#yes I’ll be forking $6 because I’m able to and I understand not everyone is.

[official-wayward-noctis]

Hate me if you will but supporting the content I love to consume is more important to me than attacking those artists for putting a paywall up. As a writer, if I published I would want people to consume my content by supporting me financially. If you work hard for something you should be paid the amount you deserve.

[pattypanini]

Lay All Your Love On Me

Chapter 9-Double Dip

Josh Kiszka x Reader and Jake Kiszka x Reader

Word Count: 9,206 (we got carried away with this one <3)

TAGLIST

AN: Hi everyone! Here is the ninth chapter of Lay All Your Love On Me from me and @mar-rein12! We are soooo proud of this chapter and slightly scared for you guys. We are going to add a poll after this because we want to know when you guys would like us to post because as college students this gets very busy. We hope you enjoy the ninth chapter, Double Dip

Warnings: 18+, SMUTTTTTT, Unprotected sex, BDSM JOSH!!!!, DOM/SUB, Kinks, Choking, Impact play, Restraints, Spanking with object, Praise kink, Degrading kink, Dirty talk, Alcohol, Choking (not in the hot way, on drink), Fluff.

Y/n's POV

As you’re heating up your leftover pasta, you zone out thinking about last night. You couldn’t believe that had actually happened, but you didn’t regret it a single bit. You probably wouldn’t have even believed it happened, if it weren’t for Josh’s name under your recent calls.

Charlotte had only gotten back to the dorm around 1 today, and thank god for that because if she had seen or heard what you were doing last night you most definitely would never be able to look her in the eyes again.

You whip open the microwave door and snatch up your pasta, following with you dropping it after realizing how hot it is. Taking a seat at the dining table, you notice that Josh still hasn’t reached out today. After over analyzing the situation you immediately come to the conclusion that you must’ve done something wrong.

You stab at your food with your fork, anxiously. You glance over at the clock hanging on the wall, 3 o’clock. You let out a sigh. He should have texted by now. You take a small bite of your food and decide you were going to text him.

You didn’t want to come off as pushy or antsy, but you needed to know that everything was okay between the two of you.

As you pull out your phone to formulate your message, a notification pops up.

3:03pm Josh: Hey beautiful! I hope you slept well last night after our call😏 Wanna hear about the date I planned for us tonight?

It’s like he can read your mind.

3:04pm y/n: Yesss

3:06pm Josh: Well first I wanna ask something, would you like to try a little something different tonight.

3:07pm y/n: What is it?

3:09pm Josh: I was thinking about being a little bit more dominant and you be more submissive, let me take control. A friend of mine was talking about a BDSM test, idk if you ever heard about that, but it got me interested. And they say to do it with people you're comfortable with so I figured we could try it together, if you want.

Oh. That wasn’t what you were expecting to hear, but you’d be lying if you had said you weren’t intrigued.

3:10pm y/n: I’m down for anything Josh, you know that. And yes I have heard about it, but haven't really done anything though. So how do you wanna do this?

3:11pm Josh: Okay great, well first off we need safety words. Red means stop everything, yellow means stop momentarily or slow down, and green is good, understand?

3:12pm y/n: Yes.

3:15pm Josh: Amazing. So I’m gonna say it once and only once. I’m picking you up at 6 on the dot, we have reservations at 6:30 at The Earle. I want you to wear a tight black dress, the one that you wore for your New Year's post. Also a pair of black lace panties. I want your hair loosely curled and natural makeup. Pack an overnight bag with whatever you want. I’ll see you tonight mama.

3:17pm y/n: Damn, controlling much?

3:18pm Josh: Do you not like this, all you have to do is say red baby.

3:19pm y/n: No I like it, I like this dominant side of you.

3:21pm Josh: Perfect mama, I’ll see you tonight then.

3:22pm y/n: Can’t wait, Joshy.

You relax for a little while before you start to get ready. You slip on your tight black dress and the black lace panties he requested. You take a seat at your vanity doing some light, natural makeup and slide on your black heels. Lastly, you curl your hair, being sure to brush through it lightly to soften the curls up.

As you comb through your hair your mind is going wild, one because of the BDSM stuff. It was stuff you had seen in the media and were interested in it. A lot of the guys at Michigan weren’t into that kind of thing, most of them are pretty vanilla. Plus it was with Josh, someone you trusted. The main thing making your mind go crazy was the fact that you were going on a real date with Josh. You would have never expected things to lead to it after friendzoning him. But maybe feelings were coming back, or never left at all?

You glance at the clock after regaining consciousness, 5:57pm. How could it possibly be that time already?

With a few sprays of perfume, you grab your purse, overnight bag, and walk out the door to wait for him. To your surprise he wasn’t there yet, he’s usually pretty early for stuff. But as the clock hits 6 you see a black SUV pull up in front of your dorm as if you summoned him.

As he steps out of the Black G Wagon, daddy’s money surely, he makes his way to your side and opens the passenger door for you after taking your bags.

“Thanks Josh.” He lends you a hand, helping you into the car. He makes his way back to his side and puts your stuff in the back seat, and hops back into his.

He puts on his sunglasses before leaning over to you and placing a kiss on your cheek. You can’t help but blush at his subtable gesture of intimacy.

“You smell delectable y/n, makes me wanna take you right here in the back of the car.”

Your eyes open wide, “Oh, thank you!” You blush and a nervous laugh bubbles out. Why did you say it like that? You start to lean back towards the door, Josh mirroring you with a confused look, studying your body.

“Y/n, I need you to calm down okay? It's just me, we're gonna get a nice dinner, we're just adding a little bit of fun to it. Despite me being the ‘dominant’ one, you have full control of the situation.” Josh attempts to calm you down, as you take a deep breath trying to steady your anxiousness. He put his hand on your shoulder, rubbing it softly with his thumb.

He looked pretty delectable himself. He was wearing a dark green matching suit with a black collared shirt underneath, leaving a few buttons at the top open revealing a silver chain.

He brings his hands to the wheel after putting the vehicle into drive and begins to navigate you towards the restaurant, resting his right hand on your thigh, squeezing it lightly every once and a while. “I know, I know. It’s just… I’ve never tried anything like this before and I don’t want to make a fool of myself.”

“Y/n, you could never make a fool of yourself, we're going to learn together. It’s my first time trying this stuff out too, I’m here for you and don’t ever want to make you feel uncomfortable. Your safety and comfortability is my top priority.” He reassures you, rubbing his thumbs back at forth on the top of your thigh.

You place your hand on top of his, giving him a gentle squeeze and a sweet smile. “Thanks Josh and I appreciate you for setting all this up, it was very sweet of you.”

“Anything for you mama” You feel the blush creeping up to your cheeks again. “ Also, we are almost there. It's a pretty short drive.” You both sit in comfortable silence for the next few minutes, until he pulls into the restaurant parking lot. “We're here, I wanted to get here early because they are weird about people being late.

You look at the clock. 6:11, oh. “Will they let us in early?”

“No they’re a bunch of assholes, you have to be there perfectly on time, can’t be early or late.”

You sat there not knowing what to do. I mean you could sit here without saying anything to each other but that didn’t seem like a fun option. But then a better option came to mind.

“Hey Josh, do you wanna do something fun?”

“Like, go to the backseat for fun, or something else.” His eyebrows shot up.

“Not backseat fun, that’s for later.” You say with a hint of sarcasm, knowing it's not actually sarcastic. “I mean like taking that BDSM test you were talking about, and maybe the rice purity test.”

“Are you sure you wanna expose yourself like that?” Leaning back in his seat more, getting comfortable.

“I mean I don’t care, I’m comfortable with you and would share whatever. I’m doing it more because I’m nosy and wanna know about your past.” You say reaching forward, fixing the collar of his shirt.

He looks down at your hand, sliding his tongue across his teeth, trying to conceal his smile. “Okay baby, whatever you want.” He pulls out his phone from his pocket, you pulling yours out of your purse.

You pull up the Rice Purity website and begin to check off the boxes, flying through it since you’ve done it with your friends many times before.

“Okay I’m done with the Rice Purity test, are we sharing our results yet?”

“No, do the other test then we can go over them.”

You nod your head and go on to the next test. This one was much longer, and had much more vulgar questions. Some that you agreed with strongly, some you were shading, and some that you had never heard of before, but wondered if you’d like it?

After a very long time of taking the test and waiting for Josh to finish he looks up from his screen.

“Okay y/n I’m done.”

“Yay so we can go over them now?”

“Hmmm no. It’s 6:28, so it’s time to go in. Looks like someone’s going to have to ponder my results until after dinner.” He gives you a fake smile quickly running around to your side and giving you a helping hand out of the car. He gives a quick kiss to your hand and shuts the car door.

He guides you to the entrance with his hand resting on your lower back. Opening the door for you, you're met with a lowly lit restaurant with lots of low toned chatter and a piano playing in the background

“Josh Kiszka, table for two.”

The hostess looks down to the planner and crosses off his name before grabbing menus and leading you to a table.

You're brought to a very nice area where the live music is playing. Josh pulls out your seat for you letting you sit down before pushing you back in. You could really get used to this pampered lifestyle.

“You’re such a gentleman Josh.”

“Just trying to treat you the way you should be mama. Nothing less than perfect for you, especially for how hard you’ve been working in the show.” He grabs his menu and begins to look it over.

“You have been working hard too, how can I repay you?”

“Oh trust me you’ll be repaying me tonight in bed.” He says with a smirk.

Your eyes shoot open and before you're able to say anything else the waiter approaches your table.

“Hello everyone, my name is Matthew. I'll be your server for today. Can I start you off with any drinks?”

“Yeah I’ll have a Moscow Mule and she’ll have a Dirty Martini. Thank you sir.”

He jots down the drink orders and hastily walks to the kitchen. It was a very busy night, lots of older couples, probably due to the fact that college students don’t typically have the money for a place like this. You took a look at the menu before you came and saw the expensive menu items. It was filled with lots of good seafood and many other options. You liked coming to restaurants prepared, having your meal planned out, and a backup option just in case.

You were planning on getting the scallops, but the steak also looked good from seeing them pass by with other waiters.

“What are you thinking of getting Josh?”

He sits leaning back in his chair, concentrating on the menu and slowly looks up to you. He looks so good.

“I usually get the same thing every time. The Beef Bourguignon.”

“Sounds fancy Josh, I think I’m going to have the scallops.” You smile looking deep into his eyes.

“You look so amazing tonight mama. The way you look under this lighting is driving me crazy.” He gives you a cute, little smirk.

Before you could say anything back, the waiter came over with your drinks. “Here you go sir, and for you ma'am, a dirty martini.”

“Thank you so much.” You give a polite smile and take a sip of your drink.

“Would you like more time to think over your order, or do we think you’re ready?”

“I think we’re ready. I’ll have the Beef Bourguignon and she will have the Scallops.”

“Sounds good, it's not too often I see men order for their girlfriends anymore. What a good boyfriend” Matt points out, while snatching up the menus.

“Oh, well he’s a great friend, not boyfriend but..yeah he’s great.” You feel the heat rise in your cheeks, no doubt looking like a freshly picked tomato.

Josh gives you a smile, not one of real kindness, but one that tells you you’ve fucked up.

“I’m sure he is. I’ll go put that order in.” As Matt walks away, your eyes follow his trail, you are scared to look back at Josh. When you shift your eyes to him, you’re met with a surprisingly pleasant look.

“Are you still too scared to just admit you like me mama? I know you do, or are you just trying to seem available to Mr. Matthew over there.” He reaches over the table to hold your hands between his.

“I…I wasn’t trying to, I just got caught off guard. I didn’t mean to…” You’re quick to defend yourself.

“I’m only kidding y/n, I’m just trying to get you riled up.” He squeezes your hands softly before bridging them to his mouth and kissing them. You take a few more sips of your drink and Josh notices it beginning to get low. “Do you want more darling? Or maybe a bottle of wine for us?”

“Up to you Josh, I thought you were ‘in charge’ for the night.”

He smirks to you, biting the inside of his cheek. “We’re taking this slow baby, but someone seems eager to be dominated, what a slut.” You can’t help but smile at his remarks. You did want to be dominated, badly. Before you could agree to his comment Matthew comes over to the table with another dirty martini.

“This is for you, I noticed you were getting low and don’t worry it’s on me.” Matt smiles at you with his bright white teeth, gently setting the glass onto the polished wood table.

“Oh my, thank you Matthew.” You accept his gesture and take the drink.

“Oh please, you can call me Matt miss…” You watch as his gaze lingers a little longer than it should’ve.

“Y/n.” You say noticing his hand was reached out for a hand shake.

“Well I’m going to check on your food. It should be out at any moment.” He smiles before noticing Josh’s near empty glass, and continuing to walk away.

Josh scoffs and shakes his head. It definitely was a little rude of him to do all that.

You notice that Matt had not gotten too far away, when he turns around you signal him to come back over.

“Hi Matt, I know you noticed but my date is running low so I’d appreciate it if you did your job and got him some more.” You shoot him a condescending smile, your tone laced with venom.

Matt’s eyes almost pop out of his head. “On it miss.” He turns back to the kitchen before anything else could be said. He’d do anything for a god damn tip.

You turn back to Josh to see him smiling ear to ear.

“That was the sexiest fucking thing you’ve ever done y/n. Such a good girl obeying and serving me.”

“Anything for you Joshy.” You bat your eyelashes at him.

“But you were still flirty with him before, so that’s a strike for later mama.” He teasingly raises his eyebrows at you, making you wonder what exactly he has in store.

As you wait a little longer for your food, due to the fact that it was busy tonight at the restaurant, you talk about how awful this week coming up would be during practice. Coleman was always so stressed the closer it got to the show. And although you still had a month-ish before the actual show, it was getting closer to hell week which was when you would run through the show full out all day and night. Coleman’s big on total perfection and mastery, to ensure the show goes exactly to plan.

When the food and Josh’s drink finally came out you wasted no time to dig in, in a classy way of course. It was very rare for you to indulge in quality food since all you ever ate was dining hall food and never went home for homemade meals. When you saw they served scallops on the menu, you knew right away that was what you were getting. You love seafood so much, it reminds you of your childhood, when your Aunt Jen would take you out to your favorite seafood restaurant for your birthday every year. You missed her deeply, ever since you broke contact with your mom, you drifted with her as well.

You jab your fork into one of tender scallops, popping the entire thing in your mouth. You savor the rich, nutty flavor knowing that tomorrow morning you’ll be right back to the regularly scheduled meals.

“Wanna hear a funny story?” Josh asks, shoving a large forkful of noodles into his mouth.

“Hit me with it,” you reply, still chewing on your scallop.

“To preface, I was still in high school when this happened, so you can’t hold it against me,” He smirks, pointing at you with a raised brow.

You giggle at his dramatics,”Okay…”.

“Promise you won’t?” He presses, holding out his pinky finger to you.

You interlock your pinky with his, “Promise.”

“Good. Jake, Sam, and I had the house to ourselves one weekend because our parents went on an anniversary trip. So… you know, we threw a big party. Jake and I were Sophomores, not very experienced with alcohol for one. Two, we didn’t have that many friends so the friends we did have invited a ton of people we didn’t even know. So, our house was practically filled with complete strangers.” Josh took a big gulp of his drink, followed by another forkful of beef.

“Rebels,” you mutter, a chuckle bubbling out.

“That's for sure. We crashed on the chaise chairs that surrounded our pool that night. Woke up to the house a total mess, someone had even broken one of the lamps in our living room. And, boy, it was not a cheap one either. But that's besides the point, I woke up and immediately needed to shit, you know… as one does. I was still kinda drunk, I definitely wasn't sober, so I was a little slower than usual.”

“Oh no…” A wide smile spreads across your face, as you tilt your glass up to your mouth, you take a hefty swig.

“I shit my pants. 16 year old boy, shit… in his pants,” A boisterous laugh leaves his lips, recalling the moment.

You swallow your drink, the same time a cackle escapes from your throat. You begin aggressively coughing on your beverage, you watch through your teary eyes, as Matthew comes running up to you. But you couldn’t quite read the expression on his face, your tears blurring your vision.

“Y/n, are you okay?” You can hear Josh ask.

You try to clear your throat to answer, when you feel strong arms wrap around your torso. Matt comes up behind attempting to perform the heimlich maneuver on you. You come to your senses with one final cough, your vision returning back to normal.

“What the fuck are you doing?” Josh’s eyebrows are knitted, a lilt to his voice.

“I was trying to help her!” Matt backs away with his hands up defensively. “I’m sorry,” he turns to apologize to you and walks back towards the kitchen.

“It’s okay!” You yell after him, facing Josh again, anger written all over his pretty face. He can’t seriously be mad that the waiter touched me to give the heimlich? “Josh, is everything okay?” You widen your eyes at him.

“Shouldn’t I be asking you that? You’re the one that started choking!” He says in a surprisingly defensive tone.

“Why are you getting snappy at me? I didn’t try to choke?!” You bite back.

“Mm, yeah, sure. You also didn’t tell him to get off of you now did you, hm?” He fires at you, his lips pull into a thin, straight line.

“Are you actually serious?” You start, wanting to say more but held back to prevent a possible argument/

“Yeah I’m serious. You probably loved having his hands all over you didn’t you?”

You stare at him, not knowing what the fuck to say to that. This has to be a joke.

“That’s what I fucking thought, thats another strike mama.” He warns you.

So this is what it’s all about. Just nitpicking so he can be more dominant. You wanted to be mad, but you couldn't, you were kind of aroused.

You might be sick. Sick for thinking angry Josh was hot. Sick for wanting to make him even more irritated, to get more strikes, even though you have no idea what it entails. Sick for yearning to grab his hand, leave the restaurant, and fuck in the backseat of his car.

You let out a quiet whimper at the authority in his words, but not without him noticing.

“What was that mama?” He raises one of his thick, well-groomed eyebrows at you.

“Hm?” You think acting stupid might make him forget or possibly make him think he made it up in his own brain.

“Oh baby, I’m not stupid. You like it when I talk down to you, like a little brat.” Another mouthful of beef is forced into his mouth.

“Who says?” You challenge, wanting to see how far you can push him before he falls off the edge.

“Don’t act like you didn’t just outwardly moan at me talking to you,” What a cocky bastard.

“I didn’t. I think you’re making things up Josh,” You swirl your drink around in your cup, giving him the stupidest look ever.

He narrows his eyes at you.“Don’t think so mama, and plus it's not good to lie. That’ll be another strike.” He drops his fork down onto his plate.

Your eyes are bulging out of your head, mouth gaping. “Don’t look at me like that darling, or else I won't be able to wait until we get back to my apartment and I’ll put that mouth to use right now. A gaping mouth is good for many things, not just you pretending to be surprised while hiding the fact that your extremely turned on. I bet those panties of yours are soaked right”

“Who says we have to wait? I want you right now Josh.” You instinctively rub your thighs together desperate for any kind of friction. You've been struggling with your impatience for him all evening, ever since he brought up his little idea.

“Now, where’s the fun in that? The build up is one of the best parts,” he gives you a sweet smile flashing his gorgeously white teeth at you.

You roll your eyes at him, “ I suppose.” Your foot stretches out, brushing up and down his ankle with your high heel.

“Keep being a fucking brat and see what happens, but its obvious that being punished is what you want. Such a dirty whore.” He takes a sip from his drink reacting like he just told you the weather for the day. It seems only you had a reaction to what he said and thankfully the music was loud enough or else you would be getting a couple more stares.

Your face must have been concerned because immediately Josh’s demeanor softens. “Baby are you not liking this, I told you all you have to do is say the word.”

“No no no. I’m loving this, maybe a little too much. I’m just so taken aback, I’ve never seen this side of you and I’m really loving it.”

He smirks, probably feeling good about himself after you just exposed yourself, probably a little too much.

After Josh pays the bill and you convince Josh to give Matt more than a few dollars tip because of his jealousy, you prepare to leave and head back to his apartment.

“Okay I know you want to get into the action immediately but I want to take you somewhere else, if you don’t mind.” He smiles, reaching out to hold your hands between his.

“I don’t mind at all.” You scooch out of your chair, grab your purse, and follow Josh out of the restaurant. After a short 5 minute drive you show up to an ice cream parlor that you had never been to before.

“How have I never known about this place?”

“You must be living under a rock y/n. I loved this place as a kid, our dad would take us all the time.” You felt a little overdressed for an ice cream parlor, but being here with Josh made the outside world irrelevant. After looking over the many flavors you opt on a mint chocolate chip scoop in a cup and Josh chooses his regular, a double scoop of cherry vanilla in a waffle bowl.

He brings you over to a small table in the corner, letting you have the booth side. After indulging in your ice cream for a few minutes and realizing it was the best ice cream you had ever had, Josh breaks the silence.

“So do you want to go over our test results?”

Your eyes almost fall out of your head. “Here? Josh, we're in public!”

“Anddddd…” He says, waiting for your response. “It’s not like there is anyone around.”

Besides the family on the other side of the room and the old couple ordering, the place was empty.

You giggle before pulling your phone out of your purse. You find your results and wait for him to begin.

“Okay so, what did the innocent y/n get on her rice purity score?” Making sure he emphasizes the innocent.

“No way man, you first.” You say pulling your phone closer to your chest.

“Fine. I got a 46.” He says dryly, waiting for your response.

“Oh my god, you're such a slut Josh.” Not being able to contain your laughter.

“So I got lower than you?”

You wince a little, realizing you’ll now have to expose yourself. “If we're talking golf then sure.” He can’t help but let his jaw drop a little. “How about a 23.”

His mouth turns into a huge open mouth smile. “I can’t believe that, show me.” You flip around your phone sharing the evidence.

“Are you going to call me a slut now or something?” Half being serious, half joking.

“Y/n, I don’t think you're a slut. Seriously. I said those things before because I was jealous of what I couldn’t have. That number means nothing to me, unless you chose one of the last two options, then it matters.” You can’t help but laugh, one at the joke, and two at the fact that he sees you for more than your sexual history.

“That means a lot Josh, thank you. And it means even more knowing how jealous you were.” You giggle, taking a spoon of ice cream into your mouth.

“Why not just get the cherry flavored ice cream? The vanilla probably just makes it more bland.”

His head cocks to the side giving you a look that makes you feel like you're missing something. He begins to scoop up a good amount onto his spoon, making sure to get a big cherry in it. He brings the spoon to your mouth, normally you would be cringed out over something like this but it was different. You allowed him to feed you the icecream and to your surprise it was amazing.

You cover your mouth making sure that you lick the remnants off your lips. “That's so good Josh, I’ll have to get that next time.”

“So there will be a next time?” He says scoops up some ice cream for himself.

“I mean, I had fun tonight. Even without a label I like hanging out with you and going out.”

“Right, and one may even call those hangouts a date, don’t you think?” He says, cocking his eyebrow up at you.

“I guess one could call them that. No matter what they're called I love being around you Josh. At practice, your apartment, out somewhere. It doesn’t matter. And to me it doesn’t matter what we are either, does it matter to you?”

He sits there for a second thinking about the bomb you just dropped on him.

“If you would have asked me that a little bit ago I would have said it did matter. But whether or not we're more than friends, I enjoy your company and I think for now that’s all that matters.”

Wow, this was a whole new side of Josh. Such a sweet and tender side that you could really come to love. Love. That word had never been in the equation. You push your many thoughts aside in your head, enjoying the present moment with Josh.

As you continue your simple banter you finish your ice cream filling so full from all the food from tonight. The way his face looked under the light could put you in a trance, you barely could pay attention to anything he was saying.

“… it was so crazy. Like who pulls up to a wedding in a tracker themed party bus?”

You snap back into realty to hear the last bit of his story. “That is so crazy.”

He smiles at you, the moment was so pure. “Anyways, wanna go back and let me fuck the shit out of you.”

Now that was the Josh you were used to. “Been waiting all night for you to ask.”

—

When arriving at his apartment, you imagined it would be like the movies. When they are stumbling into each other, hungrily trying to peel off each other's clothing, wanting nothing but one another. But despite Josh’s words fucking wasn’t the first thing to happen.

You both walk in hand and hand and he lets you use the bathroom to change into something more comfortable. Normally you would wear a giant t-shirt and shorts but wanted to dress a little nicer. Which sounds silly considering you would be going to bed. You wore a plum silk tank and flowy pants that fit perfectly on your body.

After returning from the bathroom Josh was sprawled out on the couch waiting for you. He had a tight t-shirt on, his muscles underneath pulling at the fabric. His bottom half, dressed in red flannel pajama pants. Your mouth waters at the sight, your hand quickly moving towards your mouth to wipe it. He pats the spot on the couch next to him, “Come take a seat mama, lets watch our show.”

“Community? But I thought we were gonna-”

“Patience darling, all in good time. Don’t you wanna relax with me?”

Without a second thought you come over to take a seat next to him but are grabbed and forced to sit in between his legs, letting your back lay against his chest. The episodes went by while light chatter filled the air. His fingers made it to your head at some point and never left as he played with your hair, lightly twirling and braiding it in some sorts. As you were going into the third episode of the night, you remembered the BDSM test that never got revealed from earlier.

“Hey Joshy?”

“Yeah.” He says drying, trying to pay attention to the episode.

“We still never went over the BDSM test.”

He sat up now giving you his full attention. “You're right, let me go grab my phone and some snacks and I’ll be right back. I have a feeling this is going to be entertaining.” He smiles moving around you to get up. You giggle and reach for your phone. When unlocking it, it opens right to your messages and Jake's name is very clearly near the top. Before he got back, you quickly deleted the messages and turned on do not disturb. You felt guilty having to hide it, but you didn’t want this to ruin the night.

Josh walks back into the living room with a bag of premade popcorn and his phone in the other hand. He reclaims his seat, offering you the bag. “ What results are you expecting from me?” He pops a handful of popcorn into his mouth.

You turn your body so you are now facing him between his legs. “Hm… I don't know. From everything I’ve learned about you here lately, I’d say maybe age play or brat.” You chuckle at him, grabbing your own handful of the salty snack.

Fear and confusion washes over his face. “Excuse me? What the fuck?” You can’t help but laugh at his reaction.

“I’m joking, Josh calm down. What is your top 5 on the list?”

He scans over his phone before beginning to read. “Okay so number one, I have dominant, of course. Number two brat tamer, three rigger, four degrader, and five masochists.” Damn. You didn’t know what to expect but it wasn’t that. “Was that what you were expecting?”

“Um… no, not really. I thought you were going to be pretty vanilla” You can feel your cheeks flush, embarrassment beginning to take over your body.

“Wow, I’m kinda offended. Your turn now.” He says with a cheesy smile.

“One is switch, number two degradee-”

“Switch?” Josh proclaims as he interrupts you, his eyebrows raising in shock.

You jokingly roll your eyes and continue sharing your results. “Number two degradee, number 3 brat, number four rope bunny, and five is primal prey.”

You were waiting for a witty response but he was speechless. You don’t know what he was expecting. “Josh, are you good?”

“Yeah it's just interesting to hear. But it's good to know you were turned on all the times I would call you a slut. ” He shoots a wink at you.

“You’re lucky that I find you attractive, or else I would have slapped you across the face.” You give him a little smile.

“Oh! So, you dooo find me attractive?” He says running a hand through his curly hair.

“You really needed me to tell you to know that?” You play at him.

“I thought we were ‘friends’ though? Being attracted to me makes me think we're not just friends y/n.” He places a hand on your thigh, squeezing it gently. A sharp shiver travels up your spine at his hand placement.

“I mean we're friends with benefits if that's how you wanna put it.” You give a poor attempt at trying to appease him, knowing you both wanted much more than to be just “friends with benefits”.

“Yeah but I think deep down you know you want me to be more than that, y/n.” He begins to move his body, hovering above deathly close to your face. “What do you want from me y/n? Is it just the sex, because I can give that to you. I’ll fuck you just how I’m going to fuck you tonight. But I know deep down you want me. Maybe you're just too scared to admit it, but I need you. I need you so fucking bad y/n, in more ways than one.” Your hands meet his hips, fingers playing with the waistband of his pajama pants.

“Let me take you to bed mama, and by the end of the night I want an answer. I can’t be teased any longer knowing if I can have you or not.” He whispers seductively into your ear. You can feel the pool forming in your panties just from his voice alone.

You moan lightly into his ear, as he scoops you up off the couch. He carries you down the hallway bridal style, pushing his bedroom door open with his foot, stumbling inside. He walks over, throwing your body down onto the bed.

“Strip.” He commands at you as he walks over to the closest.

“You too.”

He whips his head around. “Are you back talking? I know you're not stupid, don’t play with me. That's another strike mama.” You notice that he’s not empty handed anymore. He grips the thick black leather belt he was wearing earlier, walking right back over to you. You can’t help but let your eyes widen at the sight.

“Don’t act scared now, we both saw those results. Do you remember the colors?” He asks softly, taking off his shirt in the process leaving him in only his pants.

“Yes Josh.” You rip your pajamas off quickly, leaving you sitting completely bare on his bed.

“Good girl baby. Have you ever done this before?” He asks, sitting beside you then lifting you to be bent over his lap.

“No.” You say timidly.

“I strongly disbelieve that, but we’ll just take your word on it.” You feel the cool leather beginning to brush over your bare ass. “What color are you right now?”

“Green, very much green.” You quickly spit out, eager for his touch.

“Good, now I want you to count with me since you were a very bad girl. Can you do that mama?”

You can count to 5. “Yes Josh.”

“Sir, you call me sir.” He says sternly.

“Yes sir.” You say pathetically.

Without any warning you feel a hard slap on your ass. “Fuck” You recoil at the feeling.

He leans down to whisper into your ear, “That didn’t sound like a one to me, how about we try that again.” Again, the belt goes flying through the air landing another harsh crack against your ass cheek. “…One.”

“Good girl. Only four more to go.” He taunts you, but you can’t say it doesn’t turn you on even more.

Crack!

“Two”, you squeak out, your eyes shut tight. Your hands travel to his thigh gripping firmly onto his thigh as he lands a third hit to your ass. “Fuck, three…”.

“Fuck three!” He mimics you in a high pitch moan. “You hear how pathetic you sound?”

No way.

“As much as you're acting like you hate this, I know you like it. Such a fucking whore. You’re so wet right now, I can feel you soaking through my pants.”

With another whip of the belt your hands can’t help but clutch onto his bicep. “Four.” Your voice, no doubt, sounds so small. The final strike is the worst. It stings the hardest out of them all and you could barely get your words out. “…five. Fuck Josh.” Your eyes begin to water as you feel a few drops roll down your cheeks.

“Good girl baby. So glad to know you're not incompetent and can count. Now get up.”

As you struggle to get up from his lap you couldn’t help but also feel the pool between your legs, coating the insides of your thighs. He pulls his pants and boxers off at the same time, revealing his hardened cock.

“You see that mirror over there baby.” He points to the mirror centered in front of his bed. You nod not being able to get any words out. “First, you are going to get yourself on that bed, and then I am going to leash you, and your going to watch me fuck you like the whore you are. Got it?”

It was almost embarrassing how fast you got onto the bed. You stayed there on your hands and knees facing the mirror, watching him slowly make his way around to the back of you. He begins to put the belt around your throat.

“I’m not going to tighten it all the way, I don't need you dying on me. Lift your hand up if you need me to stop okay?”

“Yes sir.”

“Good baby.” He begins to line himself up with your core slowly pushing himself into you. His grip on the belt tightens, pulling your head up.

“Oh God, you fill me up so well Josh,” You choke out. He yanks the belt back a little more and slowly starts to thrust in and out of you.

“That I do, mama. You’re so fucking tight holy shit.” He begins to press into you harder. “Look at yourself, so beautiful.”

You look up into the mirror, making eye contact with him, and can’t help but moan at the obscene sight before you, your head falling down towards the bed, but Josh wasn’t having any of that. He lets go of the belt and grabs a chunk of your hair and pulls you back up. “I said, you are going to watch me fuck you. What's so hard to understand, you dumb bitch.”

He lets go of your hair and grabs the belt again, pounding into you harder and harder. Your tears pick up even more, rolling down your cheeks. “What a poor baby, do you feel so good?” Josh reaches around to your face, wiping the tears off your cheek, smearing your mascara in the process.

You were so incredibly turned on you couldn’t help but tighten around his cock as you begin to feel an orgasm creeping up on you.

“FUCK Y/N.” He pulls the belt hard, pulling you up to his chest. “Don’t do that shit or else you’ll get another strike.”

It’s almost like he’s begging for it. Without a second thought you squeeze around him again.

“FUCK.” Disregarding the belt, he slams you face first into the bed, grabbing your hips with both hands to give him more leverage. You feel heat radiating off your ass as Josh fucks his pelvis into the same spots he abused earlier with the belt.

“You can’t take this pussy Josh,” You clench around his dick again and this time he’s had it.

“I’ve had it with your shit, y/n.” His grip tightens around your hips, yanking you back to meet his thrusts harder. You feel his tip brush against your cervix, bringing you even closer to the edge. You knew you wouldn’t last much longer. “Josh I’m gonna cum.”

“What a surprise. I don’t care, because we're not done til I say we are.” His thrust never soften or stagger. He continues to assault your pussy.

“Josh I’m cumming oh my god.” You feel a wash of pleasure go over your body, but the thrusts don't stop. “Oh Josh stop, it's too much.”

“I don’t care. You're gonna take it.” He begins to get sloppy, knowing that he’s close to climax. “What color are you, baby?”

“Green.. Fuck Josh.” You see him smirk in the mirror knowing this is exactly what he wanted to happen. The pain of the overstimulation begins to turn into pleasure once more.

“Oh baby, your pussy feels so good. I’m going to cum so hard inside you, get you pregnant so no one else can have you.” His head tilts back, mouth wide open.

Holy fuck. You would be lying if that didn’t take you back a little, but it just turned you on that much more. Before you can get a word out you feel a shot of warm cum fill your pussy.

“Oh fuck mama. You feel so good, too fucking good.”

When he finally comes down he flips you onto your stomach, releasing your neck from the belt, trailing it down your body. “You think you can give me one more baby.” You feel the cool belt drag over your wet folds, along with a few light slaps.

He was going to be the death of you.

Not being able to help yourself you begin to grind up against the belt. He takes your hands above your head and begins to tie your hands together and wrap the belt around his bed frame. You feel his cum leaking out, as he leans his face down in between your legs. “Are you gonna stay still for me mama, be a good girl?”

You nod, feeling like you were on an entirely other planet with all the different sensations going through your body at the moment. He reaches up and slaps your face and grabs your neck. “Answer me y/n.”

“Yes Josh, I mean yes sir.” His hand releases and he makes his way back down between your legs. “I’m going to suck my cum out of you baby.”

With that, his head disappears between your thighs, licking a stripe through your folds. His face reappears and he sticks his tongue out for you, presenting his cum to you. He leans up, planting a quick kiss on your lips, followed by a deeper one licking into your mouth. You hum in pleasure of his taste on your tongue.

“Taste good, baby?” He gives you the prettiest smile.

“Mmm, so good,” You moan arching your chest against his. He smirks, going back down to eye level with your cunt. He begins with quick circles on your clit with his tongue. “I love your tongue, sir. Always making me feel so good.”

He doesn’t respond as he speeds up his licks, making you squirm beneath him. He pins your hips down with his arm, “ Stop fucking moving, or do I need to tie your legs down as well?”

You liked the idea, but needed to cum again. You shook your head furiously and kept your legs still.

He keeps lapping up your juices, bringing you closer and closer.

“I'm so close.” This feeling was different, much more powerful, but certainly not foreign. You feel little spurts coming out, and Josh picks up on it immediately.

“Soak my face, mama. Drown me.” His tongue attacks on your clit faster until you let go.

Josh’s mouth opens wide, desperately trying to catch every drop of your juices. It was a sight you never wanted to forget. He swallows it down and looks up at you, his face completely covered in your cum.

“You’re so fucking hot babe.” He reached up to release your wrists from the restraints. As your arms come down and hit the bed, pins and needles wash over them after being suspended in the air for so long.

You laid there silently in his chest for a while until you broke the silence. “Josh, did you mean what you said about getting me pregnant?”

“No, I don’t think getting you pregnant is a smart idea for either of us. But having you to myself was true. I need you badly y/n, and I hope I’ll have an answer soon on whether you want me too.”

“How about we go out to the living room, watch community and cuddle for a little, my head isn’t the clearest after all of that.” You offer, Josh can’t help but let out a chuckle before getting up to collect your clothing off the floor. He helps you back into your pajamas and then puts on his own.

You look in the mirror to see your mascara smudged and hair all knotted and messy. You don’t bother fixing it much because it was only you two there tonight. You rub the mascara away a little, still leaving you with makeshift eyeliner on your waterline.

You follow Josh out of his room and drag your feet back over to the living room. When you make it there you are met with a familiar face sitting at the couch on his laptop.

“Finally you’re done, I was gonna go back to my room but didn’t wanna have to hear her moaning. So fucking loud, by the way, what were you doing to her Josh?” With that he closes his laptop and saunters back to his room, closing the door behind him. You couldn’t dare look him in his eyes as he walked by. You can’t imagine how either of them feel at the moment.

You were a little embarrassed to learn that Jake had been sitting here, listening to your sounds of pleasure. Yet, some part of you was completely turned on by the fact he was able to hear everything. Every little moan, whimper, and whine, all caused by his brother.

You take a deep breath and sit back down next to Josh, and cuddle into his side. You look up at him and smile. “Ignore him, y/n. He’s probably just going to use that imagery to jerk off because he doesn’t get any.” You awkwardly laugh. Yep, definitely not getting any. You internally cringe.

You immediately forget about it though as Josh pulls you impossibly closer. You wrap your arms around his torso and snuggle your head into his chest.

“Hey Mama, look here for me,” Josh says to you. You look up again, into his beautiful coffee irises. He wipes under your eyes with his thumbs, swiping away the remaining smeared mascara. “There you go, sweetheart.” He seals his act of affection with a sugary, sweet forehead kiss.

You blush under his touch, grabbing his hand interlacing your fingers with his. You bring his hand up to your lips, reciprocating the kiss across his knuckles. You hear a little giggle leave his lips. “Wanna watch Community now?”

“Yeah… yeah we can, right after this”, He takes your face in his hands, bringing his lips to yours. You make a move to deepen it by slipping your tongue into his mouth. It wasn’t like the makeouts you had before, this one was tender and passionate. Your hands reach for his face, slipping them up into his loose curls. His roaming across your back, not going any farther than your waist band.

He pulls away for a moment, “You can’t do this to me and not be mine y/n. I need you to figure this out for my sanity.” His eyes, large and pouty. “I don’t think I could ever get over you, whether we become a thing or not.”

You realize the game you were playing is not something you can carry out any longer. You were never tied down to one person, but Josh was different. The way he made you feel could never compare to the many other guys you’ve been with. Your fling with Jake though had to be put to an end or else you could never make this work out with Josh.

“I can’t make that decision right now. I want you too, badly. I just need time to sort some things out, and tie together loose ends with some people.” Making it as vague as possible to not lead him to think it could be Jake. “I want to take things seriously and not lead people to think I’m going to be open for anything.”

Josh stares at you, half happy, half still frustrated that he didn’t get his way. “I understand babe, this isn’t the way for me to do it either. I want to make it official official. Not just force you into it on my couch. I’ll give you some time, but I know it's coming.” He sends a bright smile to you, finishing it off with a deep kiss.

You break away again, “Josh, I’ve never felt this way before, I was so confused for the longest time.” You grab onto his face gently rubbing your thumbs across his soft cheeks. He nuzzles his face into your hands.

“Same, Mama,” your lips reconnect and let them do the talking. You push him down to lay flat on his back, he looks back up at you with innocent eyes.

You resituate yourself to sit on his lower abdomen, and begin to grind lightly against his soft dick.

He grabs a hold of your hips and stills you, “Can’t we have a sweet moment y/n.” He says in a sarcastic tone, smirking up at you. “Or is fucking always on the mind.”

You act like you have to think about that for a moment, “Mmmm… maybe?” you chuckle leaning back in for the kiss.

“As much as I’d love a round two, Jake is home now. Can’t we just enjoy this moment together.” He says as he pulls you in for another quick kiss. “Maybe, when he’s asleep though…” He adds, with a dorky wink. You playfully shove his shoulder and then relax your head back onto his chest.

He reaches for the remote, turning on Community. After a few episodes, you both doze off, only waking up when Jake slams his bedroom door to go out to the kitchen. Josh not waking even once. You awaken again by another slam of the door, what the fuck is he doing? You look over at Josh, to see him still peacefully sleeping like a baby. What time is it even?

You quickly turn your phone over to check the time, still in a half-asleep daze. 2:15am. Definitely not a time to be slamming doors.

You see a new notification under your messages, Jake. You swore you deleted him from your messages earlier. You click on his name anyway to see what he could possibly have to say.

2:14am Jake: I know he’s asleep. Come to the bathroom now.

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@demonrat444 @gvfstuddedmajesty @jordie-gvf @jazzyfigz @slut4lando @gvfmarge @peaceloveunitygvf @jjwasneverhere @areuirish @mar-rein12 @woyayaofdreams @freyjalw @musicspeak @jennabobenasblog @do-it-jakey-baby @dannys-dream @terry-66

[nincompoopydoo]

PINING, BAGELS, REPEAT.

— WHEN THE DRINKING'S DONE ; PART 6 / ?

( gif from this gifset by @jascontodd )

PAIRING: Bruce Wayne x reader

WORD COUNT: 2.9k

SUMMARY: Sunday night dinner with your mother doesn’t go as planned when Bruce shows up unexpectedly at your door and you both know how your mother really loves him alot.

A/N: Slow and kinda long-winded chapter again haha. I used to be the kind of person who couldn’t write long stuff. Now look at me. Who is she??? Enjoy this one yall. Probably one or two more chapters to go, depends on how much I can write <3

WARNINGS: Swearing, alcohol. I write about what I feel and they are very real. So if you find these things triggering, please do not read this.

MASTERLIST ; MASTERPOST

Sunday night. You’re in an apron, flushed from the heat of the stove. You’ve just poured a glass of wine for your mother, but she doesn’t drink it—too busy walking around your apartment, clearing your stuff as she criticizes your lack of cleanliness and organization. Grading papers during exam season keeps you busy. Needless to say, you don’t have the time to clean your goddamn house.

You still love her anyway.

You’re at the sink, purple-stained fingers from peeling the tunic of the red onions are under running water when there is a knock on your door. It’s deafening, rapid, and agitating. You’ve just spilled boiling water onto your hand and you really don’t need another problem to come charging at your front door. Literally.

Moving out of the kitchen with haste, you call out over your shoulder to your mother to quit rearranging with bits and bobs of stationary and papers because yes, it’s messy but you know exactly where everything is. The knocking doesn’t cease, and your annoyance aggravates further. You’re gonna have to punch someone or something if it doesn’t stop.

You aggressively pushed the barrel of the bolt lock, swinging the door open as the strands of your wild hair flew backward in the sudden blow of air.

All forms of anger and agitation disappear as soon as your gaze meets the flushed face of none other than Bruce fucking Wayne, dressed in a grey dress vest, tie hanging loosely a pristine white shirt, and an ebony tweed overcoat. This feels like deja vu. Your expression goes through a series of mixed emotions, mostly confusion, when it morphed into a guise of embarrassment, cheeks even redder. “Don’t tell me I texted you by accident again?” He blinks, seemingly as bewildered as you are. “What? No, no. No. I—” His sentence is cut short when he takes a moment to catch his breath. Your brows are frowning even deeper than before. “Did you run here or something? And what are you doing here anyway?”

Bruce shifts in his stance, a palm against the door frame, shaking his head. He feels small under your interrogative stare. “No, I came here to see you…” he trails off, eyes shamelessly skirting across your figure. He just now notices that it may be a bad time for him to turn up, and you’re hit with the realization you’re in a ratty apron, very red and very sweaty. You’re right. It is deja vu because why are you always a mess when Bruce shows up at your front door unannounced? You abruptly pull the apron over your head, hurling it behind the door, hands palming the frizz of your hair into a somewhat presentable look.

“Look, I need to talk you—”

“Honey! Who’s at the door?” He’s being cut off mid-sentence again. This time, by your mother’s voice from the living room. Your eyes are wide again—so are his.

Your mother’s fondness for Bruce is an understatement. Obsession is a better word. She had only met him once, and that was six years ago but the conceptualization of being somewhat related to an exceptionally handsome and successful man had gotten to her head all those years ago. Hell, she loves him more than she loves you. Your mother—A woman who wishes to call your best friend ‘son’ with a whole lot of love to give. If she discovers Bruce is here, at your doorstep, she will never let go. Never. And you both know it. There’s a silent understanding that travels between the two of you and the look you’re giving him tells only one thing—Run before it’s too late.

“Bruce Wayne as I live and breathe...”

Well, too late.

A small-statured lady stands on the farther side of the hallway, face lit up with sheer joy and excitement as if she had just won a lottery. She approaches him with arms open wide and soon, her hands are laid on his cheeks, examining the man’s face carefully. Bruce just stands there, stiff as a rock, unsure of how to regain his composure from all the adrenaline of wanting to see you now that he was in such close proximity to the woman who raised you. When it’s you, he tends to struggle with timing and it’s partly the reason he has never managed to act on his feelings for you. For the longest time, he has wanted to be more than friends or whatever the hell this was. He had been hesitant but now, he’s very sure.

Sometimes it feels like it's the right person but the wrong time. He doesn’t want it to be that way. He wants to make things right with you.

And there he was, being squished under the grasp of the lady that loves him very much.

He catches your gaze; you flash him a sympathetic smile as you mouth the word “sorry.” Bruce arches his brows, indicating he has no idea what to do or how to get out of this situation.

“You’ve grown so much since the last time I saw you!” the older woman exclaims, a hand now firmly on his shoulder, the other brushing away his long strands of hair from his face with affection. Bruce would never admit it; he likes the attention your mother gives to him—the touch of a mother. Something he longs for.

“Why don’t you come in and join us for dinner? There's more than enough food.”

Crap, you should have known that question was bound to be mentioned. You’re not convinced that you will be able to suppress your emotional heartburn and the idea of Bruce tasting the dishes you’re cooking, it’s making your palms sweat. But what the hell. You shouldn’t be this nervous around him, you’ve known each other for years. He has seen you at your worst and vice versa.

Still, you’ll like to avoid the predicament of a dinner table set for you, your mother, and the man you secretly love. You’re quick with an answer. “Oh, I’m sure he has other important things to do. Bruce is very busy—”

“I’ll be happy to. I have no plans for tonight after all.”

You stare at Bruce, eyes glimmering with shock and betrayal—he is supposed to be on your side. He simply sends you a swift wink, and you feel the growing and most likely apparent deep red of your already flushed cheeks. You glance away to face your mother, eye crinkling in hopes of concealing the effect he has on you. Well, at least your mother looks fucking overjoyed. Maybe the night won’t end in disappointment.

-

The scent of chicken and spice whiffs through the air from the dishes of chicken and chorizo paella you’ve managed to whip up in a quick thirty minutes—a recipe you came by in an article titled “Fancy dishes for lazy cooks.” Well, it’s certainly working; everyone looks pleasantly surprised when you emerge from the kitchen with a cast-iron skillet within your kitchen gloved-grasp.

Happiness is the sound of the clinking of cutlery against nearly empty smeared plates, the splash of wine cascading from the bottle you held into the glasses of your guests, and the occasional laughter that erupts from your mother as Bruce tries to make a joke through mouthfuls of paella. A symphony of contentment and comfort, composed and orchestrated by the two most significant individuals in your life. Beauty is made anywhere beautiful people are; in this space, cramped up at the beech wooden table made for one by the casement window that overlooks the apartment across yours.

This side of Bruce—where boyish smiles were manifested and hearty laughs arising from the belly—is the side you miss the most. Years ago, things felt simpler though your past self would deny that notion as human life continues to become more intricate as we grow older and our eyes see more. Innocence to maturity. Happiness to grief. But, the complexity of this warfare between the brain and the heart seems to reside in perpetual darkness, no light at the end of the tunnel. For a long time, you thought deciding to be alone could eventually bring peace to the madness but maybe, you’ve been with the wrong people this whole time. It’s your reflection against the window pane that shows the evident crinkle in your eyes and the constant upward in the curve of your lips even though it contrasts the gloomy hues of blue from the sky at twilight—you’re happy.

It’s the way your mother leans over and wipes off the bits of rice from the corner of your mouth and the exchange of awkward smiles when Bruce accidentally brushes his hand against yours when reaching for the fork. This is what you want. And maybe, just maybe, you deserve to not be alone.

“So, have you decided on who you’re taking to the wedding?”

Your mother’s voice hauls you back from your daydream. She gives you a knowing look, discretely glancing towards Bruce on the other end of the table. She knows you don’t have a date, and you know she wants you to bring Bruce. You feel your anxiety creep back in.

This is weirdly the second time you’re in this situation.

“I don’t know yet...” In times like this, you wonder if your mother wields some sort of magical ability of truth or something because no matter how much you try, you can never lie to her. And now, you wish the ground would collapse and swallow you up. You know she means well, but oh my God, Bruce is staring at you and you don’t know what to do with your hands anymore.

“Wedding?” Bruce chirps with a questioning brow as he glances between you and your mother. Now, you’re forced to explain for the sake of context. “My cousin’s getting married next week and mom here wants me to bring a date.” Your mother’s expression indicates that you’re lying through your teeth. Yet in reality, it’s not technically a lie if you’re leaving parts of reason out of the explanation because it’s true she wants you to bring a date but you don’t mention how you don’t want to go alone because weddings make you sad.

It sounds pathetic.

Bruce just nods, taking a sip of his wine. The fact he’s not saying anything is making you anxious. You thought you didn’t want him to be your date but now, maybe you do. These feelings are messing up your brain. It’s just mush now, and there’s no cure.

These are the times you want to say “Fuck you, Bruce” but in the nicest way possible.

“Why don’t you bring Bruce?”

She was direct as they come but is mostly tired of your lack of initiative and doubt. I mean, it’s not like you’re asking him to marry you, right? And honestly, you’re kind of relieved you didn’t have to be one to do it but you can’t keep depending on her to do all the heavy lifting for you. You’re not a teenager anymore. You’re a goddamn grown adult.

Nevertheless, you peer at his reaction to this from the corner of your eye, fully expecting some sort of a resting jaded expression or eyes wide in horror but he’s just looking at you...with that look—highly bewildered and almost seems to be entertained by your embarrassment. Despite the purse of his lips, you manage to catch sight of the slight impish tuck of his lips.

He thinks it's the wine, but he isn’t exactly sure.

“Yeah, sure. Why not?”

-

“Are you sure about this?” you cross your arms, as you watch Bruce shrug on his coat from the rack. The two of you are squeezed in the entryway of your apartment, huddling in hushed conversation. “About what?” he asks absentmindedly when in reality, he knows exactly what you’re referring to. As much as he doesn’t want to admit it, it’s an excuse to be around you longer. You purse your lips, shifting in your stance, eyes flickering away from his gaze. “About coming to the wedding,” you say it slowly, carefully, like you’re afraid to and you’re not sure why. He nods with the furrow of his brows, tugging his hands into the pockets of his ebony tweed coat. “I’m sure...Unless you don’t want me to come—”

“No, no. God, of course, I want you to come,” you stop, realizing how your sudden outburst of excitement must have made you seem desperate. You clear your throat, feet shifting once more. “I don’t want to pull you off work just because I don’t want to be alone.”

He raises his brows, nearing a little closer to you. “So that’s the real reason?” A hint of a smile—it’s a teasing one. You simply throw a fist to his arm yet unable to stifle your growing smile. “Don’t be a jerk.”

Bruce winces followed by a laugh that comes out more light a puff of air as he bares his palms in a gesture of surrender. “Hey, I didn’t say anything.”

Maybe, it’s the walls of this hallway, covered with hung framed photographs of family, childhood, and friends because it’s starting to feel warm. You think it’s the way his eyes light up when you laugh, radiating a sort of comforting warmth on this cold night. It feels like home. Bruce feels like home. You notice the prominent stain of your mother’s lipstick on his left cheek. You bring one hand to rest on the curve of his cheekbone, thumb trying to efface the smeared stain away.

You’re not sure if it's the smell of his deodorant or the sudden sense of his breath on your skin that made you comprehend the closing gap between your face and his. In an instant, your hand jerks away and returns to your side, clenching to a fist. Bruce clears his throat, bringing a hand up to scratch the growing stubble at his jaw. The touch of your fingers lingers like a burn.

Recognizing the tension in the air, you decide to avert your thoughts back to the conversation you were having in the first place. “You know, you don’t have to come. Really. You’ve done a lot for me, and you know that.”

“Yes...but I’ll always have your back no matter what.”

He smiles at you. The kind that reaches his eyes. He looks younger like this.

“And I’ll always have yours, Bruce.”

You’re an idiot. He’s an idiot. You’re just two idiots, standing in the hallway with hearts that feel like they’re about to explode. Despite the lingering tension in the air that’s still present, you bring him into an embrace. It feels natural, your arms around his shoulder and his on the small of your back. “Thanks for everything. Especially for making my mom really happy.” you punctuate your sentence with a gentle caress to the back where his shoulders meet. You hear the muffled sound of his laugh, feeling the rumble of his chest against yours as you try not to squirm at the brush of his unshaven chin against the curve of your neck. “No problem,” he mumbles before pulling away.

“And you need a shave.” You’re pointing to his chin and he finds himself scratching it again. He merely hums in response.

Swinging the door open while you wave him goodbye feels like a part of you is leaving. You’re not sure why you’re feeling this newly found emptiness in you when you know you’ll see him next week. You decide to blame the wine. It’s easier that way.

He’s walking away, already out of view when you decide you should really say something at least.

“Bruce,” you suddenly call out; he turns on his heels and backtracks a little too eager to face you at the doorway. “What was it you wanted to talk about?” He frowns in response, head tilting in a questioning manner. “When you came here, you said you needed to talk.”

He recalls the real reason he was here in the first place. Rushing to your door like you’re about to disappear any minute. Yet, you’re here, still at the doorway, three hours later. Fuck, he was about to confess.

Bad timing. Again.

Right person, wrong time.

No. He’ll make it right. Just, not now.

“I was...going to thank you for the bagels; Asiago. Nice choice.” Is what he says instead of reciting the words that had been running through his head in rehearsal since the drive to your apartment. He ignores the way your shoulders sag, perhaps in relief—he doesn’t want to know. He ignores the burning in his chest when you nod, the corners of your mouth tugging into a faint smile as you raise a palm in a somewhat solemn wave of farewell. He ignores the sting in his eyes when the door closes on him, symbolizing finality when he really doesn’t want it to end. Left alone in the dismal light of the hallway; it acts as a poignant reminder of his bereavement and how much of his consolation depends on your presence.

When the drinking's done, does it make it any easier for him to open himself up to you?

Bruce allows himself to cry once he pulls the car door to a close because he feels overwhelmed by the conflicting thoughts that continue to reside in his mind. The regrets, the what-ifs, and the should-haves. He forgets himself sometimes because he gets so lost in his thoughts, he doesn’t recognize himself anymore.

You keep him grounded. You remind him who Bruce Wayne truly is.

He catches a glimpse of his reflection in the rearview mirror.

You’re right. He does need a shave.

TAGLIST:

@raineeace

[comehomeducklings]

Past [Part 2] (Obsession)

A/N: Some chapters will be named with either “Past,” “Present,” or “Future,” then their numbered part coming right after it. This is to confuse you less when flashbacks or anything happens. As you have probably noticed, it says “Past” for Part 2. This is going back near when Tom and her just met. Thank you for reading! <3

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6

Tom Riddle's Moodboard

Main Character's Moodboard

~////////////////𓆙////////////////~

1940 - 3rd year

“Potions is not that bad, I swear. You just have to be good at measuring.”

At the table, my friends and I are discussing our classes this year. Potions being one of my favorite topics. Devyn absolutely loathes that certain class. We have to drag her there to make sure she doesn’t skip. Poor girl tries her best to not mess up but the cauldron always ends up blowing up. I even watched her do every step once, never missing a beat. The potion still ended up failing, even though she did everything correctly. She gave up after a while, who wouldn’t. I help her do extra assignments for extra credit to keep her grade up. She also studies with me to make sure she can memorize everything and pass her tests. Amelia is pretty good at the class, she’s luckily paired with Devyn most of the time. Carrying the potion to success, with a little bit of my secret help. It’s not cheating, it’s using your resources.

I’m resources.

“Potions is not that bad,” Devyn mocks me. “If it weren’t for you two I would have gone insane in that stupid class.”

Amelia just laughs at her while eating her hash browns on the plate. She reaches her hand out to take some more eggs.

“You were able to do it before. Not the way you were supposed to, but it worked,” Amelia says.

“Exactly, just start doing it your way at this point. I don’t think Slughorn will care how it’s done, just how it comes out.”

Devyn nods her head and points at me with a fork. Her mouth full of food so she settles for that response. My plate doesn’t have much other than some bacon and fruit. I’m not usually a breakfast eater. I get my appetite at lunch and dinner time. It’s just too early for a bunch of food smells, the smells make me kind of nauseous. I’ll eat though, enough to hold me off till lunch.

The chatter in the lunchroom rises by the minute. Everyone refilling themselves before their busy day. All energy levels rising while everyone wakes up from their groggy morning mood. While my friends finish eating we continue to talk about our classes and share the schedules for this year. Most classes we had were the same except for our electives. I tried taking as many electives as possible. My family back home never really did magic. I actually came a year and a half late since my family wanted me to have a normal school experience. I learned to do everything without the use of magic, the only thing my mom taught me was the floo network, creatures, and plants. I would often accompany her to Diagon Alley when she shops. I got an Owl for my 10th birthday. A cat would have been amazing if I wasn’t allergic to it. My owl is a brown and white-furred barn owl. Don’t ask me why I named it Bartholomew. I was ten okay, give me a break. Speaking of the floo network, my mom had to chase me through it quite often because I kept teleporting everywhere. I once ran into the Ministry of Magic’s building and got lost. They had to take me home to my parents. Their faces told me everything I needed to know about the punishment waiting for me.

Halfway through the second year is when I came to Hogwarts, a second letter coming that year asking my parents to let me learn more there. So when they finally let me attend, everything was pretty new to me. My mother was the magic one in the family. Her grandmother, my great-grandmother, before her had the magic gene. Going to school was the same experience as going from a muggle-borns perspective. The difference is, I knew more about its existence. I would look at yearbooks my mom had from when she went here. She earned a lot of titles, all the achievements being recorded down. I always wondered why she never wanted me to come here. Did something happen to me, to her? I’m guessing she just wanted a normal life with dad. He has always supported her through everything. A love, a bond like that is hard to come by. He would also learn about magic right next to me. At least, the stuff my mom allowed to let us know.

That’s why I want to learn as much as I can, of what’s available. Why learn math in the muggle world when I could be learning divination. Spells of all types, potions for everything of inconvenience. My chores could be completed with just a flick of my wand. I’ve lately been learning wandless magic, on my own. Albus has helped by providing me with material to study that type of magic. The only thing I’ve managed so far is a spark coming from the tips of my fingertips. Sparking hope that I could actually, maybe, achieve that level. Now I won't get my hopes up, but that can lead me to a certain advantage in dueling. That being one of my weakest skills. Always panicking, saying any spells that pop up in my mind, and making random movements coming from my wand. Often confusing who I’m up against, although they recover from that confusion fairly quickly.

Riddle, met him once. One too many if you would ask me. I dissuade ever wanting to speak to him. Arrogance and pride flow through his tongue like second nature. I do take pride in succeeding above him in 3 classes. He is 2 classes above me but, that’s not the point. I do admit, he’s attractive. Only a little though, how else would he charm his way through the professors and students.

“Alright, I’m ready to go. You guys done?”

“Yeah,” I say. Devyn and I start leaving our seats and heading towards the huge doors.

Amelia hurried from her seat, a few steps behind since she took some fruit with her to eat on the way. More and more students also started making their way towards the first period. Not wanting to be blamed for the loss of house points. This system causes so many fights, everyone’s competitive side getting the best of their common sense. I would be lying if I said it didn’t get the best of me before. Amelia being her usual bubbly self skips backward while chatting with us. Before we could warn her to stop, she pushes someone ahead of her. Both falling down, hitting the floor. She spins her head extremely quickly, her hair sticking in her mouth from the force of the wind.

“I’m so sorry, I wasn’t paying attention,” she explains. Quickly trying to digest her situation. I make my way towards her and pull her up. I fix her robe and dust off any dirt on the cloth from the floor.

“Clearly idiot, can you not use those bug eyes of yours to see?”

Devyn and I make eye contact. We understand that there are witnesses here, and one of them is bound to snitch on us if we fight. A huge scene would probably make Amelia feel even more embarrassed as well. Instead, I guided Amelia by her back. We continue on to class while I comfort her. Devyn is staying back to “talk” to the guy. Lestrange is in for it now, any poor soul would be when in the fiery path of her anger.

Devyn’s loud yells could still be slightly heard when entering the potions classroom. First class of the year, and day. On Slughorn’s table, I can see a vial with the wideye potion contained inside. I set Devyn’s textbook on her station, turning to the page that contains information on the potion. Hoping to save her confusion and time.

“Welcome, welcome! Nice to see some old faces, and new ones,” he says with the biggest grin on his face. “Today we’ll be learning about the Wideye potion. Can anyone tell me what this potion does?”

I quickly raise my hand, rather eager. I did some reading about a lot of potions during the summer. Trying to get a headstart on my studies. This potion being one of them. Only 3 students raised their hand, one of them being me. The other, well, Riddle.

“Yes, go ahead and answer,” the professor looks my way.

I smile, “The wideye potion prevents the person consuming the liquid the ability to fall asleep. Which is often used in the medical field to wake someone from a sleep caused by a blunt force or drug.”

“Precisely! 10 points.”

I look back rather smugly at Riddle, rather happy I got chosen instead of him. I know, he could have easily answered that too. I’ll let myself bask in the small achievement for now. 30 minutes of class is just spent writing down notes, preparing us for the potion we will make. Note-taking is my favorite, especially the little doodles I get to make. We use a feather instead of the regular pen. I found it rather amusing and liked the certain feeling of writing with it. The dipping noise that the point of the feather makes when hitting the liquid ink is a very profound sound. No real writer’s bump forming on my fingers.

“That’s enough writing, I need you all to prepare your cauldron, gather the materials you need, and start your potion. If done correctly, tomorrow when we add the finishing touches and check on it the potion should be a blue/green color,” Slughorn comments. “You have 10 minutes to study your notes, then the rest of the class to make your potion. No looking back at your notes after those ten minutes.”

After scanning my notes, I stand up and walk towards the ingredients on the shelves. If I remember correctly my potion requires snake fangs, standard ingredient, and wolfsbane. I gather all that in my hand and set it down near my cauldron. Before I start, I take a moment. I’m missing something, I’m sure there was another ingredient.

Wolfsbane, check.

Snake fangs, six of them.

I have the measures of Standard ingredient.

There’s one more, I try to look around the room. Then I remember that we get an automatic failing grade if caught cheating. There’s no way I’ll let my grade drop like that. Over something so small and inconvenient too. Making my way to the shelves, I scan over the ingredients over and over again. Trying to see if any of the names pop out to me.

No.

Definitely not.

That’s an ingredient?

I don’t even want to know how that one was obtained.

This one, of course it’s this one. I even remember putting a star next to the name in my notebook. Dried Billwig stings, I believe six of them were needed. All that time wasted. Hurrying to my seat I get to work. The time goes by quickly, all that could be heard was the sizzling and whooshing of our potions. I almost knocked down my vials a couple of times. Someone actually did, their time spent on cleaning the glass off the floor. After heating the first three ingredients, I crush them together in the mortar. Then stir clockwise from what I recall, three times specifically. Finally, I wave my wand over then leave it to brew.

Just in time from the looks of it. I glance at Devyn to see how it went for her, and she looks pretty proud of herself. I take that as a blessing that it didn’t blow up this time of round. I’m guessing she took our advice and did it her own way.

A student raises his hand, “May we leave?”

“Oh yes yes, go ahead. No assignments for the first day, only the potion you made in class.”

Before I leave the classroom I examine Riddle’s station. He already left the room. His potion looks similar to how mine turned out, his workspace thoroughly cleaned. Everything used properly placed back to where it should be. Perfectly spotless, not a single speck of dust in sight. All done without magic too, surprising for someone born into the wizarding world. When I mentioned that I met him once, it wasn’t much of anything. The only way I know how he really acts is through other people. Much admire his intelligence and strong will. Others are jealous of the potential he holds for the future.

Girls are already trying to slip love potions into his drinks. I would feel bad if he wasn’t so rude to them. Only just before touching the disrespectful line. He almost drank one of their attempts before. Wouldn’t want to imagine how that turned out. Tom riddle, in love. That man probably doesn’t know the feeling of happiness, let alone love. I feel bad for his future girlfriend, she’s going to have to deal with a handful of baggage.

~////////////////𓆙////////////////~

“How much do you want to bet Nott will demolish him?” A Gryffindor girl to my left whispers.

Nott, part of Riddle’s group from what I’ve seen. They all eat lunch together and talk to one another so it’s a reasonable guess. Very talented duellist, one of the bests here.

“I hate to admit it, but he’ll definitely win this. I’ll still have hope for the other guy though,” I whisper back trying not to sound mean.

Nott and the other Slytherin boy are up right now. It’s a courtesy for the audience to stay quiet until someone casts the first attack or defense. From then on all you will hear is shouting of encouragement and the opposite. Nott’s eyes are focused, zoning in on the opponent before him. His wand is steady, mouth slightly parted to breathe through better. Whole-body alert and tense waiting for something. From what I'm getting, I believe he’s waiting for the Slytherin boy to go first. Nott casts spells quickly and thinks them through decently. Sometimes you're not able to create a counter-spell quick enough to defend yourself against him.

Riddle’s group and himself are near the corner of the platform. All seemingly analyzing every breath he inhales and exhales. I finally hear the whoosh of a wand and a whiz of light fly past the platform. The glow from the spell lighting our faces for a millisecond. Nott quickly counters that spell and moves to cast his own. Magic flies across the platform, all of our eyes going back and forth like a ping-pong match. The Slytherin boy starts breaking a sweat. He’s only been able to get a couple of offensive spells in there, most of his plays spent throwing off Nott’s. If he doesn’t turn the battle soon, the outcome will become very clear.

It is a little less exciting since we only know a handful of spells. So whatever you know from your own studies you use in these duels. When we move up the years the class will become more serious and dangerous. Right now it’s just to teach us how to counter and cast quickly. The proper etiquette and movement. You use spells that you know, they aren’t supposed to harm someone. Either stun them, make them fly back, or disarm. Most of those spells require a little of a higher level, most of us not even knowing of its existence yet. So what’s mostly cast between competitors is a basic spell to exert force. That force should be aimed for the legs, or the wand to disarm that way. The way someone can win here is to make their knees or hands touch the floor, or disarm their wand. As I mentioned, it will get more intense as time goes by. We're only just starting 3rd year right now, a lot more charms will be learned later on.

I shake my head to get rid of any lingering thoughts. My attention goes right back to the duel taking place in front of me. Nott quickly aims a spell at the knees and manages to bring the other boy to his knees.

“Mr. Nott wins this duel! Please step off the platform, we will evaluate your performance.”

During the practice duels today, you watch it, think of ways to help the person improve, and point out things they might have done wrong. At the end, the professor picks people raising their hands to allow them to give their feedback. Participating is part of the grade you get in here. I personally prefer giving feedback then dueling. I’m not the best at casting, I do give out good defense spells though. That should mean something, I hope.

“Let’s start with Nott, does anyone have feedback for him?”

A couple of people spread apart raised their hands. One by one they all ask questions and give feedback. They mention his feet and posture when he stands. Arms fully stretched out where it would have been more flexible to bend it slightly. When he casts he shouldn’t be walking backward. They shortly switch to the other boy’s questions and feedback. The way he never gave himself the opening to cast an offensive spell often. He would move around his area a lot. Almost slipping off the stage during one of those movements. Tom and his group privately discussed with one another. They’re probably giving Nott their own feedback and suggestions privately.

“Now, Riddle I want you to come up and…,” he scans the room for another student. After some time he points his finger at me. “You.”

I could have had a smooth sailing class. I was so close to not having to go up there. My hands start sweating a bit, my anxiety jumbling my thoughts together. Riddle’s already up there and soon to be on his side of the platform. Taking his wand out and wandering his fingers over the design. I gulp, a big toad stuck in my throat. I wipe my hands on my robe and start up the stairs. Riddle seems as unbothered as ever. We bow, turn, then walk ten paces back. During this time I try predicting who will cast first. I don’t know him very well, I’ve also never seen him duel.

I take my dueling stance and wait for the signal to start. Hoping, praying, that I don’t embarrass myself. Slipping up is not allowed, not when going against him.

~////////////////𓆙////////////////~

Taglist:

@empath-bunny

[berryjam17]

Remedy

Jin x f. reader [in smut scene. relatively g/n for the rest ( 'butterfly' could be considered a more feminine nickname)]

Synopsis: Life has left you scarred and unwilling to get too involved with anyone else.

Kim Seokjin is stubborn. Kind. Capable of soothing your wounded spirit.

Warnings: chronic illness, hints of IBD throughout for Y/N and Jungkook, one very in-your-face implication that Y/N has IBD in the beginning, internalized ableism, swearing, unprotected sex, little bit of dom!Jin / sub!Y/N, oral (F receiving), fingering (F receiving)

Word Count: 6k

repost, I had to fix some issues.

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

The waiting room was hushed, with the tapping of keys from the receptionist’s desk as background noise. You glanced expectantly at the clock, disappointed when only two minutes had passed. It was 6:17 PM, and you doubted your roommate would arrive before 6:40. Lisa was a graduate teaching assistant at the local college. She’d left a message explaining that she had to print off a paper before she could drive your car back.

This late in the day, there was one other person waiting. You studied him, more out of boredom than anything else.

Black hair fell in waves to frame his forehead and eyes. He was dressed casually in a soft pink hoodie and jeans, his rings reflecting the overhead light as he skimmed through a magazine.

He abandoned it briefly, lifting his head to lock eyes with you. His lips twitched. A frown? A smile? You couldn’t tell.

He flipped the magazine around and held it up, so that you could see the pages he’d been on. It was a painting of a cherry tree in full bloom, with hints of a cerulean sky between the branches.

Beautiful.

The next spread was for Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month. His brow furrowed as he witnessed you retreat into your shell, looking anywhere but at him.

Realization dawned when he saw the contents. “I’m sorry. I didn’t-”

The door to the E.R. clicked open, interrupting him, and a younger man crossed the threshold. Magazine Man shot to his feet and hurried over to him. “How are you feeling, Kook?”

“Tired.” ‘Kook’ shrugged into the coat he was handed, almost trodding on the other man’s heels as they exited the waiting room.

Stupid. You slumped forward, squeezing your eyes shut and rubbing your forehead. Get a grip.

He sat a few seats away. You kept your head down, not eager to embarrass yourself further.

You’d heard his voice before, but for the first time, you realized how melodious it was. “I didn’t look before I turned the page that day. I’m sorry.”

You looked up. “I know. I’m sorry too, for how I acted.”

“Don’t worry about it.” He relaxed into the seat. “I’m Seokjin, by the way.”

“I was calling you Magazine Man in my head. Just so you know.”

He had a nice laugh. “There are worse names, I suppose. What’s yours?”

“Exhausted panda.”

“Panda? Is that your favorite animal?”

You blinked, taken aback at his interest. “Uh, no. That's not why. It’s for the dark circles under my eyes...it’s hard for me to get enough sleep.”

“...I see wings.” His voice was hesitant. Gentle.

You couldn’t understand why he’d been trying to boost your morale. “Oh...well. My actual name is Y/N.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Y/N.”

The next time you saw Seokjin, he was worried when he learned you didn’t have an immediate ride home. Lisa had left on an urgent errand for her mother, and you hadn’t driven in the first place. It was kind of impossible to do that when you were incapacitated by pain and nausea.

He offered to drop you off after he took his brother home.

You couldn’t reply right away. You had some idea of who he was. You knew his name, and that he loved his brother dearly. But you didn’t know him well enough to feel completely comfortable.

But pain had always been your strongest motivator. The easiest fix for the agony snaking along your guts was a heating pad at home.

And here Seokjin was, with the tempting words that made you imagine how sweet the relief would be.

You said yes.

Seokjin stopped next to you while you were browsing through the earrings at the local Walmart, almost giving you a heart attack before you recognized him.

He was with his brothers. You hadn’t known that there were others, besides Jungkook. But then again, you had only met in the hospital.

Thankfully, Jungkook appeared to be fine. But you knew all too well that didn't necessarily mean he felt that way. Still, his smile almost rivaled Seokjin’s.

Seokjin gave the jewelry a cursory scan before he snatched a pair left over from Christmas, stamped with Santa Claus’ image. “These would be perfect for you.”

You rolled your eyes, swatting his hand away. “More like for you.”

He didn't laugh. You were surprised to see him scrutinizing your features. “You’re feeling better.”

“Yeah.” You swallowed. He didn’t intend to, but his words reminded you of the fact that every meeting up to that point had happened with you rendered helpless in one way or another. You despised the idea that people thought of you as frail, vulnerable...weak.

Especially Seokjin.

But it was undeniable. You were weaker than the average person. Good days where you could cope had been reduced, and there weren't many days at all that you didn’t feel some symptom.

Seokjin had a window to Jungkook’s experiences. But even then, there was a disconnect between them. What then, did you hope that he could do for you, that you couldn’t do for yourself?

“I found something for you.” He took your hand in his. Cool metal pressed into your skin.

You uncurled your fingers to see midnight blue stones glinting up at you, set as the leaves of an earring climber. “It’s beautiful.”

He sent you a wink. “Of course it is. What would you choose for me, Y/N?”

They stood out almost immediately. You retrieved the pair of silver chain drop earrings and deposited it in his hand. They were rather plain, save for the metal stars at the ends of both.

He rolled the fine metal links across his thumb.

You hadn’t spoken, but his head lifted. He refused to look away from your eyes. His own had softened, resulting in the tension rippling across your shoulders. You didn't like it when people looked at you like that.

Seokjin had never seen one of your days, only glimpses. He had no idea of what you endured.

He had no right to meet your gaze with that familiarity.

“Butterfly.” His voice was hushed, stopping you in your tracks.

“‘Butterfly’...?”

“Can I call you that?”

“I didn’t think we were on a nickname basis. If we were friends, I’d allow it.”

“Friends…” he mused. “That’s fair.”

The image of rain, threatening to break through a wall of clouds, rolled across your mind.

He didn’t relent, daring to reach out. He folded your fingers around the piece of paper. “If you need a ride. Or if you want to talk.”

“Do you just carry your number around?”

He glanced downwards. “I wrote it after I saw you here.”

You nodded stiffly. You couldn’t see yourself turning to him for further help, but you weren’t about to tell him that. Besides, there was no harm in keeping the paper, just for a while.

-----

He had lovely handwriting. You left his note on your desk after entering his contact, though you debated for several weeks on what to text.

If you decided to text at all.

Red lights cutting through the midnight darkness and echoes of his voice in the enclosed space lingered. The memory of his presence paired with the absence of pain.

You were unable to forget that you owed him, and you wouldn’t be able to let the memory fade until you’d done something in return.

He replied with an invitation to a homemade dinner. It didn’t make sense. Honestly, it was frustrating. You just wanted to pay him back and be done with it.

But again, he insisted. The little voice in your head whispered that it’d be easier to explain yourself in person, rather than over text.

While Seokjin had dug in right away, you set your fork down. “I have to be clear about this. I said yes because I owe you for the ride home before. There’s no other reason.”

He gazed at you from across the table. “I did that because I wanted to. You don’t owe me anything.”

“Seokjin, please.”

He sighed. “That’s what friends do. Can we be friends, Y/N? Not...whatever this is?”

You traced the rim of your glass, collecting condensation on your fingertip. “...I guess we can try.”

“Thank you.”

You glanced at him. His gentle smile and warm brown eyes caused an ache to bloom in your chest. Feeling your body temperature spike, you broke eye contact with him.

The clock on the wall read 6:32. The muted ticking of its hands and the clinking of silverware were the only noises in the room.

For a house with six other occupants, especially in the evening, you would’ve expected to overhear conversations and movement. “Where are your brothers?”

“Jungkook went to watch a movie with Jimin and Tae. Yoongi’s at his studio. Namjoon and Hoseok went back to campus to study.”

“Does that happen often? You getting the house to yourself?”

He smiled. “I may have...provided incentive to the youngest ones.”

You stumbled upon a new author and earned a couple more pieces of literature to proofread. Since you hadn’t gone to college, you were grateful each time you found a new client.

When Seokjin refused monetary payment, you came up with a plan B.

While you couldn't be exactly sure of what Jungkook’s trigger foods were, you were reasonably sure that they included the worst ones for you. Red sauce (and everything that entailed) was pure evil on the most basic list of what foods to avoid. You had no clue what his other brothers liked, so you packed a variety of food.

He answered on the second ring. “Y/N?”

“Hey, you’re at home, right? Is everyone else there too?”

“Just a sec. ...Yoongi’s on the way. Everyone’s here beside him. Why?”

“I bought food, so we can all have dinner together.”

“Alright. You’re at home?”

“Yeah.”

“Wait there. I’ll come get you.”

“I can drive, Seokjin. But thank you.”

“See you soon, butterfly. Drive safely.”

--

Seokjin swung the door open. Surprise flickered across his expression. “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you.” You lifted the basket, as if he hadn’t already seen it. “I brought food.” As if you hadn’t told him that earlier. You cringed, wondering why his compliment had thrown you off so badly.

If you were trying to distract him, it hadn’t worked. His thumb grazed your earlobe and the jewelry adorning it. “It matches you.”

Seokjin’s presence in your life was like the moon. You’d walked for so long through the night that at first, even his light had been blinding. But it hadn’t taken too long to become accustomed to his honest, kind nature.

A few months went by. Though Seokjin hadn’t exactly hesitated to talk to you before, sending you cute animal pictures or memes, he became thoughtful when you saw him in person.

“I feel like you’re hiding something from me.” You sat across the table from him. His brothers had already finished eating and scattered throughout the house and yard. You’d declined his invitation for food, but accepted for the company.

He finished chewing, his hand over his mouth. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Oh yeah?” You looked - very deliberately - at his ears.

He bolted out of his seat. “Hey!”

You waited a long moment before rising. His hands pressed into your shoulders, holding you firmly in place. “Y/N, don’t turn around and I’ll talk.”

“Okay.”

“You’re special to me.”

“Special...in what way?”

“As my friend. As someone I like.” He claimed the chair next to you.

“Oh..”

“Can we give it a try? It doesn’t need to be official. I just want to know you better.”

“Seokjin, I haven’t been in a relationship for a long time. I’m not...suited for one.”

“If you don’t want to, that’s fine. But why do you think you’re not suitable?”

You drew patterns on the table. “Um, I’ve just never wanted another person there…”

His hand settled over yours. He squeezed your fingers. “Sure. But why, Y/N?”

Your throat grew tight. You choked out, “I didn’t want to be a burden.”

He drew you to him, tucking your head against his shoulder. You blinked tears away.

“You’ve had to be strong for so long.” He murmured, melancholy infusing his tone. “You’re not alone anymore, butterfly.”

------

It took a few hours to surface from the dark ocean.

You were in Seokjin’s room, watching him explore Hyrule. He had a Nintendo Switch hooked up to his TV, with a Breath of the Wild cartridge inserted. “Seokjin?”

“Hmm?” He frowned as he furiously mashed buttons. “Just a minute.” On the screen, Link was fighting a masked man in red. The enemy teleported around the battlefield, annoying Seokjin. “Stand still and let me kill you!”

He breathed a sigh of relief when his attacks connected. You kept an eye on the enemy’s HP bar, cheering inwardly each time it went down. After vanquishing the masked enemy, he set the Switch on his bedside table and turned his attention to you. “What is it, Y/N?”

“I’m ready to talk about why I’ve been afraid of relationships.”

He inclined his head, a silent ‘continue.’

“The fear of being a burden is constantly in the back of my mind, because of my health. I always thought...why would someone choose that? Why choose me, when so much of my life is this disease?”

“Because you’re a lovely person.”

“There are so many lovely people out there who are actually healthy.”

“But they’re not you.”

“I’m not any other person either, does that make them any less valuable?”

“No, of course not. That’s not-” He groaned. “Y/N, you’re making this impossible. Everyone is special. But you are in my life, and you’re important to me. I don’t give a damn about your health.”

You wanted to believe it.

If it had been anyone else, you wouldn’t have. Even so, doubts haunted you.

Seokjin was a good person to the core. You’d seen that when he took care of Jungkook, in his cooking for his brothers, and how he’d bolstered your spirits when it was all too much.

You could trust him.

But you didn’t want to drag him down. He deserved better.

He took your hand, thawing the ice in your bloodstream. “Look at me.”

You did. He intertwined his fingers with yours, his rings warm against your skin. “I know my own mind. And I like you. Your health doesn’t scare me.”

“It’s easy to say that.”

“If we were in a relationship, I could prove it. Remember Jungkook, too. I’ve seen his side of it.”

“..Okay. I’ll do my best.”

He chuckled softly. “You don’t need to do that. Butterfly, just be yourself.”

-----

Euphoria was unfamiliar. You poked at the dreamlike haze, searching for shadows. You relaxed when the sunlight faded. A full day had passed, and it hadn’t been a fantasy.

Grains of sand shifted under your shoes. Waves rolled against the shore, and he was at your side. “Jin, why did you start talking to me? In the hospital, I mean.”

“You looked sad. And I thought...maybe you could help Jungkook. He struggles with it a lot. If anyone can help, it’d be you, right?”

Moonlight spilled a silver path across the water. “I don’t know that I’d be able to help another person when I’m not in the best mindset. He should talk to a professional, I think.”

--

Jin parked next to the curb. You unbuckled the seat belt when he spoke, rushing through his words. “Y/N, there's something...I have to be honest. I didn’t ask you out purely for my sake. The next relationship I had, I wanted to meet someone similar to Jungkook.”

The euphoric bubble disintegrated. “What?”

“I’m sorry. But please believe me, I care about you.”

“Me or my disease?”

His face was veiled in shadow. “Y/N, it’s you.”

“I need time to think, Jin. You were using that part of me...and I just..”

---

His confession was a new experience. You’d struggled with self-esteem for years, only exacerbated by the crushing diagnosis. To fight with a resistant body and know that you would never, ever be freed from that for as long as you lived...it was hard.

There was always the hope of remission. But the risk of a flare-up was there too, in every period of peace.

Seokjin had deliberately sought you out because of your burden.

You knew that his intention was admirable and came from love for his brother. But the thought that not all of your interactions had been for the sake of, well, interacting...hurt.

A lot.

Were you not enough?

-------

Jungkook called after a few days, asking to talk in person. You agreed after he promised everyone else would be out of the house.

“How are you feeling?” You asked, looking him over. He didn’t appear pale, tired, or otherwise sick. What you were really concerned about were the possible symptoms you couldn't see.

“I’m okay. I managed to finish a painting.” His lopsided smile vanished. “I heard what happened.”

“Yeah...I assume you’re going to explain.”

“I’d like to. But I won’t if you don’t want to hear it.”

You couldn’t say no to his earnest request. “I’m listening.”

“He didn’t mean it like that. His exes were nice enough people, but they couldn’t understand how protective Jin-hyung and everyone else was of me. They wanted more from him than he was willing to give. He was just hoping that someone like me would be more sympathetic.”

You nodded slowly. “I can see that.”

Light glimmered in his eyes. “Can I pass on a message?”

“It’s alright, I’ll call him later. Jungkook, your brother said he was worried about you. Can I help you at all?”

He blinked at you, confusion clouding his face. “Help me..? On what?”

“Your health. If I can help, I mean. I only have my life to go off of, but I’ve been talking through it with a therapist.”

“Oh. Um...I want to ask you some questions.”

----

You dialed his number with shaking fingers.

“Y/N?” The concern in his voice made tears spring to your eyes.

“..yeah. It’s me. Um, listen, Jin. I talked to Jungkook earlier...and I thought a lot.” You opened the door, stepping onto the deck. When you tilted your head back, you could see the stars.

“Are you okay?”

“I will be. I just..needed to ask you something. It was real, right?”

“Yes, butterfly. I wouldn’t have gone this far if I didn’t care about you.”

“Okay.” You wiped at your eyes. “I still love you, Jin. Can we start over?”

“I’d like that.”

Your heart warmed when he blew you a kiss over the phone.

“Get some sleep, Y/N. I’ll text you tomorrow.”

“Yeah. Good night, Jin.”

“What do you want to do in the future, Jin?”

“I’m supposed to take over the family business. After all, I got a degree for it.”

“Do you want that?” You asked, hearing wistfulness and regret entwined in his voice.

“I...no, not exactly. But I’m the eldest.” He nudged his plate of fried chicken.

“That doesn’t matter. What do you want to do, Jin?”

He dragged his plate closer to him, avoiding eye contact.

“You’re so good to everyone. What about yourself?”

“I’d like to work in a hospital...not a doctor, but maybe a nurse? I want to help people.”

“You can do that and still be there for your family.”

Although he didn’t look completely convinced, he resumed eating. You were glad for that, at least.

Lisa wasn’t home when Jin pulled in, so he parked behind your car. He caught a glimpse of a bike, sheltered safely under the deck. “Is that yours?”

You followed his finger. “Yeah. It’s been a while, though.”

“Why? The weather's nice.”

Resignation dyed your tone a muted gray. “I can’t walk up a flight of stairs without getting tired most of the time. I don’t have the stamina for biking.”

He was holding an extra helmet and standing next to a light blue bike. Your heart leaped when you noticed it was a two-seater bicycle.

Jin clasped the strap under your chin. He sat in front and kicked off.

You didn’t look at the scenery very much.

--

Jin was still seated when you clambered off his bike and removed your helmet. You attempted to do the same to his, but nervousness hampered your movements. He reached up and unclasped the strap. Carefully lifting his helmet, you set it on the ground.

You could swear he had a halo. He was cast in an azure glow.

Of course, you knew it was all in your mind. He couldn’t claim to be of angelic status any more than he could emit light. Physically, anyway.

You cradled his face in your hands and kissed him. “I want to spend more time with you today, doing something you like.”

His eyes lit up. He wheeled the bike back to his car. “How about playing some games?”

You laughed. “You bet.”

--

Jin was a master at Mario Kart. You tried to keep up with him (and Jungkook, who’d entered the living room before Jin started the game.)

But it was over for you when you looked over at Jin. It was too easy to get lost in his shining eyes and victorious laughter when he edged ahead in the race.

At the end of the round, you leaned against his shoulder. “‘M tired.”

He paused the game and plucked a pillow from the couch. “Lay down. I like to think I'm more comfy than the floor.”

You hugged the pillow to your chest, laying your head on his lap. You craned your neck to look up at him, smirking at the adorable tinge of red on his face and ears. The satisfaction transformed into a softer, rosy-hued emotion as you admired the intensity in his eyes.

Beautiful. He was in his element, playing a game he loved.

Your eyes fluttered shut. Even the grumbles of frustration when his cart fell behind didn’t tug you farther away from the realm of slumber.

The living room was gone, replaced by the dining room. Jin was standing in front of you. You were holding several forget-me-not flowers out to him. In his hands, the blue darkened to purple before fading into pink.

“What flower is that?”

He tucked it behind your ear. “It's saxifrage, butterfly.”

The stem was poking your cheek. You swiped at the sensation. It didn’t depart - if anything, the prodding intensified.

You blinked to see Jin, his index finger hovering above your face. Jungkook was splayed out on the couch behind him, fast asleep.

He broke into a grin. “You were out for an hour, sleepyhead.”

You stretched. “Well, I guess it’s time to go then.”

“Actually…” he pursed his lips. “If you want to, we could have dinner. I don’t really have time to make anything, but we could do takeout.”

You poked his cheek in retaliation, then swiped your thumb across his lips. They parted under your touch. “I’d love that.”

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

Lisa landed a job as a journalist and moved out of the apartment.

Jin responded to the news with apprehension. “I don’t want you to be alone. You could try living with us.”

“That’s...I still have five months left on the lease. Besides, I can’t live with seven people, Jin, even if they’re your family. I need a separate bathroom.”

“Oh. Right.” He sighed over the phone.

“Did you hear back from the college yet?”

“Not yet. But I think I’ll be accepted...at least, I hope so.”

“They’d be crazy not to. You already have a good record with them.”

You could tell he was smiling. “Thanks, butterfly.”

“How’s Jungkook doing right now?”

Relief saturated his voice. “He got a good report from his doctor. They said he’s in remission.”

“That’s great! Tell him I said ‘Good job! Don’t overdo it.’”

He chuckled. “I will.”

The door to Jin’s house opened before you could even knock. He leaned against the doorframe, with his forearm bearing most of his weight and his ankles crossed.

And his outfit...You raised an eyebrow. He was stunning, but you didn’t understand why he’d donned a fitted black suit when you were just coming over to hang out. At least, you’d thought it was a casual invitation. Then again, he had mentioned that he’d kicked his brothers out for a few hours.

His ears were turning a condemning shade of red the longer you stared at him.

“Jin…? Did you have ulterior motives, perhaps?”

“...Maybe a few..?”

You took a step closer. “I don’t mind them, Jin. Not from you, not like this.”

“Oh…” A small tremor ran through him as you grasped his tie.

“Although you didn’t need to dress up. If you could see yourself...well, besides through a mirror. You’re breathtaking, Jin.”

“Ah...okay.” Jin looked down at himself, a seed of doubt flickering in his expression. As if you could possibly be talking about anyone else.

You laughed softly. “Come here, you ridiculous man.” Tugging on his tie, you connected lips. His tongue swiped along your bottom lip, asking for entrance that you eagerly granted.

Jin’s hands settled on the small of your back, pulling you flush against him. He lifted you into the air as you flung your arms around his neck. Your legs wrapped around his middle before he supported your thighs.

You nibbled on his pierced earlobe, blowing a soft breath out and watching the silver drop earring sway. His grip tightened on you.

“Jin?”

“Yeah?”

Glimmers of moonlight reflected in his eyes.

You have the most beautiful heart.

How was I lucky enough to have these moments with you?

“I’m really happy we met, you know.” As he entered his room, you nudged the door shut with your foot.

“Me too.” Everything about Jin seemed impossibly tender. His voice, his eyes, his smile. He lowered you onto the bed with the same amount of care.

You shimmied out of your jeans, using his shoulder for balance. Your shirt landed on the floor next as you knelt. You undid his belt and started sliding his dress pants down his toned thighs, palming his bulge as you went. Above you, Jin let out a quiet groan, his fingers momentarily frozen in their descent of his shirt buttons.

Heat pooled in your core as he took time to fold his clothes and hang them over the back of a chair. He was playing with you now, you were sure. There was no way he didn’t know how much you yearned for his touch.

When he was within reach, you tangled a hand in his hair and slotted your mouth against his.

His hands slid up your bare back, lingering at the bra band. The fabric pressed into your skin before falling.

Jin pulled away. The lunar glow of his irises had been swallowed by a starless night. “I want to see all of you.”

A shiver raced down your spine. Breathless, you let the garment drop to the floor, followed by your underwear.

“Sit back properly, Y/N.”

You didn’t look away from him as you scooted backwards, into a nest of pillows. He sank to his knees. “Can I go down on you, butterfly?”

Butterfly.

You trembled at that, how he could call you so innocently, yet resemble nothing but temptation. His pupils were blown out in lust, his honey skin gleaming with a light sheen of sweat, and his lips swollen with your kisses.

“Yes.” You managed. “But you still have boxers on.”

He smiled at that. “I’m taking care of you right now. Lay back and relax.”

A yelp escaped when he gripped your thighs, lifting your lower body in order to place a pillow there. He propped himself up on his elbows.

Jin’s hair was silky, brushing against your skin as he pressed a kiss to your inner thigh. His thumb glided along your folds, paying attention to your clit. His tongue circled the bundle of nerves, switching between broad swipes and targeted licks.

Your body jolted when he inserted a finger past your entrance, curling it inside you. He lapped up the juices, his gaze flicking to yours.

A fresh wave of arousal hit you.

The casual way Jin had held you captive with just a look...he’d taken root in your life, to the point that you’d suffer without him. You’d recover, eventually.

You always did.

But not at full health. Your body couldn’t even remember what that was like, and your mind struggled to process the distance between who you were ‘before,’ and who you were ‘after.’

“Butterfly?” Jin called you back. He’d sat up.

You blinked. “Yeah?”

“You looked...sad.”

You rested your forehead against his. “It’s not much. I’m just grateful to have you in my life.”

His hands cupped your face. Searching your eyes, he asked, “Do you still want to continue?”

He saw the confirmation as you spoke, “Yes.”

Jin removed his boxers, tossing them on the floor. He positioned his cock at your folds and eased into you, watching your reactions. You bit your lip at the beginning of each movement, and let out a little sigh as pleasure overwhelmed any fading discomfort.

When he bottomed out, Jin touched your cheek. “Can I move, baby?” At your nod, he rolled his hips, delivering controlled, powerful strokes.

“Perfect for me.” He rasped. “My beautiful butterfly.” Jin intertwined his fingers with yours, gazing down at you. Locks of hair curled against his forehead, his earrings catching light with every thrust.

You dragged your nails across his back. His shoulders were incredibly broad, tapering to his more delicate waist. Despite all the power he possessed, he was one of the most gentle people you knew.

He bent his head. You felt a slight sting above your collarbone, but he soothed the love bite with his tongue. He latched onto a breast, teasing the sensitive bud and stoking the fire in your core. It raced along your nerves, leaving them alight and craving more.

Perhaps Jin was the best (non-medicinal) cure for you.

You traced his jaw, lightly hooking a finger under his chin and urging him further over you. You nosed at the hollow of his throat, and a moan tumbled from his lips. When you nipped at his skin and laved the mark, his hips stuttered.

“Y/N,” his voice had deepened, “I don’t wanna hold back anymore.”

You looked into his eyes. “Then don’t.”

“On your knees.” Ji-...Seokjin growled.

You scrambled to obey. His palms pressed into your shoulder blades, guiding your hands flat against the bed. You melted inside at the dual caress on either side of your spine, and swallowed a whimper when his hands became rough, kneading your ass.

“Let me hear your pretty voice.” He sank into your warmth.

Seokjin set a brutal pace, pounding into you. His panting, the slap of skin against skin, and your ragged breathing intermingled. You were hurtling towards the edge of release, but a wave of bone-deep weariness was licking at your heels.

His rhythm slowed. You had time to wonder if Seokjin or Jin was in charge, before his hand pushed your legs apart. He rubbed circles on your clit, varying the pressure of his touch.

You were falling apart under Seokjin’s skilled fingers, but the oncoming orgasm sapped your strength. Your arms shook, threatening to give out. Unable to fight the fatigue creeping in around your joints and limbs any longer, you gasped, “I can’t..Jin, I’m exhausted.”

He pulled out. In equal, warring measure, your body ached for rest and to have him inside you again.

You curled into a ball, listening to his steps fade. He was back within a minute, his touch and voice soft when he placed a hand on your shoulder. “Y/N?”

You made a muffled noise, hidden by the pillow. His weight sank into the bed. You lifted your head reluctantly when he stayed silent. “Jin...I'm so sorry.”

He shook his head. “You did your best, baby.”

Your lip quivered as you cast your gaze down. “-...do better for you.”

“I know.” He started to dab at your neck with a damp cloth. “You’re more important, Y/N. There are other ways to get off.”

You sat up slowly. Jin’s hand moved to your shoulder.

A strangled noise left your throat when you glanced downwards. You should’ve known, since he hadn’t climaxed earlier.

Actually seeing his erection made it sink in.

“How can I help you?”

“You don’t need to do anything.”

You were begging now, tears welling in your eyes. “Jin, baby, please. Let me help you.”

He wrenched his gaze away from your pleading, heartsick expression. “I’m sorry.”

You threw the duvet over your head, but it didn’t dampen the sound of running water in the next room.

He was taking a shower.

The tears overflowed.

You wanted to be his equal. He’d focused so much on your own pleasure, forgoing his own.

The shower stopped not long after. You burrowed closer to the wall, bunching the duvet in your fists to hold it down.

His steady footsteps halted at the edge of the bed. “Can you let me in, butterfly?”

Your resolve wavered, and you released the fabric. Cool air brushed against your back as you heard him get into bed. The duvet fell again, covering you up to the shoulder.

Jin embraced you from behind. His palm radiated warmth against your stomach, and he hooked his leg over yours.

You tried to wriggle out of his arms. “How can you want to touch me now?”

His voice was unsteady. “Because you’re my miracle, Y/N.”

“But I didn’t...you wouldn’t….I didn’t help you.”

“I didn’t want you to because you’re exhausted, butterfly. When you feel up to it, you can.”

You clamped a hand over your mouth, trying to stifle your sobs.

“Shh, baby. It’s okay.” Jin whispered into your ear. He didn’t loosen his hold, and you placed your other hand on his forearm.

Not to push him away, but to reassure him you understood. That you were grateful...for everything. And that you’d try your hardest to have him finish with you.

He listened to your breathing even out and felt your body go lax as sleep claimed you. A small twinge of regret flashed through him when he remembered the letter he’d received.

He’d tell you later, he decided. You needed rest, not excitement (even if you had been awake.)

----

“This is amazing, Jin!” You were beaming by the time you reached the end of his letter. “When does the program start?”

“September 5th.” He was smiling too, his dream glowing in his eyes.

Pride fluttered in your chest. “You’ll be great, baby. Wait-” A slight frown marred your forehead. “Is that why you had a suit on before? To celebrate?”

“Well...yes. It was the first reason, anyway.”

You covered your face with your hands. “Oh god. I just assumed...fuck. I’m sorry, Jin.”

He almost laughed, but guessed that would not have been the kindest reaction. “No, there was that too. I posed in the doorway like that to seduce you.”

You snorted, but it was betrayed by the warm curve of your lips. “Of course.”

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

His reason for wanting to be a nurse was simple. Two of the most important people in his life depended heavily on the hospital and its staff. He knew how important it was to have well-functioning hospitals, not just for you and Jungkook, but for everyone.

You were just happy to see him working towards his dream. You had no doubt that he'd be able to play a part in other people’s lives.

Jin had a healing presence, after all.

__

copyright : 2021, berryjam17

[sourcherrybomb]

The SoKai Denny’s AU:

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Grand Slam

Synopsis: After a long and arduous day at work, Sora brings Kairi to the local Denny's to unwind and have a pleasant meal. But of course, things go to shit.

Sneak Peek: “Kairi… You’re not thinking straight…” I said as I slowly raised my hands towards my girlfriend. “Please, I just want to talk. Just put down the-”

But my words landed on deaf ears as she quickly rushed at me, a syrup-drenched butter knife in hand.

Tags: Romance, Denny's, F/M, Food

Words: 2.5k+

Fanart / Graphic by: @blissfulnightrain @the-secret-place

[OCTOBER 31, 2020 - 9:09PM]

Please just give us the details on the incident right before we arrived.

“Kairi… You’re not thinking straight…” I said as I slowly raised my hands towards my girlfriend. “Please, I just want to talk. Just put down the-”

But my words landed on deaf ears as she quickly rushed at me, a syrup-drenched butter knife in hand. Before I could even process which way she swung her weapon, I jumped backwards. Grabbing the butter knife that Kairi had previously knocked out of my hand from the ground, I blocked her attack.

In Kairi’s eyes, I saw the rage of a thousand beasts. Wild, untamed, and out for blood.

Around the two of us, as the cool autumn winds blew past us, an onlooking crowd gasped. Whether it be in fear or amazement, I’ll never know. However, what I did understand is the confusion that they all share and the one question everyone asked:

Why the H-E-Double Hockey Sticks are these two people having a knife fight in a Denny’s parking lot?

[OCTOBER 31, 2020 - 6:27PM]

Care to explain to details as to how she broke into this rage?

Of course.

Kairi headed out to her job at the cafe hours ago, being called into work due to the Halloween rush. She was hesitant at first since it was her day off, but she reluctantly left anyways because she knew the extra pay would help out with rent later in the month.

As for me, I didn’t have work today, so I was home for most of the day doing my usual routine. This is usually made up of playing video games, doing housework, and bothering my friend, Riku. But today I had decided to surprise Kairi by cooking dinner for her when she got home!

Great plan, yeah? I thought so too, right up until I realized I had ruined the spaghetti I made by burning the sauce... and somehow also the pasta? Like I didn’t even know that was possible, but somehow I did it?

I swear, the smell was bad enough to make a rat gag.

By the time I realized I had messed up, I knew it’d be too late. In the middle of my mad scramble to clean up the kitchen and get rid of any evidence, Kairi walked into our apartment.

Now I may be an idiot, but I’m not stupid. I took one look at Kairi and could tell that she was not having any of it. Her work uniform was disheveled and covered in various stains and crumbs. Kairi’s thumbs were fidgeting with the hem of her work shirt. When I looked into her tired, glazed over eyes, I saw a seething flame within them.

It was like a ticking time bomb in the shape of my girlfriend.

“Sora…” Kairi said tiredly. “Were you trying to cook? Again?”

I laughed nervously, shamefully resting a sauce pan into the sink. “I knew you’d be tired from work, so I wanted to make sure you could at least eat something when you got home!” I dried my hands and signaled Kairi towards me. Following suit, she practically kicked the shoes off her feet as she walked towards me.

“Dude, I love you,” she said this as she slumped into my arms. “But please stop burning things in our kitchen.”

“Sorry…” Slumping further into my arms, it was like she was melting. I had to sort of prop her against our kitchen counter in order for me to keep on carrying her. “Listen, let me at least make it up to you.”

“How?” Kairi looked up at me, the fire in her tired eyes dying down a bit.

“I was thinking of bringing you out somewhere to eat while we let the apartment air out…”

“It does smell like a burnt down Pizza Hut in here.” Kairi sighs as she traded her flats for sneakers. “Where were you thinking of taking us?”

I opened up my phone and pulled up my bank account.

Available Balance: $365.13

“Let’s just say I’m looking for a place that’s budget-friendly”

“Oh thank god,” Kairi said. “I can wear sweatpants and not give a crap.”

“Exactly!” I let go of Kairi and started to dump the burnt mass of pasta into our trash bin. “You take a load off and dress into more comfy clothes while I get rid of… this.”

[OCTOBER 31, 2020 - 7:16PM]

You know, bad days at work don’t usually cause people to attempt a stabbing.

Trust me… If it was just the bad shift, I’d agree.

Normally when I bring my girlfriend to the local Denny’s, it’s surprisingly not a bad time. Our friend Olette works as the hostess there, so we can usually get our seats pretty quickly. I usually get a Grand Slam to get my fix on pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage. It’s a combo that always hits the spot when it’s 3AM, I’m hyper-aware of the world around me, and Riku is trying to find someone to take home on Sparklr. Kairi usually gets a Hammy & Cheese Omelette, mainly because she prefers the pancakes at IHOP. I always like to joke about giving her a Grand Slam once we get home.

Tonight was not the night to make those kinds of jokes. It was like the gods themselves had it out for my girl tonight.

7:45PM: Kairi and I arrived at Denny's and were told that Olette took the night off due to a cold. We were told that the wait would be close to half an hour.

8:02PM: Kairi’s left earbud died as the toddler next to us started bawling as she sang the ‘Baby Shark’ song. Mother of the child in question was too busy flirting with a busboy 20 years her junior to quiet her child.

8:07PM: Kairi dropped 27,000 Jewels in JHUX gacha trying to get a SN++ Illus. JH III Zola. All the medals obtained were ones that had been out of the meta for months.

8:17PM: Kairi and I were finally seated. Our table had sticky spots from syrup and crumbs on the seats. We asked our waitress, Asheleigh, if someone could come clean this up. The two of us were met with an unenthusiastic “Uhhh, sure?” as she called over a clearly stoned janitor. He sprayed the table once, wiped it once, and knocked the crumbs off the seats. Asheleigh took our orders with a sigh.

When I looked over at Kairi, I could tell the last half hour had done a number to her. An hour ago her anger was already near its boiling point, but now… It was like the seething fire within her eyes had evolved into a star about to burst into a supernova.

A beautiful sight indeed, but also one of pure destruction on a cosmic level.

“So Kai…” I nervously said. “Looking forward to the weekend?”

Her hands folded on the table, Kairi’s dead but fiery eyes staring out the window.

“...yes.”

C’mon man, think! I thought to myself. Anything to take her mind off this fustercluck of a situation!

“So I don’t know if you heard about this at work, but looks like JH: Master of Melodies is gonna have a preorder bonus!”

Silence.

“Y-Yeah, turns out if we get it over at Game Central Station, you get a couple bonus songs that would have been DLC! Isn’t that great?”

“...preorder exclusivity bonuses force game developers to split content amongst greedy retailers, alienating groups of consumers from experiencing the game at its 100% value.” Kairi says in a deadpan.

Crap, she’s being critical about video games... I thought to myself. Now I know I’m never gonna get through to her… Why can’t this food come any—

“Soooo I have your food.” Our waitress said, as she hastily put our plates on the table. “A Grand Slam for the spiky haired dude and a Hammy & Whatsits Omelette for his lady. Enjoy, or whatever.”

“Thank you…” I awkwardly said as I thanked whatever deity heard my prayers. “Well Kai, time to dig in!”

Silently, Kairi cut into her omelette and brought a piece over to her mouth. As if it were on cue, the food fell from the fork and onto her pants. She nonchalantly picked it off her pants and shoved it into her mouth, the look in her eyes somehow becoming even more dead.

I let out a deep exhale and started to stuff my pancakes in my face. I didn’t even notice that I held my breath in. I was honestly just quite relieved that Kairi didn’t explode then and there. We could finally just sit down, eat our food, and take a load off.

[OCTOBER 31, 2020 - 9:01PM]

Man, she really went through the ringer.

Honestly, I’m surprised she didn’t go feral sooner.

Luckily for the both of us, the incident with the fallen food was the only thing that got in the way of our meal. I was able to finish my Grand Slam and Kairi was able to scarf down her Hammy and Cheese Omelette. Looking at her face, I saw that some of the restrained rage in her eyes had been replaced with a much more tired aura.

“Hey Kai…” I softly put my hand on hers. “How ya doing?”

Sighing, she gently put my hand to her cheek. “I… I just want to get home, lie down, and forget today happened.”

After giving her a small peck on the cheek, I smiled. “That can be arranged! Now c’mon, let’s just hand this bill over and head out of here.”

But things are never simple as they seem to be.

Just as Kairi and I got out of our chairs, an ear-piercing “Doo, doo, doo, doo, doo, doo,” came rushing down the aisle. Out of nowhere, Baby Shark Toddler bumped into Kairi, spilling the milkshake in her tiny hands all over Kairi’s legs.

“Oh sonova- Hey you!” Just steps away from the child, her mother called to us. She talked and walked with the cadence of a woman ready to chew out a teen part-timer at their first job. “Just what do you think you’re going to do about this?”

“Excuse me?” I asked in obvious confusion. “I’m pretty sure your daughter was the one who bumped into my-”

“Wasn’t talking to you, Spiky!” she snapped. “Listen up, Red, I want some recompense for my kid’s spilled drink! You think that cheap manager is gonna give me another one for free?”

“Hey now, names are uncalled for!” I retorted. “And not like it’s our fault your daughter ran into my- Kairi?”

A quiet but powerful groan escaped Kairi’s mouth, cutting me off. Her formerly clenched hands had started to crookedly flex open and contort. The tiredness in her eyes died away, being left with the energy of the ticking time bomb.

One that was seconds away from levelling a building.

“A…pologize,” Kairi said in a shaky voice. “Riiiiight. Now.”

“Apologize?” The woman mockingly laughed in her face. “Why woul-”

Before I or any of the onlookers realized, Kairi had the mother pinned down to the ground, a butter knife held to her throat. “APOLOGIZE! APOLOGIZE YOU-”

“KAIRI HOLY MOTHER OF-” As soon as my brain caught up with my eyes, I ripped Kairi off the mother and made space between them. When I turned around, I saw the woman crawling away in a frenzy, trying to escape like a dog walking with its tail between their legs.

“AaAAAaaaaaRrhrrhhgg…” A nearly inhuman growl came out of Kairi’s mouth, the grip on her butter knife tightening. When I looked into her eyes, I understood.

In removing the rude mother from the equation, I had become the focus of Kairi’s blinding rage.

“Kairi…” I slowly raised my hands towards her. “I know you’ve been through a lot today. The car is right outside. I can take you back right now, all you need to do is calm-”

“AAAAaAAaAAaaa!” Lunging at me like a mad dog, Kairi let out a guttural yell.

This is because I told her to calm down, isn’t it? I asked myself mid-dodge. Before a second thought could even pop into mind, Kairi spun into another attack from her lunge. I rolled backwards to dodge the attack, and picked up a butter knife off the table to defend myself with. After all, it was the best I could do right now. With how fast and unpredictably Kairi was moving, my only options were to dodge fast enough, or block if I was too slow.

It was like I was defending myself against a dancing blender with a knife.

Before I knew it, Kairi’s vicious attacks and my continuous defense brought us back to the entrance of the Denny’s.

And into the parking lot.

[OCTOBER 31, 2020 - 9:32PM]

“And right before your girlfriend was able to stab you with the butter knife, we arrived-”

“And tased her, yes.” I respond. “Officer Lockheart, I understand you were doing it for my safety, but I’m honestly still super concerned for Kairi.”

“And that is completely understandable,” she responds. “I can assure you that the officer that took her in exercised the most caution as effectively possible when using the taser.”

“Thank you. Is it possible to see her now?”

“The shock seemed to bring her back to her senses, so her questioning seemed to go by smoothly.” Officer Lockheart taps a pen on her chin. “I suppose it would be fine.”

After signalling one of the other officers to open the door, the two of us walked out of the interview room. Down the hall, I see Kairi wrapped in a blanket, drinking from a cup of coffee. As soon as she notices me, she puts down the mug and rushes into a hug.

“Sora, oh my god I’m so sorry!” Kairi says as she nuzzles into my chest. “I-I just really lost myself and-”

“It’s fine, it’s fine!” I chuckle. “Honestly you’d give Riku a run for his money in a sparring match if you fought against him one-on-one!”

“I’ll let you two comfort each other for a bit,” Officer Lockheart tells us. “For now just stay here, I’ll see what the higher ups have to say about the situation.”

“Thanks, ma’am!” Kairi says back. Smiling and nodding, Officer Lockheart walks away.

For a while, the two of us sort of just sit in quiet. People who enter the room pay us no attention, but occasionally an officer would come up to us and ask if we needed anything. Other than that, it was just the two of us enjoying each other’s comfort.

“God, I really needed this,” Kairi tells me.

“Cuddling in a police station?” I question. “Or getting arrested for attacking people in a Denny’s”

“Jerk.” Kairi giggles as she flicks my forehead. “Nah, I mean just this! Me and you wrapped in a blanket.”

“Honestly I wish we could have done it back at the apartment. Luckily, by the time we get out of here, it should stop smelling like a I blew up a pizzeria.”

“That would have been nice in the moment, but when we get home I think I’d want something else.”

“Oh? What would that be?”

“Weeelll…” Kairi checks her surroundings, then leans towards my ear. “You never did make that Grand Slam joke of yours back at the Denny’s. Does that mean I won’t get one once we get back home?”

The whisper of her voice is enough to send a shiver down my back. I look into her eyes and instead of the rage or tiredness I saw before, I saw something much more… Carnal.

I give Kairi a peck on the lips and flash a mischievous smile.

Destiny Island Denny’s, we might never be allowed on your establishment ever again, which I understand.

But thank you for possibly the best Grand Slam of my life.

[taxicabinmemphis]

Prince Charming Chapter 6 - Sword-ing Things Out

chapter one - chapter two - chapter three - chapter four - chapter five - chapter six

Word count - 2,019

Pairing - Moceit (Prinxiety and Intrulogical in previous chapters)

Warnings - sword fighting, kiss without consent (it’s fine in the story but please remember that consent is essential, kids, and always ask first!), food, tell me if there’s anything else I need to tag!

Janus woke up later than usual. A glance at the clock told him he had slept for a full eight hours and that it was a quarter before ten in the morning. Dinner had been very late, and he read for a couple hours while processing the day before he went to bed.

When Janus had finished getting ready for the day (around a quarter past ten), he sunk out of his room and into the kitchen. He glanced into the living room next to the kitchen, spotting Patton sipping from a coffee mug. The moral side had a plate of pancakes in front of him, covered in syrup, and seemed to be deep in thought. His glasses were slightly askew on his face, his hair wasn’t fully in place, and his cardigan was tied around his shoulders a bit messier than usual. Janus smiled; Patton looked like he’d just gotten up.

“Good morning, Patton,” Janus greeted smoothly. “I hope you slept terribly.”

Patton jumped in his seat; Janus had clearly surprised him. “Oh! Sorry, Janus, good morning! And, uh, I slept alright I suppose. You?”

Janus raised an eyebrow. “A full eight hours. However, it doesn’t seem it was the same for you; you look quite tired. How long have you been up?”

“Oh...maybe an hour or so? An hour and a half? I got at least six hours, so I’m alright.”

“That’s wonderful for your health.”

“It’s one night; I think I’ll be alright,” Patton replied, a small smile on his face. “Anyway, Janus, please don’t bother cooking or anything. I made enough pancakes for everyone, and there’s another mug of tea as I had extra, if tea is indeed your thing.”

“It is, Patton. Making breakfast for everyone is very considerate, and the tea is a very nice gesture, thank you.”

“It’s no trouble, Janus,” Patton replied tiredly.

Janus grabbed a plate, placed two pancakes on it, put blueberries on the pancakes, and grabbed the aforementioned mug of tea. He noticed that there was already syrup at the table where Patton was sitting and walked over to the moral side. He stopped in front of an empty seat, not wanting to invade his space.

“I’d hate to join you, Patton, if you’d allow me,” Janus requested.

“Oh, of course! This is a table for all of us sides, is it not?” Patton permitted with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Janus sat down, frowning. “Are you sure you’re alright, Patton?”

“Yeah!”

Janus gave him an unimpressed look, pouring syrup over his pancakes.

Patton sighed and took a long sip of his tea. “I’ve just been thinking about yesterday. It’s probably why I didn’t sleep as well as you.” Patton stared at his pancakes, stabbing his fork into them rather harshly but not taking a bite.

Janus waited for more exposition but didn’t receive it. “I don’t suppose you’d like to elaborate on that.”

“I don’t think you’d want to listen.”

Janus shook his head to indicate a negative, taking a bite of his pancakes. “I’d love for your day to be ruined by unresolved worries. Considering the stress I put on you yesterday, it’s only fair for me to listen to your troubles in return.”

Patton glanced up at Janus from his food. “There are a lot of benefits to talking about your feelings…” Patton stated, considering Janus’ offer. “Sounds pan-tastic.”

Janus snorted at the pun, suppressing a smile. “I’m disappointed you agreed. What’s on your mind?”

“I just…can’t help but be mad at myself for what I did to Virgil. I know he doesn’t blame me for it, but I still feel really bad.”

“He would’ve killed you if you hadn’t,” Janus pointed out, taking a sip of his tea.

“I know,” Patton sighed. “But he’s my best friend! I can’t help it.”

“That makes no sense. It’s understandable. Of course you feel guilty, you’re Patton. But you have to remember—you totally deserve the guilt. It’s not like you did anything wrong.” Janus took another sip of his tea. “I wouldn’t go as far as to say your actions were more considerate than what could be expected of you.”

“Thanks, Janus,” Patton said, taking a bite of his syrup-soaked pancakes.

“Of course,” Janus responded. “Anything else on your mind?”

“Uhh,” Patton started hesitantly, “yeah? I may or may not be confused and...just a tiny—” he held up his index finger and thumb to Janus in a position that made them almost touch, “—bit annoyed and, well, irritated as well as previously a small bit angry with you for forcing me to fight Virgil.” He gave Janus an unsure look, smiling nervously. “Sorry?”

Janus sighed; this part of the conversation was inevitable. “Ah. Yes. Don’t be sorry, I get why you’re upset. You have every right to be.” He sipped his tea.

Patton nodded, refusing to look at Janus and staring at his pancakes instead as he stabbed at them with his fork. “Was it really necessary?”

Janus opened his mouth to defend his actions, but he shook his head. “No. It wasn’t.”

“Then why did you do it?”

“I was supposed to play the bad guy.”

Patton frowned. “It has to be more than that. You don’t seem like the type to do stuff like that just because of a role someone gave you.”

Janus sighed, pouring more syrup on what remained of his pancakes. “If you must know, Logan was beating me in our fight; I had to distract him.”

“You could have done anything else.”

“He also wasn’t getting in my head.”

Patton raised his head to meet Janus’ eyes. “In your head? Logan?”

Janus nodded. “It was quite a travesty. I guess I tried to...prove something to him and myself.”

“And?”

“I didn’t,” Janus said with a pitiful laugh. “Logan was right.”

The two ate in silence for several minutes, processing the conversation, before Janus realized he hadn’t apologized.

“I’m not sorry, Patton,” Janus said to break the silence. “It was right of me to take out the confusion of my inner struggles on your and Virgil’s emotional wellbeing.”

Patton gave him a weak smile. “I’m sorry, but...I don’t know whether I should forgive you yet. I want to, but...it hurt.”

“You don’t have to. I definitely expect you to, especially this soon after events. Just please know that my apology is sincere, and I will do my absolute worst to make sure it never happens again in the future.”

Patton finished his pancakes and put his fork down. He put his elbow on the table and leaned his head onto his fist. “I don’t wanna forgive you yet but you make it so hard. I wanna hold out until this evening but I’m not sure I’ll be able to.”

Janus’ human side adopted a pink tint. “You’re rude, Patton, but strong. I’m sure you can do it.”

Patton’s face lit up. “I have an idea!”

Janus raised an eyebrow. “I’d hate to hear it.”

“You’d have to be up for it, though, and you in no way are expected to be,” Patton prefaced.

“Alright.”

“We could fight it out! With swords!” Patton said with a grin. “If I win, it’ll satisfy me enough to forgive you, and if you win, I will be dissatisfied and be able to not forgive you.”

“Losing creates anger, does it not?”

Patton waved a hand. “No, I’m not mad at you, silly. You can not forgive someone and not be mad.”

“Fair enough,” Janus replied, finishing his breakfast. “I agree to this, especially if it helps calm your mind.”

“Yay!” Patton stood, taking Janus’ arm. “Let’s go sword things out.”

Janus snorted and shook his head. “Hilarious.”

The two ventured into the Imagination. Patton conjured the sword he had used the previous night, and Janus looked at it with amusement.

“A beautiful sword you have there, Patton, though I think I will have to trade mine for a shorter one.” He conjured a black gladius with a yellow hilt.

They were in a plain black room, the only color filling it being them and their accessories. However, they could see the other very well.

Janus stood in a fighting stance, smiling at Patton.

“Square up, sweetheart. Starting a fight unprepared is incredibly wise.”

Patton laughed nervously, a pink on his cheeks from the pet name. He shifted to a fighting position. “You got it. Prepare yourself to be defeated.”

“So you want to forgive me?”

Patton made the first move, not dignifying the comment with a response. He stepped towards Janus and swiped at his shoulder. Janus parried, and made a strike at the moral side’s neck, only for that to be parried as well.

They went on for a couple of minutes, trying to disarm the other. The only noises heard was the shuffling of feet, grunts of effort, and clashing of swords.

Janus made a particularly hard hit that Patton could barely parry, throwing the moral side backwards a little. He took the opportunity to discard his cloak and his hat, throwing them a good fifteen feet away.

“You removed your hat? And your cloak? Woah, this is a moment to remember!” Patton teased, striking at Janus’ head.

He blocked the blow, taking the opportunity to stare Patton in the eyes. “Only for you, honey,” Janus replied.

Patton flushed, stabbing at his torso.

“Oh, you needn’t try to hit my heart, it’s not there.”

Patton raised an eyebrow, deciding to humor him. “Where is it, then?”

“I don’t think I saw you holding it a few minutes ago.”

Patton laughed and made a cut to the neck. “I don’t suppose you’ve seen my breath.”

“Considering it’s not cold enough, no….”

“Oh. I thought you had taken it away for a second,” Patton said with a cheeky grin, swiping his sword at Janus’ legs. “But if you haven’t…”

Patton knocked the gladius out of Janus’ hand, the blade falling right beside him. He stood close to Janus, really close, too close (though Patton could never be too close in Janus’ eyes), his sword at his side. Though Janus may have imagined it, he could swear he saw Patton’s gaze drop to his lips for half a second.

“I suppose I can take yours instead.”

Janus smiled, raising his hands to surrender slowly. Patton’s smile widened, and he took a step back.

“So I w-”

Janus kicked his sword up, grasping it by the hilt and knocking it horizontally into Patton’s torso, making sure not to hurt him. Patton fell backward, eyes wide as Janus knelt over him. His right hand was clasped over the moral side’s left, holding it in place so he couldn’t strike. He got himself as close to Patton as he had been before; leaning over him with a victorious smirk on his face.

“I think I win this one, my blue beauty,” Janus whispered, staring into Patton’s eyes. “Though, I’m completely opposed to a rematch.” He glanced at Patton’s lips, before looking back to his eyes.

No. Patton hadn’t said he forgave him, he was a dark side, this could have all just been a game. For show. And even still, romantic feelings were a completely different level than friendship.

He stood up and extended a hand to Patton to help him up. Patton took it, pulled himself up, dropped his sword, and in one fluid motion, pulled Janus in for a passionate kiss.

Janus’ eyes widened and he dropped his sword in surprise. He didn’t know what to do and was more surprised than he should have been. His hesitation prompted Patton to start to pull away.

“I-I’m sorry, I should’ve as-”

Janus reconnected their lips, putting his arm around Patton’s shoulders and kissing him like there was no tomorrow.

He pulled back for air. “You’re giving me mixed signals here. I won, yes, but you’re kissing me, so am I forgiven, or…”

“Not yet.” Patton pulled him back in for a third kiss—a smirk on his face and his eyes alight.

~

Taglist: @the-sympathetic-villain ​ @justanotherhumanstuff ​ @thistledown15 ​

~

This is the final installment! Originally this was a sequel, that’s why it has a title (I kept it cuz I like the pun). Hope you liked it! This one wasn’t quite as serious as the others so the writing is different.

                                                    \_/. _ . \_/

                                                        /     \

                                                       /        \ 

Love you all, thanks for reading this story!

[marjansmarwani]

The Boss’s Son (Part 2)

Role Reversal AU continuation

[Ao3 Link]

[Part 1]

Firefighter Carlos Reyes and Officer TK Strand get to know each other a little better and fall a little harder for each other. But the course of true love never did run smooth – Shakespeare definitely got that one right.

So this ended up being over 6K and there is more angst than I was expecting but it’s fine, they’ll be fine. I’ll tag @buttercupstrand because this was all her idea in the first place, but if anyone else wants to be added to the tag list for future updates, let me know! 

---

Carlos grinned down at his phone as yet another message from TK popped up. He was apparently having a slow day at work, and if there was one thing Carlos had learned about Officer Strand it was that the man hated paperwork.

Hence all the texts complaining about it.

You know if you just did it, it would be done, he replied.

A response popped up almost immediately.

False. Paperwork breeds at an incredible rate. It’s like rabbits. Or amoebas. There is always more paperwork.

Carlos laughed aloud at that, drawing the attention of his crewmates who were sitting in the lounge with him. He hastily slid his phone into his pocket as their questioning eyes fell on him.

“My sister,” he lied, “she was just telling me about my niece’s newest tactic to avoid naptime.”

The others seemed satisfied by this response, though Paul gave him a raised eyebrow before returning to his book. Carlos resisted the urge to heave a sigh of relief and to check his phone, which was vibrating again. There was no reason exactly he couldn’t tell his crew about this thing with TK, but dating his boss’s son still felt taboo. It wasn’t a topic he was looking to approach just yet.

Plus, dating might even be too strong of a word for what they were doing. No, whatever this was it was definitely not something he wanted out and examined under the microscope of his crew’s gossip just yet. Maybe not ever. They’d been out once, had hooked up...more than that. They texted during the day and called each other once in a while. It was good. Nice, simple. They were taking it slow.

When Carlos was sure all the eyes were off of him he pulled his phone out of his pocket to see what TK had to say.

We just got a call out, guess the paperwork will have to wait. What a shame.

The paperwork doesn’t know what it’s missing, he sent back.

I think I’ll struggle through.

Yeah, Carlos reflected as he chuckled and slid his phone back into his pocket and picked up the magazine he had been idly pursing, it was going pretty well - whatever it was.

---

The station alarms had blared shortly after his last exchange with TK, so Carlos was not all that surprised to see him when they arrived at the office building. He was surprised by everything else though, from the woman who had apparently jumped through a tempered glass window right down to the man TK was currently restraining from stabbing himself with a fork. In short, chaos.

TK handed his charge over to an officer who had just arrived and met them at the door, nodding to his dad before starting with the rundown. “I was first on scene,” he explained curtly, “In addition to the jumpers, there have also been 4 people trying to stab themselves and various others that just feel generally unwell. We’ve cordoned off everyone still standing over there,” he paused to gesture over towards the cubicles beyond the conference table, “and out special response teams are on their way. You should also know that all these symptoms came without warning,” he finished grimly.

Carlos exchanged a look with Marjan as he pulled out the chromatograph. It was standard procedure, but there was no way this was airborne. But he still needed to check because, on the off chance that it was, they could all be in serious danger.  

A quick scan confirmed his suspicions that nothing was airborne. Marjan nodded as he relayed the news, “if it were airborne there’d be 40 people down, not 9.”

“So what’s causing it?” he asked as he stowed the chromatograph back into its case.”

TK shrugged as he walked past them, hurrying to help his partner with another victim, “that’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it?”

The next few minutes were like nothing Carlos had ever seen before. He had been a firefighter for almost 6 years now, and while that may not be very long in the grand scheme of things, he had always felt that he had seen his fair share of strange happenings. This though was one for the record books. At one point he found himself next to TK, helping him to restrain a woman who was trying to dig her own veins out with her nails.

“I bet that paperwork sounds pretty good right now,” he said lowly to the other man as Tim tried his best to bandage her arms securely.

TK gave a dry chuckle, “I don’t know, it might be a tie.”

Carlos rolled his eyes but lost his chance to respond when the woman tried to lash out again and he was forced to move around to get a better grip and prevent her from gouging Tim’s eyes out as well as her own arm.  

He was changing his gloves a few minutes later when TK popped up at his shoulder again, eyes narrowed as he watched Paul poking around by the conference table, “Why do I feel like he’s doing a thing?”

Carlos followed his gaze to see Paul examining the debris left over from the lunch meeting, “he’s totally doing a thing,” he confirmed.

TK nodded and watched, not taking his eyes off of Paul even as he responded to his radio, confirming that yes, he really did want the building locked down. When Paul announced that he knew who did it, TK glanced at Carlos but followed Paul back to the conference table without a word.

Carlos could see Paul reach for a sandwich and gingerly remove the top half of the ciabatta roll. His voice was grim when he announced, “mercury.” Carlos glanced over at Michelle, who did not look pleased to have her suspicions confirmed. He heard TK swear softly before speaking into his radio, “Dispatch, be advised we have a suspect in the incidents at 701 Brazos. Details for an APB to follow.”

Once he switched off his radio he turned to face the CEO, “I’m going to need to know everything about your catering today,” he said curtly, “including why someone from this restaurant would want to poison your entire staff.”

The CEO looked baffled but began rambling off details about the restaurant and their catering contract. Carlos exchanged a glance with Paul, who was still holding the poisoned sandwich. His crewmate merely shook his head, replacing the top of the sandwich and setting it back on the tray.  

The next hour passed quickly. Now that they knew what they were dealing with, they knew what to look for and how to address it. It was well-controlled chaos, commanded by the combined brilliance of Captains Blake and Strand. Carlos clapped a hand on Michelle’s shoulder as they got the last of the victims loaded onto gurneys. “Nice work Chica,” he told her with a smile.

She returned it, even if it was a bit strained. “I just can’t believe anyone would do this,” she said with a shake of her head, “what kind of person does this?”

Carlos shrugged, “I don’t know, but I’m sure we’ll soon find out. It sounded like APD had a plan to draw whoever it is out.” He looked up to see Marjan gesturing for him to come over from the doorway. “I better go see what she wants,” he told Michelle, “I’ll see you later Chica. Remember, you did amazing today.” She gave him a grateful smile that he returned, before heading over to join his teammate. Marjan was impatiently waiting for him and grabbed his arm as soon as he was closer enough, dragging him behind her.

“Come on,” she said as they headed towards the lobby, “Officer Strand needs our help.”

Carlos was too stunned to ask questions, even if he had been given a chance to. Next thing he knew they were outside, waiting by the ladder truck. “What are we waiting for?” he asked.

Marjan grinned, “We called in an order to the place where they got their lunch. We’re going to wait for the delivery guy here and as soon as we can confirm that he’s the one who did it, Officer Strand and friends will swoop in and arrest the guy.” She was practically vibrating with excitement. Carlos raised a skeptical eyebrow at her, “Adrenaline junkie much?”

She didn’t even bother to deny it, they both knew it was true. “Oh c’mon Carlos,” she said instead, “do you want to help catch a killer? Or at least,” she added with a devilish grin, “see a certain police officer in action.”

He rolled his eyes at her and sincerely hoped it was too dark for her to be able to see the blush creeping up his cheeks. He was saved the trouble of responding by a sedan pulling up. A man in a green polo with the restaurant logo embroidered on it climbed out, hands full of bags. He glanced down at the paper in his hand, “I’ve got an order for Ladder 126?”

Carlos spared a glance at Marjan who shrugged before walking towards the man. He adopted his “polite phone voice,” as his sister called it, and called out “That would be us, thanks.”

The guy grinned as he handed over the bags, “No worries, always happy to help out our first responders.”

Marjan flashed him a winning smile, “That’s so sweet of you. What would really be helpful though would be not poisoning people with mercury. It would save us a lot of time and trouble, you understand.”

Carlos studied the delivery man as his face fell and fear spread across his features. He turned to bolt towards his car and Carlos was about to make a move to stop him when he heard TK’s voice ring out through the night air, “Freeze, APD!” Carlos tracked his voice to find him emerging from the shadows of the rig flanked by two other officers, gun drawn and expression serious.

Carlos fully understood the gravity of the situation at hand. He was painfully aware that the man in front of them was responsible for the death of several people, and the injury of many others. He had seen the devastation that he had caused firsthand, but that did not change the fact that he could not take his eyes off of TK.

He looked like an entirely different person. The person in front of him was a world away from the sweet and funny guy he had been getting to know. This man was focused and stoic. There was not a trace of his easy smile or quick humor. There was only determination and disdain for the person who could do this, could cause the destruction they had seen here tonight.

It was really hot.

Carlos wanted to feel bad for even thinking that at a time like this, but there was no denying that Officer Strand was sexy as hell. Carlos could think of a few ways they could maybe spice up their nights, but he pushed those aside. Appreciating the sight before him was one thing; fantasizing about his boss’s son on the job was entirely another.

He turned and walked away, heading inside to begin packing up their equipment. The sound of the cuffs clicking on the wrists of the irate delivery man brought a smile to his face. This may be a disaster unlike anything Carlos had ever seen, but at least the man responsible would be facing justice and would never be able to do this again.

Once the victims had been transported there was little to do but pack up. They did so quickly, and once they were back in the truck, Carlos pulled out his phone. He opened his messages and considered for a moment before he started typing.

Good work today Officer, he typed out. He paused for a minute but hit send. A response came almost immediately.

You didn’t do too bad yourself. See you tonight?

This time, Carlos didn’t hesitate. He knew exactly what he wanted to say.

Count on it.

----

Carlos anxiously checked everything on the table one more time. TK was due to show up any minute, and he wanted to make sure everything was perfect. They had been keeping things casual, but Carlos would be lying to himself if he didn’t admit that his feelings for the officer were anything but casual. He wasn’t sure exactly when it had happened, but he had fallen hard for TK Strand.

That realization had led him to another: he barely knew anything about the other man. He knew that he was a cop, he knew that he was from New York, he knew that he was his boss’s son. That was it.

Well, that and the fact that he was amazing in bed.

Still, it didn’t feel like enough. He wanted to know more about this guy that made his heart race. He wanted to make a real go of this thing they had, and this was the first step in that direction.

Grand gestures, right?

The knock on his front door startled him so badly he almost spilled the bottle of champagne he had just finished pouring into glasses. He set it down gently and crossed to the door, smoothing his shirt as he went. He opened the door only to have the other man latch onto him immediately, his mouth finding him and his hands sliding down his chest, pulling at his shirt.

Carlos smiled into the kiss, returning it with almost as much vigor. He let it happen for a few more moments, savoring the rush that he felt before gently pulling away. When TK made to follow him and continue, he put a hand on his chest and used the other to gesture towards the table.

“Why don’t we have something to eat first?” he suggested.

TK grumbled but allowed himself to be led to the table. He took the seat offered and gazed at Carlos with suspicious eyes as he rounded the table to his own.

“What is all this?” he asked.

Carlos settled into his seat, “I figured it would be nice if we actually spoke in person for more than 4 minutes at least once. Don’t worry, we can have mind-blowing sex later, but I’d like to get to know the person I’m sleeping with a little bit.”

“Why?”

The question was harsher than Carlos had been expecting. Actually, a quick survey told Carlos that TK’s body language was a whole lot more hostile than he had been expecting. He could feel himself stiffening in response. He hadn’t known how TK would respond to this, but openly hostile had not been on his list. He continued on though, picking up his glass of champagne. He looked significantly at TK’s glass, but he didn’t move. If anything, his expression hardened.

Carlos’s glass was still held aloft, so he trudged ahead. “To new beginnings,” he said, raising his glass. His heart sank when he saw that this was clearly a one-sided endeavor. He set down his glass and looked at TK expectantly, “Are you going to say anything? Maybe comment on the fact that I clearly spent time on this, or that the table is set well?”

He tried to lean into humor, to use it as a shield. It was a weak one as TK’s next words shattered it with one blow.

“I’m sorry,” he said tightly, standing up from the table, “I think we have clearly gotten our signals crossed.”

He stood up and was about to walk away, but Carlos wasn’t about to let this happen. “What, you’re just leaving?”

“We clearly want different things Carlos; I don’t see much point in staying.”

“Different…” Carlos couldn’t believe what he was hearing, what he was seeing, “it’s dinner TK, not a marriage proposal.”

Carlos knew it wasn’t his imagination this time when he saw TK stiffen.

“I thought I had been perfectly clear,” he said coldly, turning to face Carlos, “this is not what I wanted. I just hadn’t realized you were living in a fantasy. Sorry to say that I’m not in it. Actually, not that sorry, come to think of it.”

They stood in silence for a while, the echoes and ramifications of TK’s words bouncing around them. Finally, Carlos spoke, “I’m sorry,” he said clearly, deliberately, “if I wanted to take the time to get to know the guy I was spending time with. I’m sorry that I wanted to do this right, that I expected some buy-in to this relationship considering the risk I am taking in dating my boss’s son.”

When TK’s laugh came it, was cold and hollow.

“I don’t even know where to begin with all of that. Let’s start with the fact that no one asked you to date me. We were just meeting up, who cares that you work with my dad? Secondly – and I want to make this painfully clear – there is no relationship. It was just sex, nothing more.”

He was quiet after that, letting his words sink in. After a few moments, he shook his head, “I’m sorry you went through all the trouble, but this is not going to work for me. Call me if you ever feel like rejoining me in reality. Otherwise, lose my number.

And just like that, he was gone.

Carlos sank into his chair, mind reeling. What the actual fuck had just happened?

Keep reading on Ao3

[hannitizer]

To Have a Home part 6

Hey Y’all! Here’s the sixth part of the story. Hope y’all enjoy! ❤

Summary: After Draco is found guilty of an attempted murder, he is sentenced to the Lupin’s house with hopes he’ll finally understand what it means to have a family. Only problem? Draco doesn’t want it.

Here’s Part 7!

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

Draco woke up hours later, though it wasn’t in a cold sweat. He was alone in the room now, the only sound was the ticking of the clock next to his bed. Looking down, he could see that someone had tucked him into his covers. Draco assumed that it was Abigail. He laid there for a few moments, taking in the quietness of the house. 

He didn’t want to be here, that was very much true, but in the stillness of this time, maybe he could manage it. 

The quietness didn’t last long, however. Draco heard someone running up the stairs. He saw Remus’s head peak through the doorway. 

“Oh! Good morning, Draco. I didn’t think you’d be up.”

Draco didn’t respond to this. He didn’t know how he would. He didn’t need to, though, because Remus kept talking. 

“Abigail is making breakfast downstairs. Eggs and bacon. It’s always good; she’s an amazing cook. Would you like to come down and eat with us?” 

Draco didn’t say anything. He was still feeling shaky, and he wasn’t sure whether he trusted Abigail and Remus yet. They had made him relive his nightmares against his will. 

Remus stood in the door, waiting for a response, but after a few moments, he realized that Draco probably would not answer. He sighed. “I’ll bring up a plate for you, okay?” 

He waited one more moment, before leaving Draco’s room, heading back downstairs where Abigail was cooking breakfast.

“Is he coming down to eat with us?” asked Abigail, stifling a yawn. It had been a long night for everyone. As soon as Draco closed his eyes, Remus took to the fireplace, trying to connect to Sirius. It took almost fifteen minutes, but Sirius appeared in the fireplace, rubbing his eyes. 

“Jesus, Mooney, it’s four o’clock in the morning. What’s wrong? I thought that Isla…” 

“Where is Narcissa?” Remus said, cutting off Sirius. 

Sirius frowned, his brows creased. “I’m not sure… No one knows where she is…”

“Can we find her?” Questioned Remus. 

“I mean, I’m sure we can. What’s this all about?”

Remus was about to answer when Abigail started talking. 

“Draco had a dream—maybe even a vision—where Voldemort killed both of his parents.”

“He was screaming when I heard him.” Added Remus, shuttering remembering the sound he heard coming from the bedroom. How red his face was…

“Like I said before, no one knows where she is, but I’m sure we can find her.”

“Please do so, and quickly. I think Draco will be able to rest better knowing she is.”

“God… Gail, I know you just want what’s best for the boy, but I think you’re overdoing it. You do realize that he was going to murder Dumbledore, right?” 

“Yes, but he’s in our custody now. We have to look out for him like he’s our son.” 

Sirius held up his hands in mock defeat. “Alright, Gail, alright. I’ll get a group of the Order members to go out looking for her, okay? Now if you two will excuse me, I’m going back to bed.” He slowly faded from the fireplace, but not before Remus and Abigail could hear him mumble, “I don’t know why you couldn’t wait for a more reasonable hour to tell me this…” 

Remus took a few steps back to the couch and collapsed onto it. Abigail joined him, curling into his side. They sat there silently, listening for the sounds of the boy upstairs. Making sure no other nightmares came upon him. 

Remus wound his arm around Abigail, his hand combing her hair away from her face. 

“Not even through the first night and he’s already causing trouble,” He chuckled, “what did we get ourselves into.”

Abigail smiled. “I know you like the challenge, Remus. Besides, can you imagine if he was Sirius’s ward? He would’ve been killed by an Order member within a week.” 

“Good thing he’s with us then, right?” He kissed her forehead, slowly easing himself off of the couch.

“Where are you going?” 

“I’m going to make some tea. We might as well stay up now.”

Abigail grabbed his arm, pulling out her wand with her other hand. “Or, you can cuddle on this couch with me, and I’ll make the tea.” 

Remus smirked, sitting back down. “That sounds like a better idea.” 

And that’s where they stayed up until about a half an hour ago. Now, Abigail stood over the oven, hair tied up in a messy bun. 

“Can I help you with something?” asked Remus, taking a seat at one of the stools at the breakfast bar. 

“Sure, would you like to wash some berries?” 

Remus smiled. “Of course.” 

Soon, the breakfast was ready, and Remus walked up the stairs to Draco’s room. He went slightly into the room, holding the plate in his hands. Draco was laying in his bed, his back towards the door. 

“Hey Draco, I’ve got your breakfast here for you. I’ll leave it on the floor, okay? Do you need anything?” said Remus, setting the plate down halfway between the doorway and the bed.

Draco didn’t say anything, so Remus left the room, going back to the kitchen. He slid into his chair, letting out a deep sigh. Abigail set a plate in front of him and planted a kiss on the back of his head. 

“You okay?” she asked, slipping into her seat next to him. 

“Yeah, it’s just Draco. He’s so…” 

“Just give him time. He’ll warm up eventually.” 

Remus laughed under his breath. “Out of all the people, the last person I thought I’d hear that from was you.” 

“Oh really?” said Abigail. “Coming from the man who took… what was it… four years to talk to the girl he likes, and then another two years after school to propose.”

“Come on now,” Remus said, taking her hand and kissing it, “I did it in the end, and look where we are. Married, living in a quaint little cottage; the son of our worst enemy in a room upstairs, and our son…” 

“Our son on the way.” smiled Abigail, placing a hand on her belly, the bump barely visible. 

Remus smiled too. For years, he was nervous that his child would carry the lythrocancy curse in their blood, but now that they were on the way, he couldn’t be more proud. Was he still nervous? Sure, but Abigail was keeping a close eye on them. She and Severus both were. But now that Severus was locked away, it was just Abigail. She was having a hard time trusting anyone right now.

“Did you hear anything about Severus?” he asked. Abigail set her fork down, bringing her hands to her head.

“Do we really have to talk about this now?” she asked.

“No, no. I was just wondering if there was any news on him…”

She waved her hands in the air. “I got an owl earlier this morning while you were washing up.”

Remus cocked his eyebrow. “You did?”

“Yes, from Tonks. She said they were keeping him locked in the school for now, until they can come up with a more long-term plan. There aren’t any students there right now, just professors.” 

“...Do you want to go see him?” asked Remus. 

“Why would I want to see him?” 

“I don’t know… Because you’re his sister?”

“And you think that makes up for everything he’s done? He lied to me. He lied to you. He lied to Dumbledore. He was there with Draco, urging him onto kill…” She hadn’t even realized that her hands were slowly forming fists until Remus was placing his hands over hers.

“Hey, it’s okay. You don’t have to ever talk to him again if you don’t want to.” He stood up. 

“I’m going to go get that plate from Draco. Why don’t you go relax? I’ll do the dishes.”

Abigail gave Remus a tight smile, kissing his hand. “Thank you.” 

She walked towards their bedroom while Remus made his way back up the stairs. He wasn’t surprised to see Draco facing away from the door, sitting with his back to him on the bed. What was surprising, however, was the fact that the food was touched. Not all of it was gone, but there was a decent bit not on the plate. Draco was also wearing a different shirt. Where the other shirt had gone, Remus had no idea, but at least it was a start. 

“How was breakfast?” Tried Remus. He didn’t expect a response, but Draco nodded his head a little. 

“Well, that’s good to hear. You can come join us for lunch if you want.” He said. To this, Draco said nothing, so Remus left him alone.

[useless-slytherclaw]

Chapter 6: The Order of the Phoenix

TW:  character experiencing PTSD and flashbacks

Iset and Regulus were drinking tea in the dining room when Sirius and Remus arrived.  Sirius watched his brother as he moved across the room to take a seat near him.  The room was huge and the table could easily seat twenty people.  Kreacher had put out a tablecloth and a Slytherin green table runner.  The whole thing made Sirius think of too many meals filled with the uncomfortable silence of four people eating in such a large room.  

Sirius still wasn’t completely sure why this girl was here.  He remembered that she had been in his year at Hogwarts, in Slytherin of course.  He couldn’t remember her name though, something long and foreign.  A memory nudged at him, from one of his last summers in Grimmauld Place.  

“Mother,” Regulus said.  “Iset Senusret has invited me to visit her family in Egypt.  Her uncle is willing to take us to study curses on Egyptian tombs.”

Walburga Black studied her youngest son over her teacup.

“Senusret?  I don’t recognize that name.”

“It’s a very old Egyptian family,” Regulus looks bored, but Sirius is sitting next to him and can see that he’s gripping the letter in his hand too tightly for it to be casual.  “Her father is the ambassador, Father must know him.”

“Orion?”

“Yes, Walburga?” Orion Black looks up from The Daily Prophet. 

“Senusret?” Walburga prompts, looking annoyed.

“The Egyptian ambassador?  Very old wizarding family, from what I understand.  Man has good politics.”

Walburga taps her chin with one manicured finger.  Regulus cuts in before she speaks.  “Miss Senusret has provided a translated and abridged family tree.”

Regulus reads from the letter.

“Regulus, I have spoken to my father as to the status of your family.  However, he is very concerned about the sort of company his daughters keep.  As your family records are accessible, he was able to assure himself as to your blood status.  I am sure your parents, as well-bred individuals, must share similar concerns for their children, so I have enclosed an abridged and translated copy of my genealogy.  The full records are on file in the Wizarding Library of Cairo.  It is abridged in two ways: one, it includes only the direct line and two, it is cut off at fifty generations.”

Walburga raised an eyebrow at that.  Did she look impressed?  Sirius shook his head.  Walburga was never impressed.  He looked closely at Regulus, who took out a small scroll and passed it to his mother.  When his mother unrolled it, it became longer and longer.  He saw Regulus mouth the word “brilliant” as his parents studied the scroll.  Sirius snorted.

So this was that girl.  A girl who sent his brother her genealogy.  He’d managed to get Regulus to admit that he fancied the girl, but never more than that.  He’d never seen the two of them so much as holding hands.  Yet, she had been standing with Regulus in the bloody afterlife.   

Sirius plunked himself down in a chair and Remus sat beside him.  Sirius couldn’t help but notice that it felt very us vs. them.  Not that it felt hostile, but it felt like the two groups of people who moved in different worlds.  Sirius and Remus looked old sitting across from these two people, and it was worse than when he was around Harry and Harry’s friends because Regulus had always been just a year younger than him.  His youthfulness made Sirius feel ancient, and he wasn’t even 40 yet.  Remus and Sirius also seemed… shabby.  It wasn’t just their clothes; it was the way the Iset and Regulus sat, the way they held themselves, the expressions on their faces.  Regulus looked every inch the Black heir that his parents had wanted him to be, and Sirius hated it.

“Mr. Lupin,” Regulus said when neither Sirius or Remus spoke.  “Would you mind telling us when exactly it is and perhaps what’s going on.  Sirius hasn’t said anything.”

“I haven’t had time to say anything,” Sirius pointed out. 

“Sure,” Remus picked up the cup of tea that a muttering Kreacher had poured for him.  “Its July 1996.”  Both Iset and Regulus blinked, their masks cracking for a second. 

“Let me think.  You know that the war ended and Voldemort vanished?”  The pair nodded.

“Well, he’s back.  He came back just over a year ago.”  Regulus flinched, his whole body jerked.  Iset gave him a worried look. 

Sirius spoke before Remus could continue, “What side are you on?”

“Sirius!”

“He was a Death Eater, Remus.  If he’s going to go running back to Voldemort, we don’t need to tell him anything.”

“I’m not a Death Eater,” Regulus said. 

“Prove it!” Sirius leaned towards him, reaching for his brother’s arm.  To Sirius’ surprise, Iset caught his hand.

“How dare you!” Her dark eyes are flashing dangerously.  “You don’t know anything.  He’s done more to fight Voldemort than either of you.”

For a moment, Sirius thought that he was about to get slapped across the face, but the moment didn't come. 

“Iset,” Regulus’ voice was quiet, soothing.  “It’s alright.  It’s better that he didn't know.  The fewer people who know, the less danger I’m in.”  Iset settled back in her seat and Regulus put his hand over hers for a moment.

Regulus rolled up his sleeve, the mark was there, but it had faded.  “I don’t think that it ever goes away.  But make no mistake, the Dark Lord wants me dead.”

Sirius sat back in his seat, studying his brother.  For years, he’d had an image of his brother in his mind.  His brother who followed exactly what their parents wanted, became a Death Eater, and got cold feet then tried to back out.  The idea of Regulus actually standing up to Voldemort threw him for a loop.  Regulus hadn’t even stood up to their parents.

“So what did you do?” Sirius asked.  It was easy enough for Regulus to say that he wouldn’t go back to Voldemort; snakes can lie.  “If I can trust you, then I’ll tell you everything I can.”

Iset was glaring daggers through him, but Sirius ignored it and kept his eye on his brother. 

“The Dark Lord sought, probably still seeks, to make himself immortal,”  Regulus said, putting down his teacup.  “He found an ancient form of magic and sealed part of his soul into an object.  He can’t be killed while that object survives. I suspect this is how he returned to power.  I discovered the location of this object and retrieved it.  I died in the process.”

“So did you retrieve it, or not?” Sirius asked. 

“Kreacher!” Regulus called.  Kreacher appeared with a crack.  “The locket?”

“Here Master,” Kreacher handed Regulus a golden locket wrapped in cloth.  Regulus held the chain of the locket with the cloth, careful not to touch it.  “Kreacher couldn’t destroy it, master!” Kreacher apologized, bowing his nose to the ground.  “Kreacher has punished himself many times, but he can’t destroy it.”

Regulus opened his mouth as if to say something, but Kreacher vanished with a crack before he could speak.  Regulus laid the locket on the table.  Sirius started to reach for it, curious.  Regulus batted his hand away, and Sirius frowned at him.

“Don’t touch it.” Regulus doesn’t say ‘you idiot’, but Sirius can hear it.  “It’s nasty, even darker magic than anything in this house.”

“So this is how Voldemort survived,” Remus said, leaning forward and Sirius turned to watch him.  Remus used a fork from the table to turn the locket over and inspect it.  “This is Slytherin’s locket, is it not?”

“It is,” Regulus said.  There was an odd expression on his face and Sirius didn’t know what to make of it.  There was a time when Sirius knew what Regulus’ facial expressions meant, but that time had long since gone.  Regulus drummed his fingers on the table and there’s a long silence.  Sirius couldn’t take his eyes away from the locket. Was a piece of Voldemort’s soul really trapped inside?

“Well,” Regulus finally said into the silence. “Are you going to tell us what is going on or not?”

So they did.  Between them, Remus and Sirius, they told Regulus everything that had happened in the last seventeen years.  Mostly, Remus spoke and Sirius watched his brother, trying to gauge his reactions.  It was strange.  He had held in his mind all these years the image of Regulus he’d known while they were still in school: a pompous idiot who was happy to go along with their parents as long as it benefited him.  But looking at him now, he seemed so... young, and it made Sirius think of Harry.  Regulus didn’t look like the pompous Death Eater Sirius remembered, he looked like a lost kid pretending not to be lost.

When Remus finished with the summary of the fight in the Department of Mysteries they all sat back for a while.  Both Iset and Regulus seemed to be trying to digest the information thrown at them.  Remus was watching them with his calm, even gaze. 

“We need to tell Dumbledore.” It was Sirius who spoke into the silence.  Regulus made a face, and to be honest Sirius kind of agreed with him.  Sirius hadn’t forgotten the first war; Dumbledore had manipulated the kids on his side, just as much as Voldemort had, even though Dumbledore was on the right side.

“We can imagine that you don’t like him,” Remus said.  “But, he’s at the head of the effort against Voldemort.  He’s the only wizard Voldemort fears.  If anyone needs to know about this locket, it’s him.”

“I suppose,” Regulus said.  “But not today.  I’d like to have more than two hours back in my body before I have to deal with The Order of The Phoenix.”

Sirius and Remus just blinked at him.

“Oh, the Death Eaters know about your little group,” Regulus waved a hand dismissively.  Sirius was thrown back 15 years.  The Death Eaters knew, of course, they knew that’s why everyone died.  Images, memories, flashed before his eyes: Marlene sprawled across her own doorstep, Fabian and Giddeon lying next to each other with eyes unseeing, blasted ground splattered with blood and bits of Benjy, Alice staring at the ceiling and not responding, Edgar lying on the ground in front of his dead children, James… James. 

“Sirius! Sirius! Pads!”  He realized that Remus was shaking him.  Sirius’ hands were gripping the table so hard his hands were white and his body was trembling. 

“I-” Sirius started to speak but no words came to him.  He felt a sob threatening to break out of his chest and he covered his face with his hands, trying to focus on calming himself.

He distantly heard someone, probably Regulus, saying “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean.”

“It’s not your fault, it happens.” That must have been Remus.  Then Remus was back.  He placed his hands on Sirius’ shoulders reassuringly. 

“What can you hear, Sirius,” Remus's voice was calm, steadying.

“Your voice.”

“What do you smell?”

“Tea,” his brain latched on to that smell, clawing itself back to the dining room, tea, biscuits.

“Do you know where you are?”

“Grimmauld Place,” he knew that his voice was unhappy.  “The dining room.  We were here with Reg and that girl.”

“Good.” He could hear Remus sitting down next to him.

“Sorry,” Sirius said gruffly, dropping his hands away from his face. 

“It’s not your fault.”

“Regulus left?” Sirius asked even though it was obvious that they were now alone in the room. 

“I thought it might be best.”

“Probably.

Keep reading on AO3

[screechingtrashcalzonewombat]

"Apopalictic Astral Asending" Reavaluate disassociate my self worth...

The galaxies have birthed an uncontrollable being ....

I've feel as tho Ive seen myself split in two ..

Witch side do u wanna see if ur lucky I'll let you choose .

Cause in the end I loose..

One of hate one of love could both be from up above..

Or down below ...

I've began to show signs of delusions as half my mind goes an tells me it's only mild confusion. As my body fights my brain an heart to escape theys terrible illusions.

Yet the other half tries to start a fusion of body an mind an all the suddently my thoughts are no longer mine..

But a evil so Divine that its wound it's way threw time itself I've fealt the damage the energy dealt. I've yelped in anquish an pain been stuck for 7 long years in the rain with nothing to gain .. I can barely fathom to explain im not fully on earth I'm on another astral plane but i fear i flew out of my lane I've gone insane never wanted fame Ever fealt like bat man I mean oops Bruce Wayne. Nah fuck hes spoiled a wet rat infact I'm more like hulk duck when I'm near i wearly see I'm drowning inside my mind but no one can hear my dear I fear I've lost control again but cant compute I've been booted out of the system I've clawed hit an kicked to try to get to the top but i outta of known I've been ripped an thrown from my throne ive been shown what this beast can do but who woulda thought a demon bought my soul ..a jackal a goul.....you'll see me shift into numbness I suposse it was my own dumbness for being to open now cause of me my body an mind are broken an stole. as I weep an shutter an i try to speak but only stutter I found myself weak in defeat ....as ik this demon reaching its peak will plunder an pillage the town I've found I'm bound to this beast nowhere to run not north south or east I can run it will feast on my soul until the end of time ..

For diamonds cannot compare to the rarity of a soul nor a bowl of Ruby's an jems rolled in gold .....

A bold statement you say........

.. theres no ray of light here they stole it away buried it in your mind but how can u define being locked trapped in yourself ...

You've dealt your own fate ...

Wanting ansers u dint deserve ..

Did you like your just dessert's...no?

Dose it hurt ..... After you itll kill children's childhood freinds like bernie & eart ....whent bizzirk an bashed there brains makeing bloody rains

curking on everyone with cutlery forks an knifes* slice *cook big bird with chives after I've shanked him 900 times... 100 more woulda been devine serve him drink to dry alone cooked an ripped him to the bone but not quite alone u may not be home inside but u can still watch...I thought I taught u better than to close ur eyes dont beg or look surprised look away an I'll adopt another stray to do the same a slow sweet death cure's my hunger anyway

.the wines innocents blood bitter sweet to the taste of the tounge

no one thought it capable I seemed...looked ...so young..

They dint know it had just begun it wasn't me but the evil half committing crime with glee an fleeing repetavidly revealingly images to my mind of times & crimes so sickening I thought I'd die forever scetched seered into my mind .binded with no power as one towers over you using your power you cowar for how dose one define the disasbalment of there an every defined mind while ur inner demon dines on flesh making a mess of your vessel you cant even wrestle your way to the light to stay only break down in defeat that your so far away you've became an internal mess cant even stand on ur feet the beast has u chained in defeat u cry an apologize looking for answers as of how to stop.....an then...you hear a voice .." you outta stayed silent instead of talk back. U shouldn't of complained do u still think ur life used to be pain...... . Ur a sack of shit ur wit is less than that of an ant not to rant but I'm not done yet I have ur soul now I'm never letting go no no no I have plenty more so much to show many souls to reap an emotions to subdue after all u said yes.....

...did you forget ur the one who started this.

mess ......you dressed your mind with fantasy an fiction word to the wise never mess with other worldly friction an your itching for a way out but I doubt ull get there before the end of time .after all you had a devil an an angel on ur shoulder an you chose wrong this time. Only took 666 times but I'm patient an always waiting for 6 years hating an burning flesh waiting for a prayer a call after all Lucifer was once an angel an the most beautiful you just dint get to see from what angle he had beauty wrath an determination but u humans resulted in his isolation incarsorason. So now we will end up being humanity's enialation when were done there entire selves with evaporate for the demons have released self hate to pro create creatures in confidence we annihilate the fate of the human race at least the trace slight like us able to bust threw dementions so weve mentioned a start to find the inordinary soul an heart ......humanity was doomed from the start.. you stole our purpose our reason to be......humans sit in sin an glee.

Your humanitys Pride is overbearing never genuinely caring ..

Greed is sweeping the nation its reached ever state an it's got a hot heaping plate of corruption for mankind's consumption greed is grotesque in its steps of the darkest quest to corupt ur mind an want. .want..want until that's all you are is wanting more

Lusting over losely draped garments you've tarnished ur soul .

Envy of what you do not posses but for all you know that information an life would make you a mess but ud still test ur envious tendencies.....

Glutton glutton what have you gained it's not knowledge no for it's to plain rather glutton uve found a urge that wont go away....

Wrath an vengeance blood draw too no one stops till some dies him or you....

Sloth last but not least cant forget you cause uuuh wait what that fuck do u do....you sleep an sulk sit slither out of simple tasks an that's why ur not 1st no ur last like humanity just ask ....

So soon the day will draw near the the number 4 is what you should fear our dear old freinds were sending up for a visit so they can reddit ur fate for each a horse an a trait the first out the door with bow in hand riding a white horse with bow in hand

..

Conquest the start of the final test leading the restthere dark version of light on a white stallion he leads the way an soon will follow hades anyway.

War was next on a red steed he rode prepared to purge an quench new blood for the wars an battels would just begin brother against brother an close of kin witch to win?

Famine foe of all on a black horse with the courses hair so fair merely bone but dont let his appearance fool you hes for he is full devouring your greed taking away everything you want or need an now ur rationed to nearly starvation stretching farther than destination world wide sensation...

Pleage reaper of souls slowly apears steadly trotting riding a very sickly steed looking pale an almost gruesome green with sores an sickness best keep a distance. For he shall be the bringer of death an reap you all one by one to the four you shall fall...

Will you be spared are you true....

Are you happy with your life what did you do...?

Rapture no you still must die.....

Say good by to this earthy chapter theres so much more that manifest after.

But only your earthly husk must rust an fall your all energy of grate mass....

It's time to take the task of self evolvment an enjoy an enlightened installment

this world was just step wrench ur third eye wide open an accept the token of eternal life.

Grinded it to atoms a flash of dust all together ur a self fulfilling must memory pass u in a rush.....

. sudently ur bodysuit is gone ....

But it dint felt like it quite belonged.

You were 7 grams of light matter to be exact an sudently you've cracked the atmosphere ..steering energetic waves my metal psyche caves to the new information flying threw stars consolations.

Suddently speeding at the sound of light the stratosphere seems to disapear ..

My fear is gonewithout a trace an freedom transferred in its place

but am waved in infatuation to find out about out true destination...

Restoration of the soul the goal of a higher self being achieved as I crash into the sun 1500°

I feel a warmth like no other each being hues of light I might of missed earth if not I heard a voice but a mental push no need for speech just thinking it shall be done said by the the brightest in the sun.

Rejoice at last but ur journeys yet to pass ..

This is merely were you start ....

Our flames grew high with frantic waves not wanting to give up the new life we were just gave

Suddenly our flames grew dim as we felt a swirling deep from withn sudently the surface of the sun turned to tin an bent in a cracked an caved with itself our time an space sending us ascending in alignment the same assignment.

Because the sun has begun to change ina twisted way a black hole some could say.

As all of our astral beings were ripped an tore apart at the seams we all merged an formed one all knowing creative being an sudently everything I've know has little matter I'm past a point of human chatter i understand infinity the holy trinity I down in the milky way an experienced every life I've relived it twice I've spliced my genetics into over 2000 million beings I've seen good an bad in between experienced every tragedy to build my strength an studyd every thesis an theory thread an chain nearly drove my vessel insane even took knifes threw my veins in anger yet it failed I was just a trailer.ive seen love hate an anger

Comprehension compasing many others I have love an understanding past many beings there anger seems to brush by me cause I'm with 2000 souls an minds that have formed one to reach a state I can medidate in the milky way an force your negative away .

Our astral self has accumulated complete power an understanding by costuming to our full potential our old body's merely a rental.

Gentle at first then bursted into power showered in knowledge I know now much that I wondered before but now I want more an I've thought till I an 2000 shared beings head hurt cause my girth of knowledge will now never be enough it's tough cause now I must find .... how to ascend again but for now i must defend my vast mind defind crime ...?

Keeping 2000 vast voices locked away so I can focus an try to learn anyway leaning in to vast places is I the 1st 2nd or 3rd or other many plains I cant quiet place I'm traveling threw them all searching for everything I couldn't before .

This life isent like the countless other this life I like it has interesting teathers

I've surpass Angel's an there feathers an vison of a hawk.

I've surpass demonds and there demonic temping talk ..

I've walked on water as I was ripped apart an I felt my self rebuilt every cell of my being got hit with rods of power lightning not even myself can fight me god like abilities the universe as built in me theres ben a spiritual shift a tilt in me somthing generations of DNA sprawled out in a numerical display my old life experiences is the price I pay so that I can be god even if only for a day

I think I'll sit an think somewere in the outter spink of the universe I've cursed myself with knowledge an now I'm aware step into my astral space....

If you dare...

[notarelationship]

In A Minute - Ch 3

Klaine Fic - In A Minute

Summary: AU. Kurt’s a bit clumsy, and Blaine needs a boyfriend in a hurry. What more do you want? Words: ~2900 Chapters: 3/? Warnings: none

AO3: Ch 1, Ch 2, Ch 3

Sorry about the extended delay, I needed to rewrite the whole chapter when it didn’t really go where I wanted it to. 

Thanks to @honeysucklepink for the beta! I claim all errors as my own.

-

Santana had been laughing for six straight minutes. Well she did take a break at about the three minute mark to catch her breath, but still. Kurt was actually starting to worry.

“I’m sorry *wheeze* you pretended to be someone’s boyfriend?” She doubled over with a snort, gripping the side of the dishwashing sink to keep from falling over.

Kurt crossed his arms over his chest. “He seemed perfectly nice! You said they were regulars! I figured he was all right,” he defended himself. And honestly Kurt never once felt like Blaine was doing anything that he should consider a red flag for weirdness.

“Hummel,” Santana said, once she’d caught her breath. “I am friendly to all the customers - that’s how you get tips.” She snorted again, covering her mouth with one hand. “But you went on a date with him.”

“I did not go on a date with him,” Kurt said, adding air quotes when he said ‘date’. Blaine used air quotes - Kurt shook the thought from his head before explaining himself, again. “I felt bad, I spilled water all over his lap!”

“Okay, yes you did do that. But the remedy for spilling on a customer is to comp them a slice of cheesecake, not meet the parents and get them excited about grandchildren.”

“There was no discussion of grandchildren Santana,” Kurt volleyed. “And I offered him pie. He said he’d take me up on it later.”

“Honestly Kurt, that little fella is probably harmless, but don’t make a habit of it. If he asks you to put the lotion on its skin next time you go out text me and I’ll call the cops. Just leave your lojack on.”

“You don’t have to worry about that. This was a one time thing. Dinner with the parents - that’s it.” Blaine had made it clear he didn’t want to extend the whole boyfriend charade to his extended family, which totally made sense. What kind of person would invite a stranger with him to spend an entire weekend trying to convince their family that they were in a relationship. It was too crazy to even consider. But, for good measure and because he didn’t want Santana to think he was without a sense of humor, he added, “Besides, my skin is perfectly moisturized at all times.”

-

The diner had a lot of regulars, people who came in every day for coffee, or every other day for lunch or a slice of pie (which was in fact better than the cheesecake, much to Kurt’s personal disappointment).

Kurt had no idea what category of regular Blaine fell into. Did he only come in after sports, like the first time Kurt had waited on him? Maybe he was just an occasional regular - often enough that they knew him and his friends, but without any set time to come in. Kurt considered asking Santana how often Blaine came in, but three hours into their shift together she was still laughing every time she looked at him, so he opted not to pull that string.

It was fine, Kurt told himself. It’s not like they were friends. Blaine had asked him for a favor, and Kurt had been able to help him out. He would come back to the diner whenever, and Kurt had enough long shifts coming up that he wasn’t going to have a lot of time to worry about it anyway.

Halfway through Kurt’s third straight fifteen hour shift in as many days, Blaine came into the diner and sat at the counter, alone. Kurt tried very hard to act normal as he pulled a menu from the rack and set it down in front of Blaine.

“Fancy meeting you here,” Kurt teased. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Santana’s head jerk up and look in his direction, but he ignored her.

“Hi Kurt,” Blaine said, a nervous smile played at the corner of his mouth. “Um, how’s the cheesecake?”

“Terrible, actually.”

Four nights ago, sitting with Blaine’s parents and pretending to be his boyfriend, Kurt hadn’t been nervous at all. But now, with Blaine sitting in front of him, Charming Kurt had taken a hike, and Awkward Kurt had moved in.

“So how are your parents?’ Kurt blurted out. Might as well lean into it.

Blaine’s eyes widened for a second and he cleared his throat. “Fine. Great actually. Asked about you.” Blaine chuckled the sweetest laugh Kurt had ever heard.

“Wondering if I’m heartbroken after our big breakup?” Kurt cringed on the inside.

“Kurt -” Blaine started to say something, but was interrupted by Denny yelling across the restaurant.

“Hummel! Tables!”

“Oh god - I’m sorry Blaine we’re just really short this shift. Don’t go anywhere, okay? I’ll be right back.” And then, because it was entirely possible Blaine was there to eat and not visit Kurt, Kurt added, “Did you want to order something while I take care of some customers?”

Blaine nodded. “Cherry pie? And a coffee.”

“You got it,” Kurt said, as he went to cut his slice of pie and pour the coffee. He left Blaine with what he hoped was a casual smile and went to take care of the waiting tables.

Between taking orders, bringing orders out, and helping the busboys clear some of the busier sections, it was thirty minutes before Kurt could make his way back to the counter to talk to Blaine. When he finally did, Santana was standing in front of Blaine, chatting. She stopped when Kurt approached.

“So, Santana, don’t you have some tables to see to?” Kurt suggested pointedly.

Santana looked at Kurt, her eyes narrowed, and took about ten seconds too long to answer. “Yeah I guess,” she finally said before walking away.

“I hope she wasn’t too terrible,” Kurt said when she was out of earshot.

Blaine paused and scooped the last bite of pie onto his fork, but didn’t eat it. “Well, she did ask me if I was a serial killer, and let me know that if anything happened to you that she would not hesitate to poison my waffles the next time I came in.”

“She - what - she - oh my god -” Kurt was still sputtering when Blaine grinned.

“I guess you told her about dinner?” Blaine asked. Kurt half shrugged a yes, and Blaine nodded. “Cool, I guess it doesn’t matter. It’s not like she’s going to hang out with my parents any time soon.”

Kurt laughed. “Just do yourself a favor and don’t bring them here.” Kurt risked a glance in Santana’s direction. “Ever.”

“That is not going to be a problem,” Blaine answered with a laugh. “Can you imagine my mother in here?”

Kurt stood awkwardly, waiting as Blaine finished his pie. “Can I get you anything else?” He was the waiter, after all. “More coffee?”

Blaine shook his head. “I actually came here because I wanted to ask you a question.”

“You want me to meet your grandparents?” Kurt joked, but Blaine just kind of winced. “I was kidding. Do you really want me to meet your grandparents?”

“Well -” Blaine sucked in a lungful of air, his mouth set in a line. “I was kind of hoping you might reconsider coming to the wedding with me?”

Kurt blinked several times in rapid succession. He had really been hoping that Blaine would come back into the diner, and over the course of a couple of weeks Kurt would work up the nerve to ask him on a real date, rather than a pretend one. But here Blaine was, asking if Kurt wanted to carry on being his pretend boyfriend.

“I’ll pay for everything - well, for the train ticket and any extra expenses. My parents are covering the hotel. The wedding is at a working vineyard in Connecticut.” Then he added, “I think they have a spa?”

“You know you can get an escort for this sort of thing, I know a few guys,” Santana said as she walked behind the counter to use the soda fountain. She walked away before either of them could answer. When Kurt looked back at Blaine his face was flushed pink.

“I’m sorry about her, she’s -”

“I promise Kurt, it’s nothing like that. I -” Blaine paused and pulled out his phone. “I told my parents I wasn’t sure you could make it, which seemed fine, but then somehow Sebastian got my phone number - honestly I suspect it was my mother - and he’s been sending me really - suggestive - texts.” Blaine unlocked his phone and Kurt leaned over to look at the screen.

The texts were a little raunchy, but no worse than Kurt had seen on dating apps. One of the texts was even a shirtless photo of a fairly attractive guy.

“He’s kinda hot, are you sure you want me tagging along?”

Blaine made a disgusted noise. “Yes - I definitely am not interested. And I know I could probably just tell him no, emphatically and very likely over and over again for the entire weekend, but I honestly don’t want to cause a scene.” Blaine sighed, and Kurt could tell that he was struggling. “I understand if you don’t want to, if this is just too weird, but if honestly just seemed like it would be easier than telling everyone the truth, at least for now.”

“Nah, I get it.”

“So? Will you?”

Kurt bit his lip, it could be fun, and Blaine was a nice guy, or at least he seemed like one so far. “When is it?” Kurt thought it was coming up soon.

“It’s next weekend. I’m really sorry it’s such short notice.”

“It’s fine. Let me see if I can get Santana or one of the other girls to take my shifts.”

Blaine looked relieved, bouncing on his stool. “Oh my god, thank you so much.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Kurt said. “I’m going to use the hell out of that spa.”

--

Ten days later Kurt was on a 6:25 train out of Grand Central Station headed to Eastern Connecticut.

Kurt had ended up working a series of double shifts in order to get enough time off for the weekend, although Santana seemed grateful for the swap. Aside from her commercial auditions, there were a half dozen open casting calls during the week she had wanted to get to.

He and Blaine hadn’t seen each other, or even talked really, in between when Blaine asked Kurt to reprise his fake-boyfriend role and when they met up at the train station. They had texted a few times; mostly to confirm the dress requirements (“you won’t need a tux. I’m sure whatever you select will be perfect” - Kurt had preened a little in private at that), and the schedule for the weekend.

Friday night they were expected to make an appearance at a post rehearsal dinner cocktail party, and the wedding was Saturday at five with an elaborate reception to follow. All the rest of the time was Kurt’s, and Blaine had promised he would get Kurt on a train by noon Sunday so he would have time to catch up on some homework. Kurt would definitely have time to take advantage of the hotel spa.

But at 6:25 on Friday morning, all Kurt wanted to do was sleep.

Blaine was waiting for him on the platform, and Kurt was a little surprised to see him in a bow tie at that hour. At dinner with his parents Blaine had also worn a bow tie, and while it suited him, Kurt had assumed it was simply chosen for the special occasion. But here he was at an ungodly hour of the morning, wearing a bow tie with what looked like an expensive polo shirt. Kurt couldn’t quite tell, as Blaine was also wearing the most adorable shawl collared navy cardigan.

“Thom Browne?” he asked. When Blaine just looked confused, he continued. “Your sweater. It looks like it’s from his Brooks Brother’s line.” Now that he was closer he could also see that the bow tie had tiny ducks embroidered on it.

“Oh,” Blaine touched his sweater self consciously. “Yes, my, um, grandmother gave it to me for Christmas a few years ago.”

Kurt hmmed approval. “It looks great. Never lose it.”

Blaine laughed. “Okay.”

The train wasn’t exactly crowded, but there were enough passengers scattered throughout that they wound up walking through several cars before they found two acceptable seats together.

“Do you mind if I nap on the way?” Kurt asked once they were settled in their seats. “I’ve done three double shifts this week and I feel like death.”

“Oh, no, of course. Go ahead,” Blaine answered with a polite nod. “We have to transfer in New Haven, I think.”

“No problem. Just give me a little shove when we get close.” Kurt put in his ear buds and leaned back against the seat, wondering what on earth this weekend would have in store.

Two hours later the conductor was rousting both of them awake, and Kurt was only slightly embarrassed to find that in his sleep he seemed to have nestled right onto Blaine’s shoulder.

“Time to wake up boys, this is your stop.” The conductor was gruff but bored, and didn’t seem to be bothered by the fact that two boys had fallen asleep on each other on his train. He’d probably seen a lot worse.

“What! Oh god,” Blaine jerked awake from where his own head had been resting on the top of Kurt’s. “I’m sorry. I must have fallen asleep too.” Blaine’s face was beet red.

“It’s fine,” Kurt said, wiping a small amount of drool from the corner of his mouth, hoping Blaine didn’t notice. “I think I used you as a pillow when I was sleeping. I’m sorry about that.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Blaine stood quickly and pulled their bags down from the overhead rack, as Kurt sat up and gathered loose items from their seat area. He gave Kurt a tired looking smile. “Let’s go. There is supposed to be a shuttle to the hotel.”

It turned out the shuttle stopped at a few local spots before their hotel, so by the time they arrived it was almost noon.

“I don’t know about you, but I’m starving,” Blaine said as the stepped up to the front desk. “I should let my parents know I’m here, but do you want to get some lunch?”

“I am at your service, but I could eat a side of beef at the moment.”

“You are definitely not at my service, Kurt,” Blaine protested. “I appreciate your doing this for me so, so much, but outside of the wedding obligations, you should enjoy the amenities. It looks like a great place,” he finished, looking around the lobby.

Kurt tried not to watch Blaine as he checked in to their room, but whether he was just too tired to exercise restraint, or he simply didn’t want to, he wasn’t entirely sure. Blaine was sweet and handsome, and it was going to take Kurt a lot of self-control to not do something very, very stupid. Maybe a shower and a meal and a nap - possibly in that order, would help.

Once Blaine had gathered the room keys and other information about the hotel, Kurt followed him to their room. It turned out that the hotel had been converted from the original living quarters of the first owner, and had a lot of restored details from that time period, whatever it was. As they walked through the half modern lobby to the elevators, Kurt couldn’t help thinking that the entire place looked like Netherfield. It wasn’t going to do him any good to think of Blaine as his very own Mr. Darcy.

“Here we are,” Blaine said, stopping to match the number on his key to the number on the door. “219.”

The key was an actual key, and not an electronic card, which Kurt found classically appealing. The room was not especially large, which made some sense, as they would have had to work with the existing architecture, but it was beautifully furnished, with an oversized armchair, a small writing desk, a wardrobe for their clothes, and an absolutely stunning four poster king-sized bed.

“There were supposed to be two beds,” Blaine said, his voice strained.

“Huh?” Kurt turned from admiring how well appointed the room was to see Blaine staring at the bed, appearing slightly panicked.

“The bed. There were supposed to be two. I specifically called and made sure we could have two beds.” Blaine crossed his arms over his chest. “I remember because they said the only doubles they had were full sized beds, because the rooms didn’t fit two queens.” Kurt snorted a laugh, but Blaine didn’t seem to get the joke, so he let it go. “I’ll call the front desk. They can fix this.” He moved quickly to the room phone, but Kurt stopped him and hung up the phone.

“Blaine, it’s fine. It’s only two nights.” Blaine just made a pained noise. “It’s a huge bed. And - don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re not going to take up a lot of room.” Blaine continued to frown, but he seemed a bit calmer.

“Still,” Blaine said, stretching his neck like he was working out a kink. “I think I’ll call and see if they can change it.”

“Up to you,” Kurt said. He went into the bathroom to give Blaine a moment.

He needed a moment too, if he was going to face sleeping in the same bed with Blaine for two nights.

[penny4yourthot]

Broken Stranger- Part 9

Thanks to @ithoughtofthisusername for editing! 

Summary: Torri (O/C) needs to escape her life in Seattle because of her abusive husband. When she ends up in Charming things don’t go as planned.

part-1/ part-2 / part-3/ part-4 /part-5/ part-6 / part-7 / part-8

“How I am supposed to stay home and not do anything for a whole week?” I mumbled, mostly talking to myself.

“I’ll talk te Jax and see if I can ge’ some time away this week. Things with the club are quiet fer now so it shouldna be a problem.” Chibs looked over at me, his hand rubbing my thigh while I sat in the passenger side of the car.

“No, it’s okay, I'll be fine. Just going to need to ask Juice if I can use one of his many laptops for a few days so I can work on switching my nursing license over. Being a bartender isn't going to support me and one baby, let alone two.”

“Yer no’ alone in this Torri. I will have a good amount of money coming in with this new deal we are making in the club, and I can work extra hours at the garage. Gemma has been practically begging me te, seeing as she cannae stand the new prospect.” He laughed as he looked over at me, “and ye said it yerself, Mike can track ye if yer license gets changed over,” he added, a hint of worry breaking through his previously calm and reassuring tone.  

“Chibs, I can't ask you to support me and them.” I started to rub my belly as I looked over at him when we stopped at a red light. I could see the look in his eyes, the one where he is going to repeat his earlier speech about how he is not going anywhere.

“Okay okay, I'll stop. You're a hard man to get rid of,” I joked.

“Ye wan’ me gone, jus’ say the word,” he laughed.

“I wouldn't know what to do without you,” I told him as we pulled into the driveway. Feeling my phone vibrate, I pulled it out and saw a number I didn't recognize. This wasn't the first time I got a call from a random number so I shoved it back in my bag.

“Why don't ye go lay down, I’ll make breakfast.” Chibs held the door open for me then followed me in the house. When he closed the door I turned around and faced him. Wrapping my arms around his neck I stepped up on my tip toes and placed a gentle kiss on his lips.

“Wha’ was tha’ fer?” he asked as he leaned down and place another kiss on my lips.

“Just… thanks. For being here for me, really it means more then you could know.”

“It’s really no problem lass.” He put his hand on my face and rubbed my cheek gently. “Ye been through enough shite, you deserve to be taken care of,” he added before turning around and heading towards the kitchen.

I walked over to the couch, kicked off my shoes and grabbed the remote before laying down pulling the black fuzzy blanket that had the Harley Davidson logo on it over my body before clicking on the TV.

The annoying noise of my phone buzzing drew my attention to my purse, I reached on the floor, fumbling around my bag and grabbed my phone. It was another random number. I don't know how anyone could have gotten the number of this burner phone so I knew was not my family calling.

“Babe, is it okay if I text Juice and invite him over for breakfast? I’m going to ask him to bring his laptop over so I can at least start looking up the process to transfer my nursing license here.”

“Yeah that's fine, Juicy boy is always hungry,” he laughed as he peaked his head out of the kitchen, keeping a watchful eye on the stove. “Jus’ please dinnae request the license change right now, we have to figure ou’ how te do it without tha’ arsehole finding out about it.”

“I won't, I promise I just want to see what I have to do. It sucks going to school for four years and not being able to use my degree and do what I love because of him,”  my voice faltered, mixed with emotions. Knowing Mike still had this hold over me scared the hell out of me and also angered me to no end. I'm so sick of living by someone else’s rules.

“I know, we will figure this ou’, I promise.” His voice held a reassuring tone.

Hey, wanna come over for breakfast? Chibs is cooking now. Also, I was wondering if I could use one of your old laptops for a while? And I’ve been getting calls from random numbers If I write them down can you run them and see who it is calling? Please don't tell chibs about that last part. Thanks!

Pressing send, I turned my attention back to the TV, smiling as I saw the show Friends was on. I watched all of five minutes before my tired body took over and I fell asleep. It was incredible how tired I have been. I guess growing two babies will do that to you.

I woke up to the sound of someone knocking on the door and Chibs opening it. I felt my stomach grumble as the smell of bacon and eggs drifted around the house.

“Hey Torri, I brought that laptop for ya,” Juice said with a smile before turning his attention to Chibs, “damn, that smells good,” he said before walking into the kitchen.

“Told ye tha’ boy is always hungry,” Chibs chuckled then watched as I slowly rose from the comfy spot on the couch.

“Hungry?” he asked as I followed him into the kitchen

“Very,” I replied placing my hand over my stomach as it growled loud enough for everyone to hear. This caused Juice and Chibs to bust out laughing.

“Shut up. I'm eating for three now,” I laughed. I saw Juice’s head shoot up and look at me. Oops.

“What does that mean?” Juice asked I could see the corners of his mouth tug into a smile.

“I'm pregnant, it’s twins. I haven't told anyone but Chibs and Gemma figured it out weeks ago.”

“Can’t hide shit from Gemma,” Juice laughed. “Well congrats Torri,” he said, looking back over at me, then facing Chibs. “You're going to be a dad again Chibs?”  I could see Chibs face turn red as he looked over at me then back to Juice. It was kinda cute to see him flustered, “oh come on man, everyone knows you two are together,” Juice added.

He was right, we haven't exactly put a label on us but we haven't really been discreet about it either.

“Aye, I’m not the babies biological father, but I'm going to be their da’.” He couldn't even contain the smile he held on his lips and honestly neither could I. Chibs had already told me that, but hearing him say it to another person made it more real.

“Well, I'm happy for you both.” Juice smiled looking back and forth at us. “Now can we eat please, I'm starving,” he added as he grabbed a plate and started piling up bacon, eggs, and pancakes on it.

Chibs and I laughed then followed Juices actions. We all sat around the table talking about various things while we ate.

“Hey Juice, can you not tell anyone about the babies, please? I wasn't planning on telling anyone for a couple more weeks,” I said as I shoveled another fork full of eggs in my mouth.

“Yeah, don't worry, I won't tell anyone.” I could hardly understand him as he had a mouth half full of pancakes.

After we finished eating, I started to do the dishes. Chibs quickly took over after telling me to go lay on the couch. Juice followed me into the living room and popped open his laptop.

“Okay, what’s one of the numbers that have been calling you?” Juice said quiet enough so Chibs couldn't hear over the running water of the kitchen sink. I watched as he opened a program on his computer, handing him my phone so he could see the numbers.

I turned my attention back to the TV, which still had Freinds on. I heard Juice typing away as he sat next to me.

Setting the laptop down he got up and walked into the kitchen without saying a word, he walked back in seconds later with Chibs. I picked up the laptop and stared at the name on the screen. Michael Smith.

“I need to show you someth-” I heard Juice say to Chibs as they walked in the room but I quickly cut him off.

“How did he find this number? It's a burner phone, I did everything right; I paid cash and everything. Does he know where I am?! How did-”

“Torri, Wha’s going on?” I felt Chibs arms around my waist as I pulled my knees into my chest. Tears started streaming uncontrollably down my cheeks. How the hell did Mike get this number?

Thank you for reading =)

Tag list: @gemini0410 @genius2050  @utterlyhopeful @rebelwriter95

[hello-justawriterofthings]

Father of the Year - Billy Hargrove

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Hey guys. This is my new angsty piece about single father Billy. It's different from other single father imagines, because It's takes place in your P.O.V. Takes places nowadays, not in the 80's. I Hope you Enjoy <3 Warnings. Language, some angst, lots of fluff later on. [ Y/N = Your Name ] Also, I do NOT own any photo's or gifs.

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I  had enough friends in school to realize that everyone lies, don't believe everything someone tells you. You had been in some horrible relationships and had bad friendships, so it's hard to trust. Billy Hargrove was a regular in the small bakery I owned, he rarely bought anything, he just liked to annoy me and the staff. He flirted with any female that worked here, also any female customer that entered the shop. I don't remember how it happened, but things shifted one day. Instead of being a cocky ass and flirting with everyone, he just suddenly stopped. He wouldn't come into the bakery as much and when he did, he'd buy a few things and leave. No clowning around, no flirting. Destiny, one of the employees, was especially disappointed that Billy stopped giving her most of his attention. The bakery started to slow down, not as many customers, less money. I went through a hard time with money, but the bakery was my grandmothers and I was determined to make it work. My employees quit, leaving me alone to cook and run the place. My best friends though, Jason and Ally stepped up, helping with the few orders i did get. My apartment was connected to the bakery, it was upstairs, a studio apartment. That's why I was determined to make this work, not just for my grandmother, but for me as well. i didn't want to lose everything I had, I couldn't.

Monday morning, 6 am. I crawled out of bed, sighing deeply while walking towards the coffee machine, flipping it on. Then made my way towards the bathroom, quickly taking a shower. Once I finished getting ready. I poured coffee into a thermal cup and made my way downstairs to start a few batch’s of sweets. Cookies and Brownies were the easiest, so i started with those, then moved onto cupcakes and pastries. At 8 am, Ally walked in, carrying an McDonalds bag. " Brought you breakfast boss, since you never seem to find time to eat " she smiled, placing it on the counter. I smiled back " Thanks, can you switch on the open sign ", she nodded quickly unlocking the door and flipping the sign.  " What do we have on the orders today? " she asked putting on an apron to assist me in baking, " Surprisingly, we got two loads for different birthdays " I sighed as I checked the cupcakes in the oven. " Should I start on the cakes? " she the questioned,  I shook my head no " Started on them last night, couldn't sleep so.. ". She sighed deeply " Nightmares again? ", I only nodded. Before the conversation could continue, the bell for the on the door rang. I smiled at Ally as I wiped my hands and made my way out of the kitchen, ready to greet the customer. " Hey! Long time no see " I smiled at Billy, he returned the smile. " What can I get you? " I asked, " Dozen of Strawberry cupcakes " he stated still wearing that smile. " Ally's frosting the cupcakes in the back, can you wait 5 minutes? " I asked hopeful, he nodded " Where is the rest of your staff, it's quite in here ". I sighed deeply " I forgot you haven't been in here in over a month, things got hard. Less customers, which means less money and they all quit ", his eyes went wide " What bitch's ". I chuckled slightly " I understand why they left. They need to support themselves, thankfully my two best friends stepped up and joined the team " , he sighed deeply. Just before he was going to say something else, Jason walked in. " Hello Babe's! I have arrived and I am ready to bake " He shouted as he normally does, but then he saw Billy and I. " Oh.. You're cute! " he smirked at Billy causing me to roll my eyes and Billy to chuckle, " Jason, Ally is in the back, go help her! " I groaned. He sent me a wink while walking into the back, " Sorry about him, he's a little extra " I sighed. Billy Smiled " It's fine... Can I ask you something? ", I nodded. " Are you seeing someone? " he asked, I furrowed my brows " No. ". " Okay... Can I take you out? "  he then asked, " Like on a date! " I questioned extra loudly. Ally walked into the front  with two trays of cupcakes, she placed them on the counters and smirked at me, before returning to the kitchen. " Yes, like a date " he laughed, " Sure... " I sighed nervously as I packed the cakes into a box. " Cool, I'm going to leave my number with you... You send me a text if you wanna go out, because right now, you don't sound so sure " he smirked, I sighed once again " No I am sure, I just haven't been asked out in a few years so I'm a little taken back ". Once I packed the cupcakes, I wrote my own number on a napkin, " There, now you can call me " I smiled handing him the box and napkin. He smiled handing me a $20 bill, " I look forward to getting to know you better " he stated awkwardly as he left. Leaving me to sigh deeply. As I stood there trying to wrap my head around what just happened, i heard my phone ding in my back pocket. I pulled it out of my pocket, seeing a text - Are you free on Wednesday, this is Billy, by the way -.  I smiled slightly sending him a quick text telling him Wednesday was fine, I usually closed the bakery around 4 pm on Wednesday. He sent me another text after, - Okay, I'll pick you up around 4:30 pm. See you then -. I smiled to myself sending back a quick. - Okay, see you -. I never thought that this was going to happen today, I never thought he was interested in me. " I can't believe you just got asked out, how long has it been? " Ally asked loudly while she walked out of the kitchen, " And he's cute! " Jason exclaimed  from the kitchen. I sighed deeply as I rolled my eyes, great I was gonna be forced to listen to this all day.

[ Wednesday ]

I sighed deeply as I looked in the mirror, tonight was date night. I had been talking to Billy on and off the last few days, I informed him to pick me up at the bakery, since I lived in the apartment above it. This was the first date I'd be going on in years, so I was nervous. I walked downstairs, shutting off the lights and locking the doors. I stood outside, it was going to be a nice cool night. A blue camaro pulled up next to me moments later, " Hey, pretty lady " Billy stated with a smile. I sighed deeply, opening the passenger door and climbing into his car. " Hey " I smiled back, he gave me a quick hug, before putting the car in drive and taking off. He explained where he was taking me on the way there, it was a little restaurant he had stumbled upon, he thought I might like it and he was correct.  It wasn't the biggest restaurant, it was hidden away in a woodsy area, the building reminded me of a castle almost, it was beautiful. I've lived in this town since I was 13 and I didn't know this was ever here, it's funny the hidden treasures you can find if you go looking. The inside was even more spectacular, looked like a ballroom. We sat at a booth, flipped through the menu and I couldn't  stop looking around at everything. Billy chuckled softly, causing me to look at him. " Sorry " I smiled, " It's okay, I know it's magical " he smirked. I nodded  "So, why did you decide to ask me out. I'm just curious ", " Wow, you're getting straight into it " he sighed. I nodded while smiling, " Well, the first time I entered your bakery, I thought you were beautiful! You probably don't remember, but you didn't even own it at the time. Your grandmother was the prime owner and you were just helping her out. I continued to go into the bakery to see you " he stated honestly. I raised my eyebrows " Okay, then  why did you always come in and flirt with all the old staff... You know, destiny ", he chuckled softly " I was trying to make you jealous, trying to get your attention ". I sighed deeply " You should've just asked me out, I always had the hots for you ", he smirked " Oh really? ". " Yeah " I smirked right back, " Why did you stop coming in? You used to be a regular with your group of friends, but then you just disappeared ". He sighed deeply while running his hand through his hair " I had somethings I had to take care of, I had a bit of a hard time, but I'm working through it with help ", I nodded " I understand and I'm happy you finally got the courage to ask me out ". He smiled as Our food was delivered, this might be the start of a beautiful relationship.

[ Now ] 

That was almost a year ago, Billy and I have been together ever since, but things were weird. Yes, we were happy, or at least I was. He never spoke about his home life, he never took me to his house, even though he lived on his own, we only ever stayed at my place. I never met his parents and sometimes he'd disappear for a day or two. Not calling me, only texting. I hated to be that suspicious girlfriend, but this was odd. The bakery was doing better, we have been able to get new customers, including the couple who owned the beautiful restaurant Billy took me to on our first date.  They ordered hundred of cupcakes and cookies each week, which helped out my business a lot. The business was doing better, now it was time to figure out what Billy's deal was.

I let out an angry sigh as I dialed Billy's number, it was our 1 year anniversary and we were supposed to meet for dinner at a restaurant, 7 pm sharp. It was now 7:45 pm and Billy had not shown up, he wasn't answering his phone either. The waiter approached the table once more, to ask if I was ready to order yet. And because I felt like an idiot, I ordered a simple Caesar salad, even though I wasn't hungry anymore. I checked my phone, still nothing from Billy, just a text from Ally saying she wanted to adopt another cat. When the salad arrived, I picked at it, pushed it around with my fork. I was embarrassed sitting here alone, looking at the happy couples that were giving me pity looks. I dialed Billy's number once more, this time I received own answer. " What babe, I'm kinda busy? " he asked in an annoyed tone, but before I could respond, I heard another voice on his end. " Billy, get off the phone! I need your help " a higher pitched female voice whined, I sighed feeling even more idiotic now. Before Billy could say anything else, I hung up. asking the waiter for the bill, paying and then leaving. I sent Ally and Jason a text, telling them to meet me at the bar down the street from my bakery. I needed some friend time and alcohol.

" I can't believe this, I always knew Billy was no good! He looks like a damn fuckboy " Jason shouted taking another shot, I chuckled slightly while taking a large drink from the screwdriver sitting in front of me. " It's probably just a misunderstanding Y/N... Don't do anything drastic " Ally stated, she was the sober one, she didn't feel the need to get drunk. " Is ignoring drastic, because that's what I'm planning to do! " I stated with a sigh, " Look, he's already called 7 times ". " Delete his number girl! " Jason yelled, he was taking this harder than I was." Y/N, do't. Right now you're thinking the worst, give it a few days and then talk to him. If he keeps blowing you off, dump his ass. But, don't jump on something that you might be getting wrong " Ally stated sternly, I knew she was right. I nodded letting out a sigh, I would do as she said, but tonight I was getting drunk. 

The next morning, i was jolted awake by the buzzer buzzing loudly on the apartment switchboard. I groaned deeply walking over to the intercom, clicking the button. " Hello? " I asked with a sigh, looking around to see if Jason or Ally had stayed over, but there was no sign of them. " Y/N, let me up " Billy stated with a huff, " No.. It's to early for this, come back in a few hours " I stated. " I can't come back later, so let me in now " he sighed. " No, don't tell me what to do. You can't come back later, then fine! Don't come back at all " I exclaimed. " I'm not fighting with you like this Y/N " he then stated, but I chose to ignore him. Flipping on the coffee machine and then making my way into the bathroom, taking a long shower. I had to open the bakery, because I had it closed yesterday for our anniversary and look how that ended up. It was going to opened later, but as long as it was opened I didn't care. So, after showering and getting ready, I made my way downstairs. " Hey Peach! " Ally exclaimed from the kitchen, I furrowed my brows before walking in. " When did you two get here? " I questioned both her and Jason, " We never left! Figured to get a start on some pastries, let you sleep in a little " Ally smiled widely.  " How are you doing Jason? You drank so much last night " I chuckled flipping the open sign, " You know I can handle my liquor Y/N " he chuckled. I sighed deeply as I nodded, putting on my apron. Within the first hour of being open, we had a few customers, enough to keep me busy. Around 4pm, I was behind the counter, helping customers, when a familiar blonde walked up to the counter. " Hi, how can I help you? " I questioned, " Y/n... " Billy stated unamused.  "What can I get you sir? " I asked again, " Are you really going to be like this? I know I forgot about our anniversary, but I was busy. Can we talk this out? " he asked with a deep sigh. " Are you going to continue keeping secrets from me, or are you going to tell me the truth? Because if not, I'm not interested in talking " I stated honestly, he furrowed his brows " I don't know what you're talking about ". I sighed deeply " Next! " I then yelled seeing that there were other customers waiting behind Billy. " Y/N Really! " he groaned as he rolled his eyes, " Fine! ". He then rushed out of the bakery and to his car, I rolled my eyes letting out a deep sigh ( How dramatic ). " What was that about? " Ally asked, I shrugged " I'm not ready to talk to him yet and clearly he can't accept that. I'm not going to rush to speak to him, especially when he's being an ass ". Hours later, when the crowd had lessened, it was almost 7 pm and I was planning to close up shop by 9pm. Jason had left for the day, but Ally was still in the kitchen, making cookies ( Mostly to take home for her son ). She had the music on high, singing along to Death of a Bachelor, by Panic! at the Disco. I chuckled as I flipped through a magazine, sitting on a stool behind the counter. It had been a long day and I couldn't stop thinking about Billy, but he was good at ignoring, so I had a feeling he was going to be the one ignoring me now, instead of the other way around. He could hold a grudge and was very stubborn, but I did love him. Just as I was thinking about it, my phone dinged with a text. - I'm sorry : Billy - It read, which made me wonder, but I didn't respond. I didn’t know what to say.

A few days later, I still hadn't spoken to Billy. Well I had, but not in person or by a phone call. He sent me a few more texts, which I read and responded to, but anytime I tried to call him, he never picked up. I was really getting tired of this, what kind of a relationship was this. Ally, Trey ( Ally's 5 year old ), Jason and I were walking around, let's just say Target. Grabbing a few supplies for the bakery and other bits for our lives. Trey kept chanting ' Toys ' from in the buggy, which made me smile.  I was pushing the buggy while Ally and Jason tossed things in. Once we finished getting everything we needed, we made our way to the toys. Jason was walking ahead of us, turned into an isle, then quickly came back out, looking panicked. " I think it's time to leave " Jason stated seriously, Ally and I looked at each other, confused. " No Jay, Time for toys! " Trey stated just a serious, I chuckled lightly continuing to push the cart. This is until we entered the same isle and was shocked at what I saw, Billy was standing there, with a woman... A young child was balanced on his hip, a picture perfect family. My thoughts went wild at that moment, but everything made sense now. Ally and I both gasped, grabbing the attention of Billy, who looked just as shocked. I let out a deep sigh as I shook my head and Jason pulled me out of the isle, Ally followed closely behind. We made  our way into a different toy isle, just to help with Trey's complaining. I was speechless, I didn't know what to say. No on knew what to say actually, that was the last thing we expected to see. " Did you know he had a kid ? " Jason asked, making me shake my head no.  " How do we even know that is his kid, Y/N don't assume anything " Ally stated. " Stop defending him Al, first you tell her not to assume he's cheating, which he obviously is! Now you're telling her not to assume that that isn't his kid, news flash Ally, she looked exactly like him! " Jason spat, making me sigh deeply as I looked at Trey. He was puzzled, but in deep with the toy he was playing with. " Aunt Y/N, can you buy this for me? " Trey asked, I smiled as wide as I could muster. " Trey! " Ally sighed, " Yes, but only if we can leave " I stated. Trey nodded quickly, as we set off towards the check out. Once the three of us purchased everything, we were walking towards our vehicles, we drove separately, but parked next to each other. " Y/N! " I heard Billy shout, causing me to pack the car quicker. " Y/N Wait! " he yelled, I rolled my eyes. When he finally reached me, he tried to touch my hand, but I shook my head. This relationship was crumbling. " Let me explain " he sighed trying to catch his breath, " I don't need you to explain, it's pretty clear... All the sneaking and secrets, it's because your Married! What the fuck is that, you're an asshole... You have a daughter, that's not okay! " I exclaimed finally snapping. " What!? Married, Y/N No. Yes I have a child, but Y/N I'm not " he started, but I cut him off. " I don't really care anymore, I'm tired of this... Whether you're married or not, you've still been lying to me and I don't think I want to deal with it anymore... Sorry " I stated letting out another deep sigh, before getting in my car and heading home.

When I got home, I put everything for the bakery away and then walked up the stairs and into my room. I let out a deep sigh, collapsing on the sofa. I was trying to wrap my head around everything, I didn't care if Billy had a child, I just wish he would've told me about it. And who was the woman, Wife? Girlfriend? Family member? I let out a deep sigh, I needed a nap. Sometime while thinking about everything, I did in fact fall asleep. And was woken up a few hours later by the buzzer, meaning someone was here and wanted to be let up. In a half sleep state, I pushed the button, unlocking the door for the person. I knew who it was and I was tired of fighting. My door opened minutes later and Billy entered, looking irritated. I was warming up a take away, but didn't look at him again. " Now our going to listen to me Y/N, you keep jumping to conclusions and I'm Tired of it! " he stated roughly, I rolled my eyes but didn't respond. " I am not cheating on you, that woman you saw me with was my cousin. My daughter's ,other left as soon as she gave birth, never wanted to be a mom. We weren't even in a relationship, just a one night stand gone wrong. My cousin has been helping me out. I swear I love you " he stated seriously, " Why do I have a hard time believing you, I understand having a baby... I don't judge, what I don't like is that you kept it a secret for over a year " I sighed as I sat down on the couch. " I was afraid, I didn't want to scare you away with the fact that I have a daughter, but I also didn't want to bring a woman into Addison's life, if I wasn't serious about the relationship. Addison is so young and only knows me as a parent, I didn't want her to get attached and then everything fall apart " he stated honestly, " And I understand that too, I just wish you would've said halfway through our relationship ' Hey, by the way. I have a daughter '. I would've been shocked, but I would've gotten over it. I'm very understanding and I wouldn't have tried to push it " I stated. He nodded while taking a seat next to me, " I just can't believe you've kept it a secret for an entire year. How did you do it? " I sighed deeply, " It wasn't easy, I'm sorry for everything Y/N... I'm sorry I lied, Sorry I ignored you, just sorry for everything " he muttered. I sighed once more, but didn't know how to respond. " Where do we go from here? " he then asked, " I don't know, I need some time to process things. I don't have a problem with you having a daughter, I have a problem with the lying. Just... I need space for a few days " I stated. " So, you're not breaking up with me? " he questioned, " No, not yet " I sighed while sending me a small smile. He nodded returning the smile before standing up, " Well, I should get going " he then stated. I nodded standing up as well, then I pulled him into a hug. We stood there for what felt like hour, " I'll text you or call you " I sighed pulling away from him. He smiled " I promise I'll answer if you call, now that you know everything ", I nodded as he opened the door. He quickly placed a kiss on my cheek, " See you later " he smirked before leaving. I sighed deeply, Damn I was in deep for this boy.

A few days had gone by, Billy and I were still in contact with each other, through texts, I hadn't had enough courage to call him just yet. It was a Friday afternoon, I was working behind the counter, serving customers. Ally and Jason were in the back, working on some new recipes. I let out a sigh, closing the cash register, before facing the next customer.I was surprised when I saw the familiar blonde, but he wasn't alone this time. The little girl had her face pushed up against the glass, looking at all the treats. " Hey... " I smiled, he smiled back. " What can I get you? " I asked with a kind smile, " We need about 30 strawberry cupcakes and a dozen princess cookies " He sighed. I nodded putting in the order, " Today's her birthday, Addie how old are you today? " Billy stated picking the little girl. She smiled shyly at me while holding up 3 fingers, " That's right, you're 3 " he smiled. I smiled widely at the pair " Well, Happy Birthday Addie. Would you like a cookie? ", she quickly nodded before looking at Billy for permission. He chuckled " It's alright kid ", she smiled as he put her back on her feet. " Which one would you like? " I asked, she pointed straight towards the purple unicorn. I smiled once more, " Great choice " I stated while grabbing it and leaning over the counter, handing it to her. " Addie, what do you say? " Billy stated starring down at his daughter, " Thank you " she stated shyly. I smiled while nodding, as Jason brought out the cupcakes in two boxes. " How much do I owe you? " Billy  questioned as I bagged everything, " It's on me " I stated with a smile. " Y/N.... " Billy stated seriously, " Billy, just take them, enjoy that little girls birthday " I smiled. He sighed deeply while nodding, " Do you want to come, to her party? she loves your cakes... " he asked nervously as he grabbed the bag. " Sure, when is it? " I asked still smiling, " It's at 5... " he sighed deeply. I nodded " I'll be there, just text me the address ", he smiled widely while nodding. " Okay, we'll see you later " he then stated grabbing Addie's hand and walking her towards the door, she turned back towards me before waving goodbye. I waved back, smiling widely. I didn't know this back then, but my life was about to change. 

A few hours later, I had finished getting dressed, before walking downstairs. Ally and Jason were going to be keeping the bakery open for me, thankfully. " Hey thanks again guys... " I smiled, they both sent me smiles back. " It's not a problem. go have fun " Ally stated with a smirk, " Yeah, we promise not to burn the place down " Jason chuckled. I rolled my eyes " Just lock the doors at 9pm, let me know when you get home safe. I might be back before 9 though, depending on how things go ", they both nodded. " Go! " Ally exclaimed pushing me towards the door, " Good luck ". I sighed deeply while sending them a quick wave, before exiting the bakery and making my way towards my car. The address Billy sent me was about 20 minutes away, I knew exactly what house it was. Not only because of the purple birthday balloons on the mailbox, but Billy's camaro sitting in the driveway. I sat i the car for a few moments, trying to calm my nerves. I let out a deep sigh as I got out of the car, walking slowly towards the door, but noticed there was a note on the front door, instructing guests to go into the back yard. So, that's where I went. There wasn't many people there, a few adults, but mostly kids. As soon as I stepped into the backyard, eyes were on me and it was awkward for me. Billy was talking with an older male, while sipping on a beer. He noticed that I was slowly making my way towards him, carrying a bag of more pastries for the party. So, he said something to the male, before walking over to me. Pulling me into a tight hug, " This is weird " I whispered. Causing him to chuckle, " Oh, I brought more treats " I smiled as we pulled away. He sighed deeply " You didn't you have to do that Y/N ", I smirked while handing him the bag " It's not problem ". He smiled while nodding " I'm going to go put these in the kitchen, I'll be right back ", I nodded while letting out a deep sigh. He ran in quick and then came back out with the same woman he was in Target with, " Hi! I'm Lisa Hargrove, Billy's cousin. I've heard a lot about you, I know this is weird, but you'll get used to it, our family's odd " she stated with a smile. I nodded  "Nice to meet you! ", " I also know about what happened in Target, you saw him and I together, thought he was cheating on you, Ew gross he's my cousin. But, I understand how it must've looked " she stated. I nodded " Also, Bill might've had a rough past, but he's grown up a lot since Addie's come along, he's so protective over the girl. You must mean a lot to him, because he's never brought a girl here. He's never fought so hard to get someone back, he loves you a lot " she smiled widely. Making me look over at Billy, who was now talking to Addie. " Well, I'll let you mingle. My lady's calling me. I'll see you later " Lisa stated while walking over to a group of people, placing a kiss on a beautiful woman's cheek. I sighed deeply, glancing back towards Billy, who was now walking over to Addie. Oh boy, here we go. " Addie, this is Daddy's friend Y//N, from the bakery. She's going to be around for a long time, at least I hope and I know you'll love her as much as I do " he stated in a bashful tone, I smiled sending him a wink, telling him everything was going to work out, Addie wrapped her little arms around my legs, I was ready for this.

[ 5 Years Later ]

Things had been pretty great, Billy and I's relationship was amazing. Addie had become very talkative and outgoing since I've come into her life, she was so much like her father. Three years into our relationship, we moved into a larger house together, I rented out the apartment over the bakery to Jason, since he just got out of a long time relationship and had no where else to go. A year after that, we ended up getting married. Addie was excited to be the flower girl and to have a mom, even if I was just a stepmom. The bakery was still flourishing, Addie loved going in with me when Billy had to work his own job, she loved baking even at the age of 8 years old. Our lives were nice, peaceful, sometimes stressful, but I wouldn't change it. 

" Daddy... " I heard Addie sigh from Billy's side of the bed, " Yeah bug? " he muttered still half asleep. " I gotta talk to you, but I don't want to wake Y/N up " she sighed, Billy chuckled " Don't worry Bug, she can sleep through an earthquake ". I was clearly awake, but didn't want to disrupt Father, daughter time. " Do you think I could call Y/N Mom? " Emma from school asked why I didn't call her mom, she made fun of me for it " Addie sighed, " Well Emma's a right ol' Bitch " he muttered. Addie gasped quickly " Daddy, no bad words! ", he sighed deeply " Sorry Bug, I don't think Y/N would mind if you called her mom. She's been here for five years, she's not going anywhere ". She sighed slightly, " Right Y/N " Billy stated knowing that I was already awake. I turned towards over to face them, " I'd be honored to be your mom Add "  I stated with a smile. Receiving a large grin in return ( This girl looked so much like her father ), " Yay! Can I sleep with you guys? " she then asked making Billy and I chuckle. " Yes, tonight. Tomorrow you're sleeping  in your own bed, deal " Billy stated seriously, " Deal " Addie smiled climbing in between Billy and I. "  Love you guys " Billy sighed, " Love you too Dad, Love you mommy " Addie whispered still on the hesitant side, " Love you too my little add " I smiled kissing her forehead. " Shh, go to sleep " Billy groaned quickly, causing Addie and I to laugh quietly. I loved being in this little family. 

Months later. "So, Mommy ate the baby? " Addie asked Billy with a confused looked on her face, also looking at the small bump on my belly. " No bug, Mommy's just housing the baby for a few months " he chuckled, " How did they get in there " she then questioned. " You'll find out when your 40, just be excited to have a little brother or sister " Billy sighed, making  me chuckle. " How long till they come out? " Addie asked, " At least 6 more months bug, Mommy's belly is going to get bigger and bigger, then pop comes the baby " Billy smiled.  She groaned deeply " That's such a long time! ", " It'll go by quick and then you'll get to be a big sister " I smiled at her, which she returned. " Wow, a big sister, I can't wait! But, I'm not taking a bath today! " she exclaimed running upstairs and into her room, " 8 year olds " Billy stated with a deep sigh, " Just wait till she's a teenager... It's your turn to do bath time " I stated with a slight smirk because Addie hated bath time. " No babe.. You know how she gets... " he groaned deeply, I shrugged " I did it last night, so it's your turn. Sorry ". He groaned deeply once more, " Fine. But as soon as she's in bed, it's our special time " he stated with a smirk. I rolled my eyes, but chuckled.

[ 3 more years later ]

I sighed deeply sitting on a lawn chair, my large Belly in the way of everything. " Addie, Lucas. Finish your lunches! " I shouted at the now 11 year old Addie and 2 1/2 year old Lucas. They were playing on the newly assembled Playground, of course they weren't  listening to me though. " Whatever, Starve " I muttered rubbing my belly, " you'll listen to me right little bean, won't be like your mean ol' brother and sister " I sighed. Billy walked through the backyard, carrying two glasses of lemonade. He handed me one before sitting next to me,  " How are my babe's? " he asked placing a hand on my stomach.  " He's fine, your other children won't listen to me though " I sighed, " Addison, Lucas, Lunch. Eat it! " Billy demanded, Addie groaned but did as she was told. Lucas on the other hand must've been taken back by Billy's loud voice and ran to me crying. " Dadda " Lucas whimpered as Billy picked him up, " I 'm sorry bud, you just gotta finish your lunch and listen to momma, Okay " Billy sighed. Lucas nodded, like Addie, he was a bright two year old. Addie carried both her and Luke’s lunch towards us, placing the plates on the table. " Sorry mom, we were having a good time " Addie sighed as she picked  at her sandwich, I smiled at her " It's fine ". She smiled at us, helping Luke with his food. She loved being a big sister and couldn't wait for the little bean to arrive. I was still so in love with Billy and I couldn't image what my life would've become without my little family, that was growing larger now, I think about it everyday. I loved this life and I'm glad Billy finally made the move to ask  me out all those years ago, things  couldn't get better than this. - End ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey guys, thank you all so much for Reading! If you have any requests for any stories, please don't hesitate to let me know, and I'll write the for you the best I can. You're all so amazing and I couldn't thank you enough for supporting me writing <3<3

[twoidiotwriters1]

Pure Blood 6 (Sirius Black x F!Oc)

Words: 2,017

Warnings: The past hurts, ma frends.

Chapter 5 // Chapter 7

Chapter 6: Child’s play

First year.

“Hello,” Sirius says when we both reach his friends at the entrance of the castle.

“Hello,” I said a little nervous. Remus smiles at me, Peter blushes and James raises an eyebrow in my direction.

“Then what do you plan, James?” The boy in glasses now smiles at my friend.

“Oh, just a little joke, I found a spell so that the halls towards the Slytherin tower are slippery”

“Remus found it,” Peter adds.

“I don't want to be part of this. Don't give me credit,” Remus defends himself, “I said it as a joke. I didn't think you would do it, James.”

“Oh, come on, Remus. It will be fun, what could go wrong?”

“Someone can get hurt.”

“Don't be boring,” Sirius adds, “They will only slip.”

“But someone can hit his head or break something,” I say insecure.

At home, Sirius and I make different jokes, both for adults and for my siblings, they are always fun but they don't hurt anyone. When Sirius invited me to this, I didn't think we’d had problems.

“Nothing will happen,” James frowns at me.

“I don't think it's a good idea, maybe we should think of another joke,” I look at Sirius.

“What if we do something else instead of jokes?” Remus mentions and now we all see him and ignore his comment.

“Do you have another better idea, Snake?” James says challenging me. I don't care about his little nickname.

“We could do something with the food, maybe a spell so that everything tastes horrible, like bertie’s beans, do you remember when we did it at Christmas, Sirius?” I say smiling.

“Yes, it was fun to see everyone's faces about to throw up,” He laughs, "it could be better, James, think about it, but not only at Slytherin's table, everyone."

It seems that James has an internal conflict.

“That’s original,” He huffs.

“Do you have another idea?” Now I challenge him. He tenses his jaw, but does not respond, so I win this battle.

“But, someone will suspect, everyone will be sick, except the five of us.”

“Remus,” says Sirius circling the shoulders of the chestnut, “We can always pretend. –No one will find out.”

 ______________________________________________

“Well, Snake, it's almost time,” James says by my side.

Everyone had a part for the mission and unfortunately, I had to be with the boy in glasses. We both met at the entrance of the great dining room, waiting for the signal from Sirius.

The plan is going perfectly. Remus was responsible for finding the spell, Peter was very nervous, so he only limited himself to enter the great dining room and pretend that everything was fine, in addition, he knew the exact time at which the food appeared. Sirius will be the distraction, it seems that morning, Professor Mcgonagall was in charge of making sure the food was in place and he would tell her about a non-existent problem. And finally, James and I must wait for him, as soon as we see him with the teacher, James will do the spell and I will tell Mcgonagall that something bad is happening, pretending to be unwell.

For now, most students were having breakfast, without thinking that something would bother them. We decided to give them a moment with good food, and then perform the spell. Luckily, no teacher had arrived yet.

“Did I do something to you or did I say something that offended you?” My question takes James by surprise.

“Why do you ask?” I roll my eyes.

“Since we arrived you have only been very… rude to me, it seems that my voice or my presence bothered you, but I have no idea why.”

“You answered your question, girl. Your presence bothers me.”

“Why? On the train… we may not have many things in common, but everything was fine. What changed?”

“Does it bother you that Sirius is with us?” Now he surprised me.

“No. Well, maybe a little. Especially that time in potions class, but it's not like I want him to be with me all the time,” Actually, it was, “I understand he has his friends, only that…"

“You have to understand something,” he says looking at me, “You are in Slytherin and he is in Gryffindor, both houses do not get along. It's not good that you are together so much time.”

“But-”

“I swear, Professor. I don't know how to make my cup turn back into a rat…

“Mr Black, you better start practicing, it's the only advice I can give you. No wizard became an excellent one from one day to another and less in a class,” Both appeared in the hall interrupting our conversation.

James entered the great dining room and I moved towards the teacher and Sirius.

“P-Professor,” I say with a hand on my stomach and leaning a little. It's all part of the plan, “Something… something happens with the food”

Mcgonagall looks at me worriedly and enters the room quickly. As soon as she disappears, my performance ends. I hear Sirius laugh.

“You’re a good actress,” In response, I bow and take his hand. We both run to see the show.

_________________________________

“I'm very disappointed”

We hear Professor Mcgonagall's scolding, next to her is Professor Slughorn.

“What spell did they use to do everything so fast?” Asks the Professor and Mcgonagall gives him an annoyed look. He notices, “It is for academic methods, of course. What students should not do.”

“How did you come up with this? I did not expect that my students could do something like that.”

The five of us share looks, for a few moments, nobody said anything. Everything would have gone well, but Peter lost control when he saw several boys vomit, he worried so much that he couldn't help saying we were guilty.

“Everything was Persephone's idea”

Wait, what?

We all turn to James, who doesn't seem to regret his words, just looks forward.

“You have to be kidding,” I complain.

“Is that true, Miss Singh?” I return to McGonagall and bite my lower lip.

“I …" I release a sigh, accepting my destiny.

“No, it was my idea, they have nothing to do,” Says Sirius, taking a step forward.

Mcgonagall raises an eyebrow, releases a sigh and shakes his head.

“I don't know whose idea it was, but I know everyone is involved, Mr. Black. You,” She points out, “are in detention. Singh will discuss your punishment with Professor Slughorn, and those of Gryffindor, tomorrow I wait for them in my office before lunch” We all nod.

“You can go.”

The five of us left her office and walked through the halls. After making sure I am far enough, I step forward and face James, causing everyone to stop.

“What was that? Why did you give me away?”

“I didn't tell any lies. They already had us trapped and it was your idea.”

“No one was going to say anything, you wanted me to take all the responsibility.”

“Hey, Percy, I don't think that's James's intention,” Sirius says approaching.

“Of course. Since we arrived the only thing he has done is insult me, before all the plan, he said that my presence bothers him,” I point to James.

“Oh come on, if I barely know you, stop inventing things I didn't say, how old are you? Five?” He mocks.

“But, you said that!” Anger grows when I see how relaxed he is.

“Guys, it doesn't matter, we'll all have punishment, the one who should be angry is me,” Remus adds, “I didn't want to do it in the first place.”

“Yes, I'm sorry I panicked,” Peter says.

“It doesn't matter, Pete. The joke was a success anyway.”

“My idea was better,” I roll my eyes at James's voice, now his presence bothers me.

____________________________________

“You do believe me, right?”

Sirius and I are in the astronomy tower, sitting on the floor of a small balcony, a spectacular view of the stars.

“About what?” He says, taking a chocolate frog from the bag I brought.

“About James, he said it bothered him, I don't know what I did,” I bite the licorice that is in my hand.

“I don't think that's what he meant, Percy. You may not know him at all, but he doesn't seem like a person who hates someone just because.”

“I heard that it also bothers a boy named Severus,” Sirius laughs.

“Well, the boy seems pretty dumb, maybe he has a reason. Besides, it's from Slytherin,” He says without giving it much importance, I raise my eyebrows.

“I am also from Slytherin.”

“Let's not talk about it again,” He complains and I let out a sigh.

“You're not listening to me, Sirius,” He looks at me confused.

“Well, what's the matter?” I settle in front of him still on the floor.

“James is jealous that you want me to be in the group,” I blurted out.

I was really thinking about it, after returning from Slughorn's punishment. Which was too boring, I had to clean up some trophies while he told me about his graduated students.

“Come on, Percy,” He says laughing and I frown.

“Oh,” He stops laughing, “You’re not kidding.”

“No, I'm not, what other reason do you have to treat me badly?”

“He doesn't treat you badly.”

“In the morning he threw my books.”

“We were running in the hall, he didn't notice.”

“He tangled his fork in my hair,” I clench my teeth remembering the pain of not being able to remove it.

“It was an accident. Well, listen,” He takes my hand, “they were only accidents, you don't have to worry. If he tried to harm you, rest assured that I would defend you. No one hurts my best friend.”

I want to believe his words.

“But you don't want to realize, Sirius. Maybe for you they are accidents, but I notice his mischievous look. He always plans something new,” My eyes tear a little and he notices.

“Hey! No. Okay, I'll talk to him!” He says worried “Don't worry, Persephone. I’ll clear things up and I won't let him bother you again.”

His arms surround me and force me to be closer to him. My head sits on his small chest.

“It's okay.”

We were silent for a few minutes, until I feel his chest vibrate and I hear his laugh. I back away a little to see him.

“What?”

“What he did to you these days, makes me think that maybe he likes you,” He shakes his head, “But it's a silly idea.”

My cheeks burn and I hit his shoulder. He complains.

“Don't say that, he annoys me for pure evil, it has nothing to do with that possibility.”

“You didn’t have to hit me,” He pouts, “I already said it was a silly idea,” He says rubbing his shoulder.

“I would never be with someone like him.”

“Yes, besides. I wouldn’t allow that,” Sirius adds.

“Sorry? Allow? You can't,” I joke.

“I'm your best friend, maybe your brothers are here, but I feel it is my duty to protect you from all the boys who try to date you,” Now I laugh out loud.

“Yeah right. Neither my brothers nor you can tell me what to do, Sirius. I can take care of myself.”

“Seriously? Who was the one who screamed and cried when she saw a small spider in her room?”

“It was the size of a dog!” I scream, scared to remember.

“Of course not,” He laughs, “it wasn't even the size of my nail. And who did you go with for help?”

Now I pout and cross my arms, avoiding his mocking gaze.

“Spiders are different from boys.”

“Clearly,” I feel a tingle in my neck and scream terrified as I get up and run to the other side of the balcony.

Sirius’ laughter resonates in the tower, apparently he had used a candy wrap to touch my neck.

“I hate you, you are the worst best friend, Sirius Orion Black!”

“You should’ve seen your face!” He says, writhing with laughter on the floor.

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[lashtons-dirtbag]

You’re Kidding (Steve x Reader)

A/N: This is my entry for @denialanderror‘s writing challenge. Of course since I am the queen of doing things last minute, this is up super late, which I apologize for. Tomorrow is my last exam for the semester though so I should be able to post more frequently over the summer!

Summary: Just a fluffy little one shot where reader can’t help sassing the man she loves. And of course Natasha calls her out on it.

Pairing: Steve x Reader

Words: 1.6k

Warnings: Language. One or two slightly suggestive comments.

A low groan escapes your lips as the hard sole of a combat boot connects with your side. Your arm is wrenched behind your body before you’re flipped and your back connects with the training mat beneath you. Natasha is standing above you, giving you a pointed look, her arms crossed.

“What is with you today?” she cocks her hip to the side, “This is the fifth time I’ve beaten you.”

“You usually beat me Nat,” your voice is rough as you take the hand she offers to help you stand.

“Fair point. But you usually pull out a win every couple of rounds.” She turns to you, arms crossing once again. “Something’s up with you.”

“I guess I’m just having an off day…” you trail off, hoping to avoid the conversation you know is brewing.

“Uh-huh. And that has nothing to do with a certain Star-Spangled Captain standing on the other side of the room?” She gives you a knowing smirk.

“Of course not.” Absolutely.

“Whatever you say…” Natasha lets the sentence trail before she moves to the adjacent bench and starts sipping from her water bottle. You move to follow, but not before your eyes flash briefly in the direction of the man Nat had insinuated earlier. He was by the weight bench with Bucky, the two in a light conversation as he spotted for Sam. You turn back to Nat, reaching for your own bottle of water. Nat does you the courtesy of pretending she hadn’t noticed your momentary distraction, although you’re sure there’s no way that she had missed it.

“Alright, I’ m beat.” You say, gathering your things. “I’ll see you at lunch.”

“Maybe you should shower first,” Nat smirks. “wouldn’t want Rogers catching a whiff of that.”

You glare at her playfully, flipping her off as you make your way towards the door.

~

You enter the kitchen in a pair of clean sweatpants and a tank top, wringing your hair out in a towel. Mostly everyone is already there, excluding Clint - who was visiting his family for a few days - and Tony, Rhodey, and Vision who were currently off on a mission.

You set your towel on the counter before turning to poke through the fridge.

“How are you gonna set your nasty ass towel on the counter like that?” Sam says, voice full of disgust, “People eat there you know.”

“I can almost guarantee you that my towel is cleaner than half the things you’ve had on this counter, Wilson.”

Sam’s eyes go wide, before he quickly looks back down at his food. You hear both Steve and Bucky chuckle under their breath, whilst Bruce makes a sound of disgust. You pull out a carton of leftover noodles from the Chinese takeout that you’d had the night before. Grabbing a fork, you begin shoveling the noodles into your mouth.

“Jeez y/n slow down, you’re gonna choke.” Steve says, watching you warily.

“Wouldn’t you like that?” you smirk, shoving another forkful into your mouth. Steve blanches, but recovers quickly and picks up another piece of chicken on his fork.

“Anyways,” Steve pauses, swallowing his food, “whilst we’re all here, I want everyone in the training room at 6:00 a.m. sharp tomorrow. I have a few new drills I want to go over with everyone.”

“That’s really fucking funny Steve.”

“I’m serious, y/n. We’ve got a lot we need to cover.”

“Yes, and I have a bed I need to sleep in.” you cross the kitchen shuffling into an empty chair next to Wanda and across from Nat.

The conversation travels elsewhere for the duration of lunch. You’re the first to finish, despite being one of the last to arrive. You stand, moving to throw away the empty noodle carton.

“See you at six, y/n?” Steve asks expectantly.

“Sir, yes sir, Cap.” You ruffle his hair lightly as you move past him, and Steve can’t help but stare after you fondly as you leave the room, heading for the elevator.

~

The next morning you trudge into the training room. You’re the last one to arrive, but you make no effort to get to the others any faster.

“Glad you could join us.” Steve grins.

“Sorry.” You mumble. “I’m not used to waking up at the ass crack of dawn.”

Steve’s grin only widens as he begins to pair you off. As per usual, you’re with Natasha.

You’re in the middle of practicing the first drill when she asks.

“So, how are things?”

“I mean things are good I guess,” you shrug. “Fury says he has a mission lined up for me next week –“

“You know that’s not what I meant.” She gives you an exasperated look. “I know you have feelings for Steve.” She deadpans.

You sigh. “Feelings is an understatement.” You glance at him – he’s in the middle of watching Wanda spar with Sam – and lower your voice. “The truth is I’m completely in love with him.”

“You’re telling me you’re in love with the man you’ve been constantly sassing for the past eight months? Nooooo…” Natasha says in mock surprise. You smack her lightly on the arm.

“Is it that obvious to everyone or is it just because you’re a super spy?”

“No, it’s pretty damn obvious.” Bucky informs you as he walks past you to join Steve. “To everyone except him of course.” You groan, slapping your hand to your face.

“Y/n it’s pretty fucking obvious he feels the same way.” Natasha assures you, resuming the drill you were meant to be practicing. “Just tell him how you feel.”

“It’s not that simple.” Your arm juts out to block her attack. “I’ve never been the first person to say it before. And for good reason. I don’t think I could handle it if he didn’t say it back.”

A knee hits you in the stomach. “But wouldn’t it be worse not knowing?”

“I don’t know.” Of course it would.

“It’s up to you whatever you decide.” It’s at this moment that you go in with the new kick Steve wanted everyone to practice, catching Natasha off guard and sending her sailing to the ground with a thump.

The rest of training is uneventful. The second it ends you find yourself bolting to your room, not wanting to socialize with anyone. You crawl into bed, not bothering to change out of your sweaty clothes, and curl in on yourself.

It’s been no more than twenty minutes before a knock sounds on your door. You roll to face it but make no move to get up. “Y/n? It’s me. Everything okay.” The voice is muffled through the door, but you would know Steve’s voice anywhere. “You rushed off so quickly after training I was worried something might have happened.”

A smile flits over your face. Steve always did worry too much. You heave yourself off the bed and open your door for him. He wears a small smile, but you can see the worry dancing in his eyes.

You smile softly up at him and he swears he’s never seen anything prettier. “I’m fine.” You reassure him, “Just tired. I’ve had a lot on my mind recently.”

“Want to talk about it?’ Steve offers, trailing behind you as you turn back towards your bed. You nod to the spot next to you, and he sits.

“Not particularly. Just silly things. Things that really shouldn’t be so hard to talk about but for some reason it also feels like my entire world might implode on itself if I do.”

He nods in understanding. He’s one of the few in the compound who would never push you to open up about something if you didn’t want to. “Why don’t I tell you about something that’s been on my mind instead?” he offers.

You nod. “I’d like that.”

“Well I’ve been having these feelings lately. Feelings I haven’t felt since before I went in the ice. And well, to be honest, I didn’t think I would feel them again after I came out, let alone want the life that these feelings would entail.” Your breath catches, and you feel the sadness welling up in your throat. Of course. How could I have ever believed he would want a life with me? “Until I met you.”

Wait.

What?

You couldn’t possibly have heard him right. Before you can even open your mouth, he continues:

“I love you, y/n. And I have for a while. I think -“ You want to let him finish. You really do. But he’s looking at you like you’re his whole world and you swear you can see whole galaxies dancing in his eyes and you just can’t help it.

Your hand finds the back of his neck and before you know it your lips are pressing feverishly to his, and although his body is still for a beat out of shock, his hands quickly find your hips and his lips press just as roughly against yours. Your teeth nip at his bottom lip when you hear a thud against the door and Natasha gruffly whisper “Damnit Sam!”

Steve pulls back giving you an apologetic look before he yanks open the door. Natasha, Sam, and Bucky fall forward slightly through the doorway. Nat smirks knowingly at you over Steve’s shoulder and you roll your eyes.

“Can no one have any privacy here?” Steve reprimands the three. They have the decency to look regretful before Nat and Bucky make a run for it, and you hear Sam say, “At least maybe now you can see her choke,” before Steve grabs the nearest object he can find – a book on mythology that Thor had gifted you on his last visit – and chucks it at Sam’s head as he flees down the corridor. Your cheeks burn as Steve slams the door shut once again and turns back to face you.

“Now, where were we?”

As always, feedback is always loved and appreciated.

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