#yeah yeah at home i have to deal with my dad but i’d rather do that than be around my annoying ass roommates who pretend i don’t exist

[livvyofthelake]

been tired as FUCK lately so i have straight up not been watching movies but if i don’t see alex tonight i’m literally going to scream. not to be dramatic.

[cranberrymoons]

have a happy holiday

prompt: modern au (@steddieholidaydrabbles) word count: 577 rated: t

welcome to Day 16 of the fic advent calendar – bite-sized fics posting every day during the month of december. enjoy!

The airport’s a complete mess.

He knew it would be. It’s three days before Christmas; obviously it’s going to be a mess, but still, he’d hoped that if they beat traffic getting here, then they’d have time to actually get to their gate without running and then he wouldn’t be so wound up and stressed out before even stepping on the plane and –

Anyway.

“It’s going to be fine,” Eddie says easily, smoothing a hand over Steve’s back as they shuffle forward six inches in the security line before coming to a stop. Again. For the tenth time. “We have plenty of time.”

“I know,” Steve says, even though he doesn’t know, because they don’t. He glances down at his phone to watch the minutes turn over. “It’s just – my dad…”

“Is an asshole,” Eddie says. He smiles. “You’ve mentioned. A dozen times.”

Steve looks at him out of the corner of his eye, then shoves his phone back in his pocket. He sighs. 

“Sorry,” he says. “Just – if we miss our flight, it’s going to become my fault somehow, and I just really don’t want to deal with that at Christmas? I just want – us.” Eddie wraps a hand around his wrist and tugs him closer, and Steve lets out a sigh, shoulders coming away from his ears. “I just want it to be us.”

“You know, we don’t have to go,” Eddie says as the line shuffles forward again. “Really, if you want, we can just… head home. Do Christmas ourselves.”

Steve studies his face for a moment, a buzz starting up in his chest. Then he shakes his head, shutting the feeling down before it can get too loud.

“We have tickets. We can’t just –” He lets out a sigh, tugging on the strap of his bag. “We paid for them.”

“Yeah,” Eddie says. He widens his eyes. “We already paid for them. That doesn’t mean we have to actually use them.” He raises his eyebrows. “It’s not like they can double charge us for not getting on the plane. We didn’t even check any bags.”

Steve feels a smile twitch at the corners of his mouth. “But my dad –”

“Is an asshole,” Eddie says again. “So who cares what he thinks? We’ll just say we caught COVID or something.” He makes an exaggeratedly sad face. “So sorry to cancel on such short notice, but what can you do? It’s responsible for us to stay home, really.”

Steve laughs, pulling his bag higher up on his shoulder. “What would we do instead?”

“It’s Christmas in New York. We can do whatever we want,” Eddie says. “Coffee in pajamas, walk in the park. I’ll buy you one of those big ridiculous hot chocolate milkshakes. Whatever you want.”

“Better than the alternative,” Steve says. He narrows his eyes. “Are you being serious right now?”

“Serious about the fact that I’d rather spend Christmas fucking my boyfriend on the couch than at a dinner party with the Republican Senator from Indiana? Obviously.”

Steve’s heart does a somersault, and his smile widens. He takes a breath and glances at the line divider to their right, blocking them off from the rest of the airport. They could duck out of line right now and just –

“Okay,” Steve says before he can second-guess himself.

Eddie raises his eyebrows. “Okay?”

Steve nods, letting out a giddy little laugh. “Yeah,” he says. “Let’s go home.”

[also on ao3]

[samgirl98]

Mending a Family 53/54

Prev | Next

Danny hugged Sam and Tucker. He would miss his friends, but there was no reason to stay. His dad and family were in the other dimension. Besides, even when they destroyed the portal, they could visit with Wulf's help.

Ghostwriter, who had been stuck in the thermos with Danny, had said he would look for Wulf so that they could facilitate communication between the friends. The other ghost had gone through the portal when they let him go to tell Raven they were fine and not to call other heroes.

Thank the Ancients he did because if time was slower in Danny’s home dimension, who knows how long it’s been in the other dimension? He didn’t want Auntie Raven freaking out. They already had to think of something to explain Danny’s disappearance. They didn’t need to add heroes to the mix.

They all went to the basement. Danny was wary; he didn’t want to see the Fentons’ bodies.

He was thankful Talia had cleaned up well. There wasn’t even blood on the floors. He did idly wonder where she hid the bodies.

Don’t think about it.

“We’ll miss you, Danny, but I’m glad you found a parent that cares about you,” Sam said as she hugged him again.

“Yeah, dude, you deserve some happiness. And who knows, you might have caught up to our age again the next time we see each other. You’re so shrimpy right now,” Tucker teased.

“Hardy, har-har, Tucker.”

His friends grinned, and Danny couldn’t help but give one of his own.

“We’ll wait for Wulf. We can trade letters or try to visit each other in the Ghost Zone,” Sam said with a sad smile. “It’s not goodbye. It’s an ‘I’ll see you later’ type of deal.”

Danny nodded, “I’ll miss you guys, but…”

Danny turned to look at his dad. He was standing by Talia and Jazz. Talia was tucking Jazz’s hair behind her ear and telling her something. Jazz’s eyes were still red. Danny couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt. Jazz had killed the Fentons to save him. It was his fault.

Talia had a maternal air around her as she continued talking to Jazz. Maybe he should accept her, not as his grandmother but as part of his family. She seemed to be helping Jazz after—after what happened.

Sam brought Danny back to the present.

“Live your best life; it sounds like you’re in a great dimension.”

“It has problems, but at least I’ll be more accepted with my powers. And the best part is, no GIW or Vlad!”

“I wonder what he’s going to do when he finds out Maddie is, well, you know,” Tucker said.

Danny tried not to think about it. He ignored the renewed sense of guilt at the thought of the Fentons’ deaths.

“You guys should go; we’re going to blow up this place and the portal. We don’t want anyone to think it was your fault.”

They hugged one last time, and then they were gone. It saddened Danny to see his friends leave, but he didn’t regret his decision. Besides, it was, as Sam said, it wasn’t goodbye.

“Are you sure about this, Danny lad? We can stay here. I have no problem leaving it all behind and, umph.”

Danny had tackled his father, “You’re silly, dad. I’ll miss my friends, but we can always visit. This dimension has left a bad taste in my mouth. I’d rather be home.”

Danny saw Batman and Nightwing’s tense shoulders relax from the corner of his eyes. Danny ignored them. They had been the main cause of his dad’s pain.

“Danny, chum, stop.”

“I’m not doing anything, daddy,” Danny said innocently. Okay, so maybe he wasn’t completely ignoring the two men. And maybe glaring at one of the founding members of the Justice League with glowing eyes wasn’t the best idea, but he couldn’t help it.

Dad laughed and hugged Danny, “I love you, chum, so much.”

“I love you, too.”

“I hate to break up this sweet father-son moment, but it’s time to leave,” Jazz said in a hollow voice, “I set the portal to blow up in ten minutes. That should give us enough time to get far enough away from it.”

“And you’re sure this explosion will stay isolated to the basement,” Batman asked. Which okay, it was a valid question, but why couldn’t someone less annoying have asked?

Jazz turned toward him, “Yes, I’m sure. It’ll only take out the basement and the portal. Nothing or no one else will be affected. Also, I know that you copied the data on the computer. I want to receive a copy. And that isn’t up to negotiation, Batman.”

“Busted,” Nightwing murmured.

“Seriously, old man?” Danny grinned at his dad’s pissed-off tone.

“Of course, I’m…sorry that I didn’t ask before doing so.”

“Somehow, I doubt that. Let’s go.”

Dad glared at Batman one last time before walking through the portal. It was time to go home.

____

Jazz drank a hot cup of tea as she watched the sun move across the sky. Ellie was sleeping beside her in a baby bouncer.

Thankfully, by the time they returned home, they had only been gone the whole night and part of the morning. They had made up a story about looking for Danny in the woods behind the school all night and having found him. The official story was that Danny had followed a kitten into the woods and gotten lost. It hurt Danny’s pride a little, but they had to come up with something.

The police had notified the school officials, and by midday, everyone knew Danny had been found.

Even Avril had shown up to make sure they had been fine.

“I’m so glad little Danny is well,” she crouched down to Danny, “Don’t follow animals into the woods anymore, sweetie; it could have ended so much worse. Oh, Sarah was so worried.”

Jazz couldn’t tell if the woman was being sincere or not, but they were all too tired to care about her.

After their statement had been taken, the little family went back home. Raven had picked up Ellie, and Jazz had wanted to hold her little girl after the shitty day she had.

They had let Bruce and Dick stay the day so they could rest. Bruce had overstepped his boundaries but still helped get Danny back. He even gave Jazz the drive and asked if he could review the information.

Jazz and Jason could let the two men rest at their home.

Jazz had been too restless to sleep, so she had offered her bed to Dick while Bruce had taken Jason’s. Jason had gone to sleep with Danny in Danny’s room. Raven had gone home but promised to return with Roy and Lian the next day.

Jazz took another sip of her tea, Ellie’s soft snores calming her nerves.

She let time pass her by without any real thoughts, which was her excuse for not noticing Talia until she put something wrapped in a white cloth in front of her.

It took Jazz a moment to recognize the shape of the item. It was a knife. Jazz’s blood ran cold.

“I doubt you would want to keep it, but I had to ask before taking that decision away from you,” Talia said.

Jazz took the wrapped dagger in her hands. Although it was clean, she swore she saw red specks on the cloth.

“It’s Danny’s; you should ask him.”

Coward, she thought to herself, making Danny decide is a cowardly move.

Talia put her manicured hand on top of Jazz’s, “It’s yours now, Jasmine. I can take it away, and you’ll never see it again, but you have to decide.”

For a while, only Ellie’s soft snores punctured the silence.

Jazz put the dagger down.

“I want to keep it, as weird as it sounds.”

That dagger was her partner in crime. Probably the only other thing that could understand her. After all, it had helped Jazz take Jack Fenton’s life.

Jazz tried not to think too deeply about her keeping a souvenir of her first kill.

She laughed hysterically: did she really think ‘first?’

Talia squeezed Jazz’s hand. “Jasmine, I am not a perfect mother or person, but I want to be here for you. I want to help you through this.”

Jazz looked at Talia and said sincerely, “You have helped me. Thank you.”

She got up and hugged the woman. Talia tensed with surprise before putting her arms around Jazz.

Jazz would get through this. She could try to find a therapist who specialized in PTSD, or she could ask Talia to find one who wouldn’t report her to the authorities and lock her up.

She would not let this consume her. Jazz had her future ahead of her; the Fentons had taken enough of her past, and they would not have her future either.

Hey everyone, just one more chapter to go through, and I'll finish this fic. I actually have tears in my eyes. I can't believe it's almost over 😭

[admrlthundrbolt]

Reckless Paradise (Silco x Chubby Reader)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Having a food cart in the Undercity could be boring. But having Jinx as a regular customer made for interesting moments. When she has a fight with her father and comes to you for comfort. Well Silco thinks it's time to meet the person that his daughter always seems to run to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey guys, I'm back at it again. So I just watched Arcane and fell in love with Silco. That of course means that he became my immediate muse and needed a story written. Anyways I hope you enjoy.

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

Jinx slammed a fist against his desk. “I just don’t understand why I can’t go to the meetings.”

Silco sighed. “Because your not old enough.” He gave the thirteen year old girl an irritated look. “We’ve been over this, it’s not safe for you.”

Her eyes began to water. Not wanting to let him see how upset she was, she ran out of the room.

As he watched her go his heart panged with sadness. It was always a hard task to tell her no.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rushing down the street, she went to the only other place that felt safe. Your food cart was outside of the brothel. Joking that the workers there were the ones that needed a good meal the most. This logic kept your pots empty and pockets full. It also came with the bonus of the bouncer looking out for you. Something you were going to snub your nose at.

So to see one of your favorite customers stomping over to you. It was a sight to behold. The small blue haired teen was in a mood you rarely saw her in. Sneaking into your secret stash of fresh fruit. Something you kept on hand for her. You started peeling and slicing, as she plopped down on a stool.

“How's my favorite customer doin'?”

Folding her arms onto the edge of the cart, she laided her head on top of them. “Fine.”

As you put the final piece of fruit in the bowl you sighed in a exaggerated way. “To bad. I suppose I could trade this bowl of fresh fruit for a bit more information.”

She perked up at the offer, but raised her eyebrows in suspicion. “How much do I have to tell you?”

With a shrug you said. “Enough to make you get it off your chest.” Then you stuck out your hand. “Deal?”

A smile spread across her face and she shook your hand. “Now give up the fruit.”

Chortling at her demand, you slid the bowl to her. Then listen to her complain about her dad. You could see both sides of the argument. A kid that wanted to make her father proud. On the other hand a dad trying to keep his daughter safe. It was a tricky situation to say the least.

“I can’t stand when he treats me like a kid. When is he gonna take me seriously.” Her eyes began to water again.

Leaning forward you put a hand on her head, ruffling her hair. “I know you don’t want to hear this, but he just wants to protect you." She gave you a hard look, still you continued. “That being said, you should always know that you’re welcome here.”

Her grin returned, only to dampen. “Yeah, you’re probably right.”

Putting a hand on your hip, you smiled brightly. “Of course I am. You can make up when you get back home.” Wiping down the cart top, you put away the last of your wares.

Shaking her head feverishly, she stayed glued to the stool. “Nuh uh, I’d rather sleep on the streets tonight.”

Bitting your lip, you thought through the options. Only one solution seemed the way to go. “I can’t let you sleep in a random ally. Come on, were going to have a sleepover.”

Jumping up, she helped you finish packing up and push your cart home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He paced behind his desk, eyes occasionally darting between the door and window. Where could she be, it's getting late. The door opened, only for Sevika to walk through.

Her eyes looked over him and she scoffed. “She's still not back.”

He grumbled under his breath. “No, obviously not.”

Rolling her eyes at the boss’ mood, she nodded her head towards the window. “I'll go look for her, anything to calm you down.” Going back through the door she barely caught his last comment.

“As you should.”

She could hear the worry bubbling up, so she let it slide.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bring a spare blanket and pillow to the couch, you set up a temporary bed. As Jinx skipped towards you, you gave her a mock glare. “Did you brush your teeth?”

She nodded with a frown. “The paste tasted weirded.” Then jumped onto the couch.

Tucking her under the blanket you laughed. “Sorry I only have mint. Now off to bed, need to rest up if you want to help me with the cart tomorrow.” This got her to settle down quickly. Brushing a bit of hair, that wouldn't fit into the braids you gave her, you turned off the lights.

Doing your own nightly routine, you were bombarded by thoughts of the girl lying on your couch. You tried to look after anyone that needed it, but Jinx was a special case. She had been through so much tragedy in her young life. She also had a habit of clinging to you after a fight with her father.

A sudden knock at your door startled you from your pondering. Waiting a moment, hoping it was someone at the wrong place. But as another louder knock sounded, you made your way over to the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sevika grunted in annoyance and glare into the distance. It didn't take long, after asking around, to find out where the brat had gone. A food cart that hangs around the brothel. The only problem was no one would tell her where you lived. How was she supposed to question you if nobody would give up your location.

After more time than she would like to admit, someone spilled the info. It was a useless little welp that often gets thrown out of the brothel for wanting free services. He called you a stuck up bitch, because you wouldn't give him the time of day. So he was all to happy to direct her to your home.

Now that she was in front of your door, she hoped this would be simple from here on out.

Though when the door opened it wasn't at all what she expected. There you stood plump and with prominent laugh lines on your face. You looked all of a motherly type. So the frown on your face as you stared at her seemed out of place on you.

“Can I help you?”

She glanced past you and her eyes widen as she spotted the girl. Pointed her out, she said. “I'm here for her.” Seeing you block her view, by closing the door a bit, she added. “Bosses orders.”

Narrowing your eyes at her, you flashed a look over at the kid. Stepping outside of the doorway, you quietly closed the door behind you. “I'm not sure who your boss is, but I can make a guess.” You placed your hands on your hips as an exasperated expression sat on your face. “Look she's already asleep and doesn't want to go home. Do you really want to carry her back kicking and screaming.”

She cringed at the thought, the brat was bad enough in a good mood. Giving you another once over, she thought back on her search for you. Not one person had a bad thing to say about you. Plus if the brat was comfortable staying with you, what was the harm.

“Tell you what, my cart is set up at the brothel. Why don't you let her father know that he can pick her up to his leisure there tomorrow. I'm sure the gesture would make a better impression on her than dragging her home.”

You made a good point. So with a shrug and a smirk she said. “I'll let him know the situation. But I can't guarantee that I won't be sent back to kick in your front door.”

Putting your hands up in a sign of peace you shook your head. “No need, if he insisted I'll let you in. I just think him picking her up would mean a lot. Be it tonight or tomorrow.”

With a nod she starts making her way back to Silco. Only to stop after a few steps and turn back to you. “You know you have quite the reputation around here. Made it more of a challenge than I would have liked to find you."

This caused a sheepish smile to settle on your lips. “It helps when you can provide a hot meal.”

Her smirk deepened. “Maybe"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When she got back to the office he was half asleep in his chair. Slamming the door shut, she quietly snickered as he jump in his seat.

“Wha.” He scanned the room and glared as his eyes landed on her.

She couldn't help but noticed how the look fit much better on him than you. “I found Jinx.”

Glancing around her, his visage swapped to one of confusion. “Well, where the hell is she.” He gestured about her and grew more agitated.

Folding her arms across her chest she slid onto the chair before the desk. “With a food vendor that sets up shop in front of the brothel.”

Rubbing his temples, he tried to kept his temper in check. “And you didn't bring her back because?”

“The woman made to many good points.” She then launch into a recap of her conversation with you.

As the explanation was given, he couldn't help but agreed with you on most points. What he didn't like was you not giving him his daughter. How dare you keep what belongs to him, even if it was for only a night. He could tell by the way that Sevika spoke of you, it seemed you had garnered her respect. Which was a hard won thing to achieve. “Do you agree with her?”

This caused her to pause. Then realize that even if it wasn't what he wanted to hear, the truth was her answer. “Yes, she has the trust of the common folk and Jinx. Trying to disrupt either could result in negative backlash.”

He had to consciously unclenched his jaw. It was a thought out and comprehensive analysis. But not what he wanted to consider. “I suppose that given the situation, a little time apart could do us some good. Does she seem of the trustworthy sort.” His scrutinizing gaze rested firmly on her. Taking in any body language that may betray her thoughts.

“In all honesty, I didn't hear a single bad thing about her. Except that waste Mitch, but his opinion matters as much as a sewer rat's. It's like she's made herself a positive facet in the tunnels of the Undercity.” Placing her hands on the arm rest she leaned forward. “She might even be able to help with getting through Jinx's teenage years. Having some one she can confided in that's outside of the family business. Someone that you could keep in your back pocket for times such as these.”

The suggestion made his hackles fully lower. That could be a great boon in helping keep his daughter in line. For the first time that night he smiled. “Yes, it may be the right moment for me to meet this vendor. I will be freeing up tomorrow morning to gather Jinx from this woman.”

Nodding she had to restrain herself from smirking. She had a feeling that this meeting would be an entertaining event, to say the least.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

He walked down the street with his usual swagger. The past couple of years had his reputation skyrocketing. Taking shimmer from a small lab to a large scale production had made him a respected yet feared person.

Still it seemed there were people like you. People who weren't under the thrall of his power. So to say he was taken aback at seeing you for the first time, would be an understatement.

Your cart was homey and decorated with many personal touches. There were a few plants hanging about the canopy. Odd sizes of seating set up in front of a bench attached to the cook top. Jinx was next to you, listening to you give her patient instructions.

Then there was you. Comfortable casual clothing clung to your plump body in an alluring manner. Your cheeks were flush with effort as you mixed together a bowl of ingredients. A beaming smile made him glance away, for fear your brightened expression would blind him.

He pauses and took a moment to gather himself. This was not at all the type of senerio he saw himself stepping into.

You noticed movement not to far from your cart and glanced towards it. It wasn't hard to realize it was Silco, Jinx's father. The marred eye was his biggest giveaway. Still you couldn't help taking in his lithe figure and handsome angular features. You had no idea that such a tantalizing treat was scouring the Undercity, right under your nose too.

It was a few moments later that he heard his daughter call him over. Putting on his best face he made his way over to the pair. “Hello Jinx, how pleasant to see you this morning.” He was hoping the jab would be understood.

She looked up at him with excitement as she flipped the cooking batter. “Hi, can you believe how good this smells. I've never had breakfast from here.” She turn her attention back to the cook top and continued flipping.

“Well thank you honey. I'm glad that you feel that way." Facing him you nodded your head at the seats. “Take a seat, it won't be long before it's ready.”

He was grateful for the invitation. She was right about the smell, it was heavenly. “I believe I will take you up on that. My daughter didn't give you to much trouble, did she?”

Shaking your head with a chuckle, you began to plate up some fresh fruit and hot cakes. “Not at all. If anything she's been a great help. Didn't even complain about waking early to set up the cart.”

She perked up and jumped onto the seat next to him. “Yeah, we were out here before the morning rush. You should have seen all the people that came by.” She began shoving food in by the shovelful.

Noticing a plate had also been slid in front of him, he took a bite. It was delicious, the pairing of the lightly dressed fruit and warm pillowy cakes. He hadn't enjoyed a meal this much in a long time. Finishing the dish faster than he would have liked to admit, he couldn't keep his gaze from you.

You moved with such practiced precision behind the cook top. The way you wielded your knife made him believe you could transition into a proper assassin easily. But as he looked over at his daughter, smiling and chatting with you. He knew that you were in a better postition here.

Finishing the delectable dish he brushed away any debris from himself. “Thank you for the fabulous food. But I think it's time we be on our way.” He stood, then turned to Jinx. She was disappointed, though she followed his lead.

Smiling at the duo you held out a container filled to the brim with various items. “Here's something for the road. And I don't want either of you to hesitate to come back either.” Winking at the pair, your smile widened at the happiness on the kid’s face.

Nodding at you, he hoped his expression didn’t show how flustered he was. You were stirring feeling in him that he hadn’t felt in quite some time. “We will have to do this again then, Mrs….”

A more alluring cast settled on your face. Full attention landing on him you said. “Actually it's Miss (Y/N).” Holding out your hand, you gave his a healthy lingering shake.

Keeping a calm appearance he released your hand. “A pleasure, until next time.” Walking away with Jynx, as she called out her goodbyes. He couldn't help glancing back. Only to be shocked at your eyes raking over his own figure. Your gaze met after a few moments and you gave him a heated look. The spell broke as his daughter yanked him forward, going on about how much fun she had with you. It had him thinking about all the fun times that you and he could have together. But that would come in time. For now he would enjoy you through the stories Jinx were telling.

[lovelyladyabsinthewrites]

Always Safest Near the Sea

Pairing: Percy Jackson x Demigod!Reader

Warnings: hurt&comfort, conflicted feelings, siblingxsibling implied, aphrodite meddling with poor kids, mentions of car accident, death

Words: 1,014

Summary: You always found it odd when your grandparents had told you "It's always safest near the sea". Normally children were told the exact opposite. Or had they known all along about your true parentage?

Cabin 3 was quiet except for Tyson’s loud snoring and the soft trickling of the fountain at the far end of the cabin. Tyson had been the only happy one to find out that you were his sister. Everyone else. . . They treated you like a pariah. Especially Percy who you had been growing close to.

You burrow deeper into your blankets as despair entrapped you. You missed the Hermes cabin, you felt awfully lonely.

To learn that you shouldn’t have even been born. . . It was enough to bring tears to your eyes. All the friends you had acquired were distant now as they stared at you. Daughter of Poseidon. There was no joy in your father having claimed you. You wished he had just ignored you. That would have been the considerate thing to do.

You missed your grandparents who had done their best to raise you; not knowing about your paternal parentage. Your mother had died when you were just a toddler, never getting the chance to tell you the truth. That was if she even knew herself.

Deciding that sleep would not have you that night, you peeled your covers off of you and quietly left the cabin to go down to the beach. The night was cool and calming as you sit on the sand. Camp Half-Blood didn’t feel like home anymore.

“I’d rather have Hermes as a dad.” You told the ocean bitterly, hoping it would carry the message to your father. The longer you watched the lazy waves, the angrier you got.

“I felt like that in the beginning too.” Came Percy’s voice from behind you. “But I wouldn’t say that out loud. Don’t want to upset. . . our dad.”

You just glare at him as he sheepishly stood there, his black hair blending with the black backdrop of night. “Oh, you’re finally talking to me?”

Immediately he flushes and stumbles over his words. “I-I deserve that. . .”

Hugging your knees to your chest, you hid your tear streaked face. “I thought all of you were my friends. Then you just turned on me. That hurt. A lot.”

The sand quiets his footsteps as he draws closer to you. “I know. (y/n) I’m so soryr. It’s been a shock to everyone. I should have known better. They treated me like that too when dad claimed me. And then when Tyson came along. . . I didn’t deal with that well either.” Swiftly Percy sits next to you, careful to leave a distance between. “Everything is just so confusing now.”

You lift your head up to rest your chin on your knees. In a slow fashion, your fingers were mindlessly weaving themselves through the soft sand.

A sigh fills the air like a passing breeze. “This is why Annabeth calls me Seaweed Brain. Can you forgive me?”

Going through this would be easier if you had both of your brothers by your side. Delicate music that the water played in the background. It always soothed your tempers.

Always safest near the sea.

Odd that your grandparents would tell that to you. Had. . . Had they known? Or was it one huge coincidence. Normally children were told the opposite. “Stay away from the water” should have been what your grandma yelled at you that one day. Like many demigods, you were a rambunctious child. Filled with endless energy and not being able to sit still, your grandma and grandpa had surprised you to a trip to the beach. The painful hours spent in the car was worth it when you finally arrived. Personally you didn’t remember much as it was years ago. Bits here and there, but not everything. You remember her words though.

They ended up proving true. Ultimately it saved your life.

“You found me here.” You quietly whisper.

Percy nods and looked out to the calm surface. “Yeah. I had this nagging feeling that I should go to the shore that night.” Deep green eyes flick nervously over to you. “Guess now we know why.”

It had been several weeks since Percy had found you there. Having thought you were a mermaid for a moment, he realized that you were just unconscious. You had woken up to identical green eyes. That’s when you had remembered what had happened.

You and your grandparents were taking another trip to the beach. Excited that it was finally summer and you could go to the beach, you grew antsy in the car. Temporarily distracted by your CD player, you were spared the sight of the monster that came barreling into the side of the car. Straight into the sand. They screamed at you to get in the water as fast as you could and instructed you not to look back. Bleeding and stumbling through tears you did so. Immediately the waves swallowed you whole.

The warmth of Percy’s hand on top of your’s made you look up at him past your lashes. “Things will get better. I promise.”

As Percy said that, something fell into the pit of his stomach. His rotten luck that the girl he had developed a small crush on was his sister. A snake of shame coils itself into tight knots inside of him. Amidst the chaos in his life, (y/n) had come out of nowhere and reminded Percy that he wasn’t just a demigod, but still a growing adolescent who deserved fun every once in a while too. He laughed more around (y/n) and enjoyed being a playful boy around his crush.

But. . . He had to forget about what he had felt for her. There was no place for such feelings now that he knew she was his half-sister.

Aphrodite seemed to have other plans for Percy though. Looking at (y/n) now, he still felt the same tug in his chest and the fluttering in his cheeks. The goddess of love wasn’t letting him off that easily. To Aphrodite, this would be the romance story of the century; greater and more impossible than that of Helen and Paris.

It would prove to be equally as tragic as well.

[jujumin-translates]

★ Main Story | Act 13 - Budding Spring | Chapter 14 - New RomiJuli

Masumi: (My next lecture was moved to Building A…)

Masumi: ?

Masumi: (Recruitment for summer internships, huh… Usually third years are the ones doing this kind of thing, though.)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

*Flashback*

Misaki: “Now’s not the time to be so leisurely. Students who are seriously considering things have their eyes set on getting an internship from the moment they enroll.”

*Flashback end*

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Masumi: …

Masumi: (Dad’s company’s name is on the list of companies that have done well in the past…)

Masumi: (Now that I think about it, they do have a promotion department. Maybe I can learn something useful for Director there.)

Masumi: (I could probably ask Dad to get me in, but…)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

*Flashback*

Izumi: “I appreciate the sentiment, but that requires a certain amount of knowledge to do, and right now you need to focus on yourself and Spring Troupe’s performance rather than on me, Masumi-kun.”

*Flashback end*

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Masumi: …

Mizuno: Now then, if you’ll excuse me.

Mizuno: Huh?

Masumi: Ah…

Mizuno: Hello. I didn’t know you were a Fuyou University student.

Masumi: Why are you at the Career Center?

Mizuno: Our company will be accepting interns this year. I came to do a briefing session regarding that.

Masumi: You’re the one doing that kind of thing?

Mizuno: I want to gain as much experience as I can while I’m still young, so I like to go around to all different kinds of departments.

Mizuno: It’d be rather troublesome if I didn’t know anything about the company when I eventually take over.

Masumi: …Do you really have to do that right now? Doesn’t it take up your free time as a college student?

Mizuno: It’s not necessarily a matter of having to do it. For me, it’s in part because I was interested in doing it to begin with.

Mizuno: But I’m glad I’m doing this because it lets me help the people I care about.

Masumi: …I see.

Mizuno: Seems like it’s a bit of a rough time for theater companies, with the details of the new Fleur Award having been announced.

Mizuno: If there’s anything I can do to help, please do let me know.

Masumi: Okay… Ah, the script’s been going well for Tsuzuru. He’s even more fired up than usual and he’s not overworking himself either.

Mizuno: Huh?

Masumi: It’s payment for answering my questions.

Mizuno: Thank you very much. I’m looking forward to your next performance.

Masumi: (Tsuzuru’s making good progress, so I’m sure it’s almost time to…)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Tsuzuru: …What do you think?

Izumi: It’s really interesting! It definitely feels like a new RomiJuli!

Izumi: I had my ideas of what a RomiJuli sequel might be, but I never even considered something like this.

Izumi: What I like the most is that Sakuya-kun, Masumi-kun, and Chikage-san all have--.

Sakuya: We all have two roles!?

Sakuya: I’ve never had two roles as the lead before, but it seems like it’ll be a really fun challenge!

Masumi: It’s definitely something we couldn’t have done back during our first performance.

Izumi: For sure. It really feels like something we could only do now that we’ve made it this far.

Itaru: So there’s more characters this time because it’s set both in the past and the present in Verona?

Chikage: I never thought I’d be playing a role that connects the past to the present. I’ve got quite the responsibility.

Sakuya: It’s kinda fitting of you, in a way, Chikage-san!

Izumi: That’s definitely true.

Citron: I am happy that I have many more lines~!

Itaru: The two who ran away coming back all grown up is a simple approach, but definitely heartwarming.

Tsuzuru: This was my first time doing a sequel, so I wasn’t entirely sure what direction to take, but I wanted it to be something that deals with the root of the main conflict.

Tsuzuru: I thought that a happy ending after the two return home from their trip would be the most Spring Troupe-like conclusion for it.

Izumi: Yeah, I think it’s a very Spring Troupe-like RomiJuli sequel. Let’s get some copies together right aw--.

Tsuzuru: Ah, wait… I’d like to watch the rehearsals a bit more to get a better feel for things, so can we hold off on that?

Izumi: Alright, we’ll go ahead without printing the script in full. No matter how long it takes, let’s make this into something Tsuzuru-kun’s satisfied with.

Masumi: Fine. It’ll let Sakuya and Tsuzuru be more flexible with things considering how they’re “like that” now.

Tsuzuru: You don’t have to emphasize “like that” so much.

Sakuya: Ahaha, that is true.

Tsuzuru: Well, whatever, I’ll take it as a compliment.

Izumi: (I think we’re finally starting to see our usual Spring Troupe again.)

Izumi: (They were so nervous about the Fleur Award rankings, so it’s good to see them like this again.)

Izumi: (Let’s just hope all our preparations continue smoothly all the way up until the performance…)

[ ⇠ Previous Part ] • [ Next Part ⇢ ]

[punks-never-die205]

Hey 😊, thanks alot. I really enjoy reading your answers. They're so much fun. 🥰😁 A very different question: would you tell us sth about yourself? I mean your age, your profession (are you a professional writer would interest me) for example and how you get to like the Kid Pirates so much. 😊

Awww how sweet, sure anon - I’m pretty open about my age on my main blog, which is linked in the pinned post for this, so I don’t mind sharing some stuff.

I am an Ancient Internet Being - I was a netizen in 1993, when my dad got a home computer for me for Christmas. AOL was the new big deal, and yeah. It was a time.

Anyway, I was 12 then and I’m 42 now - gonna have a big birthday request bash again this year on the main blog to celebrate hitting 43 this July. (I celebrate my age without shame because “old” is a privilege and I look forward to actually getting there in 20 years)

By day I’m a mild-mannered pun slinging tech liaison of sorts for my team. I do a lot of translating between IT and Business, and I do some tech work too. I have down time at work cause when things compile or meetings stall out there’s not much else to do.

I’m a rock star though, by my boss’ own admission, so I have the great luck of not being stressed and being able to write a bit during work.

I was once a professional writer, but that was… not my best time, honestly. I’m not cut out for it xD I’d rather write fanfic honestly, or do a re-write of my OG story and have it be what I wanted.

Fun fact, I guess, I don’t have a degree of any kind. I was working toward a criminal psychology degree out of high school, dropped out, worked, went back to college to get an IT degree - ended up with cancer, withdrew and spent all my college savings money on surgery instead of school and ended up finding a solid job.

Went back to college a THIRD time, had a 4.0, was rocking being on the dean’s list and then work changed our hours, and I had to withdraw again. (I had 12 credit hours and was working 56 hours a week - don’t do that. It’s fucking nuts.)

Just wasn’t in the cards.

I almost got denied a job because the hiring manager thought no degree meant I wouldn’t be able to compose emails, despite two published books….

But things are good now \o/

Oh! And the Eustass Kid - ah I got into OP April 2022 (my return to fan fic was October 2022 \o/ ) and fell in love with the entire show. My focus moved from Luffy to Zoro to Law at Shabody.

Sir Crocodile coming back in at Marineford got my full and undivided attention, but then I read a reader insert story with Kid in it. Went back and rewatched scenes for him and really paid attention and was hooked.

I loved everything alluded to about him, the personality, the view point he had. Post time skip he bulked out and that voice just grabbed me by the throat.

I couldn’t ignore him xD

Marco, Kid, Crocodile we’re pretty much it, but I love writing so many characters 😄 hell I have like 8 sideblogs to keep all the stories organized.

Kid is a beast of a character though, and I love him, and then I met people because of that and that love grew. Seriously Check out @swampstew - she’s passionate about the crew even more than me and I love what she writes.

@wyvernslovecake has an amazingly cute OC for the crew and lots of stuff about them.

I could list a dozen more, but you asked about me so I’ll reign it in for now. 🥰

[asordinaryppl]

A3! Performance Event - Winter Troupe's Tenth Play: Nomadic Bartender - Episode 9

!! this and the next chapter are the play, while not currently voiced, reading along in game will offer a better understanding of a lot of actions that aren't perfectly described through text alone

Guy: …

Hisoka: He said he wants another glass of “Journey”.

Guy: Got it.

Hisoka: …

Guy: Is something wrong?

Hisoka: I’m glad you got to meet your dad again.

Guy: It’s all thanks to your encouragement. Because of what you told me, I was able to be honest with him.

Hisoka: I’m glad…

Hisoka: … Your dad said that…

Hisoka: Even if you had forgotten about him, the most important thing was that you were happy.

Hisoka: … August might have felt that way too.

Hisoka: In a dream, he told me that forgetting would be easier. But it was a dream, so I don’t know if that’s how he’d really feel…

Hisoka: Maybe wanting me to forget everything and live a new, happier life was a gift from August, in a way.

Hisoka: I’m sure Whizz wanted Gin to be happy, too. Away from the dangerous world of the wizards.

Hisoka: I think that he chose to erase Gin’s memories because his happiness was important to him, even if it meant Gin would forget all about him.

Guy: … That might be what it is.

Guy: I think I understand, now that I heard my father’s words.

-

Izumi: It’s finally the opening day.

Tsumugi: Guy-san’s acting has gotten even better ever since he reunited with his father.

Izumi: Guy-san and Hisoka-san managed to drastically improve the last scene.

Guy: …

Homare: You are invincible because you have strong allies by your side.

Guy: You’re right. I was able to reunite with my father because I had all of you supporting me.

Guy: I never thought the day when I would be able to look at him and call him Dad once again would come.

Guy: I’m truly grateful.

Guy: Today, I would like to show my father a play that depicts my and my precious friends’ growth as actors. I will be in your care.

Homare: Leave it to us.

Tsumugi: This time, let’s show him Guy-san the actor, rather than the barkeep.

Tasuku: I’m certain it’ll make him happy.

Azuma: Come, let’s go.

Hisoka: … Let’s do our best, as we usually do.

Guy: Yeah.

-

[Buzzer sounds, the curtain lifts]

Gin (Hisoka): “Haah… Guess it’s about time. I should just start drinking everything by myself. Once I’m done, I’ll close up shop for good.”

[Door opening]

Whizz (Guy): “Hello.”

Gin: “!! Welcome!”

Whizz: “ ——”

Gin: “Um? Is something wrong?”

Whizz: “I’d like to work here.”

Gin:  “Oh, what… I’m sorry, but we’re not hiring at the moment.”

[Door opening]

Whizz: “Welcome.”

Gin: “Listen to me–”

Customer: “Hello?”

Gin: “Huh? What? You’re a customer for real? W-Welcome!”

Customer: “This is my first time here. So please give me a drink you’d recommend.”

Whizz: “Right away.”

Gin: “Hold on a sec, why’re you–”

[Whizz takes off his jacket]

Whizz: “...”

[Shake, shake, magic sparkles]

Gin: “!?”

Customer: “Woah, that’s quite the performance.”

Whizz: “Thank you for waiting. This is a Gin Fizz.”

Customer: “A Gin Fizz? Haven’t heard of that one before…”

Customer: “But it’s got a refreshing look, and it’s tasty. For some reason, it reminds me of my hometown. Ah, it’s the smell of lime…”

Gin: “Sir? Are you alright?”

Customer: “... Sorry. I started remembering all sorts of things...”

Customer: “I haven’t gone back home in a while. I’m thinking of going to see my parents.”

Customer: “Okay, with that decided, I’ve got to start packing. Thanks for the drink, it was delicious.”

Whizz: “Thank you for your patronage.”

Customer: “It was my first time here, but this is a nice place. I’ll come again.”

Gin: “Th-Thank you very much!”

[Door closes]

Gin: “That customer even left some gold coins…!”

Whizz: “He may be in disguise, but judging by his appearance, that man was a noble.”

Gin: “... I dunno about your flashy, traveling performer way of making drinks, but those skills of yours are the real deal.”

Gin: “How do you feel about going through a trial period for a while?”

Whizz: “I’ll be in your care. My name is Whizz.”

Gin: “I’m Gin, the owner. I look forward to working with you.”

Izumi: (Both Guy-san and Hisoka-san seem very motivated. As you’d expect of them, they look very natural standing next to each other in a store.)

-

[Door opening]

Gibson (Tasuku): “Good evening.”

Whizz: “Welcome.”

Gibson: “So there really is a shop in a place like this.”

Gin: “It’s a little hard to find, isn’t it.”

Gibson:  “My friend lives nearby. He heard from an acquaintance that a new shop opened ‘round these parts, so I came to check it out. Looks like I made the right choice.”

Whizz: “What will you be having?”

Gibson: “Hmm, I wonder.”

Gibson: “Usually when I go out drinking, I’m with a large crowd, and we go wild on cheap drinks. But that isn’t the case today.”

Gibson: “Something I can drink slowly would be good.”

Gin: “Whizz-san makes magical cocktails that can wash away your worries.”

Gibson: “My worries?”

Gibson: “...”

Whizz: “I can make you something I’d recommend, if you’d like.”

Gibson: “Y-Yeah, please do.”

[Shake, shake, magic sparkles]

Gibson: “ —That’s amazing.”

Gin: “That’s why I said they’re magical.”

Gibson: “I see.”

Whizz: “Thank you for waiting. This is a Gibson.”

Gibson: “Hm? Is the cocktail called Gibson? What a coincidence. My name is Gibson.”

Gin: “... Is that also one of your tricks?”

Whizz: “Just a happy coincidence.”

Gibson: “Is this onion? Hmm, it’s my first time drinking it, but it’s quite dry.”

Whizz: “This drink is said to have originated from a man who didn’t like alcohol, so he floated onions in water to make it look like he was drinking.”

Gibson: “Just pretense…”

[Dream-like flashback starts]

Gibson’s father: “Congrats! You did it.”

Gibson’s mother: “Being assigned to the First Order of Knights means your future is all but guaranteed. That’s amazing, Gibson.”

Gibson’s father: “You’ve finally made it to where your brother is.”

Gibson’s mother: “You always seemed to fail right at the most crucial moments, so we were worried about how this would go.”

-

Colleague: “You can even hope you’ll get to marry an Earl’s daughter, now that you made it to the First Order of Knights. That’s gotta take a weight off your shoulder as the second son.”

Boss: “You should have your fun before you get married. But make sure you keep an eye on the people you date.”

Colleague: “This is what makes enduring those tough days of training worth it.”

Boss: “What’s with that brooding look on your face, you oughta be happy!”

Gibson: “Yeah, you’re right.”

-

Friend: “Listen to this, Gibson! My master has recognized my skill, I can open my own shop! Finally!”

Gibson: “Really? Congratulations!”

Friend: “We used to do this together all the time as kids. You were so good at it, that I thought you’d follow through with it too, but now you’re a knight.”

Gibson: “You’re pretty amazing, though. You used to say you’d open your own shop and be a supplier for the royal family, and look at yourself now.”

Friend: “Yeah, I’m one step closer to my dream.”

Friend: “But still, I’d have never thought that the Gibson who couldn’t hurt a fly and ran away from sword training would make it to the First Order.”

Gibson: “Right…”

[Dream-like flashback ends]

Gibson: “I’ve been wondering lately… Is this really what I wanted for myself?”

Gibson: “My discomfort grew every time I was praised and congratulated…”

Gibson: “I might have just been following what others thought was right for me all this time.”

Gibson: “Starting today, I will think about what I want to do, and what I should do moving onwards. I will think for myself, and walk through my life without following anyone else.”

Whizz: “Is that so?”

Gibson: “I feel like this cocktail cleared me of my doubts. It really is like magic. I will come again.”

Whizz: “Thank you for your patronage.”

Gin: “Thank you very much.”

[Door closes]

Whizz: “They do say that alcohol is the best medicine.”

Gin: “I’ve never heard that one before.”

[Door opens]

Whizz: “Welcome.”

Hunter (Tsumugi): “—gh.”

Gin: “Are you alright?”

Hunter: “I’m sorry. Could I rest here, at least for a little while?”

Gin: “Of course. Feel free to use the couch over there.”

Hunter: “Thank you so much…”

[Shake, shake, magic sparkles]

bro i rly dk what to call these

Gin: “Wouldn’t it be better if we gave him water?”

Hunter: “No, this is good.”

[Hunter collapses]

Hunter: “——”

Gin: “Sir? Are you alright!?”

Whizz: “He’s just sleeping, I believe.”

[Dream-like flashback starts]

Hunter’s wife: “Dear, dear.”

Hunter: “Mh?”

Hunter’s wife: “Shouldn’t you be going soon? Here, take this to snack on.”

Hunter: “Ah, thanks. I’ll go now. I’ll probably be back in around 3 days. It’ll be tough, but I know you can make it through.”

Hunter’s wife: “Yes. You be careful too, dear.”

Child A: “Mooom! I’m hungryyyy!”

Child B: “Dad, when are you gonna be back?”

Child C: “See you lateeer!”

Child D: “WEHHH! Big bro hit me!”

Child E: “I wanna go with you~!”

-

[Door opening]

Hunter: “I’m home…”

Hunter: “Everyone’s asleep… *sigh* I have work early tomorrow, so I should go to bed–”

Child F: “Wehhhh!”

Hunter’s wife: “Mh… You’ve been awake all night… Ah, dear, welcome back.”

Hunter: “I’ll stay up. You go and sleep.”

Hunter’s wife: “But you have to wake up early tomorrow, don’t you?”

Hunter: “It’s alright. I can get by without much sleep. I’m a hunter, after all.”

Hunter’s wife: “Fufu, how reliable. Thank you.”

Child F: “Wehhhh!”

Child G: “ Wehhhh!!”

Hunter: “Oh my, you woke up too? There, there…”

Child F: “Zzz…”

Child G: “Zzz…”

[Dream-like flashback ends]

Gin: “Sir?”

Hunter: “Ah.”

Gin: “Are you alright?”

Hunter: “I’m sorry. It seems I haven’t been sleeping enough.”

Whizz: “Here’s some water.”

Hunter: “Thank you very much. Whew…”

Hunter: “I used to make a living by hunting, but I didn’t earn enough to support my seven children like that, so I came to the capital to work.”

Hunter: “But I just can’t seem to get used to this job…”

Whizz: “It must be very lively in the house with 7 children.”

Hunter: “Yes, very. Honestly, there are times when everything is just too much, and I start worrying about whether I’ll be able to put food on the table for all of them…”

Hunter: “But, well, this isn’t something I can talk to my wife about, when she spends every waking moment taking care of our children…”

Hunter: “Thanks to sleeping earlier, though, I do feel sort of refreshed.”

Hunter: “Seeing my children’s sleeping faces in my dreams brought back some of my happiness…”

Hunter: “I want to do everything I can to raise them well.”

Whizz: “Would you like another cup?”

Hunter: “Yes, thank you very much. Um, could I also have some snacks?”

Gin: “I’m really sorry, we only serve alcohol here.”

Hunter: “Are you alright with bring-your-owns?”

Gin: “Yes, of course.”

Hunter: “That’s good. I haven’t eaten anything today…”

Gin: “They look delicious.”

Hunter: “These are the snacks I used to bring with me when I went hunting, it’s my wife’s recipe. Would you like to try one?”

Gin: “Are you sure? Thank you very much.”

Gin: “The spices work well together, it’s delicious. I suppose it’s because she cooked the meat while it was still fresh.”

Hunter: “She’ll be happy to hear that.”

Hunter: “Well then, I’ll come again some time. I’d like to come with my wife too, if possible, but I don’t know when we’ll get that chance.”

Whizz: “We will be waiting.”

Gin: “Thank you for your patronage.”

[Door closes]

Gin: “... A food menu, eh?”

-

[Door opening]

Rickey (Homare): “Good evening.”

Gin: “Welcome.”

Rickey: “So there really was a store here. I had no idea until I heard from a friend.”

Whizz: “What will you be having?”

Rickey: “Hmmm… Whatever you recommend.”

Whizz: “Coming right up.”

[Shake, shake, magic sparkles]

Gin: “... Isn’t this a little too sweet?”

Whizz: “I’ll simply make something else if it doesn’t suit his tastes.”

Rickey: “Is this lemon in carbonated water?”

Rickey: “I used to drink cocktails like this a lot back in my day. How nostalgic. I could only handle sweet drinks then.”

Rickey: “My friends used to tell me I should just drink plain carbonated water at that point.”

[Dream-like flashback starts]

Rickey: “Let’s increase our import of Western goods. The next queen and the distinguished princess’s mother is from there, after all. It’s bound to become popular in the capital.”

Associate A: “In that case, I happen to know a weaver.”

Associate B: “We should find a craftsman to create the tableware as well.”

Rickey: “If this works out for us, we should open our own shop.”

Associate A: “Yes.”

Associate B: “Let’s make it the biggest store in the capital!”

-

Subordinate A: “Rickey-san, this contract needs your approval.”

Rickey: “Ah, yes… I see no problems. You may proceed.”

Subordinate A: “Okay.”

Rickey: “By the by, how did the talks regarding Ryoran’s outlet go?”

Subordinate A: “My team is working on it. Progress is going well.”

Rickey: “I see…”

Rickey: “(My business has been growing steadily, and the number of branch locations have been increasing.)”

Rickey: “(However, all my old friends wanted to do their own thing and left. In the end, I was left by myself…)”

Rickey: “(It’s almost like the passion I had when I first opened shop has dimmed.)”

Rickey: “Whew… I should get going.”

Rickey: “Hm? There’s still a light on?”

Subordinate A: “If we want to expand our business to Ryoran, I think it’d be good for us to consider this as well.”

Subordinate B: “Quite true, the South’s culture has reached the capital, and a lot more trades have been taking place.”

Subordinate B: “Our store prides itself in its catalog of rare items.”

Subordinate A: “I’ll bring this up to Rickey-san next time.”

Subordinate B: “I will, too. I’m sure he will see the appeal!”

[Dream-like flashback ends]

Rickey: “When I was young, some friends and I opened a shop. We worked our buttocks off, and the shop quickly grew.”

Rickey: “But before I knew it, my friends started leaving, one by one. And I was eventually left alone.”

Rickey: “I thought those feelings of pushing forward that I had back then would never return.”

Rickey: “I was just reminded that I have new friends by my side.”

Rickey: “Those new friends of mine are as passionate and full of hope as I used to be…”

Rickey: “Seeing them makes me feel like there are still things I need to do.”

Rickey: “Thank you for reminding me of how I felt when I found that excitement again. I suppose this cocktail’s nostalgic taste has something to do with it.”

Whizz: “There is no need to thank me.”

Whizz: “Old friends are something you never truly forget about.”

Rickey: “It seems you also had those kinds of friends.”

Whizz: “Yes… I’ve been looking for them for quite some time, but I have not been able to find them.”

Rickey: “I’m certain you will meet again. Thank you for the drink. I will bring my new friends next time.”

Whizz: “We will be expecting you.”

[Door closes]

Gin: “I think we should close up for today soon.”

Whizz: “You’re right.”

Gin: “But still, your cocktails really do seem magical, Whizz-san.”

Gin: “Not sure if magic can be considered a compliment, though.”

Whizz: “... Perhaps so.”

Gin: “I wonder what magic actually was like?”

Gin: “I can’t really imagine it, because I only know it through fairy tales. I wonder if wizards really did exist in the past.”

Whizz: “... There should not be many people who know, nowadays.”

Gin: “Guess you’re right…”

Gin: “Ah! This is the most sales the shop has had ever since I opened!”

Whizz: “Congratulations.”

Gin: “This is all thanks to you, Whizz-san. It looks like I can keep the store running for a while longer.”

Whizz: “I'm happy to hear that.”

Whizz: “I just remembered… Do you have any plans to serve snacks or food?”

Gin: “I wish I could do so, but my cooking is terrible, and I don’t have a supplier–”

Whizz: “The bar’s location is not so bad. If we can increase the number of regulars and get them to spread the word, I think it’ll get us back on track quite quickly.”

Whizz: “Also, there don’t seem to be many shops here offering food at night, so capitalizing on that demand should work to our advantage.”

Gin: “Now that I think about it, the snacks Hunter-san gave me the other day were delicious…”

Gin: “If we can find something that can be preserved, then all we’ll need to do is plate it when it’s ordered.”

Whizz: “That sounds like a good idea. How about we discuss this in-depth tomorrow?”

Gin: “Okay!”

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NOTES:

(1) all characters in this play are named after cocktails! of all of them, rickey's history also relates to the character, as it was invented by colonel joe ricky after he asked a bartender to add lime to his bourbon with carbonated water (source)

[lengthofropes]

I hope this question doesn’t come off as insensitive, because I truly don’t mean it that way, but have you/your family ever thought about leaving Ukraine? Like was it ever a discussion when Russia started their attack?

If you don’t want to answer, it’s fine! Also, i know it’s not much of anything, but I do keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you. And its ok, I can answer that.

Yeah, we had a discussion. I’m pretty sure every Ukrainian family had at least one of those. But you gotta understand, it all comes to not what you’re leaving behind, but whom you’re leaving behind. Because no matter what you do your social circle will be torn either way. Every person has a right to make their own decision, and you just have to respect it.

I didn’t want to leave. My truth is I’d rather die here than leave, because my home is here, this is where I belong. And I kinda stick with this statement to this day.

My father didn’t want to leave too, and he also wasn’t allowed because he was 58 when full scale war started. He wanted to join territorial defense troops. Mom didn’t want to leave the country and nothing in this world would’ve make her leave him so… Also she couldn’t leave her mother and brother.

My sister was completely devastated cause her fiancé was in France, but she didn’t want to leave the country and she couldn’t leave us.

That all was so freaking insane when i remember it…

I also remember how our parents tried to persuade us (me and sis) to leave when the situation rapidly got worse. Jfc I even remember we agreed… and packed, and said our goodbyes… and then just… couldn’t do it…

My sister has left Ukraine in April. She was suffering from continuous panic attacks and nightmares, especially after numerous report of war crimes (r*ape and t*orture) russian soldiers commit on occupied territories. So we collectively decided she should just go and be with her loved one. That wasn’t an easy decision. Idk if you can imagine it, but seeing your sister crossing the border and knowing there’s a good chance you’ll never see her again it’s not something you deal with easily.

So uhh, yeah, now we’re like this. She visits once or twice a year, and we visit her. This year our dad turned 60 so he’s allowed to cross the border now, and he and mom went to see her in France ☺️.

Some of my friends who left and lived abroad for some time are now back. Some don’t. Some leave now.

I’m staying home. I can’t imagine starting a whole new LIFE elsewhere. Just… i cannot.

[gracebethartacc]

Hi, I just wanted to say I love yiur wish rewrite ideas so far! Your art style is so cute!

I’ve got afew questions about it.

What’s Asha’s role in the story? Is she an actual princess this time or is she Magnifico’s apprentice from the start?

I would also like to know a little more about star and Magnufico if you can❤️👍

AAAAA TYSMMMMM!!!! THIS MEANS THE WORLD TO ME 

ANYWAY messy character/story ramble and some on the spot brainstorming under the cut:

I mentioned it in my first wish post but yes she’s still wanting to be the kings apprentice/isn’t a princess (but I’d say for the ending after the king gets killed off villain style she replaces him as princess so it comes full circle n all) 

The main difference with my Asha is she has zero social skills/is shy/doormat, I liked the idea of how she was anxious before meeting with the king but youknow in mine I’m getting rid of the adorkable stuff from it. Like it emphasizes how big of a deal this is because she finally worked up the proper courage to speak with him. 

I’m not 100% sure but I like the idea she only offers to be his assistant AFTER being turned down about granting her grandfathers wish, like I think she’d always want to be a sorcerer like him but never had that wish right at the forefront youknow? Perhaps after her father died she lost hope in that or just thought it was unrealistic etc but I feel like in the movie her having both of those motivations at once kinda muddled with things and definitely paints her as being a bit selfish especially considering this movie does just a reallllly poor job at show don’t tell like we never see Asha like studying magic or wishes or looking up to the king etc but we sure are told it a lot but just?? It definitely feels very cluttered and could easily be adjusted with just emphasizing one thing over another, so in mine I’d like to think either one of two things I’ve not decided yet but either 1: she hits two birds with one stone and goes to work for magnifico for a bit and only THEN asks about her grandfather's wish or 2: my previously stated idea of asking about wish first and doing apprenticeship work in exchange 

I kinda prefer the first one a little bit just bc gives us some time with Asha and the king to interact while also giving time for another wish ceremony to happen in that time, and for her grandfather to again not get his wish chosen to kinda put a nail in the coffin. And in mine her grandpa is much more physically fitting for being 100 like man is going to die in like the next one or two years he doesn’t have very long HENCE haves emphasis on WHY Asha is so insistent on getting his wish granted bc in the movie sure she cares about him but we aren’t SHOWN WHY like no specific childhood moments or any clear close bond moments like I said just way too much tell and not enough show

not sure about her dad yet but I definitely wanna make him more prominent maybe he was magnificos apprentice or studied stars etc just something to give him more of a importance

But yeah so making her shy was a big thing in helping separate her from other Disney protags bc I honestly can’t really think of many outright anxious or people pleasing Disney princesses/Disney girl protagonists ? And because it helps with her arc of standing up for herself/seeking justice like it hits it home a lot harder as compared to “ooo quirky girl but now she’s cool!!” Like it felt very forced to me atleast in my opinion so here it feels much more natural, and helps her bounce off star more bc the goat was not it that wasn’t a character to bounce off of that was a trailer one liner generator. 

So speaking of Star!! Bc you asked about him so yeah uhh not really much to say besides I wanted to combine the cute ball of energy personality that the movie had AND the bombastic energetic shapeshifter boy from the concepts so I combined them together to get cute starboy who rather than being full of energy is more so just easily excited especially considering star has wanted to visit earth for forever 

I like the idea that maybe they never granted wishes or helped people was because Asha and her dad were the only ones who really wished on stars bc everyone else just went to the king. So Star hears her venting abt the king not helping her grandad at the tree asking for help as like a last ditch attempt and star recognizes her voice and grants her wish like ‘you wanted help? I’m here now!’ Type of deal

Ohhh another idea I actually got this from another post but someone had mentioned making the stars magic/wish granting work like the blue fairy from Pinocchio, in which they can’t directly grant wishes but instead give you the means to achieve your wish on your own (hence the bit in that art of magnificos ref sheet having the doodle of Star saying even star can’t grant wishes directly/take them, which is a huge deal bc if a cosmic being can’t do something that this regular ass guy CAN do then that’s a huuuge red flag (or… black flag ig in this case bc yk.., black magic lol))

My Star is basically just a rehash of the classic Ariel type character of ‘I’ve watched humans my whole life and it’s boring in space, I want to be human because I like them!’ But unlike Ariel he doesn’t stay human because star instantly regrets it after getting it granted because 1: magnifico manipulated star and just got god powers and 2: ‘oooohgpf this is overstimulation hell wtf wtf wtf I hate this this feels so weirddddd’

And another reason is because of the Asha foils/recognition of the self through the other plot of them two thus they get symbolism of appreciating what they already have and all :3

Magnifico I’m still brainstorming on but tldr I’m thinking he will be more manipulative than straight up evil/the full evil stuff just shows up later/it’s a slow burn 

Like starts off being a little sus but ultimately well meaning and helpful, then bleeds into manipulation territory, then once getting star magic he just lets go of all that restraint and just is full power hungry villain, ALSO killing the book possession thing bc that was stupid and instead I like the idea he uses dark magic from the start but no one knows because he lies about it’s just because he’s the most powerful sorcerer/maybe he’s the only one who actually knows magic either bc of a ban or perhaps something about his old kingdom being destroyed maybe it could be a library of Alexandria thing of he’s the only sorcerer left around in that area shrugs but lots of fun to be had with him ! slutty evil kings are an awesome trope like I really wanna play on hubris/self downfall bc that’s my favorite kind of villain of ‘you could have been different but just dug yourself such a deep hole it became your grave’ 

Sorry for the ramble oof I just decided to let alphabet spaghetti fall out of my mouth and hope it turned into comprehensible sentences ok

[babygirllinds]

WIP Masterlist

kitten - Icemav

Mav wears the collar Ice bought him to get what he wants in order to cure the feeling of emptiness he woke up with.

Very smutty (remember that self-indulgent fic I said I was writing a couple weeks back? Yeah, this is it)

Includes: dom/sub, cockwarming, slight daddy kink (I might indulge in this one more, but idk yet), dumbification/degradation, and I guess you could say petplay because Mav wears a collar and Ice calls him kitten/kitty, but Mav does not act like a cat

cowboy like me - Icemav

Song/lyric fic. Ice tries really hard to ignore the temptation of danger that is Maverick. He worked really hard to get where he was and his feelings for Mav could crumble that in seconds. Maverick is just in love and wants Ice to see that loving him might be worth the risk.

Smut/angst fic

This fic deals with Ice’s internalized homophobia and how he’s trying hard to ignore his feelings because it feels wrong, but also so, so right.

you’re my favorite secret - Icemav

Rear Admiral Tom Kazansky spent his whole life fighting to get to where he was. He’s the best of the best; entirely focused on his career and climbing through the ranks. That is until he meets a young lieutenant by the name of Pete Mitchell. He risks everything just to get a taste of life with Maverick in it.

Smut fic

Power imbalance relationship with a higher ranking military official. Obvious older man/younger man relationship with an age difference of 20 years (Ice will be in his 40s & Mav in his 20s)

stay in my arms - Icemav

Ice and Mav’s leave time lines up after months of not seeing each other and Mav invites Ice on a last minute road trip to go see Carole and Bradley. No matter how aloof Ice acts, he’s excited to be spending his time off with the man he’s in love with.

Smut fic that will most likely be turnt into a multi-chapter

Includes lots of mutual pining and only one bed trope!!!

words aren’t enough - Icemav

Sarah brings by a box of letters Ice had accumulated over the years, all addressed to one Pete Mitchell. Never sent and never seen, but holding all of the words he wasn’t brave enough to say. Maverick mourns a new loss in his life after already mourning the physical loss of Ice.

This is not smut! Surprise! I’d say it’s more T rated because of cussing and descriptions of homophobia, but it’s relatively tame for the most part, but lots of angst!!!

Descriptions of anxiety attacks and Maverick’s own internalized homophobia. Mentions of Ice’s death and how Maverick is navigating it.

the babysitter - Icemav

Pete is babysitting for the perfect family for extra money while in college. He adores the kids and the parents are absolutely gorgeous. He can’t help his budding feelings for the dad when he starts working from home rather than being out all the time for his job. He doesn’t plan on doing anything about his feelings, but then Tom Kazansky makes things difficult when he makes the first move.

Smut fic

Another power imbalance fic bc why not??? Obvious age gap relationship, but everyone is of age (Maverick is in his early 20s and Ice is in his late 30s)!!! Ice has a wife and kids in this one, folks, so cheating will happen

smooth operator - Icemav

Pete is straight… or so he thinks. He can’t stop thinking about Tom Kazansky — asshole extraordinare. He calls a phone sex line to help find where he stands on his sexuality. He asks for a man and winds up with someone named Ice. Ice is nice and comforting and he makes him feel good. He soon finds out that his true identity is someone he knows all too well…

Smut fic (I’m planning on making this a two-parter from both of their perspectives, but I only have some of Mav’s pov written at the moment)

AU!!! Frenemies to lovers type beat. Baby gay Mav trying to navigate his feelings for men (specifically Ice)

Let me Teach you a Lesson or Two - Icemav

Chapter 7: Tom decides it’s time to address his missing book but also rewards Pete for taking his pills consistently along with getting good marks on his recent exam.

Smut fic

Slips further into dom/sub relationship dynamics & soft dom!Tom really comes out to play (Pete finds out the wonders of being a rope bunny)

I saw him first - Slicemav

Chapter 2: Slider finds an opening when he catches Maverick alone in the locker room. Ice stumbles upon the two of them while looking for his RIO. The door ends up locked and Maverick finds himself being propositioned by both men. He’s shocked to say the least, but he’s not entirely opposed to the situation at hand.

Smut fic

Locker room sex because why not?

obey the motto - Slimav

Slider lives by the motto: flying comes first, loyalty comes second, and short pretty brunettes come last. Slider loves the feeling of being in the air, so he ensures he’ll do whatever it takes to keep that. Enter Iceman who becomes his pilot and makes sure they stay at the top by the way he flies. Then comes Maverick, the prettiest short brunet he’s met in a while. Then he witnesses the way Ice stares at Maverick and suddenly he’s reminded of his loyalty because without it, he’s not in the air being the best of the best.

Smut/angst fic

Lots of pining and unrequited love in here (between literally everybody). There will be lots of angst for Ice because Slimav is endgame in this

sweet on you - Slimav

Slider’s public distaste for Maverick to others is far from the truth. He finds himself with a soft spot for Maverick and enjoys the way they interact. It’s never-ending taunts and jokes that Maverick matches head on and makes Slider feel like he can be himself. Now he can’t stop picturing him in his bed and seeing how sweet on him he really was.

Smut fic

Friends to lovers and lots of pining

could this be more? - Slimav

Maverick keeps finding himself in someone else’s bed and then sneaking out in the middle of the night, but this time he finds himself sneaking out of bed with someone he knows personally. Slider proposes a solution.

Smut fic, possibly a multi-chapter fic

Friends with benefits to lovers!!! I’ve never done a FWB fic before so this is new, but I absolutely love the idea with Slimav

hungry for you - Slimav

Slider is face to face with temptation. Temptation’s name just so happens to be Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. Slider takes the leap and Maverick pulls him in further instead of pushing him away, much to Slider’s surprise.

Smut fic

Based on this post

you’ll always be taken care of - Goosemav/Icemav

Goose had always taken care of Mav — loved him with his whole heart. Then he dies. Goose watches Mav fall into a deep depression without being able to help. He aches to find a way to make Mav feel better again, but he can’t hear or see him. He then enlists the help of the one person who happens to hear him — Ice.

Starting out as an angst/fluff fic, but will most likely diverge into smut later on (if I decide to make this a multi-chapter)

Includes notes of depression & mentions of Goose’s death

shoulder to cry on - Icemav/Slimav

Slider is there for Maverick through his grief over losing Ice. Slider is hurting just as much at losing his best friend, but right now he’s just worried about making sure Ice’s husband is taken care of per his final request. Maverick knew that Ice was his soulmate, but somewhere along the way, Slider carves a spot into his heart.

Angst fic that will most likely diverge into a smut fic bc I can’t help myself

Everyone is hurting, then some pining happens

[tojikai]

OH GOD KAI… (sorry in advance for the thesis that is this message)

I know that Satoru always plays it safe with condoms/plan B but birth control isn’t 100% 😭 she could still be pregnant 😭

I’m going to find comfort in the fact that Satoru probably would’ve had a more emotional reaction on the spot if Naomi was pregnant. (I’m coping so hard right now) I’m hoping that Satoru finally cuts his mother out for good and let’s his father know how fucking disgusting she is.

I can’t imagine what Satoru was thinking. The woman that raised him using him as a security blanket for her own selfishness and then the woman he thought he could have a companion in proving that she’ll do whatever it takes to tie him to her even if it’s not what he wants. aside from himself… who does he really have as a support system? he has his therapist yeah, but that’s not the same as having your person. my heart definitely goes out to him.

What the fuck was Naomi calling his mom for??? “Hey I tried to r*pe your son and it didn’t work and he’s really angry what do we do now?” YOU made the decision to follow through with it knowing damn well he doesn’t love you, you own it. don’t try to blame literally everyone else for your cruel actions because no one forced her to do anything. she made the decision to take the decision away from satoru and for that, she’s scum 🤷🏽‍♀️

i sincerely hope Satoru does put Naomi behind bars… and his mom, or at least gets a restraining order on the two of them. they’re horrible people worth less than the ground they walk on and i hope satoru’s dad lets him rain hell on them two.

now toji… i’m happy they’re both open about not being each others first choices but that’s Yui’s dad. he has every right to be uncomfortable with the fact that Satoru has openly confessed his love for y/n but i hate that he invalidated her feelings of being uncomfortable and told her to get over it when it came to a pet name she didn’t wanna be called. y/n even said it’s not the fact that he talks about his late wife in general, it’s about HOW he makes her feel when he does mention her. there’s a big difference because he only does it in a way that compares the two. and then weaponizing her pain to drive home his point??? that’s definitely not cool.

it’s safe to say the honeymoon period is over and now they’re going to be dealing with the baggage of their past relationships. satoru is always going to be a presence in their lives and so will megumi’s mother (through toji’s words) whether they like it or not. i kind of hate that satoru is willing to give up time with his daughter to make sure toji doesn’t get upset (don’t punish yui 😭) communication is going to be key and they’re going to need to see if they want to work through it because love isn’t enough sometimes.

i wonder what y/n would do if satoru told her what naomi and his mother tried to do… i think she probably should know since it involves yui’s grandmother and who knows what that crazy bitch will do (to yui) to keep satoru. personally, i think that y/n should beat the shit out of her, for EVERYTHING that woman has done. to y/n, to satoru, to yui, to satoru’s dad? i know for a fact she wouldn’t let him deal with everything alone if she found out and part of me hopes they can rely on each other for this.

i’m still hoping for a gojo endgame with a reunited family myself, but i mostly just want everyone to be at peace regardless of what happens 😭 i think satoru has shown actual progress and willingness to ensure y/n and yui’s happiness at the cost of his own and i’d love to see them reunite and get through this stronger than ever 🥹

you killed it again kai! i have so many emotions and thoughts and i can’t wait to see what happens next. thank you for sharing your work and i hope you have a fantastic week! much love 🥰

OMGGGG i enjoyed reading this a lot !! esp. the part where you pointed out how yn's problem was not just toji mentioning his late wife. but rather, how it makes her feel. it wasn't a surprise to her that he'd talk about her at times since she knows about his past, what made yn sad was how it seems like he was trying to tell her to do what she does. that's why she said she felt like a 'placeholder.' :'(( and yeah, the betrayal satoru felt when he found out how his mom spoke w naomi abt it is just too much, and the fact that he has to bear it by himself too :((( as for him giving up their time together w Yui so as to not upset toji, does not only show selflessness but also his hopelessness. he's thinking abt long term, like the school events thing mentioned, which implies that he really thinks that he's got no chance w yn anymore yet he's still trying to make it all up to her 🥹 i feel like satoru's been through too much during these past few chapters😭 anyways, thank you much for sharing your thoughts and for your support <33 it took a bit for me to respond to asks, but i hope you're doing well~ take care !!

[krustworld]

I’m a special type of lonely cuz I’ve been naturally popular my whole life.….technically I don’t know that’s not the case for everybody. Anywys My parents never let me have friends (cuz of religion) so I never learned how to cultivate my ppl skills. Now I’m behind and even tho ppl want to like me…im strange and most ppl don’t fuck with that. Even tho they say they do/will I swear so few ppl

Are even 1% open minded ! It’s chill it’s so hard forme to actually connect w people it’s not worth it rather throw myself into my art. Plus I can be myself around my few friends. It sucked growing up not being able to do anything I wanted to do it definetly made my mental problems worse for context I got taken away from my birth mother at a young age I don’t wanna say why bc I love her so much don’t wanna put her on blast but she lost custody had no visitation rights and I didn’t even talk to her on the phone until I ran away at 17! By that time I didn’t remember what she looked like I used to cry about that all the time cuz I thought she was gonna die and I’d never rememeber again I just remembered that she was beautiful and had the greenest eyes in the world! When she picked up the phone I fell to my knees and cried for the first time in 8 years my chest was going crazy is all I could remeber. Anyways My dad and stepmom raised me across the country and they were super super religious and never let me out of their sight it oh yeah we also had this family restaurant that no kidding! I worked at every single day even after school until close and every single day of the summer from open to close ! Which during the summer we would close at 10 pm or later sometimes lollll we would consistently get home at midnight cuz all the cleaning everyday (during summer) was way more than 12 hours everyday god it makes me sad I should’ve been having a childhood bro and oh yes I was the only one in the family who didn’t have a day off every week[or ever!!! Not even once!) cuz young =strong and oh yeah it’s my fault they’re in debt cuz my mom crazy this was something that was regularly said to my young impressionable heart! I would tell u more but I don’t want anybody to get in trouble lollll for real u guys have no idea it was torture especially after being able to do whatever I wanted in the early years of my life it’s so hard to be nice to myself cuz I’ve been treated with such hostility by the ppl supposed to nurture me they literally used me for money and getting their anger out lol yeah living with my mother had it’s problems but I had already learned to deal with them and found identity/security in them and taking me away from her just stripped me of my identity not to mention MY MOTHER and gave me new problems that were just too much with all the other shit that doesn’t just go away cuz I’m not actively there anymore! Ur souls lives everywhere you go that’s why u have to be careful with yourself and with ur kids </3 also for the record I love my dad and stepmom don’t think they meant to be so cruel to me they’re just hurt

[silverhallow]

🎭Fortunes Fool🎭

Chapter 7: Give me, give me, O tell not me of fear!

⭐️Masterlist⭐️

Prev | Next

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x Sophie Beckett

Chapter summary: Romeo meets Juliet's Papa

Warnings: Fluffy

Word count: 3528

That night Benedict walked Sophie home, both of them feeling lighter than they had in days. Sophie felt a huge weight off her shoulders having told Benedict of her past. She’d never wanted to share with any of the boys before what had happened to her but over the last few days, the way he had listened to her, he hadn’t pitied her and hadn’t coddled her, she felt something shift inside of herself.

She felt like she was finally free to be the person she wanted to be rather than the person people expected her to be.

When they got to her door, Sophie could see from the lights in the house her father was in. “My dad’s home” she said as they reached the door. 

Benedict smiled at her. “It’s okay, I can head back, I promised Greg we’d play FIFA when I finished my homework anyway” he said as they got to the end of the driveway.

“Do you erm… do you think tomorrow maybe you would want to come for dinner? You know… erm… meet my dad?” she asked hesitantly.

“You want me to meet your dad?” Benedict asked shocked

“Well yeah, I’m sure you’d rather not meet him opening night in two weeks, in your Romeo costume” Sophie said with a twinkle in her eye

Benedict flushed and swallowed at the thought of meeting Richard Gunningworth in his Romeo Codpiece that left very little to the imagination.

“I erm… yeah sure” he said as he saw the panic and worry on Sophie’s face “I’d love to… maybe Friday night you could come over and meet my mum? Most of the rest of them go out with my Aunt Billie on a Friday so you won’t have to face all the kids at once?”

Sophie smiled at him “that would be nice” 

Benedict beamed at her and dropped a soft kiss to her lips “I’ll see you tomorrow. Message me later?” 

Sophie nodded as she returned the kiss then with a wicked smirked as he walked away she replied “will do, if you’re a good boy I might send you something a bit special” 

Benedict nearly tripped over his feet as he walked, swearing as he tried to regain his balance as Sophie burst into a fit of giggles at him. Benedict looked at her as though she had just fallen from the stars.”r…really?”

“Have to wait and see” she said with a wink and blowing him a kiss before disappearing through her front door as Benedict stood there, his mouth open blinking as he processed what just happened.

It was nearly 30 seconds before he realised where he was standing and with a quick readjustment of his pants and ran home.

Anthony wasn’t home when he got in so he was able to have a chat with his mum in peace and ask if Sophie could come around on Friday night.

Violet nearly dropped the pie she was about to put in the oven when Benedict slipped into the kitchen and asked “mum can my girlfriend come around for dinner on Friday?”

The rest of the Bridgerton kids were upstairs doing their homework or in Greg and Hyacinth’s case playing some sort of game upstairs.

She turned around and blinked at him “sorry sweetheart did you say girlfriend?”

“Yes mum, i’m going to meet her dad tomorrow night so I won’t be in for dinner but i’d like for you to meet her before the opening night of the show” Benedict said watching his mother’s eyes light up with happiness.

“Of course she can. I didn’t realise you had a girlfriend” She said conversationally.

“She only actually became my girlfriend officially today but please mum, don’t make a big deal out of this. I really really like her and don’t want her to be scared off” Benedict pleaded.

“I won’t sweetheart, what’s her name? What’s she like?” Violet asked interested.

“Sophie Beckett. She’s erm… Richard Gunningworth’s daughter” Benedict said a little hesitantly.

“As in…” Violet said.

Benedict nodded and Violet blinked “Richard used to know your father actually, they went to Eton together before your dad went to Oxford and he went to Cambridge” 

“Oh” Benedict said, not entirely sure how to respond to that comment.

“What’s she like?” Violet asked and Benedict launched into a speech about Sophie. About how clever she was and that she was part of the popular crowd and that she wasn’t anything like he’d expected. How she made a wonderful Juliet and about her passion for Shakespere and English Literature.

“She sounds wonderful Ben, like you really like her” Violet said softly.

“I do mum,” he blushed. “I think I might love her” he said 

Violet did then drop the carrots she’d picked up to start peeling and was a little grateful that she’d not picked up the knife “you… love her?”

“I don’t know. I mean I don’t know what love feels like” he said “but this afternoon, when she was helping cover my black eye, I don’t know. I just… it felt like everything had just fallen into place and things started to make sense. How… how do you know?”

“It’s different for everyone sweetheart, when I met your father… it was almost in an instant, there wasn’t any one thing. It just, like you said, something clicked and everything felt right. I felt a sense of safety and happiness that I'd never felt before” Violet smiled.

“That is what it was like Mum. Like I know i’m only 18 but I think she might be the one, I could see an entire future with her” 

Violet beamed and walked over and hugged her son tightly “i’m so happy for you Ben really, I can’t wait to meet her, she sounds wonderful”

Benedict beamed feeling better and got up from his seat “thanks Mum i’ve got homework to do”

“Dinner will be in an hour sweetheart” she said with a smile.

Benedict acknowledged her as he made his way up the stairs as Anthony came in, hair all over as he tried to sneak up the stairs “good date with Kate?” Benedict smirked

Anthony threw his shoe at his brother with a “fuck you”, who dodged it and the noise attracted the attention of their mother who shouted through “Anthony is that you?”

Benedict laughed “you might want to flatten the hair” he smirked gesturing to Anthony’s wild mop and ran up the stairs as Violet came through, laughing madly.

Benedict was a little mortified later that night when Violet came in after the younger Bridgerton’s had gone to bed and handed Benedict a box of Condoms without saying a word and left the room as quickly as she entered.

Benedict was going to die of embarrassment but as his mother left, a picture message came through from Sophie which made him feel instantly better and really grateful his mother had shut the door.

The following day Benedict dressed with care, finding his best clothes as he wanted to make a good impression with Sophie’s dad when he went around for dinner. 

Anthony teased him over breakfast but for a slap on the head off his mother for teasing his twin before they left for school.

Sophie was waiting for him outside, Kate standing next to her and Benedict noticed that Kate blushed when Anthony walked over to her and said morning as Sophie was kissing Benedict “Don’t you look handsome today” she beamed

“I want to make a good impression” Benedict said as he took her hand and they made their way into class.

The school day could not have gone slower if it tried. Sophie and Benedict both had meetings with their tutors about their entry exams, Benedict was planning to do History of Art at either Oxford or Cambridge. He didn’t mind which, and Sophie was looking to do English and though she’d not mentioned it to Benedict yet, her preference was Cambridge to follow in her father’s footsteps and it had been where her mother had gone as well.

Sophie had planned to talk to Benedict about it in their free period that day but there had been a fire alarm which turned out to be pulled by one of the younger students trying to avoid PE but the conversation never happened as Kate and Anthony stood with them and they were glared at by Tom and John for the majority of the period whilst the school was checked by the fire brigade. 

Benedict felt quite smug as he stood there with his arms around Sophie and she was chatting happily with Anthony and Kate, if someone had told him at the beginning of the year that this scene would be possible, that Sophie Beckett would be his girlfriend and Anthony would be hooking up with Kate Sharma he’d have thought someone had been smoking something.

By the end of the day, Benedict’s nerves had really kicked in and he was quite grateful they weren’t needed for rehearsals tonight and they were about to get out of school early. Benedict had a feeling he would be a mess through rehearsals, the nerves about meeting Sophie’s dad were churning and he felt like he was going to throw up. 

Sophie smiled at him and squeezed his hand “Ben you need to calm down, my dad is an absolute softie”

“Sophie, your father owns half of London and invests in the other half… he is not a softie,” Benedict said, trying to keep his rising hysteria from his voice.

Sophie shrugged “he’s a softie to me… I was telling him about you last night… he knew your dad when he was younger apparently”

“Yeah my mum said…” Benedict said “doesn’t mean he’s going to like me”

“Well he’s never met anyone else i’ve ever gone out with. He’s seen them around school and when they’ve picked me up…”

“And…?” 

“Well he didn’t like any of them but i’m sure it’ll be different with you” she said dropping a kiss to his cheek

Benedict did not feel reassured but there wasn’t any more time to think about it as they were walking down the Penwood driveway and each step felt like his stomach was getting heavier and heavier.

He was pretty sure he wasn’t the type of boy/man Richard Gunningworth would want dating his daughter. Yes his family were well off but after the death of his father, their mother hadn’t been able to work so a lot of their family money was being used to support them and they were more frugal than the other families in their school.

It was usually what singled him and Anthony out as different with their classmates, they didn’t get the newest gadgets, the newest fashions or the latest technology and it was why he was convinced that Sophie’s dad was not going to approve of him.

He just hoped that because he wasn’t like the rest of the boys in school that it would give him a positive mark next to his name.

“Just be yourself Ben, I promise you, it will be okay” Sophie said reassuring him as she opened the door and tugged Benedict inside “Dad we’re home!” she called out and Benedict was almost sure he was going to throw up.

Sophie took her coat off and took Benedict’s and hung it up just as a man appeared in the doorway to what looked like the kitchen.

“Hey sweetheart” Richard said, Sophie dropped Benedict’s hand and walked over and gave her father a kiss on the cheek.

Benedict could see the resemblance between Sophie and her father. The mousy brown hair was the same but it was the eyes, they had the exact same shade of green and he could tell that the older man was just surveying him

“Daddy…” Sophie said, her tone careful and a warning to her father “this is Benedict… Benedict this is my dad. Richard Gunningworth”

Benedict held his hand out immediately and walked forward “it’s a pleasure to meet you sir” he said in his politest voice.

Richard took the young man’s hand and shook it, the polite tone of his voice, the firm and respectful shake of their hands was a good start he had to admit “it’s nice to meet you too Benedict. Sophie has told me a lot about you”

Benedict looked at Sophie for a moment not sure how best to respond to this so Sophie stepped in “all good, I promise. How’s dinner coming along? Do you want me to do anything dad?” she asked

“If you could check on the sauce that would be great please. Benedict and I can go into the front room and get to know one another a little better” Richard said to his daughter. Benedict felt his stomach churning, wondering if this was when he was going to be told he wasn’t good enough for Sophie and that he should leave before he embarrassed himself.

“I… I can help in the kitchen if you need the help” he stammered

“No, I've got it covered. Dad can cook a bit but I’m the better cook” she said, kissing Ben on the cheek “You go with my dad. It’ll be fine”

Richard watched as Benedict nodded at his daughter, he could see the look of devotion on the younger man’s face but still, he wanted to make sure that this boy was right for his little girl.

He had a lot to make up on after the years Sophie had been through and he was determined to make sure that she was never hurt again.

“Come with me Benedict, would you like a beer or anything? You are eighteen right?” Richard said

“I am sir but no thank you. I don’t drink on a school night” Benedict said.

Richard nodded, “very wise, I am sure school wouldn’t be easy with a hangover. Sophie tells me you’re studying Art, History and English?”

“Yes sir, I’m applying to his History of Art at University”

“Oxford or Cambridge?” Richard asked

“Whichever I get into, whatever is Sophie’s preference. She told me she was getting the extra tutoring to catch up and get ready for the entrance exam but she didn’t tell me which she preferred. I know my mum said you and my father were school friends until he went to Oxford and you went to Cambridge” Benedict said, feeling a little more at ease now.

“Yes, we rowed against one another in the Boat Race. I am not sure your father ever forgave me for accidentally knocking the oar out of his hands during the single Scull” Richard chuckled “Do you or your brother row at all?”

“I do, Anthony is more a rugby boy, though he preferred his studies after our father died, he wants to take over the Bridgerton Law firm” Benedict said

“Are you any good?” Richard asked gesturing for Benedict to take a seat

“I’ve won a few championships when I was younger but i’ve only just started getting back into it recently. Mum didn’t really have time to take me down to the river and I only passed my driving test a few months ago” Benedict explained.

Richard nodded “Keep at it, Rowing is a good sport. Requires a lot of strength and intelligence, more so than rugby and the likes?”

“I agree sir” Benedict said with a small smile.

Richard took a moment to look at the man sitting opposite him “You do look a lot like your father…”

“So i’m told. Out of all my siblings i’m the one who looks most like my father. Sophie looks a lot like you sir” Benedict replied

“Your father was a good man, I was very sorry to hear about his accident” Richard said with sincerity in his voice

“Thank you sir, it was quite a shock to us all” Benedict said quietly

“Car accidents are not an easy way to lose a loved one…” Richard said

Benedict remembered what Sophie had told him yesterday about her mother, and Kate’s when they were babies “they’re not. Sophie told me about her mum and her accident when Sophie was a baby”

“Yes. Sophie told me she’d told you about her past… when she was covering your eye” Richard said

Benedict’s hand went to his black eye instinctively. “Sorry Sir, I don’t normally get into fights, I promise you. John didn’t like losing Sophie and demanded I give her back”

Richard scowled “she’s not yours to give back to anyone”

“I am aware sir. It is what I told him. Sophie is a treasure to be loved and adored sir. She is free to give her heart and self to anyone she deems worthy” Benedict said

“And are you worthy?” Richard asked

“I am trying to be. I want to be… I… I care about Sophie very much sir. Her happiness is all I care about. Be it with me or someone else. If she decides that I am not enough for her then I will respect her decision. I respect Sophie sir. I will never hurt her sir. I’d rather my brother kick me in the crotch repeatedly than hurt Sophie” Benedict said 

“And if I didn’t approve?” Richard asked

Benedict looked at the man for a moment “well sir, I am Romeo and she is my Juliet. I’d respect your decision not to approve and frankly sir, It’s what i’ve been expecting… but it would be Sophie’s decision that would mean the most to me. I would not sneak her out of the house, or into your house to see her but if Sophie still wished to see me… then I think… I think I would respect her wishes”

“You do not expect me to approve of you?” Richard asked him

“I don’t know. I guess I thought perhaps you would want someone a bit more… well of your social class sir” Benedict said

Richard sighed “I’ve seen the sort of boys that are in, as you called it, my social class, their pretentious, entitled and I’ll be honest, not fit to lick the floor Sophie walks on. I have made a lot of mistakes in my life where my daughter is concerned and I only want what is best for her, do you understand?”

“Yes sir. I do. She deserves the best of everything sir and if I am permitted to do so, I will spend as long as Sophie wants me to, giving her that” Benedict said honestly. 

Richard looked at the younger man for a moment, his eyes glancing to the door as he made sure his daughter wasn’t coming in, surveying the young man in front of him. “You love her don’t you?” he asked after a moment.

“I… I think so” Benedict stammered, going bright red, he knew he had to be honest, his brother and his mother had both said to be honest with the man (though Anthony had said if he asks about sex, to lie otherwise he’d probably loose his cock) “I’ve never felt like this before about anyone sir, it is all new to me but I think so”

“Well then” Richard said leaning back in his seat “I think you should probably call me Richard then Benedict”

Benedict blinked “are… are you sure?”

“I think so yes, you’ve given Sophie a sense of purpose again, she’s thrown herself back into her studies and she’s reminding me more of the little girl who loves her books, loves her shakespeare than the superficial shit that my evil ex-wife seemed to pressure her into… your clearly making my daughter very happy and any man willing to get a black eye for calling her a treasure and defending her, is worthy of her in my opinion” Richard said with a smile

Benedict felt his entire body relax as he broke out into a bright smile “thank you sir…I mean thank you Richard. Truly. I promise, I will do anything and everything I can to make her happy”

“Even if it means going to Cambridge?” Richard asked with a teasing smile

“Well someone has to break a tradition” Benedict chuckled

Richard grinned “atta boy”

“And Richard…” Benedict added as they heard Sophie calling out to them from the kitchen 

“Yes Benedict” Richard said as they stood up

“If you ever need help hiding your ex-wife’s body…” Benedict said seriously

Richard let out a bark of laughter as he clapped Benedict on the back, proud of the young man next to him for the offer as he replied  “Son… if it ever comes to that. I’ll need an alibi rather than help hiding the body and besides, someone would have to care for Sophie if I ended up in Jail”

“Anthony and Kate are going to train to be lawyers. I am sure they’ll get you off sir” Benedict replied

Richard laughed “You know what Benedict, I think I am going to be very proud one day to call you my son-in-law”

Benedict’s heart skipped a few beats and he went red again but it was music to his ears. 

[rose-tinted-nostalgia]

I will sacrifice every inch of whatever soul I have left to protect my children, but at this point, I legitimately do not know which sacrifices will fuck them up the least, and it is ripping me apart.

My son’s father is spiraling so hard, that he’s beginning to question if he loves him, and I don’t know how to undo that. He’s a drunk, and he gives up half his shifts and stays out all hours of every night, and I cannot trust him to watch our children. My family refuses to help my babysit (even though my mom lives with me), daycare is largely unsafe and astronomically expensive and not at all compatible with the hours my industry requires, and I cannot trust the one person who should be watching them to do so. I absolutely can financially support my family on my own. I have done it all my life, and I have worked two jobs, and I have never ever struggled to make ends meet when I needed to, and I know I can do that without any support from him, but I cannot do it if my kids have nowhere to go while I do. And I can be an A+ mother, undoing every ounce of trauma and creating this magical childhood as a stay at home parent to cut him out, but then I have to rely on this shitty excuse of a man, who treats us like garbage to just barely pays the bills (and he only does that because he has no other option now that he’s maxed out 20k in my credit cards while I was in and out of the hospital all year). And my son is terrified that he’ll leave. He loves him so fucking much, and I don’t know what to do. Work so much that he doesn’t get to see either of us in an attempt to cut his father out of our lives and escape the toxicity, allow him to be raised by everyone else in an effort to avoid him being raised by someone who can emotionally scar him? Stay home, be absolutely miserable and alone, try to give them the childhood they deserve, and attempt to shield them from the few interactions they have with their dad when he is around? Try to find a shelter that isn’t full or a place to take me with my now fucked credit and maxed out debt while I figure it out? Like what’s better? Getting to grow up with one shitty parent and one good parent, or getting to grow up with barely any parents at all? And the state of Florida is fucked because to get child support, even with all the proof I have that he’s unstable, they still want to give him 50-50 custody. Do you understand how terrifying that is? To leave your kids in the unsupervised care of a man who is never sober?! So yeah, I’m shit, and I’ll never forgive myself for bringing children into this mess, but I swear to god, I am trying my best to keep them safe, and I don’t care if I’m miserable, if I’m being taken advantage of, if I look fucking pathetic for still being here after all this time, I’d really rather all of it, than to risk my kids living half their lives with him alone because how is that any better than him barely being here 25% of the time? And that’s not me being a bitch because I’d deal with the pain of not a having them around if they got to be with a safe, sober, happy father, I’d never deprive them of that no matter what I feel. And I know I’m so fucking privileged because so many single parents don’t even have the turmoil of a decision like this because they have nothing at all, and I should be grateful he contributes financially even a little, and this is all my goddamn fault, and I went and did it again. I had another kid with this man. Not on purpose, Jesus Christ, we’ve slept in separate bedrooms for three years, and my skin crawls if he even looks at me for too long, but he’s not a nice drunk, and it made him angry that I wouldn’t fuck him, and sometimes I did it to keep the peace, and I know there fucking stupid, and it didn’t feel good, and it might actually have ruined my entire sex drive because I hated it so much, but sometimes it didn’t feel like I had any other options, and on Dec 22 of last year, he was drunk and refusing to bake cookies with our son, and refusing to go to the Christmas party, and so angry at me for some reason that I hadn’t been sleeping with him, and my son was so fucking sad, and he begged me to fix it and to convince him to change his mind, and so I said I will give you what you want if you just come out here and make Christmas

magical for this kid, and I’m still really at a loss because we took precautions, and it’s usually pretty noticeable if shit goes wrong, but I was pregnant a few weeks later, and so sick I was hospitalized and incapable of even making it to my planned parenthood meeting to discuss my options until it was no longer even legal to do so, because once again, pregnancy fucked me up so badly I was dying. And that’s not an exaggeration. It took weeks of hospitalization, a strict regimen of meds, an at home pump that required me to stab myself in the stomach daily and cart around the medicine attached just to hold down water, and I still threw up all day and was too sick to function, and my poor kid got more screen time than he needed in a year, and this man just insulted me every day for being “lazy.” I birthed a whole human being, unmedicated, and had such a rough recovery I couldn’t even walk,and this man wouldn’t even hand me the baby when I couldn’t stand, I mean. Not an ounce of compassion whatsoever because he literally hates me. and that doesn’t even matter because I didn’t expect otherwise but it still hurts my feelings because I thought maybe he’d pretend for a few days after I literally brought a child into this world but no. And now it’s even harder to find someone to watch an infant . And this baby is so fucking beautiful and I love him with all my heart, but my god, I didn’t want to tighten the knot this man had on me, I did not want to being another innocent life into this, and I’ll love this kid forever, but I’ll hate myself all the same because I’ll never deserve these kids, and these kids certainly deserve more than me. I’m really such a fucking mess because I have physically and emotionally been ripped apart this year, I haven’t had any sort of adult interaction really in an entire year, and I get berated for not being enough daily and I’m trying so fucking hard, and I don’t have it in me anymore. Im literally flipping pancakes one handed with a baby on my boob while he sips his coffee on his phone, and I’m printing out letters from Santa and wrapping gifts to celebrate the count down to Christmas while he’s getting wasted at a bar while pretending to work. He’s gone out with friends every night this week and spent hundreds despite our unpaid bills, and I peed while holding a baby on my lap, and I haven’t showered in three days, and I have to do everything, and I can only do so much. I know this isn’t it, I know I’m fucking up but I don’t know how to fix it, and I don’t know how to get my kids out unscathed, and it all just makes me sick. I just want to protect them. And I really don’t know how.

[obervation-subject-753]

(dec 5, 2023) uhhh first rant/venting post on this blog, if you don’t want to hear me rambling about my personal problems, block/don’t look through my tag ‘#subject-753’s scribbles’

so idk if i’m depressed. i’m pretty sure it’s because i don’t have much of a social life.

i realized around end of high school that the only friends i ever had were from school.

up to this day, besides relatives i suppose, i can’t even semi-confidently say that i have one friend. rather, irl friend..like, i know much about them and vice-versa. i haven’t talked with them in months.

i’m not blaming either of my parents for the next blurb i’ll vom out

recently (almost a month later) my mom had a stroke, and she’s home now, recovering well.

i’m the only person that can take care of her basically 24/7. i love my family. i love my mom dad and sibling. i can’t blame any of them for me questioning if i’m in a not-so-great mental state rn

but soon, i’ll be the only person that can stay home with her (my dad will go back to work in a few weeks)

i love my mom and i’ll never blame her for me feeling this way.

i don’t know if it’s because i don’t have much drive for anything (really is a big part of it honestly) or i’m an introvert (not anti-social, just difficult for me to socialize with people i don’t know well)

i just…feel so alone. i know i have a loving and supporting family..but idk if they will be as supporting if i try to explain to them more of the lgbtqia+ community that i’m a part of, bc most of my immediate family are rather ignorant or intolerant of trans, and most likely gay people too.

i. i like to think i’m an honest person. i’m really not. only when i’m alone with myself i say my true opinions and feelings. especially when i’m crying alone in my bed at night, most likely quietly bc i still live with my parents and sibling. i do that too often.

all that accumulates, and makes me not like myself. maybe even not love myself. most likely the latter.

i want to be better, for myself and others..but living and life is just so hard. most likely because i’m not trying enough bc i think i don’t deserve it or i don’t think a world like this is worth living in.

no i never attempted to harm myself, but i have thought of what possible painless ways to go.

yeah i’ve been thinking about all this for a few (7/8? years?) years…and i really don’t know if i can ever stop quietly cry in my room or feel comfortable enough to tell my close and loved ones that i feel and think this way.

fandoms i’m in help me cope, but also heavily reminds me of my personal problems. a double-edged sword if you will.

i confide in fictional characters for comfort. that’s just sad. i know they’re all fake and i’ll never be able to truly get to know them like i want to. they’re all fake. not in the reality i live in.

the reason why i’m only now making these feelings and thoughts of mine known, i think is because now i have even less of a chance to tell someone close to me. my family’s going though a hard time adjusting and dealing with the recent event with my mom, and i need to stay relatively strong for them. but i do know that we care about the well-being of each other.

i really want to have a genuine, not forced, relationship with someone. i really don’t want to burden my family with what i’m going through. tumblr and games and fanfiction have been such a break for me from my real life. not to say that social media and entertainment don’t bring up real life problems and how to deal/solve them, some thankfully successfully do, but there’s only so much we can do.

life can easily be cut short. i don’t want to live like i’m trudging though the mud, nor do i want to life completely carelessly…i’d like to live a nice life where i helped people.

especially a life where i somewhat helped myself.