#we where safe from the storms thankfully

[foxgloveinspace]

foooooooooxxxxx!!!!

it happened! my ritual! i saw them! i am a wreck!

i cried the whole way home but it was so good. so worth the travel stress and everything. i loved every second of that show

AND!! i managed to look at iii this time lmao! he wasn’t terrifying this time around, holy fuck was he captivating. pretty sure most of my videos focus on him more than anyone else. he was right there! so close! and vessel oh my god? i couldn’t even get my phone out when he came close i was so transfixed. next time i see them (and there will be a next time mark my words, i think i’ll stand on iv’s side because i missed him. i barely saw him but holy shit is he hard to look away from too? So smooth, so sexy it’s unfair)

fuck i’m so so so happy right now. i will be riding this high for a while, but also going home is going to suck so bad 😂

anyways i hope you have a good night/day/whenever you see this and stay safe from the storms!🩶

(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

good evening Exie!!

I'm glad you got to look at iii this time, and I read your post about iii and vessel (and then today I saw some of the vids from other people) and I cracked up haha. I'm always impressed with people get good pics and videos of them cause I think I'd be the same as you with Vessel the whole time lmao.

I'm glad you had a great time!!🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

[abby-howard]

Some folks were asking for my boiled peanuts recipe (as they feature in our game, Scarlet Hollow, and we made a big batch this past weekend), but it's unfortunately a bit difficult for me to post with lightness in my heart right now because this past weekend the entirety of western North Carolina, where Scarlet Hollow takes place, was devastated by hurricane Helene.

Towns I have been to and have fond memories of have been described as "washed away." The region is almost entirely still out of power, the water is all contaminated with repair efforts expected to take weeks, and there are hundreds of people stranded, including my relatives, as roads have been totally destroyed. My uncle sent a photo of the road near his house, thankfully his home is okay but I have to image it's going to take a while for roads like this to see repairs:

I know this photo has been making the rounds, but it bears posting for those who haven't seen it-- the main strip of Chimney Rock, before and after:

Trees, cars, buildings, everything is gone. And now all that debris is just sitting in lakes and rivers. This is Lake Lure today:

Pictures from Swannanoa, an absolutely lovely town with so much character, where my sister went to folk music camp as a teen, where mobile home parks were hit hardest-- people's houses just floated away downriver:

And of course Asheville is the town most people will have heard of. A city of 95k, completely isolated in the days after the storm. The River Arts District was still underwater as of yesterday:

People throughout the entire region are without power and transport and fuel and water and food, they've lost their homes and their businesses, and people have had to resort to hiking to reach loved ones to see if they're safe or whether their homes were just wiped off the face of the earth-- hundreds are still missing because it's been so difficult to get in contact with people in these isolated, rural communities that are now nearly impossible to get to because roads were washed away or collapsed in landslides.

I honestly don't even know where to start when it comes to relief funds or ways that people can help. I've been listening to the local radio station and it sounds like the area is in shock, people are coming in to help pick up the pieces but there is so much recovery that will have to happen that it's hard to know where to start.

This article from the Citizen Times has a list of places that are currently helping with relief efforts.

It's absolutely unfathomable that a hurricane could hit the mountains. The effects of this are going to be felt in western NC for a long time, and my heart goes out to everyone who is currently stranded or trying to get in touch with people who are.

[ddejavvu]

omg tyler owens x shy!reader where they got separated (in a storm or whatever you’d like) and reader is usually so hesitant on public PDA but tyler got hurt and the team is shocked to see reader freaking out over him and he’s just being so gentle and calm

feel free to change whatever 🫶🏼💕 thank you for putting the imagination into words so well!!!

Aftermath - Tyler Owens x Reader

come participate in tyler owens night !

You're typically less obnoxious about your relationship with Tyler Owens in front of his mass of fans, but Tyler isn't typically bleeding from a head wound, so today is different all-around.

One of the windows of his truck had broken, shattered and disappeared into the mass of swirling winds and debris, and an unfortunately sharp chunk of the mess had slashed Tyler across the forehead, leaving an open gash in its wake. Long but thankfully shallow, the cut drips deceptively copious amounts of blood down his face, and your fingers desperately try clearing it away.

"Baby, baby, I'm okay." He vows, keeping his voice low even though it's shaking. Perhaps his adrenaline junkie habits do have a ceiling.

"You're not okay," Your voice wobbles as if you yourself had been in the twister, instead of watching on his live stream as his head was cut open, "That- that thing could have hit your eye, it was so- so close, or it could have hit-" You devolve into deep, choking sobs, one that rip gasps from your throat and leave your heart pounding.

"Breathe." Tyler prompts you, taking your face in his shaking hands the way you're holding his, "Breathe. It didn't go through my eye. It went through my forehead, and it's just a little thing. It's gonna heal up just fine- just need some stitches. And I'll get the window fixed tomorrow, before anything else. 'Cause-" He breaks off, voice still shaky and hollow, "That's- that shouldn't have happened. My truck's supposed to be stronger than that."

"If it happens again," You fret, voice slowly strengthening as you muscle down your aching sobs, "If-"

"No, it's not- it's not gonna happen again." Tyler's hands squeeze your face gently, providing comforting pressure as he holds you steadily against him, "I'll test it myself. I'll- I'll bash the windows with a hammer or somethin', and- and make sure they won't break."

"Don't bash your windows with a hammer," You laugh, and it's a wet, barely-there sound, "That's- that sounds dangerous. And expensive."

"Okay." He nods, and you stare at each other in reverie, one coming off of the high of near-mortality and the other sponging away grief that had already taken up residence over the heart. Tyler is alive, he's injured but he's alive, and you'll reinforce the truck with solid steel if you have to, just to be sure a stray chunk of debris doesn't shatter the window again.

"Can- can you take a little break?" You ask Tyler, and you're not doing it on purpose, but you're pretty sure your eyes are stuck in puppy-mode, and it must be lethal, "I don't want you going back into a storm for- for, I dunno, a few weeks maybe. I just- let your head heal first, please?"

"Alright. Yeah, a- a break sounds nice," Tyler admits, grinning absently at you. You wonder if his body is out of its fight-or-flight response yet, "Maybe even a month? We'll see how the channel does, 'make sure we don't lose too much of an audience. We can pay the bills until then."

"Thank you," You breathe, inches away from Tyler's face as you drink him in, and you're unsure whether you're thanking him for stepping down and playing it safe, or whether you're thanking the universe for sparing him by an inch.

"Mm-hm," He nods, and you really can't tell whether he's talking to you or the universe either. Maybe a transcendent mix of both, but as long as there's still air in his lungs and fire in his eyes, you don't care too much about the details.

[lovelyyandereaddictionpoint]

Overblot Universe (6) | Yandere Twisted Wonderland

Part 1 • 2 • 3• 4•5•7

From the distance you were struggling to stand, watching gallons of ink warp and grow around the area Riddle had previously been imprisoned

Ultimately creating a giant overblotted depiction of Riddle as the twisted Queen of Hearts that he is 

Black Scribbly eyes searching frantically and maniacally as an axe began to form from the scepter he’d been holding 

“Guys he knows where we are!”

“(Y/n) why do you think that?”

Before you can answer the weight of the crown and the bodice of your inky outfit have you struggling to look up or even stand

And without looking you could tell that the inky rendition was looking in your direction

“REMOVE THAT CROWN AT ONCE. IT MUST BE THE CULPRIT!”

“It’s a little late for that genius.”

It took Jade and Sebek’s combined effort to peel the crown off your head 

The pressure of the inky band finally squeezing off your head was like undoing a stabbing migraine

You almost passed out at the relief you didn’t realize you so desperately needed

“(Y/n) are you alright?!”

“Y-yeah.”

Jack had left managing the mirror to Silver to scoop you into his arms

Ignoring the sneers on everyone’s faces you let yourself relax a little before looking past him

To see Ace, Deuce, and Cater running frantically 

Looking behind them was the hundred remaining blotted guards 

But even in their growing numbers that was not making giant thuds into the ground

That was the giant Riddle stomping behind looking as though he was about to cast a spell with the giant axe

Which would be ridiculous if it wasn’t making a giant glowing ball

“Guys! We’ve got to go!”

“Alright everybody let’s go! In the mirror now!”

“I agree. (Y/n) you first.”

“Wait, Ace, Deuce, and Cater have to get in. We are not leaving anyone behind!”

They all collectively groaned, scoffed, and kicked at the dirt

Thinking that this is something you have to stress from your friends boyfriends was certainly not the best situation 

But now wasn’t the time to unpack that 

Cheering over Jack’s shoulder since he refused to set you down

You tried to ignore the blue glow in the clouds

“Guys do you see that? It kind of looks like those robots that abducted our dorm leaders a while back….”

“(Y/n) was Riddle the only one you encountered?”

You slowly turned to where Epel and Jade were looking at the rest of the group turning that way too

The now visible brigade of Idia’s creations surging closer

Even from the ground you could spot the fiery blue hair at the head of the metallic flock

If that wasn’t enough in the opposite direction was another army the same one that was fighting the heartslabyul students at the very beginning of your journey

And above them was what looked like a green haelstorm but you knew better

A terrifying roar rang out and everyone reached for their ears 

You stopped searching for the other two overblots just focused on going into the mirror as soon as they were close enough

Unfortunately their frantic running wasn’t faster than the surging groups 

There was a red beam aimed at the mirror 

Silver, Epel, and Sebek saved it this time but you couldn’t tell if they’d miss it

“Come one you guys hurry!”

They were closer now just a few paces away before an inky arrow flew past 

A blotted version of Rook was somehow far ahead the other armies aiming with a bow on a nightmarish horse

If that wasn’t enough the ground underneath your group was falling out from beneath you all

Jack and the other’s figured it out quickly when they spotted the blotted trail to a stalking blotted Leona

Thankfully your friends were nearly there just in front of the electric storm beginning to just above you

“That’s close enough in you go.”

“Hey!”

Epel snatched you from Jack, holding you tight jumping into the mirror 

properly transporting you back to the twisted wonderland you know and love and that loves you back

You were safe...right?

7th and Final chapter: Here

[hischierhoney]

Snowglobe // pt. i

ski patrol!nico hischier x reader

summary: an unfortunate turn in the weather leaves you trapped on the ski hill, and your vacation plans a bit in disarray, but there are worse people to be stuck with than Nico. 4.7k words

warnings: winter storm, mentions of danger (but everyone is fine!), suggestive content and mild (very mild!!) angst upcoming in part ii.

You’ve heard before that the weather on the mountain can change quickly, but you never really understood what they meant until this very moment. You’re standing, facing down the run, staring out at the dark clouds rolling in, thick and churning like the ocean. Dread settles in your stomach as the flakes begin to thicken around you

It’s probably fine, you think, bracing yourself. It’s just- you’re pretty high up on the hill, all things considered. It would take you a while to ski down under normal conditions. But the world is turning into a snowglobe, and the visibility is going to be awful, and-

“Hey!”

You turn toward the noise. You spot the person easily, clad in that signature bright red ski patrol jacket. He’s skiing towards you, waving an arm frantically.

“Hey,” he says again as he skis up next to you. “They’re closing the mountain.”

“Oh, yeah, I figured,” you nod, gesturing down the hill. “Was trying to work up the courage to ski down. Any suggestions on the route? Or should I try and take the lift-“

He shakes his head. “We’ve been told to shelter in place. They closed the lifts. I’m surprised you got all the way up here, you must’ve been the last one up.”

“Shelter in place?” You say, nose wrinkled. “Where?”

“There’s a ski patrol hut nearby,” he says. His face is pinched, at least what you can see of it beneath the helmet and goggles. “Look. I know you don’t know me, but I really can’t recommend skiing down. If something happens, we may not be able to get to you.”

You hesitate. He’s standing in front of you- you can barely make out any features on his face, but he sounds trustworthy enough. Besides, they wouldn’t hire him if he wasn’t. You look down the mountain again and swallow, hard. The visibility is fading fast- the tree you’d been looking at before has disappeared.

“Hut it is,” you reply. “As long as you promise you’re not crazy.”

The man laughs, and it makes your own smile grow. His laughter is contagious. It keeps you level headed all the way to the little hut on the side of the slope.

“I promise,” he says, in a firm, kind voice.

There’s a tiny space heater inside that’s already going on full blast. The man helps prop your skis up next to the door, and you stand there, shivering, a little unsure what to do. You survey the tiny room. There’s a couch, a microwave, a little sink. An electric kettle, a little desk, a portable radio that’s seen better days. And, thankfully, a bathroom.

You turn to the man to ask how long it’s going to be, but he’s staring out of the window, radio held to his ear, so you wait. There’s chatter he seems to be waiting for a break in, something about the Bluebird lift. Finally, there’s a break in the noise.

“Base, Nico, checking in,” the man says.

“Go ahead, Nico,” a voice crackles through.

“Safely to the Daisy Chain hut,” he says. So, he must be Nico. You test out the name on your lips, silently. “I’ve got one guest with me.”

“Okay, Nico. Hold tight. We’re predicting a break in the weather in the next fifteen, we may be able to get you to the gondola and down or at least to the Bluebird lift building with everyone else. But hold tight for now.”

You eye the swirling gusts outside skeptically. Even with a break in the weather, an escape seems doubtful. The Bluebird lift is far enough away, and down the hill from here, which is a risky maneuver when the weather could pick back up. The gondola is even farther. Anxiety flutters in your chest. You shuffle slightly towards the couch, closer to the little heater. You take a seat but stay dressed, figuring you’ll need to be ready to go pretty quickly.

15 minutes later, Nico’s still staring out the window. His shoulders are hunched. You hear his name crackle over the radio.

“Now’s your gap,” the other person says. “Should stay at this rate for the next ten minutes. Your call, Hisch.”

The wind is still blowing, strong. There’s a tree just outside the window, you saw it coming in, but from here, you’d never be able to tell. Nico sighs, heavily, shoulders sagging. He shakes his head.

“No way, Shel. Visibilty is shit.” he says, wincing at his own use of profanity. “Not when we’re safe here. We’ll make do.”

“Affirm. What’s your guest’s name? We’d like to let their friends know they’re safe.”

Nico turns over his shoulder towards you for the first time since you entered the hut. You try and look brave, but from the way his hard set expression softens, you think you’ve failed pretty spectacularly. He tilts his head towards you, and you tell him your name without a second thought. He repeats it back over the radio, listens to a couple instructions, and then sets it down on the desk. He turns fully towards you with a sigh. You feel incredibly small, suddenly, like a kid in a bad thunderstorm. So unsure about everything.

…..

Nico’s kicking himself, hard. Directly to where it hurts the most, probably. He walked into the hut and proceeded to ignore you for the next near half hour. No regards for your worries or your comfort or anything. He feels like an asshole. Sure, he was worried, but he could’ve taken a few seconds to get you comfortable- you’re still in your ski boots, for god’s sake.

He clears his throat. “Hi. Sorry. I’m Nico.’

“I heard,” you say, blinking up at him from the couch. “What’s the verdict, Nico?”

He sighs, again. “Not gonna lie, we’re gonna be here a while. Probably overnight. The snow and the wind is a bad combo.”

You nod solemnly, and then sit there, waiting, quietly. You look scared. It makes his chest ache.

“Hey. I promise you, I’m getting you off this mountain safely, okay? Just gotta wait it out. For now we can get comfortable. I’d give you a tour but I think you’ve seen it all, honestly.”

You laugh slightly- that feels like a win- and start unzipping your jacket. “What, no hidden rooms?”

He laughs at that, too. “Unfortunately not.”

A few minutes later, your outer layers of clothing are hung up next to his, near the door, and your boots are there, too. The hut is a bit drafty, and he winces again when you shiver slightly. There are emergency blankets in the kit under the sink, but he doesn’t want to pull those out if he doesn’t have to- would probably send the wrong message. Instead, he unzips his black puffer coat, leaving him in the hoodie he’s wearing underneath. You need it more than him.

He holds it out with a low “here.”

When you look up at him through your lashes, he feels his heart skip a beat.

“Thank you, Nico,” you say, softly, a smile slipping across your face.

That’s better.

…..

Nico’s puffer jacket is warm. Cozy. Comfy. And honestly, it’s a sweet gesture. It’s amazing how something like that can make you feel just a little safer. Suddenly, the storm outside doesn’t seem quite as scary. You watch as Nico putters around the hut, digging through drawers and starting up the electric kettle. He’s tall, and broad, the ends of his dark hair poking out from beneath his beanie to match the slight dusting of stubble on his face, paired with a well kept mustache. You check your phone, but it’s just as you expected- no cell service.

“Aha!” He exclaims, making you flinch slightly. “I knew this was in here.”

He stands up with a deck of cards in his hand, smiling triumphantly, and you start to melt even more. Outside, the snow is piling up, but in here, you’re warm.

Nico sinks down onto the couch next to you, sitting at the other end. He opens the pack of cards, shuffling them back and forth in his hands. You try not to watch too closely, but you’re unsure where else to look. His face, maybe? But god, he’s-

He’s cute.

You noticed it in the smile he gave you out on the mountain, even. But here, in the yellow light of the hut, undone and face on full display, he’s almost overwhelmingly handsome. Strong jaw, big dark eyes, the sweetest smile when he catches you looking.

“Have you ever played Jass?” He asks. You shake your head, and he grins. “That’s okay. I can teach you.”

Nico’s a good teacher, and you’re a fast learner. It takes you a couple rounds to beat him, and he smiles happily when you do. Next, you teach him a different game, one of your favorites. He bears his confusion with a smile, but he’s quick, too, catching on far too fast for your liking.

Eventually, you lean back on the couch, your stomach rumbling slightly. You laugh at the sound, but Nico frowns.

“You’re hungry,” he says. You shrug. “We have ramen packets? Microwave popcorn?”

You groan, softly. “I could fuck up some ramen right now. We can save the popcorn for a midnight snack.”

He laughs, a full laugh, unmuted, from somewhere deep in his chest. His eyes crinkle at the corners when he does. You laugh, too, and bite your lip when he’s not looking. His laugh is pretty, too. It’s almost unfair.

This is going to be a long night.

…..

Nico’s never been more proud of his ramen doctoring skills than when you have your first bite. You sigh happily, eyes squeezing shut, and he grins in response. Maybe it’s just the feeling of a good meal at the end of a long day, but either way, it makes him happy.

He promised he’d keep you safe. This is part of it, that’s all.

He sits down next to you with his own bowl. It’s dark outside now. He sees your gaze flicker to the window every so often, brows pinching together, the same way he does when you’re not looking. He doesn’t like it either, honestly, but he hopes you know he’s going to keep his promise.

“Okay,” you say, quietly. “Tell me a fun fact about yourself.”

It’s so unexpected he nearly laughs around a mouthful of noodles. From the smirk on your face, the timing was deliberate. He bites back another laugh and swallows, wincing at the hot food. It’s fine. Worth it, to see you laugh again.

“Huh,” he hums. “Are we doing ice breakers now? We’ve been here for four hours.”

You nod enthusiastically. “No time like the present, Nico.”

He rolls his eyes affectionately. He likes the way you say his name. The way your lips form around the word. He should probably stop watching you say it. Bad for his health, he thinks, the way it makes his heart rate kick up.

“Um. Okay. When I was 16, I moved to Canada by myself to play hockey,” he says.

You blink at him. “Like. The NHL?”

He smiles and shakes his head. “Nah. I was trying, but it wasn’t for me. The whole time, I just missed skiing.”

You nod slowly. He can see the gears in your brain turning. “And now it’s your job to rescue poor saps like me.”

He shakes his head, nudging his elbow against yours. “Now it’s my job to make sure everyone has a good day on the mountain. I take it very seriously. Can’t you tell?” He asks, gesturing at the haphazard pile of cards on the table and the bowl of ramen in your hands.

You break into giggles again. “Mhm. You’re doing great, all things considered, you know.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” you agree. “10 out of 10 hospitality. Would recommend. The host even gave me his jacket.“

He grins, and shifts on the couch. Leans a little closer, his knee knocking into yours.

“Your turn for a fun fact,” he directs.

You groan. “What if I don’t have one?”

“You started this!”

…..

Nico’s kind. Warm, really, feels like the best word to describe him. He makes your chest feel a little fizzy. His laughter is contagious, his smile even more so.

But he’s just doing his job.

You keep reminding yourself of that, because if you don’t, this would all feel a whole lot like flirting. The two of you are huddled on the couch, now, leaning close to peer at the screen of his phone. He’d remembered he had a couple episodes of Scrubs downloaded, said something about watching them with someone named Jack during lunch breaks. You selfishly hope that Jack isn’t more than a friend to him. And then, you remind yourself, again, for the millionth time, that he’s just doing his job.

His shoulder bumps yours when he laughs at something, and you can feel the warmth radiating from his thigh next to yours. The thing is, he’s not pulling away. That’s a good sign, at least, right?

The hut is chilly, even with the space heater. A little shared body heat never hurt anyone. When he slips an arm onto the couch behind you, not touching but hovering near your shoulders, you lean into him, just slightly.

He doesn’t pull away.

A while later- you’re not sure how long- you wake up with a start. Your head has fallen against his chest, curling into the warmth of him. You grimace, feeling a little embarrassed, until you feel the weight atop your head. He’s fallen asleep against you, too.

“Nico,” you say, in a hushed tone.

He hums in response.

“Hey, Nico,” you repeat. He lifts his head slightly. “Wanna figure out a sleeping arrangement?”

He swallows, lifting his hand to scrub at his jaw. His other arm stays around your shoulders, his hand resting against you, you notice. You try not to think about it too much. Try not to lean into the touch. Try not to let your mind run wild with the idea of falling asleep against him, again. You regret waking him.

“Yeah,” he says, quietly. “You take the couch. I’ll…”

You look around the room. There’s an office chair that seems to be on its last leg. No shot. The only other option is-

“”I’ll take the floor,” he says.

“Like hell you will,” you protest, elbowing his side lightly. “Don’t be silly, you worked all day today.”

“And it’s my job to make sure everyone has a good day-“

“Yeah, well, you sleeping on the floor will ruin my day,” you snark back.

You turn to look up at him. In the low light, you can see his one brow raised, the smirk on his lips. He’s so close, now. It hits you, then, that it wouldn’t take much to close the gap. You could lean in, press your lips to his. He could wrap that arm around you, all the way, hold you close. Kiss you back. Pull you into his lap. Hell of a way to stay entertained in this tiny hut. It would keep you warm, too.

You blink, hard. Fight the urge to shake your head.

“We can share the couch,” you say, before you can even really think it through. “It’s wide enough, we can each take one end. We’re gonna need our beauty sleep.”

Nico sighs, then pats your shoulder. “You drive a hard bargain. I accept.”

He sticks his hand out to shake yours, like it’s a business deal and not a sleeping arrangement. You laugh, again, and feel the warmth of his hand in yours all the way through your body.

…..

Nico lays there in the dark, listening to your breathing evening out, one emergency blanket laid out over the two of you. He’s trying not to move, knowing the tinfoil like material with crinkle, not wanting to wake you. From the angle he’s at, he can just peek over at you, your face barely visible in the low light.

You’re beautiful, he thinks.

Outside, the wind howls. A constant reminder of why he’s here, that he’s not laying next to you for the fun of it.

It’s his job to keep you safe. As soon as he fulfills that promise, he’ll probably never see you again.

He closes his eyes and tries to ignore the anxiety that makes him feel.

…..

You wake up to blinding sunlight, an empty couch, and the strangest scraping noise you’ve ever heard. It takes you a solid minute to get your bearings, even longer than that to realize that Nico’s not in the bathroom and that he also hasn’t left you to fend for yourself. The scraping noise is a shovel. The sunlight means the storm has cleared.

You shove the thin emergency blanket off of you, shuffling towards the door. When you open it, you squint, nearly blinded by the sun reflecting off the fresh snow. You hear Nico before you see him, just by the sound of his laughter.

“Morning, sunshine,” he calls out, leaning on the snow shovel. “You ready to blow this popsicle stand?”

You squint at him. He’s not even wearing his jacket- you still have his puffer coat on. It’s just him in his snow bibs and his long sleeve shirt. He sticks the shovel into the snow again, and you watch his muscles flex, his undershirt leaving little to the imagination.

“You should’ve woken me,” you manage to get out, your brain barely working. “I could’ve helped shovel.”

He shakes his head. “There’s only one shovel.”

“We could’ve shared.”

He laughs at that, taking a couple steps through the snow towards you. “Okay, let’s get you some coffee, sleepyhead. Maybe a poptart. We’ve got a date with Jack.”

Jack, as it turns out, is Nico’s coworker. Which, in reality, probably doesn’t rule him out as someone who could be more than a friend. The way Nico grimaces at Jack’s loud voice over the radio does, though. That, plus the affectionate eye roll and the hand motion he does, as if he’s telling Jack to hurry it along.

“-so they’re gonna get Bluebird spinning here, soonish. We’ve got twenty to go down, plus me, Lukey, Siegs, and Timo. You’ve just got a plus one, right? We shoveled out earlier and your route looks pretty clear from our point, I’d just take Lark down to the Stork cutoff, or- Siegs says maybe-“

“I can’t cut in,” Nico says, mildly exasperated, mildly affectionate. “He won’t hear it.”

“-and just avoid the area under the lift, in case there’s any ice stuck to it-“

When Jack finally stops talking, Nico responds with a short and sweet 10-4 and a relay of the plan. You start cleaning up before you go, while he puts on a kettle and makes some instant coffee. It’s bitter and a little grainy, but it wakes you up, even if you’re both grimacing at each other over your paper cups.

Then you get suited up. You give Nico his jacket back, albeit reluctantly- it wouldn’t fit under your layers, anyways. He’d folded your dry clothes before he went out to shovel, and set them near the space heater, which means they’re nice and toasty when you slip into them. Then you follow him back out into the sun, fidgeting with the straps of your helmet.

He turns, frowning slightly, and comes closer.

“Here,” he mumbles, his fingers brushing against your chin. “You’re a little twisted, that’s all. I got it.”

“Thanks,” you say, blinking up at him.

He has long eyelashes. Thick, dark eyebrows. Wrinkles near his eyes- smile lines, so happy all the time that it shows on his face. It makes your heart skip a beat. His fingers are warm against your skin, despite the cold.

He shrugs. “No problem.”

Right. Things like this are just a part of his job.

You strap into your skis and take off behind him. The snow is powdery and light, the mountain peaceful and empty. You think, for a second, that you should’ve take a photo of the hut, to remember it by, but it’s too late now, and he’d probably think it was weird. You turn over your shoulder for one last look, the tiny building disappearing into the distance.

It’s not a long trek over to the top of the Bluebird lift. You sort of wish it was longer. Nico stays by your side the whole time, pointing out birds in the trees or a particularly interesting bit of wind drifted snow. He’s smiley, again. He loves this, you can tell. You get why he chose this life.

The lift comes into view not long after that. There’s a few people milling about, a couple in red jackets. One of them, the tallest one, lifts an arm and waves. Nico waves back.

“That’s Luke,” he says.

Like he wants you to know. Like these people, who are important to him, are ones you should know, too. Something about that makes your heart twist, makes butterflies swirl in your stomach.

When you ski up to the lift, the shorter of the two red jacket clad men greets Nico with a hug. There are others coming out of the building now, more skiers, followed by two more Ski Patrol guys. They greet Nico, too. You hesitate, wondering if you should just go. If you should mingle with the other “guests”, or maybe just wait it out on your own. You were silly to think Nico cared about anything other than getting you there safely- his job is done, isn’t it?

As if on cue, he turns around, dark eyes sparkling, and waves you over. He introduces you, and then the rest of the guys- Jack, Jonas, and Timo. Luke, too, though you already knew his name.

“I taught her Jass,” he says, and Jonas and Timo both hum and nod approvingly. “She beat me. Or, at least she says she did. I think maybe she cheated-“

You scoff, elbowing him, feeling indignant. “I wouldn’t even know how to cheat.”

Nico’s smirking next to you. He nudges his shoulder against yours. You bite back a matching smile of your own.

“Impressive,” Luke says. “Jack’s been trying to beat Nico for years.”

Jack glares at Luke- similar faces, similar mannerisms, you’d bet they’re brothers. “Yeah, well, I think Nico does cheat when he’s playing me.”

There’s a loud noise, and then the lift lurches into motion. You swallow down a little bit of resentment. It’ll be good to get off the mountain, to meet back up with your friends. They’re probably worried, despite the check in Nico gave to let them know you were safe. It’s just…

Nico’s arm is pressed against yours. You swear you feel the warmth, even through all the layers. You don’t want it to end. You want to stay right next to him.

Jonas starts directing people towards the lifts. “Guests first,” he calls out.

You find yourself a little frozen. You realize, suddenly, that you’re probably going to end up riding down alone, or with a total stranger. And it’s fine. The lift is safe. It’s just- you’ve heard horror stories about storms, about lifts having damage, about people getting stuck. You don’t want to get stuck alone.

“Hey,” Nico says, nudging your shoulder again. “I’ll ride down with you, if you want. We’ll just have to go last.”

You blink up at him. “Really?”

He nods. “Told you I’d get you off this mountain safely, right?”

You feel the smile creep across your face. “Right.”

When you look away, Jack is smiling knowingly at the both of you. You smile right back.

…..

Nico wraps his arm around your shoulder on the lift.

He does it without caring about what anyone else thinks. He knows he’ll get shit from all his friends on the seats behind the two of you, who can see it so clearly, and probably see right through him, too. All he cares about, though, is the way you lean into it, the way you nestle so perfectly into his side. The weight of your head against his shoulder, his chest, just feels right. The world around you is peaceful. Slow. The lift is at half speed for safety reasons, and he’s not complaining.

He points at a forested area. “There’s a secret run in there. It’s one of my favorites. Take a left at the top of Gray Jay and you’ll see it.”

You grin. “Already found that with one of my friends yesterday.”

He laughs. “Here I am trying to tell you all the mountain’s secrets, but you’re an expert, huh?”

You shrug and look up at him, eyes wide and soft. “Tell me another secret.”

You’re gorgeous.

That’s no secret. And it’s also not something he can say to you. Not now, not while he’s working. You’ve trusted him to keep you safe. He might ruin it all by saying something like that.

So he smiles, points towards another run. “If you take that and veer right, you’ll get to this open powder area that almost nobody touches. It’s perfect.” Then he frowns. “But maybe wait a day or two. After all that snow… could be a little sketchy.”

You nod. “Got it. But hey, I know who to ask for if I get into trouble, right?”

Nico’s heart flutters. “Yeah. You call, I’ll be there. Promise.”

He holds his pinky out towards you. It’s hard to tell, because he’s wearing mittens, but you laugh and do the same, wrapping your finger around his as best as you can. It makes his chest ache.

…..

There are people milling around at the bottom of the lift. Friends and family, waiting for their loved ones. You think you spot one of your friends, in her signature bright pink jacket. You sigh as you inch closer to the ground, both you and Nico sliding off the lift easily.

You come to a stop just outside the landing zone. Nico follows suit. When you turn to look up at him, he’s smiling, cheeks rosy pink along with the tip of his nose. You want to kiss him. You want him to kiss you.

He doesn’t.

One of your friends calls your name. At the same time, someone calls his. You try not to look disappointed.

“Sorry,” he says. “That’s my boss. You’re good now, yeah?”

You nod. “Off the mountain, safe and sound.”

He smiles and nods. “Then my job here is done.”

You swallow and nod again. “Thanks, Nico. For everything.”

Just doing his job, you think.

He smiles softly. At the last second, he reaches out and squeezes your shoulder. “For you, anytime. I mean it.”

Then he skis away, leaving you wishing for just one more moment with him.

…..

Nico doesn’t always let them drag him out to the bar, especially after a long day like today. Honestly, he’s a little exhausted, and he probably won’t last long before he decides to try and get an uber home. Normally, he’d walk, because it’s damn expensive to catch a ride, but his legs are like jello.

He’d spent the day hard at work, getting things back up and running again, filling in where he could. He’s ski patrol, but he’s handy with a hammer, able to help with basic maintenance when lifts go down. He’d also spent the day with Jack yapping his ear off about all the Karens they’d spent the night with at the Bluebird lift station.

“Can’t believe we had to deal with that and you got to spend the night with-“ Jack had started, and then paused.

Nico filled in your name, helpfully, whacking at a stuck lift bar and grinning when it fell into place.

“Yeah. She seemed like much better company. Like. Did you guys kiss?”

Nico had sighed. “I’m gonna pretend you didn’t ask me that. I was working.”

Now, Jack’s sitting at the bar next to him, yapping his ear off, again. Nico takes a sip of his beer- he loves Jack, he really does. He’s just re-running all the things he’s done and said in the past 24 hours, questioning if he missed his chance with you. He could go home, wallow about it, but that would mean giving up on the real reason he came out in the first place. The one he won’t admit out loud. The reason he keeps scanning the room over Jack’s shoulder.

When he hears the unmistakable sound of your laughter, the sound that’s been etched into his brain since he first heard it, he takes a deep breath, trying to steady his suddenly racing heart. Then he flags down the bartender and orders another drink.

find part ii here!!

…..

thanks for reading! part ii coming soon!

[libbyfandom]

“The Dove is just as Cunning as the Demon”

‘Need to get out of the chains. Get my sword. Grab dove. Find a way out. Chains, sword, dove, get out.’

Mizu eyes the guard to her right that’s holding her sword and pulling you along as the one that’s dragging her leads her to a back room. Taigen is swearing a storm as he’s dragged behind her by two more guards.

At least Ringo wasn’t captured. He was still thankfully waiting back at camp. If he even knew of this he would have come running to her side, further complicating escaping.

She winces, growling in frustration as the guard yanks her shackled arms further up her back as he drags her, feeling the muscles in her shoulders scream in protest.

She knew you three weren’t running fast enough after her and Taigen got into a sword fight with others at the inn. You were swarmed right out the city gates.

She would have kept fighting if one of them hadn’t held a knife to your throat.

They toss her and Taigen into the room. She catches herself on one knee, glaring over her shoulder at the men as Taigen struggles to his feet.

“Ah-“ one of the guards tsks when Taigen stands, holding her sword to your throat where he has your back restrained to his chest. You’re shaking, craning your neck as far back from the familiar steel as possible. His hand follows still, pressing the steel in until the tiniest stinging slit cuts through, a drop of blood rolling down your neck.

Mizu clenches her jaw against the familiar flames of rage licking at the corners of her focus, desperate to take over. She slowly turns with unblinking, predator like focus on where the man’s hand is. Where it temporarily is attached to his body.

“Taigen.”

He’s breathing raggedly through his nose, eyes sharp on the guards. But at her word he glances at her once, before begrudgingly lowering himself to a sitting position like her.

‘Chains. Sword. Dove. Detach hand. Get out.’

“I see the demon is in charge.”

“He is not in charge of me!” Taigen glowers from the floor.

The guard lowers the sword, heaving you up beside him. “You two wait here, we will come when the hanging executioner is ready for you.”

He lowers his face to stare at Mizu’s dark expression, his lips curling with a malicious satisfaction. “I do love watching a dishonorable swordsman’s neck snap from the drop.”

“No!” You crumple against the guard holding you captive, making him stumble a moment before he wretched you back upright from where you’ve collapsed to the floor.

Her eyes dart for every detail of the guards. Only single sword wielders, no archery weapons in hand. Safe after getting out of range. Simple, foot-soldier armor. Only powerful in numbers. Captain can’t be bribed, he’s holding too much pleasure at getting to kill them. She turns her attention to the room. Furnishings similar to normal houses. This place is not designed to hold prisoners. No windows, but that could mean…

She spots the rafter leading into the next room. An easy way out without being spotted on the floor, but she needs a way out of these chains once the guards leave, and quickly. Until she’s out of these shackles and has you in sight this needs to be silent, or risk your safety. Her stomach is tightening as she knows there’s about to be who knows how many minutes between when she escapes and when she finds you. The unknown of what these guards could do (she knows what men do) is leaving a rock in her stomach that she now needs to ignore to figure a way-

You suddenly fling yourself into her lap, cupping her cheek and pressing your mouth into hers, hard. Her eyes fly open, everything in the room halting to silence. Even the two guards near the door glance at each other with uncomfortable confusion. Taigen’s giving you two the most judgmental side eye mixed with disbelief.

She tried to flinch away on instinct at the sudden action, but your lips follow hers. Your tongue pried her mouth open, and she almost kicks you off because DOVE. RIGHT NOW?! NOT THE PLACE OR TIME.

She feels a smooth weight fall into her mouth, and her throat closes up instinctually to not swallow it.

You’re ripped away from her, half dragged half carried out the door. You flash her a certain look as you’re taken away, before going back to flailing and hitting the guard. She keeps her lips clenched tight, glaring at them as they leave. When the last guard shuts the door Taigen turns to her. “You can’t even say anything? You know what they’re going to do-“

He falls into stunned silence when the shackles key slips out of her mouth, clenched between her teeth.

“Holy shit…” he murmurs. Shaking his head back into the moment, he quickly shuffles over and turns his back to her so she can spit the key into his bound hands.

Mizu’s eyes slide back toward the door.

“I fucking love that woman.”

Chains gone.

Grab Sword.

Detach hand.

Tune out screaming.

Throw a giggling dove over shoulder.

Kick down door.

Run off into the night.

….

Remember to tell dove how clever that was.

[honourablejester]

It’s weird how mundanely different everyone’s experience of ‘the sea’ is.

I remember as a young kid reading one of the Famous Five books and the characters talk about ‘swimming out past the waves’ for a more leisurely swim. And I was in absolute awe of this, because the beach I swam at as a kid is basically an inlet between two headlands, it has an incredibly long gradual incline up towards the beach, and the tide drives water directly in. The difference between high and low tides is like quarter of a mile, and it’s waves all the way up. So you could swim past the waves when the tide is all the way out, sure, maybe, but if the tide is in? That’s like quarter to half a mile of a hard swim just to get to your ‘swim’. So I was looking at these kids in this book thinking ‘wow, you guys are hardcore’.

And then we started swimming at a different beach much later on, and it basically has no waves. It’s fully sheltered in the lee of a headland from the main currents/weather for the area, and it’s flat as a pond. Going out past the waves involves wading out five feet. So, ah. Depending on the geography of the beach the Famous Five were on? They might well have been hardcore. Or they might have had 15ft to go to get past the breakers.

I’m thinking about this because I’ve been watching clips of Bondi Rescue on youtube, and Bondi appears to be a surfer beach with big surf and several permanent to semi-permanent rip currents. And there are people going out in it who can’t swim, and they’re paddling around in rip currents in those inflatable pool rings, you know the pool flamingo things? And it baffles me. But then I remember that … well, everyone’s experience of ‘the sea’ is different. Maybe their home beach was flat as a pond because it was sheltered by a headland, and those pool things are perfectly feasible there.

I still would never in a million years go anywhere near the sea in them myself. You can’t swim in those. They pin your arms up. Yeah, you float, but you also get picked up by any motion in the water whatsoever and put wherever it wants you and you have no say in the matter. I’ve been in a rip once, with a boogie board, and you can feel them pulling you. It’s terrifying. I could feel it pulling the board out along its line away from me. Thankfully I could just swim sideways out of it, but for a while there before I knew how wide it was I thought I’d have to let the board go just so it wouldn’t pull me with it. So yeah, I get the desire for a floatation device, but I’d prefer one that a) lets me swim, and b) that I can get out of/let go of if it’s pulling me places.

I’ve been in a lot of seas. I’ve been in rocky inlets with big swells from the water just sloshing around between the rocks. I’ve been picked up and fully thrown up onto a cliff by a wave in one of those. I’ve been in nearly motionless water when you can basically lie on your back and let yourself drift because the water’s not going to carry you far. I’ve been swimming in a storm surge on that childhood beach with 12ft waves charging up quarter of a mile of beach and it was amazing, and relatively safe because you were going to get thrown in, not out. I’ve been caught in a rip in the most mild looking sea you can imagine and been absolutely terrified. I’ve been on a beach with a big long parallel sandbar submerged offshore, where you’re basically swimming in something that very much wants to be a shallow lagoon one day, but if you take one step off the far side of the sandbar you plunge into 30ft deep water.

‘The sea’ is not a thing, really. Every sea is a different sea. Every beach is a different beach. They all have their own rules and habits and peccadillos. Never assume it’ll be the same.

Just. As a general rule, though? I still wouldn’t use a pool ring in moving water.

[helloalycia]

𝐀 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐕𝐎𝐘𝐀𝐆𝐄 [𝐓𝐖𝐎] — 𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐀 𝐂𝐑𝐎𝐅𝐓

one / masterlist / wattpad

summary: after managing to escape Yamatai, you’re left to deal with the aftermath of emotions it brings for you, whilst also trying to be there for Sam and Lara.

warning/s: same as last time, with the additional mention of nightmares.

author's note: here’s part two! hope the Lara enthusiasts liked this one :)

also just a reminder, Y/M/N = your mum’s name

"She'll be here, I know it," Jonah said with certainty, but it was looking more and more hopeless as him, Reyes and I stared into the distance at the colourful arrays coming from the monastery.

Sam had been taken again by the island natives and Lara had gone after her whilst Jonah, Reyes and I bought her some time, but we'd all promised to regroup on the beach and Lara hadn't returned with Sam yet. The storm that had been ravaging the island since we got here had cleared up, which could have only meant she'd succeeded in stopping the Sun Queen – but where were they?

After what felt like a lifetime, we spotted Lara approaching through the trees, bloody and battered, carrying an unconscious Sam in her arms. Jonah immediately leapt into action to help her, taking Sam from her arms, whilst I joined Lara's side and led her back to the boat. Reyes was quick to prepare the boat for our departure.

"What happened?" Jonah asked Lara what we were all thinking, setting Sam down in the boat.

Exhausted, Lara answered, "It's over. We can leave now."

Jonah and I exchanged worried glances as Reyes wasted no more time in setting off. Everybody was as tired as they looked, so we sat in silence, looking out at the water as Reyes steered us back to civilisation.

Thankfully, after a few hours, a passing freighter spotted us and took us in, giving us food, drink and first aid supplies to keep us going until we reached land. So much had happened in the past few days that seeing real people who actually wanted to help us felt impossible.

After getting some help with bandaging my arm up by one of the crewman, I noticed Lara approaching me on the lower deck.

"Thanks," I said appreciatively to the crewman, who nodded with a smile before leaving me be.

"Hey," Lara said softly, taking a seat beside me.

"Hey," I replied, offering a small smile. I noticed she'd had chance to clean up a little, but her skin was still littered with bruises and scrapes, and her shirt was soaked with dried blood. "How's Sam?"

"Resting," she said with a sigh. "Jonah is watching her."

I hummed, worried for my friend. She'd been kidnapped, tortured and possessed by an evil spirit – I could only hope she'd get the help she needed to recover when we returned home.

"I wanted to check on you earlier, but I was distracted," Lara admitted, finding my eyes. "How are you?"

"I'm okay, Lara," I assured her gently, before resting a hand on hers. "How are you doing?”

"I'll be okay," she said dismissively, making me exhale sadly. She was always minimising her own feelings, now more than ever.

"You really did it," I said after a moment, knowing now was the right time. "You stopped Himiko. Saved Sam. Defeated the Solarii. You saved us all, Lara. And I can't express how grateful I am for that."

She shook her head, pulling her hand back and sinking her face into her hands with defeat. "I didn't do anything. This was all my fault, Y/N. I shouldn't have insisted we come here."

I furrowed my brows, resting a hand on her back comfortingly. "You didn't know. And you got us out of it. We wouldn't be here right now if it weren't for you."

She frowned, eyes staring ahead, glazed over and lost in thought. It was obvious she was beating herself up about everything, but I refused to let her soak in self-pity.

Relieved she'd made it out alive and somewhat safely, I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her in for a hug. She relaxed after a moment, tucking her head in my shoulder as if hiding from the truth, but I'd keep reminding her every day if it meant she'd listen.

"You're capable of a hell of a lot," I muttered, squeezing her gently. "I've said it once before and I was right."

She pulled back, cheeks tinged pink and eyes avoiding mine, though the tiniest of smiles was on her lips. I smiled at the sight, pushing a loose strand of hair from her eyes and admiring the view.

"I'm really glad you're here," she said quietly, dark eyes darting to mine briefly before she pulled back. "Obviously, I'd rather you hadn't experienced any of this at all, but–"

"I understand," I cut off the start of her probable never ending ramble. "Me too."

She pressed her lips together, looking down at the wooden floorboards of the deck. Despite all of the amazing things she'd done to keep us safe these past few days, she was still her awkward, adorable self. It was refreshing to see some things hadn't changed her completely.

Of course, that didn't mean the events at Yamatai hadn't taken their toll on us in other ways.

We were still a couple of days out from land, so the freighter crew were kind enough to give us all rooms to sleep in below deck. The second night was admittedly the hardest. I found myself reliving the horrors of the island all over again once my eyes closed, but it was worse than the previous night. Between murdering crazy cultists in self defence, being kidnapped, held captive and watching our friends die, my night was riddled with nightmares.

It became too much and I woke with a start, drenched in sweat and trembling with confusion as I couldn't make out my cabin in the dark. Realisation dawned on me – including all the events that led up to this moment – and I suddenly felt nauseous, bile rising in my throat. Without a second thought, I clambered out of bed and raced down the hall for the shared bathroom, just about making it to the toilet before I vomited all of last night's dinner up.

It burned my throat, but it wouldn't stop coming until I was eventually vomiting nothing but my stomach acid. A moment passed when I heard footsteps behind me and then hands held my hair back.

"It's okay," a familiar voice soothed, their other hand rubbing my back, and it took me a second to realise it was Lara.

Once I was finished, I sat back with exhaustion, my body aching from my bent over position, and gladly accepted the tissue Lara handed me.

"Are you feeling better?" she asked with concern, her face lit up from the sliver of artificial light coming through the porthole.

I didn't even realise I'd been crying until her thumb wiped beneath my eyes, and the touch suddenly reminded me where I was and how I looked right now, no doubt a mess before her.

Swallowing hard, I straightened up. "Sorry, I–"

"Don't apologise," she said, returning her hand to my back to comfort me, but the way she was watching me so delicately made my cheeks heat up with embarrassment.

"I'm okay, I–" I started, pushing her hand away and moving back slightly, but I was acutely aware of my dishevelled appearance and the stench of vomit.

"Hey, stop it–" she tried to reassure me, ever so generously, but I couldn't meet her gaze.

"I didn't mean to wake you," I mumbled, moving to stand up.

Pressing my lips together, I flushed the toilet before moving to wash my hands and rinse my mouth in the sink.

"You didn't. I was up already."

I tensed my jaw slightly, splashing my face with cold water before straightening up again, avoiding her eyes in the reflection of the mirror.

"What happened?" she asked gently. "Was it a nightmare?"

It felt so silly to admit that, but I was still in fight or flight mode and the thought of being alone right now was horrible. Instead, I nodded weakly, busying myself with the hand towel.

"Me too," she muttered, making me finally look to her, though with a mutual concern. "C'mon. I know what'll help."

I soon found myself following her down the hall, past our cabins and to the small, deserted kitchen area. She merely motioned to the booth in the corner before moving to fill the kettle. It turned out the simplicity of watching her make us both cups of teas in silence was more comforting than I could have guessed.

She joined me with our teas shortly after, pulling her legs up on the seat beside me and holding her mug for warmth. I mirrored her action, the two of basking in the silence and each other's presence. Though, despite Lara initially trying to be there for me, I was worried about her too.

"Are you okay?" I asked stupidly, glancing at her.

She chewed on her lip, eyes glued to her mug. "Honestly, I've been having these nightmares since we left the island."

I frowned, hand resting on her forearm. "You should have told me. You could have woken me up."

Her eyes lifted to mine. "So could you."

I sighed, knowing neither of us would ever burden the other like that. But I wished she would.

"It's over now though," she reminded me, her hand resting atop mine on her forearm.

"It is," I agreed halfheartedly. "But it won't go away. Not now."

"But it will eventually," she said with certainty, and I wondered how she still remained positive despite everything we'd endured.

I yawned tiredly. "I can't wait to go home."

"Same."

Quiet fell upon us once again, only the creaking of the ship and the distant lull of the waves to keep us company. Periodically sipping on my tea, I found myself laying my head on Lara's shoulder comfortably. Though, with that and the swaying of the ship and my general fatigue, my eyes were slowly closing.

"You're falling asleep," Lara whispered from beside me.

"Mmnot," I mumbled, hoping she'd drop it so I could actually fall asleep.

Unfortunately for me, she found this amusing and began to chuckle, making her shoulders move. "C'mon, let's get you to bed."

"Or we could just stay here," I said tiredly.

"You'll be comfier in your own bed, Y/N," she promised.

"I'm pretty comfy here."

She snickered once more, before pressing a gentle kiss to the top of my head. "C'mon, love."

I sighed disappointedly before forcing myself up, sliding out the booth. She was lovely enough to take me back to my cabin, leading my half asleep self to bed and even tucking me in.

"Goodnight, Y/N," she said, squeezing my hand and smiling down at me with amusement. "You'll be home soon, I promise."

I smiled tiredly, though my eyes were drooping shut. I wanted to ask her to stay, appreciating the comfort her presence gave me, but I didn't want to overstep. So, I had to settle for the moment I had with her before letting her leave for the night.

—

I'd never missed home more than I had now. As soon as I stepped foot in my family home, still living with my parents, I almost cried at the familiarity of it all.

I could never truly tell my parents what I'd endured, but they must have sensed something had gone terribly wrong because they were as supportive as they could be. Still, it wasn't the same as being with people who had gone through the same thing.

Lara and Sam didn't live far, only a tube ride away, so I visited them a few times whilst we were back. The only good thing to come out of this whole mess was my friendship strengthening with Sam and forming with Lara. They were the only ones who understood how I was feeling, though Sam was less reluctant to talk about it than Lara was.

I stopped by their flat a week after returning, with the intention of checking in on them but also bringing a bunch of leftovers my mum had made for dinner and insisted I shared with them. Lara was a terrible cook and Sam hadn't been herself lately, understandably so, so I was happy to make it a little easier on them if I could.

Once I knocked on the door to their flat, I heard someone on the other side before it opened to reveal Lara. She smiled softly when she saw me, eliciting a smile of my own.

"Y/N, hey," she spoke with surprise, before pulling me in for a quick hug. "I didn't know you were coming."

I returned her hug, admittedly already comforted by the subtle scent of her perfume. "Sorry, I should have called really. It was a last minute thing. My mum made some food for you and Sam and I just wanted to drop it off. If you're busy or it's a bad time, I can just leave you with the food."

"No, no, it's not a bad time at all," she assured me, tugging me into her flat and closing the door behind me. "I'm glad to see you. And gosh, your mum is just the sweetest. She really didn't have to."

I chuckled, holding out the bag of food. "Good luck telling her that."

Lara accepted the bag with a snicker before taking a peek inside. "It looks delicious, Y/N, thank you. I really need to meet the chef behind all this great food."

I followed her into the kitchen as she put the bag in the fridge, before glancing around the place. "Sam not in?"

At the mention of Sam, Lara sighed quietly, her smile fading. "No, sorry. She actually just left. We... we got into an argument."

I frowned. "What about?"

We both took a seat on the couch as Lara collected her thoughts, clearly still upset about their argument.

"Sam's been having nightmares," she said guiltily. "I know she has. I've even had to wake her from a few. But she won't talk about it with me. She's outright denying there's anything wrong. It's not right."

It was true that Sam was in denial about what she'd experienced, but I had at least hoped she'd been confiding in Lara about it, if not me. This definitely wasn't what I expected to hear.

"That's a lot to deal with," I sympathised, feeling a little guilty myself, and I wasn't even sure what for. That I had it easier? That I hadn't been possessed like she has? I didn't know. "But Lara, I'm sure she'll open up to you when she's ready. Everybody deals with trauma in different ways."

Lara frowned, jaw tensing. "But it's me! She's supposed to tell me what she's thinking! We're best friends, Y/N. She's never acted like this before."

"I know, but–"

"This is all my fault," she reminded me, voice breaking slightly. "I just want to help her."

I rested a hand on her knee, squeezing gently. "She knows you're here for her, but this is all frustrating. She's processing it on her own first, okay? You can't rush it. You have to go at her pace."

Lara hummed, eyes staring past me and into the distance thoughtfully. Whether she would listen was beyond me, but I hoped she knew I would be here for them both.

"Aside from that, how have things been with you?" I asked, speaking when she didn't.

Her eyes flickered to mine. "Not good. Not bad. I... Jonah checks in every other day. Reyes won't speak to me."

I frowned at this, though it was expected. She still blamed Lara for the whole trip.

"I spoke to Grim and Alex's families the other day," she continued halfheartedly. "Broke the news."

"That must've been hard.”

She smiled sadly. "Wasn't easy. But someone had to do it. Only felt right it was me."

I leaned on my elbow on the back of the couch, facing her sideways. "I would've sat with you if you'd asked. You shouldn't have had to do it alone."

She exhaled through her nose, eyes twinkling slightly. "That's sweet of you to say, but I wouldn't have asked that of you, love."

I gave her a disapproving look, but she brushed it off as she always did.

"How have things with your parents been since you got home?" she changed the subject. "Sam and I appreciate you always coming to check on us, but we would love to do the same."

"You're always welcome," I said lightheartedly, though I meant it. "My parents would love to meet you. Especially my mum."

She half-scoffed, frowning to herself. "I almost got you killed on an expedition. They wouldn't want to meet me. If they knew the truth, they'd hate me."

I quirked a brow. "Okay, firstly, my mum literally forced me to bring you all that food. You really think she does that for everyone?" Lara opened her mouth to speak, but I continued, "Secondly, they know the truth. Well, most of it. And they don't hate you for any of it. They'd love to meet you."

She pressed her lips together uncomfortably, looking down.

I tried to find her gaze as I said gently, "Thirdly, what happened in Yamatai wasn't your fault. How many times do I have to tell you?"

She didn't say anything, so I took her hand between mine, finally earning her attention.

"It wasn't," I repeated, needing her to believe me.

Her dark eyes softened as they held my gaze and I could have stared into them forever, but then she looked to my hand before slowly pulling hers back. I cleared my throat awkwardly, wondering what I'd said to make her so uncomfortable. I considered apologising, but Lara was quick to change the subject.

"Maybe I'll stop by soon," she said, referring to my house. "It's the least I can do for your mum."

"How about this weekend?" I asked hopefully. "You and Sam can come over for dinner."

"Oh," she said, surprised, and definitely not expecting me to ask so soon. "Erm, I–"

"Please?"

She blinked, glancing at me, before wincing. "I suppose we can."

I began to smile, excited. "Great. I can't wait."

—

"...nothing, not even a hint about it," I pleaded with my parents as they moved around the kitchen, prepping the last few bits for Sam and Lara's visit. "As far as this household knows, Yamatai didn't happen. I don't want to upset them. Or make it awkward. Or–"

"Y/N, we understand," my dad cut me off, squeezing my shoulder. "We won't bring it up."

"It's not you I'm worried about," I mumbled, glancing at my mum.

She only ever meant the best, but I worried bringing up Yamatai might set a bad tone for the evening, especially with Sam's reluctance to acknowledge everything that went down.

"I'll stay quiet, love, I promise," she assured me, though I couldn't be sure she would.

Just on cue, the doorbell rang and I was both delighted and a tad nervous, mainly in case my mum said the wrong thing. Still, I shot both my parents a warning look before going to answer the door.

"Sam, Lara!" I exclaimed with a smile when I opened the door. "So glad to see you."

"Y/N!" Sam returned with excitement, before immediately pulling me in for a hug. "God, it's good to be here after so long. I'm so looking forward to your mum's cooking."

"Wow. And here's me thinking you came to see me," I joked, making her chuckle as she pulled back.

"I think I see you enough," she played along. "I'm here for Y/M/N and Y/D/N."

I scoffed jokingly as she stepped inside, moving my attention to an uneasy-looking Lara, still stood in the doorway. Naturally, it brought a smile to my face and I quirked a brow.

"You coming in today?" I teased, stepping to the side.

She cleared her throat, nervous smile on her lips and some flowers in her hand. "I– yes. Sorry. It's good to see you, Y/N."

I chuckled as she stepped inside, closing the door behind them both.

"We bought some flowers and chocolates for your parents," she added, and I noticed Sam was holding the box of chocolates.

"That's sweet of you both, but you didn't have to," I told them knowingly. "Just you coming was enough."

They exchanged looks, making me laugh, and then footsteps were heard and my mum appeared in the hallway.

"Ladies, welcome!" she said brightly, before looking to Sam first. "Sam, it's so good to see you. It's been too long!"

"It has, Y/M/N, I'm sorry I haven't visited sooner," Sam returned with a laugh, before holding out the chocolates. "Hopefully these make up for it."

My mum looked at the chocolates with a cheeky smile. "My favourite. Of course it does."

Sam winked at me playfully, making me roll my eyes.

"And you must be Lara," my mum continued, expression softening. "I've been very excited to meet you, dear! Y/N has only said great things about you."

"Mu-um," I whined, cheeks flushing.

Lara smiled with amusement, nerves dissipating slightly, which I suppose was worth a joke at my expense.

"What? It's true!" she defended.

"It's lovely to finally meet you, Mrs. Y/L/N," Lara said politely, before holding out the flowers. "These are for you and your husband."

"Call me Y/M/N," my mum replied, before accepting the flowers with a chuckle. "You lovely ladies are spoiling us! Do mind my husband. He's just making sure the roast doesn't burn."

"I just wanted to say that we're also really grateful for all the food you've been sending over recently," Lara added with a small smile. "It's been a massive help."

"And it tastes beautiful," Sam added jokingly.

My mum began to smile sadly as she looked between them both and I knew what she was thinking. Please don't bring it up. Please don't bring it up. Please don't bring it up.

"I'm here to help in any way I can," was all she said, as I held my breath. Then when I shot her a look, pleading for her not to mention Yamatai with my eyes, she cleared her throat. "I'm gonna check on dinner. Y/N will take you to the dining room."

As she walked away, Sam and Lara seemed confused, so I attempted to brush it off as I took the lead to the dining room.

Soon enough, my dad joined us, introducing himself to Lara and reacquainting himself with Sam, before my mum brought out the dinner and we all dug in. To my relief, they both steered away from all things Yamatai, instead talking about work or family or anything else that wouldn't make them upset.

Sam settled in easily enough, as she always did when she spent time with my parents. I was more concerned about Lara, who initially didn't want to come tonight and was acting a little shyer than usual. Thankfully, she seemed to warm up to everyone as the evening went on, and I was glad my parents were able to put her at ease. They truly did like her, and contrary to Lara's fear, they didn't blame her one bit for our disaster voyage.

To make things even better, my mum went out of her way to truly help Lara feel at home by baking her a special dessert.

"Y/N mentioned you fancy a Jaffa Cake every now and then," my mum teased Lara as she brought out the cake in her hand and set it down, "so I thought I should make something special since it's your first time coming over. It's a Jaffa Cake cake!"

Lara stared at the cake with surprise, smile on her lips in disbelief. "What? Seriously?"

"This is literally her dream dessert, you know that?" Sam said to my mum with amusement.

My mum chuckled as she took her seat. "I figured."

Lara blinked, speechless, before her eyes glanced at me across the table, unsure. I nodded reassuringly, trying not to laugh, and then she looked to my mother with sparkling eyes.

"This looks amazing, Y/M/N, I don't even know what to say."

"You don't need to say a thing," my mum assured her. "Just dig in!"

Lara pressed her lips together, smile permanently fixed on her face in a way that warmed my heart.

After having some dessert and tea, my mum insisted on boxing up some leftovers for Sam and Lara.

"Sam, it's been a pleasure as always," my mum said with a smile, before offering her the food. "This is for you and Lara."

"Awesome," Sam mumbled as she accepted the bag, before hugging my mum. "Thanks, Y/M/N."

My mum laughed before looking to Lara. "Lara, love, it's been an absolute delight meeting you tonight. I hope we can see more of you. You're part of the family now!"

Lara smiled, cheeks turning pink. "Thank you, Y/M/N. I appreciate that."

I watched them both hug, always grateful for my mum's ability to put someone at ease.

After she and my dad wished Sam and Lara a good night, I walked them down the hall to see them out.

"Get back safe, yeah? Text me when you're home," I told them both.

"We will," Sam assured, before lifting the bag of food in her hand. "Can't wait to devour this tomorrow."

I chuckled tiredly, accepting her hug before opening the door for her. She stepped outside as I looked to Lara with a grateful smile.

"Thank you for coming, Lara. I'm really glad you did. It wouldn't have been the same without you."

"I don't know about that," she said with a slight snicker, before looking between my eyes patiently, "but thank you. I..."

I waited, curious, but then Sam interrupted, calling for Lara impatiently.

"Thanks for having me," Lara said quickly, aware of Sam's whining in the background, though a tender smile was on her lips. "Goodnight, Y/N."

"Goodnight, Lara." I pulled her in for a brief hug, though my insides were spinning butterflies at the proximity.

She offered me a final smile before I watched her join Sam's side, the two of them walking away. I exhaled gently, closing the door and unable to clear my thoughts of Lara.

—

A few days later, I was over at Sam and Lara's flat, helping Sam do some cleaning and throwing some old belongings out. With Sam, this meant waiting for her to decide whether a possession was worth keeping or not, fighting her about it, then finally getting rid of the clutter.

As I was leaving another full box of belongings by the front door as Sam continued to dig around her bedroom, I heard keys jingling in the door. Straightening up, I saw Lara letting herself in, eyes finding mine with confusion.

"Y/N?" she said with surprise, shutting the door behind her and kicking off her shoes. "What are you doing here?"

"Just helping Sam get rid of some stuff," I said, before noticing her gym outfit and headphones. "You go to the gym?"

As if suddenly aware of her appearance, she glanced down before wiping the film of sweat from her face with her sleeve. "I– no, sorry, I'm all gross. I went on a run."

I chuckled, shrugging. "It's cool."

She cleared her throat, smiling a little, before saying, "I was actually meaning to call you so it's good you're here." When I lifted a brow curiously, she continued, "I wanted to thank you properly, for dinner the other night. Your family are really lovely and accommodating and I just–"

She paused, eyes flickering away momentarily, and I wondered what she was so nervous about, but I didn't want her to feel rushed, so I waited.

"It was the first time I've properly felt at home somewhere since, well, since I was a child," she continued slowly, awkwardly, and I hung onto every word.

"I'm glad," I spoke gently. "My parents love you. And I really enjoyed having you there."

She breathed out, nodding. "Even after everything... I'm glad it went well. I should have said as much the other night, but... yeah."

I couldn't help but smile at her adorable uneasiness. "No problem, Lara."

She swallowed visibly, eyes meeting mine briefly, before hesitating.

"What is it?" I asked, noticing she was holding back. "What's on your mind?"

She chewed on her lip. "I lost my parents young and I never had a family, not a real one. I had Roth, but he's..."

"Lara," I started, stepping forward with a hint of concern, but she shook her head.

I waited, and then she pressed her lips together. "Forget it."

Feeling bad for throwing her off, I started, "No, wait–"

"No, it's fine, I'm just rambling," she mumbled.

"Keep rambling," I urged, afraid if she stopped sharing now, she'd never do so again.

She paused, pursing her lips as she looked to her shoes. I watched the strands of her fringe loosen from her ponytail, covering her face for a moment, and fought the urge to push it out the way.

"It all seems so futile now," she admitted.

My confusion only grew. "What?"

Just when I thought she may stay quiet forever, she finally looked up, golden-brown eyes meeting mine. "I like you. A lot. I have for a long time now, but after everything... there's bigger things going on and it's a lot to admit. And I understand if you don't feel the–"

She was rambling again, already talking herself out of her admission, so I kissed her without thinking, lips catching ablaze when they touched hers. She froze, shocked, and I pulled back slightly, finally moving those damned strands of hair from her stunning eyes.

"It's not futile," I assured her, meeting her deer-caught-in-headlights expression. "I actually feel the same way."

She breathed out slowly, a small, hopeful smile forming on her lips. "You do?"

I mirrored her smile, nodding. "Do you know how hard it is to fancy someone who barely spoke a word to you?"

Embarrassed, she looked away. "Not any easier than fancying someone who you couldn't say a word to."

I chuckled. "Touché."

She licked her lips, nervous, before meeting my gaze once more. "Why didn't you say anything?"

I shrugged, it being my turn to be nervous. "I don't know... at first, it was because you didn't speak to me much so I didn't think you'd like me back. And then, like you said, after everything that happened... it was a lot. It didn't feel like the right time."

"How about now?" she asked hesitantly. "Is it the right time now?"

"It could be. If you want it to be."

She nodded. "I'd like that."

I began to smile. "Me too."

She smiled too, eyes flickering between mine before settling on my lips, and without another second wasted, she leaned in to kiss me. I closed my eyes as her finger curled around my cheek, pulling me close, and melted into her touch.

I could have stayed there forever kissing her, but the sound of Sam in the hall grumbling to herself about cleaning made us pull apart. I wasn't sure what would happen with the whole Lara and I and Sam thing, but Lara must have had the same thoughts as I.

"We keep this from Sam until we figure out what this is?" she proposed quickly.

I sighed with relief, glad we were on the same page, and nodded in agreement.

"Oh, Lara, you're back!" Sam noticed when she finally entered. "Great, you can help Y/N and I."

Lara's eyes twinkled with adoration as they lingered on mine before she gave Sam a convincing smile. "Sounds good, Sam. Just let me shower and I'll give you both a hand."

I smiled to myself as she walked past Sam and I, heading for the bathroom. I was still in awe.

I just kissed Lara freakin' Croft. Twice!

[sirxlla]

Can I get a story about where reader gets stuck and injured in a tornado and Tyler is helpless until it passes? Love your writing by the way!

Tornado Warnings

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

Warnings: Angst, Fluff

Prompt: above ^^^^^

Notes: female reader, italics are actions and thoughts.

-With that said it's all under the cut-

Half the time you rode with Tyler, half the time you rode with Dexter and Lily, Tyler wanted you safe, and during some storms, the safest place you could be was as far away from him as possible especially considering the things he would do for Youtube.

Nighttime chases are the most dangerous. Lily was looking at her drone; Dexter was watching the road, and everyone in every car was distracted by their other tasks that no one was watching the radar. With limited visibility, it was best that someone watch the radar. Tyler noticed it at the last second trying to warn you guys over the radio.

You were outside stretching your legs for a minute as you guys stopped for a minute to reorient yourselves, so Lily could grab her drone. A large piece of metal came your way as the winds picked up and went straight into your thigh which caused you to let out a cry of pain.

"Guys, we need to-" Dexter was trying to relay the info to you guys from Tyler that you needed to get the fuck out of there as he saw your leg.

"Lily, get the van started. Tyler, I gotta go. Y/N's hurt pretty bad and we gotta get out of here." Dexter hoisted you up onto your good leg and wrapped his arm around your waist, which caused you to groan in pain, but right now, you three need to get the fuck out of the path of this storm.

The walkie-talkie lets out a scream, Tyler's screams of panic and worry as he asks questions and worries. Dexter ignores Tyler for now and pulls you into the van and tells Lily to go.

Dexter grabs a tee shirt from the tee shirt bin. He rips it and wraps it around the metal in your thigh causing you to scream. The RV is blown into the air, causing you and Dexter to bounce around the vehicle. You can hear Tyler's screams of worry cut in and out on the walkie-talkie right before you smash your head on the cabinet, and everything goes black.

Boone tries to calm Tyler as he has a breakdown; he's pacing and panicking in the middle of a Valero gas station. Thankfully no other chasers are here. Of course, Tyler is worried about his friends, but right now, he's more worried about you because you're hurt. He can't see y'all's chaser location anymore, but it was last showing where the tornado passed.

Kate had taken his keys, the last thing anyone needed right now was to be anywhere near that thing. The storm passed, and she finally gave him his keys back; Tyler, Boone, and Dani rapidly climbed back in, and Tyler sped as quickly as he could toward your last location.

As the four of them got closer, they all pulled out their flashlights and started to look for the three of you. Tyler saw someone with their hazards on and an ambulance in the distance, which he cautiously sped toward and hoped in his heart that it was you.

Tyler saw Dexter and Lily, and thankfully, they seemed mostly fine, but he looked for you and noticed the gash on your forehead and the piece of metal in your leg as they guided you into the ambulance.

"Wait! Wait! Please!" He handed Dani his keys and asked the paramedics if he could come with them; one of them was going to say no but was cut off by the other.

"Of course! You're the Tornado Wrangler, you help as many people as we do. It's the least we can do." The other paramedic says before guiding Tyler in.

You wake to a throbbing pain in your head and your leg; the lights from the hospital room brightly shine into your eyes, causing you to squint. Tyler wakes from a dead sleep as he feels your hand move in his, his hat falling off his face where he had it covering his eyes. Tyler's warm hand feels nice compared to the bitterly cold hospital room.

"Is- Are- Lily and Dex are they-" You worry as you start to finally come to after being knocked out in the RV.

"They're fine, Sweetheart. It's alright. You're okay and they're okay. Well...besides your leg and your head. We're lucky it wasn't worse." He squeezes your hand with one of his, the other he uses to brush hair out of your face.

You relax as you hear the news that they're okay, and your head throbs as you lay back in your bed.

"I'm sorry..." You whisper as your brain tries to blame this all on yourself.

"It wasn't your fault; we all got sidetracked... With the season being near the end I just decided we're gonna call it for this year."

"Tyler, it's barely started! You shouldn't have to-"

"You can't walk, Y/N. It's gonna be time for you to heal from that piece of metal that went through your thigh. I wanna be there to help you. If you want everyone else to keep going, that's fine, but I'm staying with you unless there's something local, Okay?" Tyler makes sure in his tone that you understand there's no room for arguing.

"Okay." You nod, looking at him with appreciation. He loves storm chasing; it's one of his favorite things to do, and that he was choosing you over it just makes your heart swell due to how much you matter to him.

Tyler often wanted to carry you from room to room instead of having you use the crutches which is super nice of him but its hard to get some alone time. As nice as it is to have him home, when he gets too much you just have the guys come get him for storms so you can have some alone time.

-> Masterlist

-> Send me prompts if you'd like

[sharksfrommars]

part 4 of Dad Stan! Now with 50% less Stan.

part 1 | last part | next part

Sorry for the surprise portal stan. I’m not actually. Introducing Fiddleford! Ford hasn’t talked to a child in 10 years, he needs the help

hope u enjoy!

Ford freaks tf out trying to find a little girl.

It was a cold, dark night. Ford had no idea where to look. He was running on no sleep and was bleeding through his bandages. All he wanted to do was to stew in his own self loathing, wrap himself in blankets and feel sorry for himself. But he couldn’t do that, not whilst a little girl’s wellbeing was on the line.

The thing is, Ford was sure that Lola wouldn’t want to see him. If she saw him, she’d probably run. He needed help. Not just with finding Lola, but with dealing will Bill as well.  Ford had nothing left, except to grovel to whoever’s left that will hear him out. Right now, there was only one person who could help.

“I don’t wanna speak with you, Stanferd.”

“Look, Fidds please just hear me out”

Fiddleford McGucket didn’t answer until the 4th call, and even then he ended it as soon as he heard Ford speak. Ford kept calling and calling, he supposed his friend must be getting tired of the constant ringing.

“Hear you out about WHAT, Stanferd.” Fiddleford sounded tired. “what could ya POSSIBLY have to say to me?”

“I’m… I’m sorry. I’m sorry Fidds, you were right.”

A beat passed before Fiddleford responded. 

“Who are ya and what have you done with Stanford?”

Ford sighed. “I know, Fidds. I should have listened to you a long time ago. I was… look I was stupid and it took me making the biggest mistake of my life to realise it. But right now, I need your help because there’s a little girl out there lost in the woods-“

“-ya brought a CHILD in’ta this? FORD?”

“I know I know, I’ll explain everything. I just need your help finding her.”

“I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Ford explained the situation as they trekked through the snow. Thankfully, the blizzard had slowed, and the night seemed almost peaceful. Ford dug up every lump in the snow, hoping Lola was there. Fiddleford didn’t speak until Ford had finished his story.

“Ya done fucked up, Stanferd”

“I know. Lola likely won’t speak to me. I’m hoping she’ll speak to you, though.”

Fiddleford nodded sombrely, and then carried on silently for about 2  hour, only breaking it to occasionally call out for Lola. There was never a response. Ford got more antsy the longer they searched. He’d already killed his brother tonight. He couldn’t bear it if he killed his daughter the same night.

After a while, Fiddleford groaned loudly in frustration.

“this aint Workin’ Ford. She could be miles away. We don’t even know which direction she went. The storm covered up her footprints.”

“We can’t just leave her out here! She could DIE, Fidds!”

“I ain’t saying we leave ‘er. We just gotta think smarter. Imagine yer a little girl-“

“How am I supposed to imagine That?”

“-quiet, Ford. Imagine yer a little girl whose daddy just fell through a hell portal. What’s the thing that ya want the most?”

Ford thought for a moment.

“Instructions on how to get him from the portal?”

Fiddleford smacked Ford over the head.

“No, ya idjit! Ya wanna feel safe. Ya wanna go home and hide in ya blankets and pretend ya just made it up.”

Ford looked beside himself. “She’s going to go home? But Stan said they came from Washington! We’ve gotta get to the bus st-“

Fiddleford smacked Ford again. “Ya said Stanley drove? My guess is she went there.”

Ford bounced on the balls of his feet. It was a decent hypothesis, but Ford couldn’t be certain. And he didn’t know where Stan parked his car. Or if he locked it. Or what it looked like. It seemed unlikely that Stan had the same exact car as they did when they were young.

He explained all this to Fiddleford, who shook his head. 

“We don’t need ta know where she wanted to go, we need the direction she’d wanna go. She can’t go that far. And ya said she’s ‘somewhere between 3 and 8’, which is an insane range by the way.”

“The road!” Ford exclaimed. He grabbed Fiddleford and kissed him, before running off towards the road. Fiddleford took a moment to rub his temples in frustration before following.

The road that lead to Ford’s house was long, quiet and empty. It must have been midnight my now, which Ford could feel. He was incredibly sleep deprived and had numerous major injuries. Ford didn’t know what happened next. He’d nearly killed Lola when Bill took over. All he could do was hope and pray she hadn’t been left out in the snow, all alone. It was his fault, he let a demon into his head. Why, because he was nice to him? Because he told Ford that he was smart? Is that really what his livelihood was worth.

Ford went through plans on getting rid of Bill’s influence on him. Hopefully Fiddleford would have ideas, if he was willing to stick around that long. That’s when he saw a red car in the distance. Stationary, but without snow. The interior lights were on and Ford could hear the gentle grumble of its engine. It was a car he recognised. A car he spent a lot of time in, driving down the beachfront laughing and singing along to the radio. A picture from a time so long ago, when the world was still simple. Ford understood why Lola would feel safe there.

Ford turned to tell Fiddleford, who had also seen the car. He looked at Ford with a mix between shock and joy.

“Reckon that’s it?” Fiddleford said.

“I- he- that’s his car from high school. He never got a new one.”

Fiddleford nodded. “Come on”, he said, “let’s go meet yer niece”

Lola was curled up in the back seat, clutching her stuffed axolotl. She had cried her self to sleep, her cheeks stained with tears. She had wrapped herself in a large jacket that Ford could only assume was Stanley’s. Ford immediately checked her pulse, despite seeing her breathing. He had to be sure.

“She’s… ok. She’s ok” he whispered to himself. He turned to Fiddleford and gave him a hug.

“She’s ok, Fidds.”

Fiddleford patted Ford’s head.

“Yeah she is, Ford. Let’s get her inside.”

Ford drove the Stanley-Mobile, with Fiddleford in the passenger seat. Lola didn’t stir at all, just clutched tighter to Lizard. It was strange, driving Stan’s car. It smelt like him, like the ocean, like summer afternoons spent getting splinters on a rickety old boat. It smelt like cigarettes, like loneliness and regret. He pulled down the sun visor, more out of habit than anything else. He saw the picture that Stan still had taped there. The two of them, back in 1960-something, after a boxing match. They were smiling.

“Is that the two of ya?” Asked Fiddleford. Ford just nodded, not trusting his voice not to crack. He was crying now.

“Ya look alike.”

“We’re twins.” Ford said quietly. “He came out 15 minutes after me. He always said he’d go out the same way”

Fiddleford laid a comforting hand on Ford’s shoulder as he drove into his house.

Fiddleford carried Lola into the house, as Ford rushed to clear his sofa. He got a blanket for her, tucking her in gently, before he sat at the dining table with Fiddleford to have his 12th cup of coffee.

“Ya really gotta drink that much coffee?” Fiddleford said, “Ya gonna piss yerself.” 

“I’ll have you know, I have excellent control of my bladder.” Ford huffed in response. “Besides. I can’t go to sleep. Not until we figure out a way to get bill out of my head.”

So Ford and Fiddleford sat there, brainstorming for an hour. They were both wearing tinfoil hats, after Fiddleford put it out there as a joke. What they needed was unicorn hair. They wouldn’t give it to anyone who wasn’t pure of heart, which already ruled out the both of them. Fiddleford insisted neither of them would work, pointing out each of their flaws. They brainstormed to the early hours, running only on jellybeans and a lot of coffee. 

The rising sun glared through the boarded up windows, and Lola woke up. She looked around, not recognising the space she was in. At least she had Lizard, who she clutched tightly in her arms.

“Uh, Stan?” She called out. “Staaaan! Where are you?”

Lola felt tears well up in her eyes. She only remembered a little of what happened yesterday, most of it being consumed by overwhelming grief and sadness. She got up, and rubbed her eyes, before looking at Lizard.

“I guess it just you and me, lizard” she said, picking up her toy and squeezing it. She decided it was a good time to explore. For that, she’d need a weapon, in case there were bad guys. She wandered about, until she found a long pointy stick. 

“This’ll do. Now let’s go fight bad guys”

Lola wandered about the house, with Lizard in one hand and the stick tightly clenched in the other. She waved it around in front of her like a sword, and walked as quietly as she could.

“Lizard. This is Stan’s Evil Twin’s house. I forgot his name.” She whispered. “He hurt Stan so I hate him. I think we should kill him”

Lizard said nothing, as to be expected from

A stuffed animal. Lola took the silence as agreement.

“We have to be careful though. And brave like Stan said.”

Lizard continues his silence, as Lola stared deeply into his derpy face. A grave expression crossed her.

“It’s ok if you’re scared, Lizard. I can be brave for both of us.”

Lola’s stomach grumbled. She was hungry. Usually Stan would make her Stancakes for breakfast when she was sad. But Stan was-

Lola started to cry. She wanted Stan to give her a big warm hug. To kiss her forehead and tell her everything’s going to be alright. But Stan wasn’t here. He was taken by the portal in the basement. And now Lola was all alone, no one else in the world there to look after her. 

The image of Stan falling through the portal was burned in her mind. It was like a nightmare. She remembered the terrifying look of Stan’s Brother’s face, the horrible laugh. She stopped walking and bawled, curling up with Lizard. She heard footsteps approaching, and looked up to see a man she had never seen before. He was tall, blond and skinny, with dorky glasses on. He looked friendly, but Lola was on edge. She got her stick and pointed it at the man.

“Well, that’s a lovely stick ya got there, little miss!” The man said, wearing a gentle smile. “Are ya ok? You look like you could do with a hug.”

“My dad said not to hug strangers.” Lola said. The man laughed.

“Ya dad’s probably right. How’s about I introduce myself. Is that ok?” 

Lola considered this. She didn’t know him, and didn’t have a reason to trust him. But Stan wasn’t there, and she really did want a hug. The man kept his distance. Clearly he didn’t want to make Lola uncomfortable. She hugged lizard tighter, as she nodded.

“My name’s Fiddleford Hadron McGucket. I’m a researcher, and I got a little boy at home, about your age.”

“That’s a stupid name.” Lola said. “Are you friends with the Evil Twin?”

Fiddleford laughed. “I guess you could say that. But Ford ain’t evil.” Lola glared.

“He built a portal to hell, and then he pushed Stan there. He’s evil.”

Fiddleford’s face softened. “He didn’t do that cus he’s evil. He got tricked. What’s your name, little miss?”

Lola looked at Lizard. “My name is Lola Pines, I’m 5 years old. Stan said that means I’m a big girl now, so don’t mess with me”

Fiddleford nodded. “Yeah I can tell! You’re mighty threatening’ with that sword of yours.”

“It’s a stick.” Lola said matter of factly.

“Oh. Of course. What’s your axolotl friend’s name?”

Lola held lizard closer. “His name is lizard. He scared of strangers, so don’t touch him. Only me and Stan is allowed.”

Fiddleford didn’t dare go closer to her. He asked Lola questions, and listened to her rambling answers. It was clear that she was no fan of Ford, who she consistently insisted was “possessed by a hell demon”. Fiddleford didn’t quite know how to change her mind on that one, seeing as it was completely true. 

They’d spent the entire night fixing up Project Mentem, and reprogramming it to encrypt Ford’s mind so Bill couldn’t access it. They weren’t sure how effective it would be, but the plan was to encrypt Ford’s mind so he could sleep so they could make a better plan. One that included unicorn hair, which they both reasoned would require Lola. If a 5 year old child wasn’t pure of heart enough, then they had no chance. 

“Mr gucket?” Lola asked, breaking Fiddleford from his thoughts. She had crawled onto his lap without him noticing. That was a good sign.

“Yes, miss Lola?” He replied.

“Can you help me to rescue Stan?”

Fiddleford’s heart sank. He didn’t want to re open the portal, he knew what was waiting for them on the other side. He wasn’t sure anyone could survive it. He knew he should explain that to her, but deep down, Fiddleford had always been a coward.

“Lola…” he started, stuttering for what to say.

“Lizard has a plan. But we need a grown up’s help.”

“…you should ask Ford.”

Lola looked at Fiddleford like he was stupid.

“Ford is EVIL. He’s working with the demon! Weren’t you listening?”

Lola had mentioned this ‘demon’ at least 5 times now. Fiddleford brushed it off as a little kid’s fears at first, but the more she mentioned it, the more it felt…off somehow. 

“This demon” Fiddleford started, “what’s he like?”

Lola looked up at Fiddleford, as if she had something to say. Then her tummy grumbled.

“I’m hungry.” She said.

[ceceswithnopizza]

Me and Mr.Wrong 04

Jey needs answers

Warnings: cursing, choking(consent is implied), arguing, usual wrestling violence.

Catch up

Who the fuck did she have in here?

-

The cooling air, the warm arms and blankets around me. Turning over nuzzling deeper into Jordan’s neck closing my heavy eyes again before I felt the covers being yanked off.

“What the- what Lorena?” My eyes shot open sleepiness long gone.

He was dressed in a black nike tech and some matching forces.

“Aye who is this?” He hollered slightly startling me quickly finding my robe, thankfully I wasn’t naked.

“Joshua come here.” I said trying to drag him by his arms outside of the room before he woke my neighbors and Jordan. I was already feeling dizzy and a little sick lately I didn’t need a headache on top of that.

“Lorena why you playing with me? Huh you tryna save his ass?” He yelled yanking his arm away from me. Quickly running behind him back to my room as he walked over to Jordan smacking him in the face a few times.

“Wakey wakey it’s time to check your ass out!”

“Joshua your being ridiculous, stop!” I tried Jordan woke up as the feeling, quickly waking up and getting on ten before realizing who it was.

“Oh you must be Joshua, Rena Ima head you and let you handle this. Call me.” He said putting on his pants calmly and kissed me on my forehead before leaving.

It was maybe five- thirty in the moraning hiding from how the sun had just started to peak over into the windows of my high rise.

“How did you even get in here?” I asked turning the lights on doing my morning routine as if he wasn’t there and this wasn’t happening.

“Who is he and why was he here Lorena? You lucky I got some sense and didn’t stick my foot in his ass.” He said following behind me.

“Josh- don’t Josh me shit I need an answer and now!”

“His name is Jordan I’ve known him since high school and collage.” I answered. There wasn’t anyway around this.

“Why was he here? Did yall fuck?” He asked next pacing the island of my kitchen.

“Yeah” I shrugged. Why does he care? Hearing him smack is teeth and mumble what I just know he didn’t say. “What’d you say, Samuel?”

“You just fucking anybody huh?” He looked me up and down and this is where he had me fucked up.

“Oh I fuck one person someone I’ve known since forever and I fuck everybody! I know Mr.community dick ain’t talking, like you didn’t fuck Jaida and Gianna! You think you slick like California hair and you not!” Not only did he invite himself in here. He now has the gual to try and call me something.

Please, he needs to find something safe to do!

“Yeah you didn’t think I knew but my duck ass went after the club to see you to apologize but miss thang opened the door and there you were buck naked and slumped.” I said bumping past him to sit on the couch. Clicking through my fire tv looking for something to watch.

Today was my off day and he wasn’t about to ruin my self-care day.

“You keep walking away from me like I don’t show you something for playing with me” he followed me once again snatching the remote out of my hand. “So this what we doing we on some get back shit?” Huffing.

“No, we’re not Jordan and I went on a date we had an amazing time and it led to it. You can do whatever but the second I do something I’m easy? Man bye.”

If he wasn’t going to commit fine. He’s more than grown enough but I’m not holding myself back waiting for him. Yes I loved him but I refused to beg- let alone wait for a man to love me.

“What you bringing them up for that’s petty! You just mad it was them and not your ass!”

“Let it be them then. But you can get the fuck out. Both out of my face and my house.” Walking over to my call button I waited for him to refuse.

“Stop playing with me Lorena Alice Mitchel.” He stormed over putting his left hand around my throat lightly. He would never hurt me and I knew that but I couldn’t lie and say the pressure didn’t have my panties soaked.

“Get out before I call security!” I barely got out. Trying to ignore how good his hand left around my neck. Ignore how primal his eyes looked right I loved when he got like this. My heart was racing.

“Alright you’re gonna be back like you always are. You pretend done and entertain some other dude,but the second you see me with someone. You get jealous cause a scene and then we go home. Ima let you think you doing something.” He said letting go and leaving.

-

Tonight was my qualifiers match for the chamber. I was facing bayley. This was a very big match for me it was potentially my fifth title opportunity. Sitting in hair and makeup next to bayley we’d just got done practicing for our match tonight.

“I’m so excited.” I clapped as I was getting my hair curled.

“I’m so happy for you finally get your push. There is nothing like your first clear road to a championship. Plus the people love you and are rooting for you tonight.” She said getting her lashes put on.

“Right sis but on other news, word around the locker rooms is that you and Jey broke up.” Jessica aka Tiffany Stratton said. Cutting my eyes to her before I laughed.

“We’d have to be together to break up.” I kept it cute.

“That’s now what they saying. They’re saying Jey brought some girl to his hotel after the after party.” She continued I could feel her looking for a reaction out of me which I wasn’t going to give her.

Lifting my chain clad arm I shrugged before turning into the mirror to look at my hair. Layla has been a wwe stylist for about seven months and we’d gotten close. She was one of the few people I trusted to do my hair especially after how the barbers had the boys looking especially Josh and that country ass hair cut.

It looked like a five year old tried to draw a design on the side of his head with a sharpie. But that wasn’t my business.

“She being all types of nosy.” Layla said from behind me combing through my hair.

“Right, but wasn’t much to tell and especially not to her.” I said bending down as she put in my gold crescent moon headpiece.

I was covered in gold chains long my shorts and my bralette cut top. I had an enchantress ring persona like off of suicide squad but in gold instead of silver. I looked like a sun goddess.

I had a quiet but intimidating persona, so whenever I did get on the mic for a promo weather I said two words or had a whole spiel they went crazy for it. I had been called up from aew within a year and a half I was a two time champion and well known in the kind of underground company and by my fourth year I was called up to the big leagues.

It was hard my first year here. Not because the people didn’t like me but because my co-workers didn’t. They didn’t know much about my background and didn’t care to learn so they just assumed I was some easy call up that would burn out. They felt like I hadn’t worked hard enough to sit with them.

And me not giving a damn to get their approval didn’t help much and I was quickly stamped. It wasn’t until Bianca got called up and Gianna or liv Morgan came back that I had any friends. And then trinity and Layla.

Getting to the gorilla waiting for my music I bounced off the nerves. Taking a deep breath I closed my eyes and tried to calm my nerves.

“You got this sis!” I heard John say tapping my arms.

“Thank you, but the nerves still get to me sometimes.” I said popping my eyes open.

“You’ll get used to it.” He said walking off but I hoped I never gotten used to it. That I never got to comfortable this business moved fast. As John said ‘you either step up or step aside’ I had worked so hard to be here and I’ll be mad if I get this far and get comfortable. Hearing my music I walked through the curtain.

-

“There she is folks the enchantress his here in Toronto.” Micheal Cole commentated.

“She is my person favorite to not only with elimination chamber and the gold but my favorite period. I watched her at aew and I still can’t take my eyes off of her and if bayleys still smart she won’t either!” McFee said.

“I agree Pat she’s fast, like nothing I’ve ever seen before and she ring aware two very important qualities.” Cole responded.

“Starting this match off we have a bit of a stare down.” He continued

“Her eyes trap your soul.” Pat said

“Off to a slow start as Aalice and bayley lock up. What do you think leads ladies need to do to leave victorious?” Cole asked pat.

“Bayley needs to remain calm and to control the pace aalice is very fast and trying to be faster is near impossible. As long as aalice controls the pace she’s a given to win Cole. Bayley need to keep this as slow as possible”

“And woah a huge close line from bayley as she goes for a pin- kick out at one.”

“We’ll be back after this commercial break.”

-

“During the break it has been all aalice she is dominating bayley in a way that I have never before just as expected she even in such a fast pace still very precise.” Cole said

“Bayley made the mistake of speeding up the pace coming off the ropes aalice hit her with a gobsmacking right hand.” Pat relayed.

“Boom a bayley to belly she may do it here Pat.”

“One, two- kick out at two.” Cole counted out.

“The back and fourth is starting again bayley is in control she needs to be careful.” He added.

“Oh my god future shock ddt- future shock ddt!” Pat yelled.

“She’s going to do it. She’s going to do it.”

“One! Two! Three! The enchantress is going to the elimination chamber!” Cole cheered.

“Shes my pick to win this whole thing!” Pat added.

-

Thank you for reading!

[nicoathogwarts]

I cannot stop thinking about what would’ve happened if Luke found Nico in the labyrinth and it lead to a domino effect where Nico joins the Roman’s way earlier.

Obviously Minos lead Nico to Luke as a way to get revenge on the gods.

Luke takes in Nico not only because he’s a child of the big 3 so super powerful and younger then Percy, if Luke kills Percy then Nico will be the one in the prophecy.

So Nico joins Luke, and Luke knows exactly how to deal with an angsty 10 year old. Mostly by promising Nico that he’ll kill Percy for him in revenge. So Nico stays and chills with Luke. He’s not super into the whole killing the gods thing but he is for vengeance. So he stays.

During the Battle of Manhattan Nico’s at the mountain base, hidden away so that he’ll be safe for after Percy dies.

Jason and Reyna find him after storming the base and defeating the titans there. As far as they know, he’s Roman and Nico, realizing that Luke’s left him as well, joins them.

Nico does everything to be Roman, it’s an easy switch of the most part, his odd fighting style is explained via him summoning skeletons to teach him how to fight. Mythomagic helps him easily switch from using the Greek names for the gods to the Roman names.

Learning Latin is a struggle, but he learns out of a mix of desperation and worry they’ll realize he’s not one of them. Knowing Itallian helps thankfully and no one is any the wiser and the ghosts know to keep their mouths shut.

Everything’s fine for awhile, Nico makes friends, he’s close with Reyna and Jason. Maybe Hazel’s there, maybe she’s not, I’d say not personally.

And then Percy Fucking Jackson shows up out of nowhere and Jason goes missing. And everything around Nico silently crumbles. Everything he’s built will be gone, everyone will realize he’s a son of Hades and not a son of Pluto. He’ll lose his friends and his home. He’s already lost Jason, though the dots are easy to connect, he’s definitely at camp half blood. 

His saving grace is Percy not knowing who he is.

It’s almost cathartic for Nico to watch people tense up around Percy. How the find him strange and how he’s so clearly an outsider.

The tables have been turned. And Nico watches every second of it with glee.

Even before it’d been revealed Nico was a son of Hades the campers at CHB were weary of him on instinct. Nico remembers how one of the other unclaimed kids told him that he was... off. There was something strange, threatening about him.

And now Percy gets to experience the same thing with the Roman’s and their distrust of Neptune and his children.

Once Percy goes on his quest Nico knows he won’t die. So he busies himself with looking for Jason, slowly trying to inch everyone towards the correct conclusion without being too obvious.

But it all comes to an end, and Percy returns with the eagle and his memory intact.

Percy stays quiet, pulling Nico to the side when no one’s around and asking him what happened, why he’s here, how he’s here. Nico shrugs and shadow travels away.

It gets worse when the Argo II comes, when Jason sees Nico and even though he doesn’t remember there’s something so achingly familiar about him he knows that at some point they were close.

No one is as confused as Annabeth, who immediately knows.

“Nico? We thought you died.”

And all hell breaks loose. 

[darius-shack]

Summer for #pinesot4month2025

prompt from day 5 twincest week: pinecest

summary: Established yet slow burn relationship. Mabel and Dipper go swimming at night.

Both Mabel and Dipper were excited to return for their third year in a row to Gravity Falls. Dipper more so, for reasons he'd never vocalize but did involve getting to have his sister alone. Without their parents breathing down their necks about the most inane things, and Mabel's incessant desire to feed them misinformation on who her latest boy crush was.

It was better to be here, to be somewhat independent because Stan knows they like their freedom, and he trusts them. Having gotten their driving permits in Piedmont, they were headed to the lake alone after Mabel had convinced him to sneak out for a 'midnight dip'. She had insisted on changing separately too, saying she had a new swimsuit she wanted to wear.

The drive was relatively safe, and the weather was warmer than it ought to be due to storms making it more humid than usual. Dipper parked close enough so they didn't have to walk far, then grabbed their towels and headed to the water's edge. Laying down two towels for their comfort, they both take off their shoes and observe the pitch black water. At least the moon was waxing, giving them partial light and glittered the gentle waves, a light warm breeze wafting their outerwear.

Mabel giggled and played with the edge of her shirt, "Ready to see it?"

"Yeah! Reveal your secret suit, my dear sis." Dipper replied, seeing her smile. He watched her pull off her top, seeing her from the back as she's facing the water already. He can only see strings so it's immediately different from her usual one piece choices. Mabel thumbed her shorts off, letting them drop and stepping out of them. Again, only strings.

His heart felt like it was in his throat as he swallowed, gazing at her curves and extras. It felt dirty, but they were already dating, he's just never seen her this... naked, like this at least. In semi-public.

Turning, Mabel faced him. Her silver bikini-like top shown against the night, with a sheer two inch wide connection that met the bottoms and showed off her skin underneath (technically still a one piece, he'll give her props to dedication for that later). Dipper's heart hammered in his chest as he stared at it, appreciating the curve of her growing breasts.

"You look incredible," He whispered, staring at her face and the way the light of the moon shown against it, long hair spilling down her shoulders.

"Thanks, dipdop. Now strip! We got some nighttime swimming to get to!" Mabel said, then leaving him where he stood to walk to the water. He peeled off his clothes, leaving him in his swim shorts to yell after her to wait up.

Thankfully the water wasn't too cold, but did leave goosebumps on both of them upon entering. Both got a decent amount of exercise in before they picked a shallow part to sit next to each other.

"This was nice." Mabel simply said, and Dipper nodded in agreement, arm holding her close. She tilted her head up on his shoulder, staring at him. "Do you, um, maybe wanna-"

"Kiss?" Dipper replied, "Yeah, I'd like that."

She leaned up and connected their lips softly, eyes fluttering shut. He cupped her cheek with a hand, Mabel's hand finding the back of his and pulling it down. Now he felt his palm firmly planted on her breast, to which he kissed her harder then separating so they could both catch a breath. It didn't escalate, but he did memorize the feeling before she spoke.

"We should go back to the Shack, I want to wash this lake water off."

"And we've been out here so long the air feels cold." Dipper pointed out.

"Hehe, yeah, you'll um... take a shower with me, right?"

Swallowing hard, he said, "Sure, sure, yeah, no problem."

Riding back with all the windows rolled down, the air was a good kind of tense between them.

[bingbongsupremacy]

Almonds

Pairing: Abby Anderson x reader

Warnings: I can't think of any, lmk if I missed one.

Summary: Abby shares the last bit of her food with you when times get tough.

*Not Proof Read*

This one isn't my fav guys.

ABC List TLOU Masterlist

*****

" Are you sure the QZ is up here? " I ask, shivers running down my spine. I shrink into my dirt covered jacket, seeking any sort of warmth. My legs ache, a mixture of the cold and the distance. My feet more and more frozen with each step.

" It should be. " Abby shouts over the raging wind.

For a moment, I think I hear doubt in her voice. It could be the wind though. I'm not sure.

Her eyes are the only things visible on her face, everything else covered by a snow covered scarf. She covers her eyes, trying to see through the blinding white. " Fuck. " She seethes, frustration sizzling off of her tense body. She turns to face me. " I-I don't fucking know where we're going. I can't see anything. I think we need to find shelter until this storm clears up. "

Her voice is mumbled and her barely visible eyes avoid mine. Like she's embarrassed of possibly leading me wrong.

" I agree. " I nod stiffly. " I'm freezing my ass off. " I look around us, trying to see anything that could keep us safe. " Over there! " I point a blurry dark object a few feet away. " I think that might be a building. "

I grab ahold of Abby's arm, dragging her in the direction of the object. As we grow closer, the object becomes more clear. It's a wall. With Abby's arm still tightly secure in my left hand, I plant my other hand against the wall. Carefully, we follow the wall further down the street.

Finally we stumble across a faded door.

I try opening it.

Of course it's stuck. I let out frustrated groan.

" Let me get it. " Abby gently pushes me out of the way. She pulls a small tin box out of her bag. She quickly takes off her gloves before moving closer to the door. She takes out a few tiny tools, wiggling them around in the key hole. She twists the door handle and the door swings open from the force of the wind.

Abby moves to the side, letting me get inside before closing the door tightly behind her.

As soon as the door is closed, the noise dies down. I turn on my flashlight, also pulling out my knife in case something is in here.

Abby gestures at me to search the left side of the abandoned shop while she goes right.

The store is ransacked. I'm not sure how they got in here, but it's completely trashed. Clothes are spilled all over the floor along with shards of glass and mysterious stains.

Thankfully the store is clear.

I feel my shoulders start to relax as I walk back the direction I came from.

Abby sits in the corner of the shop. Abby is hidden from the window by a few racks of clothes. Her pack is against the dusty wall, her bottle of water leaning against it.

The room is mostly dark, the only light coming from a few windows on the other side of the shop. I take a seat next to Abby, trying to warm my pain filled hands.

Abby sets a thick, fluffy jacket on my lap. " Found this for you. " She mutters.

I send her a grateful smile. " Thank you. " I pull the coat on top of my other jacket, zipping it up the best I can. Before I can think about it, my stomach lets out an angry growl.

I pull open my wet backpack, shuffling the contents around. I pull out a small clear package. Empty.

I was hoping we would get to the QZ by now. Looks like I'm gonna have to wait until tomorrow. Hopefully we can get out of here soon.

" You hungry? " Abby's voice cuts through the air.

I turn towards the muscular woman. " Uh-Yeah. It's alright though, I'm sure we'll find something soon. " I say, mostly trying to comfort myself.

Abby pulls out a small blue package. It's folded neatly so the contents don't spill. When she opens it up, the words 'Blue Diamond' are revealed. " Here, take a few. " She offers.

I shake my head. " I can't take your food, Abs. " I should've rationed better, this is my fault. " I'll be fine. We'll get food soon. " I gently push her hand away.

Abby insists. " Please, just take some. You're right, we'll find more soon. That's why it doesn't matter if I save it all. " She grabs my hand, sending a fluttering sensation through my stomach.

Abby drops a handful of almonds into my palm. " Eat. Please. "

Her eyes show a hint of worry.

" Are you sure? " I ask, feeling guilty about taking her food.

" Yes, " She nods. " I've never been so sure. Eat. "

Abby watches as I place an almond in my mouth, savoring the salty flavor.

Abby pops an almond into her mouth, leaning against the wall next to me. For a few minutes we sit in silence. The sound of howling wind pounds against the windows.

" Thank you, again, Abby. " I look at the woman.

" Of course. Anything for you, "

[hotchsofficialwifey]

Heyo, I'm about as new to requests as you are to writing fanfictions, so please also bear with me if I do this wrong xD Also, just write and don't say sorry, after all we should be thanking you for putting your content out there :3 Thanks for doing this! Looking forward to your stories :-) So for the prompts:

- Jonathan Crane date with scientist!reader (I'd be really interested in something completely different from Crane's interests, like computer science/math). Maybe they know each other from university and get in touch again when he works at Arkham and appears on the news or sth.

- Neil Lewis smut where the reader crushes a little too much on a character in a movie (👀) and Neil gets jealous.

- Jonathan Crane fluff/smut where the reader has a nightmare and Crane tries to comfort them while also being turned on by the fear? xD

hi! thanks so much for your request, sorry it took me so long to get to it. I'll try to do all of your requests but i'll start with the last one. thanks again, hope you enjoy!

summary: your sleeping over at your boyfriend Jonathan's house when you have a terrible nightmare. thankfully, he's there to help.

pairing: jonathan crane x fem!reader

warnings: light smut (jonathan's horny but nothing really happens, more smut to come later ;) ), fluff, descriptions of a bad dream (nothing too scary, dw), use of fear toxin, hurt/comfort,

You're sitting on a field, eating ice cream on a sunny day, and the drizzling rain doesn't deter you from enjoying your summer afternoon. The world is bright, fun, colorful, and at ease.

But it all passes as soon as it came. The drizzling rain turns into booming thunder, and it pours and pours like buckets. You run into a nearby store, soaking wet and praying for a safe place to wait out the storm. The sky is a nauseating shade of grey, you notice once in the safety of the store. Then, you see it. A shadow lurking in the walls with red piercing eyes. Your breath catches in your throat as you inch away from it.

It, however, lunges towards you, and initiates a chase. You're running through the pouring rain, heart pounding and screaming for help, but the world is empty. Silent. Under different circumstances, maybe even peaceful. You run faster and harder, wailing and begging for help, but when you turn around...it's gone! You sigh in relief, but hide behind a tree for safe-keeping. You wait a few moments, but the coast seems clear. As soon as you begin to walk back to the store, your snatched by a shadowy claw wrapped around your neck.

You wake with a jolt, gasping as your eyes shoot open. It was a dream, you think. Just a dream.

"You okay?" A gravely, half-asleep voice asks. You turn to see Jonathan's soft brown eyes, and your heart slows at the sight of him.

"Yeah, yeah I'm fine." You say, still slightly breathless. But upon remembering the dream, tears resurface in your eyes. " I just had a really fucked up dream." You say with a quivering voice.

"Oh, baby." Jonathan coos, wrapping his arms around you. "It's okay..." He murmurs. His voice is sweet as honey, but his mind is far from it. The tightening in his pants only grows as tears begin to stream down your face and land on his white shirt. He shifts uncomfortably, hoping you don't notice how flustered he is as his hand rubs your back carefully.

"Jonny?" Your sweet voice calls. "You okay?"

He nods quickly, trying to play it cool.

"Yeah..." he smiles. "Yeah, I'm fine. Let's just go back to sleep, sweetheart..." As you both lay back down, he quickly hides the can of fear toxin he used on you.

a/n: yay, first fic on here!! not my best work, but i wanted to write a little something because i feel like I kept y'all waiting for too long lol. hope this was okay, much more to come soon!

[ddagent]

It was Margo's first time in Russia. She'd seen news footage, of course. Heard it spoken of so fondly by Sergei in the years of their acquaintance. Despite the reservations of his government, his hatred for the KGB, he had spoken warmly of vacations with his family, of cooking with his mother, of the first heavy snow. Margo wished, truly, that she could experience Russia through his eyes. But Sergei had been dead for eight years and all around her was ghosts.

Thankfully, there was the work to distract her. Always the work.

The Goldilocks capture conference in Leningrad had not been as...productive, as Margo had hoped. Political posturing; capitalism and bottom lines outweighing scientific merit and discovery. Exhausted, Margo had retired to a fireplace in the hotel bar, sharing a drink with Aleida, licking their wounds after the new Director of Roscosmos had scuppered their intentions to bring the asteroid to Mars.

Margo rolled her neck, fingers pressing against the condensation of the glass. "We should be holding this in Houston."

"No arguments here. Instead, Morozova gets to run the show." Aleida sipped her brandy. She was still pissed she'd been relegated to an inferior hotel, whereas Margo, as director of NASA, had been give five star accommodation. Margo couldn't blame her. "There's something about her I just don't trust."

"I'd say someone was pulling her strings, but I think she's at the top of the food chain here."

Margo didn't enjoy spy novels. Didn't enjoy ear pieces and false identities and honey traps. Any possible love for the genre had been eroded when the KGB had throttled Sergei in front of her. But she knew the signs. The hallmarks. The way Irina would pause. The way she would formulate words on her tongue that held no meaning, just regurgitated from others. No doubt, Margo would know what lay behind it all in due course. But for now, she was happy to spend some hours of the day away from Irina Morozova and Dev Ayesa.

"I'm gonna head up to my room." Margo stared at Aleida. "You sure you're going to be okay over there? You can stay with me; it's not a problem."

"I've slept in worse." Aleida drained her glass. "Text you when I'm there. Don't forget to text Ilyana and Andrei."

Margo would not. Sergei's aging parents had been so excited about her trip when Margo had told them during her last visit. Maps had been involved; images summoned from the web to replace the photo albums they had lost. It had been another dinner where Margo had felt a stab in her gut at all they had lost to come to the States: their home, their possessions, their son. Margo had done everything to get Sergei and his family out. All but see him home safe. Still, Margo had promised to take pictures for his parents and she would fulfil that promise.

As she left the hotel bar, Margo noticed that Irina had left. She traversed the halls, seeing if she had picked up a shadow. She entered the elevator alone. Pressed seven. Flexed her fingers around a phantom touch. Exited alone. Margo hovered, as the doors closed, imagining his body close to hers. Aleida went to the IAC now. Margo couldn't bear it. At least there were no memories here. No ghosts that would haunt Margo as she entered her room.

Margo began the short walk to her suite. The door was ajar. Fuck. There was no housekeeping cart outside, or room service. Just an open door spilling light into the hallway. No. Not again. She was not going to stand for this. She was done being messed with. Storming into her hotel room, Margo caught sight of a figure by her desk and called out: "I am not being fucked around by you people anymore. You'll have to strangle me this time."

The figure turned around and Margo's world spun.

"Hello, Margo."

It wasn't possible. She was dreaming or had been knocked out somehow between the elevator and here. This wasn't real. Bradford had tried to get home. He'd been on the plane; had made it to Germany. But the KGB had found him. Bradford had spared her the details, not wanting to see her tears, not wanting to know how close the head of NASA was with the former head of Roscosmos. But he was dead, of that she was sure. Margo had mourned him. His parents, his sisters had mourned him. There was a photograph of them from Apollo-Soyuz on her shelves that Aleida always stared at when she came into Margo's office. Staring at a ghost, a legacy.

Yet here he was.

Sergei Nikulov – older, with creases around his eyes but still looking healthier than the last time she'd seen him in person – stared at her. Smiled at her. Before the weight of his haunting fell heavy on his shoulders. "We do not have much time."

Margo didn't respond. She merely approached, cautiously, as if he were made of vapour and would disappear if she made one errant step. She took stock of him: the rise and fall of his chest, the flush of his skin under the warmth of the hotel lights, the stray thread on the sleeve of his shirt. After a visual inspection, Margo investigated closer. She took his hand in hers. Familiar grooves and lines. A phantom touch made real. His grip tightened, held her hand for the first time in nearly a decade.

Margo gasped and immediately closed the distance between them, cradling his face in her hands. "I thought—" He nodded. "I thought I couldn't save you."

Sergei took one of the hands pressing against his cheek and kissed her palm. "I am afraid, Margo, that I am beyond saving. This time, I am here to save you." His shoulders fell in defeat. "We need to talk about Irina Morozova."