#why am i already feeling regret this is supposed to be the fun part I hate social anxiety

[iamthekarmapolice]

Social drinking is so fun lol. Basking in the warm glow of feeling like my coworkers actually like me

[jaylalolz]

❛ 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐄 ❜ p2 . . . charlie mayhew

INNOCENT!reader x PRIEST!charlie 𝜗𝜚 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚

PART 1

SUMMARY, after ignoring charlie for a week after the incident, he finally gets her close in the bathroom.

A/N, sorry i took way too long to make a p2. if you want a p3, leave some recommendations of what i should do for that part in my inbox bc i have no idea how to keep it going 😂 anyways, have fun reading, angels. 🪽🪽

WARNINGS, smuttyyyyy

Charlie had noticed the change immediately after their last conversation—the one where Maddy had admitted, with a tremble in her voice, that she had thought about him in ways she knew weren’t right. He had been shocked, then flattered, and finally, filled with guilt after everything. But what troubled him the most was her absence.

For a whole week, Maddy hadn’t spoken to him. She didn’t show up at mass, didn’t linger after church like she usually did. Every time he tried to reach out, she brushed him off with curt messages or avoided him entirely. She wasn’t just distant—she was actively ignoring him.

At first, Charlie tried to give her space, assuming that she needed time to process what had happened between them. But as the days passed, his concern grew. The gnawing guilt inside him—the feeling that maybe he had crossed a line, that maybe he had hurt her more than he realized—began to fester.

It wasn’t until late one evening, after most of the congregation had already left, that Charlie spotted her. Maddy, rushing down the hallway, her face flushed, disappeared into the restroom. The church was quiet, the echoes of footsteps fading, and Charlie hesitated for a moment before following her.

He knocked softly on the bathroom door. “Maddy?”

There was no response, but he heard a faint sniffle, the kind that comes after holding back tears for too long. Charlie’s heart clenched. He hesitated, not wanting to invade her space, but the sound of her pain pushed him forward.

“Maddy, please talk to me,” he said gently. “I know you’ve been avoiding me, but I can’t help you if you shut me out.”

There was a long pause, and then the door cracked open. Maddy stood there, her eyes red and puffy, but there was something hardened in her expression. She looked exhausted—not just physically, but emotionally.

“Why do you care so much, Charlie?” she asked, her voice thick with frustration and hurt. “I’m trying to keep my distance, like I’m supposed to. Isn’t that what you want?”

Charlie frowned, stepping closer. “What I want is to understand why you’ve been avoiding me. After everything we talked about, I thought we could work through this together, but you’ve been shutting me out completely.”

Maddy let out a bitter laugh, wiping at her eyes. “Work through this? Charlie, you don’t get it. I’m embarrassed. I told you something I never should have said, something unholy, we did something for which I will never be forgiven. And every time I look at you, I see the judgment in your eyes.”

Charlie’s breath caught in his throat, realizing the depth of her shame. “Maddy, no,” he said, stepping toward her, his voice softening. “There’s no judgment. I promise you that.”

“Then why does it feel like there’s a wall between us now?” she whispered, her voice cracking. “Why did it feel like I crossed a line that I can’t uncross?”

Charlie closed his eyes, fighting the turmoil in his chest. He had wrestled with his own guilt all week, and now hearing hers, it was clear they were both lost in their own pain. He opened his eyes and met hers, his gaze steady.

“You didn’t ruin anything,” he said softly. “What you told me… it was honest. I do not regret what we did together, i am not ashamed of it.”

She looked at him for a long moment, her eyes searching his face for any hint of dishonesty. When she didn’t find it, she exhaled slowly, some of the tension leaving her shoulders.

“So, why does it matter so much, Charlie? Why did we both make it feel like the end of the world?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Charlie ran a hand through his hair, taking a breath. “Because it’s hard, Maddy. It’s hard to admit that something’s there, something we both feel but can’t have. It’s hard because I want to help you through this, but I also… I’m fighting the same thoughts, the same distractions.” His confession hung in the air between them, heavy and real.

Maddy’s breath hitched, her eyes widening slightly. “You mean…?”

Charlie nodded, looking down. “I’m not immune to this. But I’m trying to stay strong for both of us. And ignoring me won’t make it go away. We have to figure out how to deal with this together.”

Maddy wiped at her eyes again, this time with less urgency, as if the weight of their shared secret had lightened slightly. “I don’t know how to make it stop,” she admitted, her voice small.

“Neither do I,” Charlie said quietly. “But I can help you, Angel.”

He stepped closer to her, trapping her exit from the restroom. His fingers interlocks with her hair as he pulls a strand behind her ear and grabbed her face and pulled her closer. “Tell me you don’t regret it, please” he says eagerly as he places his forehead on hers.

“Just Let me worship you”

Her head spins from the thousands of negative possibilities but her body just wants to surrender to him.

Without kissing her, he trailed his lips up her curve and exhaled till the heat tingled sensuously across her delicate skin. She closed her eyes, sensing his hands running up her sides over her white button-up blouse. He clasped his hands over the cloth, tracing a line up her hips and down the sides of her chest before finishing at the collar of the weightless material.

He made two hard fists out of the blouse collar and tore it open causing her to gasp in shock as the shirt split open to reveal her white lacy bra.

He turned to face her and grabbed her hips once again, the moment the door was locked. Before her thoughts could register, his lips dropped hungrily to her neck and her back collided with the wall. He brushed his teeth on her flesh right away, pressing his body against her while groaning.

Her hands instinctively gripped his hips, tossing her head to one side. They kissed for a long time, his sensual lips breathing heavily into her neck in between, making her eyes drift close. He thrust forward, bringing his hips to meet hers, offering whatever kind of pleasure he could. Her hands clenched around his hips over his pants, and she let out a sigh of pleasure.His hands trailed down her nude thighs, extending to her behind to seize it above the dress. He pulls her hips against his harder.

"I can't wait to take this dress off you." He graveled.

His words cause her core to ache and she arched her back further off the wall to feel his body against her even more. He takes the motion and decides to just pick her up instead. His hand reaches behind her thighs, where he raises her and surrounds her weak legs around his hips. Her back against the wall as their hips collided, she took a deep breath at the abrupt change.Now at eye level with her, he planted a kiss on her jaw and positioned himself between her legs. Wrapping her arms around his shoulders, she held him in place. She felt weak as a result of his forceful hip thrust between her legs.

She dug her hands into his hair and let out a cry through a pant. When she pulled it, he gave a grunt. He clamped down harder on her neck, and in response, she let out an uncontrollable whine.

He tightly clamped his teeth into a single area, creating such strong suction that she was certain it would leave a mark. She almost lost consciousness when she separated her lips in response to her aggressive action, arching her back. Feeling him rough on the pale skin, she reflexively jerked her hand to the back of his head. She got mild pain spikes with it, but other than that, it was enjoyable.

She pulled at the roots above his neck, and he whispered into her neck. She knew immediately that he enjoyed it when she yanked his hair. His moan provided the necessary stimulation between her legs. He drags out every motion so that she begs him to keep going.

With her bra and panties on, she arched her back, feeling the tight fit of his jeans pressing on her inner part. she could feel how hard he was becoming quickly, he was absolutely bottled up in those tight jeans. Suddenly, he sets her down on her two feet and goes on his knees. He lanced down at her stomach, licking his lower lip with his tongue before lowering his head to give her abdomen a moist kiss. Her whole body trembled at the light touch.

He reached her panties and raised his head, gazing up into her eyes all the way up her body. Grabbing the edges of her lace panties, he sits up between her legs and pulls it up off her hips and down her thighs right away. She tensed slightly as he took off the final piece of material covering her body. She raised her legs into the air and he pulled the thin material away from her ankles.

He tossed the last piece of clothing to the floor, leaving her completely vulnerable. “Now, you’re gonna be a good girl and stay quiet. we don’t want anyone to hear you”

Just by feeling his tongue running up her center, her stomach lurched and her entire body flexed. He forced his mouth against her tightly and rolled his tongue straight to the cluster of nerves before she could even begin to grasp the strange sensation of his sharp tongue sliding up her slit. "Charlie-" her back curved off the wall before she could even complete her statement.

Without holding back, he went straight into her clit with a wonderful rhythmic roll of his tongue. Her eyes narrowed as she closed them.

Her hips twitched with the intensity of this wild new feeling right away. "Charlie, oh my god," she said, rolling her eyes inside her head. He maintained a death grip on her thighs, keeping them forced open to give him complete access to enjoy her in any way he pleased. She was unable to regulate her sensitivity, and it would make her body twitch.

His wet tongue rolled in the perfect place at different rhythms and at a steady pace, making her experience things She have never felt in her entire life. He just started, and she was unable to catch her breath.Her hands would be death grasping his thick hair right now if she could control them.

He placed her legs over his shoulders, reaching lower and squeezing a firm grasp around her outer thighs and hip bones. With a deep inhale through his nose, he caressed her with his tongue, sending a surge of ecstasy up her neck and into her veins. With a moan, she chokes and throws back her head, putting her legs across his long back.

She wasn't prepared for the kind of pleasure he gave her when he slid his lengthy tongue inside of her and ran it down. He was an expert at what he was doing and was doing it very well. Then the knot in her stomach turned to give her trembling thighs. Before returning to her clit, which she could now feel pulsating, he slid his tongue in and out of her a few times. The pressure burning inside of her intensified as soon as he made touch with it once more.

She flinches and draws in a short breath as he flicks the tip of his tongue up and down on the bundle of nerves. "I need it so bad.. charlie..." She could not be silent in the room; she was a mess of heavy pants. She was unable to stop herself from breathing heavily and was always accompanied by whimpers and whines that were concealed in the back of her throat.

He looks down between them, his ring and middle fingers digging deep into her. He instantly coiled and shoved them at the same moment, making her gasp. She was taken aback by the furious action. He was panting as well, so she arched her back and let out a whimper into the thick air. The two fingers he didn't have rings on, his fingers rocked into her mercilessly.

She let out a cry, tightly clenching her eyelids and contorting her hips. He coiled up and compressed his fingers, striking a sensitive area within her which she had no idea contained so many nerve endings."You're so fucking tight-" In his deep voice, he whispered.

Her legs trembled as she yelled out, “please." "Does that feel good?" He rasps into the burning air while simultaneously caressing her clit with his fingers. Shutting her eyes tightly, she gave a nod. Her stomach felt like it was about to burst; there were no words to express the feelings she was experiencing.

"Do you feel that knot in your stomach, Angel?" He whispered, reading her thoughts.

She groaned and nodded once more, her chest heaving in a need for breath. "Use your words." More forcefully, he remarks, It was so difficult to focus on anything other than the euphoric rush coursing through her blood. “Y-yes." was her stutter.

"I'm adding a third." Before striking a third finger into her, he muttered. She let out a gasp as he pushed past the line, his third finger descending in unison with the other two. She let out a cry, her back automatically arching off the wall.

"Oh my god!" The pressure between her hips immediately increased as the third finger was thrust in, causing her to cry. her body came out in another sweat, her hips suddenly having a mind of their own when they bucked.

He glanced up at her face, saw how shaken she was getting, her legs trembling with her inability to remain silent. He pulled his hand away from her clit and instead brought it up to cover her lips because she was extremely loud. When the build started to get more tense, he began to shove his three fingers deep into her.

"Everyone is right next door." He smirks.

"You can yell into my hand."

With her eyes squeezed shut, she yelled into his big palm that was placed across her mouth. Her back continued to arch off the wall as the condition grew progressively deeper. She felt as though she were on a cloud and was at a loss for words regarding what was occurring to her body.

"Cum for me baby-" He encouraged, drawing his eyes into hers. He knew she was close.

She whimpered into his fingers, her body's gears shifting like a moving train. Her thighs trembled as though she was freezing, her stomach was drawn in, and her chest pumped fiercely. She kept screaming into his palm at the crushing strain that was killing her, and his fingers kept jamming into the same area.

Her entire body was tight; she was too weak to continue in this state for very long. She let out his muffled name in a scream and then abruptly stopped moving. Everything—shaking, arching, breathing—stopped abruptly.

She undid herself on his fingers. She moans at the feeling of emptiness as he pulls away. He puts a kiss on her forehead and adds, "I knew you would be such a good girl for me." She was still trembling from what had happened, so he gently placed her clothing and underwear on her.

She slid to the floor, tears spilling down her cheeks. The shame she felt was suffocating, wrapping itself around her until she could barely breathe.

“Maddy,” he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

She shook her head, wiping at her tears with the back of her hand. “I’m sorry,” she choked out, her voice broken. “I’m so, so sorry. I don’t know why i’m crying”

Charlie was kneeling beside her before she could finish, his hands gentle as he reached for her. “Maddy, stop,” he murmured. “You don’t have to apologize”

She shook her head, tears still spilling down her cheeks. “It feels wrong, Charlie. All of this. I feel guilty for even wanting this.”

Charlie sighed, brushing a strand of her hair away from her face. “I know. I feel it too. But guilt isn’t going to help either of us right now. We need to be honest with ourselves about what’s happening, and we need to figure out how to move forward.”

Charlie’s thumb gently wiped away one of her tears, his touch comforting but careful.

Maddy closed her eyes, leaning into his touch, even though part of her knew they shouldn’t be this close. But in this moment, she needed the comfort, the reassurance that she wasn’t alone in this guilt. That they would find a way through it, together.

[fanfictionismyaddiction]

The Wizard of Wolff

Word count: 1.1k

Pairing: Toto Wolff x reader

Summery: As Halloween approaches, Y/n convinces her reluctant husband, Toto Wolff, to a hilarious dog costume as her sidekick Toto while she embraces her role as Dorothy, leading to a night filled with laughter and unexpected fame

______________________________________________________________

It was a few weeks before Halloween, and Y/n was in full preparation mode. Halloween was her absolute favorite holiday—everything from spooky decorations to haunted houses, but especially the costumes. Every year, she went all out, carefully planning her outfits and crafting the perfect look. Toto, on the other hand, couldn't have cared less about the whole affair. He loathed dressing up, always feeling awkward and out of place at costume parties. But for Y/n, he’d bite the bullet, year after year, because he could never say no to the woman he adored.

This year, they had been invited to an exclusive Halloween party hosted by one of Monaco’s elite, where the guest list included celebrities, socialites, and their closest friends. Y/n was thrilled about the event, scrolling through costume ideas while sipping her morning coffee. Toto, however, was far less enthusiastic, already dreading whatever outrageous outfit Y/n would come up with this time.

As he wandered into the living room, towel slung over his shoulder after a morning workout, Y/n looked up from her phone with an excited grin.

"Toto, I’ve found it!" she said, practically bouncing in her seat.

"Found what?" he asked, already a little suspicious. He knew that tone.

"Our Halloween costumes!" she exclaimed, holding up her phone to show him an image of Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. "I’m going to be Dorothy—blue dress, ruby slippers, the whole deal."

Toto leaned in, glancing at the photo. "I see. So what am I supposed to be? The Tin Man?"

Y/n bit her lip, trying to stifle her giggles. "Nope. You’re going to be Toto!"

He blinked, staring at her as if she had spoken a foreign language. "Wait… What? You want me to be a dog?"

She burst out laughing, unable to contain herself anymore. "Yes! You’ll be my adorable little dog, Toto!" She swiped to the next photo on her phone—a fluffy brown dog costume complete with floppy ears, a furry tail, and even a leash. "Isn’t it perfect?"

Toto shook his head, chuckling in disbelief. "You’ve got to be kidding me. You want me, a grown man, to wear dog ears and follow you around on a leash?"

Y/n was practically tearing up from laughter at this point, barely able to respond. "Yes! You’ll be the cutest little Toto ever!"

He couldn’t help but laugh along with her, though he still found the idea utterly ridiculous. "Y/n, I’m 6’5". No one is going to mistake me for a dog. If anything, they’ll think I’m a wolf."

Without missing a beat, Y/n leaned in closer, eyes twinkling. "Well, that’s the genius part. When you’re alone, you can be Wolff with your last name, but when you’re with me, you’re Toto with your first name." She paused for dramatic effect. "Two costumes in one!"

Toto laughed, shaking his head as he sat down beside her. "So you’re saying I have no escape from this, either way?"

"Exactly," she said triumphantly, moving closer and wrapping her arms around him. "But think about it—it’s going to be hilarious. And besides, everyone will be focused on me as Dorothy. You just have to play the sidekick."

Toto let out a dramatic sigh, leaning back against the couch. "I’m really going to regret this, aren’t I?"

"Nope," she said with a playful grin, kissing him on the cheek. "You’re going to have fun, and deep down, you know you love it when we do these things together."

He looked down at her, his soft smile betraying any annoyance he might have tried to muster. "I only do this for you, Y/n."

"And that’s why I love you," she said, pecking him on the lips. "Because deep down, you’re a big softie."

Toto chuckled, pulling her closer. "I must be, if I’m agreeing to this."

The next few days flew by as Y/n excitedly prepped for the party. She ordered her Dorothy costume—a cute but modern twist on the classic look, complete with the iconic blue gingham dress, ruby red heels, and even a wicker basket with a stuffed animal Toto inside, just for good measure. She also picked out Toto’s "dog" costume, adding her own little touches to make it as humorous as possible.

When the night of the party arrived, Y/n was bouncing around their bedroom, getting ready. She zipped up her dress, twirling in front of the mirror, admiring the way it flared around her hips.

"How do I look?" she asked, turning to Toto with a dazzling smile.

Toto stood leaning against the doorframe, already dressed in his "Toto the Dog" costume. He looked utterly ridiculous, standing at his full height in the floppy ears and dog tail, but Y/n couldn’t have been more pleased.

"You look beautiful," he said with a smirk, his deep voice dripping with sarcasm. "And I look like a complete fool."

Y/n burst out laughing again. "You look adorable! Come here." She walked over, adjusting the ears on his head and smoothing down the furry tail. "There. Perfect."

Toto sighed, running a hand over his face. "I still can’t believe I’m doing this."

Y/n grinned mischievously, looping her arm through his. "You’ll survive. And trust me, once people see us together, they’re going to love it. Besides, who doesn’t want to see the famous Toto Wolff in a dog costume?"

They made their way to the party, the night buzzing with excitement. As expected, when they entered, heads turned, and a wave of laughter followed them through the crowd. People were in awe of Y/n’s flawless Dorothy look, but the sight of Toto in his ridiculous dog outfit stole the show. Friends and fellow party-goers couldn’t stop making jokes about how fitting it was for him to be a "wolff in dog’s clothing."

And just as Y/n predicted, when Toto was alone, people couldn’t help but comment on his name.

"You’re not even trying, are you?" one guest teased.

Toto simply smiled, raising an eyebrow. "It’s a costume that works on multiple levels."

But whenever Y/n was by his side, they quickly became the highlight of the night—the most talked-about couple at the party. And while Toto rolled his eyes and grumbled about how much he hated Halloween, deep down, he loved seeing Y/n so happy. Her laughter, the way her face lit up when they joked together, made every minute of this ridiculous night worth it.

As they danced together later that evening, Y/n leaned into him, her arms wrapped around his neck. "See? I told you it would be fun."

Toto smiled down at her, his love for her far outweighing any embarrassment he might have felt. "You were right. But don’t get used to it. Next year, I’m picking the costume."

Y/n grinned mischievously. "We’ll see about that."

[nickfurysrighteye]

Practise?

chase davenport x reader

summary: the school's gonna do a play and it's gonna be Romeo and Juliet. Chase was supposed to help with the behind the scenes but instead he gets to play Romeo, and you, Juliet, offer him some help with his lines..

cw: sfw, kissing, that's it i think

a/n: this is my first time writing for this fandom and also my first time making my writing public so please be kind :') ...i haven't written any type of fanfic in a veeeery long time. this is just for fun!!!

"Seriously?! I can't believe it!"

Janelle yells storming into the gym. Everybody stops what they're doing to look at her puzzled. This year Mission Creek High decided to organize a play and upon a great request it was decided to stage 'Romeo and Juliet'. Janelle volunteered to direct the entire planning of it.

"Our Romeo decided it was a great time to break his arm, therefore we don't have a Romeo anymore!" she says walking towards Leo, who's busy painting the fake wooden balcony. Leo decided to take part in the production only to have an excuse to be with Janelle, and doing so he dragged Chase along, just to have some company.

A few people gather around to see what was going on, you take your eyes off the script you were revising to look at your classmates on the opposite site of the room.

"So? What's the big deal?" says Leo "The understudy can take his place."

"The big deal is we don't have an understudy! We barely have enough people working on this play, do you really think we have extras?" Janelle is furious.

"Why don't we pick somebody from the crew?" you barge into the conversation, feeling the eyes of everyone onto you "I mean, it's not like we have time to redo auditions.."

Everybody is silent, eyes going left and right scanning the room for someone brave enough to take on one of the leading roles. You look behind Leo's shoulder "I bet Chase could do it."

Chase was surprised and slightly confused by your statement "Me? But I'm not an actor." he says, struggling to speak loud enough to be heard.

"Neither am I, and neither is everyone else..this is a high school play not Broadway, no of us are actors." you shrug while looking over to the brown haired boy.

Janelle looks over to him "Chase, do you think you could do it? You'd be a life saver, honestly." you could hear the tension in her voice from all the stress the planning brought her.

"I-i mean, sure I could give it a try" Chase tried so hard to sound confident in his choice but you could hear the slight tremor in his tone.

"Perfect, problem solved!" Janelle said.

Once everyone got back to work you get closer to Chase, "If you want we can practise the lines together, I could also give you some tips."

"Sure, I'd love that." Chase says with a sweet, soft smile. "Cool, you can stop by at my house today if that's ok." you smile back

"Yeah, sure, I'll see you later."

-

After school, the two brothers head to the lab and Chase is panicking, regretting the choice he made earlier that day. "Why would I agree to do something like this?! Why didn't you stop me Leo?! This is going to be a disaster! The play's gonna suck!" he spits out the words so quickly he can barely keep up with his thoughts.

"Chase chill out! You'll be fine, like Y/n said no one here's an actor, you're all gonna suck" Leo's already tired of his complaining.

Chase's worry isn't only his acting, but the fact he's gonna be the lead in a romantic play with you as his love interest. He's also terrified by the idea of having to kiss you multiple times on stage, in front of a ton of people. This is stressing him out way more than anticipated.

He already knew who you were long before taking part in this project. He saw you walk around the halls, he saw you sitting a couple of desks in front of him in some classes you have together. He always thought about you as the pretty girl he would only talk to in his imagination. Nobody could have predicted the two of you acting as lovers in a school play. Certainly not Chase.

-

With his heart beating out of his chest, Chase knocks on your front door. You open the door and invite him in. "We can go upstairs in my room" you say, guiding him upstairs.

You go through the script together, focusing on the more difficult parts to memorize. You're suprised Chase could memorize all these lines so quickly, and he's getting better at getting into character.

He says every line with the right feeling, you two work in harmony, it's like you're no longer acting as the characters but are living the story as yourselves.

"You're quite talented you know that Chase?" you smile

"Thanks, I'm actually a bit nervous if I'm being honest." he chuckes while lowering his eyes, looking at his fingers fidgeting with the corner of the script's page.

"How come? You're doing great." you tilt you're head slightly. You sit on your bed, taking a small break.

He shrugs, sitting down beside you "I don't know, I just am" he mumbles.

You stare at him with a soft gaze, you study his expression, you're lightly mesmerized by the way the light beam from the setting sun is hitting his face, shining through your window. His eyes now being a warmer hazel tone.

He can hear the beat of his heart in his ears "Actually, I'm scared 'cause --" he stops "I'm worried about our kiss."

"Our kiss?"

"Yeah, it scares me a little having to kiss in front of an audience."

"It's gonna be a quick kiss don't worry about it."

"I know, it's just that --" he looks down again "I've never done it before."

"You've never kissed anyone?" you say, the slight surprise in your voice makes him feel even worse now.

"It's fine Chase, I get it. There's no need to be ashamed of it." you try to reassure him. "Wanna practise?"

"The kiss?" he looks at you.

"Yeah, I mean, we probably should anyway since it's part of the play." you say, standing up and placing yourself in front of him like you would be on stage.

"Yeah, ok, that's..a good idea" he stands up as well. Chase tries to hide his uncertainty.

"You sure about this?" you ask, you don't want to pressure him.

"A hundred percent" he's anxious, he's rubbing subtly his hands on his jeans because they're starting to sweat, his knees get weaker and he hopes they'll be strong enough to support him.

"Ok now, just follow my lead." you take his hand, leaning nearer. Your other hand cupping his cheek, your lips are now inches apart. Your touch feels warm on his skin, making him breathe faster.

"Close your eyes." as he does so, your place your lips onto his gently, and start to slowly and softly kiss him.

A warm feeling of joy starts to bubble up in his chest as he copies your movements and picks up the pace. The kiss gets more intense, more impatient as he tastes your lips. You get closer and your hand that was on his cheek is now on the back of his neck, tangling your fingers with his hair. His hands start to move, although he's still unsure of what to do.

You stop for a brief moment. "It's ok if you wanna touch me, y'know." Chase laughs a little, he then places his hands on your sides, sliding them down to your waste. He grabs a little harder and pull you into another kiss, this time greedier, messier.

He didn't think it would feel this good kissing you, his heart is racing so fast you could probably hear it. Your lips are exploring eachother, you're both enjoying this much more than you should be. After a few moments Chase decides to wet your bottom lip with the tip of his tongue, you part your lips a bit and he slips part of his tongue in. The feeling of your tongues tasting eachother sends shivers down your spine, you feel your cheeks getting warmer.

"You taste amazing" he blurs out the moment he stops to catch his breath, then he pulls you again into another kiss. His words make you melt.

Chase has lost track of time. Actually he has lost track of anything, he can only feel you. Your lips, your tongue, your taste, the sweet smell of your perfume and the warmth of your body standing so close to his. A few moments pass and you pull away to catch your breath, your faces still close to eachother.

"Was i good?" his question makes you chuckle.

"Yeah, you were. You know the kiss isn't supposed to last this long though, right?"

"Sorry i got a bit carried away." Chase laughs a little. You smile softly, caressing his cheek with your thumb.

"I don't think you're gonna have problems on stage, Chase"

"Although we should probably get back to revising the lines"

"We should, but after we're done we should go back to the kissing part, just to be sure"

[aonungyoufuck]

Runaway

Part: Two

Pairing: Ao’nung X Sully Fem!reader

Synopsis : You had Saved Neteyam’s life. Norm and Max Extracting the Bullet but Healing the way Ronal sought to. Being kept at her side to make sure as she put it ‘your recklessness doesn’t kill you’. This leaves you to bond not only with Tsireya a bit more. But Ao’nung as well. Much to Ronal’s dismay

“Breathe how you were taught. It will help ease the pain.” Ronal’s stern voice spoke as she bandaged you up. 

As much as she wanted to hate you and your family for putting not only her people But her children in the dead center of your family’s war. She couldn’t be more thankful that no lives were lost. Not yet if she had a say in it at least. 

“Now lay down Gently. You will stay here till i see you are better”

You nodded. Gulping down a groan as you could barely breathe without any pain. 

“Your Family is allowed to see you. But do not move” Ronal ordered as she stepped outside the Marui that was not far from her own. As your luck would have it. You were the only one severely injured. Which left you lonely but also relieved no one got to see you making faces. 

“My child” Neytiri spoke as she approached you. Gently caressing your face in a form of comfort. 

“Y/n How do you feel?” your father asked you. You barely could move but made an effort to turn to look at him.

“Like death itself”

Small laughter erupted and all you could do was smile. 

“Neteyam, How do you find yourself” you asked. 

“Well sister. Thank you for saving me”

You smiled nodding a bit as you looked up ahead. Your rather not suffer Ronal’s wrath if you move too much. 

“I am to stay here. Sorry i cant be with you all”

“It is alright my child. When our duties do not interfere we will come to talk with you” your mother spoke as you enjoyed her gently grazes on your forehead.

As the oldest daughter you suppose you could enjoy taking some time away from your siblings tho at the expense of some pain “Lo’ak, Kiri, Tuk! Please do not cause more Trouble to Neteyam while i am out of commission”

You didnt need to look to know the offended gasp Lo’ak was sure to wear. “I do not cause trouble”

“Oh Eywa take me now for that is the fattest lie anyone’s ever told” You commented back sarcastically. Making Neteyam laugh and Tuk giggle. 

“But please. Keep yourself safe for i am not there to beat some sense into you guys” you said a yawn escaping your lips as you grew tired after today’s events. 

“Dont Worry. I’ll be there to keep an eye on them” Spider commented. You had almost forgotten that he had joined in again. 

“Great mother have mercy on this clan” Its not that you didn’t trust Spider to keep an eye on them. The only problem was Spider wasn’t one to back down if it looked ‘fun’

“It looks like your tired. Come on now kids lets head out and let your sister rest. Its been a long day already” Jake said as he hurdled the kids out. Your mother stayed, kissing your head as she headed out as well. 

You stayed there. Listening to the waves crash below you and all around you as you sighed. No matter how tired you were. You couldn’t find sleep. Maybe it was the pain? The quietness that was the lack of your family? Perhaps all that happened today. You did not know why. 

“I see you are awake. Much better as mother brings me food to give you” 

Turning but regretting it immediately you saw who it was. Ao’nung. Not that you have gotten terribly close. But now his face didn't initiate some sort of anger like it use to. “Oh. I would have thought only Ronal and Tsireya would come by.”

“Are you unhappy it is me?”

“Not particularly but you know what i mean”

“I know its just fun that you dont have enough bite as before”

You couldn’t really watch but you heard him set stuff aside as he sat beside you and began to feed you. Perhaps if you had witnessed this before or known before you would have rather died. But now you appreciated the gesture. 

“Tsireya will come by later to reapply some of the paste and change your wraps”

You nodded as you finished your meal. 

“You know. Now that im here i cant really deny but i am glad you are well and alive”

“Really now?”

“Is that hard to believe?”

“Not really” you spoke turning to look at him. This time the pain came from the stiffness in your neck from laying down for so long. “We may not be the best of friends but im Glad all of you are safe too you know?”

“You are strange as you are reckless you know?”

“Would you rather i have died?”

“What? No!”

You smiled.  Extending you hand to him for him to take. And reluctantly he did. All you did was gently rub his hand with your thumb. This sight would have made him hiss in anger before. His normal hand against your ‘freak’ one. But it was comforting knowing you were warm and alive and not dead. Like how you felt before. 

“If it were any of you I would also do this, you know? Not Just my family”

“But why?”

“Well i cant speak for you or for anyone really. But when you tend to know the value of a life that is not yours. You do some crazy stuff”

“Do you not value your life?”

“I do. I am thankful i'm alive right now. But I value all your lives a lot too. You are the Future of this Clan along side your sister if not you. I am without a home, remember?”

“Wow you really are strange”

“Are you saying if it was Tsireya you wouldn’t take the fall for her?”

He was quiet. For he didnt need to answer because you already knew. 

“Being the oldest makes you think the least bit about yourself eh?”

“Shut up you Skxawng”

You smiled. Yawning as you finally felt sleep welcoming you. “If i pass in my sleep. Please do not make fun at anyone else who seeks Uturu. Tho i know you made plenty progress already”

You didn't get to see his face fall. The thought of you passing was hard enough on your family he couldn’t really place why. But he feels like he’d mourn a lot as well. 

Watching you sleep he stayed there. Watching your Chest rise and fall. Perhaps he grew paranoid? Perhaps it was the drilling that he was to ‘protect all he can in the clan’ that his father made sure he knew. But he stayed there. Still holding your hand as he listened to you sleep. 

Had Tsireya not come by at night to change your paste and wounds. You wouldn’t have believed that Ao’nung sat there asleep holding your hand. 

And you may have calmed your quickened heart. 

“It seems the Wounds will take much longer to heal. But its made progress during the night”

You nodded as you listened to Ronal speak as she inspected you. “Understandable. Na’vi bodies or humans are built to take a bullet to the chest” you reasoned as you lifted your arm for her to wrap better. “However, I am feeling much better. Thank you”

“You still cannot move too much alright? I'm Afraid a nerve May have been scrapped as your arm is pretty stiff” 

You could only nod. Taking in a breather as you lowered your arm. “I thank you Tsahik. Tho i ask you how is My family”

“Out doing their Assigned jobs. Even that. Human is helping with a hunt right now”

You smiled nodding to yourself in reassurance. Flicking your fingers as you watched her go. Perhaps one day you can talk more comfortably. But you knew how stressful it was. She was to prepare for a child soon. And here you were taking up time. 

So in the silence of the home you stood and thought. Perhaps you could learn a thing or two, if she allowed it. All to help her of course make a fast delivery. Perhaps you were also just making some excuse to stay a little longer. You didn’t know. 

Time moved painfully slow and all you could really do was rebraid your hair. You silently cursing for the thick amount of hair that had managed to grow in such a small state.

You turned a little to look at the small sheer veil of a ‘door’ being moved. Tsireya greeting you and you greeting her back. 

“I see you can move more than yesterday” she says with a smile. Placing down a bowl of fruit” 

“Ah yes. Still sore. Kinda hard to rebraid my hair with just one hand”

“Would you like me to help you?”

“If you do not mind”

And without much word. Tsireya nodded, stepping behind you. And began to work with what your last hair style was. 

“Actually just braid the ends together please? I feel like i cant stand the pressure of them all in braids”

“Thats perfectly reasonable” 

You smiled feeling the hair loosen and give your head a rest. 

“You know it was kinda of sweet that My brother stayed by your side”

You could only roll your eyes. “ i still cant believe it” 

“But you better believe it. If i hadnt have to wake you You wouldn’t have believed my word” 

“Oh Eywa, I know. But its odd as to why he would stay. I mean we aren’t particularly great friends. Or really friends to begin with. I spend most my time here with you or Roxto at the very least”

“I do know. I was there for most of it” Tsireya spoke, finishing up the ends gently rubbing your hair with an oil that would help protect against the sea. “But Brother isnt at all against you guys now. Im sure now of all you guys can become friends”

‘Perhaps even more’ you silently hoped as you could only lay back down. “Perhaps in this time we can. And perhaps not.”

Tsireya smiled. Scooting the bowl closer to you. “Well I’ll leave this here for when you are hungry. Ao’nung will come by later with some more food”

You bid her goodbye. Listening to the waves. The calming of Eywa all around you. It made you thankful. Thankful to be alive at this very moment.

[flight0fthenavigat0r]

A Goodbye to The Bad Batch

I don’t even know what to say first. Because this is goodbye, but it is also everything but. But I suppose I should start at the beginning.

Just a couple of years ago I found my love for Star Wars. My entire life, as far back as I can remember, my dad has tried to get me into the fandom. Now, he’s not a fan the exact same way some of us are, he’d only watched the saga and the Mandalorian, funnily enough I was the one to introduce him to The Clone Wars and beyond, but it’s been a joy in his life for a very long time. I was never interested in it when I was little, but then I got a little older and Star Wars started to capture my interest.

One random weekend, I believe in 2021 or 2022, I decided that I was going to watch all nine saga movies in those forty-eight hours, and then start on my goal to watch every show and the additional movies.

This is, without a shred of doubt, one of the greatest decisions I have ever made, and one that I will never regret. I would not be the person I am had I not given Star Wars a chance.

It would sound ridiculous to anyone anywhere else, but this has become such a safe place for me that I know I can be honest.

Everyone finds that one thing that makes them happy like nothing else. A person, a hobby, a place, a fandom. Mine is the galaxy far, far away that lets me escape from my life whenever I need to.

The Star Wars fandom has its faults, and there is so much hatred.

But more than anything, there is love like no love I have ever experienced before. The love between fans and our love for these movies and shows is something I never expected to have in my life. But somehow, for some reason, it has all found a permanent place in my heart, and I couldn’t be happier.

At this time, the first season of The Bad Batch had just been released. I was branching out, watching The Clone Wars and then jumping to The Book of Boba Fett, though I’m not sure why I chose to watch everything in such a completely random order.

But then I started The Bad Batch.

I had no idea what Crosshair, Tech, Wrecker, Hunter, Echo, and Omega would come to mean to me.

I have dealt with a lot in the last few years. Nothing compared to others, but depression finds a way to wedge into your life. I love to be alone, but I don’t like to be lonely, and I have managed to isolate myself to a point of misery.

I found more comfort in The Bad Batch than anything else in my life, and I will never forget the joy The Bad Batch brought me in these last few years.

I began to write when I found Star Wars, and I was inspired to do so by The Bad Batch. Before, I had never felt so compelled by any one piece of media to add my own part of it to the world, until this. Writing has become another escape, one that gives me an outlet to continue the stories of characters left behind.

What I already knew has been reaffirmed, the lessons I have learned remain with me, and will even after this is over.

That it’s okay to feel afraid, because everyone does, and to make mistakes, provided you learn from them.

That feeling out of place for one reason or another does not make you unworthy of love, and having limitations with affection isn’t something you need to apologize for.

That being goofy, having fun, finding joy in the dark places, is just as vital a part of life as anything else, if not what we need more than anything.

That taking time for yourself, to make sure you don’t fall apart, even while taking care of others, is important.

That our worst moments can be one of two things, what consumes us, or what we grow from.

That being a young woman is not a detriment to your worth, intelligence, talent, or any other aspect of life, but is in fact what makes you strongest.

That what makes us unique and our faults are a part of who we are, but they do not define us, and we are so much more than the ideas people have of us.

My only regret is not making friends when I had the chance. I’m bad at that, opening up and putting myself out there, and I shy away from talking to new people because it makes me uncomfortable. But I wish I had been able to put that aside before it was too late and found people who love The Bad Batch the way I do to continue talking to, even after the show ends.

But to all the people who have supported me and who I have supported, thank you for being part of my Bad Batch experience.

It's very difficult to believe that this is it.

Though The Bad Batch has not been around long, it feels like it has, because as long as I have been watching Star Wars, The Bad Batch has been in its active run, and I’m so grateful I got to be here when it was.

I know that even when the credits roll for the final time, when the greater fandom forgets the show that they never really understood the way we have, I’ll be here, and hopefully, so will all of you. I think that the family brought together by The Bad Batch will endure, even if we go quiet for a while.

We’ll stick around, for the day the Batch comes back. Because I know they will.

Thank you Clone Force 99, the Bad Batch fandom, Dee Bradley Baker, Michelle Ang, the Kiners, and everybody who played a part in telling this story.

The impact The Bad Batch has had on my life has been profound, and I wouldn’t give it up for anything. It’s been a wild ride, and I have enjoyed every second of it. It has been a privilege to be a part of this piece in the ever growing history that makes up Star Wars.

Goodbye, Bad Batch. Until next time.

“Change takes getting used to. You’ll see. Just give it time.”

[arc852]

19. Out of Reach

Definition: outside the distance to which someone can stretch out their hand.

Summary: Jimmy and Joel have been playing a 'game' for a while now. Jimmy would try his very best to not get caught while Joel was the one who tried to catch him. For Joel, it was fun. For Jimmy? It was terrifying.

G/t: Joel is normal-sized, Jimmy is a borrower

Warnings: Fear and feeling helpless and trapped

Word Count: 1843

AO3 Link

Okay, I just finished this one yesterday and its already become one of my favorites. I really love how this one came out.

Oh and before there is any confusion, this is not part of the BBBCAU. This takes place in a completely seperate universe.

I hope you guys enjoy!

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

 Jimmy ran up the length of his string as fast as he could. He hadn’t expected Joel to get home so early but there he was, at the door and hurriedly trying to take his shoes off so he could run and try to catch Jimmy. Fortunately for the borrower, Jimmy made it up to the shelf with plenty of time.

 Joel finished yanking off his shoes and ran over to said shelf. He reached up on his tippy toes but his hand only reached the very front of the shelf. Jimmy’s breath hitched at the sight of the hand so close. He further pressed himself against the wall, thankful Joel wasn’t any taller. He heard the human huff.

 “What, are you pressed up all the way back towards the wall?” Joel asked, still trying to reach out his fingers to try and grab a hold of Jimmy. But Jimmy wasn’t moving.

 “...Yes.” Jimmy answered after a moment of hesitation. He wasn’t sure when it had started but he had started speaking back to Joel at some point during this whole thing. Joel had been surprised at first but Jimmy talking had just seemed to motivate him more in trying to catch him. Jimmy sort of regretted speaking because of that but he couldn't take it back. “Of course I am.” He added, because why would he put himself so close to the edge like that?

 Joel sighed and then his hand left the shelf. Jimmy let out a small sigh of relief himself. “Well, you’re lucky I don’t have a stepladder or anything. Though I suppose if I did have one you would be back in the walls before I could come back with it, huh?” Joel laughed at that. “Oh well, I guess you win this one. But you’re bound to make a mistake sooner or later, and when you do, it’ll finally be my turn to win.”

 Jimmy shivered at that. That was the last thing he wanted, for Joel to ‘win’. He had no clue what Joel’s plans were for if he ever did end up catching Jimmy, but Jimmy was determined to not find out.

 Joel’s footsteps retreated and Jimmy raised his head a little to see Joel sit himself down on the couch and take out his phone. Jimmy bit his lip, realizing the predicament he put himself in. There was no entrance into the walls up here, the closest ones were down below and in the kitchen. And with Joel staying in the living room, Jimmy was essentially trapped.

 It was fine though. All Jimmy had to do was wait for Joel to leave and then Jimmy could climb back down and head back home. Joel probably thought Jimmy was already back in the walls anyway. It would be fine.

 Except, Joel continued to stay in sight of the shelf. At one point he went into the kitchen but even from the kitchen Joel would be able to see Jimmy trying to leave. It had already been a couple of hours, why wasn’t Joel going to his room yet?

 Jimmy took a deep breath. It would be fine, he could stay here as long as he needed to. He might have to wait for Joel to head to bed but that was fine. Just as long as he wasn’t caught.

 But Jimmy hadn’t expected Joel to, at some point, glance up at the shelf again and be able to see him from where he was on the couch. Joel’s eyes widened and he stood up. “Jimmy? Are you still there?”

 Jimmy thought about staying quiet but then his eyes locked with Joel’s and he knew it was useless anyway. “M-Maybe I am, what about it?”

 Joel tilted his head and crossed his arms. “You’re usually back in the walls by now. So what…wait.” Joel’s eyes filled with a sudden realization. “You don’t have an entrance up there, do you?”

 No, no, no, no, no! Joel wasn’t supposed to realize that. “N-No, I do, I just-” Joel cut him off as a smile spread across the human’s face.

 “You totally don’t. Otherwise you would be long gone by now. Oh this is great.” Joel plopped back onto the couch, keeping an eye on the shelf. “Looks like my win is finally within reach.”

 Another shiver ran across Jimmy’s spine. He couldn’t get caught. “You’ll have to go to bed at some point.” Jimmy said, trying his hardest to keep the shakiness out. “I have a lot of patience.”

 Joel chuckled, making himself comfortable on the couch. “So do I. At least when it comes to this. I’m not planning on going to bed anytime soon.”

 Jimmy brought his knees to his chest and buried his face in them. He had to hope that he could wait Joel out. That Joel will go to bed or even end up falling asleep on the couch, either one worked. He just had to wait some more. He could do that. He had to do that.

 And so, both human and borrower waited. Joel spent most of his time on his phone, while Jimmy sat there just trying not to panic too much. At some point, Joel’s phone died and he sighed but pocketed it and glanced at the time. It was already well past when Joel usually went to bed and Jimmy was as stubborn as always. Joel huffed and looked back up at the shelf. He could just barely make out Jimmy’s figure in the way back.

 “Come on.” Joel finally said, breaking the silence. Jimmy jumped, startled by the sudden voice. “You gotta be tired or hungry or whatever by now, just come down already.”

 Joel was starting to sound frustrated, which was not a good thing for Jimmy. “Not going to happen Joel.”

 Joel groaned and threw his head back against the couch. “You really don’t want me to win that badly? It’s getting a bit ridiculous.” 

 Something in Jimmy broke at that. “Of course I don’t!” He shouted, his voice far louder than Joel had ever heard it. It made Joel sit up at full attention, eyes wide. “Of course I don’t want you to ‘win’, I have no idea what you have planned for me! You’re acting like this whole thing is just a fun game for you but for me it’s terrifying!” Jimmy breathed in and out, everything finally coming out about what he thought of Joel’s little ‘game’. He wasn’t sure what finally made him say it but it probably had something to do with the fact that…that…

 That he knew he wasn’t getting out of this. Not without being caught by Joel. His breathing became shaky and he slowly realized there were tears streaming down his face at the realization.

 Joel’s eyes were still wide. Still trying to process what Jimmy had said. “Are…Are you crying?”

 Jimmy sniffed and rubbed at his eyes. “Yes.” Jimmy’s voice cracked. He didn’t see any reason to lie. It was obvious.

 Joel was silent, which was more terrifying than anything the human could have said. He heard some shuffling and then something dragging. He looked up to see what was happening in just enough time to see Joel’s face come into view. Jimmy’s breath hitched as he was face to face with the human for the first time.

 And then Joel’s hands were in view and Jimmy pressed himself even further into the wall, wishing he could melt into it. Wishing he was anywhere but here. “No, no, Joel, please don’t…” He cried, more tears replacing the ones he had just wiped away.

 The large hands came up on either side of him and Jimmy flinched and braced himself. The hands scooped underneath him and suddenly Jimmy was sitting in Joel’s cupped hands. His body shook, his fear overwhelming him. 

 “Caught you.” Joel said, his voice low. Jimmy let out a whimper, feeling helpless and pathetic. Joel stepped down and was back on the floor, still holding onto Jimmy. Jimmy shut his eyes tight, not wanting to see what was going to happen.

 But they quickly opened again when Jimmy realized he had been put down. He looked around, realizing Joel had placed him on the kitchen counter. He looked up. Joel was still there, looming over him but he quickly crouched down so he was more eye level with Jimmy. Jimmy scooted back, fear still in control.

 “I finally won. And…now you can go.” Joel said, eyes glancing away for a moment. Jimmy’s eyes widened, not knowing if he heard him right.

 “W-What?” Jimmy said, his voice a sharp contrast from his earlier yelling. 

 Joel sighed and looked back at Jimmy, meeting his eyes. Jimmy had the overwhelming urge to tear his eyes away from Joel’s but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. “I said, you can go. I…nothing was ever going to happen to you if I won. I just…I thought we were playing a game. I thought you were in on it.” Joel shook his head, eyes not leaving Jimmy’s still. “I’m sorry.”

 Jimmy felt…well, he wasn’t sure how he felt. He had been caught by Joel, finally. But Joel…wasn’t going to keep him? Or do anything with him? What was happening? 

 Finally, Jimmy tore his gaze away from Joel’s, eyes instead moving over to the shelf he had been on not moments ago. But now, underneath it, there was a stepladder. “I thought you said you didn’t have a stepladder?” Jimmy said, letting it distract him for a moment.

 Joel’s eyes briefly glanced over at the stepladder before settling back on Jimmy. “I lied.” He said simply. 

 Jimmy let out a small breath. “Oh.”

 Joel’s gaze softened and he sighed. “I really am sorry, Jimmy. I didn’t mean to scare you like that. Or make you think I would…do anything to you.” Joel shook his head and then stood up. Jimmy couldn’t help but flinch back. “I’ll leave you alone now. I won’t…try and catch you anymore.”

 Joel looked at Jimmy one last time and then turned around and left. Jimmy heard the door to his room shut and suddenly, Jimmy was alone.

 His entrance back into the walls was right behind him but for some reason, Jimmy couldn’t get himself to move. Everything seemed to have happened so fast, Jimmy was still trying to process it all.

 But the one thing he was sure of, was that Joel had let him go. And, apparently, had always had the intention of letting him go. This whole thing really had been a game to him but not in the malicious way Jimmy had first thought.

 Joel thought it was fun because he thought Jimmy also found it fun. It seemed like, the second he had realized Jimmy was scared, he stopped playing.

 Jimmy slowly stood up, his legs feeling wobbly. He looked over towards Joel’s room, watching for a long moment. When nothing happened, Jimmy turned around and walked toward his entrance into the walls.

 He had a lot to think about.

[your-nanas-house]

𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝔀𝓮, 𝓲𝓭𝓲𝓸𝓽?

◇ Pairing: Neil Lewis X best friend!Reader

◇ Warnings: fluff, sadness, mean parents, Neil's made up childhood, friends to lovers, kiss, tuna

◇ Summary: Neil has to bring his girlfriend to the Christmas dinner with his family, the problem?... He doesn't have one so he asks his best friend.

◇ Note: Another amazing collaboration with @mrkdvidal1989. First fic of the new "event" 'From love to Love'.

Neil froze hearing his mother's words over the phone. His eyes widened in shock while Y/n walked in front of him, peacefully sorting out movies while humming. Unaware that her best friend was just going through a hurricane of thoughts at the ridiculous demand of his mother.

You take her or don't bother to come, she said, and after not getting any response for a couple seconds, she hung up with a sigh of annoyance. He knew how his mother was but usually… he didn't care too much. Usually the whole family would just pick on him “playfully” because of the fact that he was still single, just running his store for a living. Suddenly breathing got heavier and the humiliation set in, as he sighed moving quickly. Passing by Y/n, he rushed to his office, in need of a moment to deal with his own feelings.

“I can’t” were the first words that left Neil’s mouth since the call ended, it was crazy and dangerous and he was pretty much regretting having picked up the phone that morning, he would have lived better without knowing those annoying news. 

He had to go back “home” for Christmas… back to his childhood house more like, as he never truly felt there like home. After a couple of years now going there just to spend Christmas all together like they used to do. A fucking nightmare. How could he survive, he thought, his hands covering his face in pure desperation, so worried and pissed to go there… he was off age, why couldn’t he do what he wanted?

That’s how his colleague and friend found him, leaned on his desk, at the edge of crying.

”Man, I'm just trying to help.” Jonathan shrugged, after he came quickly to the Gumshoe right after Y/n’s shift ended, passing by her at the door with a smile. Neil huffed with helplessness. He knew that his friends just wanted to help him with the issue, but nevertheless it was.. more than frustrating. Pacing back and forth he stroked the hair at the nape of his neck, thinking intensely. Looking… for a solution that wouldn't require making himself look like a fool in front of his best friend.

“And how the fuck am I supposed to ask her, huh? Not that I intend to.” Neil hissed, gesticulating in desperation “I can’t do that! Especially not to her, I have been stuck celebrating all those awful events, forced by my parents… She would come willingly. That would be—” Jonathan interrupted him quickly, shaking his head “Man, calm down! we don’t even know if she can, I’m just telling you that you should try. You always say that everything is way more fun when she’s around so why not try to fight this by using her..help, huh?” the man suggested, proud of himself as he waited for Neil’s reaction “she even likes to dress up and trust me, bet she would be way happier to come with you there than to participate at another of the events here in the show” he commented quietly.

”How can you know that?” Neil snapped, as he registered only the first part of the sentence, his mind jumping to the conclusion that Jonathan was spending a lot of time with her. Jealousy racing through his veins in a second. 

Seeing it, Jonathan rolled his eyes at the reaction. 

”Yeah, and maybe.. maybe you two could sort that weird… “friendship” out.” He suggested, gesturing in the air as he spoke. ”No need to get snappy, man. She seems to like only one geek, and you already took that spot.” He joked eventually, wanting to ease the atmosphere. It worked, as Neil smiled weakly. 

It was true, they were friends ever since Neil approached her in the third grade asking about the sandwich she had. For her the tuna sandwich was the grossest thing in the world, but little Neil had shiny eyes at the thought of it. She called him gross and he pushed her. That's how their friendship started, ironically. 

She sure was perfect and that way Neil wouldn’t have ruined their every-year plans.. Christmas Eve together and a quick meeting at Christmas, like always. They could spend even more time together if she agreed to go with him.

Huffing, he sat down in the armchair as he ran his hand through his dark hair. Was it really a good idea? he wondered silently, glancing a couple of times towards Jonathan, who was still standing there awkwardly. Even if she wasn’t in the store anymore, he should have called or gone to her apartment but… he couldn’t leave Gumshoe, right? 

He remained lost in his thoughts for a couple of minutes, coming back to reality hearing a soft knock on his office door. His baby blue eyes snapped up as he sat better on his chair, surprised to see Y/n back there, a smile on her face. “Sorry to interrupt the …meeting, I just left my scarf in your office Neil, so I came back to get it. It’s pretty cold outside, I was freezing…” she revealed continuing to ramble while walking to the small sofa in his office, grabbing her scarf before heading back to the door. Neil was forced now to ask her, it looked really like faith. 

“Weenie—” he spoke abruptly, making her stop mid step, and turn around to face him with a raised eyebrow, the nickname catching her attention immediately like every time, just like the way he said it. Instead of the casual, easygoing tone of his, he sounded.. nervous and awkward. The tone that Y/n knew too well, which piqued her interest just as much as the old nickname that they have been using for several years. “What, dink?” she asked with a soft smile on her face. Jonathan just staring at them with wide eyes and toothy grin, seeing how the stare they shared couldn’t be one of just friends.

Neil looked at his feet awkwardly, not knowing how to start. 

”Yeah, tell her, Dink.” Jonathan mocked playfully, earning a soft slap on the back of his head from Y/n, who scolded him and reminded him that she was the only one that could call Neil like that and he should have respect for his own boss. One stern glance from Neil was enough to make him lift his hands in surrender.

”Alright, alright. I got the message.” He said, slowly heading to the door. 

Just before the door closed shut, he shot Neil one last look that was basically saying “tell her, idiot!” 

A sigh pushed past the nervous man's lips as he was left alone with his best friend in the office. Neil had no energy and will to play around the topic, so he just took a deep breath approaching her closer. 

”Look… if I had any different choice, I wouldn't… I wouldn't try to pull you into it..” He started off, sitting on the desk in front of her, looking down at his hands, making her quite nervous. But without a second thought she lifted his chin with her hand, making him look in her eyes. 

”You can pull me into anything as long as you follow, you know that— Stop being so nervous, now, I’m starting to fear that it’s something big and concerning” She urged, feeling that something wasn't right… not with how he was trying to avoid eye contact with her. 

”Are you involved with the mafia, Dink?” She held back a giggle, using her best poor Italian accent to try to ease the tension and his mood, successfully as he giggled back. 

“Are you trying to perform as Robert De Niro, now?” he huffed amused “You are still doing it wrong” Neil added, commenting on her performance “Lies, you’re just jealous of my skills. Bet someone could actually mistake me for him, bit of makeup and I look just like him” she joked, her smiles switching slowly into a soft one when Neil spoke softly to deny it “You are beautiful… so shut up” he quickly added the last part to ease the awkward tension. She chuckled as well, sighing as she sat at the chair in front of the desk.

”So.. tell me. What do you need, Neil?” Y/n asked seriously this time, so he mirrored her body language. 

”Okay so… My mother said… well, more like forced me? Obligated me… to bring at the christmas dinner a girlfriend and… and she said that if I don't I.. I shouldn't even come.” He stuttered out nervously again, glancing at Y/n as she kept listening to him while nodding. She didn't say anything, as she knew that it wasn't the end of the story. Neil knew it too. 

”andithoughtthatyoucouldgowithme” he spat out really quickly, breathing deeply just at the end of the sentence, almost passing out. 

Y/n tried not to laugh at that, nodding as if she understood everything he said to her “Now.. I have known you for years, Dink. I know what you said but you know how much I like to see you in such a state, huh. Ask it better” she requested, humming while crossing her legs smugly, waiting for Neil’s next move.

He scoffed at that, of course she wanted that... and he was going to give it to her like every time “Fine! You dick.. Would you come with me… please” he asked, showing her his pleading eyes, earning a chuckle from her “First, I’m not a dick. Second… of course I will, you dork” she answered, leaving a couple of seconds of silence before giving him her final answer, creating suspense between them.

Neil was just nodding sadly, sighing softly as his hand rested on her small shoulder, patting it twice “I know that you would have….wait what—” he raised his voice quickly, his eyes snapping to hers as his mood changed completely “You’re not joking, right?” he asked to make sure he could celebrate his victory. Y/n just rolled her eyes before she got up, kissing his cheek exaggerating the noise. 

”I’m not, but now I need to run if I want to make it to the bus. See you later, send me the details.” She said quickly, running through the door with a smile. 

Neil sat there in silence for a moment before exhaling loudly. Then a slow smile appeared on his lips. 

. *time lapse* .

The snow kept falling down on them as they waited in front of the big mansion, looking at each other every now and then

”You can do it… we can do it. Together.’’ she reminded him as soon as she felt his nervousness, squeezing his hand in her own. 

Neil exhaled, straightening his back as he glanced at her. She nodded, and they went to the door, knocking before they'd change their mind. Here we go, no backing away now. Neil knocked, and they waited a couple seconds before steps approached the door, swinging them open and showing the silhouette of Neil's mother. 

”Oh, Neil… you're here.” She said with a fake smile plastered on her face. Then her gaze fell on Y/n and her eyes shone with respect. Y/n really was a pretty girl, nice features, styled hair and a very pleasant body, she was also all dolled up like Neil asked her, just for that dinner… ready to support her best friend as best she could. ”..and who's that?” the older woman asked, reaching out to Y/n, who shook her hand with a smile. 

”That’s Y/n. My.. girlfriend.” Neil informed his mother, stuttering for a second, glancing at Y/n when the word girlfriend left his mouth. 

His mother just nodded, lifting her chin up higher with a smaller smile.

”Come in.” She said, opening the door wider and closing them behind them.

It will be a long night, Y/n thought seeing the rudeness in his mother's eyes. 

. *couple hours later* .

Y/n clenched her jaw again that night, hearing the two-sided comments towards Neil. He was quiet most of the time.. before he wasn't, as his younger brother threw an insult towards Y/n this time. 

”Watch your fucking mouth.” He barked at him suddenly, surprising everyone by the table. His father's eyes widened, and a little smile appeared on his lips. George gasped in shock, as it never happened before that Neil would actually stand up for himself. He'd either ignore him or just stutter out some insult back. 

”Neil” His mother scolded another time throughout the dinner, and Y/n was fed up. She scooted back, and the chair squeaked, scratching the wooden floor from the sudden movement. 

”Are you serious? This little brat insults him all night and you won't say anything, but when Neil stands up for me, you dare to scold him?” Y/n spoke up in a harsh, stern tone. The icy gaze in her eyes was enough to make everyone go quiet. 

”I… I..” His mother stuttered out, still shocked. 

Neil got up suddenly, heading to the door as he needed some fresh air. That whole “Christmas” dinner was a nightmare. 

Y/n and Mrs. Lewis kept glaring at each other, and as the older woman opened her mouth to continue arguing, her husband's fist slammed at the table, startling her. 

”Enough! Are you happy with ruining our Christmas dinner?” His low voice boomed at her, as he had enough of her backhanded compliments and rude talk. Seeing the situation, Y/n decide to leave as well, grabbing one of the tuna sandwiches from the plate standing on the table, fully knowing that Neil didn't manage to eat anything. Just some baked potatoes but she stole most of them from him. Rushing through the corridor, Y/n noticed that his jacket was gone, so she didn't hesitate to get out of the house. 

Looking around, her heart pounded, not seeing him anywhere. Only as she looked at the other side of the road she noticed him, sitting on the bench despite the cold wind and falling snow. 

He was visibly upset, with red cheeks and nose, tucked into his big jacket to keep some warm, and snowflakes in his dark hair… he looked beautiful. Even more than usual, she thought. 

Even though she was heading to him, he didn't hear her steps or the crunching of snow under the sole of her boots. Only when she stood in front of him, Neil looked up at her face with teary eyes, making her expression soften. 

She didn’t say anything, just moved her arm to show him what she was hiding under her coat, a small smile on her face. Neil looked at her, glancing down at the thing she was offering to him, a smile breaking on his face as well.

“A gross tuna sandwich for the grosser boy I know” she sang, moving the food closer to Neil, her cold flushed cheeks making her look like a kid “Come on… take a bite or do you need me to feed you, huh?” She teased, handing him the sandwich after she moved it in tiny circles in front of his face, so that he could sniff its smell. 

Neil grabbed it, brushing his warm hands against her cold ones before sticking out his tongue like a kid, just like when he was younger.

Y/n watched him take it,  before she sat down on the cold bench next to him. She didn’t talk, just leaned her head on his shoulder, sneaking her hand in his pocket to hold his bigger one in hers.

They stayed like that for some minute, in silence and now in each other’s arms ‘’Don’t listen to them, Dink…’’ she whispered, watching his side profile as he ate his sandwich. Neil was clearly lost in his mind for a while as they just sat there, getting covered with snow. Several minutes passed before Y/n attempted to talk again. 

”I don't regret coming here with you.” She confessed, making him look at her, surprise written all over his face. 

”How come?” He asked, confused. Neil couldn't think of a single reason for why she would actually be happy about coming on the Christmas dinner to his family. It went.. horrible. 

Y/n shrugged, playing with his big long fingers. 

”I mean… I don't know.” She backed off a little, feeling a little ashamed of her confession. Neil could see that she wanted to say something else, but doubt crept up her mind. He grabbed her chin suddenly, surprising her and himself as well, making her look in his baby blue eyes that looked even more charming with the white snow in the background. 

”Tell me.” He asked more like commanded in a quiet voice. Suddenly the atmosphere between them got more.. intimate than fragile like before. His gaze didn't falter for a second, as he boldly starred in her eyes. 

Y/n felt like that moment would pass soon if she didn't take the change.

”I.. I liked.. playing your girlfriend.” She spoke up, matching the volume of his voice. Neil’s eyes shifted down, looking at all the features of her face separately, carefully and taking his time. The intention in his eyes was visible, and made Y/n’s breath deepen as her heart started pounding in her chest. 

”I like it too.” He whispered, subconsciously leaning in, reducing the distance between them with each second. 

Without a second of doubt, Y/n moved closer, tilting her head up so he could reach her lips more easily. 

Even though they both knew it was coming, the sensation that went through their bodies was.. shocking. Knowing each other for years, neither of them would expect to feel… such fireworks while kissing. 

Her soft lips moved against his slowly, sensually without any rush. Neil was completely frozen, not moving at all as he didn't want to ruin the moment. Y/n wasn't as shy, as her hand reached his cheek to keep him closer. In their minds the kiss lasted for hours, yet it was barely a minute before they ran out of oxygen. Parting in need of a breath, Neil leaned his forehead on hers, letting out a shaky breath. Silence between them lasted for a couple minutes.

”Neil…” She started out.

”I know.” He cut her off, earning a chuckle. 

”Neil…” She started again ”If you don't confess that you love me, right now… I'm afraid I'm going to throw up. I feel your tuna in my mouth.” She whispered, making him burst into laughter. 

Shaking his head he grabbed her face in his hands, his eyes shiny and hair a mess, hanging over his forehead. 

”I love you, Y/n.” He said, still smiling so widely, and she giggled out loudly. 

”I love you too, Dinky…. I'm freezing by the way, could we go back inside? Not in the dining room but maybe in your room. I was always curious to see your childhood bedroom” she revealed, a bit too eager to know more about Neil's past.

With that the young woman stood up, offering her now hopefully boyfriend her hand. It took Neil a couple of seconds to take her hand finally, since the priorities came first, aka his tuna sandwich, leading her himself back towards the house and upstairs to his bedroom. 

Nothing had changed much during the years, his little brother George received more useless stuff while her older sister Margaret wasn't living there anymore so her useless stuff was all in her own house.

As soon as they walked in the bedroom, Neil made sure to lock the door, past trauma of people walking in his room without asking just to annoy or piss him off came quickly back. Y/n didn't seem to mind though, her eyes kept wandering around as her hands worked on the buttons of her coat “I have a gift for you by the way” she informed Neil with a smile, her beautiful eyes now stopping back on him “but…I won't give it to you till you go wash your teeth. I don't want to risk getting another tuna kiss” she murmured, shivering at the idea, making Neil laugh and nod as he headed to his own small personal bathroom to do as she said.

Coming out again, his eyes locked with hers— she was now sitting on his bed, leg crossed with a small rectangular present next to her body. A small smile on her face. “Come on, open your gift, Dink” She encouraged him, watching how he walked closer with a childlikeness hidden in his eyes.

Neil carefully took the wrapped object, working on the paper to open it carefully, stealing glances at Y/n who was watching him with his same mood.

“You like it?” The young woman asked softly, studying her best friend's reaction “it's an old noir movie… I heard your discussion about it with Jonathan in the Gumshoe and I managed to find it.” She added anxiously, seeing no clear reaction from him. Her lips parted for the third time, ready to ask for clarification again but she didn't need to, since Neil's lips pressed against hers— his arms wrapping around her smaller frame as his big hand cupped the back of her head to keep her in place. It really looked like one of those kisses characters shared in old movies… so rich of passion and love.

The position was quite uncomfortable though, so they changed it after a couple of seconds, his arms now holding her hips firmly against his body and her arms hugging his neck to keep him closer to her. No tuna this time.

Taglist:

@gabile18 , @mrsfullbuster500 , @rex-ray , @elizamalfoyy, @eovjjj @wife-of-magic-monkeys , @jeremiah-va1eska , @gothamchic16, @rabbiteggz , @dieg0brandos-wife , @rottenecstasy , @lazyexcuse , @teh-vampire-bunny , @lobotomy-lover , @slasher-smasher , @sleepycreativewriter , @mrkdvidal1989

[lvis44]

Sweet Escape - Pt. 2 // LH44

Lewis Hamilton x Y/N

Warnings: Swearing, 18+ NSFW (Minors DNI), smut, regret of sexual acts, alcohol consumption, age difference, jealousy, general angst, secrecy, not edited

Word Count: 4.6k+

Summary: Paradise is supposed to be fun and relaxing... a Sweet Escape, but when unspoken feelings and jealousy rise to the surface, everything can be turned upside down in the blink of an eye.

Notes: We had some drama in the last part, but things are going to start getting a little unhinged, buckle up! The next part probably won't be up until the beginning of next week. Try to ignore the fact that I can not and never have been able to keep the same tense through a whole story and I am a fan of run on sentences, its simply how my brain works lol. I am not a professional writer and all of this is a work of fiction and is strictly for fun. Thank you for all of the love thus far! Enjoy!

Previous Sections: Prologue - Part One

---

You jolt awake to the feeling of a hand brushing over your forehead. You have absolutely no idea how long you’ve been asleep, curled up in the corner of the couch. It could have been 10 minutes or five hours.

“Sorry, sorry, shhh it’s okay.” A familiar British accent soothes you, his hand still stroking your hair in a comforting manner.

“Lew?” You croak out, your voice much more hoarse than you had expected it to be.

“It’s me sweetie.” His voice stays low and comforting, “Why are you on the couch?”

It takes you a second to blink your eyes open, blurriness clouding your vision. When you finally see him, he looks exhausted, and maybe a little drunk.

“I was worried about you, tried to stay up” You mumble drearily, still not really awake.

“I’m sorry, I’m okay, no need to worry about me.” His large hand comes to rest on your cheek as you start to wake up a bit more.

“Where did you go?” You ask, trying to elbow yourself up on the couch slightly.

He frowns, looking away from you, “Don’t worry about it. How about you get to bed? I’m home now, no need for concern.”

You nod, getting up from the couch and heading towards the hallway where everyone is asleep. You pause for a moment, remembering that Talia has taken over your room. You glance at the clock over the bar, seeing that it’s past three in the morning. You know Charlotte offered for you to sleep with her but you feel bad possibly waking her after she's already been asleep for nearly four hours. You let out a deep sigh, turning back toward Lewis. He’s sitting on the couch where you left him, his legs wide with his elbows on his knees, his head in his hands, he looks distressed. He doesn’t seem to even realize that you're still in the room as you make your way over to the bar. You grab two fresh glasses, pouring the both of you a drink. His head snaps up as he hears the liquid pouring. You carefully make your way over to him, wordlessly offering him one of the glasses before you take a seat next to him.

“You should really go to bed Y/N.” He says without much meaning, taking a sip of the fresh Gin and Tonic, leaning back into the couch.

“Talk to me.” You say, ignoring his comment, curling yourself up into the couch. Your knees are to your chest as you face him, his arm coming up over the back of the couch, just barely above you.

“What do you even want me to say?” He laughs almost cynically.

“Where did you go tonight?” You ask against your better judgment. You’ve known Lewis long enough to know that when he says he doesn't want to talk about something, he truly doesn't, but your curiosity is getting the best of you.

He lets out a long sigh, leaning forward to set his drink down on the coffee table before looking toward you.

“I really don’t think you want to know Y/N.” He says, quickly lowering his eyes so he doesn't have to meet your eye contact.

“What do you mean?” You pry, placing your own glass on the table.

“I’ve been to this island quite a few times, I’ve gotten to know the good spots.” He starts, leaning forward to take a big sip out of his glass like he needs it to carry on with the story, “There’s this bar, maybe a mile away, it’s almost always open. I went there, just wanted a drink, alone, to cool down a bit. But… in all honesty, I just came from the hostesses apartment.”

“Oh.” You’re not quite sure how to respond.

“I know, it’s stupid, but I just needed to blow off some steam I guess.” He shrugs as if it’s nothing out of the ordinary, however the look on his face is one of pure shame, he still won’t look at you.

“I mean, you’re a single adult, it doesn’t really matter I guess.” You try to sound confident however your voice wavers, unsure of how to properly navigate the situation.

“No Y/N, I might be but… the situation I left behind, it wasn’t fair. It wasn’t fair to anyone.” He lets out another deep sigh before continuing, “I really fucked up, and I think I fucked up with someone I really care about.”

This takes you by complete surprise, never would you have pegged Talia as someone Lewis would truly care about. You’ve always thought he was a decent judge of character when it comes to everyone but his play things. You really couldn’t imagine them as a true couple, they barely seemed to have anything in common. You felt a small pit form in your stomach, realizing that if he wanted to make things work with her, she would be around a whole lot more often. You couldn’t help but feel like that would be the demise of your friendship with Lewis, you doubt she would want you around after she made her feelings on you very clear.

You take a large swig of your drink, downing half of it in one sip, hoping to push away the ache that is starting to form in your chest. You don’t want to imagine a world without your friends, without Lewis, in your life. Despite having a million questions for him, you don’t push, not really in the mood to hear him confess his feelings for the woman you despise. He seems to be in a similar boat, acting to change the subject quickly.

“Where did you learn to make such a good drink, huh?” His voice is lighter now, almost teasing. You can tell he’s attempting to diffuse the conversation.

“I’m almost positive I’ve told you this before, but I used to be a bartender. It was my job in college.” You tell him, settling into the couch, just enjoying your uninterrupted time with him, “Besides, its a gin and tonic, it would be pretty sad if someone fucked that up.”

His laugh was tired but still held the boyish charm it always does, “Oh trust me, Miles can fuck up a gin and tonic. I’ve experienced it.” He looks at you with a smirk before continuing, “And no you’ve never told me that, because I’m certain if you had, that I would have told you that I too used to be a bartender.”

“Oh really?” You raise an eyebrow at him, wanting to hear more. You’ve only ever known of him as a racer, never even thinking of the possibility he did other things while getting to where he is now.

“Yup, back when I was like eighteen,” He nods, taking another sip of his drink, “my last day I got absolutely hammered though. I made myself try everything I’d been serving.”

You giggle, picturing a hammered teenage Lewis, “I should have thought of that on my last day. All I did was throw my apron at my manager and tell him to ‘go to hell’.”

“Ah, yes, a fantastic way to leave a job. I’m sure you got lot’s of good references from that one.” He teases you.

“Hey, he was a sexist pig, I don’t need references from someone like that.” You defend yourself.

“I’m sure you had plenty of good reasons, you always do.” He assures.

“Tell me more about you as a youngster. I only know grown adult Lew, I don’t know much about teenage Lew.” You prompt him, settling further into the couch, ready for a story.

He does the same, relaxing himself so his arm hangs just around your shoulders, pulling you into him slightly, “You know plenty about me as a kid.” He furrows his brow.

“Well I know the stuff that everybody else knows, I know the karting career, the underdog story, but I also thought I knew plenty about adult you before we met. I was very wrong about that though.” You laugh a little.

“Okay, fair. Well I was a royal pain in the ass when I first got to f1, my ego was sky high. It didn’t take long for me to settle down, thankfully, but I’ve definitely grown a lot since then.” He starts, glancing at you to gauge your reaction.

You hum, urging him to continue. He tells you about his old partying habits, random fights he’d been in during his school days, how rivalries played out off track. He tells you about the Lewis you watched on the television for so many years, and you find it quite fascinating. You try so hard to keep listening, humming every once in a while to let him know that you're still there. You could listen to him talk for hours, his voice so soothing and peaceful. You try to fight your sleep, but it's useless, his voice lulls you into a peaceful slumber. You cuddle further into his arm as he tightens his hold on you, your head lands on his shoulder and you feel him rest his cheek against you, his own exhaustion taking over. The warmth of his body is so grounding and you can’t help but wish you could stay there, tucked against him, forever.

. . .

“Well it’s nice to see you’re alive.” You’re woken to the sound of Charlotte's voice in the kitchen. You’re alone on the couch, a blanket draped over you.

“It’s not like I disappeared for a week or something, I was gone for a couple hours. I’m fine Char.” You hear Lewis, you can tell he’s trying to keep his voice down, hoping not to wake anyone.

“No, not this time, but you’ve done that before and it scared the shit out of me.” Her voice sounds emotional. You feel bad eavesdropping but you perk up at that, intrigued as to what she’s talking about.

“That was different, you know that.” The tone in his voice tells you he’s trying to shut the topic down, not wanting to speak about it any further.

“Of course I know that, but it’s not like you to go awol on us like that. The only times you do are never good for you.” Charlotte says, her voice getting slightly louder.

“Keep it down, Y/N is still asleep, right there.�� Lewis hushes her.

“Sorry,” Her voice is quiet again, “where did you even go last night?”

“I went and saw Marina.” His voice is much quieter now, like they’re exchanging secrets.

“Holy crap, how is she?” Charlotte sounds shocked, and almost a little concerned.

Now you’re incredibly confused. Lewis had told you he spent the night with some hostess from a bar, he hadn’t mentioned a name of any sort and you have no idea why Charlotte would know who she was.

“She’s definitely been better but she’s hanging in there. She wasn’t too impressed that I didn’t tell her I was gonna be in town.” He keeps his voice low.

“And how’s Leon?” Charlotte sounds almost giddy as she asks.

You know you should make your conscious presence known but it feels almost too late, they’ve gotten too far into what seems to be a very private conversation. You don’t want either of them to be mad at you, although they would have every right, you’re violating their privacy majorly.

“He’s good,” You can almost hear the smile on Lewis’s face as he speaks, “he’s getting freaking big. He comes up to my hip already.”

You can’t hear Charlotte's next comment as dishes clank around, one of them cleaning up the kitchen from the abandoned dinner the night before.

“Yeah, I just wish I could help them out more. I send them money but that doesn’t really make up for her being a single mom.” Lewis says.

“You do more than enough for them Lewis.” You hear Charlotte reassure him, “Why didn’t you tell her you were going to be in town?”

“I knew if I tried to go see her, Talia would want to come, and there’s no sense in introducing Leon to someone that he’s never gonna see again. It wouldn’t be fair.” Lewis sighs.

You stay so still on the couch, you’re not sure you’re even breathing, desperate to hear where the conversation goes. You have so many questions. Why would Lewis have told you he hooked up with someone instead of telling you the truth? Why does he feel so responsible for this kid? Is it his?

“Wassup bruv, good to see you’re in one piece.” You hear Miles' voice burst through the kitchen, effectively ending the conversation between Lewis and Charlotte.

You let out a small sigh, knowing you won’t learn anymore, at least for now. You stay on the couch for a few more minutes, listening to Miles harass Lewis about his insane guest, before you deem it long enough to safely make your presence known. You make your way off the couch, taking the blanket and wrapping it around yourself. You’re still in your swimsuit from yesterday and you feel disgusting, you desperately want a shower and some fresh clothing.

“Morning.” You greet the three of them quietly. Feeling the guilt of listening to them gnaw at your core.

“How’d you sleep?” Lewis asks, “Apologies if my shoulder isn’t the most comfortable pillow in the world.”

You laugh before responding, “Honestly, not bad, I think I could have fallen asleep on any surface last night.”

“I was waiting for my cuddles last night, I’m offended that I got beat out.” Charlotte sends a scowl in Lewis’s direction.

“Sorry, I didn’t want to wake you up, it was really late.” You give her a sympathetic smile, knowing she’s only really half joking.

“Yeah that brings up a problem that we currently have, the wicked witch is still here.” Miles points out, gesturing his thumb down the hall where she must still be sleeping.

“Yeah, I know, I’ll deal with it.” Lewis sighs, rolling his eyes. His response surprises you a bit, you wonder if he doesn’t want to make his feelings known to his other friends, that maybe it was a moment of weakness when he revealed it to you.

He makes his way over to you, wrapping an arm around your shoulder and placing a kiss to the top of your head before speaking quietly in your ear, “Your stuff is still in my room. How about you go take a shower and get dressed while I make you something to eat, sound good?”

You nod, whispering a quiet thank you before making your way down the hall and toward his bedroom. You had yet to actually step foot in his room but when you did you were in awe. He was staying in the suite, seeing as he had rented the house. His bed looked even more comfortable than the one in your room and his view was unmatched. There was a large terrace off the side of the room that you had only seen from outside. The room was big enough to hold a seating area that rivaled your living room at home. You found your bag, neatly placed on a chair, obviously picked up from wherever it had been chucked the night before. You rummaged through it hoping to find your bag of toiletries to go take a shower, huffing when you realized she hadn’t been that thorough while evicting you. You grab a clean change of clothes and make your way to the bathroom, hoping you can at least rinse off. The bathroom is just as impressive as the bedroom, an impressive combination of marble and teak that shouldn’t work as well as it does. The shower is massive with two large rainfall shower heads. You almost moan when you see it, eager to enjoy the hot water on your incredibly tense muscles. As you wait for the water to heat up you try to locate the towels, as you do, you see both Talia’s and Lewis’ body washes sitting on the counter. You contemplate stealing hers for a moment, but you don’t even want to smell like her. You opt to steal Lewis’s figuring he won’t mind.

The shower is just as therapeutic as you had hoped it would be and the clean clothes make you feel like a whole new person. As you walk past what used to be your bedroom you hear her moving around, you can only hope she’s finally packing and getting ready to leave. You end up finding Lewis, Charlotte, and Miles on the back deck, a large spread of food in front of them. You take the seat next to Lewis and he smirks at you as you sit down.

“What?” You ask, confused by the look he’s giving you.

“You smell familiar.” He teases you.

You blush, feeling immediately embarrassed that he noticed, “I’m sorry, I borrowed your soap but when Talia kicked me out of my room she didn’t-” Your rambled apology is quickly cut off.

“Hey, hey, don’t worry about it, s’not a problem. I kinda like it.” He offers you a comforting smile, placing his hand on your knee. “Now what do you want to eat? We’ve got plenty of options.”

The atmosphere throughout breakfast finally feels normal, like the vacation that you were all supposed to be able to enjoy. Charlotte makes mimosas and Lewis keeps your plate full, despite your constant pleas for him to stop, you’re pretty sure you’re going to burst at the seams pretty soon.

“So I was thinking maybe we could head back down to the beach today, Volleyball has been calling my name since I saw the net.” Miles pipes up.

“Sounds good to me, get ready to get your ass whooped though.” Lewis says through a mouthful of pancake.

“Last time I played Volleyball I sprained my ankle and got a concussion, but I’m happy to be a cheerleader.” You said, laughing.

All three of them looked at you with very amused expressions.

“Please elaborate on how the hell you managed that?” Lewis urges you, you can tell he’s ready to taunt.

“Well clumsiness and hard balls don’t really go well together.” You shrug taking a sip of your mimosa.

They all burst out laughing, agreeing that maybe you should stick to the sidelines. The lighthearted air is cut short as Steph walks out to the back deck, her eyebrows almost to her hairline and clearly unamused. The reason is made clear quickly as Talia gets to the door, her hands on her hips and a scowl across her face.

“So playboy, you get me a flight out of here or what?” She throws her hands to her sides, staring hard at Lewis.

“If you’ll excuse me.” He wipes his mouth as he stands up from the table.

“You know its pretty classy of you, eye fuck her all day and then go spend the night somewhere else while I’m tossed to the side like dirty laundry.” You hear her start to berate him as they walk into the house.

“Well she’s a joy.” Steph mumbles, taking a seat and loading up a plate.

The conversation turns easy again, Miles filling Steph in on what has now turned into a Volleyball tournament apparently. He’s given you the job of ref, despite you trying to explain to him that you have no clue what the rules of the game even are. Lewis still hasn’t returned to the table as you all finish up and head off to go get ready for a beach day again. You walk into his room to grab your stuff, finding him sprawled back on the bed, an arm over his face.

“You good?” You ask quietly, hoping not to startle him.

He lets his arm flop to the side, glancing over at you, “Soonest flight out of here isn’t until five, so we’re stuck with her for the rest of the day.”

“Why doesn’t she just go do something while she waits?” You point out the obvious option while you rummage for a fresh swimsuit.

“Because she’s not a reasonable person, I think we’ve established that.” He gives you a look that makes you chuckle.

“Fair point,” you nod, “I’m just gonna go change and then we’re gonna head down.”

He nods, getting up off the bed as you head into the bathroom to change. The swim suit you chose for the day is one of your nicer ones. It's a one piece with bright colors and more cutouts than it really needs. The hips come up high and put most of you on display but it makes you feel confident. When you make your way out of the bathroom Lewis has already changed into a new set of swim trunks, you know he’s watching you intently as you step in front of the mirror, trying to adjust the tie behind your neck. He comes up behind you, brushing your hands away and redoing the tie himself. When he’s done he doesn’t step away, instead he steps closer to you. His bare torso pressed to your back, you can feel his bulge on your ass and you have to take a deep breath to steady yourself. You watch him carefully in the mirror as he leans down, placing a kiss to your neck making you gasp, then another, and another, each one going higher toward your ear. When he gets to just below your earlobe he nibbles, making your knees go weak. His strong arm comes around your torso, holding you up and keeping you pressed to him.

“I like this one.” He mumbles against your skin, continuing with his assault of wet kisses on your neck, finding every perfect spot as if by magic.

You feel his tongue trace over your skin, his head moving so he’s closer to your throat, placing a kiss to your clavicle before moving back up your neck. His hand that is placed on your stomach moves down slowly, almost seeking permission first, he reaches the crease between your hip and your thigh, that movement alone making you whimper. His other hand turns your face toward his, capturing your bottom lip between his teeth before properly kissing you. You melt into the kiss, his tongue so skillfully dancing with yours. You feel him move the small material of your swimsuit to the side, his thumb brushing over your clit ever so slightly, making you moan softly into his mouth. He takes that as a good sign, moving his thumb up and down in a gentle pattern with the perfect amount of pressure as his middle finger makes his way down to your embarrassingly wet opening. He applies the slightest pressure and you take notice of how thick just the tip of his finger feels. He groans into your mouth, feeling how wet you are, how easy it would be to take you right now, up against this mirror. You moan again as his finger slips past your walls, entering you at the perfect angle. He pulses his finger against the spot in the most intoxicating way, leaving you a panting mess. You can already feel your high creeping up on you as he inserts another finger, stretching you further. He groans again, a deep satisfied sound from his chest, thinking about just how snug you would feel around his cock.

“Good girl, such a good girl f’me,” His breath is just as ragged as yours and you can feel just how hard he is, pressed up against your ass, “you like that don’t you, like how I touch you. You’re gonna come so quick, I can feel it. Let it go for me Y/N, come all over my hand.” His kisses move back down your jaw as he talks you to your high but something about him saying your name slapped you back down to earth.

It hits you like a ton of bricks, your best friend who is nearly ten years your senior, is fingering you in his room while your friends wait for you at the beach. Not only that but the woman he had brought simply to fuck is still in your old room, two doors down the hall. You're still not sure where he was last night or what he was talking about with Charlotte this morning. It hasn’t even been twenty four hours since the explosion where Talia accused him of wanting to fuck you and here you are, proving her right. Immediately your orgasm vanishes and you start to push him away.

“Lewis, no, stop.” You say, pushing him away.

He lets you go easily but is incredibly confused. He shakes his head, his brow furrowed, trying to make sense of where your rejection suddenly came from.

“Y/N, what's wrong, are you okay?” He tried to step toward you, not to resume but in hopes of offering some sort of comfort.

“No,” You back away from him, you can see the pain flash over his face at your movement, “we can’t-, that can’t-, I’m, I’m not her, I-.” You can’t string together a full sentence, feeling like you might cry at a moment's notice.

“I know, Y/N, hey, it’s okay, I’m sorry I thought-” He starts, trying his best to calm you down somehow

“No Lewis, it hasn’t even been twenty four hours, shes still here,” You hiss at him, finally finding your words, “my god, she was right. Fuck. Is that why I’m here? Just so you can get your dick wet?”

“God no Y/N, fuck, yes I know, shitty timing on my part. But-” He tries to speak again but you cut him off once more.

“Yeah no shit, ‘shitty timing’.” You mock his accent, “I am not a fucking rebound or some play thing for you, especially after what you said last night. That, whatever that was, it can’t happen.” You shake your head.

“I’m sorry, that’s not what it was, I promise, I thought that-” Once again you cut him off.

“Yeah, I can tell what you fucking thought Lewis.” You keep your voice down but it still comes out harsh.

“Jesus Christ, would you please let me speak?” He sounds desperate, it’s written all over his face.

“I can’t do this Lewis, I have to go.” You put your hands up, stopping any further conversation from him before turning and walking out of the room.

“Y/N.” You hear him call your name behind you.

“Y/N.” It comes again, this time louder, but you can tell he’s not getting any closer. He’s not following you, and you’re thankful.

You feel so ashamed and so angry. You hate him right now, you hate that he chose that moment, this situation. You hate her for being right, he was trying to sleep with you. But you hate yourself too, you hate that you melted into him so easily, you hate that you didn’t stop him sooner. More importantly though, you hate that you loved it, you hate that you wish you didn’t stop him at all, you hate that you now want more, that you want to know exactly what he feels like, what he tastes like, everything about him. He made you  putty in his hands with just his lips alone, you can only imagine what else he is capable of. You hate that you know exactly what he offers, that he's willing to offer it, and you can’t accept it. You felt exactly what he possesses, pressed against your ass and now you will never be able to get the thought of it out of your head. You hate this.

But most important of all, you hate that you may have just lost Lewis.

[vhagarlovebot]

JUST A FRIEND TO YOU ── PART 2.

♡. ── gif credit. ; ( aemond targaryen masterlist. )

pairing: modern!aemond x fem!reader and a little bit of cregan stark x fem!reader.

summary: after you agreed to go on the date, aemond realizes what a big mistake he has made.

warnings: pining, aemond regretting all of his life decisions basically and getting what he deserves, and angsty shit bc you know i love to make you all suffer.

note: hi besties! i didn’t wanna do a part two of this one shot but since a lot of you were asking me, i heard you and here you have. and i’m already thinking about writing a part 3? or maybe a mini series? even tho i said i don’t like it. i need help!! btw if there are any mistakes i apologize, but as some of you may know english is not my first language. hope you enjoy! reblogs and likes are greatly appreciated.

read part one here.

YOU REALLY DIDN’T WANT to go on that date but, as always, you couldn’t say no to aemond.

and it turns out, you had fun.

aemond’s girlfriend —or date, or girl friend? you don’t really know— is actually nice and you hate yourself for not being able to dislike her, she’s so freaking sweet that it makes you want to throw up. and as nice as she is, her friend is also very nice and a total gentleman. and also the quarterback of the college footfall team.

cregan stark made you forget all about aemond targaryen in just a couple of minutes with him. he knows how attractive he his and also how to use his charm with girls, because he had you flustered all night. he didn’t do anything more than just smile at you, pay for the dinner and drinks and walk you back to your dorm, kissing you goodnight. on the cheek. and just a couple of minutes after leaving, your phone buzzed with a new message asking for a second date.

but as much as you enjoyed the date, once you were alone with your thoughts your mind wandered back to the last person you wanted to think about.

you knew he was on a date too, he told you it was that day. you didn’t want to know but he told you anyways because you’re his best friend, he wants to share that kind of things with you. but you wish he wouldn’t, that way your heart wouldn’t break every time he opens his mouth.

and as you thought about aemond kissing another girl, you typed your answer to cregan.

when the next day came, you didn’t feel any better.

and it only got worse the second you bumped into aemond outside the coffee shop you were supposed to meet cregan.

“there you are! i’ve been looking for you everywhere.” he says, kissing you on the forehead.

not everywhere because you were in your dorm all day and he never, not once, came looking for you. weird it wasn’t his first option.

“here i am.” you try to sound nonchalant, your lips barely curling upwards.

“aren’t you going to ask me how it went?” aemond looks excited to tell you all about his date and you feel guilty for not wanting to know at all.

“i really want to know,” what a fucking liar you are. “but i can’t right now. maybe tomorrow?” you try convince him with that smile that says ‘pleaaaaaseeeee’ but aemond, for the first time in forever, it’s not convinced. even his smile instantly disappears.

“why?”

but you don’t have time to give him an answer because the answer walks out of the shop, two coffee in each hand and a big and radiant smile that only grows the second you make eye contact. and it’s strange, because your face lights up just by seeing someone that was a total stranger less than 24 hours ago.

“i was starting to think you stood me up.” cregan says, not acknowledging aemond at all, and leans to kiss you on the cheek just to hand you one coffee. “to show you i was paying attention last night.” just by the smell you know he got your coffee order right.

aemond clear his throat and you both turn to face him. your cheeks are impossibly red and you avoid his eyes, choosing to look at your shoes instead.

“oh sorry,” cregan chuckles, and gives aemond a pat on the shoulder. “i’m going to steal her for a while, you okay with that?” you didn’t know you could be any more embarrassed, but it is possible. and you hate it.

aemond nods, looking at you one final time before turning around and walking away, leaving you with a strange and awful feeling in your heart.

but cregan soon makes you forget about almost everything. and it keeps happening for the next couple of weeks. but even him and his friends can’t make you forget about him.

you have barely seen aemond since that day in the coffee shop. you tried to call him the next day to apologize but he only texted you that now he was busy and he would give you a call when he could; but that never happened and since that day your friendship has been reduced to short and cold text messages. and it hurts. but you’re decided to not let another day pass without talking to him. or just seeing him. you miss him and you wonder if he misses you too.

but after trying to communicate with aemond all day, calling him and messaging him over and over again, you give up. he clearly doesn’t want to talk to you and as much as it hurts, it angers you too.

“i’m sure he’s just busy and will call you as soon as he can.” cregan tries to calm you as he walks by your side, his thumb brushing a strand of hair out of your face.

you only nod as an answer, looking at your phone hoping to see a text from aemond.

“hey, look at me.” he stops walking, his hands cupping your face, softly forcing you to look at him. “forget about him and enjoy the party, okay?”

it’s very sweet how he’s always making sure you are fine and listening to you talk about your best friend, not once telling you that he actually doesn’t like the guy.

you thank him by standing on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek, making him chuckle and hold your hand resuming your walk.

the first thing you notice when entering the living room are cregan’s friends drinking and chatting, but what draws your attention the most is aemond. sitting on a couch in a corner, cigarette between his lips as he looks annoyed at you two.

you fight the urge to walk to him. you miss him so much but it looks like he doesn’t miss you at all. he probably hasn’t even think about you. and that’s why you accept the drink cregan hands you, sitting by his side and trying to ignore the pair of blue eyes on you.

unbeknownst to you, aemond hasn’t stopped thinking about you since the day you accepted that date. he really thought you were going to say no and he still doesn’t know why he asked you to do it, but he regrets it so much.

but he also knows how selfish and childish he’s being.

he can't keep his eyes away from you as you laugh about something that has everyone laughing too. but he only can hear your laugh, loud and clear, and it's like a knife cutting through his chest. he wants to talk to you so badly, he has missed you like crazy, but doesn't know how to do it, what to say. he's pretty sure you're going to snap at him.

however, that doesn't stop him from following you when he sees you standing and walking away.

you're pouring some vodka in a cup when he enters the kitchen. his hands are sweating and he feels so nervous it's pathetic.

"so," he says, but you don't look at him, you just keep doing what you are doing. and that makes him even more nervous. "enjoying the party?"

there's a lot of noise, between the loud music and people talking, but the silence coming from you is louder than that.

"i was thinking," aemond says again, trying to make you talk or at least react. "maybe tomorrow we can go watch that movie you told me about."

you laugh and aemond smiles, feeling relief. but then you turn to face him and all that disappears.

"are you serious?" you ask him, but you don't give him time to answer. "that was months ago, i stopped asking you to go with me because you always had an excuse." you shake your head, looking at the liquid in your cup, not wanting to look him in the eyes; it's easier this way. "and when you did say yes, you never showed up."

it's his time to avoid your eyes, looking down embarrassed.

"i don't have time for this, aemond. you wanted me to meet new people? i'm doing exactly that, i don't know what's your problem."

"you don't have time for me." he whispers but you hear it, and your blood boils.

"it doesn't feel nice, does it?" you try not to cry in front of him but the more he stands there, looking lost and sad, the harder it is. there is something about finally giving you your place that makes you say the thing you never thought you were going to say out loud. at least not to him. "i'm in love with you, aemond, but loving you is hurting me. and i know it's my fault for never telling you and i'm not asking you to say or do anything... i just wanted you to know now that i feel things between us can never go back to the way they were."

aemond takes a step towards you, hands itching to touch you, but at the same time you take one step away from him. you know that if he touches you, the little wall you've created will come crashing down.

when you finally make eye contact, you can see the fight inside his head. you don't hate him, you hate yourself for not telling him sooner, for letting things go this far.

you smile softly at him before turning on your heels and walking back to the living room, swallowing all the tears.

cregan knows something happened the minute you sit and he doesn't hesitate to wrap his arm around your shoulder, pulling you into his side, placing a kiss to your temple.

aemond watches everything frozen in place, your words replaying in his head over and over again.

maybe he did know you were in love with him and that's why he did what he did. the real question is, is he in love with you? aemond realizes that doesn't matter anymore as he watches you and cregan together, and how comfortable you are around your new friends.

he's got a lot to blame for too.

the question now is; is he really willing to lose you?

[lloydfrontera]

BITES YOU BITES YOU BITES YOU BITES YOU

YES ACTUALLY THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE FOOD IS TOO LAVISH AND EXPENSIVE AND WASTEFUL THAT'S EXACTLY THE ISSUE THAT'S THE POINT OF THE SCENE

sigh.

"What are you doing?" Lloyd went on. "Eat up. If you still don't get it, then just put it in your head. In an event like this, food is what you remember." "I do not-" "Feel like eating it?" put in Lloyd- "No." "But why?" There was genuine curiosity in Lloyd's voice. "To be honest, I am skeptical about whether it's really necessary to waste so much money on this extravagant food," Javier spoke as he looked at the food stacked high on Lloyd's plate. "It is excessively rare. Unnecessarily high-end. Inefficient and expensive. The money that was spent on your plate of food alone could buy a large amount of rice and bread." Lloyd noticed the faint glint of complaint in Javier's eyes. He smiled. "Aha," said Lloyd, "I suppose you mean that giving up a small portion of this extravagant meal could help feed more hungry people in the capital, right?" "Yes." "Well," Lloyd said with a nod, "you're not wrong, but what can we do?" "What do you mean what can we do?" blurted Javier. "It's not like the food you refuse to eat will be distributed to the people." "..." "And we didn't spend our money on this," Lloyd reminded. "The banquet was prepared and hosted by the palace. That is why they prepared food befitting the status of this event."

the food being excessively expensive and lavish is exactly why javier doesn't feel comfortable eating it, he'd much rather the money went towards helping people that need it, that's an inherent part of his character, how much he cares and wants to help other people!

lloyd has to point out to him that it's not their fault the money was wasted, that they cannot give it back or use it to help people in need, even if they don't eat it won't actually help because the food is already there and the money was already spent.

and then he goes onto explain to him how the shows of power that alicia does are necessary in order to keep up the image of the kingdom and encourage other nations to keep the peace with them which does help the people even if much more indirectly. something that javier hadn't considered before.

and then he tries to get javier to enjoy himself a little in a way javier wouldn't allow himself on his own.

"So enjoy yourself," Lloyd suggested. "This event and amount of extravagance is a necessity." "Um, but..." "Oh, wow. Is that the special coconut from Ahinsya?" Flinch. Javier, who was about to grumble, stopped. The special coconut from Ahinsya. The sweet and sour taste automatically came back to him. "I got you." Lloyd smugly smiled. "..." "Look at that. I knew you'd chow down once you found something you like," pointed Lloyd. "You are wrong," denied Javier with a defiant look. "I was just tensing my body to hold back a sneeze." "Really?" "Yes." "Really?" Lloyd waggled his eyebrows. "Yes." "Then can you swear that you will never lay your hands on the coconut even when it's right in front of you?" "Of course, I won't-" "My, looks like there's a real one here." Lloyd immediately snatched a plate from a passing servant. The plate, in fact, did have a special coconut placed right on top of it. The smile on Lloyd's face turned more evil. "Then I will enjoy my drink" "..." Javier's face froze in a flash. That gave Lloyd another smile but not because he was able to make fun of Javier. Those reactions just now definitely suit Javier. A knight who was always sided with the weak. A hero who pursued justice over immediate power. Lloyd suddenly recalled Javier's appearances throughout the original novel. Yes. Right. I forgot because he's with me all the time, but he was always like this. Javier preferred a conversation in front of a bonfire to a luxurious banquet. He preferred to use the money for an extravagant meal to buy dozens of bread loaves for people in need. He didn't hesitate to act and didn't come to regret his decisions. This aspect of his personality remained unchanged even when he became the grandmaster in the novel. If he really wanted, he could have attained all the power and wealth he wanted. If he really made an effort, he could easily have had his own kingdom. But Javier didn't. He's really quite the man. Lloyd picked up the coconut with a grin and held it out to Javier. "No need to stiffen your face like that. Eat it." "..." "I won't judge." Lloyd held it out some more. "Eat it, I tell you." "..." "Hey, eating comes first before swearing," Lloyd insisted. "I never swore." At last, a wry smile appeared on Javier, and he was about to receive the coconut [...].

it's just. such a nice scene. we get to see another part of javier's personality that just like lloyd says we don't get to see very often because he's normally at his side. we get lloyd teasing javier into acting his age by presenting him with his favorite fruit. we get lloyd reflecting on the kind of person that javier is and being so fond about it in his thoughts even while he teases him on the outside.

it's about!! lloyd knowing javier better than anyone!! liking him just the way he is while teaching him to relax and enjoy stuff they have no real control over!! it's about their banter and the easy way they act around each other!! it's about them learning and helping each other grow as people!!

but no we don't need that why would we just add another ugly face while javier makes fun of him i'm sure that's just as good lol

[deus-and-the-machina]

MCYT Yuri week - day 6, sleep/party

for @mcyt-yuri-week this sure is a sleep party! sleepover? it sure is a party. It's also on ao3. enjoy!

When Pearl had invited Cleo over to the…‘Boatem Sleepover’, somehow she didn’t expect this. 

The five looney neighbors plus Cub were all in a circle folded forward on the ground and muttering some weird chants. Cleo began to back away, starting to understand what the vibe here was. Unfortunately for her, Pearl had a sixth sense and popped up just as she turned away. “Cleo! Come join us!”

She really, really shouldn’t, especially given the look of manic exhaustion in Pearl’s eyes, but part of her was also a slave to the whims of society conventions. She’d been invited! Even if it was some weird cult, backing out now would be a tad awkward. So they gave Pearl a strained smile. “I’m here? Hi! Now uh, what is this…?”

“Oh we’re staying awake so the moon doesn’t come down on all of us.” Cleo screamed internally.

“Cool! And you want me to…?”

Pearl giggled. “Isn’t it obvious? Stay awake with us! Enjoy the moon in all her beauty so she doesn’t feel left out anymore. Apparently we skip over her too much. Gotta give even the night time some loving, ya know.”

Cleo glanced over at the chanting Boatem members, then back to Pearl. “I suppose I can stay awake? But don’t expect me to start doing weird chanting or anything.”

With a squeal, Pearl hugged their arm. “Oh thank you Cleo, you won’t regret it!”

I already am! 

Pearl led her over to the others, babbling something or other about an introduction and slumber parties. The others lifted their heads to greet her.

“Hi Cleo!

“Hi Cleo.”

“Heya.”

“Mmgn, hey Cleo.” That was Mumbo, who looked close to passing out already. Honestly all of them looked absolutely exhausted. No wonder they were all being freaky! 

Pearl led her to a spot on the grass where the two sat down, the other woman sprawling out immediately on her back. She gazed up at the stars. “Honestly, it’s kinda fun once you get used to it. We’re having a slumber party!”

Gingerly, Cleo settled down next to her. “Mmkay, if you say so. I’m only here for you, just letting you know.

“Oh I know. That’s why I asked!” The tricky star girl threw her arms around Cleo’s waist, tucking herself into their backside. They rolled their eyes, but a slight grin tugged at their mouth. She patted Pearl’s head lighty, and began gearing herself up for a long night.

Two hours in, and the shrieking started. “Oh god, are those phantoms?” Cleo groaned, pushing herself up. The other ‘mooners’, as they called themself, jumped up and began to scramble, yelling illegibly. 

Having calmly gotten to her feet, Pearl surveyed the area with a gleam in her eye. “Yeah! This is the fun bit!”

“Pearl, I don’t think anyone in their right minds would call being dive bombed by phantoms ‘fun’.”

She threw back her head and cackled. “I’ve been awake for three days, Cleo! I’m running on nothing but adrenaline. This is the most fun I think I’ll ever get in my entire life!” Reaching out into the air, a netherite sword manifested in a flash of violet. She began slashing at the air wildly, running in circles. Just when Cleo had thought she’d witnessed the pinnacle of madness…

They caught a glimpse of the first phantom swooping towards them. “Pearl, watch out–” But her warning was evidently unneeded, as Pearl snapped around and leaped into the air, thrusting her sword up and skewering it through the stomach. 

Nervous frantic laughter erupted from who Cleo was pretty sure was Scar. The other Mooners had nothing in the way of organization, running around like headless chickens. To be fair, so was Pearl. She just had a sword about it. Resigning herself to the madness, Cleo sat back down and watched Pearl do her thing.

Dozens of dead phantoms later, some of which Grian and Cub have even managed to kill, the coast seemed to be clear. Pearl strutted back towards Cleo, huffing and puffing with effort. 

They were both taken aback by another screech as Pearl lunged forward to land right in front of Cleo, the sound of her sword skewering flesh echoing in Cleo’s ears. Looking up, the phantom was far too close to Cleo’s head for comfort. “Y’know what, this has been fun, but I think I’m going to leave now.”

Pearl yelped and staggered back so that she wasn’t nearly stepping on Cleo. “Wait! We’ve still gotta–” When a wave of exhaustion hit her. She stumbled and began to fall forward. Panic flared in Cleo’s chest as they rushed to catch her. The sword clattered to the ground.

Cleo maneuvered Pearl so that she was tucked in their arms bridal style. She was still awake, though not by much. While she mumbled to herself, Cleo placed a hand on her forehead. “Just sleep. I’ll take you to your base.”

With that slight bit of reassurance, Pearl promptly passed out. “And you,” they turned to the Mooners. “Please try to sleep too. No one likes phantoms or cults, thank you very much.” With a groan, Mumbo planted face first on the ground. Soon after, a faint snoring sound was coming from him. 

With a sigh, Cleo turned around and began marching towards Pearl’s boat. Someone who’d been ripping through phantoms one moment ago was now laid vulnerable and defenseless in their arms, head curled into their chest. Cleo felt their heart swell and kissed her on the forehead. 

“Sleep well, Pearl. We’ll all still be here when you awake. Hopefully with less phantoms.”

[jaehyunsprincesspeach2]

Hi! I just wanted to say thank you for the Tsuji x Shy Reader! Could you please do a part 2? When he actually meets Hyuga and the rest of Daruma and tells them how much he cares for Reader.

It was so cute and I loved it! I wanted to ask if you would be willing to write anything that involved the Mighty Warriors? Please keep writing! You’re doing amazing.

Alas, it is finally here!! Part two!!

Thank you for both of these requests, I had so much fun writing them! Apologies for part two taking so long

I am willing to write for Mighty Warriors, and I have a few requests for them already, though it will take me longer to get those ones done, being that I would like to portray the characters the right way :)

I hope you enjoy <3

Much love ~ ember

Out of Character (part two)

Part 1

Wc: 1.7k

Pairing: Tsuji x shy reader (Hyuga’s sister)

Warnings: the fluffiest of fluff

The Next Day

You wake up the next morning, still smiling from the night before. Laying in bed, you think of his words to you, “I love you”. You can’t stop thinking about those words, and how deeply happy Tsuji makes you feel. Thinking about all of the dates that the two of you have been on, all of the conversations the two of you have had, even silently thanking Hyuga for sending you to the market alone that day.

Hyuga?! Oh no, he’s gonna scream at me for sneaking out… you thought to yourself. After a few minutes of contemplation, you decided to get the lecture over with, rather than to prolong the outcome. Whatever happens, whatever Hyuga says, there is not a single trace of regret in your heart. For once, you were happy to break the rules. Happy that you did what you wanted to do. Happy that your boyfriend convinced you to step out of your comfort zone, even for one night.

Removing yourself from the bed, you start your morning routine. Getting dressed, washing your face, brushing your teeth, the usual. After you are leaving your bathroom to go and cook breakfast,you are stopped by a figure standing at your door. Hyuga. He looks oddly calm considering the events from the night before.

“Hey Hyuga” you said quietly, turning your gaze from his stare

“Y/n, we need to talk about last night. Please, sit down.” His calm demeanor is sending chills down your spine. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he joins you, fiddling with his own hands.

Why is he the nervous one, that’s supposed to be me? And why is he so calm right now? Your thoughts rolling through your mind as silence fills the room. But before you can say anything, he beats you to it.

“I’m sorry, y/n.” He said quietly looking down to the ground. Shock takes over your mind, knowing that hearing an apology from Hyuga is one of the rarest things from him.

“I’m sorry for keeping you from doing things that you want to do. I didn't realize that was what was happening, I thought that I was protecting you. You're the only real family that I have left, I just didn't want anything bad to happen to you, but I shouldn’t have gone as far as I did.” He continues, still gazing at the floor. “I’m not particularly happy that you snuck out, but I don't really blame you for it either. But I’m sorry that I made you feel like you couldn't come to me directly.”

“Hyuga, it's okay. I know that you just want me to be safe, I’m sorry for sneaking out and being so reckless. You’ve been nothing but the best big brother to me. So thank you.” You knew if you didnt say something he would continue rambling on. With your words, the tension in the air fell, and things felt normal again. He pulled you into a hug and ruffled your hair a little bit, showing that he loves and cares for you.

As the two of you stand to exit the room, he becomes slightly tense again, and you know immediately, he’s thinking about the arrival of Tsuji. Honestly, you were nervous too. When it comes to outsiders, Hyuga is either dismissive, or he is beating them up. You are hoping, praying, that he will see how happy you are, and not kick your boyfriend's teeth in, but at the same time, you don't want him to be dismissive. You and your kind heart are hoping that everyone can get along, without any awkward tension.

Walking out of the room, everyone is standing there waiting to give you a comforting hug. They all want you to know that even with what happened the night before, they still love you and want to protect you. After being smashed with all of the hugs, you are finally able to start making breakfast for everyone, to which you earned a loud cheer of praise for, something that is part of the morning routine, yet it still shocks you sometimes.

About an hour after breakfast, you receive a text from Tsuji.

Tsuji: Good morning my love, I’m on my way

Y/n: Okay darling, be safe, see you when you get here

With that one message, your heart starts racing, though you can’t tell if it is excitement to see him, or nerves that someone is going to hurt him.

“When will he be here?” Hyuga questions, lowering his voice in a way that frightens you a little.

“Soon, he's on his way now.” You replied quietly, unable to hide the nerves that are coursing through you. A small hum from Hyuga, and he disappears into the meeting room, with everyone following behind him. You know that he wants to intimidate Tsuji, which is why he has left open all of the doors, leading directly to the meeting room, and locked any other in sight. He told you to wait somewhere else, and not to greet him, but wait somewhere for when they are done talking. Naturally, you make your way to the garden, your favorite place to go when everyone else is talking.

Tsuji’ s POV

Well I made it, here we go…

Finally, he made it to the Daruma Family House. He’s not so nervous about talking to Hyuga, more so about not messing up and getting on his bad side. Tsuji is optimistic that he will be able to express the love that he feels for y/n, and win the approval of Hyuga. But this is Daruma, you never know what will happen. Rivaling gangs meeting could either end well, or really bad. There is no in between.

Walking up the stairs, Tsuji does his best to keep his confidence, and refuses to let anyone see the nerves that he is feeling. As the gates open, he can already see Hyuga sitting in a large room, as the entire walkway is lined with the Daruma Family. Tsuji keeps his composure as he walks forward, only looking at Hyuga. As he enters the room, the doors close behind him with a loud bang, yet Tsuji is still unfazed. Well, on the outside at least. He takes a seat in front of Hyuga, and silence fills the room.

“So. You and my sister huh? I’m guessing it was your idea for her to sneak out?”

“Yes it was. I apologize for that, I should have talked to you directly in the first place.”

“So you thought that sneaking around with my sister was a good idea? What if she had gotten into trouble, or if she had gotten hurt? Then you should have too I suppose. All I want to know is why. Why her?” Everyone can tell what Hyuga intention with this question is. He doesn’t mean it in a negative way, more so, he wants to know if Tsuji is good enough for his sister. He wants to know if he is going to take care of his sister the way that he knows she deserves to be taken care of.

“Why am I with your sister? Because she makes me happy. And I don't mean a generic happy, I mean an excited happy. When I think about her, everything makes sense. Like the world is perfectly in place. When I’m with her, it's as if all of the fighting and gang activity stops, and it's just her. When she’s not around I feel empty, like I’m missing something. And I am. I’m missing the person who makes my heart full. When she’s not around, I’m missing my other half. There is nothing I want more than to take care of her and protect her. She's everything to me. And without her, there’s nothing. She fills all of the broken spaces in my heart, and she shines a light in my world, that I would be a fool to lose. So yeah, maybe to you it seems like it's a silly relationship. Maybe it seems like I don't want her for the reasons anyone else would think. But in reality, I don't just want her, I need her. I need her to even get through my day. I can’t imagine a life without her. Cause without her, I see nothing.”

Tsuji, knowing that his hard core reputation was going down the drain with every word he spoke, let all of the love that he feels for y/n out into the open. He knew that Hyuga wanted to hear the reason, and he knew that his reason would make him seem soft, rather than the image that he typically portrays, but he didn't care. He needed everyone to know that y/n is the woman who owns his heart. The woman that he would do anything and everything for. And now it's finally out in the open.

The room fell silent, as everyone took in the words from Tsuji, realizing how much he truly does love y/n. Realizing that maybe the two of them being together isn’t such a bad thing.

“She’s out in the garden. You have my blessing. However, Mess up one time, and you will be dealing with the entire Daruma Family.” Hyuga states bluntly, unable to form any other thoughts.

With that Tsuji rises, and makes his way to the garden. When he sees you admiring the flowers, he takes a minute to admire you and all of your beauty. When you finally realize someone is with you, and you see that it is him, you are unable to hide the smile that covers your features.

I really am the luckiest man alive. This woman, this woman is the woman I am meant to be with. Nobody will ever compare to her. She's the one.

His thoughts are only filled with you and the love that he has for you, and you are running to him. Jumping into his embrace, everything in the world feels right. As if nothing could ruin this moment. And in that moment, the two of you are connected as one soul. Nothing could break the two of you apart, and nothing will. Finally freely together, the two of you share a sweet yet passionate kiss, as everything in the world falls into perfect harmony.

[queeniecook]

I Found What I Was Looking For - Part 3

Love Day arrives. The kids make valentines at school and pass them out. Eat candy. Think their parents’ kissing is gross. The normal stuff.

Pak and I spend the entire day together.

Even though we have been together for years, it turned out to be one of my favorite days we have spent together. Maybe it was because we just slowed down and enjoyed being with each other. We got to reflect on our lives together. How we met. How we fell for each other but were both stubborn about admitting our feelings for each other. Our marriage. Our kids. Our life.

We also celebrated “Egg Day” which including a visit from someone dressed in a giant bunny outfit and the kids hunting eggs we had hidden in the bushes and behind things for them. We didn’t really have grass to hide them in, so we had to improvise a bit.

❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧

At the very start of summer, I get sad news.

I suppose one would ask why I’d cry over the man who broke my heart when I was young. We had made amends in the past. Hadn’t talked in years. But what I went through with Brandon had made me appreciate Pak and his love even more. It had given me most of the drive I needed to succeed in my career. He was still a human being. A flawed one. But we all have our flaws. I know I do. Even though he had broken my heart. A small part of it still cared for him. So yes, when I heard he had passed away. It did make me sad.

The kids wanted to go to the beach that night, I agreed. Wanting to get out of the house. Distract myself. It makes me happy to see them doing stuff together. Having fun.

“I know now it not a good time. But I figured I might as well tell you when you’re already sad, instead of ruining things when you’re happy.” Pak starts out.

That didn’t make me nervous at all.

“I’ve been trying to figure out how to tell you this. Or if I even should, but knowing you. I know you’ll want to be prepared.” He continues.

“Okay. Just tell me.” I tell him. If he kept going without saying it, I was going to get more nervous.

“Since I am a merman. We tend to have longer life spans than humans.” Pak started to explain. “I’m going to out live you, Evie.”

My heart broke. Not for me, but for him. I tried not to cry, the kids are nearby. All this never occurred to me.

“That doesn’t mean anything is going to happen anytime soon.” He added on, seeing my face. “I knew this all along. I knew it when I started to fall for you. I think that was part of the reason I was afraid to.” Pak admitted.

I’m just still trying to process what he’s telling me. He grabs me and holds me.

“But I don’t regret anything. You’re the one I’m meant to be with. Until the end.” He tells me, holding me close.

It’s a lot to deal with. I didn’t want to leave any of them behind. Somehow, I always thought I’d out live him. I was very wrong.

We end the night with a bonfire. I put the conversation in the back of my mind and enjoy the time with my family.

The next day comes. It’s time for me to bake another cake. I couldn’t believe it. It doesn’t seem possible. My little girl is getting older.

We’re all there when she blows out her candles. I’m thankful we all get to see this moment together.

❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧❧

My name is Evie Jean Grant-Uha. I’ve been through heartbreak and triumph. I have loved and lost. Found real love. Found family in my husband, kids and cats. I have my home. I have succeeded in going from having nothing to being wealthy. I have found what I was looking for. What I was longing for. I have no regrets.

<-previous

The start of Generation 2

Note from Queenie – This is the end of Generation 1

[lady-maracas]

Wildflowers, a RDR story - 0.3 - Business

Series Masterlist

-Valentine, New Hanover, November 1898-

I am finally done with my tarot card collection. I need to make sure to meet Madam Nazar as soon as I can to get paid for this exhausting job.

Recently, I've taken on several roles, including that of a collector. Along my travels across the states, I've unearthed many fascinating artifacts, and a lovely woman named Madam Nazar compensates well for these treasures. I'm also juggling a job as a naturalist, which entails studying animals to understand their behaviors and lifestyles better. This role can sometimes be dangerous, especially when it comes to interacting with fierce creatures.

Currently, I'm on my way to meet Cripps, who sent me a letter a couple of days ago inviting me to meet near the general store in Valentine. He emphasized the importance of this meeting, hinting that he has a "new idea" to discuss.

As I approach the general store, I spot the old man stepping out, accompanied by a young man carrying a heavy bag of supplies. "Oh, you made it! Follow me," Cripps exclaims upon noticing me. "Now, as I mentioned in my letter, we are going into business! I've been breaking down animals since I was knee-high to a splinter, and I worked as a tanner up in Wisconsin back in the sixties. It's a very long story," he adds, as I glance back at the young man, who seems to be losing patience.

"So, I've got three words for you: Cripps Trading Company." He exclaims with enthusiasm. "Pristine pelts and animal parts, for bulk sale. Now, I know there's a market out there. All I need is a partner. So, I'm thinking you could source the materials: skins, plumes, horns, and the like..." His proposal hangs in the air, and my uncomfortable thoughts drift to the implications of his suggestion. "So I'm supposed to kill the animals? Great, Harriet's going to hate me," I mutter under my breath, recalling the passionate animal rights advocate I know.

"Exactly! I'll process them and prepare them for sale, and then you can head out and make the sales yourself. Heck, we might even enjoy some good meals out of this venture!" Cripps continues, his excitement showing. Just then, the young man behind him drops the heavy bag with a huff, clearly wanting to redirect our conversation. "Why are you still here, Willis?" Cripps asks, almost oblivious to the young man's discomfort.

"Your provisions, Mr. Cripps," Willis replies, gesturing at the bag, clearly stating why he's still waiting. "Oh right!" Cripps responds, dismissing the concern. "Pack the rest on there, will you?" He gestures towards his horse before turning back to me.

"Now, with every opportunity comes a risk. Competitors, thieves, and me potentially losing interest in this whole idea... but if we combine our talents, we'll be unstoppable." He hands Willis a penny for his trouble, to which the young man sighs in disappointment, clearly dissatisfied with his pay. I can't help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation, feeling a mixture of apprehension and intrigue as we potentially embark on this new adventure. "And when we're rich, you'll thank me, saying, 'Cripps, you handsome genius!'" The excitement in Cripps's voice is evident as he mounts his horse, a gleam of ambition in his eye. He seems ready to charge off at any moment, fresh plans swirling in his mind. "I highly doubt that," I mutter under my breath, skepticism clouding my thoughts.

"So, are you in?" he asks, his enthusiasm unabated. 'Eh, what the hell?' I think, weighing the prospects. "Sure, I'll do it," I reply, deciding to take the plunge. "Good! You won't regret this. I already own a small wagon and most of what we'll need in terms of initial supplies. If you can grab that and bring it back to camp, we'll get everything set up. This is gonna be fun!" he says, urging his horse into a trot as he sets off from town. "See you later!" I call after him.

Feeling a mix of anticipation and fatigue, I head over to the saloon, craving a well-deserved drink. The establishment is fairly empty at this hour, casting a subdued atmosphere over the place. To my surprise, my friend Sam is behind the bar today. "Hey!" I call out, trying to catch his attention. "I'll take a whiskey, please." I slide a penny onto the bar, watching as he finishes cleaning a plate.

"I'll give you your usual, then?" he asks lightly, glancing up at me.

"Sure," I reply with a sigh, taking a seat at the wooden bar.

"Tough day? You look like shit," he remarks, his tone edged with concern.

"Yeah, I feel like shit too," I chuckle, resting my head on my hand as I try to shake off the weariness. Sam moves around, preparing a plate of fried chicken, the scent wafting through the air, making my stomach flutter but not with hunger. He sets the plate in front of me, the aroma usually inviting, now making me feel nauseous.

"You know what? Actually, I'm not hungry," I say, gently pushing the plate away.

"I made you a meal, and you don't want it? How ungrateful! I'll eat it myself then," he declares, not wasting a moment in grabbing the plate back and devouring the crispy pieces of chicken. "I fucking love fried chicken, man..." he mutters contentedly, clearly lost in his own enjoyment.

I can't help but chuckle at his antics.

Lately, we've teamed up to help Mrs. LeClerk avenge her husband's death. While Sam has been working as a bartender in Valentine, I've been busy collecting valuables, studying animals, hunting bounties, and now apparently starting a trading company.

"I've got another meeting in Emerald Ranch, and I don't think I can do it, it's too much," I sigh, feeling the weight of my various tasks. Sam raises an eyebrow at me, amusement written across his face. "You know, no one is forcing you to juggle all those jobs," he says, speaking with his mouth full.

I rise from my stool, adjusting my hat as I prepare to leave. "I know, but I need the money, and it feels good when people appreciate the work I do," I shrug. "I'll catch you later, partner." I wave at Sam, who nods in response.

As I make my way to Emerald Ranch, Scrawny Nag plods alongside me, his gait unsteady. Yes, I decided to name my horse Scrawny Nag; it just fits him. A letter had arrived recently, asking me to meet a certain Maggie Fike at Emerald Ranch, without offering much detail, except that it involves moonshine. I briefly wavered on whether to ignore the request, but the lure of making some money—and alcohol, was too tempting to resist.

When I arrive at the abandoned, rundown house at Emerald Ranch, I dismount and take a moment to gather myself before heading toward it. The wooden structure looks weathered, its paint peeling, hinting at years of neglect but still standing firm against the elements. With a deep breath, I approach, ready to see what awaits inside.

I slowly push the door open, scanning my surroundings; this could end very badly. As I step inside the dimly lit house, the air feels still, carrying a slight mustiness that hints at abandonment. The interior is sparsely furnished, with worn-out chairs and a table covered in a thin layer of dust, giving the place an eerie atmosphere. A few faded pictures hang on the walls, their subjects unrecognizable behind the grime. I cautiously take a few steps further when a voice cuts through the silence: "You must be Cripps' friend?"

I turn to see a woman standing there, her presence striking yet unsettling. Half of her face is scarred by burns, giving her a fierce appearance that commands attention. I nod in acknowledgment, slightly taken aback by her directness. "I'll try not to hold that against you. The name's Maggie. Thanks for coming!" she says, stepping closer, her voice strong despite the scars.

Just then, the same door I entered swings open abruptly, and I turn to see Cripps walking in, his jovial energy filling the room. "She's back!" he exclaims excitedly, grinning widely.

"Cripps? Did you know I was coming here?" I ask, recognizing the same man I encountered earlier that day.

"Maybe—" His words are abruptly cut off when Maggie pulls up her cane, which actually seems to be a riffle, and fires a shot at Cripps' feet. He jumps back, eyes wide with surprise.

"What the hell?" he screams, his cheerful demeanor vanishing in an instant.

"Damn, I missed it, didn't I?" Maggie replies, annoyance creeping into her voice. "Don't come in like a bull through the fence next time, you old fool! Your friend here managed to get it right," she points at me, her expression softening slightly.

"'Lightning' Maggie Fike! We all thought you were dead!" Cripps approaches her, the tone turning nostalgic.

"Yeah? Well, so did I!" she snaps back, her frustration evident.

"I guess you'll be wanting a drink?" she adds, a hint of humor returning.

"I know I will," I respond, eager for a break from the tension.

"Come on, give me a hand," Maggie urges Cripps, who turns to me with an amused smirk. "Biggest mistake of my life was not marrying this woman when I had the chance," he admits, his tone playful. I chuckle at that, enjoying their banter.

"Yeah, you always had a colorful memory of things," Maggie scoffs, handing us each empty glasses. "As you can see, I've hit my prime."

"Well, I heard what happened with Hixon, that evil son of a bitch. Where you been all this time?" Cripps pours us drinks, which I quickly grab, feeling the warmth of the moonshine already.

"Recovering, lying low. Could hardly get out of bed for six months," Maggie sighs, the weight of her past evident in her eyes.

"And your nephew?" Cripps asks, genuine concern in his voice. I lean in, eager to catch up on their shared history.

"Lem? Still in jail, as far as I know," she responds, her expression a mix of resignation and irritation.

"Eh... seen Danny-Lee yet?" I zone out slightly, the details of their conversation blending together in my mind, but I catch snippets of their connection and concern.

"Oh yeah, I've seen him. He's cooking for the Braithwaites now. Guess me and him are done," she says, taking a sip of her drink as if washing away memories.

"Well, there's always Marcel. Heard he's not working for LeClerk anymore. The feller's a windbag, but he knows his way around a still," Cripps adds, his tone shifting back to familiarity.

"Yeah... maybe. Feels like it would be easier for everyone if I just stayed gone. But life ain't about being easy; I'm taking back what's mine. I just need legs and muscles," Maggie replies, her voice rising in intensity, anger simmering beneath the surface.

"Well, you'll get that with this one. I promise you," Cripps says, pointing at me, suddenly making me feel self-conscious under their strong gazes.

"The two of us have a nice little business going," he exaggerates.

"Cripps, you're pushing it a little too far..." I warn him, trying to deflect the attention as the weight of their expectations begins to settle heavily on my shoulders.

"Well, as long as you know it won't be pretty. I don't do pretty anymore," Maggie states firmly, her expression serious. She leans forward slightly, her scarred face lit by the dim light in the room. "First things first, I need a cookhouse with a good basement. I reckon I could get one of my old spots up and running. The bastards seized them all after the raid... You buy me one of those back, and you'll have a fair investment. I'll teach you everything I know, so what do you say?" She slides a worn map of her former cookhouses across the table, the creases and smudges telling stories of past ventures.

I decide it's best if I choose a cookhouse near Emerald Ranch, "Sure, I'll do it," I reply, shaking her hand with a firm grip, a sense of determination settling in.

"Alright, partners it is," she confirms, her tone confident . "Meet me back there when you can, and we'll figure out what else we need once we're set up." With that, Maggie stands up and strides purposefully toward the door, her movements confident despite the scars that mark her path.

"Can I offer you a ride, Miss Fike?" Cripps asks, his attempt to convince her seeming genuine as he gestures to his horse.

"I suppose so!" she sighs, her tone lightening a bit as she relents. I finish my drink and follow them outside, the cool air greeting me as I step into the fading sunlight. I bid them farewell, watching as they head off, chattering away.

As I turn to make my way back to my camp, I can't help but reflect on the multitude of roles I've taken on. Bounty hunter, moonshiner, trader, naturalist, collector, hitman, outlaw... That's quite a few titles if you ask me. Each one carries its own weight and set of expectations, and I wonder how long I can juggle them all before something slips through the cracks. The anticipation of my new partnership with Maggie stirs a sense of excitement, mingled with the anxiety of the challenges that lie ahead.

-

Sam belongs to @sam-vdl , all RDR characters belong to rockstar games.

[greenlikethesea]

friendsgiving excerpt, fair ithilien verse

i realized that i completely misadvertised this one -- it is not a fun fic, very very angsty, and is the catalyst for eddie leaving indiana and going to live with jonathan and argyle in LA for a few months before heading to san fran. here's a piece of writing i did that i'm quite proud of:

“There are only two doors on this fucking house,” Eddie starts.

Confusion flashes across Steve’s face, alarm, but he masks it quickly. He’s mean first, and fucking good at it when he feels indignant. Eddie wishes he didn’t know Steve so well. “I think I know the layout of my own house, Eddie.” 

“If you know the layout of your own house, Steve, riddle me this,” Eddie spits. “Say I’m in the backyard, smoking a cigarette, because no one gets to decide I quit except for me – am I going to go all the way to the front door to get back inside? A door that might be locked for all I know?”

Eddie can see Steve softening a little, the steel in his glare subsiding just a bit. “I suppose not.”

“So it makes the most sense for me to go in the back door, which is already open, because you opened it, I watched you do it,” Eddie continues. “But you and your wife seem to be having a tense conversation. And I don’t want to interrupt, or make noise, or disturb it. So that’s why I stayed put until the coast was clear. No offense, Steve, but I have more pressing matters on my mind than whatever you and your wife talk about when you’re alone.”

“Eddie,” Steve breathes. It’s so kind, and Eddie hates it. “Please, Eddie, I –”

Eddie laughs bitterly. “I don’t blame you for locking your front door, of course. Nice neighborhood like this, wouldn’t want anyone unsavory coming in. Take the trash out the back, you know how it goes.”

It’s fucking mean, a snarl from a wounded animal. He feels a pang of regret as Steve’s face falls, that beautiful face twisting in regret, any anger there now fled. But Eddie’s eyes hurt from keeping them anywhere but those two fucking moles on Steve’s neck, tantalizing and inviting above his crew neck collar. The skin there is probably soft from whatever expensive body wash he uses, a gift from Megan, maybe. Steve doesn’t drown himself in cologne anymore, but there’s something lingering – new clothes smell, or the air freshener that’s plugged into the kitchen outlet by the toaster oven. He wants to fist his hands in that crimson cashmere, wreck the collar from how hard he tugs it down, just to get his mouth on those two moles. Maul him, make a mess of that expanse of skin, so no one knows there are moles there by the time he’s done.

“How are you, Eddie?” Steve says. It’s impossibly quiet.

“I’m fine, Steve,” Eddie says, automatic. “I told you that before.”

“No, Eddie,” Steve says. He steps into Eddie’s space. “How are you, really?”

Unlike a lot of people, Eddie actually knows what it feels like to be eaten alive. He knows what it feels like to have some malevolent force not even wait until your heart stops beating to tear into your flesh. But this glass barrier between himself and everyone else, the long, endless days he spends at the trailer, or on the road, or dodging people’s phone calls – this barrier that he himself created? He’ll take the demobats over this any day. At least with those things, he could immediately identify what was causing him harm. Razor sharp fangs, tail like a whip designed to strangle prey, rough scales where skin is supposed to be – no wonder I feel like I’m going to die! But the vice grip of loneliness is harder to qualify, a pain so big that to speak it into existence would make it real. Inescapable. 

What does Eddie say to Steve? He doesn’t know how to talk about this emptiness that permeates every part of his existence. It would be so easy to rebuff him, to head back into the dining room with everyone else, where they’ve all no doubt dismantled the dessert table. But Steve’s looking at him like it’ll kill him if Eddie doesn’t tell him what’s wrong. And Eddie wants to believe it’s a lie. He wants so badly to convince himself that Steve doesn’t care about him, that now that he has a wife, he doesn’t need anyone else. Doesn’t need Eddie. But Eddie can see that this isn’t true. That Steve’s just the same as he’s always been, caring to a fault, big enough to see when he’s miscalculated, and that just makes the pain worse. 

“I’m…” he starts, but the words get caught in his throat. For the first time this entire conversation, he looks away from Steve. It’s too hard, too close –