking him to get for you as you stood beside him, laughing your ass off at all his failed attempts. You lost count of all the attempts he has made, it was really THAT bad. The two of you were gaining the attention of kids and their parents walking by, some were admiring the obvious display of young love, and some were judging the loudness of your voices, but neither of you couldn’t really give a single damn about that.

“Gyu let’s just move on to the next machine! I don’t want the plushie that bad and I don’t want you to waste your money!” You couldn’t help but giggle as your efforts to get him to move on fell on deaf ears.

“I’m gonna keep trying until I get that damn giraffe. Like hell I’m gonna let a machine get the best of me! Plus, you said you wanted it, and that’s enough for me to keep trying until I get it for you. Stupid ass machine.” Beomgyu grumbled the last sentence in irritation before sliding his card, for the millionth time, to take on the impossible task of winning the purple giraffe for you.

Remember how you said he was ambitious? This is definitely one memory you’ll always have of him if someone were to ever ask you for proof of his ambition.

To your surprise, and everybody else’s who was watching (you guys gained a small crowd of people cheering Beomgyu on to win), he actually managed to get the hook stuck on the tag of the giraffe as the hook lifted it up and dropped it into the hole.

You and Beomgyu gasped and looked at each other once it fell down the prize hole before screaming in excitement, receiving claps from everybody else as the two of you hugged in success.

“Beomgyu vs. the machines!!! And I fucking won!!!!!” He roared and punched the air victoriously, as you burst out in laughter.

“Yeah, after how many tries again?”

“That, we won’t talk about.” Beomgyu cackled before grabbing the purple giraffe from the slot and handing it to you with a proud expression on his face.

You weren’t even sure how long you spent at that one claw machine, but it was long enough for a staff member to notice and present a free plushie to you for the inconvenience. You happily took the gift from the staff member as Beomgyu glared daggers at him, scaring him away. Turning his attention from the staff back to you, Beomgyu’s gaze softens while watching you admire the two plushies you have, slowly engraving this image of you into his mind.

“You’re so cute.” He blurted out and slapped a hand on his mouth, blood quickly rushing to his cheeks in embarrassment. “Shit, sorry I didn’t mean to say that out loud.”

“It’s okay Gyu, you’re not too bad yourself.”

Beomgyu clears his throat and pretends to look around for something to avoid eye contact with you. “Let’s try out another claw machine. I want to practice my skills, you know?”

He lied.

He didn’t wanna practice his skills. Well, maybe he did want to, but not for the sole purpose of getting better, but because he wanted to impress you and get you more plushies. The only reason why he wanted to play another claw machine was so he could win you another prize and put a smile on your face again.

He was well aware of his feelings for you unlike someone, but decided to play it safe and slow so he won’t mess anything up.

If his friends were here to see him in this state, he would never hear the end of it.

There was no doubt about it, he was smitten.

Who wouldn’t be?

The girl who he has had a crush on for years is finally noticing him, he wouldn’t dare let this chance slip through between his fingers, and he was gonna do his best to swoon you over.

Beomgyu walked to another claw machine that was decorated with various amounts of colors whilst holding your hand. “Which one did you want Y/N? I SWEAR, I’ll get it in under 10 tries this time.” He grinned at you confidently.

Your eyes scanned inside of the claw machine to look for the cutest plushie in it, only for your eyes to settle on a teddy bear holding an electric guitar.

“Ooooh that one!! The bear!! It reminds me of you!” You pointed as your eyes sparkled in excitement, not noticing the flushed expression on Beomgyu’s face, nor the way that his knees nearly gave out on him when you said it reminded you of him.

“Anything for the pretty lady.” He winked playfully as you giggled, watching him slide his card once again and align the claw with where the bear was.

“You can do this!” You cheered him on as he chuckled and focused on getting the position of the claw perfectly in parallel with the bear, eyes squinting in concentration.

A few seconds later, you watched his hand slowly reach for the button and press it. The claw dropped to where the teddy bear was and managed to cling onto its leg and pick it up.

“You did it! In one try!!” You slapped his back lightly and he stood up straight with his hands resting on his hips in satisfaction as you both watched the bear fall into the prize hole.

“See? I’m the best!” He kissed his biceps before looking back at you to look at the expression on your face, only to be met with fond eyes staring back at him. He quickly looked away and reached down for the teddy bear to hand it to you, looking elsewhere and avoiding eye contact.

“Thank you, Gyu~” You hummed and hugged the bear cheerfully as he nodded at you timidly.

“Wanna play Guitar Hero?”

“Sure! I’m not too sure how to play though, so you’re going to have to teach me.”

Beomgyu sucks in his breath and gathers the courage to look at you again with a smile despite his racing heartbeat, squeezing your hand and pulling you along to where the game was located at.

“I could play first and you can watch me, and if you’re still confused I could help you while you play.” He picked up the guitar that rested on its designated spot.

“It’s pretty easy if you ask me! There are five buttons to press on the fretboard and a strum key at the body, along with a whammy bar below it.” He explains and identifies the following pieces that he mentioned previously and shows them to you.

“Whammy bar sounds stupid.” You giggle and he laughs along, agreeing with you.

Controlling the screen with the guitar in hand, Beomgyu chooses a song that allows him to properly demonstrate how a game works for you to understand.

“Watch and learn, Pretty.” He flirts and you roll your eyes in amusement, watching intently.

“I used to play this game all day every day when I was younger, and it was one of the driving forces of my passion for playing guitar,” He paused. “I wanted to share this with you because I want you to know what makes me happy, and I hope to share this happiness that I feel, with you.” He finished his sentence at the same time the game finished, flashing a vibrant glowing ‘PERFECT’ on the screen, indicating the end of the game.

“Did you catch on?” Beomgyu grinned at you and placed the guitar in your hands, helping you with how to hold it.

“Kind of…? I think I’ll need help though.” You expressed uncertainty as he stood behind you and held his hands over yours in order to assist you with the game, but you couldn’t help but blush at this action.

The majority of the playing done was by Beomgyu, as he was doing all the pressing and strumming, just with your hands instead.

You didn’t mind though, and neither did he.

The entire day went like this. Beomgyu was often doing most of the work, but he wanted to, and it was something you enjoyed. He enjoyed taking care of you and wanted you to relax around him, but whenever the game happened to be a two-player one, his competitive side would always come out. But, despite his competitiveness, you were always the one doing better and or winning.

What you didn’t notice though, is that he would sabotage himself so you would come out as the winner.

Every single time.

He held pride in winning, but seeing you happy because of him did more for his pride than anything else.

~

It was 7:30PM now, and the two of you decided to leave early since your stomach was caught growling out of hunger by Beomgyu.

“I’m so sorry for starving you holy shit.” He pursed his lips as you laughed and shook your head.

“I didn’t even notice I was hungry, I was having too much fun so it’s okay!”

“Well, I’m glad you had fun then. Where do you wanna go to eat?” He asked, pulling out of the parking lot and soon driving on the road with no destination set in his mind yet.

“Umm…. Honestly, I’m fine with just a cafe, I don’t want anything fancy.” You stated and Beomgyu nodded.

“I’m assuming you’re fine with eating at Boba Babe? Your friends work there, don’t they?” He continued the conversation, eyes still focused on the road.

“Yeah, they do. Actually, I think both of them have shifts today around this time. Do you remember Chaewon and Chuu?”

“Yeah, I remember them! Chuu is Jiwoo right?”

“Yeah!”

The car ride back was silent for the most part, but it was nothing uncomfortable. The two of you just chose to stay quiet and enjoy the silence, and at one point, Beomgyu rolled the windows down to enjoy the wind.

This has been the most relaxed you’ve been in a while, and you have no one else but Beomgyu to thank for that.

“We’re here~” He hummed and turned the car’s engine off before quickly getting out to open the door for you, “M’lady.”

“You’re so corny.” You got out of the car as the both of you exchanged your laughs and headed towards the entrance of Boba Babe.

No surprise here, Beomgyu opened the door for you again, and the two of you were automatically greeted by Chuu, who was waiting by the cashier register.

“Hey Y/Nnie~~~ Hi Beomgyu! What brings you guys here together?” Chuu greeted and raised an eyebrow suspiciously.

“We hung out at the arcade and I got hungry, so we stopped by here before we went back to our own dorms! What time are you coming back tonight?” You asked as Chuu input your order in since she already knew your order beforehand.

“Ummm not sure! My shift ends in an hour so maybe around then. Beomgyu what’s your order?” Chuu looked at the tall guy next to you.

“I’ll just get the same thing she’s getting.” Beomgyu grinned as Chuu nodded and doubled your order before turning the screen around for one of you guys to pay.

Right as Beomgyu was about to take his card out again, you quickly outdid him and slapped your card on the screen, the payment going through with a ding.

“Hey! You’re not allowed to pay!” Beomgyu crossed his arms as you smirked slyly at him.

“That’s too bad! You already paid for a lot today, this is the least I could do.” You stuck your tongue out at him as he shook his head in disagreement.

“You agreeing to hang out with me is enough.” Beomgyu grinned and you heard Chuu imitating a puke in front of you guys.

“Get a room! Joking joking, but I gotta get your orders ready so take a seat anywhere and we’ll bring it to you lovebirds when it’s done.”

You and Beomgyu sat down at a booth near the window on opposite sides.

“Thank you for bringing me out today, it was really fun!” You thanked him before stretching your arms in your seat.

“It was my pleasure, I had a lot of fun as well. I hope to do this again soon.” Beomgyu’s lips pressed together to form a thin smile as you nodded in agreement.

“Am I taking you to your dorm after this?” He questioned and bounced his leg up and down underneath the table.

“Ah, no need! I’m gonna stay with Chuu until her shift ends and go home with her.” You politely rejected, not wanting to put him through any more effort and work today. Right as Beomgyu opened his mouth to speak, somebody else opened the door the the café, erupting a short melody that announced whenever the entrance door opened. His face changed from enamored to distaste as he looked to see past you. Your curiosity got the better of you, and so turned your body to see who came in.

Lo and behold, it was Hyunjin. And he was staring right at you and Beomgyu with an unamused facial expression.

Before he came to visit Boba Babe, Hyunjin was actually taking a night stroll before heading home. He often does these on nights when he’s stressed, so he goes out to get some fresh air. Every other time, this walk would actually help him, but not today. Not when he spotted you with another guy through the window, smiling at each other.

The sight of you smiling at another guy made him want to take you away and kiss you right in from of him. Let’s just say he felt this way because… He doesn’t want to see you happy. Not cause he’s jealous or anything.

His heart dropped to his stomach and the urge to interrupt the little conversation you were in overcame him.

And so he did.

He opened the door of the Boba Babe, and just like he expected, the guy in front of you stared right at him with an annoyed expression, and it made him laugh inside. Hyunjin recognized him from the post that Y/N made the other day, and it only fueled his jealousy even more. When you turned back to look at him, he nearly lost all the thoughts in his mind and his confidence faltered.

Hyunjin hated how vulnerable you made him.

Still, he stood his ground and walked to your table with a mischievous smirk plastered on his face.

“Hey Y/N, I didn’t think you’d be here.” He conversed with you, completely ignoring the guy in front of you and devoting all his attention to you. And that pissed Beomgyu off.

“Can’t you see we’re busy here?” The boy grumbled in irritation.

The tension was high between the two guys and so you stayed quiet, not knowing what to say or do.

“Woah, fiery now, are we?” Hyunjin taunted, the smirk on his face gradually growing bigger. “Chill, me and Y/N are friends. I just wanted to greet her, can I not?”

Beomgyu abruptly stood up from his seat, standing at eye level with Hyunjin and scoffing at him. “Friends? Yeah right. She’s your ex dude. Leave her alone, she doesn’t need you. You already had your chance and you blew it.” He scowled only to get a laugh out of Hyunjin.

“So you know about me? Funny! Because I don’t know about you, so who’s really more important here? Yeah, we dated before, but we made up a few days ago and now we’re friends. Isn’t that right, Y/N?” Hyunjin smiled innocently at you as Beomgyu looked at you as well for confirmation.

“Uhh yeah. Yeah, we’re friends now.” You spoke quietly, just wishing for the tension to just die down already.

“Told you, man. Who are you anyway? My name’s Hyunjin, but you already know that.” He threw a smug look in Beomgyu’s direction as he scoffed, rolling his eyes.

“None of your fucking business. Y/N, it was lovely hanging out with you today but I’m gonna go before this asshole ruins my damn mood even more. Get to your dorms safely and text me when you get there.” Beomgyu smiled warmly at you before glaring at Hyunjin and walking out the door.

“Text me when you get there..” Hyunjin mocked under his breath quietly before taking the seat Beomgyu was sitting in with a smile.

“Here are your or….ders….? Where’s the dude you were with Y/N? And why is Hyunjin ew here instead?” Chaewon questioned and placed your drinks and snacks down on the table.

“Ah… Beomgyu left about a minute ago. And, well, Hyunjin’s here to keep me company now! Be nice.” You sighed as Chaewon squinted her eyes at him suspiciously.

“Okaaaay… Enjoy your food!” She waved goodbye and went back to behind the counter with Chuu, whispering something to her while looking in your direction still.

“Your friends still don’t like me, huh?” Hyunjin chuckled quietly as you nodded slowly.

“Yeah…”

“Can’t blame them. Sorry for causing a scene, I really just wanted to say hi to you.” He played it off and thankfully, you believed him.

“It’s okay, no worries. I’ll talk to him about it later, I’m not sure why he was so hostile towards you.” You mumbled as he shrugged it off.

“Doesn’t matter to me, it didn’t affect me.” Except, it did affect him.

Beomgyu saying that he blew his chance with you already hurt him. But it doesn’t make sense to him, why did it hurt?

“That’s a relief. You can take his drink, by the way, since he left already. I paid for it too so don’t worry.” You slid the extra drink towards him as he thanked you.

“He had you pay? What a loser.” Hyunjin shook his head before you butted in, “I wanted to pay because he paid for everything else when we hung out.”

He stayed silent, sipping on the drink. Why did you defend him? Do you like him?

“Ah okay. Who is he to you? If you don’t mind me asking.” He asked carefully, not wanting it to seem like he was interrogating you.

“I don’t mind, he’s just… an old friend? He’s sweet and nice, the both of you guys just got off on the wrong foot. He’s a sweetheart, I promise! Honestly, I could see us being together.” Your face blushed at the thought of it, and it made Hyunjin want to throw up.

Seriously?

He didn’t feel good.

In fact, his heart was aching just thinking about you with someone else.

The same feeling he felt four years ago.

“Oh. That’s nice.” Hyunjin visibly winced and drank some more.

I wish this cup was filled with alcohol instead... He thought to himself, wanting to stop his heart from hurting.

“Yeah. I guess it is. He’s perfect.”

Why were you doing this to him?

“He makes me laugh and I’m at peace with him.”

Why are you still going on about him?

“But there’s something missing.”

What?

“What?” Hyunjin knit his brows together in confusion, but also in relief.

“I don’t know. Everything about him is perfect in theory but it doesn’t feel right, you know? But maybe I just need to spend more time with him.” You held your cup with both hands with took a long sip, looking out the window.

“No.” The boy in front of you objected as you looked at him in surprise.

“No…?”

“No. It should feel right from the very first time you meet.” Hyunjin started nervously. “If it doesn’t feel right at the beginning, it won’t later on.” He didn’t know what he was saying, he didn’t even know if it made sense. All he knew was that he didn’t want you to spend any more time with the guy you were with.

“Maybe you’re right. He is a really good guy though, so it’s a shame.” You sighed sadly.

Hyunjin always told himself the reason why he doesn’t want you to be with somebody else is because he doesn’t wanna see you happy without him. So why? Why does it pain him even more to see you sad?

“You should still keep trying… just in case I’m wrong.” He bit his lip and squeezed his eyes shut.

Why did I say that??? Make up your mind! Do you want her to give him another chance or not??! He argued with himself in his head before your mellow voice snapped him back to reality.

“Maybe I should, but wouldn’t it be fucked up to keep going when I’m not sure of it? When he’s sure of me?”

“He told you he’s sure of you?”

“No, but it’s not hard to tell.”

“I see.”

“Yeah..”

“Can I walk you to your dorm?” Hyunjin questioned with a small smile, standing up from his seat.

“Mmm, sure.” You giggled and followed behind him.

“Chuu! Chaewon! Hyunjin’s gonna walk me back to the dorms.” You announced your departure as you walked beside Hyunjin, leaving the café together.

“Y/Nnie told Beomgyu she was gonna go home with me!” Chuu pouted as Chaewon laughed at patted her back.

“Well… Maybe she wasn’t feeling it with Beomgyu.”

“And she’s feeling it with Hyunjin instead?” Chuu rolled her eyes, only to get no response from Chaewon. “You seriously think so?”

“It’s a possibility.”

“Yeah, you’re right. A really big and RISKY possibility.”

“I just hope it doesn’t end up the same way it did before.”

~

“Are you okay?”

“…Huh?” You looked at him with an oblivious expression as he pointed down to your heels.

“You’ve been out this whole day, haven’t you? Aren’t your feet killing you?” Hyunjin raised an eyebrow at you. You guys have been walking for 10 minutes now, and he noticed your subtle limp from the beginning, but he didn’t want to point it out just in case you get embarrassed. The longer he went on ignoring it though, he became increasingly concerned until he eventually asked about it.

“I mean, they’re sore but I can take it. No biggie.”

Hyunjin shakes his head at your response before kneeling down on one knee, his back turned towards you.

“You know, if you’re going to propose, you’re supposed to face towards me.” You teased as he let out a laugh at your joke.

“Shut up Y/N, no way. Get on my back, I’m carrying you to your dorm.”

“But—“

“No buts. You’ve been limping this entire time and I can’t just ignore it anymore. I’m worried, and I should’ve just done this from the start.”

You figured that it was useless trying to argue back, and so you obeyed and wrapped your arms around his neck and positioned your legs on each side of him. Undoing the buckle on both your heels, you slide them off your feet and carry them in one hand.

Hyunjin’s hand hovered above your thighs warily and hesitantly, “Sorry but can I..?”

“Yes Hyunjin, you can.” You giggled at his shyness, his arms carefully wrapped around your thighs and lifted you up high in a piggy-back ride before standing up and continuing to walk.

“Thank you, Hyunjin. Really. I appreciate everything you do for me.” You thanked him and nuzzled your face into his hair, his fragrant shampoo stimulating your senses.

“It’s no problem at all Y/N.” He chuckled as his grip on your thighs tightened.

You were well aware that he was only doing so to make sure you were secure on his back, so why were you feeling butterflies in your stomach? Your face began to heat up in embarrassment as you whimpered, raising Hyunjin’s suspicions.

“Everything alright?”

“Y..yeah sorry.”

“No, I’M sorry if this is making you uncomfortable. I just didn’t want you to be in pain and I want you to be safe up there.”

“No, it’s not making me uncomfortable it’s just that uh..”

“Just that what?”

You kept quiet, not wanting to continue in fear of exposing yourself.

It was then that Hyunjin finally got the idea of what was going on, and he couldn’t stop himself from chuckling.

You were so damn cute.

But for your sake, he decides to not bring it up and mention it. At least, not yet, anyway.

After an agonizing 10 minutes of your life, you were finally approaching your dorm room, and you have never felt more relieved in your life.

“Y/N where are your keys?” Hyunjin asked, standing in front of the door with you still on his back.

“Here I can unlock it, put me down.” You signaled him to put you down but he didn’t budge. “Hyunjin?”

“You’re barefoot, touching the floor is nasty, just give me the keys and I’ll carry you to your bed.” He insisted and pats your thigh before opening his palm, expecting you to drop your drops into it, which you did.

After struggling with putting the key in for a second or two, he manages to get the door open.

“Which one’s your room?”

“The first door on the left.”

And so, he takes you there. Gently placing you down on the bed, Hyunjin grabs all your stuff out of your hands and sets them down on what he could only assume was your desk (it was littered with sonny angels).

“Do you need anything else before I leave?” He questions and sits down on the edge of your bed, keeping eye contact with you.

A part of him wanted you to tell him to stay, or maybe mention what happened between the two of you when he was carrying you earlier, but he knew neither one of those would happen.

And you only proved him right.

“No, that’s all. Thank you again, you take such good care of me. I’m grateful for you.” You gave him a warm and tender smile and he returned it before standing up and heading to the door. “Bye Y/N. I’ll see you around.” And with that, he left.

You fell back on your bed and stared at the ceiling before burying your head into your pillow and screaming, kicking your feet.

Hyunjin barely did anything and yet he was stuck in your mind. You spent the entire day with Beomgyu, and yet the mere 30 minutes you spent with Hyunjin was enough to keep you up all night just thinking of the interactions between you two.

The way his voice would always soften whenever he talked to you, the way he would treat you so tenderly and carefully, and unfortunately, the way his hands so felt right resting on your thighs.

What a long day, today was.

𝜗𝜚 WTK series masterlist

TAGLIST (OPEN)! @jeonginplsholdmyhand @jeonginsgirl @mlrroh @mafiulaputaama @seungzsmin @hannie-bees @skz1lov @porang-poranglinos @sillyhal @mitchii @nessas-archive @soulphoenix1618 @gnab-nahc @yongbokkiesworld @hyunjins-dimples @nappynapnaps @0914-space @isagerada @15092000volcano @livixcore @linocvp1d @yaorzu-blog @scallywag1299 @boo-ven9eance @lys4lix @kirbrary @amaranthlvr @4ln-stay8 @sellomaybe @aznstoner @saintcosette @starseungs

if your blog is underlined, it means i wasn’t able to tag you :’(

[constantcrisis19]

Making Progress

Simon "Ghost" Riley x GN S/O

AN: So I did a thing. I was dragged into the COD fandom kicking and screaming and now I can't get the skull man or the feral Scot out of my head. Enjoy!

Word Count: 2,172

You gracelessly slumped into one of the seats that lined the right wall of the helo's hull with a relieved groan that probably wasn't all that appropriate outside of certain bedroom activities if the several wide-eyed stares you suddenly found aimed your way by the soldiers dutifully filing into the bird was any indication, but you were much too tired to care about the mix of shocked and judgmental looks being thrown your way.

You still had your headphones on, the low bass music humming through the speakers keeping your hands from shaking like they wanted to when you weren't holding a weapon. The weariness that seemed intent on weighing down your frame reared its ugly head now that you were coming down from the rush of adrenaline that you got every time you went out into the field. 

You leaned your head back on the metal wall behind your chosen seat and closed your eyes, not even bothering to buckle yourself in as you instead focused on taking deep breaths, the floor under your boots vibrating as the rest of your haggard team moved about to secure the helo for lift off. 

You figured that it wouldn’t be much longer before they closed the bay doors to seal them in if the faint rumbling sound of the engine warming up echoing through the hull as the massive blades atop the helo slowly began to spin was any indication. 

You were distracted from your musings when you heard someone take the open seat next to you. You looked over to see none other than Ghost, the man not bothering to even look up from his task to meet your questioning stare as he meticulously buckled in.

A silent and awkward tension slowly built up between you two, and Ghost still hadn't even offered a word of greeting.

You were about to break the silence with something when the helo began picking up speed, its blades spinning faster and louder and causing you to quickly buckle your own seat belt without even thinking about it, the noise of the engine drowning out the music that you had been listening to.

The helo slowly began to rise into the air as its rotors reached the speed needed for it to lift off, moving up until you could see the city below through the windows getting smaller.

You lifted a hand up to grab your headphones, shifting one of the earpads away from your ear to rest against the side of your head before you decided to break the silence yourself, clearing your throat nervously before speaking.

"Been a hell of a day, huh, sir?" You said while staring at the side of Ghost's head, his intimidating skull mask blocking your view of his face as you tried to break the ice.

The only response you got from Ghost was a slight grunt, his mask not moving from his straight and relaxed staring. His complete lack of emotion made it feel as if he hadn't even heard you, his only other reaction being him shifting his gun to the side, the barrel pointed off behind him. And, after a few more seconds of silence, he finally spoke up again. "Yes. It has."

"What are you gonna do to unwind when we get back? I personally feel that we could all do with a nap." You stated with a longing sigh, you desperately missed your bed but, at the rate that you were going, you'd be willing to lay on a slab of concrete if it meant that you could get a few uninterrupted hours of sleep.

"Nothing." Ghost stated coldly, his answer blunt and almost unnaturally calm. He didn't seem to be annoyed or anything, just that simple answer of 'nothing'. "You?"

You blinked at him for a moment, caught off guard by Ghost actually actively engaging you in conversation by prompting you to give an answer of your own. "Uh, I was thinking that I'd take a shower and then crawl into bed and stay there until somebody checks up on me to make sure I haven't suddenly up and died." You replied with a shrug before squinting at Ghost curiously. "You really have absolutely no routine to come down from such a shitty mission?"

"No."

Again, his response was short and blunt, no trace of any emotion in his voice as he stared out into nothing. His lack of any kind of routine was almost eerie, it was as if he simply didn't have a need for it, as if he simply had no reaction whatsoever to the exhausting and life-threatening events that you and the rest of the squad constantly got dragged into.

"Come on, Lt, there's gotta be something. Humor me." You prompted with a good-natured smile, and Ghost finally turned his head to level his dull, brown eyes at you.

"I sit in the dark. Sometimes for hours. And I think." Ghost responded simply, the fact that his eyes didn't betray a single hint of emotion even as he described this almost frighteningly dark process he went through after each mission only made that statement even more unsettling.

"Jesus." You breathed in response, not even sure if a paid therapist could successfully unpack all that laid beneath such a simple statement. "You like tea, right?" You asked a little bit desperately. "Why don't you try making a cup for yourself when we get back? I'll even join you if you'd like?"

You weren't even that big a fan of tea, but you'd tolerate the less than desirable taste if it meant that Ghost didn't sit in his room, in the dark, all by himself.

"Tea?" Ghost questioned blankly, still staring at you with that same cold, blank expression on his face, a slight head tilt accompanying his question as if it had simply never occurred to him to take up such an action. He then stayed silent for a few moments as he thought over the idea, before eventually responding in a soft yet simple, non-committal way. "Why not."

"Cool. Do you have a specific flavor of tea that you tend to gravitate towards?" You asked, feeling proud of the progress you've made in engaging Ghost in conversation so far. The man was antisocial, sure, but that didn't mean that he was impossible to talk to, it just meant that it took a little bit of elbow grease to get him to loosen up.

"...earl gray." Ghost stated with that same non-emotional blankness. It almost sounded more as if he was reciting his tea preference, like it was something that he had been programmed to say, rather than an actual personal decision.

"Oh, jeez. Could you be any more British?" You teased with a lighthearted grin.

"What would you like?" Ghost continued, countering your question with a question of his own, and completely ignoring your comment about his tea preferences.

You thought about it for a moment, tipping your head back against the metal hull behind you to squint up at the bright fluorescent lights that lit up the enclosed space before answering. "I'm personally fond of London Fog. Though, I feel inclined to warn you that it's very sweet."

The tea you liked took copious amounts of both milk and sugar to make, but you had one hell of a sweet tooth so you believed that it was very much worth the potential cavities. That being said, you figured that Ghost most likely wouldn’t enjoy London Fog tea since you’ve never even seen him use sugar in his own preferred tea on the rare occasion he had some free time to make some. 

"I see." Ghost said in a slightly more questioning tone than usual, a sign that your comment about the tea being sweet had caught him off guard. Still, he didn't show any signs of dislike about the idea, and instead kept up his same blank stare as he considered this new information.

"Alright." He then said, seemingly approving of your choice.

"Perfect." You stated with a wide grin, feeling pleased as pie that you managed to rope the infamously reclusive Ghost into some social interaction with you.

"Oh! I have a playlist that I usually play to help me wind down and it's become kind of a habit to listen to it after missions. You don't mind if I were to play it aloud while we drink tea, do you?" You asked when the thought came to you, looking at Ghost imploringly and hoping that he wouldn't mind.

"I don't mind."

This time, Ghost replied in a slightly more casual tone, his statement sounding more like him stating an honest personal answer rather than merely a programmed response.

He then gave a simple nod as he added, "You can play it."

Your smile widened, an intense feeling of giddiness rising inside you as you realized that Ghost was warming up to you, the man's slow but steady emergence from his shell making you bold. "Do you listen to any music?"

This question seemed to catch Ghost off guard a little bit, a noticeable flinching of his eyebrows in surprise as a slow and confused nod crept up on his face.

"Rarely." He said hesitantly, seeming deep in thought for a few moments as he was clearly struggling to remember a song. "Classical, usually."

Your eyes widened as you stared at him incredulously. Heavy metal, sure you could see him listening to that angry stuff. Alternate, yeah maybe certain starving artists that sang about their like trauma and struggles or something. But classical? Never in a million years would you have guessed that the dark, brooding Ghost listened to classical music and if anybody would have suggested it, you would've laughed in their face.

"No way." You laughed, not unkindly, and lightly nudged his shoulder with your own, barely enough force to even jostle him since the last thing you wanted was for him to see the gesture as some sort of attack. "Who's your favorite composer?"

"...Beethoven." Ghost said simply, as if it were the most obvious answer in the world. "You?" He then asked after a short pause.

"You know... that actually makes a lot of sense." You mused as you stretched your arms over your head. From what you remembered of Beethoven's compositions, most of them were dark, powerful swells of music that scratched a very specific itch in the back of your hindbrain. "As for my favorite, I'll have to go with Bach."

"...Bach." Ghost echoed blandly, as if he were trying out the name for the first time and figuring how it sounded. After a few seconds, he replied. "What do you like about him?"

Ghost had never shown much curiosity to anything outside the scope of his usual tasks or duties, so seeing him so interested in such a mundane topic was... intriguing, to say the least.

"I guess I just like powerful music that tells a story and makes you feel something, ya know?" You said as you slouched back in your seat as much as the straps would let you.

"Powerful." Ghost echoed the word in a slow, monotonous drawl, and seemed to mull over the word for a few seconds before speaking again. "Define 'powerful' in this context."

He seemed oddly fixated on this particular word.

"The slow crescendo into a thunderous roar as the climax of the composition hits... until that intense mix of harmonies are all that's ringing in your ears... I suppose a word that I could've used instead of powerful could be 'all-consuming'." You gesticulated as you spoke. You were very passionate about music, as evidenced by how animated you became while rambling.

Ghost nodded slowly, seeming to consider your words as his unblinking, unmoving stare pierced through the helo's hull.

"And Bach's music makes you feel that way?"

There was that same note of mild surprise in his voice as he spoke, as if he couldn't quite believe you were able to describe the sensation so clearly.

"Yeah, I can add a few of my favorites to my playlist, just for you if you're interested." You said with a smile, only half teasing. There was no doubt in your mind that if Ghost did end up saying yes, you would absolutely add some classical tracks to your wind down playlist, if not to further encourage future get-togethers with you and maybe broaden his music tastes in the process.

Ghost stayed silent for another few moments, his face turning into a slight and rare grin as he found something genuinely amusing about what you had said.

"Sure." Ghost said simply, once again with that simple, neutral tone of voice. "...Thanks."

It was his first instance of genuine kindness throughout this entire short conversation, a small thank you that he added on in a soft, genuinely appreciative tone. He even flashed you a faint yet real smile, and while it was brief, it was more than most people had seen from him.

It was progress.

[crazycurly-77]

A beautiful day - pt. 2

"...maybe I can be your family...if you want?"

These were his words. You stood there and just looked at him. That couldn't be, you had to be dead or laying in bed dreaming. Or your mind and ears were just playing tricks on you.

Then suddenly everything around you went black and you fainted. Gibbs was just able to catch you as you collapsed. He picked you up and carried you quickly to the ambulance.

"Paramedics! Quick! She just collapsed and is unconscious!" Gibbs called to them and laid you on the stretcher outside of the ambulance.

They examined you as best they could and then told the worriedly waiting team Gibbs that everything was okay. It seemed to be just a reaction to the pressure wave. Nevertheless, they took you to the Bethesda Hospital for further examinations and observation.

When you arrived at the hospital, you were immediately taken to the examination room and doctors rushed over, but after a short time the head doctor came to your colleagues who were waiting in the corridor and told them that everything was okay.

“We have treated her wounds, which are fortunately only superficial. The pressure wave must have hit her hard, which is why she became unconscious, but she will probably come to soon.”

The doctor put his hand on Tony's shoulder, who was standing next to him, and smiled “don't worry, everything's fine.”

That was good to hear, but there was someone who needed the comfort more than Tony. This someone was none other than Gibbs, who nearly stood beside himself, because of worry for you. So the team leader asked “Can we go to her?”

“Yes, of course. Down the corridor on the left, last room.”

While the doctor was answering Gibbs' question, your boss was already running towards your room. He absolutely had to see for himself that you were really okay.

The team shared his wish and ran after him.

You were pale and partially bandaged, but otherwise you seemed fine. There were no monitors or tubes connected to you. That was a good sign and everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Now that they were all convinced that you were fine, everyone headed home until only Ducky and Gibbs were left.

“Don't you want to go home, too? She's in the best hands,” Ducky asked his old friend and gently placed his hand on his shoulder.

Gibbs just shook his head “I can't, Duck. I have to stay with her.”

Doctor Mallard nodded understandingly and also went home.

Now you two were alone in your room. Gibbs pulled up a chair next to your bed, sat down on it with a deep sigh, took your hand in his and began keeping watch at your side.

He would have sat next to you as long as necessary, but luckily you woke up again after 3 hours.

You looked around and realized that you were in the hospital and Gibbs was sitting next to your bed, holding your hand and sleeping.

You had never seen him so relaxed. Sleeping, he seemed somehow sweet and peaceful. At this thought, you couldn't help but laugh quietly.

If he knew that you had just called him sweet in your thoughts...

... he would be very happy about it, but you didn't know that. At least not yet. 

You gently squeezed his hand to wake him up - and it worked.

He was awake immediately and your eyes met.

"I didn't want to shock you so much that you fainted," he explained immediately with a good-natured wink.

To which you replied with a broad grin and a "You're simply stunning," always holding his gaze.

That was your thing, your dynamic. Stick together and tease each other like two good old friends who have been through a lot together.

The two of you burst into loud laughter at your joke, which the doctor in the hallway heard. He came in, asked how you were and told you that you could go home the next day.

That was very good news. You were allowed to work too, but only at your desk. And there was no other option, because as soon as you entered the bullpen the next day, Gibbs held your transfer papers under your nose and said with satisfaction, "You're now working for me as an explosives expert. Advisory work, no more defusing."

You could only stare at him, because you hadn't expected that a transfer would be possible so quickly. But hey, he was Jethro Gibbs after all, he could make a lot of things possible.

But as you were about to go to the only empty desk in the room with the papers in your hand, Abby came running and called excitedly: “Gibbs, Gibbs, Gibbs! I found something very interesting!”

He turned to her and asked: “What, Abs?”

“There was baking powder on the bomb!”

Surprised, you went to her “Baking powder? Are you sure?”

“Yes, absolutely.”

Concerned, you turned to the boss: “I think I know the builder of the bomb.”

Immediately his analyzing blue eyes turned to you with the silent request to continue.

“During my training there was a student who always used baking powder. He had a thing for the TV series MacGyver from the 80s.”

“So what?” Gibbs wanted to know.

“He went crazy during his training and preferred to build bombs rather than defuse them, which is why he was sent to a psychiatric hospital. But by the looks of things he is probably free again,” you informed him worriedly.

That was apparently the last clue Gibbs needed: “His name?” he asked immediately.

“Adrian Turner”

“McGee, address!” he asked him immediately to research it.

Tim did a quick search on the computer, found the suspect, and Gibbs and Tony were on their way to arrest him, while you stayed in the office and Tim had to look after you.

(To be continued...in the last chapter 3)

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Here you will find the other chapters of this story.

Masterlist stories - Part 1

Masterlist stories - Part 2

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Tags: @ilovemark1951, @hobby27

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[jamesbetch]

The Return Of Time

Prologue

Lucerys ran down the crumbling walls of Hogwarts while holding a tight grip on his wand.

He had just killed Nagini, the last horcrux.

The sword of Gryffindor appeared out of the Sorting Hat right before she was able to kill Ron and Hermione.

Everyone had already run away towards the Great Hall, Harry and Voldemort now battling it out.

He looked down at the pocket watch he tightly held on with left his land. A few hours ago when they were in the Room of Requirement looking for the diadem, he found an old pocket watch. It called his attention for some reason, as if it were calling to him to pick it up.

He grabbed and placed it in his pocket before Goyle set the room on fire.

He stops running before looking up at his surroundings. He was in a random hallway for some reason. He was so focused on looking at the pocket watch in his hand that he didn’t realize that he was running farther away from the Great Hall, where everyone else was at.

He tensed up at the sound of a chill laugh and several voices. Rounding the corner was none other than Bellatrix Lestrange with two other death eaters he didn’t recognize.

“Little baby Black. Did you get lost?” Bellatrix teasingly asks after the shocked gasp that she let out.

Luke immediately raises his wand, readying himself to fight them. Before he is able to spit out a spell, all three of them send a curse his way. He tightened his grip on the pocket watch, preparing himself for the pain before he passes out.

Bellatrix and the two death eaters stare in shock at the sight in front of them. Or rather, at the lack of sight of the Black boy.

“You bloody idiots! What did you do!”

Luke wakes up with a jolt. He feels as though he were falling through an endless tunnel, bright blue and purple lights surrounding him.

He falls with a hard slam on the concrete floor before looking up and taking in his surroundings. He was standing outside of 12 Grimmauld Place, where he lived for the first 11 years of his life.

He sees Dumbledore, who was accompanied by Professor McGonagall, walk towards the front door of 12 Grimmauld Place before knocking. In his arms, he held a small figure covered in a light blue blanket that had the initials ‘L.R.B.’ sewed in the corner.

“Professor!” He calls out but neither of them turn around. “Professor?”

Before he can call out to them again, the front door is open. Kreacher stands there while looking at them with a snarl in his face.

“Kreacher!” He hears a voice call out.

Soon, Kreacher is joined by a woman who looked to be in her early fifties. He immediately recognized her as his grandmother, Walburga Black.

“Albus. Minerva.” She curtly says while looking at them with disdain.

“I’m sure you already know why we are here.” Dumbledore calmly states. “This is your grandson, Lucerys Regulus Black.”

They could all see how her sneer immediately faded as she looked down at the baby boy. His wife grey eyes that he inherited from his father stared back her in amazement before he started giggling. His chubby arms reached out towards her, begging for her to carry him.

“You are his grandmother. If you won’t take care of him, he will be sent to live with Sofia’s siblings.” Dumbledore adds.

“You want to send him to live with squibs?” She asks in disgust. “Absolutely not! They are demon spawn. He will live with me, I shall raise him.”

Walburga grabbed a hold of the giggling baby, causing him to loudly squeal in excitement. He babbles as he places his chubby hands on her cheeks. She stares back at him, feeling her throat tighten and her eyes start to glisten with tears.

She immediately composes herself, as if remembering that people were standing in front of her.

“I will raise him.” She says before slamming the door shut.

Luke feels himself being pulled back into that portal before he appears in 12 Grimmauld Place again. This time he stood in the kitchen.

He watched several memories happen right in front of him. Walburga feeding him as he sat in his high chair, his crawling towards her before standing up and taking his first steps, her teaching him how to read and write, playing with Kreacher, losing his first tooth, being told stories of his dad and uncle from when they were kids and being read bed time stories before being tucked into bed.

He wasn’t allowed to go outside, really. If she had to buy anything or run any errands, she would send Kreacher or leave him in charge of Luke while she was gone.

For an entire decade, no one in the wizarding world saw, knew or heard of the Black boy.

They knew he was put in the care of Walburga Black but that was it. Many assumed he would be tortured, abused and neglected, as that was what had happened with Sirius and Regulus, but that was far from the truth.

Walburga cared for him and loved him. He was her only grandson and she would protect him. That same night that he arrived at 12 Grimmauld Place, Walburga promised herself that she would be different this time. She wouldn’t raise him like how she raised Sirius and Regulus. She wouldn’t standby and watch anyone hurt him like how she did with her boys.

No, every mistake she committed with Sirius and Regulus, she fixed with him. After all, he was all she had left. Sirius was in Azkaban, for something she felt to be untrue, and Regulus was dead. Her only daughter-in-law laid in a coma for almost an entire year after what happened and when she did wake up, she was deemed mentally insane.

Most people were shocked to see an old and stern looking, Walburga Black standing in Platform 9 3/4 while an excited and hyper young boy bounced up and down beside her.

They were even more caught off guard when she took the young boy in her embrace while kissing his face. The boy reciprocating the love his grandmother was showing him.

He was unaware of her illness and how that would be the last time he would ever be held by his stern but sweet grandma, Wally.

As the months passed he grew more and more excited for Christmas break but his excitement quickly diminished. In late November, he was called to Dumbledore’s office where he received the news that his grandmother had passed away.

He watched as his eleven year old self sobbed in McGonagall’s arms. The older witch holding a tight grip on the young boy, with a look of pity on her face.

He had been excused to be able to attend her funeral. He didn’t want to go at first but relented after Professor McGonagall reassured him that she would accompany him. The young boy stood with tears streaming down his face as he watched the casket be lowered into the ground, the older witch had her hands placed on his shoulders comfortingly.

During Christmas break, he stayed at Hogwarts with Harry and Ron. In his mind, he figured he would go and live with Kreacher in 12 Grimmauld Place. But as the summer break approached, he realized he had guessed wrong.

He had been forced to live with his aunt, Meralda, and his uncle, Robert Jr. They lived together in a house he later found out belonged to his grandparents. After their death, they inherited the house they grew up in and they just never moved out.

Both of them were single, unmarried and childless. But they were both bitter as if they had gone through five marriages and divorces and had twenty kids each.

They were kind enough to let him sleep in the room that used to belong to his mum when she was growing up. Though it was completely vacant, apart from a twin sized bed and an empty dresser, he still felt comforted and at peace. Almost as if he could feel his mum’s warm embrace holding him in her arms.

He saw himself when he started second year. When the chamber of secrets was opened, all of the attacks, trying to figure out what was attacking the students, and finally when he, along with Harry and Ron, entered the chamber with Lockhart to save Ginny.

He saw everything that happened when the school year ended and he was sent back to live with his aunt and uncle. How they would starve him, force to clean and cook, hit him when he committed small and simple mistakes and all the words they would yell at him with strong hatred.

He learned to keep his mouth shut about his mum and dad, quickly realizing that their names or them being mentioned immediately pissed them off which would result in him getting beat.

During all the years he lived with his grandma, Wally, she never mentioned why his mum and dad weren’t around. He didn’t know anything that happened. Sure, he knew that he was one of the two kids that could have become ‘the chosen one’ and what happened with the Potter’s on Halloween in 1981 but he didn’t know what happened to his family.

Every time he would ask his grandma, she would change the conversation or just plainly tell him not to ask about that. The only time she would speak of them would be when she would tell him stories of his dad growing up and when he was at Hogwarts or stories of his mum when she was friends with his uncle and a few after she started dating his dad.

He didn’t know that his dad was in Azkaban, much less that he was there for a crime he didn’t commit. Or how his mum was in St. Mungo’s after being tortured into insanity by his dad’s cousin.

It wasn’t until third year when the truth started to unravel for the young boy.

He had immediately connected with Professor Lupin, someone he soon found out that was friends with his parents when they attended Hogwarts. During that time, it felt like his only friend was his Professor.

Harry, Ron and Hermione quickly ditched him when they found out that his dad was Sirius Black.

At first, Harry was a bit bothered that Sirius was his father but reassured him that he wasn’t his dad and he didn’t hate him. But that quickly changed after Sirius tried breaking into Gryffindor tower.

The trio immediately pointed fingers at Luke, not hesitating to ditch the young boy. They would glare at him, talk behind his back and even speak ill of him. But they weren’t the only ones.

Everyone in Hogwarts hated Luke. They all picked on him because he was Sirius’ son, therefore he had to be responsible for helping him trying to break into the castle.

The only person he could really talk to was Professor Lupin, who was always there for him when he would break down and cry. He would offer comforting words before offering chocolate to him. The same chocolate his mum would always have, as he told him.

They were small heart shaped chocolates that were covered in a red tin foil. She always said that that was her favorite chocolate and was one she always ate since she was a small child. She loved those chocolates so much that she always carried them with her, so that whenever someone was sad, angry, hungry, or moody, she would give them a chocolate.

Professor Lupin soon found out that he had never once visited his mum because his grandma never let him out and because his aunt and uncle would rather die than step foot in St. Mungo’s. So, as a surprise, he took Luke to St. Mungo’s during christmas break to visit his mum for the first time.

He could see how terrified he was. How his hands shook as he slowly walked alongside Lupin down the white and empty halls of St. Mungo’s. They continued walking before stopping in front of a light brown door.

Remus, unbeknownst to Luke, was incredibly familiar with this door and the hallways. Of course he was familiar with the route, he had probably walked that route over a million times whenever he visited his dear friend over the twelve years that she’s been in there.

Luke watched his thirteen year old self stand completely still as he looked at his mum for the first time in twelve years through the window. The blinds were open causing him to be able to see his mum as sat on a fluffy chair while knitting what looked to be a blanket.

She had dark brown hair that reached her hips and front bangs, just like how her hair was in all the pictures he’s been showed of her when she was in Hogwarts. She had a slight furrow in her eyebrows as her dark brown eyes concentrated on the task she was doing.

He watches Remus comfort his younger self, reassuring to take his time while agreeing to stay with him.

His hand reaches out and knocks on the wooden door before opening it. He slowly walks into the room, Remus following him in before closing the door, while staring at his mum.

She places her things down while slowly standing up and walking towards him. Her hands close to her chest as if she was nearing a wild animal. She stares at him with her eyes wide in wonder and her mouth slightly agape, as if she was trying to process what was happening.

“Luke.” She softly says while placing her right hand on his cheek.

Remus stares in shock after hearing her talk. He had warned Luke that she wouldn’t speak as she hadn’t said a single word since Halloween of 1981. But finally after twelve years, she spoke.

She breaks out into a wide smile before giggling, “Luke.” She repeats.

“You know who I am?” He asks with his voice cracking as tears stream down his face.

She nods, “Luke.”

She looks around the room, as if trying to find something to help her say what she wants to say before ultimately giving up. She points to her stomach, eagerly.

“Stomach?” Luke asks in confusion causing her to shake her head.

She continues to point to her stomach before moving her hand in a curve. She grows a bit frustrated as the young boy continues to look at her in confusion before moving her arms in a rocking motion. She points to her stomach, moves her hand in a curve and rocks her arms before Remus finally guesses.

“Baby?”

She excitedly nods while pointing at Remus, as if trying to say that that is what she wanted to say, before she speaks up again.

“Baby.” She excitedly says while pointing towards herself.

“You?” Luke asks as she points to herself before she shakes her head again. “Me? Mine? My?”

She excitedly giggles while clapping and nodding her head, slightly jumping up and down.

“My baby.” She says with a wide smile. “Luke.”

The young boy stares at the excited woman in shock before bursting into tears and tightly hugging her. His shoulders shook as he hid his face in his mum’s neck as he continued to sob.

His sobs growing as his mum wrapped her arms around his shoulders and softly ran her fingers through his hair.

“My baby, Luke.” She continuously says. “My baby. Luke. My baby, Luke. My Luke.”

She kept a wide smile on her face as she hugged her son while softly swaying them from side to side.

After he’s able to calm down, she eagerly and excitedly pulls out a huge cardboard box from a small closet in the room. She opens the box and pulls everything out while excitedly showing him.

There was sweaters with a big ‘L’ at front, blankets with the initials ‘L.R.B.’, beanies with a small ‘L’ sewed on, scarves with the same ‘L’ sewed on and crocheted plush toys of a black dog.

Just like how there was sweaters, blankets, beanies and scarves with his initials, there was also with a ‘S’ and ‘S.O.B.’ initials on them.

Tears were streaming down his face as he watched his younger self with his mum, who was now probably confused and terrified while being all alone in 12 Grimmauld Place.

The scene changes as his third year continues. He sees as the three teenagers run after Ron after saying their goodbyes to Buckbeak. They run into the Whomping Willow after him, after almost being killed by the bloody tree.

They walk up the old and creaking stairs before walking into the room where Ron was in, laying in the bed while holding Scabbers in his hands.

“He’s an animagus!” He faintly hears Ron yell out.

The three teenagers face the door after it’s slammed shut, showing Sirius Black standing there. Luke faced his father, who had long matted hair and dirty, ripped clothes that showed his emaciated body.

“If you want to kill Harry, you’ll have to kill us too.” Hermione says while standing in front of Harry after shoving Luke away from them.

His father stares back at him with the same grey eyes. Tears gather in the older man’s eyes as he looks at his son for the first time in twelve years.

“My boy.” He whispers before Harry lunges at him and throws to the ground while chocking him.

Sirius chuckles as Harry points his wand at him. “Are you going to kill me, Harry?”

Before anyone can say a word, the door is slammed open. Professor Lupin barging in before yelling out a quick ‘Expelliarmus!’ causing Harry’s wand to go flying.

Luke watches his father and Remus reunite, before Hermione stares yelling at them and his younger self. Exposing Remus of being a werewolf and accusing Luke of helping his father with trying to kill Harry.

“Wait!” Remus calls out to Sirius.

“I did my waiting! Twelve years of it! In Azkaban!”

“Very well. Kill him.” Remus states while handing him his wand. “But wait one more minute. They have the right to know why.”

“I know why. You betrayed my parents. You’re the reason they’re dead.”

“No, Harry, it wasn’t him. Somebody did betray your parents but it was somebody who until quite recently I believe to be dead.”

“Who was it than?”

“Peter Pettigrew!” Sirius yells out.

Professor Snape barges into the room, Remus and Sirius bickering back and forth with him before Harry blasts him into the bed. They grab Scabbers from Ron’s hands and send several spells it’s way before it finally turns into an old, ugly, short man with a huge bald spot.

“Remus. Sirius. My old friends!” Peter calls out before trying to escape.

He looks around the room before making eye contact with Luke and walking up to him.

“Luke, you look so much like your father. And your uncle, Regulus. Your mum and uncle wouldn’t want Sirius to become a murderer.” He desperately says.

“Get away from my son, you filthy rat!” Sirius yells while pushing Peter away from Luke. “How dare you speak to Luke! You’re the reason he grew up without his father!”

“You sold James and Lily to Voldemort, didn’t you? And you framed Sirius!” Remus yells out while pointing his wand at Peter.

They continue yelling back and forth, trying to kill Peter before all conversation ceases once Harry says that they’ll give Peter to the dementors.

The four teenagers are sat by the Whomping Willow, checking up on Ron’s injury.

“I’m sorry for accusing you and for everything i’ve done this year.” Harry says while staring in remorse towards Luke.

“It’s ok. I know you thought that my dad was the reason you lost your parents, I would’ve probably reacted the same if I was in your position.” His younger self replies while shrugging.

“I’m sorry too.” Hermione says.

“Yeah, me too.” Ron adds.

“It’s alright. I understand.” He says while smiling at them.

“You should go.” Ron says while nodding towards Sirius.

“No, Harry should. He just found out that he’s not responsible for his parents dea-“

“He’s your dad, Luke.” Harry says. “Go.”

Luke stands to the side as he watches his thirteen year old self walk up to his father, him following. He feels his eyes start to water as he watches himself with his dad, who he lost two years ago.

“I’m sorry, Luke. I’m sorry for not being there for you and your mum. I would understand if you didn’t want anything to do with me-“

“Are you mental? You’re my dad.” Luke says after cutting him off. “Besides your the only one I have left, really.”

“What do you mean?” Sirius asks while staring at him confused.

“Well, Grandma Wally passed away in my first year and mum’s in St. Mungo’s. I barely met her a couple of months ago. And no offense to mum, but her siblings are awful.”

“Sofia is in St. Mungo’s? What do you mean? And Grandma Wally - what are you talking about? Her siblings. How do you know them?”

“Do you not know?” Luke asks. “After what happened, I was sent to live with Grandma Wally- Walburga. She passed away right before Christmas break in my first year.”

“You were sent to live with my mother?” Sirius asks incredulously. “Who sent you to live with her?”

“Dumbledore-“

“Dumbledore?!”

“Yes, Dumbledore.”

“Why weren’t you living with your mum? Why is she in St. Mungo’s? You said you barely met her a couple of months ago-“ Sirius asks while looking terrified.

“You don’t know?” Luke slowly asks.

“Know what?” Sirius basically yells back, desperate to know what happened to his wife while he was incarcerated.

“After you left that night, I’m guessing to go after Peter, death eaters found mum’s location. It was four of them, Bellatrix, Rodolphus, Rabastan and Barty Jr. They tortured her into insanity.” Luke softly says.

He watches his father stagger backwards as his eyes fill up with tears, disbelief written all over his face.

“No, no. That’s not possible. She was safe.” He says while shaking his head, looking everywhere except at him.

“Dad-“

“What happened? What happened to her?” He desperately asks while holding Luke’s face in his hands. “What happened when I was gone?”

“Remus told me that she was in a coma for months, almost an entire year to be exact. I was sent to live with Grandma and she passed away during my first year in November. After first year ended, I was sent to live with my mum’s siblings, Meralda and Robert.”

“What happened afterwards?” Sirius asks, desperate to know everything.

“Well, Grandma never spoke about what happened to you or mum. I didn’t know that you were in Azkaban and that she was in St. Mungo’s. Every time I asked Meralda and Robert, they would get mad and never said anything. It wasn’t until this year that I found out that you were in Azkaban and you escaped. Professor Lupin spoke to me about you and mum, he was the one who told me where mum was. And he took me to visit her during Christmas break.”

“All this time, she’s been in St. Mungo’s?” Sirius asks, his voice cracking and tears streaming down his face.

“Luke!” Hermione and Harry yell.

The father and son turn to look at them, only to find Remus staring at the full moon.

Seventeen year old Luke watches his younger self help his friends. He watches Remus, in the werewolf form, run into the woods.

After watching them use the time turner Hermione had and help his dad escape, the scene changes.

He watches himself finish his third year and start summer break. Before he is picked up by the Weasley’s to attend the Quidditch World Cup.

His fourth year starts with the announcement of the Triwizard Tournament. He slightly winces as he stares at Cedric Diggory sitting in the Hufflepuff table with his friends.

The names are chosen, Harry being picked as well. The tasks begin and watches them all with a pit in his stomach, knowing what would happen to the Diggory boy but being unable to do anything about it.

During the first week of summer break before his fifth year begins, he receives a letter from Dumbledore informing him that he had to speak to him urgently.

He watches himself as he sits in Dumbledore’s office, the older wizard just having finished informing the young boy of the attack on St. Mungo’s. Explaining how death eaters swarmed the hospital, no doubt trying to kidnap his mother.

He sees himself relax when he’s informed that she was unharmed and they were unsuccessful in kidnapping her as there were several auror’s already there who happened to be visiting an injured coworker.

He arrives at 12 Grimmauld Place through floo after his conversation with Dumbledore ends. He had all of his belongings with him already as Dumbledore mentioned him to do so in the letter. As he steps out the fire place, the first thing he sees is Kreacher dusting a painting.

“Kreacher!” Luke excitedly calls out at the sight of the house elf.

“Master Lucerys.” He replies while bowing. “Kreacher is pleased to see Master Lucerys.”

“I’m very pleased to see you too, Kreacher. I’m sure you have time to play tea time with me, just like old times.” He finishes with a laugh as he fondly remembers them, more like Kreacher being forced to, playing together.

“Of course, Kreacher would be honored to play with Master Lucerys.”

“Luke.”

He turns to look at his dad standing by the doorway with a bright smile on his face.

“Dad!” Luke excitedly exclaims before tightly hugging him.

“Do you know what happened to Mum? Or where she is? Dumbledore wouldn’t tell me where she was-“ Luke rapidly asks his dad, desperate to find out where his sweet mum was and if she was safe.

“Luke.” A soft voice calls out causing a fond smile to form on older Luke’s face.

“Mum.” He says in relief at the sight of his, unharmed, mother.

“My Luke.” She says while hugging him, unaware of the pair of eyes watching them fondly.

“Are you okay? Dumbledore told me about the attack, but he said that you were alright. Are you going to be staying here from now on or are you going back to St. Mungo’s?” Luke rapidly asks every question.

His expression lightly falters at the sight of unawareness on his mum’s face. Even though he had just asked her so many questions, something most people would reply to, his mother looked as though he hadn’t said a single word. As though none of the words he said were processed in her mind, something that happened quite often whenever he, or anyone else, spoke to her.

She was sort of like that saying ‘In through one ear and out the other’, the only difference was that the words never even make in through one ear, much less go out the other.

It didn’t matter who it was. Anyone could be speaking to her but she, for the most part, never replied.

She was always in a sort of daze.

As if her mind was somewhere far, far away from here.

Though many wizards and witches have tried legilimency on her to see what she was thinking when she would dissociate, they never discovered anything. It was always blank. Absolutely no thoughts were being processed or thought about in her mind.

Sirius, at the sight of his upset son, immediately intercepted into the conversation.

“She’s alright. Nothing happened to her, they weren’t even able to reach the section in which she was in.” He states while wrapping his arms around the shoulders of his son and his wife.

Both of them stare at Sofia as she keeps the same small smile that always seems to be on her face. Her warm but vacant eyes looking around the room while her small and frail fingers play with her wedding ring, one she never took of.

“She’s staying with us now.” Sirius softly says while fondly staring at his oblivious wife.

“She is? She’s not going back to St. Mungo’s?” Luke asks.

“No, I didn’t want her there after what happened.”

“But how were you able to get her discharged from St. Mungo’s? Isn’t she supposed to be there at all times?”

“Dumbledore helped.” Sirius replies with a wide smile. “I don’t really know what he did or how he did it, but she’s staying with us now.”

The scene cuts to one he constantly thought about no matter how hard he tried not to. It wasn’t long before his fifth year would start, the Weasley’s, Hermione and Harry were all at Grimmauld Place already.

Fred and George, in the midst of pulling a prank, accidentally lost his mum’s wedding ring. She was constantly playing with it, twirling it around her finger as if it was the only thing that was helping her keep the last bit of her sanity.

No one really knew how it happened or what happened exactly, all anyone knew was that her ring was nowhere to be found and she was losing it.

He watched as Mrs. Weasley immediately urged all the kids back to their rooms, making sure they were locked inside.

Back then when it happened, he couldn’t see his mum as they were all locked into a room by Mrs. Weasley but he could hear her. Her loud and chilling screams causing her voice to crack at times. He remembered feeling terrified, he knew she wasn’t injured but it sounded as though she was being tortured. His mind quickly making him think that that was how she sounded when she was tortured into insanity.

Now it was so much worse.

He could see her.

And he could see her mental breakdown.

She was screaming bloody mary as tears streamed down her face and sob broke through her chest. She pulled at her hair and scratched down her face.

Sirius kept on trying to calm her down, talking to her in a soft manner while grabbing her hands so that she wouldn’t hurt herself. He desperately told her that everything was fine, they would find the ring. But he made the mistake of saying that he would get her a new ring.

She pushed him away from her, throwing things, kicking things and pushing things off of their places.

The other adults present watch in pity at sight of the young woman. Remus, specifically, had tears streaming his face as he tried to help Sirius.

Both men, who had tears streaming their faces, grabbed a hold of the woman causing her to trash around, desperate to be freed. She kicked, scratched, punched, and even attempted to bite them.

All of the adults, including the twins, had already tried to accio the ring but it didn’t appear. Every ring in the house appeared, except for her wedding ring.

Mrs. Weasley bursts in through the door while carrying two potions. One being a sleeping draught and the other was a calming drought.

He watches as she forces the liquid down his mother’s throat while Sirius and Remus hold her down.

Soon enough his mother is knocked out in his father’s arms. They all excuse themselves, leaving his mum and dad alone on the living room floor.

His dad holds her while softly brushing her hair back and away from her face before he breaks out in sobs. He feels tears cascading down his face at the sight of his broken and crying father.

His shoulders shake as deep sobs break through his chest. He starts rocking her body back and forth while whispering broken “I’m sorry”s over and over again.

The scene cuts to one he isn’t present in.

His mum sat in the bathtub with her legs bent towards her chest and her arms wrapped around her legs. She blankly stares straight ahead, no doubt not processing the fact that his dad was sitting next to her.

His dad is sat on the side of the tub, his left hand running through his mum’s wet hair while his right hand slowly pours water out of a cup onto her hair, washing away the remaining soap.

The scene cuts to a bit later. His mum now sat on his dad’s bed, his dad walking in through the bathroom door while carrying a brush and hair ties.

His mum sat crisscross, with her back facing his dad, while playing with a small black dog plush toy that sat on her lap. She was softly humming as his dad softly ran the brush through her hair. He watches him part her hair before braiding it in two braids, not forgetting to fix her front bangs.

He fixes her on the bed to lay her down before covering her with her blanket and softly kissing her forehead. He goes to walk away before she grabs onto his wrist. She looks at him questionably, as if trying to figure out the words to say before softly uttering a single word.

“Stay.”

The scene continuously changes as it displays the beginning of his fifth year. Dealing with Umbridge, creating the D.A., practicing in the Room of Requirement, Mr. Weasley getting attacked and detentions.

Before it cuts to Christmas break.

He gifted his mum a few candles, something he knew helped her calm down, and lots of yarn for her to knit, something he knew she greatly enjoyed. He gifted his dad several records that he thought he would enjoy, knowing that he loved listening to music.

His mum gifted him and his matching plush toys. They were both black dogs, though Sirius’ was bigger, as if demonstrating that he was the dad, while Luke’s was smaller, as if demonstrating that he was the baby.

Even though Sofia didn’t really understand any of the words they spoke to her, she brightly smiled as she knew they liked their gifts if their wide smiles were anything to go off of.

Luke remembered how happy he felt. He didn’t care that his mum wasn’t sane or that his dad was a fugitive. He was just happy to have them both, to be the family he always imagined them to be.

He watched his younger self as he loudly laughed while sitting next to his mum, completely unaware of how drastically things would change.

The scenes continue, displaying the rest of his fifth year for him before displaying the scene he dreaded the most.

Tears immediately prick his eyes, knowing he’s going to be forced to witness this all over again.

Everyone was throwing spells everywhere. Aurors gathering the children, protecting them from the death eaters.

Sirius, Luke and Harry were standing together.

Next to the veil.

All three of them sending spells towards the death eaters they were dueling before his dad pushes himself in front of him, blocking him from the killing curse Bellatrix had sent his way.

He stands completely frozen, watching his father fall into the veil before disappearing.

He watches as Harry attempts to run after his dad before being grabbed by Remus. Harry runs after Bellatrix shortly after. Luke completely unaware of everything that was happening to him.

Finally reacting, he attempts to run straight into the veil before being grabbed by Remus. He pulls him away as he screams, tears streaming down his face as loud sobs break through his chest.

The scene changes as tears continue to stream down his face. They were in St. Mungo’s. It was right after what happened in the Department of Mysteries.

He sat in a chair in a random long, white hallway. The bright light illuminated him - his eyes swollen and red, blood running down his face, dirt and grim covering him and his shaking hands that laid on his lap.

He was completely unaware to the fact that his friends sat right beside him in a similar condition.

He finally looked up as he faintly heard loud voices. Rushing from down the hallway was Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, followed by a dazed and confused Sofia Black.

They immediately begin talking to their kids and making sure everyone else was alright, all while Luke just stared at his mum.

His poor mum who looked around at everyone, confused as to what was happening and where they were. Unable to understand anything they’re saying, she continues looking around for the man she’s grown to enjoy the company of. The man she remembers to be named, Sirius. The man with the dark brown hair and grey eyes, who had several tattoos covering his body.

Unable to find him, she finds her baby.

Luke.

“Sirius?” She softly asks him.

Her baby breaks into loud sobs before he runs towards her, tightly hugging her while hiding his face in her neck. Confused, she tightly wraps her arms around him.

She looks around at the other kids and adults who were staring at them. She can see a few kids crying while the adults had sorrowful looks on their faces.

Finally a ginger haired woman, who was the one dragging her with them, walks up to her and says something thought Sofia is unable to understand what she said so she just continues to look at them confused.

She wasn’t able to understand what she said. But Luke who was watching his younger self cry in his mother’s arms could.

“Sirius is gone, sweetheart.”

The scene continues to change.

It displaying moments like when he refused to get out of bed so his mum, albeit a bit confused as to why he wouldn’t leave his bed and where Sirius had gone to and when he would return, joined him in bed. Tightly hugging him to her chest as a few tears slowly streamed down his face.

Or when his mum made him food, with the help of Kreacher, after struggling to figure out what to say to get him to understand what she meant. It was safe to say that Kreacher made all of the food while his mum stood there holding onto a spoon the entire time, but it was the thought that counts.

It showed his entire sixth year.

Meeting Professor Slughorn, who constantly praised his mother, Snape becoming their D.A.D.A. Professor, figuring out what was happening with Draco, being curious of who was the ‘Half-Blood Prince’, finding out about the horcruxes, Dumbledore dying, Snape being a death eater and killing Dumbledore, and coming to the decision that they wouldn’t return for their seventh year.

Spending his entire summer with his mum before he goes on the run, going through the Battle of the Seven Potters, attending Bill and Fleur’s wedding, leaving his mum behind to fond the horcruxes with Harry, Ron and Hermione, finding the locket and destroying it, finding the cup, almost dying a million times before arriving at Hogwarts through the secret tunnel.

He watches it all.

Ron and Hermione destroying the cup. Harry finding the diadem, which was destroyed in the fiendfyre that was cast by Goyle. Harry being ‘killed’ by Voldemort with the killing curse. And him killing nagini with the sword of Gryffindor.

The last thing he sees is the same thing he last remembers seeing, Bellatrix along with two death eaters by her side, each casting spells at him.

He feels himself being pulled back into the tunnel, like he originally felt and every time a scene would change. The bright light blue and purple lights surrounding him as his body warps as if he were apparating.

Finally his body fell on the hard concrete floor. He loudly groans in pain as he sits up, instantly recognizing the hallway as the same hallway where he encountered Bellatrix and the other death eaters.

He was confused as to what was going on. Why did he just witness his entire life story? Why weren’t the walls of the castle crumbling? Why is it bright out when it was barely going to be morning?

He walks down the hallway with a limp while tightly holding on to his wand with his right hand. He pauses as he realizes the pocket watch was nowhere to be found.

“Shit.”

Before he can continue walking down the hallway, a body slams into him causing him to stagger backwards.

“Oh, Merlin! I’m so sorry. I wasn’t looking where I was going.” A voice quickly says before abruptly stopping.

“Holy shit.” Another voice calls out.

“Godric.” She says in disbelief. “Are you alright?”

He stares back in shock. Standing in front of him was his mum. Not only had she just said several sentences, something he’s never heard her say, but she looked much younger. Almost as if she was at student at Hogwarts.

He looks to the side before his eyes widen. His uncle Regulus Black, who has been dead for almost two decades, was standing in front of him. Staring at him with what looked to be concern and confusion.

“Are you alright?” She softly repeats.

“Uh- Yeah. Yeah. I’m fine.” He starts. “I just- I might sound a bit crazy but what year is it?”

“What year is it? Did you hit your head?” Regulus asks.

“Reggie.” Sofia sternly says while looking back at him. “It’s 1975. September 2, 1975.”

“1975?” Luke asks incredulously. “Holy shit.”

“Um- Why don’t we go to the Hospital Wing? You’re injured and-“

“No! No. Is Dumbledore al-“ He cuts himself off, remembering he can’t say that. If it is 1975, than Dumbledore is definitely alive. “Is Dumbledore here?”

“Yeah. He should be in his office.” She replies while looking confused at the young boy. “Would you like for us to take you to him?”

“Yes, that would be greatly appreciated.” He hastily nods as they stare at him in concern, his face getting paler by the second.

[vavoomed-for-crowley]

Make It Right - Chapter 4: Firework Of Emotions is finally out now!

This Chapter picks up on Aziraphale's and Crowley's conversation on Christmas Evening, shows us a teasing angel and the depth of Crowley's kiss in the final 15 of S2.

Enjoy reading it and feel free to leave any kind of feedback.

Mucho Gracias ❤️

Story Summary:

Not in 6.000 years Aziraphale would've thought his first kiss with Crowley would be like this. Means, if Aziraphale really ever believed in actually kissing the demon at all. But pressing their lips together forcefully, nothing left to say and going back to heaven has all not been on the list of how Aziraphale imagined it would be.

Now, he might be back on Earth and things with Crowley are sorted out. They can finally live their peaceful existence.

But there's one thing that Aziraphale still has to do: He wants to kiss Crowley the right way. He'll make it right, every time.

And as usual, a little Sneak Peek at the chapter:

"Are you trying to tempt me?" Aziraphale asks with a low voice but still tries to act shocked.

The demon lets his hands move from Aziraphale's sides to his back, hands hidden under the long coat, one hand gently stroking every part it touches. "Does it work?"

Heaven, does it work!, Aziraphale thinks. But he knows that if he gives in to temptation now, they'll never leave the bookshop. Which would mean they do not only miss Maggie's party but they'd also disappoint her. Just the imagination of her saddened face when they don't show up is enough for the angel to feel guilty. He cups the demon's face with the right hand, thumb gently stroking his cheek before he leans in to give the demon a loving kiss. "You can be very tempting, my dear love. But we made a promise and I see it as my duty to keep it." He doesn't even wait for a reaction, which is no more than a groan from Crowley, but grabs the demon's hand to pull him outside.

"Way to ruin the moment..." the latter mumbles in disappointment. At least he tried it all to stay at home.

In Crowley's opinion, nothing about New Year's Eve makes sense. Well, except the part of celebrating. He can understand the melancholy when humans look back over the past year and think about all the experiences and events, knowing full well that not all of them, and depending on the person even very few, were really good. The concept of looking forward to the new year is not entirely illogical, including the false hope of change and good things waiting to happen. It is almost foolish for humans to hope that the universe would care about each individual's fate instead of taking their happiness into their own hands. But people's comfort has always been their greatest weakness. All they could achieve if they would just work hard enough and actually believe in themselves. But the part he doesn't get is that if the new year is so eagerly awaited, what's the reason to get drunk? Even if that's exactly Crowley's plan for tonight as well. Just that he feels like he needs it to cope with the party in general. He doesn't get why everyone dresses up as fancy as they usually never do, why woman wear high shoes that feel uncomfortable just two hours later and the worst part is all the traditions. Hell, he hopes that Maggie's party has none of it. Not knowing if he'd survive just one round of lead-pouring or sharing New Year's resolutions.

Needless to say that the demon doesn't get why on earth his angel wants to attend Maggie's party so desperately when just the thought of talking to strangers is a reason the latter never steps a foot in a pub, except the one time which has proven his point why not to do so more than just enough. But the angel hasn't left him a choice really, even if it's only because Crowley can't say no to him. At least heaven blesses him with the adorable sight of Aziraphale dressed in winter clothes, with the choice of blue and beige wool suiting his skin tone and the beanie making his cheeks look even more adorable and soft. It's a perfect mixture of modern old and something newer and in Crowley's opinion, (so the only opinion that really matters), Aziraphale looks more than just handsome, making it to the top of the list of the angel's best outfits. Not that Crowley would ever dare to admit how much he really likes it. It would only mean he'd need to wear his knitted set more often as well and he'd rather have a very long conversation with Gabriel than to do so.

Read the full story here

[ohmystaxk]

Goodbye, My Dear Stranger (5)

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Pairing(s): (Jake Lockley x Reader, Steven Grant x Reader) (Marc Spector x Reader later on) [Pre-Moon Knight show]

Chapter Character(s): Steven Grant, Jake Lockley.

Content/Tags: Fluff, none-exclusive relationship talk, work besties being the biggest supporters, guilt, Jake being a mean bitch.

Word Count: 4.4k

Summary: After the events that transpired with Steven, you remembered you had a girl's night out.

Your body felt heavy as your eyes opened, you were greeted with the off-white ceiling of your room. It was already dark outside when you awakened. You grunted as you took notice of the time, perhaps it was too late into the night. It was then that you felt something squeezing your stomach tightly. You looked over your shoulder and met Steven’s face. He was fast asleep in your bed, his arm resting around your waist. 

You took a deep breath. You’d almost forgotten what had transpired a few hours ago. It was then you felt the need to move. You slowly pulled his arm away and shifted towards the edge of the bed. As you did that, he moved on his own, turning his body to face the other way. You stood up, looking through one of your drawers for something to wear and opted for a navy blue tank top and black sweatpants. 

You walked towards the kitchen, trying to find your phone. You spotted your bag near the entrance of the flat and leaned down to pick it up and fished out your phone. To your surprise, you were met with a few missed calls and messages from your friends. You quickly called back one of them. 

‘Where have you been? We’ve been trying to reach you.’ Rose answered within the first ring. Worry was heard coming from her voice, you nodded to yourself as you scratched your head.

‘Hey, sorry I left my phone in the kitchen, and I ended up falling asleep.’ You explained, turning on a nearby lamp.

‘Oh god, I thought something happened! Martha had to push back an hour so we are waiting. You still coming?’ Your eyes shifted towards your bedroom.

‘I would love to, yeah. But, I may currently have someone over, you know?’ 

‘Someone? You got friends over?’ You didn’t answer. There was a small silence on the other side of the line before you heard a gasp.

‘Wait, what!? Who is it? Wait! Is it the nerdy guy?’ You could hear the smile on her voice as you unconsciously looked in Steven’s direction.

‘Maybe.’ You whispered and then heard another gasp come from Rose’s end of the call.

‘Hold up, Museum boy is at your flat!?’ The voice belonged to Deanna, you felt heat creep up to your face, walking away from Steven, as if he would hear her from your phone.

‘Please tell me I’m not on speaker.’ You heard Deanna laugh.

‘Oh my god! You need to tell us how that happened. Are you two watching a movie or what? Are you on a date?’ You rolled your eyes while shaking your head.

‘Date is a close description, but not really.’ You said but Rose immediately interrupted.

‘Hold on a second. You said you were sleeping and that someone was over.’ Another moment of silence. Then two exaggerated giggles came from the other side. ‘You slept with him!?’

‘Shut up. It just happened.’ You sighed with a smile on your face, trying not to laugh at their shock. ‘What are you two even doing right now?’

‘Deanna wanted to get a drink or two before we picked you up, we are by the pub near your flat, Dukes.’

You heard Steven shift on the bed again, the ruffle of the bed sheets made you glance over your shoulder. From where you stood, you could see him lying on his back, his hair was ruffled and his mouth slightly open as he snored. He looked completely knocked out, and you stifled a laugh. 

‘Okay, I’ll see what I can do. See you in a bit.’ You hung up and walked back to your room as quietly as possible.

Lucky for you, you had already thought of an outfit to wear. You set it on your side of the bed and then walked around and stood by Steven’s side. He was still sound asleep. You gently shook his shoulder, whispering his name.

“Steven. Wake up.” He shifted again but would not wake. “Steven? Can you wake up please?”

You shook him a little harder this time. He opened his eyes, confusion apparent in his gaze as he tried to take in his surroundings. His eyes go wide once he looks at you, he leans on his side with his elbow. A small smile formed on your lips at his surprise.

“Bloody hell,” He says in a whisper. “It actually happened?” You frown.

“What do you mean?” Steven sits up, dragging the covers towards his lap after noticing his unclothed state.

“Did..? I mean, we did. Of course we did.” Steven runs a hand through his hair, the unruly curls becoming far more messy than they already were. His eyes looked around your room. “Why am I surprised? Should I be surprised?”

“You alright there?” He looks up at you. He seems embarrassed to say whatever is on his mind, “Is this about us sleeping together?” You tried again. His eyes widened slightly and, finally, a sigh of relief left him.

“I thought it was a dream.” He admits to you as his shoulders relax. His confession took you by surprise. “Is that weird?”

“I guess it depends. Why would it be weird?” Steven takes a deep breath, his legs spreading wider, granting you space. He shakes his head and a breathy laugh escapes him.

“Because, never in a million years would I have thought I’d have a chance with you. I haven’t even taken you on an actual date.” You stepped closer to him as you let out a laugh. Your hands find themselves on his hair, brushing it away from his face.

“That date will have to wait, Museum boy.” Steven’s gaze lingers on you, head tilted up with his big sleepy eyes shining. The way you flash your teeth at him seems to become a focus as you notice his eyes travel from your eyes to your lips.

His bed-look fascinated you, the relaxed shoulders, his quick-wit, the closeness the two of you were sharing as you stood between his legs, him looking up at you from below. The sudden realization caused heat to creep up your face. You felt your stomach flip, and you became giddy. “What?” Your voice came out softer than you intended.

“I was wrong.” He said softly, but you couldn’t help but frown. “You don’t look beautiful, love. You are.” He said so breathlessly and with a gentle smile. You smile brightly and start to pull back, when you feel a tug on your thigh. Steven had grabbed ahold of your sweatpants while you were close.

“Thank you, Steven.” You bent down and placed a kiss on his forehead. “But I’m afraid I have to ruin this moment.” You stepped back and Steven frowned.

“What is it?” There was a small shake on his voice.

“Nothing to worry about. I just forgot to mention that I was going out today, turns out my friends are waiting for me.” You cringe a little but hoped Steven would understand. 

Steven takes a second to process your words, his eyes suddenly growing in size as he understands and nods awkwardly. He stands up. 

“Yeah, of course. Sorry about that, love.” You back away to give him space to move. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep, sorry.”

“It’s totally okay, no need to apologize. I overslept too, nothing to worry about.” You walk to your side of the bed where you laid your clothes. “I’ll get in the shower. Also, I’ll send you a quick text, that way you can save my number.”

You look back at Steven, he already had his boxers on, his Star of David necklace dangling as he bent down to pick up his pants. He stopped to look at you, there was something in his gaze, you could not tell what. 

“Yeah, I would appreciate knowing you made it safely.” His smile is almost a thin line. Steven then drops his eyes back to the task at hand and continues dressing himself.

“Is something wrong?” You ask.

Was it rude to kick him out? Maybe. It wasn’t like you could have him staying in your flat while you were gone. You had to remind yourself that, as lovely as he was, you didn’t know him.

“What?” He zipped his pants up, a nervous laugh escaped him. “No, no. Sorry if it looks that way. I simply forgot I needed to feed Gus.” He continues avoiding your gaze. 

Of course you are not convinced, but you nod anyway. 

“Tell the little guy I said hi, okay?” You joked, trying to lighten the mood but Steven merely nodded.

You slowly walk off, looking over your shoulder to see him in the dim light. You were an adult, and adults did this a lot; but it was your first time doing something like that. You would figure it out…

You had crossed the street; you were halfway there, and you could see the pub. People were standing outside with drinks, chatting and laughing amongst themselves, it was probably packed inside. You kept on walking, soon enough you made your way inside the pub, you looked around until you were able to spot your friends. The two women talked amongst themselves as they shared a drink. You took a deep breath before approaching them.

The first one to see you was Rose, a smile appearing on her lips as she stood to greet you. You smiled back.

“Good Lord, you look radiant.” Rose comments, surprised.

“What?” You laugh nervously at her words, but Deanna joins her.

“Fuck’s sake you’re glowing, what happened?”

“I just had the best sleep of my life.” You tried to deflect as you watched Rose move to another chair and leave you to sit between the two of them.

“And the best shagging too by the looks of it.” Rose mumbled as she took a sip from her drink. You gasped at her words. “Come on, congrats! Celebrate and drink a little!”

“Rose, please!” You whisper but Rose laughs instead.

“It’s always the nerdy ones.” Deanna nods to herself.

“Can you keep it down?” You ask, your eyes darting around the room.

“Alright, but how in the hell did it happen?” Rose put down her drink and turned her body to face you. “Did you, like, call him over or what?”

“I went to the Museum.” You clarified, Rose raised an eyebrow expectantly. “We talked, went to eat, talked more, went to my place, and it just happened.” You saw a smirk appear on Rose’s face, you blushed as she gave you a side hug.

“That’s my girl!”

“What a Casanova,” Deanna joked as she smiled at you. “Not only Jake, but Steven too. I wish I had that charm on me.”

“Isn’t your boyfriend at home right now?” You remind her. Deanna laughed.

“Of course! I meant if I was single. My man makes me really happy.” She smirked and you rolled your eyes.

“Wait, did you say Jake? Who’s Jake?” Rose asks and you have no other option but to fill her in on the last few weeks’ events.

You talked about the night you met Jake, then how you met Steven after, and then seeing Jake again and kissing him.

“So, Jake and Steven are twins, but didn’t grow up together. And Steven doesn’t know about Jake?” Rose seems lost. Hearing it from another person made you understand her confusion. “Isn’t that just the plot to Parent Trap?”

“That’s exactly what I thought!” Deanna says excitedly. You sighed with a nod.

“Well, I would say that if you like Steven, you could go out with him. Jake seems to not care enough about you, sorry love.” Rose put in her two cents. Although you shared her opinion, you wanted to think it all the way through. 

You already were looking for a partner long before Jake came into the coffee shop that night. But having two men suddenly sweep you off your feet felt more fictitious than you were comfortable with. Was entertaining the idea worth the risk of being found out by one, or even both, of them?

“Hey,” Rose spoke again, she looked concerned.  “You don’t have to decide right now. Don’t start stressing over it.” She waited for you to respond, but you laughed it off and nodded silently.

“I know that.” You smiled at her, and Rose took a sip from her drink. 

Deanna looked at her phone and sighed. She shook her head, pretending to be disappointed.

“Looks like Martha ain’t coming.” The two of you looked at Deanna, the woman faced her phone screen towards you.

“Her boyfriend came all the way from his hometown to surprise her.” 

You read the text and Rose laughed.

“About damn time. I don’t know how people can be in a long-distance relationship.”

“Well, we can’t blame her. At least she texted to let us know.” Deanna's comment reminded you of your promise to text Steven.

“Hold on.” You pulled out  your phone and looked through Deanna’s text messages until you found his number. You saved it and started your text.

You: Hey Steven, I finally got your number saved!

Deanna tried taking a peek at your text, but looked the other way once she realized you had caught her.

Steven🏛️: Hello! Glad to see you did, now I have your number too. Gus says hi!

The text was followed by a picture of a one-finned goldfish in his tank. The picture made you giggle, you observed the little guy with a smile on your face.

You: He is one adorable little guy, it seems he’s got plenty of space in there.

Steven🏛️: Sure does! I worry sometimes, though. He’s been by himself since I got him… maybe one day he’ll get a friend.

You frowned, reading the text two more times. For some reason that saddened you.

You: Well, I bet he’ll be really happy once he does.

“You gonna text all night?” Rose interrupted you. “Come on, let’s get you a drink.”

Your body felt heavy, still you laughed at something Deanna said. The two of you held on to each other as you headed out of the pub. Rose laughed and patted your back, trying to stabilize Deanna, who was in a far worse condition than you. 

“Remind me not to let her drink this much again.” Rose says as she gets her car key out of her purse. You chuckle and nod.

“Don’t worry, I will.” You reply as Deanna kisses your cheek. “We don’t want her falling on her ass.”

“I’m here, you cunt.” She mumbles and you laugh harder. “Call Stevie boy, you are starting to get too serious again, let him hit it again baby!” You rolled your eyes in embarrassment.

“Good lord, Rose, get her in your car now!” You yell out while she gets the passenger door open.

“Don’t you see I’m trying?” She returns to your side. The two of you walked her to the other side of the car and made sure Deanna got in safely.

Rose buckled her in and closed the door. She turned to face  you when she saw you step away from the car.

“You’re not getting in?” She asks and you shake your head.

“It’s not far, I’ll be just fine.” Rose frowns at your response.

“I don’t mind dropping you off, you know?”

“Thanks Rose. But walking might do me good and sober me up.” You explain and Rose sighs and then nods.

“If you say so,” She comes closer and hugs you. “You text me the second you get home, ya hear me?”

“Of course.” You hug her back. “Now, drive safely, text me as well, alright?”

“Will do, good night.” You let go and step back on the sidewalk, remaining there until Rose drove off.

You begin walking towards your apartment. It was very cold outside and you were glad to have brought a jacket, despite it not doing much for your exposed legs.

It wasn’t too late into the night, there were still people out in the street, especially on the way towards your apartment. You stopped at a traffic light, waiting for your turn to cross. From the corner of your eye, you noticed a car come to a stop next to you. You ignored it. Your heartbeat picked up when you heard the sound of the window rolling down, sweat started forming on the palm of your hand.

You heard your name be called and your fear mixed with confusion. You turned towards your left, facing the vehicle next to you. A white limousine.

“Jake?” You ask when you spot him peeking out from the window. His expression was as confused as your own.

“What are you doing out so late?” You wanted to roll your eyes and argue it was, in fact, not that late. “Where are you going?” He asked before you could do just that.

“To my apartment.” You replied as you hugged your body.

“Hop in. You’ll freeze out there.”

“What?” The word left your mouth without much thought. Jake rolled his eyes at you.

“Come on. I’ll drop you off.” You looked back at the traffic light, you had time to run to his car.

You took a deep breath and nodded to yourself. “Perfect timing, I guess.” You whispered and ran towards his car, until making it to the passenger seat.

The second you closed the door, the traffic light changed color and he began driving. Jake moved around the temperature knob and soon the car started warming up. He then placed something on your lap, you looked down to see it was his jacket. You had yet to actually face him .

“Why were you walking by yourself this late?” Jake asks and you turn to look at him, he is looking straight ahead. You feel your stomach turn, the image of Steven in your bed appears in your head.

“I went out with my friends.” You look away. “Are you working tonight?” You try to change the subject. Jake chuckles.

“Yeah, I wasn’t supposed to, someone didn’t show up, so I just filled in.” He explains, but there was an edge to his tone.

“How often do you work?” You are still avoiding looking at him and busy yourself with bringing his jacket closer to you for warmth.

“As often as I am needed. Sometimes I have to take over someone's shift. I guess you can say I work overtime.”

“That explains it.” You mumble but Jake seems to hear.

“Explain what?” When you turn to face him, he is already looking at you with a frown on his face.

“You show up and then disappear on me for days.” You explain, turning away.

“Are you mad I didn’t go say hi?” You can hear the smile in his voice. You shake your head.

“Of course not, I barely know you, Jake. Why would I?”

“You barely know me but I already drove you home once, then you kissed me, and now I am driving you home again. I don’t know about you, but I think we are getting pretty far in now.” He says and you face him again. He stares at you with mirth in his eyes and you feel your stomach flip.

“Don’t get any funny ideas, Lockley.” The man laughs and raises one hand in the air.

“Wouldn’t dream of it sweetheart.” You roll your eyes with a smile. “But you know, I’m a bit upset.”

You frowned, the playfulness on Jake’s voice seemed to dissipate as he said that and you felt your body start to sweat. ‘There’s no way he would know, would he?’ You thought to yourself as you watched his features drop, giving you that same deadpan expression from when you first met him.

“Why would you be upset?” You pushed.

“Because I missed you.” The sudden confession caught you off guard. “I went to the shop, you know. Ready to order that good coffee of yours, thinking that maybe I could offer you another ride when I saw the sign and I thought to myself, ‘How fucking stupid am I to not have asked you for your number? ’.”

“You hadn’t noticed that before?” You asked with a smile on your face that you couldn’t manage to hide. Jake laughed at that.

“I see you’ve got a bark in you. Now I am getting to know ya’.” The road flashes by as he drives,“But seriously, what’s got you this riled up?” You rolled your eyes and shook your head, trying to dismiss his question.

“Nothing.” It had only been a matter of time before he took notice, and yet, it was not your intention that he start asking.

You’d hoped you could sleep the thoughts away and get some time to think of what to do about your current predicament. And now you had Jake here, just when you were starting to push the thought of him away for good. 

“Something is bothering you.” He insists. You tried to brush it off, but Jake continues. “You have barely looked at me the whole ride.” 

You bring the jacket even closer to your body. You can still hear Steven’s voice calling your name, the image of the way he looked at you on the elevator plaguing your thoughts.

“It’s really nothing, Jake.” You say, your hand unconsciously clawing at the fabric. Your heart beats heavily as the memories of hours ago start seeping through the front of your mind.

“If I did something to piss ya’ off, you need to let me know, sweetheart.” You can still feel Steven’s hands on you, his mouth on your neck, and you swear you can smell his perfume on your hair. “I don’t want ya’ to feel uncomfortable with me.” His accent became more apparent, the words rolling heavily off his tongue as he started to sound more serious.

“It’s not about you, I swear.” You say hoping to clear the misunderstanding. But Jake is not having it.

“What? It’s not you, it’s me? Sweetheart, I’m smarter than that. Give me some credit.” You sighed at that, closed your eyes, and waited a few seconds. Then, you opened your mouth.

“I slept with Steven, Jake.” You confess and he goes silent. Your heart is beating so hard and you think that even Jake can hear it, you feel cold as you turn to look at him.

He has his eyes fixed on the street. Jake sighs as he clicks his tongue and shakes his head with a chuckle. You frown, preparing yourself to throw yourself out of the car.

“I’m sure you did.” His reply confused you. Jake kept on driving, tapping his fingers to the beat of the old song playing quietly on the radio. 

“Do you-” You paused and blinked a couple of times. “Do you think I’m joking?”

“I mean, if you don’t want to see me, you can just say so.” Jake stops the car and you fear he’ll drop you off at some random street. When you look up, you see you are in front of your apartment complex. 

“No, that’s not-”

“So, you slept with him. Are you dating him now?” You stare at him, dumbfounded.

“No. I’m not.”

“Then what is it that bothers you about that?” He asks with a frown on his face. Jake turned the car off and you heard the doors unlock soon after. You sit up straight, turning your body to face him.

“That I slept with your brother.” You stressed. Jake's frown deepened.

“Yeah, but you said you aren’t dating him. And, last time I checked, that doesn’t stop you from talking to me.” Jake turns to look right at you, there is not a single sign that tells you he is upset.

“Do you not care that I slept with him?” You raise your voice in concern.

“Do you want me to?”

“I, I don’t know.” You look away, your hands gripping the fabric of the jacket.

“If you are worried I’ll get mad about you sleeping with Steven, I won’t. If anything, I’m surprised. I mean, Stevie?”

Jake laughs, but not in a joking, light-hearted way. He laughs like he was just told the funniest joke on earth, the way he had spit out Steven’s name made you cringe. It was humiliating to hear Jake laugh the way he did.

For a man who was trying to connect with his long-lost brother, he was being too cruel. You hunched on your seat, looking at your lap as you fiddled with your fingers, like a child who was being picked on. You were not expecting that. If you were honest, you had no idea what to expect, but it certainly was not this.

“What’s wrong?” His voice caught you off guard. You looked up and met his gaze. “Why are you frowning?” You hadn’t noticed you’d been showing your conflict through your face. 

“You’re being a dick, Jake.” You point out but he shakes his head.

“Come on, let’s be real here. What are the odds of a guy like Steven getting a chance with someone like you?” You blinked.

‘Because, never in a million years would I have thought I’d have a chance with you.’ Those had been Steven’s words when he realized what had happened. It was true, until a few weeks ago, you wouldn’t normally approach someone like Steven. Actually, you wouldn’t approach anyone at all, much less make the first move, but you had found him charming with all of his quirks. He was obviously attractive, despite his constant disheveled state.

Nonetheless, Steven was nice, good-looking, and very attentive. And you liked that. A lot.

“You probably made his day, hell, his year. Fuck, I think you are the dick one for getting his hopes up.”

“What makes you think you have a chance?” The grin on his face dropped at that. He scoffed, then laughed again. “Maybe you are right, I kissed you after all. But I fucked him. I think he already got his chance.”

This time Jake looked completely taken aback, confusion written all over his face. You grabbed your bag and opened it, reaching inside to pull out a pen and a tiny notebook. You quickly started writing on it.

“Sweetheart.” You ripped the note and placed it on the dashboard. It had your phone number written on it. You then put everything back in the bag and removed Jake’s jacket from your lap.

“Maybe I was wrong about you, I hope you think things through, then we can talk. Good night, Jake.” You open the car door and step out.

“No seas así, podemos hablar.” Jake says and you roll your eyes. (“Don’t be like that, we can talk.”)

“No. I’m tired.”

Add yourself in the taglist!

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[jenniquinn]

Can I Stay? Eddie Munson X Fem Reader

Part One:

It was like all your senses were heightened. He was asleep, that asshole. You thought he would change but that last slap was the last straw. You grabbed the bags you packed. One for you and one for your son Finnick and a diaper bag and bag for your daughter Gracie. You run the bag to the car before waking your son. "Come on baby we have to go" you pick him up and put him in the car before grabbing your 5 month old daughter.

Once they are buckled you peel out of there. There was no going back. You drive for a few hours and you finally make it to your hometown Hawkins, Indiana. You don't know why but you drive to the trailer park and head to Eddie's. To Eddie who you haven't seen in six years when you left with your ex Peter. You park in front of the familiar trailer and get the kids out. You take a breath and knock.

Wayne opens the door and takes in the sight of you and the kids. "Hey what are you doing here" he asks and you cry. He looks at your face and sees the bruises. "Can I stay here? We have nowhere to go" you tell him and he nods moving away from the door so you can walk in. You go to the couch and sit with Finnick and Gracie. "What happened" he asks and you shudder "I got tired of being his punching bag" you say. "How have you been Wayne" he smiles. "I've been good darling and who are these cuties" you smile "this is Finnick and Gracie" you smile looking down at your kids. Tears hit your face again.

"look I'm happy you're back but I don't know how Eddie is going to take it. He is still very mad at you" he tells you and you go to speak but the door opens and you see him. Eddie. He doesn't notice at first "whose car is outside" he asks and suddenly he sees you. He wants to yell but sees your kids. Fuck if that wasn't a knife in his gut. He always thought you would have his children. "What are you doing here" he finally speaks to you. "We had nowhere else to go" you say looking at him and he finally sees the bruises.

"He hit you" he asks and you nod slowly. The urge to kill Peter hits him with a burning rage. "Are you ok" he asks and you just nod. "I told her she could stay here" Wayne says and Eddie looks shocked but nods. "We won't be in your way. I just have to find a job and save for a place. But if it's too much we can sleep in the car" you tell them and Wayne shakes his head. "There will be none of that. You are always welcome here. I hope you know that" he tells you. You nod. "I have nowhere else to go Eddie or I wouldn't be here" you tell him. He nods "it's fine I'm just glad you guys are safe now" he says walking away. Why did that hurt you didn't know.

You know leaving him the way you did would hurt him but he didn't know the truth. He didn't know that Peter had threatened Eddie and Wayne. You knew he would stick to his word. He told you that if you didn't leave with him that he would hurt Eddie and Wayne, Peter knew they were the only family you had. He also knew that you would do anything to protect them. So you decided to sit Wayne and Eddie down and tell them the truth. You walk to where they are "can I talk to you two" you ask and they nod. You look back at your babies who were asleep on the couch and walk into Eddie's room.

You rub a hand across your face and take a breath "I figured it was time to explain why I left. Peter threatened to have you killed if I didn't leave. I was so scared he would do it that I couldn't chance it". You look at Eddie and he's mad "why didn't you tell us" he asks. This was it you needed to tell them. "That's not all" you start and you get nervous. "Peter isn't Finnick's dad" you look at Eddie. It takes a minute but you watch as it hits him.

He sits on the bed " so he's mine? From that one night" he asks and you nod. "The night I told you how I felt. When you said the same thing then two weeks later you were gone" he's trying to process it. "I wanted to tell you but he was so mad when he found out I wanted to leave him for you. He said if you ever found out that it would be the end, not just for you but he would hurt Finn and I couldn't chance it." You wipe your tears.

Eddie stands there with wide eyes. He thought the boy looked like him, but didn't want to think it was true. He had a kid, a son. He gets why you couldn't say anything but that doesn't do nothing for the pain searing through his body. Years gone, years he could have known his son if it wasn't for that jackass Peter getting into your head. He sighs "it's ok, I get it but no more running. Me and Wayne will be here for you whatever you need" he says and you smile. Suddenly a knock is heard at the door and you freeze. Eddie looks and there is Peter waiting for you.

[whump-card]

Forged Divinity Unnamed Sequel: Chapter 3

I think I may be posting these as I write them, which is a fun new thing for me! Might also lead so some inconsistencies/retcons, but we’ll burn that bridge when we get to it

1076 words

CW: None I think? LMK!

Previous, Masterlist, Next

~~~

Enjolras drove almost nonstop, all the rest of the day and into the night. The roads were patchy, and rough – La Libera trailblazers did their best to fill potholes on some of the most well-traveled roads, but it was a losing battle. Outside of Niagara, the world’s infrastructure inevitably crumbled.

She radioed ahead to let them know she had Leannan as soon as they were close enough. Clary was on the coms. Their first reaction was joy – before they picked up on Enjolras’ somber tone.

“What’s wrong?” their voice crackled through, “What’s… wrong with him?”

Enjolras glanced at Leannan, asleep in the passenger seat. He looked so much softer in the starlight.

“A lot,” Enjolras’ voice broke slightly, “He’s gonna need a lot of help. I don’t think… I think it would be a bad idea to have everyone there to meet him again. Maybe just Shannon, and Jeanette if she’s up for it.”

“… Okay. I won’t wake anyone else up.”

Clary radioed again not long after.

“Shannon’s here.”

“I need to talk to him,” Shannon’s voice cut in, “Please let me talk to him.”

Enjolras pulled the pickup over onto the side of the road.

“Shannon, it’s not good.”

“Let. me. Talk to him.”

Enjolras muted the radio and reached over to gently shake Leannan’s shoulder.

“Hey there,” she murmured, “Wake up, Leannan.”

Leannan woke with a violent jerk and a whimper, shoving Enjolras’ hand away.

“Stop!” he gasped, “Stop it, stop…” he trailed off, looking around wildly.

Enjolras suppressed her own reaction of shock.

“It’s okay,” she soothed, “We’ll be home in a few hours, but Shannon wanted to talk to you. On the radio. Do you want to talk to her?”

Leannan stared at her with wide, confused eyes.

“Shannon?” he repeated.

“Yeah,” Enjolras’ heart sank, “You… you remember Shannon, right?”

Leannan’s face darkened.

“Of course I remember Shannon!” he spat, “Don’t be stupid.”

“Okay,” Enjolras stayed calm, smooth, controlled, “Do you want to talk to her?”

Leannan’s rage melted away into fear just as quickly as it had appeared.

“Do I have to?” he whispered.

“No,” granted Enjolras, “You don’t.”

She picked up the radio.

“He’s not up for it. We’ll be home around 4 AM.”

Shannon’s voice came back immediately.

“I need to talk-”

Enjolras turned off the radio.

~~~

It was 4:30, and Shannon stood staring out across the bridge that connected Goat Island to the shore. The wind coming off the waterfalls was cold, and she wrapped her cardigan around herself tighter.

She knew Clary would come and tell her if Enjolras had radioed about a delay.

The reality was, she barely registered the passing of time; Shannon was too caught up in her own head.

Something was wrong with Leannan. Something was wrong with Leannan and all she could think about was the day he’d said goodbye to her. Not when he’d run away from Goat Island – he’d never said goodbye then – but before. The first time she’d lost him.

He’d found her in the chapel, curled up under a pew. He’d laid down on the fuzzy red carpet with her, so that they were almost nose-to-nose. He’d said some things, things she didn’t remember, she was crying too much, but she did remember he’d said he’d had a dream.

Someone is going to come and take you away from this place. You’ll have a perfect master, and live happily ever after, just like me.

God told me so.

He’d stayed on the floor with her until they came looking for him, picked him up and dragged him away while she clung to his arm sobbing and he just kept smiling, smiling, smiling.

It’s okay.

You don’t need me anymore.

He was such a different person, those few days she’d had him back, years later. They felt like two separate people, one calm, comforting, confident, the other strange, skittish, fanatical.

Was she about to meet a third?

It had been almost a year and a half. Winter was settling in, bringing lower temperatures and changing leaves and mushrooms in the island's woods

Had Leannan ever seen snow?

Something shifted in the misty dark. Shannon blinked, refusing to let her eyes play tricks on her. Her hands fretted uselessly, twisting her wedding ring and pulling her hair.

There were two figures on the bridge.

“Leannan!” she cried out, her voice breaking, sounding like the frightening screech of a lost fox.

The taller figure raised an arm.

“We’re here!” came Enjolras’ voice.

Shannon’s legs were moving before she even realized, her cardigan flapping open in the wind as her arms pumped, and then she was there, her arms around him, a hand in his hair, her face in his neck, feeling a sinking horror as she felt his bones under her hands, his ribs, his knobbly shoulders, he smelled like death, like rot, like blood and dirt, was this even him?

“Shannon?”

His voice was small, but it was him.

The emotions within her reached a boiling point. Grief, fear, guilt, anger.

“How could you leave!” she wailed, “How could you leave me again!”

She felt a hand on her shoulder, heard Enjolras’ voice again.

“Shannon. I know this is hard…”

“Stay out of it, Ras!” Shannon sobbed, “Please, just let me…” Her voice broke away into tears as she clung to Leannan. Leannan, who was slowly lifting his arms to hug her back.

“Are we going home now?” he asked, and his tone was… strange. Dreamy. Detached. But Shannon felt his arms settle around her and just couldn’t care, couldn’t deal with whatever that meant yet.

“You’re home,” she gasped, “You’re home, you’re safe, I’m never letting you leave again. I’ll never let them take you away again, Leannan, I’m so sorry!”

If she’d made him stay, way back then, for just a few more days, if she hadn’t let them take him away from her, they would have all been saved together. Or if she’d made him feel more welcome, helped him assimilate better when he first arrived on Goat Island, maybe he wouldn’t have run away.

“It’s not your fault.” Enjolras knew these thoughts well. “It’s not your fault.” She enveloped the two of them in her arms, pressing her lips to the top of Shannon’s head.

They stood like that for a long while, Shannon crying, Enjolras comforting, Leannan silent.

Shannon was fine being the crying one.

She didn’t like Leannan being the silent one.

~~~

Previous, Masterlist, Next

Taglist: @angst-after-dark, @sunshiline-writes, @flowersarefreetherapy, @thecyrulik

[hdsc-ace]

Ivy Walls || Newt - Maze Runner

Rest of my work.

Warnings: none.

A female greenie arrives and Newt is tasked on looking after her. That's until she remembered her name.

She remembered nothing. Nothing of how she got there or even why. All she knows is that she's in a metal cage-like box that's heading upwards quite quickly.

The girl was stuck to the floor, the pressure from the box going up was too much for her body to comprehend. Her hands were tightly wrapped around the bottom of the box in fear. It didn't help that it was nearing the top of what seemed like a never ending ride.

The sudden stop made the girl groan in pain as her body jumped, her head slamming against the thin bars.

A blinding light filled the box as the lids were flipped open. 15 or so boys gathered around to see the new arrival.

In fear, The girl scrambled into a corner as a young blonde haired boy dropped down into the box. "It's a girl." He announced as he drew closer to the girl. She still tried to crawl further  into the corner, more than she's able to.

Muttering from the group above didn't calm the girl in any way, they were all shocked from a girl finally being allowed into their maze.

"You're okay." The boy reassured, stepping closer to the girl he reached out a hand for her to take. Once the girl did she was pulled to her feet and taken out of the box onto an area that made it look like they were caged.

The boys that were scattered around were whispering to one another still but quickly stopped as their leader began to walk up to the two. "Welcome to the Glade, Greenie.''He welcomed with an accent very different to the one the boy that pulled her out.

This only created more questions for the girl. What's the glade? What the hell is a greenie? But without another thought she took off, running down the grassy plain. Her legs could go on for hours except she couldn't. The girl stopped as two boys ran in front of her. Turning to run again two appeared in front of her again. The two boys from earlier pushed past the boys to the girl. "Running is not the best answer here, greenie." The boy with the odd accent tells her. "Well unless you're chosen as a runner." He jokes

"Do you remember anything? Like a name?" The leader asked as the girl calmed down.

"No." The girl said in an accent similar to the boy she met first.

"It'll come to you eventually, if not we'll let you pick one." The girl nodded again as some boys brushed pass the girl to gather stuff out of the crates in the boxes.

"Im Alby." The leader says, making the girl turn her attention back to him. "This is Newt." Alby then points to the boy who pulled her out of the box. "He'll show you around, find you somewhere to sleep and explain what we know about this." Alby tells the girl, which seemed more like he was ordering newt, before walking off. Everyone slowly departed back to their jobs soon after, leaving Newt and the girl alone.

"You're not out of place anymore, Newt." A boy joked to Newt as he walked past but Newt didn't even react.

"Shall we get started then?" Newt asked while gesturing for the girl to walk next to him. Before following, the girl spots Newt's small limp but doesn't think too much about it. "The glade is what we call this place." Newt says like he read the girl's mind. "Outside the walls are the maze, only the runners are allowed there." As soon as Newt mentions the runners two of them exit the maze. They both waved to the girl as they passed. "You're going to be the talk of the town." Newt joked as he watched the two runners pass.

The two began walking. "Everyone here gets an assigned job. We've job Runners, which I explained. Cooks, pretty self explanatory. Slicers take care of livestock. Track-hoes do the hard work around the plants, like trenching. Gardeners take care of said plants. Med-jacks are our healers. Brick-nicks and Bloodhousers are basically builders but build different things. Baggers take care of our sadly passed friends and Sloppers take care of the work no one else does, usually because they're not good at something." Newt rambles on. "Tomorrow we'll start letting you have a go at some of these roles to see what you'll do. From what I saw earlier, being a runner isn't the worst idea."

"What do you do?" The girl asks quietly with her arms wrapped around her small torso.

"I do bits and pieces of everything." Newt replied, finally stopping to take an actual look at the girl. Her red hair was meaty tied back into a braid running all the way down her back. Her green eyes sparkling as the sun caught them slightly. "I was a runner." He mumbles slightly.

"And now?"

"Second In command." He almost instantly answered. "Alby's second in command." Newt corrects himself. The two just stood in silence. The girl is silent as she tries to self answer her questions and Newt just stands there examining her, trying to guess what she's thinking. "I suppose you've got questions?" He asks to only receive a nod. "Ask them over lunch."

The two made their way to the lunch area. They got their food and sat down away from everyone else. "What's a greenie?" The girl asked while picking at her food.

"Something we call new people until they remember their name." Newt responds quite calmly as he watches the boys at the other tables.

"What if they don't want to remember it?" She asked again, her eyes locked on the table. This made Newt stop and stare at the girl.

"You remember it?" He asked as calmly as he possibly could to only receive a nod from the girl. "We've never had that problem before." Newt responded, turning the conversation back onto why the girl didn't want to use it. "I mean if you say it's something else no one will know."

"You'll know."

"No one else will." Newt told the girl, sending a small reassuring smile towards her. "So greenie, what will it be?"

"You can choose." Newt once again was taken back from the girl's words. He didn't expect her to allow him to choose what she'll be called for the rest of her time in the Maze.

"You sure?" He asked, receiving a nod in return. She was certain. Newt's eyes scanned around the area as he thought. Something that'll suit her. As he scanned his eyes fell on the vines that exited the maze, Ivy vines. "Ivy." Newt responded with a smile which sent a smile to the girl's face. "Like the maze ivy vines."

"Ivy it is then."

With that Newt stood up and climbed onto his seat "Hey!" He yelled, gaining the attention of the surrounding boy. "Meet Ivy! Our latest Glader." Newt smiled down at the girl as everyone started to clap and chant her name. As Newt sat back down, everyone began to settle down.

"Thanks." Ivy thanks the boy as they finish eating.

Once the two finished they started walking again, this time towards the maze doors. "Why did you stop being a runner?" Ivy asks but as soon as she does Newt stays quiet. "I'm sorry if I brought up a bad memory or something."

"No, No. It's fine." Newt quickly says, attempting not to allow the girl to go into a bad mood. "I got into a bad accident with someone who got stung in the maze. Alby thought it'll be better if I stay in the Glade more. I'm glad the Grievers got him instead of me."

"Griever?" Ivy asked.

"Some monster in the maze that kills people left in the maze at night." Newt explained as he directed Ivy towards the maze doors. He walked to the side of it which had names carved into it. "Names of everyone here. Dead and Alive." Newt said as he admired the wall. Ivy's hand ran across the name cravings but stopped when it ran over Newt's. "Alby was the first." He said as he passed Ivy a knife. "And you're the latest." He smiled as Ivy scraped the knife against the wall, barely making a dent. Newt picked up a rock and placed his hand over the girl's. He directed her hand as he hid the end of the knife with the rock, making the craving.

"So he's got his second running around with the greenie?" A voice says from behind the two. Ivy turned around to see a guy with a rounded face standing behind them with his arms crossed. "Woo, look at Newt making a move on the new girl." He says as he spots Newt's hand on top of Ivy's. As soon as the boy mentions it Newt quickly moves his hands anyway from the knife.

"Gally you have a job to do." Newt practically orders Gally to go away without using them exact words.

"Just wanna meet the greenie, relax." Gally says while walking up to Ivy. "Gally, keeper of the builders." He greets.

"Ivy." She responds timidly. Her eyes darted to Newt for reassurance.

"Time to go." Newt told them while patting Ivy's shoulder. She shot Gally a small smile before following Newt.

[eldritch-queern-magicat]

It seems we really had picked up spiritual parasites or something. Because after Era had released the tension we've been holding onto for far too long, we really felt those psychological toxins like they were real on some nonphysical level of reality. He used our fire to burn them up and devour them. It was a bit like after a lifetime of being fed on, he said, “Hey, give that back.” Then he just took what they'd stolen back, and they were reduced to ashes. It wouldn't be the first time he technically just ate an entity, of course. He did that for a friend in real life before COVID, who had a quite nasty being attached and causing strife. He basically trapped the asshole in a disposable coffee cup, with the lid. And then it was magic blender time.

To be fair, we're an agnostic Christopagan at this point. We sometimes have to suspend our disbelief because we know ritual helps through, even if nothing else, at least the placebo effect. So we just roll with it, and Era was set on getting the asshole spirit gone asap. And yes, our friend in that situation felt better consistently afterwards. So whether anyone believes this or not, the real world effects can't be ignored.

The little parasites screamed the whole time he burned them to ashes that Saturday night. It was almost fun watching parasites realize this mortal host isn't going to just exorcise them and call it done. Though to be honest, I don't think I've ever heard of a living human outright devouring and digesting the nasties that attach to and feed on them. Let's call that part of being faekin/otherkin, plus that very bloody and absolutely terrifying childhood. And then I also come from a formerly strong line of hunters on Dad's side of the family. So we saw this as simply a case of eat or be eaten. And I really didn't want to allow them to go looking for someone or something else to feed on and hurt.

...Oh, right, we started getting into Soul Eater at one point after Mom died. That actually ñmight have had something to do with it. I wouldn't be shocked. Either way, we do this now when it comes to serious threats. But honestly, it's more of a last resort. We like to avoid it wherever possible, because it's really not a nice thing to do. It's actually sad for us, because that was another entity that existed. And now it's just gone, because it made itself too much of a threat within my vicinity.

And then suddenly, with the parasites gone, all the voices of paranoia we used to have to cope with were also just gone. Our mind has been so calm and quiet since Saturday night. We've finally managed to chill ourselves out and it feels amazing. Our attention span is starting to recover faster again. Because I spent a couple hours last night writing about the last few months in my little system journal. I wrote a lot of pages. And I had to stop and go to bed before I even got to the ask Era so excitedly wrote a whole several page essay for. It also got him to open up about our brainwashing on our Facebook account, where we have the most people we know from real life, including some family.

Honestly, we're too happy about the ask for words to really do it justice. When we finally figured out what we wanted this side blog to be, it was partially to help track our mental state. But we also hoped that if others found themselves here, that what we shared would also help them if they needed it. Getting that ask helped us in return because it made us realize exactly where we started versus where we are now. Hindsight is 20/20, after all.

Era spent about a day writing that essay. It was, in fact, several pages long in the Libre Office text document. None of us ever actually thought that posting about integrating through dronification would get very much interest or attention, since dronification is a very specific kind of kink. We knew it was an odd concept for healing to start with. Chalk it up to us always trying to think outside of the box, I guess. So honestly, we're kinda... I don't know the right word for it right now. But we feel so warm and fuzzy inside from it.

Remembering things is easy now, for those parts that are also the drone. It's really, actually not just completely shrouded in our mental fog anymore. We don't have to worry about amnesia between us. I was writing in the journal from more than just what I got after fusing with our introject of the original Lion-O (yeah, this is probably what prompted a lot of changes from my source). I was also writing from the book of memories we put back in order and rebound. It's really great to have everything we've gotten so far organized so neatly.

-Catra 🧨😻

[jake-kiszkas-smirk]

Here Comes the Sun (part 20)

Danny Wagner X fem OC X Josh Kiszka

18+ only, Minors DNI

Warnings: none

** 2 Month Time Jump**

Rose's POV

As I was packing my bag I made sure to pack my outfit for the following day at Danny's. I thought back to the last time I had seen him before they left. We had planned on spending the day together but he ended up spending most of the day trying to get his classes changed to online courses. By the time he finally had everything settled it was time for me to take him to the bus. We got to the bus a little before the others so we just sat and talked in the car about how excited he was and how much we would miss each other. I missed them both more than words could express, which was wild seeing as I had only known them a fairly short time. Josh would usually call me before shows, telling me about the venue and showing me around when we would facetime. Danny would usually call me after shows, he'd find a quiet corner of the bus and we'd talk about how the show went and what city they were in. I absolutely couldn't wait to see them. I finished packing my bags, grabbed their gifts, and headed out to Danny's car to drive it to Frankenmuth. After the hour or so drive I parked in front of the Kiszka house. It looked exactly how I'd pictured it. I reached in my bag, grabbing an aspirin and taking it before I got out of the car. I had never been part of a Kiszka Christmas eve celebration, but I was sure it was going to be loud, and I already had a throbbing headache. I stood outside of my car, looking at my reflection, checking my outfit one more time before I walked up to the house. I had tried to dress a little nicer than normal seeing as I was meeting the rest of Josh's family. I had picked out a chunky cream colored sweater, and black skinny jeans. My hair was down and curled at the ends. As I walked towards the door I felt my already anxious state getting worse. I knocked and heard that voice I love saying 'I'll get it'. I felt a smile creep across my face and my heart rate go up, The door opened and that beaming smile made my heart skip a beat. He stepped out and closed the door behind him,

"Hey you," He said as he immediately pulled me against him and kissed me. He hummed into it before pulling away, "God I missed you."

"I missed you more" I said as I held him tighter and tucked my head under his chin.

"Don't think so dear," He said as he rubbed my back, "You need help with your bags or anything?"

"I don't think so, I only have one bag and your present" I said with a smirk,

"Oooh what did you get me?" He asked playfully, still holding me close,

"No way I'm telling you Kiszka" I said as I clutched the box closer to myself.

"Alright, you ready to go inside?" he asked, I hesitated as I looked at the door, "Don't worry, they will love you just as much as I do," I nodded and he opened the door,

"Rosie!" Sam shouted, walking over to wrap me in a hug,

"Hey watch it, I'm the only one who gets to call her that" Josh said in a faux stern voice pulling me back into him. I giggled as I rolled my eyes,

"Hey Rose," Jake said from the couch, giving me a wave,

"How was the tour boys?" I asked, looking in between all of them,

"It was great. It really helped us get our name out." Jake said with a smile

"It was just all around a lot of fun" Sam said taking a seat,

"Boys! Can you go get the fire pit started before people start showing up!" I heard a female voice yell from the kitchen. Jake and Sam got up and headed out the door to the back yard.

"Here, I want you to meet mom" Josh said giving me a soft smile. I knew he adored his mom, and I wanted so badly to impress her. He interlaced our fingers and took me towards the kitchen, "Mom, This is Rose" He said proudly, giving my hand a gentle squeeze. He barely got the words out before she abandoned what she was doing and wrapped me in a hug. Josh stifled a giggle as he watched the shocked look on my face,

"Rose! We have heard so much about you. You are just as beautiful as Josh said" She said as she let go. I glanced over at Josh who's cheeks had blushed as he grinned back at me.

"Only tell her the good stuff he said mom" I heard as a girl walked in behind me, Josh glared over at her

"Ronnie stop teasing your brother. He only said good things dear, don't worry" Karen said rubbing my back,

"Hi, I'm Ronnie" She said giving me a smile and a hand to shake, "And it's true, he's done nothing but gush over how perfect you are. It's annoying" She smirked over at Josh who just rolled his eyes.

"Nice to meet you both" I laughed,

"Here, lets go set your bags in my room," Josh said, taking my hand and leading me up the stairs. He opened a door and I followed him in. The walls were painted dark blue, it made the room look small but cozy. I walked and looked at the posters on the walls, the books on the shelves. I turned and Josh was sitting on his bed watching me. He held his arms out when he saw me turn around. I walked over and he pulled me into his lap, he wrapped his arms around my middle and leaned his head against my chest. Josh's love language was physical touch, and I knew this from the day I met him. I just sat there and held him for a while, gently scratching at his scalp. "I'm going to fall asleep if you keep doing that" He finally said in a raspy voice, looking up to me, I leaned in and kissed him.

"How many people are coming tonight?" I asked as I heard the noise increasing downstairs,

"Like 15 people, cousins, family friends etc." He said leaning his head back against me.

"Do you want to do gifts before we head downstairs? I know you're exhausted and I'm sure we'll be otherwise engaged after the party" I said, causing him to raise a brow and grin,

"Sure, I want you to open yours first" He said, reaching over and grabbing an envelope. I took it and opened it. All the was inside was one of those barcodes you can scan with you phone, I looked at him confused. "Scan it with your phone" He laughed. I obliged and a playlist popped up.

"You made me a playlist!" I said excitedly, and he smiled. This might seem like something so small to anyone else but I loved it.

"It's not just a playlist, read the title" He said pointing to it on my screen

"Rosie and Josh's road trip playlist?" I said confused,

"Yup, in a few weeks we are going to Isle Royale National Park" He said with a toothy grin, "You seemed to love our hike and being out in nature at the cabin, so I planned a trip just for us"

"Josh.." I said as I stared over at him, "That sounds perfect, I love it"

"I'm glad baby" He said as he kissed my cheek,

"But now, I am so much more excited to give you your gift!" I said, hurriedly running over and grabbing the box. This time I sat on the bed next to him, handing him the box. My cheeks were hurting from smiling so much. I watched as he opened it, his eyes going wide as he realized what it was,

"Rosie, this is too much" He said trying to hand it back to me,

"No it's not, finish opening it" I said, pushing it back to his lap. He opened the box, pulling out the polaroid camera. He admired it in silence, "We can take it on the road trip and take ALL the pictures you want," I said, almost bouncing in my seat at how perfect it was.

"I can't believe you got me this" He said in almost a whisper,

"I heard you mention it a couple times and I knew you'd really love it" I shrugged, He pulled me close, kissing me deeply before turning his attention back to the camera as if still in disbelief

"Thank you, I really love it, and I can't wait to take pictures on our trip" he grinned "Is there film in it now?" I nodded, "Get over here," He pulled me into his lap and held the camera out in front of us, I leaned my head against his as we both smiled. It printed out and Josh studied it, "Oh that is an amazing picture, I'm keeping it forever."

The rest of that day was spent with Josh's family. We all talked and ate and bonded. Josh's parents brought out old photo albums and pointed out different pictures, a story to go with each one, most of which made Josh cover his face and blush. I laughed and had the best time, I met so much of his family and everyone was so accepting and nice. You could feel the love resonating in the room as everyone settled into spots and the night started to slow. After most of the guests had left, Josh and I headed up to his room and fell asleep, him exhausted from travelling and me exhausted from being nervous all day. The next day I woke up early to get ready and go to Danny's. I put on a green sweater dress with tall black leather boots. I pulled my hair into a high ponytail and did minimal makeup. I walked back into Josh's room and found him stretching as he sat up in bed.

"Merry Christmas," I said walking over and sitting on the edge of the bed,

"Merry Christmas" He said in a sleepy voice, pulling me in for a kiss, "Do you have to go so soon?" He pouted,

"Yes Joshhhh" I said, "Maybe I can see you tomorrow before Danny and I drive back,"

"I guess I'll accept that" He said playfully rolling his eyes,

"Ok, I had a great time last night and I can't wait for our trip," I said, leaning my forehead against his,

"Me neither sweetheart, Here I'll walk you down" He stood up and grabbed my hand and my bag. We went down the stairs and I quickly told Karen bye who was already cooking breakfast. We got to my car and Josh put my bag in the backseat and opened the driver door for me. "I love you, have a good day at Danny's" He kissed my forehead,

"Have a good day with your family, I'll see you soon. I love you" He grinned at the last part and then shut my car door after I was inside. I made the short drive to Danny's house, the nervousness of meeting new people coming back. I took a deep breath trying to calm my nerves as I got out of the car. I heard a door shut and saw Danny running down the driveway to me. He was in flannel pajama pants and a t-shirt, a giant smile on his face. I giggled, he indeed look like a kid on Christmas as he picked me up and spun me around.

"I missed you so much!" He said as he finally put me down, I suddenly got dizzy and he grabbed me, steadying me. "Whoa, you ok?" His demeanor changing instantly to concern as he tilted my chin up to him,

"I just got a little dizzy, I think I need to eat." I said softly, I wrapped my arms around his neck, standing on my tip toes to kiss him. "I missed you too"

"Here, come inside. Mom is making her famous chocolate chip pancakes," He said excitedly taking my bag in one hand and my hand in the other, "You look beautiful by the way" He stopped, kissing me on the nose briefly,

"I feel a little overdressed" I laughed as we got closer to the door,

"If you want you can change into some of my clothes?" He said as we stepped inside,

"I might take you up on that, this dress is kind of itchy" I said, pulling the collar away from my neck. "But I want to meet everyone first" He nodded and walked me into the kitchen,

"Mom, Dad, this is Rose." He said, pulling me close.

"Rose! It's so nice to finally meet you! Daniel has told us so much about you" His mom said, wiping her hands on a towel before shaking my hand.

"Nice to meet you both!" I said as I leaned even more against Danny's strong figure.

"Here, If you want to sit down I will take your bag to my room and get you a plate" He pulled out a chair and kissed the top of my head before heading off down the hallway.

"So Rose, Daniel tells us you are going to school to be a teacher?" his dad asked,

"I am, and he told me that you're a teacher" I said as I waited nervously for Danny to get back. To my relief he walked back in and got both of us a plate before taking a seat next to me,

"Do you like school so far?" He asked again.

"I do, it's mainly basics right now but it's starting to get more interesting" I said. Danny could tell I was nervous and I felt his hand on my leg. I gave him a soft smile and he returned it. We all talked about miscellaneous things until we moved to the living room. The Christmas tree they had was stunning and I stared at all the different ornaments. His parents had stayed in the kitchen chatting when I saw Danny grab a small box from the branches of the tree.

"Want to do our presents now?" He asked, a smile playing on his lips,

"Sure! Let me go grab yours" I said, I hurried off to his room and back with my gift to him. I got back and he was sitting on the floor next to the tree. I walked over and sat down across from him. I laughed when I saw our similarly small boxes, "You first" I said handing him the small box, and a bigger box.

"Thank you angel" He said,

"Babe you haven't even opened it yet" I giggled,

"It doesn't matter, I'd love anything you got me" He shrugged. I smiled as he opened the small box. He held up the leather cord with a small wooden pendant on it. He held it closer and inspected it. A smile spread on his lips when he saw the small Rose engraved on the back.

"I figured this tour was the first of many..so I thought you'd like something..." My words trailed off as I got shy suddenly, "I know it sounds cheesy but that way I'm like, always with you" I shrugged and I felt my cheeks blush.

"It's not cheesy," He said reaching out and grabbing my hand, "I love it" he added as he put it on. He then looked at it again once it was around his neck and smiled. It made me melt, that smile.

"Oh, and it's rosewood" I added with a laugh

"Even more perfect" He said as he started opening the second box. His smile grew even larger when he pulled out the framed picture of us,

"I know how much you love that picture, so I thought I'd get it framed for you" I said sheepishly as he admired it. He leaned forward and pulled me in by the back of my neck, kissing me sweetly. "Thank you" He said as he sat back down. "I'm never taking this off" He said as he grabbed the necklace. "Your turn" He handed me the small box and an envelope. "Open the box first please" He said excitedly.

"Alright" I grinned at his excitement. I opened the box and inside was a dainty gold chain and it had a clear resin circle pendant with a small yellow flower pressed into the resin.

"That flower is from the night of our first date, from that field" He said as I looked at it, I felt tears welling in my eyes. He had picked a flower and kept it, having something special made for me,

"It's beautiful," I said as I tried to blink away the tears, "Will you put it on me?" He nodded and leaned forward, clasping it behind my neck. It hung perfectly under the gold necklace my parents had gotten me.

"Open the envelope!" He said pushing it into my hands. I opened it and saw 2 tickets, and as I went to read the print my eyes got wide,

"I'm guessing by your face you know that those are for a book reading and signing by your favorite author?" he smirked over, I just nodded as I stared at the tickets,

"When is it?" I asked looking up to him,

"3 weeks away if I remember right" He replied, I climbed over and kissed him, wrapping him in a hug,

"I'm so excited!" I paused as he pulled me into his lap, "Thank you for my gifts I love them so much babe"

"I'm glad, I love you." He said pulling me even closer,

"I love you too."

We spent the rest of the day chatting with his parents and sister, and playing board games. Once we all got tired of board games we watched Christmas movies and drank hot chocolate. Danny and I had a lot of private conversations about tour and how excited he was to be back and with me again. The day flew by and before I knew it I was cuddled up in Danny's bed falling asleep. The next morning we both woke up and packed our things to head back to our apartments. We told his family bye and got into the car.

"You mind if we stop at that little coffee shop in town and get breakfast?" I asked, leaning over the console and holding his arm, wanting to be as close to him as possible to calm my nerves.

"Yeah of course, you ok?" He asked, picking up on my nerves,

"Yeah, I'm great" I forced a smile and kissed his cheek. We parked at the shop, walking inside and finding a table. Danny brought over our drinks and as he sat down Josh walked in the door.

"What is he doing here?" He asked, looking at Josh and then to me,

"I invited him" I said, my stomach doing flips. Danny gave me a confused look as Josh came over and sat down,

"I didn't realize Daniel was joining us Rosie" he said, touching my leg under the table briefly,

"I wasn't aware you were joining us" Daniel said pointedly back at Josh. "Whats going on?" He asked looking over to me again. I took a deep breath

"We need to talk"

[larz-barz]

Title: We are family

Pairing: Tanjiro x Milo

Prompt: Tanjiro and Milo both become demons (fluffy version)

Summary: Giyuu finds the Kamado family and Milo too late, only to find out that she, Tanjiro, and Nezuko have become demons. He grows close to them and introduces them to the master and the other hashiras. When they defeat Muzan they are able to turn them back into humans and they all live happily in the newly found peace.

Genre: Fluff

Warning(s): Not the actual storyline at all, inspired by Himari Yua’s mini series “If Tanjiro became a demon that time”

A/n: Go check out my other TanjMilo story here and a description of Milo here! Also, this is an au where Milo and Tanjiro are childhood friends. Milo was staying with them the night of the attack, plus Tanjiro went home right after he finished selling the coal.

‘Too late..’ Giyuu thought as he stared at the slaughtered family in shame. One of the girl’s eyes opened. She had long, black hair with orange tips. The girl started growling and a boy who appeared to be the eldest also woke up. “D-don’t hurt my sister!!” The young boy yelled while getting in front of the girl. The boy looked to the side and Giyuu noticed another girl who appeared to be around the same age as the other girl. She had long, black hair with a purple bow tying it in a half up/half down style. Her eyes fluttered open, and darted all over the place then landed on Giyuu, nichirin sword in hand, ready to attack. ‘They’ve all become demons.. but.. they aren’t attacking me?’ The water hashira thought, a slightly puzzled expression on his normally blank face. Since none of the young demons in front of him were trying to attack him, Giyuu sheathed his sword.

~Time skip an hour later at Giyuu’s mansion~

“So what are your names?” Giyuu asked. “My name is Tanjiro. This is my little sister Nezuko, and this is my girlfriend Milo.” Tanjiro said and motioned to the 2 girls. Nezuko hummed happily through her muzzle. Milo smiled. “Hello!” Milo said with a smile and brushed her bangs out of her eyes. Giyuu nodded. “I’m Giyuu, it’s nice to meet you 3.” Milo looked at the man’s sword. “Why do you have a sword.?” She asked, nervousness evident on her face and in her voice. Giyuu frowned. “I’m a demon slayer.” The 3 demons all tensed up. “Don’t worry, I’m not going to kill you unless you try to attack me or another human.” The man continued and they calmed down.

Giyuu’s crow came and told him he had a mission. “You 3 stay out of trouble, I don’t know when or if I’ll come back.” He said and the young demons nodded. Giyuu sprinted out of the mansion. ‘I feel like I forgot to do something important… Eh it’s ok.’

~The next day~

Giyuu walked up to his mansion and realized what he had forgotten to do. ‘Tanjiro, Milo, and Nezuko are outside, but… how are they not burning?!’ He thought while running up to them. “Hey Mr Tomioka!” Tanjiro said with a large smile. The worry and shock on Giyuu’s face didn’t go away. “Are you guys ok?! How are you not burning right now?!!” He asked and they just looked confused. “What do you mean?” Milo asked, the other 2 nodding looking confused. Nezuko hummed curiously. “U-uhm.. normally, demons can’t go out in the sun without burning to death. Somehow, the three of you have conquered the sun. I’m glad that you’re all ok.” Giyuu explained, slowly calming down.

Tanjiro was walking through the hallway and saw through a window Milo standing out on the porch. He walked out and stood next to her. He looked over at her, she hadn’t noticed him yet. She looked to be in her own world, deep in thought. She had a content look on her face as she stared off into space (hehe that rhymed). Tanjiro just watched her while smiling. “Milo, you’re so beautiful, you know that?” Tanjiro said lovingly and Milo snapped out of her trance, blush spreading across her face. “I got you some strawberries.” He continued while pulling out the medium sized box of freshly picked strawberries. Milo’s eyes lit up and her smile grew. “Thank you, Tanji!!” She said, and hugged him tightly. She carefully took the box. Tanjiro laughed at Milo’s enthusiasm. “No problem! I love you, Milo.” He said, then kissed Milo tenderly and lovingly. Milo kissed him back. They reluctantly pulled away. “I love you too, Tanjiro.”

~2 years later~

After 2 years, Giyuu had grown close to Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Milo. He had grown to love and care for them. He had been talking with Master Kagaya about them ever since they conquered the sun.

Giyuu finally felt like now would be a good time to introduce them to the rest of the hashiras. He made sure to send a letter to the master before coming to headquarters unannounced.

The water hashira led Nezuko, Tanjiro, and Milo to headquarters.

~At headquarters~

Everyone bowed when Master Kagaya came out. Giyuu came forward with the young demons at the master’s command. “Master, these are the demons that I’ve been telling you about.” Kagaya smiled slightly. “Thank you for bringing them here, Tomioka.” Giyuu nodded, then walked back to sit with his fellow hashiras. “Tell me your names, young demons.” Kagaya said with a calm expression plastered on his face. “My name is Tanjiro Kamado and this is my sister Nezuko Kamado, Mr Ubuyashiki. Thank you for allowing us to come meet you.” The young boy said while bowing and motioning to Nezuko. Nezuko hummed happily and waved. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Tanjiro and Nezuko.” Milo then introduced herself and they talked about their situation.

~Skip to when Muzan gets defeated and since this is an au we’re gonna pretend none of the hashiras died~

Nezuko’s eyes opened, tears ran down her cheeks. She’s a human again. ‘Are Tanjiro and Milo ok?! Are they still demons?!’ She looked around and saw her brother being given the cure. His eyes fluttered open. Nezuko ran to him and hugged him. The siblings cried tears of joy in each other’s arms. They both turned to Shinobu. “Where’s Milo?!” They asked simultaneously. “We haven’t been able to find her, she was last seen fighting alongside Tokito.” As Shinobu explained, the mist hashira came up with an unconscious Milo on his back. He gave her to Shinobu, teal eyes gleaming in the sunlight. “Thank you, Tokito.” Shinobu said and Muichiro bowed then walked off to tend to his own injuries. The insect hashira injected the cure into Milo. Her blue eyes fluttered open. Tanjiro and Nezuko hugged her, tears running down their cheeks. “I’m so glad you’re ok!!” Tanjiro said and Nezuko nodded. Hot tears started flowing down Milo’s cheeks and She buried her face into Tanjiro’s chest, hugging him tightly.

They had won, peace had finally been restored.

Tanjiro and Milo eventually got married and had a family. They had twins, a son and a daughter. “Sumi! Give it back!” A little girl with black hair and maroon eyes said. “No way! It’s mine, Ichigo!” Milo came up to see the young children fighting over a toy. She picked up Sumi and brushed his maroon hair out of his blue eyes. “Now you two, don’t fight. You two should share the toy, don’t you think?” She kissed his forehead and put him down. “I’m sorry for not sharing with you Ichi.” The young boy said, handing the toy to Ichigo. “It’s ok Sumi! Mama’s right, we can share the toys! I’ll go get another one and you can play with this one!” She said, giving the boy a hug and handed the toy to him. She then ran off to get another toy.

Tanjiro smiled as he stood in the doorway, watching the interaction between his wife and their children. He came out and hugged Milo from behind, rubbing her stomach. “I love you, Milo. I can’t wait for this next baby to come.” He said and Milo smiled, turning slightly to peck him on the cheek. “I love you too, Tanjiro. She’s gonna be just as amazing as these 2 are, I just know it.”

Tanjiro and Milo continued watching their kids play together and smiled, the sunset highlighting their features.

~The End~

A/n: Hope y’all liked this one!<33

If you have a request go here!

[letsquestjess]

Blood Daughter - Chapter 3: Keeping the Promise

Story Summary: After Kallar Viren flees the Empire, his daughter sets out to find him, only to discover he has been taken by Imperials. With help from Clone Force 99, Zeraphine pushes through her losses in a race against the clock to rescue her father or face the galaxy as the last of her family.

Warnings: None.

Chapter 2 | Chapter 4

Read from the beginning.

-- -- -- -- --

The ship hummed with a low electrical pulse. Zeraphine nestled into the slim mattress beneath her and counted the rhythmic clunks. She initially thought the noise was coming from the navigation console, but after some time she realised it emanated from further back. It’s probably the ammunition packs, she figured, having spotted them piled on a shelf while Echo had finished dressing her wounds. Or water in the pipes. It might be the pipes. 

In the deepest recesses of her grief, she knew that eventually, the distractions wouldn’t be enough to numb the pain. Time pressed down on her and she smelled it in the air like rusted oil on an old clock, ticking in the minutes since her sister had fallen and bringing her closer to a reality she never wanted to accept. But for now, she had the chiming of the ship. And the settled snores of the sleeping clones. 

Almost as suddenly as it had started, the patterned clinks ceased. With a huff, she swung her legs from the makeshift bed, hugging her blanket close to her chest. She carefully placed the tooka doll Omega had insisted she keep with her aside, and quietly traipsed into the cockpit.

Illuminated buttons overtook large sections of the left wall in a kaleidoscope of flickering lights. Hyperspace bathed the cabin in a radiant blue glow, and the equipment circulated an inviting warmth.

The pilot seat squeaked as it rotated, and Hunter’s sympathetic gaze greeted her weary eyes. “Can’t sleep?” 

“How did you guess?” Zeraphine answered, her tired voice tinged with a hint of playfulness. The sergeant’s eyebrows quirked, and she bundled herself into the co-pilot chair, tucking her legs underneath her and glimpsing the luminous rush outside. 

“If Wrecker and Crosshair are having snoring competitions, I’ll wake them.”

“No, it’s not that. There was a clicking noise.”

“Sorry, that will be the refresher,” Hunter said, nudging open the storage cupboard beneath the console. “If the ship’s been inactive for more than a few hours, it can take a while to filter the water through.” He retrieved two ration bars from the organised boxes and passed one to her. “There’s some caf left in the machine if you want some.”

Zeraphine declined and lightly ripped the top of the packet, pushing the dry biscuit over the edge and nibbling on the corner. “Reminds me of the assignment we went on to that Separatist stronghold near the Outer Rim. I can’t remember where we stopped off on the way back to Kamino, but it was hailing. Neither of us could sleep, and we sat and ate those weird snacks we’d picked up.”

“The sour ones with the pieces in them?”

“Yeah.” 

“Wasn’t that the mission where Wrecker launched you into a vent?”

“Don’t remind me,” Zeraphine sighed, shuddering at the recollection of her body hurtling into the metal tube at almost breakneck speed. “I’m surprised I didn’t just slide right through and out the other end in a crumpled heap.”

Hunter scrunched the two empty ration bar wrappers and tossed them into the recycling compactor. The system churned as it broke them down and the cockpit fell into a mild hush. “I imagine missions with your squad were rather quiet, so I suppose accompanying us was a bit of a shock.” 

“That’s one way of putting it.” A sliver of ventilated air crawled down the back of her neck, and she clutched her blanket closer. “Sometimes, I miss that rush of adrenaline. Despite why we were there and the constant danger, it was an environment I’d been trained for from the moment I was born. I had a purpose.”

Hunter watched the sadness play across her face in the vibrant light of hyperspace. He didn’t need electromagnetic senses or heightened tracking abilities to see she was trying to preoccupy herself. He understood the feeling well enough to recognise it. 

“Thank you for helping me,” she said quietly. “You took a massive risk, especially with Omega on board.”

“I’m sorry we couldn’t help Lina too,” Hunter replied. “If there had been another way…”

“She made a choice,” Zeraphine told him, her voice clipped and heavy with the weight of the words she’d been reciting to herself since departing Ciraden. “I tried to reach into the Force to stop her, to communicate with her, but she blocked off my attempts. She knew what she was doing and nothing would have stopped her.” Absentmindedly, she played with a loose thread on the blanket, her finger tracing its way around the thin, fuzzy material. “When we find a planet with a port, I’ll get out of your bandana. You’re not exactly blessed with space, and with your brothers and your sister to think of, you need to conserve what you have.” 

“That won’t be necessary,” Hunter said. “I promised Lina that I’d look after you, and I plan on keeping that promise.” 

“I’m not holding you to it.”

Swivelling the seat to face her, he leaned forward and waited until she met his eyes before speaking. “You’re injured,” he pointed out. “It’s going to take time for you to heal, so how about we put this conversation on hold, at least until you’ve recovered. We’re well stocked and have some places we can pick up supplies, so you wouldn’t be a burden if that’s what you are getting at.” 

Zeraphine opened her mouth to kindly refuse his offer in favour of moving on, but the words stuck in her throat. One loose tear fell, seeping to her chin, and the dam burst. Hunter was fast to wrap her in his arms, and he rested his cheek on her head as she broke down. 

“It’s okay, commander, let it all out. I’ve got you.” He massaged soothing, circular patterns onto her back and ignored the droplet-stained patch soaking through his shirt. “You don’t have to go through this alone. You have us, and we will make sure you find your way home.” 

* * *

A sea of voices filled the market. Occasionally, a vendor bellowed out their latest wares and lucrative deals, followed by competing sellers nearby. Converging streams of red and yellow banners stretched between the outer structures, almost concealing the view of the exclusive stalls on the upper levels. On the street corners and at intersections, holographic posters cycled between the criminals wanted by authorities. 

Hunter identified the pungent scent of fish, and his nose wrinkled in disgust. He dug his hand into his top pocket and clicked the comlink, grumbling at the quiet indicator on the side. 

“That’s the third time you’ve checked your comms,” Zeraphine said, keeping an eye on Omega as she bounded ahead of them to a confection stall brimming with bold, colourful sweets. “Tech assured us the repairs wouldn’t take long. He’ll contact you when they’re done.” 

“I know,” Hunter huffed, “but there’s an electromagnetic pulse somewhere in the area. Can’t you sense it?” 

“Kind of. It’s likely the Imperial power facility we spotted when we landed, but it’s far enough away to not be a bother. I’m monitoring everything too. If I notice anything concerning, I’ll tell you. Okay?” 

With a gentle sigh, the tracker relaxed his tense muscles and reminded himself that Zeraphine also had her own set of skills to aid them. He’d seen her in action, witnessed the fluidity and precision of her strikes when missions went awry. If matters quickly changed, he had more than enough support. 

Omega slowed to let them catch up to her and eavesdropped on their conversation. She absorbed the details they noticed in their surroundings and followed Hunter’s line of sight when he indicated the various alleys and stairways they might utilise as potential escape routes. 

“Zera?” she said. “Can I ask you something?” 

“Of course,” the Phominian replied. 

“Are you a Jedi?” 

“No, but I have the ability to use the Force and so did Lina.” A mournful glimmer briefly crossed Zeraphine’s face before she lifted the corners of her mouth into a smile for Omega’s sake. “It came from our mother’s side of the family. She taught us herself.”

“So you didn’t train with the Jedi at all?” 

“No. Some of their ways conflicted with those on Phomina Nine,” Zeraphine explained. “But I did meet a Jedi once, before the war. He visited when I was little. Visitors are not exactly welcomed unless a Phominian can vouch for them, but he was kind enough and the governor was curious about him. He showed Lina and I some trinkets from other worlds. When he noticed we were Force-sensitive, he asked if we might accompany him back to the temple, but my mother refused. I don’t think she meant to be so harsh with her words, but she feared they would take us away and she did all she could to ensure we kept our distance from them.”

“Didn’t work though, did it?” Hunter commented, eyeing an altercation between a pair of vendors and hastening past them. 

“What do you mean?” Omega asked. 

“When the Clone War began, the senate requested military aid from Phomina Nine,” Zeraphine told her. “The governor was reluctant to send too much, so Lina and I volunteered, along with several other highly trained soldiers. We’d just lost our mother to a Separatist attack, and we were spoiling for a fight with them, so we saw it as an opportunity for revenge.” 

As the road narrowed, Zeraphine focused her energy outward and scoured the field of emotions for any hostility. “As soon as the senate discovered we were both Force users, they sent us to the Jedi council to see where our strengths would be best used,” she continued. “They recognised Lina’s exceptional tactical skills and stationed her on the Venators to oversee battles and draw up strategies, but my talents were… quieter. I was posted on Kamino for a short while and worked on cracking Separatist codes and transmissions. But Master Shaak Ti had other ideas and assigned me a small group of intelligence clones.”

“Your own squad,” Omega enthused. “What were they like?” 

“Mantle Squad? They were…they um…” She sensed the young clone’s eyes on her. Hunter’s gaze flitted away before returning to her with renewed curiosity. How could she truly capture the courage of those men? How could she reduce them to mere words in a way that mattered? Her heart loved them without condition, her soul cherished every second she had spent with them, but when it came down to expressing what they had been like, she hesitated. “They were a band of brothers,” she eventually managed. “Always finding something to bicker over. Pranking each other, and occasionally me. Loyal to a fault. Rather like your brothers.” 

Browsing an abundant stall for what they required and helping select the best stock, Omega mulled over Zeraphine’s recollection of her team. “Where are Mantle Squad now?” she questioned, while Hunter paid for the last of the supplies. 

“They’re gone,” Zeraphine said softly. She took a few boxes from the pile, stacking them neatly under her arm as she made her way back out onto the path. “They didn’t survive the order.”

Hunter felt the sting of her words and leaned down to Omega. “Hey, why don’t you see what that stall has there?” he suggested, pointing to an open pavilion overflowing with textiles. “You said you wanted to look for some material and they seem to have some nice stuff.” He waited until she’d darted off to explore the vibrant fabrics before stopping by the fence of a disused warehouse and lowering his voice. “Sorry about the questions. I know it’s difficult to talk about what happened.”

“None of us had a choice, you guys least of all,” Zeraphine replied, using the pause in their travels to assess their surroundings again. A faint twinge of malicious power hovered close by. “The Emperor threw the dice so high we couldn’t see them. And when they landed, he made sure they fell exactly where he wanted them to.”