#you know your girlie can grab him by the junk right. she can look him in the eye. she can be an active participant in her own sex life

[lelianasbong]

i would read soo much more het if the dynamic didn't always, always, ALWAYS default to Domly McDom Man and an I've-Never-Done-Thiiis-Before 🥺 Ingenue. not even asking for femdom it's just wild to me that that's just the, assumed/desirable/expected romantic dynamic between all men and all women

if a grown man called me good girl i don't know whether i'd laugh at him or punch him in the throat

[supergraphicultramoderngirl]

i ain’t gonna face no defeat

in which alex was a figure skater.

word count: 2,916

some willex, juke if you squint

tw: occasional swearing, period-typical homophobic parents (q word is used as a slur exactly once)

———

“Cut off my circulation even more, why don’t you?” Alex grumbles, grabbing his arm away from his sister.

She rolls her eyes and nudges him as he adjusts the arm band. “Hey, feel lucky you’re even doing this. I don’t think Mom and Dad actually realize what you’re skating to.”

Alex hesitates and sucks on his teeth. “You think they’ll be mad?”

“Oh, they’ll be livid,” she deadpans, then smiles softly. “But they can’t stop you.” She gives him a pat on the shoulder as he leans over to pull on his boot covers. “I’m gonna head to the bleachers. Break a leg!”

Alex calls after her, not looking up, “That’s only for theater and you know it, Mel!”

A few minutes later, he’s called to the boards, and he can’t shake off his damn jitters. He knows he’ll be fine once the music starts, but right now his skate guard won’t come off and he really has to pee all of a sudden and oh my god why is he wearing a tank top when it’s so fucking cold—

Alex steps onto the ice, and the announcer calls his name while he glides into a stretch before taking his beginning pose. He ignores the way his arm, raised in a fist, is shaking while the beginning harmonies start to play, and he skates.

•••

Alex began figure skating when he was six. It was an odd situation, really; he didn’t care about doing it one way or another, and he would’ve been fine with not doing it since his parents would always say it was a girl’s sport. His little sister, Melanie, however, wanted to skate so badly, but with her being the four-year-old she was, she was terrified of doing it alone. Begrudgingly, his parents signed him up for lessons alongside her.

Much to their dismay, he was good. Like, really fucking good. He landed his first single jump after only two years, and his first axel after six. He managed to get height in a way that his coach’s other skaters didn’t; maybe it was the inner pent up anxiety making him bounce like a jumping bean, who knows.

Alex wasn’t just good at jumps, either; he got his Y-spin after four years. He was that kid on the ice who accidentally cut people off with an impeccable spiral. When he practiced his programs, the other kids would move towards the boards to give him room and sneak a glance.

As much as Alex liked the attention from his peers (god, that support system was something else), he couldn’t help but feel disappointed that his parents never sat in on his sessions. They would only ever come to the shows and competitions his sister was a part of; he had to find his own ride to the others (thank god for Bobby's parents, honestly). It had made him angry at first that they didn’t want to be involved, but as he grew older, and learned more about himself, he realized he could use it to his advantage. He could skate to anything he wanted.

Alex was 13 when he chose to skate to Somebody to Love. To anyone else, it was very unassuming, just another kid skating to a popular song at the time, maybe even a tribute, since Freddie himself had passed two months before. It was everything to Alex, though. He pulled out all of the stops; his costume was the whole armband and wifebeater getup, and his coach let him assist in choreographing it.

He didn't know it was his last program.

•••

"Hey, Alex?"

He looks up from his math homework and hums in recognition.

Mel bites her lip and leans against the doorframe before mumbling, "I wanna quit."

Quit? Shit, nonononono— "—nonononono, Mel, you can't quit! If you quit, they're gonna make me quit!"

She closes the door softly behind her and walks slowly up to him. "Alex, the only reason I've been skating for the past year was so you could keep doing it. I'm really sick of skating at this point, and I wanna switch to something else. I'll keep going if you really, really want me to, but—" She sits next to him on his bed, lowering her voice to a whisper, "You saw how they reacted to the recital, 'Lex. You think they might make you quit anyway?"

Alex sighs and squeezes his eyes shut. She's right, he knows she's right. It just fucking sucks.

He tilts his head back. "You can quit," he whispers.

Mel places her hand on his and squeezes, whispering back, "I'm sorry." Alex looks back down at her. "I really with there was something we could do, but there isn't," she continues, recollecting her hand. "At least your last program was a good one."

He gives her a sad chuckle. "Yeah, I guess so. And, I'll have more time to focus on the band. Luke'll be happy about that."

Mel rolls her eyes, takes a breath, and leaves Alex to his own devices with a pitying look.

If she hears him practicing the beat to Somebody to Love in the basement the night she officially quits, she doesn't say anything.

•••

"Julie, what are you doing up there?"

Julie throws a shoe over the wall of the loft and into the evergrowing pile on the floor. "Cleaning out all of your old junk. Which one of you had a magician phase?" she asks, holding up a cheap, ratty top hat and matching plastic wand. "It was Reggie, wasn't it?"

Alex chuckles to himself, poofing up next to Julie. "Why do you think he knew who Caleb was when we met him?"

Julie lets out a loud laugh, continuing her digging. "Are the other guys here?"

"Nah, they're looking for a gig. I just got back from the park," Alex answers.

“Just the park?” Julie asks sarcastically, and before Alex can retort, she adds on, standing up straight, “Hey, whose skates are these?”

She’s holding his old figure skates in her right hand.

The black fabric is a little faded, with the familiar scuffs still on the toe. His dark blue skate guards are all dusty, but the blades still somehow look intact, given there wasn’t much opportunity for water damage in a loft.

Alex scratches the back of his neck, ignoring the rising blush in his cheeks and bracing himself for the inevitable teasing. “Those, uh, those are mine, actually.”

Julie looks up from the boots at him in awe. “Whoa, you skated? That’s so cool!”

Alex drops his hand, mouth open in hesitation. “Really? It’s not... weird to you?”

He can recall a tight grip on his arm, firmer than the band that had been ripped off. "Alex, what made you think it was okay to pull off this kind of stunt? You don't want people thinking you're some kind of queer, do you? Why we've let you continue this is beyond me, it isn’t any good for you.”

“Why would it be weird?” Julie asks, quirking her head to the side in such a Julie way that Alex would’ve laughed if he wasn’t so worried.

He shrugs, shuffling his feet from side to side, and mumbles with a wince, “I don’t know, because I’m a guy and figure skating is like, a girly sport, I guess?”

Julie shakes her head, eyebrows furrowed with a soft smile on her face. “First off, it’s not inherently girly, and second, if it’s something that you enjoyed, then that’s what matters, right?”

“I guess so,” Alex replies, looking down at his sneakers. Is that all that matters, though? He pauses for a moment in debate, then adds on at Julie’s encouraging expression, “My parents made me quit when I was fourteen.” He takes a breath. “They were never that involved in it, though, they actually only let me because my sister did it. I, uh, after I skated to a Queen song in a full Freddie Mercury getup, they weren’t too happy, and made me quit.”

At some point in his spiel, Julie had put her hand on his shoulder, and now she was squeezing it before pulling him into a hug. “Your parents are stupid,” she mumbled into his chest.

Alex chuckles, something emotionless, a bitter taste on the tip of his tongue. “Yeah. They were.”

Julie pulls away with a gasp, a bright smile on her face. “We should all go skating this weekend! The public rink just opened up a couple weeks ago, and I can bring Flynn so it doesn’t look like I’m talking to myself—” she falters, cutting herself off, “I mean, if you’re cool with it. I don’t want you to do anything you’re not comfortable with.”

Alex thinks back to his many (many) practice sessions, and remembers the feeling of finally getting that move right, of flying in the air for that one glorious millisecond, of seeing some of his closest friends every other day. He misses it, of course he misses it. It was his biggest outlet before he focused all of his attention on drumming. But, he can’t help but feel that stupid fucking guilt clawing at his throat, can’t help but imagine oh, so clearly the look of betrayal on his mother’s face the night he came out.

Then again, he had lived the rest of his life out of spite of his parents. Why not keep it going?

“That sounds really fun,” he replies, pulling her back in. “Thank you.”

•••

A world sans Caleb was a new one to Willie. However, it was also a very welcome one, because it was in this world that he was able to just relax with Alex in the studio, enjoying every second they spend together without worrying about the time running out.

Which is why he was (reasonably) surprised when the time ran out.

They throw Alex an impressively offended look as he removed his arm from behind their shoulder. “What?”

“Where do you think you’re going?” Willie scoffed.

Alex chuckles to himself, pressing his lips into a line. "As much as I would love to stay here and cuddle with you—" At that, Willie's face goes bright red, and Alex counts it as a win in his head, "—the band and I are going ice skating when Flynn gets here, which should be in about five minutes."

"Oh," Willie's face brightens as they reply, "sounds fun!"

Alex winces. "Yeah, making sure Luke doesn't accidentally become tangible and run over a seven-year-old while playing human bowling on the ice with Reggie is super fun." Willie laughs something golden in response, and Alex only hesitates for a moment before adding on, "Uh- actually, would you want to come with us?"

Willie grows soft, still getting used to finally being included, but quickly schools his expression before replying, "Yeah, I'd love to! Though, fair warning, I'm kind of only good at the one kind of skating?"

Alex quickly scrunches his nose. "That's fine, I'll help you," he offers, slowly untangling himself from Willie.

Willie isn't sure how much help he's really gonna be, but they figure even an amateur would be better than whatever the fuck kind of Bambi creature he is on the ice, so they nod and pull Alex up by his hand off the couch.

•••

They arrived to the rink a few minutes ago, and while Julie and Flynn are buying their rental skates and Luke, Reggie, and Willie attempt to steal some without being noticed, Alex laces up his own skates by himself on an open bench.

It isn't until after he yanks the last bow that he realizes— putting on those skates should not have been that easy.

Yeah, their clothes are usually easy to put on, and they can summon their instruments any time they want, but touching anything else usually takes an immense amount of focus. Hell, the dahlia pin Julie had bought Luke for his guitar strap took five tries to actually hook on rather than just drop to the ground.

And yet, his skates just— went on? Laced up with no problem? His foot didn't go through the sole even once? He wiggles his toes around inside the boot, and only feels the familiar push of fabric against them.

He decides not to question it, to not think about the implications of his skates possibly being attached to his soul, and tries to avoid yet another afterlife crisis as they walk toward the boards. Or, at least, he walks, while Luke just bolts onto the ice with no hesitation, and Reggie quickly follows. Alex falls back behind Julie and Flynn, who step onto the ice and begin gliding around, and Willie somehow finds their way next to him, grabbing onto his hand. They make it to the door, and Willie lets go with a small nudge to the shoulder. "Alright, hotdog, show me what you've got," he jokes.

Alex lets out a small laugh and steps out onto the ice, a weird feeling of deja-vu settling into his nonexistent bones. Once he gathers his bearings, he glides along before maneuvering closer to the middle of the ice and pulling himself into a scratch spin. It takes him a minute to really center the spin, but with the phantom tingling of blood rushing to the tips of his fingers before he pulls in completely, suddenly it's 1990 and he's doing his Lacrimosa program and he wants to try to land every jump he's ever learned, even though he knows that trying his axel right now is a horrible idea, and—

He's exited the spin now, looking back at the door to see Willie about a foot away from it, gripping the wall with a concerning amount of intensity, an odd combination of fear, shock, and something else (awe, maybe?) coming to rest on their face. He skates back over, and Willie's expression doesn't seem to change. "You—" they swallow, "—you can skate."

Alex slides his feet back and forth, his arms behind his back. "Yeah, I figure skated for eight years, actually. Did, did I not mention that?" he asks, smirking a little, knowing damn well he very much never mentioned that.

Willie closes his eyes, sucks on his teeth, and takes a breath, getting over their minor bluescreen moment. "Help me?"

"In order for me to help you, you need to let go of the boards," Alex responds. Willie looks at the boards, then back at him, eyebrows furrowed. "It'll hurt a lot more falling into two flat surfaces rather than one," Alex reasons, and Willie hesitates before finally letting go.

"There we go," Alex says softly, taking both of Willie's hands in his. He begins to slowly pull them along, not caring about passing through lifers, while Willie's feet slip and slide beneath him. Alex tries his hardest not to laugh, and Willie quips, "I thought I was supposed to be the athletic one."

Alex scoffs, "Who told you that? Are you the one lugging around an entire drumset every weekend?" At Willie's laugh, Alex tacks on, "I didn't think so."

They make a full lap around the rink before Alex lets go, having to prevent Luke and Reggie from pulling on some little girl’s milk boxes to make her go faster, because no, that’s not how physics works, and yes, people will notice, Luke.

After, Willie moves to get off at the boards, and Alex pulls a disappointed pout. Willie just motions toward the ice, saying, "I know you didn't just come here to pull me around the whole time, I wanna see your turns and stuff."

Alex hesitates, "But I don't want to leave you here by yourself—"

He’s cut off by a familiar harmony playing in the background, and Luke and Reggie poof by his side in an instant. Alex barely has any time to register it before Reggie is putting a hand on his shoulder and Luke is asking if he’s okay.

And Alex doesn’t know how to answer that right away, if he’s being honest. At first, he thinks he might not be, because all he remembers is scolding, leaving, hiding, but he reminds himself it’s 2020 and he’s a ghost; that his parents are as involved in what was left of his life now as they were when he came out— not at all. The feeling of freedom starts to envelope him; the same freedom as when he danced with Dirty Candy at Eat ‘n’ Beats, the same freedom as when he played the drums at the Orpheum, and the same freedom he had before his last recital. He takes a deep breath.

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m okay,” Alex replies, trying to hide his newfound itching to just get back out there.

Reggie drops his hand from his shoulder with a smile; meanwhile, Luke catches notice of Julie and Flynn starting a mini snow fight, to which he immediately races over and shouts, “I want in!” Reggie just shrugs and poofs over. Whether to stop him or join, the world may never know.

Alex rolls his eyes at his friends’ antics and looks back over at Willie, anxious energy seemingly radiating off of him— except, not as it usually does; now it was more excitement than anything else.

“Go show off, Alex,” Willie says, shooting him away with a smile.

Alex unsuccessfully tries to suppress the overwhelming giddy feeling that rises in his chest, and he skates. Again.

Finally.

[atlafan]

Office Neighbors - Part Six

a/n: here we are, and it certainly won’t be over after this! didn’t have time to proof read sorry, hope you enjoy! (reblogs and feedback are super helpful!)

warnings: fluff, smut, minor character death

words: 15K

masterpost

The semester was in full swing, and you were counting down the days until Thanksgiving break. It was time you could dedicate to grading, and your brother always cooked this gourmet meal for your family, so all in all, you were just ready to for the little time away. You just needed to get through another two weeks.

It was also time off for Harry. Andy always spent his Thanksgiving break with Paige since Harry got him for Christmas in London. Typically, you ate at Harry’s house for dinner twice a week, and then when Andy was at Paige’s for a weekend, Harry would either sleep at your place, or you would sleep at his. Sometimes you would go to the library together to work. He really helped you find a work-life balance. Now, Harry usually went to Lisa’s for Thanksgiving, but he wasn’t sure if those plans were set to change. He was sort of hoping to go to Boston with you, but he didn’t want to invite himself.

“I think you should just ask her.” Andy says as he helps Harry set the table.

“I don’t want to impose, it’s rude.”

“But you’re her boyfriend, she should want you to spend Thanksgiving with her.”

“It’s a bit more complicated than that.”

“You say that all the time.” He rolls his eyes.

“It is! It’s not just her and I having dinner, I’d be meeting her whole family, that’s a big deal.”

“Why?”

“Because…well…it’s one thing for her to like me, but I’d want her family to like me too.”

“Dad, literally who has ever met you ever likes you. Even Noah’s parents like you.”

“Thanks.” Harry chuckles. The doorbell rings and he smiles. “Go open that for her, will you?”

Andy races over to the door, and opens it for you.

“Hi, Y/N.” He smiles.

“Hi, Andy, how was school?” You smile as you come in and kick your boots off. “Getting cold out there.” You shiver as you take your jacket off.

“School was good.” He shrugs. “My health class just started and it’s really awkward.”

“Oh, I bet.” You walk in with him and the dessert your brought. “I brought cookies, couldn’t help myself.” You say to Harry, kissing his cheek.

“Thank you.” He smiles and takes it to put on the counter. “We’re having chili tonight, thought it would be nice for a cold evening.”

“Definitely, it smells amazing.”

Everyone makes a bowl, and adds what they want. After chatting about something funny one of Harry’s students says, Andy jumps into the conversation.

“Man, I cannot wait for Thanksgiving break. I know it’s only a few days, but I can’t wait.”

Harry slowly turns his head to look at his son, knowing exactly what he was doing.

“Yeah? You go to your mom’s right?” You say.

“Mhm, my grandparents and aunt come, and so does Noah’s family. It’s actually pretty fun. My mum and aunt cook everything together. What do you usually do for Thanksgiving, Y/N?”

“Well, when I was growing up we always hosted at my parent’s house, but my brother tends to host now since he’s the one that does that cooking.”

“He’s a chef, right?”

“A sous chef, but yeah.” You smile. “Although, he doesn’t cook everything. I tend to make the more Jewish dishes, and then he makes the more traditional Thanksgiving things.”

“Noah’s mum makes a brisket, do you guys have that too?”

“Mhm! My brother makes it, although I don’t eat it anymore.” You shrug and take another bite of the chili.

“Dad goes to Auntie Lisa’s.”

“Oh, you do?”

“Yeah…”

“That must be so much fun! Her husband is such a good cook. At the last game night there he made this spinach puff things, and I think I ate the whole tray.” You laugh.

“It’s usually a good time, yeah.”

“I’m surprised you don’t do Thanksgiving at Paige’s.”

“Nah, we tend to keep holidays separate. Her family doesn’t really understand the co-parenting.”

“Gram and Gramp are kind of snooty.” Andy says. “I love them, but I usually cap the convo at five minutes, and then I find an excuse to walk away.”

You burst out laughing and so does Harry, and Andy ends up laughing too. After dinner, and the cookies, Andy goes off to start his homework, which leaves you and Harry to clean up in the kitchen.

“He’s a lot like you, you know? He’s very smooth.”

“What do you mean?”

“Bringing up what we all do for Thanksgiving, almost seemed like he was hinting at something.” You smirk. “It’s cute you talk to him about me, honestly.”

“What…I wasn’t-“

“Did you really think I wasn’t going to invite you?”

“I…well, it’s a couple of weeks away and you haven’t mentioned it, so I just figured you weren’t ready for me to meet your family.” He runs a hand through his hair.

“I was going to run it by you tomorrow…I took me a minute to work up the courage to tell my family I was going to invite you, I’m sorry.”

“No! It’s okay, so, you want me to come?”

“I do, would you?”

“Yes.” He puts his hands on your hips and kisses you. “I’d love to.”

“Great!” You wrap your arms around his neck. “I was thinking we could drive down Thursday, and then spend the night at a hotel in the city, and then Friday we could, like, do a ton of touristy Boston things before driving back up.”

“That sounds amazing. Um, let me pay for the hotel though.”

“Oh, please.” You scoff.  

“Come on, it’s gonna be really expensive because of the holiday.”

“Julian, Phil’s partner, manages a hotel in the city, he said he could cut me a deal. It’s really no problem.”

“Oh…well, alright then.” He smiles. “I’m excited.”

“Me too.”

“Do you think they’ll like me?”

“I think so, yeah, but I have to warn you…when I first told you about them they had a lot of concern that I was getting involved with someone who has a kid, so they may ask a lot of personal questions. I told them not to, but they tend not to listen to me.”

“Guess it sort of comes with the territory. Nothing I can’t handle.”

You kiss goodbye before you leave, and Harry nearly squeals. He goes down to Andy’s room.

“Guess who got invited to Thanksgiving?”

“Are you serious?!” Andy stands up and gives Harry a high five. “That’s great! You should bake a pumpkin pie, you make the best pumpkin pie.”

“I do, don’t I?” He smirks. “I’ll ask her what I can bring. We’re gonna be going over night together, wow.”

“Is it that big of a deal? You have sleepovers all the time.”

“Andy…”

“I’m not stupid, Dad, she leaves…girly things here.”

“Okay, so we have sleepovers a lot, but going away with someone overnight is, like, next level.”

“You went camping together before you were even together, and then you went to that conference.”

“We didn’t share a room at the conference. It’s…it’s just different, okay? A good different. It’s gonna be great.”

“How come she doesn’t stay over when I’m here?”

“We haven’t really been together long enough for that. I don’t think she really feels comfortable just yet.”

“Why? You’re just sleeping.”

“Right…”

Andy gives Harry a weird look, and then his eyes widen.

“Oh, Jesus, Dad, don’t be gross!”

“I didn’t say anything!”

“You’re so annoying, get out!”

Harry puts his hands up in defense and walks away. He really didn’t mean anything by his response, but Andy was smart, and sex was still an awkward topic. He wouldn’t even watch a movie with Harry now if there was a kissing scene in it. Things were okay with Brandon, and that was all Harry cared about. He was sort of hoping health class would help.

//

Andy had a half day at school on Wednesday, so Harry had to pick him up and bring him back to the university. When he was picking him up he noticed him saying goodbye to Brandon. They were hugging…for a while.

“See you Monday, have fun at your mom’s.” Brandon smiles as he lets go of Andy.

“Thanks, have a good time in Connecticut.”

“Text me if you need me…I know it’s a lot for you over there for so long.”

“I will, I’ll probably need to call you Thursday night.”

“Works for me, it’ll give me an excuse to get away from cousins. I really don’t feel like staying up to play Barbie’s with them.” He rolls his eyes.

“You’re the best.” He looks over and sees Harry’s car. “My dad’s here…bye.”

“Bye.”

They hug one more time and then Andy walks over to Harry’s car, getting in the back seat.

“Hey, how was the half day.”

“Good.” Andy shrugs. “We just ate food and watched a movie.”

“Are you still hungry? I brought some extra snacks to my office this morning.”

“Yeah, I’m hungry. Did you bring anything good?”

“Cheese sticks and grapes.”

“Guess that’s fine.”

“You’re gonna eat a lot of junk this weekend, couldn’t letcha eat a bad snack with me before Mum comes to get you.”

When Harry gets back to his office with Andy, he sees you laughing with Andre. Now, Harry knew he had nothing to worry about with Andre, but he was definitely curious to see what was so funny.

“Hi, Y/N!” Andy says, hugging you.

“Oh! Hi, Andy.” You smile and hug him back.

“What’s so funny?” Harry asks coolly.

“Oh, Y/N was just pointing out how students just skip class all week to beat the traffic, but we don’t have that luxury.”

“I mean, I know all classes after three are cancelled, so we can sort of leave early, but come on. At least let me know you’re not gonna be there.” You say. “Whatever, just need to teach one more class.”

“Can I go?” Andy asks.

“Andy…Y/N’s teaching a class about rhetoric, it’s a little high level for you.”

“I don’t have any homework or anything to do, and I don’t feel like just sitting around.”

“He can come if he wants.” You shrug. “Gotta go now though.”

“Okay!” Andy runs into Harry’s office to grab his snack and then joins you.

“He really likes her, huh?” Andre says to Harry.

“Yeah, he does.”

//

What you were talking about in class was way over Andy’s head, but what he did understand was when you put an episode of The Office. You wanted to show different persuasion tactics used while making a sale, and you thought it would be relatable for the students. Andy thought you were the coolest person in the world for showing it.

“Alright, I hope you all have a great few days off, I’ll see you Monday.” You say at the end of class. Andy gets up from the back of the class and comes towards you. “So, what did you think?”

“I liked the part where you put on The Office.” He giggles.

“I thought so.”

“I didn’t understand a word you said, but I sort of got some of it when you put the show on. It’s sort of cool how, like, a sow you could watch just for fun could have a deeper meaning.”

“It’s very cool.” You smile and walk with him back down to Harry’s office.

You stop short when you see Paige sitting on the edge of his desk.

“Mum?”

“Hi, honey! I came to surprise you. I had a half day today too.” She smiles and hugs him. “Hi, Y/N.”

“Hi, how are you?”

“I’m good, thanks. Dad already helped me put your things in my car, so we’re good to go.”

“Oh…alright.” Andy gives Harry a hug goodbye. “Have in Boston.”

“Thanks, buddy.” Harry stands up and puts his hands in his pockets.

“Boston?” Paige raises an eyebrow with a smile.

“He’s coming home with me.” You say.

“That’s great! Well, safe travels.”

“Bye, Y/N.” Andy hugs you and out the door they go.

“Did you know she was coming here to get him?”

“No, she texted me, like, two seconds after you went to class, sorry.”

“No, it’s fine, I just wasn’t expecting to see her.”

“You know, she mentioned a while back that she’d like to get together with you sometime…I think it might be a good idea for you to get to know her better.”

“Harry, no offense, but I don’t need to be best friends with your ex.”

“I’m not asking you to be, but you’re in Andy’s life, she wants to get to know you better.”

“Just a one on one thing?”

“Yeah.”

“I’ll think about it.” You say and leave his office. He follows you into yours and you sigh.

“Do you have a problem with Paige?”

“No, of course not. I just don’t feel super comfortable getting together with her so she can grill me.”

“That’s not why she wants to meet up with you.”

“So, it wouldn’t be a couple of hours of her asking me a bunch of questions?”

“Well, you’d ask her questions too. I did the same with Noah, and I get along great with him.”

“I get along just fine with her.”

“You’ve been around her, like, four times.”

“And it’s been great every time, why rock the boat?” You shrug.

“Y/N…she’s the mother of my kid, she’s not going anywhere, and it would mean a lot to me if you got to know her better, alright?”

“Alright…maybe once the semester is over she and I could get together for lunch or something.”

He smiles at you and kisses your cheek.

“You’re the best.”

“Someone has to be.” You sigh and it makes him laugh. “Did you want to just stay at my place tonight so we can leave from there tomorrow?”

“Yeah, sounds good. What time do you want me over?”

“Seven?”

“I’ll be there.”

//

Harry: what should I pack for clothes, how fancy is dinner?

You: I’ll just be in jeans a blouse, wear what makes you comfortable

You thought it was sweet that Harry was a little nervous to meet your family. They weren’t scary people, but you were the baby, and you knew that came with a lot of questions. Harry comes over a little after seven in some joggers and a long sleeve shirt, and a couple of bags.

“Mm, smells good in here.” He says, kissing your cheek.

“I just finished baking what I need to bring.”

“I made a pumpkin pie to bring, could I stick it in the fridge?”

“That’s so sweet! Of course, go right ahead.”

You take his bags and bring them into your disaster of a room. You hadn’t been very good at putting your laundry away once it was folded, nor were you good about getting your dirty laundry in the hamper. You sigh and start running around to tidy it up.

“I thought you did chores once a week?” Harry chuckles as he stands in the doorway.

“I…haven’t been making much time for it with all the work I need to do. And then I come in here and it’s just too overwhelming. Everywhere else is fine though.”

“You know, having a messy room can cause just as much anxiety before you go to bed because you get reminded of the stress-“

“Har?”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t need a lecture from you on my messy bedroom, okay?”

“Wasn’t giving you one.” He raises his hands in defense. “Don’t feel like you need to clean it just because I’m here either.”

“No, I don’t wanna come back to a mess, just…go watch TV until I’m done in here, it’s mostly just laundry.”

“I can help if you want.” You make a face at him. “What? I could throw a load in for you, or help you put things away.”

“You can help by just giving me a minute. I’ve been trying to reconfigure things, I may buy a larger dresser soon.”

“Why? You could just go through get rid of what you don’t need. Perfect time of year to do it.”

“I did that already…” You bite your bottom lip. “I was thinking…well…you come over a lot, and I’ve been trying to clean out a couple of drawers for you so you could just leave some weekend clothes here if you wanted.”

“R-really?” He looks at you like a wide eyed puppy.

“Yeah, we’ve been together five months, I think it makes sense to give you a drawer, I even made room in my bathroom for you, come look.” You tug him into the bathroom “I put up this rack so you could leave some shaving stuff or whatever you usually bring. If you’re comfortable with it.”

“You won’t mind my stuff crowding you?”

“No, if anything it’ll be like you’re here when you’re not here.” You say quietly and look at him. “I leave things at your place, I want you to leave things here.”

Harry tilts your chin up to look at him and he kisses you. He never had a relationship like this before. Well, he sort of did this with Paige, but it was different. He thought it was so sweet that you wanted these pieces of him around, and he knows he should do the same for you.

“Next time you’re at my place, there will be a drawer and some closet space for you.” He smiles. “I’ll go watch some TV while you do your thing.”

“Thanks.”

Around forty-five minutes later you plop down onto the couch next to Harry, and sigh. He throws an arm around you and kisses your temple.

“What are you watching?”

“SNL’s Thanksgiving clip show.”

“Oh fun!”

“What time do we need to be on the road tomorrow?”

“Not terribly early. Today’s the big travel day, I didn’t hit any traffic last year. We can leave around eleven.”

“Amazing. I don’t mind getting up early, but it’s nice to not have to sleep in on our days off.”

“I agree.”

You both shift so you can lay on top of him. He rubs your back, and you both giggle over the funny sketches. You pull a blanket over the two of you, and just get really cozy.

“I’m excited to be going overnight with you in the city. Where are we going Friday?”

“I thought we could take the T to Faneuil Hall and do some shopping, and then we could go to the North End for food.”

“Sounds good to me. Is there anything specific I need to know about your family before I meet them?”

“Not really…my parents can be sort of abrasive, but they mean well. Phil and Julian are pretty chill.”

“How long have they been together for?”

“God, like…six years I think.”

“That’s nice.”

“They’re a great couple. I think everyone will like you, Harry, nothing to worry about.” You lean up and kiss his forehead.

He cups your cheeks and pulls you closer to kiss your lips. You skootch up his body, and his hands slide down to your ass. You bite down on his bottom lip briefly before pulling away.

“Can we be lame and just go get really cozy in bed?” You say.

“Not lame at all, I’m pretty tired from all the grading I did this afternoon.”

You get off him and you both do your nightly routines before getting into bed.

“Y/N?”

“Yeah?”

“Why is your bed so warm already?”

“Oh! I turned my heated blanket on before I came out to watch TV with you. Nice and toasty, right?”

“Very.” He chuckles. “Now turn over so I can have that booty.”

“Harry.” You laugh, but do as he says, and adjust right into him. His leg goes right over your hip like always, and he holds you nice and close.

“I’m so glad you like sleeping like this, I don’t know what I’d do.” He chuckles into the back of your head.

“I know, could you imagine if I wasn’t to feel crushed while I’m sleeping?”

“Y/N.” He laughs.

“For real, I sleep so well with you.”

“Me too.” He nuzzles in closer. “Maybe when I get back from London you could try sleeping over on school nights.” You turn over to face him immediately.

“Are you serious?”

“Yeah…wouldn’t be so weird, would it?”

“How would Andy feel about it?”

“He asks all the time why you don’t just spend the night when you have dinner with us. We could try it out and see how it goes.”

“With you in London for a few weeks, what does he do for school?”

“Oh, Paige just drives him back and forth.”

“That’s not annoying?”

“She really doesn’t mind it, it’s just extra time to spend together. It’s only two weeks for him to deal with it.”

“I could…help with rides if need be…or if he misses the house at all I could always stay over there with him.”

“Oh, so you’ll have sleepover with him without me?”

“I’m just saying, I can be helpful.”

“I appreciate that.” He kisses you. “So, will you try sleeping over some night when I get back?”

“Yeah, as long as he’s okay with it, we can give it a try. I wouldn’t mind carpooling.”

You kiss again, and you turn back over so he can spoon you. Five months together, and things were going so well.

//

The next morning your alarm goes off at 8:30. You turn it off quickly, and when you try to get up Harry clings to you tighter.

“Harry.” You giggle. “I need to shower.”

“But you’re so cozy.” He groans.

“You know how long it takes me to blow dry and curl my hair, please let me get up.”

“Alright.” He sighs. “But I’m going in there with you.”

“Oh, you are?” You raise an eyebrow at him.

“Mhm, gonna fuck you in there.” He grins at you. “If you want.”

“Hmmm.” You pretend to mull it over, but you grin back at him and nod.

Now, typically, you wouldn’t just let a guy stick it in, and trust his pullout game, but condoms in the shower never felt good, so you and Harry may have agreed that shower sex was the one time he didn’t need a condom. The first time you did it like this, not too long ago, you nearly cried from how good it felt it really feel him inside you.

“Oh, fuck, right there, Harry!” You moan out as he thrusts into you from behind, his skin slapping against yours. You reach back to squeeze at his arm as you come undone, and he pulls out shortly after to come on your ass. You both sigh with relief.

“Feel like horny teenager with you sometimes.” He chuckles as he starts to lather up his body.

“Me too.” You start washing your hair.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“I know you said you got off the pill because it didn’t make you feel good, but…are there other birth controls out there that don’t fuck with you?”

“Yeah, they’re called condoms.” You say as you put some conditioner in.

“Y/N.” He rolls his eyes and steps into the water once you’re done rinsing your hair.

“I mean…I know there’s an IUD that doesn’t mess with your hormones, but the procedure is a tad invasive, and it probably wouldn’t even be in there that long.”

“Why’s that?” He scrubs his own head so he doesn’t see your face flush.

“I just mean, like, I don’t know, what’s wrong with what we’re doing?”

“Nothing…I guess selfishly it would be nice to do it like this all the time, and not have to worry.” He looks at you. “You done?” He asks as he reaches to turn the water off.

“Yeah.” You pull the curtain and get toweled up, and hand him his. “I get where you’re coming from with that…I just…selfishly I don’t wanna compromise on it. If you’re worried about pulling out, then we don’t need to fuck in the shower like this. We can just go back to what we were before.”

“But I like fucking you in the shower like this.” He pouts and puts his hands on your hips. “You won’t even think about going on something?”

“I’m sorry, Harry…I don’t want to.”

“Alright.” He sighs. “I get it, I suppose. Condoms it is.” He kisses your forehead and leaves you to do your hair.

When you finish with your hair, you don’t see Harry in your bedroom. You go into the kitchen and see him fully dressed, getting some peanut butter on toast.

“Here, a light breakfast.” He smiles.

“Thank you.” You kiss his cheek, and take a bite of the toast. “You look handsome.” You smile at him and he smiles back.

“I’m gonna go call Andy while you’re finishing up. Do you mind if I use your office?”

“Not at all! Go right ahead.”

You finish up the toast and then go back into your room to finish getting ready. You put on a pair of black jeans, and a blue long sleeve blouse, and then go into the bathroom to put a little makeup on.

“Y/N?” Harry pops his head into the bathroom.

“Yeah?” You giggle.

“Andy wants to wish you a happy Thanksgiving.”

“Oh!” You reach out for the phone. “Hello?”

“Hi, Y/N!”

“Hi, Andy, happy turkey day.” You smile.

“You too! You and Dad are going to Boston for a couple of days, huh?”

“That’s right! Want us to bring you back anything special?”

“That depends…where are you going?”

“We’re going to be where a ton of Italian restaurants are, which means Italian bakeries. Would you like a fresh cannoli brought back to you?”

“I think I’d like you forever if you did that.” He laughs and so do you.

“Then I think that can be arranged.”

“Okay! Sorry, Mum wants to talk to Dad…”

“Oh! That’s fine, it was nice talking to you.” You hand the phone back to Harry. He was smiling ear to ear.

“Hey, yeah, he is polite isn’t he?” Harry chuckles and steps out of the bathroom. When you come out to the living room he’s sitting on the couch reading.

“All set?”

“Yeah, was just waiting for you. You’re good to go?”

“Mhm, would you carry the food down to the car for me?” You say, putting your jacket on.

“Yup, I’ll grab our bags too.”

“Thank you.” You give him a quick kiss and out the door you go.

You didn’t have an automatic start on your car and you wanted to warm it up a bit. Harry brings everything down to the car, and off you go towards the highway. He keeps a hand on your thigh as his other hand’s fingers drum along to whatever music you’ve put on. You liked that even when you were the one driving he still had a hand on you.

“I can drive us back tomorrow if you’d like.” He speaks up.

“That’s okay, it’s really not that long of a drive. Hour and twenty, max.”

“Takes me two hours to get to Boston…”

“You, my darling, drive like a grandma, that’s why.” You smirk.

“I do not!” He laughs. “I’m careful.”

“You don’t go over seventy…”

“That’s the speed limit! And you know as well as I do the state police up here pull everyone over.”

“You know what’s funny? I got pulled over before I got my NH plates, now I never get pulled over. I do eighty on the highway up here, and that’s perfect.”

“It’s too fast.”

“No, going ninety would be too fast. Just wait until we’re really driving in the city, you’ll be amazed at my swiftness.”

“You mean at your aggressiveness.”

“It’s called being a defensive driver. Maybe when Andy gets older I should be the one to teach him how to drive, or else we’ll have two grannies on our hands.” You throw him a cheeky grin and he just rolls his eyes at you.

“He’s never going driving with you unless I’m there too.”

Harry would never admit it, but he really liked it when you’d drop little hints that you were in this for the long haul. It would be years until Andy would be able to get his permit, and yet, here you are, thinking ahead about it. It was something you did once in a while, even this morning, Harry picked up on it when you mentioned how pointless an IUD would be. It was too soon to talk about kids and stuff, but he knew that was where your head was at, and it made him feel really good.

“You teach him how to park a car, you’re way better at that. I’m such a nervous parker.” You laugh. “One time I had to drive my boss to a conference we were both going to, and I had to park in a garage, and you know how narrow those spots can be. I told him I was nervous at parking, and he covered his eyes so I could park the car. He was such a sweet man, had kids my age at the time.”

“Would you like for me to do that from now on? Cover my eyes so you can park your car?” He chuckles.

“I wouldn’t hate it.”

“Why do you get so nervous?”

“I have my dad to thank for that. He’d watch me back out of the driveway just to make sure I didn’t run over the grass, it was so annoying.”

“Ah, a very dad thing to do. Grass is really important to us, you know? If you’ve got a shitty lawn it reflects poorly on you.” He smirks.

“Oh, shut up.” You roll your eyes. “You both can bond about going to Lowe’s on the weekends and looking at planks of wood.”

Harry bursts out laughing because that is definitely something he’s done before.

“I don’t just look at planks of wood, I also often go and look at the different types of mulch.”

“Do you ever bring a tape measure with you?”

“Keep one in my trunk, actually. Never know when you’ll need to take measurements for something.”

“Jesus.” You laugh and shake your head. “When you become a dad is there like an initiation ceremony where you get a bunch of that stuff?”

“Oh, sure, but it’s top secret. I’ve said too much already.”

You giggle at him. You were happy long car rides were never awkward with Harry. You could joke around, and then also sit in a comfortable silence. Today was going to be a good day.

//

Phil lived in a really nice condominium in the newly renovated areas of Southie. Harry was impressed that a sous chef could afford such a nice neighborhood.

“It’s kind of sad because this used to be where more of the affordable housing was, and then it got really gentrified. In their spare time, Phil and Julian try to help out and volunteer their time to help the people that got pushed out.”

“Wow, good for them.”

Harry helps carry the food as you key into the building, and lead him towards the elevator. You knock on the door before going in.

“Hello!” You say brightly as you both walk in.

“Hey!” Julian says, giving you a hug and kiss. “Come on in, Phil’s just basting the turkey. Hello.” He smiles at Harry.

“Hi, nice to meet you.” They shake hands, and Julian takes the food from him.

“Oh! A pumpkin pie, just what we needed, thank you.”

“No problem.” Harry smiles. You hook your arm around his waist as you walk further into the home.

“Hey!” Phil says coming over to the two of you. He gives you a hug and shakes Harry’s hand.

“This is Harry.” You say.

“Nice to meet you, man. Heard a lot of good things.” Phil smiles.

“Nice to meet you too. This is a great place.”

“Thanks! Been here for, like, what…three years?” He asks Julian.

“Yup! Almost three and a half. Got for a steal at the time.”

“Are Mum and Dad here?” You ask.

“Yeah, in the living room. Go and get comfortable, everything’s still cooking. They’re watching the parade.”

You nod and lead Harry into the living room.

“Mum, Dad, we’re here.” You say and they both get up to say hello. “Harry, this is my mum, Rebecca, and my dad, Richard.”

“Hi, it’s nice to meet you both.” He shakes both of their hands.

“Finally!” Your mom nearly squeals and throws her arms around Harry, and gives him a nice, wet kiss on the cheek. “It’s so good to meet you, Harry. We were starting to think you were made up!”

“Mum…I’ve shown you pictures.”

“You’re awfully good at that photoshop nonsense, could have just been edited.” She scoffs. “You’re very handsome.”

“Um…thank you.” His cheeks were incredibly red.

“Where’s your son today?” Your dad asks and you want to smack him for diving right in.

“Oh, he’s with his mum and her family today. She’s not from the U.K. like I am, so she actually celebrates Thanksgiving, I just observe.” He jokes, but it doesn’t land, so he clears his throat. “It’s just part of our custody agreement, I get him for Christmas.”

Your parents share a look, and then both smile at Harry.

“Your brother put out some munchies until dinner’s ready.” Your mom says. “Come, sit, I know the drive was long.”

“It wasn’t too bad, not much traffic to complain about.” You say as you stick a carrot into some dip. “Can I get you a drink, Har? Phil’s got beer and wine.”

“Just a beer would be great, thank you.”

You smile and go into the kitchen. He almost wishes he followed you because your parents stay looking at him. He was wearing a nice button up, so his tattoos weren’t overly exposed, so it couldn’t be that.

“So, how old is your son?” Your mom asks.

“Eleven, he’ll be twelve in May. His name is Andy.”

“Is it short for Andrew, or is it just Andy?” Your dad asks.

“It’s short for Andrew.” Harry smiled. “Andrew Jacob Styles.”

“What a lovely name.” You mom smiles. “Is he named after anyone?”

“Um, Jacob is a family name on his mum’s side, and Andrew was just a name with both really liked.” He shrugs. “Nothing more to it than that.”

“You’re still close with her, his mum…” Your dad notes.

“Sort of. We do the co-parenting to the best of our ability. Living close by helps with that.”

“I think it’s nice you can get along so well. We have some friends who have divorced, and they can’t stand each other. I feel terrible for the kids, they get caught in the middle, unfortunately.”

“Well, my ex and I were never ma-“

“Here were are.” You say, handing Harry a beer, a glass of red in your other hand. “How’s the parade?” You ask sitting down next to Harry.

“Y/N, you interrupted our conversation.” Your dad says. “Harry was just explaining to us how his co-parenting works.”

“Dad…I don’t think Harry really wants to talk about that right now, okay?”

“It’s alright.” Harry says. “I know it must be a tad odd for your daughter to be dating someone with so much baggage, I get it.” He takes a sip of his beer. “I was young, accidents happen, but I wouldn’t change a thing.” He puts his arm around you and sits a little more comfortably.

“Well, we hope to meet little Andy at some point.” Your mom says. “Maybe this summer we can come up for a little visit, Y/N.”

“Yeah, maybe.” You smile and lean into Harry. “He’s so sweet, and funny. He’s a really talented painter too. He’s decorated some things in my office for me.”

“Wow, that’s a big deal. You wouldn’t even let me help decorate.” Your mom chuckles.

“Because your taste is terrible, Mum, no offense.” You grimace.

“She’s right, Becky.” Your dad laughs.

“Oh, what do you two know?” She stands up. “I’m going to see if Phil needs help.”

You and your dad laugh a little.

“Good, now I can switch it to football. I actually don’t give a fuck about the parade.” Richard says. “Pardon my French.”

“No worries.” Harry says. “I don’t give a fuck either.” He grins and it makes your dad laugh.

Okay, despite the bit of awkwardness at the beginning, this was actually going pretty well. You knew your parents had their reservations with Harry, but they didn’t seem too put off. After an hour or so of watching football, everyone is called to the dining area for dinner. The spread looked incredible, your brother outdid himself. He and Julian sit at the heads of the table, and then you and Harry sit across from your parents.

“Before we dig in, I just want to say how thankful I am that we could all be together today.” Phil says. “This is the first year I didn’t have to work, so we were able to do this at a normal hour like other families. It’s nice having to wait until nearly eight o’clock.” He smiles. “Two is much better. Enjoy!”

Everyone hums in agreement, and take what they want. Phil made plenty of veggies and other meatless options for you and Harry.

“Harry, how long have you been a professor for?” Julian asks once everyone has what they want.

“Um, like, ten years I’d say. I taught while I was getting my master’s, so I count that. Got my PhD a little over four years ago, though.”

“Very cool, and did you know you always wanted to be a teacher or…?”

“Honestly, no.” He chuckles. “But I really liked what I was studying and researching, and I knew I wanted to keep doing that, and so when I was getting my master’s and became a TA, I fell in love with teaching. I don’t think I could do it at a K-12 level, but I really like teaching at a collegiate level.”

“That’s exactly what Y/N always says.” Phil says.

“It’s true! I don’t think I could teach young kids, but I really like the college kids. Especially the upperclassmen, they’re a tad more mature.”

“Harry, how did you end up over here in the states?” Your mom asks.

“Ah, well, I was looking to study abroad. I went to a school in London my freshman year, and I liked it, but I really wanted to branch out, so I ended up in New York for school. I loved it.”

“And…now you live in New Hampshire?” Your dad asks.

“Yeah, so, when I was looking for master’s programs I was looking for schools in that area because, um, my ex’s grandparents lived in the lakes region, and we needed a bit of help. Her parents live in Connecticut, and there weren’t any schools I wanted to go to out there, so I ended up at UNH for that. The drive to Manchester every day wasn’t fun, but it made things easier to have her family closer by. It was a decent compromise. I almost moved to that area full time, but her grandparents passed away, and she had to take their home over, so I ended up at our university for my doctoral program so I could stay close to my son.” He takes a sip of his drink. “I fell in love with area. I got into hiking and some of the other outdoorsy stuff there is to do. It’s home now.”

“And your family, they’re in the U.K.?” Phil asks.

“Yeah, my mum and sister both live in London. Mum’s retired and lives with my sister. She’s married with a couple of kids, so she may as well be a live in nanny.” He chuckles. “I bring Andy home to see them for Christmas, and sometimes they come to visit in the summer.”

“So, do you have dual citizenship or just a work visa?” Julian asks.

“He wouldn’t need that since he married a U.S. citizen.” Your dad says.

“See, I was trying to explain earlier, we never got married.” Harry explains. “Um…so, yeah, I have dual citizenship. I was here on a school visa for a bit, and then I got the work visa, but I knew I was stayed so I went through the citizenship process. It was a real bitch, I have to say.”

The table laughs and agrees. The conversation turns to politics, only briefly, and then goes back to light chatter. Once dessert is out and eaten, everyone is stuffed. You and Harry help clean up, and then your parents leave shortly after. Everyone feels like they can take a deep breath now.

“So you two are staying at Julian’s hotel, yeah?” Phil asks.

“Yup, why?” You raise an eyebrow.

“How about we meet you guys in the city, and we go to that bar we all like?”

“That sounds great! Meet us there around eight?”

“Works for me.”

“That work for you?” You ask Harry.

“Yeah, sounds like fun.” He smiles.

//

Once you’re checking into the hotel, you head to the elevator, and go up to your room. Harry notes how nice the hotel is, and you agree. Julian was a really good manager, and did well to make sure that the place ran smoothly. You key into the room, and you both plop down on the bed with a big sigh.

“I’m stuffed.” Harry says with a slight chuckle.

“Same here.” You look over to your bag and tug it towards you, rummaging through it and pulling out a small purple bottle. “Um…so…usually we each have two different bathrooms to use when we have sleepovers, or maybe…we don’t tend to use the bathroom in a certain way, but that’ll be different tonight so I brought this.” You show him the small bottle. “So…we can just use the bathroom and not feel embarrassed.”

Harry smirks and takes the small bottle to read it.

“Poo-perize…” He looks at you.

“You just spray it before you go, and it’s like you never went at all.”  

“Ah, well, good thinking. I wouldn’t want you knowing that I took a shit.”

“Harry.” You groan and snatch the bottle from him.

“Are you telling me you’ve never shit at my house in the five months we’ve been together?”

“I…have…just not a lot. I don’t know, I’m not good with other people’s bathrooms. I’m just gonna go stick this in there.”

You get up while he shakes his head and laughs at you. You come back out and lay down next to him on the bed.

“I’m gonna tell you something I told Andy when he was about two years old.” He says to you.

“What’s that?”

“Everybody poops.”

“Gah!” You exasperate. “I know that, obviously, I just don’t want you thinking about me doing it…”

“It’s not like my ear’s gonna be pressed up against the door!” He laughs. “Lighten up.” He pulls you to rest your head on his chest and he kisses you on the top of your head.

“Did you have fun earlier? I hope my parents weren’t too invasive.”

“They were fine, I totally understood why they were asking what they were asking. I know it’s odd for someone my age to have a kid in middle school.”

“I just don’t want you to think they were judging. I actually think they really liked you.”

“I’m glad to hear it. It’ll be nice for them to come visit in the summer. Maybe we could all go to the cabin.”

“God, they would love that, babe.” You snuggle further into him.

After resting for a while, and using the bathroom, you both head down to meet Phil and Julian at a bar down the street. You all grab a booth and start a tab for drinks.

“So, this is where you all go when you visit?” Harry asks you once the drinks are on the table.

“Sort of, this is where I come with them.”

“Y/N has probably been to every bar in this city.” Phil laughs.

“You’re gonna make me sound like an alcoholic!” You laugh. “When you go to school in the city, you gotta find the good places to go. All trial and error.”

“You also had a really good fake ID.” Julian smirks. “Remember when we took her out for her twenty-first, and the bartender practically scolded her?” He laughs.

“Oh my god, he was so mad at me.” You take a sip of your drink. “There was this one place I had been sneaking into for years, and I wanted my twenty-first birthday party to be there, and I had been pretty friendly with the bartender, right? So I had him my new ID, and he, oh my god, I thought he was gonna flip his shit.”

“He gave you free shots though, so he couldn’t have been too mad.” Phil winks at you and you just shake your head.

“Yeah.” You roll your eyes.

The reason the bartender had not flipped out, thrown you out was because you promised a very a good blow job in the bathroom on his break. You had delivered, and then he gave you free shots all night, and you ended up going home with him to further explore after said blow job, but you weren’t about to expose yourself to Harry like that. You didn’t want him to think you were immature, even if it was something that happened years ago.

“Must be nice to have grown up in a place where the legal drinking age is eighteen.” Julian says to Harry.

“Yeah, it was pretty sweet that last year before going to uni. My friends and I would go to the clubs, get in a bit of trouble.” He chuckles after taking a sip of his drink. “I’m kind of glad I came to America for the rest of school, I think it helped me settle down a bit.”

“I studied abroad for culinary school,” Phil starts, “mostly in France, but when I would go out with my friends it would definitely get wild. It was a culture shock to start the evenings so late! We wouldn’t leave until midnight sometimes.”

“Yeah, that’s exactly how it is, and we’d stay out until after four in the morning most times.”

“That was the first time I saw hard drugs being used so casually. People just doing lines in the bathroom and stuff. It happens here too, but it was way less taboo over there.”

“Phil, did you ever…?” You ask him.

“God no, I mean, I smoked share of weed, but I never did anything more than that. I was too afraid of being fucked up while chopping something in the kitchen.”

“Did you?” You ask Harry. You were more curious than anything.

“Yeah.” He says casually with a shrug. “Like I said, I’m glad I came here to finish school.”

“Holy shit, what did it feel like?” You gaze up at him. “I’ve never done anything like that, I’ve never even gotten high…”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.” He gives your hand a squeeze. “It was so long ago, I don’t really remember, honestly. You just sort of feel happy and out of it.”

“Y/N, you never smoked or did an edible or anything?” Phil asks, almost shocked.

“I mean, I’ve been hot boxed before, but that’s it. I just stuck to drinking.” You laugh. “I was too scared, I didn’t know if I would be one of those people that would freak out or have a bad trip or something.” You finish your drink and so does everyone else.

“Does everyone want the same thing? I can go up and get the next round.” Harry offers.

“That’d be great.” Julian says, and you and Phil nod. Harry gives you a quick kiss before getting up to go to the bar. “He’s dreamy, Y/N, I don’t know how you get any work done.”

“Yeah, I don’t know what type of guy I was expecting, but I’d let him leave marks on me too.”

“Phil!” You giggle. “I’m glad you both like him so far. He’s amazing.”

“And things are still good between you and his kid?”

“Yeah! Andy really likes me. I think it helps that he had time to get used to me a little when Harry and I were just friends. Something tells me Harry had mentioned he had a little crush on me to him though because there was this one time Andy texted me from Harry’s phone to ask me to come get ice cream with them.” You giggle again. “It was so cute.”

“Little wing man, that’s sweet.” Phil nods.

“Sometimes I feel bad because you can tell he prefers to be with me and Harry, as opposed to his mum and soon to be step-dad…I don’t really get it.”

“He’s eleven, right?” Julian asks and you nod. “I get it. I was a total momma’s boy, and then when I started middle school, I wanted nothing to do with my mom, and it killed her. We fought all the time, and I found myself wanting to be with my dad more. Not even to talk, just being in his presence, you know? I think it’s puberty. I have a great relationship with my mom now. It’s just a phase.”

“Yeah, plus, it must be weird to have two father figures in your life. One’s telling you what to do, but you also wanna respect your actual father. Must be confusing.”

“Alright.” Harry says as he sits down with the four drinks. “What I miss?”

“Nothing, babe.” You smile and kiss his cheek. “These two were just swooning over you, that’s all.” You grin at your brother and his partner.

“Really? Well, I’m flattered.” Harry jokes.

“I have to know, do students, like, throw themselves at you?” Phil asks.

“Um, not so much anymore, when I was younger they did. A lot of them also know I’m spoken for now, so that helps.”

“It’s so awkward! Some of the senior boys I advise have tried flirting with me in our meetings, and I’m like…you’re kidding right? Keep your shrimp dick to yourself.” You take a large sip of your drink and sway your head to the music in the bar.

“I’d love to know what some kid could possibly even say to you in that setting.” Phil chuckles.

“They think they’re so adult, you know? It’s all in the body language. They adjust themselves, trying to get me to look down, and they’ll bite their bottom lips to be sexy, it’s repulsive really. But my problem is I bite my lip when I feel nervous so then they think it’s working, and then they’re shocked when I’m like actually you deserved a D on this.”

Phil and Julian laugh, but Harry doesn’t really like the sound of anyone flirting with you.

“You know, you can report that if it gets aggressive.” He says.

“Oh, it’s fine. They realize when I don’t give in that it doesn’t work, and they should just put the work in.” You see the concern on his face. “Don’t worry, if it was that aggressive I’d call H.R. right away.” You put your hand on his thigh and give it a squeeze.

“You know what I think we should after this? Go to an actual club. I feel like dancing and working off all that food.” Julian says.

“Ugh, I knew you were going to say that.” Phil groans. “I’m exhausted.”

“Can’t help it.” He shrugs and looks at you. “Y/N?”

“Fuck yeah.” You look up at Harry. “What do you say? You’ve never really seen me dance before.”

“That’s true, I could be up for that, although, I probably won’t do much dancing.”

“Good, I’ll have someone to hang back with while these two pop their asses.” Phil says and it makes everyone laugh.

//

Phil and Julian order an uber to take you and Harry to one of the lgbtq+ friendly clubs they knew of in a different part of the city. You had been there with them before so you were excited. You were also excited that Harry was being such a good sport.

You get into the club easily since the bouncer knew Phil and Julian well, and you all go up to the bar to get drinks. You decide on something fun and fruity while Harry opts for a gin and tonic. Wannabe by the Spice Girls comes on and Julian yanks you onto the dance floor.

“It’ll be hours before we see them again.” Phil chuckles and takes a sip of drink.

“You never dance?”

“Sometimes I do, but it’s not my favorite. I’m not very coordinated.”

“Neither am I! I look like an idiot whenever I dance.” Harry laughs. “But I suppose that’s half the fun.”

Harry peers into the crowd and smiles when he sees you and Julian shouting the words to the song to each other, and giggling. He watches as the two of you dance together and it makes him smile more.

“You two have been together a long time then?” Harry asks. “If you both took her out for her twenty-first?”

“Yeah! That was around the time we made things official. We met right before I went to Italy to do some more studying, and then when I came back we decided to really be together. He’s amazing, an incredible partner. He’s brilliant, honestly.”

“Are you two married, or…?”

“We’re in a civil union.” Phil shrugs. “We’ve talked openly about it, and neither of us really feel the need to get married, you know? We know we wanna be together, we don’t need a court or a piece of paper to lock it in. We each wear these rings.” Phil holds up his left hand. “See the one on my middle finger? That’s a promise ring he gave to me, and I gave one to him. That’s enough.”

“That’s really sweet.” Harry smiles.

“You have a lot of cool rings.” Phil takes one of Harry’s hands to look them over.

“Thanks! Started collecting them basically when I was nineteen. I’ve always really liked rings and bracelets.”

“And perfectly manicured nails?” Phil raises an eyebrow at him.

“Started doing that in uni. The crowd I hung out with was into black nail polish, I got into it too. It’s actually what helped me snag my ex.” He rubs the back of his neck with his free hand.

“Really?”

“Yeah, we were friends for a bit, and one night she got really drunk and she started crying because her nail ripped and she just wanted to take all the polish off and start over, and I told her I had stuff back at my room to do that, so I took her back with me and basically did her nails. I let her sleep in my bed and I slept on the floor, and then the next morning before I could even say anything she kissed me.”

“Oh my god, that’s like out of a movie.” Phil swoons, letting go of Harry’s hand. “But I think I like the story of the camping trip with my sister better.” He takes a sip of his drink. “Actually, I think I like that you casually brought her to a family party, and then brought her back to your place to watch the sunset.”

“Told her I liked her that night too, but I back peddled.” Harry chuckles.

“She picked up on that, but I think she chose to ignore it at the time. I’m glad she came to her senses.”

“Me too.” Harry smiles.

After a few songs, you come back to Harry, throwing your arms around his neck. Your fruity drink hitting you much faster than your others.

“Maybe just one more.” You slur.

“Or, and here me out, you could start drinking some water.” He tucks some hair behind your hair to keep it from your sweaty forehead.

“But-“

He dips his mouth to your ear to whisper.

“I’d like to have a little fun when we get back, and we can’t do that if you’re sloshed, babe.” He moves back to look at you with raises eyebrows and you nod. “Great, I’ll go get you some ice water.”

He returns shortly and you guzzle it down. Once you’re all set you make your way back to Julian. Harry taps his foot along with the beat of the song.

“Hey, handsome, can I buy you a drink?” A guy slightly shorter than Harry says to him brightly.

“Um, I’m so sorry, I’m here with someone.” He points over to you.

“Why aren’t you dancing with her then?!”

“He’s got a point, Harry.” Phil teases him.

“You’re not dancing with Julian!”

“Fair enough.” Phil finishes the rest of his drink and strolls over to join you and Julian. You both hoot and holler with excitement.

“Go on, pretty boy, go show your girl a good time.” The man winks and then walks away.

Harry sighs and makes his way over to you. Your eyes light up and your smile says it all. You’re absolutely delighted that he’s come over to you. You wrap your arms around his torso and press your cheek to his chest, swaying back and forth with him. His arms go around you and he rests his chin on the top of your head. It didn’t matter that the song was fast paced, you were happy to just be pressed up against him the way you were. You look up at him, smiling.

“What?” He smiles down at you.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

//

It was a wonderful night out with Phil and Julian, but it had to end sometime, so you and Harry uber back to the hotel around one in the morning. You didn’t want to be too tired for whatever fun he wanted have with you.

“That was fun.” He says to you in the back of the car. “I like them, they were really welcoming.”

“I’m so glad! I figured you’d get along well since you’re around the same age.” You shrug.

“That club was fun too, got hit on by a guy.”

“You did?!”

“Yup.” He says proudly. “Called me handsome and asked me if I wanted a drink, but don’t worry, I told him I was there with someone.”

“Well, thank god, otherwise you’d be in an uber with someone else right now.” You say facetiously and he laughs.

“Should I be offended that you think I could so easily be swayed to leave with someone else?” He nudges you playfully.

“Nah, I’m just teasing. I know you wouldn’t do that.”

“Besides,” he leans in closer to your ear so the driver won’t hear, “the only tight, little hole I wanna fuck is yours.”

Your eyes grow wide and you feel a shiver go down your spine. You know that he’s referring to your other hole. His mouth had been on it enough times now for you to know he definitely wanted to have anal with you, but you weren’t sure of how you felt about it exactly. You could see him maybe using a finger or something, but his entire prick? Your thoughts are broken when you feel his lips on your temple.

You get to the hotel and head up to your room, hand in hand.

“Oh!” You say as you get inside the room. “I brought something to wear to bed, and I really wanna put it on for you.”

“You never wear anything to bed, though.” He chuckles.

“I know! I brought it special for the trip. I didn’t think we’d be out as late as we were. Please? It’s really cute.” You pout.

“It’s just gonna come off a minute after you put it on, but sure.” He smiles and sits on the edge of the bed. “I’ll humor you.”

You grab your bag and bring it into the bathroom with you. This also gives you a chance to just freshen up since you were sweating on the dance floor. You touch up your makeup, apply some fresh deodorant, and spritz a little bit of perfume onto your wrists, and dab a bit behind your neck. Next you take out the garments you wanted to wear for him. It wasn’t incredibly special, but cute nonetheless. It was a pastel purple set of silk pajamas. The top was tank top style with a little bit of lace where you cleavage would sit, and the bottoms were shorts that just show your under-bum. Class, but sexy. You brush your hair out so it looks less frizzy, and then peak your head out of the bathroom door.

“Ready for me?”

“Ready, babe.”

“Close your eyes.”

Harry sighs and closes his eyes. He had already taken his glasses off and put them away. His palms are pressed behind him on the mattress. You tip toe out of the bathroom and come to stand in front of him.

“Okay, open.”

His eyes flutter closed and then they widen when he looks you up and down. You twirl around for him and giggle.

“What do you think?”

“You look…lovely, Y/N.” His hands come up to rest on your hips. “When did you get these?”

“Not too long ago. I’ve been saving it for a night away where I’d maybe have excuse to change into something else.”

“S’very pretty. I love the color on you.”

You smile down at him and get yourself situated so that you’re straddling him. His hands slide down to your ass and he squeezes you. His hands then move up under the back of the top and then he drags his nails down your soft skin and your head rolls back. He takes the opportunity to sponge wet kisses up your jugular, and around to the crook of your neck. He licks up to just under your earlobe, and sinks his teeth into your skin. You gasp from the sensation, loving the way it feels. Your hands move to clutch at his shoulders as he creates a nice, purple mark on your neck.

“Fuck, Harry.” You breathe after he detaches himself from you.

“To match your pj’s.” He smirks.

A slight whimper leaves your lips, and then you start unbuttoning his shirt furiously. He helps you get it off him, and then you run your hands up and down his torso, making scratch marks of your own. You loved the way his stomach would tighten from the feeling of your nails. Your fingers work next to undo his belt and button on his jeans.

“Need you naked.” You kiss him. “Now.”

He nods quickly and you stand up to help him get his pants off. He kicks them to the floor as he works to get his boxers off as well. Once they’re throw somewhere you kiss him again, and work your way down his body. He opens his legs up more you and you plant kisses up and down his hard dick. You move to tease him a little, nipping at his inner thigh the way he would do to you. He cards his fingers through your hair, and makes a makeshift ponytail for you with his fist. You lick up his shaft with the flat of your tongue and the moan his lets out just eggs you on further. You kiss his tip before taking it into your mouth and you sink down on him, taking him as deep as you can before popping back off him.

Not that he ever thought of her while he was with you, but times like this Harry couldn’t help but compare you to Paige. She never did things like this for him. He always had to ask her to do it, and she’d only do it for a couple of minutes. She’d give him a hand job no problem, but she rarely would put her mouth on him, which made him sad because he had no problem doing it for her. You, on the other hand, would often initiate with him, and he loved that about you. Sometimes you’d be lounging on the couch or even just reading in bed together, and you’d look at him. He knew the look very well now, and he would just nod, and all of a sudden your mouth would be on him. Times like this it was just more confirmation that he was with the right person.

Blow jobs were things you didn’t particularly enjoy unless you really liked a guy, which is exactly what you told him when you first gave him one. If you were going to make a guy feel good, you wanted to make sure that guy was going to make you feel just as good, and Harry passed that test. Now, you loved pleasuring him like this no problem. Even when you were on your period, you didn’t care that you couldn’t have much in return unless you got in the shower.

You lick over his slit and moan from the taste, which you didn’t particularly love, but just the fact that he was already leaking for you was enough for you to make the noise. You smear your bottom lip along his tip because you know he likes it sloppy, and you know his precome his bound to dribble down your chin. You look up at him and see he’s already watching you, chest heaving. You bring your face away, a string of spit keeping you attached to him before you lick over your lip and smirk.

“What?”

“Well…it’s just…I’m a little tired.” You look away and then back up to him, your grin growing. “So, what if I just put my mouth over you and you do the work?”

“Are you asking me to fuck your mouth?” He was being very serious.

“Yes, Harry.”

“Are you comfortable on the floor or do you want to get on the bed?”

“Maybe just hand me a pillow for my knees?”

He nods and quickly grabs a pillow from the head of for you. You get it situated to get yourself more comfortable, and you nod. He tightens his grip on your hair as you lower your mouth back around him. He starts by just easing you on and off, up and down. Your eyes flutter closed so you can focus on breathing through your nose. He bucks his hips up carefully to get a little further down your throat, and to help you adjust. You widen your throat as much as you can. You keep one hand on his thigh, and the other you keep in a fist, squeezing your thumb. An old trick you learned in college to help suppress your gag reflex. A placebo at best, but it worked.

“Oh my god, baby.” He groans as he really gets a rhythm going, bobbing your head up and down for you as he moves his hips. “You’re so fucking perfect.”

Your eyes flutter open and you do your best to look at him through your lashes, but all you can see are the ferns on his hips and love handles. You had drool and precome dripping down your chin, and you knew he had to be loving it. He was panting as he looks down at you, biting furiously into his bottom lip as to not disturb whatever neighbors were on either sides of the walls.

He was being extremely careful of you, which just turned you on more. It showed how much self-control he truly had to not just be ramming and thrusting his dick down your throat. Your nails are digging into his thigh, and you do choke on him at one point, but you’re okay. Eventually he has you come fully off of him.

“Don’t wanna come in my mouth?” You ask as you catch your breath and wipe your chin with the back of your hand.

“Not if you want me to fuck your cunt later.”

“Oh.” You blush. “Yeah, I want that.”

“Alright then.” He chuckles and helps you up. “Felt so good, baby.” He kisses your now swollen lips.

He lays you down on the bed, your head comfy on the pillows. He reaches between your legs and groans when he feels how wet you are through the silk shorts.

“Christ.” He breathes. “Taking this all off now.”

You nod and lift your arms up. He gets you fully naked and spreads your legs open. Just as you did with him, he kisses down your body, nipping where he pleases, and starts leaving more love bites on your inner thighs, causing you to squirm.

“Stay still for me, baby.”

“M’trying, sorry.”

You give him a soft smile and he gives you one back before he licks around your folds. You feel yourself almost go cross-eyed from the sensation. His teeth nip at your clit before he sucks on it, and he has to use one of his arms to hold you down because you’re just extremely sensitive tonight for whatever reason. His thumb replaces his mouth on your clit so he lick into you.

“Oh, god.” You moan. Your hands fly to his hair to tug on. “Harry.” You whimper and it’s music to his ears. It just makes him fuck you harder with his tongue. His thumb rubs perfect circles into where you need it most, and you feel your legs shaking around him. “Fucking, Christ!” You cry out as you start panting. You could feel your orgasm already approaching. He just knew exactly what to do, and it was incredible.

He pops up briefly to get some air, and then he looks at you, furrowing your brows.

“Wh-what is it?” You ask innocently.

“Would you…” He holds up his index and middle finger.

“Oh! Mhm.” You smile and open your mouth for him. He smiles back at you and brings his fingers to your mouth to suck on. You make eye contact as you lap and suck around him.

“Thank you, darling.”

Your heart flutters as he works his way back down between your legs. His fingers slide inside you while his mouth finds your clit again. His fingers curl up inside you, and you grip at the comforter on the bed. They pump and twist and pet you, and it’s all too much along with his tongue flicking at your clit.

“Ah! Fuck, Harry!” Your back arches off the bed, and your eyes roll into the back of your head. When he retracts his finger from you, you look at him, your eyes growing dark with lust. “Get the condoms.”

He nods and rummages through his bag for them, tearing one of them open, and sliding it onto his hard, throbbing dick. You put your hands onto his shoulders to brace yourself as he thrusts inside you. He buries his face into the crook of your neck as he rocks in and out. You get a fist full of his hair and rock your hips along with his.

“Fuck, Y/N.” He groans and looks at you, peaking his tongue out. You take the signal and let your mouth fall open so he can kiss you. It’s a searing kiss, needy, like he hadn’t kissed you in weeks. That was the thing with Harry, he always kissed you like he hadn’t seen you in ages, like he hadn’t touched you in ages. It was fucking fantastic.

“Harry, I’m gonna come again.” You whine. It was from the way you were grinding against him, otherwise you don’t think you would have had one again so quickly, not that you were complaining. He keeps everything the same so you can get there, and boy do you get there. He puts his hand over your mouth so you can cry out how you need to. You catch your breath and then you look up at him. “Let me ride you.”

He nods and pulls out, flipping on his back. You grip him to line yourself up once you’ve swung your leg over his lap. You sigh with relief once he’s inside you again. His hands work their way up your body to knead your breasts as move around on him in large circles. He looks up at you and starts chuckling.

“What could possibly be funny?” You ask, giggling.

“Nothing, I just like you a lot.” You pout at that. Since you said your I love yous, neither of you had made your like you a lot statement, and it filled your heart.

“I like you a lot too, Harry.” You lean down to kiss him, sucking on his bottom lip before returning up right.

“Gonna fuck me, baby?”

“Mhm, gonna fuck you so good.”

You start to raise and lower on him, his hands coming down to squeeze at your hips. Usually he would even up taking over, but he wanted to let you do it. He knew you wanted to do it, and you were so kind as to let him fuck your mouth earlier the least he could do was let you control the pace just this once. It also inflated his ego immensely to look up and watch your face like this. The joy you were getting from riding him was so delicious to him.

“You’re so fucking gorgeous like this, Y/N.” he squeezes harder at your hips, sure to leave bruises later, but you don’t care.

Your hands plant onto his thighs behind you as you continue to bounce up and down on him.

“Rub my clit, Harry, please.” You nearly whine.

He does so without question and you let out a loud moan. He could feel you squeezing around him and it was bringing him nearly over the edge. He could feel the ecstasy bubbling at the base of his spine.

“Baby, I’m not gonna last much longer.” He groans.

“Good, want you to come, let go, Harry.”

You feel his warm come fill up the condom, and the sensation along with his fingers rubbing on you guide you to your third release, causing you to collapse onto his heaving chest. He tilts your chin up and he smears his lips over yours.

//

After the long day and night you both had, neither of you were upset to have woke up at 10:15. You shower together, without any funny business, and get ready for the day. Harry furrows his brows at the booties you put on.

“What?” You ask him. “Don’t like ‘em?”

“No, they’re cute, it’s just…won’t your feet hurt walking around in them all day? I know you lived here and everything, but-“

“I promise, Daddy, if my feet hurt I won’t complain and if I do, you can say I told you so.”

“Y/N.” He sighs. “I hate it when you call me that so condescendingly, my express of concern isn’t me being fatherly, it’s me being your boyfriend who would feel terrible if your feet got all blistered.”

Your features soften, you didn’t realize how much your little joked bothered him.

“Oh…I’m sorry, um, these are actually pretty good for walking in. I wouldn’t wear them if I knew they’d hurt, but I appreciate you looking out for me.”

You give him a kiss on the cheek, and he grabs the bags. You check out, and grab a coffee from the complimentary section of the breakfast area, and put everything in the car.

“Julian said we could park here for the day no problem. We just need to talk to the green line stop, and we’ll be good to go.” You explain after locking the car back up.

You make your way to the green line station, and you just use your Charlie Card to get the both of you through, and onto the train that would get you Government Center. You were happy to be traveling with Harry. Sometimes when you were in town with people who didn’t understand the hustle and bustle of the T it could be frustrating, but Harry had the tube back in London, so this was second nature to him.

You almost feel giddy after coming off the train, and see The Quincy Market sign come into view. You tug at Harry’s hand to get him to walk faster towards the shops.

“There’s a Ray-Bans store here I wanna go to. They’re bound to have a sale right now. Oh! And there’s this store that sells really hot sauces I think you’ll like. Does Andy like graphic T’s? There’s a Newbury Comics here and I’d like to get him a gift from there.”

“For what? Thought you only promised a cannoli?”

“I did, but it would be for Christmas. Is that alright if I wanna-mph!” His lips were on yours, his hands cupping your cheeks. He was just overwhelmed with how much you cared about his son.

“Yeah, he likes graphic T’s.” He says it like he didn’t just shove his tongue down your throat, gently intertwining your fingers as you continue to walk.

You clear your throat and nod, giving his hand a squeeze. You go in and out of the shops. You note the sunglasses that Harry pays special attention to so you know which ones to get him for the holidays. You go into Sephora for a bit to look at the expensive makeup on one end of the store, and he looks at the foundation and concealer he would typically use. So much was on sale, you end up buying a ton of new brushes and sponges, and he gets the remover wipes he likes using. You go into spicy sauce store, and pick out a couple of bottles of things you’d each like to try, and then off to Newbury Comics.

“Do you shop at any of these clothing stores?” He asks subtly.

“Not really, I do StitchFix, why?”

“No reason.” He shrugs. Damn. He literally had no idea what to get you for the holidays. You bought yourself a new pair of sunglasses, and pretty much whatever else you needed. He was at a loss.

“So, what shows does he watch? I’d like to get him a shirt that’s relevant.” You say as you both make your way to the clothing section of the store.

“He’s really into Spongebob reruns at the moment, it’s been driving me nuts.”

“Seriously? That show is over twenty years old…”

“I know! He discovered it a few months ago, and he thinks it’s hilarious.” Harry sighs. “He also likes The Simpons, The Office, oh! He’s really into Malcom in the Middle right now.”

“How does even know about that show?”

“He found it on Hulu one night and he asked if he could watch it and I said okay. He loves it.”

“Hmm.” You tap your chin for a second. “I may need to go on Etsy then. I think I know of a shirt he would like, but I doubt they have it here.”

“You don’t have to go to so much trouble, Y/N. He’ll like whatever you give him.”

“That’s just it, I don’t want him to like it, I want him to love it.”

Harry thought his heart was going to burst as you looked around. You come to the section of the store with all of the different card games.

“Is he too young for Cards Against Humanity? Could be fun for him and Brandon.”

“Wee bit.”

“Alright…oh, what about What Do You Meme? That’s age appropriate, no?”

“Oh, he’s actually been asking for something like that. It’s a good stocking stuffer.”

“Perfect!” You snatch a pack. “This will also be from me.” You wink at him and keep looking around.

“What do you usually do for the holidays, anyways?”

“Well, whenever Hanukkah falls, I usually do something with my family, and then I lay low on Christmas.”

“Maybe during one of the nights of Hanukkah you could come over and the three of us could do something traditional with you.”

“I’d love that, Har.” You smile at him. “I could show you how to make homemade potato pancakes.”

“That would be a lot of fun.” He kisses your cheek.

Eventually you both walk over to the North End to get some Italian food for a late lunch/early dinner. You each enjoy raviolis and lots of bread. You make sure to stop off at one of the bakeries to grab some cannolis.

“You can just put these in your freezer, they should still be good when he gets home.”

“Sounds good, he’s gonna be so excited.”

You make your way back to the hotel garage and get into the car.

“Babe, let me drive, you’re tired.”

“No, I can do it.”

“Y/N.”

“Let me just get us through the city, and then I’ll pull over at the rest stop in Londonderry.”

“Fine.” He rolls his eyes.

You end up doing just that. You zip through the city, staying in the left lane the whole time, and then you pull over at the rest area. You let Harry drive the rest of the way, and he drives back to your place.

“Did you wanna stay over tonight? I could come to yours tomorrow, or if you’re sick of me we can-“

“Why do you always say that?” He chuckles. “I could never be sick of you.”

You beam at him, and you both get up inside your apartment. After you unpack your things, you both get into bed, and fall asleep quickly. It was the perfect Thanksgiving.

//

“Dad, these are so good.” Andy says, mouth full of cannoli Sunday night. “Y/N is the best.”

“I’ll pass the message on to her.” Harry smiles. “Listen, uh, how would you feel if she started staying over sometimes when you’re here?”

“I’d be okay with that, I don’t really care.”

“I just wanna make sure you feel comfortable with it. It’s okay if you don’t.”

“Dad, I really don’t care. I’d like it if she stayed here. I feel bad that she thinks she can’t. Then we could all have breakfast together in the mornings, that would be fun.”

“Yeah, it would. I’ll let her know you’re cool with it, thanks.”

“Thanks for asking first.”

“It’s your house too, not gonna make any big changes without consulting you.”

Later that night, as he’s crawling into bed, Harry texts you.

Harry: got the okay from the head of the house, you’re good to spend the night any time you feel comfortable doing so…he loved the cannolis btw

You: oh well, glad I was able to butter him up with those, lol why don’t we give it a try tomorrow?

Harry: are you just saying that because you know Mondays are baked ziti night????

You: what?! I’m offended! I want to come spend the night with you, it in no way has anything to do with your delicious, amazing, incredible, mouth watering baked ziti

Harry: god, you know what complimenting my food does to me 😈 😈 😈

You: goodnight, Harry

Harry: no!

You: yes

Harry: don’t do this

You: I’m so tired! You barely let me leave your bed this morning…need to catch up on sleep

Harry: everything we did today you wanted. I know because I asked and you said yes

You: very true! And now I’m telling you I’m going to sleep, I love you, I’ll see you tomorrow

Harry: alright, I love you too, sweet dreams, baby

//

The next morning, Harry gets up at 5AM to do his yoga in his bedroom, and then goes into the kitchen to get zome ziti boiled. It wasn’t a difficult dish to make, especially since there wasn’t meat in it, but Harry did use three types of shredded cheese, and he had a homemade marinara sauce. Once the ziti is cooked, he layers it all in a glass dish and sticks it in the fridge. It’ll go in the over to bake when he gets home later.

His next task is to shower, and get dressed before waking Andy up.

“Buddy, time to get up.” Harry comes in and sits on the edge of Andy’s bed. “Come on, sun’s up and everything.”

Andy groans like he does most mornings.

“Don’t gimme that. What do you want for breakfast?”

“Scrambled eggs, please.” He mumbles.

“Can do, now get up.” He takes the top blanket away and Andy groans louder, but it wakes him up enough to get out of bed.

Harry whips up some eggs for Andy and some peanut butter toast for himself, and sets it on the table. Andy comes out in jeans and a long-sleeve T-shirt.

“Basketball’s gonna be starting in a bit, you must be excited.”

“Yup.” Andy smiles. “And winter program starts this Friday, I’m really excited for that. Do you think you’ll chaperone?”

“Probably. I’ll find a Friday to come out and help.”

“Y/N should come too.”

“I don’t know if she skiis…”

“How could she not in this area?”

“It’s not for everyone.” He shrugs. “I’ll ask her if she wants to come up to the cabin some weekend or something before having her help out with a bunch of kids.”

“Okay, fair point. Oh! You could teach her to ski, you’re a good teacher.”

“I’d have her take a professional lesson, Andy. It’s not as easy for adults to learn this kind of stuff as it is for kids.”

“You could still show her the basics.”

“Eat your eggs.” Harry rolls his eyes. “By the way, she’s coming for dinner tonight.”

“Of course she is.” Andy giggles. “It’s baked ziti night.”

“That’s what I said! Anyways, she’s gonna try staying over with us. Want you on your best behavior.”

“When am I not?” Andy scoffs.

“Hmm, let’s see…” Harry holds his hand up to start counting on his fingers.

“Okay, okay, I promise I’ll be good.”

“Thank you.”

//

It was a busy work day since it was the Monday after a short holiday break. You barely saw Harry, but you decide to leave him a little love note on his desk while he was teaching. You notice he left his phone on his desk. Something he rarely does, but it happens once in a while. You see it light up with a news notification, and you do a double take. His lock screen was a picture of the two of you. You pick it up and hold it closer.

“When did he…?” You trail off as you smile. It was a picture of you from one of your hikes. You’re looking up at him, smiling and sweaty, but smiling nonetheless.

“Y/N?” Harry says coming into his office. “What are you doing with my phone?”

“I…I was just leaving you a note, and it lit up…and…I didn’t realize I was your lock screen…” You hand him his phone.

“Of course you’re my lock screen, you have been for a while…”

“I guess I never noticed.” You look away. “I have a picture of the two of us as mine, see.” You show him your phone. “It’s from when we made that mess making waffles from scratch. Makes me smile every time I look at it.”

“Can’t believe I never noticed either…” He looks at the screen and then to you. He steps towards you. “You were leaving me a note?”

“Yeah, I…we barely saw each other today, and I know you need to get home soon, so I was just leaving you a little love note.”

“Oh.” He sets his things down on his desk and comes even closer to you. He tucks some hair behind your ear, his tell for wanting a kiss.

You lean up and he leans down and your lips press against each other. It doesn’t last long, you’re at work after all.

“Okay, well, I have some work to do.” You blush. “Um, I’ll be over by 6:30, does that work?”

“Works great.”

He watches you leave and he sighs dreamily as he gathers his things. He zips home and helps Andy with his homework before getting the ziti in the oven. You get over there around 6:30, with your overnight bag slung over your shoulder.

“Hi, boys.” You say as come inside after Andy answers the door.

“Y/N, those cannolis you got were so good. Thanks again.”

“Oh! I’m so glad you liked them, Andy.” You ruffle the hair on the top of his head and go to put your things down in Harry’s room before coming into the kitchen to give him a kiss. “It smells so good in here.”

“Just took it out of the oven, sit.” He smiles.

After dinner you’re itching to change into come comfier clothes, so you do. You put on a pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt, one Harry gave to you, and you come out with your laptop to the living room.

“You don’t mind, do you?”

“Nope, Andy?”

“Do your thing.” He shrugs as he flips the TV to Hulu to put Malcom in the Middle.

“Remember, two episodes and then you can go read before bed.” Harry reminds him.

“I’m fully aware, thanks.” He rolls his eyes.

“When I was your age, my bed time was 9:30, but CSI, the Las Vegas one, was on at nine, and I used to watch TV with my mom in bed every night, and CSI was on Thursdays, and so every Thursday we’d have the same fight because I had to see how the episode ended, you know? And then my mom would get so tired that she’d just let me stay up and finish it.”

The boys both look at you with wide eyes. You had a tendency to talk really fast when you had a story to tell.

“Dad says I can’t watch TV right before bed because then I won’t sleep well.”

“He’s right about that! I could never sleep after watching TV with my mom. She’d watch Date Line and scary shows like that.”

“If you were scared, then why would watch with her?” Andy asks.

“Well, my mom worked until eight most nights and I just wanted to spend time with her, so getting into bed and watching TV with her was my way of doing that.”

“That’s sweet.” Harry says, putting his arm around you.

After Andy goes to bed around nine, making sure to give you and Harry a hug, you both decide to get ready for bed as well. You do your routine, and chew on your bottom lip.

“What is it?” He asks he slides into bed with his book.

“Can I still sleep naked? Does he ever come in here?”

“Hmm, how about just a t-shirt? Grab any one of mine from my dresser.”

“Okay, fair enough compromise.”

You change quickly, and get into bed with a book of your own.

“This is nice.” He says, smiling at you. “Having you here on a Monday night.”

“Yeah, feels right.” You kiss his cheek and open your book to the page you dog-eared.

Even though Harry just wanted to ravage you, he knew that would probably have to wait until you showered in the morning. You did look awfully cute when you passed out with your book still in your hand. Harry takes it, saved your place, and sets it on the night table closest to you. He takes his glasses off and turns off the lights, then kisses your forehead before wrapping himself around you. You adjust into him and drift off fully.

You’re woken up abruptly around midnight by Harry’s phone buzzing. It goes off a few times so he finally turns over and grabs it.

“Oh, shit.” He says.

“What?” You mumble.

“Paige called three times, hold on.” He swipes his phone to call her back.

“Harry?!”

“Hey, what’s going on, is everything alright?”

“No…everything’s not alright.” She sobs.

“What happened?” Harry sits up fully. “What’s wrong, darling?” When he says that it makes you sit up. He was clearly trying to calm her down, but you didn’t like him using the term of endearment.

“My…my father died.”

[riotfuckery]

Dare

Kirishima Eijiro x flirty!f!Reader

A/N: Hello beautiful readers! It’s your friendly neighborhood big tiddy goth gf with a PG-13 rated Kirishima piece! It’s nothing too crazy. Just flirting, making out (badly described but I tried!!!!) and implied sexy time. Of course all characters are 18+! I am absolutely in love with Kiri so I had to write something about him. This is my first attempt at writing something remotely smutty so enjoy!!!

Warnings: flirting, kinda sexy descriptions, implied sexy time, and a badly described make out

Taglist: @queensynderella @thedreadthread @trafalgar-temptress @kingtamakimurder @birds-have-teeth Thank you for the love and support senpais 💖🥺💖

»»————-　♡　————-««

That devious word was one in a string as you stared at your gal pals of class 3-A. Everyone was playing truth or dare, a childish but nonetheless fun game. Things were going as you would expect they would. Momo confessing her not so obvious crush on Todoroki, Mina sending a flirty text to Sero, and even Jiro playing the shittyflute version of “my heart will go on”.

The giggly atmosphere turned dramatic as you were called up. Mina had just been dared to eat an Oreo with an ungodly amount of hot sauce by Jiro, the pink girl chugging water dramatically until she finished with a sigh. Black and yellow eyes sparkled mischievously as she locked her gaze on you cackling with a pillow clutched to your stomach.

“(Y/N)!!!!! Truth or dare?” She asked, the devious smirk on her face as she theatrically called you out.

“Dare, cmon girly, hit me with your best shot.” you smirked at her cockily, making the ‘bring it’ motion with your hands. What was the worst she could have you do? Streak around the room naked?

Her eyes lit up for a split second, an evil idea popped into her cute pink head. She was your best friend, no secrets held and boy was she going to use that to her advantage.

“I dare you, my sweet (y/n)-Chan, to sit on Kirishimas lap right now, while he’s with the rest of the boys and ask him if he hardens everywhere when he uses his quirk.” she announced, the smile on her face evil as the devil himself. She knew for a fact that you liked Kiri and her matchmaker heart couldn’t resist the temptation.

You stared at her angrily, knowing full well what she was doing. The blush on your face betraying you as it clawed it’s way to your cheeks as you heard a few “ooooohs” around the room from the other girls.

“You’re on pinky pie, let’s do this.” You challengingly grinned. You never backed down from a challenge and some crush wasn’t gonna get in the way of it. Maybe Bakugo was rubbing off on you more than you’d like to admit. Poor Kiri would be so confused and you just figured that you’ll have to explain it to him later.

Mina, Kyoka, and Ochako followed you out of the room with their phones out eagerly. The four of you made your way to the common room as you steeled your nerves. Kirishima was your personal ray of sunshine, the bright boy always being there for you when you needed that little extra push.

The thought of just sitting in his lap in front of everyone and asking him such a flirty question made something within you spark, the challenge making you smirk cockily. A devious smirk plastered on your face at the thought of making that sharp toothed boy blush.

The sound of multiple hushed giggles came from your friends as they walked behind you. If they thought they would make you stutter and blush then on god were they wrong and you were gonna give them a show as well.

All of you arrived at the common room, seeing the Bakusquad taking turns playing Mario Kart. Sero and Kaminari were both playing while yelling and bumping into each other. Bakugo and Kirishima sitting on the couch while the other two sat on the floor in front of the screen a few feet away.

The girls hid around the corner with their phones out and recording as you made your move. You didn’t wanna mess around too much so you just went right for the target.

The outfit you were wearing couldn’t have been any more perfect. A thin black tank top and a very short pair of Crimson Riot pj shorts with black knee high socks. The shorts were bright red and the back had “CRIMSON RIOT” printed on the back of them in big black letters.

“Hey boys, whatchya up to?” Your sweet voice called out. Gracefully walking behind the two boys fighting in front of the screen, you sat yourself in between Kirishima and Bakugo.

“Dunce face and soy sauce are over there HOGGING THE GAME!” The blonde boy roughly yelled out as the sound of popping came from one of his palms.

You let out a small giggle. Bakugo always amused you with his attitude but you respected him a lot. Apparently, he felt the same as you because he never really bothered you. He let out a low growl at your laugh but kept his mouth shut.

You turned toward the Kirishima, the red haired boy already blushing from your boobs peeking out of the thin black tank top you wore. He couldn’t help but take a quick glance, as much as he scolded himself for it. You were just so mesmerizing.

You gave him the “come here” wave with your index finger, smirking at the already pink cheeks of the boy. He hesitantly leaned in closer, his heart was pounding in his chest.

You gave out a light hum in contemplation. The options of just doing it now or teasing him a bit more was weighing in your head. Seeing him stutter was gonna be wonderful, but playing it out would make it a lot more fun.

Deciding to get it over with, you chose to spare the shark boy embarrassment. You couldn’t do that to your sweet and oh so manly crush. Putting on the most innocent tone you could muster, you went to complete your dare.

“Hey Kiri~ Can I ask you something?” your innocent tone affecting him more than you planned. The blush on his cheeks blossomed from a baby pink to bright pink on his handsome face.

You swung your legs over his, straddling his legs with your own and positioning yourself so you were face to face with him. The innocent facade still up as you rested your hands on his broad shoulders. He froze, his shocked and warm red eyes stared into your sparkling (e/c) ones.

You pulled yourself closer to his ear, soft lips barely brushing the appendage as you softened your voice to a whisper.

The fire in your spirit manifested in your eyes and lower belly. You glanced to the side just in case, locking eyes with Bakugo for a moment. The cheeky smirk on your face as you shot him a wink. He just continued to watch what you were up to with his own interested smirk.

“Do you harden everywhere when you use your quirk, Red Riot?~” you purred, making the words drip off your lips like honey. The heat from his face radiated off of him and on yourself, pride swelling in your chest. You pressed a quick kiss to his burning cheek in apology and moved off of the poor blushing boy.

Without so much a glance to your cute energetic crush, you walked away with an extra swing of your hips. Leaving the poor boy red faced and frozen, staring at your curvy form walking away. You catwalked your way around the corner, coming face to face with your girls.

“WOAH (Y/N)-CHAN THAT WAS SO HOT!” Mina yelled excitingly.

“You gave us quite the show, (y/n)-Chan.” Momo’s elegant voice rang out.

“That was so bold!” Ochako’s bright and bubbly voice complimented as well.

Your inner pride swelled even more at the praises, mentally patting yourself on the back for the good show. All of you went back to Momo’s room and continued your sleepover, stuffing your faces with junk food and talk of boy bands until you all called it a night and went to your own rooms to sleep.

»»————-　♡　————-««

Flustered was an understatement for the feeling Kirishima Eijiro had after your stunt. The red on his cheeks matched his hair as he watched your perfect ass walk away so teasingly in those Crimson Riot shorts.

He may not have ranked the highest in his test scores (we don’t talk about that), but he was smart enough to know you knew what you were doing. The way you spoke right next to his ear and the way your crotch pressed into his was no coincidence.

His vermillion eyes stayed in the direction you stalked off to, a breath he didn’t know he was holding released as he watched you disappear. His mind was racing at the reasons why you would do this.

The sweet crush he had teasing him in public like this? And asking such a daring question? And leaving before he could even answer?

An amused hmph from an angry blonde shook him from his thoughts. A red brow quirked at the blonde bombshell in silent question. Bakugo wore an impressed smirk much to the redhead’s surprise.

“Cheeky brat” he amusingly scoffed. “Hey shitty hair, if you don’t take her I might give it a shot” Bakugo smirked while casually looking at the two other boys still fighting and yelling over the video game.

Kirishima’s red eyes narrowed in a silent glare at the nonchalant ash blonde. He liked you since the beginning of the school year, your willingness to never back away from a challenge but knowing your limits piqued his interest. The sweet but flirty smiles, fiery (e/c) eyes, and kind personality made him fall hard for you.

“No way, Bakubro! I’ve liked her for awhile now, I’ll make my move and show her just how manly I can be!” Kiri’s ever present friendliness shone through his determined tone with a sharp toothed smile.

»»————-　♡　————-««

After your time with the girls, you headed back to your room sleepily. Padding down the hall wrapped in a fluffy blanket and holding your pillow, a small yawn escaped your lips.

You arrived at your room, taking off your slippers and shutting your door with a loud thud. The bold dare you were challenged to flashed back as you flopped down on your bed.

‘Speechless huh? Well I would be too if that happened to me. He took it a lot better than I thought he would. What else would I expect? Him grabbing my hips and asking if I wanted to find out?’ You speculated to yourself.

An airy sigh escaped you as you flung off your fluffy blanket and went to go get ready for bed. It was only 8pm but with the eventful hangout with the girls, the bold dare that you would have to explain later, and the amount of junk food you ate, you were tired.

After grabbing your toothbrush, toothpaste, and hair bush, you slipped on your slippers and headed to the girls bathrooms. Humming a random tune as you strolled your way to the shared space, you did what you needed to and headed back up to your room.

You walked the halls normally, the thought of training tomorrow making you groan internally. You weren’t the strongest in your infamous class but you had useful quirk. Transport was what the quirk resignation office called it. A mix between telekinesis and teleportation. You could transport people and things within eyesight.

The nasty headaches you got were an awful side effect, the bigger the object meant the more painful the headache. It was useful and training was awful but you were thankful to be put in the top hero class of UA.

The tell tale bright spiky red hair of none other than Kirishima Eijiro, AKA your big time crush came into sight as you rounded the corner. He hadn’t noticed you yet because he was nervously staring at your door.

The panic set in and you quickly teleported yourself into your room. The dull throb of an oncoming headache as you landed in the center of your (f/c) and cozy room.

‘Is he coming to ask about what happened???Am I supposed to say “hey it was a dare, no hard feelings right?” I MEAN YEAH BUT I DIDNT MEAN TO MAKE A SHOW OUT OF IT! OF COURSEEEE I HAD TO GET COCKY AND GIVE THEM A SHOW!” You screeched in your head.

You took a deep breath and closed your eyes. The worry now fading away and the dull throb in your head slowly disappearing. The ensuing silence made you raise a brow confusingly at your door.

He stared at the other side of the plain piece of wood with no plan and his nervous system in a frenzy. What was he gonna say to you? Was he gonna ask you on a date? Was he gonna try and make you blush?

A quick but sharp knock chased off your confusion. You shook off your nerves for a quick second before you gracefully sat down on your bed with your legs crossed. With a quick clearing of your throat, you called out.

“Come in!” Your sweet voice rang out. Kirishima’s brain turned to scrambled eggs. ‘What am I gonna do? I have NO PLAN! So unmanly! Ugh’ he internally panicked throughout the chaos in his head.

He entered your cozy room and quietly shut the door behind him. The nervousness weighing on him like heavy blanket as he stood anxious in your entranceway.

“Hey Kiri! What’s up?” You happily greeted him, like nothing ever happened in the common room.

Nervousness was replaced with confusion at your happy tone. The familiarity taking over his body as he visibly relaxed. You and Kiri were only friends, much to both of your guys’ disappointment. He visited your room plenty of times to study when he didn’t feel like being beat up by Bakugo.

“Hey! Uhhhh- I was just wondering, what was that out there?” He nervously spat out. It was the only logical thing he could manage to piece together in his frazzled mind.

Your outfit and posture didn’t help his nerves, the crimson riot shorts and thin black tank top made his palms sweat. Your plush thighs crossed just made them just look so much more biteable.

“Oh? That whole thing was a dare, you know girls sleepover thing.” You nonchalantly said as you uncrossed your legs and made your way up to the cute red head.

Playful (e/c) eyes met red ones as you looked up at him through your lashes. The fire was back again and burning brighter then ever, coursing through your veins and boiling your blood ever so sweetly.

“Didn’t mean to embarrass you cutie pie, so no hard feelings alright?” Standing up on the tips of your toes, you leaned forward and pressed another kiss on his cheek.

You couldn’t help but tease him, the wonder of whether he would melt into a puddle or turning the tables and making you blush had you feeling hot and bothered. ‘Let’s see how manly he could be’ the devious thought popped up in your pretty little head.

A sharp toothed smirk made its way onto his handsome face. He knew what game you were playing and he was willing to play along. But he wanted to win. Red eyes met mischievous (e/c) ones as you once again gazed at him, now down on your feet fully.

“Embarrassed? Not at all angel face, just a bit surprised is all. When a sexy little thing like you sits on my lap out of nowhere, what guy wouldn’t be shocked. Now to answer your question babygirl, do you wanna find out now or later?” his deepened voice came out smooth as silk.

Large warm hands moved from his sides and slid from the bottom of those tiny red shorts with a feather light touch to your hips. Grabbing them firmly as he pressed your body close to his as he spoke.

Your lust filled lidded eyes met his own. Red eyes almost glowing with burning desire as he teased you. You pressed your chest against his as you leaned up and ever so slowly leaned in toward his soft lips.

Noses lightly brushed up against each other before you stopped. “Cmon Red Riot~, show me how unbreakable you can be.” You teased back, the little game of cat and mouse making you rub your thighs together in anticipation.

Sharp teeth clashed against yours in a desperate and frenzied kiss, immediately kissing him back just as feverishly as you slid your hands up his broad chest and tangled your hands in his red hair.

His warm tongue swiped your bottom lip, silently asking for permission to enter. You happily invited him in as you parted your plush lips for him.

He explored your mouth eagerly, dominating and exploring what you had to offer with a low groan. You tugged on his hair as he gripped your hips tighter, letting out your own moan at his actions.

Unfortunately you both needed to breathe so you pulled apart, out of breath and with blushes on your face.

“I may be unbreakable, but your bed isn’t. Let’s see if you can keep up, dollface~” he smirked before he brought you in for another heated kiss.

[klovenhooves]

Johnny Lawrence and the Five Love Languages, Chapter Five: Words of Affirmation

Johnny yanked open his closet door, eyes searching the sparse offerings, brow furrowed. Behind him, Miguel shifted his weight onto his other foot, face similarly focused, eyes critically searching the clothes.

 “He knows what kind of clothes you wear, Sensei,” he started hopefully. “I don’t think you need to –”

 “So you’re just going to wear whatever, then?” he asked, his tone vaguely snappy, and Miguel pursed his lips. “You and I are both under the microscope, Diaz,” he said, turning back to the closet. “And I am always worse upon closer inspection.”

 “Sensei, don’t be ridiculous,” Miguel reassured, dropping a hand to Johnny’s shoulder. “He wouldn’t have invited you if he didn’t like you.”

Which, fine, Johnny could accept that idea, but that didn’t make him feel any less nervous. It certainly didn’t answer the question of what he should wear to this ill-advised get together that he’d been invited to. He was reminded, far too often, of his first date with Ali, where they spent the whole night dancing around the idea of their first kiss, only to chicken out and then not, ultimately ruining the romance the first kiss deserved.

 In the months following, they laughed about that story like it was charming, but it always seemed weird to Johnny. Even now, years later, that was still an indicator of what overthinking could do, and now that he and LaRusso had been interrupted not once but twice, he had to wonder if the actual act would live up to the anticipation.

 “You and Miguel should come to dinner at my place,” Daniel had said over the phone, the tone of his voice alone telling Johnny that he was smiling. “Robby, Sam, and Anthony will be here.”

 “What, like a –” he caught himself before the word ‘date’ could come out, but the silence on the other end of the line told him that Daniel was waiting for him to finish the sentence. Stubbornly, he stayed quiet, Miguel, on his couch, looked at him in confusion.

 “Who is it?” he had mouthed, waving his arms to get Johnny’s attention.

 “It can be whatever you want it to be, John,” Daniel said into the silence that showed no signs of abating. “Will you come?”

 Johnny snapped his jaw shut where it had fallen open against his will. He wasn’t sure when he started to notice the innuendo in some of the things Daniel said, but now that he was aware of it, talking to the man was far more difficult.

 “Johnny?”

 “Sensei, why is your face red?”

 “When?” he asked into the phone, noticing as he spoke how rough his voice sounded. He cleared his throat.

 He could hear Daniel smiling again. “Tomorrow? 7.”

 “You free tomorrow at 7?” he asked Miguel, who looked at him with wide, confused eyes.

 “We’ll be there,” he said, shushing Miguel with a hand, eyes on the coffee table, listening for Daniel’s response.

 “Good,” Daniel said, satisfied. “It’s a date.”

 He hung up before Johnny could respond, but he kept the phone to his ear, spluttering, while Miguel stared at him with a half-smile.

 And now they were here, Johnny quickly realizing that he was probably going to need a beer before he even got to LaRusso’s place if he wanted to keep his cool. Miguel impatiently nudged him out of the way and started flicking through the shirts, making noises under his breath that he couldn’t decipher. Most of them seemed confused, but there were a few scoffs of disbelief in there, too.

 Maybe Johnny should go into his closet and do the same thing, see how the little twerp liked it.

 “Here, wear this one,” Miguel finally said, pulling a baby blue shirt out of the back of Johnny’s closet, so old he’d forgotten it was even there. “It’ll bring out your eyes.”

 “What am I, a girl?” Johnny asked, taking the hanger anyway.

 Miguel chuckled. “No, but you’re in looooooooove,” he drew the word out, dodging the shirt that Johnny threw at him, trotting down the hallway back to the living room.

 “Get out of my house, Diaz,” Johnny called after him, the boy’s laughter as good a response as he was going to get.

 ***

 “Dad, I made you some tea,” Sam gently set the cup on the edge of the coffee table, catching Daniel’s eyes on her way back up. “Chamomile.”

 He smiled at his daughter and took the cup. “That’s so nice, sweetie, you didn’t have to do that,” he said, taking a shallow sip of the still-too-hot tea.

 “I did,” she laughed. “You’ve been staring into space for like…half an hour. Figured you needed something to calm you down.”

 “Calm me down?” he asked. “I am calm!”

 She raised her eyebrows. “Sure, and your leg is tapping like that because…?”

 He looked down at his jumping leg and put a hand over it. “Habit,” he said with a shrug.

 “Dad,” she took the tea cup from his hands and sat on the edge of the coffee table. “Sensei Lawrence is coming here. For a date.”

 He laughed nervously. “It’s not a –”

 “I can literally hear all of your phone conversations,” she interrupted with a stern look that reminded him so much of himself. “You’re allowed to be nervous.”

 “Did I tell you that I invited Miguel, too?” he asked.

 “No!” she jumped up from her spot. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

 “I forgot!”

 “I’m going on a double date with my dad and his arch nemesis,” she buried her face in her hands. “I can’t believe this.” She snatched his cup of tea off the table. “I need this more than you do now,” she said firmly, taking a long drink before stalking off, shutting her bedroom door solidly behind her.

 Daniel understood how she felt. Was it good to be nervous? Was that a bad sign? He couldn’t figure it out, and the longer he sat there, thinking about it, the closer the clock inched toward 7. He thought about Johnny, leaning on him on the surfboard in the middle of the night, head cradled by his arm. He thought about Robby, excited about the possibility of living with his father after sixteen years without him.

 He thought about Johnny under the stream of the shower, chest rising and falling under his hand, eyes clouded, deep in thought.

 They’d almost kissed twice – why was he nervous about the idea of a date?

 “Dad, I’m hungry,” Anthony whined, his voice shocking Daniel violently out of his thoughts.

 “I’m cooking dinner,” Daniel called out, knowing that his son was going to grab some junk food out of the pantry anyway and stalk back up to his room. Amanda was the one who was better at curbing Anthony’s impulsive choices – Amanda, who was in Malibu visiting her parents to tell them about their divorce.

 “Sensei Lawrence is coming to dinner, right?” Anthony asked from behind him, his mouth full. Daniel struggled not to roll his eyes. Trust his son to be predictable.

 “Yes, he is,” he answered, turning in his seat to see his son completely. “Be nice.”

 “I’m always nice.”

 “I seem to remember you telling Johnny that I would kill him,” Daniel recounted. Anthony grinned.

 “That was me being nice,” he said, rummaging in the bag of cheese puffs. “It was a warning.”

 “Be nicer, please,” Daniel pleaded, but he was almost smiling.

 Anthony shrugged. “I’m just trying to protect you, Dad. What if he takes your heart and karate chops it into little pieces?”

 Daniel squinted at him, suspicious. “Quit watching CW shows on Netflix.”

 “Tell Sam to stop watching Riverdale,” Anthony said, still unbothered.

 “Leave the cheese puffs in the kitchen, please,” he called, but Anthony was already halfway up the stairs, the cheese puffs still clutched in his fist.

 ***

 “If you’re worried about the first kiss, why don’t you just get it over with?” Miguel asked, safely buckled into the front seat of Johnny’s Challenger, flipping through Johnny’s tapes. “Do it first thing.”

 “I didn’t – I didn’t say I was,” Johnny stammered, hands white on the steering wheel. “You said I was.”

 Miguel shrugged. “You’re easy to read, Sensei.”

 “Shut up, no I’m not.”

 Miguel didn’t look up from the tapes, his finger tapping on top of Guns ‘n’ Roses. “Then why is your face red?”

 “Are you going to play music or are we going to talk about our girly feelings for the whole drive?”

 Miguel pulled free the tape and turned up the volume, leaving Johnny to marinate in his thoughts. As much as he wished he didn’t, Miguel had a point. Would he be able to sit through an entire dinner while he overthought everything that would come after? Would he be able to make the same mistake he made with Ali?

 He was still thinking about it when they pulled up to Daniel’s house and turned off the car. Miguel led the way to the front door, but Johnny could see the lights sparkling on the terrace, near the pool. The table was set and ready for them, the lighting dark and romantic. It seemed almost too pristine for something that was supposed to include him.

 Miguel looked back at him, almost on the doorstep.

 “You alright?” he asked, and Johnny so clearly saw himself, a teenager again, standing on Ali’s doorstep, nervously waiting to be scrutinized by her rich parents, all the while knowing they thought he was more like them than he could ever be. Yet here was Miguel, standing bravely on the doorstep, in a red flannel shirt and jeans, asking if the grown man was okay.

 “I’m fine, Diaz,” he choked out, and Miguel raised his eyebrows at him like he didn’t really believe it and rang the doorbell.

 Sam answered the door, in a yellow dress that Miguel immediately complimented, slipping an arm around her shoulders for a sneaky hug that he managed to get away with before Daniel appeared beside her, sleeves rolled up toward his elbows, a smile already on his face.

 He stepped aside to let Miguel through, offering him a hand to shake that Miguel took easily, and damn, when did that kid get so comfortable in his own skin? Johnny envied him – he wished he didn’t feel like such a kid when Daniel was around.

 “Johnny?” He pulled himself out of his thoughts to find Daniel looking at him curiously, the light of his home behind him illuminating him around the edges. Johnny felt curiously like he was looking at a painting from a museum he’d never think to go into. “Are you coming inside?”

 Why don’t you just get it over with?

 He reached out for Daniel, pleased when the man offered his hand without question, and yanked him out the front door and onto the porch.

 “What the hell –”

 He stumbled farther than Johnny imagined he would, and he caught him against his chest, one hand steadying Daniel around the waist. When Daniel looked up at him, confused and indignant, Johnny slipped his other hand around the back of his head and pulled him in for a kiss that no one had enough time to interrupt because if someone interrupted him a third time, he was going to have to throw all of their children and surrogate children into the pool.

 Daniel made a confused sound against his lips, but his hands were clenched tightly in the fabric of Johnny’s shirt, pliant in his arms. Johnny pulled away long enough to see Miguel walking by, who gave him a wide-eyed thumbs up as he eased the front door closed. He rolled his eyes and let Daniel pull him in for another kiss, this one breathless and desperate and not at all like a first kiss.

 He had to force himself to pull away because he was maddeningly aware that the longer they were gone, the more likely it was that they would be interrupted. Daniel was grinning when he pulled back, all teeth and Jersey pomp, his eyes still closed, and Johnny wished he had done this thirty years ago instead of knocking the kid into the sand. They could have had thirty more years.

 “Does that mean you’re coming inside?” Daniel asked, his voice so soft it didn’t even sound like him, and Johnny tilted his head back to plant a kiss on his throat, backing him up so he was against the wall, the mostly closed front door on his left, the light from the kitchen barely illuminating them, the sound of their children a delicate soundtrack.

 “In a minute,” Johnny said, lips still on Daniel’s neck, and Daniel exhaled a shaky breath, dropping one of his hands to Johnny’s forearm, like he needed to be stabilized.

 “Take your time,” Daniel replied, head tilted back to the wall, eyes closed. Johnny pulled back for a moment to take him in, still perfect hair, slightly darker lips, face arranged in an expression he never thought he’d get to see, dazed and happy.

 He pulled him back in, taking great care to run his fingers through Daniel’s hair, feeling rather than seeing the mess of it he was making, Daniel groaning against his lips, thoroughly distracted. Johnny could get used to this – kissing the man to distraction. He made a brief mental note to thank Diaz for the idea later.

And then Daniel was turning him around so he was pressed to the brick instead and all thoughts of Miguel went out of the window.

 ***

 “Where did my dad go?” Sam asked, her eyes searching the empty kitchen. “He never leaves the kitchen while he’s cooking.”

 Miguel watched her eyes go to the slightly open front door and linger. He could see the wheels turning there. After a moment’s awkward silence, she gasped.

 “No way.”

 “Maybe don’t go out there looking for him,” Miguel said with a laugh, slipping his arm around her shoulders while he could.

 “Oh my god,” he thought she was angry for a moment, and then he looked down at her, and they both started giggling. “Thank God that finally happened.”

“Thank God what finally happened?” Robby asked, offering a fist for Miguel to bump.

 “My dad and your dad are totally making out outside,” Sam said, loud enough that Anthony, sitting in front of the television, turned around to join the conversation.

 “Ugh, Sam, too much information,” Robby groaned, but he grinned anyway. “So which one of us wins the bet?”

 “Bet?” Miguel asked, looking between them.

 “Well, I bet that they would avoid their feelings forever,” Sam said, counting them off on her fingers, “Robby bet that they were already hooking up, which, gross,” Robby shrugged. “And Anthony bet –”

 “I bet they’d do some dramatic confessing after dinner,” Anthony grumbled. “So none of us win.”

 “If I’m the one who told Sensei Lawrence to do…” Miguel faltered, trying to find the right word, “what he’s doing…does that mean I win?”

 Sam gaped at him, eyes wide. “Wh – what? What did you do?”

 He shrugged. “I gave him some advice. You know, strike first or whatever,” Miguel laughed.

 “He doesn’t win!” Anthony whined. “He didn’t bet!”

 “Didn’t bet what?”

 All four kids went still, frozen like they’d been doing something far worse than having a conversation. Miguel was the first one of them to turn around, trying to keep the smile off his face. Johnny’s barely concealed smirk told him he wasn’t being as sneaky as he thought he was.

 “Nothing, Sensei,” he said, shoving his hands in his pockets.

 “Are you kids gambling?” Daniel asked, his voice teasing.

 “If I say yes will you fix your hair, please?” Sam asked, hiding a laugh behind her hand.

 “What’s wrong with my hair?” Daniel asked, a hand already rising to smooth it back down.

 “Nothing,” Johnny said hurriedly, biting back a grin. “Nothing, it’s fine.”

 “It looks like sex hair,” Anthony half-shouted from his place on the couch.

 The room went silent. Johnny looked over to Daniel, who looked momentarily horrified before he just closed his eyes and started laughing. The rest of the room looked at each other, Johnny trying to hide a self-satisfied smirk before Daniel shoved him, playful and embarrassed, and everyone else started laughing.

 ***

 Dinner started out surprisingly successful – Daniel had always expected this dinner to be awkward, with Miguel and Robby at the same table, himself and Johnny watching their kids stumble through conversation, Anthony being antagonistic, as only he could be.

 But Miguel and Robby were fine, chatting amiably while Sam sat between them, happy and at ease. Anthony had his own comments to make, but Johnny handled him nicely, and even he had to admit that he was amused by Johnny’s newest nemesis. When he realized he was losing whatever conversational battle he and Johnny were currently entangled in, he switched to his usual home run shot:

 “My dad could kill you,” he said, but it didn’t have the venom it usually did, when he was saying it to people who might actually believe him.

 Johnny rolled his eyes. “Your dad is too much of a good guy to actually kill me.”

 Anthony shook his head. “He could still do it. He was a Cobra Kai once.”

 “Anthony!” Sam admonished from across the table. Daniel felt his limbs go numb.

 “No he wasn’t,” Johnny laughed, his eyes sliding from Daniel’s son to Daniel himself. Daniel, who felt the blood drain from his face the longer Johnny looked at him. Johnny stared, mouth slightly open. “You weren’t. Right?”

 “Maybe we should go –” Sam was halfway out of her chair already.

 “No, Sam, it’s fine,” Daniel reassured her. “It’s – it wasn’t a big deal. I didn’t join Cobra Kai, I trained for a little bit with one of Cobra Kai’s…senseis.”

 “So you joined Cobra Kai,” Johnny finished. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

 “Cobra Kai wasn’t around at the time,” Daniel pointed out. “The guy told me he was Kreese’s sensei, that Kreese was dead, all of that nonsense, and I needed someone to train with for the ’85 All Valley, so –”

 “What about –”

 “Mr. Miyagi didn’t want me to compete. But I was…” he struggled to find the right word.

 “Blackmailed,” Sam supplied helpfully. “He was blackmailed into competing. Some guy threatened to beat him within an inch of his life every day if he didn’t.”

 “And I needed a trainer,” Daniel finished with a heavy sigh, his eyes on the table.

“You didn’t tell me you were blackmailed,” Anthony piped up indignantly from the other end of the table.

 “Anthony only thinks Dad joined Cobra Kai because he found the gi in a box one day,” Sam added, eyes on Johnny. “Dad doesn’t…” she looked over at her dad, and then back to him. “Dad doesn’t like to talk about it.”

 Johnny nodded, tightening his jaw. Daniel could see him trying to decide what to do, how to move forward with their kids watching.

 “Then we won’t talk about it,” he said firmly, turning back to his food. He caught Daniel’s gaze and gave him a wan smile. Daniel didn’t know what to make of it.

 He still wasn’t sure what to make of it when dinner was done, and Sam met him at the counter with dishes, muttering that she was going to take Robby, Miguel, and Anthony to Golf ‘n’ Stuff for a little while, knowing that she was trying to give him the privacy to talk to Johnny without any interruptions. He thought about telling her not to; he didn’t want to tell the story, definitely didn’t want to see Johnny’s reaction. Having the kids as a buffer might be good.

 “If you really like him, you’re going to have to tell him eventually,” she said when he didn’t answer, clasping his arm for a moment before ushering everyone outside and into her car.

 He didn’t have to listen hard to hear Johnny’s careful approach. He didn’t have to look to know what he was doing – leaning against the counter, hands in his pockets, eyes on his feet.

 “We still don’t have to talk about it,” he said, and Daniel felt a surge of affection for him that almost knocked him off balance.

 “But you want to know,” Daniel said wearily, grabbing a kitchen towel to dry his hands, turning around to see Johnny completely. He could still see the wrinkles in his shirt where his hands had been clenched earlier.

 “Of course I do, LaRusso,” Johnny said. “But I’m not going to force you to tell me.”

 Daniel shrugged. “You already know most of it. Kreese told Terry Silver to make me bleed, to make me suffer for ruining Cobra Kai. And then Kreese appeared, back from the dead, and,” he shrugged, trying to fight the urge to turn away from Johnny’s horrified gaze, “tried to kill me. Typical Kreese.”

 “He made you bleed.” It wasn’t a question.

 Daniel held out his hands, knuckles marred with thin scars from the wood. “He succeeded.”

 Johnny took his hands in his own, eyes on the scars. Daniel could feel him shaking with anger. He looked up to his face, tight and stern, the very image of a terrifying fighter. “I know where he lives,” he said, his eyes rising to find Daniel’s. “Kreese.”

 “John, don’t,” Daniel pulled his hands back. “It’s not worth it.”

 Johnny scoffed, pushing himself off from the counter, where he was still leaning, to cage Daniel in with his arms. “It is worth it,” he insisted. “He shouldn’t have blamed you because we left.”

 Daniel shrugged, and Johnny made a disapproving noise.

 “That’s why you hated Cobra Kai so much when I brought it back,” Johnny said thoughtfully. He paused, worrying his bottom lip between his teeth. “I don’t blame you.” He brought one hand up to gently trace the line of Daniel’s jaw. “You didn’t need Terry Silver,” he said. “You’ve always been a great fighter.”

 Daniel stared at him, trying to think of something to say, coming up empty.

 “Terry and Kreese might have made you bleed, but they couldn’t really break you,” he continued, surveying Daniel’s face while still managing to avoid eye contact. “You’re too stubborn for that.”

 Daniel managed a weak laugh, the sound of which relaxed the tense lines of Johnny’s face. “Jersey tough,” he said quietly, and Johnny finally met his gaze, blue eyes full of something Daniel couldn’t really identify. It was painfully soft, overwhelming to look at for too long.

 “Yeah you are,” Johnny said softly.

 He pulled him in for a kiss instead of saying something else, frustrated with his son for making tonight too serious, wishing fervently that he could go back to the front step, before they had to discuss their pasts, before Johnny had to fluster him with pretty words.

 Johnny lifted him, like he weighed nothing, onto the counter, and dropped his hands to Daniel’s thighs, clearly deciding that he was going to kiss all of his seriousness away. Daniel let him, content to be pulled along by the sensation of his hands, of his lips. But this was unhurried, unlike their time outside the front door, exploratory, a different kind of intoxicating.

 Johnny pulled back, just far enough that Daniel became aware that he was taller than him this way, blue eyes gazing up at him, sparkling in the light.

 And then he sighed, almost like he was exasperated, even while he still looked at him with a fond smile, and pulled him back to his mouth.

 “I love you,” he said against Daniel’s lips, so quiet that Daniel could almost pretend he hadn’t said it at all.

 But he clutched him tighter, holding onto him fiercely, just in case he was thinking of backing away, of hiding. He could feel Johnny laugh against his mouth, the laugh almost a sob, and kissed him deeper, communicating what he was always too afraid to say.

 “I love you too.”

[writemywaytoyourheart]

One- Next

a/n: so like, here it is. tada~ I hope you guys like it! Sorry if it seems a bit rushed, I just really want to get to the present day so that we can meet hobi T-T but I did do my best! again, pls don’t let this flop 

pairing: idolau! Hoseok x female reader

genre: angst, fluff 

word count: 2,904

warnings for this chapter: language, cheating, non-consensual kiss, implied self-harm...I think that’s it

Trigger Warning: if u get triggered easily, pls read other stuff on my ML. It's in my bio!

Tag list: @melikeylikeyjimin @jannoda

if you want to be on the tag list, send an ask or dm me :) 

Daisies in the Dark Masterlist

Part Two: When Somebody Loves You

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

The second you stepped through the threshold of what would be your new home; a breath you hadn’t even known you were holding released with a huge sigh. The apartment wasn’t big at all with a small kitchen, a tiny sitting space that had bookshelves about half full with what you assumed were Eui’s books, a small hallway turned off to the right where you figured the bedrooms and bathroom were, it was dimly lit with a small lamp on a coffee table. 

It was perfect. 

Eui stumbled into the apartment a second later and laughed breathlessly at your stunned face as she plunked one of your bags down, “like what you see? It isn’t much, but it is cozy.” You spun around over and over taking in every single inch that you could and holding in tears of joy before you turned back to your new friend, “it’s absolutely amazing, I love it so much, thank you.” The lingering nausea from your nerves was now gone completely, replaced by comfort at your surroundings. 

Eui smiled while nodding then patted you on the shoulder, “no need to thank me girlie, I know we’re gonna have an awesome time together! Let’s get you unpacked!”

To say you had an awesome time together would be an understatement. You were more of an introvert before coming to Korea because you never really had anyone to hang out with, always eating lunch alone and studying alone. Group projects were always the worst when everyone jumped to grab whoever they wanted to work with, constantly leaving you in an awkward position seeing as everyone had a partner but you. Things were different after you met Eui though, she took you out to the arcade and to food stands, slowly bringing you out of your comfort zone. At first it was just the two of you, then she introduced you to some other girls that you would be going to school with. 

The rest of the semester and through the summer was filled with giggling girl talks and romantic movie nights, stuffing yourselves with pizza and junk food. When school started again, you were nervous but knew you could handle it with Eui and your new friends to do it alongside you. Classes were hard but you continued to study and do your best, to thank your wonderful teacher who sent you here and prove that she hadn’t done it for nothing. 

About two months into the semester you felt Eui start to pull away a bit. It happened after she met a boy in college; you were studying one night when she burst into your room and jumped on the bed squealing. You shut your books and laughed at her excitement, “what’s going on?? Why are you so excited??” She took a deep exaggerated breath then proceeded to explain, “ok, you know Kim Yung-Kwon from mathematics that I’m totally in love with?” You nodded and she continued, “he started talking to me today and he literally ended up asking me out to coffee!!” Your eyes widened and you jumped up to join in her mini dance party, screaming and giggling over her crush liking her back. 

Needless to say, she accepted the date. After that day she spent a lot more time in her room on the phone with her new boyfriend, which you totally understood, so you gave her space. You two stopped your daily outings and only went out together once every few weeks. It was okay with you since you were busy with school and actually happened to find an internship at a company not too far from your place. 

You got the internship, and from there everything went to hell.

-

-

6 months before the incident...

“Hello, my name is Y/L/N Y/N, I hope we work well together. Please take care of me!” You bowed to your new coworkers and they smiled, bowing in return. They were really nice people and your first day went smoothly. You were in charge of making copies, bringing coffee, scheduling meetings and taking notes for those who could not attend said meetings. It was pretty easy; especially since the girl training you made it easy to understand and she was super nice. 

After your shift you went to clock out, you were looking down to fix everything you were holding and ran right smack into someone’s hard chest. You looked up to apologize and stepped back in surprise when you saw who it was, “Kim Yung-Kwon?” You asked and he nodded while laughing, “Y/N?” You bowed and smiled laughing a bit yourself, “funny running into you! What brings you here?” He smiled back and picked up some of the papers you dropped after running into him. He handed them to you and answered your question, “I got an internship here. I’m guessing you did as well?” You nodded and he brightened then stepped to the side to let you walk past, “well I hope to see you around Y/N, I have to go, but you should join Eui and I on a day out sometime!” You smiled once more while passing by him, “that sounds fun! Let me know what you guys come up with. See you around!” You waved to each other then you walked away, a pit of dread in your stomach at the butterflies that were in you at your encounter. 

Kim Yung-Kwon was a very handsome young man, but he was definitely taken. You slapped yourself gently on the cheek to bring your mind back. Don’t you dare Y/N, don’t you dare! You chided yourself as you walked to the bus stop. Eui was your best friend and if there was one thing you wouldn’t do, it would be stealing a taken man. You stepped into your home and saw Eui lounging on the couch. Eui looked up from her phone and waved to you, asking happily, “how was your first day?? Yung-Kwon texted me and said he ran into you today!” You breathed a sigh of relief that she already knew and plopped yourself down next to her. You two spent the night talking and gossiping like the old days a few months ago. Like nothing had changed. 

Except that day, everything changed. Neither of you knew it yet though. 

Work and school were your norm those days. Day in and day out, studying and doing the internship. Yung-Kwon was always really sweet to you and you hung out with him and Eui a few times a week. You knew he liked Eui a lot and you knew you could keep your feelings in check, but you couldn’t shake the feeling that you were doing something wrong, the uneasy pit dwelling in your stomach made you miss out on a few outings with them. 

It was all saved however, by Lee Jin-Ho. A boy that would talk to you on a daily basis since your start of school. You always thought he was cute and sweet, and he was really easy to talk to. You were completely blind-sided though when he finally had the courage to ask you on a date. Your feelings for Yung-Kwon disappeared the more you went out with Jin-Ho. You never had a boyfriend in your entire life so the whole ordeal was foreign and a bit stressful for you. Jin-Ho was a complete sweetheart and totally infatuated with you, so he was patient and never pressured you into anything.

-

-

3 months before the incident...

One time about two months into your relationship, you two went to the arcade together. You walked in and smiled at the purple flashing lights, K-pop songs blasting and people laughing. Jin-Ho went immediately to a claw machine that had stuffed animals in it. “Which one do you want, Y/N?” You laughed and joined him, scanning the toys and pointing to a little stuffed bear, “I want that one!” He nodded and got right down to business. Never in your entire life have you had someone care so much about you, let alone like you. This whole thing was mesmerizing and you were so scared that it would shatter into a million pieces at any minute. It must be a dream, because good things don’t happen to you.

After a good twenty tries, Jin-Ho finally hollered in victory, holding up the tiny bear and presenting it to you with a smile. You weren’t thinking and went right in for a hug, it was the first time anything physical besides holding hands was initiated between you two. He froze for only a second before hugging you back just as tight. You’d never been happier, and you knew you never would be. You didn’t need anything else. 

Turns out you’d never been more wrong in your life.

-

- 

2 months before the incident...

It was the party. You knew going to a party would be a terrible idea, but Jin-Ho knew the person throwing it and told you that the people there weren’t the reckless drunk type you always heard about. You two walked in and you could smell the alcohol already, flashbacks from your past started to swarm your mind until you felt his arm around your waist protectively. Jin-Ho whispered into your ear, “it’s okay baby. I got you.” His pet name for you sent a chill down your spine and you nodded. Your boyfriend kissed the top of your head and led you to a couch, “I’m going to get us some drinks, stay here and don’t worry.” You grabbed his hand and stuttered, “n-no alcohol, right?” He smiled and nodded, gave your hand a reassuring squeeze before disappearing into the crowd. 

That was the last time you saw your boyfriend that night. Now, Lee Jin-Ho you did see again, but this time he had a girl on his lap making out with her and running his hands all over her body. You had gone to search for him, and you found him. He happened to see you a second later. But unlike what you expected to happen, the boy you thought you loved didn’t look concerned or regretful. He never got up or pushed the girl away. He never called your name out to explain himself. Instead, he smirked at you before raising an eyebrow, as if to say, what? Watch all you want, before turning back to the girl and continuing what he started. Who knew that something so precious and dear could be ripped from you in a split second? 

You ran to the bathroom, shoving past people, some gave you pitiful looks and some laughed at you. You rushed to the toilet and threw up a few times, until nothing was left in your stomach. You were numb. A lot of running happened that night as you ran out of the party and all the way home. There were no questions asked when you burst into the apartment sobbing, your makeup running down your face. Eui gestured to you and held you in her arms, singing to you. Rocking you back and forth while you cried your heart out over your first relationship heartbreak. Eui whispered how much she loved you and how sorry she was. 

You took a few days off, saying you were sick. Which, technically you were throwing up. At just the thought of that man, you couldn’t help but rid your body of the little you ate that day. Your stomach wouldn’t stop turning for weeks. Eui came in however, after about a week. She pulled you out of bed and forced you to dress, eat and go out with her. You couldn’t explain how hard it was to do normal everyday tasks, especially when Jin-Ho was still in some of your classes.

 He never spoke to you again, would walk by you as if you were nothing more than-

a used tissue....

But, you wouldn’t let him continue to hurt you. So, you turned back to what you promised yourself you would never do again. You numbed the pain, and there was only one way that that always worked. Long sleeves would have to go back in fashion again, for you at least. If anyone could hurt you, it would be yourself.

“You’re fine, Y/N….You don’t need him anyways.”

-

-

1 month before the incident...

You continued to do the internship, the best part of the day was when you ate lunch with Yung-Kwon and Eui when she came to join you guys. Yung-Kwon never acted as if he pitied you, for which you were extremely grateful. It had been almost a year since you came to Korea, and a lot had happened. You just hoped that it would get brighter from there on out.

The final straw was that day. 

That one day you would forever wish you could turn back to and stop. Stop everything that was never supposed to happen....

-

-

1 week before the incident...

It was just another day at work, you were typing up a few emails while you rubbed your eyes in exhaustion. It was around lunchtime, but you still had a lot to do. You were sending your last email when you got a text from Yung-Kwon:

“On the roof?” You asked yourself in confusion, but then brushed it off. There were lunch tables on the roof and you three had wanted to try it out someday. You wished Eui would be coming, but you guessed she was busy. Your feelings for Yung-Kwon were strictly friendly those days. You had been able to talk sense into yourself and realize he was just a nice guy, and your heart hadn’t been used to nice guys. After seeing one it immediately wanted him. Now you knew better, and so did your heart. You packed up your stuff and got up to make your way to the roof. You walked up the stairs and pushed the door to the roof open. Yung-Kwon was standing at the balcony looking down into the street. Just then your phone pinged with a text from Eui. 

What was she talking about? Yung-Kwon said she was busy….You quickly typed a reply and smiled, Yung-Kwon would be happy that she could make it!

You frowned at the text in confusion but got distracted when you heard Yung-Kwon call your name, “Y/N! Come on, I got food already.” You walked over and sat down on one of the benches. Yung-Kwon sat right next to you, which confused you. You scooted a little away from him and started opening your sandwich that he bought for you. You decided to let Eui surprise him so you said nothing.

“Thanks for the lunch.”

“Of course Y/N.” 

He opened his sandwich then turned back to you, “uh, can I ask you something?” You nodded and went to take a bite of your food when his next words made you freeze, “are you in love with me?” You turned to him in shock, your eyes bugging out of your head and your mind screaming at you to just get up and leave. You stupidly stayed put, furrowing your brows and shaking your head, “what are you talking about Yung-Kwon? I am not in love with you, weirdo.” You laughed it off, thinking maybe he was pulling a prank on you. It wasn’t a very funny one though. 

You jumped when he grabbed your hand and you tried to pull away. He held on tight and looked into your eyes, “Y/N, you can be honest. I know you’re scared because of what Jin-Ho did to you. But, I would never hurt you. I- I think I’m in love with you.” You yanked your hand out of his and stood up, “you better shut up right now Yung-Kwon. I don’t know what you’re playing but it isn’t funny. You think I would turn right around and cheat with someone right after knowing what it’s like?! And to my best friend??” He stood up and walked towards you, forcing you to walk back until you couldn’t anymore because of the railing. 

“Don’t be ridiculous Y/N. Jin-Ho was an asshole, and we all know it. I’m in love with you and you’re in love with me so it’s different!” You stared at him in shocked silence before responding, “what the hell are you talking about?? We don’t love each other! You love Eui!!” He shook his head, “no I don’t! Ever since I found out you were interning here, that first day. Something changed for me. I knew you liked me then.” You flinched at his touch on your cheek and slapped his hand away, “don’t touch me!” At that moment, you saw the door to the roof open behind his shoulder and saw Eui slip through carrying a bag of food. 

You were about to shove him away from you and call out to her, when to your horror he grabbed your hands and pulled you to him. 

Maybe Eui would run to help you. 

Maybe Eui would understand and come save you.

Maybe Eui would know you.

But, don’t you remember, silly girl? Good things don’t happen to you. 

Yung-Kwon smashed his lips against yours at the exact second Eui waved, her eyes locking on the scene before her, her face blanching. She dropped the bag with a thunk. 

Yung-Kwon stole your first kiss…..and your best friend in the entire world went right along with it. 

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

a/n 2.0: ok...this gave me more grief than the first chapter lmao. if y’all don’t like this im giving up....JUST KIDDING IM GONNA MAKE A HOBI FIC IF IT DESTROYS ME . which it probably will. 

[jadekitty777]

Who Needs Genetics When We Have Family?

We’re now at the final stretch for this Golden Hummingbird adventure. I thank the few people who have stuck around for this ride, as it was a great joy to write. There’s one more chapter that will be up in a few days, and it’s absolutely my favorite of them all! 

Word Count: 7,200

Pairing: Summer/Tai/Qrow

Ao3 Link:  Who Needs Genetics When We Have Family?

Summary: While going through her mom's old clothes, Ruby discovers an old scrap book that reveals she may have one additional parent she never knew about. Now questioning everything from how the trio ended up together down to her very identity, Tai and Qrow find themselves with a lot to answer for.[Takes place Post-Canon]

~

Dust shook from the rafters as Ruby stomped about the attic, ducking under spider webs and zigzagging around the clutter of old things her packrat of a father just couldn’t bear to get rid of. Her only source of light filtered in from the small circular window, mites dancing in the beam. Though it was still early spring, the air in the highest level of the house was stifling, and she had to keep wiping sweat from her brow.

“Anything?” Yang called from where she was perched on the attic steps, only her head and top half of her torso visible.

“I don’t see it!” She replied. She pat the railing of her old baby crib as she passed it. “We really need to tell dad to get rid of some of this old junk.”

“Ruby, of all the battles I will happily jump into, telling dad to do spring cleaning is not one of them.” Her sister said in a tone more suited for a mortician.

“You’re so dramatic.” She replied. She mostly ignored the indignant response that earned her, busying herself with shining her scroll’s flashlight at the tower of boxes in one corner of the room. “Oh, I see it!”

“Yeah?” Yang climbed the rest of the way up.

While she made her way over, Ruby balanced her scroll on the armrest of an old rocking chair, making sure the flashlight was pointed towards the black luggage trunk that made up the base of the box pyramid. “Figures it’d be at the bottom.”

“Yeah but I’ll have it out in no time.” Her sister boasted, already reaching up to bring down the first box.

Ruby winced when she almost conked herself on the head with it. “Please don’t give yourself a concussion.”

“I got it!” Yang carefully brought it down to grip it more securely before setting it to the side. It would be one of many as she brought one after another down from the tower, creating smaller piles on either side of herself until it looked like a collection of cardboard skyscrapers. It wasn’t long before she was placing the last one, running a hand over her face. “Alright, that’s it. Stand back a bit, I got to drag this out.”

Ruby quickly backed up a few steps, rocking on her heels while her sister pulled out the trunk between the miniature city by the handle. With more room to move, she was able to sidle around to the opposite side and grab the other handle. Together, they carried it back to the hatch, Yang going down first while Ruby angled it down towards her, not letting go until she had a secure grip on it and could put it on the floor.

Ruby started to climb down, saying, “You know, it just occurred to me we probably should have checked to make sure we got the right one.”

“Well, then let’s check now.” There was a series of snaps as Yang undid the latches and opened the top. “Yep, that’s a lot of frills alright.”

“It’s tactical camouflage!” She argued even as she nearly tripped over herself to get a look, unable to help the squeal as she saw the many folded up skirts, dresses and blouses packed into the trunk. One that particularly caught her eye was a red and black corset top with bows tied into the sides. She snatched it up, speeding down the hall in a flurry of petals. “I’m gonna try on this one first!”

“Wait! What about the rest!?” Yang yelled after her.

“Can’t talk, gotta dress!” Ruby shouted back, already standing in the middle of their bedroom. She unraveled the fabric of her cape from around her collar, tossing it onto the bed. She was shimmying into the new corset by the time her sister was coming in, trunk in tow.

“You’re the worst.” Yang told her, dropping the load in the middle of their room.

“And you’re the best!” She chirped right back, whirling to face her. “So, what do you think?”

Her sister gave her a once over, humming. “Well it’s cute but I don’t think it’s first date material.”

“Why not?”

“’Cause it’s basically the same thing you always wear. You should go for something with more color.”

Ruby crossed her arms, grumbling, “Red’s a color.”

Yang was already back in the trunk, pulling out more clothes. “You know what I mean. Something different, flashier. Really dazzle him.”

She pulled at the little bows mournfully, but she knew her sister was right – probably. She’d certainly gone on more dates than her at least. Not that it was hard to compete with a number of zero. Still, she didn’t want to mess this up and if that meant being a little more girly for a night, she could handle that. She’d even wear heels!

…Maybe.

“So what are you thinking?” She asked, resigned to her fate of being Yang’s dress up doll. This was starting to feel like their pre-teen years all over again.

“Well, first we need to organize all this. Then we can see what looks good on you. You should put the skirts and dresses on your bed.” Yang suggested while dropping an armful into her hands.

Ruby huffed but did so, straightening them out side by side so they could see them all while Yang did the same on her own bed with the blouses. Most everything was just blacks upon blacks with splashes of color to them - unassuming and quiet. It made her think of her mother’s picture in the photo with her team and how she was off to the side, as if she were trying to hide.

“You think it’s weird that me and mom have the same style?” Ruby asked as she pulled out another one of her mom’s skirts, instantly falling in love with the lace roses sewn into the petticoat. She was keeping this one.

“Not really.” Yang shrugged, glancing back at her. “You never got to know her.  It’s probably normal that you’d want to try and emulate her somehow.”

“Dunno if I’d call that normal.” Ruby reached into the trunk again, using her arm as a clothesline to layer the outfits. As she drew closer to the bottom though, something pure white peeking between the folds of fabric caught her eye. Her heart jumped. But as she dropped the pile onto the floor so she could unearth it, she found it wasn’t the cloak she knew her mother always wore, but another dress. She instantly knew it was special, because it was unlike anything else in the trunk and more on par with something she could imagine Weiss owning.

The material was soft but shimmery and definitely expensive. Satin, she was pretty sure. The bodice was simple but elegant with its off-shoulder straps and delicate lacework overlaid on top in branching, flowery designs. The entire dress was so long she imagined it must have trailed the floor when her mother walked in it, yet also had a lot body around the flounce like a traditional ball gown. Like many of the other clothes, there was only a small bit of color combating its primary shade – but on all the white, the yellow and black flowers that circled the waistline like a belt were instantly eye-catching; loud and wanting to be seen.

She knew the yellow was for dad – it was tradition to wear the husband’s colors on the wedding dress. They were even shaped like sunflowers. But she wasn’t sure why her mom had chosen black dahlias instead of roses. The blotches of dark in-between all the sunny brightness felt out of place, like a bad omen.

“Whoa.” Yang breathed as she came over to get a better look. “It’s gorgeous.”

Ruby couldn’t help but agree. It didn’t seem right to just toss it aside while they kept looking. “Maybe we could hang this one up for now?”

Her sister nodded, heading to their closet to fetch a spare hanger. It wasn’t long before they had the dress hanging over the edge of their closet door. In the light coming from the window, it really seemed to make the fabric shine. It felt a shame that its only future was to wrinkle away in the corner of their attic.

But Ruby also knew it was no mistake that it had been at the bottom of the trunk to begin with.

Maybe that was why she found something else hiding away in there just a few minutes after.

The burgundy red, leather-bound book was tucked away at the bottom, face down. Ruby reached for it, finding it surprisingly heavy as she plopped down onto the ground and flipped it over.

Yang joined her moments later. “What’d you find now?”

“I think it’s a photo album.” Ruby said, looking down at the picture in the window embedded into front cover of her mom, her dad and Uncle Qrow. Mom stood between them, an arm around either of them and waving peace signs over their shoulders. Dad stood to the left, laughing while his own arm reached around behind them to muss up Qrow’s hair, who was on the right. It was her uncle’s grinning expression that gave Ruby pause.

She wouldn’t say her uncle was never happy but, she was more accustomed to seeing the gentle, reserved smiles he’d give when he was proud of something she’d done or was just in a comfortable atmosphere. Only when he was drunk did he ever seem that enthused – but something told her he was anything but during the time this picture was taken. She wondered how young he was.

“Hey, it’s dad’s lullaby.”

“Huh?” Completely derailed from her thoughts, she glanced at Yang in confusion only to look at where her metallic finger was pointing. So distracted by the photo, she hadn’t noticed the words scripted around it. ‘I know that when I’m with you’ it said above the picture, and underneath it finished the lyric with ‘I’m at home’. She could practically hear her dad’s soft cadence echoing in her ear, just as it had when she was small.

It was a song about family and love – and the reminder made her realize that someone else was suspiciously missing from the cover. But that didn’t mean she wasn’t still hidden within its pages.

“Come on, open it!” Yang urged.

“Maybe we shouldn’t be looking at this.” She deflected.

She was unfortunately not as sly as she hoped she was as her sister quickly waved her off. “If she’s in there, it’s fine. I can handle it.”

Ruby eyed her, those words not exactly instilling her with confidence when the years’ worth of arguments between her and dad still seemed to echo down their halls. “You sure?”

“Yeah.” Yang met her gaze. “Don’t worry so much, okay? The way I see it, she’s the one who missed out. She never got to see all the things I accomplished or be a part of our awesome family. That’s her loss, not mine.”

Ruby felt the oddest sense of sadness overcome her. Not because her sister had seemed to of made peace with Raven’s abandonment, but that she hadn’t seen it happen. “When did you start thinking like that?”

“Around the time we, uh, ‘met’ Weiss’ family.”

She wrinkled her nose in disgust at the thought. They had been a bundle of fun alright. While Winter was bearable, if a little cold, Whitley was a lot like Weiss had been, a spoiled brat with a ‘better than thou’ attitude, except dialed to eleven. Her mother, Willow, was a worse drunk than Qrow, to the point the woman almost seemed in a permanent state of catatonic inebriation. And Jacques was…

Well, Ruby didn’t really have any non-swear related words to attach to a man who really should never have been allowed to procreate, let alone raise three kids.

What she did have was a desire to turn back time and drag Weiss back to her own home for a do-over on her childhood. To let her experience what it was like to have a dad who would pin her grades to the fridge and bandage her scraps when they hurt. To have an uncle that was comfortable to act like a kid right along with her and who never got impatient even if she asked him to tell the same story for the fifth time. To have siblings to build pillows forts together with and sneak downstairs late at night so they could share one more cookie from the jar. To have a family that had rowdy dinners full of laughter, vacations focused on nothing but fun, and holidays that made everyone feel just a little more together then before.

Yang continued on, “Seeing how Weiss handled things back then, I couldn’t help but admire her strength. It felt like she spent her entire life surrounded by people who didn’t want her. And yet, instead of letting that get to her, she acted like it was their fault. And it is. Because, Weiss is great. She’s practically another sister to me, and I can’t imagine her not being part of my life. Anyone who can reject her so easily isn’t worth her time.” She placed a hand on her chest, “And the whole thing just kind of gave me a reality check, you know? It made me think: if Weiss can do it, then I can too.” Her fingers curled into a fist over her heart. “So, I decided from that day on, I would. Raven may not have wanted me, but that’s fine, because I have plenty of people who do, and those are the people who matter.”

Ruby couldn’t help it – she hugged her.

Though confused, Yang responded in kind. “What’s this all about?”

“I’m just happy for you.” She told her.

For as poor an explanation as it was, her sister smiled like she’d never heard a better reason. “Thanks sis.” When they pulled apart, she tapped the album again. “So, we gonna look at it or what?”

“Oh, right!” She settled back, adjusted the book so that it was laid more properly in her lap, and opened it.

As it turned out, her worries were completely invalid. For the book – which turned out not to be a photo album but a scrap book – was almost definitely not going to showcase Raven.

It was impossible to imagine it would, what with the hand-written script ‘To my boys whom I love with all my heart’ written around the picture of Uncle Qrow kissing their dad on the cheek.

“Well.” Yang said, tone as shell-shocked as Ruby felt. “That’s new.”

~

Tai hummed a bouncy tune as he poured the cups of tea, body bopping gently to the rhythm.

“You seem to be in a good mood.” Qrow observed from where he sat at the dining table.

He unscrewed the jar of honey, spooning some out. “Suppose I am. It’s just been so calm lately.”

“DAD!”

The shout startled him, the spoon falling from his hand and clattering to the floor, splattering honey everywhere. He gave it a mournful look as Zwei eagerly padded over to lap it up.

“You were saying?” Qrow said, a teasing lilt in his tone.

Tai huffed his way, before turning his head towards the doorway where a flutter of petals was just fading around his youngest daughter. “Hey now, what did I say about semblances in the house?”

Ruby didn’t bother to answer and the sound of Yang’s thunderous steps coming down the stairs only seemed to enunciate her dark expression.

“Uh, honey? What’s wrong?” He asked, going from mildly perturbed to intensely worried as he started to cross the room.

Her hand jerked upwards, showing him what she was holding. “Care to explain this?”

He froze mid-step, his throat closing up at the sight of the old scrapbook Summer had gifted him and Qrow on their first anniversary.

Oh.

Oh shit.

Qrow’s own eyes doubled in size as he jumped up from his seat. “Where did you find that?”

“It was in mom’s trunk.” Yang answered as she finally made it to the room.

It was hard to pin down whether Qrow was being accusatory or not in the too-casual way he turned to him and said, “Figured you’d thrown it out.”

“I don’t throw out anything.” Tai replied numbly, finding it slightly easier to focus on him then Ruby’s unnerving glare. “Especially not anything of Sums.”

“But it was mine too, you could have given it to me.”

“I- Look!” He ran an agitated hand through his hair. “People do weird stuff when they’re depressed, okay?!”

“Guys!” Ruby cried shrilly. “Missing. The. Point!” She started waving the book at them, making him concerned for its life expectancy. “What does this mean? That you two were dating? With mom?!”

“Er.” Qrow hesitated, then revealed, “We were quite a bit more than that, kiddo.”

“WHAT?”

Tai withheld a sigh.

And it had started out as such a nice day too.

~

Ruby stared down at the dining room table, certain her thought process had shut down from the nuclear explosion that had gone off inside her brain cells because she just didn’t know how to comprehend what she was just told. Maybe it had a limit on how much unbelievable stuff it could take. Magic glowy eyes that disintegrated Grimm? Weird, but not too out of the bounds of reality. Magical maidens that controlled the weather? Pretty crazy, but alright. Relics created by the Gods and a magical witch that couldn’t die? Now things are getting a little out of hand but she could deal.

Her dad and Uncle Qrow being married to her mom at the same time? Okay now she had to be in an alternate reality.

Maybe she had just switched places with Yang for the day, because her normally hot-tempered sister sounded rather calm as she spoke up, “I don’t get it. Why don’t I remember any of this?”

“You were really young, Yang. And losing Summer had been traumatic for all of us.” Her dad replied. “It’s probably normal to block some stuff out.”

Qrow snorted, amusement coloring his tone. “You used to be a little bragger though.”

“I was?”

“Yeah, you kept going to all the other kids on the playground and telling them how you had two daddies to read you bedtime stories and a mom who made the world’s best cookies every night. And then you pushed them down when they called you a liar.”

“Ugh. Don’t remind me.” Their dad rubbed his temple as if recalling the old headaches, but his smile was fond. “We got so many angry phone calls from the other parents.”

“I really did that?” Yang asked. “I don’t remember that.”

“’Course you don’t. You hadn’t even started school yet, Firecracker. And boy were we not looking forward to it when you did. We were sure you were gonna end up in the principal’s office the first day.” Qrow laughed.

“Thanks for the vote of confidence!” Yang said, huffing a bit.

Ruby listened and seethed. Why were they laughing? And making jokes? None of this was funny!

Dad must have noticed, because he asked softly, “Sweetheart, you doing okay?”

“No!” She exploded, slamming her hands on the table. “Of course I’m not okay! Why didn’t you guys say anything? Why is everything some big secret in this damn house?!”

Her outburst soured the mood instantly, but she couldn’t find it in herself to feel bad.

Her dad shifted in his seat, crossing his arms along the table. “Believe me, this wasn’t a secret we intended to keep.”

“So then why did you?” She muttered, slumping down in her own chair and glaring at the table corner.

There was a soft sigh and an even softer admittance, “Because we were scared.”

The words caught her by surprise because she’d never seen her dad as anything but brave – yet here he was, telling her she was wrong. She glanced through her bangs at him, “’Bout what?”

“Everything, really.” He said. “Before we lost your mom, it really wasn’t a problem. We just figured you’d grow up knowing you had three parents and it would just be normal. But after she passed and things just fell apart between Qrow and I, everything got swept under the rug.”

“We talked about it.” Her uncle tacked on. “How and when and all that. We figured we’d tell you both at the same time. About Raven. About us. But…” His gaze shifted to Yang. “When you found out about Rae and didn’t handle it so well, we thought: ‘Well shit, we can’t do that to Ruby too!’ And so, we just kept pushing it off.” He gestured as he spoke, his tone having the inflection of a narrator from an animated movie, “At first we said ‘we’ll tell her when she’s ten!’ And then she was and we were all ‘No it’s too soon, maybe when she’s thirteen!’ And then year after year passed and…” He deflated, hand falling to the table. “We just, never knew when the right time was.”

“So, it’s my fault.” Yang spoke up.

“No, of course not!” Her dad quickly assured. “It was an accident you found out that early, nothing more. But Qrow and I could see how badly it affected you and because we had the power to choose to spare Ruby from the same thing… we took it.”

“We didn’t know what we’d do if we had two kids going through an identity crisis.” Her uncle lamented.

That’s when it hit her harder than Nora’s hammer to the gut.

“Wait.” Ruby sat up straight, looking between them. “Then, which one of you is my dad?”

They froze, sharing a look.

“Well…” Qrow spoke first, waving towards Tai. “Legally, he is.”

That didn’t sound like an answer. “What does that mean?”

Tai explained, “He means as far as your birth certificate is concerned, you’re mine. But as for who, uh-”

“Knocked up your mom.” Qrow intoned helpfully.

“Qrow!” Tai smacked his arm.

“What?! They’re adults. They can handle it!”

She really couldn’t.

Tai pinched the bridge of his nose, shaking his head. “As for who impregnated your mother… we don’t know.”

“You don’t know?!” Ruby echoed, unable to believe this. “How can you not know? Don’t they have tests for these things?”

“Well, yes, but, uh,” Tai floundered a bit.

Qrow spoke up instead (She never really noticed how often they did that), “Vale has a lot of legality restrictions when it comes to kids. Oz pushed a lot of those regimens with the council, because he wanted to make sure kids who lost their families were still taken care of, so we got a lot of advice from him. And the smartest thing to do was make Tai your dad, since he was the one staying at home. That way if anything happened to Summer and I at the same time, he wouldn’t have to fight the protection services to keep the family together.”

“But the kingdoms don’t share medical records.” Tai continued, “So, we figured when you kids were older and we could afford it, we could take a trip to Mistral or Atlas. Have the test done then, if that’s what you wanted.”

“What I wanted?” She frowned. “You guys didn’t want to know? It doesn’t bother you?”

“I did, at one point.” Qrow admitted. “But, then I held you for the first time, and I realized it didn’t matter. I loved you more than anything; learning which of us actually donated his DNA wasn’t going to change that.”

“It was the same feeling for me. I grew up in Vacuo. A lot of communities there live on the philosophy that family has nothing to do with blood and everything to do with heart.” Tai said, his smile kind and warm. The familiarity was odd when she felt like her whole world had flipped upside down. Wasn’t everything different now? Or was she just the one acting weird?

“Well then,” She scrambled, pointing towards Qrow. “Then why do I call you uncle? Shouldn’t I call you dad too or something?” The sudden burst of laughter from everyone made her rethink what she just said. “Oh my gods, be serious! Dad also.”

Qrow was the first to get ahold of himself. “We tried, at first. But no matter what we did, you just kept imitating your sister. We kind of realized by accident it probably made things easier on you kids, and on us too. If you called both of us dad, we’d never know who you were asking for. We figured eventually you’d come to understand it like Yang did.” He rubbed the back of his neck, the somberness veiling back over his expression. “But then things changed and here we are.”

“Why did it change?” Yang asked cautiously, as if she didn’t really want to hear the answer. “Did you two fall out of love?”

“No. It was the opposite really.” Tai said, sharing a look with him. The gaze they shared was a silent conversation all their own, and the slightest nod from Qrow spurred him onwards and he turned back to them. “Losing Summer was immeasurably hard. We were both grieving in our own ways, and we loved each other enough to know neither of us were doing anything but hurting each other. Qrow’s drinking was out of hand and I - back then I,” He trailed off, taking a deep breath. “Let’s just say depression is a very scary disease that can twist your thoughts in ways you never thought you could think of yourself. Until I got help, I wasn’t good for anyone.”

Ruby heard her sister shift uncomfortably beside her. She didn’t really have many memories of back then; mostly she remembered her dad being absent a lot of the time, but she’d reasoned it was because he was at work. It was only after Blake had questioned her shortly before the Vytal Dance about her family life and revealed to her the story Yang had shared with her, that she began to question if the happy home life she always perceived she’d had, had more cracks in it then she was aware of.

Uncle Qrow reached out, curling his hand over one of dad’s. As if that was normal. As if they’d done it a million times before. It was weirding her out.

“Point is,” He said, completely unaware of her internal screaming, “We were wrecks. Tai was sick and I spent more time blacking out in alleyways than at home. Neither of us could support each other the way we needed too, so we called an end to it. We decided we wouldn’t try again until things were okay.”

“But you never did try again.” Yang was frowning. Ruby guessed she was probably worrying about herself and Blake.

“Uh. Well. That’s not entirely true.” Their dad said.

Qrow suddenly grinned. “Actually, had you two been a bit older, you probably would have figured it out. Remember that time you girls were bowling down the hallway and the ball went into Tai’s room? And when you went to get it, you found me in his bed and I told you girls I was getting over a hangover? I wasn’t.”

“Wait, what? Why were you still in my room?”

“Because I couldn’t walk!”

“Oh, gross.” Ruby groaned. Her sister made some equally distressed noises while her dad turned a ripe shade of tomato red. Qrow just laughed uproariously at them all.

Yang shuddered. “I could have gone my whole life without knowing that.”

“And I could have gone my whole life without you girls hearing that.” Dad agreed, shoving Qrow’s shoulder. “Stop laughing already. You sound like a donkey.”

“Tai, they’re over eighteen. You can call me a jackass now.”

“I just happen to have some class, unlike you.” Ignoring the childish faces their uncle started making his way, he continued on, “As I was saying, we did try – more than a few times, really. But we kept it hidden from you girls, until we knew things between us would work out. It was important to us that we show you two what a healthy and positive relationship was like so that when you got older, you’d hopefully take our example and find the right person for yourselves. We just, never got that far. It was… complicated.”

“Pff. It was not.” Qrow rolled his eyes. “You got better, I didn’t. Seems pretty straightforward to me.”

“It was so much more than your drinking and you know it. And anyways, you’re way better on that than you were.” Dad refuted.

“Ha! Then don’t let me tell you about Argus.”

His eyes narrowed. “What about Argus?”

“Uh-” He looked towards the clock on the wall. “Whoa, look at the time! Ruby don’t you have a date tonight or something?”

Her sister looked too, then jumped to her feet. “It’s almost 6? Come on Ruby, we haven’t even chosen an outfit!”

“What?” She jerked around. “Are you crazy? How am I supposed to go on a date after all this?”

“Well you can’t cancel the first date!”

“That’s not a rule!” When her sister only rose an eyebrow, she backpedaled, “I-Is it?”

“Ruby.” Her dad’s voice had her turning back to him. “If you really don’t think you’re up to going anymore, you don’t have to. If this guy’s a good one, he’ll understand. Then, we can talk all night if you want. But, those answers aren’t on a time limit either.”

Her uncle nodded. “Yeah. It ain’t like we’re gonna clam up come tomorrow. And we kind of hit you with a lot just now; letting some of that sink in for a few hours isn’t the worst thing you can do.”

Ruby chewed her lip, not wanting to admit how undeniably tempting the offer was. “I just don’t get why all this had to be kept a secret. Didn’t I have the right to know?”

“Of course you did.” Her dad answered. “And I’m sorry we kept it from you as long as we did. We were just so focused on trying to make things feel stable and safe for you girls, that the idea of deliberately throwing another wrench in the mix never seemed like a good idea.”

“Yeah okay,” She said in a tone that implied it was definitely not okay.

The two men shared a worried glance, before Qrow sighed, placing his elbows on the table as he lent forward, “Look kiddo, this was never easy on us either. Kids aren’t born with manuals. And yeah, we definitely screwed up at times. Just ‘cause we’re trying to raise you doesn’t mean we’re suddenly perfect adults. Least of all me.” He rolled his eyes as he said this, as if even he was exasperated with himself. “But you got to trust me when I say any decision we made for you,” He glanced at Yang, “Or you, was always done with the reason that we love you both.”

“I know that! I just-!” She couldn’t stay still anymore. She jumped to her feet, pacing around the length of the kitchen. “I don’t know, I feel like I’m the crazy one here! Why is everyone so calm about this?”

“Ruby-”

Ignoring her dad’s attempt to placate her, she whirled on her sister. “I figured at the very least, you’d be with me on this! Why aren’t you upset?”

“I mean, I guess I am a little?”

“A little?! Don’t you get it? We might not even be sisters!”

Yang stared, her eyebrows rising with understanding. She crossed over to her, saying, “Is that what’s bothering you?”

“Well, yeah!” Ruby said, feeling absolutely silly that she wanted to cry.

She stopped in front of her, placing her hands on her shoulders. “Ruby, say you do go and do this test. And say Uncle Qrow is your dad… why does that have to change anything?”

“I-I don’t,” She sniffled, rubbing away at some tears. “Shouldn’t it?”

“Why? I don’t care what that test says, you’re my little sister. Always. So why do you need to think differently?” Yang urged. “Things only have to change if you want them too. Do you want them to?”

“No!”

“So then what’s the problem?”

She blinked rapidly, giving a watery laugh. “Well when you say it like that, it makes me feel kind of stupid.”

“I prefer slow on the uptake.” Yang joked, tugging her into a too tight hug.

Around her bending ribs, she squawked, “You’re the worst.”

“And you’re the best!” Was the proud chirp before she pulled back, heading for the living room. “Come on, you got a big night ahead of you.”

She nodded, wiping away the rest of her tears. She glanced over at her dad and uncle, who had stood from their own chairs at some point during her mini breakdown, but hadn’t gotten further then around the table. They looked about as uncertain as she felt; but they were still her uncle and dad – even if biologically that may be the other way around. Things hadn’t really changed for them either, had they?

Her dad was still the man who sat with her after school and helped her with her homework or taught her how to focus her aura so she could unlock it for the first time. Someone who had been in the crowd of all her school events, taking pictures as she won awards or got her diploma, and had seen her off at the airstrip the day she left for Beacon. The one she depended on to take care of her when she was ill or walk with her to the cliff on those sad, sad days she missed mom the most. Was still and always her guide, the person who taught her right from wrong and who always encouraged her to be the greatest she that she could be.

Her uncle was still the guy who spent hours with her showing her how to shoot at targets 500 meters away and snuck into her welding class to help her forge Crescent Rose. The one she could count on to take her out for ice cream if she had a bad day or play video games with her all night if she was bored. Knew that even if he had to be away a long time, that he’d write or call when he could, and come back with a gift or two for her and Yang from some cool town or big city he’d gotten to visit. Was still and always her hero, the person she’d tell everyone she wanted to be just like when she grew up.

Neither of them were perfect; that was something she was seeing more and more of as she grew older. But they were here, raising her, watching over her, loving her. That was never going to change. That’s what mattered most.

She hurried over to them, throwing her arms around them both. “We’ll talk tomorrow?”

Her dad’s arm was strong and steady as it encircled her. “Of course. Anytime you want.”

“Go have fun.” Qrow told her, ruffling her hair. “Knock ‘em dead. And if he gets too handsy, take that advice literally.”

“Qrow!”

She giggled stepping back so she could prepare for a quick escape. “Thank you. I love you.”

“We love you too sweetie.” Tai told her fondly – only to immediately shout after her retreating petals, “And no semblances in the house!”

~

With the sun’s descent, quiet also seemed to descend their home. Ruby was out of the house for the evening and with it being morning in Menagerie, Yang was holed up in her room on Skyria, video-chatting with Blake. It left the first floor to themselves; but the calmness and normalcy was not something Qrow found to be undesirable these days.

The spoon clanked against the tea cup as the last teaspoon of honey was added, before he dropped the utensil in the sink. He grabbed the two cups, heading over to the couch in the living room, handing one to its only occupant.

“Thanks.” Tai gladly took a sip. As Qrow sat beside him, he said, “Ruby handled that way better than I thought she would. Maybe you were right and we should have told her sooner.”

He lent back into the cushions, propping his feet onto the coffee table. “Or fighting magical maidens and immortal witches builds up an intolerance to these kinds of things, and waiting was the right call. We’ll never get the ‘what if’ answer.”

“Guess not.” Tai set his cup aside, before going back to flipping through the scrap book propped in his lap.

Truthfully, after traveling with her from one end of Remnant to the other, Qrow hadn’t expected anything less from Ruby. He wasn’t sure where she got her fortitude from, but her ability to push through even the most adverse of conditions was her most admirable quality. Perhaps it was just that, or maybe the other shoe was just waiting to drop, but he had a feeling things would be back to the status quo before they knew it.

No, it was Yang he was more impressed by. He was certain it would be her yelling at the top of her lungs – especially when it was just another secret being kept from her – but instead, she’d handled it with a rationality he’d never really seen before. He knew, in part, it was because she was striving hard to reign in her quick temper. Not for herself, but for her girlfriend, whose sketchy past romantic relationships made it hard for her to deal with the shouting matches Yang was prone too. All on her own, Yang decided she didn’t want to be a reminder of that past. That’s how he caught her, in a library of one of the towns they had stayed in during their travels, reading up on anger management. When he confronted her, she told him that it was only fair that if Blake was working on her tendency to back down, then she would work on improving herself for her too.

Firecracker was turning into more of a Fire Dud these days, but it was a welcome improvement and today just proved how far she’d come. He was insanely proud of her.

He was also immensely jealous.

Because if she could fix something about herself with only one reason, why did he keep giving up when he had three?

Tai’s sudden laughter shook away his thoughts. “Oh, you remember this day?”

Qrow’s eyes darted towards the entry he was indicating, an amused chuckle bubbling almost instantly. “Yeah.”

The page was decorated with various stickers of smiling fruits and flowers set in patterns that matched well with the photos glued to the pages of them on a picnic. It had been Tai’s birthday and as he tended to want simple things and with it being right at the tail-end of summertime, he had requested a day out with the family. So, they made up a little basket of food, got Yang in her little flower dress, and headed out. Despite being plumper than the watermelon they’d brought along, Summer probably took about three dozen pictures that day – but the four she’d chosen seemed to perfectly highlight the timeline of disaster they were in for.

The first was a posed picture with them all standing together, the backdrop a field of wildflowers they’d chosen to have their picnic in.

The one underneath was a more candid shot of Tai and him stretched out on the blanket, empty plates strewn around them. Qrow had Yang in his hands and was lifting her upwards, making the infant feel like she was an airplane.

The third was one he took. Summer, Tai and Yang were in the flowers, the little girl trying to toddle her way after some butterflies. It would have been nothing more than another charming family photo, if not for the hint of grey clouds inching their way over the tree line behind them.

The last was of him and Tai standing at the top steps of the porch, looking like a pair of wet sheepdogs with the way their hair hung over their eyes. Sheets of rain was coming down behind them, and just to the left was a blur of yellow bounding forward – Yang, seconds away from ruining her dress and splattering mud all across their backs.

Taiyang must have been looking at that one too because he said, “Gods, Yang was such a mess. Summer had to wash her in the sink! I don’t think we ever managed to save her dress, did we?”

“No. I don’t think we did.” Qrow replied distractedly, his mind lost in the past.

It should have been an awful day; but instead, there was nothing but laughter over how ridiculous they all looked or the rush to clean themselves up and put Yang down for her nap. There were kisses shared under a warm shower. The coziness of the three of them wrapped up together in an afghan, sipping hot tea and watching the storm from the bench on the patio.

He could almost smell the rain again. Or feel the weight of Summer leaning against his side as she dozed, tired from the day. Or how his breath caught a little bit when he looked over at Tai, and found himself so caught by how gorgeous he looked at that moment, that all he could do was stare.

Just as he was now.

He traced his eyes over Tai’s gentle visage, from the faint freckles that valiantly held onto some of his youth to the slope of his blue eyes that made him appear so kind and the brightness of his smile as he turned to another page. There were signs of his age of course, in the wrinkles around his eyes, the dimming color of his hair, but his beauty had aged with him. Or maybe Qrow was still just that captivated by him that he’d find him so no matter what he looked like.

Warmth bloomed in his chest, burning like an overheated flame, the love that had once been so prominent in his life warring with the sorrow of everything he’d lost since then. It was hard to bear, and he found that he was tired of feeling it. And perhaps it was that that finally led him to ask, “Do you ever miss us?”

Tai paused, gazing at him searchingly for a few long moments. It felt an eternity before he finally murmured back, “All the time.”

“Me too.” Hope tentatively pulled the next question from him, “Could we try again?”

A hand reached out, larger fingers slipping between his own, brushing against the three wedding rings he wore. Tai lent in close, until their foreheads brushed together and all they could see was each other. “I thought you’d never ask.”

[kz-i-co]

Sleepover

Request: "Hi! Can you write a chanwoo angst imagine in which you both are best friends but you fall for him and he doesn't feel the same and starts avoiding you and he insults you. But later he realizes that he loves you too. I know it is too mainstream but I would love if you could write it!! I love your writing hehe xx - Angst plus fluff"

Pairing: Jung Chanwoo/ Reader

Genre: angst/fluff

Words: 3.1k

A/N: I hope this is okay requester :) I have another Chanwoo best friends request coming soon. I was originally gonna use this story for the other one but then I decided to turn it into this request instead since this one had a little more story to it but my other one is coming shortly. I wanted to combine them but they were a little too different of a concept lol.

m.list ╫ ikon masterlist

-

"Honey I'm home." You entered the door without even knocking.

You nervously backfired from the stares you were getting until Chanwoo started laughing.

"Don't you have a home?" Mr. Jung said.

"I do but yours is way better."

"You hungry dear, we just finished dinner?" Mrs. Jung said sweetly.

"Nah, not hungry." You smiled tugging on your best friends shirt.

"Okay, I'll see you later." Chanwoo said as he left the house with you. "So where are we going this time?"

"I found this awesome abandoned train cart."

"How?"

"It's only a mile from my house and I decided to take a short cut to your house this time." You smiled.

"Is it safe? Are you updated on your tetanus shots?" He laughed.

"It's safe. It doesn't look that old."

"We can make it our secret spot." You continued.

....

You decided to stop by Starbucks before you made it to your secret headquarters.

"You know June is checking you out." Chan whispered in your ear.

You turned around seeing the boys quickly go back to chatting. "Is this the only thing they do Friday nights. You'd think they be at some party." You rolled your eyes.

"Hey, I heard he is a nice guy. Plus you never date."

"There's a reason I don't date." You laughed. "And It's senior year. Dating someone like him wouldn't last."

"What's the real reason? Do you like someone else?"

You gulped from his sudden question. "Sorta." All your confidence was gone.

"Who is he? Do I know him?" He asked.

Yes. "I can't tell you."

"Why not? I told you when I had a crush on Ryujin."

"Yeah, and that was a mistake wasn't it?" You laughed.

"Whatever."

"Come on, to our secret headquarters." You marched out the door with your milkshake.

"You're really not going to tell me?" He followed.

"Shut up." You snapped.

"Okay. Sorry. I'll figure it out anyway." He smirked.

Good luck with that genius.

"Here it is." You crossed the over grown rail road track and climbed up into the boxcart. There was already graffiti and names scattered throughout the area so you couldn't imagine how long this has been here.

"Why here?" He asked kicking some old dingy crate. "This place is a shit hole."

"Perhaps....but what if we made it our own, our getaway paradise, our safe haven, our-"

"(Y/N) please shut up."

"You don't like it?"

"It's just a piece of junk." He made a face.

"I think it's poetic."

"Because there is poems on the wall?" He still questioned your motives.

"Stop being such a buzz kill. This place is romantic." You blushed after your back was turned away from him.

"What's the point of romantic if I'm here with you." He teased but you felt pain inside. If only he knew.

"Fine. Maybe I'll invite.....June to my secret romantic hiding place instead." You sat on the edge.

He made a face, clearly not liking your answer. "Now you like the guy all of a sudden?"

"At least a guy likes me. So I'm not a total loser." You mumbled the last bit.

"Come on. I was kidding.....we can make it cool....I guess." He sat down next to you, letting his feet hang off the cart.

"(Y/N)?" He tried to get your attention. "I didn't think that kind of thing gets to you." You still didn't focus your attention on him. "Come on....you talk about how much guys suck all the time.....You don't really act like the romantic type."

"Chanwoo, I'm a girl. Or did you forget?" You still didn't look at him.

"Please stop being so serious, you're really starting to scare me."

"Am I just another guy friend to you. Is that what you really think of me?"

"Where is this coming from? We've been friends for how long......?"

You leaned your head against the wall. "Can you leave? I kind of want to be alone." You try to say as kindly as possible.

"(Y/N) what did I do?" He looked at you concerned.

"I just need a lot to think about right now." You simply said.

"Are you still sleeping over tonight?"

"I don't know."

"See ya later." He mumbled and left you alone.

Were you over reacting? Basically he rejected you without you even confessing.

"Why did I have to fall for you?" You whispered as you felt tears starting to fall.

He didn't see you as a girl which was the worst part. You were just one of his guy friends.

....

You entered his home with no invitation like always as you wanted to return his plaid coat you stolen.

"Hey dear he's upstairs."

"No thanks. I just wanted to give this back." You placed the coat on the hook.

"Aren't you sleeping over like usual?"

"Excuse me Mrs. Jung but aren't you suppose to be worried about those type of things as a parent. I mean we are both 18 now."

"What do you mean?"

You rolled your eyes behind her back as you had to explain. "I'm a girl and he's a boy? And you let us sleep together in the same room? With the door shut."

"I'm not worried about that dear. You've been friends for so long." She smiled.

It was officially. You were doomed.

"But what if one day we decided to be more. Not that it will, clearly....I'm just curious."

"I know my son dear....and I trust him." What was that suppose to mean?

"Wow thanks for the talk, I gotta go." You turned around and headed straight home.

That was it. You were determined to try a little experiment.

"Hey Soyoung? Can I borrow some clothes?" You asked your sister once you got home. She was a year younger then you and the complete opposite. She was pure and girly.

"Why?" She gave you that look of annoyance.

"Because I want to start dressing girlier." You shrugged.

"Then borrow moms clothes." She tried to shut her door.

"Please....I want to impress a guy." You begged.

"You? I almost thought that wasn't possible, since you rather arm wrestle with them then hold their hand." She laughed.

"I hate arm wrestling."

"I was just giving a example. You're lucky because you got all these hot guys hanging around you but you choose to be one of them instead." She saw it too? Even before you did.

"Well, I want to change that."

"So whose the guy you're trying to impress? Let me guess....Chanwoo?"

"W-What?"

"I'll take that as a yes." She smirked.

"How did you know?"

"Because you hang out with him the most." She shrugged since her guess was a hunch. "Why don't you just tell him?"

"Because he doesn't think of me that way, one of the guys, and that hurts a lot."

"Well trying to be something you're not won't do it either."

"Well.....I can try." You stole some clothes and left.

This will work right? It has to.

-

You decided on a cute dark flowy skirt and a gray flowy sweater just gently tucked it. You wanted to go girly but not over the top girly. Simple and causal.

Once you got to school, you didn't get your normal high fives from different people as you passed by. Almost like they didn't recognize you.

"Yo what's up (Y/N)." Chanwoo came over and punched you playfully like the punching bag you have become in this friendship. He memorized your locker so well he didn't even notice what you were wearing at first. "Woah, what the hell are you wearing?"

Nothing like 'you look pretty' or 'why' just 'what were you thinking' kind of way. And that hurt more then you thought.

You slammed your locker and took a hard look at him. "I can wear what I want."

"But not that."

"Why not?"

"It's not you." He said like it was obvious.

"Maybe I'm sick of me."

"Are you still pissed over last night?" He asked.

"I need to get to class." You walked away.

....

"It's so true." You over heard conversations go on throughout the rest of the day.

"Hey Chanwoo, is it true?"

"What?"

"(Y/N) is so in love with you." Donghyuk pushed his friend.

"(Y/N) is not in love with me." He said it like it was nonsense.

You turned the corner and quickly hid behind your locker as you saw him engaged with his friends in a deep conversation.

"Dude, It's obvious." Jinhwan rolled his eyes.

"She would of told me."

"Nah girls get sensitive about those kind of things."

"She has been acting differently since yesterday."

"How come?" Donghyuk asked.

"She was talking about us having some secret hideout and how it was romantic, and I completely shot her down."

"Wow, you're a dick." Bobby laughed.

"I'm not it's just silly."

"So what now? You gonna ask her out?" Yunhyeong asked.

"Pff, no." He laughed.

You couldn't help the tears build up hearing him laughing at you, you finally grabbed your things and left. You didn't want to hear the rest of that conversation.

"It's just weird. We've been friends for so long."

"So what? You two are always together anyway. Mine as well make it officially." Donghyuk spoke.

They were right. But he worried he already lost you as a friend and he definitely didn't want to face you now that he knew it was him all along on who you liked. Things would be awkward. Different.

-

As a week went by you became strong and acted like it didn't bother you. You haven't hung out with the guys all week. Not that you weren't avoiding, you still said your hellos to the rest of them through the hall but Chanwoo was non existent. You wanted to be the one avoiding him but he was no where to be found. Every time you got a glimpse of him he would go somewhere else.

He was avoiding you.

He's the one to upset you and he was running away cowardly.

Throughout class Chanwoo was always two rows behind since you moved your seat. He missed you. You always came over every night just chilling while playing video games but now he was lonely. He watched you comb your fingers through your hair as you wrote something in your notebook. He couldn't stop thinking about you.

....

"Hey, Someone is trying to steal your girl." Yunhyeong laughed while pushing his friend.

He looked over to see June talking to you.

"Go over and stop that before he takes your girlfriend."

"Shut up. She's not my girlfriend." He pushed him back.

"Chill dude. It was just a joke." Yunhyeong pushed back as everyone in the hall was focused on them. Even you.

You pursed your lips as you walked away with June. Chanwoo slammed his locker and walked away. "She hates him, why is she with him?"

"Maybe they are just lab partners." Yunhyeong denied. "You need to talk to her."

"I can't."

"Well. Then you can't be pissed off."

-

"Perfect." You smiled as you got done hanging the lights up in your hidden boxcar.

You cleaned up the place and put old blankets and pillows you no longer needed and candles and different decorations for a more poetic atmosphere like you wanted. You wrote more song lyrics you loved on the wall as well, just to add something. The place was everything you wanted but too bad you were alone.

You hooked up your phone to your speaker and began playing soft comforting music as you laid down on your little set up.

You heard a deep sigh that had you sitting up quickly. "What are you doing here?"

"Looking for you." He said as he made his way into the box car.

"What?" You shrugged like nothing was wrong.

"This place looks nice (Y/N)." He gazed as he looked throughout the place.

"Not bad for a shit hole right." You said with a hint of attitude.

"Sorry about that." He sat down next to you.

"What do you want Chanwoo?" You said rushing to the point.

"I'm sorry for everything. I didn't know what you were feeling."

"So what?" You shrugged.

"I miss you." He said looking at his lap.

"I never left. You were the one running away."

"I know......I was scared."

"Why? Oh right. Because it's too embarrassing for someone like me to like you."

"It's not like that." He argued.

"Then what is it? Like I told you before Chanwoo. I'm a girl. I'm not another one of your guy friends you can just push around."

"It's not that I think of you as some guy. You're my friend first, girl or whatever, it's just gonna take me some time to get used to the fact that this changes everything now."

"Fine. Then pretend this stupid rumor never gotten out. Back to good old buddies again.....deal?"

"I didn't say that." He started.

"What are you saying?" You asked confused.

He shrugged awkwardly. "We can try if you want."

You laughed sarcastically. "Yeah right. You were the one that laughed from the idea remember....'pfft no'."

"You heard that?" He looked at you hurt. "I was just trying to get my friends off my back....it was the first I heard about it okay. It was just weird at first but.....-"

"Now you feel sorry for me."

"No. I just couldn't get used to the idea but being away from you for a week made me really miss you."

"You could of just talked to me." You rolled your eyes.

"I know. I'm sorry."

You brushed your hair out of your face as you laid back once again looking at the lights that shined above. You felt Chanwoo lay back as well next to you as he looked at you smiling.

"How long did you like me....like that?"

"Our sophomore history field trip." He looked at you confused. "I don't know." You laughed. "You we're the only one that stopped and waited for me as the guys kept going ahead on their own as I was tying my shoe. And then when we lost the class you held my hand as we tried to catch up. Basically you were there for me and you cared and it really meant a lot to me."

"You're my friend." He shrugged like it was nothing.

"So are they." You looked at him as you finally noticed he was staring back.

He leaned in but nervously backed out quickly sitting up. "I'm not forcing you into anything Chanwoo." You sat back up with him. "I understand if you don't feel the same. I mean.....I'll get over it. I rather have you in my life as a friend then-"

"(Y/N) can you be quiet for a sec, I'm trying to think." He said taking a deep breath.

"It's okay, really." You smiled as he looked at you once again.

He leaned in to your surprise, gently caressing his lips with yours. You immediately responded bringing your hand up to pull him in more. The kiss got deeper as he laid you down once again. Once your back hit the blankets, he pulled away.

"How much is going to change?"

"Nothing has to change Chanwoo. Have you never had a girlfriend before?"

"I just don't want to upset you again."

"We both just need to be honest with each other okay? I can still kick your butt in video games, I can still-"

"I think that is the wrong information." He arched an eyebrow.

"It's not."

"I guess you need to prove it then." You got up pushing him out of the way.

"Can we still have sleepovers?"

"We can, as long as you don't tell your mother about us."

"Why?" He asked.

"Because then she won't let us have sleepovers, capeesh." You said hitting him playfully.

.....

"Hey mom." Chanwoo entered with you behind.

"Hey honey. Oh hey (Y/N) I haven't seen you all week." His mother entered as there was other women gathered around the living room. "I'm having my book club, so please don't make any noise upstairs."

You and Chanwoo both looked at each other before running upstairs.

Once you entered his room and shut the door, he turned on his game of overwatch. "Ready to die."

"Are you?" You smirked.

"Bring it."

"Oh shut up, you're going to lose." You both laughed.

....

"No." He yelled at the screen.

"Ha! Loser."

"My character got stuck."

"You shouldn't have hid back there you idiot." You laughed. "My information is still correct."

"Hey, you two. Can you please be more quiet?" His mother entered the room.

Then she left. "No more video games I guess."

"What else do you want to do?" He asked.

"I don't know, something quiet." You shrugged.

You looked over and noticed him staring at the tv. "Let's practice our kissing."

"What?" As soon as he turned his head, you pulled him into a kiss, making him hover over you.

Your stomach flipped with excitement as your lips worked together faster. You felt his tongue graze your bottom lip causing more friction. You felt his fingers sweep under the fabric placed on your hip making you smile through the kiss from his confidence. You turned your head to the side to get a breather but you felt him move quickly down to your neck.

His lips felt warm against your neck that you felt the pleasure stir up. As he moved lower down towards your collar bone you couldn't help but moan.

"I figured you wanted to take this slow."

"I'm sorry." He leaned up.

"I'm okay with it." You smiled.

"Good." He leaned down once again, bringing his moisture lips back towards yours. Before you could enjoy it more, you heard footsteps and the door knob jiggle. You both looked up at the door as his mother entered.

"The ladies are gone. Did you kids eat?"

It was amusing how oblivious his mother was as you both awkwardly got out of your previous position.

"Pizza?" You suggested.

"I'll order." She closed the door.

"She really doesn't care huh?" You laughed.

"It's my turn to beat you." He turned on the console again.

"Ha! In your dreams."

[catte-bard]

The Jackal’s Den

(Something I had in my drafts for awhile. Time to get some more Garlemald centric-writing thrown on here.)

She wasn’t so sure about this anymore.

The moment, Bellona set foot into the noisy tavern, she wanted to immediately turn back. It was an overwhelming sight to behold. 

Dimly lit, it was surprisingly clustered and busy during the afternoon. Patrons sat at tables or leaned against the walls. Smoking their pipes or sloshing their drinks around as they gesticulated and conversed. Staff hurried around, balancing serving trays top with food and drink.

So busy was it that hardly anyone paid the young half-garlean any attention as she entered the bar. Though someone—unseen from where she was—did snap at her to shut the door so as not to let a draft in.

Closing the door behind her, Bellona scurried in with her head down. 

Was this the right place?

The old man she had spoken to had said this was the place she needed to come if she were looking for a way out of Ilsabard under imperial noses. 

“Ask for the Jackal.” He had told her. “He’ll help you out for the right price.”

Looking around the packed tavern, Bellona wasn’t sure who she should ask. Everyone looked far too drunk to be of any assistance to her. 

Perhaps one of the employees?

“Ex-excuse me.” She hesitantly spoke up to a serving girl walking by.

“Aye, aye. One moment.” She dismissively replied as she rushed by. Seeming too preoccupied with something else.

 Bellona flattened her ears in discouragement. Maybe she should just leave? 

Her heart was pounding in her chest and she could feel her stomach twisting itself into knots over and over again. This was a bad idea. This was a terrible idea. What the hells was she thinking? She should just leave now, return home with her head down, and apologize for making her family worry.

No...no. You have to do this. You’ve made this far.

She gave the room another scan, peering over the sea of people. How exactly would she find this Jackal fellow? 

Mentally, she kicked herself for not bothering to ask the old man for a description.

Something caught her eye at the back of the room. Something that seemed rather out of place in this smelly old bar. 

Two men—easy to miss in the dim room as the shadows nearly obscured them—stood apart from the rest of the patrons. Tucked into a dark corner of the bar with an alertness of someone guarding something. 

If I were an infamous smuggler...She let the thought trail off as she slowly made her way to the two guards. 

She was only half way across the room when she realized the two men were also watching her. Their gazes cold and sharp. It made Bellona feel oddly self-conscious as she approached. 

“Bar’s that way, little girl.” One of them grunted when Bellona stood before them. 

“I…” Bellona began, nerves making her tongue heavy. She felt so small before these intimidating men. 

Several ilms taller than her, they carried swords at the hips for dealing with anyone they deemed unruly. She eyed their weapons warily, reassuring herself that they’d have no reason to turn them on her. Surely, they could find nothing threatening about the fidgeting, nervous  Miqo’te before them?

Their impatient glares made her feel even more meek. Just spit it out. “I’m looking for a man called Jackal.” She told them. “I was told I could find him here?”

The two guards traded a look before looking back down at her. “What’s your business with the Jackal?” One of them demanded. 

“I...I hear he helps people.” Was all the reply she could muster. 

“And you’ve come here alone?” The other guard asked, searching the crowd of patrons.

“Yes.” Bellona nodded.

The two look at each again. A silent exchange.

“Alright.” The first tells her. He reaches over and grabs her by the shoulder, pushing her past him towards a door behind them.Opening the door, he ushers her  through, he and his companion following close behind. “Mind your manners. And don’t even think about causing any trouble here. You’ll regret it.” She heard the guard threaten behind her.

She was herded along down a short hall that opened into what appeared to be a parlor. 

“A guest? It’s been awhile since we’ve had one! Come in!” Greeted someone.

And Bellona was encouraged forward. 

The first thing she saw was a man lounged on a couch. A man perhaps in his forties.  He was grizzled, scruffy bearded, and dashes of grey streaked his brown hair. His ears slightly curved into points. Half-elezen. His right ear was missing a tip. Probably an injury sustained in a fight.

Pale green eyes lit up upon her entrance and he sat up. “Well…who do we have here?” the Jackal grinned. “Come closer, love. Despite my name, I don’t bite…unless it’s out of defense.”

Bellona wrinkled her nose up. He smelled strongly of tobacco and lavender. The latter scent seeming to be used to mask the former. Creating a sickeningly sweet odor that wasn’t pleasant in the least.

She slowly drew closer, noting that two more guards stood behind him. Unmoving with their hands resting on the pommels of their swords. Eerie that they were still as statues, but their eyes followed her every move…

Women lounged around him. Curled close and with their arms draped over him. Whispering amongst each other, smirking and giggling at her. And almost immediately, Bellona found that she didn’t like them.

“Who is this little cutie?” One of them asked with amusement. “A bit young to be wandering into an establishment like this, aren’t ya?”

“Gods, look at those cheeks. I doubt the little thing is more than a day over fourteen.” Another giggled. 

The other women  tittered and gushed at her as well like she was a little child. Annoyance prickled within Bellona’s chest at their words. And any anxiety she had previously was burned away by disgruntlement. 

“Now, now, my friends.” The Jackal lightly scolded his company. “Let’s be nice to our young guest. Tell me, dear. What brings you to my lovely abode?” He does a sweeping gesture with his arms.

Lovely wasn’t quite the word she’d use for this little room they were in. Cramped and junky was more like it. Kegs and crates—no doubt filled with less than legal items—were crowded into the corners. Rare furs were sitting in piles on the floor. Along with other contraband...

Tucked into the corner of the room appeared to be a small bar. Several bottles and cups sat atop it. Some of them were empty and other still contained liquid within them. None of it helped with the smell in the room.

Bellona had to resist the urge to wrinkle her nose in distaste.

“Are you the smuggler people talk about?” She bluntly asked the man. “The one they call Jackal? I hear you help get people out of imperial territory.”

And he perks up. He muttering something softly to his company before waving them away. Pouting, the women then stood and began making their way out of the room. One of them ruffling Bellona’s hair as she walked by. 

“Very well, let’s talk business.” The smuggler said once they had gone. He stood up and wandered over to the bar, gesturing for Bellona to follow. And offered her one of the stools next to him. “Come on then, don’t be shy. I said I don’t bite.”

Glancing back at the guards behind her, Bellona made her way over to the bar as well. Carefully stepping so as not to trip over any of the junk he had laying about. “So you can help me?” She asked as she sat down.

“Aye.” The man told her as he took up one of the unopened bottles. He looks at her and squints. An uncomfortable look that made Bellona shift awkwardly on the stool. It was as if he were searching for something. “You old enough to drink, lass? Know what? Never mind. Not like I’d actually care.” He chuckled and pulled up two glasses.

After pouring the drink in both, he offer one to Bellona. To which she declined with a shake of her head. The smuggler shrugged and downed one of them, giving a satisfied sigh. “So you want out of the Empire, girly? What for?” He asked. “A bit too scrawny to be a conscript. Perhaps one of the emperor’s special bedmates trying to get away?” 

“Does it matter? I just want to get out of here. So can you help me with that or not?” She replied. 

The Jackal shrugs and leans against the bar. “I like to know what I’m getting into before I set up a contract with anyone. Need to make sure we don’t have the Royal Guard on our arses because you’ve murdered the emperor’s cousin’s dog or whatever.” He takes up the other glass and sips from it. 

“No! No, it’s nothing like that.” Bellona tells him. “I just...I’m not happy here and I want to get away.”

“So there’s no one after you?” He asked, scrutinizing her hard. “No one to give me any trouble when they come looking for you?”

Bellona didn’t answer at first. She thought of her parents. No doubt by they’ve discovered her disappearance. And no doubt they’d be looking for her. But she had thought she’d be long gone before anyone could track her down.

“No.” She decided. 

“No?” Jackal arched his brow. “Come now, girly. Let’s not start this lovely business relationship off with lies.” 

And Bellona stiffened at that.

“Everyone has someone looking for them when they come to me. No one’s going to ignore their relative or acquaintance up and disappearing.” He told her and takes up the second glass. “You’ve no need to lie to this ol’ jackal.”

“Alright.” She shakes her head. “Maybe I might have a few people looking for me. I just don’t know how far they intend on taking the search.”

The honest truth. It had only been a few days since she’d left. They’d probably still be searching around the capital for her before looking in the provinces. She doubted they’d pick up her trail any time soon. But still, she’d like to get moving before they could.  

The Jackal nodded and looked down at his glass, seeming deep in thought. “I could get you out. I could take you wherever your wanted to go. But my services come with a price, little girl. And I’m curious to know if you can actually afford it.”

Well, she wasn’t expecting this to be easy. But she supposed if she were to be serious about getting out of Ilsabard...

“Name your price.” Bellona sighed. 

“Show me what you have first.” Jackal hummed.

The half-garlean frowned at him. “That’s not how this works.” 

“Oh?” The smuggler raised a brow at her. “Who are you to tell me how things work under my own roof? Sorry, lovely, it may not be how things work where you’re from but it certainly is how it works here. Show me proof of guaranteed payment first and then we’ll talk more.”

This is a terrible idea.

A small voice of regret at the back of her head. 

This man was a smuggler—a wanted criminal. Getting mixed up with him wasn’t a smart idea. And yet here she was with it being too late to turn back now. She had already taken a dive into this bog…

“Fine…” She yields and pulls her coin purse out of her bag. 

Before she could even open it, Jackal snatched it from her hands. He ignored her indignant cry as he weighed the bag in his hand. He spilled the contents onto the counter and let out a low whistle at the glittering coins. 

“My, my. We’ve got a wealthy little thing with us today.” He chuckled. 

“Or maybe I stole it all.” Bellona said, defensively laying her ears flat.

He looked up at her briefly. “Nay, you’ve not the look of a thief. Too soft and innocent looking.” Scooping the coins back into the bag he then tucked it away in his jacket. “I don’t know any commoner who would walk around with this much money on them. Makes me wonder why someone like you wants out of the Empire…”

“That’s none of your business.” Bellona snipped through gritted teeth. “And you can’t just take all my money like that!”

“I can and I just did, sweetheart. It’ll be more than enough to get you through the border.” He raised a finger to waggle at her. “You silly girl. Do you honestly think deserting the Garlean Empire will be an easy feat? It’ll be a long and hard journey and not to mention very dangerous. So the appropriate compensation for it is needed. You do want out, don’t you?”

Bellona opened her mouth, ready to argue. He had no right to do this to her! It wasn’t fair! It was—it was…

...Down right criminal.

But of course it was. It’s what he was. It was foolish of her to think he’d be fair. 

So she bit her tongue, swallowing her words. As long as he got her out of Ilsabard, she supposed it was worth it. She’d make a living somewhere else and gain the money back. 

“Alright, then.” Jackal said once he saw the protest in her quelled. “Now that payment has been taken care of. Let’s talk about the plan.”

He pulls something out of his coat. A piece of paper which he unfolds to reveal a map of Hydaelyn. 

Jackal looks up at her. “You do have a plan, don’t you? You do know where you want me to take you, right? Can’t go anywhere unless I know the destination.”

“Uh…” Bellona stared down at the map. Truth be told...she didn’t have much of a plan. She had planned to leave Garlemald behind, but she never gave much thought to where she’d go.

Jackal heaved a heavy sigh. “You’ve no clue what you’re doing, do you?” He shook his head and poured himself another drink. Muttering something about “dumb, rebellious, kids” and “waste of time”. 

“I do!” Bellona told him, feeling her face grow hot. She looked down at the map spread out before them. “I...I’ve thought about maybe going to Eorzea or something...but.”

“I could get you to Eorzea.” Jackal said, scratching his chin while looking down at the map. “That’s mighty far south. You sure that’s where you want to go?”

She hesitate for a moment. Was she sure? There’d be no going back once they had arrived. 

Before Jackal could express impatience, she answers. “Yes.” She tells him. “That’s where I want to go.”

The man nods. “Alrighty, girly. Looks like we have a contract set up.” He holds his hand out for her to shake it. “I get you all the way to Eorzea. Deal, no take backs?”

Bellona gingerly takes his hand and gives it a shake. “Deal.”

And before she could pull away from him, the smuggler suddenly tightens his grip on her hand. A fierce, vise-like grip that almost hurt. She looked up at him half in annoyance and half in bewilderment.

Let me go. She was about to tell him. However, the severe look his eyes silenced her.

“This isn’t going to be an easy journey, little girl. What we’re doing could get us in a lot of trouble if we get caught.” He told her. “And I’m not keen on getting caught anytime soon. I’ve been doing this for too long. So when we’re out there, I need you to do exactly as I tell you.

“If you don’t listen to me, I will leave you. I don’t care if it’s in the middle of the woods or in the middle of a chase with imperial soldiers. If you don’t do as your told, I won’t hesitate to leave you for dead, girl.” His voice had taken on a chill. “I’ve been doing this for years. I know what I’m doing. Not listening to me will only get one or both of us into to trouble. So you better do as I say when I say. You understand?”

His grip tightened when she didn’t answer immediately. Sharp fingers cruelly dug into skin. 

“I understand!” Bellona grimaced.

“Good.” Only then did he let her go. “There’s an inn down the road. Tell the old lass there you’re going hunting for jackals and she’ll give you a room for free. Be up by dawn. I’m not your mother, so don’t expect me to come wake you. I’ll wait around for you for awhile but you take too long and this whole thing’s off. Got it?”  

Bellona had withdrawn her hand and was protectively cradling it against her chest. She could feel it throbbing and it would no doubt bruise later. She shot the smuggler a hateful look, which didn’t seem to phase him at all. He merely looked at her expectantly. 

“Yeah...I got it.” She mutters.

“Good.” He stands and claps her on the shoulder. “I’ll see you bright and early in the morning then. My boys there will show you out.” He says, nodding to the guards at the doorway. 

Still nursing her bruised hand, Bellona was escorted back out into the tavern. Her head swimming from what she had just done.

[my-ccandyyy-love]

Drunk on You - Castiel

When Candy left a couple hours ago for Iris' Party, she never ever thought she would end up like this. She was on her knees, head bend over the toilet bowl, throwing up over and over again.

"You okay, little girl?" She didn't even have the energy to look up at Castiel as he entered the bathroom.

"Are you checking up on me, because you're feeling guilty that this is all your fault?" She asked, in between heavy breaths.

"Hey, it's all your fault there. You made your own decision."

He was right. Candy hadn't done anything she didn't want to. Even if it was Castiel who had initiated the shot competition, she was still the one who had drank too much in the hope to beat him. And of course, that had just resulted in her being sick and drunk.

As she opened her mouth to reply, another spurt of vomit came out of her.

In seconds, Castiel was next to her. He sat down on the floor, and carefully pulled her hair into a ponytail, using his hand to hold it in place.

"Cas..." She whined. Feeling the bitter taste again, her eyes teared up.

"Shhh...it's okay...It's gonna be over soon!" He said, slowly rubbing her back in circle.

And he was right, soon enough, she was feeling slightly better. At least she wasn't throwing up anymore. Candy tried to stand, but her legs were weak. They crumbled underneath her.

"Woah there." Castel said, catching her, and helping her up. "Normally I would never oppose to you going down on your knees for me, but I'm afraid you'll throw up on my junk."

Candy wanted to flip him off, but that would have taken too much energy. Even rolling her eyes was too hard.

"Damn, that sick?" Castiel realized, noticing her lack of reaction to his previous comment. "Let's get you to the couch and quick."

He wrapped her arm around his shoulders, and then wrapped his own around her hips, holding her tight against him. Step by step, they got closer to the living room. No one paid attention to them, too invested in their conversations. 

They barely made it to the couch, before her last bit of energy vanished. She immediately stumbled on the couch, dragging Castiel along with her.

Candy was so tired that as soon as she hit the soft cushions, she curled up in a ball. Inadvertently she cuddled up to Castiel.

“I’m so sick...” she complained. “I’m never drinking again.”

Castiel laughed. “Sure. Whatever you say.”

She groaned, but didn’t say anything. She knew he was right.

“Just rest,” he added. “You’ll be fine.”

He raised himself trying to get up to his feet but before he had the chance, Candy grabbed his wrist.

“Don’t go,” she begged.

He shot her a look full of confusion. “You want me to stay?”

She nodded. “Stay.” She nuzzled against his chest. “Comfy pillow.”

Normally Candy would never had dared call Castiel her pillow. Even less cuddle up to him. But right now all she could focus on was the softenest of his shirt and the warmth from his body.

Castiel settled back down, not bothering to hide the smirk on his face.

Candy didn’t care. All she wanted was to lay her head on his chest and listen to the sound of his heart beat.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Castiel laughed and she realized that she had said it outloud. She was even more drunk than she had originally thought.”

“Iris!” Castiel suddenly called, seeing her walking by.

She stopped in her track, and immediately noticed that something was wrong with Candy. “What happened? Can I do something?”

“Could you please get her some water? We’ll try to sober her up,”Castiel replied.

Iris nodded and left heading for the kitchen.

Candy turned to look at Castiel. “Do You like her?” she asked.

“Iris? Yeah, sure. She’s cool”.

“Do you like like her?”

“What, are we in first grade?” he sighed noticing hat she wasn’t going to drop it until he answered. “I don’t. Not my type”.

“But...” Candy said trying to understand. “You’re so nice to her, but you’re so mean to me. How come?”

“I’m not mean to you,” Castiel protested.

“You call me an ironing board”.

“That’s called teasing,” he explained, before a grin crept on his face. “If it helps you don’t look like an ironing board. I mean, I’m not blind. I did see you with that purple swimsuit at the beach. You do have some nice assets”.

She wasn’t phased by the compliment. “You know, usually when a boy teases a girl it means he likes her”. Candy told him. “Does that mean you like like me”.

Before Castiel could even form a reply, Iris walked by again, holding the water bottle. She handed it to him. “You sure you don’t need help?” she asked.

Castiel nodded. “I got her,” he said squeezing Candy’s shoulder gently. “Thanks Iris”.

After she left, Candy pouted. “You say please and thanks to her. I wish you could be this nice to me”.

“Girly,” Castiel started, glad that the previous question had been forgotten. « I’m letting you lay on my chest right now. I think that’s plenty nice. »

“Such a sweetheart,” she said sarcastically, but it didn’t stop her from getting even closer to him, so that there was no space between their two bodies.

“You know me,” he added. “The kindest man you’ll ever meet.”

Candy couldn’t help smiling at that. She looked up at Castiel, and idea in mind. “Cas?” she asked. “Will you sing me a song?”

He was taken back. “You do remember I’m a guitarist not a singer, right?”

“Please,” she said, doing her best puppy eyes. 

He rolled his eyes. “You think that’s gonna work?” But he did clear his throat anyways, preparing to do exactly as she asked.

He looked deep in her eyes as he started singing:

Baby, you're my lover, and we'll never Ever be apart 'cause I know You care To be there Together Oh I'll never ever be apart Cause you're my girlfriend, you're my heart

Candy was hypnotized by his voice. It was raspy but soft and mesmerizing. She put her head up to better look at him as he sang the next verse.

Put my hand on your arm and feel secure protected We will never be apart I don’t want to be alone I don’t want it anymore Now kiss my lips, my  heart, my soul Giving me all your -

He suddenly stopped singing. His face turned a deep shade of red. Almost the same color as his hair.

“Continue,” she begged. 

He shook his head. “That’s the end of the song.”

Candy frowned. “This didn’t sound like the end of a song.”

“Well it was,” he hurriedly replied. 

She didn’t believe him, but if he didn’t want to tell her then she would not push him. He had been kind enough to sing for her in the first place.

She raised her head from his chest to it on his shoulder instead. She wrapped her arm around his neck. “Cas?” she said trying to capture his attention. “You’re a really good singer. I love your voice.”

Castiel didn’t know how to reply. She was the only person he’d sing in front of except of Lysander. He’d always felt self-conscious of his voice. And here she was telling him she loved it? “Thanks,” he replied, even thought it was nowhere near enough to express how grateful he was for the compliment. “Candy, I...”

He had no idea what he was gonna say, but he never got the chance to figure it out because Rosa appeared. “Candy, Leigh’s here. We’re leaving,” she said. Then she seemed to notice her state. “What the hell happened to you?” 

“She drank a bit too much,” Castiel explained. Candy simply nodded, nuzzling his shoulder with her nose.

Rosa seemed to finally notice how cuddled up together they were. She frowned, still confused. “Okay?” she grabbed Candy’s arm. “Anyway, honey, it’s time to go home.”

Candy shook her head. “No. I wanna stay here with Cas.” But she was no match for Rosa’s strength. She pulled her up easily, then wrapped her arms around her, steadying her. 

“Cas took care of me,” Candy told Rosa. “He sang to me”.

Rosa still looked unsure of the situation. “We’ll that’s nice”. She looked at Castiel, hoping for more details.

He shrugged. “Hey. I can be nice sometimes.”

“Well...Thanks, I guess.” she replied.”C’mon Candy. Let’s go.” Step by step she dragged Candy away. It wasn’t until they were in the other room that Candy realized that she hadn’t said goodbye to Castiel. She started crying. “Rosa! Rosa!” Tears were falling from her eyes. “Cas. I need to see Cas.”

“You just saw him,” Rosa complained. 

“I didn’t say goodbye! I have to say goodbye.”

“Candy, it’s okay...”

“CAS! CAS!” she screamed.

Not even a second after, he was there. As soon as he had heard her cries, he had jumped from the couch and ran to her.

“What’s going on?” He asked.

Candy jumped on him, wrapping her arms around his neck in a hug. “I...I didn’t...Say....Goodbye.” she said in between sobs.

He tried to contain his smile, as he brought his hand to her back to rub circles on it. “It’s okay Candy. You didn’t have to.”

“I wanted to,” she explained. “I couldn’t leave without saying goodbye.” Then she brought her lips to his.

Castiel stood still. Not moving a muscle. What was going on here? As much as he wanted to stay there forever, he didn’t want to take advantage of her while she was drunk. “Candy stop.” 

She immediately pulled away. “Oh my gosh. I’m so sorry.  I shouldn’t have. You don’t like me this way... I thought you might... Sorry.”

“Hey, stop that.” Castiel said cupping her cheeks in his hands. “Text me tomorrow and if you still want that kiss, then it will be my pleasure.”

“Promise?”

He nodded. “I promise, my candy love.”

Even in her state of mind, Candy realized that this was what the last lyrics of the song were. Had he written the song for her? 

“C’mon Candy.” Rosa said, looking utterly confused. “Leigh is waiting in the car we have to go.”

“Okay...” she said, glancing at Castiel one last time before turning away towards the exit.

:.:.:

The next morning, Candy woke up with a huge headache. Her mouth felt dry and she had trouble remembering anything that had happened the day before. All she could remember was something to do with Castiel?

Her phone suddenly rang and Castiel’s named popped up.

Talking of the devil, she thought.

Castiel

Hello there, my candy love. Still want that kiss?

Candy groaned, grabbing the pillow to hide her face. What had happened last night?

[darkmindsthinktwistedthoughts]

Devil’s own luck pt8

Warnings: strong language, mobstyling war lords 

Masterlst link

---

Chapter 8 – Forgotten Instincts

After the doors had closed [Name] let out a noise that was a mixture of a cry and groan causing Mitsuhide to look to see if she had somehow hurt herself on something in the few seconds it had taken him to press the button on the wall.

“Sing for your Master! What the Hell!? First, I get told I’m being ‘kept’ here as a kind of puppet. Even knowing that I still get shocked by the fact that he wants to take me out to give a performance of God knows what, to where, and for who.” The air around her was buzzing and her voice was a controlled mixture of rage and confusion.

“Nobunaga is normally like that and once his mind is set…” Mitsuhide had begun to try to smooth out her mood only to be interrupted.

“It’s not about him. I mean he is an arrogant, demanding jerk, but it’s not about him at all it’s me.” Her voice still had an edge to it that could have cut glass but she was calming down and her shoulders rounded as she hung her head.

“You? I’m afraid you’ve lost me my dear.” Mitsuhide kept his small comfortable distance from her so as not to exasperate the situation. No good has ever come from getting too close to a woman in an emotionally agitated state. Tell them to calm down they simply get angrier, but he had a new urge to reach out and touch her. Look up.

“Yes me. I have never in all my life felt to completely useless. I can’t do anything. I can’t go home I can’t work, I can’t see my cat, I can’t go outside, there is nothing for me to do except sit in my room looking out of the windows. I’m in a situation I can’t escape from and I can’t change it… I’m so frustrated with myself that I even got into this mess in the first place.” Desperation leaked through her words as she plainly spelled out what she was thinking and feeling. It was a jumbled mess but she was still processing her thoughts.

Mitsuhide suddenly understood she wasn’t just angry at Nobunaga and his plans he made without consideration for others, she was lashing out at herself internally. Well I know how that feels, that is a feeling I can work with. He had never been good with crying women, but angry, hurt, damaged those things fell right into his skill set.

“Well little mouse it might be best if instead of focusing on what you can’t do and instead look at what you can.” He was speaking from experience with that at least. He knew it was difficult to be in a situation you cannot avoid but it helped to focus on when you can control rather than what you couldn’t.

“What do you mean?” She looked up at him her questioning eyes glittering before him and he really wanted to move closer but forced himself to remain in place. Teasing is all very well and good but it is only fun when they aren’t already upset.

“You can ask for anything except your freedom. If you wish for new clothes, make up, games… they are all but a request away.” Mitsuhide remined her. You have either forgotten this or you really are just a simple little creature content with very little.

“And you honestly expect me to be happy playing dress up, doing girly stuff day in day out… I’m going to go even crazier!” The glitter in her eyes turned to sparks as she pushed back verbally against him. It wasn’t exactly a fight but she was defiant to the last.

It was true that when he had visited her apartment there had been enough to comfortably live but nothing that he would have said screamed she was that kind of girl lying around. Her clothes were meticulously organized in their appropriate draws and cupboards and her vanity table had a bare minimum of make-up. There was obviously a woman there but not one that spent a lot of money on either her clothing or her own vanity. Low maintenance isn’t so bad, not like she needs a lot of make up anyway.

“Point taken… well then what would you usually do that didn’t involve going outside to entertain yourself?” Curiosity started to kick in now and he found himself asking a genuine question without any under lying motives. When did I care so much about making one person comfortable?

“Well I watched DVDs, read some books, I also had my cat, my mobile, laptop, oh and I had my hobby.” She looked a bit nostalgic as she remembered how she coped with spare time. It was strange to see that look when she had only really been with them all for nearly a week. But he knew how time seemed to drag when you had nothing to do, a day felt like a week a week a month and so on. They just blurred and time itself felt like it had stopped. If time flies when you’re having fun, it dies when you aren’t.

“Mobile and laptop completely off limits I’m sorry but I must control communications during this time and those are a big no no. But this hobby of yours… it wasn’t going out running and locating gun fights now was it?” He couldn’t stop it he teased her and she gave a little huff to his words but still answered him.

“No, I paint and draw.” Calmer now it looked like she had suddenly remembered where they were as she went quite balling her fists up at her sides looking at the sliding doors in front of them.

The elevator stopped and opened once more onto the corridor that ran to the other rooms in the building and she removed herself quickly from the metal box.

“I didn’t know that.” Mitsuhide said thoughtfully as he moved to her side and they began walking once more.

“Did you ask?” Her little jab was a tiny bit biting but from her face he could see she was just poking back at him.

“Touché.” Muttered Mitsuhide as he looked down on her.

They remained in a comfortable silence until they reached her room. It was curious, Mitsuhide had never taken an interest in anyone unless it benefited him to do so and yet he found himself wanting to dig deeper and find out more about this slip of a girl that obliviously puts herself in danger, speaks her mind without a filter and whilst she was undeniably fragile she showed such strength.

“Thank you.” Her quite words caught him off guard and he looked at her again.

“Emm what for? I haven’t done anything that warrants thanks.” Mitsuhide asked clearly perplexed by the gratitude. It was true he hadn’t if anything she could probably blame him for a lot of her situation but instead she wasn’t.

“I just wanted to say it. Anyway… Good night Mitsuhide.” She flashed his a genuinely vibrant smile that sucked all the air from his lungs. She appeared to be moving in slow motion as she entered her room and closed the door behind her but all to fast it was over and he was rooted to the spot by her door staring at the memory of the first smile she had ever shown him replaying it over and over before his eyes. Well that is incredibly unfair.

He managed to move his body away from her room and back to his and he went straight to his kitchen and grabbed a bottle of red wine pouring himself a large glass of it before deciding on put his lips to the bottle and chugging a few gulps instead. He let out a deep sign before setting down the bottle and picking up the glass moving towards his balcony for some fresh air.

As he lent on the railing gazing out into the city still alive and buzzing he took a deep breath before sighing once more. It wasn’t like him, it wasn’t like him at all not once in all these years had he let someone get under his skin. But out of no where she slid in like smoke seeping into his pores and running into him until she came to his frozen heart and made it beat once more.

“This could be very, very bad…” He recalled the feeling he had had when he first brought her here and contrary to his words and negative tone of his voice he was smiling.

---

The sun had set hours ago and the long shadows of the night had all joined up blanketing the area in darkness. He moved into the buildings foyer and collected the mail from the wall of post boxes. Junk mostly but a few envelopes promised to be something that required reading. He dumped the junk mail into the recycling bin before moving to the staircase to begin his climb to her apartment.

She told him she didn’t get in elevators even in this building it was clear she was terrified of them so it didn’t shock him. He preferred staircases as it limited the chance or time he might be caught on a camera. In a lift you were more than likely on camera from the second the door opened, however in a staircase you could see it and maybe move to avoid it if you wanted too. Blind spots… we all had them and our technology wasn’t much better.

He reached the level he was looking for and quickly found her front door. He pulled out her keys that he had taken from her when she was passed out in his arms, he also had her mobile phone. He didn’t remember doing it, it was in some way a reflex of his, a secondary unconscious motion that had saved his neck many times before.

He smirked at the collection of cutesy keychains as he turned the key in the lock. How adorably predictable. Inside the tiny apartment it was the same as she had left it, clean, tidy and if he was honest comforting. He felt it when he first found the place that her presence in the small abode was like walking into a welcoming hug. How long had it been since that had happened? Did it ever actually happen?

His experience with relationships was tainted he knew that. You don’t grow up in their world and not meet your fair share of schemers, blackmailers, would be assassins or collection of other people who are trying to get what they can before it’s too late. Rewards for deeds best left forgotten. If he had found warmth in someone else’s arms it was normally an act of some sort. Never fall in love, never get deeply attached, hell he was damned now if he could remember the names. Shaking his head slightly he moved towards the living room and sat on her sofa and checked her mail for her.

He flipped his phone open and typed out a few names and numbers before closing it again assured that the bills had been paid without even having to check. He saw her laptop sitting in the corner and was tempted to pick it up and look but decided to leave that for another night.

– Purrwow –

Her cat jumped up on the sofa next to him looking at him with a pair of deep green eyes. Pets in general didn’t interest him, he knew that Masamune had a pet tiger that he rescued from a black-market dealer when he was buying supplies for his company. Nobunaga had that big black bird that he was told was a hawk of some sort, Ieyasu had a deer so some unknown reason, Hideyoshi had a monkey which always got a few laughs from Nobunaga as “the resemblance is uncanny. Must be in the DNA.” Mitsuhide had no pet, he was barely around so having one seemed like it might be unfair to the creature so he never bothered. Mitsunari had brought home a kitten one day he found by a dumpster and if Mitsuhide went to see him in the library the cat would normally curl up and let him stroke it.

This cat, her cat, just seemed to stare at him. If he was another sort of man he would possibly get unnerved by it but he just stared back into those emerald eyes and waited for this staring game end.

He had arranged for one of his men to pop in and check on the cat as part of basic duties. And he could see that the litter box and bowls were all clean and filled.

“Well what do you want?” He asked the purring creature.

The cat hopped down and walked into a different room and he followed. It was her bedroom. Crisp white sheets with delicate cherry blossom patterns on the edges on the bed, neatly arranged furniture around the room feminine in a minimal and modest way. Just like her, He thought to himself as he watched the cat move to a mirrored door beside it clawing at it lightly before looking at him.

“What you go a toy in there of something?” He chuckled lightly at the animal pining for its trapped plaything and he slid the door back to see a couple of portfolios. That’s right she did say she drew. Without staying any longer, the cat walked off with a tiny swagger as if to say it’s work here was done.

He picked up the portfolios and placed them on the bed and opened them. Inside drawings and paintings in pencil and ink mesmerized him slightly. Landscapes, mythical creatures, people, there even seemed to be a few that looked like dress designs. She was good, there was an innocent, naive quality to it all and it was so very her and very charming. After admiring them for a while he carefully put them away again and left the apartment. In his car he took out his phone and left a message for one of his contacts to get in touch in the morning.

“Did I just take orders from a cat?” he asked himself as he started up the car. He shook his head laughing to himself as he made his way downtown.

In the darker shadows across the street from the apartment block hidden from the pools of light cast down from the street lamps, a figure dressed in black watched as one of the six pulled away. After a few minutes they too left the scene without a trace and headed to a warehouse outside of the city.

---

[tired-gay-nerd]

Will You Join Me?

  Reader x Harley Quinn (au)

(Everyone has three people that could be their soulmate which is signified by a tattoo on their wrist)

You sat behind the cash register of the clothing store, bored. “There hasn’t been a customer for hours” you moan.

“Oh, quit whining,” your coworker, Malory, yelled at you from the changing room, “no customers means no work, plus your shift is almost over.”

“Yours would be over sooner if you hadn’t arrived late” you called in a sing song tone. “Right, Rick?” There was no response, it had been a while since Rick had gone out to get you all some junk food from a nearby convince store, the line must have been long. You realize that you were, once again, starring at the tattoo on your wrist.

It was beautiful, you hoped to catch a glimpse of it on an actor’s wrist, or a commedien’s or anyone’s, really. A rose with heart shaped blood drops dripping from the thorns. You stared at it dreaming of whoever it was that had a match when the calm silence was broken by glass shattering.

“I don’t WANT you to track down one of my soulmates!” A male voice snarled as he walked through the door frame… The Joker, with Harley Quinn right behind him.

“An idiot’s translation? ‘Harley I don’t want to try being happy with someone else’” she paused a moment “oh don’t give me that look! That’s basically what your saying, Puddin. Plus what’s the harm?” she proceeded to look through the clothing on the racks.

“What use would I have for them?” he spat. He turned on you with a gun. You decided it would do you good to hide behind the counter.

“You’ve been on edge!” She cried “Maybe having one of them around will help you feel better. Hey girly,” her blond hair feel into my sight as she leaned over the counter “do you know if you have one of these in black?” She was holding a knee length blue dress with three quart length lace sleeves.

“I.. I could go check” your voice sounded small and your heart was beating against your ribcage like a rabbit’s. She smiled at you broadly.

“Why don’t you go do that” Joker growled.

“Y-yes sir” you squeaked as you ran in the back where Malory was hiding, “Mallory, help me find this” you hissed at her.

“y/n, what are we going to do!?!” Mallory was hysterical.

“We are going to try and get out of this alive. Now pull yourself together and help me find the dress!” you quickly describe the dress as you begin going through the boxes. A few minutes later you two pull a blank. There’s no black dress. Mallory decided that hyperventilating would help, needless to say it didn’t but try telling her that.

“Y/n, y/n! We are going to die. Oh my god, oh my-” she cut herself off with heavy breathing. Her flipping out had attracted the clowns’ attention, you realized as Harley opened the door and walked in.

“What’s all the noise about?” She tilted her head.

“N-n-n-nothing” Mallory stuttered “I … uh… saw a rat.. yeah, a rat.”

“Hmmm,” Harley nodded, “ can I see your tattoo?” Mallory complied it was a white bird, it looked like a dove. Harley tisked before pulling out her gun. “That’s too bad.” She chirped before lodging a bullet in Mallory’s brain. You heard the gasp that escaped your lips. “What about you?” She turned towards you, “what do you have?”

You were trembling as you pulled out you arm to show her. This is it, I’m going to die you thought, there is no way I’m getting out of here. Your arm was shaking so badly that Harley grabbed it so she could see the picture. She let out a surprised squeal.

“Wh-what? What is it?” You ask. She grins widely before hugging you. This doesn’t make sense. I must’ve died right after they came in. This is all some dream before my heart finally stops.

“It’s YOU” Harley says, a cat like grin spread across her face. She turns you so your both facing the same way pulls you closer and shows you her arm. Matching tattoos. She starts laughing. “So, doll, what’d ya say? Will you join me?”

[tenaciousarcadeexpert]

Criminal Minds-The Good Ol’ Days

@marvelfanlife, @itsmeedee, @veroinnumera​, @derekmorgansoffice, @dontshootmespence, @cynbx, @jaqren, @blitzz11, @beenthroughalot, @princesswagger14​, @sunflowerpsalms   

Chapter 5-Love is in the Air

Just another collaboration with @princesswagger14

Saturday came along as Garcia woke up to the sight of Courtney tapping her arm.

“Garcia, Garcia….” “What?” She groaned as she puts her glasses on.

“”Are we still going to the pancake house today?”

“Oh crap, sorry hun. Ughh what time is it?”

“It’s 9:30!” Courtney responds as she points to the alarm clock.

“OHHH SHIIIT!” Garcia yells as she runs across the room to grab her towel and runs to the showers. She dashed out of the room, passing Kate and Tara just when they left the showers.

A few minutes later, Garcia returns to see her roommate nonchalantly sitting on top of her bed.

“You ready sweets?”

“Uh huh.” She stood up as the two of them leave their dorm. While walking, they suddenly stop to see Ashley.

“Hey Garcia.” “Hey.”

“I see you’re in a hurry.” “Yeah, we are.”

Ashley tilt her head to see a dark-haired Asian girl standing beside Garcia. “Who’s your friend?”

“Oh uh Ashley, this is Courtney, my roommate. Courtney, this is Ashley.”

“Hello Courtney. How are you?”

She asked as she shook her hand.

“Pretty well.” “I see. Garcia has told me so much about you.” She raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

“Yeah, she said that you’re an artist.” “Oh uh.” She awkwardly chuckled. “Yeah, I am.” Ashley smiled. “So, you two seemed well dressed. You girls heading somewhere?” “Yeah, we’re heading to this pancake house near the campus.”

“Oh well I hope you guys have fun. I’ll see you around.”

“Bye hun!” Garcia waves at Ashley as her and Courtney walks away.

“I didn’t know that you talk to her about me.”

“Yeah well i can’t help it! When i have these great friends, how can i not brag about them!”

“Does she know…..that I-” “Yeah, she knows. But don’t worry, she’s among the few who went on the trip with me, so she won’t rat us out.” “Okay.”

As they walked into the pancake house a red head walked up to them and sat them in a booth in the back, asked what they wanted for drinks and walked off to give them a few minutes to look at the menu.

“Wow Courtney, you picked a really good place.”

“I told you that it was a good place.”

“Yeah…” Garcia said as she looked at the menu. “They have every thing, like s’mores french toast and jumbo cinnamon rolls. And ooo, red velvet pancakes? I’m definitely getting that.” “Cool.” She chuckled.

“What are you getting Court?”

“Let’s see…….I think I’m getting the chocolate chip pancakes.”

“OOO that sounds good.”

“Mm hmph.”

“So how’s your project coming?”

“Pretty good. I just need to make a few more touches to it and then I’m done.”

“Nice. English class is kicking my ass though.”

“How so?”

“Well my teacher is pushing us to ‘get into the character.’ but she is REALLY getting into it. Like she’s stepping into creepy territory.”

“Ah I see.”

“Yeah i think she’s low-key crazy.” Garcia and Courtney both laugh as thier redhead waitress walks to their table to take their orders. After the waitress walked away Garcia looked at Courtney.

“Soooo…” Garcia started.

“What?” Courtney tilted her head, confused.

“Do you like anyone around campus?” Garcia asks as she wiggles her eyebrows at Courtney.

“No, not really. I’m not in the mood for romance.”

“Oh come oooon! I know you at least have a tiny crush on someone! Tell me please!”

She sighs. “Okay, there is this one guy that I’m really close to.”

“Oooo, tell me.” She squealed.

“His name is Nick, and he’s an art major like me.”

“Ooo do you think he’s hot?”

“He’s pretty average. I wouldn’t say that he’s hot or ugly.”

“Well, I think you should tell him you like him.”

“I don’t know.” Courtney leaned back against her chair and crossed her arms. “What if he has a girlfriend? It’s not easy for me to find someone to be with.”

“Well girly, you’ll never know unless you try.”

“I guess you’re right. I just don’t feel attractive enough.”

“Well I can assure you my fine smokin’ hot furry friend, you are more than enough.”

“Smokin….” She chuckled. “Why thank you Garcia.”

“No problem.” “Yeah….how about you?” She leaned over. “You have a special someone?”

“Nope!”

She raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure about that?”

“Um I-I uh yep! No one!”

“I see……” She tilt her head and squint her eyes, much to Garcia’s confusion.

“Uh Court, whatcha looking at?”

“Uh…..I see some dark haired man with a dark tan staring at us just by the entrance.”

“Wha-oh ohhhhhh.” Garcia turned around to see Luke staring at her.

“Who’s that?” Courtney asked. “Do you know him?”

“Oh uh...no, I’m mean yes. He’s Luke.”

“Ohhhhh i see.” Courtney says as she smirks at Garcia. “Is that your cruuussh Garcie?”

“What?! No.” She shrugged her hand. “Uh, okay.” She took a sip of water, only to see Luke walking towards them. “Oh look, he’s walking to our table.”

“NO shooo him away!”

“Wha-I can’t I can…...oh.” “He’s right behind me, is he.” Garcia whispered as her roommate nonchalantly nods. She sighs and turns around. “Hiiiiiiiiiiiii Luke.”

“Hey, what’s up Garcia?”

“Oh, me and my roommate were just treating ourselves to some fancy breakfast.”

“Oh nice. Mind if I sit with you?”

“Uh sure.”

“So what do you want heathen?”

“I uh think I’m gonna bet the stuffed french toast with strawberries.”

“Ooo, that sounds good.”

“French toast is nasty…. Heathen.”

“Woah Garcia. Since when did was I ever a ‘heathen’ to you?”

“You’ve always been a heathen, heathen.”

He chuckled. “Oh okay then.”

 The waiter then arrived as the three of them ordered their meals and drinks. Once she left, Courtney stood up and heads to the bathroom, leaving Garcia and Luke both alone at the table, much to Garcia’s dismay.

“So……..” She taps her fingers.

“What you’ve been up to lately huh?”

“I uh, have an English paper to work on.” She rolled her eyes. “It’s so boring.”

“Oh yeah? What’s it about?”

“Pride and Prejudice.”

“Oh I could help you if you’d like?”

“Really? You could?”

“Yeah, I’ve read that book a couple of times before. Plus I’m pretty good in English.” “Well, you didn’t need to rub that on me.” “I’m sorry, but I can help you out, maybe even check for any mistakes and what not. But only if you’re okay with me looking over your work.”

“Fine, you can help….. Heathen.”

“Okay, when is it due?”

“Thursday.” “Oh okay.” He paused for a moment. “Is it okay if we work on it at the library tomorrow?”

“Uh sure….” Garcia responds.

Luke nods in response. Just then, Courtney returns to their table not long till the waiter returns with their meals.

“Wow, the food looks so good.” “I know right. Let’s dig in.” As the three dig in their meals, Courtney felt something touching her lap as she looked down to see a small folded up napkin resting on her lap. She then unfolds it.

“Thanks Courtney.”

She looked up to see Garcia give her a subtle wink and smile just as they eat.

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

  Back at the campus, JJ and Kate were at the cafe, chatting with Will, just getting to know him better. After an hour has passed, Kate decides to leave, much to JJ’s dismay.

“Aw Kate, don’t you wanna stay here and be with us a little bit longer.” “I’d love too, but i have an assignment I’d like to get started on.”

“Seriously, couldn’t that wait.” She shrugged her shoulders. “I mean it could……...if I want to get an ‘F’” JJ sighs. “Okay, I’ll see you later.”

“Bye see ya hun!”

“See ya.” Both JJ and Will wave just as Kate leaves. Once she was gone, the two of them stare at each.

And then there were two.

“So……..” “So……..Jennifer.” Will croaked. “I uh….” “Yeah?” “D-do you want to go somewhere else to talk?”

“Uh sure, you have any place in mind?” “You mind if we go somewhere off campus?” She raised an eyebrow. “Where? The mall?”

“Sure, let’s go.”

The two got up as they decided to hang out at the mall.

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

    A few hours later, Tara and Emily decided to relax at Em’s dorm after spending the entire day at the mall and then the nearest pharmacy buying ice cream and candy. Emily had admit, she didn't think that she’d get so close to Tara. But after getting to know her more, Emily found herself wanting to know more.

“Holy crap! Look at all this junk! My mom would kill me if she saw me now.” Tara said while walking to Emily's dorm.

“Well, it was pretty worth it though.”

“Haha ain't that the truth.” They both lay on the bed as they stare at the floor now covered in empty boxes and candy wrappers.

“Damn, we made such a hell of a mess. If Elle saw this, she’s gonna freak.”

“Well good thing no one else is here but us.”

“Yeah, just us.” “Yeah.” The two longingly stared at each other for a moment, admiring the close up of their faces. Suddenly, the two leaned close to the point that they felt the other’s lips brush against theirs, and not long after, they found themselves kissing each other as Tara placed her hand on Emily’s cheek.

As Emily reaches to put her hand sliding under Tara’s shirt the two break away as they hear the door opening.

“He-woah!” Kate gasped as she caught the sight of the two girls struggling to compose themselves.

“Did I interrupt something?”

“Wha-uh no. We-we’re.”

“Just about to leave.”

“Oh okay.” Kate smirked. “I’ll see you guys later, have fun.”

The two girls shyly walked away, still flustered from the experience.

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

  Not long after, Hotch tries to comfort Matt just as he gets ready for his date. Much to his dismay, he couldn’t help but watch as Matt panics.

“For god’s sake, it’s just a date! It’s not like you're going to see the Queen.”

“I know, I know.” Matt groans as he marched around. “Where are my-” “Your shoes are over there.” Hotch responds as he points to the pair of black shoes by the bed.

“Oh okay, thanks.” He replies as he sat down and puts his shoes on. Hotch then sat down beside him.

“Relax Matt.” Hotch said as he rubs Matt’s shoulder. “She’s not gonna like you if you're all jittery and jumpy. You'll be fine. Breath. You guys are just gonna watch a movie and then go somewhere nice to eat.” “Yeah, i-it’s just that i really like her, you know?”

“And?” “What if, what if things don’t work out between us.” Hotch sighs. “Oh Matt, Matty. If she didn’t like you, would she have written ‘M+K’ scribbled down multiple times on her notebook? Or when she keeps bugging me on how ‘Matty’ is doing whenever I see her in class?”

“Really?”

“Really man, now let’s go so that you're not late.”

“Okay, thanks.” The two head out as they walk to the girls’ dorm. Once they reached Kristy’s dorm, Matt took a deep breath and knocks.

“Who is it?” Someone asked.

“It’s Matt.”

“Oh okay. Be there in a minute.” Kristy shouts as she took a few touch on her makeup and styles her hair up a bit before turning to Haley.

 “So?” “You look great.” “Eh….I don’t know.” She turned back to the mirror

“Kristy, what are trying to do?”

“Just fixing myself up a little bit. Maybe the hair needs fixing.”

She sighs. “God, your hair looks fine.” “Yeah, you’re right. Maybe it’s the dress.” She responds as she looks at her dress.

“Kristy…..” “Okay, it’s not the dress, but there is one thing it needs. Like a little………...support?” She asked as she looks down at her chest.

“Kris. Are you gonna keep the poor guy waiting? Man is probably sweating bullets.”

“I know, I know, I just-” “Easy Kris.” Haley consoled. “You’ll be fine.”

“You're right, you're right. Okay im ready.”

“Good.” She pats her on the back. “That’s my girl. Now go out there and show Matt what you're all about.”

“I will, I will.” She responds and she took a deep breath before opening the door to see Matt standing outside.

“Hey.” “Hi.” “Wow, you look great.” She blushed. “Why thank you. So do you.” “Thank you. So, are you ready?”

Kristy nods. “Mm hmph.”

“Good, lets go.”

Both Hotch and Hailey look as Matt and Kristy walk down the hallway.

“Well um i should head back.”

“Not so fast mister. I want my best friend to be happy and safe, so I'd like to see the friends he hangs with. Why don't you come in for a bit, we can chat.”

“Oh uh, okay.” Hotch reluctantly responds as walks into her dorm. He awkwardly stands as she closed the door.

“The name is Haley by the way.” She said as she turned to him.

“Um, I’m Aaron, but most of my friends call me Hotch.”

“Oh, so is it okay if I call you ‘Aaron’?” “Uh sure.”

[lolabean1998]

Ali-cat part 4

Sweet Pea fanfic

“Sweet Pea are you ok? I think you should sit down.” Ali soothed guiding him to a seat by a table she had just cleared, she was used to handling drunks and knew what to do. “Sit here for a sec, I’m gonna grab you a glass of water.” she instructed politely before dashing off to grab a bucket and a glass of water, she hated clearing up vomit, better to be prepared and not need it. “Sip this and if you think you’re going to throw up please try to get it in the bucket, I’ll sort a lift for you when you’ve sobered up a bit.” She turned to continue clearing the pool table when he grabbed her hand pulling her towards him looking deep into her eyes.

“Please don’t leave me alone.” He whispered, his words clear as day, Ali smiled placing a calming hand on his broad shoulders and looking deep into his dark eyes. 

“I’ll be right over there, I’m not leaving you I just need to clear this side, that’s all.” She smiled gently pulling away and going back to work Swiping the keys to his bike from his jacket pocket. She carried a large tray of empty glasses to the bar smiling at Sweet Pea as she passed, but when she came back to her corner, he had disappeared. ~Lucky I took his keys then really, drunken fool would’ve killed himself driving in that state~ Ali thought playing with the keys secured to her hair band, hidden by her thick pony tail, it wasn’t the first set of keys she’d had to hide. Hog Eye waved her over when she had finished clearing the finally tray of glasses from the pool table, she placed the tray on the bar and skipped happily over. “What’s up Hog Eye?” She asked politely, smiling at a blonde haired woman stood beside him.  

“Told you she was polite, Ali this is Penny she’s giving you a lift back home. You did good tonight kid.” Hog Eye gave her a well deserved pat on the back before she disappeared outside following Penny closely.

“Thank you for the lift, it’s much appreciated.” Ali thanked as she jumped out of the truck when they reached her run down old house.

“No worries girly, see you at the bar tomorrow?” Penny grinned leaning out the trucks window.

“I’m working the day shift tomorrow so I can finish my homework and spend Saturday night with my mum, but keep an eye out for me on the lunch shift.” She smiled before jogging to her front door giving a final wave before heading inside.

Ali woke early Saturday morning to the sound of drilling and construction work, She quickly threw on a pair of ripped jeans and a torn hoodie before hurrying downstairs throwing her hair in a scruffy bun as she went and slamming her feet into a pair of torn up, old trainers when she reached the shoe rack at the bottom.

“Anything I can help with?” Ali asked a tall stocky man stood in the back room scratching his bold head as he scanned the ancient boiler in the corner.

“No you’re alright kid, just gotta figure out how I'm getting this hunk a’ junk off with out breaking it, can swap it for a new one if the parts are still good.” He replied still staring, puzzled by the boilers unique position.

“Well I can take it down if you want, I have time, I don't start work until 10.” She smiled swiping a screw driver from the toolbox behind her and getting started on the boiler. “Can you just check the stop tap’s off before I drain it?” She chuckled at the baffled look on the mans face.

“Yes boss, Cas is heading to Pops you want her to grab you something, its on us.” He offered, Ali grinned holding the screw driver between her teeth as she reached her hands behind the boiler to pull the water cap off. 

“Just my usual please,” She muffled, screw driver still held tight between her pearly white teeth. 

Cas appeared half an hour later carrying a large bag of food and 2 milkshakes, placing them on top of the table Ali had pushed underneath the boiler so it had less to fall should she mess up. 

“One large cheese and bacon burger with onion rings, curly fries and a strawberry milkshake for the worker bee in the corner and the same for me.” Cas stated cheerfully, sitting beside her friend and handing her a perfectly packed bag of food.

“Oh thank you Cas, how much do I owe you?” Ali looked at her friend apologetically, she felt bad for accepting the food but knew it would be rude to turn it down.

“You didn’t think I was actually going to let you have your usual curly fries and soda did you?” Cas mumbled through a large bite of her burger, wrapping an arm around her friend and squeezing tight. With Cas by her side the boiler would be down in no time.

“Ali, come here a sec.” Hog Eye waved her over casually, “Umm, are you aware that you are jingling?” Ali had forgotten about the keys still attached to her hair band.

“Ah, forgot about that.” She smiled playing with her headphones, whispers of tunes still playing merrily from them. “Whoopsy daisy” She sang putting her headphones back in and dancing her way back to the table was just clearing. “Oh Hog Eye, have you seen my phone? I think I left it here last night.” She called pulling her headphones out. Hog Eye shook his head in response before turning to Tall Boy.

“10 bucks says I know where it is though.” He grinned shaking Tall Boys hand. Ali danced and jingled her way over to the dart board to rearrange the tables and stand the chairs neatly beside them, when Toni popped up beside her making her jump.

“Holy rabies, Toni you scared the hell out of me!” Ali gasped clutching her chest, her English accent stronger than ever. “What’s up Topaz?” Ali smiled once she had recovered from her little surprise.

“Thought you might want this?” She grinned handing Ali her phone, “found it last night by the pool table.” Toni raised an playful eyebrow at Ali before disappearing behind the bar. Ali tucked her phone back in her back pocket before going back to dancing, cleaning and jingling her shift away. 

Ali was curled up in bed, reading her favourite book on British Folklore and myths when her phone lit up, ‘I need my keys back now Princess - unknown’. Ali stared at her phone in confusion, after a moment of contemplation she decided it was probably best to tell the phantom texter that they had the wrong number. ‘Sorry, you have the wrong number. Hope you get your keys back’ She replied, within seconds of her sending the message her phone bleeped again, another message from unknown. ‘Get dressed and meet me outside Ali-cat’ Ali frowned, peering out her bedroom window to see a rather annoyed Sweet Pea and a highly amused Fangs leaning against a magnificent Harley in her drive way. 

“Bugger,” Ali muttered climbing out of bed and throwing on a pair of jeans and a hoodie before climbing carefully down the creaky new staircase and shuffling her feet into her worn out sneakers. She tiptoed out her new, snow white, front door and jogged down to the boys waiting at the bottom of the drive, jingling as she went. “I’m so sorry about that, I completely forgot.” She apologised pulling her hair band out of her long mousey brown hair and handing it to sweet pea, before waving good night and turning to head back inside. “Hang on,” She paused turning back to the two boys, “How did you get my number?” She asked, concerned.

“How did you get my keys?” Sweet questioned raising a teasing eyebrow.

“Swiped them from you last night before you spread across the road like peanut butter.” Ali replied folding her arms and frowning.

“Thanks for the keys,” He smirked climbing on the back of the bike and saluting as Fangs sped away.

“JACKASS!” Ali shouted as she watched him disappear, “The little prick, Yeah thanks for nothing you arrogant git!” She muttered to herself as she made her way back inside, scrambling back into bed and returning to her book. 

She was just about to turn out the light and go to sleep when her phone lit up again. “ Dear lord, you must be kidding me.” She moaned picking up her phone to read the message, ‘You’re cute when you’re sleepy, thanks for the keys’. Ali scowled at the message throwing her phone under her pillow and snuggling into her thick duvet. ~Cas was right that boy is nothing but trouble~ Ali thought as her eyes grew heavy and she drifted off too sleep.

“Rumour has it Mr Birdy was cooking up drugs in school, That's what I heard any way.” Cas gossiped as the girls made their way out of their newly closed school. “I’m headed to Greendale, what about you?”

“Riverdale High,” Ali sighed looking up at the clear blue sky, Cas burst into choking laughter.

“Tough blow! You’ve got the worst one, Bulldogs vs Serpent all day every day and the Blossum bitch not including the rest like Hiram Lodge’s Daughter!” Cas emphasized in shock, giving her friend a bear hug whilst desperately trying to hold back the laughter fighting its way through. Ali smiled at her friend but she was terrified, she had only just settled into this school and made friends, now she was getting separated from them and being sent to a school known for its rivalry with the Southside and its hatred for the serpents. “Don’t worry Ali, I’m sure you’ll be fine, your not like those hooligans and I’ll come and see you all the time, we’re moving schools not continents!” Cas soothed when she saw the worry grow in her eyes.

“Yeah, us hooligans can protect you.” A dark eyed boy in a crown beanie joked.

“Thanks Jughead that’s really comforting!” Ali teased, she had been partnered up with him in English and the pair had hit it off, he had a flare for stories and generally wanted to learn. “I’m sure Fangs and Bean pole over there are going to be on their best behaviour and Not start a fight two minutes into entering the building.” Ali said sarcastically giving Jughead a playful grin. 

“Relax Princess, we’ll keep an eye on you.” Sweet pea grinned rest an arm on her shoulders, Ali scowled grabbing his wrist, swinging herself underneath and moving behind him, placing him in an arm lock. He stood defeated, his hand held firmly between his muscular shoulder blades, grazing his tongue along the edge of his front teeth and rolling his eyes. Ali smiled patting his shoulder with her free hand, positioning herself to the side of him so he could see her through the corner of his eye.

“Let’s make a deal, you do you and keep me out of it. Or you’ll be spending your Friday night with your left hand, instead of your right.” Ali mocked before dropping his hand and moving back over to Cas and Jughead who were cracking up at her quick wit. 

“You’ll regret saying that Princess, Northsiders don't play nicely with us Southsiders, Serpent or not.” Sweet pea warned rubbing his wrist.

“That’s where your wrong Sweet pea, see unlike you,” Ali placed a hand on his shoulder as she whispered in his ear moving slowly behind him to his other ear, “I’m likeable. So you see, it’s not me that should be worried, its you.” She whispered leaning closer, her lips brushing against his ear. Sweet pea tried to stifle a groan as she kissed his cheek before pulling away and linking arms with Cas as they wandered off to Pops diner. 

“Dude,” Jughead chuckled, “She’s got you hook, line and sinker.” He stated, looking at Sweet pea’s clenched jaw and balled up fists, but this wasn’t anger this was a new emotion, especially for Sweet pea. He was falling head over heels for the straight A, good girl and he felt completely helpless.

“Shut up Jughead.” He scoffed brushing rudely past him towards his bike.

Riverdale High was the complete opposite of Southside high, bright shiny trophies filled the immaculate glass cabinets, the walls were spotless with no sign of graffiti any where. The students were all prim and proper wearing designer labels and bright colours, unlike the Southside students who were sporting their usual dark clothing and leather biker jackets, their gang symbol shining proudly on their backs. Ali had just missed the confrontation by the welcome desk, with no car or money for a ride she had been forced to run to school making her late.

“Principle weatherby I’m so sorry I’m late, mum left early this morning and I had to run here and I got lost, I’m so sorry.” Ali panted when she was pulled into the principles office. He raised his hand to silence her and smiled.

“Ali you’re not in trouble, I just wanted to see how you were doing, 2 new schools in such a short space of time can be tough. If you need a hand with any classes or some one to talk to we are more than able to provide the help required by those willing to learn. You’re a straight A student Ali, lets keep it that way.” He explained handing her a list of extra curricula's and her new schedule before walking her to the door.

“Thank you, I’ll be on time tomorrow,” Ali paused before adding, “Hopefully, It might take a few try’s before I find my way with out getting lost.” 

“Not to worry, I’m sure you’ll be fine.” He smiled again before disappearing back into his office.

Ali made her way to her first class, Chemistry. She had missed the tour but luckily for her, she had a map of the school on the back of her schedule, making it easier to find her way round. She poked her head round the door to her class, glancing round nervously she spotted a large group of serpents sat at the back behind some very annoyed looking jocks, she figured judging by the blue and gold jackets they were sporting that they must be Bulldogs. Ali cleared her throat catching the attention of her new Chemistry teacher, who smiled brightly ushering her in.

“I’m sorry to interrupt, I think I’m in this class but I’m not entirely sure.” Ali muttered apologetically, all eyes now fixed on her, the attention making her feel smaller than a flea. “Sorry I’m late.” she apologised when her teacher confirmed her spot in the class.

“Not to worry, there’s a spare seat at the back, I’m sure Reggie can catch you up on what we’ve been doing so far.” The short stocky woman smiled pointing her to the empty seat next to a dark haired Bulldog. Ali smiled nervously as she perched beside him, her hands shaking as she pulled out her books, flicking through her workbook until she found a clean page. The boy smirked arrogantly at her, before beginning to explain their recent project to her like she was a small child.

“With all do respect, Reggie, is it? I’m not stupid, I can handle big words so if you could keep your antediluvian opinions to yourself and Just tell me what we’re doing now I would be So grateful.” Ali pleaded, smiling politely, her eyes twinkling when she saw the confused look flash across his face as she used a big word. “Before you ask, antediluvian means really old fashioned or outdated.” She smiled again before turning to her book and taking down notes. Leaving her new lab partnered stunned. Sweet Pea was sat directly behind them and hadn't taken his eye’s off Ali since the moment she appeared at the door and couldn’t help chuckling at the gormless expression on Reggie's face.

“She tends to have that effect on people.” He smirked to Reggie before turning back to his own books, glancing up every now and then to check on Ali.

@soffie-toscana @everheart12 @toothisafighter-blog   

Masterlist

[eastofthemoon]

After seeing @absolem0 awesome Witch Allura fanart, it inspired me to write this.  I hope you all like it! (And check out that fanart, it’s really cute and pretty!)

Title: Something Familiar

Rating: G

Series: Voltron Legendary Defender

Characters: Allura, Shiro, Keith, Lance, Hunk, and Pidge

Summary: Allura sensed something was afoot, but surely she could handle it.  She was a witch after all.

Archive of Our Own

Someone was in her house.  It was the first thought that flew into her head as she awoke.  She groggily pulled aside the curtain of her canopy bed to check the clock on her nightstand.

It was 2 am.

Way too early to be dealing with this.  Allura became still as she wait for another disturbance, but none came.

She pulled the dark purple covers up to her neck and lingered in their familiar scent to calm herself.

I probably just dreamt it, she thought as she shut her eyes, or it could have been a squirrel wandering by.  It’s hardly the first time it happened.

The warmth of her bed lured her back into sleep until she felt it again.  The magical vibration  of someone crossing over her protection wards.

Once was odd, but twice at this hour of the night hinted someone was afoot.

Allura grumbled, but forced herself to get up and let her silk sheets fall to the floor as she climbed out.  She didn’t want to deal with this, but she had no choice.  Allura had to inspect what the cause was.

With Coran visiting his cousin, she could only concluded it was an intruder.

But a non-magical one, she thought.  Otherwise it shouldn’t have been able to get through my protection wards.

Squinting in the darkness, Allura fumbled her way to her coat rack and reached for her housecoat.  She glanced over to to the small round bed that was set in the corner of the room and did a quick head count.

All five cats were sleeping, which meant none of them had sensed it, at least not yet.

Allura chewed her bottom lip.  She knew they would insist on helping, but it felt wrong to awake them.  Allura had spent the afternoon experimenting from her father’s spellbook and they had assisted her in doing so.  Keith and Pidge had been quite vital to put out that small fire out, and Allura didn’t know what they would have done if Hunk hadn’t grabbed the silver tray to block that sleeping spell from hitting her.  

It had been a long afternoon, and they had all been exhausted by the end of it.  Lance in particular had demanded a bath as payment and an extra fluffy pillow to sleep on.

Allura drummed her fingers against her elbow and then nodded to herself.

The intruder isn’t magical, she silently argued.  I should be able to handle it alone without disturbing them.

Allura stole one more glance to them before she crept into the room and exited into the dark hallway.  She reached for the small lantern that sat on the side table and flicked her fingers to light it.

Quietly, Allura picked up the hem of her nightgown and carefully carried the lantern as she walked.  The light from her lantern flickered as she went by the family portraits and almost seemed to make the eyes of her father’s shine.  She gave a wistful smile, but didn’t pause as she kept on going.

Noises were coming from the dining room.  Someone with a deep male voice cursed and was swiftly followed by the sound of clanking of metal and glass.  Allura swallowed and discreetly peeked inside.

A young man wearing dark clothes, gloves and a mask was raiding her china cabinet.  She cringed as she watched him pick up a candle stick holder, examine it and then toss it into the large sack he held.

Allura’s grip tightened on her lantern.  So, it was a robber?  That hadn’t been as bad as she had been fearing, but it was hardly something to take lightly.

Allura straightened her posture before she entered and cleared her throat.

The robber halted immediately and whirled around.

“I will give one, and only one warning,” Allura announced in a firm tone, “put don’t my belongings and leave my home this instant.”

The robber grumbled as he reached inside his coat.  “Lady, be smart and turn right around as if you didn’t see me.”

“And let you rob me?” Allura said as she set the lantern on top of a nearby shelf and crossed her arms.  “I’m hardly the type of person to allow that!”

The man shook his head sadly as he set the bag down.  “Look, girlie, we both know you are currently the only person in this whole manor.”

Allura raised an eyebrow.  “So, what?”

Part of her felt tempted to insist that wasn’t even close to being true, but she kept her mouth shut.

“Sssoo,” the robber continued with his hand still in his coat, “I’m a lot bigger than you, and it wouldn’t take much to win against you in a fight.”  

His hidden hand jumped back out with fingers curled around the handle of a large knife.  He chuckled as the lantern’s flame bounced off the blade.  Allura’s body stiffened.

She had been expecting him to be armed, but she didn’t imagine him to be carrying such a large knife.

“Unless you want me to cut at that pretty face of yours,” the robber continued as he pointed to the china cabinet, “ come here and tell me which of this junk is the most valuable.”

Allura felt sweat drip from her brow.  What should she do?  Attack with a spell?  But she needed a few minutes to cast, and the robber would no doubt strike before she could finish.  She glanced around the room.  Perhaps she could hit with something-

“Don’t try anything funny,” the robber said as he stepped forward and seized her wrist.  “I got my eyes on you.”

Allura fumed as she squirmed and winced as he gave her a tight squeeze.  “Unhand me,” she demanded.

“You’re in no position to give orders,” the robber continued.  “Now just-”

A meow cut him off.

Both Allura and the robber turned their hands as a large black cat hopped up onto the table.  The streaks of white in his fur almost seemed to shimmer as the cat arched his back and hissed at the robber.

“Shiro,” Allura whispered.

The robber blinked and then laughed.  “Aw, cute, your little kitty is trying to scare me off.”  

He let go of Allura as he approached the cat and waved the tip of the knife in the cat’s face.

“What you going to do, little fella?” He snickered.  “Hiss at me to death-”

Shiro jumped off the table, transformed into a lion in midair and knocked the table over as he landed on the floor.

The robber was still as a statue as the knife slipped from his fingers and onto the floor.  Allura didn’t waste a moment to seize it as the robber stared bewildered at the creature before him.

“But..but...how,” he stammered, but wasn’t given a moment to question before Shiro roared at him.

The robber cried out before his eyes rolled into the back of his head and he collapsed onto the floor.  Hovering over the man, Shiro growled as Allura checked his pulse.

“Looks like he fainted,” Allura said with a relieved sigh, “that makes things easier.”

Shiro’s eyes narrowed and they stayed that way as his body morphed back into his human form wearing his black shirt and pants, but no shoes.

I really need to find away for them to keep their footwear when they transform, she thought, but tossed it aside as Shiro kneeled next to her.

“Are you hurt?” he asked, checking her over.

“I’m fine,” Allura said as she stood, “but how did you-”

“I woke up and realized you had left the room,” Shiro explained as he crossed his arms.  “I figured something must have been up so I went looking for you.”

“I’m glad that you did,” Allura replied with a smile, but dropped it as Shiro kept his frown.

Uh oh, he wasn’t happy.

“Allura, what were you thinking?” Shiro said as he raised a hand up.  “You know it’s our job to take care of intruders.”

“Magical intruders,” Allura replied hotly, “but since I didn’t detect anything, I assumed I could take care of it.”  

“Doesn’t change how dangerous it was,” Shiro replied.

“I can take care of myself.”  She placed her hands onto her hips.  “I’m not a helpless child.”

Shiro sighed as his eyes softened.  “I never said you were.”  He shook his head.  “Okay, let’s save this talk for the morning.”  He glanced to the robber.  “And we need to take care of this guy.”

“Agreed,” Allura stated as she rooted through his bag.  “By the looks of it, he didn’t try to take any of my magical items.”

“So, likely he has no idea he just tried to rob a witch,” Shiro stated as he picked up the guy and swung him over his shoulder.  “In that case, I’m going to tie him up and just place him in front of the police station with a note attached.”

Allura frowned, but nodded.  

She hated for Shiro to go to so much trouble, but last thing Allura needed was for any of the local law enforcement to go stomping through her home and raise unneeded questions.

“Alright,” Allura stated as she hugged herself, “and what should I do?”

“Go back to bed,” Shiro instructed with a grunt as he left the room, “oh and prepare yourself.”

Allura tilted her head.  “For what?”

Shiro glanced back with a smirk.  “For the others to be cranky you didn’t wake them up for this. ”

Allura rolled her eyes.  “I believe you are exaggerating.  I’m sure they’ll understand just fine.”

0808080808080808080808080808080808080808080808080

Keith glared at her with his red cat eyes all morning.  He glared at the foot of her bed when she awoke, as he followed her into the kitchen and was now glaring at her as she sat in her favorite chair in the study.

Allura twitched an eye and sighed as she set her cup of coffee on the side table.

“Keith,” she asked as she folded her hands into her lap, “if you’re going to be glare at me all day, would you please do it in your human form?”

Keith leapt into a nearby chair and transformed into his human form with his arms still crossed, and wearing his red shirt and black pants.

He didn’t say a word as he kept glaring at her.

“I was implying for you to speak as well,” Allura said.

“Well, sorry, I don’t feel much like talking when I’m annoyed,” Keith said briskly as he leaned back into the chair.

“I’m with Keith.”

Allura jumped as Pidge appeared from behind her wearing her human form and green dress.  Allura hadn’t even realized Pidge had transformed.  Last she had checked, the tiny cat had been sitting and surveying from the top of her bookshelf.

“Why did you think it was a good idea to deal with an intruder by yourself?” Pidge continued as she moved to stand beside Keith.

Allura rubbed her eyes.  “As I explained, I thought I could handle it by myself.”

Pidge snorted.  “Yeah, it sounded like you totally had it under control by Shiro’s account.”

“Guys,” Hunk whined as he poked his head in and carried a tray full of pancakes.  “I hate fighting this early in the morning.”

“We’re not fighting, we are having a discussion,” Allura retorted with a huff.

“Could have fooled me,” Hunk replied as he set the tray down on one of the side tables and took a seat.  “Although..they do have a point.”  He pointed to himself.  “Isn’t it kind of our job to deal with that sort of thing?”

Allura traced her finger around the brim of her cup.  Hunk wasn’t wrong.  It was traditionally part of a familiar’s job to act as a bodyguard when danger was afoot.

“It is,” Allura said as she blushed, “but you lot deal with enough trouble as is and I thought I could deal with it myself.”

Heaven knows they had encountered enough danger in the past to fill up seven books alone, especially with the threat of Haggar and Zarkon always looming over them.

“No one is saying you can’t,” Keith said in a more gentle tone, “but you’re the one that told me we’re a team.”

Allura’s blushed deepened.  She had told Keith that, particularly when he had tired to fight off a werewolf all by himself.

“Alright, perhaps it was a bad call,” Allura muttered as she reached for her cup, “I’ll try to be more careful in the future.”

“That’s all we ask,” Shiro said as he stepped into the room and slumped into a chair.  “And I just finished changing the locks.  Hopefully, we don’t have to worry about any future break ins.”

“That would be nice,” Allura said as she glanced around, but then tilted her head.  “Wait...where’s Lance?”

Shiro arched an eyebrow as he leaned forward.  “No idea, I figured he was with you guys.”

“And we thought he was with you,” Pidge said.  “So where-”

A slim cat dashed into the room, jumped over Keith’s chair, and hopped into the far chair in the corner.

“Lance, there you are,” Allura called out and saw he was panting.  “Where have you been?”

Lance’s ears twitched before he transformed.  His blue shirt was sweat stained and mud clung to his pants.  “Uh..me...nowhere.”

Keith crossed his arms and pointed to his pants.  “The evidence says otherwise.”

Lance glanced down and gave a nervous smile.  “Oh..uh...just went for a walk.”

“A walk?” Allura muttered, but then her brain clicked.  “Where exactly?”

Lance shut his mouth as he stared up at the ceiling.  “Oh...around…”

“Such as Mister Warden’s yard?” Allura asked.

“....I..might have.”

Allura groaned.  “Please, tell me you didn’t go taunt Laika again.”

Lance sheepishly rubbed his neck.  “Okay….I won’t.”

Shiro sighed as he scrubbed his face with the palm of his hand.  “Lance, how many times do we have to tell you not to tease he?.”

“She is an easy target though,” Pidge said with a smirk.

“She’s a dog,” Hunk replied as he squeezed his eyes shut, “they’re all easy targets.”

“Nevertheless,” Allura replied as she set down her cup.  “Lance, I have gotten too many complaints about you from Mister Warden and it’s only going to lead to trouble.”

Lance said nothing as he drummed his fingers against his knee.

Shiro locked his gaze upon him as he rose.  “Lance, did something happen?”

“Define ‘something’.”

“Lance.”

Lance cleared his throat.  “Okay, so in my defense Mister Warden should fix that loose board in his fence.”

The group went silent.

“Why?” Pidge asked.

Lance chuckled nervously.  “Well, because Laika might have been able to slip from her leash and chased after me.”

Allura paled.  “Are you alright?”

Laika was a very large and energetic dog.  She was friendly, except it wasn’t hard to imagine her getting carried away and accidentally hurting Lance without meaning to.

Lance waved a hand.  “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine, but..I can’t say the same for Coran’s marigolds.”

“...What?”

Lance tugged at his shirt collar.  “I managed to lose Laika in the garden and I last saw her digging quite happily in it.”

Allura moaned as she buried her face.  “Oh, Lance.”

“Coran, is going to kill you,” Hunk stated, “you know that right?”

Lance sunk deeper into the chair.  “Maybe he won’t notice?”

Shiro tugged at his arm.  “Come on, let’s take Laika home and then try to fix the damage you caused.”

“But I didn’t do anything!” Lance argued as Shiro dragged him away.  “Laika’s the one digging!”

Allura shook her head as she drank her coffee.  She had a feeling she was going to need a lot of it today.

[swfanficbyjz]

SW AU - Slave Bonds - Ch. 1

So I had this idea a little while ago, what if Anakin and Ahsoka had met as kids? As I was thinking about that, I remembered that what little we know of Ahsoka’s back story is that this false Jedi came to her village and tried to kidnap her before Master Plo found her. And then I remembered that Dave Filoni’s concept art for this false Jedi looked a lot like the Zygerrians later on in the show. 

Which of course, because my brain leaps around like this all the time, got me thinking that if this false Jedi had been a slaver and had succeeded in taking Ahsoka, likely she would have ended up at a slave auction just like Anakin admitted he and his mother had been at. Because how many of those were happening at the time?

That of course gave birth to this story. If Master Plo had not found Ahsoka and taken her to the temple, and she did cross paths with Anakin as slaves, how would that have shaped the future of their relationship having had a history together?

Chapter 1:

She huddled in the corner, trembling. It hurt. Everything hurt. The tears burned her eyes. She didn’t understand. She didn’t understand anything. 

“Psst!” Her head snapped to the noise. She crawled towards it, brushing her hands to shake off the pebbles that ground against her palms. “Are you okay?” She peered into the hole but only saw a blue eye staring back. She fell back off her heels and started crying. “No, shh! It’s okay. I won’t hurt you.” His voice was soft and gentle, far kinder than any other she’d heard so far. “Here, take this.” She heard something bounce along the stone and stop by her feet. “It’s a charm, it will make you brave.”

She picked it up, turning it over. It was almost bigger than her hand. There were markings carved into an ivory square. She curled her fingers around it, held it close to her heart and closed her eyes. She did feel braver. It must work. 

She peeked back through the hole. “Thank you.” She whispered shyly.

“You’re welcome.” He smiled. “Just hold it tight when you’re scared and you’ll be okay." 

"Who are you?" 

"My name is Anakin Skywalker.” He sat back so she could see his whole face. She liked him. He had dimples. “What’s your name?”

“Ahsoka Tano." 

"That’s a pretty name.” She giggled and blushed. 

“Your name is pretty too.”

He smiled again. “Thanks! How old are you?”

“Four.” She held up her hand to show him but then wasn’t sure if he could see it.

“I’m nine.” He said proudly. “I’m good at fixing things. Someday I’m going to build my own droid.”

“What’s a droid?” She tipped her head to the side.

“They’re robots. They’re made out of metal and can move and talk and help you do things. You don’t have droids where you’re from?”

“I don’t remember.” She tightened the grip on the charm he’d given her. 

Several loud voices stopped outside her cell. “Get up, girlie!” A man yelled. She cowered, holding the stone in her hand. “I said, get up!” He hit his gun against the metal and it echoed in the room so loudly, she brought her arms up to try and block the sound. Her head pounded from the pain. 

“She’s just a kid!” Anakin shouted from the other side of the wall. “You’re scaring her!”

The man behind the voice pounded against his cell. “Shut up, slave! Mind your own business or you’ll lose your tongue!”

The door to hers slammed open and she squeezed her eyes shut as a large sweaty hand closed around her right arm, jerking her to her feet. She barely caught sight of Anakin as she was dragged past his cage. He was making a square shape with his fingers and she grabbed for the charm he’d given her, unsure when she’d dropped it or how it ended up back in her hands.

She held it tight as a painful metal collar was snapped around her neck, pinching her lekku. She’d cried out in pain only to be hit in response. She bit her lip so hard she tasted blood. She was chained to a platform that started rising into an arena. 

She shook her head, blinking against the bright lights. Her head going deaf against the noise. There was so much commotion, so much color. Occasional streaks of pain. She closed her eyes holding the charm, wishing to be brave. Just hold it tight when you’re scared, you’ll be okay. She repeated his words over and over again. Her hands were going numb from how tightly she held it. 

When she opened her eyes, she was in another cage on a ship. She could feel it shudder as it moved. She didn’t know where she was now or how she got here. But at least she still had the charm. It had worked. She didn’t know how, but she wasn’t so scared anymore. She’d be okay, just like the boy had said. 

—

She stared at the sand as she slowly shuffled along. She’d get in trouble for taking so long, but she wasn’t in a hurry. Whenever she didn’t have to be there, was the only time she didn’t hurt. She’d rather get one big beating than lots of little ones. She tugged at the sleeves of her shirt absentmindedly, not that anyone around here cared about the bruises she was trying to hide. 

“Ahsoka!” She barely had a chance to react to her name before someone pulled her into their arms. Her instinct was to recoil at the touch, but this one didn’t hurt. “You’re okay!” Was she okay? That’s not what it felt like. Who cared about her anyways?

She blinked up towards the two suns and his face finally swam into view. Blonde hair, blue eyes… dimples! “Anakin?” Now she was smiling too. She reached into her shirt and pulled out the charm she’d fashioned into a necklace. He took it in his fingers, turning it over gently. Then he leaned over to look her in the eye.

“Who is your master?” he whispered.

“Sebulba.” She looked down at her feet and he put his hands on her shoulders.

“Is he kind?” She shook her head, tears falling in the sand below. Then she rolled up her sleeve and he ran his fingers softly along the bruises.

“Stupid Dug!” he spat and she looked up at him, biting her lip. “I work over there.” He pointed to the shop a few yards away. “Come find me when you can.”

She glanced across the way and saw a strange blue creature float out of the shop and start yelling.

“I have to go. Keep holding onto the charm.” He smiled sadly at her and started running in that direction. She squeezed the necklace in her hand and watched him go. Someone did care. But she wished she could follow him. She turned back towards Sebulba’s place and hurried along. If she got to see Anakin again soon, she could get through whatever punishment awaited her.

—

She peeked around the corner hoping what she’d heard was true. Sebulba snored heavily as he laid back in his chair. She tiptoed past the doorway as quietly as she could and the moment she was out the front door, ran as fast as her little legs would carry her.

She was breathless by the time she’d made it to the shop Anakin had pointed out days before. But she didn’t want to waste any second she could be with him. She slipped inside, trying not to draw the attention of the shopkeeper. Her friend was working on the far side of the room, she could just barely make out his movements through shelves of interesting objects. The blue creature turned and she fell to her knees, crawling along the dusty floor trying to hide from his view.

Anakin turned around when she was about halfway through, his eyes widened. “Master,” he said. “I think I see a customer approaching.”

“Good good.” The shopkeeper replied and fluttered towards the doorway. The moment he was gone, she was on her feet, running into his arms.

“I was starting to think you’d forgotten.” He whispered, holding her tightly.

“He doesn’t leave me alone much.” She clung to him. He was the only nice thing in this place.

“Well at least you’re here now.” He pointed behind a crate near him as the shopkeeper came back in grumbling.

“You, boy! Clean up this shop, I’m going to go get a drink.”

“Yes, master.” He bowed obediently.

“What is he?” she asked after he left.

“Oh that’s Watto. He’s a Toydarian. His bark is worse than his bite.”

“He bites?” she shivered uncontrollably.

“No, it’s just an expression. It means he sounds mean, but he doesn’t actually do what he says he will.”

She ran her hands along the metal junk that littered the shelf in front of her. Everything here was strange. “Sebulba always does what he says he will. And he sounds plenty mean too.” She picked up a round metal object and rolled it in her hands.

“Well at least we’re both on Tatooine.” He said trying to sound positive.

“What is Tatooine?” she poked a button on the ball and it leapt to life, floating up into the air and around the shop.

“That’s the name of this stupid planet.” He dove after it, catching it but running into a shelf, knocking stuff off. A small rectangular thing on wheels started moving across the floor. “Grab that, would you?”

She threw her weight at it, just barely getting a grip on it. “Sorry!” she said trying to figure out how to shut it off.

“Don’t worry about it.” He smiled, shutting off the metal ball and putting it back on the shelf. Then he started laughing as the thing under her kept moving and was strong enough to pull her along with it.

“What is this thing?” she cried as it dragged her around the room.

“It’s a mouse droid.” He ran forward and stepped his foot down on top of it so it couldn’t move anymore.

“Droid? Like the kind you want to build?”

“There’s lots of different types of droids.” He picked it up and shut it off, setting it back on the shelf too and then he helped her to her feet. She brushed herself off, hoping that Sebulba didn’t care how dirty she was. “Here, let me show you.” She took his hand and he guided her to the back of the shop. “This is Threepio. He’s a protocol droid. Watto is letting me put it together using parts that I find. I’m building him to help my mom.”

She looked over what he pointed at. It was just a jumble of parts and wires as far as she could tell. “What is a protocol droid?”

“They can speak lots of different languages and they’re human-like. They’re service droids, so they’ll do anything you ask them too; cleanup, make food. You name it.”

“If droids can do that, why are there slaves?”

“That’s a good question.” He murmured. “Where are you from, anyways?”

“I don’t know.”

“I’ve never seen a Togruta before, but I’ve heard of them.”

“What’s a Togruta?”

“Well that’s what you are, silly!” he laughed, tickling her.

“I am me!” she said giggling, pushing him away.

“You’re a snippy little one, aren’t you?”

“What does that mean?” she looked up at him curiously.

“It means you have a lot of attitude.” He crossed his arms and looked her over. “I think I’m going to call you Snips.”

“But my name is Ahsoka.”

“It’s a nickname. Like a secret, just between us.” He patted her on the shoulder.

“Snips.” She repeated. “Okay. What can I call you?”

“Most people call me Ani.”

“But that wouldn’t be our secret.”

“True.” He laughed.

“Can I help you clean up?” she asked, looking around. She didn’t want him to get in trouble for the mess she made. He was so nice.

“It’s okay, I can do it. Watto won’t be back for awhile.” He tried to reassure her. “Let’s play a game. You like games?”

“I don’t know.”

“Okay, well you’ll like this one.” He went on to explain the rules, patiently teaching her and answering all her questions. For awhile, she forgot about the bruises and beatings, laughing as they chased each other around. She’d squeal in delight, falling apart into giggles whenever he’d catch her. He ran faster than her, easily. He had longer legs. But every once in awhile he’d slow down or pretend to be tired and let her catch him.

“Ani!” a woman exclaimed as she entered the shop and they were both on their feet looking ashamed. “What are you doing?”

“We were just playing, mom!” he said, hurrying to take the package she was carrying from her. “This is my friend, Ahsoka.”

She shifted nervously, looking up at the woman in fear. Was she as nice as Anakin? She seemed stern, but then her face softened into a smile and she relaxed. “Hello there, little one.” She crouched down.

“Hi,” she whispered shyly. The woman’s hands rested on her shoulder as she looked her over. Then her hand brushed the heavy collar around her neck and she smiled sadly.

“You’d better get back to your master, before he misses you.” She said gently. Ahsoka’s eyes widened. She’d been having so much fun with Anakin, she’d completely forgotten about Sebulba.

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