#zack foster fanfic

[emo-emu64]

The Princess's Favor

Knight! Zack X Princess!Reader

Isaac Foster was considered a monster by most, a threat by all. A dangerous beast of a man, cut-throat, and stone faced. A valiant soldier that quickly climbed the ranks of the palace's guards. Ruthless in his endeavors to protect the royal family. In his endeavors to protect you.

That was how everybody else saw him at least, you considered him a giant teddy bear.

"Pretty please?"

It wasn't often that you were seen without your personal guard but, his patrols along the outside of the castle walls were supposed to be an exception. 

That became more and more of a rarity, however, as you asked him more often that not to accompany him. And he never quite figured out how to say no to you.

"Princess, it's not safe. Have you even asked your father?"

He avoided your gaze as he tended to his horse, knowing that he couldn't resist the big doe eyes that seemingly granted you everything you'd ever wished for.

He didn't mind though, not really, he'd conquer every kingdom this side of the sea if you looked at him like that.

"My father trusts you, I don't have to ask him about every little adventure. Besides, it's perfectly safe as long as I have you!"

He heaved a sigh as he finally met your gaze, big eyes and a hopeful smile, "Go get your bag."

You cheered, wrapping your arms around him briefly as you thanked him, then pressing a chaste kiss to his lips, running back to the stables where you had put your belongings.

A fortunate enough thing for Zack, as he was able to briefly stifle the smile that graced his lips.

Although, he couldn't say the same for when you came sprinting back, satchel slung over your shoulder, grinning from ear to ear.

Zack helped you up into the saddle first, like a true gentleman, before sliding comfortably in place behind you. 

You leaned back into his warmth, a comforting and familiar feeling. Safe, like home.

You brace yourself as the horse takes off like a shot into the woods. Zack weaves through trees and branches with ease, and his horse keeps a steady and sure footing on the mossy and mud-caked earth.

The wind in your hair is as exhilarating as always, and you raise your arms outward, throwing your head to the sky to cheer.

Zack pretends he doesn't find immeasurable joy in your joy by lightly flicking the back of your skull, leaning down closer to you so you can hear him over the rushing wind in your ears.

"Hands on the saddle, princess, gotta bring you back in one piece if I wanna keep my job."

You laugh as you bring your arms back down to your sides, keeping a firm hold to the horn of the saddle, simply because he asked you to. No matter how much danger he thought you may be in, you knew there was never any danger of you falling. Not with his strong arms on either side of you holding the reins. You felt invincible. 

Zack slows the horse to a stop as a clearing comes into view, filled with wildflowers and ferns of all kinds. You and Zack have found a plethora of spots during his patrols, but this one was by far your favorite. 

You often convinced Zack to eat lunch here. Bringing a basket of snacks from the kitchen, which was probably more sweets and pastries than an actual meal, but who's to say?

Zack dismounted in order to help you down, gently taking your hand.

As soon as your feet met the ground you quickly searched through your bag until you found the familiar feel of a small tin, opening to pick out a single sugar cube. You flattened your palm, holding the sweet treat out to the horse.The horse in question took your offering gratefully and gently.

The horse had an ashy coat, with a tail and mane of deep ebony. He was tall and strong, obedient from years of battle. His name was Mortifer, a fitting name considering his rider, meaning death bringer. Although, enemies of the kingdom often called him Pallidus Equus. 

The Pale Horse.

"You're going to make him fat," Zack chastised. 

"Zack, this is the most physically active horse in the kingdom, he's not going to get fat."

You turned back to the horse lifting you hand to stroke his neck, and he huffed gently nudging you with his nose, "You're not fat, huh? Zack's just a big meanie." You turned back to face your guard, "See? You made him sad."

Zack smirked and rolled his eyes, leaning down to kiss you gently, "Whatever you say, princess."

Zack became so much more comfortable outside the castle walls, he was convinced that if your relationship was confirmed and brought to light, the two of you would be separated.

Of course this wasn't the truth, Zack was a hero in the eyes of the kingdom, not some lowly knight trying to quickly climb the ranks, it would be fine, encouraged even for him to marry royal. Not to mention the two of you were the worst kept secret in the kingdom. You went everywhere together, he looked at you like you were the sun, and you looked at him like he put the stars in the sky. Even the castle's head baker, a very kind but also very blind old man, could see that.

You lower yourself to the grass, leaning against the largest oak you could find, pulling out your most recent cross stitch to occupy your hands. Zack soon joins you, sharpening his numerous blades with the whetstone he keeps on hand.

After a good while of simply enjoying each other's company, you decide to break the silence with the question that's been plaguing your mind since you first heard the rumor from your father's associates.

"Zack?"

"Hm?" He looks up from his knife, twirling it in his hands. When he finds your face, his brows crease, taking in the sad look in your eyes.

You put down your project and turn to face him, hands gently settling in your lap, you look downwards as you play with a blade of grass, "Is it true that you're being sent on that campaign that my father is planning?"

Zack's lips form a thin line, and he sighs, "Figured you'd heard about that."

He feels his heart crack wide open when your face saddens, your usual cheeriness completely drained, "So you're going?"

He nods, and frowns, gently cupping your face as he sees tears form in your eyes, "It won't be long, princess, I promise."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I was going to, I just... hadn't thought of how yet, I don't like seein' ya sad like this."

"You got hurt really bad on the last one Zack, I didn't know if your were going to make it."

The tears rimming your eyes fall freely down your cheeks now, and he gently wipes them away with his thumb. 

"I always make it, pretty thing, can't go leavin' ya all by yourself can I? You'll make my horse all fat and slow."

He smiles down at you as you giggle, and wrap your arms around his neck. 

"Oh!"

You jump to your bag rooting through it for your gift.

You pull out an embroidered handkerchief, pushing it into his open hands.

He opens it and grins at the stitches, its a field filled with flowers and trees, Zack thinks it looks very much like the one the two of you were currently seated in.

"You have to live, in order to bring it back to me. It's my favor."

He smiles, pressing a kiss to your forehead, "You'll have it back in no time, princess."

[deathc-re]

zack is obsessed with you. from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet he worships every single inch of your body. the thought of anyone else touching you, the thought of anyone else even looking at you drives him into a quiet frenzie, blood boiling and hands itching for his scyth.

that's how you ended up here, late at night in the bathroom of some random convenience store. getting pushed up against the wall, his calloused hands covering your mouth and red eyes staring into yours dangerously.

"you like him huh? that fucking cashier?" he huffed, maneuvering his pants with his free hand. "you like how he looked at you and smiled? i bet he wants to fuck you, baby. y'know he can't, right?"

you nodded, feeling the heat rush between your legs. he moved his hand and took your lips for a kiss. he was hungry for you, starving, and you could hear it in his groans that came out like growls. he pulled away and smiled at you wickedly, before pushing you down to your knees and tapping his angry red tip against your lips. diligently, you opened your mouth and took him in, looking up at him with this eyes that drove him even crazier.

"oh you're just gorgeous." he breathed, reaching down to cup your face. you took more and more of him in, eyes screwing shut at the tight feeling in your throat.

he whimpered, grabbing your hair to guide your head. it usually started off slow, him letting you adjust to him, but not today. his pace was brutal, and you were sure he'd bruised the back of your throat. the tears at the corners of your eyes and gags that rang through bathroom only spurred him on further, the coil in his stomach loosening.

"ugh- fuck babe yk i love you right? hottest f-fucking thing to walk-" his voice came out pitchy and desperate. the heat you felt between your legs only grew with each of his praises.

suddenly he pulled you off him. with a huff you leaned back against the wall behind you, drool dripped down your chin, tears stained the corners of your eyes and cheeks, and you looked at him with confusion. he stroked himself at your look, grunts and moans spewing out of him in a tangle of sounds.

in a burst he leaked onto your face, hot ropes landing all over you. he let out a deep sigh, turning to lean against the wall with you, weakling placing himself back in his pants. you looked over at him with mild annoyance, wiping him off your face and standing to go rinse in the sink.

"where are you off to handsome? don't think i'd leave you hanging."

an: first request omg!! it's a male reader but i wasn't too specific so hopefully everyone can enjoy it 🗣️

not my best work but i'm writing this on the plane back from germany (i'm paranoid the lady behind me is reading this filth lmao)

[blackrosesandwhump]

Whumpuary No. 10: Angels of Death

10. (Jan 19-20) Desperation / Gunpoint / Can't stay awake

CW: blood, bleeding out, scars, near death

Blood, everywhere, seeping down from Zack’s gut, spilling onto the tiled floor. His hand fell limp at his side, covered in crimson where he’d pressed on the open wound. His eyes fluttered shut and opened slowly again.

“I can’t…I can’t stay awake…”

“But you have to, Zack. You have to stay awake. You can’t die here.” Ray knelt next to him and shook him gently.

His eyes snapped back open. “Ow! That hurts! Don’t shake me like that. I’m…awake…” His voice petered out, and his head slipped to one side. More blood trickled from the slice in his stomach. Ray pressed her own hand over it, drawing close enough to feel his shallow breath on her skin.

“Please, Zack…I need you. I’ll find a way to fix you up…but you have to stay awake for me.”

He heaved a ragged gasp and straightened up a little, groaning. “Can’t guarantee that, but…you can start with this.” He lifted his arm to her, gritting his teeth with effort. “Take them off.”

“Take them off…?”

“The bandages, you idiot. You can use them on this stupid gash.”

Slowly, gently, Ray unwound the layers of gauze. And under the bandages, carved into his colorless skin: scars. Deep, ugly scars, hideous and—real.

“Quit staring. I’m bleeding out here.”

“I’m…I’m sorry, Zack,” Ray said.

Silence descended as she worked, and after a while the bleeding slowed, at least a little bit.

But those scars. The scars on Zack’s arm showed even starker through the smear of blood.

[jabberwock-islanders]

guess what

i did it (with some help from rin)

heres the fic thats making me have an entire sexuality crisis LMAO

[thesimpsbasement]

☆Thesimpsbasement Masterlist post☆

Last updated: November 12 2023

•No longer the avatar of pride

•Belphie having to live with the guilt of Lilith's death and it's taking a toll on his health

•The brothers and Lilith after the fall

•Solomon, Simeon, Barbatos, and Diavolo dating hcs

•"You are all I can think about”(Asmo x reader)

•Apollo walks in on a very panicked and stressed s/o and tries his best to comfort them 

•The nightmares of the DL-6 incident still haunts Edgeworth even if the  true culprit was been found but you are there to help him in those times 

•Barok's s/o who is a known painter that is also rumored to bring some sort of curse by selling their paintings 

•Phoenix Wright , Apollo Justice, Athena Cykes, Raymond Shields , Ryuunosuke Naruhodo defend their accused s/o

•Morning cuddles with Simon Blackquill

•General dating hc with Herlock Sholmes, Kazuma Asougi,Barok van Zieks, Ryuunosuke Naruhodo 

•Herlock Sholmes, Kazuma Asougi,Barok van Zieks, Ryuunosuke Naruhodo with a touch starved s/o

•Herlock Sholmes, Kazuma Asougi,Barok van Zieks, Ryuunosuke Naruhodo accidently seeing their shy crush drawing them

•General dating hc with Miles Edgeworth,Apollo Justice, Phoenix Wright, Godot, Simon Blackquill, Klavier Gavin

•Miles Edgeworth,Apollo Justice, Phoenix Wright, Godot, Simon Blackquill, Klavier Gavin with a touch starved s/o

•Bobby Fulbright with a Detective!s/o

•Miles Edgeworth,Apollo Justice, Phoenix Wright, Godot, Simon Blackquill, Klavier Gavin accidently seeing their shy crush drawing them

•Phoenix Wright,Klavier Gavin, Apollo Justice, Simon Blackquill with a s/o that gives good shoulder massages

•Klavier Gavin being comforted by his s/o after the events of Apollo Justice 4-4

•Herlock Sholmes, Kazuma Asougi,Barok van Zieks, Ryuunosuke Naruhodo reacting to their crush remembering something they mentioned a long time ago

•Phoenix Wright,Apollo Justice, Klavier Gavin and Simon Blackquill giving a massage to their s/o

•Apollo Justice and Klavier Gavin dating a really tall s/o

•Barok van Zieks falls for a childhood friend who grew up on the van Zieks estate as the grandchild of staff at the estate.As adults, s/o keeps a job at the estate, Barok is still pinning but fears disapproval due to their class difference.

•Phoenix Wright and Miles Edgeworth with a rival reader

•Miles Edgeworth,Apollo Justice, Phoenix Wright, Godot, Simon Blackquill and Klavier Gavin reacting to their crush remembering something they mentioned a long time ago

•Simon Blackquill with a s/o who has a story similar to the "Servant of Evil"

•Gregson with a crush that's super affectionate

•“Of course i came for you it would take much more than that to stop me”(Herlock Sholmes x reader)

•“I feel your absence in everything that i do alone in every place i go without you”( Miles Edgeworth x reader)

•Reader pins Apollo to a wall

•Hershel Layton taking care of a sick s/o

•General dating hc with Jean Descole

•General dating hc with Flora Reinhold

•General dating hc with Henry Ledore

•"For years I have yearned for you,in secrecy and silence"( Jean Descole x reader)

•"For years I have yearned for you,in secrecy and silence"( Henry Ledore x reader)

•General dating hcs with Desmond Sycamore

•Zack slowly falls in love with S/O but is in denial about it

•You're exhausted from work, but Dazai suddenly wants to be more than simply partners in crime, so you invite him over to spend the night together and things seems to turn

•General dating hc with Nakajima Atsushi, Osamu Dazai, Doppo Kunikida, Edogawa Ranpo and Yukichi Fukuzawa

•Kissing/Making out headcanons with Atsushi

•Nakajima Atsushi, Osamu Dazai, Doppo Kunikida, Edogawa Ranpo, and Yukichi Fukuzawa with touch starved s/o

•After losing you things haven't been the same for Dazai as he goes through the photo book you left behind for him

•Fyodor as your boyfriend hcs

•Nakajima Atsushi, Osamu Dazai, Doppo Kunikida, Edogawa Ranpo, and Yukichi Fukuzawa accidentally seeing their shy crush drawing them

•Misunderstanding(Dazai x reader)

•Reader is having a rough day and Kusuo is there to at least somewhat cheer them up(platonic)

•You and Saiki help each other to avoid suitors on valentines day(platonic)

•TWST drabble 1

•TWST drabble 2

•Vil, Kalim, Malleus and Azul with a s/o who’s like Sherlock Holmes/ William Moriarty from Moriarty the patriot

•Riddle,Leona,Idia and Deuce with a s/o who's like Sherlock Holmes/William Moriarty from Moriarty the patriot

•TWST drabble 3

•You and Jamil share a kiss under the fireworks ( based off theFirelit skies event)

•Doing Jamil's hair before basketball club activities

•Leona x reader comfort drabble

•Little things he does for you(NRC+RSA)

•Reader comforts Riddle before he has to go back home to his mother

•Giyu Tomioka with a crush hcs

•Spending time with sugawara after practise on a cold winter night

•“I feel your absence in everything that i do alone in every place i go without you”(Albert James Moriarty x reader)

•“You look amazing tonight”+“I won’t let anyone hurt you”(Miss Moneypenny x reader)

Crossover,AUs or other miscellaneous fics

•Twisted Wonderland x Ace Attorney (prologue)

[inkstainedpages]

alright, so, I’m actually sorta nervous to ask this but-

Can I request Zack from Angels of Death with an S/O like Wanderer/Scaramouche from Genshin?

Can this is before he met Ray, like he was killing people and then the S/O comes and sees this and only looks curious and so they approach Zack, who’s looking at them confused.

I don’t know much of what I’m expecting, which is why I’m asking you of this. If you don’t want to, you don’t have to, I just randomly thought of this and didn’t know where to go with this.

(though, if you do end up doing this request, maybe add some headcanons of how they go into a relationship and how it works-please???)

OhmyGod I'm so so sorry I haven't been active on this account broski

Also I'm gonna split this in two parts,The first when they meet reader is more like scara,and when they get closer into a relationship reader becomes more like wanderer.I hope you liek this

Zack Foster (Angels of Death)

x Scaramouche (Genshin) GN!Reader

How you first met~✩

"What are you doing?"

Your voice was loud and your head was held high.Your stare was blank and straight as your gaze pierced through his wide eyes.

His clothes were stained of blood,and so were his hands.Bloody corpses laid by his feet.He turned around fully to face you properly with a maniacal grin.

"What?do you want to be next?"

You furrowed your brows at him,taking a few steps closer to him.You came to a halt at your feet were by the pooling blood of his victims.

You hummed,looking down at the fallen below you.

"Why must you have to let them endure such suffering before you end them completely?"

Your calmness and stoic expression put him off,not really all that shocking to him since he's seen a few people come and try to intimidate him.But they mostly back off,scrambling away as soon as he starts threatening them.

He could sense the fear coming from them even from the start,

But you

You didn't emit any sort of feeling.

No fear,no disgust,not even warmth.

He wondered if you even have emotion like a normal human,if you could truly feel remorse for the corpses laid Infront of you.

"Because they deserve it"

He simply said,in reality,he didn't know.He didn't know why he enjoyed seeing others in pain.He couldn't understand himself.And he didn't seem to want to.

He wanted to understand you before he could understand himself.

"oh?why do you say so? What have they done?"

He fell silent.Staring at you with dark eyes.Eyes that weren't able to shut and let him sleep for days.

He walked off,walking pass you and the bodies.But you quickly stood back up to come after him.

You were quite the persistent one,even when he told you multiple times to back off or mind your own business.You just kept bugging.

"Go to hell with your endless questions"

"But I really must know,you intrigued me very muc-"

"Go away already,won't ya?"

"no thank you.As I was sayi-"

He couldn't escape you at this point,and in all honesty,he really didn't want to.With every passing stupid question you asked,you peaked his curiosity more and more.Until he stopped shooing you away like a fly.

And before you knew it,you got to know each other more,even daring to say you became something near friends.He would never admit to that,of course.

Zack Foster (Angels of Death) x Wanderer (Genshin) GN!reader

Relationship Headcannons~✩

You tend to show much more emotion now that you've became closer

He might not admit he may have catched feelings for you (he never will)

There's only been a few moments of you genuinely smiling at him.And his brain photographed each memory.

Speaking of how he'll never admit his feelings for you,you'll have to be the one who confesses and he'll just go "yeah I liked you too"

If you actually get into a relationship with him,all I can saw is good luck

He's a lot more rowdy now,his ego got boosted 3x since you actually liked him back.He's got a new feat to shove in other people's faces now.

Sometimes you'd have to stop him from going on crazy killing rampages.You don't really care much about the fact he's a psychotic serial killer,but it concerns you how he can go on gove on the same day.

Your now boyfriend needs serious help

Honestly you both do

Your tired already but are willing to get even more tired for his sake

Either way he's protective over you and isn't a big fan of PDA.

Maybe the occasional hug and kiss on the cheek but it doesn't go more than that.

Behind closed doors,he's hella clingy.

Sometimes,he won't even let go.

Maybe he got a bit too attached..

[thelaughtercafe]

Muted Memories Chapter 2

Tea Type: Milk Tea

Potential Triggers:  Verbal and physical abuse, dissociating as a trauma response, nondescriptive murder, descriptive threats(not at reader).

Pairing: Issac Foster/F! Reader

Length: 4k+

Summary: Library explorations, and meeting new characters, fun for the whole family!

A/N: Chapter 2 is here!! Excited I finally got this done!! I’m not fully happy with the way it turned out but after messing with a few other ideas, I decided to go with the one I wrote while genuinely triggered since it felt the most raw and real.

I’m okay now; emotional flashbacks just really suck. Do not recommend lmao. Hope everyone enjoys and please do leave feedback! Always excited to hear from my readers on what they think!! ❤️

The rest of the day was easy once Zack dragged you back. Ray had thanked him in a reverent tone, to which the bandaged boy had only ruffled her hair fondly. They really were close. You hadn’t been expecting him to do the same to you however and it showed as you ducked your head to hide your burning face in Ray’s shoulder a moment. She giggled at your embarrassment and pet your hair. 

You all sat down and ate after that. Ray was attached to your side the rest of the morning, constantly either hanging off you, holding your hand or hugging you. She seemed touched starved, though given you were as well you easily obliged and accommodated her. You had to go to the library after breakfast since you no longer had a laptop and Zack had declined your offer to come, saying he had “better shit to do”. 

You shrugged him off but again reminded him to take anything he needed and disguised Rachel in one of your big hoodies before heading out. When talking about how well they were known they said their popularity had been dying down and they’d come here since it was so out of the way, hoping to find a forever home.

The air was a little chilly so you were glad you’d bundled up Rachel, however you were left shivering a little, given your other hoodie was still being repaired. You’d torn a noticeable hole in it on a rushed run out one day and the mender was blind; a friend Mr. Takamata had met and grown close to, and you had as well in turn. You wouldn’t give your business to anyone else despite the longer wait times. His job was always impeccable. Maybe you could get it on the way back, if he was still open. 

“Alright, to the library! We’ll go grocery shopping tonight on the way home and I’ll make dinner.”

“We’re gonna spend the whole day there?”

Rachel sounded excited at the prospect and you hummed in agreement. 

“Yeah, as long as you don’t mind. I need to do some school work and print out an essay. After that I figured I could show you some of my favorite books and maybe bring some home for Zack too.“

"That sounds fun but…mm…" 

Ray sounded happy at the prospect but trailed off and seemed conflicted, looking at the ground as she walked. 

"What’s wrong?”

“Oh I suppose it’s okay if I tell you. Zack can’t read.”

You blinked at that. He was around your age wasn’t he? You supposed you shouldn’t have been surprised. He clearly had a lot of inner trauma in addition to the physical. 

You smiled down at Ray though, swinging your held hands cheerfully. 

“I’ll get him some anyway. He doesn’t have to learn if he doesn’t want to of course, but I’d be more than happy to teach him. Even if he doesn’t, I like to read aloud anyway so he can enjoy it that way if he’d like.”

Ray gave a contemplative hum. 

“I don’t understand why you’re so nice to us. After everything we’ve done-”

You heard her voice crack and quickly stopped walking, gently pulling her aside and crouching down to her level to allow the other people milling about to pass. 

“Hey, hey! You keep sayin’ that, but from what I’ve seen you two are both damaged, but have been kind to me. It’s like I told Zack last night too…I’m lonely, sad as that may sound. So…no more apologies, okay? I’m happy to give you both a place to stay and let you have a fresh start. Mr. Takamata gave one to me…it seems only right that I should do the same.”

Ray threw her arms around you and you hugged her back before moving to stand. 

"Now, how about that library trip?”

She beamed up at you.  

“Let’s go!”

—–

You couldn’t help but sigh in relief as you both entered the library. It was cold, now. The wind had really picked up and you were already dreading the 20-minute walk back home when it’d be colder tonight.

Maybe you ought to stop by Reginald’s place on the way back after all. Now that you were here though, you had to put your game face on. You had two essays and one story to work on. Your only fun elective this semester was Monsters in Literature. Best teacher too; he reminded you of Robin Williams in his enthusiasm and inspiring words. You had a vague outline of ideas for the story and you wrote often, but creating original content was much harder than the fanworks you were used to. 

The essays were honestly easier. Everyone was always surprised when you told them that, but essay’s were really just cramming as many words as possible to get a simple point across most of the time, and given you enjoyed writing, even if it was boring as sin it was at least easy to bullshit. 

You observed Ray as you put your bookbag down, wanting to get her set up before starting. 

“You’re around 14 right?”

She nodded. 

“15, now actually. As of a few weeks ago.”

“Oh! We’ll have to celebrate. I’ll pick up some overtime, make sure to remind me to get a cake this weekend okay? Just in case my memory goes kaput after all this school work.”

She giggled and nodded happily as you mimed passing out. 

“Do you know what kind of books you like hun? I can get you set up in the right section and then get started here.”

She gave a carefree shrug. 

“I didn’t read much. Too noisy before.” 

Seeing the way her eyes went dull again you got to your feet and held your hand out to her before she could go too deep into her memories.

She took it and you led her into the adjoining room for Young Adult Fiction, not acknowledging the fact that she trembling with anything more than a soothing thumb rub. 

“Here’s the YA section. All kinds of scenarios and characters here- I recommend reading the back or inside of the flap and then just picking whichever one sounds interesting! You can always just go based on the cover if you’d like a more randomized experience though. This is still my favorite section honestly; if you need any help with the words or have any questions don’t be afraid to ask me. Feel free to get comfy, and if anyone that’s not me comes up to you, come get me or yell my name if you get scared, I’ll be just in the other room.”

After making sure she was okay you left her, happy to see she was already hesitantly beginning to explore. 

You sighed in resignation, sitting down and cracking your neck.

No more distractions, time to get your work done!

—–

The day passed quickly, with Ray occasionally coming over to ask for help with a word she didn’t know but it was a rarity and she was already on the 2nd book in a supernatural fantasy series when you were finished. You playfully took it from her to check the title. 

“Ooh Maximum Ride hm? That’s a good one, haven’t read it in ages. One of my favorites at your age too. Let’s bring it home with us huh?”

She nodded eagerly, a big grin on her face as she made grabby hands for the book, and you obliged, quickly grabbing the 3rd and 4th one as well. After a moment’s hesitation you grabbed 2 more for good measure, one for you, and one for Zack. You know how you were as a child and better safe than leave the poor girl on a cliffhanger. Luckily the librarians and you were already well acquainted given you came to volunteer to read to the kids here when you weren’t in school. It was a quick affair to check the books out and you were on your way. 

The essays had given you no trouble and were already sent to your professors…but that damn story had you completely stuck. You knew the general concept you wanted was dealing with possession of some sort but you couldn’t figure out who should be doing the possessing. It was the idea of being out of control you wanted to tap into Such a primal fear so underexplored by most monsters. 

It was still freezing oh God- you shivered as you and Ray made your way home. She looked at you worriedly and you could tell she was going to offer you the jacket but you patted her head. 

“I’ll be okay- gonna s-stop and get my m-m-mended one before groceries after all.” 

You sped walked and reached Reginald’s in record time, who luckily was just about to close up. 

“Reggie, please tell me you have my coat finished?”

Your eyes and voice were pleading and when he reached out to touch your arm in greeting he recoiled, frowning in fatherly disapproval. 

“Young lady, what on Earth are you doing out here in this cold without any protection?”

He sighed heavily and easily made his way back inside, holding the door open for you and Ray. 

It was the same as always, not a speck of dust in sight, but homey and most importantly, warm. You held your hands to your lips and warmed them. You could’ve cried when after a few moments Reginald came out, coat in hand. 

“Oh thank you so much! I’m in your debt! Here-” 

You went to pull out your wallet but at the sound of rustling Reggie tsk’d and shook his head. 

“No need, sweetheart. Can’t let ole’ Takamata’s daughter freeze now can I? How’s about you introduce me to your little friend here and I’ll call it even.”

You smiled fondly and sighed in defeat, slipping your dark burgundy coat over your t-shirt and zipping it up.  

“Fair deal! This is Ray, her and her older brother Zack will be staying with me from now on. They broke in and I couldn’t just turn away hungry people, especially a young girl like her. You know how Mr. Takamata was, he’d roll over in his grave if I didn’t help!”

The lies merged with the truth and Reginald laughed heartily, while Ray looked at you in disbelief. She surely expected you to give them fake names or backstories but there was no need. To lie effectively, you just had to be confident and believe what you were saying. 

“True enough!! Well, nice to meet you little lady, call me Reggie hm? Here, this hoodie feels too thin-”

“Reggie!”

He ignored your exasperated voice and before you knew it he’d tossed a small lilac coat and large black one your way and was shooing you out despite you protests. 

“I’ll hear nothing of it! Consider it a welcoming gift! Now get!” 

“Thank you Reggie. Really.”

He waved you off and patted Ray’s head before walking off. You smirked fondly and turned to look down at Ray. 

“Welp. How’s about we just get something hot and head on home? Zack may get worried if we’re out too much longer.” 

Ray nodded cheerfully. 

“Sounds great to me! I’m starved! That man was really nice, I hope we see him again soon.”

You giggled at her enthusiasm, opting to get pizza at the place right down the hill so it wouldn’t be a long walk. 

“Me too. I’m sure you’ll like him even more as you get to know him. He’s very kind. He has a service dog named Bucky, I’m sure you’ll get to meet them both again soon.” 

You held the pizza and Zack’s new coat, while Ray got the soda, garlic knots and the pepperoni pinwheel you caught her drooling over in the display case. 

You walked through the door with her on your heels, grinning and calling for Zack as you entered. 

“Zack we’re ho-”

Your voice died out at the sight in front of you. You couldn’t breathe. 

Why was he…here?

“Chris?”

That cursed name escaped your lips, bile burned your throat as he smiled and took a step closer. You went to back up, the door still open and remembered Ray and the fact your hands were full. 

Where was Zack? Didn’t matter you had to get Ray to safety. But she was already entering behind you, and setting the food on the table like he wasn’t there. She came over to take the pizza but you were in shock.

“The one and only!” 

His smile twitched, but you knew behind the mask he was seething as Ray began pulling out the food and setting the table. 

“Pizza night hm? Funny. I haven’t gotten my pay this month yet, I trust you have that ready for me?”

You just stared at him in stricken fear. The door was closed but you still felt just as frozen.

“…What are you doing here? How did you find this place?”

“Oh here? I’ve known for years, pet.I just…”

His smirk turned to a sneer. 

“Loosened your leash a little. Now, if you won’t give me what I want, you’re surely not fit to raise a child here. Maybe I’ll take her home…give her a proper enviorment. I mean, she didn’t even greet me properly. You know what happens to impolite children, don’t you?”

You didn’t speak up but you moved your body to block the way to the kitchen, motioning for Ray to run with your free hand, but she was completely oblivious. Your eyes steeled a little, but your voice was still that of a terrified kid. It didn’t matter that you were older now, it didn’t matter that you thought you were getting better. 

Suddenly you were a frightened child all over again. 

“I won’t let you have her.” 

You flinched at the feeling of a hand on you and looked down to find her gripping your hand, tugging you lightly towards the table.  

“Dinner’s ready. Come eat.”

Her eyes had gone dead, and she was pointedly ignoring Chris. She seemed very dissociated; probably a trauma response from her own family, if you had to guess. You realized your other hand still held the black coat and tossed it on the couch before reluctantly letting her take you to the table where you sat down. She sat too, and began eating while you looked numbly down at your plate. 

You heard the chair slide back as he sat at the head of the table, beginning to dissociate a little yourself but maintaining your hypervigilance. You felt shaky and scared, aware of every move he and yourself made. He began to eat, completely unbothered. 

You’d finally felt safe, away from him. Thought he was oblivious and finally mostly out of your life, save the monthly payments. You should have known you could never beat him. That he couldn’t cope with the loss of control. 

Now one of the first people in your life you allowed yourself to care for was at risk. It was your fault for not safeguarding against this possibility and the only reason you weren’t spiraling was because you knew you had to keep Ray safe. 

“What do you want?”

Your voice shook, but it was low and even, in hopes of being non-threatening. 

He was nonchalant as ever.

“You’re going to protect me, and let me stay here. I’m only hiding here because some psychopath showed up at my place.”

Your breath hitched and you looked up in fear as Ray jumped to her feet.

“Zack!?”

You hopped up quickly and wrapped Ray in your arms to shield her, and quickly mustered a lie. 

“Shh…shh…Zack isn’t here sweetheart.”

“That’s the second time I’ve heard that name. Who is he? Is he staying here too?”

“He’s her older brother. When she gets scared she seeks him out- I’m not the only one who got traumatized.”

Your mutter was bitter and under your breath but he caught it. 

He always heard it. He stood and you held Ray tighter. You just had to last until Zack got here. Keep him placated. You trembled- God why did the shakes never stop around him?

“Talking back? Pathetic. You’re shaking like a damn leaf. Whatever. You’ll always be a freak.”

You swayed as the familiar insult caused an emotional and partially visual flashback, hearing faint words, catching glimpses from the back of your mom’s car. She was inside getting groceries. 

“You’re such a damn freak- those bullies at school were right about you. You’re really nothing but a freak. Everything you do is freaky-”

He’d used variations of the word till you were hyperventilating upon your mother’s return. You couldn’t hide it fast enough, but his mask was right back on. Told your mother he was “getting you used to the word.” Ha. She’d harmlessly shared the bullying you’d confided in her about, having no idea you intentionally hadn’t told him because she didn’t know any better. 

But your Mother isn’t here now. 

Your shaking stopped and you took a deep breath, steeling your own mask. You straightened from hugging Ray and glared at where he stood by the chair he claimed. 

“I don’t care what you do with me, but you won’t hurt her. I’ll never let you abuse anyone else I care about again.”

He threw his head back in bitter, sadistic laughter and you acted quickly, grabbing her jacket in one smooth motion and rushing to shove Ray outside, with a simple command before slamming the side door shut and locking it, tossing the key out there with her so she nor Chris could get her back inside. 

“Find Zack and stay hidden if you can’t!”

She hesitated, meeting your eyes and you smiled at her, trying to make her feel secure only to yelp as something slammed hard on the back of your head, sending you to the floor. You vaguely registered the picture and glass surrounding you, and the sound of Ray crying out your name in panic. The picture of you and Mr. Takamata lay near your face and you smiled weakly.. 

“…Sorry, Dad. Looks like I won’t be able to fulfill my promise after all.”

Your head felt wet and warm, and your vision was getting murky. You felt dizzy, trying to stay conscious. Chris was yelling, but for once…you felt serene. No fear. No constant hypervigilance. No more masks. But…Zack. Where was he? You never got to give him his new coat…

Darkness took you under. 

—–

Zack burst into the door with a loud bang, wild eyes scanning the area. He’d been searching frantically for the bastard all day and was exhausted and starving after a long day. He’d been planning to pick up the following day when he arrived, only to hear an unfamiliar male screaming curses. 

Zack didn’t consider himself a protective person. He’d grown up most of his life alone and fending for himself. Ray was an exception to the rule, and he thought he’d never find someone he wanted to protect again. Till he met you. He didn’t know you well. Didn’t even fully trust you yet, honestly, always wary to give trust. But he saw something of himself in you. Plus, you were horrendously naive and so, so in need of protection. 

This bastard seemed the best place to start. 

To see him in his new home, where he finally felt safe? Zack was anything but happy. The man froze after kicking you on the floor. Zack spotted Ray with tears swimming in her eyes as she screamed behind the back door, before rushing to meet up with him, heading around to the front once she saw him. 

Things moved quickly after that. 

Zack had the man by the throat, sadistic snickers leaving him ceaselessly as he held him against the nearby wall because if he didn’t laugh and scream he was going to do something else and he vowed to never do that again. 

“You’ve got 3 seconds. Talk.”

The man, if he could be called that, was near pissing himself in fear but Zack felt none of the typical satisfaction. Just rage, simmering under the surface along with his want to rip the slight smirk he saw tugging at the asshole face whenever he glanced at your crumpled body. 

“I have no problem with you, alright!? I don’t know what you want- if you want to kill her she’s all yours, but I haven’t done anything! I’m an upstanding citizen, I swear!”

“So lemme see if I got this right. You come into my house, trash my place, hurt my family, not only fucking up their heads but physically too and you think I’m gonna let you walk outta here?”

Zack threw his head back in magical laughter at the thought; it was the funniest damn joke he’d ever heard. At that, Chris finally snapped and threw a punch, facade dropping in an instant, but Zack held fast, vaguely noticing Ray walking up next to him a look in her eye he hadn’t seen since they were trapped. 

“God you’re a freak just like her- no, you’re some kinda monster! Guh-!”

Ray stabbed hard into his stomach, making the man gurgle on his words. He looked down in shocked horror and Ray was impassive. 

“You hurt her, so I hurt you.”

He cursed at her too. 

“You little bitch!! You’ll never get away with this, I’ll make you pay!”

Ray shook her head in disappointment.

“There’s no fixing you.”

She waved before turning her attention to you.  

“Bye bye.”

Chris opened his mouth to snarl at her again but Zack was done playing games. He had more important things to do. He glared, shaking the man before beginning to drag him outside and into the forest, talking casually.

“Pretty sure we got unfinished business buddy. See I’ve got a sharp knife, and I’m curious how many pieces I can cut off before you bleed out. Shall we find out together?”

“No, no God please!! Have mercy!”

“Shut the Hell up!”

His shout was one of anger as he tossed the man down and kicked him hard in the ribs, paying no mind as he screamed in pain. 

“That’s what I caught you doing to the woman who let us stay here! I don’t know why she’s afraid of you, but after tonight she’ll never have to fear you again. Nothing should scare her more than me. I won’t let you have her. I refuse. Her fear belongs to me. Now do the whole damn world a favor and DIE!”

His last word was a guttural roar of anger and when the man was finally dead by his hand, Zack crumpled. He didn’t know why, or how. His body was shaking and his bandaged were wet and it wouldn’t stop. He didn’t like it at all. This feeling, the way His mouth made sounds out of his control. It felt like…he’d killed his demon a second time, but this time it wasn’t just his. It was yours too. He found…he liked the feeling. More than his usual kills. This was more…liberating. He took the time to let whatever was happening run its course as he dragged the now dead piece of meat into the forest and buried him with the very shovel you used to do as he had, but for someone you loved rather than loathed. Love. Still such a foreign word and concept to him. He shook off his thoughts 

But now he needed to make sure you stayed alive long enough to hear him gloat. He could worry about the oddness of “feelings” later. Ugh. He shuddered. Feelings. Gross. 

He bit down a smile as he made his way back towards the house, seeing from the window that Ray was already patching you up, one of your textbooks open next to her. 

Maybe whatever he felt for you and Ray though, wasn’t quite so bad. 

[bubblegumfanfictions]

Down the Rabbit Hole |A Zack Foster Fanfiction| Chapter 1: Wonderland.

Fandom- Angels of Death

Ship- Zack Foster/Original Character

Warning(s)- Poisoning, Anxiety

Summary- Rachel goes Down the Rabbit Hole.

Word Count- 1,800

-Rachel-

The small blonde girl steps into the elevator, her legs shaky and uncertain. Her hands trembling, trying to find solace within the sleeves of her cardigan. 

What is this play area? Why does such an innocent word invoke such deep emotions? The elevator doors shut behind her with a loud bang. The noise makes her jump, her heart began to thump and run faster than she thought was possible. Her legs wobbled and felt jelly-like at the weight of her body. 

The elevator descended— ascended? She didn’t know, and this uncertainty made her feel worse. Was she descending into the depths of hell or ascending to the angels? either notion frightened her as both meant death, sure she was probably overreacting but waking up in a strange place with no memories other than your name would terrify anyone… Let alone a 12-year-old girl.

The sound of the elevator screeching to a halt, the doors sliding open to reveal the next floor. Rachel’s eyes widened, the view in front of her looked as if it had been taken straight from the pages of a fairytale. 

The young girl's eyes flit to and fro, scanning the room as she takes tentative steps out of the elevator. A narrow cobbled path swerves between oversized, vibrant flowers of all species, intermixed with large evergreen trees and glowing mushrooms taller than her. The walls she could see were covered in watercolour swirls and illustrations from Alice in Wonderland. 

She walks down the cobbled path, taking note of every little detail as she goes. Despite how beautiful this room was she couldn’t help the pounding in her chest and the sinking feeling in her stomach, something didn’t feel right. 

Her gut feeling making her quicken her pace down the cobbled path, her foot slipping now and then. Her head aching as she stares at the night sky, the blocky lines of white swirls mixed with midnight blues and vibrant yellows. 

The young girl tilts her head back down, focusing her sights ahead. It seems that when she was panicking the forest became thicker, denser… Darker. Rachel wraps her arms around herself, hoping to bring down her heart rate hoping that if she comforts herself, she will be fine. But it doesn’t work.

A faint jingle catches her attention, her head turns in the direction the sound came from and she slowly makes her way over. The sound came from a branch just off the cobbled path. Rachel picks up the culprit, a small ornate golden key. She puts the key in her pocket. “I may need it later.” She says.

–Acquired a Key.– 

Rachel’s foot scarcely lifted off the floor when she heard rustling in the bushes to her left. The poor girl goes ridged, she isn’t alone here. There is someone else here. What if that person wishes her harm? What if it is nothing? Should she investigate it? Maybe she should. Dangerous thoughts ring through the girl's head like a cacophony of alarms. She takes a deep breath, picturing courage filling her as she breathes. 

One step at a time she gets closer and closer to the bush. There is nothing there, she could have sworn she heard something. She circles the bush to find evidence that she isn’t going crazy and, sure enough there it is. On the floor behind the bush is a small piece of parchment with the words 'Follow Me.' written on it in a gorgeous teal colour forming a loopy cursive scrawl, in the corner lay an intricate drawing of Alice from Alice in Wonderland. 

An iconic blonde-haired and blue-eyed girl stood in a baby blue dress and an inky black headband. Her doe eyes stared back at Ray innocently. Ray stared at the blonde before folding the drawing and placing it back onto the floor. 

A question pops into the girl's mind. Follow me? Follow who? It was almost as if the floor could sense her inner desires as she spotted movement out of the corner of her eye. It looked like a rabbit. Rachel rubbed her eyes, wondering if the room was playing tricks on her. Maybe there was gas in the air that was making her hallucinate, maybe she was drugged when she was on B8? She couldn’t be too sure.

Every fibre of her being was telling her to follow the movement but there is still a deep, lingering sense of dread filling her stomach like bile. She knows she has to follow the rabbit– if it was a rabbit. But she is terrified of what she would find.

The forest around her is thicker, and denser than before. She clasps her hands together trying to alleviate her anxiety but, much like the forest, it becomes worse, deeper, scarier.

Every sound and every movement seems to push her further to the edge. Her breathing hitches as tears form in her eyes, and she feels as if there is a heavy lead ball in her stomach refusing to leave– She wants her mum and her dad more than ever, especially when she hears a loud rustle ahead of her, her legs push her forward one step at a time, left, right, left, right. When she stops in front of another drawing, it’s a drawing of the White Rabbit, pocket watch in hand. Scrawled in more fancy ink were the words. “Not much further!”

Ray’s breath hitches, everything about this situation screamed danger, turn back now! But she knows she can’t, there was no turning back; no leaving, whether she wants to or not. She then recalls a coping technique taught to her by… Someone, she couldn’t quite make out his face, but the memory caused her to shiver uncomfortably. 

She looks around the floor, taking in the sights. She sees the once bountiful and lush trees have now withered and shed their leaves. She takes note of the piles of leaves on the floor and the mysterious glint hiding in the shadows. Okay, that was three things she could see. The next thing was… What was it again? Think- think. It was sounds. 

Ray calms her breathing and listens intently. She could hear the creaking of the dead wood, The chirp of some birds… More importantly, she could hear the clinking of a glass. Rachel’s eyes shot open at the sound, she wasn’t alone, someone else is on this floor. Maybe they would help her? Maybe they would kill her. No no, she shouldn’t think like that. She shakes the thoughts from her head and continues with shaky steps.

Rachel eventually comes to a clearing, her heart hammering in her throat. She couldn’t help but think of all the worst-case scenarios, she could be killed, maybe robbed? Kidnapped? Who knows. 

Rachel’s thoughts halt as she looks ahead of her, right in the middle of the clearing is a long mahogany table adorned in a back and white checkered table cloth which she could barely make out through the piles of delicious-looking cakes and pastries. The table is a chaotic mess, covered in empty tea cups, dirty plates, half-full teapots and candles, coating the table in messy layers of wax.

She then turns her attention to the occupants surrounding the table, there are six chairs, each with a different style and wood. At the head of the table is a small hand-knitted human doll, presumably The Mad Hatter, to the left of him, is The Dormouse and to the left again is The March Hare. The thing that gets the young girl's attention is the woman, sitting to the right of the Mad Hatter, Rachel supposes that this girl is Alice. She is maybe 18 or 19; she is still a distance away from the woman so she isn't sure. The woman is sipping on some tea, she is dressed in an Alice-themed outfit. The seat next to her is empty. Finally, opposite the Mad Hatter sits The White Rabbit.

"Oh! I'm so glad you could join us!” The girl exclaims. “You're just in time for tea!" She stands up quickly, taller than Rachel thought, at about 5 foot 6.

"Please, sit.” She invited kindly. “Which tea would you like? We have Ginger, Chamomile, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Earl Grey, Hibiscus, Mint, Pumpkin which is my favourite, and Raspberry." The woman lists the words tumbling out of her mouth too quickly for Ray to understand her. 

"U-Um,” She stammers, “may I just have the Vanilla please?" She sits next to the mystery woman and gives the woman a once over, unsure if she can trust her.

Rachel realises, as she gets closer, that this woman is older than she initially thought, she thinks she is in her early 20's. Her hair is a mousy shade of blonde and reaches just past her waist. Rachel can tell the woman is slim, even under the voluminous clothes. Though the oddest thing about her isn’t her clothes or demeanour, it is her eyes. They are a deep, rich shade of brown and then abruptly change to a sharp green around her pupil. 

“Here you go,” The mystery woman passes a small, white teacup with lavender plants painted on it. Rachel doesn’t know if she can trust this woman so she sniffs the tea, unsurprisingly it just smells like Vanilla. Ray takes a sip of the drink, still weary of the woman sitting next to her, the sweet taste going down her throat immediately soothing any doubts.

"Excuse me, ma'am. What's your name?"

"Oh, my. How rude of me, my mother raised me with better manners than this! It’s a pleasure to meet you, I’m Elizabeth, but you can call me Elsie.” The woman— Elsie, gives Rachel a dramatic curtsy. “And what might I call you?”

"I’m Rachel” She gives Elizabeth a short response as she suddenly feels a rush of nausea hit her like a freight train. She covers her mouth with the back of her hand, the urge to puke getting stronger by the minute. “I’m sorry, I feel sick” The hand on her mouth is now clammy and shaking.

“Oh, that would be the poison,” Rachel pales at Elsie’s words, she can’t have been poisoned, surely. The rest of her skin begins to go clammy, her body slick with a thin layer of cold sweat. “Cyanide, my dear, very effective. Agatha Christie had the right idea. Of course, I have the antidote but you’ll have to work for it.”

Elizabeth goes up behind Rachel, gripping her perspiring cheeks, moving her head to the hand-knitted characters sitting with them. “Each of my friends is missing something important. Now, be a dear and find their things for me, then I will give you the antidote.” Elsie lets go of her face and sits back down. 

“Judging by the dosage and your symptoms already, you might want to hurry, you only have around 30 minutes until you reach the point of no return.”

Art by Baicalpascal

[pikohaxmevy]

(Fanfic: bloody red riding hood)

Telegram: fanclubdedov

[mad-minds-rp]

Working on an Angels of Death crossover. Here's one part i thought was funny:

Ray: you dont have to try smiling. This isnt a situation own should be happy.

Stranger donating blood: uh, just... Just trying to be friendly.

Zack lying on a table dizzy from bloodloss: dont.

[emo-emu64]

Slasher Season

IT'S SLASHER SEASON GUYS!  I'm hoping this will help with my writer's block so I can finally finish the next chapter of "Where The Angels Fall".

CW:Blood, death, creepy people, weapon imagery, language

My book lays open on my desk beside me, forgotten. I can barely keep my eyes open in the dim lighting of my room as I wait for him.

The 'him' in question is of course the one and only; Isaac Foster. Zack.

The media however, only knows him as 'The Reaper'. The same name I knew him by when we first met.

I was only a junior in high school, trying to walk the young blonde girl that I babysat home from the skating rink, when we were attacked by a group of unsavory men.

That was when Zack stepped in, eliminating the threat in exchange for the candy he saw us buy at the gas station near the rink minutes earlier.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

I raise my head and smile at the quiet noise, he knows he can use the front door, no one will see him. I live in the middle of nowhere for a reason. He just knows I'm already up here, and he likes to show off. Regardless, I quickly make my way to the window and open it.

It's odd, to watch someone as tall as he is shrink enough to fit through my bedroom window so easily.

When he succeeds in making it through, he resumes his stature. Tall. Looming. Menacing.

I latch onto him, wrapping my arms around him, and burying my face in his chest.

He lets me as his arms steady me by the waist, "easy there, sweetheart."

I look up in order to meet his eyes, "sorry, just missed you, I was getting worried."

He sighs down at me with a fond look that makes me want to kick my feet and giggle like a little kid, "I know, I know. Gotta lay low sometimes, can't have the cops finding out about ya, now can I?"

I shake my head and he brushes a stray hair from my face, " I missed you too."

He looks weary, like he hasn't properly eaten or slept in days, "Are you hungry? I can order a pizza?"

He nods excitedly and I laugh, picking my phone up off of the desk, the number of the best local pizza place around is saved and I hear the phone ring.

The owner, a sweet old Italian man that was most certainly in the mob at some point, picks up the phone. He recognizes my voice, asking if it's just the usual (two large pepperoni pizzas with extra cheese). When I confirm he asks for the address, before sending it on its way and hanging up. 

When I open the bedroom door, Zack follows closely behind me, and we make our way down the stairs and to the living room, plopping down on the couch as Zack pulls me close to him. We wait for the pizza and Zack tells me that he can stay a good while without having to worry about the cops or my safety. 

When looking for a new place a few months ago, I did everything in my power to find a place where Zack could live too. So he wasn't fucking off to God knows where in the name of my safety and not his. This was the one place he would even consider.

"Zack, this place is the definition of bum-fuck nowhere, I really don't think we have to worry about that anymore."

He nods, "I know, but you haven't been here long enough for me to know for sure, Just a lil' longer, I promise."

I nod enthusiastically because it gives me hope, Zack never breaks a promise.

When the pizza guy arrives, Zack lifts his hood over his head, the media has no clue what he looks like, but the bandages he wears aren't exactly a green flag to other people.

I open the door and am met with a driver I have never seen before. The pizza place has been hiring for a long time, and for a moment I am overjoyed to see that those sweet workers may not have to work themselves to the bone to keep the place running anymore. 

But then the driver looks me up and down and the hair on the back of my neck stands up. He smiles and it is all wrong, something is wrong.

I hand the man the money for the order and his tip. He hand me the pizza, but does not leave.

"This is a real nice place you got up here. You live here all by yourself?"

I force a smile, a laugh, and a thank you, "No, my boyfriend's here."

I glance back and see that Zack has noticed the shift in the air, his back is pressed to the couch and his head is resting atop the back of it. He watches out of the corner of his eye. Laying low, but staying aware.

"Need help carrying anything, babe?"

Zack's way of showing the man he's there, of showing me he's there.

"No, it's okay I got it!"

The pizza guy looks back to Zack, sizing him up, before looking back at me and smiling again, "You have a nice night, ma'am. Hope to see you again soon."

I close the door behind him, latching it immediately.

Zack stands, making his way over to a window, watching the stranger leave, "What the fuck was his problem?" 

I shrug, still a bit shaken, "I don't know, he's new, maybe he's just trying to get on the good side of all the regulars. Making that tip money, ya know?"

Zack huffs in a way that tells me he's not convinced. To be honest, neither am I.

"He would make better tips by not being such a fucking creep."

I nod, and Zack takes the pizza from me, walking over to set it down on the coffee table as we sit on the couch. I sit down next to him and scoot close.

He looks down at me with a furrowed brow, wrapping an arm around me, "Y'alright?" 

I nod and smile up at him, watching as he opens a box and instantly shoves half a slice of pizza in his face.

Zack and I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning talking. He let me tell him all about the small uninteresting events of my week, and I let him complain about his. He thankfully leaves out the graphic parts, especially after just having finished eating. 

It's late when I begin to doze off on his shoulder sitting in his lap. He starts to laugh softly, "Ready for bed there, sweetheart?"

I nod gently, but when I look back up at him, he is no longer listening to me, wide awake and alert.

"D'you hear that?"

I strain my ears, and I do. A faint scraping noise, then a tapping. I nod.

"Run upstairs, lock yourself in the bathroom for me, yeah? I'll be up in a minute."

I open my mouth to argue, but decide against it when I see the look on his face. I nod and quickly follow his instructions.

I don't know how long it's been when Zack returns, but his boots and jeans are splattered with mud. He is bloody but not bleeding.

I sit on the bed while he changes out of his clothes, pulling on a pair of sweat pants.

"It was the pizza guy, he cam back up here looking for trouble. Had a knife on him this time."

"Is he...?" I can't bring myself to say it, but I do not have to.

He nods, a hint of a smirk on his lips, "As a door nail."

He slides into bed with me and pulls me close,  sighing, "Cops be damned, there's no way in hell I'm letting you stay up here by yourself if you get freaks like that coming up here."

I gasp, "Really?"

He nods, kissing the top of my head, "Can't leave you out here all alone, can I?"

I shake my head, and he holds me tightly as I drift to sleep.

[weird-writing-niche-butok]

I'M STILL ALIVE I SWEAR

School started and I gotta get a job so I can afford housing by the time I'm thirty lolol

Working on chapters I swear, enjoy this fun little doodle based on a thing I saw on Pinterest ^^;

Possibly expect more preview art, I gotta find my draft though because all of my sketchbooks had to be put in a kiln after there was an outbreak of vermin in my fucking house💃💃💃

[alexlesuagz]

Criminal Case fanfic ideas (because IDK, I’m bored)

[Possible spoilers for all 8 seasons]

{S5} Prequelfic where Amir realizes he’s gay and confides in Rupert about it.

{S5} Rupert having an ace awakening (because yes, I headcanon him as ace) and being extremely confused about his feelings, so he confides in Amir about it. (No seggs, only tea, amirite)

{S3} [TW: SA] Jack finally gaining the courage to tell Lars about Lavinia DeBrils SA’ing him.

{S1} How Chad Whickman and Rose Cassidy first met (because goddamnit, they deserved better).

{S1} AU where Chad managed to calm Joe Stern down, not die, and get the job.

{S2} [TW: Abuse] A day in the life of Duncan Young, living with his mother and sister and having to deal with her emotional abuse.

{S1} Adam Bentley talking with his foster brother at his grave.

{S1} The aftermath of Julian Ramis’s arrest from the perspective of Julian’s parents.

{S2} [TW: Homophobia] The end of Zack and Becky’s friendship.

{S5} James Savage first meets Carter Hayes.

{S4} How Timmy and Bridget Baker first became friends.

{S5} [TW: Implied Sewerslide] Rene Narcisse’s words almost push Julian over the edge until the player and Gabriel show up.

{S2} [TW: Murder] A young Yann Toussaint has an argument with his parents and storms off. That would end up being the biggest mistake of his life.

{S5} Jones accidentally stumbles upon Zoe suddenly using telekinesis.

{S2} [TW: Cults, PTSD, and Implied Abuse] Not even Russell is safe from flashbacks, and surprisingly, the one who helps him out of a PTSD-induced panic attack is Frank.

{S4} The events of Vittorio Cappechi’s murder from Seamus’s point of view.

{S6} One of Amy’s therapy sessions with Marina following Nebet’s betrayal.

{S6} Sirius wonders why Orlando constantly ignores him, so he decides to ask. It doesn’t really go well.

{S6} Sequelfic(?) where Tony meets the player during S1 and tries to recall why they seem so familiar.

{S3} Baxter Fraser goes to therapy.

{S3} AU where Obaasan (IDK how to spell it, sorry) is found dead and Tsukada Hiroshi is alive because he killed her.

{S7} An apology note Dolores wrote to Gwen before her demise.

{S7} Inspired by @katrinahood , a crackshipfic between James Savage and Sam Ellis.

{S5} Crackshipfic between brunette bastard Louis Leroux and Joe Warren.

{S8} Jones and the player bond and catch up after 3 years.

{S8} Hugo Mercier giving love advice to Carrie.

{S5} Jones copes with Tony Marconi’s death.

{S8} Hugo and Jones bond over similar experiences.

{S5} [TW: Sewerslide] Gabriel and Jones talk after Jones’s attempt.

{S2} One of Jupiter’s letters to Russell, apologizing for being a shit dad.

{S5} Jones, Zoe, Alex and Cathy have a double date.

{S7} Larry Zarus goes on a car ride with his friend and business partner, Bernie. Next thing he knows, he’s waking up in a coffin. His own coffin.

{S4} Charlie reveals that he can’t slow dance for the life of him. Maddie decides to teach him.

{S2} [TW: Abuse] Frank confronts Miriam Young about her shit parenting.

{S2} [TW: Abuse] Duncan confronts his mother about her shit parenting. It goes as well as you’d expect.

{S2} [TW: Abuse and Death] The day the Young siblings’ father died was a hellish day indeed.

{S5} [TW: Underage Drug Use] Julian and Vicki smoke weed together and have a chat about life.

{S7} Dolores tries to figure out a way to apologize to Gwen.

{S7} Arthur Darkwood never really enjoyed the small things in life, and he never noticed until he spent time with the Supernatural Hunters.

{S5} Jones is lowkey kinda lonely, so Ramirez decides to set him up on a blind date to cheer him up. Unbeknownst to Ramirez, Jones’ blind date was one of his old college acquaintances — Zoe Kusama.

{S6} The “Altered Present” Arc, but Lars is in it for some reason.

{S7} Zander Stark and Danny Kwame were queerplatonic bros, change my mind— (I hc Zander as bisexual and Danny as omniromantic asexual)

{S8} Cody reminisces on his failed relationship with Eleanora.

{S8} Prequelfic where Jean-Phillipe slow dances with Marguerite.

{S5} After skipping the trial of Rosamund Wilcox, Julian runs into Chelsea Bloom and they have a chat.

{S7} Human AU where Arthur and Reggie decide to have some “brother bonding time”, so they go to a local art museum. Things don’t go well.

{S4} Seamus makes eye contact with Giulietta at Mr. Alastor’s party.

{S2} A series of noteworthy recorded conversations between Bobby Prince and his therapist over the span of a year.

{S3} 5 times Jonah tries to smile and the first time Marina makes him smile.

{S3} [TW: Kidnapping, Torture, and PTSD] Elliot claims that he’s moved on past the whole “Anbu Devanesan” thing. He has not.

{S6} Serap and Roxelana’s love story, starting from their first meet.

{S6} Noah Lowe gets some advice from Ian Devine about love and life and shit (also, Noah lives in this fanfic concept, because bro deserves better).

{S7} AU where Rathimael lives, Arthur lives, and they live a peaceful life together in a small lakeside cottage on the outskirts of Michigan.

{S2} “What happened to the Francis I loved and cared about deeply?!” “He’s dead, and I killed him a long time ago.”

{S2} Bobby Prince’s last thoughts were about the idyllic life he would live with Amy via the virtual reality. (This was inspired by Bojack Horseman btw) (No I do not like Bobby Prince)

{S5} [TW: Attempted Murder] AU where Zoe survives Louis’s attempt on her life.

{S3} [TW: Implied Abuse] Michelle Zuria’s traumatic childhood at the hands of her nanny.

{S5} [TW: Sewerslide] AU where Jones decides to go home after Leroux is arrested, and the player decides to accompany him. Possible alternate endings available.

{S7} Fabien de la Mort chills out and asks Gwen for advice on how to properly swoon a certain someone (*cough*, Luke Fernandez, *cough cough*)

{S7} [TW: Murder] Ruth Wu’s final moments were in utter agony. (Deserved tbh)

{S4} [TW: Murder] Elias Willingham pays local pimp Kristopher Bauer for information about his missing daughter. Like many moments in the Criminal Case universe, things do not end well.

{S7} AU where Arthur Darkwood survives the events of S7 and decides to join the Supernatural Hunters.

{S2} Anjulie Cruz breaks up with Bobby and remembers all the red flags he showed while they were dating.

{S1} AU for “The Rorscach Reaper” where Ramirez arrives just in time to arrest Tess — but too late to save the player.

{S5} Canon divergence after Zoe’s arrest when Jones confronts Marconi and breaks down. Marconi talks him out of doing anything foolish and the two of them just talk while lying down on the grass.

{S7} Arthur never really had a family (besides Reggie, but we don’t talk about Reggie) due to being a demon. One of the Supernatural Hunters (probably Hope Newman) makes an offhand comment about how he’s family to them. (Bro deserved better imo)

{S5} [TW: Attempted Murder] AU where Nathan manages to regain consciousness just before Kit pulls out the snake.

{S6} Series of transcripts from Marina’s therapy sessions with different Criminal Case characters, including Jack, Amy, Jones, Chief Arrow, and Arthur Darkwood.

{S5} Prequelfic where Joe Warren meets his new college roommate, Louis Leroux.

{S2} After the events of “Once Upon a Crime”, Frank decides to call his daughter to tell her what happened.

{S5} [TW: Sewerslide] Either Alex, Grace, or Ramirez get the call about Jones’ attempt on his own life.

(I’m perfectly fine with y’all using these, just please ask first and credit me!)

[bakubabes-tatakae]

Request by anon: Hello Harlie 🥰 could I please get a one shot with Zack Foster 🥰 with the numbers 1, 39 , 49 , 184 from your first prompt list? Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️

Hello lovely. 😊❤️ I’m happy to write for Zack Foster. 👏 One doze of fluffy Zack coming up. 👌 I hope you like it nonny. 🥰

Forever || {NSFW} Isaac Foster x Reader

Warnings: fluff, unprotected sex, 18+ content, language, smut, dirty talk, ooc

Word Count: 1.1k

Isaac “Zack” Foster was one that had never been good with feelings before he met you. He would hide them, bottle them up, and let them all explode out of him. And usually his explosions were never good things. His explosions usually meant his scythe was coming out.

But as your fourth anniversary came around he had started to act weird. You had never seen him act even remotely like this before.

He would come home in the best mood you had ever seen him in. He would be lovey with you when you were out in public. He would brag about how amazing he thought you were to other people.

It just wasn’t the normal Isaac Foster.

So when he came home again with a huge smile on his face and a bouquet of flowers in one hand you weren’t sure how to feel about it.

“Zack?” You raised your eyebrows as his familiar sweatshirt showed through the front door.

He turned the corner and pushed the flowers toward you. His voice was nervous as he tried to get you to take them quickly. “I got you something because I have something important to talk to you about.”

You slowly grabbed the flowers and pulled them to your nose, taking a deep breath. The smell of roses wafted through your nostrils and put you at ease. You gently placed the bundle on the counter and looked back at Isaac. “What could you possibly have to talk to me about that involves flowers?”

Isaac moved toward you and placed his hands on your hips gently. “I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately. I’ve been thinking a lot about us.” Your heart began to beat out of your chest. Was this about to be a break up or a proposal? “I just want to be with you forever. And I want something that the two of us can say we made. Something we can be proud of.”

You swallowed hard as you thought about what he could possibly mean, but you let him continue.

“Give me a chance. Don’t instantly shoot me down.” He smiled slightly and his grip on your hips tightened. “Let’s have a baby.”

You nearly stopped breathing as you heard those words come from him. Had Isaac Foster just asked you to have a baby?

“I-” You were speechless as you tried to answer him. “Are you serious Zack?”

He placed a hand on your cheek and rubbed your skin with his thumb. “As a heart attack, baby girl.”

You could feel your excitement growing. You had wanted to have a family for so long. Your baby fever has been killing you for weeks. Had he noticed?

You placed your hand over his and smiled back at him. “Of course. I’d love to. You’ll be an amazing father Zack.”

Isaac’s lips pressed to yours lightly, almost like he was afraid of taking control. It wasn’t the first time the two of you would be intimate. What was holding him back?

You could feel his nervous aura radiating off of him and you pulled away from him. “It’s alright, Zack.”

You grasped the zipper to his sweatshirt and slowly pulled it down. Isaac reached forward and placed his hands on your lower back. “Can I touch you?”

You laughed at how his demeanor was so much different in the moment. “Of course you can.”

His hands roamed your body, stopping on your ass, and lifting you from the floor. You carefully wrapped your legs around his waist as he carried you to the couch that sat just through your living room door. His t-shirt was the next thing you grasped and took from him.

He slid his fingers into your shorts and pushed them down your legs, ripping them from you and throwing them across the room. His hands then slowly bunched up the bottom of your shirt and tugged it up, pulling it over your head to expose his favorite, matching bra and panties set. Isaac licked his lips slowly and watched as you smirked at him.

Isaac slid his hand between your legs, pushing your thighs apart and moved your panties to the side. “You like that darling?” His fingers slowly rubbed your folds, making their way into your entrance. “You’re so wet for me already. I guess I don’t have much work cut out for me.”

You slid your hands down his sides and gripped the waistband of his pants, helping him slide them down his legs. His length stood for you and his hands fumbled underneath him, searching for your entrance.

At the feeling of his entrance, bliss coursed through you. He held himself in place for a second, letting your cunt adjust to him. His hips rolled into you, slow at first, but with each passing second they moved faster.

The sounds of skin against skin filled your small living room, nothing but passion happening between the two of you. Your bodies pressed together, neither of you knowing where one ended and the other began. You had never seen Isaac this passionate before.

As your walls clenched around him he tried his hardest to hold out a little longer. “F-fuck, Zack. I’m so close.” You placed your hands on his face and pressed your lips to his. His lips lingered on yours, not wanting to leave them as your cunt clamped down around him.

As your slick coated him he lost himself, painting your walls white with his seed. Isaac lightly kissed your nose as he let his body fall against yours.

You reached a hand around him and placed it in his hair, running your fingers through it as his eyelids grew heavy. You broke the silence and placed a gentle kiss to his forehead. “I wish we could stay like this forever.”

You waited for an answer, and when you finally got one you laughed softly. A rare, peaceful snore escaped Isaac as you peeked down to see his eyes closed. You took in the moment as you watched the love of your life look as peaceful as he ever had in his life. The future father of your children. The man you wanted to spend every day of the rest of your life with.

Taglist: @monic00l @strangeinternetwasteland @rowley-with-ackerman @ellechanwrites @bonnisimpparker @kyu-pine @impinthecloset @nikiniki743

[watchtheworld-burn]

hiii !! i have a request if you don't mind or if your not busy, could you possibly do yandere isaac foster from angels of death ? it could be any gender !! i need more yandere content of him lol

YANDERE ISAAC FOSTER

Yandere! Isaac Foster x Male! Reader

Angels of death

Genre: Romance

Pronouns: He/him

Status: oneshot

Warning: Cursing, murder and blood, yandere behavior.

Author's note: Hi, sorry if I took so long to finish your request. I hope you don't mind.

The royal and the serial killer

You are M/N Bellevue. You are a prince, yes, they exist. You're similar to those cliche prince's, you wanna be free and maybe find a lover or a friend. You know what's the difference between you and other prince's? You're gay and they aren't.

They want a woman who's pretty, rich, unique, and probably a heart of gold. You on the other hand want a man who has a sense of humor and fun to be around with,

it would be fun if you and your lover are royal's so you two can relate a lot. But if they were the opposite of you, it would be really fun and interesting.

Then again, it probably won't happen since every prince has a princess. Besides, you doubted that any man would love you.

You sighed, you looked out of your window. You kept seeing a happy couple. You never saw a homosexual couple. Which made you almost lose hope of ever finding a guy.

You then saw your maid cleaning your desk or vanity. "Marisa.." You called her name. She stopped cleaning your vanity or desk and faced you. "What do you need, my lord?" She asked.

"Mari, just call me M/N." You told her. "I apologize, M/N." She apologized. "Do you like.. Females?" You asked her and she flinched. "Are you asking if I want to date or marry a female?" She said and you nodded your head.

"Sorry, M/N, but I do not want to date or marry a female." She said and you sighed and faced your window again. "Why do you ask?" She asked.

"Well, I never saw a couple of the same gender and... Nevermind." You said, you were planning to tell her you liked guys but decided not to since she'll probably tell dad.

"I see.." Then someone called her name. "I'm sorry, M/N, but I have to go now." She bowed and left the room. You stood up and sat down on your bed, before you were about to strip off all your clothes, someone called your name.

"M/N BELLEVUE!" Your dad yelled. "What did I do now.." You muttered. You stood up and opened the door. You walked to your dad to see him with a girl and it seems like the girl beside her is her mother.

"Good morning, M'lady." You greeted her and bowed. "Ah, good morning, prince M/N." She said and covered her mouth with her fan. "Milanda, meet my son, M/N Bellevue." He introduced you to the girl's mother. "And this is my daughter, Amanda Williams." She introduced you to her daughter. Amanda bowed.

"Dad, why am I meeting these women?" You whispered to your dad. "Oh, Marisa didn't tell you?" He asked and you shook your head. "Well, you two are about to get married!" He exclaimed. "What?!" You yelled out of shock.

"M/N, please keep your voice down." He told you. "When?!" You asked him. "5 months later." He said. You got mad and left the room. "M/N? M/N!" You ignored him and slammed the door. You stripped off all your clothes and changed into different clothes, but this time it wasn't a noble-like clothing, it was more of a 'commoner' type.

You laid down on your bed, thinking about what your dad said. Why did he have to arrange you and a random girl for marriage? Is he out of his mind? You groaned.

You stood up and saw your window. Maybe you should sneak out? Yeah, sure. You opened the gate and climbed down, thankfully you landed down safely.

You then walked around. It was weird since this was your first time walking without someone by your side. You then saw an alley. Your gut told you to go there and you did. What you saw next shocked you.

There was a man with a large scythe, it looked like he was threatening her. He seemed unsatisfied with her answer and sliced her head off with a weird laugh. He stopped laughing and looked at you. You felt frozen, you wanted to run but your body is stopping you.

"The fuck you lookin' at?" he said and walked towards you. He lifted your chin up with his scythe. "Who are you?" He asked. "M/N Bellevue." You said. "Aren't you that prince who keeps looking out of his window?" He asked and you nodded your head.

"I swear, I won't tell anyone what I saw." You told him. "How will I know you aren't lying?" He asked. "I don't even know your name and I'm sure that I'll immediately forget what you look like." You said.

"Heh, I like you." He said and moved away his scythe. This wasn't his first time seeing you, he saw you everyday. You were either walking with someone or looking out of your window. You seemed interesting, and he isn't gay or anything but you looked really handsome.

"So you'll keep me alive?" You said. "if you keep interested, I'll keep you alive." He said and you nodded. "Make sure to come here everyday or else I'll kill ya." He told you. "Well, um, you wanna go somewhere? I have extra clothes and I'll hide your scythe if you want to." You recommended.

"Whatever." He said and you handed him the clothes. Before you took his scythe he moved it away from you. You took it as a sign to back off and so you did. While he was changing you faced the other way since you didn't want to see him naked.

"Are you done?" You asked him. "Yeah." He said. You turned around, he looked good. At least he doesn't look like a killer, the bandages and scythe are a big problem. Whatever, you'll just tell them he's cosplaying.

You lent him your hand. "C'mon." You said. "You want me to hold your hand?" He said, he looked at you weirdly. "Yeah, is there a problem?" You asked him, he groaned and held your hand.

Even though he acts like he hates it, he was blushing the whole time.

"Where are we going anyway?" You ignored him. "Hey!" He exclaimed. You looked at him with dead eyes. He got even more pissed. "Stop yelling, geez." You said.

He stopped talking. You guys finally reached your destiny. "What are we doing here?" He then pointed at the sign that said: "I bake it you take it"

"It's my favorite bakery, let's eat and talk. If you're gonna keep me alive, let's at least get along." You said. You took him inside. You looked around and you found an available table. You sat at the left while Zack sat at the right.

The waiter gave you guys the menu. You chose your order, and he chose his. After you two were done ordering you looked at him. "What's your name?" You asked him. "Zack." He replied. "Um, how are your parents?" You asked him, this was an awkward conversation considering the maids and your dad were the only people you talked to.

"I killed them." He replied. "Were they your first victim?" You asked him, you don't even know why you're asking him that. He nodded. "What made you kill people? Did they irritate you or do you just do it because of drugs?"

"Their emotions are enough to make me kill them."

"Hmm, what type of people do you hate?"

"liars."

"Do you have any hobbies other than murder?"

"Nope."

"Do you have any friends?"

"No."

"Lovers or exes?"

"I don't have friends, how do you expect me to have a lover or ex? Besides, I'm not into dating."

"Interesting.."

"Why the hell are you asking me so many questions?"

"Well, I wanna know what you're like. So I ask questions to know what type of person you are."

Then the orders finally arrived. You started eating your food while Zack spat out his food after 1 bite. "Zack! Where are your manners!" You exclaimed. 'Wait a second.. He's a killer, do they even have manners?' You thought.

"This shit is too sweet!" He complained. You sighed, "Here have mine." You suggested and gave it to him. He took a bite and it seemed like he liked it. "Well, are you satisfied, sir?" You sarcastically said.

"Yeah, whatever." He rolled his eyes and kept eating. After that you guys seemed to get along, after 2 months you got comfortable with him. Sometimes you help him get rid of the murder.

Everyday you always snuck out just to see him. He made your day fun and interesting. sure you guys fought a lot but it you two were fine after 2 minutes.

(This is the part where you guys interact with each other)

You ran to the alley where you guys first met. "Zack!" You called his name and see him with his scythe, and fresh blood on his hoodie. "What is it, your highness?" He calls you that as a joke, he doesn't care about your status whatsoever.

"I got the part! I can play as Jerry, the murderer!" You shouted out of happiness and started jumping. "Geez, you love him so much that you want to be like me?" He joked. You hugged him. "Thank you so much, Zack!" You smiled and hugged him tighter.

"The fuck are you thanking me for?" He asked. "Well, I just imitated you and they said that my acting was so believable and that I was creative!" You explained. "You.. Imitated me?"

"Yeah. You're a serial killer, so if I imitated a real murderer my act would be more believable." You answered. "Heh. Guess I'm that amazing, huh?" He said. "By the way, can you come?" You asked and stopped hugging him.

"What do you mean?"

"Can you go there and see me play?"

"I can't go there, they'll immediately arrest me."

"I'll make an excuse for you."

"Are you that desperate for me to see you play?"

"Yes."

"Fine, I'll go."

"Yay!"

🔪

You snuck out and went to the alley where you guys met. You saw him there just sitting and his scythe was there on the floor. You gave him his favorite food.

"Thanks kid." He thanked you. "We're the same age." You said. "So how's your day?" He asked you. "Bad." You replied. "Tell me about it." He said while eating the food you gave him.

"My father and I fought again. I tried to explain my side of my story but he ignored me and kept getting mad at me if I tried to defend myself. Then for the rest of the day he ignored me." You explained.

"What happened anyways that made him get mad?" he asked. "Amanda blamed me for something she did. I want to kill her." You said. "What's stopping you from killing her?" He said.

"Law." You said. "Just clean it up." He suggested. "Well her whole family will notice. She's also a royal." You reasoned. "Just kill her whole family and then act as if you're sad." He explained. You chuckled and rested your head on his shoulder.

"Zack, tell me more about yourself. If you don't mind." You asked him. "I'll tell you sooner or later." He said. You held his hand. "Zack. Can you stay with me forever?" You asked him. "Sure kid." He replied.

💝

You and Zack were together again. "Zack, do you want to come inside the castle?" You asked. "What?" He asked, are you crazy? "Everyone is gone, the maids and butlers won't notice us." You said.

"Sure, but if you get in trouble, it's your fault." he said and stood up. You smiled. You took his hand and you opened the door. You gave him a tour. You also gave him the keys to every room.

You guys went to your father's room and saw everything he owned. After looking at his room, it looks like he likes Malinda. Simp. You guys also saw all his action figures. Despite being old he's still childish.

You guys went to Amanda's and Malinda's room, Malinda's room was full of Amanda's photos. Geez what an obsessive mother. By the way, you took a lot of pictures of the rooms.

Now Amanda's room was full of shirtless guys and her other clothes were cringe. It was dresses full of 'cool' comebacks. She also had a collection of Ryan Reynolds. You don't blame her for that, you also liked Ryan Reynolds.

👑

"That mother fucker who can't do shit. I'll swear to the fucking devil I'll kill you and show it to the whole pathetic world!" you yelled and ripped out all of the things that reminded you of him.

Of course you were outside of the castle. After you were done you saw Zack right in front you. "Geez, princess, what happened to you?" He asked. Your hair was messy and you were sweating.

"That son of a bitch king is forcing his own son to marry that whore!" You yelled pointed at your dad's window. "Who's the whore?" He asked. "That Amanda 'Spoiled brat' Williams!" You answered.

"I don't even like females!" You said. "You're... Gay?" Zack was confused, he thought that prince Bellevue was a straight man turns out, that prince Bellevue is a gay man. "Yeah, you got a problem?" You asked, you swear that if he's gonna judge you, you'll snitch.

"Calm down and tell me what's happening?" He suggested. You sat down. "Well my dad arranged a marriage for me and Amanda. I got mad and stormed out. He also told me that we were gonna get married in 5 months. Today was 7 days before the marriage, I tried to convince him to stop the marriage. He called me a brat and slapped me hard." You explained.

Zack felt mad, you had a fiancee? He thought you loved him. Well, you probably still love him. You're gay and you don't love her.

"Do you want me to come to your wedding?" He asked. "Yes, please." You said. Zack noticed how stressed you were, so he walked towards you and hugged you. "It's gonna be fine, kid." He attempted to comfort you.

"Thanks, Zack."

👰🤵

It was finally the wedding day. Time flew by so fast. Your maids were now dressing you up. Fixing your hair, (if you're bald, ignore this) Making your suit look good, styling you.

"The young master is already getting married!" One of them said. 'I'll rip you apart.' You thought. "Just hold on master, we're almost done." One of them informed you. After styling you they were finally done.

"We're done!" All of them said. You stood up and walked to the room. 'Ugh, I'll kill dad after this wedding.' You thought.

You finally stood there, in front of the door. You sighed and opened it. You were expecting Amanda and the pastor standing there, waiting for you. And maybe your relatives are there looking at you and other random people, and maybe Zack with a suit looking at you.

But you didn't expect this..

⚠⚠⚠⚠⚠WARNING⚠⚠⚠⚠⚠

You saw Amanda's head rolling to your feet. Amanda's body was standing there, headless. She was still holding her flowers. Malinda was laying there, her eyes were open and blood was spilling out of her mouth. The pastor's heart was taken away. The others had been sliced apart. Your father was tied to the statue of you and Amanda. His guts and organs were on the statue, specifically on Amanda's head. His brain was close to the pastor.

It was like a bloodbath. Blood was everywhere. There was a man with a large scythe. His laugh was so familiar. He turned around. "Aye, M/N, my prince. You're here." It was Zack. You gasped and covered your mouth. No, this is impossible. Zack wouldn't do something gruesome like this right? Right..?

He hugged you. "Why are you scared, huh? Isn't this what you wanted?" He asked you. "I.." You were speechless, you didn't know what to say. "C'mon, let's go." He stopped hugging and started walking. "Where?" You said.

"Home." He said and stopped walking. "What do you mean, home?!" You yelled. "Tch, are you mad at me?" He asked. "Of course! You killed everyone Zack!" You reasoned. "Isn't this what you wanted?" He glared at you. "No! I wanted them dead in my imagination, not in real life!" You yelled.

Zack knocked you out. He picked you up and he walked away with you on his arms.

THE END

[thelaughtercafe]

Muted Memories

Tea Type: Milk Tea

Potential Triggers: A lot with this one! Violence/Threats of violence, nonspecific mention of thoughts of suicide, abuse(verbal and emotional for one physical for the other two), negative thought patterns, running from your problems for fear of burdening others, and I think that’s it! Also anime and game spoilers; this takes place post-game! Really it’s just the first few paragraphs thought so skip to where the second person starts if you plan on playing/ watching it!

Please gently let me know if I forgot any/you want any added!

Pairing: Issac Foster/F! Reader

Length: 5.7k+

Summary: Zack and Rachel return to one of the few places he felt safe once upon a time in order to hide out. Imagine his surprise when he finds someone else in need of protection, and may even grow to allow himself that long forgotten solace once again.

A/N: So this fic is very personal to me and I use it to cope with my own trauma, hence the subject matter. I hope it offers solace for even one other person; please do let me know your thoughts if you enjoy it!

“Well, if that’s what ya want- stop crying and smile.”

Zack’s words were the same as always, crude with a deranged undertone so distinctly him it made Rachel’s eyes tear anew as a grin broke across her lips.

The most genuine smile she’d had since she’d last been with him.

“That’s more like it!”

A note of exhilaration has filled Zack’s voice and he swung, his scythe hitting its mark.

…

…..

……….

Rachel opened her eyes from when she’s instinctively closed them to find her hair now short. She could only blink in bewildered confusion.

Zack merely grinned and held out his hand to her expectantly. There were cops swarming the place. There wasn’t much time he knew but she needed to know.

“Rachel Gardner is dead. We belong to each other now, Ray.”

Ray hiccupped and only then realized she was sobbing as she took his hand. It’d taken forever but finally.

Finally.

She owned someone and they owned her in return.

—–

Elsewhere, a girl tends to a long dead man’s home. It had once been hers too, more than her own. Pain stabs her heart whenever she returns and yet how can she not? He’d once mentioned a boy he’d saved before he died, one he wanted to help heal. He’d asked for her help. Yet now, here she stays alone, keeping his memory alive as best she can, in hopes one day the boy might return so she can fulfill the promise the man cannot as well as her own.

—–

It was a quiet day at the Takamata residence, not that such a thing was unusual. With no-one to tend to it now that the kind man was gone you had taken over it’s care and even began living there yourself.

You’d thought your tears had dried after a week but when they sorted out his will and found out you’d been left his home…let’s just say they returned with a vengeance.

You’d never had an easy childhood, a neglectful biological father quickly followed by an abusive stepfather made you shy and self-deprecating. Your empathy remained as you cared for your sickly mother and you found a passion for helping others. You often juggled their problems and shoved your own down deep. Better to help everyone else. It was all you were good for.

When Mr. Takamata found you, bleeding and scared as you sobbed on the road home he’d comforted you and welcomed you in his home, even helped to bandage you. You’d been so desperate for a moment of freedom from the venomous words constantly hurled at you that you’d just…ran. You kept running despite the scratches and falls you took. He was blind but he was good with his hands and he listened.

It was the first time you’d ever opened up and had someone be empathetic to you instead of the opposite.

He didn’t like that you promised him to never tell your sickly mother but like Hell were you going to be responsible if the stress worsened her condition.  Deep down you felt you had earned your stepfather’s ire anyway. If you just did everything perfectly then he wouldn’t have a reason to hate you so vehemently.

Reluctantly, Mr. Takamata kept his promise but on the condition you’d always come to him and have a place with him should you want it. Your weekends were spent with him and when you began middle school so did your afternoons. He showed up to your middle school graduation, hugged you in a way that made you feel sheltered and safe like you never had.

A week later he was found murdered. Butchered by drunks.

You were alone again; yet he still had the foresight to leave you a place to go to. To hide.

So you did.

At first it was weekly visits and then daily…and eventually you ran away completely; opting to only return to your original home on the weekends to tend to your mother and bear the unbearable in silence as you always did.

Here you now stood. Mother now dead, barely attending college for Nursing between your job to pay for food, and all your essentials. Every now and then you could afford the next book in a series you liked but even cable was out of the question.

You passed your time by keeping the place in pristine condition, focusing on your studies(thank God rented laptops were a part of your tuition) and reading or re-reading the books you had. The library was always a safe haven to engage in; letting you read all you liked of the books there until they closed so you often found yourself there on the weekends.

A glance at the clock had your eyes widening in surprise.

“Shit!”

You were going to be late! You grabbed your bookbag after shoving your laptop inside and were out the door in a rush of fabric.

You could definitely make the bus if you ran! You had to!

—–

Zack let out a relieved sigh as he spotted the familiar looking house. Looks like he hasn’t forgotten where it was after all.

“Isn’t this wrong? Using a dead man’s home without permission?”

Zack jiggled the lock and snorted as he began fiddling with it, using his newly bought knife to do so.

“What? You wanna call him back from the dead and ask him? No-ones in here anyway. It’s in the middle of nowhere. Perfect for us to lie low and wait till the cops forget we exist-hell yeah!”

He cheered with a grin as he managed to get the lock open, pumping his fist in the air.

He entered without care and turned with a vaguely confused frown to Ray.

“Well? You wanna freeze out there be my guest, but I’m taking my chances here.”

He threw himself onto the couch as the blond girl hesitantly entered and closed the door gently behind her.

This place reminded her of her old home. It was indeed warmer in the literal sense but also figuratively too.

This place felt…lived in.

She didn’t want to bother him when he looked so tired but…

“Zack?”

She called out as she looked around nervously.

“What?”

Annoyance laced his voice as he peeked one eye open.

“I don’t think no-one lives here. Why else would the heat be on and…”

She opened the fridge, where some clearly recently bought food waited.

“The fridge stocked? Maybe we should go.”

Zack’s eyes lit up at the sight of food and he moved to stand and headed over, greedily snatching a cold bottle of water-make that two- before returning to the couch.

“Yeah and? If anyone does live here I’ll just slice ‘em up when they come home. You worry too much Ray. Get some shuteye will ya?”

He turned his back to her and she couldn’t help but wonder as her eyes flicked to the door from where she’d been observing a photo of a girl and an old man.

“Yeah…okay. Sleep well, Zack.”

She joined him in sleep reluctantly as she made herself comfortable on the bed in the adjoining room, falling asleep to the distinctive smell of vanilla.

—–

You sighed tiredly as you got home after a long day of school. You’d missed the bus of course, which meant you had to run all the way to campus. You weren’t exactly the pinnacle of fitness so you were a sweaty, panting mess as you stumbled through the door 15 minutes late. Your teacher had glared at you something fierce but luckily she hasn’t commented as you rushed to pull yourself together and get ready to learn.

You were in your last semester of general education courses now, figuring you’d get them out of the way so your last two years could be full of nothing but Nursing.

In any case, you were exhausted.

You closed the door behind you and yawned as you stretched. You moved to turn on the lights but froze suddenly at the feeling of being watched as the back of your neck prickled. Reacting on instinct you twirled away and thanks to doing so barely dodged a thrown knife at your head.

You stared in complete shock for a moment and then you lunged for it and the lights as brightness flooded the room.

Your attacker was interesting looking that’s for sure; bandages adorning every inch of skin you could see and two different colors glaring at you. You’d gotten the knife, but what the Hell were you going to do with it? Your bands trembled and suddenly, as he noticed it himself, the man grinned.

“Heh. Well ain’t that cute. Never used a knife, have you sweetheart?”

Fuck. He was perceptive.

Still you frowned and tried to think why he looked vaguely…familiar as you backed away and he casually walked forward. His appearance was so distinctive; it’s not likely something you’d have forgotten seeing.

Your eyes glanced over to your bedroom doorway and he took the opening, lunging for you and making you squeal as you grappled for the knife.

“H-Hey! Stop it I don’t want to hurt you!!“

Your voice held an edge of panic and just as he’d cornered you against the kitchen counter, knife raised to strike with a grin you cried out as you shielded your face with your arms.

"You’re Issac right!?”

…

….

…..

When nothing happened for several moments you hesitantly peeked open your eyes and found yourself even more scared as he leaned over you to stare into your eyes. His tone dripped with looming threats you knew were promises if you didn’t answer.

“How the fuck do you know who I am kid?

Kid?

You let that slide and held his gaze before you bit your lip nervously.

His eyes flashed and he seemed to take it as you not wanting to tell him as he roughly grabbed your wrist and forced you to the ground, straddling your waist to leave you even more vulnerable as he held the knife to your captive hand threateningly.

"Either you start talking or I start chopping and I’m not the patient type lady…so pick fast.”

He smiled sweetly as he traced the blade up and down over your index finger, feather light and you started to ramble.

“I-M-Mr. Takamata. He mentioned a boy, with bandages he’d found when I was a little girl. Nearly a decade ago now. He told me he wanted us to be friends that I should try and help-”

You were cut off as he threw his head back and laughed; caustic and loud as the knife abruptly moved to your neck.

“Oh that is just rich. Another victim trying to use my past as ammo.”

His smile turned to a dead eyed hatred as he leaned down to hiss in your ear.

“Nice try sweetheart. ‘Fraid you’re not the first. 'Least you confirmed where you got your info. Just bad luck you got this house. Well. Nighty ni-huh?”

His expression of gleeful sadism faded as Ray quietly spoke his name and held a familiar picture in front of his face.

“That’s-”

He looked between the picture and you a moment and then, as if stricken, hopped off of you and then was out the door.

Despite the irrationality of it all, worry flooded you and you jumped up to go after him; calling out.

“Wait!”

“It’s okay.”

The dull eyed girl smiled understandingly at you as she held you back gently by your jacket.

“Zack tends to do that when he’s overwhelmed. He’ll be back later.”

Something in you urged you to trust her so you nodded and merely closed the door.

Nothing for it but to wait, then.

Was waiting for a man who’d just tried to kill you and threatened to cut your fingers off entirely sane? Probably not, no. But you had a feeling these two weren’t either so…who were they to judge?

This was all the closest thing to a father had ever wanted from you.

Like Hell would you let him down, or abandon someone in need.

—–

“So…um…”

Rachel, as she’s stoically introduced herself, turned to look at you.

“Not that I’m not glad he’s back safe and all but…why are you two here?”

The only show of her surprise was the slight widening of her eyes.

“You really don’t know? Don’t you have a TV?”

You shook your head.

“No. Don’t have the money for one as a broke college student. The few books I can afford are fantasy and supernatural based.”

“Oh. Well…Zack and I are fugitives. They think he killed me.”

You raised an eyebrow at that wordlessly saying “clearly, he didn’t”.

“Oh and…don’t call me Rachel. Old habit. My name is Ray, now.”

You flinched at Zack’s loud entrance as he slammed the door open right after she finished speaking before snarling at you. The brief shock you’d seen in his face was gone as fast as it had appeared.

“The Hell are you still doing here?! Why didn’t you scram? You got a death wish or something?”

You shook your head, still trembling but smiling at him nonetheless. His eyes caught it though and he laughed, the sound acidic.

“Look at you, trying to act all brave. You can admit you’re scared you know. I can already tell~”

He seemed gleeful at this fact but you shook your head as your eyes gained a note of defiance.

“It’s not you.”

Despite the quiet tone you spoke them in, Zack read your lips and gripped your shoulders suddenly appearing…almost possessive in his rage.

“Then who the Hell is it? Someone’s got you more scared than me?”

You blinked at that but nodded.

“You’re…well. A momentary fear compares to one systematically ingrained in me over the years. Of course I’d be more scared of him than you.”

His group tightened for a moment, frown deepening when you realized something. The look in his eyes wasn’t anger- it was frustration.

He was confused.

"I mean- when you’re raised by an abusive dick, of course I’d fear him more than you.  Besides Mr. Takamata he…”

You searched your memory for his exact words.

“He said he’d never seen a kid so in need of care and support. He thought we’d both be able to help each other heal.”

Zack looked vaguely nauseous, and let you go as if burned.

“Gross…”

His murmur sounded half-hearted to you but Ray spoke up from beside you, making you flinch a little. You’d nearly forgotten she was there.

“Zack…maybe we don’t have to kill her. It sounds like she won’t turn us in.”

Zack scoffed at that, returning to his typical coldness as he rolled his eyes.

“She’s still a liar. Just cause she knew someone from my past doesn’t mean shit; I should gut her right here for that alone..”

“She didn’t even know we were fugitives till I told her. She doesn’t even have a TV.”

Zack reluctantly paused at that and turned to you with a grunt, eyes narrowed distrustfully.

“Phone?”

You smirked bitterly at that.

“No. I work a minimum wage job and all the savings I have goes to tuition to get me through college. I’m in school for Nursing.”

“Fan-fucking-tastic for you. I don’t care. I’m goin’ to bed. Do what you want. Ray, you get the couch this time. Scream if the bitch tries anything.”

With that he sulked into your bedroom and presumably went to sleep.

Unlike Zack, she was looking at you intently, curiosity shining in her blue eyes that bordered on excitement.

“Nursing? Isn’t that when you fix people?”

You nodded, smiling gently.

“Mm. Yeah. I just want to help people feel better. It’s all about dealing with injuries and such. I personally want to be a travel Nurse or maybe Psych. I feel like helping mentally is just as important as the physical.”

As your eyes flicked over to your closed door Ray caught the quick action and asked, bluntly.

“So you think Zack is one of those people that needs your help then?”

You blushed but nodded as you turned back to her. She was very perceptive too. No doubt they had to be.

“Well…yeah. I feel like anyone in need of help deserves my kindness. Simple as that. It’s my purpose in life.”

Ray seemed in awe at this.

“Your…purpose? Huh…”

You smiled gently and stood, heading to the closet.

“This is a lot to take in, and I’d definitely like more information later on, but either way; Mr. Takamata would’ve wanted you two to stay here as long as you like.“

You walked over with blankets and a pillow in your hands as you closed your eyes and smiled at her.

"I do too, in any case. It’s not safe for you out there in the cold and there’s bears and coyotes around. Help yourself to the fridge and cabinets if you’re hungry or thirsty. I don’t have much but you’re both welcome to it.”

You were surprised when the small blond girl suddenly hugged you as she stood up to allow you to make the couch more comfortable for her.

She spoke, but it was muffled and you pet her head gently as you asked.

“Hm? What was that Ray?”

“I said…”

She looked up at you, eyes sparkling.

“Thank you. You’re really nice, even though we don’t deserve it.”

Your smile strained a bit at that and you sighed, gently guiding her to get more comfortable on the couch.

“Everyone deserves kindness. Now, get some rest sweetie, okay? I’ve got class tomorrow but I’ll wake up and make sure you get breakfast before I leave.”

You both missed the quiet 'click’ of your bedroom door closing.

—–

Now that Ray was down, and Zack was as well presumably; you had schoolwork to get done. Studying for Anatomy and Physiology was always the hardest so you saved it for last, finishing what you were sure was late. A glance at the clock on your wall made you yawn.

3am. Wonderful. Time to say goodnight and then head to bed yourself.  It was gonna be a long day tomorrow; you had to be up at 7 to make breakfast like you promised for Ray.

You headed to the backyard and smiled sleepily at the gravestone awaiting you there as you sat down, too tired to keep standing.

“Hey Mr. Takamata. Thought I’d come say goodnight. Sorry I rushed off before I could say g'morning. I was running late again…”

You could almost imagine his smile, the way he’d say “Don’t try to rush things that need time to grow.” and got a little misty eyed.

“I…found that boy. The one you wanted me to meet. Or…more correctly I suppose he found me. In any case, I swear I’ll uphold my promise. No matter what.”

Despite yourself, a few of the tears fell and you sniffled.

“I wish you were here to meet him yourself.”

“The fuck’re you crying for?”

You squealed in surprise, jerking out of your kneeling position and looking up in fear for a moment until you registered it was just Zack. He must’ve snuck up behind you.

You let out a breath, a bit flustered at being caught crying as you rubbed your eyes.

“Meeting you has…kind of been my entire purpose. I can finally fulfill my promise to Mr. Takamata so I guess… I’m just happy. Plus… I’m a crybaby. Always have been ”

You blushed darker at the confession but Zack merely grunted and crouched down to examine the gravestone you’d made. His eyebrows furrowing as he ran his fingers over the lettering.

“So…this is for the old man huh? You dig this yourself?”

He wasn’t looking at you but his voice sounded gruff.

“Yeah. His body was really heavy and it was hard work digging a grave big enough…but I somehow managed it. He always loved sitting out here and talking with me, feeling the wind on his face as it made the wind chimes sing.”

Your tears dried at the happy memory and you rolled up to lay your head on your legs, a peaceful smile crossing your face.

“Did he? Huh. Guess you picked the right spot.”

Zack’s voice sounded thick but after a moment of silence he stood and smirked down at you, amusement shining in his hetacromstic gaze.

“Still; surprised a pipsqueak like you could pull it off. Must’ve taken you all day and all night.”

You went red at the teasing and pouted as you got to your feet.

“You’re not wrong but I managed it; and that’s all that matters. Anyway, what’re you doing up? Can’t sleep? I can make you some tea if you want. It might help.”

He blinked at you but nodded after a thought.

“…Fine. I wanna talk to you anyway.”

You nodded and headed into the kitchen, flipping the kettle on as you pulled down a mug and took out a teabag. Shit, you were out already? You’d have to budget some in once you went grocery shopping next week, plus factoring in how much more food you’d need with two additional mouths to feed. You might have to dip into your meager savings.

As the kettle went off and you added the hot water, you tilted your head at Zack, quiet in the darkness beside you. It was a little eerie how well he fit into it.

“Do you want milk and sugar? It makes it a lot sweeter.”

He nodded.

“Sure, whatever. Never had it before. Long as it’s drinkable.”

You suddenly realized you’d only told Ray and sighed as you added milk and extra sugar as you typically took it.

“Shit. Sorry I assumed you were sleeping and only told Ray- you’re welcome to any food and drinks you want; no need to ask. Just tell me if we run out of anything and I’ll add it to the grocery list.”

He narrowed his eyes at that and went quiet as you set his tea on the table and sat across from him looking at him expectantly as he sat down.

“You’re weird.”

He muttered after a moment, still looking at you as if trying to figure something else.

Your smile widened nervously at that.

“Thank…you? I think?”

He rolled his eyes at that.

“Not a compliment. Why the fuck are you scared of some person who obviously isn’t even here more than me? Hell; why aren’t you scared of me period? Everyone deserves kindness? What about murderers? I’ve killed hundreds, little girl.”

Your mouth thinned as you heard this, but you sighed, and smiled at him nonetheless.

“So you were eavesdropping then?”

He looked stricken at that before he leaned forward and hissed, voice little more than a defensive growl as he grabbed you and pulled you up to be face to face with him.

“I didn’t trust you with Ray. For all we know this college student thing could all be an act.”

“You’re more than welcome to check my anatomy and physiology textbooks if you’d like. But, in any case, it wasn’t a judgement. I wouldn’t trust people if I was on the run either. Must be tiring is all; constantly being on the run. You’re welcome to stay here, at the very least, as long as you’d like.”

He snorted, releasing you with a frustrated huff.

“You make a habit of opening your home to wanted fugitives? Or are you just stupid?”

You giggled at that, but it was sad as you leaned your cheek on your hand and shrugged.

“Well; Mr. Takamata left me this place but I kinda feel it’s yours too. After all, no matter for how short a time, he took you in. You’re just as worthy as I. He would’ve let you stay. And I…well yeah. I guess I am stupid…but this isn’t because of that. I’m lonely. The company would be nice. Besides, everyone currently here is broken…it may be nice to help hold one another together. Don’t you think?”

Your breathing was slow and even and you yawned, glancing at the clock. Shit. 4 am now.

Zack had hidden behind his eyes behind his hair as you explained and scoffed, standing with a grumble.

“…Yeah, whatever. Just don’t be surprised if we don’t stick around. We don’t need an extra along for the ride. We’ve got plenty of weird between the two of us, so butt out. Got it?”

He didn’t wait for your response as he headed back to your room.

You shrugged off his words, the whole conversation feeling like a haze as you laid your head on your arms. It wouldn’t be much…but 3 hours should be enough. Just a little energy to get you through the day.

—–

You sighed as you felt an odd yet familiar sensation; fingers brushing through your long hair, giving a hum in contentment.

“What’re you touching her for? I say we take the food and scram.”

“Her hair is really soft, and she looks pretty. Besides, she said she’d make breakfast.”

“And you think that will wake her up? Move.”

The fingers stopped and just as you pouted and attempted to move closer to it; suddenly you were falling, making you squeal and barely catch yourself on your hands.

You looked around frantically, trying to get a grasp of your surroundings as you blinked quickly.

“Wah!! J-Jesus what-!?”

Zack burst out laughing at your reaction, bending over in complete stitches as you were left pouting and blushing in embarrassment.

“Hah!! You really are a damn mouse! I’ve never heard a voice go so high pitched!!”

“D-Don’t be mean! I can’t help it okay!?”

He jeered, approaching and bending down to knock on your skull.

“Suck it up little mouse~ Why don’t you get to cookin’ huh? Ray and I are tired of waitin’ for your lazy ass to get up.”

You frowned at that, eyes moving to the clock and gasped, hopping to your feet.

“It’s 10 already!? Please tell me you messed with my clocks! My alarm definitely should’ve-”

“Told you you shouldn’t have smashed it.”

Ray interrupted with a pout at Zack.

Dread weighed your stomach like a brick and it was all you could do to smile weakly.

“I’m scared to ask but…smashed what, exactly?’

Zack raised his chin towards the table in front of the living room couch where you’d left your school laptop and there it was; smashed to pieces.

“Oh I am so fucked.”

You could only sigh as you put your face in your hands for a moment, fought back tears and then straightened and headed to the fridge, as if nothing had happened.

“Do you guys have a preference on what to eat?”

Zack brushed off your reaction easily, eager to not take responsibility as he made himself comfortable in the same chair he sat in last nightst and spread his legs out.

“Anything is fine; but meat is the best if you have it.”

“And you Ray? Hm?”

You looked down in surprise as the blond girl hugged you around your middle when you opened the fridge and turned to look at her.

“What’s wrong sweetheart?”

Your voice softened worriedly and she looked up at you with a mixture of apathy and determination.

“Sometimes hugging will make my dad’s hits hurt less when he got angry. Aren’t you mad?”

You blinked at that and then inhaled to keep the tears at bay. Christ, what had she gone through for that to be her first thought?

You raised your hand to pet her head and reluctantly did so when she didn’t flinch, feeling Zack’s eyes burning into you from the table.

“No hun; I’ll be fine. I’m sorry for cursing in front of you…I got worried, sad even because it’s a lot of money I’ll have to pay, and I really don’t…”

You hesitated, debating how to word it for her and settled on.

“…like confrontation. But not mad. Zack broke it because he didn’t know how to properly make it stop. I’ll teach him when I get a new one; and this situation will be avoided. So no reason to be mad!”

You pulled back to smile at her gently and she was giving you that wide-eyed look of awe again. You let her go and stood up to your full height, clapping with a grin before turning back to pull out the bacon from the fridge.

“How does eggs with cheese, bacon and toast sound?”

A glance back at Ray as you finished taking out the eggs and she smiled in a way that made your heart warm, arms held behind her back.

“Sure!”

“Whatever.”

Zack’s mutter could barely be heard but the intensity of his eyes on you had definitely lessened as you worked on prepping and cooking the food. Zack and Ray had a quiet, mumbled conversation beyond your back.

As you were plating it you casually mentioned it, knowing you’d have to be careful with your wording.

“So…I figured I’d tell you guys in advance; but I’ll need you to make yourselves scarce tomorrow. Just tomorrow; I’m not kicking you out or anything but it’s important.”

Your voice was light, but serious underneath and as you turned with a grin, both plates in your hands to set them down you froze at the way both of your guests’ heads whipped to stare you down.

Zack’s gaze was analytical; unsure if he should give trust or not and Rachel’s were curious and sad.

After a moment of tense silent Zack smirked bitterly, eyes locked on your every movement like he was ready to pounce.

“Yeah we’re gonna need more than that. The fuck is this “important” buisness you’re talking about?”

Rachel merely nodded in silent agreement, a frown on her lips.

Your anxiety spiked and you fidgeted in place uncomfortably for a moment before you set down their plates. Despite the way your smile and voice shook your forced words out, knowing you were seconds from breaking and needing to be far away before that happened.

“I-I’ll be right back enjoy the food!”

It was all said in one breath and then you were out the door.

You aren’t sure for how far you ran; but it was enough to leave you gasping. The tears and shaking finally came out all at once; the panic and fear of tomorrow taking over as you fell to your knees and held your hands over your head.

You were full-on ugly sobbing, memories vivid and blurry all at once crashing over you and making you feel like you were drowning. You hadn’t had an attack like this in ages. Had been so careful to keep your distance and do everything perfectly…but now that your laptop had been broken and you’d missed a day of classes-

You gasped sharply in pain as your hair was yanked to force you to meet familiar heterochromatic eyes.

Fear struck you for an entirely different reason than he was used to as you shoved him away to cover your face in horror.

“Don’t look at me! What are you doing here; how did you find me!?”

“Chasing people who run is quite literally all I do. Maybe you should think about that next time you try it. You’ve run far enough lady. Start. Talking. What’s happening tomorrow that has you this…”

He motioned vaguely to your disheveled form despite you not looking at him.

“this?”

You turned away in shame but he wasn’t having it, grunting and grabbing your wrists roughly to force your hands down after crouching in front of you. He seemed wholly unaffected by your crying, save for the odd smile tugging at the edges of his lips and the trembling of his own bandaged hands.

“Talk, dammit! I’m about 3 seconds from dragging you back to the house by your hair!”

You let out a watery laugh as you had no choice but to look at him. No matter how hard you tried to squirm or pull your wrists away he didn’t even acknowledge your efforts with tightening his grip easily keeping you still without any true strength.

“He’s-He’ll come tomorrow. He’s going to get a note from the college that’ll be delivered by the school, as well as here and he’s going to find out where I live and then he’s going to take it all away from me-”

You were starting to fully spiral now that your words had been giving voice and continued talking as Zack’s gaze turned cold and sharp.

“Hey.”

“He’s going to force me away, he’ll make me leave college and work to pay him more than I already have to every month-”

“Mouse-”

“He’s gonna tear me apart again, take away everything and everyone I care about till all that’s left is him, his hatred, the negative voice that never stops, maybe I should just end-glch!”

You were cut off with one of his hands abruptly squeezing your air supply shut for a moment in clear warning before it returned, quick as a snake’s strike to your wrist.

Your eyes rushed to his and only then did you realize you’d been hyperventilating.

Zack was the scariest you’d seen him yet, expression manically angry and gleeful all at once.

So lemme get this straight. You were gonna send Ray and I off because you thought you had to protect us?”

He threw his head back and laughed; loud and maniacal before his grip on your wrist tightened harshly and he abruptly snarled at you.

“We don’t need your fucking protection, little girl. That fucker wants a fight from either of us, he’ll be dead before he can even move.”

You shook your head, sniffling as you calmed a little though a few tears still slipped out.

“You-You don’t understand. It’s not your problem. He’s my burden to bear.”

“The house belongs to me too right?”

Zack’s question caught you off guard but you nodded instantly nonetheless.

“Yeah of course-”

“Then it’s my problem too. And Ray’s since she stays with me.”

Tears blurred your vision again but for an entirely different reason as you felt something you hadn’t experienced since your Mom and Mr. Takamata had passed.

“Zack, are you-?”

He released you then, moving to stand quickly and starting to walk away with a scoff.

“You really are a crybaby. Come home already!”

That did it.

You choked back your tears and grinned, him glancing out of the corner of his eye before turning away.

You trailed behind him and if he slowed his pace just enough to allow you to walk at his side you certainly didn’t comment.

“R-Right!”