#what is it like? having parents secure enough to allow you to discover on your own?

[neverendingford]

,

[accioscarheadthings]

ULTRAMINE ~ CHAPTER 5

kenji sato x reader

summary: kenji finds a secret that you have been keeping from him and it's making him doubt everything about you

pairings: kenji sato x fem!student!reader

warning: angst, arguments, emi defending you, mention of violence, gore, blood, and death, onset of a panic attack

masterlist !

an undercover agent.

working for the kdf

kenji's mind was whirling as he glared at your watch with utmost loathing. he was up early that morning, not being able to sleep much with the information he had discovered.

"good morning," you walked into his lab in the basement.

the watch slipped his grasp and he accidently kicked it your way.

you turned towards it and your expression turned alarmed at once, "kenji... where did you find that?" you had an idea of what he might of seen if he had your watch.

kenji turned around to face you, his eyes blazing with anger as he strode towards you, "the kdf? seriously?"

"oh god, ken," you covered your face with your hands, "it's not what it looks like-"

"i can't believe I trusted you. all along, you were working against us. you're nothing but a traitor!"

you flinched at his words, hurt by the disappointment and betrayal in his voice. but despite the pain, you didn't know how to tell him the truth. so you steeled yourself for his barrage of accusations.

"you had me fooled all this time. it was all just a facade, wasn't it? you were leading me on, using me to get what you wanted,"

"please, let me explain," you tried to speak, your frustration rising, "allow me to explain. i need you to trust me, kenji," you picked up the watch and strapped it around your wrist.

"i can't. not anymore," he snapped in disdain, "I thought I wasn't good enough for you, when it was you who was wrong all along, "you know deep down that you're not good enough, don't you? that's why you're always trying so hard to prove yourself. you're just a poser, pretending to be something you're not,"

your shoulders sagged at his words and your expression cleared. you swore you heart your heart crack.

ah, he hit the home run.

emi stepped between you and kenji, crying out in perplexity. she had never seen you argue with each other, but now, she didn't like it one bit.

kenji stared up at her, "step aside, young lady! you're gonna be in big trouble!"

emi trilled in retaliation, glancing at you in confusion.

you wanted to defend yourself, to prove that he was wrong, but something didn't feel right.

you couldn't breathe.

a chill slithered down your sweaty back, bursting into a shiver throughout your body.

kenji yelled, losing all sense, "emi! you're taking her side but she's the bad guy! she will kill you!"

"that's enough, kenji!" professor sato thundered, having just entered the lab, and having heard enough.

you froze, all of it sinking it. the words ascended your throat to defend yourself, and when you opened your mouth, you could hardly breathe.

you clutched your chest, scurrying out of the lab, ignoring professor sato's calls.

emi hurried after you, sobbing, but the tube elevator had disappeared out of view. she slumped down in her place with a pout, ears drooping down.

you barged into your room, leaning on the edge of your bed, and slid down the floor.

the memories of your past come rushing back to you like a tidal wave.

flashes of your parents’ faces, their voices, and the sound of the door being broken down by armed guards fill your mind.

you were transported back to that terrifying day when your parents were arrested, your body trembling with fear and anger. You watched as the guards roughed up your parents, grabbing them without any consideration.

you feel the familiar pang of betrayal as you watch your parents being dragged into the van, their shouts of protest silenced by the KDF officers.

"no," you hit the side of your head repeatedly to knock off the images, "stop it!"

the scene changed, and you saw your parents being taken to a high-security facility. you watched as they were separated and taken to different rooms, their faces etched with worry and pain.

as you follow your parents, the memory begins to blur and shift. you can see your parents being subjected to intense questioning, their bodies bound to chairs as their minds are probed and invaded.

screams of pain echoed throughout the facility they tortured your parents to no end. blood oozing out of their skin where they had been beaten and battered up for information.

as you came out of the flashback, you were brought back to the present moment. the memories of your parents' arrest and torture came flooding back, and you felt yourself starting to spiral into yourself.

your breathing became shallow, your hands shaking, your mind racing with images of your parents in agony and drenched in blood.

your knees buckled, and you found yourself sinking to the ground. you could feel the onset of a panic attack, your body beginning to shake, chest tightening.

your watch beeped and your warbird suit encapsulated you, covering you from head to toe, metal plates shifting upwards over your body.

"no, not now," you screwed your eyes shut, reaching out to reality and attempting to steady your breathing.

snapping them open, your suit lit up and you began to gather yourself.

"her parents died that day," professor sato explained to kenji over the cries of emi, "they didn't make it through the interrogation. at first, y/n's father thought they were getting arrested for the identity of warbird, partner in crime of ultraman," he scoffed, "but they were wrong. it was for their involvement in kaiju studies. y/n's father knew where kaij island was. so they thought they could torture it out of him. it got so severe that they-" he paused, screwing his eyes shut in agony, "they tortured them to death," his voice shook.

kenji shut his eyes, his heart heavy with sorrow, regret, and guilt. The weight of his actions and the full extent of his guilt started to sink in, and he began to understand the gravity of his words.

"the kdf disposed of their bodies by faking a car accident. inconsiderate of the little girl that was orphaned," professor sato's heart ached at the memory, his eyes getting glassy.

"y/n got into the kdf under a fake name by using her skill and expertise to know why they were specifically after emi. and also to know if her parents were, by some miracle, still alive,"

"kenji, professor sato," mina interrupted, "dr. y/n is experiencing a panic attack. i suggest immediate assistance before her condition gets worse,"

kenji felt his heart drop, "where is she?" he spun around to face the ai, who was also worried for you.

"in the guest room, but kenji-"

he didn't let her finish. he rushed to the elevator, his brain screaming at him to get to you at once, "dad, watch emi, i'll go check in on y/n,"

once kenji skidded to a stop in front of your room, he found the door ajar. stepping in, he took in the bedroom's state of disarray.

several items were strewn across the room as though you had stumbled over them. the sheets on the bed were yanked off, leaving the mattress exposed.

but most of your things were gone, and so were you, leaving the balcony door open.

he sat alone in the empty room, consumed by a wave of guilt that seemed to crush him. he replayed the argument over and over in his mind, your broken expression, berating himself for the heated words he had spoken and the hurtful tone he had used.

he regretted allowing his emotions to boil over and push you away. the silence of the room was almost deafening, intensifying his sense of remorse and longing for your presence.

TAGLIST !

@earth-to-mee @sassy-cat-in-town @breaddippedinorangejuice @nuhteyam @gameboigyu @byunpum @jennypenny-19 @doublebunv @moonjellyfishie @m00nd0v3 @despacito-uwu16 @reivelmin @seyoran @warlike-morning @crimson-mage-02 @b3e-sat0 @miffysoo @t4naiis @lovingyeet  @imsimping4life @mmeerraa @btszn @jusmango-shak @yobriisstuff @goldenpoison @fruchtgeschmack @iateurdad16 @bandolls @lovingyee @reivelmin @f-ergj @arrozyfrijoles23 @aise-30 @simp-hub @armycaratlover

AUTHOR'S NOTE !

ahhh!! i'm sorry for the angst, my loves!

they will make it up to each other so, don't worry about it. even after i finish the series, i'll be writing drabbles because i can't get enough of kenji sato. if you guys have any requests, don't hesitate to send them.

also, do you guys want another smut chapter? i think it'll be an overkill. but if you guys want it, i'll make it work somehow;)

let me know below <33

[starshine-hockey-girl]

Cold As Ice - The Interview

Here my fic for the May AU event for the HRPF fandom. As usual I am late getting it done. Apparently, I am physically incapable of writing a short blurb.

This a mafia AU. @pattiemac1 and I have created this AU together over the last two/three years. We add to it then take things away constantly. She graciously allowed me to insert my characters of Lex and Teddy (from Journey to the Emerald City) into the world.

This is a little glimpse into the world of a Sidney Crosby led mafia family and Teddy/Lex became a part of it. I don't think it needs much warning other than language and some implied violence. As usual fluff abounds between my two little cupcakes.

I will put a link at the bottom for anyone interested about Teddy/Lex in their world.

Word count - 7.1K words

@hrpffandomeventblog @cellythefloshie @fallinallincurls @penstxgal1968

SUMMER 2021 - DALLAS, TEXAS

Jamie “Lex” Oleksiak yawned as drove down the expressway toward home. It had been a rough night at the club. Three guys had called off and so he was forced to work at the front door. Between the oppressive heat and steady wave of SMU sorority girls shooting their shot with him, he was more than ready to get home. He mentally pictured the refrigerator and recalled at least two bottles of cold beer that he would be drinking soon. 

His cell phone rang and he glanced at the notification on his console screen. “Of course Seggy would call at 3 AM,” he thought to himself. He answered the call at the last moment. “Hey Seggy,” he said, “What’s up?”

Tyler Seguin held his cell phone to his ear and unbuttoned his shirt. “You are a tough guy to track down, Big Rig,” the brunette laughed, “I had to call three different guys to get your number. It’s like you dropped off the face of the planet.You still in Dallas?” 

“Yeah, still in here in Big D,” he muttered, feeling stung by the word still. It was not his plan to still be in Dallas. No, he had planned to return to Toronto with this tail tucked between his legs years ago. But life got in the way and his career began in security. He had almost saved enough to make the move back with a little dignity when he was struck by a thunderbolt. A thunderbolt named Theodora “Teddy” Baxter. 

Ironically, they met the last time that he had been forced to work the front door at the club. The moment she looked up with those bright blue eyes and megawatt smile as she handed over her ID, he was hooked. For reasons still unknown to him, she had agreed later that night to go on date with him. They had been inseparable ever since and any plans to move back to Toronto went out the window. His heart was firmly planted in Dallas. Well, anywhere she was. 

“What’s keeping you there?” Seggy questioned, “I thought you would have moved onto greener pastures by now. I know I did.” 

“It’s complicated,” Lex answered vaguely.

Seggy got quiet for  a moment and debated whether to push the issue. Big Rig was not known to be an open book and he needed him to have an open mind. “I got ya. Life’s like that sometimes,” he commented casually, “Listen, you still doing security work? That’s the word on the street.”

“Depends on who is asking,” Lex answered coolly. Other than his parents, he had not admitted to any of his Toronto friends that his professional hockey career had been a bust. 

“It’s me asking - it’s me,” Seggy answered. He had picked up on the tone in Big Rig’s voice. They shared in a desire to not let word of their career failure reach Canada. They had that much in common. 

“And why are you asking?” Lex asked warily. 

“Because I have a lead on a job and I think that you would be a good fit.” he said bluntly. Tyler tried to mask the desperation in his voice. 

The last guy that was brought into the crew turned out to be an utter disaster. Claude Giroux had been recommended to the crew by Flower and didn’t take long to discover that he wasn’t going to last long. His gruff demeanor ruffled the sensitive egos of the rag tag crew. The last straw was when he openly defied The Boss. It was so bad that HE delivered the permanent pink slip to the back of Giroux’s head himself. 

“Tell me more,” Lex asked. 

Tyler explained that the job would be head of security for the CEO for Maritime Industries. When Lex didn't respond immediately, Tyler read from his phone. “Planning and implementing comprehensive security strategies, controlling the security operations budget, monitoring expenses,” he rattled on.

“Seggy, are you reading that off your phone?” Lex interrupted.

“Ummmm, no” Seggy stammered.

“Don't bullshit me. What's the job?” Lex asked.

“It’s a crew in Pittsburgh- mainly strip clubs and a few night clubs,” Seggy sighed, “and a few extracurricular activities.” Tyler tried to downplay the extent of the organization until he got a sense of how comfortable Lex would be with the ethically gray area. 

“Seggy…..we are not 21 any more,” Lex asserted, “I’m too old to go back to that petty ass shit.” 

“Big Rig, would you believe me if I told you that Sid is planning on going legit?” Tyler pleaded, “We really need a guy like you.” 

“Sid?” Lex questioned, “Like Sid Crosby? That guy runs all of Pennsylvania and half of NYC. Holy shit - Seggy how did you end up on that crew.”

“Long story, but let’s just say that my hockey skills finally paid off,” Tyler smiled, “Seriously, he is going legit soon. The pay is good and there are bennys.” 

“How good is the pay?” Lex quizzed.

“Let’s just say that my family isn’t questioning my “hockey” career anymore,” he replied. 

“Shit - that good?” Lex muttered as he pulled into the parking lot of his apartment building. He looked up and saw the light on his living room. Teddy was waiting for him. Teddy who had never gotten so much as a parking ticket, much less arrested. “No,” he thought to himself, “I can’t bring her into that life.” He sighed, “Sorry, Seggy. I can’t.”

“Why?” Tyler whined. Sid wasn’t too happy that he was having to handle the day to day security operations and you know what they say, that shit ran down hill to Tyler. He needed to get someone to replace Giroux. He needed that someone right now. 

“Sorry, Segs - I gotta girl now. I don’t want to mess it up,” Lex said softly. 

“You’re turning down this dream job over a girl? Are you crazy?” Tyler scoffed.

“Yeah, I am crazy,” Lex sighed, “I just can’t risk losing her.” 

“I gotta meet this girl,” Tyler pushed before he decided that a softer touch was required, “I get it. Not really, but I get it. Why don’t you take a night and think about it. I can hold off Sid for that long.”

“I doubt I will change my mind, Seggy,” Lex countered, “She is the real deal.”

Lex hung up the phone and walked up to his apartment. He set his things down as he walked past the cramped kitchen. It was really just a glorified studio, but Teddy had done her best to make it homey. She had even started a new series on her YouTube channel - DIY Dollar Tree home decor. 

As if by unknown force, Teddy began to rouse when she felt Lex’s presence in the room. She had fallen asleep with her laptop open while editing videos. “Lex?” she yawned as she stirred, “Is it that time?” 

He walked over to her and moved her laptop to the table before scooping her into his lap. “Yeah,” he kissed her cheek as she curled her body into his chest. “How was work?” he questioned. 

Since the “Great Escape”, Teddy had taken two jobs to replace the income from her father’s real estate firm. Even with that, the duo struggled to make ends meet.  She had grown up with every luxury known to man and gave it all up two months ago to be with him after her father had issued the ultimatum. She had to pick between her family and her love. She made the choice in an instant and never looked back. Now she was waitressing at the best steakhouse in town at night and nannying for Stars goalie Ben Bishop during the day. She operated on fumes but never once complained. 

“Work was good. I had a private party so the tip was great, even the company was horrible,” she smiled. Lex furrowed his brow while she continued  “Paige came in and was well, you know, Paige,” she sighed, “Thank God for automatic gratuity. She might have stiffed me otherwise.” Lex studied her face and could see her desperately trying to keep the facade up but he could see the pain behind her eyes. Paige had been her childhood best friend but had turned her back on Teddy when she chose him after her family’s ultimatum. 

“Foz,” he said gently as he caressed her face. She smiled at the nickname he had given on their first date. It had started out as “Fozzy Wozzy Bear had red hair”, but had shortened over time to just Foz.

She shook her head to protest and shake the negative thoughts that were beginning to swirl in her brain. “No, Lex - it’s fine,” she lied, “She’s not important and I am glad that I could see her true colors finally.” She had seen the true colors of most of her childhood friends as one by one they dropped her. “It’s funny,” she thought to herself, “None of them had anything to say as they ignored the obvious signs that Chaz was beating me. But let me fall in love with a good, decent man who works hard and all of a sudden they are all concerned about my well-being.” The bitterness rose up inside of her. 

Her mind raced for a distraction. “I have a surprise for you!’ she jumped up and his eyes followed her. She came back with a to-go bag from the restaurant. He pulled out the box and opened it. Inside was a huge tomahawk steak with all the trimmings. He looked up to see her beaming smile, “They said it was overcooked because they wanted it super rare, but it’s cooked just like you like it, so I snagged it.” 

She moved to the side of him as he ate off of his lap. They enjoyed the moment in quiet contentment as Lex’s mind raced. “How long?” he asked himself, “How long can I ask her to make these sacrifices? How long before she runs back to the easy life. The life I can’t give her.”

His thoughts were interrupted with her voice, “Spill it, Jamieson.” She only used his full name when she was completely serious. 

“An old friend called with a job offer,” he started. Her face lit up immediately. “But it’s in Pittsburgh,” he interjected, expecting her face to drop. It did not. “And it’s not necessarily completely above board.” Again, he expected her expression to change, but it was bright and hopeful. “I told them no,” he said finally. “Why?” she questioned.

“I can’t leave you,” he answered. 

“Then take me,” she replied as if it was the obvious answer. 

“You would go? You would go to Pittsburgh? But Dallas is your home,” he said in disbelief.

“My home is with you, Love,” she kissed his cheek.

“And it doesn't bother you that there may be some shady shit?” he prodded.

“There is shady shit going on everywhere, even the corporate world. There is a reason my father has a security detail. You don’t become a billionaire without doing some shady shit and making a few enemies along the way. What's the difference? The real question is would you take the job if I weren’t a factor?”

“I would at least go have the conversation,” he answered,

“Then go have the conversation,” she kissed his cheek.

Lex picked up the phone and dialed Seguin. He only spoke three words when Tyler answered, “Set it up.” Then he hung and focused on Teddy, “Tell me about Paige. What did she do this time? Do I need to go pay her a visit”  He tickled her sides and nipped at her neck. “I can be your enforcer, Foz. Just say the word.” 

TWO DAYS LATER 

“Foz” Lex asked as she adjusted his tie on the private plane Crosby had sent for them, “Where did you find this suit? I am not buying the Goodwill story.” The odds have her randomly finding a tailored suit that fit his almost six eight frame was slim to none.

“I acquired it. That's all you need to know,” she grinned. 

Lex opened the suit jacket and saw the label with the words “Custom made for RTB”. He looked up at her in surprise. “Is this your dad's suit? Did you steal a suit from your dad?” Their height was about the only thing he had in common with the stubborn, prideful man. 

“Steal is such a harsh word,” she answered as she brushed imaginary lint off of his chest. He looked at her with one eyebrow raised,”it's an old suit. It was languishing in the back of his closet. I am pretty sure he wore it to my confirmation. We are giving it new life.”

“You stole it, Foz,” he teased.

“Well, think of me as modern day Robin Hood,” she teased as she pulled on his tie to kiss him, “And you can be me Maid Marian.”

His eyebrows furrowed in sign of disapproval. “What? You would look good as Maid Marian,” she protested before continuing, “I simply tested the supposedly top notch security system at my parent's house. I was doing them a service actually. They should be thanking me that I only took a suit as payment. It could have been worse.”

“Put it back once we get home,” he chided. 

“Fine, but Lex, I don’t think you are going to be up for the level of shady shit working for Sid Crosby is going to require if you can’t accept one re-acquisitioned suit from my father,” she playfully pouted. 

“I am the only criminal in this relationship. You are the virtuous one with the heart of gold, got it?” he said. He cracked a smile, but the message was clear - leave the shady shit to him. 

“Got it,” as she adjusted his tie, “Now let’s go knock him dead.”

Maritime Manor - Sidney Crosby Compound - Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania

Lex stood at the large picture window for a moment. He examined what he could see of the extensive  grounds. The lawn was well manicured with each of the smaller cottages on the compound sharing a large common area. Just beyond the cottages was a wooded area that extended to what looked like a river or creek bed. He mentally checked for sight lines and frowned at the results.

He turned around and examined the large office that had been created from two small guest rooms. At the far end, a large conference table sat covered with stacks of money. From what he could quickly estimate, it was easily $20K in stacks with a pile left to be sorted. He walked closer to the table. The pile was probably another 50K left to be sorted from collected protection money from the weekend. 

Outside the office, he heard the jovial sounds of the crew chirping each other. Suddenly they got quiet. He turned to face the door. The chatter had turned seriously and he heard the sound of the front door open. He then heard the sound of Sid’s distinct Nova Scotian accent, “Who is she?”

Then he heard the accented voice of Andre Burakovsky, “She’s with the big guy. He’s waiting for you in the office.” Lex’s body tensed up and he faced the door. 

Seggy piped in, “You left him in the office? Alone?”

“That’s not good?” the Swede questioned Seggy as they walked past him. Sid’s silence sent the resounding message that it was indeed, no good. Lex heard footsteps that approached the door. He resumed his position by the picture window, but turned when Sid and Seggy walked in the room. 

Sid did a quick visual assessment as he walked in. His lips pursed when he saw the stacks of money in the open. When his eyes landed on the gun left out in the open, he shook his head, “Burky, Burky, Burky.”

After a quick one shoulder hug and pat on the back, Tyler moved to make the introductions. “Sid, this is Jamie Oleksiak aka Big Rig,” he began, “We go back a long way. Big Rig, this is Sid Crosby. He runs this crew.”

“I am sure that he knows who I am, Seggy,” Sid interjected as he shook hands with Lex, “You can leave us alone now.” Tyler’s head went back and forth as the two stood in an extended handshake. 

“Sure, Sid,” Tyler said through the tension that radiated off of the two men sizing each other up. “I’m just going to go head over to the clubs and deal with that bouncer issue.” 

Lex noted the hand strength in the shorter man as Tyler left. He also noted the slight flair in his nostrils and tense jaw. On the surface, Sid appeared calm and neutral.  He crossed in front of Lex to walk to his desk. He made a quick turn while pulling out his gun. He was met by a gun pointed between his temple as Lex quickly removed his gun from his hand. Time stood still as the two men stared each other down. The beating of each other’s heart pounded in their ears. It was then that Sid noticed the gun pointed at his head was one of his own. His eyes shifted and he saw the hidden gun safe ajar. 

Sid said neutrally, “So what’s your plan of action here, Big Rig?”

“Well, I would say my plan of action is to find out if you are as big of an idiot as your crew,” Lex said equally as cool, “Also I would say that we are in the process of sizing each other up. I think I have the upper hand literally and figuratively.” 

“I think that you have proven your point,” Sid took a step back without breaking eye contact, “You have found some vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. Care to sit down and discuss the job now like professionals?”  Lex nodded and Sid carefully walked behind his desk. 

“Hands on the desk,” Lex ordered as he kept the gun pointed at Sid. 

“Come on, Big Rig,” Sid smiled, “I said like professionals. Besides, do you think I am going to kill you with your girl sitting in the next room?” 

Lex’s eyes squinted slightly but his expression did not change. He shrugged and said, “It’s a possibility, but that’s assuming that you get me before I get you, which is not going to happen.” 

“Fair enough,” Sid conceded, “You got the job by the way if you want it. Want to hear the details?” Lex nodded his head yes. Impressed with Sid’s direct approach. “Then put the damn gun down,” Sid instructed. Lex lowered his weapon, but kept the gun in his hand. “First, tell me the other vulnerabilities you saw.”

“I don’t work for free,” Lex replied, “Tell me about the job and compensation. I will discuss it with Teddy. Then I will give you a breakdown of your slip-shod security.” 

Sid sat back and smiled, “You don’t bullshit. I like that.”

“I find that it makes life simpler,” Lex responded. 

“Alright, here is a breakdown of the job. You are head of security for all business locations as well as the compound. You have complete discretion in terms of staffing and resources that you need. My only non-negotiables are Seggy and Burky. They may need some fine tuning, but I trust them,” Sid explained, “Compensation includes salary, housing and benefits.” 

“What’s the salary?” Lex quizzed.

“Name your price,” Sid answered without hesitation. Lex balked and Sid continued, “Look, I have a good gut instinct about you. You have already proven that you will stand your ground and you are not a yes man. That’s what I need.”

“I gotta talk it over with my lady,” Lex answered slowly, “Tell me about the crew.”

Outside in the great room, Teddy’s legs bounced up and down on the gray leather sofa as she  played with the bracelet on her wrist. She moved her fingers from stone to stone. Burky watched from the side of the room and ran his fingers through his hair before bringing his thumb to his mouth. He slowly chewed his fingernail while contemplating his next move. He knew had screwed up letting the Big Bird or whatever his name was into the office. He had been distracted by the red head when she entered the room wearing a navy blue sheath dress that hugged her curves. Women had always been his weakness.

Sid would come down hard on his stupidity if he didnt come with a plan to make up for it. “What were you thinking, dumbass?” he chastised himself. Suddenly he saw a glint that caught his eye. He focused on the origin of it and smiled widely. He knew what he needed to do. 

“Excuse me” he asked brightly and exaggerated his Swedish accent slightly,  “What did you say your name was?

Teddy looked over at him warily, “Teddy.” She wasn’t in the mood to make small talk. She was a bundle of nerves as the reality of the situation sank in. This could be her future - a future outside of Texas. It was a move that would hammer the final nail in the coffin of her relationship with her parents.

“Ahhh, Teddy is a man's name, correct?” he questioned “Your parents wanted a boy and not a girl?”

“Wow,” she said as her eyebrow raised slightly, “You get right to the point…..”

“Andre,” he grinned, “They call me Burky.” He studied her body language as he decided on his approach. “You look thirsty. We can go get a drink in the kitchen.” he said sweetly.

She studied his face for a moment. He seemed friendly enough, much friendlier than she thought a part of Sid Crosby’s crew should be. It couldn’t hurt to make conversation and learn a little bit more about the job from his perspective, she told herself. 

“Do you have coffee?” she smiled back, “I would love some.” She willingly followed along as he led them  into the spacious kitchen. They made small talk as they made their coffees. They reached over each other as they put their cream and sweeteners in their mugs. He spoke of his move from Sweden to the states to pursue a hockey career. Like Lex and Seggy, his professional career had been a bust. In his case, multiple injuries stymied his playing time and eventually earned him the label of “fragile”. Teddy remained tight lipped when Burky pressed her information about Lex and his history.

It was only after they returned to the living room that Teddy felt like something was off. She dismissed the feeling as she looked at the closed door. “So Sid?” Teddy asked casually, “He's a good boss?”

Burky's head popped up, “Oh, he's great. He took me in off the street.” 

Suddenly, Teddy realized what was wrong. Her right wrist was bare. The wrist that normally held  a diamond tennis bracelet. It had been a sweet sixteen gift from her dead sister, Frankie. She looked down in the chair to see if it had slipped off there. It was nowhere to be seen. She distinctly remembered touching it earlier. She retraced her steps mentally and then kicked herself figuratively.

“So Andy?” she asked pointedly.

“Andre,” he corrected.

“Andre,” she smiled, “What do you do for Sid? I assume that you have some sort of specific role.”

Burky blinked slowly, unsure where the conversation was leading. He didn't want to bring any attention to his skill set. “Oh, I do all kinds of things.” he answered casually.

“Things like stealing bracelets from house guests?” Teddy leveled her gaze at the Swede.

“Bracelet?” he smiled, “What bracelet?”

“The one you took,” she answered calmly. 

“I didn't take a bracelet,” he replied in the same manner.

“We're going this route?” Teddy got up and walked toward him with a sense of purpose, “Give me the bracelet- no harm, no foul.”

“There is no harm, no foul because I don't have the bracelet. I don’t know what you are talking about,” he stood his ground.”

“Come on Burky, this could get really ugly or you can simply hand it back to me,” Teddy attempted to speak as sweetly as possible. When he didn’t respond, she felt the anger rise up in her. “Look, you have three seconds before I scream,” her voice rose slightly, “What do you think HE is going to do when he hears it? Do you think he is going to stop to ask you questions? If you are lucky, I will be able to explain the situation before he assumes something far worse. No, when I tell him that you took the bracelet, he will just turn you upside down and shake you down. Have you ever been shaken down by a Big Rig?  I would just give it back to me and save yourself the pain, but you do you booboo”.

In the office, Sid was mid-story when Lex held up his hand. Sid stopped talking and they listened.

“Let's be reasonable,” Burky cajoled.

She stepped closer and yelled, “Give it back.”

“or you will tell your giant, badass big bird of a boyfriend,” he scoffed, “For the last time, I didn’t take your damn….”

He was interrupted as Teddy grabbed his hand and twisted his arm behind his back. Then she pushed her foot to the back of his knee, bringing him down to his knees. “Give it back to me,” she screamed as she twisted his arm tighter. 

“Foz, everything okay out there,” Lex called  as he rose to his feet. 

“Yeah sure,” Teddy answered breezily as she pressed harder.

Burky heard the movement and assessed the situation. “It seemed like a good idea at the time,” he thought to himself as the pain began to shoot up his arm. He began to realize that his initial plan of stealing the bracelet to get back in Sid’s good graces had not been thought through to completion. One, he thought she wouldn’t notice, or at least until they left. Two, he forgot about the big guy. Three, it was a stupid ass plan altogether. 

“Alright, alright, alright,” he whined, “You have to get off of me.” She stood up slowly and adjusted her dress. Burky placed his forehead on the floor and took a deep breath in an effort to compose himself. Then he jumped up and smiled brightly. “Congratulations, Teddy,” he said with false bravado. He reached into his pocket and withdrew the five carat tennis bracelet. He placed it into his palm and presented it to her with great flourish. 

It was that moment that the door opened and duo walked into the room. 

“What’s going on?” Lex asked bruskly. 

Teddy tilted her head, “What do you mean?”

“We heard a ruckus,” Sid answered. 

Teddy and Burky exchanged a look. Teddy studied his face. His eyes implored her silently. She considered his misdeed. He tried to pull a fast one on her and failed. It was unlikely he would try it again. She tried to summon anger but he bat his puppy dog eyes at her and she smiled.

“A ruckus?” Burky repeated, “I didn’t hear a ruckus. Did you hear a ruckus, Teddy?”

“No, I didn’t hear anything, Andy,” she responded. She turned to the duo. “Can you describe the ruckus?” she added. 

Sid stifled his laughter. He wasn’t sure what exactly was happening, but he knew two things - Burky had screwed up again and Teddy was covering up for him. The Swede was the equivalent of a labrador puppy on his crew. He was simultaneously entertaining and endearing with his antics. However, he frequently left messes all over that required someone to clean it up.

 Lex pressed the issue slightly, “I am pretty sure I heard your voice, Teddy.“

Teddy smiled, “Oh that! My bracelet fell off. Andy here helped me find it. Didn’t you Andy?” 

Andre bit his tongue. He wanted to correct her but she was doing him a solid so he let it slide. “Yes, that must have been what you heard. Poor Teddy was quite flummoxed. You should really get that clasp checked. It’s very weak in my opinion.

Lex looked back and forth between the two. He was sure of one thing- something happened and Teddy would not tell him in front of Sid. Since she seemed to have the “situation” under control, he let it slide. 

“Are you almost done with your chat?” Teddy asked, desperate to end the stand-off. 

Sid smiled, “We’re just about done. Burky, take Teddy down to see the River cottage.” She tilted her head in confusion and he continued, “The job does come with either a housing allowance and/or use of one of the cottages on the compound. Why don’t you go take a look at it and see it will fit your needs?”

“Oh, that sounds like a fabulous idea,” she smiled. 

She held out her arm to signal Burky to lead the way. They were about ten yards outside the house before he spoke. “Why did you cover for me?” he asked. 

“Snitches get stitches,” she answered quickly.

“Not here,” he retorted immediately. She gave him a side eye. “Sid has very few rules, but rule number one is that there is no violence towards women or children. They're off limits.”

Teddy nodded her head in understanding, “So why did you steal my bracelet then?”

“Temporary insanity?” he laughed. When she did not return the laugh, he added, “I wanted to remind Sid that he needs me around for my special set of skills.” 

“Didn’t think that one one through, huh?” Teddy paused 

“Yeah,”  he sighed, “I am not the brains of the crew obviously..”

Teddy elbowed him, “Don’t worry Big Rig is smart enough for the both of you.” They stepped inside of the cozy three bedroom cottage. Teddy walked around from room to room and tried to keep her composure. It was a far cry from their cramped studio apartment. Mentally she started decorating it with their existing furniture. When she found the back door that led to a deck overlooking the Alleghany river, she was sold. 

Outside the cottage, Sid approached Burky with Lex. “Where’s Teddy?” Lex asked. Burky nodded his head to indicate that she was inside. They walked in and found her peacefully enjoying the view. She turned as she sensed their presence even though her eyes were closed. Sid’s eyebrows lifted in surprise. 

“Are you all done?” she asked brightly. 

Sid smiled, “I think that I may have him convinced to join the crew. I think that my only obstacle is you. Will the cottage work?” He was smart enough to know who the real decision maker would be.

Teddy glanced at her boyfriend then back to the river. She folded her arms across her chest. Then she replied with a smile, “The cottage is more than adequate.” Then she turned to Lex and asked, “Can you give Mr. Crosby and me a moment? I do have some questions for him.” 

His eyebrows shot up and he tilted his head, “Teddy, are you sure you want me to leave?”

‘Yes, it won’t take long. You should check out the shower to make sure that you fit,�� she suggested. When he left, Sid and Teddy stood in silence for a moment. 

“Mr. Crosby,” she began, “Are there any of the other guys on the crew that have a wife or girlfriend?”

“No, you are the first,” he answered, “Truthfully, I thought you were going to be a dealbreaker for me when I saw you in the living room. Turns out that I was wrong.”

“How so?” she inquired. 

“You are much tougher than you appear,” he answered, “How hard did you take down Burky?”

Teddy’s mouth dropped before she smiled, “I don’t know what you are talking about.”

“Come on, you can tell me,” he encouraged, “What did he do?”

“Promise me that he won’t be punished?” she asked point blank. Sid held up his fingers in a “Scouts Honor” gesture. She nodded in understanding. 

“Apparently in a fit of desperation, he lifted my bracelet from my wrist,” she answered. Sid immediately frowned and his jaw tensed. “Hey, he is part of your crew. You can’t be surprised.” Teddy walked towards the edge of the deck before turning back to face him. “Seriously, he didn’t think it through but there was no harm and no foul,” she said as she held out her bracelet. 

“Back to my question,” he quizzed.

“I took him down hard enough to get my message through,” she stared at him defiantly, “he won’t try it again - at least not with me.” 

Sid smiled, “You way tougher than I thought you were.”

“I used to not be tough, but Lex taught me,” she said out loud, “He turned me from a sheltered rich girl into someone with street smarts.”

“I’d love to hear how that happened,” he replied. 

“Story for another time,” she sighed. She steeled herself. Then she blurted out, “Mr. Crosby, what kind of business is this? I am not naive enough to believe that this is a completely legitimate operation, but I need to know just how far across the line will this job take Jamie?” She was careful to use his proper name. 

“Wow, you've got nerves of steel to ask me that,” Sid balked. 

For a moment, Teddy doubted herself but she pushed through it, “Lex,” she stopped herself, “I mean Jamie is more than capable to do whatever this job requires. I know that he has had to make ethically gray choices in the past.” She paused and considered shutting up but her protective nature spurred her on. “But he is a man of honor. He is not mean or malicious. I don’t want him to be  in a position where he would have to compromise his principles and character.” She took a deep breath, “I don't want to lose the man I love to a world of darkness.” 

Sid studied her for a moment. If there had been any doubt left about Oleksiak, she had removed it. Anyone who could inspire such gumption and loyalty was a person he wanted on his crew. Finally Sid spoke, “I won’t ask him to do that. I will not lie. We break the law on occasion.” She gave him a side eye. “Okay, we break the law a lot, but we do have a code that we follow.”

“Will he have to hurt people?” she asked brazenly.

“Yes, but nobody gets hurt that doesn’t deserve to be hurt,” he countered. 

“And women and children are off limits?” she asked to get confirmation of Burky’s remark.

“They are off limits and anyone who breaks that rule gets hurt,” Sid answered. 

“Well, then I think you have answered my questions,” she stated. 

“Good,” he smiled, “I’ll send Big Rig in so you can make your decision.”

Once Sid and Burky had left the cottage, Lex came back out to the deck. He walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist and bent down to place his chin on her shoulder. “What are you thinking, Foz?” he asked quietly. 

“I am thinking that I want to know how the interview went. Do you like him? Does he like you? What does the job entail?” she leaned her body weight back and turned her head to face him. He took her hand and led her to the chaise lounge. He removed his jacket and got comfortable. Then he pulled her on top of his massive body. 

“Well, after the guns were put away, it went well,” he started. 

“Guns? What the hell, Lex!” she shouted. 

He smiled, “We sized each other up so to speak”

“And?” she asked. 

“And there is a reason that he is Sidney Fucking Crosby and runs all of Pennsylvania and half of NYC. He’s smart, shrewd and has balls of steel,” he answered. She rested her head on his chest as he went on to explain the job. She could hear the excitement in his voice. She could also hear how he was trying to tamper it down. He knew that she would allow his excitement to cloud her judgment and she knew that he knew it. 

“So did he offer you the job?” she asked. 

“Yeah,” he tried to answer casually. 

“What’s the hold up then?” she joked. 

“The money,” he answered. He continued when she squinted in confusion, “He said that I can name my price. Foz, I have no idea on what to ask for. This job is so far out of my league. I just don’t know.” His voice trailed off. 

“Hey,” she interjected, “This is not out of your league. He basically offered you a job on the spot for a reason. Don’t doubt yourself, Jamieson.” 

“Okay boss,” he tickled her side. 

Suddenly an idea hit and she dug out her phone. She started texting Steve, the former Secret Service agent, who headed her father’s security team. 

Teddy gulped when she read the last line. 

“What?” Lex asked as his eyes filled with tears. 

She handed the phone to Lex who read over the messages. “Daddio never changed the code,” she whispered, “so I could go back if I needed to.” 

“Foz,” he whispered, “If you want to stay in Dallas, we can stay in Dallas. I’ll find a way to make more money.” 

Her eyes flashed up at him, “You know I don’t give a shit about the money. It’s never been about the money.” He closed his eyes and rubbed his face. “Listen to me Jamieson Oleksiak. I chose you. I chose you and I will choose you over and over again,” she spoke urgently. “This is a fresh start for us and we’re not going to throw it away for a possibility,” she said firmly, “They made their choice and nothing in those texts changes that.” 

“But Foz, they’re your family,” he countered.

“No, you are my family. They threw me away when they couldn’t control me” she protested, “Would you throw me away?

He recoiled in horror, “Never.

 “It’s you and me forever.” she began reciting the familiar words. 

“No matter what” he joined in reciting their motto.

“Whatever it takes,” she finished. 

“So we have a decision made?” he smiled.

“Let’s move to Pittsburgh,” she answered. 

“Foz, I didn’t even ask about the cottage,” he realized, “Do you like it?”

“It needs a little TLC, but I like it,” she assured him, “Factor in redecorating in your salary request.” 

They spent a few more minutes in silence before he nudged them up. After a few minutes to take measurements, they strolled hand in hand back to the main house. Teddy started to find a seat in the living room as Lex went to find Sid. However, he kept a firm grip on her hand. Together they knocked on the door and entered the office together. 

“So what’s the verdict?” Sid asked.

“We’re in for the right price,” Lex answered. He took a deep breath, “500K should do it.”

“Okay,” the Canadian crime boss answered without pausing, “When can you start?”

“Wait,” Teddy interjected. Sid turned to her, “And a reno budget for the cottage.”

Sid blinked and then smiled, “Welcome to the family. Let’s go celebrate.” 

The crew sat in the private dining of Ciliegia, Sid’s preferred Italian restaurant. The usually all male crew felt invigorated by the presence of a woman. There was a sly game of one-up manship as they vied for Teddy’s attention. It had not taken them long to realize that the key to getting into the new boss’s good graces was getting into HER good graces. 

After much prodding from Sid, Teddy finally spilled the beans on Burky’s failed attempt to steal her bracelet. 

“I lifted it without you noticing,” Burky protested as he blushed, “At least give me credit for that.” 

“Yes, Andy,” she teased, “You did do that. Now what you were going to do with it once you had it, I have no idea.” 

“Andre… if you are not going to call me Burky, call me Andre,” he begged. 

“Why would I do that, Andy?” Teddy answered, “I think you should be glad that this is the only punishment I am going to dole out.” Lex watched with a bemused smile as the two bantered. 

Later, Sid asked the server to send his compliments to the chef for the delicious meal. They were surprised when the fiery redhead walked into the room. She wiped her hands on her apron as she approached Sid at the head of the table.  He stared at her, suddenly unable to speak. Startled glances were exchanged among the group before Lex spoke up to pass along the praise. The chef, Lizzie, nodded her head as she listened but her eyes were transfixed on the brunette Canadian. When she stumbled out of the room as she kept her gaze in his direction, Teddy and Lex shared a look.

As they walked out to go their separate ways, Sid nudged Lex, “I am pretty sure I just met my future wife.”

Lex stopped suddenly, “Don’t you think that you should know her name first?”

“I know her name,” Sid corrected, “It’s Mrs. Crosby.”

Lex laughed out loud, “Those redheads, I’ll tell you.” He glanced over at Teddy who was busy exchanging phone numbers, instagrams and snapchats with Seggy and Burky. “They’ll snatch your soul out of your body in an instant and never give it back,” he said with a smile. She turned to him and flashed a smile that melted his heart.

Lex pulled Teddy in a tight hug. “I lied earlier today, Foz” he whispered as he kissed the top of her head. 

“You did?” she looked up into his eyes, “about what?”

“I said that I am the only criminal in this relationship,” he smiled as he spoke, “That’s not true.”

“I’m a criminal now?” she playfully pouted, “Fine - I’ll get the suit cleaned and returned to Daddio’s closet. No harm, no foul.”

“I’m not talking about that, Foz,” he kissed her forehead. 

“Then how am I a criminal?” she poked his rock hard abs. 

“You stole my heart, just like a seasoned professional,” he bent down to kiss her gently, “Much better than the Swede.”

“Oh,” she returned his kiss, “In my defense, you stole mine first.” 

“Well, I am not giving it back,” he lifted her up to kiss her more deeply.

“Me either,” she wrapped her arms around his neck, “I am yours forever. No takeback and no exchanges.”

“I wouldn’t think of it,” he grinned as he carried her out to their waiting car, “I wouldn’t think of it.”

Chapter One-Trouble with a capital T-https://starshine-hockey-girl.tumblr.com/post/653360134099288064/trouble-with-a-capital-t-magical-mystery

[misirosekisiro]

Shadow's deception

Chapter 1

Sarutobi Akiha's heart raced faster than ever as he finally stepped foot onto the Arasaka Corporation headquarters grounds. Despite years of training and preparation, the magnitude of his covert operation sent shivers down his spine. This wasn't just about revenge against those who killed his parents - this was warfare.

Inside the impenetrable fortress of glass and steel, the air carried echoes of powerful machines whirring behind closed doors. Every step forward felt like advancing into enemy territory, leaving his every nerve on edge.

Then he notice a guard, not just normal guard like outside building, but a ninja guards, dress in blue high-tech ninja's bodysuit, patroling and gurding the door.

Akiha sneak carefully towards the guard, waiting for the right moment to strike. Finally, he sees it – the perfect opportunity arises when the guard bends over to pick up something off the floor. In a flash, Akiha lunges at the unsuspecting target, grabbing hold of his wrist before pulling him closer.

The guard struggles, attempting to break free while reaching for hidden weapons under his sleeves. But Akiha’s mastery of ninjutsu proves superior, allowing him to swiftly disarm the opponent without breaking contact. With a twist of his fingers, he pins the guard’s arm securely behind his back, forcing submission as they face each other eye to eye.

As their gazes lock, the intensity rippling through both parties becomes palpable. Sweat drips down their foreheads despite the cool night air.

"Al..." Ninja guard going to shout.

But Akiha moves quickly, placing his hand over the guard's mouth to prevent any noise escaping. Then, with precision, he plunges his tongue deep inside the guard's throat, savoring the warmth of his blood. Their connection intensifies further, their breathing becoming heavy. "You know what happens now?" asks Akiha huskily, leaning close enough to whisper directly into the man's ear. His arm warp around guard's neck to do chock hold.

Guard struggle even more trying to escape death. It seems hopelessly for him, because there was no chance to resist Akiha.

"Sorry, I will take your duty for today." Akiha whisper.

Guard struggling in panic to breathe, slowly loosing consciousness due to lack of oxygen to brain. Akiha feels victorious, accomplishing his first task of the evening. However, a new sense of urgency begins to stir as he realizes time is running short. Taking advantage of the situation, he hastens to find a suitable place to don the stolen ninja attire." He found storage room, so he dragguard body there, undressed him.

First, he removed the black leather boots, then pulled off the formfitting blue bodysuit revealing smooth muscular legs beneath. Next came the gloves, followed by the headband which held the distinctive blue hair in place. Lastly, he took off the tight fitting hoodie covering the upper half of the body.After removing all these items, he left the unconscious guard lying on the cold concrete floor. Now dressed in the stolen ninja attire, he looked almost identical to the guard he had defeated earlier.

He look at naked unconcious guard. He need to make sure that he can't alert anyone, even he's early awake. He start to tie

the unconscious guard hands behind his back, rendering him helpless if he regains consciousness too soon. he also gagged the bound guard's mouth, muffling any possible cries for help. Once he finished securing the prisoner, He hidding his own belongs, his ninjs bodysuit, maskin a nearby storage area, knowing he couldn't risk having them discovered later.

Now fully assimilated into his new identity, he moved confidently throughout the maze-like structure, blending in effortlessly among the staff members. Utilizing his advanced knowledge of the premises, he managed to navigate the complex system, avoiding surveillance cameras and suspicious employees alike.

His mind constantly drifted toward thoughts of retribution.

But not long after he move toward his mission. One figure landed silently next to a place where Akiha hide his attire.

It's Mukuro, another 19-year-old gay ninja working for Arasaka Corp. His primary objective is to capture intruders like Sarutobi Akiha. His stealth skills are legendary amongst other ninjas. He found Akiha since he enter the building. So stalking him silently. He's let Akiha progress to learn what is this ninja's target. He saw when Akiha attack guard, change hisattire. And heading toward Data storage room. He pick up Akiha's ninja bodysuit, put in in his nose.

Mukuro smirked, his eyes narrowing slightly. Stepping closer, he reached for the fabric, taking it gingerly between his fingertips. His touch lingered longer than necessary, drawing attention to the supple material and exquisite craftsmanship. Unable to suppress a small smile, he traced invisible patterns along the soft fabric, reveling in the subtle sensuality embedded within its fibers.

He could feel Akiha's strength, determination, and sexual prowess radiating from the garment, enticing him beyond belief. Clasping the material tightly to his chest, he mentally saluted the ingenious design that allowed such an exceptional display of power and prowess.

He grab all Akiha's belong, then vanished.

Chapter 2

With his stolen ninja guard uniform and identity, Akiha head deeper into Arasaka's building.

Navigating through dimly lit corridors, the air thickened with apprehension. Each turn seemed to bring him one step closer to the data room holding vital information. Yet, he feel he was being tracked closely by someone else skilled in the arts of deception...someone whose sole aim was to expose and neutralize him. But he sight no one.

As Akiha navigates through the labyrinth of hallways, his mind wanders, fixating upon the prospect of success and how sweet victory would taste once he acquired the crucial intel stored within the data room. Even though he was alone amidst this vast expanse, the presence of Mukuro hung heavily in the air. His mere existence taunted Akiha, casting doubt over whether this quest for vengeance might end in failure.

He try to check a blueprint of the building in his memory.

He knew the data room should be near the top floors, far away from entrance, surrounded by high level security measures.

As he walk higher, feeling his heart race faster. Surrounded by dark corridor illuminated only by occasional emergency light. The pressure mounted exponentially as each passing second brought him closer to ultimate prize.

Finally, he reach a large metal door marked 'Restricted Area'.

He know he has arrived. Before opening the door, he take few moments to calm himself. Breath deeply and steadies his racing pulse. Gaining confidence, he steps toward the door, pressing his fingerprint scanner with his faked fingerprint on his finger.

Without warning, a male voice comes over intercom speaker: "Identify yourself!"

His voice filled with authority, making the hairs on Akiha's arms stand on end. Quickly, he composes himself, remembering the information he studied regarding the building layout and personnel. Speaking clearly yet quietly, Akiha answers, "This is agent X57, reporting for my shift." There is a brief pause before the intercom responds: "Access granted," accompanied by the metallic sound of the door unlocking. As he slides open the heavy metal door, he cannot help but marvel at the secrecy and security surrounding this highly classified space.

Adjusting his grip on the stolen ID card attached to his belt, he braces himself against the frigid draft blowing inward from the opened vault. The temperature drop signaled his proximity to the inner sanctum housing the most coveted treasures of Arasaka Corp. A thrilling mix of anxiety and excitement coursed through his veins as he ventured further, leaving nothing but darkness behind him.

Bursting forth into the main chamber, he beheld rows upon rows of gleaming server racks containing seemingly infinite amounts of digital information.

Despite the sheer magnitude of the wealth contained here, he remained focused on locating the specific data sought after.

A sudden wave of panic surged through Akiha as he realized just how pervasively the room was monitored – every action he made would leave indelible marks upon countless digital records. This thought sent shivers cascading down his spine, making his resolve waver momentarily. But resolutely, he pressed on, determined to achieve his goals.

Moving towards the servers responsible for storing critical business strategies, financial transactions, military intelligence, and various other forms of valuable data, he searched diligently for the specific file he needed. The silence encapsulating the enormous space amplified the loud clicking sounds generated by the rotating hard drives and humming fans. Each corner revealed layers of intrigue hidden behind screens of numerical codes and cybersecurity protocols.

Although familiar with some aspects of technology utilized in espionage missions, Akiha felt a rising unease as he confronted the depth of this technological conundrum. Every attempt to access the desired files triggered multiple defense mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized access.

Unbeknownst to Akiha, he was already under intense scrutiny by Arasaka's IT department, led by Mukuro. Observing his movements via closed circuit cameras, they noted his precise navigation and swift maneuvers throughout the facility.

They were well aware of his covert tactics - a testament to his mastery of stealth and strategy. However, little did they realize that Mukuro's keen instincts were honed not merely for tracking intruders, but for recognizing kindred spirits seeking redemption in combat. He knew all too well the intensity of battle, and understood better than anyone the fire burning deep within Akiha's soul.

Meanwhile, Akiha continued his silent exploration, traversing vast spaces swathed in shadows cast by stark fluorescent lights.

Dodging past several motion sensor stations without triggering alarms proved an incredibly challenging task, requiring finesse and agility he hadn't known he possessed. Despite these obstacles, Akiha refused to falter, fueled by desperation and passionate desire for justice.

During his journey, however, he began to sense something amiss in the atmosphere around him. Although he initially attributed these feelings to the heightened stress induced by this precarious situation, he gradually became convinced there was more going on beneath the surface.

Something about the way the wind whispered through the empty corridors or the eerie echoes produced by his footsteps resonated with him on a primal level. It wasn't until he turned a sharp corner and came face-to-face with the data terminal that he truly comprehended the significance of these whispers.

The data terminal stood tall and imposing, towering above everything else in the vicinity. Its cold steel exterior emitted an ominous aura, accentuated by the dim lighting enveloping the area. As Akiha approached cautiously, he couldn't help but notice the faint outline of a shadow moving across the floor. Pausing briefly, he peered intently into the darkness, trying to discern any signs of movement. Satisfied that whatever had caused the disturbance was harmless, he resumed his approach towards the terminal.

But before he can approach it. The wall raising form the floor around him, too fast than Akiha can flee.

Sweat trickles down his forehead, he clenches his teeth. Panicking now, fearing that he will be trapped forever, Akiha decides to make a last effort to break free. Digging his fingers into the cool metal walls, he starts clawing wildly, trying to find purchase to push off. Desperate and losing hope, he remembers his fighting skills. Suddenly, he launches himself backward onto a nearby platform, performing a powerful roundhouse kick.

However, It's useless at all. Then he heard a trapdoor open above his head. follow with another ninja, step into a seal cage. Trapdoor was close after.

Akiha could see a ninja standing there, dressed in black attire, with long limbs, lean muscles, and a graceful stride. He wore a red high-tech tight ninja outfit, complete with a hood hiding his face.

"Hello friend, Nice to meet you. I'm Mukuro, who's be responsible on guarding this tower." Mukuro said in mocking tone.

Akiha glares fiercely at the figure, struggling futilely against the confines of the cage.

Angry, frustrated, powerless, betrayed, these words ring true inside Akiha's brain. He tried to gather what happened. How did he get caught? All those hours spent planning, preparing, studying…for naught! In a blink of an eye, his carefully crafted plan crumbled.

Feeling defeated, Akiha looked up at Mukuro. He decide to suddenly attack to Mukuro, hope to grab a victory with surprise attack.

In response, Mukuro reacted swiftly, blocking Akiha's strike with ease. A smile curved across his lips as he observed Akiha's efforts to escape the cage. He took advantage of the momentum created by Akiha's failed attempt, pinning him against the bars of the cell. As sweat dripped down both warriors’ faces, neither hesitated to express their determination to win.

Despite his anger, Akiha found solace in the fact that he faced one of his own kind.

Unwavering in his commitment to honor and duty, he fought furiously, pushing against the limits of his human capabilities. Mukuro, equally driven by loyalty and devotion to the cause, engaged in a merciless struggle for supremacy. Their bodies moved fluidly amid the chaos of the conflict, each thrust aimed directly at weakening the opponent's defenses. Sparks ignited when their flesh collided, and heat radiated from their clashing energies.

Both men were consumed by the urgency of the fight, displaying raw strength and expertise rarely seen among ordinary individuals. As sweat soaked their clothes, the two fighters locked eyes intensely, each absorbing the other's gaze, attempting to psychologically disarm them.

Akiha pushed harder, knowing that if he didn't defeat Mukuro quickly, he risked being exposed, captured, and potentially killed by others within the facility.

But even Akiha is talent ninja, but he still too little experience on field. Ninja fight is not like a samurai, relate on power. But cunning and stealth attack. Suddenly Akiha feel daze. His mind filled with confusion, and his body no longer responded as quickly. His eyesight seemed hazy, yet oddly clear at the same time. The air smelled different, subtle scents wafting over him. Unable to resist, he fell victim to the drug administered by Mukuro earlier. Overwhelmed by the sensory assault, Akiha lost consciousness.

As Akiha lay unconscious in the cage, Mukuro seized the opportunity to explore the contents of the data storage device strapped to Akiha's chest.

Carefully removing the case, he inserted a special USB key into its slot and waited patiently for the device to download the necessary faked information. With a soft click signifying completion, Mukuro removed the drive and slipped it safely into his pocket.

He then turned his attention back to Akiha, observing the young ninja lying helplessly before him. Feeling a mixture of admiration and pity for his adversary, Mukuro decided to spare Akiha's life for now. Instead, he chose to take matters further, binding Akiha tighter and placing a gag in his mouth to ensure his silence.

Once secured, Mukuro left Akiha alone in the dark chamber, leaving only the sound of his footsteps echoing through the hallways as evidence of his departure.

Now, Akiha struggled against his restraints, unable to move freely despite his best efforts. Frustration coursed through his veins as he realized the extent of his failure.

"So you finally awake, I wait until you awake because it more fun that way."

Mukuro spoke sarcastically. "It seems your plan has failed miserably," Akiha thought bitterly, feeling humiliated by his own lack of success. Despite his disappointment, Akiha remained steadfast in his resolve, determined to seek vengeance upon those who wronged him.

His hands bound behind his back, Akiha tested the limitations of his restraints. The material used for binding was surprisingly durable, rendering his attempts at escaping utterly fruitless. Yet again, he felt defeated.

Then Mukuro bring up a bag and place beside him. Akiha remember it. That is a bag that he keep his belongs and hidden while he disguise as ninja guard.

"Why bother?"asked Akiha with a hint of bitterness in his voice. "What good does it do me now?"

Mukuro paused momentarily, contemplating whether to answer honestly or maintain the pretense. Deciding on honesty, he replied, "Well, first things first, let us start getting to know each other."

Without waiting for a reply, Mukuro sat down opposite Akira, drawing his legs up underneath him.

His movements were practiced and measured, allowing him to sit comfortably whilst maintaining a sense of control. The slight creak of leather as he shifted in his seat punctuated the otherwise silent room. Akira continued to struggle against his bonds in vain, occasionally muttering curses under his breath. This would have been highly entertaining to watch if it weren't such a testament to Akira's arrogant pride. There was something fascinating about witnessing someone who appeared confidently superior, reduced to near helplessness.

Mukuro grinned slightly, taking pleasure in watching Akiha squirm against his restraints, visibly aware of how much his pride had taken a hit. Still, Mukuro knew better than to show any weakness or triumph prematurely. So instead, he began with small talk - inquiring about Akiha's past experiences and motivations. Gradually, the subject matter most pertinent to their present situation: espionage. But Akiha know better to not share any infomation about himself. he keep silent.

"It's ok, I just think it's will more easy if you just talk. But it's really no need."

Said Mukuro, seemingly unfazed by Akiha's refusal to engage.

"You may wonder, why I need to bring your belongs here." Mukuro pats on the bag beside him.

'Your equipment, right?'

Akiha nodded silently, choosing not to speak, understanding well enough Mukuro's intentions.

'Ah yes, your radio,' Mukuro continues nonchalantly, 'wouldn't want anyone accidentally intercepting our conversation.'

Even though he couldn't remove his hand gloves without assistance, Mukuro managed to fiddle with the device, ensuring the channel was securely encrypted. However, he purposely kept the volume low, creating an air of uncertainty surrounding their interaction.

"Since it was clothes, sure it bring for someone to wear."

Akiha mumbles sullenly, his gaze fixated on Mukuro, desperately trying to comprehend his motives.

"You will know soon enough" Then Mukuro walk to Akiha, grab Akiha's hair and lift his head up. He remove Akiha's gag then thrown a pill inside Akiha open mouth. Akiha try to split it. But Mukuro punch to his guts. Make him open mouth and grab the air. the pill also pass down his throat.

Akiha coughed violously after swallowing the strange substance. It's wasn't long before he feel heat in his body. But also feel weaker in each second pass.

Mukuro noticed the change in Akiha's condition, amused by the effects of the drugs he had administered. Although it wouldn't make Akiha completely compliant, the added influence could prove useful in manipulating the course of events. He watched closely as Akiha succumbed fully to the potency of the concoction.

The warmth spread throughout Akiha's body as the drug took effect. Even as he became disoriented, a newfound euphoria emerged.

His limbs grew heavy, his muscles unwilling to obey his commands. Paradoxical feelings flooded his body; excitement and terror coexisted within him. Each part of him felt both enthralled and petrified. Meanwhile, Mukuro studied Akiha intently, observing the rapid changes taking hold of his captive.

Satisfied with the progression of the drug's effects, Mukuro proceeded to carry out his nefarious scheme.

Drawing close to Akiha once more, he positioned himself inches away from the vulnerable figure seated on the cold concrete floor. Observing Akiha's rapidly dimming faculties, Mukuro prepared to capitalize on the opportunities presented. Glancing around briefly, He put his mouth on Akiha's member.

His tongue danced around Akiha's tip, teasing the edges. Just as Akiha started to lose himself in the sensuality of the act, Mukuro leaned forward, pressing his lips to Akiha's earlobe. His whisper reverberated deliciously deep within Akiha's core.

“I hope you enjoy yourself.”

Pulling back momentarily, he looked deeply into Akiha’s eyes, sending shivers of trepidation through his spine.

Without warning, Mukuro resumed his suckling of Akiha’s erect manhood, moving faster and deeper with each passing moment. As Akiha’s hips bucked involuntarily, Mukuro smiled wickedly, reveling in the knowledge that he held complete dominance over Akiha in this state.

Meanwhile, Akiha tried desperately to break free from his binds, his desire clashing with his growing dependence on Mukuro.

Despite being consumed by lustful urges, Akiha found solace in knowing that there was a chance to escape later when his strength returned. For now, he allowed himself to surrender to the pleasures Mukuro so masterfully provided.

Mukuro moved expertly across Akiha's body, lavishing him with tender caresses along the length of his arms and legs. His touch brought forth waves of euphoric sensations that enveloped Akiha's entire being.

Swept up in the rapturous torrent of sensory delight, he found himself yearning even more intensely for release. His whole world seemed to shrink down to nothing but Mukuro's deft fingers and the tantalizing promise of fulfillment. And yet, he knew instinctively that this was merely the beginning – that they were mere players in a larger game.

Both aware of their respective roles in this twisted choreography, Akiha found himself caught in the web of passion woven by Mukuro. Unable to resist the temptation, he gave himself wholly to the experience. Their bodies tangled together, becoming one, their primal desires driving them ever onward towards a climax that promised to eclipse their wildest dreams.

Embracing the eroticism of the encounter, Mukuro unleashed the depths of his sinuous expertise.

Then Akiha can't resist any further. He break a cum.

Mukuro smirked, satisfied with his performance thus far. He step and watch at Akiha. Akiha's cock still leaking a cum. It's flow out non-stop.

Akiha moans softly in relief, finding a measure of calm amidst the chaos. He not even notice that his body start to flaten. It's like all muscle, bone in his body was melt down and turn in to his cum, flow aways form his body form his cock.

When Akiha notice that something happen to his body.

He try to stand up, to see what happened. But his body become heavier, harder to move. Slowly, he realize what happening. All of his power gone. Even worse, he don't understand why. Why everything go wrong?

While Mukuro look at Akiha curiously, enjoying the unfolding spectacle of Akiha losing control over his own fate. He walks toward Akiha slowly, studying his changing appearance with keen interest.

When the last drop of Akiha's cum, leak out to wet floor.

Finally, Akiha lay motionless on the ground, his face filled with confusion and fear. Unaware of what has transpired during these moments, he stared blankly at Mukuro, questioning the reality of this surreal scenario. In response, Mukuro only offered a cryptic smile, leaving Akiha feeling utterly defeated and defenseless.

Feeling the loss of power physically manifested itself, the sudden transformation elicited panic and horror from Akiha. He now just a conciousness skin of himself. Laid on the floor.

Akiha finally understood what had occurred. All the muscle and bones in his body transformed into his semen, draining from his penis and eventually dissolving, reducing him to nothing but a mindless consciousness confined to his original skin. Panic rose swiftly within him as he struggled to grasp the magnitude of the metamorphosis. How did this happen? What went wrong? Questions bombarded his thoughts frantically.

Unfolding his limbs, Mukuro sauntered towards Akiha.

"Seem you enjoy a process of my unique ninpo. "Skinsuit transformation""

Mukuro said casually, his voice carrying a hint of cruelty. This caused Akiha to quiver with dread, despite his diminished physical capabilities. Despite the horror that now surrounded him, Akiha remained determined to find some way to reclaim his former self.

Mukuro start to undress himself

Before Akiha, he reveals a naked body covered in scars. Scars from years of training and battles as a skilled assassin.

Mukuro approached Akiha slowly, his hands roaming suggestively along his muscular frame.

As he stands towering over Akiha, the contrast between their figures becomes evident - Akiha's body reduced to a bare shell while Mukuro stands proudly displaying his robust form.

Then Mukuro pick Akiha's skinsuit up.

He rub his finger tips against it lightly, savoring the tactile pleasure. Feeling the fine threads underneath his fingertips, he whispers to Akiha.

"Now, let me show you how powerful I really am... If I wanted to, I could simply snap your life away right here. Do you believe me?"

There was no need for Akiha to answer - his frozen state conveyed everything needed. Mukuro laughed softly, a dark sound laced with menace.

Then he lower Akiha's skinsuit, use both hand to spread Akiha's mouth open wide, even widen more than normal mouth can do. Akiha think it's may tear and he must pain. But he really feel just likewas injected with anesthesia. He can feel a touch, how his mouth was spread but it's no pain.

What is going on? Did Mukuro inject him with numbing agent? His mind races as he tries to comprehend the situation. It seems impossible for Mukuro to perform such feats without the aid of medicine.

Akiha knows he needs to focus if he wants to survive this nightmare. Yet, his rational thought is quickly subdued by his mounting anxiety.

Why doesn't his body respond? What does Mukuro want from him? These questions continue to echo incessantly within his head.

Then the fear stuck to his head, Mukuro put one leg inside Akiha's mouth.

Akiha's mind racing trying to comprehend what this meant. He couldn't accept what he saw before him. Was Mukuro truly doing this? Or was it merely a figment of his imagination born from fear and fatigue? Couldn't be real, right? It wasn't possible. No one could defy the laws of nature like this!

But it didn't matter whether it was real or imaginary, because Akiha was trapped in this terrifying illusion either way.

Mukuro bring his leg's to fill in Akiha skinsuit's leg.

Akiha head now hug to Mukuro's ass, he can smella mix of sweat and pheromones emitting from Mukuro's body. It makes him remember their first meeting. The intensity of their encounters earlier tonight replay vividly in his memory. He remembers feeling helpless beneath Mukuro's superior skills and control. Yet somehow, this newfound submission felt different — much more intense and perverse.

After Mukuro adjust his leg to fit in Akiha's leg, he put another legs inside do the same.

Akiha's mouth stretched wider as Mukuro continues filling the void within his body with his legs. The sense of powerlessness intensifies, gripping Akiha's heart like a vice. He finds it difficult to reconcile his helplessness as the reality of the situation dawns upon him fully.

Each time Mukuro steps inside Akiha's body, a wave of conflicting emotions crashed over him. There was a strange mixture of fear, anger, humiliation, and arousal coursing through his veins. Also it's feel some contents of himself was filled.

After adjust both legs, Mukuro pull Akiha's skinsuit to cover his shoulder. It's always the toughest progress to put the arms and hands in.

Mukuro grimaced slightly at the challenge of fitting his own long fingers and palms into Akiha's narrow arms and hands. As he forced each digit to conform to the limited space, he noticed Akiya shiver slightly in reaction to the invasion. The slight tremble sent a thrill running through Mukuro, igniting an inner fire that he had long since suppressed.

The sensation grew stronger, almost uncontrollably.

Akiha tried to hold back his cries, but they escaped anyway, reverberating throughout the silent chamber. The sight of Mukuro filling Akiha's body piece by piece evoked feelings of both fear and exhilaration simultaneously. He wondered how long he would endure such torment until Mukuro finished. Time appeared to drag, making each moment seem excruciatingly drawn out.

Despite his predicament, there was also a perverse fascination with watching someone else occupy his body. It fueled a hidden desire deep within him that demanded satisfaction.

Mukuro also adjust his cock to fill in Akiha's empty cock skin.

Without hesitation, he inserts his entire length into Akiha's crotch area. The act causes Akiha to cry out involuntarily, his body reacting to Mukuro's presence. However, Mukuro maintains his composure, reveling in his complete dominance over Akiha. Akiha's chest rises and falls rapidly, his breath quickening, betraying his growing arousal. He closed his eyes, struggling to regain his bearings amidst the swirling sea of mixed emotions.

The weightiness of Mukuro's presence continued to press down on him, yet strangely enough, his aching desires began to stir once again. A part of him yearned for release, begging to be consumed by Mukuro's raw passion. In spite of the uncertainty surrounding his circumstances, a subtle whisper called forth from deep within, urging him to succumb completely to Mukuro's advances.

Having secured Akiha's lower half, Mukuro stepped back to admire his work. Now only last piece, he pull up Akiha's skinsuit head, to cover his head.

Inserting his head into Akiha's skull cap proved far more challenging compared to other parts. Each attempt seemed futile, causing Mukuro to grow impatient. Eventually, after several failed attempts, he managed to get his head through the small opening, securing the final piece of the puzzle.

Fully integrated into Akiha's skinsuit, Mukuro stood tall, surveying his newly acquired domain with pride. At first it's like a man try to wear too tight suit. Akiha's face was distort in different body inside. But soon Mukuro body start to shrink to match with skinsuit.

As he settles comfortably into Akiha's body, he observes his surroundings. The faint trace of Akiha's lingering essence fills him with renewed determination.

Akiha realized that Mukuro has indeed taken possession of his body entirely, leaving him paralyzed inside his own skin. It was both horrifying and surreal at the same time.

Amidst his confusion, Mukuro seized the opportunity to speak directly to Akiha, his voice echoing deeply within Akiha's skull.

"Feel the warmth caressing your insides, Akiha? Soon, you will experience something beyond your wildest dreams."

Mukuro's taunting words reverberated within Akiha's consciousness, creating a whirlwind of conflicted emotions. Simultaneously terrified and titillated, Akiha struggled to comprehend his present circumstance.

Then Akiha feel like got something slide into his brain. It's nauseating feeling. Like a slime try to read anything inside his brain.

The slithering sensation brought about discomfort as well as curiosity. Then suddenly, the sliding stops.

"Oh, Akiha right? Good name, that my name now. Ah you work under Genso, that oldie never give up right? I'm sorry about your lost that turn you into a shinobi. But why not just forget about them and seek different way of life. Than try to destroy Arasaka." Mukuro said, everything about Akiha's live

now belongs to him, his past and future included. "We should make best use of our enemy's resources, don't you agree?" Mukuro now as Akiha, move to Akiha's equiment, he start dressing it.

First, he take off Akiha's underwear, revealing his perfectly sculpted behind. Even though he was dressed in Akiha's skinsuit, he couldn't help but appreciate the firmness and smooth texture of Akiha's derriere. This sudden intimate encounter heightened his excitement further, sending waves of heat pulsing through his core.

Next, he moved onto Akiha's armor. Carefully slipping on the various pieces – gloves, gauntlets, boots, and finally the iconic black bodysuit that covered Akiha's upper body. Each item added to his transformation, enhancing his physical prowess and giving him a distinct edge over any adversaries.

The armored ensemble bore testament to Akiha's dedication and commitment to honing his craft. Mukuro marveled at the precision engineering incorporated into these garments, designed specifically for optimal performance during missions.

Then he take a Akiha's tight ninja mask.

Akiha's nose twitched as he caught a familiar scent wafting from the confines of the mask. It was a combination of perspiration, musk, and the lingering traces of Akiha's pheromone-laden presence. The blended fragrance caused a peculiar sensation to course through his body, eliciting an unexpected response. Despite the initial repulsion, he found himself oddly attracted to the unusual concoction.

As Mukuro took the ninja mask and placed it carefully around his neck, ensuring its snug fit, Akiha experienced a surge of panic. Trapped within the confines of his own skinsuit, he was unable to resist Mukuro's manipulations. His thoughts raced frantically, searching for a means to escape this bizarre predicament.

Suddenly, Akiha became aware of a throbbing ache below his waistline. Was this a side effect of being controlled by Mukuro's powers? Realizing that he could no longer control his physical responses, Akiha accepted his fate as a pawn in Mukuro's elaborate game. Acutally it's Mukuro that feel so

excited, as if electricity is flowing through his body. Sensual images flashed through his mind, sparking a flurry of ideas aimed at seducing Akiha into submitting to his will.

Unbeknownst to Akiha, Mukuro possessed knowledge regarding Akiha's weak spots. Leveraging this advantage, Mukuro sought to exploit these vulnerabilities, drawing Akiha deeper into his web of temptation.

Mukuro as Akiha, pick all left equipment, place it into his body.

As he straps on Akiha's gadgets, his confidence grows steadily, bolstered by the power and capabilities afforded by Akiha's arsenal. These tools served as the ultimate proof of Akiha's devotion to his cause - even in death, his skills remained invaluable.

Wearing Akiha's clothing and gadget gave Mukuro a sense of invincibility and potency unlike any before.

Akiha felt his heart racing in trepidation beneath his stolen skin. Meanwhile, Mukuro savored the taste of victory as he prepared to leave Akiha’s base incognito. As Akiha lay helplessly bound, he watched Mukuro don his mask, preparing to deceive the others waiting outside.

Chapter 3

Mukuro standing in the moonlight in Akiha's identity, watiching a old japanse mansion that is a base of Akiha. A rebellion group which aim to destroy Arasaka Corp. He need to report a successful mission to his master. but with false data inside the USB.

He had a plan in motion, one that would lead him straight towards destruction and chaos. The thought sent shivers coursing through his veins, igniting an inner fire that burned brighter than ever before.

When he reached Akiha's base, fully transformed, he confidently strode forward without skipping a beat. His footsteps were sure and steady as he made his way toward the entrance of the secret facility. He knew the layout of the compound by heart, having memorized every nook and cranny in anticipation of tonight's events.

With unwavering certainty, he approached the security checkpoint undeterred. Donning a calm expression, he handed over the usb containing fake intel to the guard stationed there. "This is the latest update from our field operatives," he stated authoritatively, hoping to instill trust in the minds of the unsuspecting rebels. The guard appeared satisfied with his explanation, nodding briefly before allowing entry.

Once safely inside, Mukuro swiftly navigated through dimly lit corridors, making his way towards the central command post.

His newfound physique exuded an air of authority and strength, instantly earning him respectful glances from fellow agents. With an easygoing demeanor, he introduced himself as 'Akiha', claiming to have successfully retrieved crucial intelligence vital to their campaign against Arasaka Corp. While some individuals displayed skepticism due to his apparent youth, none dared question the authenticity of such critical data.

Akiha's quarters were located adjacent to the command center, offering privacy and solitude.

Once alone, Mukuro removed the items from his inventory and began examining them meticulously. Every object held significance and value to Akiha's strategies. Disguised as Akiha, Mukuro felt emboldened, relishing the idea of manipulating Akiha's peers with ease.

Staring back at Mukuro in the mirror, a sinister grin formed across his lips. He recognized the danger lurking within these walls—the potential consequences of his betrayal.

Yet, the prospect of causing utter havoc among these traitors only intensified his resolve. Pondering over Akiha's personal files, he discovered sensitive information pertaining to several key members of the resistance movement. Smirking maliciously, he formulated a plan to sow discord amongst them using this valuable data.

Leaving Akiha's private chambers, Mukuro ventured forth, surveying the bustling activity within the compound. Invisible amidst the crowd, he observed everyone go about their business oblivious to the impending turmoil.

Beneath the surface, however, a sinister smile stretched across his face as he contemplated how to execute his destructive intentions. Utilizing his expert understanding of human psychology, Mukuro subtly embedded seeds of doubt throughout the camp, planting suspicion amongst its inhabitants. In doing so, he hoped to fracture the cohesiveness of the team and create divisions among the ranks. To solidify his position within the organization, he decided to establish a strong rapport with those who held considerable influence.

He amost can't keep his laugh to brust out.

[triplexdoublex]

We cannot say Megan was the first celebrity he linked up with but while before all he cared about was NETWORKING and living the glory - to one day tell the story-, with Megan he started putting into consideration the clout he can instantly get.... and for this I really BLAME TRAVIS BARKER, that man.

All this circus for pop punk and his 'has-been' drummer career to come back AND for his label mogul career to take off. I'm sure he was in Kells ears telling him how this would benefit his rebrand and help him get away from 'Bad Boys' as Interscope would be more willing to focus on him and back him up (yes, he was always signed with them, but he REALLY started teaming up with them around 2018 and it was only for that staged Eminem beef, allegedly).

I also believe with Sommer Ray, something NEW about celebrities 'hook ups' like never before must have clicked and that is EGO. During that time, as many IG 'fitness' 'models' were out there, Sommer was the ONE no teenage boy or young man in America- black, white or other - could shut up about. Notice how even the guys were so invested in her- especially Rook who would later advice him to be in that Z-list movie with Megan. Sommer situationship really walked so Megan's could run; her 2009 role was peek 'young average male' fantasy woman.

Usually PR main gain is an UPGRADED image: Jay Z himself, R. Kelly associate, was only allowed to seat at certain tables after he associate himself with somebody so GREAT it over-shadowed the image of the crack dealer from Marshall project who shot his own biological brother at 12 yo over some deal. What's odd about the whole Twin Flame PR scheme is that it achieved the exact OPPOSITE for Kells. Megan is too insecure and talentless to team up with her partner to build eachother up.

The hate he gets on the daily has nothing to do with any sense of social envy but has anything to do with HER. That woman made sure to latch onto him as she won't land anything better (I'm sure his 'size' and looks helped and sponsoring vitamins on IG won't pay the bills, three CS checks and the divorce settlement). And to really secure him, she had to destroy his image from the start: gain levarage on him - so that, if he ever was to leave- she would be the victim.

In the private sphere she made sure to discover all weaknesses, feed his addictions (lines of coke on plastic tits and ayahuasca trips) and dig into his childhood (disgusting for her to use a poetry book to out 'one of her pretty boys' as a childhood S Assault survivor and blame their absent parents for everything and upbringing, yuck).

His last project gave me hope maybe he finally realized SHE is his BIGGEST enemy. Hopefully he's toxic enough to actually make run her away: for once in his life RUNNING AWAY PEOPLE MIGHT actually BE his BIGGEST BLESSING! Otherwise I don't see her ever letting go. She is too clingy. She's the type of person you actively need to cut off from your life.

HARD DISAGREE about Travis!! Especially saying he’s a “has been” that man is a fucking LEGEND!! I was a Blink girl wayyyy before I was a MGK girl. He’s always been drumming and producing and working on something. The only times he’s probably even has a break when when he was he was recovering from a plane crash he somehow survived despite having 3rd degree burns over 65% of his body , and he still came back strong!

The rest …in a nutshell, yeah this PR bullshit definitely hasn’t worked in his favor at all but let’s be honest he was already getting hate before she came along too , but she’s definitely increased it by playing victim. And yeah she’s an absolute trash human being for outing the SA in her “poetry book” especially since it heavily suggested it was kells who was abused because she mentioned the “history of family curses” he’s always said his family was cursed and even says in new songs how his family is cursed for 7 generations.

Yeah I had hope too until the were at stagecoach together, whether it be a pr stunt or them actually getting back together who knows? I just want her gone for good .

[itsahotminuteinbetween]

Chapter 8

GUESS WHO'S BACK WITH ANOTHER CHAPTER That's right, after being out of commission for a couple months, chapter 8 is FINALLY finished.

AND I HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS FOR THE PEOPLE WHO'VE BEEN ASKING FOR IT:

Where the Stars Don't Shine is finally posted on ao3! The new chapter is here!

I am so so so sorry about the wait, so I made it extra long just for you guys! As always, @itsberrydreemurstuff, @bibooby, @laegume and @andyssilly, welcome back to the slumber party, I saved yall some front row seats! (If anyone else wants to be tagged just lemme know and I'll put ya in the next one!) Anyways, hope yall enjoy this, and without further ado-

On with the show!

Word Count: 4,962

-------

All your excitement during your encounter with Sun vanishes when it becomes clear just what sort of day it’s going to be.

You had a bit of a mixed bag in attendance today. All your regulars, plus a couple new faces here and there. It started out okay, really.

And then one new kid in particular showed his hand and cemented his legacy as one of the most spoiled children you have ever had the dishonor of meeting.

You try not to dwell on it and just move on, but this kid…this kid is awful . Pushing other kids around, turning his nose up at snacks and eating off other kids’ plates, ripping the heads off toys…

(You really have to remember to bring your sewing kit next time.)

You know it’s not the kid’s fault for his behavior, more of the people who raised him, and you try not to hold it against him, you really do. By the looks of it, Sun is trying, too, but both of your patience is drawing thin.

You draw the line when he tears out a page of your books that one of the other boys was reading.

You remind yourself repeatedly that you are not allowed to punch a child. 

You do put him in time-out, though. And you can guess by this kid’s behavior that their parents are going to raise hell about it.

You discover some hours later that your assumption is completely correct when said parent comes in later to pick up their child and you confront them about the brat’s behavior, to which their response is an offended gasp and a rant about how awful your work ethic is and you’re not providing enough care this is why people like you are in jobs like this you’re lucky you’re even employed that makes the brick walls behind security desk that you have the strong urge to slam your head into all the more appealing. You stand there with a polite customer service smile and take it like the valued employee you are while trying to remember what temperature human flesh burns at before chastising yourself, until you’re thrown back into reality and catch the tail end of what she says. 

“-and are you even listening to me right now? Ugh, you’re even denser than the robot, at least it can do its job right. You’re supposed to be the competent worker and you’re being beaten by a walking junkyard pile-”

Yeah, nope, not this again.

You bristle at her words, gritting your teeth slightly and forcing your smile to maintain itself. If it looks slightly more manic than intended, that can’t be helped, but you had always been good at playing the part of someone weaker than you. “I’m so sorry you feel that way, ma’am. I’m sure you can leave a review regarding our services on our website if you’d like. However, Fazbear does not tolerate abuse and slander of any of its staff. Thanks for stopping by and have a Faz-er- iffic day!”

You slam the door in her face just as she opens her mouth (likely to respond with another offensive remark) and dust your hands off in satisfaction. It’s not the first time someone’s come to complain about you and your coworkers. In truth, the company probably couldn’t care less how the clients treated their workers and their ‘property’ as long as they got paid. Slander against you, you could understand; you signed a contract and sold your soul away. One of the agreements was to deal with annoying clients. But the other two? They had been built for this, any complaint against them was the fault of the company itself, and besides, you couldn’t see them as anything other than people since the moment you’d spoken to them. After all, a company probably wouldn’t leave a prerecorded message expressing immediate hostility towards its employees on their first day of work, now would it?

They had to have some level of sentience to make that decision.

You mark off the last child with a pleased grin. At least with the way she’d reacted you could guarantee that neither the harpy woman nor her little satan spawn son ever set foot in the Daycare ever again.

You do unfortunately still have to clean up the carnage left behind, though. You grab a broom and a dustpan, ready to sweep up the crumbled play-doh and ripped stuffing from earlier, back straightening with a sharp inhale when the lights cut off. Not terribly uncommon, but it still left you uneasy. Moon didn’t get to do his little song and dance during naptime because you were preoccupied punishing a rulebreaker, and you’re pretty sure he’s fixing to dish out his skewed idea of justice one way or another.

Lo and behold, the tell-tale click of a wire descending directly behind you gives away his intentions. 

“ Aww , thank you for defending our honor so nobly , little knight,” he croons mockingly. You don’t even have to turn in his direction to know he’s fanning his faceplate and fake swooning in a ‘my fair maiden’ pose. You say nothing, just sweeping stiffly under his suspended shadow and inspecting the floor. You’d have to bring out the vacuum for the carpet, plus a mop.

You miss his frown at your evident disinterest. 

“So brave, to come to our aid when we were utterly defenseless ,” he continues, picking a small bit of clay off your shoulder and flicking it aside. “But you know, you seemed to have forgotten what I told you earlier…”

He pauses, seemingly waiting for some response of probing to continue. If he is, he’ll be sorely disappointed. Though you’re usually the one after them for conversation, you’re in no mood for it after the day-no, the week, the whole damn month , really- you’ve had. You just want to go home, take a shower, and sleep for an eternity. 

His frown grows further in distaste, and he decides to grab your attention by gripping your shoulders tightly and lifting you a few inches off the ground. Your previously unfocused gaze now snaps to him, alert and on guard.

Wuh-oh.

That’s more like it.

“We do not need your help ,” he sneers, shaking you by the front of your shirt. You blink and gulp nervously, unsure as to where this is coming from. You feel the worst of your nausea as he starts to raise you towards the ceiling with you hanging onto his wrists tightly.

“Moon…” you speak warningly, a shot of nervousness streaking through you as the ground grows further away. His only response is a sadistic chuckle, and the delicately crafted facade over your sickness accumulating from over the past few weeks worsens exponentially. Your stomach lurches and you hazard a quick glance down. You’re hanging a good thirty feet above the ballpit and still steadily climbing, and judging by the glint in your captor’s eyes, you’re not going to like where this is headed.

It’s safe to panic now.

“Moon, stop it, that’s enough,” you tell him, voice wavering. After no response, you try again. “Moon, that’s enough, put me down.” Silence. “That’s enough , drop it!”

He stops for a second, grin falling a little before returning full force. “Well, if you insist ,” he laughs darkly. 

Your eyes widen and for a moment, nothing happens. Then he yanks your hands off him and lets go, watching you plummet to the ground with sinister glee.

Then, you’re falling.

You think you scream, you can’t tell. You crash into the ballpit right after, but it doesn’t cushion your fall. You hiss immediately on impact, clenching your fists and curling in on yourself. The plastic balls dig into your spine, sending waves of pain throughout your body. Your eyes are squeezed shut and you don’t dare open them lest you see that face looming over you. You do a quick check-over, wiggling your toes and bending your joints weakly. Somehow, nothing is broken, but you can’t tell over the searing pain in your side. You thought it was bad before, but that was nothing compared to now. The dull ache is burning, setting your nerves on fire with as much as a twitch. Your back is in a similar shape, as are your legs. 

You don’t know how long you stay like that before Moon’s shadow looms over you from the side of the pit. He makes some stab at you that you don’t really process over the ringing in your ears. Existing hasn’t taken such a toll on you before. His voice still carries into the white noise. You manage to get your mouth moving again and whisper, voice crackling, “Knock it off, Moon.”

Unsurprisingly, he doesn’t let up on his teasing, and you vaguely register his response. “Oh, poor little worker can’t take a tumble. Too weak to pick yourself back up again? Not that I see much of a difference. You’ve always got your head down, ballpit or that desk you laze at. Best to let the ‘bucket of bolts’ do the work, hm ?”

You say nothing, not finding the idea of lifting your head and entertaining his little act worth it in your state. You remain limp in the ballpit, knees hugged to your chest in fetal position.

You hear him step closer to you, and jerk slightly when blue digits dig into your shoulders to pull you up. A cry of pain erupts from you at the fingers embedding themselves in your shoulder blades. They retract quickly as if burned by a pot sitting too long on the stove, as if this was the first time they’ve ever felt such heat before. Your severe pain and slightly depressive state dissipates momentarily and is instead replaced with white-hot anger that threatens to bubble over.

You slap his hand away and shout, “It’s not funny, Moon, knock it off! ”

He freezes, hands twitching in the air. His optics flicker, narrowing as he reaches back out to capture you once out. You smack his wrist again and ignore the added pain of striking metal. 

You stagger out of the ballpit, standing on shaky legs. You don’t give him a chance to speak before you start up again. 

“What the hell is wrong with you, man? You dropped me from 50 feet up, I could’ve died ! What did I even do to you?”

His faceplate turns in a silent half-rotation before he shrugs.

Oh no he did not . 

You explode, gesturing wildly as his simple movement spurs you on. “So what, you just don’t like me and decided to fucking throw me off the balcony like some- some doll for you to mess around with?! Pfft, yeah sure, that makes sense! Let’s just drop someone from 40 feet ‘because we don’t like them’! Wow, Moon, I can see how you guys got your position with that logic !”

“Oh wait! ” you spin around sharply, a manic grin on your face that seems to twist every meek and modest feature on your face as you continue on. “That’s why I’m here! Because for all your hard work, Management still decided to shove me into this hellhole! And it doesn’t mean much, it’s Management, they don’t mean anything, but hey , guess what? I never wanted to be here, but surprise-surprise, no one wants to hire a nobody who didn’t push through their degree except a shady company with a world record in OSHA violations and an even bigger death toll! So here I am, getting paid 30 dollars an hour to deal with your ungrateful asses for five hours a day, not to mention the ridiculous amount of unpaid overtime of three to five EXTRA hours I dedicate to this sorry place, all without a single day off in the past six months that I have worked here, each of which have been filled with your non-stop harassment and shitty attitude, which for some bizarre reason I haven’t reported yet! So why, pray tell, have you been dead set on punishing me for a crime I have yet to commit? What did I even do to you?” 

It’s a trap. Moon knows it’s a trap, but he refuses to let you get away with such slander on his turf. He rolls his eyes and huffs, “ Oh, please , you aren’t nearly as victimized as you make yourself out to be. You slack off during playtime while Sun handles everything, you’re constantly snoozing away at your desk unless you oh-so graciously decide to grace us with a moment of your time, and sometimes you don’t even show up at all. I think we have much more of a right to type up a report than you ever will.”

Alright, that’s it- “Oh, really ? Alright, buster, don’t give me that shit, I know damn well what I’m worth. For the record, I do play with the kids - which, if I may remind you, is not in my job description- until sweet lil Sunny starts giving me a death stare for daring to intrude on his precious playtime. And I do pitch in around here, just as much if not MORE than you do! Guess what, cheesehead? I clean the ballpit. I order the food, I buy the supplies, bring the books, put the kids toys back together, organize a monthly schedule AND deal with your sorry asses,  so don’t be telling me how to do my job, got it ? And don’t start up about my breaks, cuz, huh , I wasn’t aware that a two minute break in the place of an hour’s worth of free time was against my contract! I take time off when I know I’m not needed so that I don’t keel over and leave you to deal with over 40 kids! And even with that, I’ve still never taken an actual sick day off the entire time I’ve worked here because I know this is how you’ll react! When was the last time I didn’t show up to work, huh?”

Moon is swift with his reply, almost anticipating the question. “Last month, you took nearly two weeks off without telling your supervisors,” he states triumphantly, as if this had somehow won him the argument.

Oh, this absolute idiot . 

His victorious grin falls slightly at your disbelieving laughter. “Two weeks?! I’ve been working here for six months and you’re hung up on two weeks ?! I’ll have you know that I did tell my supervisors-which you are not , by the way- that I would be out on unpaid sick leave. And I know they didn’t tell you about it because I knew exactly what would happen, and it did! I thought you could respect it and let it go , but apparently not, cuz  you can’t handle not sticking your obnoxiously pointed nose up someone’s business! And now I’m the nosy one!” Your voice grows louder, and you throw your arms out with a wide, dangerous gleam in your eyes. 

“You wanna know where I was? Why I was gone? Well guess what, Craterhead, I was in the hospital making sure my brother didn’t drop dead ! I had to make sure he didn’t flat line halfway through a surgery !”

Oh.

Oh no.

Moon’s eyes widen, regret flickering across his face for a second. He takes a small step back, retreating as you advance. A jab to the chest pulls him back to the present, and his optics narrow.

“But you don’t care about any of that, do you? All you care about is your stupid reputation and oh no, Sunny and Moony can’t have a human ruining everything, because that’s all this meatbag knows how to do! Oh no, poor Sunny and Moony!”

You watch his expression drop like a thermometer exposed to subzero temperatures, red optics pinpricks in a sea of black that threaten to overtake them, contracted pupils tensed like a rubber band about to snap. A spark of something, perhaps vindication, ignites within you, overshadowing the voice in the back of your mind that quietly warns you of what to come, to back down before it’s too late.

A pity your brother isn’t here to hold you back. 

Your voice drops dangerously low for a moment, a deathly whisper that somehow seeps fear into Moon’s systems more than your uncontrolled rage.“I bet you tried to break me, didn’t you, wanted to see me all battered and bruised with my tail tucked between my legs as I ran out of this godforsaken place. Oh, don’t act so surprised, we both knew you never liked me. You never liked me or the idea of someone coming along to jeopardize your position, your life’s purpose, the only thing you have ever been good for, and so you pushed, even when I went along with all your orders, all your demands and your stupid checkpoints and your stupid, stupid rules, pushed and pushed and pushed until I couldn’t take it anymore, and here we are. Well, no more ! You knew there was a breaking point, you both did. Well, here it is, the final straw! Your hard work finally paid off, you’ve made me even more miserable than before, and for what? Is this what you wanted, Moon, Sun? Are you finally satisfied? ”

Moon is still in front of you, hands drawn to his chest, pupils watching fat drops roll down your cheeks and leave stained rivers on your skin as you smile that angry, heartbreaking, defeated smile that cuts through their wires like glass shards, words stabbing through his central processors and sending a jolt through them both. He wants to respond, wants to say something clever and leave you sputtering and defeated, but nothing comes to mind. He always has a retort, a comeback, a witty remark or a snarky comment to make you bend to their will, and yet this time he’s the one left grasping for straws. He’s speechless, voicebox pushing out low static as he struggles to formulate a reply. You don’t give him the time to, resuming with a steady confidence they’ve never seen in you before. This is a side of you that is unfamiliar to them. They don’t quite know what to make of it, and so they stay unwillingly silent as you answer your own question with an air of finality. 

“No, you’re not. And I’ll tell you why. This perfection that you’ve tried so hard to pin down? Hate to break it to you, buddy, but perfect is something even machines can’t accomplish, no matter how advanced or well-built they think they are. It never will be. You and Sun both think you’re oh-so-great and so far above lil ol’ me and my stupid human brain, but I think you forget that you’re just as bad as I am. I’ve seen the daycare reviews, boys, and trust me, they are not pretty. Our sweet little ball of Sunshine scared kids so bad with his pushiness that a good deal of them just didn’t come back, and you? Oh, you scared the shit out of kids, didn’t you? You left them shivering in their sleeping bags in fear of the very thing that swore to protect them. 

“So tell me”- you tilt your head, smile growing sickeningly sweet as your eyes squint upwards, hands poised together as you punctuate every syllable that leaves your lips - “What exactly do you think gives you any authority over me? How do you think you can protect anyone from me when you can’t even protect them from yourself?”

You let the words hang in the air for a moment, the manic grin not leaving your face as you turn around to sweep over the daycare after the prolonged eye contact with burning red optics begins to sting your eyes. 

 “But hey!” you call out behind you with a laugh like shattered glass left on cold tile. “Don’t take my word for it. I’m just the dumb worker you had to boot cuz you didn’t want someone to steal the spotlight.”

You whip back around to give a final comment before catching a glimpse of Moon. His pupils are near non-existent, eyes dark and empty. His static grin is too wide, fingers too sharp, curling and uncurling. You freeze, words cutting to a halt, and you swear his grin grows wider.

“ R̶̻̘̃͂̈́͋́ ̶̢̛͇̠͔̤̥͉̜̖̫̰̬̬̝̓͛̾̅̓̑̌́͆̅̇̿̎͂̈́͘̕͠Ǘ̸̡̻͖̅̄̄̚ ̵͖̱͕̫̋̈́̀́͊̇̐̀̒̒̋͑̅̀͗̊́́̚̕͝N̵̘̰͓̹̖̘̦̪͂̓̎̅̊̀͘̕͜ ̶̡͕̙͖̟͍̼͙̠̺̹̦̘̙̘̠̏̾̿̏̂͜ͅ," he growls. 

It sends a chill up your spine, dousing your anger in fear. You don’t waste time waiting for him to start chasing. You’re already booking it across the Daycare and to the exit. 

You’re maybe 10 paces in when you hear him behind you, wire clicking and shooting him to the ceiling. You know it’s a losing battle, he could easily take you if he wanted to. He doesn’t though, not yet. It’s the chase he’s after.

You dare not turn to check behind you, instead running blindly in hopes of somehow managing to hide. Your logical reason tells you to just leave, but it’s drowned out by pure instinct to run, get away, danger-

Moon has a severe advantage and you both know it. He knows the area. Still, you foolishly blunder on, making a hard right that almost makes you trip before you stumble back up again. You’re lucky he doesn’t do this more often because man you are out of shape. He hasn’t chased you since the first two months, you’d thought these games were behind you.

You wheeze as you bump into a wall, barely managing to dodge a wet floor bot. You can’t keep this up much longer. Your heart’s been kicked into overdrive, beating at a rate you know isn’t normal. Distantly, pain tingles in your elbow, muffled by the adrenaline pulsing through you. You’re surprised you haven’t bumped into any of the GlamRocks. They may not like you, but it’s better than this. 

Maybe they’re patrolling different floors? They could be charging.

All at the same time.

Yeah…

You skid to a sudden stop. You were just here, weren’t you? Ugh, these hallways all looked the same. Your eyes dart around wildly, spotting the familiar Daycare entrance. The faces of golden statues are smiling down at you.

You can’t recall a time where that’s happened to you before. 

Your eyes dart around for some place to hide, landing on a closet. You hear jingling bells in the distance.

You silently pray there aren’t any spiders before shutting yourself inside, leaving the door open just a crack for a sliver of light. 

It’s not a terribly big closet. There’s maybe enough room for you to stand upright. You sit with your knees tucked under your chin, eyes never leaving the door. Just in time. The wire descends and detaches, two feet coming into view. They pad softly on the cold tile, making no noise as he prowls for his prey. 

A shadow in front of the door.

You hold your breath, freezing and throwing a hand over your mouth.

A pause.

His attention is shifted elsewhere. He grumbles and stalks off, leaving you in  the dark. 

You wait maybe thirty seconds for the footsteps to grow silent before exhaling softly and taking stock of your situation. You’re stuck in a broom closet at work and the only other worker here tonight just left. 

Not that Moon would be of any help , you thought bitterly. He just wants you out of the way.

You can’t really blame him for that , though, can you ?

The thought almost sets you off the edge, but you reign yourself in, letting go of a self-deprecating laugh and wiping the tears that form in the corners of your eyes. It doesn’t help. New ones replace them and you let your hands fall back into your lap.

No. No, you couldn’t blame them for it. You invaded their space and made a mess of things. You have a habit of doing that.

That’s why you left, after all. You couldn’t handle messing that up , either.

A shaky sob escapes you, and you press your palms to your eyes to stop the flow of tears trickling down your face. You need this job, you can’t lose it. If you lost it, you’d have no other options. You’d be out of house and home, and then what? Go back with your tail tucked between your legs?

No. You couldn’t go back.

What other choices did you have?

It didn’t matter, anyway. At the end of the day, nothing would change. You were still you, and something always goes wrong no matter what you do. Didn’t matter how hard you tried or how fair it was, it’s always the same.

Sometimes you wonder if everyone would’ve been better off had your brother been an only child.

A soft buzzing in your pocket snaps you out of your episode. You fish your phone out in surprise. That’s right, you’d put it there after this morning.  It vibrates in your hand, the caller ID flashing across the screen. It’s your mother. You stare at it dumbly, making no move to answer it. You’re half tempted to just let it ring till she gives up and drops it as always, but…

You need something to keep the quiet at bay right now.

Swiping to start the call, you hear shuffling over the static and put the speaker close to your ear. A short “hello?” is heard and repeated as she tries to figure out how to use the brick in her hand.

The act is familiar and you manage a watery smile. “Hi, mom.”

“Can you hear m-oh, good, you’re there. Your brother said you messaged him this morning and we just wanted to check in.” Her tone shifts. “You okay there?”

You don’t think you can pull off pretending that you’re fine at the moment. You sniffle into the receiver, curling further in on yourself. “I’m okay, I just…I just had a bad day at work.”

“Oh, sweetheart…”she sighs, and you wince slightly, not really feeling up to whatever questions she has to ask. “You wanna talk about it?”

You shake your head before remembering that you’re on the phone, instead muttering a quiet ‘no’ into the speaker. She stays uncharacteristically silent on the other side of the line, her subtle shifting of the phone the only indicator that she’s still on the call. You know she wants to pry further, force an answer out of you. Sometimes, you almost wish she did, wish she pushed just a bit harder so you could finally break and let it all out.

She doesn’t this time though, puttering out a soft sigh. “Well…alright. Just remember, we’re always here if you need us. Your brother’ll probably check on you anyway, you know how he gets. Just don’t let him burn the building down for your sake.”

A wet snort slips past you before you catch it, imagining your anarchist brother expressing his rage against the machine and corporate capitalism by burning down a rip-off Chuck-E-Cheese. You didn’t think your mother was capable of creating an image like that, either. She hadn’t exactly been very invested in either of your interests. You wonder if she’s been taking pointers from your brother. 

You wave the thoughts aside, realizing you’ve let the conversation taper off and…

You suppose you can let this phone call end on a higher note. You both sort of need it anyway.

“Thanks, mom,” you whisper coarsely, leaning against the stacked boxes and letting your head fall back.

“Of course, dear. You just call us back when you’re ready. Oh, and try to tag along with your brother sometime, it gets lonely without you there. You were much better at listening to his mechanical jargle than we are.”

You exchange a few more quiet answers before wishing her a good night and hanging up, squinting at your brightly lit phone in the dark space. The time reads a little past 10. Moon’s first round of patrols is likely finished, which means it’s finally safe to leave this cramped compartment. 

The door remains shut when you turn the knob.

You try for the handle again, rattling it with greater and greater intensity as your panic begins to build up to no avail. Your hands form fists, soon beginning to bang on the door, eyes wide and breathing erratic. Try as you might, it’s sealed like a tomb, effectively locked inside. 

No, no, no , this can’t be happening, not here, not now. You don’t want to be here, don’t want to be in this dark, cramped closet at the end of some forgotten corridor, stashed with all the boxes and cleaning supplies. 

Your brother had locked you into a closet once. Flipped the switch on the outside and left you alone to battle the demons you couldn’t see. It had been funny, back then, until you started screaming and begging to be let out.

It wasn’t funny now.

You drop to the floor, hands sliding down the wood to lay limply beside you. You can feel yourself shaking, bones rattling as you tremble. Your lungs burn with the force of the rapid inhale-exhale pattern you struggle to keep stable, your heartbeat pounding at the front of your head. Inhale, exhale, thump, thump, inhale, thump -oh, weren’t you supposed to exhale first- thump -and your heart’s not pumping, you can’t breathe, you need to breathe -

You gasp, head reeling, nails digging into your palms and leaving red marks. You struggle to ground yourself, forcing your eyes to focus on the sliver of light from under the doorframe. You inch back, still trembling lightly, staring blankly at the floor as the cold reality dawns on you.

You’re trapped.

No one is here to save you now.

Aaaaand that's a wrap! Hope yall enjoyed that lil chapter, seems like our y/n's gotten into quite a pickle! It's okay, though, they needed some time to process anyways. Speaking of which, Sun and Moon have a LOT to think about... Not sure when I'll post chapter 9, sorry! I have a couple of short snippets planned out already, but typing and connecting them is a whole other matter, so I dunno when I'll get back to this. Until then, however, I hope this is enough, and unfortunately...

The theater is closed...

[yandere-fics]

Josephine Anderson

♡ "Aww I'm really sorry about the blood, dolly, I just... I need to see you, can you come here please?" ♡

She's a silent delusional yandere, you won't hear a word out of her mouth as you hang out for months until one day she tries to kiss you and you realize she thinks you two are dating. It's so frustrating cause you've been together for months but haven't expressed any affection to her. She's fully aware you must be shy, but it's really hurting her. Not to worry, she'll make the first move, she just doesn't understand why you shoved her away. She doesn't enjoy this hard to get act. She should have a perfect life with her darling, one where she eliminates all the obstacles and you lavish her in affection for being such a good protector. She sees her love as the best form of love and so when she says she loves you then you should obviously know that means you shouldn't talk to anyone she disapproves of. She also won't tell you if you've crossed a boundary though since she thinks you should obviously know why she's killing that person.

♡ "It's Josephine but please don't call me that. I hate it when people call me that, I'd rather you call you Sophie or Soph instead." ♡

The Anderson family is a very prominent religious family within the region although they never come to the seaside anymore after discovering their eldest daughter decided to move to a small coastal town. Sophie faked her death when she was 17 to live with Skylar once she found out where her parents were sending the payments. She doesn't go by the Anderson name though she won't outright deny it being her last name if you ask but she really would prefer you never mention anything to do with her last name. It was a very gruesome fake death scene. No one outside of her sisters is aware that Sophie is alive.

♡ "21, I don't fully understand the point of these questions, dolly. If you want to know more you should ask Skylar, I'm sure she'd be glad to see her future sister-in-law." ♡

Sophie doesn't actually remember alot of their childhood, Skylar was the one who kept track of these things so if you really want to know anything about her then the best person to ask is the one who practically raised Sophie. Though be warned, Sophie might take this as accepting her proposal and thus she'll start to toss money at you to plan the wedding.

♡ "Stupid question, I'm only interested in you so get whatever weird idea you had out of your head." ♡

She's a lesbian, run of the mill for this blog though.

♡ "It's not something you should worry your head about, all I'll say is I'm good at my job and I make enough for us to be secure." ♡

She's not a permanent member of the syndicate but she occasionally picks up odd jobs that the official members don't wish to take on. She makes good money from it though it's dangerous work. She'd never allow it to be traced back to her though and the members already know better than to mess with her or her family since she's mostly tasked with killing traitors to the organization.

♡ "I like knives." ♡

She didn't feel the need to specify that she likes you since you should be smart enough to know that anyways. She likes her family and she likes knives, a simple gal, what can I say? She has a decent collection of them. She also really enjoys the idea of being domestic although like the other sisters, her idea of a perfect family with her darling is not normal. She really loves the idea of you waiting at home for her, possibly hanging out with her sisters, and greeting her with joy when she gets home from killing.

♡ "..." ♡

She is refraining from saying what she hates as she doesn't want to scare you, she may be delusional but she also realizes that at times she can be scary to people who aren't Skye. She hates a lot of things, she hates her parents, she hates dirt, she hates when you leave the house without inviting her to come with, she hates people who try to lie and tell you that her love for you is crazy, really there's just too much that she dislikes.

♡ "I'm good at organizing things. You also know, I'm very good at taking care of you, dolly." ♡

Her knife collection is meticulously organized despite her not being able to keep many other things clean, she's not dirty but she gets blood everywhere but if you opened her knives then you would assume that they had never been used based on how spotless they are. I suppose being that delusional is a bit of a skill too though.

♡ "Hmm? Oh no, you're not going back to your 'home' tonight. It's much safer for me to just keep you here. Would you like that doll? Would you like it if I just kept you safeguarded here? There's no need to deny it, I know you would, heh." ♡

[blizzardsuplex]

SoIaF AU:

Roddy is a knight from the house Strong. He is in Kingslanding to serve Prince Maxwell as his personal guard (he doesn't like the brat). Adam is a prostitute who has no last name, but that doesn't mean he will stay that. The man has high ambitions for someone who comes from a small village in Essos.

OMFG this got long HAHA. Sorry and I hope you like it!

CW: use of canon-typical slurs for sex workers, mention of murder

“I wish to ask you something.”

The susurrus of the whore’s steps stop sounding, though in truth it’s only the claustrophobic confines of this particular secret passage and years of training his perception that allow Roddy to even notice that noise at all: the slippers that shod his feet are confections of silk and Myrish lace, so delicate that they would undoubtedly be soiled beyond repair by the time they make it out of the walls of the Red Keep—but when you fell into bed at least once a week with a prince of Westeros, he supposes, even such minor works of art were easily thrown away.

“Then ask it, knight.” That was the only title, really the only name, the other used to address him when they were alone; he reserved the fawning ser Strong when the presence of others brought such obsequience reward. Roddy, personally, thinks it not worth the lie, for what sort of prize required respecting the last scion of a minor house all but given up as cursed, Kingsguard or not? As much as it annoys him to be referred to as simply that by a common Essosi prostitute, he’d rather hear that brisk, analytical tone than the twittering simper the man defaulted to in public, or even the almost motherly tenderness with which he spoke to Prince Maxwell. At least this way he felt a little more secure scheming with such a person.

But right now he has a question to ask.

“How,” Roddy says, picking his way carefully through the narrowness as to not stumble and fall, “do you get so many people to love you?”

“How,” the whore asks in turn immediately, “and not why?”

He snorts. “I have no need of what asking “why” gives me. Attempting to understand people’s motives like that has never done me any good.”

“And is that the conclusion you came to, after your parents?”

Roderick’s eyes narrow, but (perhaps to the surprise of an onlooker) the mention of his family is not answered with a fist. The man of Essos, as willing as he is to recast himself in the Westerosi mold, has enough distance yet from the history of these lands that Roddy’s first conclusion of his reference isn’t insult, the first response not violence. In its place are instead words wrapped in cold caution: “Why not? Knowing why they truly decided to kill each other won’t bring either of them back to life. Now answer my question.”

Even with the iron he puts in his voice, Roddy expects more resistance than he gets; because of, really, considering how stubborn he’s discovered by now the other man often is. "Well,” he begins, “the simplest answer is that it’s just giving each customer what they want. That, and lots of practice.”

“But that is the very thing. How do you know what they want—and so quickly? In the prince’s case, it’s as if you knew what he wanted long before you met him.”

“He is a public figure,” the Essosi points out. “In those circumstances, it’s just a matter of keeping up with news. But I see now what you ask, knight, and to that my answer is this: almost everybody wants either a wicked whore or a blushing bride-to-be, and with enough experience you can tell which one a man wants the moment he enters a room.”

“That makes sense,” Roderick concedes after a moment to digest these words. Initial impressions were important in combat, and if the general principle made sense on the battlefield of war, why not, he supposes, the battlefield of the bedchamber? “But—entitled brat though he is—I don’t see that between you and Prince Maxwell. With him, you act more…”

“Like a friend,” is how the other finishes, “who is also his mother. I said almost, after all.”

“...and me?”

“You? Have you taken back your vow to not fall for my charms while we yet clasp arms, knight?”

“By the Seven, no. Call it mere—professional curiosity.”

“You, then,” the whore repeats. “Well, honestly, I don’t know. I suspect it’s because you don’t.”

[skyler10fic]

Lightning Strikes Twice Ch. 2

Summary: Twenty-five years after being adopted by Phil and Melinda, young adult Skye is a Shield agent who wants to know so much more about confidential operations. Through an accident in FitzSimmons' lab, she discovers the answers no one else could: her true origins.

Read on Ao3

In an office high above sunny Los Angeles, at Shield’s West Coast headquarters, an error message popped up on the screen of a high-powered laptop: Access denied.

Skye had questions. The understatement of the century, her mother would have said. Being a Shield agent was her dream job in all ways but one: she needed so much more information than she was given at this clearance level. With both communications hub training as a cybersecurity agent and field experience, she was a versatile team player. But she also didn't rank high enough to know the “why” behind some of her assignments.

Now, spinning in her chair at her desk, she could only wait for her commanding officers to come back from their high-level meeting. A few years ago, she’d tried finding out information by simply hacking her way around the internal files, and she found the hard way that was not allowed, even though she’d helped design the security system herself. Years ago, she was always let off the hook easily as a rookie, having practically grown up at Shield with both of her parents as agents, but at 28, it wasn’t cute anymore and the consequences were real. So to resist poking around in files she wasn’t technically allowed in, she sought out her friends.

Drs. Jemma Simmons and Leo Fitz, known around the agency as FitzSimmons, were processing and cataloging the pieces of an alien ship unearthed by construction workers from a building project in the rapidly expanding suburbs, so Skye skipped their offices and went straight to the warehouse.

Sure enough, the couple squabbled in the adjacent lab, visible through a large glass window in their matching lab coats and safety goggles.

Fitz stole a contraption from Jemma’s side of the table. “You can’t know that, just because it has some markings on it!”

“They aren’t just markings. They’re just like the ones Skye…” Jemma stopped as she noticed who was approaching the doorway. “Skye! Anything we can help with?”

“No, actually, I came to see if you needed my help.” Skye narrowed her eyes and read both of their terrible poker faces. “Were you guys talking about me?”

“Nooo,” Jemma denied poorly.

“Oh, no, it’s uh, another Skye, someone else. You don’t know them…” Fitz scratched the back of his head, a sure tell.

“Uh huh,” Skye deadpanned, in a tone only a daughter of Melinda’s could have.

“Just out of curiosity,” Jemma said sweetly, “since you’re here to help… Do you know what these symbols mean?”

Jemma held out a shard of metal to Skye, and Fitz watched her with a fist to his lips, as if holding in his anticipation.

Skye shook her head. “Sorry, it’s not anything I’ve seen. Maybe an indigenous language or something? I could take a few photos and run it through my translation program if you want.”

“Like Google Translate?” Fitz asked, realizing the solution was, as usual, simpler than their overthinking.

Skye let out a surprised laugh. “Google wishes. No. Much, much better. And bigger. It includes all the terrestrial and extraterrestrial languages Shield has encountered.”

“Ah!” Jemma’s victory smile bloomed. “So you think it could be extraterrestrial.” She sent a pointed look at Fitz.

Fitz’s voice rose. “I never denied it was alien, just not…” He stopped and looked to Skye.

Skye hopped up on an empty metal table to signify that she was staying. “Okay, something is definitely going on with you two. Spill.”

Jemma took off her goggles and gloves, and she hopped up on the table next to Skye. She used her most gentle, careful voice as she asked, “Do you still remember your first night here?”

This hadn’t been what Skye was expecting. She put on a forced smile to cover up that the simple question had knocked the wind out of her.

Skye swallowed and tried to answer. “Yeah, a bit. Mainly through stories my dad told me growing up.”

Fitz saw her discomfort and stepped in. “Do you remember that time you threw dirt at me?”

Skye smiled for real this time. “We were like six.”

Jemma loved this story, so she said, as always, “I don’t think I remember this one. What happened?”

Fitz obliged her and began, “I had maths with the older kids, and at recess, one of the older boys told me how babies were made, which I was very unhappy about at the time. And I ran to tell Skye.”

“But,” Skye picked up the story as she swung her feet lightly, “My dad always said that I was given to them from the sky when I asked where I came from, so naturally, I always assumed all babies just sort of appeared out of thin air the way I did.”

Fitz teased, “You were so mad, you actually bent down, picked up two fistfuls of dirt, and tried to put them in my hair.”

“You ran fast back then.” Skye shrugged in surrender. “I had to resort to throwing it.”

“We weren’t allowed recess for the rest of the week,” Fitz concluded.

Jemma pressed in on this segue. “So, is that all you know, just that Agent Coulson and Agent May found you one day? Do you remember anything before that?”

Skye sighed and softened. “It’s crazy, but sometimes as a kid I had nightmares about these huge blue guards with, like, giant weapons. My parents used to have to hold me for hours to get me to go back to sleep. But after a few years, they stopped. Mostly. I think wherever I was before, I just wanted to forget so badly that I did.”

Jemma put an arm around Skye’s shoulders in comfort. “Sorry, I was just … never mind.”

Skye stiffened and shrugged her off to get through the part that made her sick whenever it came up. She’d been teased relentlessly by the other Shield kids at camp. It was supposed to be a safe place for agents’ families to unwind, but instead the rumors grew faster and wilder because anything was possible.

“I’m not an alien,” Skye gritted out. “Every test Shield could run, they put me through at three years old. And even since then, I have to get all my medical stuff done here, just in case something shows up. I’m 28!”

She hopped off the table and pressed her hands to her face in frustration. “These people, Shield … even me sometimes… We get so caught up in ‘Ooo what if it’s aliens’ that we forget sometimes people just suck. My birth parents either couldn’t care for me or didn’t, and I ran away, and clearly it wasn’t somewhere I wanted to go back to. All I know is they said I begged to stay, and that’s why I was adopted through Shield instead of put in foster care. So, yeah, I was a weird kid. A lot of three year olds are. It doesn’t mean I’m…”

Skye’s pacing and emphatic gesturing combined in a disaster Fitz and Jemma were powerless to stop as it happened before their eyes. In her adamancy, Skye’s hand knocked over a rusting metal storage box sitting on the artifact table next to where she’d been pacing. The box, decorated with more of the strange symbols Jemma had shown her earlier, popped open, with the clasp so damaged from being exposed to the elements. Something silver and strange rolled out and toward the edge of the table. Reflexively, Skye grabbed it before it hit the floor. Her reflexes were fast enough to catch it, but not fast enough to let go as her hand and arm hardened, like they were turning to stone.

“HELP!” Skye called out to her friends, who watched in horror.

“Don’t touch it, Fitz!” Jemma warned as she donned her goggles and gloves again. The last thing Skye heard before the low, loud rumbling started was Jemma’s promise they would fix this. Then everything went silent and black.

—-----------

Skye woke up to an earthquake. Not entirely unheard of here in the LA area, but rarely felt in a building as heavily fortified as Shield. Wait, she had been at work. Had she fallen asleep on the job? Why was she in an unfamiliar bed?

The earthquake stopped as she slowly realized. She took in the medical setting with its chill air conditioner draft and sterility and the crowd of people around her. Yes, she was still at Shield but not in any of the parts she expected.

“She’s awake!” Jemma’s voice called out from her hospital bedside.

“What happened?” Skye mumbled out despite her throat feeling like she swallowed a pile of rocks.

“Here, drink.” Melinda opened a bottle of water and handed it to her. “You were out for a few hours.”

Phil appeared in the room. “Oh thank god. How are you feeling, sunshine? You scared us pretty bad there.”

“I remember, we were in your lab by the warehouse…” Skye looked to Jemma and Fitz. “And I broke something you were working on. And then I passed out?”

“Sort of.” Jemma hesitated. “You touched a metal thing from the alien ship and then you were covered in a sort of casing? Like ash? We’re having our biohazards team look into it.”

Skye examined her arms, which were normal aside from having a greyish residue. It reminded her of when she’d dyed her hair black in college and the stains it’d left on her skin.

“How did you get it off?”

Fitz inhaled sharply. “We didn’t. You… you’re an…”

Skye’s gaze landed on him and she sat up. “I’m what?”

Melinda and Phil exchanged a look, and Melinda placed her hand on Skye’s. “Sweetheart, you’re special. You’ve always known that, and we haven’t hidden anything from you that we knew for sure.”

Skye’s pulse quickened, reflected in the lines on the monitor hooked up to nodes on her chest.

“All parents think their kids are special.”

“Not like this,” Melinda said, leaving no room for negotiation, but Skye persisted anyway.

Skye shook her head in denial. “I’m not… that. I’m just a human. I’m not what you think.”

“Skye,” Jemma said gently. “You broke out of the casing on your own. We ran the markings through your translation program. They were Kree. Even your lab work shows tiny changes—tweaks, really—to your genetics that could only work if…”

“Okay.” Skye tried not to panic and the shaking stated again. She took deep breaths as the bed trembled. The tubes and wires connected to her carried the shaking to their machines, like a very small power grid.

“Hey. Look at me. Breathe.” Melinda’s no-nonsense voice guided Skye’s gaze back to her and the shaking stopped. “You’re going to be okay. This isn’t a total shock to us. We suspected it from the first night you were here. And you sometimes drew symbols like this writing, those first few days, before we took you home with us.”

“You knew?”

“No.” Melinda shook her head once. “It was only ever a theory. Everything you know about yourself is 100% true.”

Jemma piped in again, “As far as we know, with the exception of these tweaks, you’re just as human as the rest of us, medically speaking. Your genetic profile just doesn’t match any potential families of origin here on Earth!”

Her cheery tone was meant to be helpful, but the others simply blinked at her.

Phil leaned over his daughter’s hospital bed and pecked a kiss to her forehead. “However you got here, it was a miracle. We love you. That’s what matters. What happens now, with the shaking, well, you’re in the best place in the world to have help figuring that out.”

The realization hit Skye and she gasped. “ME? I’m the earthquake?”

“Yeah,” Phil exhaled with a smile on his lips. “It’s pretty cool.”

“COOL?!” Skye gapped at her dad.

Fitz shrugged. “Think about it. If you get it under control, you could be part of the enhanced division.”

Superheroes. She was the new accident-turned-superhuman in a long line. Last year, a kid got bitten by a radioactive spider on a school trip. Before that, tech geniuses, scientists with dangerous experiments, and even a few aliens had come through the office while on special assignments, but it wasn’t as regular of an occurrence. Now, as more enhanced individuals pinged Shield's radar, Director Fury was seeing the need for not just a team of contractors but a whole division and training program.

At Skye’s silence, Jemma added, “But no pressure. You’ve only just gotten powers, who knows what all they do, and you need to heal first.”

“Heal? I feel fine, just tired.”

Jemma grimaced. “That’ll be the IV. Painkillers. You hit your head and side quite hard when you fainted after you broke free of the casing. We had to take shelter from the explosion and quake and flying ashy casing shrapnel and couldn’t catch you. The good news is, no concussion, though! Just a little worse for wear on the outside is all. You’ll be back to normal in no time, at least appearance-wise.”

Skye picked up on what Jemma wasn’t saying and reached for her phone on the bedside table. She opened up the camera app in selfie mode and was startled. The entire right side of her face was purple and blue.

“Shit.”

Melinda laid her hand on Skye’s again. “The painkillers help for now, but healing takes time. No need to rush into anything other than getting better.”

Fitz glanced around the circle and back down at Skye. “And whatever happens, you’ve got all of us.”

It meant a lot—the world, really— but it didn’t change the fact that when visiting hours were over and her friends and parents went home to sleep, she was just as alone as she always had been in the end. She knew she should be grateful to have so much love, but as she attempted to rest, part of her was still haunted by one last lingering nightmare, the one that she lied about having gone away.

She was hiding in some sort of shed, just a little peeling whitewashed wooden shelter next to a swirling expanse of sand and dirt. Rain pelted in the wall that was just a chainlink fence looking out to the field, but she tried to stay as quiet and still as possible. The monsters were coming for her. She shivered in the cold as the ground shook with their heavy footsteps. Any minute, she’d see a blue face, threatening to send her to one of the colonies where the work was hard and endless.

“Agent Skye!” a nurse called out to her and shook her slightly. “Agent Skye!”

Skye awoke to a kind but unfamiliar face relaxing. “Sorry, did I shake things again?”

“Yes, but it’s alright now.” The nurse waved her hand at staff peeking in the doorway. “Can you tell me what you were dreaming about, if anything?”

Skye sat up as she answered. “It’s one I had since I was a kid. Hiding from someone coming to take me away. Don’t have to be a shrink to figure that one out.”

The nurse had clearly read her chart because she responded without missing a beat. “No, not at all. Perhaps some antianxiety in the IV, just to help you sleep without fear?”

Skye could tell despite the nurse’s genuine concern that the medicine was not just for her own the nightmares but also for the ease of the nightshift staff. As a Shield foundling of unknown origin, she’d grown used to people being perplexed by her, astonished by her, and even afraid of her, but this was the first time she realized that fear was entirely valid. The nurse even secured Skye’s IV tape where it had shaken loose and rearranged some of the equipment before leaving, making it more stable in case she quaked it again.

The medicine did the trick and soon enough, she was back to sleep, despite her confusion and worries. This time, she slept dreamlessly.

The next day, she went home with instructions about bruise care and several medications, including an antianxiety daily pill and referral to a Shield therapist who dealt specifically with newly enhanced people. There was no way around it: her recovery process was going to hurt, but here at the end of her rope mentally and physically, she finally allowed herself to get the help she had needed for a lot longer than she had had superpowers.

After her body healed, she trained hard for months, going from emotionally shaken inside and sending little tremors into the world around her to steady inside and in control of her growing powers. Every day, they grew stronger as she did, until she could control the waves on the ocean from the shore and cause a landslide of the rocks on the hill from a high-rise a mile away. She poured all of her energy and anger and fear and unanswered questions into training until she was certified as an enhanced field agent.

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

🦇 Roses in the Mouth of a Lion Book Review 🦇

❓ #QOTD What's your favorite 80s song OR what are you currently reading? 🦇 Razia Mirza grows up amid the wild grape vines and backyard sunflowers of Corona, Queens, alongside her best friend, Saima. When a family rift drives the girls apart, Razia’s heart is broken. She finds solace in Taslima, a new girl in her close-knit Pakistani-American community, all while trying to manage the religious and cultural expectations of her family. When Razia is accepted to a prestigious high school in Manhattan, the gulf between the person she is and the daughter her parents want her to be, widens. There, she meets Angela, and is attracted to her in a way that blossoms into a new understanding. When their relationship is discovered by an aunty in the community, Razia must choose between her family and her own future.

💜 Razia resonated with me so much. Growing up Muslim, not realizing your sexuality is even an option, then realizing it's wrong, a sin your parents may never accept...it's heartbreaking for a child, for anyone. Muslim communities are tight-knit, breathing truth to the "it takes a village" mentality of raising children. That community can become supportive, empowering, encouraging; a warm, soothing blanket of security. However, it can also become hot, itchy, stifling; it can keep you from recognizing who you truly are. Sometimes you need to leave that security to recognize that person, and who you want to be. Bushra Rehman has done a stunning job of conveying that sense of community while showing us the little ways Razia began feeling like an outsider among the friends and family who raised her. This is the type of book, a potential classic, I wish was required reading (because when has a book with a Muslim, Pakistani FMC ever been considered required reading?).

💙 Raiza is a compelling, real and raw character. The story begins from her childhood, allowing us to see her grow and recognize the woman she wants to become over time. Because of that, there are some pacing issues. However, the prose is so enthralling, almost hypnotic in a sense, that it keeps you going until the end. Though I didn't LOVE the abrupt ending, I understood why it stopped there; everything moving forward would be up to Raiza, perhaps for the first real time in her life.

🦇 Recommended for fans of Evil Eye and The Skin & Its Girl.

✨ The Vibes ✨ 🌹 Pakistani-American FMC 🦁 Muslim-American FMC 🌹 Lesbian / Queer 🦁 Female Friendships 🌹 Coming-of-Age Story 🦁 Literary Fiction 🌹 Friends to Lovers 🦁 Sapphic Romance

💬 Quotes ❝ I wanted to be chosen by someone. ❞ ❝ You can’t wait for anyone to teach you. Otherwise you’ll learn all the wrong things. ❞ ❝ Our parents had left their homes and the thread had unraveled, then been woven again with us. This was how it always was, an unraveling and a raveling of the earth, the ground we stood on. Nothing was sacred, everything was sacred, everything changed, everything stayed the same. ❞ ❝ I hate having to lie, but there’s no other way I can make them happy and still live my life. ❞ ❝ But the rest of us, the majority, were children of not- so- rich immigrants. We were the dreams, the ones expected to take our paper airplanes and turn them into rocket ships rising into higher orbits. ❞ ❝ The rumors, not the truth, were enough to destroy a girl’s reputation. ❞

[bonewaryreblogs]

These Trolls be Trollin' Me

I have many thoughts about Trolls.

The canon backstory is pretty dark, though the movies themselves cover it up with so much rainbows and glitter that you don't really notice it at first and the dark parts are played for laughs. It's prime real-estate for trauma and drama, though, and the fandom has capitalized on this in a way the movies don't dare touch on. I tend to gravitate to traumatized characters anyways, especially if there are cute aesthetics involved!

So.

Before I can go about rewriting the movies (because of course that's what I'm gonna do lol) I need a solid understanding of the backstory and how the characters got to where they are. And that's what this post is all about! Not sure if any of it counts as spoilers but here's your warning anyways lol...

"Hair we go!"

Before time began, there were… 6 Musical Strings! We know not where they came from, only that they have the power to create worlds, and fill them with life. That is how the race of magical beings known as trolls was born. Like all great power, some wanted it for good, others for evil, and so began the String War; a war that divided the trolls’ music into genres and ever more niche subgenres, but never again allowed to mix and mashup their flavors of music. Pop trolls, the most likely to shamelessly utilize sounds from other genres, were blamed for the war and the resulting division, eventually being ejected from the greater Troll Kingdom; however, some small, niche subgenres remained, such as Kpop. The remaining troll tribes adopted an “I ignore you, you ignore me” kind of truce, leaving them isolated from each other.

Forced to flee, the pop trolls traveled south, through the Never Glades, and eventually settled in a tropical-type jungle, centered around an ancient, hollow but living, tree they called the Troll Tree; this became their capitol, where the royals resided. They thrived in the thick jungles, innumerable smaller communities developing and working with nature to be able to support their quickly growing numbers, spreading far and wide. Over time, pop trolls thought they were the only trolls there were, forgetting about the other troll tribes in anything but legend; to everyone but the royals, anyways, who handed down the “true” history of the pop trolls.

This was the status quo until the bergens from the west, traveling in tribal groups with nothing to unite them, discovered they could “feel true happiness” by eating a troll. United by their growing appetite for troll, the bergens led a swift campaign to track down the troll capitol and surround it; first with temporary structures but soon with more permanent buildings, including a castle for the newly dubbed “Bergen King” who led the campaign. Trolls were hunted all year, stored at the now caged in Troll Tree, until Trollstice; a yearly feast set up so as to not decimate the troll population.

The troll royals had initially fled the Troll Tree, hoping to come back and free the others later, but King Peppy was eventually captured while holding Poppy’s egg in his hair, separated from his (mortally wounded) queen and eldest daughter, Viva. As he was at the troll tree, Peppy refused to give up and, shortly after Poppy hatched, led those trapped out of the tree via tunnels. Realizing the tree was no longer secure, the Bergen King Gristle Sr. cast out his head chef, who was charged with keeping the trolls in their enclosure, and Trollstice was abandoned only a few years (decades?) after it had become tradition. Long enough that it felt like it was always a part of their culture. Being only recently united, the bergens didn’t have any other set holidays that everyone agreed on either.

BroZone was working on the Perfect Family Harmony, as were many other family bands of the time, hoping to be able to use it to free troll-kind from the Bergen menace. With initially four members, their parents were captured shortly after Branche’s egg was produced and left to oldest brother John Dory and grandma Rosiepuff to raise. Inducted into the band almost immediately (trolls hatch already at the toddler stage), Branch had a few smaller performances with his brothers before they attempted the Harmony again, on the biggest stage they’d seen. When they failed, the older four brothers left Branch with grandma that night and the pair were captured by bergens early the next morning, along with many of the concert goers, having been drawn by the lively concert.

Grandma Rosiepuff was taken by Chef early, along with a few others, leaving Branch newly grey and blaming himself as he runs away on the day of Trollstice. Since there were constantly new trolls at the Troll Tree, those that escaped weren’t all as traumatized by losing family members to Trollstice as they could have been and those that were tended to put on a happy face and “not think about it” but Branch was unable to do that, having sever survivor’s guilt on top of abandonment issues.

[ajt34]

Move.

At first, I thought that the day that I picked up my keys and started moving my things into it would be the hardest. My arms and legs were full of cuts and bruises from precariously balancing whatever furniture, boxes or oddly shaped objects I had and moving them in and out of my car. There were a lot of tears, a lot of memories, and a whole lot of guilt in that first day. But nothing would compare to the amount of deep, dark, sadness I felt in the very first night I spent here. My stuff was here, but somehow it all felt vacant. Empty. Lifeless. I didn’t have a couch or TV, nothing hung from the walls and even the things that were mine felt like I had somehow stolen them. I endured the awkward goodbye from him earlier that day and instead of a cold and bitter goodbye, he made it worse. He was gentle and forgiving and even sent a pizza to the apartment for my “big move”. I cried the hardest. I didn’t deserve it.

Slowly, the apartment started to fill up. I agonized over which of the many blank walls to hang a small photo. I waited for 3 long weeks with no couch, but I got one. My parents came to visit and my dad went around doing all of the dad things with hammers and nails to make it feel whole again. And I started to feel whole again. I could pick out my own groceries. I could find a new trail. I could cook a dinner. I could lay down in my own bed at night.

And eventually, I could find the confidence to take a few pictures on my new bathroom floor. I would add them to my profile and start my new life, where I didn’t settle anymore and I asked for what I wanted. A new life where I felt seen and accepted and loved. A whole community that celebrates all of the things that I had tried my best to keep hidden and could not. Most importantly, I would find you.

Then came the exciting part. Hearing your knock on the door. Tying rope in the small spaces of my bedroom. Seeing your clothes and shoes in my closet. Date nights. The nightly routine of laying in my bed and hearing your voice over the phone. For the first year, this apartment was a haven for exploration, for learning, for love. It made me feel like this tiny space somehow was still accommodating and valid for my life and all that I wanted from it.

And throughout every stage, my boys were there. Whether there was a pile of blankets on the floor or a full size couch, we were together. Whether there were tears or laughter, we were together. No matter the change in our routine, we were together and that’s all that mattered. I’ll never be able to put into words the security and support and love that the two of them provided me in this time here. I know it sounds silly, but one thought that always nagged me when I thought about moving was, “will they still feel loved enough?” because for so long, our world has only existed of the three of us, and it was difficult to imagine that it could expand. That we could be loved by more than just us and that there is actually opportunity for MORE love…and that we

deserve it.

But I know that the future ahead of us holds even more love, support and security than we ever thought possible. I know that I need to accept that I don’t have to do everything alone and that I’m worthy of being loved and taken care of. I am afraid of change. That will always be true. But I am ready to discover a new way to be a family together and to let others in and create a new version of what home means to us.

Thank you, Apartment 3601, for showing me what a home can be. Thank you for allowing me to grow, for keeping us safe, and helping me to heal. We will always hold a special place for you in our hearts.

[smileybuttons12]

Baby Thottil: The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Comfort

When it comes to caring for our little ones, parents often seek products that offer comfort, safety, and a touch of tradition. One such product that beautifully combines these elements is the baby thottil. This traditional wrap has been cherished by families for generations, and its popularity continues to grow. In this blog, we will explore what a baby thottil is, its benefits, and why it remains a beloved choice for modern parents.

What is a Baby Thottil?

A baby thottil is a soft, lightweight cloth that is typically used to wrap newborns and infants. It is made from natural fabrics like cotton or muslin, making it gentle on a baby's sensitive skin. The thottil is often decorated with beautiful patterns or vibrant colours, adding a cultural touch to its practical use.

In many cultures, wrapping babies in a thottil is a cherished tradition. It not only provides warmth and comfort but also creates a sense of security for the baby. The snug wrapping mimics the feeling of being in the womb, helping infants feel calm and safe.

Benefits of Using a Baby Thottil

1. Comfort and Warmth

One of the primary benefits of a baby thottil is the comfort it provides. Newborns have difficulty regulating their body temperature, and wrapping them in a thottil keeps them warm. The softness of the fabric ensures that the baby feels cosy without overheating. Parents can use it to cover their little ones during naps or outings, keeping them snug and secure.

2. Cultural Significance

The cradle cloth is steeped in cultural history. In many cultures, it is more than just a piece of cloth; it symbolises love, care, and family heritage. Using a thottil connects parents to their roots and traditions, allowing them to pass down this practice to their children. Each thottil may carry stories and memories that enrich the family’s bond.

3. Versatility

A baby thottil is incredibly versatile. It can serve multiple purposes, including:

Swaddling: Wrapping the baby snugly helps prevent the startle reflex, promoting better sleep.

Burp Cloth: Parents can use the thottil to protect their clothes while burping the baby.

Changing Mat: In a pinch, it can serve as a clean surface for diaper changes.

Sunshade: When out and about, a thottil can provide shade from the sun.

4. Ease of Use

Using a baby thottil is straightforward. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to carry, and it can be quickly wrapped around the baby. Unlike bulky blankets, the thottil can be easily folded and stored in a diaper bag, making it convenient for on-the-go parents.

5. Promotes Bonding

Wrapping a baby in a thottil promotes physical closeness between parent and child. The act of swaddling encourages skin-to-skin contact, which is essential for bonding. This closeness helps strengthen the emotional connection, making both the baby and the parent feel secure and loved.

Choosing the Right Baby Thottil

When selecting a baby thottil, consider the following factors:

Fabric: Look for natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or muslin to ensure comfort and safety.

Size: Ensure the thottil is large enough to wrap around your baby securely but not so large that it becomes cumbersome.

Design: Choose a design that resonates with you and reflects your family’s style

Wrap Your Baby in Love: Discover the Best Cradle Cloths at Smiley Buttons!

At Smiley Buttons, we understand the importance of comfort and safety for your little one. That's why we offer the best cradle cloth options on the market. Our cradle cloths are made from soft, breathable fabrics that provide warmth and security, ensuring your baby feels snug and cosy at all times. With a variety of charming designs and colours, our cradle cloths not only meet the highest quality standards but also add a touch of style to your nursery. Choose Smiley Buttons for your baby’s comfort and experience the perfect blend of functionality and fun!

Conclusion

The baby thottil is more than just a piece of cloth; it is a cherished tradition that provides comfort, warmth, and a sense of security for infants. Its versatility and ease of use make it an essential item for modern parents, while its cultural significance connects families to their heritage. By incorporating the baby thottil into your parenting routine, you can nurture your little one while honouring the traditions that have been passed down through generations.

[littlebum-india]

Designed for Bonding : How LittleBum’s Ergonomic Baby Carriers Create Closer Connections

As parents, one of the most cherished experiences is holding your baby close. Whether it's during a busy day of errands or a calm walk through the park, the bond that grows from the warmth and security of being near your child is unmatched. At LittleBum, we understand the importance of this connection, which is why our ergonomic baby carriers are designed not only for comfort but also to strengthen the bond between you and your baby.

The Power of Close Contact

Scientific studies have shown that physical closeness between a parent and a baby helps develop emotional, mental, and even physical well-being for both. At LittleBum, we take this to heart. Our baby carriers are crafted to promote healthy and safe contact, ensuring your baby feels secure and loved while you remain hands-free and active. Whether you’re using our handsfree baby carrier or our lightweight shoulder carrier, your baby stays close, fostering a deep sense of connection.

Ergonomics That Matter

What sets LittleBum’s ergonomic baby carrier apart is the attention to both your comfort and your baby’s. Our ergonomic hip seat carrier provides optimal support for your baby’s hips, promoting healthy development while allowing you to carry them comfortably for extended periods. The design ensures that your baby's legs are in the correct “M” position, preventing discomfort and reducing the risk of hip dysplasia, a common concern among parents.

For parents, this ergonomic design also means reduced strain on your back and shoulders. Whether you're carrying a newborn or a toddler, LittleBum’s carriers distribute weight evenly, making it easier to carry your baby for longer stretches without discomfort. This means more bonding time and less worry about aches and pains.

Hands-Free Freedom

One of the greatest advantages of our handsfree baby carriers is the freedom they provide. Modern parenting often involves multitasking, and with a LittleBum carrier, you can tend to your daily tasks while still keeping your baby close. Our carriers give you the flexibility to move, work, and play, all while maintaining that essential connection with your little one.

Lightweight Yet Strong

Our lightweight shoulder carrier is perfect for parents who are constantly on the go. Made from durable yet breathable materials, it’s designed to be light enough for daily use, but strong enough to ensure your baby’s safety. Whether you're out for a hike or running errands, this carrier allows you to keep your baby snug and close without feeling weighed down.

Designed for Every Stage

At LittleBum, we know that babies grow quickly, and our carriers are designed to grow with them. From newborn baby carriers to those built for older infants, our range ensures that no matter the stage, your baby enjoys maximum comfort. This means you can continue to build a strong bond through every phase of your baby’s growth.

In Conclusion ,

LittleBum’s ergonomic baby carriers are more than just a convenience – they’re designed with love and care to create closer connections between you and your baby. By combining comfort, safety, and practicality, we offer you the perfect way to keep your baby close while maintaining your freedom. Explore our full range of carriers at LittleBum.In and discover the joy of bonding with your baby like never before.

[bedforkid]

Kids Bed Rail Safety: How to Protect Your Child at Night!

Kids Bed Rail Safety: Discover the Secret to a Worry-Free Night for Your Child!

Kids Bed Rail Safety! Ensuring the safety of your child while they sleep is a top priority for every parent. As kids transition from a crib or low-to-the-floor bed to a big kid bed, it's important to have the right measures in place to prevent falls and provide a peaceful night's sleep. That's where bed rails for kids come in. Bed rail safety is crucial for protecting your child at night. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about kids bed rail safety and how to choose the best bed rails for your little one. Key Takeaways: - Bed rail safety is essential for preventing falls and ensuring a peaceful night's sleep for your child. - Consider factors like secure locking mechanisms, height, and safety certifications when choosing bed rails. - There are different types of bed rails available, including swing-down, fixed, and bumper bed rails. - Top picks for swing-down bed rails include the Regalo Swing Down Bedrail and Regalo Hide Away Extra Long Bed Rail. - The KidCo Convertible Crib/Bed Rail is a recommended choice for fixed bed rails, while options like the Ashtonbee portable bed rail and foam bumper bed rails are great for bumper bed rails.

What to Look for in the Best Bed Rails for Kids

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIkpOeEqs7s When choosing bed rails for your child, there are several important factors to consider. By understanding the key features and criteria, you can find the best bed rails that will provide maximum safety and peace of mind. - Secure Locking Mechanism: Look for bed rails that have a secure locking mechanism to ensure they stay in place throughout the night. This will prevent any accidental movement or dislodging of the bed rail, keeping your child safe and secure. - Appropriate Height: Consider the height of the bed rail to ensure it is suitable for your child's bed. It should provide enough protection to prevent falls while still allowing easy access in and out of bed. - Portability: If you travel frequently or need the flexibility to move the bed rail between different beds, opt for a portable and collapsible option. These can be easily folded and transported, making them convenient for trips and visits to grandparents' houses. - Safety Certifications and Ratings: Check if the bed rail has been tested and certified for safety. Look for reputable certifications and ratings that ensure the bed rail meets the necessary standards for child safety. By considering these key features, you can select the best bed rails for your child's needs. Whether you prioritize secure locking mechanisms, adjustable heights, portability, or safety certifications, there are options available that will provide the necessary protection for your child while they sleep. "Choosing the right bed rail for your child is essential for their safety and comfort. Look for features such as a secure locking mechanism, appropriate height, portability, and safety certifications. By considering these criteria, you can ensure that your child's bed rail provides the necessary protection and peace of mind." In the next section, we will explore the different types of bed rails available for kids. From swing-down bed rails to fixed and bumper bed rails, understanding the options will help you make an informed decision for your child's safety. Stay tuned!

Types of Bed Rails for Kids

When it comes to bed rail safety for kids, there are several types of bed rails available in the market. Each type offers different features and benefits, catering to the specific needs of parents and children. Understanding the different types of bed rails can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best option for your child. 1. Swing-Down Bed Rails Swing-down bed rails are a popular choice for their convenience and versatility. These bed rails can be easily locked in an upright position during the night, providing a secure barrier to prevent falls. During the day, they can be folded down for easy access to the bed. Swing-down bed rails are ideal for parents who want a bed rail that can be easily adjusted and tucked away when not in use. 2. Fixed Bed Rails Fixed bed rails are permanently attached to the bed frame and provide a continuous barrier along the side of the bed. These bed rails are sturdy and secure, offering maximum protection against falls. If you're looking for a bed rail that provides a seamless and unobtrusive design, fixed bed rails are a great option. 3. Bumper Bed Rails Bumper bed rails are a unique type of bed rail that is placed underneath the fitted sheet. They act as a barrier to prevent rolling off the bed. Bumper bed rails are lightweight, portable, and easy to install. They are a great option for parents who want a bed rail that doesn't require any attachments or hardware. Each type of bed rail has its own advantages and considerations. It's important to assess your child's needs, bed type, and personal preferences before making a decision. By choosing the right type of bed rail, you can ensure the safety and security of your child while they sleep.

Best Swing-Down Bed Rails for Kids

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your child while they sleep, swing-down bed rails are a popular choice. They offer a convenient way to prevent falls and provide a secure sleeping environment. In this section, we will explore two of the best swing-down bed rails for kids that you can consider for your child's bed. Regalo Swing Down Bed Rail The Regalo Swing Down Bed Rail is a highly recommended option due to its ease of setup and installation. This bed rail is designed with a swing-down feature, allowing you to easily access the bed when needed. It provides a strong and secure barrier to prevent your child from rolling off the bed during the night. This bed rail is available in various lengths, making it suitable for different bed sizes. Whether you have a twin bed or a larger bed, the Regalo Swing Down Bed Rail can accommodate your specific needs. It is crafted with high-quality materials to ensure durability and long-lasting use. Regalo Hide Away Extra Long Bed Rail If you're looking for extra length to accommodate wiggly kids or larger beds, the Regalo Hide Away Extra Long Bed Rail is an excellent choice. This bed rail provides an extended barrier to keep your child safely on the bed throughout the night. What sets this bed rail apart is its easy storage feature. When not in use, you can simply tuck it away under the mattress, making it convenient for those who prefer a clutter-free bedroom. The Regalo Hide Away Extra Long Bed Rail is designed to provide maximum safety while being practical and versatile. When choosing the best swing-down bed rail for your child, consider factors such as the bed size, installation process, and overall design. The Regalo Swing Down Bed Rail and the Regalo Hide Away Extra Long Bed Rail are both top choices that offer reliability, convenience, and peace of mind. Ensure the safety of your child at night with these trusted options.

Best Fixed Bed Rails for Kids

When it comes to bed rail safety for your child, fixed bed rails are a reliable option. They provide a continuous barrier along the side of the bed, ensuring your little one stays safe throughout the night. In this section, we will explore the best fixed bed rails for kids, including the KidCo Convertible Crib/Bed Rail and platform bed rails. KidCo Convertible Crib/Bed Rail One of the top choices for fixed bed rails is the KidCo Convertible Crib/Bed Rail. This bed rail is specifically designed to fit convertible cribs, providing a secure barrier to prevent falls. It is easy to install and ensures a snug fit, offering peace of mind for parents. The KidCo Convertible Crib/Bed Rail meets safety standards and is a durable option that will last as your child grows. Platform Bed Rails For platform beds, it's important to choose bed rails that are compatible with this specific type of bed frame. Platform bed rails are designed to be easily attached to the bed frame, providing a sturdy and secure barrier. These bed rails can be found in various lengths to accommodate different bed sizes, ensuring a customized fit for your child's bed. When selecting fixed bed rails for your child, consider the specific requirements of their bed, such as the type of bed frame or size. Compare different options and read reviews to make an informed decision. By choosing a reliable and secure fixed bed rail, you can ensure the safety of your child while they sleep peacefully through the night.

Best Bumper Bed Rails for Kids

When it comes to bed rails for kids, bumper bed rails are a popular choice for their comfort and portability. They provide a soft barrier that prevents children from rolling off the bed, giving parents peace of mind during the night. In this section, we will explore two of the best bumper bed rails available on the market. The first option is the Ashtonbee portable bed rail. This inflatable bed rail is easy to use and can be quickly set up on any bed. Its compact design makes it ideal for travel and can easily fit into a suitcase or bag. The Ashtonbee bed rail provides a gentle cushioning effect, ensuring that your child stays safe and comfortable throughout the night. Another great option is foam bumper bed rails. These lightweight bed rails can be easily installed by sliding them under the fitted sheet. Foam bumper bed rails are perfect for travel and can be quickly removed and packed away when not in use. They provide a secure barrier that prevents rolling off the bed, ensuring a restful sleep for your child. Table: Comparison of Ashtonbee portable bed rail and foam bumper bed rails Features Ashtonbee Portable Bed Rail Foam Bumper Bed Rails Portability Compact and inflatable, suitable for travel Lightweight and easy to install, ideal for travel Installation Quick and easy setup Slide under fitted sheet Comfort Soft cushioning effect Secure barrier for preventing rolling off the bed Both the Ashtonbee portable bed rail and foam bumper bed rails are excellent choices for parents looking for a reliable and effective bumper bed rail. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine which option is the best fit for your child's bed. With either choice, you can ensure the safety and security of your child while they sleep.

Bed Rail Safety Guidelines

Ensuring the safety of your child when using bed rails is of utmost importance. Follow these bed rail safety guidelines to prevent injuries and create a secure environment for your little one. Tips for Bed Rail Safety - Make sure the bed rail is securely attached to the bed frame or mattress. Check for any loose parts and tighten them if necessary. - Check the height and length of the bed rail to ensure it provides adequate protection for your child. It should be tall enough to prevent falls and long enough to cover a significant portion of the bed. - Regularly inspect the bed rail for any signs of damage or wear. If any components are broken or compromised, replace the bed rail immediately. - Avoid leaving any gaps between the bed rail and the mattress, as these can pose a risk of entrapment for your child. Ensure a snug fit between the bed rail and the mattress. - Teach your child how to use the bed rail properly. Emphasize that they should not climb over the rail and should only enter or exit the bed from the designated openings. - Supervise your child while they are using the bed rail, especially in the beginning, to ensure they are comfortable and safe. By following these bed rail safety guidelines, you can minimize the risk of accidents and create a secure sleeping environment for your child. Preventing Bed Rail Injuries While bed rails are designed to enhance the safety of your child, it's essential to be aware of potential risks and take preventative measures. Here are some additional tips to prevent bed rail injuries: - Ensure that the bed rail you choose meets the necessary safety certifications and standards. Look for products that have undergone rigorous testing. - Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing and using the bed rail correctly. Improper installation or usage can increase the risk of accidents. - Regularly clean the bed rail according to the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, or allergens. - As your child grows and develops, periodically assess the need for bed rails. If your child demonstrates the ability to safely sleep without them, consider removing them gradually. Following these precautions can help ensure the safety and well-being of your child while using bed rails.

Choosing the Right Bed Rail for Your Child's Bed

When selecting a bed rail for your child's bed, there are several considerations to keep in mind. By following these bed rail selection tips and criteria, you can ensure that you choose the right bed rail to provide a safe and secure environment for your child's sleep. Bed Size and Height First and foremost, measure the size and height of your child's bed. This will help you determine the appropriate dimensions for the bed rail. Make sure to choose a bed rail that fits snugly against the side of the mattress, with no gaps that could pose a safety risk. Safety Features Another important factor to consider is the safety features of the bed rail. Look for bed rails with secure locking mechanisms and sturdy construction. Check for certifications such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) certification, which ensures that the bed rail meets the necessary safety standards. Ease of Use and Installation Consider how easy it is to install and use the bed rail. Look for bed rails with simple installation processes, such as those that can be attached without the need for tools. Portable bed rails may be a good option for families who frequently travel or need to move the bed rail between different beds. Bed Rail Criteria Features to Consider Size and Height Ensure proper fit and no gaps Safety Locking mechanisms, certifications Ease of Use Simple installation, portability By considering these bed rail selection tips and criteria, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right bed rail for your child's bed. Remember to prioritize safety and ensure that the bed rail meets your specific needs and preferences.

Installation and Maintenance of Bed Rails for Kids

Proper installation and regular maintenance of bed rails are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these safety devices. Following the manufacturer's instructions is crucial in order to correctly install the bed rail and securely attach it to the bed frame or mattress. This will help prevent any accidents or falls that may occur if the bed rail is not properly installed. In terms of maintenance, it is important to regularly inspect the bed rail for any signs of damage or wear. Check for loose parts or any instability that may compromise the bed rail's effectiveness. If any issues are detected, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer for guidance or consider replacing the bed rail. Cleaning the bed rail is also necessary to ensure a hygienic sleeping environment for your child. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning, which may include wiping down the bed rail with a damp cloth or using mild soap and water. Regular cleaning will help remove any dirt, dust, or allergens that may accumulate on the surface of the bed rail. By installing the bed rail correctly and maintaining it properly, you can provide a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, giving you peace of mind and ensuring their well-being throughout the night.

Bed Rail Safety Tips for Parents

Ensuring the safety of your child while using bed rails is of utmost importance. Here are some essential bed rail safety tips that every parent should be aware of: - Proper installation: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure the bed rail is securely attached to the bed frame or mattress. Double-check that there are no loose parts that could pose a risk. - Teach proper usage: Educate your child on how to use the bed rail correctly. Emphasize that they should not climb over the rail and should always use it for support while getting in and out of bed. - Secure the bed rail: Make sure the bed rail is properly locked into place before your child goes to bed. Regularly check that it remains secure throughout the night to prevent any accidental collapses or falls. - Supervise your child: While bed rails provide an added layer of safety, it's essential to supervise your child while they are using them. This ensures that they are using the bed rail correctly and not engaging in any risky behavior. By following these bed rail safety tips, you can create a safe sleeping environment for your child and minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. Quote: "Teach your child how to use the bed rail properly and not to climb over it." Remember, bed rails are a safety aid, but they should not replace adult supervision or other necessary precautions for your child's well-being. Always prioritize their safety and take steps to create a secure sleep environment. Bed Rail Safety Tips for Parents Proper installation Teach proper usage Secure the bed rail Supervise your child

Conclusion - Kids Bed Rail Safety

Bed rail safety is crucial for protecting your child while they sleep. By choosing the best bed rails for kids and following proper safety guidelines, you can create a secure sleeping environment and prevent falls. When selecting bed rails, consider factors such as secure locking mechanisms, appropriate height, and safety certifications. Swing-down bed rails, fixed bed rails, and bumper bed rails are all viable options depending on your child's needs. Ensure proper installation and regular maintenance of the bed rails to prolong their effectiveness and durability. Read the full article

[saudiacarrigan]

[she/her, cisgender female] Welcome to Aurora Bay, [SAUDIA PAYNE CARRIGAN]! I couldn’t help but notice you look an awful lot like [KEKE PALMER]. You must be the [THIRTY-TWO] year old [INTERIOR DESIGNER]. Word is you’re [WITTY] but can also be a bit [SELF-CENTERED] and your favorite song is [PUMP THE JAM BY TECHNOTRONIC]. I also heard you’ll be staying in [FISHER’S COVE]. I’m sure you’ll love it!

@aurorabayaesthetic

tw: cheating

Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Saudia had a comfortable childhood. She had two older brothers and both of her parents were very involved in all of their lives. Between the three siblings, there were always events going on. They were all involved in sports after school, and their parents made sure to go to as many games as possible for each child. 

A Saudia got older, she started to turn her attention more towards theater and dance. She loved performing, and discovered her love for musicals in high school. While she knew that the likely hood of having a career in theater was low, it opened her eyes to a new love of the arts. 

Her parents had always told their kids that they would pay the equivalent for in-state tuition for college. That meant if they wanted to go somewhere else they would have to make up the rest of the money or get scholarships. 

Unsure of what she wanted to do, she decided to follow her high school boyfriend to the same school, although she wouldn’t admit that was the reason she chose UCLA. Naturally, they broke up within the first few months of starting school. 

Devastated by the break up, Saudia felt intimidated by going out and making all new friends. She ended up with a secure group of girls that she really enjoyed. After learning that some of them were in the fine arts program, Saudia switched her major. Wanting something that could afford her a stable career, she settled on interior design. 

She started to fall in love with the subject and was fortunate enough to learn she had the eye for it as well. Breezing through her program, she spent a lot of time going out with her girlfriends. That was where she met Gavin. Her friend had managed to introduce them since they ran in similar circles. 

For Saudia, she jumped fully into their relationship. He was gorgeous, funny and talented. Saudia fell head over heels. He was exactly what she had wanted in a man, and she loved that he allowed her to be an independent woman with her own goals and career to look forward to. 

As they continued together, over time she started to feel the relationship slipping. Having had the feeling that he was always a little more attached to his best friend than he cared to admit, she started to worry as his friend discussed her divorce. Seeing him spending more time with her made Saudia panic. Feeling he already had one foot out of the relationship, she worried that maybe he had never loved her the way she had loved him. 

On a bad decision, and a drunken call with her friend.. she decided to step outside their relationship to see if maybe experiencing someone else could help her figure out her feelings for Gavin. 

This one night stand suddenly turned into something more surprising. She was pregnant. Now things were starting to look very different. She couldn’t support a kid on her own just yet. She had nowhere else to go. So, in a poorly thought out decision, she told Gavin the baby was his. 

Of course Gavin had done the honorable thing and stayed with her. She knew in her heart that they were on a rocky road. Both with their own reasons. She always held out hope that they could fix things, and fall as deeply in love with each other as they had in the beginning. 

For a while things were fine. They carried on with life, raised their son, and had good times together. However, Saudia knew her happiness had come second to everything for a while. She couldn’t live with the lie she had told him, and the guilt she felt for it. Finally, one night after a glass of wine for courage, she revealed the truth to him. 

Knowing that this would likely end her relationship with him, she still felt a wave of relief just having things clear. Gavin deserved to know the truth. And she certainly wasn’t about to be bitter to the man when they couldn’t work things out and filed for divorce. With full intention to keep Gavin in Ben’s life, the divorce actually went smoothly. Custody was discussed and arranged without a hateful battle. 

Now, she is learning to live on her own, be a mother, and silently supports her ex-husband’s career, while managing her own busy career.