#we're not going to ask for help next time

[jayybugg]

drunken confessions

Theodore Nott x FemRavenclaw!Reader

Summary: Theo drinks a little bit more than he should....

Warnings: Drinking, No use of Y/N, Only mentions being in Ravenclaw once, and very cute???

Word Count: 1.6K

Note: Long time no see, my loves! I took a really long hiatus abruptly because life was kicking my ass badly. I decided that my first fic back should be a Theo fluff because who would I be if I didn't give this boy all of my attention? I hope you guys all enjoy it.

Banners by @cafekitsune

Music boomed through the Slytherin common room as you tried to navigate the sweaty bodies and screaming teens. You were trying to find Theodore, the person who had invited you. It was a celebratory party for Slytherin winning the quidditch game against Hufflepuff. You were in the Ravenclaw house but are good friends with many people in Slytherin.

"Oy," Draco pulled you to the side, "Looking for Theo?"

"Yeah, you've seen him?" you asked, gripping his arm so no one could separate you both. Draco nodded, pulling you to a separate room where Pansy, Daphne, Blaise, Enzo, Mattheo, and Theo sat.

"Finally, you're here." Daphne pulled you in for a hug, whispering in your ear, "Drunk pants over there have been asking about you for the past hour."

You glanced over at Theo, who was very drunk. "He never drinks this much." You whispered back to Daphne. She shrugged. "He caught the stitch. Winner of the game tonight."

You nodded, walking over to Theo and sitting next to him. He immediately grinned and wrapped his arms around your waist. "I've been waiting for you all night," Theo said, speaking slowly so his words didn't get slurred.

"I'm sorry. Why'd you drink so much without me?" You asked, tapping softly on his wrist. "I didn't mean to." Theo said, "Won the game, so people had given me a bunch of drinks."

You nodded, allowing Theo to go back to being the life of the party. Enzo sat down next to you, to keep you company as the party continued.

"So, what's your excuse for not being at the game tonight?" Enzo asked.

"That project for Transfiguration. My partner is an idiot who waited last minute to do his part, so I had to help him. I feel bad for missing it." You said, taking a sip of your water.

"Theo was upset that you weren't there. Probably what motivated him to win the game. That boy is obsessed with you," Enzo said, nudging you. You cleared your throat, feeling a sudden sense of nervousness. "We're just friends, Enzo."

"For now." Enzo wiggled his eyebrows. You laughed at him, rolling your eyes.

Did you like Theo? Yeah, but you didn't think he would like you back. He had a lot of girls on him and he could choose any of them. You were so wrapped in your mind and your conversation that you didn't notice that Theo had wandered off until you heard your name being called.

"Take Theo back to his dorm, please!" Blaise pleaded as he and Mattheo held a nearly blacked-out Theo up. You hopped up, grabbing Theo from them.

"Oh, hey, pretty girl." Theo drunkenly grinned at you. You smiled back. "You should've stopped drinking, Teddy."

"Really should've." Mattheo agreed. "You know where his dorm is. Don't worry about cleaning up down here, we got it."

You nodded, saying your goodbyes to everyone before walking upstairs to Theo's room.

"Pretty girl." Theo dragged out the pet name. "Your hair is so soft."

"Thanks, Teddy." You opened the door to his room, switched on the lights, and put him on the bed.

"Come on, let's get you in pajamas." You tapped his nose lightly, making him smile at you.

"You're so pretty, pretty girl. That's why I call you 'pretty girl' because you're so fucking pretty. Sometimes I think you're otherworldly because of it," Theo gushed, falling back on his bed. You felt your heartbeat pick up as the compliments flowed from Theo's mouth.

"Thank you, Theo. Here, put this shirt on." You handed the shirt to Theo, who shook his head no. "I like to be shirtless."

Theo pulled his shirt over his head and threw it in the hamper. You tried your best not to stare at his chest before handing him a pair of pants.

"You're taking good care of me, pretty girl. I wish you could always take care of me. Merlin, I love you so much." Theo spoke again. You felt your eyes widen as you looked at him. "What?" You said softly.

"I love you like I'm so in love with you. I just want to be with you all the time." Theo continued. You cleared your throat, pushing him under the covers. Theo was clearly saying anything to you because he was drunk. If Pansy or Daphne were here, he would probably say the same thing. You forced yourself to repeat that to yourself repeatedly so you could believe it.

"Get some sleep, Theo, goodnight." You switched off his light as you swung his door open. "Goodnight, my pretty girl. I love you." Theo said.

You quickly shut the door, taking a deep breath to calm yourself. You didn't know how to interpret what had just happened. Theo admitted to being in love with you. Or did he? He was drunk, so he probably wasn't serious. Yeah, he was drunk. You took a deep breath before making your way back downstairs.

Mattheo saw you hurry down the stairs and raised his eyebrow at you, "You good? Is Theo okay?"

"Yeah, he's fine. I'm just gonna go back to my dorm," You said. Mattheo eyed you, "What happened?"

"What? Why would anything happen?" You asked, diverting your eyes anywhere but to Mattheo's.

"..."

You sighed, glancing down at your feet, "Theo said he was in love with me."

The room froze as everyone turned their heads to look at you. Suddenly, you felt tiny. "What? Why are you guys staring at me like that?" You asked.

"Nothing! It's just...." Daphne glanced at everyone, "We didn't expect Theo to confess that when he was drunk."

"Yeah, I had galleons on an angry confession followed by an angry, passionate kiss," Draco said, causing Pansy to hit him in the arm.

You blinked. Confess? Confess as in.... he's been holding this in for a long time?

"Wait, so he's telling the truth, and you all knew it?" You asked. Everyone made noises in agreement.

"I mean, everyone can see how head over heels he is for you. You were the only one denying it." Blaise said. Your face felt hot, and you shook your head, "I'm going to my dorm."

Everyone laughed, bidding you goodbye.

Theo woke up the next day with a terrible headache.

"Ahh, there's our champion." Blaise's teasing voice caused Theo to groan.

"Why would I ever drink that much?" Theo asked, mainly to himself. Enzo laughed, setting a cup of water and some medicine on Theo's bedside. "I don't know, but it was quite entertaining to see you get taken care of by your pretty girl." Enzo's voice was teasing and light.

Theo's face immediately heated at the idea of acting like a fool in front of you. "Did I do something stupid in front of her?"

Blaise and Enzo shared a look before shrugging. Theo looked at both of them. "What? What did I do? Oh, Merlin, tell me I didn't embarrass myself."

"I wouldn't say you embarrassed yourself," Blaise said.

"But sober Theo definitely wouldn't have confessed to her that he's in love with her," Enzo said.

It took Theo a moment to realize what Enzo had said before his face turned completely red in shame and embarrassment.

"I told her I was in love with her?" Theo groaned loudly. That was not how he pictured confessing to you. Well, he never pictured confessing his feelings to you because he was scared and had no intentions of doing it.

"It's a good thing, don't you think? I mean, she finally knows." Blaise said, "Although she might need some convincing because she thinks you only said it because you were drunk and probably didn't mean it."

Theo hopped out of his bed, finding the nearest t-shirt before slipping on his shoes. He had already confessed how he felt and if it's already out there, there's no point in hiding it.

Theo spirited to your dorm, not muttering a good morning to anyone as he pushed past them. Finally, he got to your dorm and banged on it until he heard your feet shuffling.

"Teddy?" You asked groggily before focusing your eyes on the out-of-breath and frizzled Theo in front of you, "What the hell happened to you?"

"I meant it."

"What?"

There was silence between you two. He knew you knew what he was talking about, so it didn't take long for realization to take over your face.

"I meant it." Theo repeated himself, "Every word I said last night while I was sloppy drunk was true."

"I have been trying to work up the courage to say something about it for the last year or so. Granted, I didn't think it would be while I was drunk."

"How long?" You tilted your head to the side, with a hint of amusement gracing your face.

Theo's face flushed pink, as he knew you were teasing him, as well as being genuinely curious. "Since first year. When I saw you on the train to school."

"You didn't even speak to me until third year."

"I was nervous." Theo let out a breath. "I watched you, though."

You held back a laugh as Theo immediately turned even more red. "That was creepy. I didn't mean it like that! I just— we've shared a lot of classes and— I'm going to shut up."

You stood on your tippy toes, kissing Theo's flushed cheeks. "I've had a crush on you since second year."

"Really?"

You nodded, smiling. "So what now?"

"Um, will you go on a date with me? Maybe next weekend after the quidditch game?" Theo asked, feeling more nervous than ever.

"I would love to, " you smiled. And I won't miss this game, I promise."

"I'm holding you to that." Theo smiled back.

You gave Theo another kiss on the cheek. "It's still early. I'll see you later, okay?"

Theo nodded, and you smiled, closing your door. Theo stayed there for a few more seconds until he realized he probably looked crazy for just smiling at your door.

Who knew getting drunk had some perks?

[multipleoccupancy]

Valid worries from Violet, Heartland had been so cruel in his words and while Theo knew the man had not known about the paranormal, he was still a very terrible doctor and therapist. There was irreparable damage done to him, he hoped he could spare Violet that same problem. But he nodded along in agreement with Samantha, so glad she was there to back him up and to help Violet.

With her agreement, Theo managed a smile and after a moment of hesitation and as thorough a check he could do on the door while sat on the floor, he reached out and put a hand on her shoulder, praise and gratitude that she would speak to Dr Parrish. "It'll be ok, Violet." He was sure to offer, "I know you're scared," better than he supposed anyone now. He didn't think it was likely those who were left behind in the ward were still alive or in a state able to remember Heartland and his orderlies. "But it is a brave step you have to take." He encouraged, so much more patience and warmth back in his tone as he said it, even if it wasn't quite there yet.

He thought about that horrible pit of the stomach feeling in being told he had an appointment with the doctor, that cold shiver that could overwhelm him. Violet had only seen Heartland once as far as he could remember but once was enough for him to do his damage. He hoped he was having a horrible time in prison. "You won't have to go alone," he promised her. He was terrified of therapists and doctors calling themselves psychologists but he wouldn't make Violet face that fear alone either. "I'll go with you," not to talk, no it was very unlikely Theo would utter a word and probably sit in intimidation mode on the couch next to Violet, poor Dr Parrish. Perhaps he could ask Samantha to write her a note explaining to just ignore him.

"We're a team, right?" He reminded her, his voice cracking just a little as he recalled the words he had spoken to her decades ago and hoped that she remembered them too. "We go to this together."

𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐎 & 𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐓 @multipleoccupancy

Samantha was right. Violet knew Dr. Parrish, she'd seen her after the "window incident," and she had given her a lot of tips to handle her panic attacks. But Dr. Heartland's words had left a deep mark on Violet's heart. She could still hear them sometimes, in the back of her head. "What if she doesn't believe me?" she asked, "what if she thinks I'm delusional? That I belong in a hospital?"

"Dr. Parrish is aware of the paranormal, you know that," gently reminded her Samantha, which was again true, "she will believe you, and she'll never think you're delusional." Besides, hospitals could be good, helpful places. Not like the ward. But Samantha knew better than to say that right now. "She has helped you before, and she can help you again. You're a very brave girl, Violet. But it's ok to need help once in a while."

Her father's plea tugged at Violet's chest. Would it help him, if she went? She didn't want him to worry about her. And if he asked her to do it for him... then she just couldn't refuse. "Alright, I- I'll go talk to Dr. Parrish," she finally accepted, looking down at her bowl. It still made all the hair on the back of her neck stand up. But she'd do it. For her dad.

Besides, Dr. Parrish wasn't Dr. Heartland. Dr. Heartland was in prison, now. He couldn't hurt her. He couldn't say horrible things to her. And yet, Violet still felt the uncontrollable urge to get on her feet and run as far away as possible. Instead, she took another bite of soup and swallowed it -it felt like ash in her mouth.

[archangeldyke-all]

I feel like Sev is a total dad in that any time she gets into an argument with one of The Kids (tm), she will absolutely never verbally apologize. She will, however, appear with ten crates of a fruit that they mentioned they liked approximately one time in passing or just randomly decide to take them somewhere fun. Just randomly…Totally not because she feels bad or anything…

AD:FAS:DF:ASJDF this is so sweet okay

men and minors dni

it's easier for her to apologize to isha.

the kid's so tiny, and her big gold eyes are so cute, and she doesn't have much ...history... with isha-- so when she accidentally steps on isha's fingers, or eats the leftovers isha was saving for herself in the fridge, or farts when isha's standing right behind her-- a quick "oh, my bad, isha" or "sorry, kiddo" slip off her tongue easily.

of course, this doesn't change the fact that she'll feel guilty as hell for the rest of the day and spoil isha endlessly. but still, it's a little easier for her to actually say sorry when it's baby isha.

it's different with jinx.

for one thing... jinx talks. and jinx talks back. sevika's good at a lot of things, but quick comebacks are not her strong suit. usually, she gets flustered and gruffs out a 'shut the fuck up' which leads to an even bigger argument.

for another thing, jinx and sevika have been squabbling for years. and sometimes those squabbles were... intense, to say the least. the recent familial feelings sevika and jinx have formed for each other have not always existed.

so... it's a little harder for sevika to apologize to her.

she always knows when she's gone too far. she's incredibly intuitive, she's able to read jinx's micro-expressions like an open book. so it's not like she needs help in realizing her mistakes.

it's just the apologizing for it that's hard for her.

about three months into the girls moving in with you, jinx and sevika get into their first real fight as family.

you and isha watch with cringes as they both fling insults and soft objects at each other-- fighting in the way people fight only when they've known each other forever.

it ends with jinx fleeing to her room and sevika reaching for her emergency cigarette stash. she only allows herself a pack a year, so you know she feels horrible when she grabs two.

isha rushes to comfort jinx. you rush to comfort your wife.

"you alright?" you ask as you step onto the back porch. sevika just shrugs.

"i'll get over it. she'll get over it." she mumbles. you wrap an arm around her shoulders, and sevika groans. "shit, i feel so bad. i shouldn't lose my shit with her like that anymore."

"...probably not." you hesitantly agree. sevika huffs and elbows you, and you just kiss her cheek. "but mistakes are alright, babe. we're still learning. both of us. yesterday i caught isha playing with one of our vibrators. she was using it as a mini bazooka in her game of doll wars--" sevika cuts you off with a burst of surprised laughter, and you smile. "point is we're figuring it out as we're going. and nobody's bleeding, so i'd count that as a win."

sevika sighs and agrees with you, stubbing out her cigarette and kissing you soundly.

you think that's the end of it until you're at the store with jinx the next day.

"did sevika say anything to you about... like... robbing a convience store or something?" jinx asks. you blink.

"what?"

jinx shrugs. "this morning she woke me up by shoving, like, an industrial sized box of flamers onto my bed. like fifty pounds of flamers!" jinx giggles. you smile. that explains her and isha's red stained mouths this morning-- and why sevika was out so late last night. "so i dunno. i'm just trying to figure out where she got 'em from."

"she bought them, jinx. she's saying sorry to you."

"...sorry for what?" she asks.

"for the fight you got in last night!" you giggle.

jinx blinks again, like she's never been apologized to before. it's likely that she hasn't. you sigh and wrap an arm around her shoulder. "...sevika's never apologized to me before." she says. you nod. "at least, not without silco threatening her job, or something."

"you weren't her kid back then." you say.

a smile ticks up at the corner of her mouth, and jinx giggles.

"why didn't she just say 'sorry?' she musta spent at least a hundred on that box--"

"she's not the best with her words, jinx, you know this." you say with a laugh. jinx cackles and nods.

taglist!

@fyeahnix @lavendersgirl @half-of-a-gay @thesevi0lentdelights @sexysapphicshopowner

@kissyslut @chuucanchuucan @badbye666 @femme-historian @lia-winther

@sevikaspillowprincess @emiliabby @sevikasbeloved @hellorai @my-taintedheart

@glass-apothecary @macaroni676 @artinvain @k3n-dyll @sevsdollette

@ellieslob @xayn-xd @keikuahh @maneskinwh0re @raphaellearp

@iamastar @sevikitty @mascdom @nhaaauyen @annesunshiner

@mirconreadzztuff22 @veoomvroom @lushh-s3vik4s @katyawooga @lesbodietcoke

@lavandasz @strawberrykidneystone @sevikasfan @fict1onallyobsessed

[gotta-winwin]

(🎞️) ... hit the road docu.<> for you to walk comfortably

word count: 1k TW: fluff? nothing too crazy - woozi's segments pretty mild compared to what's about to go down („• ֊ •„) italics are interview moments cut between other scenes a/n: welcome to the first instalment of htr!

Cyana couldn't help but glance at Woozi when they won the Album of the Year at Asia Artist Awards. She wanted to see that glow of a smile flood across their producer member's face, a smile she so rarely got to see. He was usually so stoic around her.

"We won." Jeonghan breathed into her ear, pulling her and Dino in for a hug. "We won."

She looked at Woozi, who had been tugged into a group hug with Seungcheol and the others. "We won." She mumbled, mostly to herself. She couldn't quite believe it.

"It was hard to imagine we had won." Woozi said to the camera. "I was looking for Cyana the whole time, trying to see her reaction. I never thought we'd succeed with her next to us." He shrugged, a little sheepish. "Guess I was wrong."

"Hi!" Cyana waved to the camera. "We're practicing for our Osaka concert right now." She moved to show the members with the staff in the background. "Apparently they did this all last tour as well, to keep in line with the local staff."

Woozi could be seen directing the bulk of it, naturally taking over as he knew most about their sound design.

"It sounds a bit lower," Woozi said into his mic. "can we adjust that?"

"It was amazing, to see Woozi oppa controlling the stage, even when we weren't performing." Cyana smiled as she recalled. "It made it even harder to hold a grudge."

Woozi approached Cyana as they sat in the green room, two hours before the concert. She was busy eating, her phone propped up as she watched Criminal Minds on low volume.

"Your mic pack's acting up." He informed her, sitting down opposite her. "They're fixing it but we don't know how long it'll take."

Cyana paused her show, looking up worried. "Is there a spare?"

"The staff are finding one now." Woozi let out a loud sigh. "It's a bit hectic today."

"I was kind of checking everything that day. It wasn't that I was a perfectionist. There was just a lot of changes. It was a different size stage, we had changed formations and cue sheets." Woozi recalled the day.

Cyana nodded after hearing the interviewer's comment. "I don't think our performance in Osaka would've gone as well if it hadn't been for his attention to detail."

LOCATION: UNIVERSE FACTORY

"I spend most of my time at the studio. It's like my second home." Woozi explained. "It's also where I see Cyana the most."

Cyana's sprawled on the studio couch, face facing the ceiling as she listened to the track Woozi was playing. "Pause it." Cyana sat upright, her face in thought. "Wait, go back a few bars."

"I liked working with Woozi oppa. We didn't really have much to say to each other outside of work, but working on music was something that could bring us together." Cyana let out a tiny laugh. "I guess being sleep deprived does bring people together."

Woozi rewinds the track, bringing it back to the chorus. "Here?" He asked, looking at Cyana for confirmation.

The girl nodded. "Yeah, play it again?"

The two grew silent as they concentrated on the beats. Cyana stood up suddenly frowning. "What is that sound in the very back? The dat-dat-dat-dun." She mimed drumbeats as she tried explaining what she was hearing.

"Cyana didn't know how to work the sound mixing board yet, she was learning as we worked but I could tell it frustrated her, having to explain her thoughts to me." Woozi couldn't help but smile. "It was endearing, I have to say."

"I know what you mean." Woozi nodded, following her train of thought. "I hear it too. Must've altered when we mixed those two beats together yesterday." He clicked a few keys on the board. "I'll find it."

"Bumzu sunbaenim told me Woozi oppa's always been like this, even as a trainee. A pure musical genius." Cyana shook her head in mild disbelief. "I came to learn that producing is literally his entire life. He doesn't even think of it as anything special."

Cyana let out a yawn, sitting back down on her spot at the corner of the couch, curling her legs up. "You should take a break, oppa. You've been staring at that screen for hours."

"I felt bad, that I couldn't hold my fair share of the work. Sometimes it felt like I was just directing him." Cyana admitted. "I thought: he must feel annoyed, having the maknae throw ideas into his area of expertise."

Woozi stretched his arms, rolling his shoulders back. "I'm fine, Cyana. We can keep going." Rolling his chair across the room, he opened the mini fridge and threw her a bottle of water before taking one for himself. "We'll forget tomorrow."

Cyana could only smile ruefully at his persistence, taking a small sip of water. "Only if you're sure."

"What else can I say?" Woozi shrugged. "The members all say I work too hard. That I should be sleeping more, going out more, living more. But I am living- when I'm making music."

Woozi cued up the track once again, sifting through it to find the error both he and Cyana could hear. Cyana watched from behind, feet tapping absentmindedly to the rhythm.

The concert venue held an insane amount of people. Cyana could only stare out into the vast sea, smiling from the sidelines as Woozi started his Opening Ment.

"I'm a stickler for routine." Woozi said, elbows on his knees as he explained to the interviewer. "Cyana proved to me new things can be better than the old- and I'm grateful to her for that." He side eyes the staff. "She won't see this, right?" Looking back at the camera, he continued. "Anyways, I'm thankful for my members because they are the ones who love my music the most. Because of that, I feel no pressure in creating, only joy."

The cheers from the crowd washed over Woozi as he performed with his members.

'There is something so special about seeing people enjoy your group's music. And it is even more special knowing you created it."

a/n: wahhh first hit the road ep done! it was def a journey, trying to combine cyana into the episode and also keeping it woozi-centered. I tried following the format of the og youtube docu- lmk how it was! these instalments might be on the shorter side just cause the docus are pretty short themselves (｡•́︿•̀｡)

[mj0702]

El Classíco

Keira wanted to shoot someone. Preferly you. Or herself. She hasn't decided yet. Here she was stuck with you at the Barcelona Airport on the way to Madrid and you were so high on energy that you just zipped around players, staff and other passengers. She tried to keep you contained but the second you saw Mapí, Pina and Patri it was a lost battle. Lucy was all the way in London whilst you decided you'd stay in Barcelona so naturally the task of guardian fell to Keira. She cursed the day Lucy accepted Chelseas offer moving back England. Of course she wanted to take you with her but you fought her teeth and nails over it so in the end Keira herself stepped in saying she'll look after you – boy she wished she didn't. Keira loved you – more than anything on the world and with all the ticks and weird habits you had. But she's clearly not cut for motherhood.

“Bitsy!!!” Keira yelled out her tone a mix of warning and annoyance “Leave Vicky alone”

You looked up with a guilty look on your face from under the seats where you were currently occupied tying Vickys shoelaces together. Your lower lip pushed forward you started to pout immediately

“Don't give me that look... come here” the englishwoman rolled her eyes pushing Ewas leg slightly so she'll move a seat and make space for you which the polish forward immediately followed suit

“But...” you whined still laying on the ground under the seat Vicky sat on “... boring”

“It's not my fault our flight got delayed Bits...” Keira sighed knowing it would be absolutely horrifying once you boarded the plane “... I promise you can run it off later”

“Nooooo...” you whined like a three year old on the verge of a tantrum

Now Alexia stepped in helping her teammate out by grabbing your ankles pulling you out from under the bench unceremonially and before you could crawl forward again she already grabbed your shirt.

“Come one Cariño...” the blonde huffed as she pulled you upright “... you know you have to behave or we'll ship you back to Ingles”

“But it's so boring...” you stomped your foot missing Alexias by mere inches

“What is wrong with you today?” Alexia asked confused as she pushed you forward towards Keira

“There wasn't any time this morning that I could let her run out the energy and now she's just restless... just wait until we're on the plane... it's gonna be hell” Keira answered in your place as she pulled you down next to her

“We have the plane to ourselves...” the blonde said seeing how your leg started to bounce restlessly

“Thank God for that....” the englishwoman mumbled putting her hand on your knee trying to calm you

“Neña...” Mapí appeared next to Alexia smiling widely “... Ingrid said I'm allowed to go look at the duty free as long as I'm not going alone... you come?”

“Yes!!” you immediately exclaimed happily trying to stand up

“No” Keira said smiling fake

“But...” you whined

“Not what I meant María” Ingrid spoke up “... I meant Alexia, Irene or Marta”

“But they're no fun” Mapí looked at her girlfriend like she insulted her mother

“One of these three or plant your ass back on your seat” the norwegian said while Alexia snorted out a “Hell no”

“But maybe Neña wants something too....” the tattooed spaniard begged “... she likes the chocolates here.. I know... I bought them here and she really liked them”

“Keira please” you begged now too big puppy eyes on display

“No Bitsy...” Keira sighed pressing her eyes shut mentally counting to ten

“You are so unfair” you exclaimed before starting to pout your arms crossed over your chest

“I can offer a deal” Irene now spoke up the maternal instinct taking over “I can take y/n if Marta agrees taking Mapí... I think two of ous can rein them in”

“Bitsy I swear” Keira warned you and you knew it was serious “... if you step out of line ONCE I'll make sure Lucy picks you up from Madrid”

“But Lucy has a game herself... she has no time to come to fake-spain city” you looked genuinely confused

“Then you'll stay with one of them until she's able to pick you up” the englishwoman sneered her nerves truly gone

“I don't want to stay with them” you shook your head

“Then either behave for Irene OR stay seated....” Keira was about to lose it “... but behave!”

You shot out of your seat placing yourself next to Irene grabbing onto her shirt quickly making the defender chuckle

“You don't need to hold onto me, y/n” the tall defender said with a smile

“Oh no no...” Keira interrupted quickly “... she absolutely does... Lucy that daft woman took Bronzo with her... so until we have Bronzo back she knows she has to hold onto people”

“I never have to do that when I'm with Ona” you grumbled to yourself

“She only has you on afternoons after training... the only thing you do there is eat and sleep” Keira rolled her eyes “... and even if you don't HAVE to do it while you're with her you still do... I’ve got pictures”

“If you want to go to the duty free go now...” Alexia said after she had a short talk with one of the Airport staff “... we'll board in 30 Minutes”

“Come on Irene...” you quickly shot forward pulling the Legazpi rooted player after you not waiting on Mapí who just pulled Marta out of her seat earning a confused look from Caro.

“Where are they?” a stressed looking Alexia grumbled after she checked her watch a fourth time.

Everyone else was already boarded except for Mapí, Marta, Irene, Keira, you and herself

“I should’ve known” Keira said an annoyed look on her face “It’s Bitsy…. Her brain runs a million miles a second but dear God once she gets distracted “

“VAMOS” Alexia suddenly yells seeing Marta and Irene herding Mapí and you down the airport towards your gate

Alexia had to take a double take with all the stuff you and Mapí were carrying. Mapí was carrying two big (obviously) full bags – one in each hand – while you were had your arms full with chocolates, sweets and a Sombrero on your head. Irene was carrying a MASSIVE M&M plush toy dressed in a Barca Jersey

“Díos mio… what is all this???” the catalan escaped once you stopped in front of her grinning widely

“That’s Caro” you smiled happily making Irene turn around the plush toy showing Alexia the Jersey print “Scowling face… soft on the inside”

“I…” the blonde spaniard looked bewildered at you before turning to your guardian “Keira?”

“Don’t question it… off you hop Bitsy… plane is just waiting for you” Keira waved off pushing you towards the gangway “… I’ll pay you later Irene… thank you so much for taking her”

“De nada Keira” the defender adjusted her hold on “Caro” smiling softly “… but she paid for everything herself”

“How did… oh no… no no no no” Keira mumbled once she realized what you might have done reaching for her wallet

“BITSY!!” the englishwoman exclaimed after checking her wallet to find her credit card gone “.... you’ll work off every single penny I swear!!”

“She stole your credit card?” Alexia looked at Keira shocked

“Yeah… but she has a good head on her and I know she only gets kids stuff…. Or Christmas presents she then gifts to you…” Keira waved off smiling slightly as she saw you placing the massive plush toy on Caros lap who looked just terrified “… never let her see your cards by the way… Kid can save numbers in her head like no one else… she used Lucys card to buy herself a mini- cross bike.. she was six…”

“Good to know” the catalan mumbled before she scolded you “Cariño…. Leave Caro alone and sit down”

“Caro doesn’t want to sit with herself….” You whined trying again to get the norwegian to hold onto the M&M

“She... They need to get to know each other first…” Alexia said quickly “… you wouldn’t want a stranger to sit on your lap would you?”

“Oh… lost siento Caro” you mumbled after it dawned on you

“So let Caro sit next to… Caro and just sit down” the blonde said softly seeing how you chew your lip started to get distressed

“Good thinking there Capi” Keira chuckled as she pushed past the catalan

“Gracias…” Alexia smirk “… I slowly get the hanger of it with her”

“Hang… not hanger” Keira smiled “… and yes you do…”

“She’s not going to calm down once we get on the runway is she?” the catalan spoke softly to Keira watching how you got in your seat but already started to annoy Vicky by kicking the back of her seat

“Oh no…” Keira snorted “… it’s gonna get worse”

“Díos mio” Alexia sighed before making her way over to you to get into the seat next to you

“Alexia?” you mumbled uncomfortable

“Sí Cariño?” the blonde answered not really paying attention reading and article about women in sports

“Can I please get out?” your voice on the edge of panic but still low

“No Cari” the catalan said “… we already left the block and are ready for take off… you can use the toilet once the seatbelt sign is off”

“I don’t need the toilet…” you mumbled your breathing picking up slightly

“Then why…” Alexia now looked up to find you pressed into your seat your hands gripping the hand rest tightly your knuckles white your chest showing your rapid breathing “Cari?”

“Can I please get out?” you pressed out panicked

“Cariño….” The catalan said firmly “.. look at me”

You didn’t react so Alexia grabbed your chin forcing you to look at her

“Everything is okay…” the catalan said soft but firm “…. Talk to me so I can help you”

“I just want out” you said now in full on panic mode

“Not possible Cari… what do you need?” Alexia kept her voice soft hoping to calm you down

“Lucy” you whimpered and Alexia immediately had an idea

“Ona…” the blonde turned around still firmly holding you chin so you have something to concentrate on

“Sí?” Ona looked up from her book

“Have you got something that smells like Lucia?” Alexia asked

“I have an old hoodie…” the small catalan answered unsure

“Would you mind giving it up during take off?” the blonde asked feeling how you tried to free yourself from her hold

“No… why?” Ona looked confused

“Cariño needs something to calm her down” Alexia explained and Ona immediately pulled Lucys old TarHeel hoodie out of her bag giving it to her captain

“Gracias” the blonde smiled as she grabbed the fabric laying it over her shoulder before she guided your face towards it

“It’s not ideal but there’s nothing more that I can do right now” Alexia said softly as you pressed your nose into the fabric breathing in deeply immediately calming down at Lucys scent that still coated the hoodie

“There we go… Bueno Cari” the blonde mumbled letting go of you carefully when she was sure you’d stay right where you were

You whimpered once through the take off when the plane dropped a little bit but other than that it went quite smoothly and when Alexia checked on you when the seatbelt signs came off she found you snoring into Lucys hoodie against her shoulder. Keira came over the second she could having seen how you struggled before take off but also decided to let Alexia handle it. So now when she saw you sleeping against the blonde she couldn't help but smile

“Good job Capi” Keira teased nodding towards you “... but you'll wear her out later”

“I will what?” Alexia asked confused

“You'll power her out... her sleeping now?? She's recharging” the englishwoman grinned “She'll be all fresh and full of energy”

“Dios.... Cariño... wake up” the blonde had big eyes shaking you lightly

“I wouldn't do that if I were you” Keira smirked “... I know her better than she knows herself... don't wake her up... you'll regret it... oh... and don't move too much”

“Bebita...” you heard a soft voice and felt a light touch “... vamos Bebita... get up”

“Oni?” you mumbled more asleep than awake

“Sí... come on Bebita...” Ona kept her voice low knowing from experience that you better wake up slow otherwise you'll be grumpy big time

“Nooooo....” you whined turning away from her pulling the hoodie around your head

“Yes Bebita...” your sisters girlfriend chuckled starting to stroke your back

“Oniiii” you whined louder trying to shake her off

“Bebita... don't make me get Lucy to wake you up... come on... vamos” Ona threatened you playfully

“I'm up” you shot up hitting your head successfully on the overhead storage “Damn fucking fuck”

“Bebita” the small spaniard groaned when you started to rub your forehead

“Hurts” you whined but Ona ignored it pulling you out of your seat pushing you down the aisle

“Come on...” Ona said “... everyone is already off the plane and waiting for us”

“Where are we?” you looked confused still rubbing your head

“Madrid” the blonde spaniard answered shortly when she spotted Keira “... I got her up... she hit her head.... here you go”

“Kei...” you whined “... I don't like it here”

“Bitsy I told you it's El Classico this weekend” Keira said pulling you into her side “... I gave you the choice if you wanted to come with me or fly to Lucy”

“As if I fly to that godforsaken freezing country” you mumbled

“Still your birth country Bits” the englishwoman chuckled “... come on... we'll go to the hotel now and later Alexia will take you to the pitch so you can get some energy out”

“Do I have to go with heeeerrr...” you whined loudly

“Yes....” Keira chuckled

“I want to go with Mapí....” you started to drift off into a tantrum

“Mapí will be there too....” your guardian said calmly pressing a soft kiss to the little bump on your forehead “... even tho she'll be there with Ingrid and Irene”

“CARO” you suddenly yelled trying to get out of Keiras grip to get back to the aircraft

“She's right there” Keira tried to calm you down holding onto you tightly

“Not her” you exclaimed starting to work against Keira basically dragging her with you

“Bitsy” the englishwoman pressed through her teeth “... BOTH Caros are here”

“Where?” you asked confused stopping dead in your tracks

“Pina has it....” Keira said thanking god above that you came to a halt

“Not possible... Caro is bigger than Tweedledumb” you looked around finding Pina struggling with the massive plush toy “... huh... maybe it is possible”

“Come on Cari... again” Alexia yelled standing at the kick off point seeing you sprint at her “... derecha!”

“What was that again?” you stopped dead in your tracks looking at Alexia lost

“To the right...” the blonde rolled her eyes pointing the way she wanted you to go

“My right or your right?” you asked carefully

“Your right” the catalan shook her head turning around to Keira who was watching you from the stands with Ona, Marta, Vicky and Esmee “... is she always so difficult to train?”

“She's actually paying attention today” Keira laughed back “... wait till she gets distracted...”

“Ay díos” Alexia mumbled

“You díosing a lot today... maybe you should get a massage or something... you'll get wrinkles” you said tilting your head

“I'll get WHAT?” the blonde whipped around glaring at you

“Wrinkles... wait... what was the spaniard word....” you said before starting to chew your lip thinking hard “... aquagas or something... Ona... what's wrinkles again in spaniard??”

“ARRUGAS” Ona yelled back trying to hold in her laughter

“Arrogants.... that... you'll get that...” you nodded your head happily but a second later you squeaked starting to sprinting away when Alexia lunged at you

“Torna aquí!!!” the catalan yelled after you sprinting after you while the women in the stands bursted out laughing loudly

“What do I missing?” Aitana asked as she sat down next to Ona watching how Alexia chased you down the sideline

“Bebita va dir bàsicament a La Reina que s'està fent vella i arrugada” Ona snorted seeing how you tried to get rid of the blonde by changing directions and when that didn't work you tried to involve Mapí

“Cari... last chance... come down” Alexia said from her position looking up at you hands on her hips her eyebrow raised

“Nu-uh” you shook your head looking down at her

“Cariño...” the catalan warned you again pointing down to a spot in front of her

“Alexia...” Irene called over “... it's time... Madrid will come out any second for their training”

“I can't just leave her here” Alexia yelled back pointing at you

“I'll get Keira” Irene said shaking her head slightly... 17 years and you occupied a whole football team – even her 2 year old at home didn't need as much attention and needed to be looked after like you did

“No...” the blonde snapped “... I won't allow it”

“Alexia...” the defender said softly knowing why her friend denied any help “... you know there will be backlash if we don't leave the pitch when they come out”

“Down NOW” Alexia said strictly at you

“No.... you'll punish me even tho I didn't do anything” you said crossing your arms over your chest

“Alexia...” a new Person suddenly appeared next to Alexia and Irene

“Misa...” the blonde grumbled her eyes not leaving your form while Irene pulled the young Keeper into a hug

“Quick... probably unimportant question...” the dark haired Madrid player piped up “... why is there a Teenager standing on my crossbar?”

“Funny story...” Irene snorted “... that teenager is Lucy Bronze sister... she didn't wanna go back to england...”

“... it's FREEZING there... and wet... 362 days a year rain... why should I trade sunshine and good food for... rain, fish and Lucy...” you interrupted the defender protesting loudly who just ignored your outburst

“... she was a little... energetic and we thought it would be a good idea if she could run it off... but she has a habit of speaking before thinking... she told Alexia she's getting wrinkles” Irene ended her recap of the last two hours “... and when she noticed Alexia can outrun her she saved herself by climbing on the crossbar... we can't get her down without her getting injured so now Alexia tries it the old fashioned way...”

“Glaring and demanding?” Misa looked past Irene at Alexia

“Sí” the defender snorted

“Get. Down. NOW” the catalan demanded again and you shook your head again still perfectly balanced on the crossbar

“I can shoot her off...” Misa offered grinning

“Oh please... I saw your kick offs... 38% of your balls are half precise... the rest you're just lucky” this time it was you who snorted “... you couldn't shoot me off even if I was three time as big”

“¿disculpe???” the young keeper exclaimed

“No need to dislocate...” you waved off

“Cari!!” Alexia said again already seeing the rest of the Madrid squad shuffling out off the tunnel

“I'll get her down Alexia... don't worry” Misa grumbled

“Misa no..” the blonde “... ella terminará herida...”

But Misa already got herself a ball kicking it in your direction missing your head by mere centimeters but you didn't move a muscle nor did you flinch

“Oh look at that... I didn't even move!!!” you taunted the young spaniard “... make that 35%”

Again Misa kicked a ball in your direction and you saw how she already getting frustrated as this ball didn't even come close to you and you kept mocking her until Ona came jogging across the field holding out her phone

“Bebita... phone for you” she just said throwing her phone up you catching it with ease before she turned around greeting Misa

“Yeah??” you asked carefully into the mobile

“Get your ass off that Crossbar or I'll come out of retirement and pluck you off it meself” you heard from the other end

“Shit...” you exclaimed shocked swaying dangerously loosing your balance for a second “... Auntie E... Hiiiiiii”

“No no... off that crossbar... NOW” Ellen said strictly

“But Alexia...” you started but immediately got interrupted

“I don't care... I taught you professionalism.... act like I brought you up” the old england captain growled “... I can't believe I have to re-install your manners”

“She'll hit me because I said the truth... you also told me to tell the truth and stand up for yourself” you whined sticking your tongue out at Misa “... seriously... that was the fifth ball... how did you not hit me by now?”

“BB...” Ellen White warned you

“If she hits me it's your fault” you grumbled as jumped off the crossbar landing right in front of Alexia who immediately grabbed you pulling you away followed by Irene and Ona

“Bitsy... please behave today” Keira spoke lowly to you not to disturb her teammates on the way to the game “.. I'm starting and I can't work if I have to keep an eye on you – if you need anything Marta or Irene will be on the bench okay... PLEASE Bitsy”

“I'll have an eye on the Neña I promise!!” Mapí eagerly said already pulling on your arm

“Absolutely not...” the englishwoman quickly grabbed your other arm stopping any plan Mapí could come up with “... you stay with Frido or Ellie”

“But” you immediately whined

“No... I have to get on the pitch so either you decide NOW or I'll decide” Keira said strictly and Frido looked at her like a deer

“Ellie” you mumbled and immediately got shoved in the Keepers direction

“Ellie... you know her... control her” Keira said as she jogged off taking her place on the pitch

“OY REF!!!” you shot of the bench a fourth time seeing how Pina clutched her foot

“Chickadee...” Ellie said calmly pulling you back by your jersey

“¿Eres completamente estúpida, ciega como una puta perra??” you continued to yell now getting held back by Marta who immediately scolded you for your language

“Y/n!!” Marta quickly interrupted you slapping her hand over your mouth

“LethercomeIendherandherfakelashes” you muffled from under her hand as Marta pulled you down beside her

“You are worse than Mateo... and he's two” Marta sneered pressing you deeper into the seat next to her

“Who'sMateo?” you looked at her confused her hand still covering your mouth

“Irenes son” the dark haired spaniard rolled her eyes pulling her hand away

“Who's Irene?” you tilted your head

“Paredes... the one who you dragged into the duty free” Marta said shaking her head

“Oooooh... dinosaur spaniard... now I know who you... REF” you said smiling before you shot out of your seat again

“Sit back down” Marta scolded you again “How does Keira deal with this on a daily basis?”

“Why is your english so good? Spaniards are not very good at english” you wondered

“My girlfriend is norwegian... english is the easiest option” Marta rolled her eyes

“You're dating princess norwegian too?? Damn... I didn't expect that” your eyes wide

“No...” the older spaniard shook her head “... I'm not dating Ingrid... I'm in a relationship with Caroline”

“She's not nice... she didn't like Caro” you mumbled before shooting up again “Carmona you stupid...”

“Sit” Marta pulled you back harshly “... how does Keira deal with you all day long”

“CARMONA!!!” you yelled loudly and to your satisfaction the Madrid player looked over

“Fuck you” you yelled lifting both your middle fingers up flipping her off

“Y/n Lucia Tough Bronze!!” you heard Keira yell from her position on the pitch and you shrunk down in your seat

Alexia came off in the 70th minute taking over looking after you from Marta who was very grateful for the break. Until that you yelled at the Ref until you received a yellow card, were shit talking to Olga every chance you got, kicked a bottle in between Atheneas feet so she tripped while a throw in and nearly got your hands on the medic bag from Madrid

“Cari...” Alexia sighed as she pulled you on her lap “... por favor stop it”

“She not being fair...” you exclaimed but relaxed against Alexias chest

“We lead 5 – 0 Cari...” the blonde said softly “... she can't...”

“Someone can get hurt...” you mumbled “.... they're targeting Ona”

“Ona is a big girl...” the catalan kept her hold strong around your waist

“No she's not...” you snorted

“She's a strong player” Alexia corrected herself

“I don't like Madrid” you mumbled

“Bueno Cariño...” the blonde said proudly “.... that's a good Culer”

“You do know that it literally translates to “Arse” in english right? So I'm a good arse...” you deadpanned making Alexia laugh out loudly

“No causing trouble after the game is over okay” the catalan said after her eyes flickered to the clock seeing there were only a few minutes left

“I would never” you faked innocents smiling sweetly

“You definitely always would” Alexia said raising her eyebrow

“Cariño...” Alexia pressed out as you climbed on her back leaning over her shoulder trying to grab Olgas ponytail “... stop it”

“Just a few inches” you mumbled leaning further trying to snatch the end of the hair

Alexia struggled to keep her balance with your wait gravitating forward

“Bitsy” Keira suddenly appeared next to the blonde already watched you for a few minutes “... down”

“I nearly got...” you started and then Olga moved away shaking hands with Vicky “... great Keira... you scared her away”

“Come down Bitsy... you don't need to be carried around by Alexia” the englishwoman sighed

“But she's so high... it's like on top of the tower of London” you whined trying to direct the blonde into the direction of Olga again who was talking to Irene further down the field

“Bitsy...” Keira groaned pulling slightly on your Jersey

“I...” you whined but the look on Keiras face shut you up immediately and you slid down Alexias back

“Good girl” the englishwoman praised you smiling pulling you into her side limiting the actions you probably had planned “Come on... I need to shower and then we can get some food into you”

“Neña!!” Mapí yelled waving you over

“Keira pleeeeeaaaaaase...” you looked at her hopefully

“Go... but no trouble” Keira rolled her eyes letting go of you and you sprinted forward towards Mapí

“Keira!” Ingrid bursted through the locker room door her arm holding you securely

“What?” your guardian exclaimed annoyed from the showers

“We need help” the norwegian exclaimed making the englishwoman groan annoyed

“What did she do now?” Keira rolled her eyes getting a towel around her body

“Technically nothing...” Ingrid said as she carefully put you down

“Please...” the englishwoman snorted coming out of the shower “... she's a Bronze... dear Jesus Christ Bitsy... what have you done???”

“It was Carmona” you whined holding your nose tears in your eyes

“I TOLD you to leave that woman alone” Keira scolded you while she carefully pried your hand of your face seeing the dried blood from your nose “... Jesus Christ!”

“Keira she just went over and tipped her on the shoulder and Olga elbowed her in the face” Ingrid jumped in watching how the blonde inspected your face and nose

“Doesn't look broken...” Keira mumbled carefully moving your face from left to right “... still... we're gonna let a medic look over it”

“We tried that...” the norwegian piped up “... she kicked him”

“Yeah... she won't” the englishwoman said raised her eyebrow

“She wasn't happy...” Ingrid said carefully

“She won't kick again... I'm here” Keira said simply letting your face go stepping away from your form starting to dress herself

“I can't believe you bit her” Pina laughed sitting next to your sulking form “Her face”

“Yeah me face to” you said your voice nasal “... she broke me nose”

“Your Nose isn't broken” Keira said from the row behind you “.... it's bruised”

“It feels broken” you said pitifully

“Yeah well.... I told you to behave” the englishwoman waved off

“I DID... and she knocked me out” you exclaimed jumping up in your seat turning around

“Sit down Bits...” Keira said automatically and you sat back down huffing

“I'm never gonna be friendly to her ever again” you grumbled crossing your arms in front of your chest

“You will be respectfully and polite” your guardian warned you

“She hurt Ona” you shot up again trying to defend your actions

“And you caused a whole cluster fuck by BITING a spanish national player... BITING Bitsy... ” Keira shot back “... you cause an international cluster fuck”

“I would've hit her if I knew you'd preferred that” you pouted

“I would've preferred for you to stay out of trouble” the englishwoman said annoyance in her voice

“Mapí said it was okay.... that Real players are like tributes in the hunger games” you turned around again and you did it so fast you got a little dizzy

“Bitsy... stop arguing and stay in your seat” Keira just sighed knowing the more she talked about the incident the more you got fired up again

“Where is she?” Alexia asked immediately after she sat down next to Keira at the hotel bar

“Bed...” the englishwoman simply said “... Alexia listen....”

“You don't need to apologize....” the catalan said softly seeing how much Keira sometimes struggled to keep you in check “... she is who she is and I hope that she never changes – was it right to bite Olga? No... but that's who she is... she defends her family like no one I ever met... don't be mad at her for being herself...”

“She needs to grow up Alexia... she can't go around tanking through life without consequences...” Keira sighed taking a sip of her gin tonic “... she's 17 Ale... I'm scared that one day she's going that inch to far and there will be consequences... BIG consequences... she's like my own daughter... I need her to THINK before she acts.... she can't go around biting people”

“You won't change her Keira...” Alexia chuckled “... but you don't need to... she has a good heart and mostly a good head”

“I just never thought it'll be so hart to look after her on my own...” the englishwoman sighed

“But you aren't alone...” the catalan smiled as she took Keiras glass taking a sip herself “... you have all of us behind you – she's familia... you are familia Keira... we look after each other”

[ninupi]

Hello I have a request! Could you write a scenario where either Kakucho or Draken (you can write for both or do one or the other I don't mind) have a crush on reader(they're friends though but they haven't confessed) however there's someone else who also likes reader and asks them to help them get together with reader🥸How would they react? And what would they do? I hope that makes sense 😅

Thank you 😊

Jealous | k. draken & kakucho (separately)

₊˚⊹♡ tags; fem!reader, both of these are in a good timeline where everyone look gets along, mention of reader looking up at draken, everyone lowk making fun of sanzu in drakens lol, ran being canonically blind but refusing to wear glasses is so funny to me LMFAOO, kakucho being a liar boy

₊˚⊹♡ wc; 830 (draken) 331 (kakucho)

₊˚⊹♡ a/n; ahh im so happy I finally found time to write this, I literally couldn't stop thinking about it when I first saw it lol

k. draken

Draken was intensely watching the TV from the couch while Mikey and Mitsuya were competing in mortal combat on the TV. Most of the guys were over at Mikey's house right now taking turns playing the new game. 

"I'm going to kick your ass Mitsuya..." Mikey warned after receiving a combo almost ending his character's life "You said that the last two rounds, maybe you should focus on fighting!" Mitsuya laughed nudging Mikey with his elbow trying to distract him. 

"You seriously suck at this Mikey!" Smiley laughs angering the blonde even more "Next round, you and me asshole!" Mikey yells pointing at Smiley after Mitsuya's character brutally rips Mikey's apart. "Ok let's go, this is gonna be a piece of cake" he smiles while switching places with mitsuya to sit on the floor. 

While the two of them argued about who they wanted to play Draken heard the front door open "I'm home! And I brought y/n so don't be weird!" Draken perked up once he heard Emma mention your name, you two had become friends earlier this year at school and Emma's been bringing you around a lot more. 

"Ok, so no one cares that I'm home?" Emma asks walking into the living room while y/n is behind her "No, not really" Mikey answers locking his character in "Oh screw you Mikey, I hope you lose!" she yells throwing a couch pillow at the back of his head.

"Hi y/n! How are you?" Draken can't help the way his face contorts in disgust at Sanzu's tone of voice "Hi Haru, I'm fine. Are you playing too?" Haru? Draken didn't know that the two of you were so close "Yeah, I played against Baji earlier and won" he bragged causing Baji to yell at him. 

"Are you not going to say hi to me Draken?" you question softly kicking his leg, he can feel the back of his neck getwarm. "Hey" He knows he probably seems like an asshole he just gets so nervous every time he talks to you. But when he sees you smile at him he knows you don't mind his cold demeanor. 

"Come on y/n, let's go!" Emma grumbles grabbing your hand and leading you toward her room "Bye y/n!" Sanzu calls out waving to you "Bye Haru! Bye Draken!" you smile waving at the two of them. Draken gives Sanzu a certain look when he hears Baji speak up. 

"You're so embarrassing man..." he sighs and Draken looks at Baji who's nodding towards Sanzu "Huh? What do you mean?" Sanzu questions offended "When are you going to tell her you like her? I'm sure she knows but it's best to get rejected now" Smiley laughs starting up his round with Mikey. 

"What are you guys talking about? I don't like y/n..." Draken turns to give Sanzu giving him an unimpressed look while everyone else turns to look at him including Smiley who paused the game to do so, much to Mikey's dismay. "NO!" he screamed out at the paused screen displaying how he was about to hit a combo on Smiley's character. 

"Do you think we're dumb?" Mitsuya genuinely questions fully turning to face Sanzu "Hi y/n! I love you y/n! Can I lick your shoes y/n!" smiley mocks Sanzu causing the guys to all laugh except Sanzu who starts protesting in embarrassment "I don't sound like that, and be quiet what if she hears you!" he hisses looking in the direction of Emma's room where the two of you were. 

"Her room is on the other side of the house, they can't hear anything" Mikey explains while fidgeting with the controller in his hands "Whatever man just ask her out already she might say yes, who knows" Smiley shrugs turning back to the tvand unpausing the game.

"Can you help me ask her out?" Draken can't even hide the way his face contorts in disgust before facing Sanzu "What?" he asks even though he heard him the first time "Can you help me ask y/n out?" Sanzu asks again a bit more harshly this time "No, do it yourself" Draken snaps feeling a bit annoyed about Sanzu's presence now. 

He feels Sanzu slump into the couch next to him when he gets up saying he needs a drink when the others ask him where he's going "Get me a soda!" Mikey calls out before losing to Smiley, again. When Draken walks into the kitchen he sees you sitting there almost like you were waiting for him. 

"Hey..." he mutters walking to the fridge "I heard you guys," you say without much emotion "Oh" Draken just continues to stare at the inside of the fridge not really caring about a drink anymore "I don't really like Haru like that you know..." you sigh leaning against the counter next to the fridge. 

Draken can feel a weight lift off of his shoulders "Oh really?" he questions standing up a bit straighter while closing the fridge, without grabbing a drink. "Yeah I kinda like someone else...someone a bit taller." you smile looking up at him. "That's nice to know" he smiles giving you his full attention now. 

kakucho

Kakucho really liked ran haitani, but right now he really wanted to punch his teeth in. "I'm real sorry about that sweetheart, are you alright?" Kakucho watched ran held your arm softly with a clenched jaw as he approached the two of you "Yeah I'm fine, don't worry about it" you smiled up at him.

"Hey, what happened?" Kakucho questioned walking up behind you softly pulling you out of rans hold. "Oh nothing, we just bumped into each other" you explain with a soft laugh while ran moved a bit closer to Kakucho squinting at him. 

"You should wear your glasses, then you'd see where you're going" Kakucho muttered pushing Ran's face away roughly "Come on my eyesight ain't that bad" he laughed standing straight realizing it was Kakucho who joined the conversation. 

"It actually really is, you need glasses" Kakucho sighs wondering how Ran's gotten this far in life being so blind "Oh yeah you should probably get glasses if it's that bad! But I have to go, I'll see you later kakucho?" you question looking at him with hopeful eyes. 

"Yeah, I'll come pick you up" he smiles nudging you with his elbow "Ok great, I'll see you later, bye guys!" you call out, running towards your class "You gotta set me up with her Kakucho" ran immediately says once you're out of earshot, nudging him with his elbow.

  "Yeah, not happening man," Kakucho says walking away from the taller boy "What? Why not? C'mon, help me out man" Ran sighed throwing an arm over the younger boy's shoulder "I'm not gonna help you ask out my girlfriend."

Kakucho is forced to stop when ran stops walking looking at him slightly shocked "Oh man I'm sorry, I didn't know you two were dating…that's my bad" Kakucho refused to look at ran knowing he was lying straight to his face. Ran didn't need to know that right now though, "It's fine, but yeah I'm not setting you up with her."

[whump-imagines]

Stomach Flu

Buddie x reader

Wc: 1700 ish

You laid in bed trying desperately to fall asleep. Some kind of stomach flu had found you and was clearly trying to kill you. All night you’d been fighting blankets because you'd be hot and then freezing and then hot again. And when you'd thought maybe you'd gotten comfortable the nausea would hit.

The toilet was your new best friend. You’d spent a decent amount of time clinging to the bowl for dear life. It was worse than any bad night of drinking you had ever had.

So now you were momentarily a comfortable temperature and not as nauseous so you didn't dare move as you begged for sleep to come.

Next thing you know the bed is jostled aggressively as Buck jumps onto the mattress and asks, “You're still in bed?”

The sudden movement sends a jolt of pain through your skull and nearly causes you to puke. You launch yourself out of bed and into the bathroom. Falling to your knees, you empty the non-existent contents of your stomach.

Eddie is knelt beside you a moment later. He takes your hair in one hand and rubs your back with the other.

“Ugh. My best friend, we meet again,” you mumble into the toilet bowl.

“Again?” Eddie asks. “What do you mean again?”

Rolling your forehead across the arm supporting your head, you glance at him and notice Buck in the doorway. “Well this is like the thousandth time I've been here since yesterday. I think I'm dying.”

Eddie runs his hand over your head then presses the back of his hand to your forehead. “Baby, why didn't you call us?”

“You were working. I didn't think I needed help puking my guts out.”

“One of us could have come home,” Buck says. “Or we could have brought supplies home.”

“Supplies?”

“Soup, Tylenol, tissues, maybe…” Buck listed.

“I'd just puke it back up. Everything in comes right back out.”

“Alright, are you done for now? Do you want head back to bed?” Eddie asks.

“Moving makes me more nauseous. And my head hurts.”

“Have you had any water?” Eddie asks.

“Tried. Failed.” You lean back and the world spins. “This sucks.”

Eddie shifts you so you can relax back into him. “I bet. We're going to get you back into bed and get a bucket so you don't have to come lay on the floor in here anymore. Okay?”

“‘Kay.” You snuggle into him, enjoying his warmth.

Eddie manages to get up and lift you without too much jostling. “Can you go lay on the bed and I'll give her to you?” He asks Buck.

“Okay.” You hear the jingle of Buck’s belt and then the clank of it hitting the floor. Next, your set gently on the bed cuddled close to Buck, his arm your pillow.

“You're warm,” you announce and you press yourself even closer and move your head into his chest.

“I'll be back soon,” Eddie says. “Try to get some sleep if you can.”

You whine, not wanting him to leave. “Where are you going?”

“Back to the station. We need an IV kit, fluids, zofran, and probably Tylenol.”

“I don't want an IV.”

“Sweetheart, you're very dehydrated,” Eddie explains. “If you can't keep down water then you need the IV.”

You sigh. “Fine.”

Buck chuckles and presses a kiss to the top of your head.

Eddie leans over and kisses your head then a quick parting kiss to Buck’s lips. “Love you guys. I'll be quick.”

“We love you, too.” Buck says.

A minute later you hear Eddie’s keys jingle and then the front door open and close.

“Sorry I woke you like that earlier.”

You snort a laugh. “Not your fault, you didn't know.”

He runs his fingers up and down your side and shoulder in random patterns. “Try to sleep,” he suggests.

“Can you tell me a story?” you ask.

“What kind of story?”

“I don't care. It's just soothing to hear you talk,” you tell him. “Might help me sleep.”

He starts to tell you all about flamingos because he knows how much you love them. He explains everything from how they get their color to their migration patterns and before long you feel yourself sinking into a peaceful sleep.

You wake to the sounds of Buck and Eddie laughing. You can tell they’re trying to be quiet but the giggles are shaking you and the whole bed. “What's so funny?”

“Crap. Sorry, we didn't mean to wake you,” Buck says.

“It's fine. I need to pee anyway.” You shift to roll onto your back but end up leaned against Eddie. “You didn't tell me what was funny.”

“Just a dumb video on TikTok,” Eddie explains. “How're you feeling?”

You take a moment to consider your answer. Your head still hurts but not as much. You still have nausea but it's much more bearable. “Shitty, but kind of better.”

Buck rolls and then stands before offering you a hand. “Come on.”

“Where are we going?” You reach over to take his hand, noticing the IV line for the first time. “I slept through that?”

“Bathroom,” Buck answers.

“Exhaustion will do that,” Eddie answers your second question.

Buck helps you up and your muscles protest the change in position. He wraps an arm around your waist as you sway slightly.

You take a deep breath and blow it out. “I'm good. Let's go.”

Eddie stands and grabs the bag of fluids you hadn't noticed hanging on a command hook on the wall.

All three of you head to the bathroom together and as you sit you look around. “I like this view of the bathroom much better than the other.”

“I prefer this, too,” Eddie says. “Especially the knowing you're not as dehydrated.”

“Yeah, you already look so much better than this morning,” Buck adds.

You slowly make your way back to the bed and as you're making yourself comfortable you catch a glimpse of the clock. “Holy crap! How is it almost 11?”

They both just chuckle. “That's what happens when you sleep for three hours,” Eddie explains.

“I think that's more sleep than I got total all night. Guess I needed a better pillow,” you laugh as you look at Buck.

“You could have had that all night if you'd called us. I'm going to go make you some soup,” Buck announces as he leaves the room.

“I'm not hungry.”

Eddie sits down beside you. “You have to try a few bites at least, okay?”

You pout at him. “I don't want to puke anymore.”

“You shouldn't. I gave you some zofran,” he tries to sooth you.

“Fine.” You roll your eyes “But you better have that bucket close by.”

He presses a kiss to your forehead. “It's on the floor right here, but you're not going to need it.”

“You're awfully optimistic given that I'm still nauseous.”

“You said you felt better,” he chastises. “Is it still as bad?”

Leaning back into him, you explain, “I said I feel shitty. Shitty is better than feeling like death. I'm less nauseous, but still nauseous.”

“I'm sorry you feel shitty,” he intertwines his fingers with yours and lifts it to kiss your knuckles. “The soup should help you feel less shitty. Hopefully you're just nauseous because you have nothing in your system. So just try a few bites, okay?”

Buck returns with a tray in his hands. “I have soup, the old fashioned chicken noodle just like you like. I also have saltine crackers, oyster crackers, sprite, and water.” He sets the tray in front of you and then leans in to kiss you.

You pull away quickly. “Don't kiss me. You'll catch this plague.”

“I'll risk it.”

You lift the spoon and drink a spoonful of the broth and then you pause, waiting for the nausea to get worse. When it doesn't, you continue slowly with more broth and then eventually the noodles and a couple crackers.

Eventually you manage to eat almost half the soup and a few sips of water before you set the spoon down. “I'm done. I can't handle any more right now.”

“That's fine. You ate way more than I expected,” Eddie says.

Buck takes the water and sprite off the tray and sets them on the bedside table before taking the rest away.

“Can I have my hand back yet?” You lift the hand with the IV line and give him your best pouty face.

He shakes his head. “No. I will unhook the fluids when that bag is gone but I want to keep the IV lock for now until we're sure you're going to keep all that down.”

You roll your eyes. “Fiiiiine.”

He laughs. “Do you want me to have to poke you again if you do puke more?”

You stick your tongue out at him. “No.”

“Thought so.” He boops your nose. “Glad to see you're feeling better.”

Buck returns and snuggles in beside you on the bed. “You want to pick a movie to nap through?”

You smiled and they both groaned. “Sleeping Beauty! Oh, wait, Enchanted… no, I actually want to be awake for that. Sleeping Beauty for sure.”

“Why do you make us watch princess movies when you know you're only going to watch ten minutes?” Buck complained.

“Because it's fun.” You shrugged. “Plus, then I get to dream I'm a princess.”

Buck raises an eyebrow. “Are you saying that if we switch to football as soon as you're asleep you're going to dream about that?”

“Probably.”

“Sleeping Beauty on one condition…” Eddie started.

“What?” you asked.

“Next time you get sick while we're at work, you call us immediately.”

“No,” you argued. “Because there won't be a next time. This is awful. I don't want a repeat.”

“Fine. If! If by some small chance it happens or if you just get the sniffles… you call.”

“Deal.”

Eddie gets the movie set up and you make yourself comfortable. This time you use Eddie as a body pillow and Buck drapes his arm over your waist.

The movie starts and you almost instantly feel yourself drifting. “Love you guys.” You mumble as you close your eyes.

They chorus an “I love you too,” as you fall into a dreamless slumber.

[buckets-and-trees]

Red, White & True: DC, Tampa, Athens [5/?]

Characters/Pairings: Steve Rogers x curvy Millennial Female!Reader, Peter Parker, Sam Wilson, Bucky Barnes Word Count: 6.1k Summary: Late September means things are only accelerating as election day grows closer. Steve is picking up momentum in the polls, and things heat up on multiple fronts before you hit a bump that may shake up the progress between you and your husband.

Content/Warnings: marriage of political convenience, slow burn

Notes: You get another West Wing cameo in this chapter (but totally unnecessary to have ever watched the show). This takes place in a post-Endgame scenario where Steve stays and generally most of TFATWS happened.

Previous Chapter | Series ↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

[SEPTEMBER 26 - WASHINGTON, DC]

The late September sun streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the campaign's official DC headquarters, casting long shadows across the bustling office space. You're leaning against a desk, watching with amusement as Peter Parker, the youth outreach coordinator who's also become the campaign's unofficial creative director of the TikTok segment of the social media team, attempts to explain the concept for the video to Steve.

"Okay, Cap," Peter says, his enthusiasm palpable as he holds up his phone. "We're going to do a quick transition video. It's super easy, I promise!"

Steve stands in the middle of the room, looking slightly uncomfortable but determined. He's dressed casually in jeans and a plain white t-shirt, a stark contrast to his usual campaign attire. The goal is to remind the voters that Steve is relatable to the everyday American at the end of the day.

Steve nods, a mixture of bemusement and determination on his face. "Alright, Peter. Walk me through it."

Peter's face lights up. "Okay, so you're going to start in your casual clothes, then you'll spin around. As you spin, we'll cut and you'll change into your suit. When you finish the spin, you'll be in full Captain America mode, then we’ll have you spin and change one more time, and we’ll end the video with you in your presidential get up."

"And this will... resonate with young voters?" Steve asks, raising an eyebrow.

You can't help but chuckle. "It's about showing your versatility, Steve. From everyday guy to national hero to the next president in the blink of an eye."

Steve shoots you a playful glare. "Easy for you to say. You're not the one spinning like a top."

Peter positions Steve in front of the camera. "Okay, Cap. Just spin naturally, and we'll take care of the angles and editing.”

As Steve prepares for his first take, Bucky saunters into the room, a smirk playing on his lips. He sidles up next to you, crossing his arms as he watches his best friend awkwardly position himself in front of the camera.

"I'm sure Steve must be loving this," Bucky murmurs, his voice low enough that only you can hear.

You nod, suppressing a chuckle. "It's written all over his face."

Indeed, Steve's expression is a fascinating mix of determination and mild discomfort, his brow is furrowed in concentration.

The rapport that’s been developing with Bucky over the last few weeks has also been nice. It’s its own brand of friendship, and it’s not rock solid yet, but it’s growing.

"Alright, Cap," Peter calls out, phone at the ready. "On three. One... two... three!"

Steve begins to spin, his movements a bit stiff in the first take.

Peter's enthusiastic voice cuts through the air. "That was great, Cap! Let's try again,” he encourages, not leaving a beat for Steve to feel awkward or like he’s done it wrong. You can tell his approach will make all the difference with Steve.

As Steve prepares for another take, you can't help but admire his willingness to step out of his comfort zone. It's one of the things that's made him such an effective candidate - his ability to adapt and connect with people across generations.

"Okay, this time, try to relax a bit more," Peter suggests. "Just have fun with it!"

Steve spares a glance at you and Bucky, then takes a deep breath, shaking out his arms. "Right. Fun. I can do fun."

Bucky snorts beside you. "This ought to be good."

As Peter counts down again, Steve starts his spin. This time, his movements are smoother, more natural.

"Perfect!" Peter exclaims. "That's the one. Now, let's get you into your tac suit for the next part."

Steve nods, heading towards the makeshift changing area set up in the corner of the room. As he disappears behind the partition, Bucky leans in closer to you.

"You know, I never thought I'd see the day when Steve would be doing social media stunts," he says, his voice a mix of amusement and pride. "He's come a long way from the kid who could barely talk to girls in Brooklyn."

You smile, picturing a young Steve Rogers, all skinny limbs and earnest determination. "I bet he was endearing," you say.

Bucky chuckles. "Oh, he was. A real charmer. Couldn't string two words together around a pretty dame, but he had a heart of gold." He pauses, his expression growing more serious. "It's good to see him like this, you know? Engaged with the world, trying new things and connecting with people again. For a while after the Blip, I worried he’d ride off into the sunset forever before the sunset was even really here. We’re out of the century we were supposed to live in, but we’re still here, y’know? Didn’t think it would be this, but it’s not all bad. Pepper wasn’t wrong in choosing him for who he is inside.”

You nod, understanding. “When I met with her about the campaign, she’d sent me the policy materials, the plans, the opposition research detailing his strengths and weaknesses as a candidate, and I was on board to take any position she offered me on the campaign team. I never imagined working on a presidential run, but her vision, her approach? I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

Bucky arches an eyebrow. “I thought… wait…” he’s mulling over what you said. “So, when you came in, you didn’t know she wanted you to marry Steve?”

You laugh and shake your head, “Oh, no! Because that would have been crazy! Who would agree to that?”

Bucky's eyes widen slightly at your revelation. "But you just... agreed on the spot when she proposed it?"

You pause, considering how to respond. The truth is, it had been a whirlwind decision, one that you sometimes still can't believe you made. "Not exactly on the spot," you say carefully. "But...pretty quickly, yeah. It was a lot to take in, but something about it just felt right, you know?"

Bucky nods slowly, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I get it. Steve has that effect on people. Makes you want to follow him into any fight, even if it's not your own."

Before you can respond, Sam walks in, eyebrows raised at the scene before him. "How’re things going here? I hear we’re starting a dance troupe?"

Bucky chuckles. "Social media campaign. Apparently, the kids these days like watching people spin around and change clothes."

Sam shakes his head, a grin on his face. “Glad I’m not going to miss it.”

“I’m suggesting you go in as back up dancer.”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time, Barnes! You know I’d do it!”

You laugh at the easy banter between Steve’s two best friends, but then the man himself emerges from behind the partition, now clad in his tactical suit. The sight of him in the red, white, and blue outfit isn’t new, but as it’s the first time you’ve ever seen him dressed as Captain America in person, it unexpectedly takes your breath away a little.

Steve takes his position again, looking more at ease now in his familiar uniform. "How's this, Peter?" Steve calls out, adjusting the shield on his arm.

Peter gives him a thumbs up and starts the countdown. This time, Steve's spin is confident and fluid, ending with a slight smirk that's pure Captain America.

"Nailed it!" Peter cheers. "Okay, one more outfit change and we're done."

“Hang on!” Sam calls out. His eyes light up as he looks between you and Steve, a grin spreading across his face. "We've got a golden opportunity here."

You raise an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?"

Sam rubs his hands together. "Picture this: Captain America, in full uniform, getting a kiss from his lovely wife. It's the perfect Instagram moment!"

Steve's eyes widen slightly, a faint blush creeping up his neck. "Sam, I don't think-"

"No, no, hear me out," Sam interrupts, warming to his theme. "We've been pushing the whole 'relatable Steve' angle, right? Well, what's more relatable than a guy getting a kiss from his wife? Plus, it ties in the Cap persona.”

Peter's face lights up at the suggestion. "Oh man, that's genius! The engagement would be off the charts!"

Steve looks slightly uncomfortable, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, and you don’t know how to feel about it either. "I don't know, guys. Isn't that a bit... much?"

Bucky chimes in, a smirk playing on his lips. "Come on, give the people what they want."

“Et tu, Brute?” you direct this to Bucky, not at all surprised at the enthusiasm from Sam and Peter, but genuinely shocked he’s jumping on board as well.

Sam turns to you, his expression a mix of excitement and mischief. "What do you say? Want to break the internet with a kiss from Captain America?"

You hesitate, feeling a mix of emotions. On one hand, the idea of kissing Steve - even for a staged photo - sends a flutter through your stomach. On the other, you're acutely aware of the artificiality of the situation and the potential implications for the campaign.

You glance at Steve. His expression is unreadable, but you can see a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.

Sam, sensing your hesitation, softens his approach. "Look, I know it might seem a bit much, but think about it. We've been working so hard to show Steve as both the hero and the everyday man. This could be a perfect blend of both."

Peter nods enthusiastically. "I think a good candid shot would be a great way to humanize the campaign. Show that even Captain America has a soft side."

You look back at Steve, and he gives a small nod. You see a mix of emotions in his eyes - uncertainty, but also a hint of something else. Trust, perhaps. "If you're okay with it, I am."

"I’m good," you agree, your heart rate picking up slightly.

Sam claps his hands together. "Great! Peter, get ready with that camera."

As Peter positions himself, you step closer to Steve. He reaches out, gently placing his hands on your waist. The tactical suit feels cool under your fingertips as you place a hand on his chest. You can feel the slight tension in his muscles.

"Ready?" Steve murmurs, his voice low enough that only you can hear.

You nod, managing a small smile. "Let’s do this," you reply once more because this is its own ‘public appearance’, and so the customary exchange only seems fitting.

Steve’s hands move from your waist around to your back, and he takes a deep breath, looking into your eyes.

You stop breathing for a moment, suspended there in his arms.

“Kiss her, punk!” Bucky shouts, and the electric moment is broken, but you both laugh, and then Steve dips you dramatically and kisses you soundly as you clutch his shoulders. The three men cheer enthusiastically and cat call you when the kiss goes on just another moment or two.

As Steve stands you back up, you both burst into laughter, the tension of the moment dissolving into genuine mirth and camaraderie. His arm is still around your waist, steadying you as you regain your balance. The warmth of his body radiates through the tactical suit, and you find yourself leaning into him slightly, your soft, round body pressing into his hard muscles.

"So, Peter," Steve calls out, his voice still tinged with amusement, "did we nail that shot, or do you need us to try again?" There's a playful glint in his eye as he says this, and you can't help but grin up at him.

Peter, looking slightly flustered but undeniably excited, nods enthusiastically. "Oh yeah, Cap! That was perfect! The internet is going to go crazy over this!"

You start to step away, ready to return to your spot by the desk, but Steve surprises you by gently pulling you back, his arm wrapping around your waist once more. The room seems to fall away as he gazes into your eyes, a softness in his expression that you've rarely seen before. Time slows as he leans in, his free hand coming up to cup your cheek.

His touch is feather-light, his calloused thumb brushing across your cheekbone with a tenderness that makes your breath catch. The scent of him envelops you - a mixture of leather from the suit, a hint of aftershave, and something uniquely Steve.

Your heart races as Steve leans in, his breath warm against your lips. For a moment, you forget about the cameras, the campaign, everything except the man in front of you.

Steve's lips brush yours, soft and tentative at first. It's different from the performative kiss moments ago - this feels real, intimate. You respond instinctively, your hands sliding up his chest to rest on his shoulders. The kiss deepens, and you feel a warmth spreading through your body.

Suddenly, you're jolted back to reality by the sound of a throat clearing loudly.

You and Steve break apart, both slightly breathless. The room crashes back into focus, and you're acutely aware of the others watching. Sam has a knowing smirk on his face. Peter looks like he might explode from excitement.

"Well," Sam says, breaking the silence. "I think we've got more than enough material for social media now."

You step back from Steve, feeling the heat creep up your neck. Steve clears his throat, looking slightly flustered himself.

"Right," he says, his voice a bit rough. "I should, uh, go change for the final spin shot."

As Steve disappears behind the partition again, you catch Bucky's eye. He gives you a subtle nod, his expression unreadable. You're not sure what to make of it, but there's no time to dwell on it as Peter starts setting up for the final shot.

You return to your spot by the desk and try compose yourself. Your lips still tingle from the kiss, and you can't shake the memory of Steve's touch.

Bucky sidles up next to you, his voice low as Sam and Peter talk next to you. "That was quite a show," he murmurs, a hint of amusement in his tone.

You glance at him, unsure how to respond. "It's all part of the job, right?" you say, aiming for nonchalance but not quite hitting the mark.

Bucky gives you a long look, then nods slowly. "Right. The job."

Before you can say anything else, Steve emerges from behind the partition, now dressed in one of his presidential suits - a sharp navy number that accentuates his broad shoulders. You can't help but admire how he carries himself. He exudes a quiet confidence, as ever, a perfect blend of the everyday man and the leader of the free world.

"Alright, Cap," Peter calls out, "let's nail this final spin!"

Steve takes his position, and as he begins to turn, you find yourself holding your breath. The transformation is mesmerizing - from casual Rogers to Captain America to Presidential Candidate, but all of them undeniably Steve.

[SEPTEMBER 27 - TAMPA, FLORIDA]

The campaign has rented out an entire floor of a hotel for debate prep, transforming the spacious suites into makeshift war rooms as Tampa provides some key and convenient access to key southern cities by plane. Maps, charts, and policy briefings cover every available surface, and the air hums with the energy of a team on a mission.

Jake Sullivan, Steve's chief strategist, has pulled out all the stops for this crucial phase of debate preparation. He's brought in Amy Gardner, a seasoned political operative known for her sharp wit and take-no-prisoners approach. Her presence adds an extra edge to the already intense atmosphere. You watch as Amy commands the room, even though she sits rather casually in an armchair ten feet from Steve, who stands behind a makeshift podium.

Her presence adds an extra edge to the already intense atmosphere. You watch as Amy paces the room, firing off rapid-fire questions at Steve, who stands behind a makeshift podium.

"What's your plan for addressing climate change?" Jake asks, his voice stern.

Steve responds confidently, "We need to transition to clean energy sources while also supporting workers in traditional energy sectors. My plan includes..."

Amy cuts him off, her tone brusque. "Too long. You've got 60 seconds max. Hit the key points and move on."

Steve nods, taking a deep breath. "Right. Clean energy transition. Support for affected workers. Immediate action on emissions reduction."

“Too succinct,” she says.

Steve frowns, clearly trying to find the right balance. Squaring his shoulders, he goes again. "Our climate plan has three key components: First, an aggressive transition to clean energy sources like wind and solar. Second, robust support and retraining for workers in affected industries. And third, immediate action to reduce emissions across all sectors. This isn't just about saving the planet - it's about creating jobs and securing America's energy independence for generations to come."

Amy nods approvingly. "Better. Now, pivot to how this contrasts with your opponent's stance."

Steve's brow furrows in concentration. "Unlike my Republican opponent, who continues to deny the reality of climate change, my plan acknowledges the crisis we face while also prioritizing American workers and innovation. We can't afford to stick our heads in the sand any longer."

"Decent," Amy says, her tone softening slightly.

“Only decent?”

“You didn’t address the Democrats’ policy. Your battle is to convince enough voters in America to break with over two hundred years of choosing between red or blue.”

You can see Steve is fighting back a sigh of frustration.

"Mr. Rogers, your opponent claims your lack of formal political experience makes you unqualified for the presidency. How do you respond?"

Steve takes a moment, his brow furrowed in concentration. "My experience may not be traditional, but it's been forged in the crucible of protecting this nation and its values. I've led teams through impossible situations, made tough decisions with global consequences, and always put the American people first. That's the kind of leadership experience that truly matters."

Amy nods, but doesn't let up. "Good, but tighten it up. You need to hit harder on your unique qualifications. How do you respond to critics who say your experience is outdated?"

"I'd say that my unique perspective allows me to see both where we've been and where we need to go," Steve begins, his voice steady. "I've seen this country at its best and its worst. I understand the challenges we face because I've lived through similar ones before. But I also understand the incredible potential of our future because I've seen how far we've come."

You can’t help but feel inspired by that answer, but Amy's eyes narrow, her expression sharpening. "Not bad, but you're still playing it too safe. Your opponents will come at you hard. Let's ramp this up."

She stands and begins pacing in front of Steve like a shark. "Mr. Rogers, your critics say you're nothing more than a science experiment gone right. How can you claim to represent the average American when you're literally superhuman?"

Steve's jaw tightens, a flicker of frustration crossing his face. "I may have enhanced abilities, but my values and my heart are as human as anyone's. I grew up in Brooklyn during the Great Depression. I know what it's like to struggle, to feel powerless. The serum didn't change that part of me."

Your heart swells, but again Any interjects again.

"Weak," she says, her voice cutting. "You're not connecting. Try again."

Your mouth drops open slightly. That was powerful. You know it was.

Steve takes a deep breath, his knuckles whitening as he grips the podium. “I’m not a monkey on a unicycle.”

“Well, what a great start. No one wants a monkey in the White House,” she deadpans.

“I don’t need this. We did just fine in the first debate without you,” Steve nearly growls.

“Oh, I didn’t know we were aiming for just fine, I thought you wanted to win.”

Steve's eyes flash with a mixture of anger and frustration. The tension in the room is palpable, like a rubber band stretched to its breaking point. You can see the muscles in his jaw working as he grinds his teeth, trying to maintain his composure.

"I'm not here to play games or put on a show," Steve says, his voice low and controlled, but with an undercurrent of steel. "I'm here because I believe in this country and what it can be. I've fought for it, bled for it, and yes, even died for it. So don't tell me I'm not connecting."

Amy opens her mouth to retort, but Steve cuts her off.

"I've seen this nation at its best and its worst," Steve goes again, his voice growing louder, more impassioned as he speaks. "I've watched it rise from the ashes of the Great Depression, triumph over fascism, and push the boundaries of human achievement. But I've also seen it torn apart by fear, prejudice, and greed."

His eyes blaze with an intensity that seems to electrify the air around him. The room falls silent, everyone transfixed by the raw emotion in his words.

"I may have been enhanced by science, but my heart, my values - they come from growing up as a scrawny kid in Brooklyn who couldn't stand by and watch bullies win. They come from the men and women I fought alongside, who gave their lives for the ideals this country stands for."

Steve's fist comes down on the podium with a resounding thud, causing several people to jump.

"I'm running for president not because I think I'm better than anyone else, but because I believe in the promise of America - a promise that's been broken too many times for too many people. I've seen what this country can do when we come together, when we fight for what's right. And I'm here to tell you, we can do it again."

Steve's voice rings out, filled with passion and conviction. The room is dead silent, everyone hanging on his every word.

"So no, I'm not a traditional politician. I don't have decades of experience playing political games or making backroom deals. What I have is a lifetime of standing up for what's right, of putting others before myself, of believing that we can always be better. I'm running because I believe in the power of ordinary people to do extraordinary things when given the chance."

He pauses, his chest heaving slightly as he looks around the room. The silence is deafening, everyone ensnared by the raw power of his words.

"That's what this campaign is about," he says, his voice softening but losing none of its intensity. "It's about reminding every American that they have the power to shape this nation's future. That their voice matters, their dreams matter, this country over politicians and political agendas. It’s not a show to me.”

Steve strides away from the podium and walks out, and no one stops him. No one even moves until the weighted door to the suite swings closed again. Jake and Elsa begin conferring. Amy seems unconcerned. You’re sitting with Bucky and Sam, who exchange a look, and Bucky moves to stand, but you’re quicker.

“Let me go after him,” you find yourself saying, surprised at how fast you were to seize this situation, almost like a natural instinct.

You hurry out of the room, scanning the hallway for any sign of Steve. You catch a glimpse of his broad shoulders disappearing around a corner and quicken your pace to catch up.

"Steve!" you call out, your voice echoing slightly in the empty corridor.

He stops, his back still to you, shoulders tense. As you approach, he turns slowly to face you. The fire in his eyes has dimmed, replaced by a weariness that tugs at your heart.

"Hey," you say softly, closing the distance between you. "That was... intense back there."

Steve runs a hand through his hair, letting out a long breath. "I shouldn't have lost my temper like that. It's just..." He trails off, shaking his head.

You reach out, placing a hand on his arm. "It's okay. Amy was pushing hard. Maybe too hard."

He looks down at your hand, then up to your face. “I’m fine.”

“I think you’ve told everyone you’re fine every day of your life, Steve Rogers, and no one needs to exist like that.”

Steve cocks his chin slightly. “But the President of the United States should have it together, shouldn’t they? People want a leader they can trust.”

You smile, but it’s not a happy smile, and his expression matches yours.

“Can I ask…?” you venture cautiously.

He nods. “Wife privileges. You can ask whatever you want. Wife duties, probably, to ask me questions I don’t want to hear.”

Wife. A flutter flares in your stomach, but you force yourself to concentrate on the moment, furiously tamping down your reaction.

He resumes walking down the hallway, but more slowly this time, and you fall into step with him as you pursue your curiosity. “A monkey on a unicycle is an oddly specific and highly uncommon comparison to bring up. Is that some reference from your time?”

Steve huffs and his eyes fill with a mix of nostalgia and resentment as he begins to speak. His voice is heavy with emotion as he remembers his past. “I used to sketch a lot when I was young. We didn't have much during the depression, but my ma always managed to scrimp and save enough to buy me a notebook for Christmas or my birthday. It stuck with me up through joining the Army.”

His expression turns somber as he continues, "And after the serum changed my body but I was put on tour to encourage people to buy bonds, it just felt...underwhelming. Discouraging. I knew I could be doing more, making a real difference. But I did what I could - I knew raising money still helped.”

You reach the end of the hallway and stand next to each other, looking out the window.

“When they sent us out to Europe to entertain the troops, it only got worse. The last day I performed, for the 107th regiment, I was heckled and booed off stage."

Steve's hands clench into fists at his sides, "I drew a silly picture of a monkey riding a unicycle; it felt like that's all I was worth to them - just another pawn in their production."

You want to reach for his hand, but it doesn’t seem like the moment. So you simply continue to listen.

“That ended up being the last day I performed a show. I found out part of the company had been captured, stuck behind enemy lines. I disobeyed direct orders, found the men, saved Bucky. After that, everything finally changed, and we got to go to work, doing good, fighting Nazis and Hydra.”

A slight smile tugs at Steve's lips as he finishes his story, "I never wanted to feel like that monkey again. But the closer we get to election day, the more this feels like just a production.”

You stay silent for a moment, mulling over the pieces of his past and the feelings he’s just shared. This isn’t an easy conversation, and it’s not the conversation you thought you would have coming out here, but you’re grateful the two of you are having it together.

You aren’t by any means a seasoned politician either, but you had seen and had to at some points play at politics in your own work. “It’s all a show, there’s no denying that. But you’re not the monkey unless you sit back and let that be the reality.”

“How do you figure that?”

You take a deep breath, gathering your thoughts before responding. "Steve, you knew from the beginning that this campaign would be a production. You agreed to it - all of it. Including," you gesture between the two of you, your voice softening, "this arrangement. Marrying a woman you'd never even met before."

Steve's eyes meet yours, a flicker of recognition passing through them. You continue, your voice gentle but firm.

"You didn't do all this just to be a figurehead or a puppet. You did it because you want to be president. You want to be the one steering the strategy, calling the shots, making real change." You pause, making sure he's really listening. "This campaign isn't just about winning an election. It's preparation for the presidency itself."

You turn to face him fully, your eyes never leaving his. "This campaign, as frustrating and exhausting as it can be, is its own kind of preparation for the presidency. Think about it - you're dealing with conflicting advice, responding to the platforms from the candidates and how they overlap and differ from your own, connecting directly with the people across the country, making tough calls on what is and is not a priority.”

Steve listens intently, his brow furrowed in concentration as he considers your words. You can see the wheels turning in his mind, processing this perspective.

"You're right," he says finally, his voice quiet but firm. "I did agree to all of this." He runs a hand through his hair, a habit you've noticed he has when he's deep in thought. "I just want it to mean something. To be more than just sound bites and photo ops."

You nod, understanding his frustration. "It does mean something, Steve. Every interaction you have, every speech you give, every policy you propose - it all matters. You're not just going through the motions. You're shaping the conversation, influencing people's thoughts and beliefs about what this country can be."

Steve's eyes meet yours, a mix of gratitude and something deeper there.

"She’s right, Rogers,” a voice behind you makes you both jump and turn.

“This isn't just about winning,” Amy emphasizes. “It's about learning how to navigate the complexities of leading a nation, finding your presence as the leader of the free world, as commander in chief, winning the trust of the American people.

“The debates, the press conferences, the tough decisions you'll have to make as president - they won't always be fair or comfortable. That’s why I pushed you. You won’t answer every debate question like that, but I needed to know you could go there. That’s the kind of president America wants, but they don’t know it until they see it. If you can shake them to their bones, you’ll change hearts and minds.”

Steve smiles at her half in kindness, half in disbelief. “You say all of that pretty casually.”

Amy shrugs and returns the smile. “Because it’s true. I’m done beating you up now that I know you can go the rounds. If you want me to leave, I will, but I’m game to stay if you’re game for slightly less intense verbal sparring.”

“Oh, I can do this all day.”

[SEPTEMBER 28 - ATHENS, GEORGIA]

The campaign plane hums with activity in the minutes before take off. This cabin is filled with members of the press corps, their laptops open and fingers poised over keyboards, eager for any morsel of information they can turn into their next headlines.

Steve looks almost relaxed. His tie is loosened and sleeves are rolled up to his elbows. The energy from the successful event you just wrapped up at the University of Georgia still lingers in the air. This was the fourth event of its kind - a town hall format called College Q&A limited to students and granting them access to dialogue with Steve. You can't help but feel a sense of pride as you recall how he connected with the students, his earnest answers and quick wit seeming to win over even the most skeptical audience members.

It’s become routine that Steve always takes questions from the press corps when he boards the plane before heading to the campaign team cabin, and he’s truly at ease with them in this interaction.

“We’ll take one more,” the campaign spokesperson announces to let both Steve and the reporters know it’s almost time for take off.

“Andy,” Steve calls on one of the familiar faces - the reporter from The Washington Post.

“Yes, Captain, do you have any response to Jeff Connor’s comments about your relationship with Mrs. Rogers?”

Steve's whole demeanor immediately turns serious, his jaw clenching. "I haven't heard Connor's specific comments, so I can't respond directly. My relationship with my wife is personal, and it's not up for debate or speculation."

He pauses, his eyes scanning the cabin before continuing. "What I will say is that she has been an incredible partner, both personally and for this campaign. Her intelligence, compassion, and dedication inspire me every day to be a better person and a better leader."

Steve's gaze softens a fraction as he glances in your direction. "I'm grateful she agreed to take this journey with me."

The press corps erupts with follow-up questions, but Jake holds up a hand. "That's all for now, folks, you know they won’t take off until we’re all seated and we don’t want to miss our take-off window. Thank you."

You, Steve, and the rest of your staff head into the first campaign cabin, and as soon as the door is shut, the atmosphere shifts. The professional masks slip away, replaced by a mix of concern, curiosity, and irritation. Jake immediately pulls out his phone, you assume to get the quote in question.

Elsa, your communications director, is already pulling out her laptop as she settles into a seat across from Steve. "That was the perfect response back there. Quick and heartfelt. It'll play well, especially given the context of Connor's comments."

Your personal aide Sophia is already handing you a tablet to read the quote. "Here, ma’am. It came out during the Q&A, and everyone got wind of it as we were boarding the plane."

You take the tablet, your eyes quickly scanning the headline: "Jeff Connor Speaks Out: 'I Hope They're Happy Together'" The article features a quote from Connor: "I wish them both the best. Marriage isn't easy, especially in the public eye. I just hope they've found happiness together."

You pass it over to Steve and then chew on your lip, pulling out your own phone.

It only takes him a moment to read as well. "Thanks,” Steve's brow furrows as he loosens his tie further and passes the tablet back to Sophia. “This seems fine, unless I’m missing something. But who is this guy, and why would we care what he thinks of our marriage more than anyone else?"

A beat of silence falls over the cabin. You can feel the weight of several pairs of eyes on you, a mixture of surprise and shock in their gazes.

“Okay, I’m clearly the only one who doesn’t know,” Steve concedes, a shade of irritation bleeding through his tone, “Anyone care to enlighten me?”

You take a steadying breath, then look up at Steve and say, “Jeff Connor is my former husband.”

next part: coming 11/29

I'll just say that I've been waiting for this chapter in the story almost from the beginning. 😌

↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

I do not do tag lists, but FOLLOW @buckets-and-stories and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to be updated any time I publish a new work!

[rotshi]

sonadow brainrot yappings

Sonadow Twitter/Tiktok Takover:

I asked some questions to test my luck but ah well. at least i dont have to look both ways ten times the next time i cross the street. BUT oml what the hell was their problem? The amount of times my jaw dropped ??? Like Ayooo? "Go off king"???? Are you his queen???? "run laps around you"??? You keep it 'clean cut' to woo him????? "shopping partner"?????? You mean a fucking date???? Drawing each other unprompted????? Are you fucking kidding me?????? What the hell am i listening to? These fuckers got me exhausted. Like I woke up, listened to just 3 answers and was ready for a nap. Coffee flavored Ice cream MY HEARTTT!!!!!! (i wonder if i can get some coffee ice cream too) Sonic being like 'of course' when there's a mention of Shadow's caffeine addiction like he doesnt have a chilidog problem. They really are perfect for each other. Im surprised Shadow didn't say anything about it. Nah they did all this fruity shit on their OWN ACCORD! THEY DID IT THEMSELVES they did it themselves they did it themselves. Them influencing each other to the point where their opinions change on a FUCKING DIME: sonic: I dont have an opinion on orbot shadow: he sucks sonic: he sucks shadow: hes the best sonic: hes the best They really are so obsessed with each other it's concerning. If it were up to them they would spend their whole lives 'competing'. And these 'Competitions' 'Races' or whatever feel a lot like excuses to just be around each other. Oooooooooh their endless excuses. what is sonic's problem too? shadow opens up a smidge and the little blue bitch giggles. but i understand things had to be kept light for what theyre doing... i dont think sonic means to be... a little blue bitch. If they were alone i'd like to think sonic would be much more understanding and hear him out. But with possible kiddos listening in they couldn't get too deep into things. If it wasn't a 'Q&A Twitter/Tiktok' thing, and it was just them, I feel like they would talk all day and night. But they were getting to know each other and ahhh if was amazing. Hearing Shadow talk about himself and Sonic wanting to get to know him is the best and sweetest thing and all I was REALLY hoping for. Them just actually just sitting down and talking.

Deep thoughts:

Though I have been wondering what Shadow's beef with Sonic really boils down to. I highly doubt it but maybe Sonic reminds him more of Maria than he even wants to believe? Maybe at times he even sounds like her? Idk ??? How carefree and enthusiastic she was, helping shadow come out of his shell. IDK im a sonic noob !! He probably feels like this about a lot of people!

I can understand that there's more parallels with Maria and Amy than with Sonic and Amy. Putting myself in Shadow's shoes; I have a sister, I love like Shadow loves Maria. We are the best fucking friends. I can talk to her about ANYTHING. We're a team. But when it comes to finding a romantic partner, I dont want to look at my partner and just think of my sister lmao. But I would like a similar feeling. Comfortable, understanding, to have that team work, and able to talk about anything to them. And I think Sonic and Shadow have that if things were different I guess. Although Sonic doesn't always talk Shadow down from a decision, it does seem like they both can come to an agreement. "Two sides of the same coin". Like yeah, Sonic might've not been able to change Shadow's mind on going back to the Ark BUT I feel like Sonic probably wouldn't even try. I feel like he would probably even offer to join him for back up. IDK IDK IDK !!!! IM NEW TO SONIC STILL and all i've really seen of the two is some Game clips, some IDW stuff, and of course Sonic X and Sonic Prime. And some of the things my sister has told me. I got most of my IDW knowledge from her and pintrest ghhghg LiSTEN LISTEN LISTEN LISTEN LISTEN I know sonadow will never be canon, I KNOW !!!! i accept that. Sonamy runs this bitch and Im not even mad and I dont even care. honest to god i do not care. I just like Sonadow and will die on this stupid hill SO HAPPILY. But also it would be so funny if they were to be canon one day. I would lose my fucking mind and throw up. so for my own sanity and health, im glad that theyre never gonna be a thing. im sorry, but im already half way to calling my doctor. i dont think i can handle an official kiss. It's just pure brainrot thinking about how their complicated relationship would work. Love isn't just as simple as 1+1 , this shit has the whole alphabet and the whole fuckin pi in there and it could all add up to 0. I'm solving a math problem for fun BECAUSE IM STUPID AND LIKE TO SUFFER ‼‼‼‼‼‼ But they said the same thing about Bubbline and Korra/Asami and look how that turned out. It would be funny but at the same time reality would probably shatter and sonadow would have to save it again- like my profile says, Im gay and like gay things. let me perish.

I'm honestly the biggest yapper. I go quiet, think about shit, and open up like a shaken up soda can.

TLDR; sonadow takeover made me explode

[allthingsfangirl101]

Frozen In Time – Tyler Owens

Tyler's POV

"Tell me again why we need six cans of dip?" I whined as I followed my best friend through the grocery store aisles.

"Because," she giggled, "you're friends inhale anything I put on the refreshment table."

"We don't have to invite them," I shrugged. She stopped the cart and turned toward me.

"You don't want to invite your friends to your party?"

"To be honest, I don't even know why we're having a party, Y/N," I shrugged as I walked past her and started pushing the cart.

"Because you finishing your degree is a big thing," Y/N said as she caught up to me. I bit back my smile when she looped her arms around one of mine. "I'm proud of you, Owens. It's something we should celebrate."

I stopped and turned toward her. "I don't need a party," I said. "I don't need to drink and celebrate with my friends. It would be just as meaningful if it was just you and me with one of our all-night movie nights."

"But you deserve. . ."

"I deserve you, my best friend, celebrating with me."

"Tyler. . ."

Y/N gasped and practically jumped into my arms when alarms rang throughout the store.

"Attention shoppers," the automatic voice rang through the speakers. "There is a tornado nearby. Please follow the nearest employee to the underground storm cellar."

Y/N looked at me with nothing but fear in her eyes. I instantly grabbed her hand and pulled her to the storm cellar. The second we were inside, I moved her as far away from the door as I could and pulled her so we were sitting down.

I looked at her when I felt her shaking next to me. Without a word, I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her into my side. I forced myself to calm down as I heard Y/N take a shaky breath.

"It's okay," I leaned down and whispered in her ear. My heart jumped into my throat when she cuddled more into me. "It's going to be okay, Y/N. We're going to be okay."

"Tyler," she stuttered. "I'm scared."

"I know," I said as I tightened my arms around her. "But we're safe. Okay? We are going to be okay, Y/N. I promise."

Y/N let out a small shriek when the building shook. I instinctively pulled her closer to my chest. I lost track of time as I turned my focus on comforting Y/N.

What felt like ages later, some rescue personnel opened the cellar doors. We numbly filed out, my hand holding Y/N's the entire time. But the second we got outside, Y/N pulled her hand out of mine and walked away.

I wanted nothing more than to run to her, wrap her in my arms, and reassure her that I would never leave her side. But for some stupid reason, I didn't. Instead, I let her walk away.

~ Three Months Later ~

The last couple of months have not been easy. After the storm, I've tried reaching out to Y/N but she hasn't answered. She doesn't text me back or answer my calls, and every voicemail goes unanswered. When I couldn't take her silence anymore, I went to visit her at the bookstore where she works.

"Tyler?" Y/N stuttered when she turned around and noticed me.

"Hey, Y/N," I smiled as I couldn't help but look her up and down.

"What are you doing here?" She asked as she turned and went back to restacking the books.

"It's been a while," I said, lightly. "I wanted to see what you were up to. . . and if you were okay."

"Why wouldn't I be okay?"

I stared at her and could see how tired she was. I sighed as I took a step towards her. "Y/N. . ."

"Y/N," her boss interrupted me, "I need you to go downstairs and grab a box of books."

"Downstairs?" Y/N stuttered. "In the. . ."

"The basement," her boss nodded as she walked away. I watched as Y/N stood frozen.

"Y/N," I said her name gently. "Are you okay? Do you want me to. . ."

"I'm fine," she cut me off. My heart sank as she turned and started heading toward the basement. I watched as she hesitated at the basement door. The second she opened the door, I quickly followed her.

When I started walking down the basement stairs, Y/N was frozen at the bottom. I jogged down the stairs and Y/N was still on the last step.

"Y/N?" I whispered her name. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," she stuttered. I went to grab her shoulders but she stepped away. I followed close behind her as she looked for the box her boss wanted. Suddenly, someone walked into the store. Them closing the door made the basement window shake. When it shook, Y/N gasped. I ran to her and instantly grabbed her shoulders.

"It's okay," I whispered as I rubbed her arms. "It was just a customer. It's okay."

We stayed like that for a few minutes, until Y/N calmed down. When she did, she looked over her shoulder and I could see the embarrassment settling in her eyes.

"Y/N," I tried to start again.

"I need to find that box," she said as she gently brushed past me.

As I watched her search for the books, memories of three months ago. I remembered how scared she was. I remembered how tightly she hung on to me. I remembered the relief I felt when the storm passed and I knew that Y/N and I were safe. I remembered the haze in her eyes as we left the basement and got somewhere safe. I remembered the quiver in her voice when she lied and said she was fine. I remembered the feeling in my gut that she wasn't okay when she walked away from me. I remembered the worried feeling getting worse the longer she ignored my calls.

"Y/N, we need to talk about this."

"Talk about what?" She shrugged as she found the box and picked it up.

"The storm."

Those two simple words made Y/N freeze.

"Why. . . Why would. . . Why would we need to talk about that?"

I walked over and took the box out of Y/N's hands. I put it on top of a stack of boxes and turned back toward her. I grabbed her hands and instantly felt how badly they were shaking.

"Y/N, that storm was not a little one," I started to say the thing I've rehearsed too many times. "It was one of the worst storms our town has seen in years. I mean, we were stuck in that basement for almost five hours and. . ."

"I know!" Y/N yelled, cutting me off as she ripped her hands out of mine. She turned away from me and tightened her arms around herself. "You don't need to remind me, Tyler," she continued, her voice breaking. "I haven't stopped thinking about it. How could I? It was the longest four hours and 53 minutes of my life. I have never been more scared, more unsure that I would make it out of there."

"I thought I. . . Didn't I help you?" I couldn't help but ask.

"Of course you did," Y/N said as she quickly turned toward me. "You helped me more than you know, Ty. If you weren't in that basement with me. . . I wouldn't have survived. You always help me."

"Good," I whispered, just now noticing how close we had gotten. My eyes glanced down at her lips, only thinking about what it would feel like to press mine to hers. Y/N sighed as she looked at the box.

"Y/N," I stopped her before she could step away from me. "Promise me that the next time you have a nightmare, you call me."

"I'm not going to call you, Tyler," I sighed. "My nightmares usually wake me up at, like, 3 am."

"I don't care, Y/N," I shook my head. "I want you to call me. No matter what time or how many times. I want you to call me so I can talk you down or come help you."

Y/N studied me as she asked, "You'd really do that? You'd really drive all the way to my apartment at 3 in the morning because of a silly nightmare?"

"It's not a silly nightmare," I said gently. "It's haunting you. And I want is to help you."

"Tyler. . ." She stuttered.

"Promise me," I pushed. "Please?"

She bit her bottom lip and nodded. The longer I stared at her, the harder it was to hold my confession for another minute.

"Y/N. . ."

"Y/N! Did you find the box?" Her boss yelled.

"Yeah!" Y/N yelled back but her voice slightly cracked. "I found it. Bringing it up now."

"Wait," I said, grabbing her wrist before she could go back upstairs. "There's something I need to do. Something that I have been kicking myself in the ass for not doing sooner."

I heard Y/N gasp as I pulled her into my chest and kissed her. I felt everything slow down and my whole body relaxed as she kissed me back. I wrapped my arms around her waist and pulled her even closer. She moaned as I gently bit her bottom lip. We broke apart, with matching cheeky smiles on our faces.

"Have you really been kicking yourself in the ass for not kissing me sooner?" Y/N asked, a small smirk forming on her face.

"Absolutely," I whispered. "You're my best friend, Y/N, but you mean more to me than you know. And I promise, whatever we face, whether it be a small rainstorm or horrible tornado, I will always keep you safe."

[bigfan-fanfic]

I'll Show You the Ropes (Male!Reader x Iron Bull)

@jayfeather965 Could you please write a story on a session where Iron Bull helps his boyfriend the inquisitor relax after a particularly hard day. First sexually but then Bull and bf have genuinely sweet pillow talk. (I would imagine that maybe it’s after the winter palace and the duchess’s death. )

"It's hard, isn't it?" Bull sighs, rubbing your shoulders. "I'm sorry you've had a tough time."

"I... I just feel like it's hard for me to do anything, really. Everything is just-"

Bull pulls you against him into a tight hug.

"I get it, Kadan. You feel powerless. That everything's been out of your control. That nothing feels easy."

He gently caresses the back of your head, and you melt against him.

"So what's your remedy? Tie me up again?" You chuckle.

"Sort of. But not exactly."

You lean back as the Iron Bull stands and retrieves his ropes. "I want you to feel in control. I want you to feel powerful."

You tilt your head at him. "I don't need you to be weak to feel strong."

He chuckles. "It's not like that. I won't be weak. I want to make you feel strong by giving you my power."

"I don't know how to do what you do."

"Don't worry. I'll teach you, Kadan."

You have no desire to sleep, so the Iron Bull spends the night teaching you how to bind him, to render him helpless.

He finds it tough, at first - harder than he expected. It's one thing to want to give in and help, and quite another to actually give up control.

But he teaches you the simplest of the Ben-Hassrath's ties. It keeps the captive's arms in place or threatens them with the possibility of choking themselves.

You secure his wrists behind him in bright red rope, running parallel to each other.

You tug the cord up and taut before wrapping it around one of his huge biceps, making a secure loop there before going over the opposite shoulder, and loosely around the neck, over that shoulder.

Back to the other bicep, around and around, and back down to the wrists, forming a simple but beautiful diamond.

Had you the inclination and the extra rope, you could see the possibility of tying rope in such a way that you could weave the Qunari symbol into that diamond.

It's such a simple tie, but truly effective. You watch him roll his massive shoulders, his back stretching and rippling, and the rope subtly tightens until his hands return to their original position.

It's uncompromising. He is truly under control.

"I have to admit, Kadan..." Bull says, a little breathless from the intensity of the feelings coursing through him. "This is very hot."

You kiss him, his body flexing under your hands, and you take charge, able to do whatever you wish to him - to taste and touch and caress and pinch and tickle and kiss and-

He asks you to leave his wrists tied after you undo the harness. and he sleeps on his stomach, you curled next to him.

"You're my Kadan, you know? Part of how we see the Qun is taking care of others. Because we're all part of each other. But... if I'm being honest... I really do feel like you're a part of me.

"So that's why... why I want to give up control to you sometimes. Because I trust you. Because I want you to feel powerful and strong. I want you to know that I can give that to you. That I'm not just taking advantage of you."

"Awwww, Bull, I knew that already. I... I really like being with you. I really care about you too."

You kiss him, and watch his eye flutter closed.

"Now why don't you let me out and I can really show you my appreciation?" He chuckles, only to grin behind your hand when you cover his mouth.

"I think I have some more interesting ideas in mind, Kadan..."

[ashblooddragons]

My Heart, My Ruin (Chapter 2/?)

(sorry if this chapter is on the shorter side, I got back on a med I hadn't had in a while because my doctors weren't refilling it, and one of the side effects of this med is making me tired and fatigued. I honestly didn't even know if I would get chapter 8 of The Red Queen so I'm really sorry if this is short, or not written well or anywhere near as well as I try usually, I'm just trying to stay awake to get this out. sorry for the rant I'm gonna let you read now lol)

28 ac

Rhaellas Pov

I try not to fidget as Papa makes a speech, it's my sixth nameday which means I'm officially a big girl. 

“I warn you all, our little girl is a curious one. She will ask about the gift you have given her and want all the details. There is a reason we call her our curious dragon.” Papa says making all the lords laugh and making me blush and hide my face in my hands.

“So let us feast on this great day as we celebrate my sweet little girl, my firstborn, for her sixth nameday!” Papa finishes making everyone cheer as they take sips of their wine.

He bends down and kisses my forehead and whispers. “Happy nameday my curious dragon.” 

“Thank you, Papa.” I say making him smile before he and Mama walk down the steps of the high table to talk to some of the lords.

“When will you get to open your presents?” Rhaena asks picking at the food on her plate.

“Yeah, we're bored!” Aegon my little brother exclaims. He's only two but he's very smart, Mama calls him her little genius.

“I'm sure Papa or Grandsire will announce when I can open them.” I say grabbing Aegon's arm before he runs off. Have I mentioned he also never stops running! How he can run into a tree head first and laugh before running again is beyond me. I hope the baby in Mama's belly is a girl, I can't handle another brother.

“I want to see the dragons!” Aegon demands stomping his feet.

He always throws tantrums if he doesn't get his way so I try and find Mama or Papa in the crowd of lords and ladies.

“Don't speak to your sister that way boy.” I hear the deep and cold voice of Kepus. 

Aegon stops and turns to look up at him just when I do too. I know Kepus must be mad from the scowl on his face.

“I just wanted to say hi to Quicksilver.” Aegon says sheepishly already turning to hide in the shirts of my dress.

Kepus only hums before taking a sip of wine from his chalice. Thankfully for Aegon and Rhaena Papa and Mama seem to have had their nursemaids come to get them as it's time for them to go to sleep.

Once my siblings are taken away Kepus sits in the chair next to me that was previously taken by Rhaena.

“Happy nameday, ñuha prūmia. I got you something.” He says as he reaches into his jerkin pocket. He holds something in his fist holding it out to me. “Hold your hands out, ñuha prūmia.”

I do as he told me, holding my hands out under his. When he opens it I'm ready to catch something but nothing falls into my hands, but when I look at his hand I see he's dangling a beautiful necklace from his pointer finger. It has purple stones that appear almost like tear drops, and the metal looks like a darker silver. 

“Happy nameday, ñuha prūmia.”

“It's wonderful, where did you get it?” I ask, reaching out to feel the cool metal against the skin of my palms.

“It was in our family archives, supposedly it was Daenys the Dreamers. It's made of Valyrian steel and is encrusted with amethysts. Daenys was always said to love amethysts.” He says with a soft smile.

“Daenys? she wore this?” I ask excitedly, he knows how much I adore Daenys the Dreamer. I've probably made him read me the story of her more than a hundred times by now.

“That's what the Maester said, now turn around let me help put it on you.” He says in that tone that I know means he's not asking, he's telling. 

So I do as he says turning in my seat so my back is to him and grab my curly hair hoping I got it all. I feel the chill of the metal against my throat as I feel Kepus clip it. 

“There, now let me see.” I hear him say as he gently takes my hair out of my hands so it can fall down my back once more

I turn and look up at him watching as he smiles fondly. “Lovely, it matches your dress wonderfully, but it matches those eyes much better.” 

I smile touching the pink velvet dress Mama gave me for my Nameday. It has gold dragon embroidered along the skirt and at the neckline. But for some reason his words about my eyes is what makes me blush. But my joy is soon cut off my none other than Ceryse Hightower.

“I see you've given her the present you chose.” She says resting her hand on Kepus's shoulder. 

I watch as he tense something dark, something cruel flashes in his eyes before they become the stoney ones he lets the world see. 

I like the ones he has with me much better. I think before turning to his wife.

“Yes, it's a wonderful gift.” I say trying to stay kind even though I don't like her.

I never knew why I didn't like her, she's kind, gentle, sweet, but she's so boring. Her idea of fun is sitting and sewing, my idea of fun is running in the fields or flying with Papa or Grandsire. 

“That's wonderful, I'm glad you like it. Maegor worked very hard to find it. Had to be the perfect one, he said.” She says smiling at Kepus but he only seems to be getting more and more upset.

Cersye seems to catch the tense atmosphere and hands me a black leather journal with red ribbon to tie it. It seems to be imprinted with the Targaryen symbol on the front and back.

“As you are six namedays you'll start your studies with a Septa. I found having a journal helped me to remember my lessons and to take notes. I hope it helps you as much as having one helped me.” 

I can't deny that it's a thoughtful gift, and one she seems to have commissioned just for me. She obviously didn't just pick this up at some random book store in a rush. I think, feeling the soft leather against my palms.

“Thank you, it's a lovely gift. I'm sure it will get much use.” I say setting it back on the table. 

I'm about to ask if Kepus will dance with me when I hear the music start but his wife beats me to it.

“Dance with me, darling? You know this is my favorite.” She asks, already pulling him out of his chair.

I watch as he walks away with her to dance, I don't know why it hurts my heart seeing him with her, but it does. I hear a dragon roar from outside, it gives a pull at my soul like always.

“Come to me! I'm waiting!” it's starting to sound desperate, if only I could find out where it is. No, where she is.

This is the necklace Maegor gies Rhaella, or at least what I see lol

Special thanks to @sugutoad for making the header for this fic! I swear I'd be lost without you girly!

TAGLIST @sugutoad @ilikefelines @sachaa-ff @classicsimpforaaronwarner @mmogurl

[s4bbatical]

Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want | Part 1. (Rivals Declan O'Hara x Reader)

Part 2 here.

Warnings: Profanities, sexual tension, alcohol and cigarette use.

Author's note: I'm not exactly staying on top of the timeline of rivals, bare this in mind as you read. Of course with any self inserts, it's an AU with a bit of tweaking. No smut involved in this chapter, just fluff until I post more parts. AGE GAP (22!Reader). Thanks for reading.

It was your first week at the Corinium. You were a fresh-faced journalist straight out of Washington State University who had accepted an internship at the independent commercial television station in the county of Rutshire, England. Far from home and comfort, you strived to be the best at what you were asked to do. The pay was good, and the idea of being in another continent where anything was possible kept your drive at an all-time high. You were practicing your decorum quietly to yourself at your desk, fiddling with your pen.

"Already going mad, are you?" Your co-worker and new friend Seb asks, grinning as he puts down his homework on your desk.

You laugh awkwardly, crossing your leg over the other as you lean back to look up at the ginger. "If I have to hear Tony Baddingham cuss out another person because Declan O'Hara is too stubborn to take his lead," You quip, closing your own folder of paperwork. "I think I'll start drinking more." You exasperate, recalling the sudden outburst from Tony's office a mere five minutes ago. Seeing Declan O'Hara riled up was never a great sign, but you couldn't help but run your eyes over his sculpted arms when he took off his blazer in frustration.

"I think you need to start drinking more in general, y/n. You're in England now. We all have a problem." Seb comments, half-sitting on your desk. "You should come with us to Bar Sinister. It's owned by Basil, Tony's brother." He says, crossing his arms.

You raise a brow. "I thought we were assigned to get dirt on the next guest on Declan's and have it in by Monday. Wouldn't that cut into our research time?" You query.

Seb laughs. "You Americans are such workaholics." He shakes his head. "Come get a drink with us!" He pleas, hitting your arm lightly. "Those reputations aren't going anywhere. Besides, we're all going, you'll be the odd one out if you don't."

"All of you?" You say, looking across the room at Declan O'Hara. He's speaking to someone on the phone in his office, the blinds open enough to allow you for a peek. God, what a man he was.

"Yes, all of us. I can't speak for Tony or Declan, though." Seb hums, the feeling of disappointment washing over you. "I'd like to see you there, though." He adds, the both of you sharing a lingering gaze before he gets up and walks away.

If you didn't know any better, you'd think your colleague was flirting with you. You didn't mind it, really. Seb was attractive, and only a year younger than you. Unfortunately, you just had a taste something a little more aged. Everyone seemed to want to fuck each other in this office. You barely managed to avoid the claws of some of the older men yourself, not that you were complaining-- besides the fact none of them were Declan O'Hara.

You decide to stand up, grabbing ahold of your folder before boldly heading over to Mr. O'Hara's office. You slowly knock on the ajar door to get his attention before you step in.

"-We'll discuss this later. Goodbye." Declan says into his phone, hanging it up when he notices you. "Y/n, hello. What can I do for you?" He asks, putting his hands behind his back as he leans back in his chair.

Many things. You think to yourself, trying to look away from his stretched out torso before speaking. "I was just wondering if I could help you with anything else before I leave today Mister O'Hara? I just noticed you seem a bit stressed, maybe I could take something off of your plate if possible." You say, smoothing out your skirt.

He chuckles lightly, leaning forward to take a sip of his whiskey on the rocks. "Call me Declan, love. No need for so much professionalism." He sighs, your heart skipping a beat at his words of endearment as he runs a hand through his hair. "I'm 'fraid not. Tony's up my arse, and my wife's trying to throw this ridiculously expensive party for my son's birthday which also happens to be New Year's and..." He notices your glimmer of concern in your eyes, staring into them as if he got distracted. "I uh," He shakes his head. "Don't worry about it." He says, waving it off.

"I'm sorry, that does seem like an awful lot." You say, your cheeks reddening from his stare. "You don't deserve that, you know. The way Mister Baddingham treats you." You mutter, toying with the folder in your arms.

Declan chuckles, pulling out a cigarette and popping it into his mouth. "Try telling him that." He says wryly, lighting up the smoke.

"Well Declan, there's a group of us going to Bar Sinister later, if you'd like to unwind. God knows we both need it." You try to joke, laughing awkwardly as Declan gives you a look. You clear your throat, straighten your spine. "Sorry, just a suggestion." You mumble.

He laughs genuinely this time, inhaling his cigarette again. "You're funny, y/n. I thought it would be intolerable hiring an American journalist-"

"Hey!" You interject, gasping playfully.

"But!" Declan holds a hand up, stopping you from speaking further. "You're quite lovely to have around. I enjoy your presence." He says, smiling at you. "I hope you consider a permanent placement in the future."

Your face lights up, a big smile on your face now. "Thank you Mister- Declan." You correct yourself. He laughs again. "But I would have to become apart of your personal board to get approved for anything like that." You add.

"Well," Declan says, putting out his cigarette in the ashtray. "I hope you don't mind if I consider that possibility y/n. You have a lot of potential, and I admire your drive." He admits, clasping his hands together and putting them on his desk.

"I am very flattered, Declan. Thank you." You say, looking down before meeting his gaze again. "It's been a pleasure working for you." The undertone of your words hint at something beyond, causing Declan to tilt his chin up a bit to analyze you.

There was something about you that had caught his attention since you first set foot in Corinium, and he couldn't seem to shake his mind from it. It was like a guilty pleasure he could never acknowledge out loud.

The phone rings. Declan nods towards it, signaling for the conversation to end. "See you tonight, y/n." He finishes, taking the phone off it's mantle as you feel heat beginning to simmer in your abdomen, nodding before leaving his office and closing the door behind you.

You have a wide grin on your face as you make your way back to your desk, hastily returning to your work in order to keep the evening free.

-

Much to your surprise, it was karaoke night at the bar. There was a good mix of random patrons and recognizable faces taking turns singing out ballads.

You and Seb were sat at the bar, him sipping on a Guinness as you had a vodka soda. Classic American, he commented when you ordered it.

“You gonna go up there?” You ask Seb, gesturing towards Freddie Jones who was pouring his heart out on the mic.

“Mm, possibly. What’d you reckon I sing? I’m tone deaf but maybe if everyone gets drunk enough no one will notice.” He jokes, earning a fit of laughter from you both.

“I love The Cure if that’s any help.” You suggest, finishing your vodka soda.

Seb quickly gestures for the bartender to bring over a bottle of wine. He notices your curious expression, shrugging his shoulders. “Company’s paying for this shite, not me." He explains. "Also, The Cure? I like 'em, but they’re not gonna translate with these guys.” He says, drinking his pint. He pours you a glass of wine as you glance around the space, trying to spot Declan anywhere.

“What about Last Christmas? You know, by Wham? It’s almost Christmas after all.” You say, already pouncing on your glass of wine.

“I do like that one, maybe I’ll do it yeah.” Seb says nonchalantly, finishing his Guinness. “I’ll go right now, actually.” He suddenly gets up, walking through the crowd.

You grab the wine bottle itself and take a swig from it, feeling the alcohol flush out your face. You hated how it made your cheeks red like you were ashamed to be plastered.

You finally see the man you were waiting for enter the place, scanning the room before his eyes landed on yours. You give Declan a timid wave, causing him to walk over as Seb began singing on stage. “You made it!” You exclaim, returning to pouring the wine into your glass so you seemed classy in front of your inappropriate work crush.

“Yes, sorry. Had to stay later at the office to do more flawed research.” He jests, nodding towards the bartender who already knew his regular. Declan referred to finding dirt on his guests as flawed research, mainly so it didn’t seem so inane in conversation.

"You're very dedicated to your work, I'm surprised you have time for any of this." You say, allowing yourself to speak more freely now that you were definitely tipsy.

"My wife would say the same." He sighs, taking a sip of his glass of whiskey.

You take another sip of your glass, trying to conceal your distaste at the mention of his wife. "Is she not very pleased with you, Declan?" You ask, causing your boss's face to harden. "I'm sorry," You quickly add. "That's personal I shouldn't have said that, that's so stupid of me-"

"Y/n." Declan says, putting a hand on your arm. You feel your body burn up at his touch. "It's okay, really. It's actually relieving to know you don't know anything about my martial problems. Everyone does." He says dryly, taking another sip of his whiskey. "She's not too keen on me being obsessed with my job. She compares it to cheating on her, which I find rather hypocritical considering..." He trails off, smiling at you. "Forget it." He raises his glass, clinking yours. "To you, for being an amazing intern." He slams back his glass, putting it down and grabbing ahold of the aged bottle of whiskey to pour himself.

You smile awkwardly, raising your glass before taking another sip of your wine. You piece it together in your head, realizing that his wife must've committed adultery; just like almost every other married person you've worked alongside so far. "Jesus, Declan. I'm sorry." You mumble, hearing Seb's singing end in the distance.

"Please, don't apologize. It wasn't your fault." Declan says, a look of yearning in his eyes.

"If I were her, I'd never do anything of the sort. If I was with someone like you I'd cherish it everyday." You say, finishing your glass of wine.

Declan raises a brow, chuckling heartily. "And someone would be very, very lucky to have you y/n." He replies, the two of you locked in a stare.

You were definitely drunk by now, and wine always gave you an edge to flirt with whomever you found most attractive in the room. You place a hand on his arm, finally knowing what it was like to feel his muscles through the thin material of his button up. "You deserve better, Declan." You say, rubbing your thumb along his bicep. You watch as the corners of his mouth twitch into a smile, placing his hand over yours on his arm.

"How'd you think I did?" Seb asks, returning the bar and interrupting the moment between you and Mr. O'Hara. You pull back, turning yourself to face Seb.

"You did great, Seb." You say, pressing a kiss on his cheek, causing his face to go as red as his hair. "I think I'm gonna give it a shot, show the English what talents an American has." You grin, unable to make eye contact with Declan out of embarrassment for trying to flirt with a married man. However, the commonality of cheating on spouses here still gave you a sliver of hope as you walked towards the stage, a mask of confidence due to alcohol consumption.

"What song are you gonna do?" Seb asks, following in suit.

"You'll see." You say. You walk up to the host, whispering a song in their ear. They nod, giving you a thumbs up as you get on the stage.

Head Over Heels by Tears for Fears starts to play, causing the entire place to riot with excitement. You grin madly, grabbing ahold of the microphone as the lyrics begin to play. You watch as Declan makes his way through the crowd, standing between Freddie and Seb to watch you perform.

"I wanted to be with you alone And talk about the weather But traditions I can trace against the child in your face Won't escape my attention."

You dance along to the music, singing freely like no one was watching.

"You keep your distance via the system of touch And gentle persuasion I'm lost in admiration, could I need you this much? Oh, you're wasting my time You're just, just, just wasting time..."

You now make eye contact with Declan O'Hara, singing the chorus. Everyone's dancing around, paying no mind to where your attention was.

"Something happens and I'm head over heels I never find out until I'm head over heels Something happens and I'm head over heels Ah, don't take my heart, don't break my heart Don't, don't, don't throw it away..."

Declan watches you in admiration, realizing you're singing directly at him. You look away for the rest of the song, only returning your gaze when the chorus comes up again. When the song ends, you give a little curtesy, putting the mic back on the stand as everyone cheers madly.

"That was brilliant, y/n!" Seb exclaims, holding you in an embrace. You laugh, hugging him back. "Thanks, Seb."

"Seb, can you do one with me?" Daysee asks, causing Seb to pull away from you. "Course, what're you thinking?" The two of them walk away, leaving you be to earn compliments from the rest of your colleagues.

"You have a great voice." Declan says, causing you to turn and face him. "Great song, too." He adds.

"Thanks, it was a personal choice." You say, the next song starting up. Dreams by Fleetwood Mac starts playing, Seb and Daysee's choice. "Fuck, I love this song." You exclaim, looking over at the stage as your friends begin to sing along.

"As do I," Declan says. "Care to dance?" He asks, causing your gaze to return to his outstretched hand.

You smile. "I'd love to." You place one hand on his shoulder, the other in his hand as he places a hand on the small of your back. Your breathing becomes more shallow as the two of you rock to the music, staring into each other's eyes.

You didn't know if you were simply too drunk to acknowledge the reality of the situation, but you couldn't help but wonder if Declan was starting to like you a little more than just an intern that was great at her job.

The space between the two of you becomes insignificant, your head slowly leaning onto his chest as his hand moves down to your lower back, staying at the top of your skirt. You close your eyes as the two of you rock in sync, hearing his heart beat rather triumphally. Your stomach is full of butterflies, and the heat between your legs is almost unbearable as he rubs small circles on your lower back.

He smelled like Tom Ford cologne and Marlboro Golds with an undertone of whiskey, the scent of him nearly more intoxicating than the alcohol itself. You feel his chest vibrate as he quietly sings along to the song, causing you to pull your head back to look at him. You both start singing along, your faces merely inches away from each other.

"When the rain washes you clean, you'll know You'll know You will know Oh, you'll know.."

The song ends, everyone erupting into applause as you register the proximity of you and Declan, taking a step back as you notice the stares of your colleagues.

"Thanks for the dance." You mumble, looking down at the ground. "I uh, need to find Seb he's my ride." You say abruptly, leaving Declan stunned on the dancefloor as you hurriedly approach your ginger colleague. "Can you drive me home now?" You ask, putting a hand on his arm.

"Uh, yeah. Sure. Do you need a ride too Daysee?" He asks, the blonde shaking her head.

"'M alright. I'll see you lads on Monday." She says, grinning as the two of you grab your coats from the bar stools.

"Goodbye, Declan." You say, making eye contact with the brooding man who simply looks at you.

"Goodnight, y/n." He responds, inhaling his cigarette before looking away.

You feel a pang in your chest as you look at Declan for another moment, expecting more. He says nothing else. Seb leads you away from the bar, allowing you to let go of any longing between you and Mr. O'Hara.

Declan knew it was wrong to think of you in any other light outside of work. Even if Maud had cheated on him before, with the tendency to keep going at it, he still couldn't shake the guilt away just yet. He retreated to disregarding you as a means to hopefully make you both forget about the whole ordeal, as if he wasn't thinking about what it would be like to have his hands underneath that tight pencil skirt of yours.

He groaned and ran a hand through his hair, lighting another cigarette. The holiday season was about to be a real hassle, and he was afraid of asking Santa for what he really wished for this time around.

-

guys... i finally did it... declan o'hara i want you so bad. i think im just gonna write a part two to this maybe three, and leave it at that. if you have any requests pweaseee leave them for meeee this show has me in a CHOKEHOLD.

much love as always, isabel

[call-sign-jinx]

Cpt. John Price X Reader - I don’t want to lose you.

summary - when you go on a mission you see someone from your past, when you go out of your way to save them it almost costs you and price your lives.

warnings - mentions of war, war flashbacks, PTSD, violence, meltdowns, unaliving, vivid imaging of violence, mentions of torture

Main Masterlist John Price Masterlist

a/n - i am british so when i say first floor it's the second floor for US readers xx

john price x fem!reader

I had been in Task Force 141 for around 3 months now. I had gotten closest with Gaz, Soap and Ghost. The only reason I had gotten close with Ghost is because he had heard me screaming from a bad dream about my time in Iraq.

We were sort of a tight knit group, that didn't really let others in on our "games". We tended to do things just the four of us. Plus Price, our captain. God he was an image. I've never ever liked facial hair on a man until I met him. And his eyes look absolutely ethereal. They're a sort of hazel or green colour and looking into them makes my heart melt.

Anyway, that's all besides the point. We're on our way to a serious and dangerous mission. Price briefed us earlier and we have to infiltrate an Iraqi base for information on a very dangerous and intelligent extremist group.

The fact that we had to go to Iraq brought back memories. Very bad memories. On the jet to Jordan - right next to Iraq - I felt my palms become sweaty and my breathing become jagged. I cannot be doing this on the way to the mission. Luckily, Ghost was right next to my and held my hand for reassurance. He was the only one who knew about my time in Iraq. Well everyone did, but Ghost really knew.

I begin to take deep breaths and close my eyes, after repeating this a few times I had finally calmed down. I looked around the jet and Price had his brows furrowed as his eyes darted between me and Ghost. I dismissed it and focused on my breathing.

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

We have finally arrived in Jordan and are now getting into RG-33 SOCOM Vehicles. Luckily, one was all we needed as we only had 6 of us for this mission - me, Ghost, Gaz, Soap, Keller and Price.

As we got closer and closer to the base in Iraq, the pit in my stomach grew bigger and bigger. I pushed all my thoughts and memories down until I became calm. This isn't what the mission needed. Isn't what anyone on the Task Force needed.

We had finally arrived at a location close-by to the base and gathered behind our vehicle. Price had put a map of the base against the RG-33, the map had red dots to represent the entries, blue dots to represent the computer rooms (where we'd be getting the info from) and green dots to represent where we will make our exits.

"Ghost, Soap, you enter through the South West entry and go up through the South bound stairwell, get the information form Room F304 on the first floor then come out of the closest window you can. Gaz, Keller, you go through the North East entry and go up through the East bound stairwell go to Room S215, get as much information as you can from the computers and exit via the North bound stairwell. Y/L/N, you're with me. We'll go up through the North West entry, go up the West bound stairwell, grab what we need from T680 and exit via the North bound stairwell, the same as Gaz and Keller. Everyone got that?" Everyone nodded in agreement or said "Yes sir."

As everyone split into the pairs Price gave them, I went up to Price as we were in a pair. He looked up to me after checking he had all the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) he needed and gave me a tight smile.

"You're going to be fine Y/L/N, you don't need to worry." I was confused as I had no idea how he knew. "And before you ask I saw you in the jet, I wanted to ask what was wrong but Ghost helped you before I could. Now let's go, we've got a mission to do."

Me and Price began our journey to the base and found our entry. We checked the area for any enemies patrolling the area and silently took out the ones who saw us before they could say anything. I got to the door and picked the lock and carefully opened the door. We looked around the corridor for anyone but didn't see anyone. We carefully made our way up the West bound stairwell and finally made it up to the room we needed to find.

Price tried the door and it was unlocked, he meticulously opened the door and the room was filled with computers, we scanned the area for anyone and there was no sign of people in the room. We went to one of the computers put a hard drive into the PC and downloaded every single piece of information off of that computer.

As the hard drive was downloading final bits and pieces of information, I heard screaming. Specifically, a boy screaming. I looked to Price and silently begged him for us to go get him.

"We can't Y/L/N, it may jeopardise the mission. I'm sorry..." He looked genuinely remorseful. But that didn't stop me. I immediately darted for the source of the screaming. Price decided he had no choice but to follow me, I could tell I was gonna get an arse whooping as soon as we get back from this mission.

The screaming got louder and louder until I finally reached the room where the screaming was coming from. I picked the lock of the door and kicked it open and pointed my gun in the room. There were two men in the room, one man had the boy's arm in his hand, his grip looked uncomfortable and way too tight for my liking. The other man was actually videoing, maybe for a ransom video.

"Put the boy down!" I shouted at them as I aimed for their heads. The men, who were obviously unarmed, put their hands in the air and stepped away from the boy. I ran over to the boy and got down to his level.

"Are you okay honey? Have they been hurting you?" I was checking the boy for any cuts and bruises until I noticed a birth mark on his neck, a very weirdly shaped birthmark that was very familiar. My mind immediately flashed back to Iraq.

When I was in Iraq, I was captured and tortured for information. When they were done with me they threw me in a cell along with a mother and her baby, Suleiman. He was a beautiful and surprisingly healthy baby boy. And he had a birthmark on his neck.

One day, after I was tortured and then thrown back into the cell, the mother was hysterically sobbing and screaming. When I calmed her down she said to me, "They took my baby boy! They snatched him right from my arms!"

I swore to that lady that I would break out of here and find her baby boy for her, a few days later she was killed and I never forgave myself for not fulfilling my promise.

I looked to Price with horror on my face. Tears began to brim my eyes and my jaw locked shut. I couldn't help the memories of the little boy, Suleiman, and the promise I made his mother.

"I know this child Price. We need to get him out of here now." I grabbed the little boy in my arms and we headed for our exit. But as soon as we got to the North bound stairwell, it was covered with Iraqi soldiers. I told Suleiman to go and find a man by the name of Ghost and gave him directions and that he'd be safe with him. Suleiman began to run as fast as possible.

Price and I pulled our guns out and began to shoot at them until the stairwell was clear. As we descended the stairs, we must've missed one as a man grabbed me and put a gun to my head. I yelped out Price's name and he immediately pointed his gun at the man.

"Let her go!" Price's voice was filled with rage, and so were his eyes. they had grown so dark you couldn't see the hazel-greenish colour of them anymore, just black.

"She has our information, she can either give it to me or suffer the consequences." He pressed the gun harder into the side of my temple.

I began to panic, memories came flooding back and I was beginning to lose sight of what we have to do. My only goal is to either kill this man or somehow get away. But he is a lot bigger than me. And when I say a lot I mean a lot.

"Put the gun down now!" His voice echoed in the empty hallway. The hallways, rooms and stairwells seemed quiet. Too quiet. My eyes widened as I realised.

"Price! Go! It's a trap!" As soon as I had said that the floors underneath us exploded with a loud boom. Fire began to spread, floors fell apart, and we were going to die if we didn't get out now.

I acted quickly by stomping on the man's foot, elbowing his face grabbing his gun and shooting him. I quickly grabbed Price's hand and led him to the South bound stairwell hoping that it wouldn't be destroyed. It was. We then tried to East bound stairwell and the West bound stairwell, they were both destroyed.

I looked out a close by window and there was a building that was still intact. We had to jump across. It was a risky jump but it was the only option we seemed to have left.

"Price, we're going to have to jump across to that building and get to the ground floor through that roof door." I showed him the building and he nodded.

"You go first." I told Price, he looked at me with worry and anger. He shook his head.

"Fine, but you better follow me close behind, can't lose a soldier like you." He patted my shoulder before taking a runup to the window and successfully. He stood, eagerly waiting for me to jump across as well.

As I began to run up to the window, someone hit my in the face with a gun. Price saw and didn't know what to do, he couldn't get back up to the building but he couldn't just leave me either.

"Y/L/N!" He ran to the building's edge and tried to get a better look. A woman walked up to the window and laughed at Price.

"She's going to die where her true life started, in Iraq. And the information you stole will die here with her!" Price got ahold of his gun and pointed it at the woman.

"Give her to me or I'll shoot!" All the woman did was laugh.

"You better go now or you'll die along with us!" Price reigned fire on her but missed as she ducked down until the window. When he ran out of bullets she stood back up straight, but holding a dead man's switch in her hand.

Before she could even speak, Price saw a hand drag her down and he slightly hears grappling and groaning until all he can hear is the roaring fires down below and the infrastructure of the building falling apart.

The next thing he sees is a bag being thrown and me flying through the window and the rest of the building being destroyed by an explosion.

Price grabbed the bag and ushered me to the roof door as we had finally escaped. We made our way to the stairwell and as soon as we exited the building it exploded. We made our way back to the RG-33, where the others were worriedly waiting for us.

Ghost and Soap immediately ran up to us and checked me for anything on my face. I looked past them and saw the boy with a blanket around him. I quickly made my way to him.

"Are you okay Suleiman?" The boy was silent, of course he would be. He also looked scared after I called him by his name.

"Suleiman, I knew your mother, Amneh, a long time ago when you were just a baby. You're safe with us now, I promise." He nodded and we all got into the vehicle, Suleiman sat down with me and I wrapped my arm around him. When we got back into Jordan, a man was waiting with a few of our men. He quickly ran up to Suleiman and held him in his arms. The boy backed away from him immediately.

We reunited Suleiman with his older brother and father and then boarded the jet back home. I immediately lay down on the seats and anticipated how much Price was going to rinse me for saving Suleiman.

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

We were now back on our base in England. Soap, Gaz and Keller were celebrating another successful mission while me and Ghost sat on one of the couches in the "common room" as they all call it.

"You did good saving that little boy today. Even though Price is going to absolutely murder you for almost dying and 'jeopardising' the mission." I chuckled before I took a sip of my drink.

"I was with that little boy and his mother back when I was captured in Iraq y'know?" My mood completely changed as memories came back. "They took her little boy away from her, he was only a baby at the time, and I told her that I would get us both out of there and get her boy back. They killed her a week later. And I never fulfilled the promise I made her... It kills me every day to know they will never see each other again..." Ghost put his arm around my shoulder and rubbed my arm as a way of comforting me.

Price then entered the room and his eyes immediately darted to me. He did not look happy at all.

"Y/L/N. My office. Now." He didn't raise his voice. You knew you were in shit with Price when he didn't even raise his voice.

I got up from the couch and followed Price to his office. When we got inside he ordered me to sit down in the chair in front of his desk.

"Do you know how stupid that was? Apart from saving that boy's life you could've risked mine and yours! That was absolutely irresponsible!" I didn't even mutter a word, I just wanted to let him let out his anger before I spoke.

"You have nearly died 3 times today! Three times! Do you know how upset the team would be? I would be? If you had lost your life? What went through your fucking head?! All for that little boy!" Now I was angry, how the fuck could he be so insensitive?

"I made a promise to a mother in Iraq... That I would bring her baby boy back to her after he was taken away from her... And that boy that I saved today, was that baby boy." Price's eyes widened. His mouth opened and closed, he had no clue what to say.

"Y/N... I'm sorry I-" I cut him off before he could speak, anger running through my veins now.

"You should be sorry! I made a promise to a woman in Iraq and if I couldn't keep it for her I'd keep it for their family that searched far and wide for the both of them. That boy's father and brother had to find out that woman had fucking died today! So yeah! You should be fucking sorry."

I was nose to nose with Price now. There was a deafening silence and a heavy atmosphere around us now. You could cut the tension with a knife.

"I didn't know... what you went through in Iraq... I'm sorry." He seriously meant the apology this time. I could tell, the look of remorse on his face made me upset.

"It's just... I don't know what all of us... what I would do if you had died. I don't want to lose you." He looked down to the floor, not wanting to look me in the eye.

"Are you saying you care about me Captain?" I raise an eyebrow and smirk at him. His eyes immediately dart to mine and his mouth contorts to form a straight thin line.

"Yes, I do Y/N. What of it?" He straightened his posture, towering over me. It made me quite flustered.

"Just wondering Captain." I look down to the ground in hopes he doesn't see my face going slightly red. This was not how I planned this to go in my head.

"You wondering cause you feel the same sweetheart? I've heard what you say about me to Soap. It's no secret to me anymore." He took a step towards me, our chests now touching. The lack of distance made blood run to my cheeks.

"That was a private conversation Captain." Price chuckled, he raised his hand to put under my chin so that I would look up at him.

"You aren't denying it though are you?" His smirk only grew as my face grew redder and redder. I shifted my weight from one foot to the other. Why the fuck am I being like this? I shouldn't be, I am a fucking soldier not some little school girl with a crush.

"No..." I gather up the courage to look at him and he has this certain look in his eyes. Something like want, or desire.

"Good." And before I could say anything he cupped my cheeks in his hands and connected our lips. It was exactly like how I imagined it. It was warm, passionate yet soft and fucking amazing.

He backed me up against the closest wall and presses his body against mine. The kiss grew deeper when he put his knee between my legs and I gasped so he took the chance to swipe his tongue against my lips and into my mouth.

It grew sloppier and sloppier as we both got more desperate. One of his hands travelled down to my waist and squeezed it which made me yelp into his mouth.

We both finally pulled away for air and he looked at me with care and want mixed into one.

"I have wanted to do that every since I laid my eyes on you sweetheart."

[iguana-eyanna]

Did It All For You

Pairing: Wade Wilson x OC! Character

Summary: In his time in The Void, Wade meets someone that makes him realizes he shouldn't have taken you for granted.

Wade sits among his friends, looking at how he saved his family. Logan was by his right, talking with Laura while the rest Wade's mutant and human friends were laughing while having a last minute dinner.

The little mutt in his hands was eagerly jumping with glee. He couldn't help but look at his left at Vanessa who gave a courteous look at Wade.

"Hey."

Wade turns around to Logan.

"Talk to the girl."

Wade nods his head and turns to Vanessa.

Before he was about to speak, Logan smacked him in the arm to get his attention.

"Hey!" Wade half shouts.

"Not Vanessa. Her." Logan says, nodding towards the direction outside the window.

Wade looks beyond Vanessa and sees someone sitting by the fire escape. For some reason, Wade was more nervous than what he felt before.

Why did he feel so anxious for you?

Instead of fighting the summersaults in his stomach, he passes his beloved dog to Logan. Wade's feet took him outside the window to see you, lost in thought.

"Hey, Chica." Wade said.

You whipped your head to Wade and gave him a small smile.

"Hey stranger." You said.

Wade took a seat next to you as you two looked down at the road where public safety was still cleaning the neighborhood as it was filled with shattered glass, exposed electric wires, and blood.

"You did quite a number down there." You commented, sharing a worried gaze to him.

"Yeah, you should see the other variants of me. One is a floating head."

You couldn't help but laugh, imagining a decapitated head of Wade just flying aimlessly.

"I still can't believe you met so many versions of you. Must have been weird."

"Tell me about it. One was me when i didn't look like a naked mole-cat."

"I think that's called a Sphynx cat." You reply.

"Tomayto, tomahto" Wade brushed you off, earning a light punch on his arm from you.

"But yeah, it was a bit overwhelming to say the least." He said, looking down at his shoes.

You turn your back to the rail of the fire escape and looked up at the evening sky.

"Did you meet any other versions of us in that dimension of hell?"

"It wasn't a hell persay, more of a dumpster fire truck-"

"Wade, you're ignoring the answer."

Wade gulps silently and looks up at the sky, wishing he was anywhere but here.

"You might say I saw someone."

Your eyes perked, smirking.

"Who was it?"

Wade looks back at your excitement, feeling his gut churn with despair.

"Wade, who did you see?"

"I uh... saw you."

Your eyes widen, surprised at the thought there could be another varient of you. But as you saw Wade's deamenor, it was like he was sitting next to a ghost.

"What happened to you, Wade?" you ask.

Wade looks forward, feeling his jaw hinge.

"It all started when mini wolverine brought us to her base."

+

Wade and Logan arrived at the rebel base where Elektra, Blade, Gambit, and Laura stayed to protect themselves from Cassandra. Wade was encouraging them to stand up against her so he could save his world. Wolverine scoffed at his attempt and left to his own demise while Wade was concluding his fight speech.

"C'mon gang! We're fighting for a noble cause here. We can stop Cassandra or die trying."

"No one is dying on my watch."

Wade turns his head and sees a shadow by the entrance, squinting as he couldn't see them.

"Excuse me Debbie Doubter, but I'm talking to these legendary fighters. So if you don't wanna join us, I suggest sitting with Mr. Logan out there, he's a real Pinky Pie."

The figure jumps out of the shadows, silencing the man in red as he sees a familiar face - you.

Wade whispers your name under his breath, stunned.

Your eyes widen subtly until you locked your jaw.

"I go by Cosmic, and you have no business asking for us to fight your battles."

Cosmic's hair looked different than how you normally styled it. Your cheerful persona was replaced by tired eyes and more defined tones around the body, making Cosmic look like a fierce warrior outside of a comic book.

"Do you know how many victims Cassandra and her crew has taken away from us? Too many to count. And I am definitely not letting another Deadpool ruin our survival. All of you are the same, pathetic wannabe heroes. So leave now, or I'll make you." You warned him as you left outside.

"I like to see you try." Wade talked back. In sync, Elektra, Blade, and Gambit took a step back. Wade looked around suspiciously until a sudden glow blasted him off his feet and Cosmic suddenly pins him down as he came face to face with her.

"I don't answer to you, so get out of my sight or I won't hold back." Cosmic spat in his face as she got back up and left Wade on the ground.

For once, Wade was silent as she made her way outside. The girl next door Wade once knew wasn't you, but the hurtful things that she said hit his core.

"She gets like that when she sees a Deadpool" Blade said out loud, breaking Wade from his momentarily spell.

"Any idea why?" Wade asks.

"No. When there's a sighting of one of you, she takes every measure to ban them from our base. Whatever you did to her, she hasn't forgotten." Elektra says.

"Or forgiven." Gambit concludes.

"Out of your minion talk, I could finally hear what your saying." Wade said in annoyance as he brushed himself off and stood up.

"If you want us to follow you to Cassandra and her goons, you have to get Cosmic's blessing. She's as powerful as Cassandra, but she hasn't found her will to fight." Laura said as she was leaning by the wall, looking at the dramatic scene unfold.

Wade just nodded as he slowly walked out to find her, or the version of you. It didn't take long until he saw Cosmic high on a rock as she was looking up at the dark sky. Wade climbed up quietly as he didn't wanna frighten her.

"For the record, I'm not going to blast you off this rock. That blast you took from me is taking its toll." She said, not batting an eye at his direction.

Wade stood still until he walked by her and sat by her left, taking his mask off.

"Whatever the other version of me did to you, I'm not that guy. Hell, I don't even know if he looks as ruggedly as handsome as myself." Wade quips.

Cosmic looks curiously at him and give a tiny smirk.

"You look just the same as him."

"So you admit I'm ruggedly handsome?"

She darts her eyes at him until he lifted his arms in defense. Silence filled the air as the only sound that was heard was the fire cracking from a distance where Wolverine was drinking his sorrows.

"What did I do that made you hate me?" He asks.

She looks down at her lap, trying to form the words that she haven't spoken in so long.

"You left me to die."

Wade knits his brow in confusion as she raised her knees close to her chest, remembering.

"The x-men got bad intel about this rescue mission. Mutants were being held in different locations so everyone was scattered around the world. But what we didn't know was that it was a trap. Each building blew up, one by one. I could hear the cries of the other x-men as our comms went silent. The base we were at was by a cliff so it blew us outward and two of us were hanging by a thread."

"Two of you?" Wade asks.

"It was me and Vanessa." She said. Wade was silent, even when he saw her tears forming.

"We were far apart so you couldn't save both of us at the same time. Neither of us could fly or survive a fall that far. And you chose her. When you got to me, I was already falling and I could hear myself calling out to you. I thought I died but apparently I found myself here, where every reject comes to whither away. And I trained, day and night to multiply my power force, so I wouldn't have to be saved by anyone."

Cosmic's arm glows like those galaxy wallpaper Wade had in his phone, but her power dimmed suddenly as she stifled a groan.

Wade could only imagine the pain she felt every time she pushed her limit.

"The worse thing was, I loved you. I loved you so much and I think you knew. But I don't think you could ever love me back. That's why every time I see one of your faces, I'm just reminded that I was never good enough for you."

She turns around to Wade who looked almost ashamed, as if he was the one who hurt her. Cosmic sniffed as she whipped her head away.

"You can take who ever you want to face Cassandra. I'm done fighting everyone. It's your funeral."

Wade almost didn't want to leave Cosmic, but time was of the essence. His family needed him, but this version of you needed him.

But Wade had everything but time, cause in less then a day, everything he ever love will cease to exist. So, he reaches out a little polaroid and gives it to her.

"Every decision that I'm making right now, it's to get home to you." He says, pointing to you as you were developed in Wade's arms as you looked lovingly at him. He almost didn't realize how you looked at him lately.

Since his break up with Vanessa, he felt like his life was spiraling. The Avengers didn't want him, the X-men could never accept his crazy self, and he did not want another version of the X-Force to sacrifice themselves like last time.

But the person that gave him the most comfort was you.

He remembered on his really bad days, you would invite him to your apartment to eat instant ramen while watching desperate housewives. Or when he was off from work, he'd join you to the local food market as you two secretly make fun of the rich snobs that only buy from organic sources and yet ride a Cadillac.

He then suddenly remembers the day before his birthday when he asked you if he should go after Vanessa again. You smiled at him and told him to go for it. He was blinded to see your forced smile and blank eyes. Cosmic's version of himself broke her heart, and now he was repeating history again.

That's when Wade swore he'd do everything he can to save his entire world, and he didn't mean his planet.

From then on, it was a long and gored battle once him and the other forgotten heroes were battling Cassandra's army. Blood was being spilled in every direction yet other mutants were flooding the gates.

But soon, Cassandra's short term heart to heart moment allowed Wade and Logan to leave the Void. But low and behold, Allioth wasn't going to allow them to leave so easily as he corners them around the portal

"We're not going to make it!" Wade yelled as they tried to make a run for it.

"I don't think you're girlfriend would let that happen." Logan said as he was staring up at the sky

Wade didn't understand until he looked up and saw a sky filled with glowing constellations that shielded them from the purple grimace.

Cosmic, looking powerful as ever, was flying in mid air as she glowed like some sort of angel.

"What are you doing?" Wade yells at her.

She turns around, feeling her powers draining her life force.

"Saving your ass, now go!" She turned to Allioth as it tried to break her cosmic barrier.

"You're not dying because of me!" Wade tries to step forward, but Logan stops him in his tracks

She reaches out for that polaroid picture in her jacket, throwing it in the wind for Wade to grab it. A tear rolls down her face and she looks back at the man's face she once loved.

"Promise me you'll tell her how you really feel."

Wade gives her a firm nod before Cosmic suddenly burns violently, creating a blinding light that pushed Allioth away as Wade and Logan jumped into the portal.

Cosmic felt her powers slipping and felt herself falling, feeling death creeping her.

But yet, she felt her lips stretching into a smile, knowing that some version of you finally gets a happy ending.

+

You then resumed silent as Wade finished his story. He was looking at you almost doe-eyed, afraid of what you might say.

"She saved you, even when she hated your guts, she still put herself above everything she stood by." You said, looking down at the street.

"She was a hero, but I wished I could have told her that. I wished I could have told her a lot of things.”

“Like what?” You ask.

Wade took a deep breath and looks at you, feeling his heart pound each second.

“I wish I got to tell her that I never meant to hurt her. That she's always been the constant brightness in my life in my shitty life. Humble brag, I got to save the world...”

You couldn't help but muster a chuckle as you felt your eyes watery. Wade reaches out as he places your hand on top of yours.

"But I did it all for you."

You launch your arms around him, feeling all your emotions catch up to you. You could feel Wade felt the same too as he held you tight.

"Promise you won't do anything stupid from now on."

"Do you even know me?"

You two laugh as you look at each other in a different light this time, as this was the moment where Wade's universe was right here in his arms.

You kissed his temple as you two held to each other as you watched your neighborhood gotten repaired while a certain X-men was beaming proudly at the two of you.

[nightwriter357]

Just friends - if it was like.. a real first date

Here is part 5 of my Damien Haas x reader story: Just friends. Sorry for the long wait, I hope it was worth it!

Chapter 5 - if it was like.. a real first date

You and Damien were still lounging on the couch, getting lost in idle conversation when the door to your apartment swung open, and in walked Shayne, kicking off his shoes and tossing his jacket onto a chair.

"Hey, guys," he called out, glancing at the two of you sprawled across the couch. "I should have known I'd find you both here, you've both been sitting here like this every friday all month."

Damien groaned dramatically, throwing his arm over his face. "It's just so... cozy."

"Yeah, but seriously, every Friday?" Shayne said, a sly smile creeping onto his face as he flopped down next to you. "You know, you could do something else, right?

"Like what?" you asked, raising an eyebrow. 

Shayne shrugged, clearly enjoying what he was about to stir up. "I don't know, go to a party, go on a date, go to a concert... live a little, you know?"

Damien snorted, rolling his eyes. "A date? Who even has time for that? We're just chillin' here."

"You know what, he's actually right," you chimed in, sitting up and turning to Damien. "We should actually be going on dates. I mean, how are we supposed to find someone if we're glued to this couch every weekend?"

Damien blinked, his lips parting as if to respond, but then he seemed to hesitate. His gaze flickered to the floor for a moment before lifting to meet yours, his expression shifting into something that was a mix of uncertainty and something else — something harder to place. He leaned back into the couch, his shoulders stiffening slightly, and you couldn't help but notice the way his fingers drummed nervously against his knee.

"Yeah," he said, his voice a little quieter than usual, "I guess we should... try something else." The way he said it made it sound like he wasn't entirely convinced.

You shrugged, trying to keep the conversation light. "I mean, we just need to figure out what to do on an actual date and then just try it with the first person we match with on any dating app."

Damien looked at you, his brow furrowing slightly as if he was still processing the idea. "Yeah, but... where do we even start? Like, what does a actual date even look like?"

You glanced at Shayne, who was now munching on a snack, clearly entertained by the direction the conversation was taking. "You know, it's not like we're gonna find someone to go on a date with tonight anyway so why don't we just do a practice run?"

Damien snorted. "Practice? You mean like... a fake date?" His voice was laced with disbelief, but there was something in his eyes that suggested he was curious.

"Exactly," you said, leaning forward and grinning. "Think of it as a dry run. We could just go out and do date-type stuff, see how we feel. We're not really dating anyone, but it's kind of like preparing for the real thing. Like... if we don't actually try it, how are we going to know what we want?"

Damien raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but skeptical. "what if I already know what I want?" He chuckled softly. 

"Well, you don't" you shot back with a shrug. "Listen, we'll just go to a restaurant, see where the night takes us ."

Shayne, who had been silently watching the whole time, perked up. "Wait, hold on. Are you two seriously considering this? Practicing dates?" He laughed, looking between the two of you with an exaggerated look of disbelief. "That sounds... kinda cute, actually."

"Alright, alright," Damien said slowly, still unsure but clearly playing along. "So dinner, that's it?"

You leaned back, thinking for a moment, then flashed him a teasing smile. "Yeah, unless we spot something essential for a first date."

Damien let out a short laugh as he scratched the back of his neck. "Yeah, I guess it could be fun. So... when do we start?"

You smiled at him, feeling the tension in the air shift—just a little. "Soon. But first, I need to get ready." You gestured down at your outfit—a cozy set of pajamas. "This is definitely not an appropriate first date outfit."

Damien raised an eyebrow, but before he could respond, you stood up and headed toward your room. "I'll be quick," you called over your shoulder. "Kind of excited, actually," you admitted, feeling a slight thrill at the idea.

Damien looked up, giving you a small smile. "Yeah... me too," he replied, his voice a little softer than usual.

Shayne, who had been silently watching, piped up at that moment. "Me too."

You both turned toward him, raising your eyebrows in unison.

"Wait, what?" you asked, confused.

Shayne leaned back with a grin. "I get the apartment to myself for once," he said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

You and Damien exchanged a look, both stifling laughter at his lack of shame.

You turned to head to your room, but then paused at the door and glanced back with a playful smile. "Oh, you planned this, didn't you?" you teased, catching the look in Shayne's eyes.

Shayne tried to look innocent, throwing his hands up dramatically. "I have no idea what you're talking about," he said like he played no part in this situation.

You and Damien shared another look before shaking your heads, as you headed to your room to get ready. You closed the door behind you, letting out a breath you didn't even realize you'd been holding. You had no idea why this felt like such a big deal, but there was something about this 'practice date' that had you both excited and nervous all at once. Maybe it was jusr the memory of that kiss you shared, or maybe it was just all off the tension that you both had been dancing around for weeks, pretending it wasn't there. But it could also be nothing, it's probably nothing

You quickly stripped out of your pajamas and ran your fingers through your hair. What vibe were you going for? Cute? Flirty, but not trying too hard? Your eyes landed on the dress you'd bought ages ago, a soft light blue that hugged your curves just right. It wasn't too much, but it felt like just the right thing for tonight.

You pulled it on, smoothing it down, and smiled at your reflection. It wasn't over-the-top, but it was enough. You let your hair fall in loose waves, and after one last glance in the mirror, you nodded to yourself.

"Okay, yeah, this will work."

You stepped into the living room, smoothing your hands over your dress as you walked. The fabric swished softly around your legs. Their conversation instantly died, Damien's gaze snapped to you, his breath catching in his throat.

He sat frozen on the couch, his usual easygoing demeanor replaced with something harder to place. His eyes flickered over you—not in a way that felt uncomfortable, but in a way that made you feel almost exposed. You weren't sure what you'd expected, but the way his jaw tightened, like he was physically stopping himself from saying something, made your chest feel strangely tight.

"Wow," Shayne said first, breaking the silence as he leaned back on the couch. "You clean up nice." He gave you a teasing once-over, his grin widening.

"Thanks," you said with a small laugh.

Damien cleared his throat, standing a little too quickly and brushing invisible lint off his jeans. His gaze flickered to Shayne, then back to you. "You, uh, definitely look!" he blurted, his voice lighter than usual, like he was trying too hard to sound casual.

"Are you going to finish the sentence?" you responded, raising an eyebrow.

"I mean, I did—didn't I?" He responded quickly, shoving his hands into his pockets. His ears had turned pink, though he was doing his best to act like he hadn't just tripped over his own words.

For a moment, the room felt lighter, the tension diffusing as Damien's lips curved into a sheepish smile. His gaze flickered to you again, softer this time, before quickly darting away, almost as if he'd caught himself lingering too long.

Shayne, however, wasn't one to let a moment pass without commentary. He leaned back on the couch with an exaggerated nod of approval, clearly relishing the opportunity to stir the pot. "Wow, Damien, really committing to the practice date, huh? You're really taking this role seriously."

Damien shrugged, his hands sliding casually into his pockets. "Well, you know me," he said, his tone easy and confident. "Always going for authenticity."

Shayne snorted, leaning forward with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Alright, so your role is the head-over-heels date. Mine should obviously be the overprotective father."

"Oh, no," you groaned, already knowing where this was headed.

Shayne clasped his hands together, fixing Damien with an exaggeratedly stern look. "So, what are your intentions with her tonight?"

Damien played along, his grin widening. "To ensure she has an unforgettable practice date, sir," he replied with mock seriousness.

"Wait, are you actually going to play along with this?" you asked, rolling your eyes.

Damien shrugged, a small grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I mean, I can't disappoint the guy who's giving you a curfew." He shot Shayne a look. "Don't worry, I'll keep her out of trouble."

"Good answer," Shayne said with a nod, "Have her home by midnight."

"Of course," Damien said, holding back a laugh.

"And don't make me get the shotgun," Shayne added, wagging a finger for emphasis.

You rolled your eyes but couldn't help laughing. "Thanks, Dad," you said sarcastically. "Anything else before we go?"

"Just be safe," Shayne replied, crossing his arms like a concerned parent.

You smirked as you grabbed your purse, pausing in the doorway to shoot a playful glance over your shoulder. "Don't worry, Dad—we'll use protection."

Damien choked on a laugh as Shayne groaned in mock exasperation. "You're grounded!" Shayne called after you, but you were already out the door, laughing.

The drive to the restaurant was easy, the air light and comfortable. Damien tapped along to the beat of the radio, occasionally sneaking glances at you like he couldn't help himself.

"You sure you're okay with this 'practice date' thing?" you asked, breaking the silence as the cozy restaurant came into view.

He flashed you a quick grin. "Yeah, I'll power through."

His tone was casual, but the way he kept glancing over at you made it clear he wasn't just going through the motions.

The restaurant was warm and inviting, its golden lights spilling onto the sidewalk. Damien parked the car and hurried around to open your door, his hand brushing yours lightly as he helped you out.

"Ready?" he asked, his voice softer now, as if the moment needed no extra noise.

"Ready," you replied, matching his tone.

The restaurant was a cozy little place just down the street—nothing too fancy, but it had a nice, warm atmosphere. It felt like the kind of spot you could have a relaxed dinner at, and the dim lighting was perfect for the "practice date" vibe you were going for.

You walked in together, Damien holding the door open for you with a casual, gentlemanly flair.

Once seated, the waiter handed you both menus, and you immediately started scanning, trying to decide what you were in the mood for. Every time you glanced up, Damien's eyes were on you, soft and a little too intense for a casual dinner. He seemed to still be, very much in character.

"So," Damien began, breaking the comfortable silence. "What's on the menu for first-date food? Anything off-limits, or are we throwing out the rulebook?"

You smirked, glancing over the top of your menu at him. "I think we're allowed to break a few rules. I'm definitely in the mood for a burger or pizza."

Damien's grin spread, clearly entertained. "Ah, so you're a low-maintenance date, huh?"

You shrugged, leaning back in your seat. "Hey, if I'm gonna end up with a salad next week on the 'real' date, I've got to make tonight count."

For a moment, Damien's smile faltered slightly. He cleared his throat and his grin returned, but it had a touch less ease to it.

"Good point," he said, his voice steady again, though the flicker of something unreadable in his gaze lingered for just a second.

The burgers arrived, and as you took your first bite, you couldn't help but grin. The juicy patty and melted cheese were absolutely perfect. You barely noticed at first, but as you looked down at your hands, you realized the mess you'd already made.

Damien, mid-bite himself, paused to smirk at you. "How have you already made a mess?" he asked, his tone teasing as he reached for a napkin.

You gave him a mock-serious look, wiping at your chin. "What, this isn't attractive to you?"

"Oh, to me? Definitely attractive," he said with a grin, pausing mid-sentence to pluck a fry off the table where it had fallen from his plate. "But I thought we were supposed to be practicing how not to scare people off."

"Fair point," you said, leaning forward with a spark in your eyes. "We should make this more authentic." You grabbed your phone after wiping your hands on the napkin. "Let's Google some first date questions."

Damien raised an eyebrow but seemed game. "What, like those icebreaker things?"

"Yeah, exactly." You looked down at your phone, your grin widening as you started typing. "Let's make it weird."

A few seconds later, you both scrolled through a list of ridiculous questions, laughing at the absurdity of some of them.

You paused at one that caught your eye. "'Why are you single?'" you read aloud, grinning as you looked up at Damien.

He raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Wow, we're just diving straight into the existential questions, huh?"

You shrugged, feigning innocence. "Hey, it's on the list. Rules are rules. Answer the question."

Damien leaned back, pretending to think. "Maybe it's because I have this roommate who makes me do stuff like spend my Fridays spying on our friends to play cupid, binge-watching terrible movies, beating her at game nights—"

"You mean losing," you interjected, narrowing your eyes.

He ignored you, his smirk growing. "—and occasionally rescuing her from questionable bars at two in the morning."

You laughed, shaking your head. "Wow, sounds like a real waste of your Friday nights."

Damien leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table as his gaze softened just a fraction. "Absolutely not. If I could, I'd spend all my Fridays with you."

That caught you off guard, heat rising to your cheeks as you fumbled for a response. He didn't let you off the hook, though.

"Your turn," he said, his grin turning mischievous. "Why are you single?"

You blinked, caught completely off guard, before narrowing your eyes at him. "Guess I walked right into that one." With a small laugh, you leaned back in your seat, tapping your fingers on the table dramatically.. "Why am I single? Hmm, let's see. Maybe, It's because I spend my Fridays convincing my roommate that spying on our friends and setting them up is a genius idea, watching movies that are actually not that bad, absolutely crushing you at game nights—"

"That's debatable," Damien interrupted, his grin widening.

"Not even close," you shot back, giving him a playful glare as you flicked your hand dismissively. "Oh, and let's not forget, occasionally getting rescued and kissed outside questionable bars at two in the morning."

Damien raised an eyebrow, a playful accusation in his tone. "Hey, you kissed me."

You tilted your head, folding your arms as you shot him a mock-serious look. "You kissed more."

There was a brief pause, and for a second, you could see the shift in his eyes. Damien's lips twitched, but the teasing edge was softer now. "I don't remember you complaining."

The moment lingered a bit longer than usual. The air between you both felt heavier, a silent acknowledgment hanging in the space. Neither of you broke it, though. After all, it was just a kiss. Nothing to overthink.

You bit the inside of your cheek, trying to hide your smile. "Touché," you muttered, your gaze flicking away for a second before locking back with his.

Damien took the phone and scrolled for a moment. "Alright, how about this one? 'What's your favorite holiday?'"

"That's easy — Halloween," you said immediately. "Dressing up, scary movies, way too much candy. It's basically the perfect holiday. What about you?"

"Christmas," he replied without hesitation. "The food, the music, the cozy vibes... and watching you almost be brought to tears by every gift you open, and seeing Shayne absolutely destroy the wrapping paper like it personally insulted him."

You blinked, caught off guard. "Wait, me? I do not almost cry over every gift!"

Damien raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Last year, Shayne gave you a candle, and you got misty-eyed."

"It was a thoughtful candle!" you protested, laughing. "It smelled like cinnamon"

He leaned forward, grinning. "I rest my case."

You scrolled through the list of ridiculous questions, pausing as one caught your eye. Smirking, you glanced up at Damien. "What's one thing you've always wanted to try but never have?"

Damien leaned back, grinning mischievously. "Intercourse."

You raised an eyebrow, throwing him a side-eye. "You know what? I was just gonna say 'coitus,' but okay. You beat me to it."

Damien chuckled, leaning in slightly. "The touch of a woman."

You snorted, shaking your head. "An orgasm."

There was a moment where Damien's grin faltered just a bit, but only for a second before he bounced back, clearly enjoying this more than he should. "I'll say it once again, your ex is such a fucking idiot."

You stared at him, deadpan. "Yeah, well, he has no idea what he's missing."

Damien leaned back, his expression softening just a little, though the humor never fully left. "Clearly."

The conversation flowed effortlessly between playful banter and moments of genuine connection. By the time your food was nearly gone, your sides ached from laughing, and your face hurt from smiling so much.

Damien leaned back with a contented sigh, tossing his crumpled napkin onto his empty plate. "Alright," he said, a grin tugging at his lips, "I think we've officially dominated phase one. What's next on the 'practice date' itinerary?"

You glanced at the time on your phone, your smile growing. "There's that mini-golf place a few blocks from here. Classic date-night vibe, don't you think?"

"Mini-golf?" Damien raised an eyebrow, his smirk playful. "Are we leaning fully into the rom-com clichés now?"

"Absolutely," you said, shouldering your bag and heading toward the door. "What kind of practice date skips the 'teaching her how to play' moment?"

He followed you outside, holding the door open with a grin. "Wait, does this mean I'm supposed to dramatically help you hold the club while whispering unsolicited advice into your ear?"

You shrugged, pretending to think it over. "Well, I am completely terrible at mini-golf..."

"Oh, I see how it is." He chuckled, bumping your shoulder lightly as you walked down the street together. "You're setting me up to be the knight in shining armor of the putt-putt course."

"Exactly," you teased, grinning up at him. "Just be carefull where you putt-putt your hands, Sir."

By the time you reached the brightly lit course, the colorful neon signs cast a playful glow over the pavement. Damien grabbed two putters, handing one to you with a smirk. The mini-golf course was a kaleidoscope of glowing obstacles, and playful chaos. You and Damien wandered to the first hole, where a small windmill spun slowly, daring players to time their putts just right.

"Alright, let's see how terrible you actually are," he said, motioning toward the first hole.

You held the putter a little awkwardly, tilting your head as if examining the green. "Yeah, no. I have no idea what I'm doing," you said dramatically, looking up at him with wide eyes.

"Alright, let's see just how terrible you actually are," Damien said, leaning casually on his putter, a playful glint in his eyes.

You picked up your club, holding it at an exaggeratedly awkward angle as you squinted at the green like it was a riddle written in another language. "Yeah, no. I am completely clueless," you said, dragging out the words dramatically and looking up at him with an almost suspiciously innocent expression.

Damien raised an eyebrow, clearly trying to suppress a grin. "Uh-huh. Totally convincing. Do you even know which end of the putter to use?"

"Not a clue," you said with mock seriousness, twirling the club as if testing its aerodynamics. You shrugged helplessly. "Guess you'll have to come over here and show me, Sir.

Damien's grin widened, and he stepped closer, reaching for the club. "Alright, guess we're really doing this. Don't worry—I've got you, princess."

He reached for the putter, and you dramatically stepped back, giving him the floor. "I'll just be over here, watching the expert in action."

Damien squatted next to the ball, squinting at the course like it was a puzzle he needed to solve. "Okay, clearly this is a precision game. The angle's important. The spin of the windmill—critical."

You clasped your hands together dramatically, putting on your best wide-eyed look. "Oh no, that sounds so complicated! However will I figure this out?"

Damien glanced up at you, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "Don't worry, I've got you. You're in good hands."

"Thank goodness," you said with a faux-swoon, clutching your putter like it was a lifeline. "I'd be lost without your guidance."

"Obviously," he replied, standing and lining up his shot with all the confidence in the world. "Just watch and learn, helpless damsel."

With a theatrical flourish, he swung. The ball pinged off the windmill blade, ricocheted off the barrier, and rolled right back to where it started.

You gasped, covering your mouth with mock horror. "Oh no, my hero has failed! I guess I'm of to die."

Damien turned to you, one eyebrow raised. "No, no..Okay, that was a fluke. I'll redeem myself later. For now, let's see you try."

You stepped up to the ball, gripping the putter with deliberate awkwardness. "Oh no, I don't even know how to hold this thing," you said, tilting your head as though deeply confused. "Is this right?"

He chuckled, crossing his arms. "You're not even trying to be subtle, are you?"

"Subtle?" You blinked up at him innocently. "I have no idea what you mean."

Damien sighed, shaking his head as he moved to stand behind you. "Alright, let's do this then."

You bit back a grin as he stepped closer, his chest brushing lightly against your back. His hands hovered over yours on the putter, and though the atmosphere was still lighthearted, something about the closeness felt... different.

His voice dropped, deliberately serious, but you both knew it was all part of the joke. "Alright, hold it like this. Relax your grip just a little."

You shifted slightly, leaning back just enough so you could feel the warmth of his body behind you. "Like this?" you asked, your tone intentionally soft and teasing, though it came out with an edge you didn't quite expect.

He let out a quiet laugh, the sound low and a little warmer than usual. "Perfect. Now, it's all about the angle. You've got to aim just right to make it through the windmill."

You tilted your head back, trying to keep the joke alive but feeling something else building in the space between you. "I'm so glad you're here," you said, your voice coming out quieter than you meant. "I'd never figure this out on my own."

"I'm sure you wouldn't," he teased, his breath brushing against your ear as he guided your hands in a slow practice swing. His touch lingered just for a second, and for a brief moment, you felt  a small shift—the playful banter suddenly felt... softer.

The sound of the windmill spinning faded into the background, and neither of you said anything for a beat, the moment hanging between you. It was still a joke, still light, but now it felt like something... else too.

Finally, he stepped back, a wide grin spreading across his face, but there was a flicker in his eyes that wasn't quite as playful as before. "Alright, now let's see you put all that expert coaching to use."

You swallowed, trying to shake off the unexpected warmth that lingered, before stepping forward to take your shot

You swung, and the ball sailed smoothly through the windmill's opening and dropped into the hole.

"Hole in one!" Damien exclaimed, throwing his arms up. "Looks like I'm an incredible teacher."

"Oh, absolutely," you replied, spinning around with a cheeky smile. "It was all your doing. I had nothing to do with it."

"Glad we're on the same page," he teased, stepping closer. "But honestly, do you think that move would actually work on someone?"

You tilted your head, pretending to think. "Hmm, I don't know. It's cute, but it kind of depends on the guy."

"Oh, so it's about the guy, huh?" he asked, leaning on his putter.

"Absolutely," you replied, smirking. "With the wrong person, it's just awkward. But I'll give you a solid eight out of ten."

"Eight?" Damien gasped, clutching his chest. "Harsh."

You shrugged, grinning. "Well, it would be higher if you actually made your shot."

As you moved to the next obstacle, the air between you felt lighter but charged, both of you leaning just enough into the moment to make it fun—but maybe just a little too real.

The game continued in the same playful rhythm, with you both making exaggerated comments and missing shots on purpose. By the time you reached the final hole, you couldn't help but feel the day slipping by too quickly, the light starting to fade around you.

Damien lined up for his final shot, giving the rotating loop-de-loop ahead of him a look of determination. "Alright, last one. If I make this, I win, and I get eternal bragging rights."

You crossed your arms, watching him with a smirk. "Eternal? Big words for someone who got stuck on the pirate ship obstacle for five minutes."

"Hey, that was strategy," he shot back, his tone playful. He took the shot—and, of course, missed it by a mile, sending the ball straight into a bush beside the hole.

You doubled over, laughing. "Oh, sure, strategy," you teased, shaking your head.

Damien laughed along with you, stepping up to take another shot. "Alright, fine. You win this one." His eyes lingering on you, the joke fading for just a moment, but he quickly returned to his playful grin. "So.. what do you want?."

"What do I want?" you asked, raising an eyebrow. The idea of wanting anything in this moment... it was too much. It'd be easier if all you wanted was... "You... you decide."

As you stepped out of the mini-golf course, the warm glow of the evening lights lit up the street. The buzz of the city felt softer now, a gentle hum that accompanied the easy rhythm of your footsteps alongside Damien's.

Damien tilted his head as if deep in thought. "Alright. Hear me out—mandatory dessert stop." He gestured ahead, where a quaint little ice cream stand with a glowing neon sign came into view.

You grinned. "So you're on board with this whole rom-com date aesthetic now, are you?"

"Hey," he shot back with a playful shrug. "everyone knows dessert is a non-negotiable part of any good date."

As you approached the stand, the sugary scent of waffle cones wafted through the air, making your stomach rumble despite the burger-filled dinner. You both scanned the menu, debating over flavors until Damien pointed at you with a grin.

"You're totally the type to get something classic like chocolate or vanilla, huh?"

"Oh, bold of you to assume," you retorted, stepping up to the counter. "One butter pecan, please."

Damien raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Okay, not bad. I'll take pistachio ," he told the cashier before adding, "and a waffle cone. Because I'm fancy."

The two of you found a small bench nearby, the cool breeze brushing past as you both dug into your treats. You reached over pointing at Damien's cone. "Let me try yours."

"Only if I get a bite of yours," he countered, holding his cone out toward you.

You both swapped bites, laughing as a smear of ice cream caught on the corner of your mouth. Damien leaned in, his thumb brushing your lower lip to wipe it away, the contact sending a small jolt of warmth through you

The air between you shifted slightly again, a moment of unspoken acknowledgment passing before you both turned back to your desserts, the spell broken by a passing couple's chatter.

"Okay," Damien said, clearing his throat and holding up his cone dramatically. "I'm declaring this the superior flavor."

"Debatable," you teased, holding up your butter pecan for emphasis. "But we can agree dessert was definitely mandatory."

He nodded, his smile easy and warm. "Mandatory. And pretty perfect."

Your hand brushed his lightly as you reached for a napkin at the same time, and while neither of you commented on it, the small touch lingered in your mind. There were plenty of moments that seemed to linger there as of late. The warm summer air buzzed with quiet chatter and the occasional laughter of passersby as you and Damien strolled down the boardwalk, each armed with a melting ice cream cone.

"Okay, serious question," Damien says, breaking the silence. "What's your go-to strategy when the cone starts to drip faster than you can eat it?"

"Panic," you answer without hesitation, licking a rogue drop threatening to run down your hand. "Pure, unfiltered panic."

He chuckles, tilting his own cone to inspect the damage. "Solid strategy. I just embrace the chaos. Let it happen. Ice cream stains build character."

As you walk, something catches your eye—a brightly lit photo booth tucked into the corner of the boardwalk. You nudge Damien with your elbow, pointing at it. "Hey, you know what every fake first date needs?"

He follows your gaze, smirking when he spots the booth. "A wildly overpriced strip of awkwardly timed photos?"

"Exactly," you reply, already tugging him toward it. "Come on, it'll be perfect. You can't beat the classics."

With a playful groan, Damien follows your lead, tossing the last bite of his cone into a nearby trash bin. "Alright, but we're doing this by the book. What's the official photo booth itinerary?"

You smirk, stepping inside and motioning for him to follow. "Oh, you don't know? Amateur move, Haas. The first one's always silly."

He slides in next to you, shoulders brushing as he adjusts to fit in the tight space. "Silly, huh? Okay, no pressure. Got your best funny face ready?"

The countdown starts, and you both pull the most exaggerated, ridiculous expressions you can muster. The camera flashes, and you burst into laughter, your head tipping slightly toward his shoulder as you both review your handiwork on the screen.

"Solid start," Damien says, nodding approvingly. "What's next?"

"Obviously, cutesy," you reply with faux authority. "Think... puppy eyes and head tilts. Something you'd find in a cringey rom-com."

"Got it," Damien says, leaning a little closer and resting his chin on his hand, batting his lashes in mock adoration. You stifle a laugh but can't help mirroring his pose. The flash captures the two of you in a picture-perfect moment of over-the-top sweetness.

You're still giggling when the third countdown begins. Damien tilts his head, his voice softening just a bit. "What about this one? What's the third photo rule?"

"Hmm..." you say, your voice quieter now. "The third one's where it gets... closer."

Damien arches a brow but doesn't pull back as you both shuffle even closer together, your knees now pressed against his. "Closer, huh? That's an awfully specific rule," he murmurs, his tone teasing but his eyes warm.

The flash catches you mid-laugh, his gaze flicking briefly to your lips as you both shift slightly in the cramped space.

And then the countdown starts.

"What's the last photos for?" Damien asks, voice softer still, as if the moment doesn't really need an answer.

For a beat, neither of you speaks. You lean in slightly, the air between you feeling suddenly charged. He mirrors the movement, his hand brushing your arm as he adjusts to face you fully.

"Probably the dramatic almost-kiss," you whisper, lips curling into a faint smile.

"Obviously," Damien replies, his breath catching slightly as his eyes flicker to yours.

The flash interrupts just as your noses nearly touch, the sudden burst of light pulling you both back into laughter.

The air grows still as the seconds tick down. Neither of you says anything, and you find yourself leaning in again, your eyes flickering to his lips. He mirrors the movement, his breath warm against your cheek.

The flash interrupts, but this time, you both stay like that for a moment.

"Well," Damien finally says, clearing his throat and leaning back. "That was... very dramatic."

As you step out of the photo booth, you reach for the photo strips, eager to see how they turned out. Before you can grab them, Damien snatches them out of your reach, his grin widening as he tucks the strip into the inner pocket of his jacket.

You raise an eyebrow, half amused, half incredulous. "Seriously? You're keeping them?"

"These are mine now," he says, his grin not quite matching the playful teasing in his tone. He pats his pocket like it's a treasure chest, and you feel a small flutter in your chest at the sudden possessiveness in his gesture.

You cross your arms, hugging them tightly around yourself to ward off the evening chill. "Possessive much?"

He shrugs nonchalantly, but there's a glint of something warm in his eyes. "Call it a souvenir," he teases, as if it's nothing more than a casual, playful act. Then, before you can protest, he pulls off his jacket and drapes it over your shoulders, the fabric smelling faintly of him, warm and familiar.

You glance at him sideways, eyebrows raised. "Classic first-date move. Smooth."

"What can I say? I'm a natural," he quips, hands sliding casually into his pockets.

You tug the jacket tighter around you, the fabric warm against the cool night air. As you continue down the boardwalk, your gaze drifts to the distant Ferris wheel, its lights casting a soft glow that twinkles like stars against the dark sky. The wheel turns slowly, almost hypnotically, and you feel the pull of it, the quiet, gentle allure of the night wrapping around you both.

"Now that," you say, nudging Damien's arm, "is how you top off a practice date."

He follows your gaze and smirks. "The Ferris wheel? That might be too cliché."

"Don't knock it," you retort, pulling him toward the line. "No fake date is complete without one."

Within minutes, you're seated in one of the gondolas, the air noticeably cooler as you rise above the noise of the boardwalk. The city sprawls beneath you, a tapestry of lights glittering against the dark water.

He leans back against the seat, a playful smirk on his face. "Okay, so what's the one thing missing? You know, to make this a perfect first date."

You pause, pretending to think. "Hmm, maybe... flowers? A cheesy playlist? Oh, I know—a ridiculous grand gesture. Like someone running after me in the rain with a boombox or something."

He laughs, the sound soft but warm. "I don't think I can make the rain fall but.. I respect it."

"That's disappointing," you reply, grinning. "So.. what's your take? What would make this perfect?"

He tilts his head, considering. "Honestly? I think we're pretty close already. Maybe if..." He hesitates, his eyes flickering toward yours briefly, the words hanging between you both. "Never mind.

"No, no," you press, leaning forward. "You can't just stop there."

Damien shrugs, but there's something unreadable in his expression. "I was just going to say that if it was like.. a real first date.. probably a kiss?"

The words land, and for a moment, you both freeze. You glance out at the skyline, the quiet stretching between you. The weight of his words lingers in the air, and you feel something tighten in your chest.

"Well, that would make sense," you finally say, your voice light but shaky, "for a real date"

"Right," he says quietly, his gaze lingering on you a moment longer before turning to the view.

As the Ferris wheel pauses at its peak, the gondola sways gently. You both fall silent, letting the moment stretch out, the weight of his jacket over your shoulders and the warmth of his presence beside you making it feel.. like really good practice for the real date next friday.