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sidekick-hero · 3 months

Text

The first time Steve feels Eddie's heartbeat, it's barely there. It's so faint that for an endless, terrifying moment, Steve thinks he's lost him.

That he's too late.

His fingers are on Eddie's neck, and there is so much blood that they keep slipping as he keeps searching for the reassuring thump-thump-thump of a pulse. Next to him, Dustin is sobbing and babbling, begging Steve to help Eddie, to save him. It brings tears to Steve's own eyes, the pain in Dustin's voice too much for him to bear. He shouldn't have left them alone, he should have come back sooner, he should have been better.

When he can't find what he's looking for, Steve presses his ear to Eddie's chest, desperate for some sign that he's not too late, that he hasn't failed his friends. That he hasn't let Eddie down.

Steve wants to cry with relief when he feels it, barely perceptible, but there. Eddie's heartbeat is pounding in his veins, pumping blood to wounds that need to be tended to right away.

"Come on, man, you're going to be okay. Just stay with me, Eddie. I got ya, you'll be as good as new, I promise," Steve swears not only to Eddie, but to Dustin as well. Even to himself, because he wants to believe it, too. Has to believe it.

Brown eyes, glassy with pain and blood loss, slowly open and blink up at him. "Steve?"

"Yeah, it's me. The guy who told you not to be cute, not to be a hero, but of course you didn't listen, did you?"

Inexplicably, Eddie grins at his words and Steve sees a deep gash in his cheek.

"You think I'm cute," Eddie says, sounding pleased even though it's obvious how much talking hurts him. It's easy to agree with him in this moment, anything to make Eddie happy and stop him from arguing.

"So cute, I'm going to sweep you off your feet now, Eddie." And with that, he scoops Eddie up in his arms, wincing at the way he whimpers in pain. "You gotta hang in there, yeah?"

Steve stumbles toward the trailer, wondering how he's going to get Eddie through the portal, almost missing when Eddie says quietly, "I'll try.”

They make it to the hospital, just barely. The doctors whisk Eddie away before Steve can check his heartbeat again, and he can't get his mind to stop its panicked mantra of too late, too late, too late. It's like his mind refuses to believe they made it without any tangible proof.

So later, when Eddie is out of surgery but still not allowed visitors, Steve sneaks into his room when no one is looking. Eddie's uncle is not there yet, and the room is eerily quiet except for the steady beeping of the heart monitor.

It should be enough to reassure Steve that Eddie is, if not okay, at least alive.

But he isn't.

It's only with his ear pressed to Eddie's chest and hearing the rhythmic and steady beating of his heart that Steve is finally able to take a breath and let the tension seep out of his exhausted body. All he wants right now is to crawl onto the bed and let the sound lull him to sleep.

They almost lost Eddie. Steve almost lost Eddie.

It is with a mixture of surprise and confusion that he realizes just how much the thought hurts.

The next time Steve feels Eddie's heartbeat, it's not through his chest, but through the pulse in his veins.

This thing between them was so new and exciting, and Steve really had no idea what he was doing. Only that since that moment in the Upside Down when he had first pressed his ear to Eddie's chest and felt the faint beating of his heart against his cheek, something had changed.

Not even in a monumental way. It wasn't something Steve could have put his finger on at first.

But something had changed.

There was a new awareness of Eddie in Steve's mind, a space carved out just for the other boy. Like a beacon sending out signals, Steve always knew where Eddie was in a room and what he was doing.

And then there was this current that ran between them. Every time their bodies so much as brushed against each other, Steve could feel it. Sparks of electricity and heat coursing through his veins.

It was both heady and intense, making Steve wonder when he would reach his breaking point, unable to take it anymore, and finally act on it.

In the end, it was Eddie who snapped, kissing Steve with lips that tasted of cheap beer and the grilled cheese sandwiches Steve had made for them. But Steve returned it eagerly, licking happily into Eddie's mouth while his hands had cupped Eddie's face, holding him as if he were precious.

One thing led to another, and soon Steve had Eddie spread out on his sheets, the scars on his body like wildflowers blooming in the aftermath of life's wildfires. Each mark a testament to the battles he fought and the strength that ran through him like roots anchoring a majestic tree. Because he survived, he fought to stay with them, and only because of his strength is Steve allowed to hold him now.

That's why he made sure to caress each and every scar with his hands and mouth, baring his own heart in the process.

When his lubed finger first entered Eddie's body, Steve was as overwhelmed as Eddie, both men needing to catch their breath as their hearts thundered in their chests. At first Steve thought it was his own heart beating so hard he could feel his pulse in his finger. But then he realized it was Eddie's wild heart beating against Steve's finger inside him in a loving embrace.

Steve never knew that he would ever feel someone else's heart so intimately. That he would be able to feel it's rhythm from inside another's body, as if he was holding Eddie's heart in his own hands.

And when he finally sank into him, Steve lay still for a plethora of eternities, reveling in the sensation of Eddie's heartbeat welcoming him home.

Even though Steve wouldn't be able to say those words aloud for another two months, he knew that what they had done that day was love.

The day Steve finally finds the words to say how he feels about him, he can feel Eddie's heart saying it right back to Steve's palm on his chest.

They've been dating for two months now, and though they have to be careful in a way Steve has never had to be before, he wouldn't trade it for the world. Not if it meant falling asleep in Eddie's arms and waking up to the sight of his boyfriend's nose scrunched up adorably as his wild curls tickle it where they don't spill across the pillow they share.

Steve hasn't said them yet, those three words he's only said to one other person, but he tells Eddie every day in his own way. A million little things, from lingering touches to meals prepared to comfortable silences shared.

He tells Eddie he loves him every day when he puts his head on Eddie's chest to feel his heart beat in that steady, rhythmic way that says he's alive. That there is a future, not an almost, but a maybe. A hopefully.

Eddie always lets him, holding still when Steve pushes him down and climbs on top of him so he can lie comfortably and listen to his favorite sound inside Eddie's body. If Vecna were still alive, which fortunately he isn't, Eddie's heartbeat would be the song that could save Steve.

As they lay there, Eddie kept tapping his own rhythm on Steve's back. It's always the same, a song Steve doesn't recognize but has come to love as much as anything else about this impossible man beneath him.

On this particular day, Steve has just finished folding laundry when the doorbell rings. He drops the sweater he's been holding and goes to the door, wondering who it could be. Robin was on a trip with her parents and the kids had school. He and Eddie would see each other tonight at the trailer, have a quick and early dinner before Wayne had to go to work, and he and Eddie would spend the rest of the evening satisfying the ever-present hunger for each other.

When he opens his front door, he's surprised to see Eddie standing there, but one look at his face is enough to tell Steve that something is wrong. He quickly pulls Eddie inside and closes the door before wrapping his boyfriend in his arms.

"What happened, baby?" He asks in a soft voice, feeling Eddie tremble in response. Steve knows that Eddie had a job interview today, down at the new record store, and he was so excited about it. The owner, Stuart, was new in town, so he didn't know who Eddie was or what people thought about him. It was the fresh start Eddie so desperately needed in a town that never quite let him forget that in their eyes he's still a murderer and a freak.

A growing pit in Steve's stomach tells him that some people had been forthcoming enough to tell Stuart all about Eddie before today's interview.

"Was it the interview? Did Stuart not hire you?"

Eddie shakes his head silently, and Steve thinks it's as much an answer to his question as it is Eddie asking not to have to talk about it. Steve understands. When things get too much, too overwhelming, Eddie goes silent. It takes time for him to find his voice, and Steve has learned to give him that time.

He begins to rock him gently, humming a song to himself as he holds Eddie in his arms.

Steve doesn't know how much time passes before Eddie finally lifts his head from where it was buried in Steve's neck to look at him.

"Cyndi Lauper, really?" Eddie teases, and even though it still sounds a bit weak, Steve takes it as a win.

Still rocking gently, Steve puts his hand on Eddie's chest just above his heart.

"What can I say, it makes me think of you." And Steve begins to sing, his voice soft as his eyes never leave Eddie's.

You with the sad eyes, don't be discouraged

Oh, I realize

It's hard to take courage, in a world full of people

You can lose sight of it all

And the darkness inside you can make you feel so small

But I see your true colors shining through

I see your true colors

And that's why I love you

And because he can't let Eddie have the slightest doubt about what Steve is trying to tell him, he says it again: "That's why I love you, Eddie."

Under his palm, Eddie's heart is still beating strong and sure, faster than usual, and Steve wonders if that means he's excited or scared by Steve's words.

The look in his eyes tells Steve it's the former.

Eddie's hand settles over Steve's on Eddie's chest and he begins to tap it gently in a rhythm that Steve has become familiar with.

Tap tap pause long tap, short tap, long tap, short tap, short tap, short tap, long tap, long tap pause long tap, short tap, long tap, long tap, short tap, short tap, long tap, short tap, long tap, long tap.

"That's how my heart would beat for you if it could, Stevie, spelling the same thing over and over again."

And he repeats the rhythm again, as if it meant something. Spelling the same thing...

"Is that... Eddie, is that Morse code?"

"I keep telling you, you're a lot smarter than you think you are, sweetheart. Want to know what it says?"

Steve thinks he knows, but he wants to hear Eddie say it, so he nods.

"I," Eddie says and taps Steve's hand twice on his chest.

"Love," he adds and follows with a series of taps, long, short, long, short, short, short, long, long.

"You," he finishes and Steve's smile widens with each tap of his hand. Long, short, long, long, short, short, long, short, long, long.

Eddie has been tapping those words against his skin since the first time they made love.

"You've been telling me that all along," he marvels, his voice full of wonder and love.

Eddie finally kisses him, painfully tender. "My heart has been trying to tell you ever since you started listening to it."

And Steve thinks maybe Eddie is right, it just took him a little while to understand its language.

#steddie #steve harrington #eddie munson #stranger things #steddie fanfiction #steddie fluff #steddielovemonth #day 8 #Love is the heartbeat I can feel when I hug him #nsft #My writing

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rustingcat · 7 months

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Magic

"Kara!" A voice echoed in her head.

"Kara! Stay with me!" The voice continued. She heard it start to speak again but the endless darkness consumed her before she could hear the rest.

The next time she heard the voice it was accompanied by a different one.

"She's moving"

"I think it's working."

"It's better."

Kara tried to open her eyes, but everything was too bright. She let out a small groan which only made her realise how dry her mouth was, it felt like sand and rocks.

"Kara?"

A warm hand laid on her arm, making her dare to finally open her eyes. Blinking a few times to get her eyes adjusted to the light, Kara was greeted to the face of her beautiful Lena, and her worried sister by her side.

"Oh, thank god," Lena exhaled.

"Did he..?" Kara's voice came out hoarse and raspy.

"We got the guy," Alex assured her, handing her a glass of water. "It was one of the guys that escaped after the heist a few months back with the alien weapons. Apparently he got blasted by one of them and it caused him some strange mutation and a hunger for electricity. He's in holding now, we're looking for a way to cure him. You did good Kara."

Kara nodded, afraid to use her voice again. She decided to finish the glass of water, instead.

"How are you feeling?" Lena asked softly.

"Pretty beaten," she tried to chuckle but only a small huff came out. "How long was I out?"

"A few hours. Luckily Lena had created this new serum, it means you're up early but you'll probably be powerless for a while." Alex explained, making some notes on the pad she grabbed from the end of Kara’s bed.

A few hours was quite impressive, she assumed she should've been out for at least a day.

"Wait!" Reality suddenly came back to her, "the kids!"

"They're fine!" Lena reassured her.

"Did I…" Kara swallowed hard. "Did I miss the birth?" Kara really hoped she didn't. Not that it would matter too much in the long run as long as they're healthy and happy, but she really wanted to be there to greet them when they come.

"No, of course not." Lena touched her hand and smiled her calming smile. "I waited to see if the serum worked so we could do it together. They should meet both their mothers when they come out after all."

Kara breathed a sigh of relief. They were okay and they were waiting for her. Most importantly Lena was not only waiting for her, but made her a special emergency serum that worked perfectly. Well, Lena made it, of course, it would be perfect. "I love you." Kara raised her hand to link her fingers with Lena.

"I love you too." Lena gave her hand a squeeze. She was definitely solar flared, going by the feeling of her squeeze. "Can you move?"

"Hey! You can't move her now! She needs a full day under a sunlamp at the very least before she moves!" Alex interjected, emphasising her point by talking with her hands.

"Alex," Lena's tone turned professional. "My kids are about to come out into the world today and they need us both. Plus, the serum should give her a pretty good solar radiation boost, by the time it wears off I promise you she'll be well tucked into a sunbed as she should be."

"Right," Alex nodded. "I'll keep it warm for you." She had enough sense not to argue with Lena Luthor in mother mode. Probably a lesson she'd be glad she learned sooner rather than later.

"That won't be necessary, she'll stay in the one we have at home."

"We have a sun bed?" It was news to Kara.

"Yes. Now, can you stand?"

Read the rest of the chapter on AO3

#they're here!#one more day to go!#supercorp #supergirl #kara danvers #lena luthor #supercorptober #supercorptober2023 #my art #my fic

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erikahenningsen · 4 months

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5 cadina!

5. “Wait a minute. Are you jealous?”

Out of everything that happens during his junior year, what Damian expected the least was becoming friends with Regina George.

A few weeks after spring fling, their English teacher told them to pair up for a project. Damian was feeling generous that day, so when it became clear that nobody wanted to work with Regina, he graciously volunteered.

What he learned—aside from the fact that The Old Man and the Sea is boring as hell—is that Regina is smart, and funny, and a much better companion at the mall than Janis.

And somewhere around the time Damian offered to reorganize Regina's closet in exchange for Regina writing their paper for them—she actually liked the book—they became friends.

They're seated on a bench outside after school, Regina helping Damian decide which Telfar bag he should ask for for his birthday, when Damian spots Cady and Aaron exit the building, hand in hand.

"Oh, there's Cady and Aaron," Damian says, about to raise his hand to wave.

Regina pulls his arm down. "Ugh. If I have to hear about how Aaron beat some new track record or helped his mom plant flowers right now I'll puke." She says plant flowers how Mr. Duvall says marijuana at their anti-drug assemblies—a little disgusted, a little bit in disbelief that anyone would do that.

"I thought you were over him," Damian says.

"Of course I'm over him," Regina says, waving a hand dismissively. "He's so boring, and he somehow always needs a haircut, even right after he gets one. I don't know what Cady sees in him."

Damian studies Regina more closely. She seems to be going for nonchalant, but there's an edge to her voice, and her eyes are a little sad, and then Damian realizes she's not looking at Aaron.

She's looking at Cady.

"Oh my god," Damian says, so many things clicking into place in his brain. Regina stopping Cady in the cafeteria on her first day and telling her she was pretty. Regina randomly going after Aaron as soon as she learned Cady liked him. Regina telling Cady she liked her in the bathroom at spring fling. "Wait a minute. Are you jealous?"

"Of Cady? Please," Regina scoffs.

"No, Regina," Damian says. "Of Aaron."

For a moment Regina looks confused. Her eyes widen comically, then start darting around the courtyard.

"What? No. That's crazy. Why would you think that? Absolutely not." Damian has never seen Regina look this flustered. Her face is actually red.

"Because you are obsessed with that girl. I can't believe I didn't see it sooner."

"Shut the fuck up," Regina says, but it has no bite to it. She drops her head into her hands.

"It's okay to have gay thoughts, Regina," Damian says, patting her back. "I actually think this world would be a more peaceful place if everyone had gay thoughts."

"Can we not do this right now?" Regina says tiredly. She lifts her head, and she actually looks a little frightened. "And please don't tell anyone."

"Of course I won't," Damian promises. "I know what that does to a person," he adds pointedly, and Regina has the good sense to look down at her hands remorsefully.

"I know," she says. "Thanks."

"Now, I can't say I've ever been attracted to the fairer sex but I am here to support you on your lesbian journey in any way I can," Damian says.

Regina whacks his arm. "I will kill you and make it look like an accident."

"What are you gonna do? Push me in front of a bus?"

"Of course not," Regina says. "That plan obviously has flaws—I mean, I didn't die. I'd get a sure thing."

Damian rolls his eyes. He knows she's just joking.

Or, he's pretty sure.

#cadina #mean girls #mean girls the musical #mean girls 2024 #ask #anonymous #prompts

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oneawkwardwriter · 4 months

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Surprise Visit

pairing: Steve Harrington x gn!reader warnings/tags: child abandonment, unsupervised minors, Dustin being a little shit, very little swearing, mentions of violence (no real violence takes place) summary: everyone is staying over at Steve's house (I swear, his house is canonically almost like a mansion) when the kids hear strange noises coming from downstairs in the middle of the night. a/n: this is my first short fic on tumblr, so I have no idea how this will work out. Also, yes I'm very aware that it doesn't make a lot of sense, but bear with me. wc: 1.1k

Just like so many times before, the entire party ended up at Steve's house. It was that time in between the holidays where everyone just stays inside all day, savoring the last bits of the Christmas spirit and the New Year's celebrations. Seeing as Steve's house was always rather empty with just him, it wasn't unusual that at least one person would sleep over or come by during the day.

You were already there, as you had spent the night with Steve. Dustin had come in during breakfast, which had become such a habit that a bowl of cereal already stood on the counter. Robin had showed up around 11.30 A.M., which was uncharacteristically early before they realised she had tagged along with Nancy, who was more of an early bird. After that, the other younger kids had stopped by one by one, naturally staying as they got to talking.

Losing track of time entirely, it got dark much sooner than expected. Since no one really felt like going home and there were more empty bedrooms than would ever be used, everyone just stayed over for the night. Nancy and Robin ended up in one bedroom, the six kids divided over two others, and you had fallen asleep next to Steve in his room.

Around 2.30 A.M., you were woken up by a soft knock on the door. Confused, you looked up at Steve, who's expression looked similar to yours. You got up to the door and opened it, only to find El, Max and Dustin standing on the other side.

"You better have a good excuse to wake us up in the middle of the night," Steve groaned as he stood behind you, rubbing his eyes while stifling a yawn.

"It's not the middle of the night, that's 3 A.M.," Dustin commented with his usual sarcasm, earning himself a 'mom' look from Steve, who glared at him with his hands on his hips.

"Ignore him," Max said, "We heard a noise coming from downstairs."

"A noise?" You asked, "Are you sure?"

You had barely finished your sentence before you heard some indistinct footsteps and muffled voices that you couldn't make out. You glanced over your shoulder at Steve, shooting him a somewhat worried look.

"Alright," You said as you looked back at the three kids again, "You three go to the others, we'll get Robin and Nancy and see what's going on."

"I'll get the bats," Steve replied, somewhat annoyed to be woken up to inspect what the hell was going on this time before reaching under his bed to grab a couple of baseball bats, including the one with the hammered nails.

You sent the kids to stay with the others, telling them to wait for at least half an hour if no one came back. After that, you got Nancy and Robin, who weren't exactly pleased to up either, but also didn't like the idea of someone or something being in the house.

Carefully, you went down the stairs, Steve in the front with you right behind him, closely followed by Robin and Nancy in the back. You had to look back once to slightly glare at Robin, who was whispering "please don't let this be the day I die" over and over again, to get her to quiet down.

The sounds seemed to come from the kitchen, so after making sure no one heard them coming downstairs, Steve quickly opened the door to the kitchen, turning on the light with one hand while clutching his bat with the other one. This seemed to startle whoever the intruders were, because they turned around to face the four of them.

"What the-" Steve could get out before realising who exactly were standing in his kitchen. "Mom? Dad? What the hell are you doing here?"

His parents looked quite confused and rather alarmed by the sight of seeing the four people, all holding a baseball bat, seemingly ready to get a swing out of them.

"Don't talk to your mother like that," Steve's father scolded, his face turning from shocked to stern in a matter of seconds. "And what is all of this, all of you looking as if you're about to bludgeon someone?"

A bit shocked by the outcome themselves, they lowered their improvised weapons.

"What brings you two back to Hawkins?" Steve asked, a somewhat bitter undertone in his voice. "I haven't seen you for what feels like forever."

"We were busy, you know that," His mother answered, her tone matching that of her husband's. "We thought it would be good to stop by and... surprise you for the holidays."

"Well, you're a bit late then, huh? The holidays are over." Perhaps Steve was a bit harsh, but who could blame him? His parents we're rarely home, and even if they were, he couldn't seem to find anything to talk about with them.

"Come, come, don't get sour," His father said, "We only wanted to surprise you, but it seems like you've got your hands full with the three of them." He motioned to Robin, Nancy and yourself, a somewhat suggestive undertone laced in his voice.

"Oh, that's not- we're not-" Nancy stammered as Robin shook her head, "It's not like that- Well, not for all of us... I mean, they are- but we aren't- no."

"Yeah, that totally made sense," Steve said sarcastically.

"Oh, fuck off, they get it," Robin replied, while you just shook your head.

"Anyway," Steve continued, "Thanks for dropping by, but I really don't feel the need to keep this going. I'm going to let the kids know everything's fine and then go to bed."

"Wait, kids?" Both his parents asked in unison.

"You don't need to, they've been listening from the top of the stairs the entire time," Nancy replied dryly, glancing over her shoulder to look at the six kids huddled together, who quickly hurried back to their rooms.

"Of course they have," Steve shook his head before walking out, pulling you along with him while ignoring his parents. Nancy and Robin followed, shooting an awkward smile at the adults before going upstairs.

Once you're back in his room, you lean against the door as Steve sits on his bed. "Are you alright?" You ask, crossing your arms.

"Yeah, I'm alright..." Steve sighed as he lightly massaged his temples. "Don't know how I'm going to deal with my parents in the morning, but I'm fine."

You walk over to him and sit next to him on the bed, laying your head on his shoulder. "We'll figure it out... better get some sleep now."

Steve nodded, putting his arm around you as you both got comfortable again. You'd have to deal with his parents in the morning, if they hadn't already left again before you got up, but that was an issue for later.

#stranger things #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington fic #stranger things fic #robin x nancy implied #x gn reader #steve is a mom #this doesn't make sense #writeblr #dustin henderson #max mayfield #el hopper #lucas sinclair #steve harrington #nancy wheeler #robin buckley #will byers #divider by saradika #oneawkwardwriter fics

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amazingmsme · 7 months

Text

Such A Squealer

AN: Somehow managed to whip this up lickety split before I start on my homework. This was a really cute prompt, & lumax holds a special place in my heart. Hope y'all enjoy day 11!

Max considerer herself to be a good girlfriend, no, a great girlfriend. She shared the same interests with Lucas, she was funny, supportive, and even though she was hesitant to think so, she knew that some people would say she's pretty. (Her mom insisted on it, at least.) And to top it off, she was currently giving him a massage without even being asked.

"Okay, but it better not be some kinda trick," he teased, laying down on the bed. He rested his chin on his hands and shifted until he was comfortable. She straddled his waist and began working her palms over tense shoulders. He'd been complaining about being sore after practice, so this was the least she could do.

Her hands traveled the expanse of his back, over the rolling hills of his shoulders and the valley of his lower spine. She carried on for a few minutes before slipping her hands under his shirt to glide over bare skin. He let out pleased grunts and hums as she released the tight knots in his back, allowing his troubles to melt away.

And then her hands traveled too far down, veering off to the side and she happened to squeeze his hips. Lucas jolted as if he'd been electrocuted, and squealed. He clapped a hand to his mouth just as a grin tried to overtake his features. He'd been too late to muffle the sound, and Max's interest was piqued.

"Oh? What was that?" she asked, doing it again. Lucas jolted, arms pressing down against his sides.

"N-nothing," he said, voice at least two octaves higher. Max looked at the back of his head with skepticism and grinned.

"Mm, that didn't sound like nothing," she mused, idly drawing circles with her thumbs over his hipbones. He snorted, burying his face in a nearby pillow to muffle his laughter.

Max couldn't have that. She loved the way his laugh sounded. He didn't hold back, and it just sounded so bright it could light up a room. It was the sound of pure, unbridled joy- his joy. And she was the only making him happy. She decided she deserved to hear it and yanked the pillow away, tossing it aside.

He yelped when his shield was stolen before falling into endless giggles as Max kneaded his hips.

"Nohoho, plehehease!" he begged, curling up on his side. Max persisted and used his new position to roll him on his back. He was breathless, hair tussled and he had the biggest smile of his face she's ever seen.

"Is there a reason you've been hiding this tickle spot from me?" she asked, hands formed into claws and poised to strike. He giggled nervously and looked away.

"Ihi wasn't hiding it! You just didn't find it!" he defended himself. She arched a brow.

"You could've told me," she cooed. Lucas snorted.

"Yeah right. You just would've tortured me sooner!" he justified, unable to tear his eyes away from her hands.

"Guess I'll have to make up for lost time then," she said smugly and shrugged. His eyes widened and he tried to grab her hands and push them away, but she was too quick. Rapid squeezes to the hips assaulted his nerves and sent tiny shocks of electricity through his body. He shrieked, head thrown back against the mattress, mouth hanging open as cackles escaped. Max was glad her mom wasn't home, surely she'd think they were being killed. Now that she thought about it, maybe some of the neighbors did. Oh well, she'll be happy to explain the misunderstanding if any cops were to arrive. Hopper would certainly find it funny.

Lucas was thrashing around on the bed, laughing freely and most notably, not trying to stop her. Max grinned to herself, taking a deep breath before diving down. She blew a raspberry as hard as she could on his hipbone, and another loud squeal cut through the air. She kept going until she was smiling so wide, she couldn't get a good seal on his skin. She rose back up, so breathless and happy you'd think she was the one being tickled.

"Dude, you are such a squealer!" she teased, squeezing his hips so he couldn't protest, though he still tried.

"Ihihi aham nohohot!" he insisted through persistent giggles.

"Wanna bet?" she asked playfully, wiggling her brows at him before taking a large breath. Lucas shook his head, eyes wide and an overwhelming smile in place.

"Nonono wahahait!" She didn't wait, instead blowing another raspberry on his other hip. Needless to say, Max proved her point.

#tickletober #tickletober 2023 #tickletober day 11 #lucas sinclair #max mayfield #stranger things #stranger things fic #stranger things tickle fic #ticklish!lucas

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signedeclipse · 2 years

Note

Hello hello! I hope you've been doing well lately! ^^ <3

Could I please request some fluff headcanons of how Dōma, Akaza, Gyūtarō, Enmu, and Rui (all separately) would react to their s/o (she/her) waking up from a terrible nightmare? And how would they comfort her? (the nightmare isn't caused by Enmu or his powers, it's just a nightmare that naturally occurred to the reader)

Also I saw in your rules that you'll write for 5 characters if they're Kizuki, but if 5 characters are too much or if you don't feel like writing for all of them, then please tell me and I'll change my request immediately!!! I don't want to overwhelm you or make you uncomfortable!! Thank you and sending you much love!! 💞💞

Akaza

Akaza enjoys sleeping next to you, and his day-to-day activities made him quite the heavy sleeper at that

Which was fortunate, from how much you thrashed in your sleep

Nightmares were common for you; most nights, they plagued your sleep

But tonight was exceptionally worse

Nothing could wake Akaza up, at least nothing you knew till now

The moment you let out a scream and jumped forwards, he was already grabbing your face and comforting you

He kept his arms tightly around your balled-up form and let you hide your head into his neck

Tire was absent in his eyes; if you didn't know any better, you'd think he was in the prime of his day

His own heart beat just as fast as yours

Thankfully your nightmare was in your head, but to Akaza, he was almost convinced his nightmare of losing you had come true

He never wanted to hear that scream again

No negativity before bed is the new rule

No horror, no arguments, no sad topics; he keeps himself clean of blood

Anything that might cause a nightmare is taken away, including people

Douma

Douma chooses not to sleep most nights

He will gladly watch over you while he reads or cuddles up next to you so you can rest easy

He is used to your soft smiles and sleepy noises through the night, so the moment something is amiss, he notices

Douma would wake you up before a nightmare could get too far

But in the event he looked away too long or walked away for a moment...

When you wake up in terror and call his name, he is tripping over his own feet to get to you

He will bring you from your room to his 'throne' room where it's well lit and full of fresh air so you can calm

Sits cross-legged with you on his lap; however you consider comfortable

Gently rocking back and forth and opting to tell you about what he had been doing or reading

Douma isn't great at verbal comfort, so he just does his best to change the atmosphere

Enmu

Long-since promised not to interfere with your dreams unless you gave permission

Sometimes he likes to enter your dreams and watch what your mind gets up to

Just watches, of course, hidden in the outer zone of your consciousness

The moment things get dark, he takes control and stops it himself

Unfortunately, he isn't always there, having to go out on missions or get something to eat

When he comes back from a mission and sees you tireless, forcing yourself awake, he is mournful for not protecting you

But, he would make sure you could rest easy asap, gives you a comfortable bath, washes your hair

Cleans the sheets, opens the windows to let in the fresh air, holds you close and reads to you

Enmu is, of course, a dream expert

So he knows if he keeps your mind off of it long enough, you will forget the nightmare sooner

Eventually, when you feel ready to sleep again, he reassures you he will give you good dreams, so nothing comes back

Gyutaro

Gyutaro usually falls asleep before you in your pile of blankets, totally sprawled out like a starfish

You usually just have to find a comfortable place on or against him and sleep tight

In your sleep, his red ties carefully slither around and wrap around you both in random patterns

Its Gyutaro subconsciously making sure you are there with him

So if you ever were to jolt forwards-

You'd come ricocheting back into him, which would knock him awake too

At first, he's already pulled out his weapons and gotten ready to attack, but then he noticed you trembling

Just kind of wraps the blankets around you and gives you a blanket cave

He will do his best to encourage you to sleep, so you won't be tired all day tomorrow

Makes you hold a scythe and claims it will go with you in your dreams so you can kill whatevers troubling you

Maybe not very comforting, but definitely cute

Rui

Having a lot of nightmares himself, he knows what the feeling is like and does his best to prevent them for you the same way he does himself

You both live in quite a scary place surrounded by 'monsters,' so it's expected

Rui tries to be the person he never had when you end up shaken over a nightmare

He hushes you, holds you close, turns on the lights and makes you as comfortable as possible

On the more negative side, if he finds out someone you know was in the nightmare hurting you, they may end up dead

But that's neither here nor there; Rui just wants to protect you as you defend him

Consider this man an ASMRtist, he probably traces his nails carefully along your skin and whispers affirmations to you

—————-

Authors Note - So happy to see you around again!! I hope you are doign okay too <3 Im quite well personally (just scored my first apartment and moving soon, wooo!) I do accept 5 kizuki/hashira so you are PERFECTLY fine!!

#demon slayer #demon slayer x reader #demon slayer headcanons #kimetsu academy #kny headcanons #kny x reader #reader insert #x reader #rui x reader #rui #enmu #enmu x reader #gyutaro x reader #gyutaro #akaza x reader #akaza #douma x reader #douma

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hazel-of-sodor · 7 months

Text

Day 5-Down a Well

Traintober 2023

Other Stories

Day 5-Its only me

Down a Well

Henry had had plenty of bad days. His early years had been marked by plenty of days remembered for all the wrong reasons. But even by his standards...this day was almost impressive in how poorly it had gone before the sun appeared.

He looked up at Gordon, who looked distinctly unimpressed with his existence. James looked whether he didn't know whether to laugh to be nervous about his own part in all this. Jinx was eyeing the turntable with concern. He couldn't see the others from his position, but he could hear them whispering nonetheless.

He felt more awkward than he had since the last time he had failed before his rebuild, it was not a feeling he enjoyed feeling again. Fortunately, Gordon took a measure of pity on him and finally spoke up.

"Are you quite alright Henry?"

Henry looked down. "...my front aches badly. I'm afraid it's only gonna get worse."

Gordon looked down in concern, "I'm afraid I must agree with your assessment."

James stopped snickering long enough to look down to where Henry's front jammed into the side of the turntable in a mass of bent and twisted metal. "At least you can't fall further in," The red engine offered.

Henry glared up at the scarlet menace.

In the distance, the sound of an engine approaching through the yard could be heard.

"Finally." Henry sighed, "Someone who can do something to help."

"Fraid not Henry, it's only me." Thomas peeped happily, causing Henry to sag in defeat.

"Thomas," Gordon said in warning.

Thomas just chuckled, "Don't worry Henry, I'm only teasing. Edward is on his way, so even if I can't pull you out, we'll be able to."

Henry was wondering what exactly he had done to deserve Thomas of all engines being the one to come to his rescue. He sighed, at least the morning couldn't get any worse...except it did.

"I would certainly hope so Thomas. As he is currently blocking the sheds," the Fat Controller said severely.

"Good morning sir!" Thomas peeped far too happily as his crew attached him to Henry's detached tender, "we'll have him quickly."

"As long as he's not wedged in the table," Jinx said concernedly.

Sir Topham Hatt climbed down the ladder into the turntable well to inspect the damage. As he pulled back a piece of metal he addressed the stricken engine. "Well Henry, would you care to explain?"

"Well, Sir I..." James snickered at Henry's predicament

"Yes, Henry?"

"Sir if I may? Gordon offered.

"Go ahead."

"A new driver was moving Henry towards the table when James started a fuss about being repainted," James' expression quickly changed from amusement to betrayal. "He caused such a commotion the shunter failed to heed Henry's warnings and braked too late."

"Is that true Henry?"

"Yes sir," Henry said despondently.

"James?" It looked like James wanted to proclaim his innocence for a moment, but thought better of it. "Yes, sir." He sighed.

"Hmmmm. And where is the driver?"

"He was fleeing before Henry had even come to rest," Jynx answered. "My driver had to climb up and shut off Henry's steam."

"I see."

Mr. Smith, the British Rail representative arrived, walking up to the edge of the turntable. "Morning, Sir Hatt. Seems the day's trouble started early.,

"Morning Mr Smith, it had indeed."

Thomas returned and pulled behind Henry, The waiting yard crew began attaching chains between the two engines.

"Can you pull him out Thomas?

"I can try Sir. If he's fully wedged I'll need Edward's help."

"Very well. Everyone clear out. The sooner he's back on the rails the sooner we can repair the damage."

The workmen cleared away as Sir Topham Hatt climbed out of the well."

"Everyone ready? One. Two. Three. Pull!"

With much wheel slipping and clouds of steam, Thomas heaved his hardest. At first, nothing seemed to happen, but then with a groan and screech of metal, Henry felt himself slowly start to move.

"Go it, Thomas!" Jinx called, and the others quickly joined in, cheering the straining tank engine on. In what felt like hours, but what was probably less than a minute, Henry felt the last of his wheels return to the rails. Thomas came to a stop, audibly gasping for air from the effort.

"Well done Little Thomas," Gordon said.

"Thank you." Thomas panted out, smiling from the rare praise from the pacific.

Sir Topham Hatt had climbed back down into the turntable well to inspect the damage.

"The main mechanism is jammed." He said grimly, "It cannot be moved until it is repaired. We will need to find an engine to pull the morning express quickly, as we can't get any of the engines in the shed out in time."

Henry stared down at his bent front, it was clear he wouldn't be pulling any trains till he was repaired.

"Edward is coming," Thomas said hopefully.

Gordon shook his head, "he's not strong enough to pull it alone."

Mr. Smith looked to Sir Topham Hatt, "None of the Barrow or Vicarstown engines could arrive in time, could they?"

The Fat Controller shook his head, "No they could not."

Gordon suddenly smiled as an idea occurred to him. "If only we had an engine here with express experience. One who had not only served as my back engine on the Wild'nor Western before but had pulled the trains with Edward when we were indisposed."

Thomas understood first, "Oh no."

The other engines and crews turned to look at the tank engine, who looked one second away from bolting.

James smirked, "Of course! He did such a good job covering for us in the 30s," he purred.

Thomas glared, "I am a tank engine, not a bloody express engine."

"But you are capable," Hatt said thoughtfully. Thomas looked betrayed.

"He is?" Smith asked dubiously.

"Of course!" Henry interjected, "he runs a non-stop service from Tidmouth to Ffarquhar in the evenings."

"He would have to stop at Marion for coal and water." Gordon said smoothly, "but he is capable of making the run, and he would never let the passengers down."

Sir Topham Hatt nodded, "Can your branchline spare you, Thomas?"

Thomas looked desperately around as if hoping an express engine would magically appear, but in the end, he sighed, "Yes. Callan and Toryreck are covering my trains."

"It's settled then." The fat controller nodded, "Thomas and Edward will pull the express while the workmen find a way to get the rest of you out."

He walked off towards the station platform, "Thomas, place Henry on the siding with his tender then fetch the coaches."

"Yes sir."

"Cheer up little Thomas." Gordon mock soothed.

"I hope they have to use a crane to get you out," Thomas puffed away to the sound of the big engines chuckling.

#ttte fanfic #rws fanfic #fanfic #Prompt-Its Only Me #Traintober23 #Traintober #Traintober 2023 #ttte henry #TTTE Gordon #ttte thomas #ttte james #TTTE OC Jinx #ttte sir topham hatt

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dominickeating-source · 5 days

Text

Dominic Keating Forum - Post Archive Messages (2001-2005)

10/31/2001 I've been checking in to read all your wonderful messages and cannot express enough how flattered and utterly bowled over I am by all your kind words and attention. There isn't an actor, dead or alive, who doesn't worry whether or not they're nice to look at or whether their performance is any good, so to all of you who have taken the time to write in either to appreciate my acting ability or just the shape of my butt...I am eternally in your debt. Keep 'em comin' and tell a friend! I love you all, Dominic

11/07/2001 In answer to some important questions- So, it's official is it? I'm a Sex Symbol....Aaaah, at last! Tell that to my bank manager. And now, food. I have to say that my Mum's Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding on Sunday is as good as it gets, which brings me swiftly to my favorite moment on the show coming to your screens shortly when my character, Malcolm Reed, gets into a hellish food fight in the mess hall with T'Pol and Hoshi resulting in a lengthy "de-con" scene which took two days to shoot....Hey, a man can dream! Love you guys, Dominic

11/17/2001 Once again, a big "Thankyou" to all of you who are posting. Not only is it great fun for me to read when I get the chance but it's also very rewarding and educational, if you will, to hear all your thoughts and opinions about the show. It's still very much in its formative stage and so all imput is helpful and very much apart of my learning curve. HOWEVER...I think it's just TOO rude of whoever(not to mention any names....you know who you are) to notice other mens' winning smiles(ie:Anthony Montgomery's) on MY message board...!!! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. The Webmaster has been instructed to seek ALL offenders out and line them up for a private spanking at a location to be disclosed at a later date. Incidentally, I am very chuffed that some of you have obviously seen quite a bit of my work before Enterprise. So, maybe I'll see some of you in the Lone Star state...don't be shy. All my best. Dominic

12/03/2001 Hi You Fabulous Guys! Sorry not to have acknowledged all your listings sooner but things got very busy for Malcolm on board the Enterprise. So that's good news. Sadly you'll have to wait 'till the New Year to see quite a bit more of him but at last it would seem that the powers that be are turning around and taking a closer look at the enigmatic Brit. As an actor it's been a joy and very rewarding. I love going to work. I am truly blessed and very grateful. And not least for all your fantastic support and praise for the job I am fortunate enough to be doing. Inspite of the fact that my character was not getting much of the spotlight initially you still noticed the performance and that was very, very encouraging. Especially at the beginning of such an epic journey...for me not Malcolm that is! So, thankyou all and if I don't get to post before...have a wonderfully Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Peace and Love. Dominic

12/18/2001 Thankyou to my wonderful Webmaster and all of you who contributed to the extraordinary "dossier" of Christmas Greetings. It arrived at work this afternoon and I was blown away reading all your heartfelt messages of Yuletide Cheer waitiing for Scott Bacula to come out of his trailer. Just kidding, Scott!!I'm off to London on Thursday to see my dear Mum and do some press for the launch of the show in Blighty. Back on the fourth of Jan...Be well 'till then and don't forget to leave a little something out for Santa. HoHoHo...

01/10/2002 Hoping that this year is at least as good for everyone of you as the last was for me! I just got back from the UK where I was promoting the launch of the show there, and spending some time with my family and friends. My Godson is nearly ten and I wish all of you could have seen his little face when he ripped the Christmas wrapping paper off the first official NX-01 cap to reach their shores. The reaction to the show seemed pretty good although I had to fly back to the States before its opening night, so if anyone in England(that means you Leicester Girl!)has any info then feel free to share. Good notices only please!! And by the way, a big thankyou to all of you who replied to the journalist from my home town. My Mum read the article to me over the phone a couple of days ago...I can't tell you all how proud you made her feel. As you know the new episodes will be starting soon and if my memory serves me there's some nice stuff coming up for your friend and mine so stay tuned and tell a friend! Happy New Year Everybody. Ever my best. Dominic

02/07/2002 Hi Guys...For some crazy reason my computer jammed and I was unable to access my board for a couple of weeks. But it's fine now and it was just fab to read all your praises especially about Sleeping Dogs. I really liked the episode too and thought I managed to hold my own in the decon scene! Now that's what I call drama! I particularly liked the fact that Hoshi and Reed get Starfleet regulation issue scivvies while T'Pol has hers sent to the ship direct from Victoria's "Vulcan" Secret!! It's all just a bit of fun. Life has been v. busy and rewarding and I can hardly believe that we're almost at the end of the first season. It has skipped by. So, make sure you look out for next weeks' ep...it's a good one(Feb 13). According to Rick Berman he's never been more proud of one particular show. High praise indeed....let's see if it's warranted. Thanks again to one and all. I truly love reading your messages and receiving your best wishes. Right back you!

02/16/2002 Well, what can I say? You really are the best. Never in my wildest dreams would I have expected such praise, such warmth, such support for what I love to do. I am just so proud and moved that you were all so proud and moved. It's truly magical. I have read all your postings and am simply honoured that we touched your hearts and made you laugh quite as it would appear we did. It was a beautifully written episode, a joy to act, fabulously directed and skillfully photographed. As a collaborative experience it really doesn't get any better. Connor Trinneer is just the most generous and consumately talented actor I've had the good fortune to risk going "all out" with and I can only hope we get to do it again. Thank you all for your kind, kind words. It means the world to me.

02/28/2002 Thanks so much for showing up on Sunday...it was a thrill to meet some of you in the flesh. And thanks to all of you who sent word thru the "e-mail brochure". It really means alot to me. Sorry this is so brief...work schedule is gruelling this week. All love 'till later. Dominic

04/24/2002 Hi Guys...It's been too long . What a hectic time this has been. The end of the season, the rap party, conventions and moving into my new house!! I can't tell you how exciting that whole trip has been but here I sit in "my study" tapping this message to Y'all. Thank you guys...without you none of it would be so. No sooner do I finally have a few moments to myself than I'm off to Europe to do the con in Germany and then spend a little time with me dear ol' Mum in Leicester. Then back to Cali and thankfully back to work. In fact I heard just this afternoon that my contract had been officially renewed by Paramount. My manager was delighted...and although I suppose there was perhaps little doubt as to whether we would or not it's always a moment when the word is verified in writing. So, onward and upward...but before the second season kicks off I would like to take this opportunity to really thank each and every one of you for your remarkable support and insight into the creation of Malcolm Reed. Believe me when I tell you that it truly has been a team effort and you all played your part...rather well I might add!! From the bottom of my heart I thank you. Much Love. Dominic

10/04/2002 Well, Hello everybody!! It has been too long...It's a long boring story about getting DSL and not being able to access my AOL thereafter. Some of you out there probably can sympathize. Several experts and one good friend later the problem is over and I log on to find everything is different. Different format, different names, different peeps....Where have all my peeps gone? Where are you Nan? Where are you Dragoncait? Where are you My Laughing Muse? Not to say I don't appreciate all the newer Peeps. Always glad to welcome the newly converted! So, anyway, I wanted to say sorry for being so far away and to add that I will try to check in more regularly. Hope you you are enjoying the new season....as you can see it's been a pretty busy start for Malcolm. We're both well and having fun. All love, Dominic

12/18/2002 Thank you & Happy Holidays! Hello everybody!! I want to thank all my Peeps for the wonderful contributions you made to the Holiday book for me! I am very touched and moved that you all would take time to send me your holiday wishes. It reassures me that I am pleasing all of you with my acting and tells me how much I am appreciated by each and every one of you. I can’t tell you how much of an honor that is to me. What a fantastic prezzy! I just found out that I was voted the 9th sexiest male in Star Trek, what an honor! My Peeps are the greatest for making sure that I was accounted for. Connor Trinneer came in #1, I sure would like to see what photos voters had to judge "sexiest" from. I wish all of you Happy Holidays and a great New Year. All love, Dominic

04/14/2003 Hello my dear Peeps.... It's been a long time yet again.... my apologies. Life has been hectic. It looks like I will not be in London attending the E-1 convention. How I will miss seeing all of you there! Perhaps there will be a convention next year. So, anyway, I wanted to say sorry yet again for being so far away and I wish I could say I would be checking in more regularly but life must settle a little first. Hope you enjoy the season finale.... get as many of your friends as you can to watch it so I can have even more Peeps! You are all so terrific; there should be millions of you! All love, Dominic

09/12/2003 It has been a long time since I last posted, my apologies. I have been busy with work since the hiatus. I hope you all were keen to the season opener. The show defiantly has a harder edge to it now. There are a lot more great episodes to come so keep watching! I was reading my fan mail and discovered that I won ‘Best Actor’ in the DKEB Awards and wanted to post a thank you to all of you that voted. My many thanks to everyone that has been submitting things to the website and the fan newsletter. Keep it up so that they both continue to be places where my fans can gather and enjoy each other. Many thanks to all of you for all of your support and love. All Love, Dominic

08/25/2005 Hello my loves, I love the new forums and have been reading your posts. My fans are the best. Although I am slightly jet lagged as I just got back in to town so pardon my sluggishness, I wanted to take a moment and say hello to all of you. I have grown the facial hair to play the part in Hollywood Kills. The character is called Francis Fenway. The synopsis, in a nutshell, is that I am playing a John Waters-esque character. A man who lures young Hollywood hopefuls into his casting area where he then entraps them and makes snuff movies out of them. It is a fun role. It’s going to look good. The director is a young German director, Sven Pape, who cut his teeth with James Cameron after leaving the AFI. He’s every thoughtful and has a good eye and had a lot of success with his last movie, LA Twister. We shot the first scene today and I can tell he is going to challenge me. I look forward to being challenged. It was very nice to see all the English fans over the past few months. Great to be home. I had a great time. I intend to travel back and forth now. I hope to start doing some acting in the UK as well. Life is good and I love you all, Dominic

#dominic keating #the keating cult #long post

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cakeinpants · 2 months

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Pat spent the rest of the day in his room. The room where he spent most of his "vacation". Despite having the keys, he really had nowhere else to go.

But now he at least had Kyung to talk to. Even after ending the phone call, the two friends kept exchanging messages all day.

On the contrary, he didn't hear anything from Maximus that day...

He showed up at the dancer's door late in the evening.

"Hey there.." The drone peaked in his room tentatively. "Hope I'm not disturbing... You weren't sleeping yet?"

"No.." sitting on the bed, the dancer answered blankly.

"Sorry I had to leave without wishing you good morning~ Wanted to check in on you sooner, but.. You know how it is being Delvona's assistant." The drone smiled casually, coming in. "How are you?"

"Im okay.. now." Pat said. He kept his eyes low, unable to look Maximus in the eye, sitting very still. It felt like his body froze in the presence of the drone.

"That's- good..." Maximus said less confidently. They stayed quiet for a moment, both waiting for each other to say something else.

"Any.. news?" The dancer said finally, still looking at the floor.

"News?"

"My brothers.. Mr. Malgaine.."

"Oh, right. Well... I didn't really have the time..."

He had all the time to drive around Nolybab yesterday though... Pat didn't say it out loud. But his thoughts must've reflected on his face.

"Look, I'm telling you it's just been a real busy day at work... But I'll take care of everything, I promise." The drone started reassuring. "I'll bring them to you. And your master.. I could get you a phone call with him! Would you like that?"

"A phone call?"

"Of course!.." he smiled softly. "As.. soon as it's possible. Hes uh- not exactly available right now.. but he'll be okay." The drone said vaguely.

"..Right.."

"Pat. I got you." Maximus said, sitting next to the dancer. "You don't need to worry about anything, alright?.."

Oh, how Pat wanted to believe that. It was almost tempting to give in to the soothing words just like he did before.. Just like he did last night.

"C'mon, look at me..." The drone reached his hand out to the danser's chin..

No!

Pat instinctively broke away from his hands. Maximus did get to see his eyes for a second. The dancer's look was full of repulsion.

"Wh-" The drone looked at him in surprise. "Why?.."

Pat hurriedly looked away. Of course, Maximus didn't even realise how the dancer felt about all this. It's not a big deal to him after all...

"What happened?"

"Nothing.." Pat didn't know why he said that. It was very obviously not true.

"You weren't so.. untouchable yesterday.."

"I wasn't sober either..."

The drone's expression darkened.

"... You regret it?"

Another long pause. Pat felt like all words were stuck in his throat.

"Well, say it. Why won't you say anything?"

They sat in silence for what felt like forever to the dancer.

"Tch-" Maximus moved away. "Like I don't know what's going on..." His voice was bitter, full of held back frustration. "People are in my bed for my money and connections all the time. You ain't unique. And you ain't special. If you play along cause you need shit from me, then don't complain about it later. I didn't force you to nothing." The drone got up. "You don't wanna see me? You won't see me again." And walked towards the door. "You can keep all the shit I gave you..."

The dancer's stomach went cold hearing those words, watching the drone leave. But he didn't say or do anything, sitting helplessly on his bed as Maximus closed the door behind himself.

Pat was on his own now.

#oddtumblr #pat #rp thread #adult themes warning

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rileytwenty · 1 year

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IDIA || an Avatar story (x Neteyam)

Chapter 10

Masterlist

(English Na'vi)

Morning passed slowly. I was too upset by Neteyam's emotional admission to be around him, so I avoided him.

How could he say that he doesn't want me to feel like an outsider, when he treats me like one? How can he say that he doesn't want me to feel like I am lesser than, when his whole family acts like I am either a demon or a burden?

After lunch, Tsireya and I were the only ones left in the marui. She was doing some weaving, and had agreed to sit with me so I had some company.

"Tsireya, can I... can I ask you something?"

"Of course, Idia."

"What happened to Neteyam's hands? Do you know?"

She let out surprised giggles. "Yes, I know, but I'm sworn to secrecy. I'm sorry."

"Please, Tsireya, I'm worried." My tone was too concerned to leave space for more of her gentle giggles.

Her smile faltered into confusion for a second. "Okay, but you can't tell him you know. I think the embarrassment would kill him."

"Alright, fine. Now, tell me."

"He was trying to shuck oysters, but he didn't know how and did it wrong for hours. He said he'd get the cuts treated but I think he got too embarrassed and backed out."

I burst out into deep chuckles from my gut and Tsireya joined in. "Here I was worried that he got into a knife fight or something, meanwhile he was just shucking oysters?! That's too good!" I laughed out.

"Tsireya!" Oh shit. "You said you would keep it a secret, skxawng!" Neteyam growled through barred teeth, entering the marui with footsteps heavy enough to shake the netting.

Tsireya raised her hands in surrender, laughing as she hurriedly left the structure. "Sorry, Neteyam. I guess I just like Idia better," she added as soon as she was far enough away to be out of Neteyam's reach.

He clicked his tongue and his tail swished in annoyance.

"What are you doing here? I thought you were supposed to be training for a hunt with Ao'nung." As in, he was supposed to be somewhere that I was not.

"Yeah, the ass was nowhere to be found." He seated himself next to me at the water entrance of the marui, dangling his legs next to mine. "Look, if I have a free moment, I want to talk to you. I know you're trying to avoid me after what I said last night."

I heaved a sigh. "You might just be right. What about it?"

"Listen, I meant what I said. I don't like the way they treat you. It's not right."

I knew that. It was obvious. But to hear someone else say it, especially someone from the clan? It was nice, to say the least.

"I appreciate you saying that, but as I said, you would never say that in front of your parents."

He rubbed the back of his neck anxiously. "Maybe not, but that's because my parents are terrifying and stubborn. That doesn't change the fact that you don't deserve the treatment you get."

"I know I was dealt a bad hand, I don't need you to tell me. I know I don't deserve the isolation and humiliation and torment the whole fucking clan gives me. You act like this is news, but it's not. It's been like this since I was born. Did you know that I was raised on synthesized breast milk after my parents died because none of the lactating mothers would share their milk with a demon? It's always been this way, even if you never realized it."

"I..." He ran a hand through his braids, tousling them about. "I'm sorry. I didn't know how bad it was. I wish that I had noticed your suffering sooner. Maybe it could have been easier for you."

I rubbed the crease between my brows. "Don't worry yourself about it, Neteyam. It is the way it is." I patted his shoulder in reassurance.

"No. They still treat you terribly, and they shouldn't."

"Well, Tonowari and Tsireya are pretty nice. It's better here than at the mountain base. I'll be fine."

"No, no. You deserve better than 'fine'." He rose to his feet and began to walk off.

"Neteyam." He was too focused on wherever he was going to stop.

I groaned. If he was going to stir up trouble with his family, could he not at least wait until I was healed?

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

"What have you done?" Neytiri barged into the marui, storming over to where I was sitting.

"What?"

"What have you told my son? Filling his head with lies? Turning him against me?" She hissed, her ears flat back against her hair and her eyes wide, standing in a predatory stance.

"I didn't do anything, I swear." I rose to my feet, holding my arms up defensively. Standing on my leg made it sting.

"Mother! It was my own opinion. Now, leave Idia alone," Neteyam defended me, entering the marui behind his mother. Neytiri hissed and snarled at me, ignoring her first born.

"He comes to me saying that I, his mother, am wrong for how I act? He speaks as if I didn't see the massacre of my people at your family's hands! How have you manipulated him like this? Tell me!"

"Mother, please. Can you not take a second to think about it? Idia spent her whole life apologizing for something she didn't do! Her parents' actions are not her own."

Jake entered the structure, clearly stressed out and trying to diffuse the situation by comforting his mate, but she was having none of it.

"She has their blood!" Neytiri erupted in rage, now directed at Neteyam. "She has murderer blood, and you, my son, are giving her your pity!" Her voice lowered to a malicious whisper, "I am ashamed of you."

"Neytiri!" Jake scorned her, looking at her as if he did not recognize her.

Neteyam looked beyond shocked. His tail froze mid-swish. "Mother?"

"Get out, both of you. I do not wish to see either of you right now. Pray I do not carve out your tongues when you return." She shooed Neteyam and I away. Neteyam stood unmoving, stuck in the moment in which his mother had shamed him.

"Neteyam, she said we should go." My statement seemed to draw him back to the current moment.

"Yeah, I fucking heard her." Neteyam's swear drew Jake's attention from his wife, but he said nothing. Neteyam raged out of the marui and across the beach and I tried my best to keep up with him.

"Neteyam look, you're angry right now, okay? Don't do anything stupid because of it," I warned him cautiously. He said nothing.

I was falling drastically behind, and called out for him to slow down. He acted as if he hadn't heard me. My leg was burning again, badly. I winced, sucked in a breath and dropped down to the sand. "Neteyam, please!"

He let out a aggravated sound, but turned around to come help me. Wrapping my arm around his shoulders and encircling his other hand around my waist, he started hauling me forwards.

"Where are you even going?"

"Lo'ak showed me this place that Tsireya showed him, we can wait there until we're allowed back. It's not far now, you can make it."

taglist: @im-kaii@itsemy01@isabel-ffl-xoxo@useryourbut@hoodiepandaninja16 @slutforsmut4ever @ihonestlydontknowwhattonamethis

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starynightcreator · 5 months

Text

It's Not All Bad

Chapters: 4-8

Characters included: Eddie Munson, Nancy Wheeler, and Steve Harington

Word Count: 4,895

No use of Y/N

18+! May be triggering to some!

Contains: Fluff, Angst, Kissing, Shy/ Anxious Reader, Sweet/Protective Eddie, Jealousy, Cursing, Alcohol use, Yelling, Heartbreak, Betrayal, & Friends To Lovers.

Summary: After a betrayal from your best friend and boyfriend, you find comfort in the arms of eddie.

Please feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. This is my first story and I'm a little nervous.

!Must give credit when re-sharing/ sharing. Don't take credit please and thank you!

PART FOUR:

You wake up from a knock at your door but not your front door but from your bedroom door. You were so confused and barely awake but at this point if it’s a killer you ain’t awake enough to fight them off so you just thought “welp I lived a good short life” so you then said "Umm..Hello?”“Babe, can I come in?” Your face hit the pillow in disappointment. You were honestly hoping for someone else…in this moment anyone else would be better. *Mumbling into the pillow I think I'll take the killer instead.” You then sit back up and answer. “Yeah Sure.” Then the door opens and Steve comes in and sits at the end of your bed. “Hey babe.” You sharply reply “Hi.” “Ouch. Why so hash with me? I didn’t mean to wake you up..” You just blankly look at him and let out a laugh before answering “You’re kidding me right Steve? Like this a joke right? Because if you are being serious then you’re unbelievable.” “No I'm not kidding, what did I do?” Being full of hate and anger you left no room for true thought and just blurted out. “Get. OUT!” You hated acting or feeling this way but what did he expect after how he’s been treating you. “Excuse me?” Steve was both shocked and confused. You never acted like this. If you did it was rare and for a reason. Yet he can’t understand what that reason is. But you didn’t let him get a word in. “Did I stutter Harington?! GET OUT! Of my room, of my house, and I don’t know maybe use that damn brain. Because I'm sick and tired of everyone, even strangers, being able to tell what’s wrong or what’s going on but you!”“Babe le-” You cut him off “Save it. Leave or I'm calling Hopper.” Unable to reason with you or even see how he was in the wrong, he decides to go “Fine geez.” You then hear the door shut and you're quick to go lock it behind him. You yet again sink into the sofa. “What a morning, an awful shitty morning.” You were so upset but you had one thing to look forward to. Seeing Eddie, seeing Eddie always made things better. You almost thought about asking to ditch the party and go somewhere else but the last thing you need is to be accused of anything awful. But a party was the last thing you wanted to go to. You only wanted to go to spend time with Eddie. So with that being said you watched time fly and it was finally an appropriate time to get ready. So you went in to take a shower and do just that. You told Eddie beforehand if he was early to just use the spare key come in and wait. There was no need to sit in the van and waste gas. So of course the boy came early why wouldn’t he and he did just as he was told. He didn’t snoop either, he just sat on the sofa listening to the music you were playing. At that moment Talking In Your Sleep by The Romantics started to play and you were finished getting ready but had no idea you were no longer alone. When alone you jam out with no shame and this song was a new favorite. You hate that you haven’t had it in your life sooner and you jam out to it so much. So naturally before even checking if you had a guest or someone may be outside you were in your own little world about to jam your little heart out. You end up bumping into the wall mid song? At least you thought….“Hi Star.” You just freeze and turn around with red cheeks. Then speak Nervously. “Eddsss Hi. Soooo.”“Don’t worry I didn’t see a thing *winks and I won't tell a soul.”“Don’t do that.”“Do what? Tell? There is nothing to tell?”“No, wink.”“Ohhh *winks again.”“Stop that.”‘Why?” You now avoid the whole thing and just pull him out the door. “Ok let’s go.” *Eddie laughs “Okay Star.” As you guys are on the way to the party Eddie turns the music down for a moment. “Hey Star?””Yes Eddie?” This time his cheeks were turning red, “You look beautiful tonight.” *long pause “Not that you never do just that we are going to a party and you got kinda dressed up an-” You cut him off “Thank you Edds and you look very handsome. I’d say always butttt” Just as Eddie turned his head to go and defend himself he caught you smiling like some dummy and it was all because of him so he decided to say something else instead…

#eddie munson #steve harrington #stranger things #nancy wheeler #eddie munson angst #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson x reader #eddie x reader #angst #fluff #friends to lovers

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coconutcreambun · 3 months

Note

Can you do Max griffin x female reader please?🖤💓

You Should've Known Better

Paring: Max Griffin x reader

Warnings: not proof read, a little bit of angst, mentions of death, mentions of murder

Summary: After Max Griffin's alliance with the Elf King and rampage on Cielis, Y/n, a rogue stone keeper had fled to a small town. She lived peacefully amongst other humans in exchange for small favours, but when Max hears whispers of a stray stone keeper, he makes it his mission to recruit you in order to get to the Mother Stone. Maybe fate had other plans for the two of you.

ABBR: Y/n (your name), Y/l/n (your last name)

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A/N: Hi hi! I’m so sorry I didn’t see this sooner! I didn’t know if you wanted anything in particular so I just winged it,,, ALSO I was in hysterics reading your url LMAOHDGF

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As you make rounds around the small town, you carry a small basket full of fresh fruit. Going from stall to stall, you examine the produce.

Feeling a gentle tap on your shoulder, you pull down the hood of your cloak. You put down the fruit you were holding, turning to face the person.

"Miss Y/l/n, could you help me with my cargo? I fear that my bad back makes it difficult to lift heavy items nowadays," said an old man.

You perk up and smile gently at the old man.

"Ah, Mr. Cane, it's so good to see you! I'll be happy to help," you say politely.

As you walk with him to his store, you watch the kids play cheerfully in the town square. Snapping your fingers, a soft blue glow emanates around the kids. An impressive dragon swirls around them, weaving between the kids, finally erupting into fireworks. Their giggles and squeals make you chuckle.

Mr. Cane laughs at your little display, turning to you.

"Just those crates over there dear, thank you for your help," he says gratefully.

You nod as your amulet glows, the soft blue returning from earlier. You use this added strength to easily carry stacks of crates into the modest store.

Dusting your hands, you grin. "All done here Mr. Cane! Anything else?"

He shakes his head as he places a small pouch of coins into your hands.

Your eyes widened in surprise, "Oh no, please I could never! Everyone has been more than generous helping me get settled, I couldn't accept this," you say quickly.

He clasps your hands in his, tucking the coins into the basket hooked around your arm.

"It's the least I can do for all your hard work, consider it a token of my appreciation," he says warmly.

You smile at him, thanking him one last time before returning home. Watching the sun start to set, you make your way back.

"Goodnight big sister Y/n!!" said the group of kids from earlier.

You wave warmly to them, watching as their parents usher them home for dinner.

Out of sight, you feel your smile drop. You sigh, your heart feeling heavy.

On one hand, your new life here was wonderful, and everyone was extremely kind; but on the other, you could only feel empty.

Your parents, your friends, you neighbours- gone.

You felt anger bubble inside you, breathing in deeply to quell the tears threatening to spill.

You recall how your father didn't come home from work that day. Your mind flashes to the image of their lifeless bodies littering the streets.

Shaking your head, you unlock the door to your small home. Dropping your basket onto the counter of your kitchen, you toss your cloak to the couch.

The townsfolk had helped you get settled in. You recall how wary they were of you when you first stumbled across their town. After lending a hand here and there, they quickly warmed up to you, offering to each chip in to help you purchase this home.

You flop onto your bed, letting sleep take over every inch of your body. The smell of fresh sheets fills your senses as your eyes shut.

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

You were rudely awoken by a commotion outside. It was the middle of the night, the moon was still high in the sky. You slip your shoes on, hurriedly grabbing your cloak. You wrap it around your shoulders, letting the fabric engulf you.

Dashing out into the street, you notice a stall knocked over and an older woman chastising a boy around your age. Combing a hand through his spiky hair, he rudely rolls his eyes and begins to interrupt her, his own anger apparent on his face.

You dash to the scene, extending your arms protectively.

"Hey, hey-! Guys, it's okay, I'll see what I can do about the stall, let's get to picking up all this fruit first," you say quickly intercepting the two.

Bending down to pick up a few apples, your amulet hangs from your neck, slipping out from behind your cloak.

The boy's eyes widen as he grips you by the wrist, pulling you up to examine your face.

"Hey what the h-!" you yelp in protest, dropping an apple.

"Are you from Cielis?" he asks, cutting you off.

You flinch at his words. How would he know where you were from? Even the townspeople didn't know of your origins, respecting your need for privacy.

You yank your wrist out of his grasp, eyeing him suspiciously.

"Who... are you?" you whisper.

Your hair sways wildly in the wind, you grip your amulet protectively. The stall was being tended to by your neighbours. Standing eerily still, you stood there separating this intruder from the people behind you.

He breathes in sharply.

"I'm Max, and I need your help,"

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

Your mind was racing, you couldn't believe what you were doing.

You had the Max Griffin seated on your couch as you tended to his wounds.

After apologizing to your neighbour for all the damage Max had caused, you promised her a favour for her forgiveness.

Dragging Max away from the innocent people, you got him settled in your living room.

Sighing, you grab a peach from your basket from the previous day. Washing it, you slice it into pieces and place it onto a plate.

Bringing the plate over to Max, you sit on an armchair across from him. Crossing your arms over your chest, you eye him down suspiciously.

He was in rough shape. You had bandaged his wrist and forearm, presumably the remnants from a battle with some creature. You watch as he brings a peach slice to his lips, savouring the taste of fresh fruit.

You were the first to speak, "So, what do you want from me?" you ask curtly.

He meets your gaze, wiping his hand on his pants. "The motherstone- it's in danger," he says quietly.

If only you knew better. He was lying through his teeth.

You furrow your brows, frowning at him. "What're you talking about? You destroyed the goddamn city! Why would you possibly care?" you grit.

He lets his gaze fall to the ground. "I know what I did was unforgivable," he whispers. "-but truly, I need your help. You would know better than anyone Y/n," he says, eyeing your amulet.

You flinch at the mention of your name, taking a step back, you raise your fists. He stands up, putting his hands in the air in surrender.

"How do you know my name?" you demand.

"My amulet told me I needed to find you," he says slowly revealing his amulet from under his own cloak.

"I was wrong for what I did, I was angry- the system was unjust and my judgement was clouded," he says gingerly.

You feel your guard falter for a moment.

He continues, "-but I'm doing whatever I can to make up for it. The city is back, Y/n, I can bring the people back,"

"I just need the help of another stonekeeper to bring the mother stone back to its former power- please Y/n come back to Cielis with me," he pleads with you.

Your arms drop to your sides as your lips part in shock. All you could imagine was bringing your parents back. You clench your fists momentarily, slowly releasing the tension as you sigh.

"...fine" you mumble.

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

Getting him settled on the couch, you grab a lit candle. Watching his features relax, your grip the candle holder tightly. You could have your revenge right now.

He was so vulnerable, so unguarded, so alive.

Snapping out of it, you sigh, blowing out the candle softly and heading to bed.

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

Throughout the next few days, you helped Max rebuild his ship that he crash landed a couple days prior in the woods. You wince as he tells you about the monster he fought off.

He smiles proudly as he finishes his story, pointing at a scar.

You catch yourself laughing at his antics, despite harbouring hate towards him. After helping Max haul a few wood planks, you make sure to stop by a few vendors, buying some candied fruit for the two of you. A group of kids swarmed the stall, waving to you happily.

You smile as you talk to the little ones. Unbeknownst to you, Max's cheery personality drops the moments you turn away from him. He watches as you reach over to help a small child out with holding his candied snack. The way your hair frames your face as you reach over with a genuinely kind smile catches his eye.

He feels something unpleasant in the pit of his stomach, brushing the strange feeling off as his distaste for other humans.

You whip around to face him, he catches your gaze, flinching as you hold out two sticks with strawberries on them. You hand him one, despite his reluctance.

"These are delicious, you should try one," you usher, joining his side.

"I'll take your word for it," he says as he hesitantly bites into the snack.

His eyes light up as he finishes the treat quickly. You sigh, giggling.

He watches the way your eyes squint when you smile.

Was this feeling pity? Perhaps his lying nature had finally started to catch up to him.

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

Saying your teary goodbyes, you part ways with your neighbours. Giving your final hugs, you make sure to take all your important belongings with you. Boarding Max's ship, you look at him, nodding once. Nodding back, you two took off.

Making yourself at home, you unpacked in a cabin. Heading up to the deck of the ship, your gaze lands on Max. He's leaning on a railing, looking down at the small town.

Approaching him, you hesitate. You lift your hand to his shoulder mumbling to yourself.

"Woah," you gasp out, gazing down at the forests below.

He's surprised at the contact. Watching the way your hair sways in the wind, he relaxes.

"The first time I was on ship, I had to hide away in the cabins the entire time," you laugh bitterly.

Recalling how you had to smuggle yourself onto a ship from Cielis, you quickly remove your hand from Max's shoulder.

His gaze droops a little, missing your brief contact.

The two of you gaze out at the forests below in silence.

He freezes.

He misses your warmth?

"Y/n- I'm-," he says trying to comfort you.

"Just- stop Max," you say with hurt on your face.

He watches you as he feels a pang in his chest. Surprised at his own actions, he reaches up to wipe a stray tear from you cheek.

You pull away from him, mumbling a quick string of apologies as you dash off to your cabin.

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

As you lay curled up in bed, you sniffle softly.

Knock, knock, knock.

You perk up at the door.

"Y/n?"

You take in a sharp gasp of air.

Treading over to the door, you open it slightly.

"Y/n- I'm sorry," he says.

You meet his gaze as you open the door wider, silently inviting him inside.

Sitting on your bed, you feel it dip to one side as he sits beside you. You don't miss the tenderness in his voice. The way he tucks a stray strand of hair behind your ear. How he holds you like your the most delicate thing on the planet.

You should've known better.

Maybe you did know better.

But just for today, you'll open your heart up to him.

#max griffin #max griffin x reader #max x reader #amulet #max amulet

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dalishthunder · 3 months

Note

Happy valentine's! It's me smile anon :]

It's been a really really long while and I planned on replying much sooner but in short: college life and depression. I'm not back to full power yet, but getting there and I absolutely had to leave a message on valentine's day since I missed new years.

I've been around since the GEO days and I've even interacted before, just never left anything that indicated I'm the same person hehe. That fic and universe will always have a special place in my heart. I binged the whole thing in one day when it was one chapter away from being finished and I laughed and I cried and the ending left me warm and satisfied despite not being into cronus at all. I've read that fic entirely for the humor, the emotions, the dynamic between two characters you've beautifully constructed (and made me gain a new appreciation for, cronus-wise. still a goober, but your take really fleshed him out), and for the background characters who got their own depth and interiority that it made the story's universe come alive. It's one fic that really touched me and I think even affected the way I approach my own creative projects. And then I proceeded to scour your blog for every other thing you've written and have been hiding in your (tumblr) backyard, occasionally whispering 'yippie' ever since lol

Anyway back to what we're both here for, GoG:

ABQKDHWLQ2HEOFUALXHXKCHSKXHICIEKSUCIDOLWIEFOIFIFIFSHQKSHXKSHSKXJ

READER GOT TO WEAR A CAPE AND A MASK AND BE COOL AND BE TERRIFIED!!!!!! I N E E D TO DRAW THAT AS SOON AS I'M OVER MY ART BLOCK

READER GOT TO (ATTEMPT) KILLING SOMEONE ("INDIRECTLY") :D!!! I was wondering when it will be coming to this and yup. Here it is. With Ramattra basically going "Point and I'll kill them" as a show of trust/respect lmao. I am really excited to see how this plays out, if there will be any casualties on their side. How that would make them feel. If it would be difficult seeing themself the same way again after asking for something like that even knowing the person they ordered killing wouldn't think twice about the suffering they'd inflicted. I'm also worried about what will happen when Talon figures out their real identity...

This project started as a two parter and look where we are now. I'd leave a longer more in depth comment but my brain is pretty fried rn ashsh. Just wanted to let you know I'm still here finding joy and comfort in your writing, and thank you for sharing it this valentine since we're celebrating the love and all that :3 Hope you have a good day today!

SMILE ANON MY BELOVED!!!!

Happy Valentines Day!!! Oh my god thank you for sticking around so long! And I'm so glad you enjoyed GEO enough to stay for the ride ;u;

writing GEO was honestly such a huge emotional experience for me beginning to end. It's... one of those ones that will probably stay with me in my heart forever because it was the first big thing I wrote in... a good 9-10 years, and it was filled with a lot of heart (not that my other stuff isn't, I do pour my heart and soul into my other works, but GEO was special to me yknow?) So I'm really glad that you enjoyed it so much

And that's so touching to hear that it's kind of changed the way you view your creative endeavors!!!! At least I hope it's in a good way haha ASLDKJFASLKDFASDFSDF

AUUUGHGHGHOOGHGHH IF YOU DRAW THAT I WILL BE FOREVER IN YOUR DEBT OH MY GOD

And yeah baby's first murder... Ramattra is so proud

But in all seriousness there's gonna be a lot of emotions in the next chapter and I'm so fucking pumped for it... (if my hands and brain would cooperate and type)

I hope you also have a wonderful day!

#dalish mail #a game of go #good endings only

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cannibalcoyote · 9 months

Text

Simon Gruber: Am I Worth Anything?

Imagine being John McClane's youngest daughter, and running away to Germany after your parents start fighting again and your dad moves back to New York. What happens when Simon Gruber finds you on the streets:

-This is set after the second movie, but before the 3rd. I have the reader at age 12-

They'd started arguing again, everything was going so good too, Dad had moved here to LA and everything. I don't know what caused all of this, I thought they were happy, I thought everything was fixed... but I'm wrong as per usual.

Mom has us staying with her, but I'm honesty feeling so alone, even with my siblings around. They both are a few years older than me, so they either bully or ignore me, but neither is my friend. Dad was helping us figure this out, but that all went to waste after he left. They started being cold again, acting as if I don't exist. I know this separating is effecting them as well, but at least they have each other, I don't even have mom here to confide in since she's always working.

I try to call dad sometimes, but he's always drunk and usually thinks I'm mom, sometimes he doesn't even give me the chance to talk, just picks up the phone and starts cursing. He's never treated me like that before, sure, sometimes he just picks up the phone and responds that way before knowing it's me, but is that really an excuse? The separation must be hurting him as well... I wish I could help him, but I don't even know how to help myself.

Sometime, late at night, I think about what occurred leading up to dad leaving. I remember them shouting at each other, trying to get my brother and sister to take sides. They choose mom either way, I just stood in-between, how could they make me choose? The looks of disdain coming from all sides made me wither, I felt hated, unwanted. Maybe things would be better if I leave?

_______

I left home, it may sound really stupid, but maybe things will be better if I stay at dad's for a little bit; surely things couldn't be worse than staying with my mother and siblings.

The train ride was costly and took around 3 days for me to arrive in New York; my packing was light, just my back pack with a few changes of clothing, all my savings, my ID, some food and a notepad and pen. I didn't want to pack to much because it would make it harder for me to slip out of the house unnoticed, so I just stuffed my backpack and went for it - I probably should've packed other things, but it's too late now.

New York was interesting, I was quite young when we moved to Los Angeles, so being back is a new experience. The buildings are tall and overbearing, they make you feel so small, and the crowded, busy sidewalks only emphasize that point.

I pull out the map from my pocket, dotting what street I'm on, and then charting the best way to get to my father's apartment. His apartment is a bit away from the station, about 20ish blocks, but I've got enough daylight to make it before nightfall.

Before beginning my trek I pull out my walkman, restarting the CD, it's the Station to Station album by David Bowie - I hd to beg for a whole 2 months before my father finally gave in and bought me the walkman, he later gifted me this CD upon noticing how Bowie is my favorite musician. It's a nice reminder that my father cares for me, whenever I'm feeling lonely, I'll listen to this album.

I'm weaving my way through people, trying my best not to run into anyone. The sun seems to be setting a lot sooner than I thought it would, but that must be because of the time difference, I must've forgotten to account for that. Either way, I'm over half way there and the sun is just beginning to set, that last thing I want is to be caught after dark on the streets of New York - I especially don't want this as I am currently an unattended child.

I finally arrive at my fathers apartment, pressing the buzzer at the door, hoping he'll be home and let me in.

"Who is it?" I hear an annoyed voice answer, but I still sigh in relief.

"Dad?" My voice sounds so small, hopefully he still heard me.

"Y/N?" I don't know how to describe it, but it seems like so many emotions smashed into one word: relief, anger, happiness, anxiousness. So many that they overwhelm me.

"Yeah, it's me, can you let me in?" I don't get a verbal response, but hear the door being unlocked. I push open the heavy door, making my way inside the lobby. I head over to the elevator and push the up button, waiting patiently for the doors to open. I'm startled by the abrupt opening of the door from the stairwell, staring at the door as I watch my father come bustling out of it. He looks tense and rushed - a mess if I'm being honest, looking around quickly before stilling when he spots me.

His movements are fast, he catches me off guard when he pulls me in unexpectedly for a tight hug. I'm surprised, but accept the contact, it's been so long since I've seen my father after all. As he holds me, I can't help but smell the alcohol on him, though I know mentioning it could be disastrous.

We separate and head into the now awaiting elevator, the ride up was quick but surprisingly quiet; I expected some sort of conversation, but maybe he's processing? The walk from the elevator to his apartment felt uncomfortably tense though, like something suddenly angered him. Either way, it made me feel uneasy.

As soon as I enter, I go to speak, but am cut off by the harsh slamming of the door.

"What the hell do you think you're doing!" He questions in a raised voice, he's angry, that much I can tell.

"I-" I begin to respond, but have no time as I am immediately cut off.

"Leaving without telling your mother, wandering the streets of New York at night! How the hell did you even get here from LA, no airline would let you board unattended?"

"I-I used the amtrak." I explain in a shaky voice, averting my eyes from his gaze and staring down at the dirty floor.

"What were you even thinking? Coming over here?" His voice is solemn now, and it makes me more uncomfortable than when he was yelling.

"I thought that... maybe I could stay here for a while?" I respond sheepishly, but hoping - no, praying - that he'll let me stay.

"Stay? Here, with me?" He questions incredulously.

"Please?" I whisper, glancing at him hopefully.

"What? No, you can't stay with me." He looks at me like I'm crazy, I suddenly feel very out of place, like I can't find anywhere that I'm allowed to exist. It's an astounding experience, especially when I've always felt so comfortable with my father.

"But..." I begin, trailing off as I try to think of what to say.

"But what? Don't tell me, you thought you could leave your mother and come live with me, that it would be as easy as showing up on my doorstep unannounced?" I can tell he's making fun of me, his tone gives it away.

"I-" I begin once again, only this time I'm interrupted.

"Well it's not! I thought you were smarter than that? You're going back to your mother's first thing tomorrow, you understand?" His shouting is scary, he's never acted like this towards me, though I have seen a few interactions like this between him and my mother.

"Dad, no, I want to stay here!" I all but beg, wide eyed at his words.

"I don't want you staying here, I don't want you anywhere near here!" My hearing goes silent after that, but there's an obnoxious ringing... Did he just say that? That he wants nothing to do with me, that he doesn't want me anywhere near him?

He says a few more things, but I don't care enough to hear them, all I can manage to do is stare straight forward in a daze. I travelled so far, but not even my father wants me around anymore.

I was right, I should've just disappeared; I'm the catalyst of every fight, had I never been born, maybe they would still be together?

I don't remember much that happened after, just my father rolling his eyes as he drags his palm tiredly over his face. He walks me to the spare bedroom and tell me to get some rest, but I don't think I'll be able to sleep after the words we traded.

I'm not quite sure how long I lay in that bed before I hear my father talking from the living room, I tiptoe out of bed and look through the cracked door, he seems to be on the phone.

"You think I wanted her here! Listen Holly, I'm sending her back on the train tomorrow, alright? Make sure she doesn't comeback to New York." He sounds tired, annoyed, upset... I guess he really doesn't want me here, but I know my mother doesn't want me either.

I wait until my father's all but drunk himself to death, it's around 0100 in the morning before he's passed out on the couch, empty bottles on the coffee table. I cling tightly onto my backpack, walking to the front door as quietly as possible, opening the door slowly before sliding into the hallway and closing it with a dull 'click.'

The ride down was eerie, and it became even more so when I exited the apartment building. The darkness enveloping New York made the environment look quite scary, especially with only the light from the full moon and some blinking lamp posts to light my way. There was still some people out walking, most were either drunk or homeless, so I tried to pass by silently and unnoticed; my goal is to reach the airport before sunrise and buy a ticket out of the country, anywhere as long as it's not here.

I would've preferred to hail a taxi, but I can't risk not having the funds to afford a ticket, though neither of my parents want me, they still have an obligation to find me. Since I'll be paying for the flight in cash, there'll be no tracking where I went, unless the person selling me the ticket remembers my name, face, and flight destination; but I highly doubt they'll check the airports first.

When I finally arrive, the sun is just beginning to raise above the horizon, the streets are getting a little more busy with 6am traffic, and there is now light foot traffic along the sidewalks.

I was coming up on the airport, I can tell because the planes kept getting louder and louder. I'd been thinking during my entire walk on where I wanted to go, it would be suspicious for a 12 year old to ask what flights are available to anywhere, especially without an adult present.

I've chosen to go to Germany because I've always loved the language and have wanted to visit since I was 5; I've also formulated a story should I be asked any questions. I'm going to say that I'll be visiting family in Cochem, Germany. I remember reading about that beautiful place in a travel magazine, it looked nice enough and I also can't remember any other place. If they want more info, I'll say I'm specifically visiting my Uncle who lives there, that I'll be staying there for the summer. They shouldn't be asking much after that though, so I should be all good.

I push open the terminal doors, and immediately locate the booth where you can purchase a ticket. The lady behind the desk looks nice, she sounds polite as she finishes up talking with another employee before turning to me. She looks a little surprised to see just me, but she quickly recovers.

"Hello, how can I help you?" She questions sweetly.

"Hi there, I was wondering if you have any flights today heading over to Cochem, Germany?" I respond, I try to sound mature, but I'm not sure if it worked as I notice her raise her eyebrow humorously.

"Well, let me check real quick." She clicks a few times on her computer, tilting her head as she shuffles.

"There aren't any flights to Cochem since they don't have an airport." She states.

"What does that mean?" I ask, scrunching my eyebrows as I think my plan may be ruined.

"It just means we find the closest airport to their, and that looks to be Frankfurt Hahn Airport; it's only about 15 miles away." She states nonchalantly, but I'm sighing internally. 15 miles, after how long of a flight? I'll need to get a map too if I don't want to get lost.

"We have a flight leaving at around 0900 with a few seat openings." She continues, showing me the available seats.

"Alright, that works." I state, handing her the cash for the ticket, waiting as she prints it out and hands it to me. I smile in thanks before wandering off to check in and head to my boarding area, I've got a while before my flight, so I guess I'll make myself comfortable.

I don't remember the flight too well, I mainly slept through the flight, having sparse moments of wakefulness when they brought us food and drinks. The people I was seated beside were a kindly older couple, they kept me company and checked in on me; I think they just saw a child alone on the flight and wanted to make sure I wasn't scared or anything.

They would try to talk with me, but I think they realized how tired I was and just let me sleep. They were rather nice, even walking with me off the plane before they separated to go to baggage claim; I didn't need to as I only had my carry-on.

I quickly bought a map from the convenience shop in the airport before heading off on my trek, its around 5am and the sun has yet to rise. The temperature is around 60ºF, so I'm not too cold, I actually welcome the chill as the movement will warm me up in no time.

_______

I've been in Cochem for around 3 weeks now, and I must say that I really should have thought this through. I swapped all my USD over into euros, but I barely have enough to afford food everyday, not to mention I have no place to stay, hotels are far to expensive to even think of. Learning german has also been more complicated than I thought, I assumed it would be easier since I'm immersed in the culture, but it's all just been one big shock for both my body and mind.

Some of the shop owners have started to recognize me; I think they have their assumptions and know I'm homeless, sometimes they'll give me something to eat free of charge. I also can't risk speaking to them in english, I can't risk anyone knowing I'm from the United States, that would only heighten their suspicion on why I'm here instead of in the US. So, for the time being, I'll just have to come off as mute until I learn the language.

_______

It's been a particularly harsh past few days, the temperature has been dropping lower than usual, and my deteriorating clothes haven't been doing much to conserve my body heat. The local children have also taken to terrorizing me, I think they've been making fun of my clothing and muteness (I am now able to mostly understand them after some tutoring from a friendly shop owner).

Sometimes, they'll try to grab my bag, I've had a group of them chase after me just because I wouldn't let them steal my backpack. Their parents either don't notice or don't care, either way, I'm on my own.

They haven't caught me yet, and I can't say what they would do to me if they did. Would they just grab my bag and leave? Or would they want to hurt me for having the audacity to run? Maybe they just chase me because they find it funny, or maybe I have good reason to evade them?

It was actually during one of these chases that I ran into the man that would come to replace my father over time.

It was routine at this point, a group of 6 or so kids would spot me and give chase, I would see them coming and take off. So far so good, I'm dodging the adults that go on with their lives, trying not to get hit by cars as I sprint across the road.

I'm doing really good actually, I turn around to catch a glimpse of them, they got stopped at the road by passing traffic, yes!

I look forward just as I turn a corner, running straight into someone, they are larger than me, barely being affected by the collision. I, however, had toppled down to the ground , scraping up my palms on the ground as the flail out to catch me.

Tears well in my eyes at the stinging pain, I can feel as the grit and dirt dig into the wounds as they rub against the cobblestone. I quickly glance up and see a tall man with short blonde hair, his eyes are a striking blue; they make me think of my father's eyes, how his aren't as striking as this man's.

I observe his expression, his eyes widen only slightly, showing his surprise about being barreled into so unexpectedly. He looks very professional in what I can best describe as a business casual suit, but something about him makes him seem like more than what he shows. This strange man, he holds an air of authority, power, I could almost describe him as threatening.

My thoughts are drawn away by the trampled footsteps behind me. I quickly scramble up from the floor, ignoring the pain in my hands as I snap my gaze to the corner I had rounded. I look just as the others come around, they halt as well at the sight of me and this adult.

I lock eyes with the groups leader and immediately begin sprinting down the road, I can hear them giving chase immediately, shouting that no one cares enough about me to help. The tears already welled up in my eyes begin to cascade down my face; they're right, not even my own family wanted, how could I expect that strangers from a different country would want me either?

In my moments of self-pity, I step into a crevice, I was unprepared for the change in level and feel my knee giving out. I tumble to the ground in a flurry, scraping my limbs against the harsh ground. I curse at myself, attempting to stand, but this fall may have done me in, my legs feel like they are on fire, and my left ankle feels heavy and stiff, as though it was being strangled.

Looking up, I notice that I've fallen in a rather secluded area of town, almost no foot traffic here at all, so these miscreants will have a field day, I wonder what they'll actually do now that they've finally caught me.

They surround me, two of them ripping my backpack from me despite my struggle to keep hold of it. The leader marches forward and shoves me, allowing them to grab the bag away. They unzip it before turning it upside down, shaking everything out onto the floor.

We watch as clothes, food, paper and pens tumble out. They look disappointed when nothing else appears, what were they expecting, cash? As if I have any left...

The leader and his lackeys roughly lift me from the ground, having to hold me up since my legs have stopped functioning. Just as they're about to speak, a stern voice erupts from behind them.

"Aufhören (Stop)." They all freeze, the boys looking back to see who interrupted them. I look as well, though it took a lot of effort.

There, standing imposingly a few steps away is the man with the blue eyes, I ran into him, what is he doing stopping these boys from hurting me?

"Was (What)?" The leader questions, he tries to sound stern as well, but I can see him shrinking away when the man steps closer.

"Verpisst euch, lauft zu euren Müttern (Fuck off, go run to your mothers)." He growls in a deep tone, I can feel the disgust in his voice when speaking to these boys.

They apparently don't need to be told twice, they release me, allowing me to crumple to the floor as they bolt away in the opposite direction. I feel dazed after everything that happened, but looking down at the ground, I can't help but feel despair swelling in my throat. Among the content of my bag was a picture of me and my parents, they're smiling and happy, and so was I. That was our last photo together before the fighting started again.

I reach out and grab the crumpled photograph, gently bringing it up so I could cradle it. I glance at the stranger as he steps closer before kneeling down. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't for him to begin collecting my belongings and putting them back into my bag.

I can tell he has his suspicions upon viewing my dirty clothing, the toothpaste and toothbrush, as well as the bits of old food wrapped up for later. He finishes zipping up the bag before gently placing it in front of me.

"Wo ist deine Mutter? Dein Vater (Where is your mother? Your father)?" He questions with a concerned tone, I glance into his eyes before quickly looking away. He's very intimidating, even when he's being so nice.

"Weg (Gone)." I reply solemnly. My parents may not be dead, but I don't plan on ever going back, they're better off without me.

"Nun, wer ist für Sie zuständig (Well, who is responsible for you)?" He asks again, hoping that someone is out there looking after me. I sadly, can't give him that answer, it would be wrong to lie to the man who saved me.

"Nur ich (Only me)." I respond, avoiding eye contact at all costs. I'm terrified, what if he turns me into the authorities, or puts me in an orphanage? Or worse, what if he takes me back to New York!

"Nur Sie? Hier draußen (Just you? Out here)?" He sounds shocked, his eyebrows scrunch up in worry, a distant look appearing in his eyes. He tilts his head in thought, of what, I'm unsure. He stands abruptly, and I'm sure he's going to leave, allow me to be alone again; but I'm the shocked one now when I notice his outstretched his hand.

I analyze it for a few seconds, wondering whether I should accept it, what happens if I do accept it? Is this a mere action of kindness before leaving me, or will this lead to more actions occurring? So many questions in my head silenced when I reach out and place my hand in his, allowing his firm grip to pull me off the floor.

My legs are still regaining their senses, but he supports me as I try to remember how to stand. I look down at my legs and notice the scrapes and cuts along them, mostly localized around my knees as they are what I fell on during my tumble. I shift my gaze up to my hands, they are so small against his, knuckles scraped and bleeding from sliding against the ground.

I tilt my head at them, so many injuries in such a short span of time, how will I fix them? I don't have any bandages on me, and I certainly can't afford to buy any.

"Komm, ich bringe das in Ordnung (Come on, I'll fix it)." I just nod my head, who am I to rebuke against his orders, especially after how he's treated me?

"Wie ist Ihr Name (What is your name)?" My words are slow as I try to remember what to say, I am doing better at understanding what is being said, but have trouble speaking the language. I can see the man raise an eyebrow, I almost think he won't answer me.

" Simon. Und du (Simon. And you)?" He states, walking with me through the town market, grasping my hand tighter when he notices the group of boys that had been terrorizing me cross the street.

"Y/N." I respond quietly, it's almost a whisper. It's been so long since I've spoken, let alone this much; I haven't said my name once during my stay here, so it's a strange feeling.

_______

After that day, Simon took me in, cleaned my wounds and bandaged them, gave me a hot meal to eat, and a room to rest in.

He unofficially adopted me after a year, explaining to me that I'm like a daughter to him, and that he want me to see him as my father. He didn't have to ask though, I've seen him as my father since the day we first met.

The first months were hard if I'm being honest, I had no idea how to act around a father figure, especially not after what happened with my actual dad. I was a lot more skittish, scared of maintaining eye contact, terrified by the slightest raise in his voice. Those behaviors began to melt away when I realized he wouldn't push me away, that he actually invited my company and tried to do things that I enjoyed - such as painting with me, or taking me into nature so I could write poems in the serene environment.

He asked me quite early on who my parents were and what happened. I was afraid that if he knew they were alive, that he would send me back to them; but I never was able to lie to him. I told him the truth about my parents, who they were, why I ran away, etc. He talked to me about it, and actually explained to me the dark history between his brother and my father.

He was empathetic towards me, explaining that he had similar feelings of displacement when he was staying with his family; it felt good having someone that could relate to me. He would reassure me during times of self-hatred, comforting me, stating that I was never the problem, that my parents should've never made me feel that way. He promised me that he will never allow them to treat me like that again.

The adoption was a quiet affair, he had documents for me falsified so that it stated I was a German citizen that he adopted out of the orphanage.

Yes, I know they were falsified, and I know all about his side of business; he told me the night beforehand what type of person he was, as well as the types of jobs he does. I'll admit, he caught me off guard since he's quite amiable, but I suppose everyone has sides that no one understands.

Some of his close friends that he works with were there to witness my adoption, they were polite and friendly as well. I had never felt more accepted in my life than I did when I was with Simo–my father, and I don't plan on ever letting go of this feeling.

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hinatastinygiant · 2 years

Text

Chapter Fifteen

Diaethria Clymena

Pairing: Haikyuu!! x Fem!Reader

previous | next | 2099

Y/N'S P.O.V.

A few minutes later, Kuroo returns empty-handed, yet still has that pie eater following him around. He looks a bit pissed, knowing I totally sent him into the store on a wild goose chase. Why, for god's sake, he must be thinking, would there ever be live crabs in a convenience store?

"Kuroo, who's your friend?" Bokuto asks once they return to the bus.

"His name's Kenma. Think it'll be alright if he stays with us for a while, Y/N? I've known him for a long time. He's trustworthy."

The other group members look at you, waiting for your answer. It's your bus so it is ultimately up to you. Kuroo got straight to the point, probably knowing that at least one person will have an objection.

"Sure, he can stay," you agree, "but only if he tells us where he got that pie I found inside. I know it was his 'cause it was still fresh!"

"There's none left," Kenma says as he looks straight at you, doing his best to show his sincerity. "I had a stash in there from awhile ago but that was the last one. It's all gone, I swear."

"Damn," you sigh. "Alright, whatever, let's go find Osamu his brother so we can get out of Monimiaceae and go back home."

The group agrees and huddles inside around the couch where Osamu turns on his new radio and flips through the channels. On one of the channels, you can hear chatter as if someone was already communicating on that line. Osamu listens carefully, his eyebrows knitting together so he can hear what's being said.

"Tsumu, where the hell -e you? You're supposed to -e back here by -ow. There wa- some group in - bus snooping --ound last night," the voice over the radio calls. Osamu's eyes darken.

"Chill out, -Na. Just get the --ck out -f there. I'll swing around --night and pick up --r stuff," a second voice replies.

"That's him," Osamu interrupts. "My brother."

"So he was at one of the places we searched," Tsukishima sighs. "How are we going to figure out which one?"

"I kind of doubt they were at the convenience store. There wouldn't be anywhere for anyone to hide," you suggest. "We were at the stadium all night so they couldn't be there. The only other large place was that high school gym. They've got to have their base somewhere in the school."

"Good thinking, Y/N. I agree," Kuroo nods. "We should go back there tonight when your brother goes to collect his stuff."

"It could be our last chance to catch them," Bokuto agrees.

"Okay then," Osamu nods. "We should stake out the school once it gets dark and wait for him to return."

"Fine with me," you smile.

By the time the sun has set behind the surrounding trees and buildings, you've got the bus hidden behind a set of garbage containers at the back of the school. Your group is now stepping out and running around to the front to wait for Osamu's brother.

"When do you think he'll be here?" Kuroo asks aloud.

"I'm new to this whole thing but it could probably be hours from now judging by what he said. That guy's brother probably wants to wait until he's sure we aren't here," Kenma speaks up for the first time since joining.

"He's right," you add. "We could be here for awhile. Should we take turns watching and let the rest of us sleep?"

"I like the sound of that," Bokuto nods as he sits back against the brick wall surrounding the school.

"I'll take first shift then," Osamu says, "in case he comes sooner rather than later to get his things. It's possible he might come grab his stuff and run out before we 'come back'."

"I'll stay up, too," you chime in. "Just in case."

With little hesitation from the other tired members of your group, you take your position in the dark beside Osamu, staring at the front of the school building while the others nap.

Osamu stays quiet the entire time. When you look over at him, you don't even see him blink. But about an hour into your shift, there's some noise. The sound of a motorcycle racing in your direction.

"Hear that?" Osamu asks.

"Yeah, it could be him."

Only a moment later, a black motorcycle pulls right into the bushes beside the front entrance of the school. A tall man jumps off and runs full speed into the school.

"It's him, let's go, Y/N!" Osamu calls to you as he already runs after his brother

"Come on!" you say as you shake the others. "He's here. Get up!"

"What, already?" asks Bokuto as you practically yank him up onto his feet.

"Yes! Let's go!"

"Kenma and I will go around to the back to make sure he doesn't weasel away!" Kuroo yells as the two of them make their departure.

"I'll run ahead of you, too," Tsukishima adds. "I'll give Osamu some backup in case something goes wrong."

You nod and off goes Tsukishima, leaving you alone with Bokuto once again. You feel a bit bad since poor Bokuto still uses crutches, but in his defense, he does move pretty quickly with them. However, by the time you reach the front entrance of the school, the doors burst open with Osamu and his brother facing your direction. When the two of them see you, they both stop in their tracks.

"Please, Tsumu, I'm serious. Join us. Look. He's injured and she has no weapons on her. We aren't going to hurt you!"

"Samu, I don't care about the girl or your stupid wish for us to be reunited," the brother, Atsumu, shouts as he stares straight at you and Bokuto. "There's no way in hell I'm joining your cursed group."

You look over at Bokuto, hoping maybe he could say something to get Atsumu to agree for Osamu's sake, but he stays perfectly still. Perhaps it's better to say nothing than to get in the middle of family business.

"Please, Tsumu. I want to find a way out of here. I came all this- we came all this way just for you!"

Atsumu scoffs as he walks up to you and Bokuto. "That true?" he asks the two of you.

"It was either that or he kills us," you smile nervously. Bokuto still remains silent.

"Hm?" Atsumu continues to press, almost breathing the same air as Bokuto who refuses to talk.

"It's true. We came all this way to find Osamu's missing brother," he finally replies, causing your nerves to settle a bit more.

"And why would the two of you care to find me?" he asks yet again.

"I already told you we were at gunpoint," you try to interrupt the awkward tension.

Atsumu glances at you for a fraction of a second before turning around and walking up to his brother. The two of them whisper for a while. You turn to Bokuto who looks almost shell-shocked, and ask, "Are you alright?"

"Fine," he nods. "I'm sorry, I don't really know what happened. I guess I know how Tsukki feels now when we get someone new in our group who we know nothing about. Kenma, at least, knows Kuroo so I can trust him but... did we ever fully trust Osamu enough to trust his brother, too?" he asks, thinking aloud.

"To be honest, he isn't my favorite. I still can't tell if he's a firefighter like he says he is, or some kind of trained assassin. Either way, if he wants his brother to stay, we don't have much of a choice in the matter," you respond.

"Think Atsumu's got a gun, too?" Bokuto then wonders as the two of you exchange a worried look.

"I hope not."

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