#yes i’m watching oceans 11 again it’s my everything

[saturn-sends-hugs]

it’s actually devastating how hard it is to write a fun little montage. movies get to have fun little switching between character montages with music and everything but how do i put that in fanfic terms??? how????

[lordkingsmith]

June lyric prompts 2024

1. Leave it to me to get into some kinda trouble/breaking a rule, crossing a line/leave it to me to step into chaos/tame fire with one hand on the other I could die/I’ve just fallen ten stories but that ain’t hurtin/just dance in fire/but that boy, he is my/current emergency-current emergency by Savannah Campbell

2. And the blood will dry, underneath my nails/And the wind will rise up, to fill my sails/See you can doubt, and you can hate/But I know, no matter what it takes/I'm coming home-coming home by Skylar Grey

3. Always catching myself at night/Only go out when the sun goes down/I got an ocean of emotion inside/I am not Poseidon lover's island but I ride him in the riptide-crybaby by roseboi

4. There’s a dirt road in town/where the north wind blows in jest,/and the midnight sun burns low,/in the woods where now they rest/and the tents in the fields break the younger men’s backs/and corsets and the heels pop the drunken gents slacks/Soapy Smith laid his hand, raised ‘em up in this land/long gone-forever he’s damned-Diamond Lil by Seth and Sara

5. The girl was never there/It's always the same/I'm running towards nothing/Again and again and again.-A Forest by Kaleida

6. And the stress it unwinds/To a pulse of true time/And the symbols they rhyme/Pouring out into my mind/I'm here feeling it all/I'm here, big and small/I can do anything/I can do nothing/I am free, I'm free in my mind-Free by Ocie Elliott

7. Who's that sexy thing I see over there?/That's me, standin' in the mirror/What's that icy thing hanging 'round my neck?/Um, that's gold, show me some respect, oh-Me, Too by Meghan Trainor

8. Such boundless pleasure/We've no time for later now/You can't await your own arrival/You've twenty seconds to comply-Let Go by Imogen Heap

9. I am a collapsing star with tunnel vision/But only for you/My head is stripped just like a screw that's been tightened too many times/When I think of you/I will shield you from the waves/If they find you/I will protect you/Just tell me, tell me, tell me, I/I am the only one/Even if it's not true-Last of the real ones by Fall Out Boy

10. There's a haze above my TV/That changes everything I see/And maybe if I continue watching/I'll lose the traits that worry me/Can we fast forward to go down on me?-New Perspective by Panic!At the disco

11. My body's aching/System overload/Temperature's rising/I'm about to explode/Watch me I'm intoxicated/Taking the show, ah/It's got me hypnotized, ah/Everybody step aside-evacuate the dance floor by Cascada

12. Still harder getting up, getting dressed, living with this regret/But I know if I could do it over/I would trade, give away all the words that I saved in my heart/That I left unspoken-what hurts the most by rascal flatts

13. Time to stage a show/smile and pretend/drown in sorrows and cry/tell them all these little white lies/oh, god knows that I’ve tried/pretend that I’m fine-blame by pocket key

14. Recount the night that/I first met your mother/And on the drive back to my house/I told you that, I told you that I loved ya/You felt the weight of the world/Fall off your shoulder/And to your favorite song/We sang along to the start of forever/And after all this time I'm still into you-into you by Paramore

15. Came a time/When every star fall/Brought you to tears again/We are the very hurt you sold/And what's the worst you take/From every heart you break?-Helena by My Chemical Romance

16. Haven't had a dream in a long time/See, the life I've had/Can make a good man bad/So for once in my life/Let me get what I want/Lord knows, it would be the first time-please please please by the smiths

17. I don't need no honey, I want more money/Talking that bad money, that mad money/Only get silly for a billy, yeah, I said I'ma need a couple more zeros on that-Zeros by headie one(feat. Jazzy & cassö)

18. Check yes Juliet/Here's the countdown/Three, two, one, now fall in my arms/Now they can change the locks/Don't let them change your mind

19. I know temptation is the devil in disguise/You risk it all to feel alive, oh, yeah/You're offering yourself to me like sacrifice/You said you do this all the timeTell me you love me if I bring you to the light-take my breath by The Weeknd

20. He knew what to say to sweep me off my feet/I should've never heard a word he said to me/I was comfortable with ignorance is bliss/'Cause I told myself I wouldn't fall for it/But then/Quicker than a flash, he had me at hello/He took me by the hand, we started dancing slow/I didn't wanna get attached but now, I'm far too close-Valentino by MNEK and Years & Years/Olly Alexander

21. Some tings don't work/Some tings are bound to be/Some tings, they hurt/And they tear apart me/You left your diary at my house/And I read those pages/Do you really love me, baby?-wait a minute! By Willow Smith

22. Does the pain weigh out the pride/And you look for a place to hide?/Did someone break your heart inside/You're in ruins-21 guns by Green Day

23. Only you can be the aching in my heart/My enemy, the only animal I couldn't fight/You hold me in the dark when storms arrive/Only you-Ellie Goulding Only You

24. I know we got it good, but they got it made/And their grass is getting greener each day/I know things are looking up, but soon they'll take us down/Before anybody's knowin' our name-all the right moves by one republic

25. If our love is running out of time/I won't count the hours, rather be a coward/When our worlds collide/I'm gonna drown you out before I lose my mind-lalala by naughty boy

26. Handsome, tender, soft/Why do you look right through/Thinking/“No, I can't deny my feelings"/Growing strong/I try to keep believing, dreaming on/And every time I see you, I crave more/I wanna pull you closer, closer, closer, closer/But you leave me feeling frozen

27. There may be/Someone who truly believes love is blind/But I beg to differ there's two of a kind/They will find each other/And that is a real bliss/Our very first kiss-first kiss by Alexander rybak

28. He said "think about the children/Think about the children/You wanted me to write a hit record for the radio/Are you never gonna get it?/The kids already know!/Some girls like girls, some boys got a boyfriend/I like guys and they like me/We hold hands, make out and do all the things that lovers do/Some girls like girls, some boys got a boyfriend/I like guys and they like me/We hold hands, make out and do all the things that lovers do-radio friendly pop song by Matt Fischel

29. We learn to run at speed of light/And to fall down from any height/It's true but just remember that/What we do is what you just can't do/An opera of craziness-cartoon heroes by aqua

30. Hello baby, can I see a smile/I'm going to a party and its gonna be wild (okay)/Can I come, I am sitting alone/No, friends are never alone (that's right)/Maybe some pretty girls are in your world/Excuse me, I could also be your girl/Lately everyone is making fun-best friend by ToyBox

31. Give me the burden, give me the blame/I'll shoulder the load, and I'll swallow the shame/Give me the burden, give me the blame/How many, how many Hail Marys is it gonna take?/Don't care if he's guilty, don't care if he's not/He's good and he's bad and he's all that I've got-Devil’s Backbone by The Civil Wars

[loneberry]

Sátántangó // dead girls // insomnia // etc

There are many things I��ve been wanting to write about—Sátántangó (spoilers below), oceanic primitive accumulation (fuck you Norway), the ontology of Ibn ‘Arabi, Susan Taubes + Susan Sontag as doubles/rivals, Robert Hurley’s event (a hymn to every saint who has ended up in the asylum), my sleepless visions. (I saw the white door of the world open, and squatting at the entrance staring back at me was my dead dog Lucky, as a puppy—everything I love vanished as it passed through the doorway of my mind’s eye, until I too passed through that dimensionless portal, like the thread of the self entering the eye of eternity’s needle, entering…and disappearing. “It was a white space and in it I did not know who I was,” I wrote in my journal long ago. Recursive time: over a decade ago I was reading Simone Weil and thinking about the transmogrification of suffering into grace.)

I want to write about Estike dying a beautiful death, with its “unutterably beautiful logic,” a death of connection, the girl of the gutter expiring in the ruins of a church. “‘Yes,’ she quietly repeated to herself, “the angels see this and understand it.’” I wanted to write about the chain of abuse, what people do to those they have power over, how the abused become petty tyrants, disgusted by the weakness of those without defense, those one rung below them on the ladder. I will do to you what has been done to me. So the damned girl Estike tells her cat: “I’m stronger than you.” O how much her sadism toward the weak creature reminded me of my dead ex girlfriend’s spiteful cruelty. The way Estike shoved her cat’s head into the poison milk reminded me of the way M violently shoved her fingers into my mouth while shouting, “There, there—is that what you want!” (I had gotten upset when she told me about how she would suck her ex-girlfriend’s fake cock while performing in her noise band. How M delighted in humiliating me, in humiliating others.)

I see Estike observing the community of humans from outside—is it a gaze of indifference, yearning, or misanthropy?—as she stares at the drunken revelers through the window. That partitioning, too, between the outcast and the in-cast, reminded me of M. Did she ever watch Sátántangó before she died? She would often talk about wanting to watch it. We believed… there was so much time to watch it. One day…until our days are over. Evocation of the bells, a perfect vision of authority’s darkness.

Why kill the one you love? I wrote in my notebook.

During the film I remembered… the voice of entreaty, the voice of prayer—that cry from the heart when, 11 years ago, I asked God: Will I ever see her again? No, I did not see her. Had I received the answer then—the brutal monosyllabism of an unqualified No—I would have been inconsolable.

(Once I saw someone on a bus in Boston I thought might be her, someone wearing rainbow leggings—it must have been a ghost.)

When asked about the influence of Tarkovsky on his work, Béla Tarr said, “You want to know the difference between me and Tarkovsky? I don’t believe in God.” Béla Tarr does have a way of profanizing—of lampooning—every gesture toward the mystical. The bells that woke Futaki? The doctor notes: they could not have come from the chapel, the tower having collapsed during the war. Infernal tolling, belfry of the tortured imagination! Subversion of Tarkovsky’s sublime bell motif: in a Godless world, the tolling that the townspeople all hear coming from the ruins of the chapel is just a madman clanking and hollering about the coming of the Turks. When Irimiás hears the drone and falls to his knees before the ruins where Estike has killed herself, his sidekick Petrina asks, “What, you’ve never seen fog before?” (Reverence is always slapped down with irreverence.)

*

In the early morning through the jasmine gate the jacaranda weeps violetly (because colors should be adverbs…)

In the late-day setting sun annunciation of the light-limned lily crooning the voice of Daniel Johnston cracking with the true love he wants to find him

(The light the light the light…)

I wanted to write all of it—but I’m operating at about 5% of my cognitive capacity, on almost no sleep for weeks, waiting for the mercy of a wished-for neurochemical leveling. It’s hard to write in this haze. I can’t tell you how much I miss writing myself into a state of ecstasy. But now there’s just the state of the dysregulation of the serotonin and noradrenergic systems, paresthesia migrating across my face as I wonder—will I be strong enough to bear it, to face who I am without pharmacological appendage?

Pray I will one day be able to sleep as soundly as this baritone ginger dreaming of the dog contemplating the freedom of the birds. The dreamers soaring above the broken Earth, watching the planet die. “Baby this faith is all I have…this faith is all I have.”

[lanafofana]

Lanatav's Banter and Dialogue

Original Tav Banter and Dialogue post from mumms-the-word

I went ahead and answered most of these for kicks and giggles but left companion specific banter blank (and in bold) if you want to send an ask about anyone/scenario specifically I'd be happy to churn it through the ol noggin. This is just gratuitous self indulgence at it's finest but it was SO FUN! Back to slut smut writing!

Combat/Movement

1. Clicking on them once (non-combat) 

Sorry, what? 

I’m trying to read, if you don’t mind

*belch*

Woah! Watch those hands, buddy 

2. Spam clicking on them too many times

*sneeze*

Gods I’m hungry

Do you fucking mind? 

Oh shit, did I put out the campfire before we left? Yeah, I did…Did I? 

NO. TOUCHY. 

Ghosts aren’t real. Ghosts aren’t real. Ghosts aren’t real. Ah! 

3. Directing them to attack/move in combat

Oh shit it’s go time?

This isn’t going to go well.

Right, so I guess I’ll just…get to it then.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck

Catch these hands! (false bravado)

4. Hiding/sneaking/hidden movement 

My back hurts

I have to pee

Why are my hands so sweaty?

Sneak attack go! 

Shhh!! 

5. Taking a short rest 

Ready to go again already?

Fine fine, I’m coming

This day is dragging

6. Low health/asking for healing

I AM IN PAIN

Hate to interrupt but I’m losing a LOT of blood…like A LOT

Could I trouble you for some GODSDAMNED HELP?

Is that the sun or just the light at the end of the tunnel? It's gettin' bigger.

My insides have become my outsides 

7. Attacked by a party member

This is why we can’t have nice things. 

DURGE HELP

Watch it dickhead.

Ow what the hell? 

Harder, daddy!  

MUTINY!!!!

8. Companion/romance death reactions 

Companions Oh shit…uh, Withers?! 

I have a scroll for that 

Another one bites the dust

This is…not ideal 

Romance

NO. NO NONONONO.

No! Please…

My love? 

*scream of inarticulate rage and pain* + gains bonus action and ENRAGED buff

9. Going to buff/heal a companion/romance

Hero mode activated! 

Don’t worry, I’ll have you right as rain!

Lemme kiss and make it better!

Oh, that’s gross looking, here, drink this! 

Steady on, tiger, take a beat. Not a beating.

That was a little too close for my comfort. 

Bless you! Haha get it cause it’s a blessing? Nevermind. 

10. Sending them to talk to an NPC

You’ve made a serious error in judgment. 

Who, me? Why? 

Pass. I SAID PA– oh fuck it.

Remember this was your stupid ass idea. 

Fine but I’m going to complain the whole time. 

11. Sending them to talk to their romanced partner

Finally!

My favorite person, yes! 

Surprise kiss attack go! 

I just can’t stay away

I need a hug. 

Someone looks lonely. It’s me. I look lonely. 

Interacting with Items

12. Encountering a locked chest/door

Does anyone have a hairpin?

Tsk! Secrets secrets are no fun!

Like a fun little puzzle with a surprise at the end! 

13. Picking a lock

Just a little…to the…left aaaand

Hold my beer

My time to shine has come

Righty tighty, lefty– wait no

Watch and learn, Astarion

14. Looking at a globe

I’m gonna spin it and the place my finger lands is where I’ll move when this is all over…and it’s to be…the ocean. *sigh* Again. 

Oh look! Here’s where we are! 

15. Looking at an astrolabe

Space travel? Hard pass

I prefer the view outside

There’s so much out there. And all of it wants to kill you. 

16. Looking at a telescope

Hey I know that constellation!

I wish I had one of these at home 

You think someone, somewhere is looking in a telescope back at us? 

17. Looking in a mirror

Oh! Hm.

Wow that’s…a look

How long has my hair looked like that?

I should eat a vegetable. Soon. 

18. Looking at a nonmagical lamp 

My lamp. My lamp. My lovely lady lamps.  

19. Noticing a trap

Oop

Look at me. Do not step there. 

Hey, Gale, c’mere a sec 

Do I have to do everything around here? 

20. Can’t fit into a small hole

Ha ha ha hilarious

I know I’m the shortest but really? [Lanatav Disapproves -1 approval]

I’m not sticking my arm in there if that’s what you want  [Lanatav Disapproves  -1 approval]

It wasn’t funny the first time and it’s less funny now  [Lanatav Disapproves  -2 approval]

Location Comments and Party Banters

21. Comments/reactions near an Act 1 location

Nautiloid crash/Beach

Ugh gotta get outta here it smells like rancid calamari 

(finding intellect devourers)*retching noises* Brains with legs! Brains with legs! 

I think that mindflayer just moved 

Where did these goblins come from, you think?

So many dead…sad 

Is that a travel rune? Why does it look so…sparky? 

Emerald Grove

Just one brush with danger after another isn’t it? 

These druids are…something. Not hospitable. But something.

 A lot less harmony than I thought a druid grove would exude 

(Notice weird cow) Watch it, beef steak 

(Hearing singing at the beach) If there’s a mermaid down there I’m gonna lose it (excited)

Jergal’s Shrine

Creepy crypt. Wonderful. And I supposed you want to just..yep, walkin’ right in, yep I’m coming. 

Wilderness/Forest

(owlbear tracks leading to cave) What are you doing? We’re not going in there surely? 

(finding honeycomb) A sweet treat for me to eat! 

*happy gasp* Is that a dog!? Here puppy! 

Blighted village

(noticing goblins) After you 

(Matriarch spider) Fuck that. I’ll wait for you outside, alright? 

(Apothecary’s cellar) Woah a secret lab! 

(Childs game) I remember this one. Not as fun when you're by yourself though. 

Swamp

Snake. Snake! Oh, just a branch.

This place is the definition of a bad vibe 

Oh look, a frog! I love frogs! (later) I like most frogs.

Weird place for a teahouse 

Goblin Camp

Oh look, more goblins. Goody for us. 

Mmm something smells like barbeque.

Not to be a naysayer, but do we really think that druid is still alive? Really?

*happy gasp* Owlbear cub! OWLBEAR CUB!

Mountain Pass

Dragons? Again!? You gotta be shittin’ me

The Underdark

All the mortal peril aside, I love it here

Mushrooms! Oh but look, don’t touch!! 

All the books I’ve read don’t hold a candle to the real thing 

(spectator) *Happy gasp*

(minotaur) *Happy gasp*

(bulette) *Happy gasp*

Rosymorn Monastery 

I’ve got a deep aching sense of dread. But the view is to die– nevermind.

When she said creche I was picturing something a little less monastic mass murder and something  a little more, I don’t know. Catacomb chic. Something with stalactites. I don’t know why.  

Risen Road

There’s something wrong with those hyenas…

Waukeen’s Rest

Running into a burning building to rescue some stranger at significant risk to personal welfare? Wouldn’t have been my first choice but very well. 

22. Comments/reactions near an Act 2 location

Ruined Battlefield

Is anyone else having trouble drawing a full breath of air? It’s like breathing soup. 

Last Light Inn

(Entering 1st time) I sure hope nobody in there is feeling trigger happy, I’m exhausted. 

Reithwin Town - Lanatav gains revolving fear debuff that can only be countermanded by covering her eyes/being held/having someone hold her hand. 

(Tollhouse) So do we think the gold all over the floor is cursed or…?

(House of Healing) (nauseated) Oh my gods. Oh my gods. Oh my gods. Oh my gods. 

(The Waning Moon) I could use a stiff drink as much as the next person but you do realize that’s a bar full of drinking stiffs, right? 

(Reithwin Graveyard) This entire trip so far has given me enough nightmare fuel to last until I’m 90. 

(Grand Mausoleum) That’s…that’s a lot of bones. Too many bones. 

Moonrise Towers 

Someone hold my hand. No I’m not kidding…thank you, Durge. 

Gauntlet of Shar

This just keeps getting better and better.

23. Comments/reactions near an Act 3 location

Rivington

Gods, the refugees, look at them all. The place was overcrowded several hundred bodies ago.

*happy gasp* Is that a tressym?! 

(ground shakes) Oh, that’s horribly unpleasant and not at all ominous. 

Wyrm’s Crossing

Slut city here we come! 

Lower City

I hate it here.

Lower City Sewers/ Undercity Ruins

Next time leave me at camp. 

24. Lines said in the Morphic Pool or High Hall 

Gods, it’s almost over (weary)….Gods! It’s almost over! (perking up)

Brains with legs! Brains with legs!

Tentacles. Tentacles everywhere. 

Once more unto the breach, eh Gale? Gale? Gale! Put those tiddies away, now is not the time! 

25. Party banter with Astarion

26. Party banter with Gale

27. Party banter with Wyll

28. Party banter with Karlach

29. Party banter with Lae'zel

30. Party banter with Shadowheart

31. Party banter with Halsin

32. Party banter with Jaheira

33. Party banter with Minthara

34. Party banter with Minsc

Bonus (Misc, some companion dialogues)

35. How would your Tav/Durge greet a player character if they were a companion at low, neutral, high, or romanced approval? I actually started this already in a document i was drafting a romance path!

Greetings:

Very Low

[Stares with hostile resting bitch face.]

The fuck you want now? 

Still alive then? Pity.

DURGE! I need a buffer!!  

Low

Look at me like that again and I’m throwing hands, alright? 

(Annoyed sigh) What?

(muttering) You gotta be fuckin’ kidding me right now. (Louder, aggressive) Yeah?

Don’t push your luck.

Neutral

It wasn’t me. I mean, hmm? No, nevermind that. We moving or what?  

Yeah?

Oh… hi?

Medium

Hey, what’s up?

You need somethin’?

You good?

High

Hey, uh, you (awkward but delighted with the attention)

Are you alright, boss?

Nice day for a chat, whatcha thinkin’ about?

Very High

Do you need my help with something? I gotchu.

How’s the day treatin’ you?

What’s the hot gossip?

Yeah, boss? What’s good? 

Exceptional

You’re looking well, can I help with anything?  

You look glum, chum. Hey wanna hear something hilarious about [companion with lowest approval]?

I have a book you might like. If you want. 

I know that look in your eye, let’s hear it, boss 

Romanced

Low Approval Romance

H-hey (shy) 

Want to walk with me for a bit? 

Medium Approval Romance

Wanna go crazy and hold hands? 

What’s up, buttercup? 

You look nice today. Is that a new…breastplate? *cough* No, that’s not what I– Ah hells. 

High/Exceptional Approval Romance

I’ve been trying to use the tadpole to summon you for ages, did it finally work? 

Hey, tiger

Need some moral support, tiger? (flirty, suggestive) 

I was just thinking about you, love

Careful with that smile, tiger, you’ll knock the wind right out of me.  

Broken Up

Alright there? 

You ok?

…Hey

When spoken to by someone not the player character 

Begone. 

Boundaries are important. 

Sorry, you must have mistaken me for someone who cares. 

Yeah, b– oh, sorry, thought you were someone important. 

36. What are some situational dialogues they would say when something happens to another companion or you talk to them while in a quest-specific location (such as commenting on Karlach's heart, Elminster visiting Gale, visiting Cazador's mansion, etc)?

37. How would they respond to a player character prompting them with, "Tell me about yourself"? 

Hmm I like to read? Guess you might have sussed that one out on your own. Well, let me think. Oh! I can play the piano. Well, I can play one song on the piano. Well, I know most of one song on the piano.

“Come on, tell me something real.” 

Ugh. Bully. Fine. I like animals, mushrooms, pickles, stargazing and reading. I dislike large crowds, loud noises, and deep water.  My comfort food is pizza.

38. If a player character asks them to consider consuming tadpoles or using the Astral tadpoles, how would your Tav/Durge respond?

Fuck off with your jumbo shrimp.

39. If romanceable, what lines would they say if a player character prompted them with, "Can I kiss you?"

O-oh! *blushing* Yeah, ‘course.

You better, tiger 

I don’t know, can you?

Not if I kiss you first!

Just a kiss? Pity.  

40. If romanceable, what would they say if a player character asks for a "last kiss" at the Morphic Pool/HIgh Hall?

[Caresses PC cheek] How about one for luck and two for the road, eh tiger?

Only if there’s tongue. 

[Answers by jumping into their arms if they’re taller, or sweeping them into a old hollywood style kiss if they’re same size/smaller] 

If you made it all the way down here thank you for your attention hahaha <3

[sometimesanalice]

I have thought about this fic ENDLESSLY since you first told me about! I have longed for it the way they longed for each other those 3 months they were apart, AND IT WAS WORTH THE WAIT!!

I loved getting to read it as you worked on it, but I LOVE where you took it! So many lovely moments that you wove in the between drafts and I was FLOORED I TELL YOU!

This was everything I needed! It was sweet and soft and spicy and humorous and heartwarming (and heart wrenching!) and perfect!

I left you something in your duffle bag (yes, it’s safe to open around other people…head out of the gutter, Bradshaw)- AND WE’RE BACK BABBBBYYYYYY!!!

She was completely in her element (they gave her a clipboard and a bullhorn!)— watch out world!

She also appreciated your wrapping skills, very impressed with the bows and tight corners.— consider the panties dropped! A man who can gift wrap is HOT!!

I forgot how noisy it is being on an aircraft carrier, which makes Payback’s snoring surprisingly pleasant. I’m glad he and Bob are with me. — I’m vvv delicate over deployed Bradley and what it’s like for him on the carrier! I’m glad he has a girl at home who loves him and has his friends with him! 😭💖

Glad Mav is there to keep an eye on you. - Bradley: 😑

Your Bradley— 💖💖💖

Do you want earplugs? A sleep mask? Are earplugs allowed for sleeping? What if you need to get up right away and you can’t hear? I could send you a white noise machine? Or is there a fear of hacking with that? I should’ve done more research on this before you left. Tell me if you need anything, I’ll send it out express! — THE SWEETEST GIRL!! I love how she just wants him to have all the comforts of home that she can give him! It’s so lovely the way they take care of each other!

You and me, hot date tomorrow night at 11:45pst - don’t be late. (And look cute.)— THIS MAN 🤭🤭🤭

AHH!! The late December emails!! They’re new to me, and the way my blood pressure spiked!! (Even though I knew they were coming, I was still unprepared!!) THE LONGING THE YEARNING THE PINING!

And I know you being away during the holidays is hard, but look at it this way - we’ll just have our firsts next year. Next year will be our first Christmas, first New Year’s, first Valentine’s Day together, not an ocean apart. We have all the time in the world, rocketman. Love you today and every day x— THE ONES FROM THE 27TH MAKE ME WANT TO DRIVE OFF A BRIDGE IN A GOOD WAY IN THE BEST WAY BUT ALSO WHHHEEEEEEEE THERE I GO 🌉

I give away too many details so I’m just going to leave it at this: are we sure Max doesn’t have a twin on another continent? Take that as you will. — BRADLEY?! COME BACK I WANT THE TEA HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO TAKE IT?!

A minor issue with my brother and my dad that I won’t bore you with had the whole house in a tizzy. — THAT PUNK ASS BITCH DO I NEED TO THROW HANDS?

AH *THE* REFORMATION DRESS 😍🌹😍 she’ll be so cute at that NYE party!

Who? Me? I would NEVER! (Just trying to keep you on your toes.) — AH SHE IS SO CHEEKY! I’m dying that she purposely labeled them wrong 😂

You still gotta let me take you up, kid. I’ve heard Mav is trying to convince you, but you gotta let me be the one. Can’t trust just anyone with my girl. — 🤭🥰 Bradley yet again: 😑

I’m pretty sure you can trust him to take me up in a plane, you silly boy. Not that I’m saying you won’t be my first…but come on! — bless her, I love how she’s so oblivious

They’re coming down in a couple weeks to help me start packing, anything in the house you wouldn’t want them to see while dropping off boxes? — lol bless

I’m an open book, kid. Ain’t got nothing to hide. — except the printed copies of the soapy titty pics that I JUST KNOW he has

We started off the class with knife skills, which we’re going to do every week and then made this “simple” egg dish, which was NOT simple and I overcooked the egg. Ina would be so disappointed. — INA WOULD BE PROUD OF THE EFFORT! But as someone who has taken her fair share of cooking classes for fun, they looooove going over knife skills 🫠

Though there’s tragically this really annoying couple who were at the station next to me. I hope we get to change next week, I don’t think I can watch them feed each other food another week. - nooooo there’s always *that* couple! Get outta hereeeee! There’s not enough wine to make them uncringey!

Wait, wait, how did I miss there? There was a WHAT in my garage? A raccoon? Multiple raccoons? We need to get a dog or a cat or something. x Bradley — NOT BRADLEY REREADING ALL HER EMAILS ALL LOVESTRUCK AND MOONING ONLY TO REALIZE HE MISSED A PRETTY IMPORTANT ONE?! 😂

When you say ‘like a million’ do you actually mean a million or?— still wheezinggggg

You gotta send me a ppt on all this points stuff, you know math stresses me out.- plllsssssssss he is so funny! He’s pretty!

And you’ll do whatever I want, huh? Might have to send you a dossier of my own now…— a menaceeeeee (also I would like to see this dossier 🤭)

I’d say ‘sleep tight,’ but that’s a given considering you haven’t been fucked in a couple weeks. — 🫠🫠🫠

Bradley Bradshaw!! You did not just say that over a government email server! Imissyourcocksobadlyit’sdrivingmeinsane- miss ma’am is scandalized (but not) 😂 I imagine she’s been trying to behave but now? All bets are off with these two 😏

Oh, shut up. Shut me up— NO YOU SHUT UP WITH THIS RIGHT NOW GET OUTTTTTT AHHHHHHH

Funny though, isn’t it? How it’s totally opposite in the other side of our relationship? You tell me one thing, one idea and I take care of all of it? Bet it’s hard for you not having someone around to do that for you? Maybe next time we Facetime we can talk more about that? x —😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨

Mary sends me some of the articles she gives her students and talks about the show she’s watching with your dad. Your dad mainly talks about you. It makes me wish my parents were still around to do this stuff with me.— oh I’m too fucking delicate for thisssss. My heart!! His ever growing family!

Bradley…you have someone who does that, too? He’s about 5’8” (on a good day), looks great in a leather jacket, and just spent about two hours last weekend cleaning your gutters and telling me about how you won your high school’s debate scholarship?? Like how could you not tell me that? It’s literally one of the hottest things I’ve heard about you!— THATS HIS DAD THATS HIS DAD THATS HIS DADDDDDDDDD

They taught us a trick to cut onions without crying and one of the other girls complimented my apron!- #girlssupportinggirls

Oh gee, I bet it’s just awful for you to have Mav around all the time. Knight in shining armor…//He’s not a bother!//Sounds like a cute little date! You’ll have to tell me how he is.//I’ll keep ya posted, bubs!— PLSSSSS THIS WILL NEVER NOT BE THE FUCKING FUNNIEST THING TO MEEEEEEEEEEE 😂😂😂 I love her oblivious little crush on Mav and Bradley absolutely being grumpy about it! He’s so precious!

YOU’RE FUCKING SHITTING ME?????— all caps thats my girl!

Don’t talk to me about the 1/24 deep dive into the Rocketman! I’m obsessed with everything about it!! Bradley loves his “clever girl”’s big brain and I do too!

*her calling him “client” INSPIRED! And on company time? ICONIC

[b.bradshaw_the rocket man_final paper.pdf]— I adore him

We could go to all my favorite restaurants and afternoon tea and for walks in all the parks. One day it’ll work out! — I need it

But then I remember the way you smiled at me when I got back to my seat that night and how proud of me you were and I think maybe I do deserve it? Plus, I also think of how goddamn gorgeous you looked all fucked out later that night. — from 🥹 to 🥵 in 3.5

Thank you for earlier. I don’t know, sometimes I just feel like I’m just too soft for all of this? Like I’m always trying to prove something to everyone and I get a little lost. Tell me something good? x— 😭😭😭

Sometimes I can’t believe we love each other this much, it feels like a dream  x//I can. Your Bradley — Jordan. JORDAN?! HAVE YOU NO CONSIDERATION FOR MY POOR HEART?!?!!!!!!

but it feels like you: soft and safe and warm x-💖

ps - can you send me another bottle?— Reuben is about to ask for a new rooming assignment 😂

How does that work though? Like genuinely? Do you jack off with Rueben in the top bunk? Or wait till he’s in the gym? I’ve been curious about this for a while now.//Now why would I ruin the mystery?//Bradley!!!!//Atta girl, that’s the spirit! Love you — D Y I N G O H M Y G O D D D D this is so properly funny!! WE ARE ALL DYING TO KNOW! Also he’s so fucking cheeky I can’ttttttttt!! These were the questions we needed answered on that 20/20 special dammit!

Though, I have been using my Theragun. Payback does my back if I do his in return.— AH THIS IS PRECIOUS

Awww sweetheart are you gonna sugar mama me again? — shut upppppppp screaming 😂😂 WHERE IS THE LIE

You’d come home to me whether it took twenty seconds or twenty years. You’d come home to me and I’d know you anywhere. I love you so much. — 😭💖😭💖😭💖

You know, one time, I pretended you were flying my plane. I know it’s kind of dumb and silly and a completely different type of plane, but it made me feel better because you’d never let anything happen to me. — sweetest girl 😭😭😭

Fuck it, on the way home just put the upgrade on your work card or put it on mine.— sweetest boy 😭😭😭

I love them I love them I love them

Bradley Bradshaw! You absolute SAP! HOW!?! Did you conspire with my dad again? Thank you for the flowers! I’m going to have the biggest smile on my face all day. I love you and hope this is the first of a lifetime of Valentine’s Days together. Always x - MY HEART MY ANGELS MY BABES

(I was going to ask Max, but he’d probably swap it for something ugly and cheap and keep the change…kidding (not))- ROAST HIM

Maybe you could cook for me on our next Facetime? — oh this is so so sweet!! How dare you keep some of this from meeeeee! I AM TOO SOFT FOR ALL OF THIS. Next Halloween they are SO going as Ina and Jeffery 💖

Ehhh I’m not too worried about the closet thing. But if you keep buying me clothes we might have a problem.— he’s her lifesized Ken doll

Sometimes I do it wrong on purpose so you’ll put your arms around me and I can feel the rumble of your voice. Would we call that weaponized incompetence?— I LOVE HER

It’s only weaponized incompetence if the other person minds. I, however, do not mind. — 🤭

And I made sure to put your new coat in my carry on - I don’t trust British Airways not to lose it! - Sauvagé

God, I want to ravish you, you sounded so fucking smart. You know like half the country is going to be in love with you now, right? — REDDIT AND TWITTER ARE ALREADY POPPING OFF! I can hear the key smashes!!

Sorry it took me a bit to respond, things have been getting a bit crazy, you know, now that I’m a celebrity and all? — that man does not need a big head, he’s already full of himself enough with that big co—

Sometimes I wonder if you were here what would you do? Hold me? Love me? I never feel small except when I’m in your arms. x— THIS ONE THIS ONE THIS ONE, this one has stuck with me ever since you sent me the snippet of it ages ago! She’s so tender! That’s soft heart!

Some nights in bed, if I try really hard, I can imagine I’m laying down next to you. And it makes everything just a little easier.— just me wailing it’s cool it’s fine I’m just weeping and don’t expect to ever stop

I literally cannot comment on the 3/01 emails, HAVE FUCKING MERCY

*In our bed, in our house, after you make me dinner in our kitchen.— NO COMMENT🫡‼️

pretty girl//my gorgeous girl- 🥰🥰🥰

Especially since I’m sure she’s going to have wonderful time in New York with my brother 🙄 and I’ll have to hear all about it next time I talk to him. — THOSE PUNK ASS BITCHES

3/10 3/10 3/10 I’ll never get over her dream and how she expresses that to him. Oh my god. The emotional intimacy and the yearning and the tenderness of it all. GIL 💖

But if I checked it earlier, my day would’ve been a lot easier on my heart. — and he’s so delicate too, their openness with each other?! Oh how they’ve grown!!

3/12-3/13 🫡🫡🫡🫡😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨🫠🫠🫠🫠🥵🥵🥵🥵💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀

I’ve read your email seven times since you sent it. I’ve thought about it constantly. I want you to take me softly and slowly that first time. But after that? I can’t wait to let go and float. Love you so much x)— BLESSSSSSS

As is, I had to type that last one with one hand. - ONE HANDED FODDER

03/18 @ 11:11pm— THE FINAL EMAIL THE TIME STAMP SHES MAKING THAT WISH TO SEE HER MAN THE NEXT DAY AND HOW CONVENIENT ITS COMING TRUE 🥰

I have no words. This fic is so special and so lovely!! I’ll never get over it! Bravo Jordan! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for them! 💖

rocketman: part i - it's just my job five days a week

Summary: in which lieutenant commander bradshaw is on a three month special detachment in the pacific and the holidays have never felt lonelier for either of you. it's just three months, it'll be fine, right?

OR you and bradley write each other 159 emails

Pairing: Rooster x Fem!Reader 11.8k

Warnings: 18+, explicit language, suggestive dialogue, bradley needs to remember this is a government email server...(okay yes, i am perfectly aware that our esteemed lieutenant commander would probably get kicked out of the navy for some of these emails…that being said, i also don’t particularly care! we’re playing fast and loose with the time stamps too because i may be smart, but math has never been a strong suit of mine!) enjoy the companion playlist! rest of the series can be found here!

12/17 @ 6:19am

I miss you already and I haven’t even left the parking lot. I’m still in my car typing this after having stayed for probably far too long watching your C-40 take off (like people were staring at me I was there so long)(and, yes, I looked up the name of the plane). Pete asked me if I wanted to get breakfast with him, but I said no. Felt too lost. Plus, I need to get ready for work. We’re going to get dinner on Wednesday before I head up to Berkeley Thursday morning, though!

Hope you have a safe transport and settle onboard quickly. I left you something in your duffle bag (yes, it’s safe to open around other people…head out of the gutter, Bradshaw).

Love you and stay safe, x

12/18 @ 5:46pm 

Just dropped off the gifts at the Junior League for Caroline’s adopt a child thing. She was completely in her element (they gave her a clipboard and a bullhorn!), though she did say we went wayyy too over the top. But little Carter asked for all that stuff! We couldn’t just not get it all for him? She also appreciated your wrapping skills, very impressed with the bows and tight corners. I met a couple of her friends there, which was nice and they invited me to stay for drinks (the prosecco was flowing…), but I wanted to head home. 

I miss you so much already, it feels weird not going over to your place after work and making dinner and prepping lunch together - and it’s only been two days. I know you’re on a comms blackout for the next couple days, so I’m just gonna keep sending these so you’ll have a bunch to read all at once.

All my love, x

12/19 @ 11:48am

My brother and Lauren decided to come out here for Christmas after all! My dad was so excited when he called me, but I think Mary’s a little less enthused. Feels like shit knowing we were the backup option for them. Apparently, Lauren’s mom is sick and the whole house is in disarray (not hard in that family…) so my dad is paying for them to fly in from New York tomorrow. I think it’ll be nice, we’ll almost have a full set (baring you, of course, my darling rocketman), so the house won’t be as lonely. Do you think we’ll get to talk on Christmas or Christmas Eve? You should be getting a package soon (‘twas preemptively sent!) and are under strict orders not to open it until Christmas Eve, buddy!

Going to dinner with Pete tonight, I’ll let you know how it goes. Amelia’s coming with us, but I don’t know about Penny? I hope they like the gifts we got them. I’m going to stop by your place, do a once over, and make sure the tree is ready for Pete to take, etc. before I leave on Thursday.

Love you and talk soon! x

12/20 @ 7:03am

House looked good! In my seat on the plane. If my morals were shakier, I would 1000% have taken Max up on his offer to fly me up to Berkeley. But alas! Climate change is real and private jets account for 20x as many carbon emissions as commercial planes, so I am up at the ass-crack of dawn for this 7:15am flight. I’ll message you when I land, love you!

12/20 @ 9:04am

Just landed - easy flight. Now to find my dad in arrivals…

Love you, talk when you get the chance! x

12/23 @ 4:45am

Hey sweetheart! Back online and all settled in. I’m bunking with Payback and we actually have a pretty decent layout. He graciously offered to give me the bottom bunk, due to my ‘geriatric status.’ Honestly, I’m just glad I don’t have to sleep in the bunk room with the ensigns and rest of the crew. I forgot how noisy it is being on an aircraft carrier, which makes Payback’s snoring surprisingly pleasant. I’m glad he and Bob are with me. The rest of this squadron’s from Lemoore and Bob knows some of them. It’s interesting seeing him and Payback fly together, but they mesh really well.

Glad Mav is there to keep an eye on you. 

Okay, I had way too much fun picking out all those presents, so I really hope Carter loves them too. And please tell me you have a picture of Caroline yelling into the bullhorn? I can truly think of nothing scarier than Caroline Calloway ordering the young women of San Diego county around like Santa’s chief elf. And speaking of gifts, I loved my pictures. The one from the Christmas party is my favorite, did Fanboy take it? I saw him running around with his Pentax. When the hell did you have time to print it? I’ve got it hanging up in my bunk so I can see it every night. 

I still don’t understand why you don’t fly into Oakland instead of SFO? Like I get it, you’re not a Spirit or SW girl, but kid….it’s an hour and forty minute flight? Live a little. And I think it’ll be nice having your brother and Lauren around for Christmas. How many people do you think it’ll be? I always loved seeing Christmas Eves with large families in movies and stuff, all the chaos and whatnot? But it’s just gonna be you five Christmas Day? I’ve heard rumblings that I might be first in line for a Facetime on Christmas Eve, so save some time for me too, kid. I’ll let you know for sure in a couple days. 

Okay, think we’re all caught up now. Talk soon and love you so much,

Your Bradley

12/23 @ 9:08am

Bubs! I read your email four times since I woke up, I can’t stop smiling. I’m glad you’re all settled in - Payback’s snoring and ageism aside haha. How’s the food? Do you want earplugs? A sleep mask? Are earplugs allowed for sleeping? What if you need to get up right away and you can’t hear? I could send you a white noise machine? Or is there a fear of hacking with that? I should’ve done more research on this before you left. Tell me if you need anything, I’ll send it out express! Oh, I’m just so happy to hear from you. Keep me posted!

Lots of love, x

12/23 @ 8:53pm

You and me, hot date tomorrow night at 11:45pst - don’t be late. (And look cute.)

Your Bradley

12/23 @ 8:55pm

I’ll be there 😉 Love you, x

12/25 @ 9:56am

Bradley Bradshaw you absolute sneak! How on Earth did you pull a Christmas miracle off!?! Mary said she had no clue, so I’m extremely impressed you got my dad to keep that secret!? I was totally not expecting another present from you? The cooking lessons and apron were more than enough - to say nothing about moving in together!?! I love the bracelet so much, you have no idea. I started crying when I opened it! Mary took a video, which I’m sure she’ll send you. God, Bradley? You didn’t have to do that! It’s perfect, it’s like we’re locked together. I’m gonna wear it everyday. Please email me later if you get the chance! 

(Also, Lauren looked really jealous 😉 my brother was sweating)

Love you and Merry Christmas Rocketman! x

12/25 @ 11:38am

Ummm, not sure what you’re talking about, kid? That sounds like something Santa would do? Probably heard about how good you’ve been this year? x

12/25 @ 11:40am

Thank you, I love it so much and wish I could give you the biggest hug and kiss right now. I’ll have an extra slice of babka for you tonight, talk soon and Merry Christmas, Bradley! Love you x

12/27 @ 4:49am

I miss sleeping next to you. Whenever I can’t sleep, I think about the way you looked at me in the living room after our Christmas party. You looked so happy and I hate that I have to leave you for all our firsts. First Christmas, first New Year’s, first Valentine’s Day. And god, sweetheart, you’re so fucking gorgeous it makes me want to lose my mind sometimes. Always thinking about you, Bradley 

12/27 @ 8:38am

I miss sleeping next to you, too (especially since your body is like a furnace and you hold me close when I get cold). And I know you being away during the holidays is hard, but look at it this way - we’ll just have our firsts next year. Next year will be our first Christmas, first New Year’s, first Valentine’s Day together, not an ocean apart. We have all the time in the world, rocketman. Love you today and every day x

12/29 @ 6:02pm

There’s already so many things I’m dying to tell you and stories about the squadron we’re teaming up with, but the Navy will have my ass if I give away too many details so I’m just going to leave it at this: are we sure Max doesn’t have a twin on another continent? Take that as you will. What’re your plans for New Year’s? Your Bradley

12/30 @ 9:20am

Sorry for the delayed response! A minor issue with my brother and my dad that I won’t bore you with had the whole house in a tizzy. Thankfully, he and Lauren are gone even though my dad still won’t tell me what the issue was? Anyway! God, I wish I could hear more about Max’s twin? I am honestly kind of scared about knowing there’s a Max doppelgänger in the Navy (jokes!). For New Year’s, I’m going to this party with Mary and dad in the city, it’s at this fancy venue and I have a cute black dress! It’s very different for me and I wish you were here to see it! I’ll have to wear it again. Message me when it’s the New Year your time! Love you! x

01/01 @ 12:09am

Happy New Year, sweetheart! They had a little party for the officers - we even got cake and Bob snuck me and Payback seconds somehow. It’s always the quiet ones you gotta look out for. You absolutely need to send me pictures of you in that dress, I can’t wait to see it on you in person someday. Hope you have a great time with your dad and Mary, give them my best. Love you and again Happy New Year! 

Your Bradley

01/01 @ 12:01am

Happy New Year, Bradley!!! You got cake!! You broke some rules! I approve! Milk them for all the cake they’re worth! I’ll send some pics of the three of us and one just for you big boy 😉 Talk soon and love you so so much! x

01/01 @ 10:59am

Had a late start! Here are the pics from last night! Try and sneak some more cake xx

[mary_and_dad_being_annoying.jpg]

[me.jpg]

01/02 @ 6:12am

You know you labeled the pictures wrong…luckily no one was behind me…

01/02 @ 9:04am

Who? Me? I would NEVER! (Just trying to keep you on your toes.) Hope the flying is going well and you’re staying safe, B! Love you!

01/03 @ 8:00pm

Yeah, it’s going well. It’s so different flying on the open ocean after so long? Last time was in September when I went to Hong Kong. The desert is cool, don’t get me wrong, but seeing the clouds and the water together is unreal. The pink and purple clouds remind me of you (sorry, that was lame). You still gotta let me take you up, kid. I’ve heard Mav is trying to convince you, but you gotta let me be the one. Can’t trust just anyone with my girl. Love B

01/04 @ 10:13am

Bradley…he’s practically your father, I’m pretty sure you can trust him to take me up in a plane, you silly boy. Not that I’m saying you won’t be my first…but come on! And it’s not lame. I like that the pink and purple clouds remind you of me. Every time I see a plane I send a little call out for your safety. Gotta keep you safe, rocketman! Talk soon and love you! x

01/06 @ 4:45pm

My parents just dropped me off at the airport and no matter how many times I leave them, I always cry. I think the only time I didn’t cry when I left their house was when you were with me over Thanksgiving. You always make it better, bubs.

They’re coming down in a couple weeks to help me start packing, anything in the house you wouldn’t want them to see while dropping off boxes? I can still bring my old bed, etc for the guest room, right?

All my love, x

01/06 @ 9:58pm

I think I get that, having you around this time makes it different. I’ve never had anyone to really write to while I’ve been away before. Sure, I talked to my grandparents when they were still around and my aunts and uncles, Nat, Ice, and a couple others, but not like this. And I don’t ever want to not feel like this again. 

I’m an open book, kid. Ain’t got nothing to hide. And yeah, anything like that feel free to bring with you for the guest room or office. It was the bed, nightstands, and dresser and then your couch for the office, yeah? We can get new bedding and pillows for it if you want? I’m on comms blackout for a couple days, so message me whenever you want so I can read them all when we’re back online.

Your Bradley

01/06 @ 10:07pm

Perfect! Love you and stay safe, rocketman.

01/06 @ 10:09pm

Love you too, kid.

01/09 @ 6:11pm

Bradley, I don’t mean to alarm you, but there was a raccoon in your garage! Scratch that, a FAMILY of raccoons!??! I’m sure Mr Harrington was ready to call the cops when he heard my scream. They’re so cute, but also terrifying at the same time? So, I called Pete and he came right over, a true knight in shining armor! Amelia and I did a THOROUGH sweep of the house to make sure they were relegated to the garage. Pete got them out safe and sound with a random tennis racket and your 4 iron, but somebody’s coming tomorrow to check on how they got in there. And I know they aren’t hurting anyone, but I just don’t want there to be any issues later on? (The babies were actually so cute and reminded me of my cat growing up, Porter.) Anyway! Enough drama for tonight, I hope that gets a laugh out of you - talk soon!

Love you! x

01/10 @ 8:05am

Well, the exterminator got here around 7:30 and sprayed all this stuff and blocked the hole in the crawl space of the garage. He showed me pictures and let me tell you, there was quite the nest up there. These raccoons were living large over the holidays. 

01/12 @ 5:21pm

Okay! I’m in the parking lot, waiting for my first cooking class to start. Is it weird I’m a little nervous? I hope everyone else’s skill level is similar, I don’t like feeling behind. I brought my new apron, ironed it and everything. I feel a little like Ina Garten, isn’t she just divine? Okay, okay, I’m going in now! I’ll let you know how it goes! Thanks again for getting me these xx

01/12 @ 7:03pm

I feel so tired? Like my hand cramped a little bit? We started off the class with knife skills, which we’re going to do every week and then made this “simple” egg dish, which was NOT simple and I overcooked the egg. Ina would be so disappointed. Alas! Onto next week. Love you!

01/15 @ 9:12pm

Bradley you’re not going to BELIEVE what just happened on Succession. My heart is POUNDING? Do you think if I called and asked really nicely the Navy would get an HBO subscription for everyone? That is what I would like my tax dollars to go towards. Can you get me a direct line to someone in charge please? Love you!

01/16 @ 7:47am

Not to worry my little Barefoot Contessa, I have returned back to civilization (ie the internet), though am dismayed to have missed this mind blowing Succession episode? Has Perry Mason started back up again or will we be able to watch that together? 

Bob and I were in the gym earlier and he almost dropped a dumbbell on my foot, I swear my life flashed before my eyes. But I had a new PR on the bench press today, up to 285 pounds. Glad the cooking lesson went well though! What’s the class makeup like? x Bradley 

01/16 @ 9:04am

I’m glad you’re back online and safe! Perry Mason has not started yet, though I’m still certain you’re the only person under the age of 55 that watches it (I guess I should say we’re the only people under the age of 55 that watch it, but whatever). You’ve also missed a couple Top Chef episodes, but we can always binge this season later. 

There’s about 12 of us in the class and it’s pretty evenly split? Though there’s tragically this really annoying couple who were at the station next to me. I hope we get to change next week, I don’t think I can watch them feed each other food another week. 

And I’m still waiting for that direct line to the Navy, Bradshaw! Love you! x

01/1 6 @ 6:59pm

Wait, wait, how did I miss there? There was a WHAT in my garage? A raccoon? Multiple raccoons? We need to get a dog or a cat or something. x Bradley 

01/18 @ 7:02am

Bradley!! I know we talked about a trip once you got home (provided you still feel up for it with the transition and all), what if we went here? I was talking about our tentative plans with my dad and Mary before I went back to San Diego and they went to Punta Mita this past fall and LOVED it! What do you think? Love you!

01/18 @ 6:03pm

Holy shit! That looks absolutely amazing, yes I’d love to go! Can we afford that though? It looks expensive? xBradley

01/18 @ 6:05pm

YAY!! Ahh, I’m so excited you have no idea! I want to hug and kiss you so bad right now! We can fly for free since I have a bunch of AA points (thank you pwc) and then I have like a million Amex points, so it’s not full price!! 

01/18 @ 6:12pm

When you say ‘like a million’ do you actually mean a million or?

01/18 @ 6:14pm

Yes! I’ve had this card for like 15 years! My whole family does the pooling on it! It’s a drop in the bucket, promise! Plus, I always use my other card for work and that has a whole bunch of Bonvoy points on it, too. We could stay at one of those? I think there’s a St Regis next door?

01/18 @ 6:22pm

Sweetheart, I want to go, I just don’t want you to waste all those points on this. 

01/18 @ 6:26pm

What if we go for 6 nights instead of 9? Maybe no plunge pool? Or we could pay cash instead? And then I could get 6x the points from paying that way? So, really….the points just keep accumulating, we’ve got to use them sometime! The points can pay for the flights and the hotel and then we can split the room charges and incidentals 50:50?

Will you think about it? You don’t have to give me an answer right away and we can always pick another hotel? But if we want to go someplace in late March/early April, I think we should book soon with spring break and all? Not that I imagine many coeds will be staying at the Four Seasons, but you never know…

01/18 @ 6:33pm

You gotta send me a ppt on all this points stuff, you know math stresses me out. And no, I don’t think many coeds will be staying at the Four Seasons, kid. 

01/18 @ 6:37pm

Can I send you a dossier with everything!?! Even if you say no to that I’m doing it anyway ;) just promise me you’ll think about it, please? I’ll do whatever you want, Bradley <3

01/18 @ 6:40pm

Yes, please send the dossier my way henceforth, Moneypenny. 

And you’ll do whatever I want, huh? Might have to send you a dossier of my own now…

(But yes, I promise I’ll seriously consider everything. I just don’t want you to feel like you have to spend all this money to make me happy. I’d say we’d both be happy camping out on the beach, but I think that might be a security issue down there, plus neither of us like camping - anyway, you know what I mean.)

01/18 @ 6:43pm

Lieutenant Commander Bradshaw!! Is this a dossier for my eyes only? What will M say!? I’ll send you mine if you send me yours?

(But seriously, thank you! I’ll send you more specifics tomorrow - like pricing and whatnot - and you can take a couple days to think it over. And thank you for clarifying the camping thing, I was worried for a second there.)

I love you so much rocketman and we’ll talk (email) tomorrow 

x Moneypenny 

01/18 @ 6:46pm

I’d say ‘sleep tight,’ but that’s a given considering you haven’t been fucked in a couple weeks. 

(Perfect, I genuinely am really excited about it, just want to make sure it works out for us both.)

Love you so much, kid 

Your Bradley

01/18 @ 6:58pm

Bradley Bradshaw!! You did not just say that over a government email server! 

Imissyourcocksobadlyit’sdrivingmeinsane

01/18 @ 7:01pm

Couldn’t help it. Plus, we both know it’s true. 

01/18 @ 7:04pm

Oh, shut up. Shut me up

01/18 @ 11:43pm

I’m sorry if I came off too strong about planning earlier, I might’ve gotten a little carried away and been a little too eager about planning something five days after you’re home from a three month detachment. If at any time before you come home or even right after you come home you don’t feel up to the trip, please please please tell me. I want to do something nice for you and give you a chance to truly relax, but I’d hate for it to come at a price. So, just let me know, okay? Say the word and we’ll push it, alright? I don’t exactly know what you’re going through, but tell me if it’s ever too much. I’ll always be here, promise. Love you x

[dossier_for_your_eyes_only.ppt]

01/19 @ 8:29am

Kid, no. I promise I’ll tell you. You know I love how excited you get planning things. I think I like it so much because you take care of it all. Sure, you ask for my opinion and what I want, but I just have to tell you one thing, one idea and you take care of it. 

Funny though, isn’t it? How it’s totally opposite in the other side of our relationship? You tell me one thing, one idea and I take care of all of it? Bet it’s hard for you not having someone around to do that for you? Maybe next time we Facetime we can talk more about that? x B

01/19 @ 10:11am

Luckily, I have a very creative imagination, Lieutenant Commander Bradshaw. 

See right now, I’m in my office, sitting at my desk, feeling so overwhelmed. It almost hurts how overwhelmed and frustrated I am. And you bust down the door, hair windswept like you’d flown to Del Mar, and you have that slutty flight suit on and I don’t even mind that you’re sweaty and gross. You smell absolutely divine and I rake my hands through your hair as you eat me out underneath my glass desk. I get a conference call, but you don’t stop the entire time. You like how squirmy and fussy I get, I can’t focus on the deliverable I’m working on for the client. You like that I can’t control myself, that I squeeze my thighs around your head. Eventually, you can’t take it anymore, your cock is aching so badly, and you need to fuck me on top of my desk. You’re so strong it almost breaks. You fuck me so good everyone in the office can hear me crying out for you. 

(actually, I’m on the couch, watching college football, but it’s more fun to imagine you fucking me in my office - see, creative imagination! Make sure you get a quiet room for that Facetime...)

Love x

01/19 @ 7:29pm

You think you’re funny, huh? You have any more of those thoughts, feel free to send them my way. ‘m taking out that picture you gave me for Christmas right now. How you taking care of yourself? My imagination isn’t as creative as yours. B

01/19 @ 7:40pm

Guess you’ll have to wait for our next Facetime…

x

01/20 @ 4:24pm

Your dad and Mary write me emails, you know. They aren’t as good correspondents as you are (for how could they possibly be, my dear?), but they check in about once a week or so. Mary sends me some of the articles she gives her students and talks about the show she’s watching with your dad. Your dad mainly talks about you. It makes me wish my parents were still around to do this stuff with me. Just checking in and writing emails and bragging about me to my girlfriend? How was yesterday’s class?

Your Bradley

01/20 @ 5:39m

I didn’t know they wrote you that often and I’m beyond embarrassed that my dad talks about me that much? But come on, Bradley…you have someone who does that, too? He’s about 5’8” (on a good day), looks great in a leather jacket, and just spent about two hours last weekend cleaning your gutters and telling me about how you won your high school’s debate scholarship?? Like how could you not tell me that? It’s literally one of the hottest things I’ve heard about you!

Class was good! They taught us a trick to cut onions without crying and one of the other girls complimented my apron! We’re doing meats next week, cutting, marinating, cooking, etc. and I’m excited!

01/20 @ 5:42pm

Oh gee, I bet it’s just awful for you to have Mav around all the time. Knight in shining armor…

01/20 @ 5:48pm

He’s not a bother! And it’s not all the time! We’re actually going to get lunch together on Saturday! It’s this new place on the water.

01/20 @ 5:50pm

Sounds like a cute little date! You’ll have to tell me how he is. Love you so much B

01/20 @ 5:55pm

I’ll keep ya posted, bubs! Love you!

01/22 @ 10:01am

Breaking news, kid. Your esteemed, naval aviator boyfriend is going to be on 60 Minutes at the end of February. Totally came out of left field, but I couldn’t say anything until they finished filming. It’s about the Navy in the Pacific and “the lost art of shipbuilding.” They even rigged up a camera on my plane and everything, it was so cool. I’ve been dying to tell you, but again couldn’t say anything until it was official. I probably won’t be on it long since they interviewed the Admiral and Pac Fleet Commander for most of it, but yeah, Payback and Bob and I will be on with my girl Norah. I made sure I had enough sunscreen on so I was camera ready at all times. Love you B

01/22 @ 10:09am

YOU’RE FUCKING SHITTING ME????? Oh my god, Bradley! That’s amazing! Margie even ran into my office to see what made me shriek! I am TOTALLY having a viewing party! Oh my god, how do you think it went? Did they get your good side? What about hair and makeup? I know you get helmet hair, bubs. 

Seriously, so so excited and proud of you, Bradley! I’m going to make my dad and Mary come down for it! She doesn’t teach on Mondays, so this is perfect for them to stay over Sunday night! But now don’t go letting all that fame get to your head, Lieutenant Commander Bradshaw 😉 Love you so much x

01/24 @ 12:17pm

Rocketman - 

I was sitting at my desk earlier and listening to some music before my 12:30 meeting and Elton John’s Rocket Man popped up on my shuffle. Obviously, as you are my rocketman, I always think of you whenever I hear it, but today the lyrics really scratched that special part of my brain, so I did a deep dive into the song’s origins. 

Please note, I’m including this time in my billable hours to the client (re. you). My findings are as follows:

Bernie Taupin was inspired by a Ray Bradbury story written in 1951 titled ‘The Rocket Man’ - not drugs as the urban legend states! Drugs! Imagine!

Bradbury’s ‘The Rocket Man’ was first published in Maclean’s, a weekly Canadian magazine, before it was published in the short story collection ‘The Illustrated Man’ that same year

‘The Illustrated Man’ later was made into a film, though ‘The Rocket Man’ story was notably absent

Some of more popular and renowned stories from the collection include ‘The Veldt’ and ‘The Long Rain,’ the latter of which is commonly read in high school honors English

Was client in honors English? Please confirm in follow up correspondence

Client has mentioned extensive library resources at disposal - perhaps he can check this collection out on his next visit? But for now, an executive summary has been provided:

With space travel more commonplace in society, Doug’s father, an astronaut, is sent on frequent, three- month journeys into space

Despite missing his dad, Doug also longs to be a Rocket Man, though his mother frequently prevails on Doug to beg his father to stay on Earth and be with the family

“What’s it like, out in space?” Mother shot me a frightened glance. It was too late. Dad stood there for a full half minute trying to find an answer, then he shrugged.“It’s the best thing in a lifetime of best things.” Then he caught himself. “Oh, it’s really nothing at all. Routine. You wouldn’t like it.” He looked at me, apprehensively. “But you always go back.” “Habit.”

The father finds that his work is ruining his life, but the draw of the stars is too great: "You don’t know what it is. Every time I’m out there I think, if I ever get back to Earth I’ll stay there; I’ll never go out again. But I got out, and I guess I’ll always go out.”

Even while on vacation with the family, having Thanksgiving dinner, or sitting on the back porch, the father’s eyes are always on the sky…

Doug’s father begs him to not be like him, to not be a rocket man, but what happens when his father goes on one last journey to the stars?

Through much reflection, I have decided that ‘The Rocket Man’ was written about you - and your mom and your dad and me and on and on until there is no longer a need for Rocket Men - or the rocket man simply stops and breaks the cycle

You are both the Rocket Man and the little boy, forever waiting for his father to come home from space

The allure of flying, of being a ‘rocket man,’ is both too great and too sad for you to ignore

None of this is to say the rocket man is selfish, no. He simply cannot resist the temptation. He knows nothing other than the thrill and peace of being amongst the stars

And his mother shielding Doug from the sun at the end is like your mom asking Mav to pull your papers, she does it to save him, but it cannot keep him from becoming his father

Needless to say - I had to postpone my 12:30 meeting until tomorrow as my eyes were far too puffy and any word I tried to say felt like cotton in my mouth.

I miss you and I love you - your ‘Lilly’  

01/24 @ 8:22pm

Fuck - I love you so much. My clever girl.

01/24 @ 8:28pm

I pour my heart out to you and that’s all you have to say, rocketman? ‘Fuck - I love you so much’

(of course, I also love you so much, my clever boy.)

01/24 @ 8:30pm

Darling - it’s going to take me a little longer to come up with any commentary you deem appropriate, so for the sake of time, yes. I gotta read this story in full. I’ll be at the library at my earliest convenience. ‘The client’ will send an annotated copy with his notes henceforth.

01/24 @ 8:32pm

Of course, sweet boy. Goodnight, I love you so much. x

01/25 @ 11:44am

As promised, my darling girl. Love you.

[b.bradshaw_the rocket man_final paper.pdf]

01/25 @ 7:14pm

Oh Bradley! I love you so much, rocketman. Yes, I couldn’t have said it better. Yours x

01/26 @ 10:39am

Bradley! They’re sending me to London in February for two weeks! I even get a swanky corporate apartment for the stay. I wish you could come with me - even if it was just for a long weekend? We could go to all my favorite restaurants and afternoon tea and for walks in all the parks. One day it’ll work out! 

But tragedy of all tragedies! I just realized I’m going to miss a couple cooking lessons when I’m in London! I already emailed the instructor before today’s class and she said there’s other classes throughout the week that are behind us, so I can make it up with them! Ahhh I’m so excited! Talk soon, love you!

01/26 @ 11:13pm

I didn’t realize how nervous I was about the trip until I went to bed tonight. It’ll be my first trip abroad since I got my promotion in November. Plus, it’s a completely different client than my last trip abroad and I’ve only met one person on this new London team before. Sometimes I go into these meetings and still feel like a little kid? I’m always the youngest person in the room and normally the only woman and on one hand, that’s cool? But sometimes I feel like someone’s daughter instead of their colleague? Like these guys are my dad’s age? And they’re actually supposed to listen to what I have to say about their company? Do you ever feel like that? Like you don’t really belong, despite knowing you’ve earned your place? I wish you were beside me right now. My bed feels way too big tonight. Love you.

01/27 @ 7:48am

Sweetheart! I am so unbelievably proud of you! That’s amazing! You gotta celebrate, go out to dinner with Caro and Darcy, maybe even Nat! I know you’ve been working so hard these last couple of weeks, you absolutely deserve this. I can’t say I know exactly what you’re going through, but yes. I have absolutely felt like I haven’t belonged or deserved something despite having ‘checked off all the boxes.’ I felt that way when I got promoted to LC and when I got that award in October. Everytime I see it on my uniform, I feel a bit like a faker? Like do I really deserve this? But then I remember the way you smiled at me when I got back to my seat that night and how proud of me you were and I think maybe I do deserve it? Plus, I also think of how goddamn gorgeous you looked all fucked out later that night. 

And please note, I would happily slip into bed alongside you, especially since my bed feels way too small tonight. Love you, Bradley

01/27 @ 10:56am

Thank you for earlier. I don’t know, sometimes I just feel like I’m just too soft for all of this? Like I’m always trying to prove something to everyone and I get a little lost. Tell me something good? x

01/27 @ 7:01pm

How about this? Every time I go up in the sky and see the way the sun hits the clouds, I think of you. I’ve never wanted to be with someone as much as I want to be with you. I love you so much, kid

Your Bradley 

01/27 @ 7:06pm

Sometimes I can’t believe we love each other this much, it feels like a dream  x

01/27 @ 7:11pm

I can. Your Bradley 

01/30 @ 7:08am

i slept in one of your shirts last night. it doesn’t smell like you anymore, but it feels like you: soft and safe and warm x

01/30 @ 7:23am

Well I spray my pillowcase with your perfume whenever I miss you so I guess we’re even

Your Bradley

ps - can you send me another bottle?

01/30 @ 7:34am

You’re already out? What sort of illicit behavior are you engaging in with that perfume bottle? 

01/30 @ 10:33pm

I burrow my face in my pillow so I can smell it while I fist my cock, why? What’d you have in mind?

01/30 @ 10:37pm

How does that work though? Like genuinely? Do you jack off with Rueben in the top bunk? Or wait till he’s in the gym? I’ve been curious about this for a while now. What about the showers? Is it like an open floor plan thing? Or are there stalls? Is there a Zillow listing for this aircraft carrier?

01/30 @ 10:41pm

Now why would I ruin the mystery? 

01/30 @ 10:43pm

Bradley!!!!

01/30 @ 10:44pm

Atta girl, that’s the spirit! Love you 

02/02 @ 6:30pm

I am so sick of going to the gym. It seems like it’s all Payback and I do lately. We got this new workout regime that’s been killing me - don’t say it’s because I’m old. Though, I have been using my Theragun. Payback does my back if I do his in return. It was only awkward the first time he turned it on too hard and yelped (please tell everyone that). 

02/02 @ 6:46pm

Oh, so you and Rueben Theragun each other, huh? Say more Lieutenant Commander!

02/04 @ 2:45pm

Going to Pete and Penny’s in a bit to watch the Super Bowl! Max is at the game, apparently his golf buddy Jimmy G hooked him up, though he neglected to bring me or Caroline. I feel like you would’ve been his first choice, so take that as a compliment I suppose. Do you guys do anything onboard for it? I have $350 on the 49ers winning by 3. Have a lovely day my darling boy x

02/04 @ 9:30pm

Guess who’s as snug as a bug on a rug in her bed AND $1400 dollars richer? That would be me! When you get home we’re going to Juniper and Ivy, my treat, bubs! x

02/06 @ 4:57am

Awww sweetheart are you gonna sugar mama me again? 

02/06 @ 7:03am

You do know the only reason you’re getting away with that is because there’s an ocean between us, right? 

02/06 @ 6:00pm

Sorry, couldn’t resist! Love you! B

02/06 @ 6:10pm

You’re lucky I love you so much. x

02/08 @ 9:58pm

Can you imagine if I was gone for 20 years?

02/08 @ 10:11pm

Bradley that’s not funny 

02/08 @ 10:13pm

It’s not supposed to be. I’m reading the Odyssey and it got me thinking. 

02/08 @ 10:16pm

Bradley I love you something awful, but you are such an old man sometimes. 

Are you going through some sort of midlife crisis reading the Odyssey while you’re at sea?? Is the Old Man and the Sea next?

(ps i love the thought of you reading in your bunk in your spare time and being so struck by something composed thousands of years ago that you have to email me)

02/08 @ 10:20pm

They wait 20 years to get back to each other - practically half their lives. They miss so many things and barely knew each other before he left, but they’re still so - I don’t even know? They’re just so intent on getting back to the other in Odysseus’s case? While Penelope makes sure there’s something for him to come back to? And I must’ve read this stanza ten times before I had to email you: 

"...the gods cast me upon Ogygia, Calypso's island, home of the dangerous sea nymph with glossy braids, and the goddess took me in in all her kindness, welcomed me warmly, cherished me, even vowed to make me immortal, ageless, all my days - but she never won the heart inside me, never" 

And I know it’s not a perfect comparison or parallel, but I read that last bit and I couldn’t help but think of you? And how you’re the one who won my heart and it’s always going to be that way. Whether I see you in twenty seconds or twenty years.

02/08 @ 10:23pm

You’d come home to me whether it took twenty seconds or twenty years. You’d come home to me and I’d know you anywhere. I love you so much. 

02/08 @ 10:58pm

“Now help me, please, to get back home, and quickly! I miss my family. I have been gone so long it hurts.” 

Your Bradley

02/09 @ 7:03pm

At the airport for London! Taking off! And I may or may not have used points to upgrade to a Club World seat…but like? It’s a nonstop flight, so it’s okay, right? Work’s already paying for business class? It’s points from my work card? It’ll be fine, right?

I had to take an ativan in the lounge. I just hate that I still get so nervous whenever I fly long distance? I fly all the time, I shouldn’t be like this? You know, one time, I pretended you were flying my plane. I know it’s kind of dumb and silly and a completely different type of plane, but it made me feel better because you’d never let anything happen to me. 

Anyway, we’re book buddies!! I went to the bookstore a couple days ago and got a copy! I read the Odyssey back in high school, but forgot so much. I was reading in the lounge and this part made me think of you:

“...this lovely house, my marriage home, so full of wealth and life, which I suppose I will remember even in my dreams.”

I’ll text you when I land my darling boy, love you x

02/10 @ 6:02am

You gotta squeeze every last bit of your per diem out of pwc. You’ve been working way too hard lately. Fuck it, on the way home just put the upgrade on your work card or put it on mine. Have a safe (rest of your) flight - maybe one day you’ll let me take you up. Love Bradley 

02/10 @ 10:08am

Just landed and on my way to the office (already…)

I thought of you as I read and stared out the window on the plane. I could pretend I’m flying towards you, rather than further away. I can’t imagine how you feel doing this everyday, but I imagine it’s like feeling limitless, like everything is in front of you, there for the taking. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll let you take me up one day. 

I’ll keep you posted on how everything’s going if you do the same. All my love x

02/12 @ 5:49am

How’s it going, kid? They working you too hard? You’re in London! Try to enjoy it, you deserve it. One of the guys I’m with gave me a restaurant recommendation for you, said the drinks were amazing, his wife loved it. Do something fun while you’re there! And send me some pictures dammit!

Love you, 

Bradley 

02/12 @ 8:22am

Bradley! It’s been so so crazy here! I feel like I haven’t stopped since I landed. My ‘flat’ is so cute and right by the client’s offices, so it’s an easy commute. I feel so professional taking the Tube places too! It’s one thing I’d like us to have in San Diego as opposed to all the traffic. Also, it’s CHILLY here and I’m so glad I dug my big coat out of storage. I’ll try and check the restaurant out this weekend, I’m gonna sneak in a trip to the Tate, too. I’ve always wanted to see the Turners. Talk soon and love you bunches! x 

02/14 @ 9:54am

Bradley Bradshaw! You absolute SAP! HOW!?! Did you conspire with my dad again? Thank you for the flowers! I’m going to have the biggest smile on my face all day. I love you and hope this is the first of a lifetime of Valentine’s Days together. Always x 

02/14 @ 7:33pm

Happy Valentine’s Day to you too, kid. I’m not gonna lie, I gave your dad very specific instructions for the bouquet (I was going to ask Max, but he’d probably swap it for something ugly and cheap and keep the change…kidding (not)), so I’m glad they turned out well. It was a very big day on board today: we got special red heart cookies for the holiday. The mood was infectious, I can still taste the sprinkles. Maybe you could cook for me on our next Facetime? Have you learned anything good in class lately? It doesn’t have to be fancy, just wanna see you (and maybe also live vicariously through whatever you’re making).  

02/14 @ 7:33pm

Bradley! I think I can swing that for you, when do you think our next call will be? 

02/16 @ 3:18pm

Kid, you spoil me. This package is amazing, I don’t know where to start (just kidding it’s with the Cadbury chocolate and the Sudocrem as my burnt shoulders thank you), but everything is wonderful, thank you. I love hearing about London and seeing the pictures you sent last time. But I do have one complaint…you’re not in any of the pictures, kid, and that’s truly egregious. (Think we won’t be able to Facetime for a while, I gave Payback my slot the other day.)

02/16 @ 3:23pm

That’s not true! I’m in the one in front of the Tate!

02/16 @ 3:25pm

Yeah, but I can’t see you under all those layers! Just want to see your face. It’s been way too long since our last Facetime.

02/16 @ 9:52pm

As requested, Lieutenant Commander. I had one of the girls in the London office take this at dinner tonight. She really did wonders with the lighting and even managed to get my sidecar in the pic! x Love you

02/17 @ 6:55am

You look pretty. New dress? B

02/17 @ 7:17am

Maybe…it was on sale, couldn’t resist. But you’re gonna hate me because all of my clothes are very much not going to fit in your closet. Also, I bought you a new jacket and some socks. x

02/17 @ 7:20am

Ehhh I’m not too worried about the closet thing. But if you keep buying me clothes we might have a problem.

02/17 @ 7:24am

It’s so cute though!! You’re going to look so handsome in it! I got the green one for you!

02/17 @ 7:29am

Okay, admittedly a very nice jacket, thank you. But you are aware that we live in San Diego…

02/17 @ 7:31am

I am aware of that fact, LC Bradshaw. You can wear it when we visit my parents. Hell, I had to get my coat out of my storage closet for this trip. 

02/17 @ 6:53pm

Sighhhhh you raise a good point. Alright, alright, thank you for the jacket and socks my darling girl. What’d you have for dinner last night? We had chicken with these absolutely awful biscuits, tasted like saw dust, my stomach was growling for some more of that Cadbury chocolate (yes, Payback and I ate all of it already, though it was mainly Payback) for hours afterward. 

02/17 @ 6:59pm

Oh my sweet boy! Who do I need to call about your meal plan? Give me the number and I’ll call the Navy up right now. And I had scallops with truffle risotto. It was delicious. Wanted to lick the bowl clean. Love you bubs x

02/19 @ 10:22pm

Bubs, I cannot eat another meal out. I feel like I’m going to burst. I’ve gone to so many work dinners and lunches even before coming here, it almost makes me feel like a glutton. 

I miss you and your cooking (though I’ll have you know that my skills were vastly improving before my trip abroad!) and you standing behind me at the counter while I try to perfectly cut peppers. Sometimes I do it wrong on purpose so you’ll put your arms around me and I can feel the rumble of your voice. Would we call that weaponized incompetence? You better be ready for some Michelin Star meals when you get home, buddy. I just can’t wait to be home with you and roll over next to you in the morning and to tell you to stop snoring and that the battery in the smoke detector needs to be changed. I can’t wait to be home with you and make a life with you. I’m going to be really sappy now, but let me have this because I was reading this poem the other day and thought of you. 

“I am supposed to be touched. I can’t wait to find the person who will come into the kitchen just to smell my neck and get behind me and hug me and breathe me in and make me turn around and make me kiss his face and put my hands in his hair even with my soapy dishwater drips. I am a lovely woman. Who will come into my kitchen and be hungry for me?” (x)

Only a month until you’re home with me, I hope you’re hungry. 

All my love x

02/20 @ 4:50am

It’s only weaponized incompetence if the other person minds. I, however, do not mind. I loved that quote you sent me, going to be thinking about that one for a long time. I hate to tell you this, but I’m gonna be offline for a couple days. I hate that it’s at the end of your trip, but please please message me when you’re leaving/taking off and again when you land, you know I worry. Love you and am so unbelievably proud of you, kid! You killed it in London. Your Bradley

02/20 @ 7:03am

That’s okay, I totally understand. I’ll give you all the details on our next Facetime. In the meantime, I message you when I leave. Stay safe and love you, Bradley! x

02/23 @ 3:45pm

Taking off soon! I got an upgrade again, thankfully! And I made sure to put your new coat in my carry on - I don’t trust British Airways not to lose it! Taking an ativan again so hopefully I’ll sleep the entire flight - love you and talk soon!

02/24 @ 10:33pm

Just landed, slept through….90% of the flight! Apparently, there was bad turbulence, so probably for the best. Now, I know you would never have me deal with that my darling rocketman! Talk later - love you! x

02/25 @ 7:09pm

Feels kind of weird being back? I can’t quite get back into my routine. I’m not sure if it’s jet lag or something else? Feeling a little lost? x

02/26 @ 7:55pm

Bradley!!! You were so good, I’m so so proud of you! Max had everyone over at his place for us to watch you! We have quite the party here including my parents, Pete, Penny and Amelia, Natasha, Mickey and Cielo, Caroline, and Darcy. I’ll have to tell you about the parents meeting later. I wish you had been here for it, they took to each other like bees to honey. 

You looked tragically handsome, I practically had to hold back a moan when you were standing on the flight deck talking to Norah O’Donnell (is she as nice in person as she is on TV?). God, I want to ravish you, you sounded so fucking smart. You know like half the country is going to be in love with you now, right? I’ve got to get back to everyone, Max ordered dinner for us afterwards, but I had to email you as soon as you finished!

Just wanted to let you know how proud of you I am and how much I love you x

02/27 @ 5:09am

Thanks, kid. Sorry it took me a bit to respond, things have been getting a bit crazy, you know, now that I’m a celebrity and all? We’re winding down this training, so the next couple weeks are gonna be full of debriefs and paperwork, which means I should have a more stable schedule. Love you B

02/28 @ 11:48pm

Sometimes I wonder if you were here what would you do? Hold me? Love me? I never feel small except when I’m in your arms. x

02/29 @ 11:48pm

Some nights in bed, if I try really hard, I can imagine I’m laying down next to you. And it makes everything just a little easier. Bradley

03/01 @ 12:56am

I haven’t taken anything besides my fingers in months. You’re going to stretch me out so well when you get home. 

03/01 @ 7:19pm

And I’m gonna mark your ass pink for that comment. I can’t believe you sent that in the middle of the day. You getting yourself off at work? Dirty girl. 

03/01 @ 9:41pm

Never feels as good as when you do it. 

03/01 @ 10:01pm

And my hands pale in comparison to your pretty little cunt. You know that first time we slept together you were so fucking tight, I knew you hadn’t had a good fuck in ages. It gonna be like that again when I come home?

03/01 @ 10:05pm

Where are you going to have me first?

03/01 @ 10:06pm

In our bed, in our house, after you make me dinner in our kitchen. 

03/01 @ 10:09pm

Just over two weeks now, I can’t wait to see you. x

03/03 @ 5:55am

How you holding up, kid? You doing a little better this week work wise? Try and log off around 5 if you can. Don’t want you getting all worn down on me. 

They had us doing these war games yesterday that made me think of you. You would’ve walked circles around some of these other guys I swear. Think I can get a Facetime for us in a couple days? Probably will be our last one before I come home. Love you, B

03/03 @ 7:12am

Bradley! That's the best news I’ve had in ages! I can’t wait to see you! Definitely felt a little lost after coming back from London, but I hope my rut will be over soon? Tying things up with a client is always so lengthy and tedious. 

War games! ‘Would you like to play a game?’ I’d ask if you won, but no one ever wins in the art of war 😉Love you!

03/05 @ 8:54pm

So, here’s a new one. My mom called? She’s going to be stateside and wants to get lunch tomorrow. Could’ve done with a bit more warning, but apparently, she has a layover in San Diego on her way to New York to see my brother? I didn’t even know she was going to see him? I don’t even know if I want to see her? It’s funny, I can already tell you exactly how it’ll play out:

We’ll go to lunch at some sort of vegan restaurant, probably Donna Jean

She’ll make me pay

She’ll try to get me to use some sort of herb to promote weight loss since I’m looking a bit “pudgy” around the face

Though she’ll forget to ask about you, she’ll tell me about her latest string of failed relationships with bartenders and surf instructors in Canggu. Or is it Ubud? I genuinely don’t remember, she started in Ubud, but honestly my knowledge of Balinese geography is rudimentary at best 

She’ll ask how ‘that woman’ is doing as if Mary is just the woman my dad is seeing, not the woman who raised me and my brother

And finally, she’ll ask for money though betting is still open as to what for!

So, what do you say? Wanna put a wager on it? Your terms.

Love you! x

03/06 @ 6:30am

$100 she orders the caesar and makes you pay. I’m not even going to entertain the third parlay, pretty girl. Oddly feeling like she’s got a winner on her hands so yes she’ll talk about her new paramour. Does she really call Mary ‘that woman?’ And yes, without a question, she will ask you for money.

Your move my gorgeous girl,

Bradley

03/06 @ 7:49pm

I really wish you were here right now. She doesn’t even know me, but she somehow always manages to make me feel small. 

Caesar - no croutons 

I paid

Pudgy and frumpy, but she was hawking shakes not herbs

Failed relationship? No, she’s actually GETTING MARRIED

She did not ask about you much other than to say I need to watch my figure for you (see bullet point no. 3)

Mary was called ‘that woman’ six times before I stopped counting

She asked for money as a wedding present 

So, you didn’t get them all, but not a bad showing. Love you. Talk tomorrow on Facetime. x

03/07 @ 6:09am

God kid, I’m so sorry. She doesn’t know what she’s missing. Actually, I don’t even think she deserves to know what she’s missing. Did you talk to your dad or Mary about it? I know we’re talking later, but I just wanted you to have a message from me before you start your day. What’re you wearing to the office tomorrow? Have you worn that polka dot dress with the bow lately? You know it’s one of my favorites and that I always love unwrapping it when you get home from the office. 

Can’t wait to see you tonight. All my love, Bradley

03/07 @ 9:55am

The dress doesn’t fit. My mom was right, I shouldn’t have gotten the french toast.

I’m planning on talking to dad and Mary later today before you and I have our Facetime. I know they’ll make me feel better, much like you have my darling boy, but it still feels pretty crummy. Especially since I’m sure she’s going to have wonderful time in New York with my brother 🙄 and I’ll have to hear all about it next time I talk to him. 

And I’m not sure if I’ve unpacked that dress yet! I’ll have to do some digging. Talk soon! x

03/10 @ 3:26am

We had a little baby. He was always giggling and laughing and we were making silly faces and he looked so small in your arms, Bradley. So small and little and he was ours. And then I turned around and he was toddling around the house and we were chasing him and his little legs were moving so quickly and we all wound up on the couch in a tangle of limbs, giggling under the blankets as we tickled him and he called you daddy. 

It wasn’t our house - or what will be our house, I guess? Instead of the leather couch you have, it was white and big and wide and the three of us could easily fit on it, snuggled together. 

And I could feel your arms around me, rocking me back and forth. I could feel you humming in my ear and kissing my neck and telling me you loved me. I could feel it. I could feel you. I could feel him and you. And it was nice and I felt warm and safe and cherished and loved. Because I felt so much love for this little boy in my arms - the perfect mix of me and you. Everything felt right and perfect. 

Except when I rolled over in bed to tell you about it, I realized I was alone in my bed, in my apartment, and not in the house that we shared or with the little boy that looked so much like you and I haven’t felt so empty and sad since I can’t remember when. 

And I just miss you so much, Bradley. I know I can come across as glib and unfeeling sometimes and like this doesn’t affect me as much. But it does and sometimes I feel like my heart is going to burst because I’ve never felt like this for anyone else before? It’s never been so easy for me to love someone and let them love me to the point that I always want to be beside them. And I know with your job - and mine - that can’t always happen, but god Bradley I wish you were here right now so you could hold me and tell me you loved me because I just want to feel your arms around me and know you’re real. I want to tell you about the little boy - the perfect mix of me and you. 

I love you rocketman x

03/11 @ 12:49pm

I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said anything. I realize that’s a lot to drop on you, especially since we can’t talk in person. I guess I’ve just never missed a person more in my life and seeing that future showed me what we could have when you come home. God, Bradley I want you to come home so badly. I want you to stay here with me forever and never leave and to have that cute little boy who was the perfect mix of me and you and to have you here in my arms every night. And I know it’s selfish of me to ask or even make you think about it, but I want you right here - in twenty seconds, not twenty years. 

How did your hop go today? x

03/11 @ 7:03pm

I have dreams like that, too. I’ll be little, but still older than I was when my dad died and we’ll be at the beach, running around, and he’ll pick me up and spin me around like I’m flying on an airplane. 

But then it’ll be me and my kid, running around and I’ll pick them up and spin them around like they’re flying on an airplane. Sometimes it’s a girl, sometimes a little boy. But I always just can feel and tell that I love them and I’d do anything for them. 

And I used to hate waking up alone after I had them and I’d feel empty and sad and like I had the feeling that they should still be there? Except now I have you and I know it doesn’t just have to be a dream?

Sorry it took me so long to reply. Today was hectic and I didn’t get to check my email until later. But if I checked it earlier, my day would’ve been a lot easier on my heart. 

All my love,

Your Bradley

03/12 @ 7:11pm

How do you always know exactly what to say? I’m sorry for springing that all on you, know it wasn’t exactly a quick/easy message, but I love that you knew exactly what I meant. My day’s always a lot easier on my heart when I hear from you, too. Love you x

03/12 @ 10:17pm

i miss having you around to take care of me. and telling me what to do and what to wear for you and how you want me and where you want me and when you want me and and and. and how good i feel around you as you come, how you take what’s yours. how i need you to take control and tell me what i need because i’m too much of a dumb slut to figure it out on my own. i need you so much bradley. and it’s so hard because i’m trying to take care of myself like you do and imagine what you’d do if you were with me right now. but i’m so frustrated since no one takes care of me like you do. i feel so empty. nothing stretches me out like you do, nothing makes me feel as small as you do, nothing makes me flush like the sound of your voice against my neck as i come, nothing soothes the ache inside me like you do. need you to call me good girl, pretty girl, sweet girl, anything as long as it’s yours. 

i need you i need you i need you i need you bradley bradley bradley bradley

3/13 @ 10:39pm

Awwww sweetheart, did you get yourself all worked up over me? It’s okay, I know it’s hard for you all by yourself. Must’ve been real bad for you to risk this getting flagged, huh? Poor thing, don’t worry, I’ll take care of you. 

Want you to pretend I’m next to you, leaning over you as you lay down and touch yourself. Say yes Bradley, more Bradley. Bradley, Bradley, Bradley. Good girl. 

Want you naked under the covers, no frilly little pajama set or anything. No, I want your cum to stain the sheets and then for you to have to clean up in the morning, all embarrassed because you did this. You made yourself like this because you can’t control yourself without me around. All that cum being wasted. Nobody around to lick it off your pussy. So what doesn’t get on the sheets, you have to taste. Good girl. 

Want you to use your fingers - only your fingers, I’ll know if you use anything else. Start with your breasts. Think of how perfectly they fit in my hands and how yours aren’t quite the same. They aren’t as big. Aren’t as strong. Play with your nipples, drag your nails across the soft skin on the underside of your breasts.

Want you to sigh my name as you slide your hands down your stomach towards your pretty little pussy. Have you shaved? Gotten a wax? You know how I like it, want it just like that when I get home. Pretend it’s my fingers sliding into your cunt. A few touches and you’re already clenching on air and I’m not even around. 

In and out, in and out. Circle your clit with your thumb. Add another finger, then another. You rocking your hips yet? I know you’re soaked. I know you want more. Three fingers can’t stretch you out nearly as much as you need. But I don’t know if you can handle anything else without me around. And I know you would never disagree with me, right? Because you’re my good girl and good girls do what they’re told. 

Don’t hesitate to get loud. You’re in our house, in our bed, you can be as loud as you want. Bet you’re getting close, huh? Try and last a little longer, can you hear yourself and how wet you are? Are you shaking yet? I know you’re close. Go ahead, speed up your fingers, just the way I do. It’s okay, you can come. Know you’re gonna get sleepy soon, wish I could sleep inside you, nice and tight.

Say thank you Bradley. Good girl. 

03/14 @ 5:49pm

Thank you, Bradley. Thank you for taking care of me last night 

You like chicken piccata, right?

03/14 @ 7:33pm

Yeah, kid, I like chicken piccata. 

03/14 @ 7:39pm

Okay, that’s good. I’m going to make it when you come home. I ran it by my cooking instructor. Ina’s recipe of course. 

(I’ve read your email seven times since you sent it. I’ve thought about it constantly. I want you to take me softly and slowly that first time. But after that? I can’t wait to let go and float. Love you so much x)

03/15 @ 6:09am

You’re the boss. Good thing I’ll be home soon, you’re gonna run out of material. As is, I had to type that last one with one hand. 

Love you,

B

03/15 @ 7:21am

I’ll be good till you get home, promise. 

Have a good day, do you think we’ll get to talk much from now till Friday? Love you x

03/15 @ 7:24am

I’ll hold you to it. 

I don’t think so, might be able to send one out before leaving the boat. Better make it a good one. 

All my love

Your Bradley 

03/15 @ 7:25am

You got it! Love you bubs 

03/18 @ 11:08pm

Kid - there’s this lyric that keeps running through my head: ‘and I want you right here.’ I want you beside me - today, tomorrow, all my days. I want you right here, beside me forever. In twenty seconds, not twenty years. See you tomorrow.

All my love,

Your Bradley

03/18 @ 11:11pm

See you tomorrow, rocketman. I’ll be the one in blue.

Love you x

a/n: thanks for reading! i'll be back with part ii and part iii (hopefully not in...4 months). i had so much fun writing these and getting to explore a different format and side to their relationship! thanks to alexa @sometimesanalice, kylie @ofstoriesandstardust, cass @notroosterbradshaw, elle @dissonannce, nik @cherrycola27, and loren @heartsofminds for all the support!

[slightlycrazylovelessfamily-blog]

We are back, 8 years later. Why not keep a daily journal of our adventures again, so here we go.

Quotes of the trip:

- Children fill a void you didn’t know you had

Day 1: Tailwind

It seems these days when you take a red eye there is a tailwind. No complaints, just noticing. It isn’t right to complain about tailwinds…bad mojo.

We left JFK around 615pm Saturday, July 30th for Milan. An accident near JFK made it a little tighter than we hoped…perhaps 15 mins before boarding started. Sleeping wasn’t great on the 7.5 hour flight. Dinner was good, a few episodes of The Last Dance for me, Dungeons and Dragons or straight to sleep for others.

We got our 9 passenger VW van (stick shift) and away we went to Lake Como where Stacy had arranged a lunch. As we were approaching the restaurant we saw what looked like Old Town and found a parking spot. Following a local family with a stroller we hit the gold mine. Slowly it changed from sleepy, shutters closed, walking between castles to vibrate market with coffee shops, a beautiful church and lots of people. I tried my first coffee - cappuccino - which wasn’t bad, but I don’t think I’ll be an addict anytime soon.

Putting our plan together to have lunch and get into Milan for a tour of the Duomo Milan - we bought tickets and split up to position the car for a quick getaway. We discover the intricacies of driving in areas that are also plazas for pedestrians - not even sure cars should or could be allowed in, but they were.

Lunch over looking Lake Como was sensational. Private club to the left, lake in front and smiles all around. A nice walk, the sights of water are great for fighting off jet lag.

We drive a little more than an hour to find our airbnb next to a canal, drop off our bags, and zoom off to the Duomo. Again, cutting it tight, the last people are allowed up to the Terrace at 410 and it was 405ish. Not sure what this was all about, we get out of the elevator to find ourselves on the marble roof of a massive cathedral - seemingly as large as any other. It seems to be on the back end of a complete cleaning and restoration project. The detail at the top - where it can’t be seen from the street, is incredible. To walk around in the shade and the sun, was unlike anything we have ever done nor will likely be able to do again. No way you can do this in the US; that said, it was a brilliant way to draw visitors in, have a chance to talk about God, (re)introduce God, create a moment to be grateful, pray for others, imagine what it must have been like to…

For everything I could remember, it seemed like the grandest church I have ever seen. At least 60 marble columns that seemed at least 8 stories tall. FACTS: it is the largest church in Italy, yes largest; 3rd largest in the world and construction started in 1386. There are 52 internal pillars that are 11 feet in diameter and 78 feet tall. It has more statues 3,400+ and gargoyles 135 and 700 figures, than any building in the world. It was incredible, both in beauty and in scale. To imagine this was built so long ago and still a marvel, is incredible. Check the video below of the opera singer outside the Duomo that you could hear singing on the roof, it was like a combination of Fergie and Jesus.

No trip to Europe is complete without at least one church stop, so after checking that off the list we went to our airbnb, an apartment with AC near a main metro stop. After watching Friends episode, the showers started, mom and I went to grab some groceries and dinner. I went to bed about 7 and I’m sure by 830 all was quiet. It had been a great first day that we all powered through.

Day 2: Just like new

Alarms had to be set for 930 to make sure we didn’t sleep to late. We needed to give ourselves time to be out by 11am and on to our next adventure, which was the Cinque Terre town of Monterosso al Mare. About a 3 hour drive toward the Ocean, we got our first taste of winding, narrow roads that seem like Cat Rock Road. A temperamental transmission rearing its head and opposing drivers that seem to like the middle of the narrow road made it a good intro for the legendary Amalfi Coast road ahead. Our mirror got its first hit, but once we got to our destination we realized it just popped into place and it was just like new.

The drive into town and to our apartment was only doable with google maps, it would be hard to describe otherwise. Our parking spot could only be introduced to us with video, again to hard to describe in native language, much less another. It required a key, a gate, faith and being good at using the clutch going up hill. The walk back was twice as quick, again, with a sense of adventure, a little faith and lots of luck, we found a trail as if we were locals.

Quick change and head to the beach - smiles and happiness were instantly found in the blue waters of the Ligurian Sea. A big rock was a great place to swim out, climb and jump back into the water - Piper holds the record for number of jumps.

Again, I’m reminded the common happy place is near water, ideally a beach with waves.

A walk, a return to the apartment, showers and a plan for dinner emerges. Catina Miky is found and devoured. Date night for me and Stacy with the kids at a separate table. Both tables started with anchovies, which is the speciality of the area, which was great. Stacy and I had two more fish courses of specialities but still saved room for gelato. Two and half hours for dinner in Italy requires the neutral gear; perhaps at some point I’ll be able to be so chill, I won’t need to ask for the check.

We head out of the restaurant to find a full moon so close it seemed we could reach out and touch it.

Day 3

[miredinmiddleearth]

Rings of Power, Ep. 1 Review

*Detailed rant ahead*

Fires of anger have awakened a sleeping account and driven me to post again. My love for Tolkien will not let me stay silent. If you enjoy the misery of others, read on for my thoughts on the first episode of this show.

1. First off, I have to say it: the release date. You can’t claim love and respect for Tolkien and release the premiere on the day of his death. Just feels wrong.

2. Two minutes in and I was already bored. Elf children bullying Galadriel? Who the freak cares?

3. The speech from Finrod about stones and ships and why one sinks is the single dumbest thing I have ever heard.

4. I’ll be fair. Cool visuals are cool. 

5. So you’re trying to make Galadriel strong and powerful by turning her into a warrior, yes? But then you make her an incompetent leader who has to be talked down to at every turn. Yes, I feel so empowered watching a previously god-smiting character who is now nothing more than a parkour expert.

6. The whole snowstorm scene makes me angry. One: the outfits. Two: heartless abandonment of comrade in a party of maybe seven people?! Three: THERE IS NO REASON TO NOT STOP FOR A SECOND. There is no rush! No danger of orcs or ticking clock. Galadrriel just says Nope! We leave you behind. Four: Three seconds later, the wind isn’t affecting any of them at all. Walking around just fine.

7. Soooooo booooored

8. Weird antler guys have no point.

9. Someone explain the Harfoot culture to me. Travelers? But kind of farmers? Migratory but stationary? I’m so unbelievably lost. 

10. At one point, I had to pause the episode to physically expel some anger. Elrond denied admittance to a council because it is for “Elf-lords only.” THE ACTUAL HECK?! Elrond, son of Earendil and Elwing, descendent of King Turgon and Beren and Luthien?! Descendent of MELIAN AND THINGOL.

ROYALTY ROYALTY ROYALTY ROYATLY AND MORE ROYALTY ON EVERY BRANCH OF HIS FAMILY TREE. THIS ELROND IS NOT PERMITTED TO ATTEND MATTERS OF ELF LORDS. ARE YOU INSANE?!?!?!?!

11. Closeness of Elrond and Galadrrriel made me uncomfortable. That is your mother-in-law, my dude. Many times in the episode I kept wanting to know, where the heck is Celeborn?

12. Not here for the elf aesthetic they’ve chosen. Plastic-looking laurels just not doing it for me. When are the elves gonna look like elves?

13. Passage across the sea is something an elf has to earn? Since when?!

14. More Elrond talking down to Galadrrrriel. My dude, do you know who she is?! I mean, to be fair, why would you? This show doesn’t know who she is, either.

15. Is it just me, or does healer woman’s costume feel oddly modern and revealing? Sidebar: don’t care about her story at all

16. Weird nitpick: Galadrrrrriel’s hair isn’t nearly mythological enough in its beauty. Tiny personal thing, but when everything else is garbage, I’m allowed to be petty.

17. She’s going to swim the entire ocean?!?!?!?! I can’t. I just can’t. Take this Galadrrrrrrrriel away from me.

And that’s episode one.

[mycrofts-gunbrella]

Caring is the Greatest Advantage- Mycroft Holmes x Reader (Part 11)

A/N- Okay so this is just a short 2k fill in chapter! It’s kinda cute and kinda sad but it was too long to add to the last chapter, and it doesn’t fit in with the theme of the next chapter (though it sets it up quite nicely!). The next chapter is likely going to be a bit angsty but I promise it’ll have a rewarding ending to it! I hope to have it written and up sooner rather than later but, until then, enjoy this little piece.

Word Count- 2028

The ten minute drive from Baker Street to the Natural History Museum went by in a flash- most of it being spent by Mycroft giving you a mental tour of the building's various rooms and the 'most appropriate route to take'. Though it did also take a minute or two for you to convince him to not get everybody kicked out for a private visit, no matter how many people were there.. Admittedly, you hadn't been to the museum for 6 years or so now- after living so long in London it feels less of a luxury being only round the corner from it- but walking through the doors made you feel like a child again. Entry to the museum was free, but that didn't mean you didn't see Mycroft swiftly pushing a few notes into the donation bin at the front before guiding you forwards. Glancing up, you eyed the blue whale skeleton that hung from the ceiling and frowned. Mycroft caught your look and spoke up.

"Ah yes, Hope has been a relatively recent addition to the museum. She was found dead on an Irish beach back in 1891. It's a rather beautiful marvel to gaze upon, though, large as she is, she doesn't quite fill the hole in my heart that was left after my beloved Dippy was removed." Your eyes scanned the skeleton of the large mammal once more before looking back at Mycroft. "I did try to convince the board to keep the diplodocus somewhere but all attempts were futile. There's only so much force you can put into such a topic without exposing yourself as-"

"As a man who loves dinosaur bones more than he loves people?" Mycroft shoved his hands in his pockets and sighed.

"The very thing." Lifting your arm, you rested your hand at the crook of Mycroft's elbow to encourage him to move on.

"When we get home and have dinner we can raise a toast in Dippy's honour.. but for now, my mind's been taken over by that huge statue of Darwin." And the pair of you headed off, your hand very much staying place at Mycroft's arm as you wandered through the rooms- Mycroft more than willing to reel off facts about every deceased animal of history and, more often than not, even impressing the workers with his spiel of facts. Though you were very much enjoying wandering aimlessly through the room of human evolution, you most definitely noticed the pull from the man beside you as he was eager to reach his beloved dino-pals. As you turned the corner into the slightly darkened dinosaur room, you tripped over your feet slightly as you felt Mycroft stop in his tracks, his eyes wide and taking everything in. He looked as happy as a boy at Christmas and, quite frankly, it was adorable. You nudged him slightly when he still didn't move. "You okay?"

"Sorry, it just seems as though, no matter how many times I come here, it always feels like the first." He had shaken his head as though to bring his thoughts back to focus before taking a few steps into the gallery and leading you over to the skeletal remains of a Baryonyx. "The name Baryonyx roughly translates to 'Heavy Claw' from the Ancient Greek's 'Barys' meaning heavy and 'onyx' being claw or talon." He spoke, his voice smooth and relaxed as his fingers brushed over the board that announced the name of the creature within the glass. "It was also an excellent swimmer which it would use to its advantage while hunting." You listened to his every word as he spoke, grinning as he excitedly told you how many teeth it had and it's preferred techniques for capturing food before he moved you onto the next one.

"Oh these beauties have always been my favourite." You almost whispered, taking in the sight of the huge triceratops skull. You barely noticed Mycroft's hand shift from his pocket until you felt the heat of his palm against the small of your back, fingers squeezing slightly by your hip as he spoke.

"Mine too. Sherlock used to say they were boring and that we might as well have gone to the zoo to look at rhinos. He ended up spending 5 months trying to prove that the rhinos were descendants from the triceratops and then avoided me for 3 weeks when he realised there was no connection at all."

"That sounds about right. Though I can't imagine Sherlock enjoying it here very much anyway.." Mycroft began to guide you to a small bench just off the side to sit down, still giving you the view of the beautiful dinosaur bones.

"He didn't. When we were much younger he would kick off until Mummy and Father would tell us it's time to go and I had to go with them.. Then as we got a little older and Sherlock properly found his legs, he would simply run from the doors round to the science museum. Of course mummy and father had to follow him as he was so young, but one time I decided to stay here. They didn't realise I hadn't followed them until it was time to go home 5 hours later." Mycroft spoke quietly.

"Found his legs? That's at, what, four? Five? How young were you?"

"I was 9 the first time, I think." Now, Mycroft, you don't just 'think'; you know. Your hand moved to rest above his own on his knee, brushing your thumb fondly over his knuckles. "But it isn't all bad. Some of my best days as a child were spent here, and a lot of the staff were very kind and would teach me extra facts that weren't displayed. There was one gentleman who even gave me his own copies of some books that they had here. I'd wander the whole museum in time but I always found myself back here on this bench just.. watching. This room felt more like home than my very house sometimes. It was the room where I could escape the real world and find peace. Eventually Mummy, Father and Sherlock stopped bothering with the visits because Sherlock found the science museum boring after he'd prove them wrong on something each time, but I'd still pop back in on occasion without them.. Coming to think about it, I've never actually brought anybody here with me at all." You squeezed at his fingers and settled back into the bench.

"Well I am incredibly glad that I found out about your little interest, and I feel even more honoured that you let me come here with you." You beamed. And it was the truth. Evidently, this little museum meant much more to Mycroft than you could have ever imagined and it warmed your heart to know that he trusted you to see him nerd out over some bones.

"Eventually I used this very building as the scaffolding to build my mind palace. My files on Sherlock, very appropriately, are nestled in the human biology room. But most people's information is either stored in the entrance, where Dippy remains over Hope, might I add, or in a few of the rooms I find less interesting.." You didn't have to ask to know he was referencing 'that room with all the bloody rocks'. "I love most of the galleries too much to taint them with information on people that aren't important. The likes of Gregory and Doctor Watson now reside in Hintze Hall as the years have passed." His eyes remained focused in front of him, unblinking, as though he was wandering the very halls at that moment.

"And where.. where are my files?" You had to ask, really. Since he was on the subject anyway. "If you've put them in the marine reptiles room when you know I'm terrified of the ocean I shall never forgive you." Mycroft's hand flipped beneath yours so the pads of your fingers brushed before he blinked and looked over to you, a small smile on his face.

"Here." Oh. Well that's.. something. You shifted to give him a quick kiss on his cheek, knowing he wasn't overly fond of PDA and tugged him to stand.

"And on that note, I think we should go and grab some lunch before you make me cry in front of the dinosaurs."

---

After lunch, you both spent a few more hours walking from room to room (and of course circling round to the dinosaur gallery again) before you decided to call it a day at 4pm. Before departing, you headed towards the toilets that happened to be beside the little gift shop and you had a browse while Mycroft was occupied. Grinning, you picked up a deep blue plush triceratops and stroked a finger across its back. It was just small enough that, after purchasing, you could hide the little guy in the loose fabric of the sweatshirt you wore, acting innocent as you waited back outside near the wall. After going to the bathroom yourself, the pair of you headed outside where a car was waiting for you. Sliding in the back seat, you couldn't contain your little gift anymore.

"Surprise!" You laughed, producing the small toy from under your clothes and into the hands of the man beside you. He studied it briefly before beginning to laugh himself as he reached into his inner pocket and handed you the matching dinosaur, though purple in colour. "God, we're such children aren't we?" You noted as you swapped plushie companions, each of you brushing a finger on its nose as though it were a small pet. "I daren't think what your colleagues would say if they knew you were now the proud owner of a baby triceratops teddy that's.." You glanced at the tag. "..Suitable for children aged 12 months plus!"

"Probably nothing as bad as if they realised said triceratops was going to take proud placement on my desk at home." He beamed. "Thank you, this really does mean a great deal to me." You knew he wasn't just talking about the toy that rolled around his long fingers and you shifted to rest your head lightly on his shoulder.

"We can come back any time. I, for one, know I'll never get bored of looking through the galleries.. Or I'll never get bored of watching you light up as we walk through said galleries. Either or works, really." He hummed in response, his emotions slightly overwhelmed from the day and its revelations into his past. "Plus there were about 10 other little dinos in the shop and I've always been one to want a full collection.. so, if we pace ourselves, that's at least 10 more trips."

"13.. Although that could be tripled if we take the colour variations into account."

"Oh, of course! Can't half-arse a collection or it's just pointless."

"I concur."

"That's settled then. Almost 40 more trips to finish off our collection.. And thennnn we can move onto the figurines." Mycroft let out a laugh beside you and tilted to rest his head atop yours for the remainder of the journey home.

---

The evening between you was shared over a meal (where, as promised, a small toast was made to the memory of Sir Dippy) before Mycroft sat to finish the papers for Greg. Eventually you collapsed into bed at a relatively reasonable time, groaning at the throbbing in your legs from the day's adventure before finally slipping into rest.

---

The next day passed relatively quickly. The morning was spent visiting Greg in his office to drop off the papers before the pair of you took a small stroll through the streets of London. Eventually, Mycroft and yourself even got a text message from Sherlock giving a (albeit half-arsed) apology for his behaviour the day before and the rest of the day was spent in bliss. That was until exactly 17 minutes after you got back home when Mycroft's mobile began to ring. He swallowed deeply, showing you the caller ID of the person he had been dreading to speak to post-Eurus and answering.

"Ah, yes.. Hello, Mummy."

[blackacre13]

Ahhh your writing is amazing! Please can you post a notting hill part 8 (and 9 if you’re feeling generous😜💖)

Thank you so much! The last update for Notting Hill was part 10 here, so here is Part 11:

“There’s just one problem,” Lou whispered suddenly, making Debbie’s palms sweaty as she gulped. “You keep calling yourself my girlfriend.”

“Oh,” Debbie whispered. “I didn’t mean to assume—I just—we love each other and I thought that by now we were—“

“No,” Lou chuckled, looking down at Debbie as she touched her cheek thoughtfully. “I just—what would you say if I asked you to be my wife instead?”

“Lou, what are you—“

“Will you marry me, Debbie?”

Debbie was stunned. Absolutely floored by the question. But at the same time, she already had the answer on the tip of her tongue before her brain could even fully comprehend the question. Yes. Of course, it was a yes.

“Yes,” Debbie laughed, shaking her head as the answer came flying forward without any hesitation.

“Yes?” The blonde grinned, wrapping Debbie into a tight embrace as she kissed her deeply before pulling back, looking deep into her eyes. “Really, yes?”

“Really, yes,” the brunette chuckled, pulling her partner back in for another kiss until they pulled apart, giggling and smiling. “Wow,” she hummed. “Lou Miller’s wife.”

Lou let out a snort as she rolled her eyes. “Forget that,” she sighed. “I get to be Debbie Ocean’s wife. You should be jealous.”

“Please,” Debbie giggled. “You’re a rockstar, Lou.”

“I’ve already told you,” Lou whispered, her face going serious for a moment. “I’m grateful for the recognition and the fans and whatever comes with it. But it’s not my dream. You are. And now I get to marry you.”

“This is crazy,” Debbie breathed. “I’ve got to tell Danny. Oh, and Tammy! She’s gonna absolutely flip. Wait—how do we do this? I mean, where do we even start? Is this a secret, elopement thing or the whole shebang with press and everything or—“

“Why don’t we start with announcing our engagement,” Lou chuckled, cradling the brunette’s face in her hand. “And then we can sit down and discuss every last detail. I promise. But there’s something I need to do first.”

“Oh?”

“Well, two somethings,” Lou grinned.

“I’m listening,” Debbie smirked.

“First, I want to make love to my fiancee,” Lou whispered, making Debbie’s skin tingle. “And then, we’re going to find you the most perfect ring.”

“Or you could just, I don’t know. Fuck me twice?” Debbie grinned.

**********************************************************************

Time was flying by in a blur and Debbie’s celebrity status had exploded practically overnight.

The only thing weirder than traveling through the airport with a security team and her famous musician fiancee bound for first class seats was passing kiosk after kiosk and seeing her face surrounded by various headlines.

Her crashing Lou’s interview and revealing she was in love with her. Stunt or real? Secret elopement. Is Nine Ball jealous of former lover Lou Miller and newfound love? Love on the rocks?

She was just grateful no tabloid could accuse them of a pregnancy scare as a gay couple. But then again, she wouldn’t put it past them.

“I can’t believe I’ve never even seen your place,” Debbie breathed, running her fingers through her hair before sitting back in her seat, Lou grinning beside her.

“Our place,” Lou corrected her. “We’ll make any changes you want. And if you don’t like it, we’ll find somewhere new.”

“So you’ve said,” Debbie teased, watching Lou grab her hand and kiss it softly. She couldn’t help but grin at the tingle against her skin, and the sparkle of her ring against the sun coming in from the plane’s window as Lou released her hand gently. “I’m sure it’s perfect.”

“I can’t believe you’ve never been to California,” Lou shook her head. “I think you’re gonna love it.”

“I’m a New York gal through and through.”

“We’ll see about that,” Lou smirked. She turned to the brunette, leaning her head on her shoulder. “Are you sure this isn’t all too much? You’ve been so great about agreeing to the interviews and the public engagement stuff. I promise we’ll take some time to enjoy this for ourselves too. I want this to be a real engagement and wedding planning without paparazzi and chaos in the way.”

“Of course it’s too much,” Debbie sighed. “I don’t know how you’ve been going about it alone all this time. But I don’t mind. At all. You know I’d do anything for you.”

“You’ll tell me if it ever gets to be too much?” The blonde whispered.

“Promise,” Debbie whispered, kissing her cheek. “Now give me the 411 on what to expect when we land so I have a plan in mind. And then we can throw it out the window and focus on drinking champagne, making out, and sleeping on each other’s shoulders until we land and have to get back to reality.”

“I like the way you think, Ocean.”

[dino-fart]

The Bargain | Chapter 10: Peace

Pairing: Namor x Female Reader

Genre: Action, Adventure, Romance

Summary: To say you had a complicated relationship history was an understatement. Your ex was well...Not of this world? Yet he seemed to always find his way to you. One day he shows up with his new girlfriend asking for your help. You promise to assist if he never shows his face again. What is it he needs you for? And what are you all going to find when deep diving into the Atlantic Ocean?

Summary | Preview | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 11 |  Chapter 12 (End) | Sequel

“Watch the fall of your kingdom.” Namor hissed at Atlas. Atlas was restrained by chains that tied his wrists together. Two guards were on either side of him. Namor swam ahead, he had his feathered helmet on and shoulder plates. His long cape floated in the water as he waited for the troops of Atlantis to approach. Instead, to everyone’s surprise, Sypha headed toward him with the scepter. Namor’s eyes grew wide and he watched the blonde queen stood a few feet from him. 

“Take the scepter, release my husband and leave Atlantis be.” She offered him the scepter. 

Namor took the scepter carefully from her grasp. “Where did you find it?” 

“I didn’t. Our favorite wench...I mean human found it.” Sypha corrected herself. 

Namor twirled the scepter, “Where is she now?” 

Sypha was quiet at his question. 

Namor tilted his head, “Where is she?” 

“She’s...She’s in Atlantis...She’s fatally wounded. I don’t know if she’ll make it...” Sypha said solemnly. 

Namor felt his heart ache hearing her words, “May I see her?” 

“Not now, your majesty, the healers are doing everything they can and prefer to be uninterrupted.” 

Namor made a motion for the guards to remove Atlas’ chains. Atlas swam over to Sypha and embraced her tightly. “I will send a messenger when she is awake.” Sypha said to Namor who just nodded and swam away from the couple. 

Namor held the scepter tightly and for now, he would head back to Talokan and wait for the news.

It was a few days after and the healers had sealed your wounds. Atlas and Sypha took you back home so you could rest on the surface. Your aunt, Emily, had bumped into him when she was trying to find you. Atlas told him what had happened and while your aunt wasn’t sure if she should believe him, you needed to be taken care of. Your aunt would stop by every day to bring you something to eat and drink. 

You had regained consciousness and were slowly getting your strength back. Emily had called over her friends, one that was a doctor and the other a physical therapist, to examine you. The doctor showed you that the wound on the left side and shoulder had been sealed but it was quite the scar. He said whoever had done it saved your life. You didn’t answer as you knew it would confuse and concern the physician. 

One day, Emily brought over a mirror and scissors to properly trim your hair that you had sliced off in the fight. Your once long hair was now shoulder length. You didn’t seem to mind, after all, you were alive. Over the next week, you continued to recover, getting out of bed every now and then and working with the physical therapist to get your exercise. You were now resting in bed after a long day of being examined again by the doctor and physical therapist. 

They said you would be ready to leave the bed in another week and to continue exercising your legs. You laid back on the bed and sighed, yes this was better than being dead, but you were someone who was always on the move. You sat up when you heard a noise and sighed in relief when Atlas walked through the door of your bedroom. 

“I’m so glad you’re okay.” He smiled. 

“Yeah...Thanks...Sypha saved me.” You smiled back at him. 

Sypha walked into the room and approached you. “I hope that can make up for when I tried to kill you.” 

“Yeah, it does.” You smiled kindly. 

“We made a promise to tell Namor you were awake, I will do that while Sypha keeps you company.” Atlas smiled and left the room. 

“I imagine the war was avoided...Namor...Wants to see me?” You asked. 

“He’s been asking ever since I told him you were wounded.” Sypha nodded. 

“That’s...Sweet. He’s a kind man...He can be scary though.” 

“Most kings are, though I think it was a little dramatic waging war over a scepter.” 

“Agreed.” You chuckled. 

You and Sypha had a few conversations before you closed your eyes to rest. Sypha turned around at the sound of footsteps. “King Namor.” Sypha bowed her head and moved aside. Namor nodded to her and Sypha walked over to Atlas to give Namor some space. The two left the room and now it was the king and you. 

Namor sat on the edge of the bed and looked down at your sleeping face. Your hair cascaded on the pillow that created almost a halo around your head. “Mi pixamech... (My angel...)” Namor said softly and leaned down to gently stroke your hair back. 

You stirred slightly at his touch and your eyes slowly opened. “Namor...” You said softly. 

Namor smiled softly and leaned down to kiss your forehead. “My brave and clever researcher...” 

“Namor...I’m so sorry about everything...I found the scepter.” You sat up on the bed. 

Namor shook his head and gently ran his fingers through your hair, his other hand moved to take your hand in his. “There is nothing to apologize for...If anything I need to apologize. For doubting you.” Namor leaned forward to rest his forehead against yours. 

You blushed and rested your hands on his chest. “You lost your patience, I don’t blame you.” 

Namor brushed his nose against yours and gently captured your lips with his in a slow and tender kiss. You closed your eyes and slid your hands over his shoulders to deepen the kiss. Namor cupped the back of your head as he continued kissing you. His hands moved down to wrap around your waist and he slowly laid you back on the bed. His lips never left yours when he did this until finally, you needed to breathe. You pulled back and smiled softly at him. 

“I love you.” Namor gazed at you softly. 

“I love you too.” You leaned up and kissed him again. 

Sypha was about to come back into the room when she caught a sneak peek of the two of you kissing. “Let’s go back to Atlantis, darling, she’s in good hands.” Sypha held Atlas’ hand and the two left your house. 

Namor pulled back from the kiss and moved to lay beside you. “I wish to spend this night with you.” He said softly and pulled you close to him. His arms still wrapped around your waist and his lips kissed every inch of your face. You giggle softly at his kisses and moved to nuzzle your head under his chin. “Sleep, my love, I will not leave your side again.” Namor gently stroked your hair, lulling you to sleep. 

You breathed in his scent and enjoyed his touch, you felt safe in his arms, safe in the king’s arms.

Author’s Note: Namor smooches!

Dividers By: @firefly-graphics​​

Tagging: @bontensbabygirl, @deputy-videogamer, @anthonyedwinstark, @fangirlingbookworm1, @theyluvremi, @bbylime, @redcrayonsforwanda, @sidefanficaccounttohidemyshame, @missbeverlyhills, @bluskyy30, @sonadowloverf-blog, @spctorstrnge, @justanotherfanhere, @britty443, @lilithskywalker, @tzurue, @lego0city123, @livingdeadgirl7, @bl6o6dy, @didneyworld13, @bookfrog247, @thicc101q, @angel-bi666, @witchxlove, @omgsuperstarg, @andy-wandy, @queenotaku23, @maripositanoctruna, @ursecondbirthmom, @jupiterclipse, @pauline-s12, @spookymicrowave, @darkfairymoon, @gemini5991, @littleficreccs, @3am-at-a-party, @hotdoglamp, @supernaturallover2002, @natchayaphorn, @sixthgun98, @xwackk, @strvbelities, @internetmultifandomfangirl, @yawny0-0, @girlmythlegend, @lotsoffandomsandsoftpeeps, @ameliabs-world, @dvaine-mercy, @sadslasher13, @jylanlove12, @boxbraidboo, @secretpostts, @fefa-la-printcessa, @queenofangrymoths, @artaxerxesthegreat, @sammisregrets, @imlikefrhungry, @namorwife, @22carolina08, @batfam-sitcom, @ohantonia, @agustdpeach, @ethereal-athalia, @spicydonut25, @historygeekqueen, @em-asian, @stitchattacks, @agustdeeyaa, @sadbutradbarnes, @mynameisbaby9, @thebluehare, @fandom-lover-4, @delsinhunter, @im-a-slut-for-fluff, @asarcasticcaffeinatedslytherin, @theslytherinwriter, @kirrasrkive, @deliciousfestsalad, @violet-19999, @ameliachastain, @raeluvsbloodline, @omega-horus, @namor-is-the-way, @icytrickster17@bontensbabygirl, @deputy-videogamer, @anthonyedwinstark, @fangirlingbookworm1, @theyluvremi, @bbylime, @redcrayonsforwanda, @sidefanficaccounttohidemyshame, @missbeverlyhills, @bluskyy30, @sonadowloverf-blog, @spctorstrnge, @justanotherfanhere, @britty443, @lilithskywalker, @tzurue, @lego0city123, @livingdeadgirl7, @bl6o6dy, @didneyworld13, @bookfrog247, @thicc101q, @angel-bi666, @witchxlove, @omgsuperstarg, @andy-wandy, @queenotaku23, @maripositanoctruna, @ursecondbirthmom, @jupiterclipse, @pauline-s12, @spookymicrowave, @darkfairymoon, @gemini5991, @littleficreccs, @3am-at-a-party, @hotdoglamp, @supernaturallover2002, @natchayaphorn, @sixthgun98, @xwackk, @strvbelities, @internetmultifandomfangirl, @yawny0-0, @girlmythlegend, @lotsoffandomsandsoftpeeps, @ameliabs-world, @dvaine-mercy, @sadslasher13, @jylanlove12, @boxbraidboo, @secretpostts, @fefa-la-printcessa, @queenofangrymoths, @artaxerxesthegreat, @sammisregrets, @imlikefrhungry, @namorwife, @22carolina08, @batfam-sitcom, @ohantonia, @agustdpeach, @ethereal-athalia, @spicydonut25, @historygeekqueen, @em-asian, @stitchattacks, @agustdeeyaa, @sadbutradbarnes, @mynameisbaby9, @thebluehare, @fandom-lover-4, @delsinhunter, @im-a-slut-for-fluff, @asarcasticcaffeinatedslytherin, @theslytherinwriter, @kirrasrkive, @deliciousfestsalad, @violet-19999, @ameliachastain, @raeluvsbloodline, @omega-horus, @namor-is-the-way, @icytrickster17@bontensbabygirl, @deputy-videogamer, @anthonyedwinstark, @fangirlingbookworm1, @theyluvremi, @bbylime, @redcrayonsforwanda, @sidefanficaccounttohidemyshame, @missbeverlyhills, @bluskyy30, @sonadowloverf-blog, @spctorstrnge, @justanotherfanhere, @britty443, @lilithskywalker, @tzurue, @lego0city123, @livingdeadgirl7, @bl6o6dy, @didneyworld13, @bookfrog247, @thicc101q, @angel-bi666, @witchxlove, @omgsuperstarg, @andy-wandy, @queenotaku23, @maripositanoctruna, @ursecondbirthmom, @jupiterclipse, @pauline-s12, @spookymicrowave, @darkfairymoon, @gemini5991, @littleficreccs, @3am-at-a-party, @hotdoglamp, @supernaturallover2002, @natchayaphorn, @sixthgun98, @xwackk, @strvbelities, @internetmultifandomfangirl, @yawny0-0, @girlmythlegend, @lotsoffandomsandsoftpeeps, @ameliabs-world, @dvaine-mercy, @sadslasher13, @jylanlove12, @boxbraidboo, @secretpostts, @fefa-la-printcessa, @queenofangrymoths, @artaxerxesthegreat, @sammisregrets, @imlikefrhungry, @namorwife, @22carolina08, @batfam-sitcom, @ohantonia, @agustdpeach, @ethereal-athalia, @spicydonut25, @historygeekqueen, @em-asian, @stitchattacks, @agustdeeyaa, @sadbutradbarnes, @mynameisbaby9, @thebluehare, @fandom-lover-4, @delsinhunter, @im-a-slut-for-fluff, @asarcasticcaffeinatedslytherin, @theslytherinwriter, @kirrasrkive, @deliciousfestsalad, @violet-19999, @ameliachastain, @raeluvsbloodline, @omega-horus, @namor-is-the-way, @icytrickster17, @lilikan​

[drarrily-we-row-along]

Day 10: The Beach

"Don't even think about it, Potter," Draco warned, taking half a dozen steps back and holding out his hands to ward off his menace of a husband. (Yes, husband. They'd gotten married the day before and Draco was still basically in a state of shock.)

Harry pouted at him, "But-"

"No," he repeated. "You are soaked and you're covered in sand."

Harry pushed his wet curls back off his face and gave him that grin, the one that turned Draco's will into complete mush. "Come on," he cajoled. "Come have a swim with me."

Draco ignored him and opened his bag, pulling out a beach chair, then a massive umbrella, followed by a novel, and then a travel mug margarita. "I told you when you begged to go to the beach for our honeymoon," he said as he set up his chair and stuck the umbrella into the sand, "Malfoys burn in the sun. Not all of us can have gorgeous bronze complexions like gods," he grumbled.

Harry stepped toward him and Draco held out his hand, making a little force field wandlessly.

"You are not allowed to touch me when you're all wet," he repeated with a shake of his head.

"One kiss," Harry wheedled. "I'll keep my hands behind my back," he said, demonstrating the action, "and the only part of my body to touch yours will be my lips."

Draco rolled his eyes but his whole body warmed pleasantly at the thought of Harry's lips on his like he'd just taken a shot of fire whiskey. "Fine," he replied with a put upon sigh that Harry saw right through. He leaned over and pressed his lips to Harry's.

(More below the cut)

After a second, Draco gave in and cupped Harry's face, pressing their bodies together from chest to thigh. He couldn't help himself.

He pulled back minutely, "Hold me, you brat," he said, before leaning in to kiss Harry again.

Harry huffed a laugh against his lips before wrapping Draco tight in his arms and holding him close. And Draco loved this, loved being held in Harry's (his husband's!) arms, loved feeling weightless and free, knowing that he had made his life his own.

"Godric, I love you," Harry sighed against the tender spot just to the left of Draco's mouth, the bristles of his beard rasping against Draco's sensitive skin.

"I love you, too," Draco replied. "Even if you did just get me all wet and sandy."

Harry laughed, his breath warm against Draco's cheek; he left a kiss on Draco's temple before pulling back. He took a step away and waved a hand at Draco's body and the warmth of Harry's magic washed over him, drying him and blowing the sand away. "Are you sure I can't tempt you with a swim?" he asked, nodding his head toward the ocean.

"Positive. I prefer not shedding my skin like a snake after it's been burned to a crisp."

Harry huffed, "There are charms for that, you know."

"They don't work," Draco replied, slipping his sunglasses down over his eyes before settling into his chair. "I'm fine," he said, shooing Harry away. "You go play in the ocean and I'll read Pansy's latest," he said, holding up the paperback he'd brought along.

Harry bent over him and brushed his lips over Draco's, "I'll see you soon, yeah?"

"Yes," he murmured, leaning up to peck Harry's lips one more time. "Go."

Harry started away, turning his head to call over his shoulder, "Admit it. You just like to watch my arse as I walk away."

He huffed a laugh but it didn't stop him from watching Harry walk toward the ocean.

-----------

They'd spent the afternoon by the ocean, Harry playing in the water and returning to Draco to steal his drink and get him covered in salty ocean water and sand. After the beach they'd gone to dinner, then wandered around the little town, popping into shops and stopping for coffee, then ice cream, before heading back to the little villa they were staying at.

Draco collapsed on the sofa, feeling full and happy.

Harry flopped down on top of him, pressing him into the soft white cushions.

"Oof," he grumbled but he wrapped his arms around Harry and held him tight so he didn't move.

Harry nuzzled into Draco's neck, "You smell like the ocean."

"Do I?" Draco asked, amused, stroking his fingers through Harry's curls.

Harry nodded and his body relaxed further, and Draco gladly accepted the pleasant weight of him.

After a few minutes of quiet cuddles and soft kisses, Harry stood up and tugged Draco up after him. "Come on," he said.

"Come where?" he said, trying to pull him back to the sofa. Or perhaps the hot tub.

The other man huffed at him and then just scooped him up. Draco shrieked, "Put me down! This is not dignified."

"Nope," Harry replied, carrying him out to the balcony, then down the steps. "You have no more excuses," he informed him. "You are getting in the ocean with me."

Draco kicked his legs, instinctively wanting to fight with him, "There's still sand and water."

"Neither of which will cause sunburn or peeling," Harry replied as he set him on his feet. Harry reached for the hem of his own shirt, pulling it up over his head and knocking his glasses off.

"That's just plain manipulative," Draco replied as Harry's torso was revealed. Harry knew that Draco stood no chance of resisting him when he stood there all muscles and gorgeous skin just waiting to be caressed by Draco's hands.

His laugh rang out, warm and pleased, "You should get undressed too," he informed him as his hands started to undo the button and zip on his trousers. "You're going in the ocean whether you're out of that handsome outfit or not."

"Handsome, hmm?" he asked as he pulled his own shirt over his head.

"Yes," Harry replied easily. "You are the most gorgeous person I've ever met. Regardless of what you're wearing."

Draco shook his head at him and leaned in to peck a kiss to his lips.

Harry pulled back before they could get more invested in the kiss, "Come on," he said again, stepping back then making eye contact with Draco as he hooked his thumbs in his pants and pushed them off. "Don't keep me waiting," he added with a wink before turning and walking away without a backward glance, knowing full well Draco would follow.

He stripped out of his clothes embarrassingly quickly, stumbling a bit in the sand as his foot got stuck in his pants. Once he'd gotten them kicked off and righted himself, he looked up to see that Harry was standing in water up to his hips, staring out at the vastness of the ocean.

Draco had always thought of Harry as more like the sun; warm and consuming, his light illuminating everything around him, making new life bloom. But perhaps he was like the moon, too, Draco thought. Quiet, steady, pulling Draco in the same way the moon moved the waves.

Either way he was beautiful.

He made his way out to the other man and wrapped his arms around Harry's waist, pressing his front to Harry's back and hooking his chin over his shoulder.

Harry leaned back against him and covered Draco's arms with his own, "Took you long enough," he murmured.

"What are you thinking about?" Draco asked, kissing the tender spot on Harry's neck where his shoulder and neck met.

Harry turned in his arms, "That I love you," he said softly, stroking his warm, wet hands down Draco's neck and over his chest. "That life is beautiful and full of meaning when you have someone to share it with. I was thinking that you have filled up my life with joy, and laughter, and love in ways that I never knew I needed. That I knew what it was to love but not what it was to be loved, not like this anyway," he added, brushing his hands over Draco's ribs. "I was thinking that I was glad to be alive."

Draco didn't know what to say, never knew what to say when Harry said words like those to him. He'd never imagined that anyone could feel those things for him and if anyone did, it certainly shouldn't have been Harry.

"I was also thinking," Harry said, before Draco could come up with a reply, "That it's ridiculous that you agreed to come to the beach for our honeymoon, when you obviously hate it so much."

"But I love you," he said easily. "And I love seeing you here. You're so," he trailed off, searching for the right word, "free here. And I genuinely do not mind sitting under an umbrella and drinking all day while you get gorgeously tan. The bathing trunks you have don't hurt anything either," he teased.

Harry kissed him lightly, "You want to know the truth?"

"Yes," he breathed, brushing his nose along Harry's and closing his eyes as he rested their foreheads together.

"Anywhere I am with you, I am free," he said. "You've set me free from bars that I never knew were holding me, Draco Malfoy."

"That's Draco Potter, to you," he whispered. "And you've set me free, too."

Day 9: Nose Kisses | Day 11: Pinky Promise

[salemwritesxx]

our days together

↳ paraplegic Bakugou x hero Reader

summary: Snippets of Bakugou’s and Y/n’s lives, including a proposal.

w.count: 2.5k

content warning: fluff, baku in a wheelchair

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

 “Oi!”, you called out and laughed, “You cheater!”

“Phh, yeah right, not my fault you’re so slow.”, Katsuki also laughed as he rolled across the field and threw the basketball – getting it in effortlessly and with that, winning the little game.

Turning around with his wheelchair, a big smirk on his lips, he approached you, who was sitting on the ground and panted, and then stopped in front of you.

“You know, I know I’m like… really fucking hot, but like, you cannot always collapse whenever you see me.”, he teased you with this shit-eating grin on his lips that made you snort and roll your eyes in a playful way.

“Okay, how about this? One more? And the loser has to cook dinner?”, you asked and stood up, immediately meeting Katsuki’s ruby eyes staring at you with that glint in them.

“Okay. But don’t cry into my chest when you lose, okay?”, he grinned and rolled away to get the basketball, your “Yeah, yeah, you and your big mouth, be cautious or I’ll roll you off a hill.” making him laugh.

If anyone would have listened, maybe they would have been a little taken aback by how you talked to each other, but the truth was, it was harmless bickering and teasing. Never would you have hurt your boyfriend in any way, shape or form and both of you knew.

“Hah, fat chance.”, was the last thing he said before throwing the ball into the air for one last game.

--

Rolling through the big, automatic doors, Katsuki was gasping a bit as he had rushed into the hospital as fast as he could with his wheelchair, until he finally reached the information table and he could ask for “L/n Y/n” completely out of breath.

“May I ask who you are?”, the nurse asked back, since she didn’t want any stranger into a hero’s room and even though Katsuki wanted to snap and growl at her, he gulped down his rage and took a deep breath before he said, “Bakugou Katsuki. Y/n is my boyfriend.”

“Ah.”, she then said and smiled, “Yes, yes, L/n-san had mentioned you briefly before they had to bring him into the surgery room.”

“Surgery?”, he barely croaked.

“Yes, he needed surgery as both of his bones in his arms were broken. He is already in room 193 and should be awake.”, she said as if she was talking about the weather, even though it sounded horrible that both your bones were broken to the point you needed surgery.

Thus, he only nodded and with a quick “Thank you.” he rolled away and into the next elevator.

Bakugou had found out barely an hour ago. You had your night patrol, hence why you were admitted to the hospital at around 4 a.m. while Katsuki was asleep at home in the warm bed. To say he felt awful was an understatement. He was sleeping soundly at home, he literally had to pee at around 7 a.m. and being in a wheelchair, he was definitely awake enough to notice his phone vigorously blinking, but instead he chose to ignore it and went back to bed. All while his phone was silently going crazy from the texts and phone calls your friend, that was on the patrol with you, had left with your phone on Katsuki’s.

And now it was 11 a.m., because he was stupid and a lazy ass and he hated himself for sleeping in. Hence, when he had looked at his messages and the voice notes that were left on his phone, he panicked. Bakugou called his mother right then and there to come pick him up, not caring if she had to work, because this was an emergency and he didn’t have a car, let alone a driver’s license. He had never needed one until this day.

Once the ping signaled him he was on the right floor, he rolled outside and looked around to search for the rooms 160 to 200 and in the end, even after asking a nurse because my God that hospital was just way too big and confusing, Katsuki found room 193.

As he opened the door after knocking, you sat there, one arm in a cast and staring at the TV, looking bored and a little uncomfortable, however, the moment you saw him, your face lit up, “Katsuki!”

The two other patients in the room also turned their heads to see who was intruding.

Thankfully, you were on the bed closest to the door, hence he only pushed himself a little further until he faced your bed sideways and he could put his breaks on to scoot a little closer to the edge of the wheelchair so he could lean on your bed.

“Y/n, I’m so fucking sorry I didn’t come sooner.”, he immediately grabbed your free hand to squeeze it, ruby eyes lightly shimmering.

Though you simply shook your head and leaned in to rest your forehead against your boyfriend’s.

“It’s okay. I even told them to not contact you because I wanted to call you myself. I’m sorry they made you panic.”, you also apologized, thumb soothingly drawing on the back of his hand.

“No, you don’t understand!”, he barely whispered, “I was awake at 7 because I had to piss. I could have been here … far sooner, instead. My fucking sleep was more important, I didn’t even look at my phone, even though I knew you were out on a patrol, I should have… I should have looked. It was going off like crazy, but I just turned it around… What if it would have been more serious? What if… you were on the brink of death and instead of coming here as quickly as possible, I just slept at home and I wouldn’t have been able to say goodbye?”, he deeply sighed, feeling awful and just… terrible for being such a shitty boyfriend.

However, once more, you shook your head and then let go of his hand to bury it in his hair instead, softly massaging his scalp and pulling him in for a soft kiss, just to mumble against his lips, “It’s okay. Don’t think about the “what if”, Baby. I am here. And I only had a broken arm. And you are here now too, so… isn’t that the most important thing?”

And slowly, Bakugou nodded and wrapped his arms around your neck.

“I’m just so… so fucking relieved you’re okay.”, and with that, he leaned in to connect your lips.

“My, my, young love.”, made both of you however wince and turn around to look at the elderly woman who was snickering behind her hand and looking at the TV again, both of you then blushing lightly but also smiling at each other.

“Ah!”, when he suddenly heard a small sound from his pocket, Katsuki pulled his phone out. “Oh shit.”

“What?”

“It’s Mom. She says if I don’t come down immediately she is going to rip the nurse to pieces because she won’t tell her your room number for security reasons.”, which made him playfully grin again and you snicker.

“Then you should better go and help her confirm she is welcomed. I don’t want Mom to rip the staff to shreds.”, you snorted and giggled, once more showing how close Katsuki’s family was to your heart since, after so many years, it was natural to call Mitsuki and Masaru Mom and Dad as well.

“But… don’t you think she can wait juuust a little bit longer?”, Bakugou grinned and put the phone onto your bed, before pulling you back in for another kiss, letting Mitsuki wait for just a few moments longer while he was simply relieved you didn’t have a horrifying accident while out on patrol like he once had.

--

“Seriously, where are we going?”, Bakugou asked once again when you opened the car door, his eyes blindfolded.

“Shh, will you shut up already?”, you giggled and leaned in to peck his lips, making him wince, then grin a little. “It’s a surprise, you don’t want to spoil your surprise, right?”, you softly took his arms and positioned them around your shoulders.

“But I don’t feel so good when I can’t see. I feel like a doll being dragged around.”, he then sighed when you picked him up and carried him over to the wheelchair, this time letting you handle everything in order to not ruin the surprise.

“I know, Baby. I promise, it’s over soon, just this once, let me surprise you. Trust me, okay?”, you gently squeezed his hands and then placed them into his lap.

“You know I trust you with my life. As if I would let anyone else blindfold and carry me around.”, and even though it was true (he did trust you with his life) Katsuki’s heart was still hammering wildly in his chest, being a bit nervous, but also excited. He didn’t like being so helpless, since he wasn’t. He could very well take care of himself, though Bakugou was also okay with letting you lead him this time even if he was a bit uncomfortable, he wanted to be surprised by you.

Another soft peck against his lips later, he heard you shutting the car door and then, he felt a soft push, telling him you were now starting to walk.

“You can probably already tell where we are, right?”, you snickered and Katsuki frowned for a bit as he took in the surroundings, smelling the salty air and hearing seagulls and waves in the background.

“The ocean? You don’t want to drown me, do you?”, he snorted and laughed, which only got him a soft flick against the back of his head as you said, “Don’t say that. If anything were to happen to you, I would go crazy.”, which successfully made him close his mouth and blush a little.

For a few moments, you walked in silence and pushed him along, Bakugou waiting in anticipation, wondering what you were going to show him. A sunset?

“Okay… We’re here.”, you put his breaks on and then walked around his wheelchair to kneel down in front of him, “I’m going to take off the blindfold, okay?”, and once he nodded, you reached out your hands.

Once the fabric wrapped around his head was loose and gone, Katsuki blinked a few times before looking around, a soft smile immediately sneaking onto his lips as he watched a beautiful sunset and the waves and ocean glistening.

“What do you think?”, you asked with a hushed voice while gently taking his hands and squeezing them, still kneeling.

Slowly, he turned his head, ruby eyes sparkling as he gifted you one of his rare smiles whilst quietly saying, “It’s beautiful. But that’s not everything you wanted to show me, right?”

“Haha, how did you know?”, you shyly chuckled, though Katsuki simply squeezed your hands and said, “Your hands are shaking.”

And even though he didn’t want to think about, Bakugou has always been a pessimist, looking at the worst case scenario, which could be you bringing him to a beautiful spot to watch the ocean just to break up and softly tell him you couldn’t be together. Though, even he knew that would be a bit of a reach and yet, when he could feel your hands shaking, he inevitably got a little anxious himself.

After a few seconds of silence, you then looked up, your e/c eyes shimmering a little and a soft smile on your lips as you whispered, “You know I love you, right?”, Katsuki immediately nodding and welcoming your lips as you had leaned in to kiss him, just to mumble an “I do. And I love you, too.” back.

Letting go of one of his hands, Bakugou watched when you pulled something out of your pocket, just to feel his heartbeat increase when it was a small jewelry box, his mind racing.

“We have been together for almost 6 years at this point.”, you then started and looked at him again, “I love you. And with every passing day I love you more. Back then, I was just barely out of High School when we met, my friends had urged me to not see you again, because they were embarrassed on my behalf that you were in a wheelchair.”

“Fucking asshats.”, he growled and clenched his teeth.

“Ha, you can say that again. Safe to say I ignored them and looked for new friends afterwards. Because if I would have ever listened to them, I would have never got to know you. I would have not been so happy. I know you sometimes feel like a burden to me, even if you try to conceal it by joking.”, and that was certainly true as Katsuki instantly blushed a bit and glanced to the side, feeling called out.

“But, Baby. I hope you know I have never once thought you were a burden. I love you. And if you ever need me, I will help you, even though I know you can handle yourself all alone, because you are so amazing and strong, you can count on me – always. And…”, then you finally opened the little jewelry box, his eyes already dangerously glazed, “if you let me, I want to be there for you for our whole lives. As your husband and best friend. I want to make many more memories, I want to experience growing old only with you, that’s why… Will you marry me, Katsuki?”

Gulping lightly, he had to look to the side for a few seconds, before turning back, a small tear already dripping from his eyes, hence why he quickly wiped them away, chuckling an “Oh fuck!” in embarrassment and to hide his feelings, just to nod and whisper, “I will.”

“Katsu…”, smiling brightly and with your own little tears shimmering in your eyes, you took the ring out of the little box and slipped it onto his ring finger, fitting perfectly, thus you wrapped your arms around him, Bakugou’s arms also immediately slung around your shoulders as you hugged and kissed him.

“I love you. I love you so much.”, mumbling it against his lips, he chuckled and held on even tighter, whispering sweet nothings back, only to softly gasp when you suddenly grabbed him around his hips and pulled him up, almost looking like you were both standing, though you were holding his weight securely.

“Oh fuck, don’t let me fall.”, he croaked under tears yet still with a joking undertone, though you very seriously answered him as you pecked his lips and quietly muttered, “I would never. I am here to catch you, always.”, which made him tear up again as he teasingly punched your shoulder and mumbled a “So cheesy.” though capturing your lips in the sweetest kiss afterwards while the sun had completely disappeared behind the horizon eventually.

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

@salemwritesxx || do not repost, edit, modify or translate my works

writer’s note: a very sad headcanon of mine is that Bakugou, barely 2 years into his hero career, gets paralyzed due to a villain attack and is bound to a wheelchair ever since. i don’t use this headcanon often cuz well, it’s just really sad :( but for today, i thought my headcanon’ed paraplegic baku deserves a little happiness <3

[sw124]

BonelyHearts Reader Insert6

{Female!ReaderXSkeleton household}

Camping! Pt.6

Well yesterday was quite the day, so much for your enjoying your ‘leisure’ day out. You ended up soaked to your very bones all because of some jerk/jerks in a speed boat. It wasn’t so much getting soaked that bothered you, it was the fact that boat came so close to hitting you and Ash; that is what made you mad…but that was yesterday. An its not like the day ended badly, when you got dry clothes on and the skeletons practically waiting on you hand and foot to be sure you were ok.

You’d be lying if you didn’t enjoy it but you reminded them that you were fine and all warm again. That an you woke up again with the same skeletons in your tent, cuddled up next to you like little darlings. Well this was your last day of camping, that meant it was ‘your’ day. The past two days were dedicated to the skeletons but now it was your turn an you had only one special thing in mind.

“Human, what exactly do you have planned. We’ve done all the trails you wanted minus the …what was it..Grandfathers duff?” Asked Nox.

“Thats ‘Grandads Bluff’ and trust me when I tell you this activity will be great for everyone. But remember we need to pack up before we head off for our last activity, when we’ve finished it we’ll be going home; everyone got that?”

They all responded with a nod, you felt giddy as you helped them pack up. You had a wonderful surprise waiting for them! Packing didn’t take long at all, you handled most of the kitchen items while Papyrus and Boss dismantled the tents. Poplar helped Russ pack up the van while the others walked around picking up any litter left behind. It didn’t take long to get cleaned up really, in less then thirty minutes dishes were clean, tents dismantled and put away, campsite cleaned up and finally the van packed. Now that was done you could take the boys on the last activity of the day!

“Ok boys its gonna ten to fifteen minute walk to our destination so no whining.” You gave a playful wink and motioned the boys to follow you.

It was kinda funny to see some of their deadpan expressions but you digressed. You lead the way towards a road, sticking close to the shoulder of course. Though there weren’t any cars on this road there were ATV’er’s driving about; but they all were polite an stuck to their own side, time to time waving at you and the skeletons. Most if not all of them were simple ‘drive through rugged terrain’ people or parents taking their kids for rides.

Like you said it didn’t take long before you reached your destination…

“…..A ski lift?” Russ tilted his head.

“Well its not used for skiing now but during the autumn its used as a ‘special tour’ option. You take the lift up the mountain to enjoy the view of the local foliage, there at the top is the local ski resort. We’re taking the long ride up so it’ll take about an hour. By the time we get there it’ll be time for lunch so we’ll stop at their cafe to eat. Then comes the best part!”

You wriggle in your boots, ready to explode with excitement.

“The best part is the tram ride down the mountain, on the way down your served the best local drinks in the area. Non-alcoholic of course, the ride down will take just about the same amount of time as getting up give or take a minute. By the time we get back down the mountain it’ll be time to start heading home, you boys ready?”

They all looked at each other before nodding, when you got to where the chairs picked up the skiers you paused…thats right you had to see who was going with who. You looked and already Nox was arguing about going first…call you impatient but you hopped into a chair an let the boys figure it out for themselves.

You turned your back…and felt the chair sweep you up then it dropped its safety bar down. You squeaked like a little mouse as it lifted you up, you turned back to see the boys were still arguing…you waited at least a minute before shouting.

“HEY! I’M ALREADY ON THE LIFT! GET THE LEAD OUT BOYS!”

You laughed as you watched some of them scramble to get on the lift, Poplar and Ash were already getting on by the time the others heard you calling for them. Now that the boys were on the lift all you had to do….was relax and enjoy the ocean of autumn colors at your feet. This truly was a great idea, you slowly watched the wind blow waves of leaves over the trees. It really did look like water, a sea of cold fire…

A sudden thought hit you….there was a few spots on the mountain where special cameras were set up. They were to take pictures of people on the ski lifts, kinda like the camera’s on amusement park rides! They did this for the skiers as something commemorative or something. Oh this was gonna be fun, you hoped you’d see it so you could take a nice photo, if not something funny to laugh at.

[A beautifully peaceful ride later]

You gingerly slide off the lift chair and walked over to a small waiting area, there were some benches and a small kiosk to get your photo. The photo you got didn’t turn out like you hoped but it was still nice, the pictures was of you looking off to the side. You recalled that moment too, you caught sight of a hawk in the distance.

You decided to wait for the boys, you saw the photo’s drop in the kiosk. Not sure if it was ok or what you decided to look. The first photo of course was of Poplar and Ash, they looked like the spitting image of a happy elderly couple. The next was Stretch and Blue, where on earth did Stretch get the Groucho glasses…heh poor Blue didn’t notice he was given the ‘bunny ear’ treatment. Next was Boss and Red who were mostly enjoying the scenery, then it was a picture of Papyrus yelling at a sleepy Sans. Finally was Nox and Russ who much like Red and Boss were just enjoying the scenery…hehe Russ looked so cute.

You slipped the photos into your pocket and went to greet them, by the time you left the little kiosk Poplar and Ash were just getting off the lift. They greeted you and sat down to wait for the others, one by one the pairs of brothers came off the lift. Once you all regrouped you headed for the resort’s cafe.

“Here it is…” you sighed happily, it didn’t have a name other then ‘cafe’ but it just oozed with charm.

Inside the floors were a deep black mahogany with plush bright red carpets, the tables, chairs and table cloths all matched. What made it so charming was each table had a small fire pit in the center where you could roast marshmallows. But since you did that already you had booked a special treat for the boys…

“Fon…due?” Asked Nox.

“Yes, Fondue is a pot of melted cheese where you dip food items into such as bread, vegetables, meat an other things. Don’t worry I’ll be ordering the vegetarian special, it comes with the local favorites! Come on lets sit, I’m starting to get a little hungry now.”

“Yes lets have lunch!” Agreed Poplar, he seemed just as excited about the fondue.

Everyone gathered at one big round table, the waitress took down orders for drinks. Mostly of coffee’s and coco’s but you chose some tea for yourself. Before long your pot of fondue was delivered and everyone proceeded to dip pieces of bread and vegetables into the melted white substance. It had a slight sharp smell but the herbs were mostly the source of it, the taste…was pure velvet. You could taste the cream and hints of butter, instantly you thought of popcorn from a movie theater the moment you took bite of asparagus dipped in the white concoction.

All the vegetables you got were roasted, including some sweet potato chips and some eggplant. This really was a great place, once you an the boys had enough and paid the bill came the tram.

You walked over to check the schedule.

“The next ride will be leaving at 11:45am guys so we got about forty minutes to enjoy the sights around here. Please pay attention to the time ok guys?”

“Got it!” They said in unison.

You smile and walk away, everyone wandered around the outside admiring the scenery. You gravitate away from the boys and wander a bit towards the railing.

Everything was so quiet…so beautiful…but was interrupted by the sound of loud voices. You look to see four men stumbling towards you, hanging off one another, even from a distance you could smell the booze. You were about to move away but they caught sight of you.

“Hey baby, you alone wanna hang (hic!) out?”

You glared. “No, I’m here with my friends now leave me alone-“ just when you turned to head for the nearby staircase to get away from these jerks one of them grabs your arm.

“Hey aren’t you that bitch thats hanging out with them skeletons? Come on hang out with some real men, we got the goods to please a woman!” Well one of them was half sober enough to recognize you for some reason.

You rip your arm away from him.

“Get away from me you filthy piece of crap!” You stepped back…

“See told you she was a bitch, an I know what we do with bitches!” Before you could do anything one of the drunks raised his foot and kicked you…you stumbled back…and took a hard tumble down the stairs behind you.

It wasn’t many stairs but enough that when you landed…you landed hard. For a moment you laid still, you were still conscious so that was good….slowly you started rising to your knee’s, you put weight on your right foot; no problems there……but the moment you tried to step on your left foot….thats when you went down again.

Your ankle felt as if someone drove a spike into the joint and was twisting it around, you let out a pained scream when you put any weight on it. You winced and looked at your hands…oh your poor hands got bruised up good that was for sure…

“Human? Human where are you?!” You looked up, you saw Nox but thankfully no sign of the drunks.

“D-Down here!” You cried…tears were streaming down your face, the pain was almost too much.

You looked up, Nox was racing down full speed. You got scared thinking he’d fall too…give him some credit he had good balance. He reached you and noticed your disheveled self.

“What happened?!” His hands hovered over you.

You sobbed. “S-some drunk guy kicked me down the st-stairs…my ankle hurts real bad Nox…”

Normally you could tolerate a little pain but this…this wasn’t little, already Nox was checking the rest of you. Your arms, head (noting the slight bruised lip you had), neck, he already saw your hands but was now focusing on your legs. When he was satisfied he checked your ankle, slowly he removed your shoe and examined your ankle. His fingertips ghosted over your ankle, flinching when he touched parts near the joint.

“….Its just bruised thankfully, hang on.” He took out his phone and after a few taps made he put the phone to his cheek….and spoke.

“Russ get Boss to my location, a pack of drunks pushed the human down a flight of stairs, she has a bruised ankle an I need someone strong enough to carry her to the Tram.”

He had just put his phone in his pocket when you heard footsteps, already you saw Boss descending the stairs. He had such a graceful step to him despite practically running down those stairs, Russ wasn’t far behind him.

“Oh god, human…” Russ looked ready to cry, you tried to put on a brave smile but it hurt to smile…

Boss waisted no time gathering you into a princess carry, with almost no effort on his part escorted back up the stairs…where a group of worried skeletons were waiting for you.

[three hours later]

This wasn’t how you wanted your camping to end….sure you got the tram ride back but it wasn’t that special ‘lets have a warm drink while watching the woods slowly go by’ kind of ride. Now you were bundled up in a blanket sitting in your room, you just finished crying when Boss walked in with a mug of ‘golden flower’ tea.

“Thanks Boss…” you whimpered as you took the cup from him.

“Now human don’t be so melodramatic, sure the trip didn’t go completely as planned but we still had fun and we got you healed up.” Said Boss crossing his arms.

“Yeah…..thats true….” The tea was the perfect temperature, you hadn’t realized you had gulped it all down…well you were thirsty. “….You know maybe I should go sit in the living room with….everyone…maybe that’ll make me feel…..better…”

You forgot..’golden flower’ tea practically knocked your butt out, you drank it when you couldn’t get to sleep at night. You swayed a bit still bundled in that thick blanket, was you imagination or did you feel Boss wrapping his arms around you?

Oh he just picked you up….you all bundled in your blanket…you felt like a newborn baby swaddled after birth. Warm, safe and loved….you snuggled against the brooding skeletons chest as he walked you out of your room.

You could hear the others having a conversation but….you didn’t care….you could hear cooing but you didn’t care….instead…your mind drifted back to the camping…

Sleeping in a tent curled up with the skeleton family, sharing s’mores and hot coco…

Your mind drifted into a dream…where all you could think about…was you…

And the loving skeletons who were always…and always would be at your side…

End.

[The ending was inspired by a drawing done by @mmhinman and again this is a reader insert dedicated to the @bonelyheartsclub ]

[mobiuslakes]

’98 declaration of rehabilitation

presented by yoshihiro togashi & naoko takeuchi

raws can be found here

transcript under the cut

[image: Sailor Moon holding a chibi head of Prince Baka from Level E. A chibi head of Yusuke Urameshi from Yu Yu Haskusho sits above her shoulder.]

Latest Data 43

[image: a drawing of Prince Baka sitting in front alien looking computer]

[Questions will be bolded, Takeuchi’s commentary will be italicized]

I took the prince’s pen to write this down!

The prince answered, the princess took notes 🤍

1. Birthday

April 27th, 1966

2. Blood type

A Type

This explains his long deep thoughts (laughs)

3. Occupation

Manga artist

4. What do you and the princess call your son together?

Yo-chan or baby boy

5. Do you like “shounen jump”?

NNNNNNNNN~~~~~~Yes I like it.

6. What are your favorite characters you’ve created?

Craft...maybe.

The prince is a Doguraian in his fantasies. 🤍

7. Favorite things about your job

When I have to think of names. Or when I finally find a good way to continue with the story. Or when I can listen to music while I mindlessly draw something.

He glazes over by the typewriter too!!

8. Do you write with pen or ink?

I use a Kabura pen. Or a G pen. I guess the answer is pen.

And paper?

KMK grade paper.

10. Name your latest project?

I drew a 19 page story in an hour for my latest project.

And, afterward he had me look over those 19 pages for errors. 

It was an awful experience, his handwriting is terrible!

11. How long to complete a usual chapter?

Normally it takes 9 hours to do 19 pages, but lately I’m getting better.

My princess takes 3 days to do 45 pages. 💧💧

12. Do you have any goals?

Help the princess get faster (and do more work)

Spend more time with Osabu outside of work (cry)

I have a lot, but I never seem to have to time. Anymore

But I want to visit the Washington Hotel

After that you should bring me flowers, take me out shopping and we can tour around (laughs)

13. Favorite manga

My favorite is “Ansatsu Kyoshitsu”

The princess likes one called “Level E”

I watched it all in an afternoon (and he made me made my own dinner)

14. Do you have any major fears?

One time a snake snuck into my house. And I’m scared of finding them in the water. I think I would die if I came across one when swimming or mountain climbing, they freak me out.

The prince always thinks he hears a snake in the house. 💧

15. How would you describe yourself?

The prince is kind and shy - sensitive 🤍

Outgoing. Out of being a sadist or a masochist, I’m a masochist. I’m socially awkward. Bad at traveling. Love to eat out. Love gadgets (I’m always a sucker for buying the lastest electronics).

I have a difficult time being myself in public.

16. Favorite saying

I’m feeling blue (I’m sad)

But when I’m alone, I don’t feel that way

17. Others

Boring. Reader. Wastes all their money.

This is my ball, these are my shoes, this is my locker - I’m not sharing!

18. Favorite foods

Curry rice

The princess likes to eat everything 🤍

19. Foods you hate

I hate natto, and anything really sticky

The prince writes about this

20. Things you’ve eaten

I love western food. Anything that is foreign and exotic I’ll try.

The prince loves Japanese food 🤍of course, too. It makes me smile when I eat it 🤍

21. Are you good at cooking?

I can make anything that is refrigerated. But it has to have instructions.

Like curry. I like to cook my own curry 🤍

22. Favorite body part

The prince has lovely hair! I wish I had been born with hair like his!

I like my hair. It’s really manageable. Other than that, I can’t think of anything.

23. Place you most want to visit

The ocean. Especially during winter.

What about Disney Land? (laughs) I like to visit aquariums

24. Do you have a passport?

Well obviously, I’m a master of English...actually, I can’t even think in English for 30 seconds

25. Something you want

A deserted island. Please buy me one, they’re only like 5 million dollars

The prince can’t be allowed on a deserted island, he’d never return again 💧

26. Something you want right now

Okay, so this is an impossible dream, but I’ve always wanted a pet ox

If I could I would buy you the finest one in the world, prince

27. Favorite place

My room. I’m sure other people prefer their homes as well.

The prince spends a lot of time in his room. I do too actually - I love my room! 🤍

28. What do you collect?

LD’s. I have about 60-70 discs. And I love collecting party goods I can’t use

Like cake stands

That’s really funny (laughs) ~~~~

The princess loves to collect useless junk too~~~~~!!

29. Something that’s made you nervous

Having to deal with publications. I had to go to the doctor’s for two days in a row too, that made my heart pound with frustration

30. Something that made you happy

1) This year I met someone special

Ohh, but you met so many people

When he met Kanno Miho, he said “Whoah, you’re the voice of bastard?” He was so happy (laughs)

2) I answered a bunch of questions from foreign fans, they were shockingly well-informed

31. Something from the past

I loved getting little gifts. Really, that’s it.

The prince acts like this was something that only happened in the past 💦

32. Something that made you sad

I forgot, too much made me happy

Things that made you sad: Judy and Marie went straight to video and the prince had done all the design work! When he found out, he cried, whyyyyy 💦

33. What makes you feel good?

Getting to watch my favorite variety shows on video

He always gets really pumped when watching these 🤍

34. What do you do right before you tell a girl “I really love you”?

I fall in love...and I want to tell her so but...

But then I think “Oh god, she’ll think you’re weird” or that I’m not doing it in the right setting, I freak out and afterwards I hyperventilate from shyness.

He’s not kidding

35. Marriage wishes

I always wanted to find the right woman to be my wife, to have some kids with, where I wouldn’t have to work much. But then part of me never wanted to have kids or get serious. I didn’t want a wedding. The life of a manga artist isn’t suited to married life, after all. But lately I’m thinking of ways to make the two work together. They’re both works in progress.

No kidding (laughs)

36. Your favorite music to listen to in private

“The past,” “Cruelty” (I think that’s it) and other really old songs by Matsuri Bayashi. I can’t help but like her, I’m a weak man.

But I love her

Yeah, check her out!

Other than that I like Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Black Sabbath, etc.

He made a character recently based off of one of their songs

37. Something you did for yourself

I rode a beautiful new bike.

That’s one way of talking about a new motorcycle

38. Have you watched Sailor Moon?

...I’m apologize. I know the story, but I haven’t. But I did read the manga.

I make fun of him when he wears ponytails and call him “Chibiusa!” all day long ~~~~ 💦💢

39. Goals for 1998

I need to keep in touch with my loved ones more, and I need to become more socially involved, and study at my craft harder. If I can accomplish all that, I think I’ll be a satisfied man.

Maybe the prince will give his editor a passport to correct his errors without getting upset? Come on, prince.

It’ll be fun for your editor.

40. Professional goals for this

That’s unclear, I’ve spent a lot of time calling out sick from home.

Whaaat. I’m sure it wasn’t that much.

He did have to go to the doctor’s a lot, and I had to go to lady doctors as well. We had a bad health year. (I hope next year will be better)

41. What did you think of the movie Men in Black?

They spent about three years making the backdrops and characters, and I think it came out great. I was really shocked at how good it turned out.

Right! Totally! I’ll read your manga of it!!

42. What about the Pokemon movie that cames out December 16th?

If I go see it, I’m sure it’ll be good. But so far I don’t know.

When I was little I used to carry a camera to photograph all the things I saw - Pokemon’s kind of like that, right? (laughs)

43. Thing you wish you had more of? Time. I never feel like I have enough. 

The princess feels the same way.

Thank you for purchasing this booklet!!

[image: a bar graph labeled “travel days”]

(Come on, you can’t just buy those)

Watch us every night at 10:00

Yomiuri TV (Asahi TV also selling)

[image: a TV advertisement]

[next page is bordered in snowflakes]

This is the prince and princess’s Christmas present 🤍to you

Merry Christmas 🤍

To all the prince’’s fans 🤍

[image: a kiss mark]

To all the princess’s fans 🤍

[maybe-a-fangurl]

The Moon and the Sun (Zuko x Reader) Part 11

Part 1 Part 10

Masterlist

You were sitting out by the water, feeling the waves come up and softly flow over your feet before retreating back to the sea. It was the push and pull that you were longing for, but this was as close as you would be able to get to feelings it. Once you had reached Chameleon Bay you had automatically come out to the water, it was a habit you had picked up on when you were traveling through the earth kingdom. You would go and sit out by the water after you landed, either to heal yourself or to just feel the water moving. But as you reached the edge of the shore you realized you couldn’t feel the water flowing like you usually could, and that thought was enough to send you to your knees.

Once your knees hit the ground you fell forward, quickly catching yourself with your hands as you looked down at the sand. You felt as if your whole world was caving in, you felt utterly alone and helpless, abandoned. You closed your eyes, not willing any tears to escape as you slowly pushed yourself up so that you were now sitting with your legs crossed. And when you opened your eyes you just sat there, envying the ocean as the waves came on short to barely touch your feet before being pulled back.

Everyone understood that you had lost a lot during that one night, they didn’t know how much you truly had lost but they didn’t want to ask you. They were scared to ask what happened after they lost you in the tunnels, and they were even more scared to ask how you got the new scar on your face. So instead of asking they watched you sit on the shore, bringing you food and trying to start a conversation but after they realized you didn’t want to talk yet, they stopped asking. They were just content that you were still eating and were somewhat taken care of.

But after four days of you sitting out by the water, not leaving other than to go to sleep, Sokka decided it was time to talk to you. You hadn’t talked to anyone since that night, your last words being to Sokka before you started to sob and couldn’t get anything out. He had just pulled you into his chest, silently hoping that you would be okay and stop crying, but he didn’t realize when the tears stopped the you would also stop talking.

Sokka didn’t say anything as he walked to the shore and slowly sat down beside you, glancing to see that your eyes weren’t red and puffy anymore but instead looked lifeless, and he didn’t know which one was worse. In the past few days they just sat your food beside you before walking away, so when he sat down you knew that he wanted to talk.

“You’re being uncharacteristically quiet.” You said after a few moments of silence, and your voice was so quiet that Sokka questioned whether or not he had heard you.  

“I just didn’t want to talk if you weren’t ready to.” He said in a soft and caring tone, it was the same tone that he used when he confronted you about sneaking out in Ba Sing Se, the same tone that he used when comforting Katara, Aang, or Toph. He looked over at you, hesitating for a moment before he decided that he couldn’t wait any longer to know. “What happened once we were separated?”

“Once we were separated I ended up being found, I thought I was going to be able to get away, but I hit my head and when I woke up Azula was there and had already taken over the Dai Lee. I tried to get out a few times, but it never worked. The day Aang came they were taking me to the Fire Nation and I was able to get away from the Dai Lee agents who were escorting me and then I met up with Katara and Aang.” You paused for a moment as you looked down at your hands, which were now covered in scars that resembled lightening. They were small, barely noticeable, but they were all you could see when you looked down at your hands, and you knew that they stretched up your arms and to your back. “Why were they in the Catacombs that day?”

“Iroh came to us for help on finding Zuko, Azula had captured him and he knew that Katara would be wherever he was.” Sokka said and you couldn’t help but feel a sting in your chest when you realized they were there looking for Katara, not for you. Sokka seen the hurt that crossed your face, and he knew what you thought so he was quick to correct himself. “Y/N we did look for you, but we thought that maybe you hadn’t got out and they destroyed the Dai Lee tunnels so we thought that you were dead. But when Iroh came to us he said that Azula mentioned you to them, it was why she got the best of Zuko.”

“Azula has always used him and I against each other, she knows we make each other weak. That’s why she tried to kill me, she knew he would be stronger without me, no weaknesses and no reason to question which side of the war he belonged on. I know you just see her as a lunatic with fire and lightening but she is smart, smart enough to know that I always thought the best of her. I always knew she would hurt me, I have a scar across my back to prove that, but I never thought she would have it in her to kill me.” You said the words slowly, turning away from Sokka as you thought about the next words that were going to leave your mouth. “But that’s the worst part about it is that she didn’t kill me, at least if she killed me I wouldn’t have to live knowing that she tried to, and that he didn’t do anything about it.”

“Y/n you’re scaring me, you sound like you wish you would have died.” He said as he looked over at you in shock, practically praying that your next words would reassure him that you were going to be okay. Realistically he knew that you weren’t okay, that it would take a while for you to be okay again, but he wanted to know that you knew things would get better.

He just sat there looking at you, waiting on you to say something. But when he seen the tear run down your face he knew he wasn’t getting an answer, because you couldn’t give him one that wouldn’t scare him even more. So instead he just moved closer to you and pulled you into a hug, careful not to hurt you and giving you time to pull away if you didn’t want to be that close to anyone right now. But almost as soon as his arms went around you, you buried your face in his chest as you let out a broken sob.

You cried for a while, him just silently rubbing your back to comfort you. He was scared to say anything in the moment, scared he would make things worse, and even after you stopped crying he stayed silent. You had pulled away from him, now sitting beside him and once again looking out at the water.

“I know you feel like you’ve lost everything, but you haven’t. You still have us. Me, Katara, Toph, and Aang.” Sokka said after a while of silence. And as he looked over at you he felt the same protectiveness he felt when he seen Katara upset. “We’re your family, and we aren’t going to leave you, not like they did.”

“Sokka you have to calm down.” You said in a calm tone as you put your hand on his shoulder, trying to stop him from digging at the rocks that had just collapsed.

“You want me to calm down?!” He yelled as he turned around and looked at you, throwing his hands in the air. “How can you even ask me to be calm in a time like this?” “It’s okay, we’ll find them, and we’ll get out of here.” You said with confidence, but truth was you were terrified. You had traveled with Zuko and had been in a few situations that you didn’t know what to do, but at least you knew where you stood with Zuko, you still had no idea where you stood with Sokka. And that was an important thing to know when you were trapped in a cave with no way out.

Aang trusted you because you helped him escape from Zuko and Katara trusted you because of everything that happened at the North. But you still weren’t sure about Sokka, the two of you had had a few conversations but it wasn’t near the level of openness your conversations with Katara had been.

“I can’t listen to anymore music.” He said in a hushed voice to you, and it took everything in you not to roll your eyes at him. You couldn’t help but think of how the comment was something Zuko would have said, except he would have said it loudly for them to hear while Sokka tried to at least spare their feelings.

“It’s not too bad.” You said back to him with a shrug, he stopped and looked at you for a moment in disbelief.

“You were a ‘bad guy’ you shouldn’t be this optimistic.” He said, using air quotes when he called you the bad guy, as if to not offend you.

“A wise man once said that the way you approach a situation has a greater impact on the outcome than how you deal with the situation.” You said, a smile coming to your face as you thought about the number of times you had heard Iroh say those exact words to Zuko. “So, I like to try to have an optimistic approach to things.”

“You really think we can get out of here?” He asked, and when you nodded he let out a small sigh. “Okay, then I guess we should get moving.”

You gave him a smile as you started to walk behind him, trying not to crowd him as he looked over the map. It wasn’t long before you heard music and it once again took everything in you not to roll your eyes at Sokka when you seen the annoyance on his face from the situation. You knew it wasn’t the most ideal, situation but you honestly didn’t think that it could truly be that bad until you once again came to a dead end.

“Oh great, your plans have led us to another dead-end.” Moku said as he gestured to the wall of the cave that now sat in front of you.

“At least I’m thinking of ideas and trying to get us out of here Moku.” Sokka said as he turned around and glared at him and everyone else except you.

“Wait a minute?” You heard Chong say, causing everyone to look over at him. “We’re thinking of ideas? Because I’ve had an idea for about an hour now.”

“Yes! We’re all thinking of ideas.” Sokka said in a loud, and openly annoyed tone, as he moved his arms around the air.

“What’s your idea?” You asked, causing Sokka’s mouth to drop as he looked over at you in disbelief. You just gave him a shrug as you crossed your arms and looked back over at Chong.

“Well listen to this, if love is the key out of here, then all we need to do is play a love song.” Chong said, and you immediately looked over at Sokka to see him hit his forehead with the palm of his hand, hard enough for you to hear the contact. Chong started to play a song and as he started to walk, everyone followed him.

“I give up.” Sokka said as he shrugged and walked in the direction they were heading, you stood there in disbelief for a moment before jogging to catch up with him.  

“So, do you believe love is really the key to getting out of here?” Sokka asked after a while of walking, and you looked over to see that he was already looking at you.

“I don’t even know if I believe in love.” You said as you let out a sigh and looked down at your hands.  

“Well since your boyfriend is an angry boy with a pony tail, I don’t blame you.” Sokka said in a joking tone, and you just shook your head as you kept your eyes on your hands.

“He isn’t my boyfriend, never was.” You said and when Sokka let out a scoff you looked away from your hands and to him to see disbelief clear on his face. “It’s complicated.”

“Well it must be complicated for you to have feelings for someone like him.” He said, and you just let out a sigh as you crossed your arms tightly over your chest.

“He wasn’t always like that, he used to different. But life was never kind to him, so I guess he just decided that he wouldn’t be kind either.” Once the words left your mouth and you seen the look on Sokka’s face you knew he was about to argue with you, so you were quick to cut him off. “I know you think he is a horrible person and I know you probably think I am a horrible person too for staying on his side for so long. But he was all I had and now that I’ve chose this side to fight on, I don’t have anyone.” “That isn’t true.” He said, and you felt yourself tearing up as you seen the comforting look on his face. “You have us now. Me, Katara, and Aang are your family now.”

You remembered the hopefulness you felt when he told you that you were family in the Cave of the two lovers, but you didn’t realize how truthful the statement was until now. He was right, they were your family and they weren’t going to leave you. So instead of continuing to mourn over everything you had lost, you decided it was time to cherish everything you still had.

“Can we go see everyone else?” You asked as you looked away from the water and over to Sokka, watching as a smile came to his face.

“Yeah, we can.” He said as he stood up from the sand, brushing it off of his legs before helping you up. As you stood up you could see two figures standing by the edge of the makeshift base, and you instantly recognized them.

“It’s about time.” Toph said as you and Sokka reached her.

“Toph be nice.” Katara said in her signature mom tone, which caused a smile to come to your face as you pulled the two of them into a hug, Sokka joining in. You all stood there hugging one another until Toph started to complain about how Sokka was pulling her hair, and when you all pulled away you couldn’t help but smile at them, at your family.

@tpwkatsumu @caswinchester2000 @frickin-bats @winchestergirl907 @eridanuswave @the-firebender-girl @myarthetics @royahllty @izzieserra @akariblue  @coldlilheart @thirstyforsometea @cirtruss @lammello @bigbuckyenergy @aangsupremacy @lozzybowe @duh-dobrik @emogril @justab-eautifulmess @whalerus @im-me-and-noone-else @nataliahaslosthershit @oddment-niwit-blubber-tweak @slytherky @shemakesfanvids @sokkas-honour @nomin-rights  @miraculous23456

[wallgirl]

The Little Nereid Part 11

Record of Ragnarok fanfiction

Poseidon x OC

Word count: 2,100

Dynamene, youngest of the 50 Nereids, has lived most of her adolescence as a servant alongside her sisters at Poseidon’s palace. But with her coming-of-age birthday and other developments, what she initially thought was just admiration of her master blossoms into something stronger and more passionate… and painful.

Categories and warnings: Romance, angst, unrequited love, coming-of-age, earn-your-happy-ending, slow-burn (ish); no sexual content. There will be some graphic violence in the future.

Starting a temporary hiatus; will have about ?17? parts total.

---

Dynamene could hardly see through the dark, brackish water that surrounded her on every side. She was too upset to pay attention to where she was going; she swam straight on until her tears had stopped. When she had finally slowed to a halt, she didn't recognize the ocean around her. The water was colder and the coral reefs had disappeared. A heavy stillness and silence pressed about her. She allowed herself to drift down to the bottom, her gentle landing stirring up clouds of silt. She was completely alone now. This part of the ocean was largely devoid of sea life; any way she turned, she saw no movement. It was only her and the swaying kelp that stretched as far as her limited vision could see.

Sniffling quietly, she removed her bracelet and cradled it in both hands. It didn't shine in the hazy water, but the colors remained the same. She stared at it, wishing that the same strong hands that had gifted it to her could appear now to caress her cheek and tell her that everything would be alright.

But they would not. She was all by herself, with no one to count on or turn to. She didn't dare go back home now, where they would surely lock her up on account of keeping her safe. She couldn't go back to his palace either; that would be the first place her family would look for her. Her face crinkled up again in despair, but no tears emerged; she had cried them all out long ago.

What do I do? Where do I go? I'm alone now. And I have the feeling that, no matter where I go, people will discourage me from following my heart. She squeezed the bracelet tight.

I want to see you. Won't you come here, so I can talk to you? I want to hear you explain things in your calm, logical way. I want to hold your hand and feel how strong its grip is around mine. I want you to hold me until I feel better, and this ache goes away.

Her lower lip quivered, and she allowed herself to sink down onto the coarse sand. She curled up, squeezing the bracelet to her chest with both hands. But you won't.

Maybe my feelings are hopeless after all. I have no way to act on them. I can't tell him what I really feel, and my family won't let me be with him. It's all useless. It's all for nothing.

She sensed something moving in the seaweed nearby, and quickly turned. A small pike was poking its head out, watching her puzzledly.

"Oh, excuse me, my lady," the pike said quickly. "I wasn't expecting to see one of you Nereids way out here, especially so late."

"No, it's okay," Dynamene sat up straighter. "I hope I didn't disturb you." She brushed the sand from her cheek.

"Not at all. I was just settling in after a hunt." It swam forward curiously, its immobile little face and dark eyes an almost humorous clash with its sympathetic voice. "Are you alright? You sounded upset."

"I..." Dynamene covered her face in both hands. "I am. It's been a horrible night. I've ran away from home. I got in an argument with my older sister... I don't know where to go from here."

The pike rested against her leg sympathetically. "I'm sorry to hear that. Family quarrels are never fun. Do you want to talk about it? It might not be much, but I can listen."

Dynamene took a deep breath. "I... I've fallen in love with someone that my family doesn't approve of."

"Oh, dear. That's no good."

"No. I want to be with him, but they won't hear me out. They don't like him at all. I don't know what to do. I love him, but it's hopeless. Nothing will come of it." Dynamene wiped at her eyes, despite the fresh tears bubbling away in the water.

The pike was quiet for a moment, flicking its tail in thought. "I might have some advice, if you'd like."

Dynamene looked at it in surprise. "You do?"

"Yes. About thirty miles from here, overlooking the coast on a tall hill, is a temple of Aphrodite. Perhaps she could counsel you."

Dynamene jerked back in surprise. "Aphrodite?! I'd never even considered..."

"She can be temperamental, but it's said that she loves a good love story. She might see fit to help you. You can get there from here by following the north star."

Dynamene mulled this over briefly. Temperamental... I already knew that from gossip over the years. But if there's even the slimmest chance that she can help me, I have to try. She had never spoken to Aphrodite, only seen her from a distance during formal events. Aphrodite was not one to often lift a finger for mortals who asked for her help. But Dynamene was a Nereid, and part of Poseidon's court. Perhaps she would be willing to speak to her. Dynamene's expression began to brighten with hope. "Thank you so much, friend. I truly appreciate it."

"Not at all. I hope your luck improves, Nereid." The pike brushed its face against her hand before returning to its home in the weeds.

Dynamene took a deep breath, her spirits slightly lifted. A door had finally opened for her; she had a spark of hope to embrace now. That spark had lit a new resolve within her, flooding out the dark hopelessness that had weighed her down previously. But it was so late, and she was tired. There was no way she could make the long swim to the temple on her limited energy. She began to walk the ocean floor, the current gently pushing against her body. She just needed to find a good place to rest for a while.

Her approach stirred up a school of silvery blue fish from the weeds, and they scattered in every which way about her. She stopped to watch them swirl about her. Their color was a perfect match for Poseidon's eyes. The ache returned to her chest, and she reached for them, her fingertips brushing against the slick scales.

I wish I could see you right now. Are you asleep at the palace? Or have you returned to the Indian Ocean, seeing to your duties? Even if we're miles apart, the idea of you being awake as well comforts me...

I love you. I want to be yours. I want you to be mine. I want to wake up next to you in the morning and see the sun shining in your fair hair. I want to cling to your arm as we attend events together; you and I, as lovers. I want you to take me all across the ocean, showing me everything you know, everything you see.

If that can happen, then one night alone on this cold seafloor isn't so bad.

A dip in the silt ahead seemed like a reasonable spot to stop. She curled up in it, her body just small enough to fit comfortably. She waved her fingers, and the surrounding seaweed gently bent over her to weave themselves into a delicate shelter. Taking comfort in her new course of action, she quickly faded off into a deep sleep filled with visions of slender lips and strong arms.

---

Hundreds of miles away, Poseidon stood before a towering underwater wall of craggy rock. Focusing his energy, he slowly rose his arm and tightened his hand into a fist. By his will, the rock groaned in an ear-splitting crack before separating. Giant segments of the wall began to fall slowly through the water, narrowly avoiding the sea god. He didn't blink. He knew they wouldn't touch him.

The last of the fault was finally broken up; at least that of it which had been causing the disturbance. Given another year, the grinding of the plates might resume. Even he couldn't stop the movement of the Earth's giant tectonic plates, but he had no desire to. It was simply another cycle of nature. That being said, he also didn't like the idea of the friction leading to disaster. He'd have to have one of the lesser sea gods keep an active eye on it for the time being.

His work finally finished, he leapt from his perch to land on the ocean floor. One task was done; now he had another to focus on.

"Come to me," he spoke. His words were at a casual volume, but they resonated over hundreds of meters, reaching out to the sea life nearby. At once, the animals stopped what they were doing and began to flock towards him, his words an undeniable command. Like a scene from a painting, fish, cetaceans, and crustaceans of every sort formed a colorful crowd about him in the pristine blue waters.

"The largest of you, find me more of these." He held up an opened oyster in his hand, showing them the mother-of-pearl interior. "Only oysters that are this size or larger will do. Quickly."

The sea life scattered, the biggest animals rushing out obediently to find what he'd asked for. Some of the oysters they fetched were broken from being opened by other animals.

"No, not the cracked ones," he told a whale who brought him a large oyster that was nearly trisected. He gently placed his hand on its head. "Only those that are intact. I need them for jewelry."

The whale looked at him with its intelligent dark eyes before hurrying away once more.

Why am I doing this? I promised her a bracelet. I don't need these many oysters.

A necklace and a tainia for her hair will be much more visible. No one will miss them. I'm sure she'll be over the moon with delight. Such a simple girl.

But a bracelet is a rather pathetic gift. So low-brow coming from one of the greatest gods. So easy to miss on such a slender wrist.

A heap of oysters with shining interiors quickly began to pile up next to him. "That's enough," he told his subjects. "Thank you."

He summoned a bag, and as if they'd returned merrily to life, the oysters hopped one by one inside. He fastened the bag and was about to return to the surface when he saw a humpback dolphin steadily approaching from far off in the blue void.

"What is it?" He asked the animal as soon as it came within range. He recognized the intricate golden markings on its back immediately as a sign that it was part of the court of the Nereids' family. "My day is busy enough as it is."

"I apologize for... interrupting you, sire," the dolphin began apologetically. It was completely out of breath, as if it had raced the entire way here. Poseidon's brow furrowed. If the dolphin was arriving just now in the morning, it had to have left its palace in the dead of night.

"You're nearly incomprehensible. Surface first, then tell me."

"Lord Poseidon, it's an emergency. The Nereid Dynamene has run away overnight."

Poseidon froze. His jaw clenched tightly. "...Run away?"

"She had a quarrel with one of her sisters last night, and escaped into the ocean. She hasn't been seen since. Her family is... is worried for her."

Poseidon's lip began to curl. Those idiot Nereids. I allow them to remove her from my palace, and they can't even keep hold of her for one day. Worthless sisters. I should have never let them leave. "Where do they think she might have gone?" He managed to ground out. Cracks began to form in the seafloor beneath his boots.

The dolphin shrank away from him, his anger apparent from the way the water was beginning to simmer about his body. "They haven't any idea, my lord. They wondered if she might have returned to your palace."

"That would be the logical idea." His cool words barely concealed his rage. "Return to them. I will return home and organize a search on my end immediately. If she has returned to the palace, I will send word."

"Yes, my lord." The dolphin quickly swam towards the surface to take a breath before making its return journey.

Poseidon stood there, fuming, as he formed a plan of action. The sea life nearby quickly scattered, not wanting to get caught in his growing wrath. Stupid child. She'll get herself killed. She's far too naïve and weak to traverse the ocean alone. So like a young girl, to let her emotions rule over her. The water around him was boiling now, bubbles hissing in his ears.

Eyes snapping, he waved his arm in a sweep before himself. The water began to roar as it swept quickly all about him. For her sake, she'd better be at the palace.

The turbulent current dispersed, and he was gone.

---

AUGHHH

I listened to On My Own from Les Misérables. The 25th Anniversary Samantha Barks version. That's what I thought of with Dynamene by herself.

Is Poseidon even capable of loving another person? Or is owning someone like an object the closest he gets to affection?

I will be taking a brief hiatus from writing this to refill my writer juice, no longer than 3 weeks. I love this story, but I'm losing energy for writing it. I need to give it some space to regain that emotional drive. I will see you all soon!