#would just love to see his kid return the favour once in a while

[yelenasdiary]

Would you be open to write a smutty smut fic with (neighbor!)Wanda x reader where Wanda calls Reader at night and tell them she needs a babysitter for the kids buuuut in reality she just wants reader alone (the kids are not at home). Wanda being overall a bit dark and manipulative. Any kinks you want but would like it veryvery much if you included some lactation kink 🤭🤭🤭

https://www.tumblr.com/yelenasdiary/718652810829398016/requests-are-open-for-24-hours-only-for-smut

My Little Helper

Pairing: Neighbour! Wanda Maximoff x Babysitter! Reader.

Summary: It’s Christmas Eve, you’re getting some last-minute baking done and neighbour, Wanda, was the last person you expected to be calling for a favour.

Translations:: (from Slovak): dieťa (baby), mamina (mommy), miláčik (darling)

Warnings:18+ ONLY! Minors & Men DNI!! Smut, Dom! Wanda, Sub! Reader, Manipulation, Oral (Both Receiving), Fingering (Reader Receiving), Lactation Kink, Mommy Kink, Pussy Slapping??, Legal Age Gap, Language Warning, Mentions of Drinking | 2.3K

AC:Thank you for sending this, I hope you enjoy it! X

Holiday Special Masterlist

"Rockin' around the Christmas tree, have a happy holiday…"

The Christmas classic played softly in the background while you were decorating some Christmas cookies to take to your parents' house tomorrow morning for a long, long day of celebrating, laughing and plenty of food. You couldn't help but hum along to the song not even realizing you were gently swaying your hips to the music. 

"Everyone dancin' merrily, in the new old-fash-"

Your phone stopped the music, your ringtone now blaring through your Bluetooth speaker. Shifting your eyes from the snowman shaped cookie to your phone, you frowned slightly with confusion when you saw the name 'Wanda Maximoff' trying to call you. Quickly, you brushed your hands on your red apron with reindeer printed all over it and swiped 'answer' before putting the device to your ear. 

"Hello?" You answered. 

"Y/n, Hi, it's Wanda from next door!" The Sokovian replied with a cheerful tone with a hint of stress. 

"Hey Wanda, is everything okay?" You asked before dipping your index finger into the bowl of icing. 

"I hate to be a bother, especially since its Christmas Eve but I have stupidly forgot one of the twins Santa gifts! I have called the store and they said they had one of the remote-control cars left in stock and are going to put it aside for me. I was just wondering if you'd be able to come sit with the boys while I duck out to pick up the toy before the store closes? They're asleep, so they won't be an issue" your neighbor explained. 

You'd been babysitting Tommy and Billie since you moved in next door. You needed the extra cash and Wanda needed the extra help since her and her ex-husband, Vision, got divorced. 

"Of course, just give me 5-10 minutes and I'll pop right over" you replied with a soft smile to yourself. 

"You're an angel! Thank you love!" Wanda said before hanging up the phone. 

Moments later you were greeted by the warm smile of your neighbor as she opened the door. "Come in, come in" she gestured with her hand. You returned the smile as you stepped into her living room, she closed the door behind you, but you couldn't help but notice a certain silence in the home. Your eyes landed on the coffee table, evidence of a bottle of red and an empty glass with lipstick stains around the rim made you frown slightly once more. 

"So" you said as you turned on your heels to face the older woman, taking in the fact she was in her silk dark red night gown and clearly had no intentions of leaving the house. 

"Don't be mad, but the boys are with Vision" Wanda admitted quickly, seeing the confused look on your face. 

"Oh" you replied as Wanda took a few short steps closer to you. 

"You look worried, I am sorry, I don't mean to worry you darling" she smiled softly as she closed the gap between you both, "it's just, I guess the holidays have made me feel lovely and I wasn't sure how else to get you to come over" she went on. 

"I understand" you replied, shaking off the odd feeling you had, "you could've just said" you added, smiling kindly at the woman. 

Gently, Wanda brushed a lock of hair behind your ear before her hand cupped your face. You weren't sure what was happening, your heart skipped a beat at her actions. Part of you felt like this was wrong but the other part of you was melting on the inside at her soft, warm touch. Her green eyes were burning into you, watching as you got lost in them. 

"You're so sweet darling, do you remember when you said you'd be happy to help me?" She asked in a soft tone, "with anything" she whispered, her eyes dropping to your lips. Lost in a trance, you nodded. 

"I need your help sweetheart, you see, I haven't felt any relief since Vision walked out that door. It's lonely here without the boys and I have seen the way you look at me" 

"I-I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean" you replied with a stutter. Your heart dropped to your stomach, you were sure the short glances were never something Wanda noticed. 

"Your secret is safe with me darling" her thumb stroked your cheek, "let me ask you something, have you ever been with an older woman?" She asked as her eyes locked with yours once more. You shook your head at her question. 

"I didn't think so, why don't you take a seat for me?" Wanda suggested. You walked around the sofa and took a seat in the middle, your hands sweaty with nerves. Wanda sat down beside you as she poured herself another glass of red, "would you like a glass?" She offered but you smiled kindly and shook your head. 

You watched as her lips touched the wine glass, taking a generous sip before placing it back on the coffee table and letting her hand rest on the top of your thigh. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the alcohol wash down the back of her throat before she looked at you once more. "I can tell you're nervous, it's okay, if you can't help me, I understand. I'm sure I'll find some other way to relieve myself" she said, breaking the silence with a hint of sadness in her tone. 

"N-no!" You turned to her, "I want to help, I mean, I know the holidays can get lonely and you've been nothing but kind to me" you assured her. Wanda smiled softly once more, she had you right where she needed you, mentally. 

"I'm not sure you're understanding what I need darling" she replied, running her hand higher up your thigh, "I need you" she lent in and whispered sending a throb to your core. You felt yourself getting wetter at the thought of being with her, just this once.

"Ms Maximoff, I wo-" you paused, placing your hand on top of hers and stopping her from moving it any further to your pussy, "I wouldn't want to do anything that would ruin what we have going on, I love babysitting the boys and I know you need that help bu-"

"Shhh" she cut you off, "this won't ruin anything angel, I promise" she added, shifting closer to you. "This will just be our little secret" she whispered before you felt her soft lips press against your neck. It was almost as if you had fallen apart completely, a soft moan left your lips as your neighbor's lips explored the exposed skin of your neck. She worked her way to your lips, kissing you deeply while you slowly laid back on the sofa, letting her hover above you. 

Her lips were full, soft and sent butterflies to your stomach then suddenly she stopped and pulled away, "come on dieťa, let's go to my bedroom" she spoke, her Sokovian accent coming in thick, making you weaker for her. You followed her up to her bedroom where she wasted no time pinning you up against the wall, her lips attacking your neck once more while her hands slid inside of your sweater before working it off. 

"Lay down on the bed darling, mamina is going to make you feel so good, I promise" she whispered against your ear. 

Like a lost puppy, you did exactly what she said and now here you were moments later, naked with her lips trailing down your body. "Mm dieťa, you're so wet and I've barely touched you" she looked up at you from between your thighs. "Say you need me" she added. 

"I need you" you replied, feeling your pussy throb with need to be touched. 

"Not like that! You know what I want to hear" she said bluntly, giving a light slap on your clit making you squirm. "I need you, please mommy!" you begged knowing she had just broke you, "mommy, please" you begged once more just to have another chance to call her mommy. 

"I have waited far too long to have you say that" she replied before running the tip of her tongue through your folds, humming at the taste of your arousal. Her tongue worked through your folds, around your clit and inside your pussy before she began to lap at your pussy. Her room only filled with the sounds of your moans and the sucking sound of her lips wrapped around your clit, she was far better than any toy you'd used on yourself. 

"F-fuck!" You moaned, gripping handfuls of her hair as she slowly inserted two fingers inside of you, "d-don't stop mommy!!" You moaned once more as she began to thrust her fingers. 

Her tongue swirling around the hood of your clit, her fingers thrusting deeper with every moan that left your lips, your pussy clenching around her fingers as you grew closer and closer to your first release. Throwing your head back with a hand covering your mouth to keep the urge to scream her name from leaving your lungs. 

"Don't keep those pretty little moans from me, miláčik! I want to hear them all, I want to hear how good mamina fucks your pretty pussy" Her words filled your mind causing your hand to land beside you, grabbing at the sheets turning your knuckles white. Once more, the bedroom was filled with your moans. 

"Cum for me love, you can do it" Wanda paused for a moment to take a mental screenshot of the way you looked right now, spared out for her, giving her exactly what she craved. You came with her name on your tongue, your legs shook as she continued to lap at your folds and thrusting her fingers slowly to ride out your high. "That's a good dieťa" Wanda smiled to herself once you had caught your breath. 

Wanda hovered over you, watching the way your eyes looked into hers. You gently cupped her face and pulled her down, kissing her deeply and ignoring the sweet taste of yourself on her lips. "It's your turn mommy" you smirked against her lips before swiftly flipping you both over so you were on top of her. 

Her hardened nipples peeked through the silk of her gown, catching your eyes almost instantly as you traced a finger down the valley of her breasts and untied her gown, letting it slide off her skin. Your eyes travel slowly from her exposed breasts to her eyes, she smiled softly, "go on darling, have a taste" she said softly as if she could read your mind. 

You wasted no time latching your lips around her left nipple. Wanda moaned softly, running her fingers through your hair, "don't be shy dieťa" she said before the warmth of her milk hit your tongue. At first it tasted a little unusual but the more your tongue swirled and flickered at her nipple while you sucked lightly, you grew to love it and eventually moved your lips to her right nipple and giving it the same attention. 

Wanda's moans were sweet, like hot chocolate on a cold winter's night. She loved watching the way your lips were glued to her, from her nipples to making your way down to her core. You kissed the inside of her thighs, remembering all those times you got lost thinking about how lucky her husband (now ex) was. 

"You're so adorable" Wanda smiled softly when you looked up at her for permission, "go ahead, sweetheart. Make mamina cum" she added. Her Sokovian accent only turning you one more, if that were even possible.

You took a long lick through her folds, moaning softly at the taste of her. She was sweet, better than any candy you'd had before. You lapped and swirled your tongue, almost copying the same actions she did on you, dipping your tongue inside of her while your fingers toyed with her clit. Her hands rested comfortably on your head, her hips grinding against your tongue as she moaned and praised you. 

"That's it baby, just like that! Fuck!" She moaned, a light smirk on her lips as she enjoyed the bliss she was receiving, closing in on her orgasm with every flick of your tongue. "Sm close darling! Don't stop!" She moaned once more, gripping a handful of your hair and slightly pushing you further into her pussy as she grinds herself against you just a little harder. Her pussy clenched around the tip of your tongue every time you were inside her, you didn't want this to end but you couldn't wait to feel her release on your tongue. 

"I'm cumming!!" Wanda moaned loudly as she gushed onto your tongue, you drew light circles around her clit to help her ride out her high, looking up at her to see her smirk turned to a soft but proud smile.

 "Come up here sweetheart" she instructed after a few moments. You laid on top of her, she brushed locks of hair behind your ear before pulling you back in for a deep kiss, loving the taste of herself on your lips.

"Thank you love, you've been such a big help" she smiled softly. You could feel her still hard nipples against your naked skin, you smiled in return before nuzzling your head into her chest. Wanda pulled the covers over the two of you and placed a kiss on the top of your head as she wrapped her arms around you.

"Can I help you again in the morning?" You asked tiredly, already wanting another taste of her milk. 

"You're going to be my little helper from now on darling, get some rest. I have a Christmas present for you in the morning" she replied softly, keeping you close.

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[phoenixeclipse-lmkau]

i see you like my crumbs, will you take another?

now hear me out:

reader looking after the cubs by grooming their fur.

at first they never would allow it, them looking after each other. but after awhile, maybe they need to be cleaned up quickly or perhaps they cant groom each other for some reason, and so they have their choice: reader or spirit.

they already know how proficient spirit is with monkey related things, so its a case of who they trust more.

reader has gave them pats and scratches, and perhaps removed things from their fur once or twice, but has no skills when it comes to grooming a monkey proper, but that certainly wont stop them from trying! it takes a while, with reader going slow, but afterwards, they are.. mostly clean? they really cant blame reader for not knowing how to do so, but she certainly tried her best!

and well, it certainly felt nice, that's for sure.

they don't always get both cleaned by reader, sometimes spirit grooms one of them as well. not often, and only when they absolutely cant get clean with in the timeframe they have. spirit doesn't put in as much care to make sure she isn't pulling hair and such. she isn't being mean, but she just prioritises efficiency over comfort, unlike reader.

as they grow closer and closer with reader, she gets more chances to groom them, getting more skilled at it as time goes on. after a while, they even try and return the favour, from time to time.

now, instead of only when they need it, they try and get a grooming session from reader whenever they're relaxing, loving the sensation of reader caring for them so gently.

but when they turn back...

it's a bit difficult to convince reader to groom them, especially when they kidnapped her.

monkey duo: ah yes, hello, i know we took you to the mountain and are never letting you go, but can you please clean our fur? even though us being in our true forms means we are bigger now, and thus take much more time?

reader, freshly kidnapped and pissed off: no, you aren't kids, clean yourselves

monkey duo: :(

a few hours later:

reader grooming a random cub that asked politely:

monkey duo: :(

monkey duo: >:(

i will be back with more crumbs at a later date, i hope you enjoy this one.

Hahaha!!! Omg this would totally happen!

Now don't get me wrong the monkey duo wouldn't be mad at the cub. They would never be mad at a cub. However they are mad that they aren't also getting grooming.

Macaque would be slightly more understanding because he is self aware that they did kidnap/courtnap you. Though he still doesn’t like that you won’t give him such attention yet. He is sure that eventually you’ll give in though.

“Darling,” Wukong called out as he opened the door to your room/ cage.

Immediately you backed up in your bed, a scowl easily spread across your face even through the fear that you felt. In his hands the Warlord held a tray of fruits, all freshly cut and carefully placed to look extra appealing. You barely looked at the offering that he tried to give you, instead watching the monkey demon.

Sun Wukong was tall, almost standing at six feet tall with deep golden eyes. His beautiful golden fur looked the same shade as when he was in the form of a cub. You almost felt betrayed when you had first seen his true form. He had been wearing his golden armor and extravagant clothing before but now? Now as he walked into the room he was wearing nothing but a pair of pants, showing off his furry chest and back muscles.

All you did was glare at the monkey demon as he set the tray onto a table in the room. You didn’t say a word as he looked over at you. You expected him to leave but then noticed Macaque also walk into the room, dressed the same as his mate. His normally dark fur gone in favor of his beautiful white coat that he only shows to you and Wukong.

“What?” You ask almost silently as you waited for their reason for staying.

“It’s been a week since you’ve arrived on the island,” Wukong started, a wide grin spread across his face as if he just told you something incredible.

You raise an eyebrow with confusion, “So-?”

Both monkey demons approached the bed and leaned against it, giving you a full view of their chests. You pushed down the blush that threatened to cover your face at the sight of them.

“We were hoping- that you’d be willing to give us a grooming,” Macaque was the one to speak.

Immediately you’re tiny bubble burst and you gave them a glare, “No.”

“Oh come on why not!?” Wukong yelled looking at you with a puppy dog look across his face, as he flopped himself on the ground.

At the action you backed up a frown spread across your face. You glanced at Macaque who unlike Wukong merely looked dejected but seemed to have accepted that you wouldn’t groom them. However his mate, was not the same case.

“Darling, love, precious gem, our precious Queen, please,” Wukong begged jumping onto the bed and laying his head on your lap before you could move.

You of course merely frowned and pushed him off of you a deep frown covering your face. Looking away you scowled.

>>><<<

A few hours later when you are sitting alone in the room after having sent the duo away, both being thoroughly disappointed. Slowly you had eaten the food they provided, you had to admit that it tasted delicious. Not that you would tell either of them that, especially right now.

*Chirp*

It was small almost silent, a tiny chirp caught your attention. Turning to look you saw none other than a small monkey cub. It was a little girl with curly dark brown fur and the brightest blue eyes. She was looking almost everywhere but at you and playing with the sleeves of her pretty pink Hanfu.

“Hello there,” You couldn’t help but coo at the cute cub.

Almost immediately she perked up her eyes wide as she looked up at you with a warm smile. Cautiously she walked up to you and sat down a little bit away before scooting a little closer and settling down. Curious you tilted your head before crouching down to her level.

“Is there something you need?” You asked calmly.

“C-Can you help me? I can’t get the knots,” She muttered pointing around her body to her back and you felt your heart squeeze. How could you say no to such a cute face?

You barely let out a sigh before sitting down on the floor in front of her. Immediately the young cub turns around and reveals her back to you pulling her clothing so you could reach where she couldn’t. With expert care and skill that you attained from grooming the two warlords before you knew who they were you carefully combed through her fur.

Gently untangling every knot and strand you smiled when she began to purr. It was calm and rather domestic. You didn’t even notice when someone leaned against the doorframe.

Macaque’s gaze watched you calmly, he crossed his arms across himself and found himself bitterly smiling. He wanted that attention, the attention that you were freely giving to such a small monkey cub. She was a runt so small and frail, someone who you were caring for without a second thought. You will make such a wonderful mother, the thought crossed his mind and he quickly pushed it away. At least he tried. The thought of you carrying his cubs was overwhelming, you would make such cute cubs.

He was only broken out of his thoughts when his husband walked by, “No fair!”

You jumped before whipping your head around to look at the warlords, Wukong in particular had an almost offended look on his face. He didn’t think it was fair, he wanted your attention too. He wanted your fingers combing and grooming through his fur, he was your husband! You were married as far as he or Macaque were concerned, he did everything needed with the courtship and courtnapping. Aside from consummation but you just weren’t ready for that.

“Why won’t you groom my fur too,” He practically whined stomping his feet.

The cub let out a squeak before scurrying away to get away from the warlord, only to get caught by Macaque’s tail. You felt a shot of fear through you for a split second before he gently cradled the cub in his arms. The look on his face was both disappointment and wonder as he handed the cub back to you. Something that you accepted without a second thought, which was the reason unknown to you that Wukong went silent.

You were so cute holding the cub, how did he miss that!? How would you look holding their cub? Both his and Macaque’s? The thought filled his head as he sat down on the ground, his tail thumping on the ground as he tried to calm himself down. You focused back on grooming the cub, weather because you simply wanted to or to avoid the warlords was unclear at this point.

I loved this ask! SO CUTE!! Honestly they will be less annoyed with you grooming cubs and more wanting you to have THEIR cubs. So Reader’s gotta be careful with that, luckily for her the monkey warlords are willing to wait. Even if they don’t want to. Sorry again for the waits on these but I am working on them!!

[bunnyreaper]

Gaz taking care of his babies while his wife has a birthday spa day? 🥹🥹🥹🥹

this is... something? i tried okay <3

you'd heard horror stories from other wives about leaving your kids alone with your kids alone with just their dad, but you knew that when it came to kyle--you didn't have a single thing to worry about.

that man had the kids routines memorised, even when he was off on the other side of the world fighting the monsters that hide in the dark. he knew when to call to say goodnight, if he could, when not to call because it would be bath time, and what football team his sons under 7's team were playing every week. 

kyle garrick was a great father and a fantastic husband--having sent you off for a birthday spa retreat where you could truly have some time off from being a mother. you carried the family when he was away, so when he wasn't deployed he made every second count, and took on the weight of the family. 

he hadn't wanted to bother you with updates during your day and night away, so he and the kids had instead taken plenty of photos and videos to show you when you came back.

you sit now on your family's couch, snuggled up to kyle while your kids cuddle up on each side of you, and you all watch the video kyle had put together. 

the first shot is a video of you driving away, them saying they loved you and to have a good time, then the camera immediately cut to a video of them all in the kitchen, baking a cake for you'd return. both of your children throw flour at each other, while kyle films the whole thing. then it shifts to a picture of him back in the kitchen, the entire place spotless with him and the kids grinning. 

after the cake chaos, there are clips of them all gaming together for their allotted screen time. kyle had used the couch cushions to construct makeshift cars while the kids played mario kart. your son let his younger sister win at least once, and the image of the characters on the podium makes you smile. the camera was even left running to capture the kids not complaining even once when their dad tells them it's time to finish. 

and then came the clips of bedtime--your daughters first. her and kyle were currently working through a re-read of her set of bluey books. there's one book in the set she never lets you read, only her dada. you watch kyle sit next to your girl, reading the story with such enthusiasm and even doing his terribly amazing australian accent. 

next was your son's bedtime, and seeing your two boys together always warms your heart. kyle is always teaching your son to be the best little man he can be, even if it's not the traditional way of being. you watch as your son asks questions about how much his dada loves you, as he wonders aloud about his future spouse. 

the video comes to a close with a shot of kyle in your shared bed, clutching your pillow close to him as he cuddles up for the night. 

"aww, I love it. I'm so glad you all had such a good time while I was gone!" you smile from ear to ear, heart completely full at the video made by your family. 

"we did!" your son cheers, just a touch too loudly in your ear. "did you have a good time?" 

you nod fervently, your smile mirrored on your kids faces. you pull your son in for a smooch to the cheek, as your daughter cuddles close to her dadam "yes baby, i did, though i missed you all so much." 

which is the truth, you did miss your family while you were gone, but you also really appreciated some time just for yourself. you make a mental note to return the favour for kyle, or to arrange something for just the two of you.

"go grab your mum's cake from the fridge, yeah?" kyle says, sending the kids out of the living room and into the kitchen, giving the two of you time alone.

you turn to your husband, about to thank him when he pulls you in for a deep, sensual kiss. your eyes flutter shut, as kyle kisses you like he's missed you for so long, not just a night.

"i love you, kyle." you sigh into his lips.

"love you too." he replies, before smirking filthily. "got a video to show you later though, your eyes only." 

[knight-of-flowerss]

The hobbit

Thorin x hobbit reader

Reader is bilbos older badass sister who kills anything and anybody with her cast iron pan.

So we know dwarfs don’t get pregnant much, an basically rare to have girls, so how would the others react to reader (everyone lives au) telling thorin she’s pregnant after the battle, now hobbits are small so one imagining they have have up to 4 kids at once and be ok, probably even expected.

So when the dwarfs and surprise her (and bilbo the soon to be uncle along with lady Dis) with her finished nursery, and after the excitement, reader asks were the rest of the cribs are!!!

…

The dwarfs ask what she means and she an bilbo say that hobbits give birth to more then one child, so I wanna see there reactions (including Dis) when reader says she’s pregnant with 4 children I wanna know the reactions of the grate thorin and the fearsome Dwalin!

Bounes if you add when the babies are born (3 girls and 1 boy ) and the reaction of the company

thorin screaming “I can’t hold them all I need more arms or bigger ones!! 😭😭😭”

OMG YES I LOVE THIS SMMMMM ITS SO CUTE AHAHAHHA!!!! I opened this at like 10 o’clock at night so I was tired so I’ve don’t it today after school so I had more time and it didn’t sound loopy 💀

This hasn’t been spell checke btw!

Masterlist

Happy Ending

Anyone’s name: this colour and in bold

Thorin Oakenshield x Hobbit!Reader

You’re little brother Bilbo has always really only kept to himself, occasionally having relatives (but never distant because he doesn’t trust them around his cutlery) around Bag End.

You were his daring older sister, never afraid of anything, selfless, badass. You were staying at your brothers while your burrow got a new door. You offered to help but the other hobbits refused as they were paying you a favour.

You and your brother sat in shock as twelve dwarfs and a wizard wrecked Bilbo’s house. But after the table was set you soon forgot all about it, your brother on the other hand..

When a dwarf named Thorin showed up you couldn’t help but stare at him. He was your height, had long, dark locks and eyes so beautiful that you could get lost in them with just one glance. And when they proposed Bilbo come on this journey with them you immediately invited yourself along.

The journey was harrowing, fighting off ogres, goblins, orcs. Then there was the ‘final battle’ against Azog and his army. It was tough but it was no match for the dwarves and their resilience.

They fought with all there might, defeating the army and Azog and returning home safely.

For almost half a year now, you and Thorin had been married. Half a year of pure joy. And surprises.

You felt sick as a dog for almost 3 weeks now, your body weak. Dís, Thorin’s sister, suspected something was wrong and encouraged you to go and see a doctor of some kind. It had been confirmed though that it wasn’t any fatal illness, nothing of the sort.

You and Thorin where actually expecting.

The two of you were estatic, jumping for joy, but a little bit inside of you was sacred, terrified even. You knew what this meant. You knew you had to push out multiple of the little creatures miracles. But you would go through all that pain for Thorin.

As the months passed your belly grew and grew, never stopping, even for just a moment. The dwarves and your brother offered to help build a nursery for the little lad inside you (they assumed it was a boy because of the very low chances of a little baby girl popping out), at first you tried to help them but they just brushed you off and told you to relax, so, you hesitantly accepted the offer.

While they moved everything into the nursery and decorated it, you took a nap (which ended up being like 3 hours but we don’t talk abt that-). When you woke up you saw Bilbo and the side of you, reaching to wake you up.

You jumped as you hadn’t expected him to be there.

“Bilbo! What are you doing here?!” You whispered-shouted through gritted teeth. “Uh- the nursery- um, it’s ready.” Bilbo stutters, clearly shocked that you wanted to shout at him.

Bilbo helped you up as you where weaker and your belly put more and more pressure on your back.

You stood at the doorway as Dís and Bilbo pushed the doors open with big smiles. In the room stood Oin, Glóin, Dori, Ori, Nori, Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, Dwalin, Balin, Fíli, Kíli and stood in the middle with a soft smile one his face was your dear husband, Thorin.

You slowly stepped into the room looking around. Little toys on shelves, a play area with a fur rug, a changing station, one crib and more.

When you had finally reached your lover, you turned to him with a raised eyebrow and a cocked head.

“One crib? Really?”

Thorin looked a tad confused, “what do you mean my love? What is the babe supposed to rest in?”

“I think you mean babes.” You replied with a smirk. A bunch of ‘eh?’s where muttered around the room while Bilbo suppressed a chuckle.

Thorin sat with a half confused, half shocked face. “Whatever do you mean my love?..”, “you do know Hobbits have multiple children, do you not?”

Thorin’s eyes widened as your words registered in his head. “What-..”

The pregnancy was terrible, horrendous even, but your spirits where high when Thorin was by your side. You had given him four children, 3 girls and a boy.

(I got the last two names from a D&D website for dwarf names cus I couldn’t think of owt 💀)

Your little boy was named Thráin (III) after his father. Your first girl was called Dísa after Thorin’s sister Dís. Your second girl was named Arrin, meaning ‘exalted’ and ‘lofty’ and your last little girl was named Asta, meaning ‘divine strength’ , ‘love’ and ‘star-like’, she was named this due to her being the hardest out of them all to give birth to and that you and Thorin nearly lost her.

You and Thorin are sat on a couch in the children’s room with a fur blanket o top of yous while your four little toddlers play with eachother with wooden and plush toys.

You lean your head on Thorin’s shoulder as you look at your children and then up at your lover, who was already staring at you. “I am so grateful for the children you have brought me, love. You have made me a father, you a mother and all of us a family, I am forever in your debt my queen, I love you.”

You smiled up at your husband, tears welling up in your eyes as you wear a dopey smile on your face, “I love you too my King,”, you lean up and kiss your husband, you couldn’t ask for a better life.

An amazing husband, a gentle son and three graceful daughters, you loved them all so much, you finally had your happy ending.

I hope you like this cus i finished this while I was ill 😭

@thethreeeyed-raven

[sugar-omi]

NAH HEAR ME OUT HEAR ME OUT ITS CLICHE AS FUCK BUT MC THROWING HANDS WITH SOMEONE IN SCHOOL CAUSE THEY WERE BULLYING COVE

(And to clarify just in case not like with Jeremy during step 2 where the mc can push him or hit him once or smth I mean like full on fight fight)

I just like to imagine everyone’s in the principals office and MC mom’s are all concerned and angry with MC cause they just beat up their classmate but then they’re like “Well they hit Cove first I was just returning the favour” and moms immediately FLIP cause why is the other kid just getting away with bullying why is their kid the only one getting punished?????

YEAHHH AND IT DOESNT EVEN MAKE SENSE WHY THEY TRIED TO FUCK W COVE BC IF HIS BIG ASS WASNT GONNA FUCK EM UP, YOU WERE BC YOURE CRAZY ABT EACH OTHER N IT JUST DONT MAKE SENSE BUT THATS OKAY, YOU DELIVER WHAT THEYRE ASKING FOR!!

ITS A WHOLW FUCKING RIOT AND IN THE END THE OTHER KID GETS PUNISHED AS WELL BUT UNFORTUNATELY MC GETS THE LONGER SENTENCE

and when they finally get home n your parents stop fretting over you, cove is all fidgety and when it's time to change any bandage, no matter how small, or add ointment to a bruise, he's all "wait! let.. let me help you" when you go to ask your mom's for help w it

and he's all gentle, but he looks sad so you ask what's wrong

"I just hate seeing you hurt"

taking coves face into your hands, squishing his cheeks, "I'd do it all over again. and I'd beat them up even more for even looking at you, I'd jump em even before they hit you if I could've."

cove is teary eyed n crying a bit prbly

"don't ever feel bad if I get into a fight. if it's for you, I'd get into 10 fights! no, a thousand!" you throw your arms wide in the air at that. "no one can touch you like that without getting fucked up twice as bad. so stop fretting okay" you smile and cove cries a fucking river bc you have a bandaid on your cheek, and your knuckles are still flushed/inflamed and have a scrape from missing one of your punches

"you're an idiot.." cove laughs, still crying

"ya know you love me, holden." you smile, wiping his tears.

he nods, "yeah, I do"

and you're stunned bc he just confessed???? omg???

and cove kisses your shocked face, you slap a hand on your cheek bc "KISS?"

n cove just laughs at your expression bc you're so surprised n it's so fuckin cute

so after that sometimes, during your suspension cove will give you a kiss on the cheek for defending his honor if you ask<333 (or don't, he'll do it one more time or so unless you ask him to stop ofc)

if anyone tries to fuck w him after, they're fucked once again

cove does try to keep you outta fights but I mean... if you do turn around n jump em, he won't stop you

giving very much Heather's "fight for me" but you're not deranged like JD

also Liz teases yall bc cove does admit that he loved watching you jump em LMAO

your friends would also be concerned, randy n Terri especially bc they saw it but they'd be like "FUCK YEAH!!!"

no one fucks w cove either while you're gone, OMG GOING TO PICK COVE UP EVERY DAY

the teachers are like "You're suspended you can't be here!!"

like I'm not here for you I'm here for HIM, n you ride off together laughing bc everyone is whispering but fuck em 👐👐👐👐

pls this is making me wanna zoom n like go crazy omg my head is spinning I love this sm

[nyanashima]

Breakfast in Bed (Undateables Edition)

finally finishing this ask!! the brothers version is right here

Content warnings: tooth-rotting fluff and domesticity

Diavolo 

Diavolo has a busy schedule, so he can’t afford to lounge in bed often. Because of this, he only really has breakfast in bed when he’s sick.

When you bring him breakfast, he tips his head in confusion. You’ll have to explain to him that sometimes people do this for their loved ones, just because.

Once you do, he lights up. What a sweet gesture!

He’ll ask you to sit with him, and he makes sure you’ve eaten before he starts. He’d be more than happy to share with you either way.

Loves whatever you made, even if it’s burnt toast and a rock-solid egg. You went out of your way (and likely fought Barbatos) to do something nice for him. To say Dia’s soft is a massive understatement.

“Come to think of it, I believe my father mentioned doing this for my mother once… I never thought I would get to experience it myself. Thank you, MC. You truly make this castle feel more like a home.”

Barbatos 

Much like Lucifer, Barbatos is up at the crack of dawn. You’ll have to be up real early to catch him still in bed.

This right here is an ‘acts of service’ man. Most of his life is about making others’ days easier, and he takes pride in it. Needless to say, it’s rare for him to be on the receiving end of such treatment.

At first, he’s a little uncomfortable because he’s not used to people seeing him in such a state. He’s in his pj’s, with bed head and drool on his pillow– yes, he is not as graceful a sleeper as one might think.

But then you sit on his bed, smiling and lovingly fixing some stray hairs, looking at him like he’s the world? Lord, he might just faint.

Maybe a little vulnerability is fine, actually, for the sake of love and domesticity.

Barbatos cups your cheek and pulls you down to kiss your forehead. His smile is unpolished, wide, and genuine.

“Thank you, my dear. It smells wonderful… May I be selfish and ask you to stay with me a while?”

Solomon

Bold of you to assume he even went to bed

Solomon is asleep at his desk when you find him, drooling on an old spellbook.

Extremely disoriented when you wake him up. He takes a minute to fully understand his surroundings, doing half-hearted stretches.

Once he’s somewhat conscious, he gives you a dopey grin and takes your hand with his eyes half-closed. You can see him mouth the word “morning,” but no sound comes out.

His mouth makes a little “o” when he sees what you made for him. He turns to you with wide, soft eyes– he doesn’t say anything, but the look he gives you says “really?”

He’s not blinking back tears you’re imagining things

Solo’s too sleepy to hide how he really feels. He tugs gently on your shirt to get you to lean down and plants a little kiss wherever he can reach. His voice is soft and slightly raspy from sleep.

“Thank you, MC… Let me wake up a little more, and I’ll return the favour.”

Simeon

Luke helped you cook whether you like it or not

Simeon wakes up once your side of the bed goes cold. He feels around for you and sits up when he realises you’re gone.

Shortly after, you and Luke waltz in with a tray, giggling at one another. Simeon feels Cupid’s arrow pierce his heart again, right then and there.

A rush of warmth fills his chest. Despite already being in a comfortable relationship with you, his stomach is in knots. Is this what having your own family is like?

His expression is the epitome of tenderness.

“Thank you, both of you. You know, MC, sometimes I think you’d make a good angel yourself.”

Luke 

Luke is thrilled when he finds out you packed his lunch.

Despite his insistence that he’s not a kid and can make his own, there are stars in his eyes when you hand it to him. 

The little man handles the container like glass while vibrating from excitement.

A picture of your cooking gets sent to Simeon and Barbatos later that day (NOT Solomon, lest he gets any ideas).

The next day, Luke packs you one in return and asks you to teach him some human-world recipes.

“Thank you so much!! Don’t pack a lunch tomorrow, okay? I want to make you something too!”

[dreamyfanfix]

Chapter 7: Who Do You Want to Be?

Trigger Warning: Abuse. Assault.

Present:

Anthony never would consider himself an anxious person...

And yet here he was in the waiting room of Beckett, Sharma & Associates. The building was moderate size but he was quite surprised at how small he felt.

He had an appointment with Kate, Anthony was not sure why but it felt like quite a formal affair.

Flashback (Yesterday)

Anthony arrived back at home and was greeted by his mother. She did not look as happy as she usually did or as happy as she usually pretended to be and frankly, Anthony was not pleased to see her.

"Mother what are you doing here?" he asked sighing. "I wanted to check on you. Let you know that I miss you. The littles miss you too," she said softly. Anthony tried to ignore the guilt he felt wash over him "I miss them too but you won't let me see them without you and despite your barging in here I don't want to see you," His mother had tried to walk towards him and he recoiled back so she sighed and returned her hands to her lap "Son, why won't you let me apologise properly?" "Are you sorry?" he asked quirking his eyebrow. "Of course I am. More than you know," she replied instantly. "What are you sorry about?" Anthony asked as he made his way to the kitchen to get some water. "Are you sorry I am not around anymore? Are you sorry your kids finally what kind of monster you are and are avoiding you too? Are you sorry about Kate? Are you sorry that you ruined my life?" The last question came out louder than he had intended but he had not seen his mother since the hospital and he was having a tough time applying all the techniques that his therapist was teaching him. His mother looked taken aback by his tone and guilty "I'm sorry son. More than you will ever know," It was a while before she spoke again "My mother was not the best person. She only saw her way through society as a way to climb up. When your father asked for my hand I was more than happy to leave her behind... but after your father died..." she took a breath and then continued "I needed my mother and she was there for me. I hadn't realised just how much the relationship with your father had sheltered me from the realities of what it is like being in the peerage," "Don't blame them or your mother for your own choices," Anthony said to her and himself honestly. "You are right. I am working on that with my psychologist," Anthony was surprised by that revelation but let her continue "I just wanted you to know that I thought that was how I was supposed to act, that was how I was supposed to be as a mother. I thought it was my job to secure you a favourable match because if I could have control over your match I would not lose my connection with you. I realise now how selfish it was. I also realise how hypocritical it was for me to have this great life with the love of my life but then deny you yours," Anthony held his breath at this moment. His mother hadn't really mentioned Kate since the night they broke up, even when Simon called her up to be his best woman she made it seem as if Kate never existed and Kate seemed happy to do the same. Anthony sighed and rand his fingers through his hair "It doesn't matter now, mum," "It matters now more than ever," she said and something about how she said it made Anthony lift his head to look at her. "Is there something you want to say?" Anthony asked. "Kate was here,"

Anthony barely remembered what his mother had said afterwards but he knew he had to call Kate. His mother left quickly after telling him that she had tried to get Kate and her mother to stay and wait for him to return but Kate's mother was not interested in keeping company with his mother and he couldn't blame her. He had blocked Kate's number before his hospitalisation but he had called her but she was in a meeting so he told her secretary to let her know that he had called.

The thing is once Anthony had unblocked Kate, a lot of messages began to pop up. She had been checking in on him wondering if he was okay, some were even messages about maybe getting coffee. She had called him the morning of the baby shower. He winced at the memory of that event. Of that day entirely.

The response to Anthony's message was not what he thought. He had received a call from Kate's secretary to schedule an appointment so that they could meet this week. They were both free the next day (today) so he jumped at a chance to see her. He wasn't sure what he was going to say but he knew that he had to be honest with her about his feelings and failures even if it didn't go anywhere.

Clara had suggested he bring a family member for support but who was he supposed to bring? Daphne was six months pregnant and Simon was stressed out looking after her. Eloise was finishing up exams. Colin was in Ireland for some reason and he couldn't use his teenage siblings as security blankets. He could have called Ben but they weren't on friendly terms these days. Yeah, they spoke, Ben, was helping out with certain familiar responsibilities but Ben never stuck around long enough for them to talk properly and it still bugged Anthony that over the last two years, he had basically lost four of his closest friends, Simon, Daphne, Ben & Kate.

Kate's secretary Clara had come to fetch him to take him to Kate's office, he smiled at her but he sensed apprehension coming off of her. Trying to ignore the knots in his stomach, he went over the talking points he and his therapist had discussed. It was important to Anthony that Kate at least knew how he felt about her and his failures as a boyfriend and as someone who he considered to be progressive.

When Clara opened the door to Kate's office, Anthony took a breath and walked in.

"Hey, Kate," Anthony greeted trying to sound not as anxious as he felt.

"Hello Anthony," Kate said and then she turned around to face him and Anthony's eyes were drawn down to her stomach.

---

Kate was not sure how she was expected to feel but she was surprisingly calm. She wasn't sure if she was getting unknown amounts of resilience from her pregnancy or because Edwina and Mary had taken up her anger and protectiveness in her stead. Mary was not happy coming face-to-face with Violet Bridgerton yesterday. It was the first time in her life she had ever truly seen her stepmother angry. Kate was sure Mary had probably been angry before but Mary was raised in the peerage so she just assumed she knew how to hide her hostility a bit better than Kate. Well, that theory went out of the way yesterday. Mary made it clear that she and Kate would not drink anything Violet had to offer or speak to her directly. After a while, it seemed foolish to wait for Anthony in a silent living room so Kate told Violet that she should let him know she stopped by.

Before they were able to leave Violet asked if the baby was Anthony's, Mary shut it down and let Violet know that it was no concern of hers and that she would be the only grandmother the child knew.

When Clara told her that Anthony had called about 3 hours after leaving Anthony's place, Kate knew that he knew and instead of feeling dread like how she had been feeling since she found out she was pregnant, Kate felt relaxed because once this meeting was done, Kate was under no obligation to hide her pregnancy anymore and Edwina had been dying to do a pregnancy photoshoot in the style of Beyonce for weeks.

There was a knock at the door and then Anthony walked. Kate hesitated turning around but then looked down at her belly.

"Hey Kate," Anthony greeted.

Kate turned around "Hello Anthony,"

His eyes widened and his mouth opened a bit as he stared at her belly.

Kate looked at Clara who was waiting at the door and said "Thanks Clara. Send up some tea in about 45 minutes please,"

Clara nodded "Yes Ms Sharma," and then she closed the door.

Kate took a look at Anthony who still had his mouth agape and said "Anthony please take a seat," she directed him to the couch facing opposite her as she took a seat on the opposing couch.

Anthony cleared his throat and then said "Congratulations, I guess,"

Kate was shocked at the instant positive sentiment "Th-Thank you," she put her hand on her belly instinctively.

"Is it...?"

"Yours? Yes. I hear there has been some confusion on the closeness of me and Ben's relationship," Kate did not pose the last statement as a question because she knew it to be true Edwina had heard about it at school because Francesca and Hyacinth were talking about it with their friends.

"Yes, well Simon told me I was being an idiot but still... You guys are close," He said the last part softly and Kate felt bad for a moment.

"He knew. Ben knew I was pregnant and since he had caught us in your place exactly 4 months and 27 days ago, he was able to figure out that the baby was yours," Kate levelled him with a look.

"I- I- I don't understand why he didn't just tell me that," he said running his fingers through his hair. Kate knew this to be a bit of a nervous tick.

"It wasn't his news to tell. Besides if you had not had me blocked or yelled at me at Daphne and Simon's baby shower, I would have been able to tell you," Kate said. She hated how much hurt she was letting seep through her tone but it was important to be honest.

"I'm sorry Kate," Anthony said looking at her in the eyes for the first time since he entered.

Kate could not hold the look for long "It's fine. You know now and that is all that matters,"

Anthony sighed but nodded "Yes, we can decide what is going to happen next,"

Kate was actually prepared for this part of the conversation and finally slid the folder she was holding across the table to him "Yes about that, I have a few things you should look over,"

"What is this?" he asked.

"Well, they are tabbed for the mental organisation but the green tab represents the Co-parenting Agreement, the red tab represents the Termination of Parental Rights document, the yellow one represents my medical history since beginning the pregnancy and the pocket at the back has all the sonograms pictures from each visit,"

"Termination of parental rights?" Anthony asked wide-eyed.

Kate sighed "Anthony I know you have been through a lot over the last couple of months, and having a child will only make any mental stresses you have ten times worse. Not a lot of people know about my pregnancy and those that do either think it is Ryan, my ex, or I just went down to the sperm bank. Those that know you are the father are family so they would never reveal the information but we can make them sign an NDA just in case. There is no reason for you to walk out of this office with any more obligations than you already have. You can find an agreeable lady, get married and she can birth the next Viscount Bridgerton. Nothing has to change,"

"Kate, what are you saying? Why would I not want to be in my child's life?"

"Well, that's the thing. If you terminate your parental rights, it wouldn't be your child. Legally," Kate added the last part quietly.

"But it is my child and I would know that," Kate shrugged her shoulders "I am doing better Kate. I don't know what Simon or Ben has told you but I am putting in the work," Anthony looked at her and his looked wide.

Kate sighed "I know and I am happy you are doing well but its not just that..."

Anthony's eyes widened "It's about my mother, isn't it? What did she say to you?"

Kate was taken aback for a second. Anthony being suspicious of his mother's behaviour was not something she was used to "She didn't say anything but Anthony I am not a fool. I know how things work in the peerage. I know how it works in your world. Well, I know enough now,"

"I can protect you," Anthony said and Kate scoffed. She didn't mean to but she had heard those promises from him before.

"As much as I would like to believe that, it's not just about me anymore. I have to do what I have to do to protect my half-Indian baby," Kate said standing up.

"Kate, I'm learning a lot about racial dynamics. I have picked books and have done the work at progressive organisations-"

"That's great Anthony truly but what about your family?" Kate said.

"What if I told you that you needed to cut the majority of your extended family and friends out of your life would you be able to do that?" Kate sighed "This is off-topic. Just take the folder home and think over all that we have discussed today,"

Anthony stood up "Kate, I feel like we need to discuss this further,"

"Anthony I think you need to sit with this information for a little bit longer before making any decisions. Talk to your family or a therapist and make a decision not just on some misguided guilt but on whether you want to be a father and all that would entail,"

There was a knock at the door and Clara came in with the ginger tea to help soothe her upset stomach. Clara set the placement for the tea, Kate thanked her and she left quickly.

"There is a tab with my medical history that has a calendar for all my visits, I have a couple of weeks until my next appointment. I think that should give you some time to decide how you feel about the whole thing,"

Anthony sighed and stood up "This isn't how I thought this visit would go,"

"Nothing really goes the way we want them to these days," when Anthony did not respond Kate led him to the door "Goodbye Anthony,"

Before Anthony walked through the door he turned to Kate "Do you think I would make a good father?"

Kate was taken aback but answered honestly "Yes. I do,"

That seemed to calm him down enough to leave and Kate sunk into the couch closest to the door. His scent lingered in the air and Kate was shocked at how much it calmed her stomach.

---

Past:

Anthony was in agony. It had only been two weeks since he had seen Kate after the benefit. She was not returning his calls or messages. So he would come every two days and leave flowers at the Sharma home. He was delivering them himself in hopes of getting a glimpse of Kate. He didn't know what he would say exactly but just knew he wanted her back.

Anthony walked up the stairs to the Sharma's flat and just when he was about to leave the vase of Tulips at the door, Edwina opened the door.

Edwina looked at him so much ire, he could not imagine someone like her ever hating anyone and yet here she was "Can't take a hint, can you?" she asked with her arms folded.

"Edwina, get back inside," Mary Sharma called to her and Edwina went back inside.

"Hello Mary, I was hoping I could-"

"Speak to Kate? Over my dead body," Mary said and Anthony tensed. Before Anthony could speak again Mary held her hand up to stop him "I wanted to speak with you myself. Kate has been throwing away your flowers and Edwina is allergic so stop this already,"

She said it so calmly Anthony did not reply immediately "I am sorry but I need your daughter to know I am sorry,"

"What are you sorry for Anthony for her being disrespected or us?" Mary asked and Anthony did not know how to reply so she continued "I was rooting for you. I actually understand what it is like to break peerage rules and fall in love with someone outside of your normal society," Then Mary levelled him with a stare and said "Then again I'm sure you know all about that given your investigations into our family,"

"Mary I am so sorry,"

"It's Mrs Sharma to you. Milan is Kate's father okay, that abusive asshole drove his wife out of town and when Milan and Citra were trying to get married he claimed she had run off. Just to save face,"

"Mrs Sharma you don't have to -"

"Only I do. I have to because I had to explain the same thing to Kate. I had to explain something that was so ugly to my daughter, something her father wanted to be buried with him. I had to go against his wishes because your family don't have common courtesy," Anthony hung his head in shame and guilt "We both grew up in the peerage. Our family are colonising rapists and pillagers but we should be proud, while those of immigrant histories have to be ashamed. That night two weeks ago was the first time I was ever thankful Milan was dead because if his daughter's emotional state didn't kill him, he would've killed you. So take this as the final mercy the Sharma family is going to give you and leave us alone,"

Mary went back into the flat and left Anthony on the doorstep feeling dejected.

Had he been able to see through his tears he would have seen Kate watching him walk away from one of the windows.

[girl4music]

A character study analysis -

Why Tara Maclay matters

"Now I’ve never been much of a shipper. I think the first ship I ever telegraphed was Harry Potter and Cho Chang, and while I was a little sad they didn’t work things out, I never hated Harry/Ginny. And I accept it as the natural progression of their story. But when I was a kid watching ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ for the first time about 10 years after it first aired there was one ship I fell in love with and was willing to die on a hill for. ... This isn’t going where you think.

I) My Unnecessarily Long Backstory

Very quickly Willow became my favourite character. I’d loved and adored Sarah Michelle Gellar in just about everything I saw her in beforehand but when I finally got around to watching the show that made her famous, I strangely preferred her more as these gals. I’m more receptive to Buffy as a character these days and can appreciate her performance but younger me was all about Willow. Alyson Hannigan’s work continues to impress me with how she transformed a shy bumbling nerd into a powerful confident witch across seven seasons without once making me feel like the characterisation was betrayed. It’s still a marvel to me how Alyson can effortlessly be adorably hilarious in one scene and heartbreakingly emotional in the next. One of the reasons I kinda, sorta love the magic-is-a-drug storyline in Season 6 and the subsequent Dark Willow thing is the strength of this gal’s performance. So now I’ve hopefully established my love and devotion to this character and can convey that if they were going to put her into a relationship with anyone other than me and have me accept it… said partner had better be the perfect match for her. 

Enter Oz. Oz represents a good example of how to create a love interest that exists to put someone in a relationship without feeling like you’re actually doing that. He complimented Willow and his very presence helped her become a better person. Unfortunately by Season 4 Seth Green had grown creatively dissatisfied and scheduled conflicts with another film meant he had to be written out only six episodes into the season. As heart-wrenching as Oz and Willow’s break-up was, it proved beneficial in the long run.

Amber Benson was introduced the same season as a character called Tara Maclay. She was not intended to be a love interest for Willow outright since although Joss Whedon had envisioned one of the main cast turning out to be gay, he was actually leaning more towards Xander being the candidate. The main reason for Tara’s introduction was because Willow had become significantly more powerful over the four seasons and thus was no longer able to convincingly be put in danger the way she used to. So they needed a new character that could serve as their resident distressed damsel. Amber Benson almost wasn’t cast because, well, Joss Whedon has his body preferences. Marti Noxon, however, could see that the vulnerability she brought to the character was what they ultimately needed. Through a combination of convenient timing and the surprising chemistry between the two actresses, their friendship was eventually written to have them become a couple. In what became a shocking move for the series the episode ‘New Moon Rising’, in which Oz returns, ended with him and Willow parting on good terms and Willow choosing to stay with Tara. To say this was met with an uproar would be an understatement. Willow and Oz have been a popular pairing and in the far less enlightened early 2000’s the idea that Willow would not only turn down Oz but do so in favour of another woman… To cut a long story short, Amber Benson was met with so many nasty comments that she nearly left the show. But, of course, she didn’t. And I want to highlight just how impressive it was that this character was despised for no reason other than the fact that Willow chose her over Oz. And then at the end of Season 6 when she was written out, there was even more backlash. While I love Oz it’s impossible for me to ignore that his successor became just as, if not more popular, and her successor was the most despised character in the entire franchise. Seriously, there are Xander fans, Wesley fans, even the odd Riley fan. I will be very surprised if this video reveals the rare thing known as a Kennedy fan. Tara was that tough an act to follow. 

II) The Triumph of Representation

The Willow and Tara relationship was not the first time a queer romance had been depicted on TV and nor was Buffy the first series to have an established character suddenly come out after been assumed straight beforehand. But compare the sitcom Ellen in which the title character came out alongside her actress and was met with a lot of criticism for the tone shifts that followed with people such as Elton John telling Ellen to “shut up about being gay and start being funny again”, Buffy was notable for not having a big coming out moment or a very special episode about homophobia. It also stood out for avoiding the other end of the spectrum. The Willow and Tara relationship was treated with the same grace and seriousness as any other on the show. Incidental and un-stereotypical. It was positive representation without beating you over the head with it. Queer viewers could see themselves in either character and find comfort and relatability. Straight viewers could see another perspective and learn to normalise the idea. The relationship had an uphill struggle behind-the-scenes with restrictions on what the characters could or couldn’t be shown doing. Forcing the writers to use magic as a metaphor for exploring their sexuality. They didn’t share their first on-screen kiss until Season 5’s ’The Body’ after eighteen episodes as a couple. But despite those restrictions they still stood out as being a same-sex couple on a major show, in which they were accepted as a vital part of the main cast. Both powerful and fallible in their own ways and existing as independent characters in their own right rather than tokens there to meet a quota. And while there was obviously a bigger focus on Willow at first, since she’d been on the show since it started, the writers quickly began to explore Tara’s character in interesting ways. 

III) A Different Kind of Empowerment

The 90’s were the era of aggressive, in-your-face girl power in which women declared they could do exactly what the men did and asserted their strength in a multitude of ways. Buffy expressed her strength through physical prowess and razor sharp wit. Willow expressed hers through intelligence and, later, unrivalled magic powers. Cordelia and Anya likewise stood out for their unfiltered, independent attitudes towards life that were then refined through character development to being unafraid to do the right thing. Tara stood out by being defined through her kindness and empathy. She’s introduced as the only Wiccan at a college meeting who listens to Willow and validates her interest in pursuing more advanced spell casting. She then acts as Willow’s guide and mentor to help her improve her powers, remaining an understanding and empathetic teacher the whole time. Even when meeting Oz, she’s understanding of the idea that he and Willow might get back together despite how much pain this would cause her. Throughout the series kindness and compassion would be her defining characteristics. And showing that she is far more than just ‘the nice character’, her first episode establishes that she is also a powerful witch in her own right, providing Willow with enough assistance to fight off The Gentlemen. This helped set her apart from, say, Dawn, who ended up in distress so much the show itself had to lampshade it. Tara was given just enough competency that her ending up in trouble was never annoying, and she justified her presence in the main cast. This made her an easy character to root for and accept. 

IV) Tara as Her Own Person

Once she was established as Willow’s girlfriend the show set about developing her into her own person so as not to remain a satellite character. The Season 5 episode ‘Family’ properly delves into her backstory revealing that she comes from a history of abuse and has been brought up to think that she’ll turn into a demon when she reaches adulthood. This story serves to put the audience on Tara’s side where we see that she fears Willow and the others will reject her if they discover this. We’re shown what she’s had to put up with from her family, explaining her shyness and vulnerability, and thus endearing her to us all. So in the end, when the demon thing is revealed to be just a lie to keep the women in the family in line, the episode celebrates that Tara can remain within the main cast. Also her relatives disapproval of her interest in magic and witchcraft is an effective parallel to her sexuality, making the ‘family of choice’ theme very relatable. The episode ends with an affirmation that Tara is an essential part of the group and the show.

But I’d argue that the most significant turning point in her character development isn’t actually from an episode that centers around her. Season 5’s ’The Body’ is considered one of the best episodes of the entire series and it is important for Tara not just because it features her and Willow’s first on-screen kiss. This right here gives Tara a role that only she can fill in the show. Someone who has experienced the loss of her mother at a young age and can relate to what Buffy, and indeed Dawn, are feeling. And as someone who didn’t know Joyce as well as the others, she is able to be the one who can hold it together and be a rock for everyone. We’re normally used to seeing Willow reassuring Tara or being the stronger partner, but this allows Tara to fill that role too. Putting them on an equal footing. In the next episode ‘Forever’ Tara establishes her identity as someone with a different perspective from Willow in what would be a recurring source of conflict for them. Willow - the witch who came to the craft late - always wants to bend the rules and push the limits of what she can accomplish while Tara - the natural witch - knows and respects these limits and doesn’t like meddling with the natural order. Conflict between them is further explored in the episode ‘Tough Love’, highlighting another part of Tara that distinguishes her as her own person. The inner-belief that Willow sees her as just an experiment and will go back to boys as soon as she loses interest in her. And while this isn’t great for Willow to hear, it serves to reaffirm that Tara is her own person with her own thoughts and fears and not just an extension of her girlfriend. She is then the one who is targeted by Glory and has her mind… well I don’t know what the technical term is but because of that Tara then reveals the season’s big secret to the villain. That scene may be a little clunky but the act itself further puts Tara on an equal footing with the main cast. Things now only happen because of her that can only be done by her. A conflict set up by her disharmony with another character that then leads the turning point towards the finale and now she becomes the secondary part of the main tension. It’s not just ‘will they protect Dawn and stop Glory?’ But now ‘will they save Tara too?’. And once it happens in the big battle Tara contributes in a way that reminds the audience that she is also a powerful witch just like Willow.

That’ll continue into the next season. So Season 5 ends with Tara no longer being ‘just Willow but less powerful’, but an important character who serves the narrative. 

V) Character Development

The two-part episodes that opens Buffy’s first season on the UPN network is the best season premiere across the entire series. Beginning what is my second favourite Buffy season after three. Tara is one of four characters preparing a dark spell to resurrect Buffy from the dead after she sacrificed herself at the end of Season 5. Initially on-board with the idea we see that aforementioned conflict come into play when it’s clarified how Willow has been hiding some of the darker parts of the spell because Tara is the one who would question her. And one of the things I love about this episode is how it shows Tara rising to the occasion. In a crisis where Willow was too drained to be their heavy hitter, Tara steps it up and demonstrates how she’s a force to be reckoned with too. And I don’t want to gloss over this badass moment either. Like in ’The Body’ we’re shown that when Buffy is M.I.A it is Tara who the group really needs. She keeps everyone together and ensures they stay on track. And what is the next significant development in her story this season?

Tara is the first one to become aware of Willow’s increasing problems with magic use and what happens next becomes a fascinatingly ironic twist in the tale where Willow erases Tara’s memory of their arguments just in time for the musical episode in which Tara gets an entire song to herself titled ‘Under Your Spell’. While a double-meaning to the memory erasing Willow did, it’s mainly about how their relationship has helped her come out of her shell and shine to her full potential. Besides designating her as important enough to have her own solo the song serves as an important next step in something very hard she has to do. In the episode ’Tabula Rasa’, when Willow’s problems become impossible to ignore and it’s clear she can’t be reasoned with, Tara breaks up with her. Despite how much it hurts her to leave and the cold reaction she gets from Dawn in response, she walks out because she now knows her own self-worth and understands her right to be treated with respect. At a point in the series where Buffy and Willow falls so low they resort to using the ones they care about, Xander and Dawn just hurt people, and Giles abandons someone who needs his guidance, Tara has reached her peak in knowing when to stand up for herself and not tolerate mistreatment. And she doesn’t punish the other characters who cared about her for Willow’s actions. She still makes an effort to be involved in Dawn’s life after the break-up. Even staying over at the house after Buffy and Willow are out all night. Even though Dawn is on paper just the little sister of her girlfriend’s best friend and Tara has no obligation to keep in contact with her, she still looks out for her and tries to provide some stability. But Tara’s friendship with Buffy is something that just made me love her even more. And like in the previous season, this creates a role for Tara that only she could fulfil. Buffy could never talk to Xander or Willow about her relationship problems. Giles is out of the picture. And, well, Anya isn’t the sort of person you kiss and tell to. Tara meanwhle is outside of the group at this point so Buffy feels safer going to her about problems. And Tara again shares this understanding with Buffy that allows her to open up. Having feelings that you’re ashamed of and worrying you’re biologically wrong for things outside your control. The script for this scene in ‘Dead Things’ originally had a line where Tara drew parallels between her being a lesbian who’s had to hide her relationships to Buffy being ashamed of hers with Spike. And it’s not drawn attention to but Tara herself was recently in a relationship with someone who could be very virtuous but also had a dark side and was doing bad things that was getting impossible to ignore and justify. Tara is able to provide that support to Buffy and be there for her and making sure Spike stays in line. And even with regards to Willow she’s supportive of her attempts to get clean in a healthy enough way. Take this scene in ‘Older And Far Away’ where Anya is trying to pressure Willow to cast a spell that will allow them to leave the house they’ve been magically trapped in. While the metaphor doesn’t really land (how many life or death situations require alcohol or drugs to get out of?) the sentiment does. Tara stands up for Willow, recognising that she is trying to be better, and again, serving as that grounding presence who prevents the others from falling apart.

By her final episode, this shy wallflower who put up with mistreatment for so long has transformed into a confident, passionate woman who stands up for what she believes in, will lay down boundaries that she will not tolerate the disrespect of,… but also balances that with being 100% there for her loved ones and not hesitating to help someone in need. I hate to constantly reference ‘Games Of Thrones’ but the development of Sansa makes for a good contrast. Both she and Tara start out in perpetual victim mode and their powerlessness is frequently emphasised. Sansa’s character development into ‘empowered woman’ involves shedding her femininity and the attributes that defined her virtues in opposition to her flaws. Most notably her compassion and ability to be smarter than she’s given credit for. Someone who took pity on a drunk knight, became friends with an inexperienced handmaiden, comforted several scared women in a war zone, and stood up for her husband when his family tried to publicly humiliate him develops into someone who smirks after feeding a man to his own hounds, nearly has her own sister assassinated, trash talks a woman who’s literally fighting on the front lines for her, and her reaction to being indirectly responsible for an entire city of innocents being destroyed is…

Tara’s character development allowed her to become stronger and more confident while still retaining the virtues that were built into her characterisation from the beginning. She doesn’t become perfect and I’d argue that restarting her relationship with Willow at the end of ‘Entropy’ probably wasn’t the wisest move that she herself admits - but hey, she’s human. And then what happens?

VI) A Meaningful Death

The real twist of Buffy Season 6 is that The Trio of Warren, Jonathan and Andrew aren’t the true Big Bads. Their actions just unleash the real one. Enraged and distressed at Tara’s accidental death, Willow goes off the deep end and first just tries to kill the three boys in revenge but then escalates into trying to destroy the world to alleviate her pain. It’s probably my favourite arc in the series - or close enough. And even though Tara isn’t technically involved in this arc - what with her dying to start it off - it still speaks to the strength of her character. Tara had previously shown herself as the anchor who kept the group grounded in the aftermaths of deaths or absences, and it was her leaving Willow and being less involved with the group that led to them falling apart. So her death is indeed what allows for things to escalate this way. Remove the group’s anchor from the equation permanently and the conflict increases for maximum drama and therefore excitement. And because Tara was such a beloved character it just adds to the emotional investment. We don’t just want Buffy to stop Willow because the world ending would be a downer in general. We want Willow to be stopped before she crosses lines in a way that Tara herself wouldn’t want, and that she would permanently stop being the character we know and love. Tara’s death also forces things like Xander and Anya to actually talk about their issues rather than what they’ve actually been doing in the fallout of the wedding. Or Buffy to stop seeing Dawn as just someone to protect and closer to an equal member of the team. The resolution to this storyline is not an elaborate spell, fight routine or comically large weapon… but having compassion for the monster and stopping the apocalypse with an act of love - which, arguably, is a very Tara solution to things. 

VII) Conclusion

Despite Tara dying at the end of Season 6 there were plans to bring her back in various capacities before the series ended. Given that the Big Bad of Season 7 could impersonate anyone on the show who’s died, she was a prime candidate for that. The episode ‘Conversations With Dead People’ was, in fact, supposed to have her in this scene instead of Cassie but Amber Benson turned it down. Her reasoning being that the Willow/Tara relationship had meant so much and been a lifeline to many viewers who related to it, and seeing Tara as an evil being telling Willow to die “would just destroy people”. You can read the script for that scene in the link below. And yeah, it’s good, but what we got with Cassie is just as effective. There was also a proposed episode where Buffy would get one wish from The Powers That Be and consider using it to, say, restore Angel’s humanity, defeat The First for good, or bring her mother back to life. And it would end with her showing off a new pair of shoes to Willow - letting her believe she used the wish for that - before stepping aside to reveal Tara. The reason for this not happening was initially just that Amber Benson had a directing opportunity in the UK but she later confessed the following: 

“I had had some issues with somebody on the show and it had kind of come to a head just as I was getting ready to leave… Leaving the show was sad, because there were some of the crew and the writers and some of the cast that I just adore… But I had made my peace with that person and the show, and I was done… I’m leaving everything in a good place… I don’t need to come back…” 

Would the series have been served well by having Tara come back from the dead? On the one hand - that part of Season 7 showing Willow dealing with mourning her and learning to balance magic on her own is pretty strong. On the other - Kennedy, am I right? Part of me feels that Buffy was never the sort of show to have the wish fufillment element. On something like ‘Charmed’ - yeah, no bother. But Buffy always had this gloomy 90’s ‘life sucks - do what you can with it’ vibe. Mainly from Joss Whedon’s mantra that happy people make for boring television. Bringing Tara back may have been little more than fan service. And it’s actually another actor on the show commenting on their character that helps me come down on the side of letting Tara stay dead. Emma Caulfield spoke about how Anya was killed off in the finale, and unfortunately I can’t remember the exact quote or where to find it, but she used the fact that people were upset at the death and that it affected them as a sign that she was successful as a character since a death that no one cared about would hardly be an example of good writing. Tara was lucky in that she got the generous treatment from the writers. Never being given these low moments that were less organic character flaws and more ‘WTF Whedon?!’ I mean Willow will probably be the character I love most overall. Buffy is great and Oz can’t be touched. Gotta love Anya and Cordelia too. But I think Tara easily had the best development and avoided any nasty derailment that virtually nearly everyone else got at some point. And she’s a testament to what the show did right and what holds up about it all these years later.” - Better With Bob?

A fantastic well-worded and reasoned character study analysis of the character Tara Maclay and why she matters even though she was never credited as part of the main or season regular cast. While I don’t believe that Tara had the best character development - by a long mile - I can’t argue with the sentiment that she was a significant character in the show that taught above all that empathy, compassion, kindness and love is all-important in telling a story about flawed characters that so often need it and that rarely, if at all, ever got it. If not for Tara - who could provide it? Sure, tragic and dramatic storytelling is compelling and teaches many lessons but without the balance of hope and love, it feels more like torture than catharsis. You can’t just throw in the dark without the light, the hard without the ease, and the heavy without the heart. And I think - if it weren’t for Tara and the marvellous way Amber Benson portrayed her, Whedon would have taken all the substance out of what he calls a “weight-y story’. Yeah, life does suck and we should just deal with it however way we can, but empathy is enduring a battle that hasn’t been won yet. It provides the empowerment needed to keep fighting against insurmountable odds. We may not win the battle - but least we can say we never gave up the fight and that we never lost ourselves within it.

And that was what Tara Maclay represented alongside being the personification of purity and ‘the nice character’ and ‘Willow’s girlfriend’. She represented that motivation to keep going, to keep fighting, to keep enduring, and to also remain our best selves in the process because it’s not easy to be a fighter and a lover at the same time. It requires real strength and power too few possess or realize that they once did. It’s not just Willow who needed that lesson. Every main protagonist character did. And Tara Maclay showed them how to endure in the fight through love.

[tieflingtareon]

My love, are you the devil? (Oh, call me a devil)

Chapter 12 | Words: 4k

Summary: Astarion found himself often surprised by his heroic companion. He had one goal. To become the favoured companion of the group, to earn the Tieflings loyalty, to make Tar'eons strength his own. Yet Tar'eon isn't like the usual target of his manipulations. Despite his naivety, he does not seem gullible. There is something very wrong with their 'leader' to begin with. Astarion isn't sure if he wants to control it or eradicate the threat it posed. But can he really do either when Tar'eon himself seems so...unwaveringly kind?

That devil is getting into his head, while others get into Tar'eons. He doesn't appreciate not having the upperhand after years of being at the disadvantage. He will find a way to make him see.

He is the one he should be listening to. Astarion would make it so, no matter the means.

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/50668558/chapters/127995079

Eventful. That was a great description for their lives right now.

After speaking with Jaheira, and then Isobel to receive her blessing, something Shadowheart did not seem pleased about, a feathered freak had come through to kidnap her, but ever the noble heart who couldn't allow the Harpers to perish to the shadow curse, Tar'eon took him on, one on one, while the rest of them slayed the winged minions.

It had been quite eventful, for the first night in the inn. Astarion thought he'd find himself in the company of Tar'eon after all of it, but when the tiefling found out Mol had been taken, he'd abandoned his side to comfort the distraught children, even if some of them were trying to act tough, trying to make a plan to get her back.

Tar'eon vowed he'd return her to them, and when Mirkon would not leave his arms, he resigned himself to putting the children to bed himself, much too big for the tiny beds, but it seemed to make the kids feel much safer to pile on top of him like pups with their mother. Astarion would admit, it was a sweet sight to come upon when he went to look for the man in the morning.

He may say he lacked perfect control over his tail, but it still managed to wrap around the children he couldn't hold in his arms, eyes closed and seemingly fast asleep.

Once Tar'eon finally came out to join the others for breakfast, Astarion noticed his tired gaze despite him drawing out a map of the Shadow Lands he'd borrowed from Jaheira. He hadn't slept much, and Astarion could tell. How much of the night did he spend worrying over Mol's kidnapping?

Tar'eon had gotten wind of a certain Sleeping Beauty over breakfast, and while Halsin insisted they figure out what was wrong with him, Tar'eon was stubborn in going straight to Moonrise and getting the tieflings back. Karlach and Wyll backed him up with no arguement, of course, and so, Halsin was stuck behind with the resting man, to be dealt with later.

"You didn't sleep well." Astarion noted as he dressed in his armour in their shared room that funnily enough, they had not shared the night before. Tar'eon sighed.

"He visited again. That butler of mine." Tar'eon sounded bitter as he struggled to lace his gauntlets. Astarion brushed his hand away with a huff and laced it tight for him, if only to end his nervous fidgeting.

"Well? What did he say?"

"He wants me to kill Isobel."

"The only one holding the Shadow Curse at bay? I may not like the Harpers, but I am not a fan of the idea, personally. For our own sake." Astarion grimaced. Killing her would just bring the curse right to them, and he knew Tar'eon wouldn't dare do that to the Harpers, or to the refugees staying there. Did this butler think the man daft?

"I just...don't understand his motives. Killing Isobel would be the death of us all."

"Perhaps all he wants is death." Astarion mused, fixing the collar of his armour. "Forget it. Can't kill the cleric if we aren't here, now can we? We have a mission to get to."

"You're right. I need to focus on getting Mol, Lia and Cal back. All of them." Tar'eons expression hardened with resolve and Astarion shook his head, grabbing the cloak off his bed. He offered it back to the man, seeing as it was his. Tar'eon took it and Astarion turned his back to grab a couple daggers, stashing them along his body, but keeping his favourite at his hip.

He stood straighter when he felt the heavy blanket of the cloak rest upon his shoulders, Tar'eons nimble fingers tying a sturdy knot to keep it there, looking as his work over Astarion's shoulder.

"It...it was a gift from him. The butler. I hate wearing it. It just - it just reminds me of what I did to Alfira. But it'll keep you safe. For every kill, you gain the power of invisibility, if only for a short period." Tar'eon smoothed his hands over the fabric, The Deathstalker's Mantle, a gift he had tried to refuse. It would have it's uses, he was sure, but he couldn't wear it himself. Couldn't bring himself to.

On Astarion though, objectively, it was quite fetching.

The vampire looked at him, seeming hesitant to accept the gift before he gave a smile, giving it a little swoosh as he stood before a mirror. He couldn't see himself, but the cloak - the cloak was gorgeous. Definitely expensive, and tailored precisely to Tar'eons measurements, if he had to guess.

To think, Tar'eon had a butler, an expensive cloak...Hells, maybe he was a prince, a murderous one at that, and just didn't know it? Astarion had always dreamed of a prince saving him from all his troubles, hadn't he? The irony of stumbling upon a possible one only after he was snatched from Cazador's grasp by another entity...

"Well, as they say. One man's trash, is another man's treasure." Astarion smirked and stepped forward, smoothing his hand over the others chest as he hummed. "I quite like all these gifts you keep giving me. However can I repay you?"

"By having my back, as I have yours." Tar'eon took his hand off his chest, holding it and chasing the chill from his fingers before he dipped his head and pressed a gentle kiss to his pale skin. The tiefling smiled at him, eyes fond as always.

Astarion was too focused on making sure his hand in his didn't shake, or god forbidden, grip back so tight he might break it.

****

"Have I ever told you how much I love your tongue?" Astarion picked up the Moon Lantern with a devilish smile, the bright light illuminating his features. A little pixie banged around inside, pleading to be set free. Tar'eon frowned, looking guilty, but Astarion shook his head.

"We're not letting you out."

"I"LL GUT YOU LIKE A-" Astarion gestured to the pixie for Tar'eon to see.

"Never trust a pixie, or any fey, my dear." He chuckled and kept a tight grip on the lantern as they travelled through the Shadow Lands. It only made sense, considering he only needed one hand for his enchanted dagger, though if needs be, he was happy to toss it to another and pull out his bow.

Seeing as he held the lantern, he led the way, but after a few hours of walking in what he was starting to believe was a circle...Well, they were honestly a bit lost. No, it wasn't his fault for refusing the map twice.

"If I have to follow him for another hour, I'll kill him." Wyll groaned, obviously sick of walking to nowhere.

"Astar, please. Just let me lead."

"You cannot fight and hold the lantern, darling, trust me, we're making head way -" And by the grace of whatever was holy, it seemed they had. Up ahead, he saw buildings, and he smirked. Not a castle, but something. "See?"

"It doesn't look like Moonrise."

"And how do you know what Moonrise looks like, hm?" Astarion challenged.

"It's a castle. This is not a castle, Astar."

"It's a town though, which means the castle is close. Trust me." Astarion waved his concerns off and continued on. Unsurprisingly, they were ambushed by shadow creatures.

It wasn't a hard feat to slash them down, not with Wyll and Lae'zel on the team, as much as he wished for Shadowheart's healing. Unfortunately, she'd woken up with a bloody limp. He should have expected it, after all those little glances, all those secret smiles. Their darling who burned hotter than Avernus and the Shar princess were down bad. With Karlach no longer a workplace injury in the flesh, she must have jumped at the chance.

He did wonder how a limp played into it, but who was he to expose such secrets? Though, they were barely a secret.

"Gods, I miss the sun." Astarion muttered. This place was so gloomy, and cold. He did peak a castle in the distance though, and smirked. See? He had been on the right track! "Tar'eon-"

Before he could inform him, the tiefling took off, curse be damned, and Astarion swore, running after the stupid man, Wyll and Lae'zel behind him.

"Arabella!" He barely kept their leader in the glow on their safety net, but once he saw what, or in this case who, he was running towards, he found himself rolling his eyes. It was always children. He had no self preservation when he saw a child in need. It was that young tiefling girl they'd saved from Kagha's viper.

"Hey! I know you. You're -" Astarion moved for his dagger when two shadow-y creatures burst from the ground, looming over Tar'eon and the girl. He readied himself to strike, but it seemed the child was one step ahead.

"Twist'em up!" With a pale green glow, the tiefling child managed to bind the shadows in place with her vines, looking exhausted from that feat alone.

"It's you - our little idol thief from the druids grove!" There was no doubt about it. Astarion would admit, he was growing a touch fond of the little band of thieves. He'd make an excellent mentor, he'd like to think. He could teach them more than a thing or two about being a rogue.

The tiefling child slumped her shoulders, and Astarion wondered if he'd said the wrong thing, but no, the child was looking at Tar'eon.

"Sorry. Knocks the wind right out of me." Arabella apologised. Wyll stepped forward with a smile.

"You did that with no incantation. That's an impressive feat. That kind of sorcery only comes from deep within." Of course the warlock had an opinion on her magic. Arabella seemed to stand straighter after the praise.

"That druid idol I took? It changed me. I can do all sorts of stuff now, not just the vines." Arabella looked to Tar'eon like she was searching for his praise next. "I think real hard and say some loud words and then it happens. Mostly." Tar'eon rested a hand on her head and ruffled between her horns, crouching down.

"What are you doing out here, Arabella? It's not safe." The girl withdrew into herself, suddenly as scared and frightened as she should be.

"I was looking. For mum and pops. When Zevlor - when he -" Her chin gave a little wobble but she stopped it quickly, as if refusing to cry over the matter. "Well. There was an ambush. Mum yelled 'run!'...So we ran. I could hear 'em running behind me. 'Til I couldn't."

Tar'eons eyes softened, filled with mourning for the girl as they both drew the same conclusion. They were both likely dead.

"Still can't find 'em - but I bet you can. You'll help me, I just know it!" Tar'eon gave a tight smile and nodded.

"I'll find your parents, Arabella. You can count on me." The relief was palpable from the young girl.

"Thanks, mister. I knew you'd help me again." Of course he would. He was a bleeding heart. "The vines won't last forever." Arabella looked towards the shadow creatures with apprehension. "I don't - I don't s'pose I can stay with you? Just 'til you find mum and pops, I won't be any trouble, I swear it!"

Astarion looked at Tar'eon apprehensively. A child? In their camp? That sounded like a dreadful idea. Though, Scratch could always use some more love, he supposed.

Tar'eon smiled.

"My friends are currently at the Last Light Inn. Cerys and the other children are there too. I'm afraid Mol was kidnapped during an attack, but I'm on my way to bring her back, along with the other tieflings." Tar'eon took the girls hand and squeezed. "I'll help you there with a little bit of ancient magic, alright? Speak to the others of my party when you arrive. Though, do not mind Withers. He's a bit scary to look at, but he's harmless, despite his lurking." Tar'eon smiled and took her other hand. He closed his eyes.

"I'm find your parents, Arabella. I'm going to make sure you all make it to Baldur's Gate this time."

"Thank you - Bring mum and pops back there. I'll be waiting." In a flash of purple, the young girl disappeared, likely landing herself outside the Inn as Tar'eon promised.

"Always the bleeding heart, darling." Astarion chuckled.

"He did the right thing. Who knows - maybe if we find Arabella's parents, they'll have a lead towards where the tieflings are being held in Moonrise." Wyll interjected and Astarion rolled his eyes.

"They'll either be dead, or in a prison cell. These Absolute cultists aren't exactly creative, or merciful. He saw the drow woman, and Nere."

"I'd like to hold onto hope that they're still alive regardless, thank you." Wyll frowned, annoyed by Astarion's blase tone.

"Of course you do. You're obsessed with fairy tales, and not the cold, hard truths of this world." Astarion bit out, glaring at the other man.

"Fairy tales can teach us a lot about how hard the world is, but in the end, hope will always prevail." Wyll crossed his arms, matching his gaze. Every thing about him screamed nobility, even in drabs, and Astarion wanted to tear into him. He wanted to sink his nails into his insecurities, his righteous nature, and claw them away until the man was raw and hopeless, just like he was.

"Hope drives men to madness more often than it does to happiness, devil man."

The muscle in Wyll's cheek twitched, looking ready to draw his blade on the vampire, but Tar'eon stood between them, a hand on either ones chest.

"Stop it. You've lived vastly different lives, with separate, incomprehensible struggles. You may believe the world to be bleak, Astarion, but Wyll does not. You may have given up on the notion of hope, but the rest of us haven't. All I ask is that you let it go."

Astarion could feel the back of his neck burning from the scolding, even if Tar'eon tone was more netural than fierce. He huffed and with a whip of his cloak, continued forward. He heard Tar'eon sigh, the others footsteps following him, if only because he held the lantern.

"Thank you. For sticking up for me." Wyll said in a soft voice to Tar'eon, but he could still hear it.

"Don't thank me. I'm just not ready to give up hope yet. It's...all I- we have left."

****

"Well, we've got our solution to my little problem. I say we go ahead." Astarion smirked as he made towards the entrance, but Tar'eon held him back by the elbow. He turned to the man and quirked a brow. "Yes?"

"We have to find Arabella's parents first, Astar. And free the tieflings, remember? Get Mol back."

"They aren't going to be more dead if we take a detour, darling." Astarion waved a hand and narrowed his eyes. "This is a deal that doesn't involve servitude. I'm going to take my chances before he decides to up the stakes."

"And if they're not? We don't know what's inside there, but I doubt it's leaving any time soon. Komira and her husband, Mol, the other tieflings - they can't wait."

"I thought this was important to you. Am I remembering it wrong, dear?" The pet name held no affection.

"Don't use that against me. I promised you we'd find a way to translate your scars. I meant it. But lives are at stake, and this can wait."

"You know I'm not patient."

"Learn some patience then. This will be a good lesson." Tar'eon wasn't giving in, and Astarion gritted his teeth, baring his fangs with a growl and shoving the lantern into the other mans hands.

"Fine. But if they're dead, like I predict they are, you owe me."

"Astarion..."

"Go on. We have corpses to find." Astarion said bitterly and stalked down the hill, forcing Tar'eon to follow. The tiefling sighed, looking weary as Wyll placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Don't take it to heart. He's a prickly creature. You're right to put urgency to this mission. They're your people, and they're relying on you. The best decisions aren't always the easiest."

"He doesn't believe in heroes. I know he doesn't. He's selfish because he see no point in being selfless. He doesn't gain anything from it. No one was ever selfless was his sake. I know he hates it when I tell him no." Tar'eon knew Astarion had flaws. That didn't stop his heart from aching.

He loved him. Deeply. In such a short time span, he'd managed to launch himself into the deep end of this pool of affection he felt for the other man, but he didn't know how to love him without receiving his fangs half of the time. He knew why Astarion was this way. He was afraid, they all were, but his fear was volatile.

He cursed Cazador for breaking down the man who held his heart in pale hands, ready to be devoured between sharp, pointed teeth.

"We can't always get what we want. He'll learn that with time."

"He's never had what he wants, Wyll. He hates when I tell him no, because that's all he's ever heard." Tar'eons brows drew together, pinched into a painful expression as he departed from Wyll's side, head bowed. Wyll stayed a few paces behind, unsure what to say to that. Lae'zels arm brushed his and he looked at her, the githyanki staring ahead at the pair.

"Tar'eon is a warrior, while Astarion is simply a survivor; they bear their burdens differently." She made a sound of irritation, as if she were planning to spit on the ground to get a foul taste out of her mouth. "I do not know what draws them together, but it is...palpable."

"And why're you telling me this?" Wyll quirked a brow, voice low as not to be heard, much like her near whisper.

"Because you follow after our leader like a dog. You are a warrior, like he is. Yet you hold yourself back. That is your failing. You idealise stories, fiction, and expect things to simply fit into place, like words on parchment." Lae'zel's cat like eyes turned onto him, intensely yellow in the darkness of the shadow lands.

"You must take action. Like a warrior." She stood straighter, somehow. Her posture was always perfect, much like his. Instinctive to stand tall. "Before he is tied down by the vampire."

"Astarion and Tar'eon - it won't last." Wyll was sure of that. "Astarion doesn't seem the type for...long term. Tar'eon seems the type to only want that."

"And yet, Tar'eon can convince the nightstalker to do many things that are out of the ordinary for him."

"What do you suggestion then? You seem to be well versed in this after all." Wyll quirked a brow, crossing his arms.

"Woo him." Lae'zel's eyes shone, her slitted pupils widening like she had spotted something she quite liked, gaze intense on the warlock. "Show him you are the better match. In my culture, the Githyanki do so by intimate combat."

"I'm afraid to ask what makes it intimate." Wyll frowned, looking away from her. For a githyanki, she was a beauty, but her ruthless attitude until now had made it hard to converse with her, not to mention her unsettling amount of eye contact. It was quite intimidating. As the journey continued though, he found she had opened up, if only a little, without her knowledge.

"I'd show you, if you weren't after another." Lae'zel hummed. "If things fall through, do feel free to ask for my company. Your scent is...not unpleasant."

Wyll blinked and watched her break stride, staying beside Tar'eon now in silence. He frowned as he picked at the collar of his robe, giving it a small sniff. While he had bathed the night prior, his armour hadn't had the chance to be washed in quite some time. He watched the githyanki and the tiefling, the large man offering her half his apple after breaking it in half.

Had he...been propositioned while being given relationship advice at the same time?

****

"I can't believe you convinced him to just kill himself." Astarion couldn't help the surge of giddiness thinking back to it. He knew he liked Tar'eon for a reason.

"I was avoiding a fight, and the man was insane." Tar'eon shrugged. "They say everyone is their own worst enemy." He picked up the lute and frowned. He doubted it belonged to the man. He'd find use of it. He slung it onto his back and placed his flute in his bag. It wasn't the only instrument he knew how to play, but it was his preferred instrument. It made a sweet sound, in his opinion.

"Well then...lets ransack the place." Astarion smirked as he went about looting anything he could. He wasn't particularly happy about this little side quest they were doing, but he was refusing to let Tar'eon get under his skin. He could act civil. The better person. Let Tar'eon come and grovel to him first.

They traversed through the building, searching for anything good, and stumbled upon what looked to be an infirmary. Wyll's face grew grim as he looked upon the bodies lying in the bed.

"It's Arabella's parents..."

"Fuck." Tar'eon came closer to look, shining the lantern upon them. Wyll was right. Komira and Locke laid together in the bed, well past reviving. His heart broke for little Arabella.

Tar'eon would have to tell her...she'd been so hopeful that he'd be able to help her. He felt like he had failed her, even if it was obvious that her parents had been dead for a while, a couple days at least. How long had Arabella been out there, looking for her parents?

"I told you." Astarion said, arms crossed, shaking his head. He sounded disappointed despite being right. "I told you this mission was pointless."

Tar'eon whipped around and grabbed the collar of his cloak, his tail whipping wildly in his anger.

"Don't. Just- don't."

"Oh please, even that child knew, deep down. She got her hopes up - she got your hopes up. I told you, it's pointless. If you think someone is dead? They likely are." Astarion had given many people over to Cazador, and while he didn't see their demise, he knew. When people were captured by monsters, they didn't simply come back. There was no point in hoping they'll escape their fate, whether you helped them or not. Sometimes death was better than what they'd live through if they were to live.

Tar'eons eyes held nothing but anger, with hurt bleeding into them as he let Astarion go, stepping back.

"Go back to the Inn then. If you don't want to help me, then you can go." Astarion opened his mouth in shock. He'd never been banished from the party before. He was always beside him, throughout the whole journey.

"You- you can't banish me." He laughed, breathless. "You need me."

"Not right now, I don't." Tar'eon gaze steeled. "Go, Astarion. Maybe a bit of time alone will make you realise how much of an asshole you are sometimes."

"I-..." Astarion scoffed. "I've never tried to hide that part of myself from you. It's your own fault if your poor heart is broken over the hard truths of this world." He stepped back and put on a expression that Tar'eon hadn't seen since the first day they met. Cool and calm; superior. Unfeeling.

"I'll see you tonight. Do tell me all the gory details when you find the bodies of those tieflings, unless they are by some miracle, alive." In a flash, he forced his connection to the sigil to bring him back to the Inn, opening his eyes to firelight and the scent of grass, rather then damp, darkness.

Astarion scowled and stormed off to his room, ignoring Shadowheart and Karlach's sounds of surprise at his return as he bounded up the stairs and slammed the door hard enough to rattle through the wall, dust falling into his hair. He snarled and ran a hand through it, running the perfect picture he tried to maintain painstakingly ever morning.

Good riddance. For once, maybe he could relax and read a book instead of being blasted and slashed at. He laid back on his bed, not caring about his armour as he tugged off his boots. He reached for the book sticking out of Tar'eons spare pack and opened it to the first page.

A Beginners Guide To The Infernal Language.

He glowered but read on. It might do him some good to learn more about the language scrawled on his back, if he was to convince Raphael to explain.

He never should have expected help. How foolish. He would help himself, like he always had.

The only person you could trust in this world was yourself.

[bubblegum-blackwood]

Marius/Daniel: Fear

:)

AO3 Thanks for the ask!

Man, he looks so young, Daniel thought; it was easy to forget sometimes just how youthful Benji was, would always be. Yet here was such a blaring reminder of it, reminiscent of Daniel’s little cousins in the sixties, the way Benji had seated himself just a foot or so in front of the television set, his neck craned to see the screen, jaw slack and eyes glowing with the film’s reflection. Sybelle was equally absorbed, eyes utterly focused on the screen - while Armand and Louis went out hunting together, the other residents (and guest) of Trinity Gate decided to turn on a movie, and the kids had begged to rent this new horror flick Benji had heard about, so that’s what they were watching (a shame Armand was out - it seemed like something he would enjoy). Benji and Sybelle were too caught up in the movie to pay attention to their surroundings, but Daniel notised Marius’s discomfort, he could sense it in the air and feel the tightness of Marius’s grip on his shoulders. Placing his hand on Marius’s knee, he said softly with the Mind Gift, You all right, Marius?

He heard Marius swallow, felt him shift slightly, as if rousing back to life. Yes, I’m perfectly fine. Why do you ask?

Don’t lie to me, man. You’re tense as hell, something’s up. Daniel removed his head from Marius’s shoulder to look at his face, and he saw Marius staring straight ahead, jaw clenched, something unfamiliar in his eyes; Daniel had never seen him like this before. If Daniel were still human, Marius might have seriously bruised or perhaps even broken Daniel’s arm, and Marius’s other fist was clenched so tightly Daniel thought he saw blood trickling from his palm. Daniel shifted, squeezed one arm around Marius’s waist and brought the other to his chest, resting his head again on Marius’s shoulder. The heartbeat under his fingertips was quick, too quick -

Is the movie scaring you?

No, Marius lied, and Daniel knew him well enough to know that’s what he was doing.

Sure, was his lovingly eye-rolling reply, then he straddled Marius’s lap with a little smirk. Don’t worry, I’ll protect you.

My little white knight, Marius laughed as he put his arms around him. Daniel kissed him softly on the throat, once, twice, thrice, feeling that elevated pulse tantalisingly under his cold lips. They hadn’t fed yet tonight, and Daniel was hit suddenly by how hungry he was. And there was blood, sweet blood, alluring blood, ancient blood just a pinprick away. Under the thin skin of Marius’s neck, he could smell it, calling to him. He couldn’t resist the bite.

Like always, Marius’s blood was hot, thick, overwhelmingly satisfying. All he felt in it was a flash of love, a flash of need, before he had taken all his young vampire body could hold of the rich viscous stuff, only a few sips, and broken away, guiding Marius to return the favour. He did so gladly, trying for the presence of Benji and Sybelle to muffle his moan in Daniel’s throat as immortal blood hit his tongue, as Daniel ground their dicks together through their pants. He held on tight to his hips, holding him in place, and Daniel didn’t fight it, Daniel leaned into his grip, closing his fists on handfuls of blonde hair, eyes fluttering with pleasure. When Marius broke away, Daniel sighed and sank into him, head on his chest, arms around his neck. Marius’s hands snuck under the hem of Daniel’s t-shirt, massaging his lower back, and he kissed his forehead.

Are you still scared?

How can I be, when I know my white knight will protect me? 

Daniel huffed out a little laugh and settled further into Marius, closing his eyes contentedly. Marius’s hands in his hair were so soothing . . .

Marius had to wake Daniel up when the movie ended.

[twentyfivemiceinatrenchcoat]

I was sketching earlier just for funsies and…. It made me think. How do you think satosugu would feel with an artist!reader who uses them as drawing references teehee… like maybe you ask satoru to go fetch you ur workbook and he goes into ur room & gets confused and ends up stumbling upon your sketchbook…. And he’s like oh a little peek couldn’t hurt!!! And then he finds various drawings of him and sugu, and gets such a sappy fuzzy feeling in his heart because you captured all of their features perfectly, even down to the little details about their appearance that the average person wouldn’t really take note of :((( this could also work in different au’s tho… merman sugu perhaps? Maybe he’s having a little sleep on the nice cold bedroom floor and wakes up n sees reader in a baggy hoodie + sketchbook and colouring pencils/pens in hand admiring his tail and making sure they get every pretty colour right <333 or royalty au where satoru and suguru are royalty of some kind… reader is the kid of someone unimportant and they both stumble across reader’s art room while causing mischief one day and satoru decides then and there that you’re THEIR honorary artist and you will paint their portraits from now on whenever it’s necessary <33 he’s bratty but we love him. Back to canon jjk universe…. I’m thinking abt how it would be so much cuter if they had no idea reader was an artist like. Satoru jokingly takes what he assumes is ur diary and waves it around in the air so u can’t reach it…. Threatening to read it unless u give him a kiss (he wouldn’t actually read it but he wants his kiss leave him alone) and he accidentally drops it and it falls open on a page that’s just full of drawings of him and sugu with a few hearts dotted around and just so many sketches of them smiling… maybe little notes reader added about how pretty stsg are…. Satoru is sooo giddy and so teasing like he’s so honoured u think he’s pretty enough to DRAW and sugu is just as flustered but he hides it a lil better…. :3 Sorry I’m actually going insane right now SEDATE MEEEEE EYGEHEHUJJEURHUHH 😭😭 I hope ur doing well tho !!!! I’m glad to see there are more anons joining the party hai hai hello fellow anons !!! TAKE CAREE MWAH MWAH🧁🍰🍨🍦🍩🍪🍫🍮🥞 <<< MANY SWEET TREATS JUST FOR U!!!! :3 — stsg anon <33

STSG ANONNNN MY LITTLE GUARDIAN ANGEL this concept has been rotting in my brain ever since i saw this…… u r very bad for my health…. 😥😥

ARTIST!READER IS ALWAYS SUCHHH A TASTY CONCEPT and ofc i agree w u….. stsg would absolutely eat it up. they would BOTH be so soft for it but in different ways i think…..

likeeee w satoru i think he’s super flattered and impressed and giddy bc!!! you drew him!!!! :33 you think he’s pretty enough to draw!!! you love him so much!!!!! and obv he would LOVE posing for you……. until he finds out he has to sit still for like an hour LMAO 😭😭 but i just know he’d get so excited once it’s finished….. he looks at it and you’re all nervous hoping he’ll like it and obviously he does. literally jumping up and down with joy + picking you up and spinning you around + kissing you silly bc you’re so talented and sweet and he’s soooo in love w you <333 def calls you his little picasso. that’s the only artist he knows . he’s a dork but we love him.

aaa but then!!! sugu!!!!! :(( i think he’d be the weakest for this tbh….. i picture him as an artist type more than toru so he’s just??? so touched???? and i think we all agree that he’s a big sap…. huge on homemade sentimental gifts……. so when he sees the drawings i think his heart just melts 🥺🥺 he would pose for you if you asked nicely (he’s just playing hard to get <33) and contrary to toru he would sit perfectly still the whole time. waits until you’re finished and praises you sooo much when he sees the result <333 he’s so impressed with you!! wowow!!!! just stunned!! awestruck!!!! would 100% try to return the favour too…. i picture him as a sketcher type. makes a very pretty little sketch of his beloved and is uncharacteristically shy when giving it to you… our sweetiepie :>

this could also work in different au’s tho… merman sugu perhaps? Maybe he’s having a little sleep on the nice cold bedroom floor and wakes up n sees reader in a baggy hoodie + sketchbook and colouring pencils/pens in hand admiring his tail and making sure they get every pretty colour right <333 or royalty au where satoru and suguru are royalty of some kind… reader is the kid of someone unimportant and they both stumble across reader’s art room while causing mischief one day and satoru decides then and there that you’re THEIR honorary artist and you will paint their portraits from now on whenever it’s necessary <33 he’s bratty but we love him.

AND THISSSSS STSG ANON MY LITTLE GENIUS artist!reader/mer!sugu 🥺🥺🥺……. oh he would be so flustered. so embarrassed. VERY impressed though... what if he leaves a couple pretty seashells by your pillow…. as ”payment”……………. mer!sugu the actual loml aaaaa stsg anon you’ve broken me T—T AND THE ROYALTY AUUU that’s such a cute idea too!!! bratty lil royal!toru…. reader being their honorary artist……. that’s soooo good <3 now i’m just thinking of what the portraits would look like HHHH they’d be so pretty!!! :(((

anyway this concept is just the CUTEST <33 tysm for the meal as always!!! i hope you’re doing so so well and taking care of yourself :3 ALSO I AM MUNCHING ON THE SWEET TREATS and sending a bunch of flowers and treats ur way immediately🌻🌸🌷🌹💐🍓🍒🍪🍰🍦🧁

[firebirdsdaughter]

To refocus…

… I wish they’d let Jack actually. Have a part in saving Mac in 2x11. Like, even if it’s just the customary ‘comes in at the right moment to clock a dude’ sort of thing. I love Mac being resourceful, but I do feel like he’s occasionally a wee bit… It’s not exactly ‘over powered’ but… Perfect?

Like this is what I mean by we needed more Jack appreciation. While I agree w/ a comment I saw somewhere on here that s2 Jack is best Jack (right down to the beard!), I can’t help but feel like, say, 2x11 for ex, woulda been good opportunities to highlight Jack’s part in their partnership a bit more. It’s not that he doesn’t do things, but I just… Don’t feel like it always gets recognised? Mac’s crafty, but sometimes there a situations where even I, the fanniest of Jack fans, kinda wonder… Why he needs a partner? It just feels unsatisfying to have the cavalry get there but lol, Mac’s already saved himself! It doesn’t have to be big—like I said, even just arriving in the nick of time to take up/finish the fight. Or even just like. Tactical/moral support? For ex, compare 1x07 to 2x11; in the former, Mac’s incredibly genius and resourceful, gets out of the prison—but then he winds up in a situation where he can’t do things on his own, and he’s forced to resort to doing what he can do and trusting in others getting the message to Jack to come for him… Which happens, and Jack does the whole cavalry thing and once again takes out someone about to shoot Mac. In the latter, though, despite Jack being integral and dedicated throughout the episode, in the end he doesn’t get to do anything, bc Mac effectively resolves the situation himself, and if the others hadn’t done anything, it probably wouldn’t have changed the outcome (the situation gets worked out bc the guy tries to kill Mac in the police station, not bc of the evidence the others gathered and worked out—the guy was planning to do that anyway, so the result woulda been the same no matter what). For an ep so rife w/ Jack being a competent agent, it’s frustrating and disappointing to have him not get to do anything in the finale, and instead Mac saves himself and the detectives just fine w/out help. Jack contributes in a minor way of letting Mac know he didn’t kill anyone and boosting his confidence and spirits (I saw that smile as he was leaving!), but very little attention is paid to that. Naturally, it’s in character for Jack to not care about recognition as long as he can ensure Mac’s safety, but I just… It’s esp clear I think in 2x11 and 2x04. I know 2x04 is about Murdoc being Mac’s special enemy, and part of this is me wanting recognition for Jack’s status as Mac’s real dad, but esp w/ Jack blaming himself and Murdoc then going and picking out Cage later… Feels like their relationship shoulda been more of a factor? Given that everyone goes on like Murdoc targets people around them, in this he’s only focused on Mac and then Cage for some reason (even going after her again later bc… The actress had vacation time? I adore Cage but she seems like an odd choice to zero in on to get to Mac). Maybe Murdoc acknowledging how dogged Jack will be, or Mac shooting back that Jack will find him, no matter how well Murdoc has hidden them. I’d love to hear Jack brought up when they’re talking about fathers, maybe Mac saying Jack’s name when asking for help. Just small stuff that acknowledges that for all Mac’s smarts and ingenuity, he can’t do everything alone, highlight how Jack contributes to the team and partnership, how sometimes they need someone who can think like Jack. I’d’ve much preferred 2x11 ending w/ Mac just holding the guy off until Jack arrives to jump him, maybe even commenting to the detectives that he’s got the best Overwatch ever who is definitely on his way. 2x04 there’s just more acknowledgment about Mac’s reliance on Jack’s protection, maybe a few nasty comments by Murdoc that further upset Mac. Nothing huge, Mac’s still the inventive, brilliant one, but enough to make his ‘[Jack] doing his job meant I could do mine’ line from the probational season 4 ring consistently true.

And while we’re at it, could we please get an ep about how much Mac cares about Jack?? We get a lot of Jack being willing to move the world, bust Mac out of prison, lead a dictator to diamonds, out of love for Mac, blaming himself when Mac gets hurt. I’m sad we never really got one of my favourite tropes which is that in reverse. We get it a little, but there’s not much that really focuses on it? The Ghost’s debut ep it was all crammed into the end of the ep and the focus was completely on the bomb, in 3x01 James MacGyver ruins everything, and there’s also a ticking clock to work w/, you don’t really get to see Mac reacting. When stuff happens, there’s an attitude of ‘it’s Jack, he’ll be fine’ and I just kept waiting for the moment where he wasn’t fine and how that would go. They keep talking about how Murdoc’s targeting them, but again, after his debut he only goes after Mac and Cage. While his ‘welcome to the family’ thing is in character, for the second one, I’d much rather see Jack get attacked than Cage?

Honestly, weird as it may sound, I wish Jack got shot more.

[thescribeoflostmemories]

Lets see,, Yan!Pantalone with a fallen deity (your typical chinese deities if you are familiar with it) fem!reader. So back when Pantalone was still in a bad state, reader tried her best to take care of him, either protecting him from threats, occasionally splashing him some luck with food, money, etc. Then again, he was not the only one who was favored. He heard that you appeared in one of the kid's dream and that made Pantalone's upset and envious. He was not favored and blessed with a normal life nor a vision by the gods from his world, and when he realized you were looking after him, it made him so happy, taking it as some kind of special treatments that's only reserved for him only to find out that it's not. You didn't show yourself to him but instead to someone's else? He'll take note about this for the 'future encounter'

Years passed and he's one of the harbingers now. He was on his trip for his work until he heard rumors about a temple for a fallen deity down the town. Pantalone was familiar with all the roads and could easily found you sleeping next to an altar. It's the spot where the homeless children would usually hang around, a spot he used to hang around. What should he do to confirm his suspicion? Simple, he only had to take a look at you and matched your appearance with what the kid once told him. It was a long process to make him speak up and he was glad you didn't realize it was he himself who beat your 'favorite'. Everything about were true to his description except for the fading wounds around your whole left face & body

You opened your eyes and met him. Bingo, it's you. The rest is up to you i guess *peaces out*

IDK IF IM REQ IT CORRECTLY IDK WHY I WROTE SO MUCH FOR ADDITIONS

"I'm just returning the favour."

"A mere friendly reminder bubbles; kindness, is a slow and insidious killer" -Scribe

Don't sweat it bubbles, it makes it a lot easier. Also big fan!

R+18 usual yandere stuff, light sexual themes (implied!), MDI. Should I even put this as restrictive?

Ps. I did this instead of my assignment.

(Yan! Pantalone x Fallen deity! Reader)

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You remembered your humble, venerable and opulent temple. Sitting proudly between the ever so advancing buildings that threatened to tear your land down. Once bustling with life now fell to ruin as time marches on. Your 'Brothers and Sisters' from all different directions of wealth led astray, leaving you all alone in this desolate home. Time has little to no meaning to you as a deity, guarding the temple is no easy feat.

They took everything from you, just as how much you gave to the poor and unfortunate souls that you used to watch over carefully using your round fan. Being the least reliable one, your siblings did most of the work. While you hid away from the prying eyes of people, only to appear in dreams using the fan.

Your body aches as you lift your face away from the rotting wood table, it used to hold candles and other things for one session of prayer. Opening your dull (color) eyes to see someone has entered the premise of your pitiful abode. It is not a child, but a man with luxurious black hair, pitch dark attire. You had noticed that his hands are adorned with cold colored rings to match his imperial like image. All you could make out is the awe-strucked look upon his face, it doesn't seem like he's from around here.

"If you are here to seek treasure, I'm afraid there's nothing left for you here." Your gentle voice sounded hoarse from your years of slumber to recover.

Gaining a chortle from him, he replied; " Dear, you claim that I seek what you thought of but it is not the case. It's unbecoming of me to see such a lovely woman like yourself in a rumble like this. " He lightly smiled, slowly getting closer to you.

You sat up properly, tattered red and gold robes shifted to your stance. Headdress jingled slightly from movement. It was then he had seen clearly the slow convalesce of your current condition. Even with it, you're just as beautiful as the moon.

He never felt so happy in his life. Forget gold, he struck a diamond mineshaft. That poor, helpless look on your face gives him joy and an excuse to give you all the riches in the world has to offer.

Your mind muddled, trying to recollect where you have seen this man before. His smile is familiar, yet comes up with nothing. "Forgive me but, who are you?" A genuine question left your lips, he frowned a bit.

A prospect came to mind that put him at ease, "I am Pantalone, your unwavering follower. I have come to help you." He bowed his head before extending his hand to you once there was no space between them. It was no lie that he is an admirer of your works for he had bought and commissioned statues of you made in gilded gold with the exact description he was given beforehand. Though that would soon be forgotten since he has found the real deal. Worth more than what he could imagine. Immaculate, pious, and charitable…

"Pantalone…" Hearing his name out from your mouth nearly made him shiver in delight.

Seeing no reason to be here, clinging to those haunting memories would only hurt. Yet, something is holding you back. What if they come back?

"You won't get hurt once you're with me, darling. My promise to you, that every single day will be filled with nothing but joy." Pantalone widened his lips once he saw the faint hesitance.

An offer that you couldn't deny after the fall of your Godhood. Dainty hand emerged from the long red sleeve to hold his own. Sealing her fate to him, a tie that could never be severed.

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The Regrator's plan seemed simple but a rather tedious thing. He wouldn't want to kill the golden goose before it rewards him. Right now he has you within arms reach, next to him.

Just as he promised, daily you were showered in praises and extravagant gifts. From exotic clothing to matching shoes, down to the little things. Everything you wore screams 'mine'.

Of each day, he'll admire the crowning jewel among his sparkling collection of gold, you. He isolates the fair maiden from the others, saying that the world is a dangerous place. One where people could swallow a person whole, greedy people would take advantage of a sweet little thing like you. Awful people that could restrict you, do awful things that you didn't want. Just like what your 'siblings' had warned you of and it only reinforced your thoughts to stay, ironic.

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Our dazzling protagonist had resigned herself to her fate in his hands. Deft hands arrange the hair pins that perched proudly on her head. "Now that looks lovely, just like I imagined you would be." Indeed she is. Pantalone had longed to see you, his vying envy had been satiated. He would have rubbed it in that fatso's face, but oh well. Not like he could boast about it when the guy's six feet under. Thinking of it now it's rather silly of him to be so riled up about others meeting her in a dream, when in reality the Regrator had won a miracle instead!

For now, he's glad he has her in his home. Preparing tea for him to calm his nerves while wearing the gifts he bestowed upon her. Demure woman shyly covers half of her face from him, eyes batted at him so innocently. Her beauty could even shame the Tsaritsa herself.

"My dear jewel." Pantalone sighed lovingly, caressing her face. His plan is going into motion. The look upon his love's face, so sweet like lace.

"Mm?" The fallen deity runned her cheek more to him, touched-starved. She felt his thumb on her soft lips. Cheeks dusted with pink hue. That made him smile at her bashful attitude.

Leaning closer to her ear and whispering. "Please, be mine." Followed by a kiss.

Another stepping stone to fully have the vision he truly desires. Even if he has to spill blood in order to satisfy you. Afterall, what kind of money would it be if it wasn't built upon blood and tears?

He wouldn't be hesitant in ending the life of someone if it meant to keep her to himself, like that fatui agent guarding her door for interacting with her. A lowly agent and you, having an affair? Perish the thought! Normally, he wouldn't resort to dirtying his hands but there's a first time for everything. Similarly to how he'll take your firsts.

Assured himself that this is what you had in mind… The reason why you didn't show yourself to him, why you appeared in everyone else's. So he can have you all to himself.

¶¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¶

From then on, you're accompanying him nearly everywhere. To the masses, they'll never see the beautiful face that hides behind the silk woven veil. Only he, the one and only loyal follower of yours, has the privilege to do so.

When alone, Pantalone is very hands-y. He'll sing praises to Celestia above of how a wonderful, kind and hardworking pearl you are. Visually drunk from kissing you all over on his lap, like a little puppy he had gotten as a birthday gift.

One day, he slipped up. And he indulged a little bit too much than normal. Like usual, it all started with him pulling you to his lap.

"Mine.. mine… mine.." He uttered a mantra to himself, as he attacked her neck with kisses down to her collarbone.

"Ah… ! P-pantalone!" Ruby colored lipstick smeared on his lips as he hungrily kissed her, worshipping her as she's meant to be. Pulling away, leaving you breathless. A string of spittle connects both of you, thinning out until it vanishes.

"Please… you're all I've got." You could feel his warm breath on your skin. "Let this follower take good care of you, my goddess." He mumbled, face on your hair savouring the moment.

The sweet scent of his cologne made you feel dizzy. "What..?" It feels so suffocating when he does this.

"My little jewel.. I love you. Don't leave me again… There's so much I have to repay you for!" Pantalone gave such a risqué smile, showing those pretty, hypnotic eyes behind his lashes. Finding it's so hard to deny him when he has done so much for you until now.

" Ah… " Squirming underneath him, back against the mahogany wood. Quills, documents, maps all disregarded to the side in one swipe of his arm.

"I want to be your everything just as you were to me, my pearl." He purred before capturing your lips with his, commencing another steamy make out.

True to his word. Your body is littered with love marks the next day, surrounded by frivolous wealth. Waking up to a fabulous exotic ring on your finger.

Do you remember the once humble, venerable and opulent temple? Now in ruin, a safe haven for thieves that stalk the night. Those peaceful days of watching over children turned to a hopeless man's toy for indulgence of your touch. He would always make sure you'll only know his touch, and yearn for it.

"Mm, looking at that gravid woman my goddess? Just say the word, and I'll provide it for you. Like I've always done."

¶¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¶

Enjoyed that one bubbles? I know, I did. Hope this satisfies you.

A/n: you guys have no idea how many times the story from my side has changed due to the blackout last night. First time being asked so I don't mind any criticism here, bubbles. Side note there's a blackout here and I've manage to post it in time 🥹

[husbandohunter]

A Small Predicament [Baby Genshin x Reader]

Characters: Scaramouche, Diluc, Kaeya, Childe, Xiao, Zhongli, Albedo

Synopsis: Cursed for a week, the boys either have to live with it or find a cure as soon as possible. You on the otherhand hoped otherwise.

(A/n): It only takes ONE glance for me to start having ideas. It was twelve in the morning yall, enjoy~

Oh here's part 2

--------

Scaramouche

• "Oh you shrank? I couldn't tell-"

• Threatens that he will murder you to pieces and burn your remains but his voice was so squeaky and high pitched (voice crack) that you couldn't help but burst into a tearful laughter. 

• Its payback time  Bully him, take his hat and hover it above his head. Truthfully, without his hat Scaramouche looks like a little schoolboy. Overall less intimidating.

• Tries glaring. Cute. He's really bratty as a kid, sitting on a high chair (which you had to help him get on) and demanding his servants to do his bidding. In reality, his personality never changed. You realized that even as a grown up he still acts like this (bratty kid in a grown man body).

• The curse made his week a living hell. Signora had the audacity to pull his ear when he misbehaves. Childe constantly messes with his hair while giving head pats and the WORST of all, pinching his cheeks. Scaramouche never wanted to commit arson so bad in his life.

• Eventually finds a cure so he doesn't have to deal with it anymore and orders everyone to never speak of it again. Though, he's plotting how he'll get revenge on everyone who made fun of him using the very same curse (You better run).

~~x~~

Diluc

• "Oh…Oh my! Diluc you're just so cute!" 

• Diluc grimaces as you glomp him in this state. How can you help it? With his head so small it makes his hair all the more fluffier! His coat no longer fits him to the point the sleeves had made past his fingertips. He tried wielding his claymore again, only to lose balance and fall flat onto his bum

• (insert kid voice "Retribution!") Did I mention the babyface?

• Diluc tries to act as if everything was normal, acting like the Darknight hero and Mondstadt's Tycoon but fun-sized. He couldn't. There was no way people would take him seriously in business meetings. Same with fighting abyss mages, his smaller form was too much of a disadvantage. Thus you ended up doing most of his paperwork.

• One time you caught him sitting on the floor couldn't reach his office desk  while reading away the various books for a cure. It was three in the morning. You told him it was way past his bedtime and he argues saying when did he ever have a curfew schedule. In the end you managed to convince him and he begrudgingly obliges.

• The type to NOT ask for help even when it's obvious that he really needs it. Before he was the one who helped you reach things from the top shelves, oh how the tables have turned. He avoids Kaeya like a plague unless he was in it for another round of funny remarks. When he wanted to go out and get some fresh air, you insisted on accompanying him. Worst mistake in his life. A travelling merchant bumps into you and commented that you had a very cute son. Diluc was mortified.

• The day ended up with him sulking in his room. Although it was tempting, you resisted from cooing over his adorable form after days of treating him like a child. It wasn't because you were teasing him, Diluc just works so hard that you wanted to spoil him a bit. At least he could still play a game of chess with you.

• When things went back to normal, Diluc ensures that you will NOT see him as your son.

~~x~~

Kaeya

• "Well look who it is, my little Prince Kaeya~"

• Tries really hard not be bothered by it at all. Kaeya still maintains his suave facade, throwing in a couple of flirting lines here and there (and forcing his voice to go a few octaves too low in which puberty has yet to occur HA). Though no matter what approach, he couldn't ignore the sparkling mischievious glint in your eye. You were obviously not taking him seriously.

• Things couldn't get any worse. He lost his masculine physique and boob window, he wasn't able to go to certain places without supervision. But the worst thing of all was that he was underaged. Kaeya hated the fact he couldn't drink anymore, he even insisted you to sneak him a few bottles (which you refused) and had to settle with plain beverages such as fruit juice (what an insult). He was never really grounded since his childhood days but he certainly felt like he was grounded now. 

• Kaeya still kisses you on the lips whether you like it or not. If you ask him to sit on your lap, he will find a way to turn the position into his favour such as resting his face between your breasts. You're not gonna treat him like a kid, nuh-uh, he actively avoids it.

• Since his personality still remains, Kaeya is a naughty child. He will use his innocent appearance to sway people (even you) to get what he wants. That was how he was able to take a sip of the wine he stole somewhere (he wouldn't tell you). Diluc scolded him heavily and threatened to ban him from drinking from his Tavern for a week (they ended up arguing, Kaeya being the passive aggressive little shit he is).

• He was extremely relieved to return back to his normal form again. He has so much to catch up (specifically his bedtime activities with you *wink wonk*)

~~x~~

Child(e)

• "Hmmm to be honest, this actually suits you very much."

• Unlike the other boys, Childe was completely okay with it. Turns out that YOU were the one who was not going to be okay. If you thought taking care of Teucer was energy-draining then expect Childe to take that tenfold and beyond.

• You've officially became his full-time babysitter who is in desperate need of a raise (and rest). You can't take your eyes off of him and archons forbid that he will ever meet Klee. One point he'll be running ahead by your side and the next you'll find him getting himself in a 1vs7 situation with some shady looking treasure hoarders. Childe genuinely thinks he could take them on but the curse downgraded his abilities. You carried him and barely made out of it alive. (This made you ponder whether the best solution would be to strap him against a chair for the time being…)

• Childe being a child will eat all the candies and ice cream he pleases. You wonder if the curse also turned him a few years back or was it that he acts like this simply because he wanted to (it was the latter). He loves being spoiled, spoiled by you! Childe demands your full attention, spoon-feeding his meals, back rubs and head pats. Yep, he's definitely doing this on purpose.

• Did he just call you 'mommy'? (Childe has mommy kink confirmed).  He has so much energy that it was exhausting, you literally had to drag him away from what ever he was doing in order to get him to bed. "No Childe, your sleeping time is 9p.m stop whining." He bargained that he'll sleep if you sleep beside him (you didn't get any sleep. You knew what he was planning. In the end, you tried to make sure he didn't sneak out behind your back.)

• Finally you were able to get out of that hell-hole. Childe promised to make it up to you, you deserve it after all~

~~x~~

Small (aka Xiao)

• "Did you know in the Liyuean language, Xiao translates to small?" You didn't say that out loud. Not when he's this angry (this angy)

• He just stands there, crossing his arms and grumbling. You were hesitant to touch him in case he might hiss at you. Xiao has always been short, maybe an inch taller than you, but seeing him like this made you think 'my almighty yaksha can't be this cute♡'

• He gets mad when you no longer call his name for help. How could you? He's just so precious~ Xiao makes it clear that no matter what form he takes, it doesn't make him weak ("Adepti and you mortals are nothing alike." Or so he says but you could tell he wasn't running as fast as he used to because…small legs). You may not comment on it aloud but he can tell just by the look on your face and it irritates him.

• Also the type to not ask for help but worse. Xiao is an agressive little kid, he seems as if he'll be willing to bite someone's finger off if they try to pet him (He gives strong cat vibes, so thats understandable). His spear was too big for him to wield so he often has to put it away or else he might knock someone over with it. Xiao hates being short so you'll be hearing him complain alot.

• Since he was an adepti, he didn't need to sleep however, the curse must have brought down his power by a significant amount to the point you DID catch him napping. You almost swooned out loud just by taking a glance upon his face. For once he didn't wear his signature grumpy look. Xiao appears like a normal child, one full of innocence. His snoring was soft and breathly but that just meant he was deep asleep. (You wished to take a picture). 

• Of course, everything had to come to an end (much to your disappointment), he still complains about the incident to this day.

~~x~~

Zhongli

• How is it possible for a baby to still look so handsome? (Must be his godly abilities)

• Zhongli is unfazed by this 'curse' since his past lives have already taken many forms. Though for some reason whenever he walks down the streets of Liyue, young girls, mothers, ladies all come him was and start complimenting him and gushing over him (he was suffocating). They'd squeeze him tight or squish his cheeks, it only takes once glance before the little girls start blushing and hiding behind their moms.

• Needless to say, despite what form he is in, Zhongli is still able to get free stuff. He got some free candies and some free kites to play with. You had to help him carry his items. Zhongli ends up tripping too much because his tailcoat reached his feet (he decided to just take it off. You had to hold that too). Seems like he can have anyone do things for him in the end HA.

• He still got that drippy voice and you're just like ???? "What on Teyvat Zhongli, you're a kid." This is why you can't see him as one, its nearly impossible.

• Actively avoids Hu Tao and Childe. Once Hu Tao caught sight of him and chased him for hours, he couldn't stay in one spot knowing that she might just pop out of no where. Childe still spoils him, however Zhongli feels irritated by the fact the only things Childe buys him toys (its different when other people do it.)

• Everytime you guys go back strolling through Liyue, you had to hold his hand in case more women come swarming hin again. You swear that at this rate he might get kidnapped because hes just such a beautiful baby.

• Zhongli learned an important lesson after his curse was lifted: no matter how many years he lives throughout  never take a form of a child.

~~x~~

Albedo

• You find him buried beneath a pile of books and had to dig him out before he suffocates.

• Albedo has the cutest eyes, they're big and round full of curiosity and they sparkle too (he has the prettiest eyes out of everyone tbh). He is the only person who is fascinated by this outcome and immediately goes in the wild to test out his new physique. 

• He was always curious why Klee T-poses when she runs so he decided to try it out himself. She was thrilled to find out that she now has a little brother to play with. In the end, Albedo indulges in the games she always wanted to play but couldn't because he was too old: princess dress up tea parties.

• You felt many things when you saw Albedo wearing a frilly gown and a plastic tiara tucked on his head. Deep down you knew regardless of what gender Albedo was still pretty. Klee even had the guts to redo his hair and hardly anyone was able to recognize it was him at all. He has pigtails, PIGTAILS! You made sure to burn that image into the very depths of your mind forever.

• The only advantage was the he was ablw to fit through small spaces, other than that, being small was way too inconvenient. He knocked down a few of his potion bottles which damaged the floor (thankfully not him) because they were lethal (he wonders how Klee was able to not injure herself when using bombs). You carried him and lifted him to alot of places such as trudging through the snow because Albedo would surely fall on his face due to his small form.

• Enough was enough, he only lasted a day with this and decided to just make a potion and put an end to the curse once and for all. 

[adventuresinobx]

Love in Secret - Chapter 6

Drew Starkey x fem!reader

Summary: It’s time to leave Charleston and say goodbye to your boyfriend - at least for a while. But how will things fair long distance, and will the two of you stand the test of time now you’re not together every day?

A/N: I’ve been sitting on this chapter all week because I was so inspired to write it straight after I finished chapter 5. I’ve had this planned for months - and it came out exactly as I wanted 😭💕

Previous chapters: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Warnings: None, just more cute fluff ❤️

“How are you feeling?” Drew asked quietly, noticing you were particularly quiet this morning. You were just lying next to him, looking away and into the distance, your back pressed against his chest as he wrapped his arms tight around you. It had been a few days since the party and it was time to leave Charleston in less than 48 hours time. You didn’t know how you felt about it all; you’d considered delaying your flight 100 times just to spend more time with Drew. But you decided against it in the end, knowing you could fly out and see him again soon.

One day, you’d be living together anyway, your mind wandering to what that house might look like, whether you’d have kids, what Drew would be like as a dad. You knew it was early to think about these things - but you weren’t putting any of your dream scenarios into motion - you were just excited for the future and the day you two could get together again and you could be where you felt the most wanted, the most needed, in your entire life.

You felt him place soft kisses on your head, his arms wrapped around you. He placed soft and gentle kisses on the crown of your head, his arms snaking tighter around you with every single motion. His facial hair tickled your neck, as he scooted down a little to press kisses on the nape of your neck down to your bare shoulders. You were both still naked from last night’s activities, falling asleep tangled up with one another after the most wonderful and romantic night.

Drew had cooked for you - he was actually getting good at it - and then the two of you popped out to King Street to get some ice cream. You held hands the whole walk down the main road; it was late at night on a weekday and there was barely anyone around so you managed to feel somewhat normal as a couple for once. You had initially been a bit hesitant about holding hands in public but he had managed to convince you that this time of night was fairly low risk. There had already been some reports surface online with his most hardcore fans after one of the other partygoers caught you two cuddling in the back of one of their stories. 

“Just thinking,” you said, running your thumb across his hand, which was draped over you and resting on your tummy. He was so cosy, so warm, and sweet with the way he was holding onto you - like you were delicate and could break any second but with a warmth too.

Your mind flicked back to the night before, how he’d spent a good half an hour making you feel good, his head buried between your thighs, his stubble rubbing against the sensitive skin there. He was so good with you, and so - focused - on you. Another thing you loved about him. You, of course, returned the favour. And by the sounds of his moans, he loved it too.

“About what?” he asked. You shook your head. It wasn’t that you didn’t want to share, but he knew what it was, what had been on your mind for the last few days.

“Just don’t want to leave,” you sighed, “How will I cope with not seeing you every day or getting to snuggle up with you every single night.” You felt emotional that you were leaving your boyfriend soon; you’d been joined at the hip ever since you hit it off. And what would happen when you weren’t together? Would things just drift until you two didn’t know each other anymore? That’s what happened to you in the past.

“I love you,” he whispered, “You know that don’t you. You know I love you so much.” It was almost like he was reading your mind, but he got quite good at that over the weeks and months you’d known each other. Never in your wildest dreams did you ever expect to fall in love in a quiet city like Charleston - never did you expect to fall in love at all - but here you were, more in love than you’d ever been in your entire life and it felt good.

“I love you too,” you said, turning around to face him and cuddling into his chest. You’d miss this, every single thing about this, but you’d stay here and burn this feeling into your memory forever until there was absolutely no chance of you forgetting it. You’d never done long distance before; hell you’d never even really had a relationship before, but you knew you’d make this work somehow. You knew it would be ok.

**

You had gone home that morning, back to your apartment as you had about five or so hours to get everything ready for your flight later. Last night, Drew had given you some gifts to take home with you - a teddy for your sister, a Charleston fridge magnet for your parents (they were collectors of the craziest things) and he gave you his favourite possession yet - his black hoodie which you had seen one of the first times you stayed at his and borrowed it whenever you were at his and the cold nights when you’d sneak out to your “secret” (quiet) area to chat whilst he smoked a cigarette. It was huge and absolutely drowned you, but you liked that about it - and so did he. He had it for years, but he only wanted you to have it when you were gone. A reminder of him, and whilst it wasn’t that useful in hot Charleston, you definitely could do with it where you were from.

Drew had planned to take you to the airport, to say goodbye properly, and you weren’t sure how much you were looking forward to that. It would be hard to say goodbye to him so publicly when you were keeping things somewhat low key but he insisted, and it was nice that he cared enough that he wanted to be there.

It was about midday, and you had finished packing your stuff - the hoodie neatly folded - and ready to go in your backpack which you took on the plane with you. Drew would be here in about half an hour, or so you thought.

Your phone buzzed and you gleefully picked it up but were left confused by the words on the screen.

“Are you free to call me?” It didn’t sound good - but you did as he asked and rang Drew’s phone.

“I’m so sorry baby, they’ve called me in for voiceovers and I can’t get out of it, today of all days. I’m so sorry,” Drew immediately said, not even saying hello or anything. He just wanted to tell you. He sounded disappointed and your face showed you were too.

“That’s ok babe,” you said, trying to be strong, “It’s not like we won’t see each other again.” You held it together pretty well, but the tears did prick at your eyes.

“I’m so angry,” he said, and you heard something like his fist slam into the wall, followed by an ow from his end of the phone, “But Chase is going to come pick you up from yours and take you to the airport and he promised he’d make sure you get there ok.”

“Ok thank you, that’s kind,” you replied, not able to disagree - you had no other way to get to the airport as Drew was meant to be giving you a lift.

“I’m sorry again baby,” he said and with that, he was gone and you were left alone in your apartment and feeling a little sad at how it had all played out.

Half an hour later, Chase had arrived at your apartment block, his Bronco pulled up on the street in front. He buzzed your door and headed upstairs when you let him in. You were stood at the door when he got up to your floor and he noticed the redness is your eyes, but as a good friend didn’t say anything, he just jumped in for a hug straight away. You two had become quite close. Chase was friendly with everyone but you and him just clicked as friends and you know you’d be seeing him a lot more too, which of course you loved.

“Ready to go?” he asked, walking into your apartment. He surveyed the room, checking all the plugs were switched off and when you asked him what he was doing, he told you “Drew had asked me to check you turned everything off and you didn’t forget anything.” You rolled your eyes and laughed.

“Shall we then?” he asked, after he did his little inspection, as you nodded and took a moment to look around your empty apartment. Suddenly all those wonderful moments you’d shared here with Drew flashed into your mind and you had to hold in your emotions. You went to grab your luggage, but Chase stopped you, taking it for you and heading out the door with it, you following with your backpack on. He headed downstairs first, giving you a few moments alone as you switched the light off for the final time. The end of an era.

Once downstairs, you saw Chase putting your luggage into the back seat of the Bronco. You thanked him and put your backpack in the back too, before you made the way to the passenger seat, stopped by a little gift bag of stuff on the seat instead.

“What’s this?” you asked, confused.

“Oh that’s from Drew, he asked me to give it to you. It’s a little travel care pack. An eye mask, some moisturiser, snacks and something else I can’t remember,” he said, as you went to take a peek inside, “But don’t open it til you’re on the plane.” You looked a little confused, but nodded, putting it next to your feet on the floor as you climbed into the front of the car.

You sighed, looking out the “window” of the Bronco, and watching the signs for Charleston go by in the other direction. It was when you got on the Arthur Ravenel bridge that tears threatened to come out. You knew your boyfriend was working, but it would have been really nice for him to have been here to see you off.

“I miss you,” you texted him, and soon he replied to tell you he missed you too. Chase chatted with you throughout the journey. He noticed that you seemed so be a little distracted, but he continued to chat about things, anything to keep your mind off your man. He even managed to make you laugh, and you thought he was such a sweetheart for what he’d done to support you.

After a while, he decided to ask you what your plans were going forward, now you were moving back home.

“I think, I’ll just - I don’t know - go back to a normal job I guess, it’s not easy to come by these jobs,” you said, Chase nodding in response, as you carried on, “I can’t really afford to not work. And I certainly can’t afford to move away from my state, and it’s not like Drew and I can find a home anywhere, because you know - it’s expensive and he’s not gonna be there half the time.”

Chase nodded, he only knew too well how hard it was to keep a home, a base. It was why he moved to Charleston. The place had completely given him the life he dreamed of, and who was he to turn his back on that?

“I’d love to live in Charleston, it’s so nice there,” you mused, “But if Drew is in LA, it’s hell of a journey.” 

“There’s always the spare room at mine if you and Drew ever want to visit. Drew’s already started decorating it with things of his.” You laughed, that was such a Drew thing to do. “Won’t be long before there’s a picture of you two up in a photo frame there.”

You laughed, smiling to yourself, you really did love the friendship they shared. And you were glad Drew picked Chase as his best friend. No one else would have handled all this - drama - and the secrets as well as him.

“Right, here we are,” he said, heading towards the car park at the airport rather than the drop off zone.

“Oh you can just drop me off Chase,” you replied, keen that he wasn’t put out by you needing a lift.

“Don’t be silly,” he replied, “I’ll make sure you get in ok. Make sure you check in and everything.” You smiled back over at him; that was sweet of him to do that. He really had become a huge support for you, and if Drew couldn’t take you to the airport, you were glad it was him instead.

“Thank you,” you muttered, jumping out the car when he had parked up and grabbing your little gift bag from Drew and your backpack from the back of the car. You went to take the suitcase out by Chase stopped you.

“I’ve got it,” he said, “Don’t worry.” You offered to take it and again he refused, walking behind you.

“Lead the way,” he told you as you headed into the check in hall, which was buzzing with people. You headed towards the check in desk, watching as all these couples and families bid their farewells, hugging each other. You felt a lump build in your throat; all you wanted was for Drew to be here to say goodbye properly. There’s that old cliche; if you knew it was the last time you were going to see him was this morning, you would have said a better goodbye. You sighed. Too late now.

You looked back to see Chase, stopping to wait for him as he had trailed behind a bit with your case, but as you started to walk again, your head still turned back, all of a sudden you bashed into someone and their cases which were surrounding them.

“Oh my god I’m so sorry,” you said, looking up to meet a very very familiar face.

“Don’t you worry about that darling, fancy bumping into you here,” the voice said. That voice you’d come to know - and love - and there he was stood in front of you.

“What are you - Drew - what are you doing here?” you said, not even able to get your words out. You looked back at Chase, who stood a little away with your case giving you both some space. He gave you that smile to let you know he knew all along exactly how this was going to play out. You silently scolded him, laughing and shaking your head at him.

“Surprise,” Drew said, his arms wrapping around you as he placed his head on top of yours sweetly.

“What are you doing here? I thought you had work?” you said back, looking at him and then at Chase, who couldn’t wipe that cocky smile off his face.

“Coming to surprise you,” he said with a smile, “I didn’t have work.” You playfully slapped him on the arm.

“I thought you said no more lies,” you tutted at him and instantly he laughed, before adding that he “thought this was a good one though”. You held onto him so tight, his arms tight around you and his grip so strong. You took a deep breath, inhaling that scent of his you had come to love. It was so good to be back in his arms again.

Eventually, you managed to pull away, his arms still wrapped around you but looser now so you could look him in the eyes. You suddenly remembered you were in a busy airport and looked around, noting all the bags.

“Wait who’s bags are these?” you said, pointing out how there was one big piece of luggage and a small one next to him. You gave him a confused looks

“Mine,” he said rather proudly, “We’re going on holiday together. I’ve booked us some flights. And then back to see your mum and sister. I want to meet your family.” 

“But -“ you started to say but he pressed his finger softly against your lips, making you smile.

“I’ve already spoken to your mum, it’s sorted. She knows we’ll be with her in a week’s time. She said she can’t wait to meet me, of course.” You laughed at him, shaking your head. He was a funny one.

“Where are we going?” you asked, biting your lip with excitement. You couldn’t wait to find out.

“New York first, then onto Antigua. How does that sound?” You stood there open mouthed. “Two nights in New York and then we head to the Caribbean. I hope you’ve packed your bikini,” he said and it suddenly dawned on you that you didn’t have one.

“Don’t worry, we’ll go holiday shopping in New York baby,” he said in his normal voice before leaning in to whisper to you, “As long as I get a little fashion show when you settle on a couple of swimsuits.” You giggled and nodded, smiling at him. This was all a dream.

If you thought your goodbye was emotional, his and Chase’s were worst. Like a couple of lovesick puppies those two were, at least they were jokingly acting like they were. “I’ll text you as soon as we land,” Drew joked, as Chase bantered back: “You better do, I won’t stop thinking about you until I know you’re safe.”

You laughed and shook your head, giving Chase a hug too before you walked hand in hand with Drew through towards the security gates. He waved goodbye, you turning to wave goodbye too. “Thank you for everything,” you shouted back, giving him a beaming smile with him matching the same back.

“Shall we get some food?” Drew asked you, grinning at you as the two of you waited in the line.

When you were through security, you headed with him to one of the fast food outlets and promptly ordered near enough the whole menu with him. You had a few hours til your flight so you both just sat there, chatting and slowly eating until it was mainly all gone.

You heard your boarding call and stood up, going to clear the remnants of your food away. “Wait one second,” he said, gesturing for you to sit down at the chair nearest to his. You did as he asked, his arm flying around your shoulder as he pulled you in close.

“Did you - bring that bag I gave you?” You nodded, looking around and noticing it by your foot. You picked it up and shook it briefly. “Ok open it.”

You popped it on the table and did as he asked, carefully pulling all the tissue paper out. In the bottom was a little square shaped box. You took it out and examined it for a moment, before opening it. Inside, there was the most beautiful necklace. It was silver, no doubt, and on closer inspection, it had a word written on it. His name - in cursive letters.

“Drew,” you shrieked, throwing your arms around him and pulling him in for a hug. You peppered kisses all over his lips, smiling through them as your focus returned to the necklace he had bought for you.

“Do you like it? Can I help you put it on?” he asked, firing both questions at you before even waiting for an answer to the first one. You nodded, instantly turning away from him and pulling your hair out the way.

He swung the necklace over the front of your neck and carefully blew some of the little bits of wispy hair out of the way. You shivered at the sensation, blushing and giggling as he placed a single kiss on your neck, before securing the necklace around your neck. You turned back to face him, smiling as he adjusted the pendant bit and smiled back at you.

“I think it looks beautiful,” he said, pausing for a moment as he ran his thumb along the delicate chain, “You look beautiful. It’s beautiful.” He grinned at himself, obviously proud he had picked something so nice.

“Thank you, it’s perfect,” you muttered back, leaning in to plant a kiss on his lips. “I love you Drew Starkey.”

“I love you too.”

A/N: So that’s it! Chapter six done and dusted! My plan is to do one more chapter of this - an epilogue about their holiday together - cos I’m not quite ready to give up this couple just yet. Anyway I hope you liked this 💕💕

taglist (pls let me know if you want to be added 🥰)

@starkeyobx @lovelyhedgehog44 @gryffindorpouge11 @jjmaybankmakesmecry @pankowforlife @bayy2452 @proactivetypeofgirl @hoebx @fangirlfree @severa-kane @lovedetlost @slutforsmutsstuff @smokingbeersdrinkingweed @raiinyhood @samxslaughter @valeriiecameron @burgstead @mayceelou @babeyglo @infatuatedjanes @ailee-celeste @malums-trash-can

[broccoliboix5peepeeman]

Midoriya-sensei AU

Part 4: Can I get your autograph?

Part 3 | Ao3 | Part 5.1

When the children were sent home after lunch, Izuku returned to the staff room and used the recess time to take some notes in his journal dedicated to Serenity Hero: Shoto, which he’d brought with him for the occasion.

While he was homeroom teacher for his first grade class, he taught English—his fluency heavily influenced by his obsession with All Might—and fortnightly Quirk Studies to upper elementary in the afternoon, so he had about twenty minutes before his next class. That was certainly enough time to word-dump everything he'd learnt from Shoto's visit, especially given that the staff room was empty for once; no distractions. It was also ideal because that way none of his co-workers could witness the dopey smile plastered to his face as he wrote.

More handsome in person

Doesn't use honorifics uses honorifics with teachers

Ambidextrous but prioritises his right hand

Good with children—patient, accommodating and blunt (in a good way)

Soft-spoken (voice cooler sexier calmer in person) and doesn't interrupt. Good listener

Smile is better in person. He smiled at me six times! Eyes crinkle and he gets one dimple ♡

Izuku had ten minutes to spare when he finally finished, so didn’t rush as he returned the journal to his bag. As he knelt down to get to his locker though, he heard the door open. Expecting it to be one of the other teachers, Izuku chirped what Todoroki had called a "retail greeting", and zipped up his bag without looking up.

'Good afternoon, Midoriya-sensei.'

Izuku almost jumped out of his skin and hurriedly got to his feet to find Shoto standing by the door, watching him with curious dichromatic eyes. Izuku flushed, partly at their intensity and partly because he literally just had his ass stuck in the air.

'Shoto-san! What're you doing here?' He immediately winced and waved his hands in front of his face placatingly. 'Not that you shouldn't be here! I wasn't trying to be accusatory! Of course, you're free to go wherever you want, I just wondered… why here in particular?'

He trailed off with a sigh, but if the hero was affronted or annoyed, he didn't show it.

'Nee- Todoroki-sensei told me to wait here, seeing as I'm talking to her grade 5 maths class next.'

'Oh, I see.' Izuku replied with a nod, only for the two of them to fall into silence. Several seconds passed as he tried to get his mouth to work, shuffling on his feet and rubbing his arm. For years, he'd built up an array of questions for the man in front of him, yet now he couldn't even formulate a sentence.

Luckily, the hero spoke first.

‘You’re really good with kids.’ Shoto looked stiff, if not for his left hand, where he tapped his fingers with his thumb, one by one. Perhaps he was nervous too, not that he had any reason to be.

‘I hope so.’ Izuku laughed awkwardly in response, rubbing the back of his head. ‘Otherwise I’d be in the wrong occupation.’

‘That’s true.’ Shoto scratched his cheek and looked away, not sure how to continue.

‘Thank you though. If it means anything, you’re also good with kids.’ Izuku flashed him a warm smile. ‘Todoroki-san told me you were, so it isn't surprising, but still, I thought I should say.’

‘Nee-san?’ Shoto seemed shocked for a moment. 'She talks about me?'

'Just to me, because we’re friends. She knows I love heroes, and she's very fond of you, so it works out in both of our favours.' He waved nonchalantly, grabbing his water bottle from the table to refill. However, when Shoto remained silent, Izuku suddenly realised. ‘Sorry! I hope that’s okay! She doesn’t talk about your personal life or anything, and it’s not like I’m a crazy obsessive fan… Well, I guess some would consider me obsessive, but not like a stalker! It's more that I’m fascinated by you and I’ve seen all your fights and I like to document heroes in general, but I’m not- I…’

‘Midoriya-sensei, it’s okay.’ Shoto’s lip twitched slightly. ‘Nee-san talks about you a lot too. I know you’re a good person.’

This time, it was Izuku's turn to freeze.

'S-S-She talks about…' He shook his head and laughed nervously as he pointed to himself. 'That worries me. I've done lots of embarrassing things in front of her.'

Like fawn over you.

'She's only ever had good things to say.' Shoto shrugged. 'I always like hearing her work stories, especially the ones involving you. Is it true that you greeted everyone by saying "namaste" for an entire year?'

Izuku could feel his face burn.

'W-Well, yes.' He had to stop stuttering. 'But for good reason, I promise. Has sh-she told you about "Global Month"?'

The hero nodded.

'Each class learns about a specific country for a month, then there's one day at the end where everyone goes around and sees each class's work, right? It's meant to encourage diversity and understanding of other cultures. Nee-san had the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago this year, I think?'

'Yeah!' Izuku brightened, finally refilling his bottle. 'Well, a few years ago, she had Italy and I had India, and because Hindi is one of the official languages of India, I decided to substitute "kon’nichiwa" with "namaste" for the month, to help the kids remember it. So, whenever I saw my pupils in the morning or during break or in passing, that's how I'd greet them, except it kind of became a habit that stuck for the rest of the school year. I ended up saying it to everyone, including the parents and the other teachers. They weren't impressed though, and it's better for everyone if I placate them, so I stopped... I still occasionally use it with Todoroki-san and the older students though.'

'Fuyumi mentioned how the other teachers act around you.' Shoto frowned. 'It's shitty.'

'Shoto-san!' Izuku squeaked, looking around despite the fact that they were alone, before sighing. 'They're not bad, honestly. I've had worse, plus they're professional in front of students and parents, which is what's most important. Other than that, they can think what they want about me… but I still try to be more agreeable when I can.'

Shoto's frown deepened.

'Have you done or said anything to warrant their dislike, other than be quirkless?'

After all these years, Izuku still held back a flinch at that word.

'I mumble a lot and can come across as fake and a try-hard.' He offered weakly. 'I have ASD too, which doesn't help.'

'So do I, but that doesn't affect how they see me.' Shoto responded bluntly and, well, that admission made a lot of sense, thinking about it. 'They're quirkist bastards and you owe them nothing.'

For the second time that day, Izuku was fighting back tears from something Shoto had said. He probably looked like a crybaby—hell, he was a crybaby—and yet he wasn't met with any judgement.

'Thank you, Shoto-san.' He swallowed thickly, flashing him a wobbly smile. 'That means a lot.'

The hero nodded his head in acknowledgement, but otherwise said nothing while Izuku regained his composure.

At a loss for what to say, he let out a wet chuckle. 'You're such a good hero.'

'I sure hope so.' Shoto's lips pulled into a small smile as he echoed Izuku's own words. 'Otherwise I'd be in the wrong profession.'

Despite himself, Izuku snorted out a laugh that reverberated through the staff room.

'That's true.' He giggled, feeling some semblance of confidence return. 'Yet I haven't even asked you for an autograph. My inner fanboy is ashamed.'

'Well, let's remedy that.' Shoto replied nonchalantly. 'You have a pen?'

Izuku's eyes bugged out and he hastily retrieved his journal, fishing a pen out from his hair in the process. When he presented them, however, he registered the surprise on the hero's face at seeing a book dedicated solely to him.

'Ah… I'd explain, but I got nothing. It's exactly what it looks like.' Izuku was bright red and sweating. 'Documenting heroes has always been my favourite hobby—strategies, fighting styles, strengths and weaknesses—even after I was told I could never become one. Sorry if it makes you uncomfortable… a lot of people find it creepy.'

Shoto shook his head, before gently taking it from him.

'I'm not uncomfortable. Any preference where you want me to sign?' When Izuku hesitantly pointed to the inside cover, he clicked the pen and wrote, keeping the message a secret. Once finished, dichromatic eyes glanced at the rest of the page, which probably showed the list of contents and page numbers. 'You're really thorough.'

'Ah… yeah, sorry.'

'Don't be. It's a good thing.' Shoto closed the journal and handed it back to Izuku. 'I hope one day you'll let me read through it. Maybe I'll learn something.'

'Of c-course!' He hugged the book close to his chest, thinking about all the little doodles that would betray his crush. 'It just needs a little… editing first.'

'Mhm.' Shoto regarded him for a moment, before turning away. 'Well, I best be on my way to the next class before the bell rings. It was a pleasure talking to you, Midoriya-sensei.'

'Y-You too!' Izuku exclaimed, bowing low in response to the hero's little wave. Once he heard the door close, he straightened up and frantically opened the journal, only to immediately baulk. 'Holy All Might.'

From one hero to another,

Shoto

090-XXX-XXXX (I trust you won't post this anywhere)

Izuku was glad the school bell drowned out his ecstatic squeal. It didn't even occur to him that Todoroki never did come to collect Shoto from the staff room.