#to me cause house has that longing for something more personal to him than Vegas and tries to fill it with progress cause its rather hard

[dykedvonte]

thinking abt what you said with house viewing Benny as a son and I’m obsessed. Like. The man spent most of his life before the war presumably alone, and then after the bombs fell he was alone again, save for AI he himself devised. Then he decides to pull in some Tribes, and one kid shows promise! So sure, treat him well, train him, groom him to be his protege, then next thing you know UH OH he’s got developing paternal feelings towards this guy. Wanting some semblance of a family when the time has long since passed, yet fostering that feeling all the same seems so accurate for him. Benny meanwhile only views him as a boss, and not a particularly good one at that. makes me wonder how House must’ve felt when he found out about Bennys plans

I view it as House blames only himself for this, cause he kind of does in canon (strap in this is a long one).

When reflecting on the issue of Benny, House chastises himself first and foremost for not acting quickly enough when it comes to priming Benny. He describes Benny as being ambitious, ruthless and capable; compliments coming from a man like House. House has an ego and while he is logical enough to understand there was never any evidence Benny saw him as a father-figure, he lacks the humility to admit he let his own views on his relationship with Benny blind him to the activities happening behind the scenes.

I doubt that House was as aware as he makes out about what Benny was doing, he knew early on but certainly not early enough to stop Benny from hacking and obtaining a securitron along with getting the chip in the first place. I take it he was distracted by all the possibilities he was calculating of Vegas' success and growth with him steering and Benny as the new figure head, not because of any normal affection for Benny but the admiration of his capabilities. It's to be noted that House believed menial incentives (likely caps, booze, basic needs, etc..) were enough to keep Benny tame like the other Chairmen but, as evidenced by the Omertas and Mortimer in the WGS, this is not enough when it comes to more driven Vegas citizens. This implies he still undervalued Benny and created a space in which Benny felt the need to rebel.

House in my eyes is not sentimental in the traditional sense. I can imagine his pride was severely scorned as someone he certainly deemed dumber than him was, albeit only for a little, able to out-gambit him. It would definitely hit home seeing how his brother also betrayed him but I feel like that's why he's so apathetic when he tells the Courier to do as they see fit with Benny. I doubt the way he terrorized his brother brought him any emotional satisfaction other than a "Now who's in charge!" ego boost. Putting that same emotional intensity towards Benny isn't worth it because who does it benefit? Wasted time, wasted planning, and most importantly wasted potential are all he gets from continuing to be hands-on with Benny. I say the closest example is not being able to throw out old toys due to the memories attached but knowing it's necessary as they are broken or just taking up space for new ones, and then asking someone else to do it so you don't need to get caught up in the feelings of throwing something you put so much effort into. It's not Benny House cares about in my mind, not in a way that sounds healthy to any non-emotionally constipated individual, but what he could've represented for him, which is why he so quickly offers the same position to the Courier.

As for Benny's view on all of this, it was a long time coming. Benny didn't and doesn't believe House is a completely shitty boss. He admires what he's been shown and admits House knows how to run the strip, but disagrees with the directions. Ideologically, House is an anarcho-capitalist while Benny is just an anarchist. House wants to run the strip to profit, though money is not what he's concerned with being rich with anymore. Benny wants a free state that he wishes to become a place for the people, except for the Chairmen who would be on top (I like to remind people that Benny's motives were selfish but not for personal gain/power as was it for the people he actually saw as family). Benny was never looking for a father but a future. He was not interested in being adopted, or having the chairmen adopted, as bigger names still overshadowed in House's legacy.

Truly, it's easiest to summarize as House feeling strongly and thinking positively enough of Benny to start incorporating him into the future of Vegas (a huge honor actually) while Benny was so disillusioned by House's ego and indifference that he thought the only way Vegas could be the future is with House gone.

#tdlr House saw Benny as the perfect face of his Legacy while Benny saw his legacy as a stagnant mosquito infested pond #its more complex as house certainly would of been irate if he hadn't known and the courier came to kick benny's ass #but more someone being mad youre fucking with their things #i likely thing that even in a more traditional father son relationship House is conditional and would force Benny to confrom more to his #standards as I also believe the Chairmen are more tightly monitered due to bennys unique relation to house and being the first tribe #so itd be smothering and oppressive for someone like Benny even though imposing his beliefs and standards would be how House shows affectio #and fatherly praise which would result in Benny probably wanting to act out even more. like the only way a father son dynamic is healthy an #works is if house would relent some control and show he sees benny as an equal which would never happen cause its house but its still tragi #to me cause house has that longing for something more personal to him than Vegas and tries to fill it with progress cause its rather hard #to create those bonds in the state he is in and benny was the closest thing to that and even that he inadvertently ruined #but on benny house kinda ruined him cause the chairmen for all intents and purposes liked and trusted benny as a leader after bingo who #benny really only killed because of the illusions of grandeur house put into a young impressionable mind and how bingo refused to hear him #not to absolve him of his wrongdoings and being a dick but benny didnt just attack bingo he challenged him and won and in the end while #nostalgic none of the chairmen choose to leave and go back to the old way which says something cause they can leave #this is long and honestly should a seperate post on benny cause i have thoughts on him and how more people need to add his all roads traits #to get a cohesive picture of how hed really act #benny gecko #benny fnv #fallout #fallout new vegas #robert edwin house #mr house fnv #mr house #ask #anon #sorry if this is confusing I have very indepth thoughts on all aspects and possibilites on how unhealthy and power inbalancey anything #with house would be but this is so interesting cause its oddly vulnerable for house of all people to disclose this to the courier

[boldlyvoid]

Love Story

Spencer Reid x Fem Reader

Summary: About a week into knowing her, Spencer knew he wanted to marry her one day. So, for her birthday, at The Eras Tour, he kneels to the ground and pulls out a ring...

Warnings: allusions to sex, stupid couple fights, Spencer spoiling her, roadtrips, food and drink mention, talks of the future (future kids) proposals.

a/n: this fic is for my best friend in the whole worlds birthday. @reidsbookclub, i love you, i hope you have the best time at your concert tonight <3

Word Count: 6k

Set in the Sweet Nothing Universe

He’s been in Reno for 3 months and dating Y/N for 3 months now, too. 

They practically live together now that it’s summer vacation for her. She took on some kids for tutoring, and she sees them a few hours a week whenever they have time. She mostly goes to their houses or meets them at the public library, which is right next door to his work. She brings him in a coffee or a snack whenever she’s in town, they have lunches together and she even stays a little longer in town so she can drive him home afterwards. 

It’s been wonderful. 

Everyone at work knows her, they call her Mrs. Reid as a joke and she thinks it's cute… Spencer, on the other hand, wishes she was his wife so, so bad. It’s way too early to ask her, even if he knows in his heart that she’s the one for him. So he’s waiting. He’s not sure how long he’ll wait. He doesn’t even know if she wants to get married one day. He still has some things to learn about her. 

Her birthday is coming up, soon, he knows that much. He actually learned about her birthday when Penelope was first telling him all about her. August 4th, making her a Leo, the lion sign, even though she’s as gentle as a flower. 

They haven’t planned anything for her birthday yet, it's still a couple of weeks away. He knows she’s told her kids that she’ll be busy from the 3rd to the 6th, taking 4 days just to herself, she wasn’t planning on doing anything. Spencer wants to treat her to something so bad. Be it a nice dinner, a gift she wants or a trip somewhere. So he takes those 4 days off too, he books it in advance with his boss, it’s approved and now he just has to plan something. 

During one of his lunch breaks that she isn’t sitting in on, he takes out his phone and calls up Penelope. Having known Y/N longer, she’s the perfect person to discuss ideas with. 

“Spencer my lovely! What are you doing calling me at 3pm on a weekday?” She answers full of cheer. 

“Y/N’s birthday is coming up, I need your expert advice on what to get her,” he heads right into it, skipping all the niceties, he only cares about her. 

“Taylor Swift tickets, duh!” 

“I tried that months ago, they sold out way too fast,” he complains. “We missed the Vegas show 'cause I obviously didn’t know her in March, all she has left are the Seattle and California shows… but again, they’re all sold out and the resale tickets are insane.” 

“Hey, six grand for 2 tickets with the love of your life is so worth it,” Penelope teases. “I might have a connection to the Inglewood show… maybe I can see if they have any last-minute tickets?” 

“How do you have a ticket connection?” 

“My brother's wife works for Ticketmaster, she said they save some tickets for important people until the last minute and if they’re not taken, they get released to the general public and you can get better deals if you call Ticketmaster instead of going online,” she explains. “I’ll give her a call, I’ll see what she can do.” 

“Okay, call me back when you know more?” 

“Will do, Spence-roo,” she says before hanging up, making him smile. 

—

He goes home to Y/N’s apartment that night, they have a home-cooked meal together and they settle down on the couch to watch something on TV and just relax for the rest of the night. 

She’s cuddled into Spencer’s side watching TikTok on her phone. She scrolled and scrolled and scrolled, barely watching anything for more than 30 seconds and then she stops on one. Spencer can hear the music and the cheering, it’s a tour video. He peeks over to it, watching as someone proposed to their girlfriend in the middle of Love Story. 

She likes it, opens the comments and congratulated them. The next words out of his mouth are barely in his control. They just tumble out. 

“Do you ever think about getting married?” 

She smiles up at him, “To you? Absolutely.” 

He pulls her in for a kiss. She locks her phone and tosses it to the side so she can climb into his lap and kiss him some more. His hands migrate to her hips, and she runs her fingers through his ever-growing hair. Making out with her on the couch, she lightly grinds against him, he hums into the kiss, breaking it to kiss her jaw along to her ear. 

“I’d want to marry you too…” 

She cups his face, staring him down, “Ask me whenever you’re ready.” 

“It’s not too soon?” 

She shakes her head, “No… I mean, people will probably think you knocked me up because of how fast we’ve moved but, it’s been 3 months. We know everything about each other, we sleep beside each other every single night, and I never want to break up with you. The next logical move would be to get married.” 

He steals another kiss, “I think,” he kisses her again on her jaw again, making his way down her neck, “You’re right.” 

She smiles, letting him go down to her boobs, “about people thinking you got me knocked up?” 

He laughs against her, “I mean, we fuck so often—

“No, don’t even joke,” she pulls his attention back to her. “You can’t get me pregnant just randomly, I don’t have enough money to pay for my substitute. You’d have to knock me up so I can have the baby in the summer…” 

He laughs, “You’re not serious, right?” 

“I’m completely serious. I don’t get maternity leave, I have to have summer babies if I want to keep my job.” 

“I have money,” he reminds her. “If we get married it becomes our money, you’d never have to worry about anything ever again.” 

She settles slightly, her shoulders drop again and she stares at him so softly, “I’d still worry, you know me.” 

He kisses her again, reaching up to brush her hair back, “I’m going to take care of you for the rest of your life… and if we ever had kids, you know I’d do the same for them.” 

“Do you want kids, like genuinely?” She asks. “Cause I know you love Henry and you said that you thought about having them with Maeve but—

“I want you to have my babies… whenever you’re ready,” he tosses the phrase back to her. 

That does it, she dives back in for another kiss, heating it up tenfold, he cradles her head and back, leaning down against the couch so he can hover over her. Working the button on her jeans open, he starts to tug on them when his phone rings. He wants to just let it ring, but it’s Penelope's ringtone. He hasn’t changed it, no matter how long he hasn’t worked with her, it’s still the same thing. 

“Hold on,” he whispers, trying to pull away. 

“Leave it,” she tugs him back in. She gets a few more kisses in and then he pulls back further. 

“I can’t, I’m sorry, I have to take this,” he reaches out to grab his phone off the coffee table and walks out of the apartment to take the call. 

“Hello?” 

“Hey, sorry, I know it’s late,” Penelope answers. “But I have good news. We were able to pull some strings and I got you 2 floor tickets for the 4th.” 

“No way?” He’s gobsmacked. 

“Way!! I gave her your information, the tickets are in your name and they’re being mailed to you so you’ll have physical tickets. You can just pay me back.” 

“What was the damage?” 

“they were $1800 each…” 

“That’s a lot better than the resale price,” he’s so glad. “Thank you, Penny, really, she’s going to love this.” 

“Hey, she was my friend first, I’d do anything for her,” Penny teases. “Now go back to hanging out with her, I’ll talk to you later, okay?” 

“thank you, we love you,” he reminds her. 

“I love you too!” And then she’s gone. 

He heads back inside and she’s no longer on the couch. The tv is off, all the lights are out, and she’s retreated back to the bedroom. He knocks before he enters, “Hey… sorry about that.” 

“It’s fine,” she says, clearly a bit upset. “I get it, works more important that me sometimes.” 

“No, no it’s not… and that wasn’t work.” 

“Is that supposed to make me feel better? Cause it doesn’t.” 

He timidly walks towards her, “Hey, hey, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have walked out on you like that. I know. But it was important… it’s for your birthday, that’s all I can say.” 

She bites back a smile, looking him dead in the eyes. “Really?” 

He nods, “You still have from the 3rd to the 6th off, right?” 

She nods, “I do… why?” 

“I’ll tell you more when the day gets closer, just, don’t plan anything, I want to make this special. This is our first birthday together, I want to celebrate you.” 

“Okay, you’re forgiven,” she gives in, she rushes over to him and tosses her arms around his neck. “But next time it rings and you’re about to go down on me, it can wait.” 

“It definitely can,” he agrees, picking her up, he tosses her onto the bed. “Let me make it up to you.” 

—

She watches the era’s tour live streams on TikTok every weekend, she favourites outfits that she’d want to wear and she tells Spencer all about the surprise songs that she’d want to hear live one day. 

What she doesn’t know is that Spencer has memorized everything she’s said and he’s been using it to his advantage. He’s found her Pinterest board with eras tour dream outfits, and he’s made a playlist of her favourite songs so he’ll be able to sing along no matter what surprise songs happen. And he’s started to buy tour outfits for himself too. 

He puts a lot of work into her tour outfit, too. It’s midnights themed, he got her a denim jacket with the back panel cut out and replaced with a starry lace pattern. He bought iron on paper and printed out her favourite lyrics to iron onto the arms and put stars on a pair of dark blue Converse. He’s even been making friendship bracelets while on his lunch break at work. He just hasn’t been able to decide on what to get her to wear under the jacket and with the shoes. Nothing seems to be perfect enough. 

He’s walking home from work one night when he passes a window display full of sparkly dresses. He just doesn’t want to get her the wrong size. So he has the bright idea to take one of Y/N's dresses with him to the store to compare sizes. Trying to steal one of her dresses… that’s going to be difficult. 

“I have a question for you,” he asks that night at dinner. “But you can’t ask any follow-up questions or anything, okay?” 

“Alright..?” 

“Can I have one of your dresses to compare to a dress I want to buy you for your birthday?” 

She swoons, “Yeah… or you could take my measurements?” 

“Either way, I just want to make sure it fits.” 

And so that night she gives him one of her favourite dresses. She tells him the size she prefers in different fabrics and he makes a mental note of every single thing she says. 

-

The next day, he brings the dress to work with him, people want to ask questions but they don’t. He makes it through the day, walks out of work with the dress and right into the store he saw yesterday. 

The shop owner clocks him right away, noticing the dress, she thinks he’s making a return. 

“Hi, how can I help you?” 

“I’m surprising my girlfriend with Taylor Swift tickets for her birthday and I’m trying to plan her outfit, too, and the dress in the window is perfect! I brought in one of her other dresses, just to compare sizing so I get it right,” he explains. 

“Oh my god, aren’t you the dream boyfriend?” She teases. “Can I see that?” 

He places it on the counter for her, she takes a look at the tag and holds it up, “I think I have the window dress in this size… what era are you going for?” 

“I made her a jacket in the Midnights aesthetic and her shoes are evermore,” he shares. “The dress in the window is kinda mirrorball-esque, I like it.” 

“You know your shit,” she can’t believe it. “Do you have an outfit picked out?” 

He shakes his head. “No, I can’t decide if I want to do fearless or lover…”

“You could do both, get a puffy Romeo shirt and some pink pants, that would be cute?” 

“Yeah, yeah I like that idea… you know the Lover album cover, the heart she has around her eye? How would I do that?” He asks, he hasn’t had someone to talk to about any of this, so he’s taking a chance and asking everything. 

She’s really helpful, she’s able to get him the dress in the right size, show him where he can get adhesive sparkles for the face, helps him plan his own outfit and even get some accessories too. He spends a fair bit of money in her store and he thanks her. 

“I’m going to bring her back here after the tour, maybe she can get her engagement party dress here,” he suggests. 

“Wait, are you going to ask her to marry you at the show?” 

He nods, “During love story.” 

“She’s one lucky girl,” the shop owner swoons again. She’s overjoyed for them. “If you bring her back here for that I’ll give you a discount, that’s the sweetest thing in the world. I really hope she says yes.” 

“Me too.” 

—

He stole a piece of her costume jewelry when she wasn’t looking, a ring she typically wears on her right ring finger and brings it with him to all the jewelry shops he goes to. Finding a ring that feels like Y/N is hard. He wants it to be perfect, he wants it to be big and pretty and something she’ll show off to everyone. He wants it to be a ring that will stay in style for the next 50 years, he wants it to last. 

He’s looked at a million styles, every colour and cut imaginable… but nothing seems right. He knows the kind of rings she likes from her Pinterest, but even they don’t seem to fit what he imagines for them. This ring is supposed to symbolize their love and their relationship. It has to be perfect. 

He finds the ring on Etsy of all places. It was his last chance to get a ring. There were only 2 weeks until her birthday and he had to make sure the ring was in his possession before they took their trip to LA. 

The ring comes in two parts, one ring for the engagement and the other for the wedding. The wedding band perfectly encompasses the engagement ring, making the main ring look like it has little leaves coming out from around it. 

He gets them in white gold, the main stone is a man-made, oval-shaped diamond and the stones around it are man-made opal, 4 on each side to be exact, shaped like little diamonds. The wedding band also has man-made stones, in green. Together, they look perfect. He has them expedited, he pays the artist top dollar to make sure they’re at his house by August 1st and he prays they make it. 

—

She picks him up after work on July 31st and when they arrive at his house, there’s a package sitting on his front step. Part of him is furious that they just left it, they didn’t leave a drop-off notice and take it back to the UPS store for safekeeping, the rest of him is relieved that it made it. Y/N on the other hand, is nosey. She wants to know what he ordered. She’s curious as to why he didn’t want to open it in front of her, but she doesn’t bring it up again once he hides it in his room. 

They’re in the middle of cooking dinner when she wraps her arms around him, stands on her tip-toes and rests her head on his shoulder to watch him stir around the pan. “Can I ask a question about my birthday?” She pries slightly. 

“Depends on the question.” 

“Do I have to pack a bag or anything?” She asks the first question. 

“Yeah… I got us an Airbnb for the few days we’re taking off work,” he explains, not giving away too much.

“Okay, and what should I pack?” 

“Underwear, pyjamas, comfy clothes,” he lists off a few things. “Makeup and whatever you want to do with your hair… I’m going to tell you what’s happening the day of, you’ll have a few hours to plan for each event.” 

“Each event?” She picks that out. 

He just nods, “You’ll find out more later.” 

“Fine,” she sighs, resting her chest against his back now, she holds him tighter. “I’m going to go all out for your birthday too, you know.” 

“I know… we’re kind of obsessed with each other,” he teases. 

“I think it’s called love,” she reminds him. 

“You’re right… I do love you a lot,” he says as he spins around in her grip and hugs her close, kissing her neck gently. “I love you so much.” 

She hums happily, “I love you too, sneaky man. It’s killing me that I don’t know what’s happening but I trust you.” 

“Good,” he pulls back and cups her cheek. “How would you feel leaving late on the 2nd instead of early on the 3rd?” 

“We can do that, I know you prefer driving at night,” she knows him well. “We can pack after work and leave once we’re done.” 

“I will be packed the day before,” he teases. “I’m not a last-minute man.” 

“Oh, I know, you don’t do anything lightly, but I might need help packing,” she reminds him. “You can help me pick out accessories and shoes to match whatever you got me.” 

“You think I didn't get you shoes and accessories? Have you seen me?” He teases, that’s one thing she loves about him. He’s always matching.

She just laughs, “Of course you did.” 

—

Spencer walks from his apartment to hers with 2 suitcases, one for his own things and one just for their eras tour outfits. He has her second key fob, so he unlocks her car when he arrives and puts his things in the backseat and heads up to her apartment. He knocks once but ultimately lets himself in. “Babe?” 

“Bedroom!” She calls back, letting him know where she is. 

“Hey…” 

“So I’ve played out a bunch of outfits, what ones will be good for what you have planned?” 

“Anything is good, I have your outfit for the main event planned, the rests are dinners, brunches and us driving to and from California.” 

“We’re going to California?” She can’t believe it… but then she clues in. “Oh my god, Spencer, why are we going to California?”

He shrugs, “I don’t know, you tell me?” 

“I’m going to lose my mind if we’re doing what I think we’re doing,” she explains, rushing to his side, she places her hands on his shoulders, “I’m going to go nuts.” 

“I have no idea what you’re referring to…” 

She can’t believe him, she just hugs him and holds him there, “Oh, you’re so cute when you try to lie to me, I love you so much.” 

“I love you,” he hugs her back, kissing the top of her head. “Now, hurry up and pack, we can check into the Airbnb after 10pm tonight, if we leave now we could be there by midnight?” 

And so they pack her up, they check the apartment to make sure everything is off and all the widows are closed and they head out. She locks the door, he brings her suitcase down to the car and she lets him drive. He’s a lot more comfortable on the road at night, he takes them out of Reno, down Highway 695 towards Carson City. They see Bridgeport, Willow Springs, Mammoth and Crowley Lake, Big Pine, Independence, Long Pine and then they stop for gas and a snack. He drives from Long Pine to Ridgecrest and then they pass through Mojave around 11:30. 

They’re in the home stretch now. She knows exactly what’s happening when they go through Santa Clara.  She can see on their GPS that by taking the 405 south they’ll end up in Inglewood in just a few minutes. 

He got them a cute little Airbnb just a stone's throw from the stadium, they’d be able to walk to and from if they wanted to. Once he parks outside of it, she turns to him with tears in her eyes. “How did you manage to do this?” 

“Penelope,” he says with a smile. “She knows someone at Ticketmaster, they got me really good tickets for the 4th. I bought you an outfit, I made myself one, too… I know how badly you wanted to see her so I made it happen.” 

“You really are the man of my dreams,” she swoons. “Thank you.” 

“I’d do anything for you,” he reminds her. Meaning every word. 

“I know… now let’s get all our shit inside so I can give you a proper thank you.” 

—

They spend their first day there just looking around. They have brunch at a cute little spot she’s always wanted to try, they visit the National History Museum and Exposition Park. It’s a lovely day where they just get to hold hands and be together. They order dinner to their Airbnb and eat while watching TV and then they spend another night in bed together. It’s perfect. 

When they wake up on the 4th, Spencer smothers her in kisses and wishes her a happy birthday… they don’t leave the bed for a while after that. 

He orders her breakfast and while they’re waiting for it, he shows her the outfit he has picked out for her. The dress, her jacket, the shoes, a cute little clear purse for the stadium and a lot of sparkly makeup options for whatever she wants to do. 

“Spencer, this is perfect?” She’s amazed by it all. “How did you know?” 

“I found your Pinterest,” he shrugs. “and you always show me cute outfits on TikTok, I took a lot of inspiration from what I knew you’d like and your favourite songs to make this… and these,” he pulls out a ziplock bag full of bracelets. All handmade. All perfect.

She spreads all the bracelets out on their bed, and she reads each and every single one. He has sent titles, lyrics and abbreviations, even quotes from Taylor that he’s memorized from how many times she’s watched Miss Americana on her days off. “Spence, how am I going to part with these?” 

He shrugs, “Don’t trade your favourites? Maybe leave any special ones here?” 

“Yeah, I guess I could do that… I can’t believe you went through all the trouble of making these just for me, seriously, when did you have the time?” 

“On my lunch breaks,” he laughs to himself. “I had no idea what I was doing and then Keesha, our undercover girl, showed me how to make them better.” 

“Everything is perfect, Spence,” she stands and wraps her arms around him, holding him close. “This is going to be the best night of my life.” 

She really had no idea. 

“I was thinking we could maybe go get our nails done,” he says as she pulls away. “We don’t have to be at the stadium till 6, I think it would be nice to get some eras nails done? I might even get some colour?” 

“Yeah, that sounds amazing!” She agrees, not thinking anything of it. 

He really just wants her to think her nails are pretty when he slips the ring onto her finger later tonight. 

He already made the appointment with a local nail salon for 1pm, giving them enough time to head back to their Airbnb and get ready for the show and maybe even get something to eat before they go. He’s such a planner. She loved every second of it, it made her less stressed to know that he already knew everything that was going on and he was confident about it too. 

He gets his nails done as well. He’s always wanted to but never had the chance to. He gets just basic gel while she goes all out with a shorter acrylic shape, she gets sparkles and stars all in the 10 different album colours and she loves them. She keeps staring at them the whole walk home, she loves how they sparkle in the light and how pretty the shape makes her hand look. 

The ring is going to look even better on her hand now. 

They shower together back at their place, Spencer watches in awe as she does her hair and her makeup and it’s not until the end that he hands her the adhesive sparkles and asks her to help him put the lover heart around his eye. 

“What did you plan for your outfit?” She asks while carefully sticking each sparkle to his face. 

“I got some bright pink pants, like, highlighter pink, bright,” he smirks. “I also bought a puffy shirt like Romeo… I wanted to go for Lover Story.” 

She laughs, “Oh you’re going to look good.” 

“I also bought cowboy boots…” 

“You didn’t,” she can’t believe it. “What colour?” 

“Pink.” 

“Oh my god, Spence… really?” 

“well like you said Lover and Midnights go together like they were planned to be back to back and you’re my other half so I wanted us to match… and then I’m partly fearless which came after Evermore which is on your shoes, so, it all matches.” 

“I love you,” she cups his face gently, “like it’s insane how much I love you.” 

“It’s not insane. It’s the perfect amount,” he teases, pulling her in for a kiss. 

—

She doesn’t know they have front-row seats until they’re at the stadium getting their tickets checked. The best part of her reaction at the gate is that she thinks this is the last surprise… she’s so overjoyed with the thought of being that close to Taylor Swift that she can’t even fathom him proposing tonight. 

From all the Tiktok's that she’s watched since March, she knows that the best time to go to the merch stands isn’t before the concert. It’s during. So, on their way to their seats, they simply buy some overpriced drinks and trade a couple friendship bracelets before heading towards their seats. She looks around with her mouth agape, amazed at how big the place is and how much of the stage takes up the floor. 

At their seats, she shakes her head and lets out an exasperated laugh, “I can’t believe you got these?” 

“Only the best for my girl,” he teases, wrapping his arm around her, he brings her in and kisses the top of her head. “I love you, Happy birthday.” 

“I love you,” she smiles up at him. “Thank you for this, really. I’m going to thank you a million times.” 

“You don’t have to,” he waves it off. “I wanted to come too, you know, she’s a big reason we’re together in the first place.” 

“If only we could tell her thank you,” she laughs. 

“We should’ve made a sign,” he teases. 

“We should’ve…” she agrees. “Maybe I can just put big text on my phone and hold it up to her?” 

“That could work.” 

So that’s what she does, sitting in her seat, waiting for the opener, she drafts a few things to say while the stadium starts to fill up. 

It takes a while before someone behind them actually shows up. Spencer worried there for a moment that the seats behind him didn’t sell and thus part of his plan for tonight would be ruined… but then a couple girls, in their teens, show up just before HIAM comes out to play. 

Spencer takes something from his pocket, pretends to reach between their seats to the floor and turns back to one of the girls. “Um, I think you dropped this,” Spencer says to the girls behind them, he hands them a note and a $5 bill. Y/N watches him hand it back to them and then turns right back to watching the openers play. 

“Oh thanks,” the girl says with a smile. She opens the note and her eyes widen as she reads it. 

‘Can you please record me and my future fiancé during love story? I have an important question to ask her and I want to remember it forever.’ And his number at the bottom. 

She looks at Spencer with her eyes full of tears and nods, mouthing “I can do that.” 

He gives her a thumbs up and turns back to watching the show. HAIM are a band he’s heard Y/N play before, he’s surprised how many words he knows just from being around her. They’re amazing and he knows that because they’re on the tour now, that means their song with Taylor has been added to the setlist. He really likes that one, even if it is about premeditated murder. 

He knows the setlist like the back of his hand. It starts with Lover, the intro is a remix of all her eras names over top of the song Miss Americana and The Heartbreak Prince, the dancers wear these big sheets of fabric, peacocking around the stage and then they cover the middle of the main diamond stage. Once they lift the sheets back up, however, Taylor emerges onto the stage and the crowd goes wild. 

He’s seen the show on Tiktok live so many times that he’s okay with missing it in person, instead, he watches her. He watches the way she stares at Taylor like she hung the stars and the moon herself. Like she’s some sort of god and everyone here is blessed to be in her presence. She cries, shaking her head in disbelief, she chants the words back to her and doesn’t even realize Spencer has been staring at her the whole time. 

“Look how close she is,” Y/N bumps his shoulder and points. “She’s literally right there.” 

“I know,” he smiles, so in love with her he couldn’t even pay attention to Taylor. 

When Cruel Summer starts, she screams so loud, Spencer’s sure she’s going to lose her voice tomorrow. He finally starts paying attention to the show now. Singing along, he knows all the words. He actually really loves this song. And the man. He loves everything from Lover simply because he’s so deeply, deeply in love. 

Post-lover, Taylor heads in for a costume change and thats when Spencer starts to feel anxious. He’s 2 songs away from his big moment. He checks his pockets, he still has the ring, in its box staying safe, it’s right there and ready to go. He almost blacks out for most of Fearless, he snaps back into it for You Belong With Me and the first note to Love Story gets his heart beat racing a million miles a minute. 

He looks back at the girl behind him who has her phone out already she smiles at him, nodding like she’s ready to go and he takes a deep breath. Taylors walking down the catwalk, she’s going to be literally right in front of them when he gets down on one knee… he doesn’t think she’s seen a proposal this close and in person yet on this tour? Maybe she’ll notice them? 

He sings along, genuinely loving the song and it steadies him a little. Y/N is singing too, jumping up and down and pointing at Taylor during all the best parts. She’s having the time of her life… she has no idea what’s coming.

The second chorus comes and he reaches into his pocket, he’s holding the box in his hand and his heart is in his throat. 

“And I got tired of waiting… wondering if you were ever coming around, my faith in you was fading! When I met you on the outskirts of town!” Y/N sings along. “And I said Romeo save me I’ve been feeling so alone I keep waiting for you but you never come is this in my head I don’t know what to think, he kneels to the ground and pulled out a ring and—

She notices then that he’s dropped to one knee, following the song, he holds open the little black box and she screams. Everyone in their section is screaming. “Marry me, Juliet, you’ll never have to be alone I love you and that’s all I really know!” Spencer sings along to the song.

She’s frozen, can’t believe this is happening and real but she looks at the ring and then at him, her eyes full of tears. “Yes!!! Yes, I’ll marry you!!” She gets down to the ground with him and pulls him into a kiss, he smiles into it, happier than he’s ever been in his whole life. 

When she pulls back he takes the ring from the box and slides it onto her ring finger. He helps her back to her feet and all she can do is stare at it. “Holy shit?” 

“I love you!” He shouts, loud enough for everyone to hear. “I want to love you forever.” 

She pulls him into another hug, not even noticing that Taylor did see it. She pointed at them, she got excited and there was footage of it from a million different angles that she’ll get to see later. She finishes the song, running back to make her mark and then she disappears once again to get ready for Evermore. 

Y/N snuggles into his side, her left hand resting on his chest, she keeps pulling her hand back to look at it. There’s just enough quiet between eras that she asks, “Where did you get it? It’s beautiful.” 

“Etsy,” he says with a smile. “It was on my doorstep the other day when you came over.” 

“No way?” She laughs, “how long have you been planning this?” 

“Since I asked you how you felt about getting married one day,” he admits. 

She stands on her tiptoes and leans in for another kiss, “I Love you.” 

“I love you,” he reminds her. “Forever and always… but I actually mean that.” 

She laughs, “god, you really are the number 1 fearless stan, aren’t you?” 

He’s about to reply when the girls behind him poke him in the back, “Hey!” They both turn around. “I texted you the video and my friend got the other angle of Taylor's reaction!” 

“She saw it?!” Y/N freaks out. 

They nod, freaking out with her, “Yeah!! She pointed at you guys and she was so happy!!” 

“Holy shit!” Y/N shouts for the second time. “This is the best day of my fucking life, how does it keep getting better?” 

“I don’t know man, but congrats!” The girl says. “You guys are so cute together.” 

“Thank you,” they say at the same time. 

She looks at him this time like he hung the stars. If you told him just 4 months ago that he’d find the love of his life and get engaged to her at a Taylor Swift concert of all places, he would’ve laughed… now he can’t imagine his life going any other way. 

This is where he was always supposed to be. 

General Taglist 

@ncsls0515 @stevesmunsons @reidsbookclub @sweetyyhippyy @manuosorioh @mrs-dr-reid @k-k0129 @squishyturtle @katsukis1wife @babybisexual @marsmunson86 @buckleyhans 

#Spencer reid #Spencer reid smut #Spencer reid fanfiction #Spencer reid fanfic #Spencer reid imagine #Spencer reid x reader #Spencer reid x y/n #Spencer reid x you #Spencer reid self insert #Spencer reid request #criminal minds smut #criminal minds imagine

[dealwithadeer]

Okay but what about onesided!Radiohusk with Husk being the one unfortunate enough to love the Radio Demon.

Hear me out:

It would have started during one of the Overlord meetings. Husk would have been relatively new to the scene but already having made himself some kind of name. And even though they both came from different times, considering how Overlord!Husk looked and that Husk has a weakness for magic shows and music and that he grew up in Las Vegas they both had a sense for style and showmanship. Although Husk was not really a fan of Als cannibalism, but Alastor can be quite charming when he wants to be.

Maybe Alastor frequented Husks casino from time to time, played a few round 'just for fun' and lost more often than not. The House always wins and all that jazz. Speaking of jazz, maybe they even had a few songs together, considering Husk can play the piano and the saxophone.

And Husk, even though he should and does know better, actually started to feel something for the Radio Demon.

Then he started to fall on hard times and Alastor offered to help with a few games. One thing came to another and he was foolish enough to believe that whatever they had would dissuade Alastor from actually wanting to win Husks soul, a foolish part having thought and hoped that Al would have let him win. Which explained the way he had reached out with a somewhat sad expression.

Husk had at that moment not yet figured out, that 'what they had' amounted to Alastor to a simple 'You are entertaining and useful and so I am going to keep you'

Alastor stripped him of everything he once owned except for his powers, treating him like nothing more than an amusing pet and subordinate from that day on.

Except for the few times at certain times, when Alastor was bored enough to ask Husk to make him 'the usual' and for a short time things were like how they used to be.

'I lost the ability to love years ago' And in a way he did, whenever he would think of Alastor and that stupid, dumb feeling would come up, Husk would grab the nearest bootle and drink it empty until whatever he had been feeling would be washed away by drunkenness.

Husk was the only one in hell who cared about Alastors year long absence. Of course, there were rumors and of course Husk would not even admit it to anyone even if you were to rip out both of his wings, let them regrow and then rip them off again that he was worried for Al but after the third year he was. Well, he would always have alcohol and gambling. The two things that had yet to betray him although gambling had betrayed him a multiple of times.

He is both relieved and a bit scared when Alastor summons him to the Hotel but they both only meet or interact rarely, Husk becomes too busy with the other Hotel residents and Alastor is too busy with .. whatever Al is actually planning behind the scenes.

Husk has a certain distaste for Mimzy. It has nothing to do at all with the fact that Mimzy even though she only came by when she needed something from Alastor, mainly protection from problems she caused, still gets better treatment from Alastor than him.

When Husk goes to tell Alastor, his boss as he loaths to but has accepted to call him, once again about his opinion on Mimzy and that Alastor should tell her to leave he also lets a few drops of his honest concern in about Alastors absence.

Husks concern however has its limits as it ended with Alastors basically telling him that yes, Husk was his 'pet'.

And Alastors patience with him, despite something akin to a friendship in the times before he lost his soul, despite the centuries of service and drunk nights spent , despite Husk being one if not the only person in all of Hell to actually give a damn about the Radio Demon, apparently had its limits too.

#may make another one where Alastor is the one 'in love' #of sorts #yes I know he is canonically aroace but creating an AU where he actually cares about #any other person beside himself is at this point already wild #but yes #Husk being the one who had at one point fallen in love with Alastor before he lost his soul #would be quite something #your choice wether Alastor knows about this or not #radiohusk #Husk Hazbin Hotel #Alastor Hazbin Hotel #husk x alastor

[sizzlingpatrolfox]

Im not that same anon, but i will say the way you jokingly talk like a taekooker can sometimes be triggering and hurtful to people like me who really love jimin and thought they curated their spaces to jimin focused accounts. Ive even seen taekookers use your blog posts in their arguments bullying jimin.

I’ve followed you long enough to know you’re being sarcastic but i do get sometimes triggered by how you try to prove Taekook in the exact way Taekookers do, a joke or not. but that’s our problem and you’re allowed to say whatever you want, and we can obviously unfollow you. Just adding my perspective.

- Allow me to give a honest opinion. I won't say you're a tkkr or anything because i know you're a ex jkkr and you don't ship jm with anyone. But from the way you write it definitely seems like you have alot of pent up anger towards jk and tae individually as well as together and that definitely reflects more into your writing when it involves those two. I think it's because you're an ex jkkr so it might be because feels betrayed by both of them on jm's behalf, like their behaviour towards him etc. Yes i myself recent the two guys the most and don't think they're worthy of jm's friendship too. Idk how long you have been on this blog but since the time i have followed you if i didn't know better i would think you're a jkkrs' hater more than of Tkkrs. It's one thing to to recent shippers it's another thing to turn it more towards just one group of shippers that is jkkrs. I remember you saying something like you felt betrayed or something about ITS tk talk cause even tho they said they're awkward it didn't show in their actions or something along that so i think you hate them both alot.

personally idc who you're calling husband or what cause all pjms call them husbands but they also think both of them are straight, would have unfollowed you long ago. I only replied cause i saw anons calling you tkkr. Anyways tk husbands married in Vegas currently with 3 kids and 3rd or 5th anniversary according to tkkrs. If you don't know they also has a shared apartment in japan jk brought for taehyung and he was staying there while jm was in hotel. Such a bad friend jk didn't even invite jm to come to their tk house 😔

---

Well, that I understand because taekook as a ship used to bother me just as much. It was annoying and sometimes it still is, tho it's become more of a dislike towards them as people rather than the ship itself.

In late 2019, there was some random poll in some irrelevant online magazine (like soompi and stuff) about "which member is the closest to Jungkook?". Jin won. Army voted for Jin and not Jimin, who was without a doubt the closest to Jungkook that year. At that time, things like that also bothered me and made me sad. Now, I guess it's been so long since I got over it and it's a joke. Besides, I understood that most of the information army picked up on was coming from the members themselves, and I couldn't spend a lifetime getting angry about things Taehyung, Jungkook and even Jimin himself weren't going to change.

That vminkook live in November 2021? Watching some parts of it felt terrible. I got over it quick, but at the time I didn't like it. A lot of taekook stuff bothered me, but what is anyone going to do about it lol. And I learned that, and I accepted it. Jimin literally posted taekook with their faces smashed together on his Instagram some weeks ago and pjms were laughing and rejoicing about him giving something to taekookers.

"Ive even seen taekookers use your blog posts in their arguments bullying jimin." Sorry but I don't believe you, like you just made that up.

Yeah but the thing is, I'm not trying to prove taekook lmao. I'm just making fun of the way shippers in general talk. Like, it would've meant the world to jikookers if it was Jimin with bam, right? They actually spent a lot of time trying to prove that Jimin is with bam often, but because it's Taehyung that has actual proof of spending time with Bam at Jungkook's house, they get annoyed at it and talk about conspiracy theories. Or ignore it. Now, Bam it's irrelevant. But if it had been Jimin, they would've also said the same thing I said about Taehyung spending time at Jungkook's.

And that's the whole point... call it satire if you will.

Before this discussion started, I was going through my blog, right. I reblogged some old posts. Remember when Jimin went to NYC and he wore shorts and jikookers were making viral sex jokes about how he'd shaved for Jungkook (Jimin is clean shaven in every BTS content btw, and so are the other members). Well, while going through my posts I saw this one where I said Jimin shaved and moistuzed his legs for Eunwoo like...

That stuff sounds out of pocket to me, and I will make fun of it. if people are missing the joke it's really not me. Or maybe they haven't been in shipper spaces as much as I have been. I'm sorry if I come across as too convincing??

Mind you, there were people who got angry because I talked about minimoni, or even about Saeon and Eunwoo. Someone literally came up once and told me that liking minimoni was weird because Namjoon talked about Jimin in a creepy and predatory way. Some people are just deranged, and I know that.

I honestly have no respect left for jikookers after face, or rather after this year, the way I have no respect for taekookers. They've become an easy punching bag with how delusional they were since 2021, and most of my jokes are me just saying the same things they say about jikook, but using it for different ships because it's all so ridiculous. And the most delusional ones are always Jungkook biased jikookers who thought Jimin was undeserving of support and talk about the two of them like Jimin is the lesser one in talents, ambition, or achievements.

[xxnotyourbabyxxx]

Playlist

I Want To Hold Your Hand - The Beatles

This song was a favorite of Beck’s mother and was often heard wafting through the halls of their rather large family home. Some of Beck’s earliest childhood memories include his mother humming the sentimental tune as she tucked him and his two siblings in for the night. Later the song with become even more impactful as he longed to be able to reach out for the hand of his mother in times of misery and woe, something that he felt he could never do as she slowly negated her duties as a caretaker to hear children on any level beyond life sustaining measures. I.e. providing shelter and food. A close, nurturing relationship is something Beck longer for the entirety of his younger years and being void of it most likely played a hand in his very complicated relationship attempts.

Cough Syrup - Young the Giant

Through his tough upbringing as a closeted homosexual in a conservative, white collar family this song was a comfort to Beck. It helped him to not feel so alone and like other people may be experiencing the same kinds of dramatic lows as him. The underlying message here is that Cough syrup doesn't actually cure you from your ailments, it simply aids in symptom relief. This metaphor lends itself to parting, music, drinking.. Any activities which could become a distraction, thus masking the burden of the real root cause of the discomfort of life. Cough syrup is like the coping mechanism to dull the ache caused by sickness, or in Beck’s case, his depression over his denial of his true self.

Not The Boy Next Door - The Boy from Oz

After escaping the scrutiny of his family and the intolerable watchful guise of the community that surrounded them, this particular hymn would play on repeat no matter what the occasion. A simple stroll down the Vegas strip to an intense workout session, the lyrics displayed here energized and refreshed the newly emancipated young adult. “Though I may look the same way to you, underneath I am somebody new.” Never again would Beck return to the place he used to brand ‘home’ because he’s changed with his new experiences and has now realized there is an entire world out there, one much more elaborate and dynamic than the four-sided box he was kept in back in California. “You can have your dream, but you can’t have me.” Keep grasping for those empty straws, old man, but your golden boy is no longer yours to keep on display.

Crash Into Me - Dave Mathews Band

This song is special to Beck as it reminds him of his relationship with August Del Rosario, the love of his life and the only person he can honestly say he’s ever been in love with. The two share a very special bond with unbreakable chemistry, the lyrics of this ballad speak to him and describe what he feels for August and the magnitude of that burning desire. Their physical attraction to one another cannot be described with any combination of words, but the sentiment of, “crash into me” gets close to articulating the desperation to be closer than humanly possible.

Boys - Lizzo

It may have taken years for Beck to truly open up and accept himself, but this song reminds him just how far he’s come. To be able to belt this song out at the top of his lungs and no longer care who hears the lyrics is a huge step for him. Beck has come into himself since the move to Las Vegas and has no issues with embarrassing himself and also forcing himself on the rest of the world. As a party boy this song also brings out the fun, energetic side of him. This is a feel good song, one you throw on in the car before arriving at the club or listen to through airpods as you throw down on house work and deep cleaning. Not to mention he really loves boys.

#task

[pokefanbri]

I broke down in tears yesterday,.I didn't realize how much it's affected me my whole life. I had to grow up at an early age, taking care of my brothers cuz my mom couldn't, cleaning all the time. From being abused as a kid, not getting the love I needed, a mother hooked on drugs, being taken by cps at 13. I stayed in a group home full of hormonal teenage girls for 4 years, while my 3 brothers were adopted out by a good family getting everything they ever needed & wanted, a car each etc, a pool in a nice 2 story house...Bri was left to fend for herself after emancipation, I had my own apt during hs which was nice, but cps would only help with rent til 21yrs old, my whole teenage years I was working my ass off. To this day I haven't learned how to drive & just use the bus. With what family I have left, my twin brother cut ties with me because I let my mom in my life again & I'm the one that abandoned the family? She raised 4 kids on her own and cracked under the pressure of addiction it wasn't her fault, I forgave her & she's a better person now she knows he faults, she's the only one that helped me when I needed her & I missed my mother. I took care of them, where my brothers when I need them. I do things on my own I've been independent as long as I could remember, doesn't mean I'm not tired or weary. I had to stop everything college & work after hs & was admitted to the hospital, I had cracked under pressure of the world on my shoulders, I didn't work for 10yrs & was on disability, but I got married & started again. Things changed after my divorce, covid hit, stayed with my brother but that didn't work out & I escaped him...being taken as kids affected him the most. He has kids of his own, my neice and nephew love their auntie. Friends wouldn't help except 1, his family let me stay with them til I got my 3rd ever place but I couldn't afford another lease on minimum wage, my aunt has plenty of room but won't let me stay even though my twin did once b4, yet my mom was the only one to help me again to help me get back on my feet.

I broke down in tears cause, why did I have to strive on my own for so long? When can I rest, why do I have to be in constant survival mode while everyone else is so comfortable, aren't I loved anymore? Am I wanted? Doesn't anyone care about me? I have family and friends but...everyone only cares about themselves they're all too busy, they don't care about me, & all the family I have left are dropping like flies. Where are my friends? They're all getting married and having kids, my best friend and I had a falling out. So why did I come to Vegas? Cause there was nothing left in Tucson anymore, I felt more alone than I ever had before, my church family became my family but they were all gone too & filled with new people. My mom was driving me crazy but I wanted to venture out, not be stuck in a rut every day watching my mom smoke her life away. I couldn't take it anymore, my life was going nowhere. I always wanted to see Criss Angel's other shows, I've seen Believe in 2011 it was an amazing experience I'll never forget. He made my day better everytime I saw him on TV, I could always count on him to cheer me up, he always makes me smile. I grew up watching him since I was in the group home, he practically raised me, he reminded me alot about myself & he was like the father I never had, kindred spirits. Over the years he's taught me a lot too, the courage & bravery to not give up on my dreams cause I know there's something better for me out there, to look forward to a better future because I wish for anything to have a life that I deserve, I deserve to be happy. With people that really do love and care about me. Where to find that, but with his encouragement I know this pain is just temporary and I'll fight with everything I have to see a better tomorrow. It'll get better, things will calm down, I can rest and heal from my pain, and I'll tell my story when the time comes.

I had a very different life than my brothers. Ive had to start over 100x it seems. A child's trauma is supposed to go away, not follow them into adulthood. If u adopt a child, make sure u take their siblings too if u can, don't tear them apart, they deserve to have a safe home with parents that will make sure they're loved. Love your kids and your fur babies, hold onto them

Things flubbed up here too but I'm handling it ok, it's another struggling stage of my life but since I've been here I've gotten closer to God & I've felt the magic in the air. I know if I go back I'll feel worse if I leave with unfinished business. Gonna finish the holidays here and possibly go back in January, I'm trespassed from planet Hollywood and all ceasars properties til March or April next yr, due to unexpected corrupt security guard tomfoolery I missed out. Amystika was the show I wanted to see but I couldn't in full and it went on tour b4 I could rightfully experience it. But that's ok, all I have left to do is visit the restaurant I think. When I got here I felt at home and more free than I had in a while, it felt good, til all that shit went down & the party poopers ruined it lol but I know it's not Vegas turning on me just a series of unfortunate events & the people here are different. I like being a lone wolf but it gets very stressful being alone especially in a whole new place, my life is again different but I'm liking Vegas Bri actually, just keep getting better from here & working on my self love.

[nightingaelic]

If the New Vegas companions could be brought to see Mr. House, how would they react to the whole "If you want to see the fate of democracies, look out the windows" speech he makes?

"With all that money pouring in? Give me twenty years, and I'll reignite the high technology sectors. Fifty years, and I'll have people in orbit. One hundred years, and my colony ships will be heading for the stars, to search for planets unpolluted by the wrath and folly of a bygone generation."

The courier raised an eyebrow at the industrialist on the Lucky 38 penthouse computer screens. "In the meantime, you'd rule Vegas as some kind of dictator?"

"I prefer the term 'autocrat,'" Robert House replied. "I would rule as a chief executive. I would not answer to a board of directors or any other entity."

The courier's other eyebrow went up, and skepticism hung on the corner of their mouth. Though the face on the screens didn't move, it nevertheless caught the reaction. "Nothing to impede progress. If you want to see the fate of democracies, look out the windows."

Arcade Gannon: Arcade threw his hands in the air. "I can't believe this. All of this, this 'master plan' and the hardships it brings, just to hop on a rocket and launch yourself into space to look for a new planet to ruin? What about this one?"

"What about it?" House replied disdainfully. "Earth no longer holds any hope for the human race."

"The human race is still here," Arcade insisted angrily. "And you'd rather waltz off to the stars and doom them than consider that you, with all your resources and all your experience, might owe them something more than a wave goodbye from your spaceship window."

"I owe them nothing." The tone of House's voice suggested he was turning up his nose at the very idea. "I belong to the human race, too, and I was here the day the bombs fell. Whatever debt I might owe humanity should rightfully have been erased by having to clean up the mess they made for me, a mess I've been managing for over 200 years. As it is, I am still working to restore the human race to its former glory, and its best hope no longer lies with the descendants of those who launched the nuclear warheads, those that crawl through the rubble of their old world. It lies with those who will join me, who will see their sons and daughters living among the cosmic spheres."

"And fuck everyone else, right?" Arcade turned to the courier. "Are you listening to this guy? He doesn't care about you, me, or anyone outside this casino. The only person he's ever cared about is himself. New Vegas deserves better."

"On that, we can agree," House cut in. "But seeing as no one else was willing to step up to the challenge, Vegas will have to make do."

"No one else had millions of dollars to throw away on satellites and laser cannons!" Arcade exploded.

Craig Boone: Boone stared out the window that House had indicated, his lips pressed together. His head hurt. He was angry at the man on the screens, but if you'd asked him to explain why, he wouldn't have been able to. He'd never been very good at turning his complicated thoughts into words.

"Has your NCR soldier taken ill?" House asked the courier. "Food poisoning, based on the look on his face. There's a bathroom on this level, should he need it."

"I'm fine," Boone grumbled.

The courier glanced at him. "I think he's probably just put off by how quickly you dismantled and dismissed the cause he used to fight for."

"Then I'm sorry to break it to you, but the NCR has never been focused on fulfilling the needs of its citizens," House replied. "It grasps at Hoover Dam out of a sense of self-preservation, not out of some noble purpose to provide power to its people."

"I know that," Boone insisted. "I know what the Legion is. Why the NCR fights Caesar. What I don't know is why you would rather put off a fight that's already at your door, when you and the NCR could have put him in the ground a long time ago."

"Because the Legion's presence ensures the NCR is too busy to question my own ventures," House explained, with the air of one trying to explain basic math to a child. "I would rather see the NCR's strength broken somewhat before I swoop in and save the day."

"How many have died?" Boone demanded, his hands balling into fists. "How many have been beaten, enslaved, taken from their homes and turned into... into..."

House thought a bit before he answered. "It is of no concern to me."

Boone turned and stalked back toward the elevator.

Lily Bowen: Lily glanced out the indicated window. "How pretty," she commented, dazzled by the lights that blinked and shone from the Strip below.

"Indeed," House said with pride. "You can see what I've already done. How much more I'll be able to do is up to you, courier. Return to me when you have the Platinum Chip in your possession, and together, we'll work wonders."

Lily frowned. "I wonder..."

"Pardon?"

Lily looked down at the courier, suddenly shy. They patted her on the arm reassuringly. "Go ahead."

"I wonder why you weren't able to protect my pumpkin from..." Lily looked sadly at the scar on the courier's head.

"Ah." House seemed mildly annoyed with the question. "Goodsprings is a bit too far away for me to reliably control a Securitron agent by remote. I can send and receive packets of data, at best. Victor's combat algorithms determined the proper course of action. Benny and his thugs were more than a match for a lone Securitron."

"And if they agree to help you, they will be in danger again," Lily went on, eyeing the man on the screen with misgiving.

"With high risk goes high reward, nightkin."

It was the courier's turn to frown. "Or death."

Raul Alfonso Tejada: Raul shrugged. "He's not wrong, boss. The pre-war world was a mess."

"Quite right," agreed House. "How refreshing, to hear from someone able to relate from personal experience."

"I'd heard of you, even then," Raul admitted to the man on the screen. "The genius. The superstar. Founded RobCo at 22, dated Hollywood starlets, the works. They say you saved Las Vegas."

"I did," House said with pride. "And I'll do it again."

Raul nodded. "I was in Mexico City when the bombs dropped. Even from there, we could see your defensive rockets shooting down the incoming missiles. We all thought you'd died."

The computer screens suddenly flickered, changing to show a smile on the static face. "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated. Though I must admit, they've served me well, in their own way."

"Sure." Raul smiled. "Tengo una pregunta. Why Vegas?"

"Vegas is my hometown," House answered, letting nostalgia creep into his voice. "I was born here. I founded my company here, ran its operations and had all of my best ideas here. It was fitting, to turn it into the birthplace of humanity's best hope for the future."

"Why not Boston?" Raul asked. "Or New York City? Any of the other large cities, really. You could've saved lives, saved technology that Vegas never saw."

House scoffed. "None of America's other cities could hold a candle to Vegas. Besides, I chose to save the city to better ensure my own plan's survival, not to lengthen humanity's death rattle."

Raul glanced at the courier knowingly. "Hmm. If you say so."

Rose of Sharon Cassidy: "Huh." Cass straightened her hat. "Last I checked, civilization kept going, Mr. House."

"What you know as civilization is but an echo of the comfort and wealth that preceded the Great War," House answered impatiently. "A mud hut constructed on the foundation of a Greek temple. I can rebuild the temple."

"Not much use for temples nowadays," Cass countered. "And the rest of the world's gotten on without you. Vegas isn't even the most impressive city I've visited."

"You've seen better? I doubt it."

Cass grinned. "Never been to New Reno? Shame."

"The Wrights and the Van Graffs could only dream of the business that the Strip sees on a daily basis," House replied, clearly prickling at the suggestion that his brainchild was unimpressive to her.

"Maybe." Cass bobbed her head a bit. "But that's one city. There's also the Hub, up-and-coming Arroyo, not to mention all the eastern settlements I've only heard about..."

"Do you mean to irritate me on purpose?" House interrupted her. "I don't have time for childish comparisons. My point stands. What I'm building here in Vegas will outlast this world, and I'm offering you a part in that plan."

"She's right, though," the courier protested. "And I don't buy that talk about pre-war comfort and wealth. There are still signs up around Freeside for bread lines, enlistment pushes, fearmongering about China... it doesn't look like anyone on our level was that comfortable, except maybe you."

"Just my luck," House said grimly. "The courier I hire is a socialist."

Veronica Santangelo: Veronica crossed her arms. "That wasn't a democracy."

House sighed. "I don't expect much from members of the Brotherhood, and yet they still manage to astound me in their complete and total ignorance. What on earth do you mean?"

"What I said," Veronica replied, annoyed. "America wasn't a democracy. It had the veneer of democracy, but based on everything I've read, it was more of a totalitarian plutocracy, especially leading up to the Great War."

"So you were paying attention during whatever passes for school among your order," House said condescendingly. "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that that's the narrative the Brotherhood chose to stick to. It fits in nicely with its standing mission to deprive everyone who isn't wearing power armor of any potentially useful weaponry."

Veronica looked livid. "I heard your name in school, too, Mr. House. And in my extra-curricular studies. I know all about your military contracts, your work with Vault-Tec, Watoga National Park, your secret collaboration with General Atomics on Liberty Prime... it's almost like you stood to benefit immensely from speeding up the end of the world."

That tripped House up. "And what of it?" he said quickly. "I'm a man of industry. I saw needs, and I filled them. If they didn't come to me, consumers would simply find someone else to buy their Pip-Boys and robots from."

Veronica nodded, a smirk forming on her face. "Mmm-hm. Sure. And how many of the nuclear warheads you shot down had your name on them?"

ED-E: The eyebot at the courier's side floated over to the window as prompted and scanned the city below. A crowd of NCR soldiers was making their way down the Strip, laughing and talking excitedly about being on leave. Dancers outside Gomorrah twisted and shook their hips, beckoned to those passing by. Securitrons rolled by in tight formation, pausing occasionally to pick up trash and break up any disagreements that rose above a precise decibel level. Out in Freeside, gunshots cracked the air. ED-E beeped and catalogued the requested data, but none of it appeared to be related to democracy.

Rex: Rex looked up at the courier, blissfully unaware of the conversation they were in the middle of. They patted his brain dome affectionately before turning back to House. "I don't like it."

"What part don't you like?" House asked.

"The part where you're the only one in charge," the courier answered. "I don't know what a board of directors is, but shouldn't the people you rule over have some kind of say in how you're doing it?"

House's eyes remained static on the screen, but he sounded like he had narrowed them. "You've been talking to Benny, haven't you?"

#fallout companions #fallout #fallout new vegas #fnv #fallout new vegas companions #fallout new vegas companions react #fnv companions #fnv companions react #arcade gannon #arcade israel gannon #craig boone #lily bowen #raul tejada #raul alfonso tejada #rose of sharon cassidy #cassidy #veronica santangelo #rex #ed-e #robert house #mr. house #basically robert house is tony stark if tony stark never realized that arms dealing is bad actually

[writing-in-april]

My Date with the President’s Daughter

Spencer Reid x Female Reader (Spencer POV)

Summary: Spencer has a date with the President’s daughter, who he’s been dating for a while in partial secret. He hasn’t seen her in person for a while so he’s had to settle for another form of communication.

A/N: Ok just to get this out of the way— this is not a politically charged fic, I don’t express my own political beliefs in this fic nor do I express my opinion on the beliefs of others. The president in this fic is entirely made up and I just thought it would be cool to release it on Inauguration Day like the nerd I am. I do not want a political debate in the comments, this blog is not meant for that. This fic is for fun and to make people a little happier in these trying times. Please respect my wishes. This was a really fun way to write a twist on Spencer dating someone famous and- I wonder if anyone can spot the West Wing reference I used 🤔Thanks to @spencers-dria again for always helping me out with my fics 🥰This is also apart of my unlinked fic series called Spencer Reid & Letters! Requests are open and thank you for reading!

Warning: Vague political talk, References to keeping their relationship secret earlier, Avoiding the paparazzi- that should be it.

Main Masterlist Spencer Reid & Letters Word count: 1.6k

She didn’t have to put her short little letter to me on the back of a postcard, but she always did it this way. I remember when she first told me why she did it. We were sitting cuddled up on my couch at the early start of our relationship. I had asked her why she always insisted she send her letters on the back of a tiny card, she would’ve had so much more room if she got out a piece of paper.

She said she got into the habit of sending them to her father whenever he was away on business. Her handwriting had been horrible as a child according to her and her father had suggested she try to fit all of her thoughts onto a postcard. So, now she sent all of her letters neatly handwritten with the smallest of letters, so small you could almost barely read them, on the back of a postcard.

The postcard I had gotten late today, delivered by one of the last people on duty this late at night, was a picturesque view of the White House. The grass bright green and the outside covered in pure crisp white, a statuesque image of American democracy. Now, she didn’t send this to me because she wanted to express her political views and patriotism in a postcard, it just so happened to be where her father lived.

The fact that she was the President’s daughter used to intimidate me a lot when I first met her. I hadn’t immediately connected the dots in my head that she was the first daughter when we first met, though I could tell I had seen her somewhere before. Though, my first assumption was that maybe she had been a regular at my favorite coffee shop, not the daughter to the President of the United States. Literally my biggest boss.

First time I met him was also my first time in the east wing; she had some help from her secret service detail to sneak me in through the back. I only ever nervously stutter when I’m in intimidating or stressful situations and I’m pretty sure I barely got a sentence out the first ten minutes after I had met him. Luckily, he did seem to like me, though I’m not really sure why. Y/N told me once it was because he found my intelligence extraordinary and my constant willingness to share facts endearing. I always blush when I remember that, she was always so sweet to me and the fact that her family loved me as well caused my heart to swell exponentially. I stared at the captured view for a few seconds longer before the dots had fully connected in my head, I may have an eidetic memory, but sometimes it took me a minute to get her subtle hints. She didn’t actually live at the White House, she had her own house in D.C. But, this postcard meant one thing. She’s home.

Each postcard she sent me had a picture of wherever she was while she was traveling the world, it was a small gesture that made me feel closer to her, I always tried to imagine I was there with her at every location she sent. She had been out of the country for at least a month on business and even before that we hadn’t seen each other for a while, I had been stuck on a long case that kept me away from her for half a month.

A month and a half, that’s how long it's been since I’ve had her in my arms. I turned over the card expecting to see it filled with more words than most people would think could fit on the back of a postcard to let me know when I could see her, but this was not the case. Instead, the back of the card contained less words than normal. Only the words- meet me at 10pm at our usual spot.

My body moved faster than my brain, getting up to pack up all my things to rush to our usual spot. My watch sat over my cardigan sleeve on my wrist and it blinked up at me letting me know I only had 30 minutes till I had to get to the other side of town.I still had some paperwork left, but enough that I could push it off till the next day. Once I had gotten all my stuff together I scurried over to leave through the glass doors.

“Are you heading home, Spence?” A voice from inside the bullpen called out startling me out of my thoughts, I had thought everyone had left for the night. I turned around to look at the owner of the voice, JJ, who had come back from the break room to finish her large stack of paperwork that still remained.

“Actually no- I have a date.” A small shy smile made its way onto my face, I still felt very shy when I talked about my relationship with the team. When I had first told them after around 8 months into our relationship, they had thought I was pulling their legs. Once they did realize that I was in fact, not bullshitting them as Morgan had suspected, the questions had immediately come down on me. The ogling at my relationship never really ceased in the months after it had come out to the team, and the rest of the world. We mostly still tried to keep it under wraps, but the fact that the press now knew about me after some photos got leaked from a date only made the team ogle even more.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get used to who you go on dates with, it’s like something out of a movie.” JJ joked, then yawning again and leaning her face into her palms. “Well- I still have a lot of paperwork to do, you go enjoy your night, Spencer. I know you haven’t seen her in a while.”

My mind had already begun to shift away from JJ as soon as she brought her up, I was practically vibrating in anticipation, I couldn’t wait to see her.

—-

The rare book store on the east side of Quantico had been my favorite for years, ever since I had moved out here from Vegas actually. So much so that the owners, an older couple named Margaret and Dan, both knew me by name and knew almost exactly what books I wanted every time. The both of them had immediately jumped at the chance when I had hesitantly asked them to let the both of us meet up here, I had been desperately trying to find a place outside of my apartment where we could meet up.

When I entered the shop through the back it was already deserted just for us, she must have contacted Maggie and Dan to ask them if we could have the store for the night. The store was packed full of the rare books the owners had both acquired over the years, ranging from old tales and poems written by Edgar Allan Poe, the dark brother’s Grimm tales, to almost any old book that you could think of. It was almost to the point where I thought maybe Maggie and Dan should upgrade to a bigger shop.

“Long time no see.” A voice piped up from the mostly dark corner where she sat in a dark green armchair only partially illuminated by a standing lamp. Broad grins broke out on both of our faces before we both ran to each other, engulfing ourselves into an overwhelming bear hug.

“I missed you so much you don't even know.” Tears prickled at the edge of my eyes, though I wasn’t afraid to admit that us being apart for so long made me tear up.

“I've got a pretty good idea, I missed you so much as well.” She sniffed and then sighed into the crook of my neck. I moved my hand up to cradle her head to try and bring her as close as possible to me, even though there was already not even an inch of space between the two of us.

A nagging thought was dancing around in my brain, the card was so short and abrupt. It wasn’t like her to not be long winded whenever she wrote to me, she even had a tendency to be worse than I was sometimes.

“Why was the card so short? You feeling ok?”

“I just couldn’t wait to see you… It’s been so long since I’ve seen you...” Her tone of voice made me sad, it had been so lonely for me as well when we were apart.  “I never want to be away from you for that long ever again.”

“Move in with me.” The words blurted out of my mouth before I could really think about my words. I didn’t care whether it would be feasible or not, I just knew I never wanted us to be apart for so long ever again.

“Well-“ I cringed a little at her words sensing a rejection, I worried that I had just screwed it all up by asking. However, again she surprised me, “We might need to get a new place to settle my father’s worries about security.”

I breathed out a breathy laugh of relief at her words, enveloping her into a bruising kiss, my worry and anxiety immediately melting away. I couldn’t wait for the next chapter of my life with the President’s daughter.

—-

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#spencer reid #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fanfic #spencer reid fluff #criminal minds #criminal minds x reader #criminal minds fluff #spencer reid & letters series #spencer reid & letters #matthew gray gubler #matthew gray gubler x reader #series #criminal minds series

[just-dreaming-marvel]

Out Of Time ~ 109

MASTERLIST

< previous chapter

Word Count: 3,025ish

Summary: Secretary Ross holds a meeting. Steve and Y/N get some news.

Tony sat in the corner of the facility’s conference room, away from everyone else. Secretary Ross stood in the front next to the monitor. Steve, Rhodey, and Natasha were seated at the table on the side closest to Tony. Sam, Vision, and Wanda were seated on the other side. Y/N was sat down at the end of the table, opposite Ross.

“Five years ago, I had a heart attack. I dropped right in the middle of my backswing. Turned out it was the best round of my life, because after 13 hours of surgery and a triple bypass… I found something 40 years in the Army had never taught me: Perspective,” Secretary Ross stated. “The world owes the Avengers an unpayable debt. You have fought for us, protected us, risked your lives… but while a great many people see you as heroes, there are some… who would prefer the word ‘vigilantes’.”

“And what word would you use, Mr. Secretary?” Natasha cut in, snarkily.

“How about ‘dangerous'? What would you call a group of US-based, enhanced individuals who routinely ignore sovereign borders and inflict their will wherever they choose and who, frankly, seem unconcerned about what they leave behind?” Secretary Ross activated the monitor behind him. It started playing news reels from past Avengers and SHIELD matters. “New York.”  A clip of the Chitauri invasion played out. “Washington DC.” When SHIELD fell. 

“Sokovia.” Ultron. “Lagos.” The team’s most recent mission.

“Okay,” Steve said, noticing Wanda’s uncomfortableness. “That’s enough.” 

Ross turned off the screen before continuing. “For the past four years, you've operated with unlimited power and no supervision. That's an arrangement the governments of the world can no longer tolerate. But I think we have a solution.” He threw a thick book on the table. “The Sokovia Accords. Approved by 117 countries… it states that the Avengers shall no longer be a private organization. Instead, they'll operate under the supervision of a United Nations panel, only when and if that panel deems it necessary. The Accords will also require anyone who is enhanced to be put on a registry.”

“Like me and Y/N?” Wanda wondered. Y/N glanced at Tony, who refused to look her way, as Wanda continued. “We’d be put on a list so that you can watch our every move? Maybe even experiment on us?”

“We wouldn’t experiment on anyone.”

“Why?” Y/N questioned. “Is it cause you already are?”

“The Avengers were formed to make the world a safer place,” Steve stated, trying to change the topic. “I feel we’ve done that.”

“Tell me, Captain, do you know where Thor and Banner are right now?” Steve merely looked at Ross, unable to answer the question. For all they knew, Thor was on Asgard and no one had seen or heard from Bruce since Sokovia, a year ago. “If I misplaced a couple of 30 megaton nukes, you can bet there’d be consequences. Compromise. Reassurance. That’s how the world works. Believe me, this is the middle ground.”

“So, there are contingencies,” Rhodey spoke up. 

“Three days from now, the UN meets in Vienna to ratify the Accords.” 

Steve and Tony briefly made eye contact,Tony quickly looking back down. Y/N noticed. That floor must be really interesting, interesting enough for a man who never shuts up to stop talking.  

“Talk it over,” Ross continued.

“And if we come to a decision you don’t like?” Nat asked.

“Then you retire.” Ross answered. Everyone kinda glanced at each other. “Let me know what you guys decide.” And with that, Ross left. 

~~~

They moved to one of the common area’s of the facility. Rhodey and Sam were going at each other about the Accords while Steve flipped through them and everyone else listened.

“Secretary Ross has a Congressional Medal of Honor,” Rhodey argued. “Which is one more than you have.”

“So let's say we agree to this thing,” Sam said. “How long is it gonna be before they LoJack us like a bunch of common criminals?”

“117 countries want to sign this. 117, Sam, and you're just like, ‘No, that's cool. We got it.’”

“How long are you going to play both sides?”

“I have an equation,” Vision stated, interrupting their bickering.

“Oh, this will clear it up.” Sam grumbled sarcastically. 

“In the six years since Mr. Stark announced himself as Iron Man,” Vision started, “the number of known enhanced persons has grown exponentially. And during the same period, the number of potentially world-ending events has risen at a commensurate rate.”

“Are you saying it’s our fault?” Steve questioned, as he looked up from the Accords.

“I’m saying there may be a causality. Our very strength invites challenge. Challenge incites conflict. And conflict… breeds catastrophe. Oversight… Oversight is not an idea that can be dismissed out of hand.”

“Boom,” Rhodey said.

“Tony…” Nat called, causing everyone to look at him. “You’re uncharacteristically non-hyperverbal.” 

Tony, who had been laying down, moved his hand off from over his face and looked at Nat. She was right. He’s always very open about his opinion. Y/N had to keep pushing down the urge to read his mind, let his thoughts in.

“It’s because he’s already made up his mind,” Steve stated.

“Boy, you know me so well,” Tony said sarcastically. Tony stood up and walked into the kitchen, rubbing the back of his head as he went. “Actually, I’m nursing an electromagnetic headache.” He opened a cabinet and grabbed a mug. “That’s what’s going on, Cap. It’s just pain. It’s discomfort.” Tony looked into the sink. “Who’s putting coffee grounds in the disposal? Am I running a bed-and-breakfast for a biker gang?” He tried to causally pull up a holographic image on his phone. 

“Oh, that’s Charles Spencer by the way,” Tony continued. “He’s a great kid. Computer engineering degree. 3.6 GPA. Had a floor-level gig at Intel planned for the fall. But first, he wanted to put a few miles on his soul, before he parked it behind a desk. See the world, maybe be of service. Charlie didn’t want to go to Vegas or Fort Lauderdale, which is what I would do. He didn’t go to Paris or Amsterdam, which sounds fun. He decided to spend his summer, building sustainable housing for the poor. Guess where, Sokovia.” Y/N closed her eyes. “He wanted to make a difference, I suppose. I mean, we won’t know because we dropped a building on him while we were kicking ass.” 

Tony threw some pills in his mouth and took a drink before continuing. “There’s no decision-making process here. We need to be put in check! Whatever form that takes, I’m game. If we can’t accept limitations, we’re boundary less, we’re no better than the bad guys.” 

“Tony, someone dies on your watch, you don’t give up,” Steve stated.

“Who said we’re giving up?” Tony questioned. 

“We are, if we’re not taking responsibility for our actions. This document just shifts the blame.”

“Sorry,” Rhodey interrupted, “Steve, that, that is dangerously arrogant. This is the United Nations we’re talking about. It’s not the World Security Council, it’s not SHIELD, it’s not HYDRA.”

“No, but it’s run by people with agendas and agents change."

“That’s good. That’s why I’m here,” Tony said. “When I realized what my weapons were capable of in the wrong hands, I shut it down and stopped manufacturing them."

“Tony. You chose to do that. If we sign these, we surrender our right to choose. What if this panel sends us somewhere we don’t think we should go? What if there’s somewhere we need to go, and they don’t let us? We may not be perfect, but the safest hands are still our own.” 

“If we don’t do this now, it’s gonna be done to us later. That’s a fact. That won’t be pretty.”

“You’re saying they’ll come for me…” Wanda whispered.

“And me,” Y/N said.

“We would protect you,” Vision promised, looking at Wanda.“Both of you.”

Y/N looked to Tony, trying to see where he was going with all this. But nothing. He just refused to meet her eyes.

“Maybe Tony’s right,” Nat suggested. Tony looked at her, shocked. “If we have one hand on the wheel we can still steer. If we take it off—”

“Aren’t you the same woman who told the government to kiss her ass a few years ago?” Sam cut her off. 

“I’m just raiding the terrain. We’ve made some very public mistakes, we need to win their trust back.”

“Focus up. I’m sorry,” Tony interrupted, the hint of surprise in his voice, “Did I just miss hear you or did you just say that you agree with me?” 

“Oh, I want to take it back—“ Nat quickly shook her head. 

“No no no,” Tony said, as he shook his finger. “You can’t retracted it.” 

Sitting close to him, Y/N could hear Steve’s phone buzz. She watched as he pulled it out to check it and immediately grow sad.

“I have to go,” Steve stated.

He got up quickly, dropped the Accords on the coffee table, and slipped into the stairwell. Concerned, Y/N stood up and followed. She found him a couple of flights down, leaning against the banister with his head hung low.

“Hey,” she gently said, coming up to him. “What’s going on?”

When he lifted his head, his eyes were glassy. “She’s gone,” he struggled to say. “Peggy’s gone.”

“Oh, Steve.” Y/N quickly pulled him into her, tears forming in her own eyes as well. 

“She’s gone.”

~~~

Tony found Y/N in their room later that day. He wanted to talk to her about the Accords. He had no clue where she stood. When he entered, he noticed she was packing.

“Are we going somewhere?” He asked.

“Peggy’s dead…. She’s gone.”

“Oh, sweetheart.” Tony came over, allowing Y/N to fall into his arms. “I’m so sorry.”

“She was just one of the few I had left from then.”

“When’s the funeral?”

“In three days, in London.”

They stood in silence for a moment. “The Accords are being signed in Vienna that day.”

Y/N pulled her head away slightly, brows furrowed. “I tell you that my close friend just died, and you are worried about the Accords?”

“That’s not what I meant—“

Y/N pulled away fully, going back to packing. “I can’t believe you.”

“What? I just stated a fact. And you’re going to go sign them, right? Red’s going so you can just go with her.”

“Stop, Tony, just stop.”

“It’s a question. Are you going to sign them?”

Y/N let out a frustrated sigh. “I don’t know.”

“You don’t know?”

“Yes, Tony, I don’t know.”

“Why? Explain to me why you don’t know.”

Y/N dropped what she was working on so she could face Tony. “Because I see both sides! I see and understand that we need a little more leash than we have. We need to be monitored, as a team. But then I see the other side as well. The Accords are so strict! What if they force us to fight for something we don’t agree with? Or won’t let us fight when we need to? And there’s the fact that those will powers will have to be monitored. But they were never specific on what that entailed.”

“I will protect you.” Tony stepped closer. “Like always.”

“You can’t promise that if you sign the Accords. It’s not up to you.”

“I already signed them.”

“What?”

“I signed them before Ross even brought them to the team.”

“How— why—you should have talked about this to me first. Why didn’t you say anything?!”

“Because I guess I thought that you would sign them too.”

“Out of what? Love? Duty to my boyfriend?”

“Yes! And because I thought you’d understand why we need to have this.”

“I do understand! I just think that the Accords aren’t the answer!”

“Well I do! And if you loved me, you would too!!”

“What?” Y/N’s whisper of the word still gave away her angry tone. “If I loved you? What the hell do the Accords have to do with love?!”

“Because one of the reasons, my biggest reason, for doing this is because I love you! I’m doing this for us! And to make things right!”

“You’re doing this for you, Tony! And no one else! You’re hoping that you’ll be able to sleep better at night after this. That the guilt of everything that’s happened won’t drive you crazy anymore.”

“So what if that’s part of it?! We need to be put in check, Y/N! God! How do you not understand that?!”

“You know what? I understand perfectly.” Y/N threw the rest of the clothes on their bed into her suitcase. Slamming it shut. “It is my decision whether or not to sign the Accords. I need some time to think.” Zipping it up, she grabbed the suitcase. “And I think it needs to be away from here.”

“So, what, you’re leaving here? Running away?”

“Don’t even, Tony! I am not running away. I need to make this decision on my own, without any opinions in the way.”

“But you’re going to London with Cap, right? I’m sure he’ll try to sway you.”

“My friend just died! The person who used to be my best friend! The only person I knew after waking up. So, yes, I am going to London. But that doesn’t mean that I’ll be taking Steve’s side. Or any side.” A portal opened next to Y/N. “Please, let me have some time.”

As Y/N stepped through the portal, Tony called out one last thing, “You have less than 3 days, Y/N. Better make your decision quick.”

~~~

After the portal closed, Y/N hurried to find a nearby trash can, emptying her gut into it. The baby clearly wasn’t a fan of that. Y/N got a hotel room in London. She texted Steve telling him where she was and that she would see him at the funeral. Steve questioned is she was okay, which Y/N just waved off.

She stayed in her hotel room until the funeral. When she arrived at the cathedral, it was already packed with mourners. Y/N quickly found Sam sitting in the front row.

“Hey,” he greeted, bringing her in for a hug.

“I didn’t know you’d be here, Sam.”

“I figured you would both need some support.”

Y/N pulled away. “Thanks, Sam.” 

She tried to discreetly look around. She was hoping that Tony would do the same thing. They hadn’t spoken or texted since that argument. 

“He’s not here,” Sam said, turning her attention to him.

“What?”

“Stark, he’s not here.”

“I wasn’t—“

“Yes you were. Steve may not be immediately again to see it, but I do. You two got in a fight. Was it over the Accords?”

“Yes,” Y/N sighed with a nod. 

“Your stance?”

“I still don’t know. I see both sides… there just has to be a better way.”

“I hope you figure one out. And figure it out fast."

~~~

Steve helped carry the casket down. As he sat down beside Y/N in the front pew, he immediately grabbed her hand, squeezing it. Y/N squeezed back. They listened to the speakers, Y/N staring at the framed photo of Peggy in front.

“And now, I would like to invite Sharon Carter to come up and say a few words,” the Priest stated.

Steve was watching Y/N when Sam leaned over and nudged him. Steve looked up to see Sharon Carter, formally known as Agent 13 from SHIELD and Steve’s neighbor, up at the podium. Y/N knew that Sharon was related to Peggy, but it was clear that Steve did not.

“Margaret Carter was known to most as a founder of SHIELD . . . but I just knew her as Aunt Peggy,” Sharon began. Steve took a surprised breath. "She had a photograph in her office. Aunt Peggy standing next to JFK. As a kid, that was pretty cool. But it was a lot to live up to. Which is why I never told anyone we were related.” Sharon looked directly at Steve. “I asked her once how she managed to master diplomacy and espionage in a time when no one wanted to see a woman succeed at either. And she said, compromise where you can. But where you can't, don't. Even if everyone is telling you that something wrong is something right. Even if the whole world is telling you to move . . . it is your duty to plant yourself like a tree, look them in they eye and say, ‘No, you move’.”

~~~

After the ceremony, Steve and Y/N were the only ones left in the cathedral. Y/N was standing in front of Peggy’s picture while Steve had his head down, leaning against a pew. Natasha walked up the isle to Steve.

“When I came out of the ice, I thought everyone I had known was gone besides Y/N,” Steve said. “Then I found out that she was alive. I was just lucky to have her.”

“She had you back, too,” Nat responded. “The both of you.”

“Who else signed?”

“Tony. Rhodey. Vision.”

“Clint?” Y/N asked, still looking at the photograph.

“Says he's retired.”

“Wanda?” Steve wondered.

“TBD. I'm off to Vienna for the signing of the Accords. There's plenty of room on the jet.” Steve sighed as Y/N turned around to join them. “Just because it's the path of least resistance doesn't mean it's the wrong path. Staying together is more important than how we stay together.”

“What are we giving up to do it?” Nat sighed as Steve shook his head. “I'm sorry, Nat. I can't sign it.” Nat looked at Y/N.

“I don’t know yet, Nat,” Y/N responded. “I see both sides, I’m affecting either way. I just… I don’t know.”

“I know,” Nat responded.

“Then what are you doing here?” Steve asked.

“I didn’t want you two to be alone.”

next chapter >

NOTES: There was going to be more gifs, but I got lazy..... sorry.....

From now on the taglist when be added by a reblog. I will reblog it using my second account, @just-dreaming-marvel-2​. Just so that my main page doesn’t get too cluttered.

If you want to be added to the tag list, please dm me or send in an ask.

#tony stark x reader #steve rogers x reader #the avengers x reader #avengers x reader #iron man x reader #captain america x reader #marvel imagine #marvel #tony stark imagine #tony stark #Iron Man #The Avengers #Avengers

[dykedvonte]

Thoughts on Benny + The Followers of the Apocalypse?

Idk if you want them separate or together so I’ll give you a little of both.

I personally don’t care for portraying Benny as suicidally arrogant and pathetic. He’s a lot more capable than people in the fandom give him credit for and should def read and take his All Roads characterization into heart as it is canon. I think a lot of it stems from all the other major players and factions being so much more intimidating and equal to the player by the time you reach him and the general goofy aspect of his character like the slang and that god awful suit but he’s truly a force. He cons people, is capable in a fight and is not afraid of getting his hands dirty, he just doesn’t do things that could get him killed if he doesn’t. It’s only when the Courier gets involved that he starts facing repercussions for anything. It’s funny but I wish more peeps focused on his underlying aspects like the fact he is prideful and has a temper but at the same time isn’t belligerent. He goes on benders according to Swank so he really isn’t above all the “missing the tribal days” syndrome all the other Chairmen have. It’s something that always plagues me when I like a popular or well known character in fandom cause they always get dumbed down and it cuts out a lot of the stuff I like to focus on. It doesn’t help that I feel a lot of people treat him like he’s the worst character morally when like random side quest NPCs have definitely done worse than him to you and general on a good day.

For the followers, they are one of my favorite factions despite not being a consequential faction. They had a lot cut from them such as a quest line that had you expose Caesar by revealing all his ancient Roman shit was a farce as he learned it from his time in the Followers and not from Mars (a big reason Caesar has a kill on sight order for followers members or people who reveal they are educated) and just more agency. I think it’s funny they are so close to Vegas while standing against all it represents but I understand why they wouldn’t like it as so many people struggle with addiction and abuse in the Mojave due to how much it sucks to be there. I feel like if you had the option to incorporate them into an independent Vegas or NCR option in a major way they’d do wonders for the future of the Mojave since they universally just want to make living easier and healthier. They are a bunch of pills but they don’t let that get in the way of their goals. I also enjoy how they make anyone who is helpful or just lost a follower (a cut quest lets Rotface join if you encourage him to be better and he’s actually happier for it!!!). I wish we got more random follower NPCs and encampments but New Vegas barely can function with all it has already so I get why their stuff was cut but man does it suck. I think I’d be a follower if I was in the Mojave.

As for Benny AND the Followers? I think Benny appreciates them as a former Boot Rider and tribal. They help those in need and I feel like there’s unspoken solidarity between raiders/tribals and the followers as they likely got healed a lot. If Benny had the power I feel like he’d make them a part of Vegas as like a thank you because y’know, the honor and loyalty is a big part of Chairmen culture past and present. After Emily ehh…. as long as she doesn’t bring it up. They probably wouldn’t accept due to it being Vegas but Benny is just like an annoying old friend to the followers. He’s probably stopped by on his many escapades trying to overthrow House and they tolerate him as a useful in/tie to Vegas power dynamics. He’d make a shitty doctor and most Followers have shit poker faces.

#I have strong opinions on fandom interpretations and I often don’t reblog a lot of material outside my own stuff #or follow a lot of fandom blogs cause it will literally make me leave a fandom if fanon is unbearable to me like #I try to interpret characters pretty close to canon unless it’s in a shit post #Benny would hump and dump before he like fell love with anyone realistically but that’s the fun part #of creating the situation where he would rather than changing him to fit a desire #fallout #fallout new vegas #benny gecko #benny fnv #followers of the apocalypse #ask #anon

[malfoys-demigod]

All These Years - Spencer Reid x Reader

Requested by anon: Ahoy, could u write a Spencer fic where Readers adopted parents are unsubs on the case she & the team are working on? She doesn't get on with them, so the FBI are her real family. She's badass, and even Morgan is a bit scared of her when she gets the confession out of them. Behind the glass, Spencer is talking to him and Rossi about asking you to become his girlfriend and move in with him after you've been dating for a while but have been best friends for years.

Warnings: Abuse, death, etc. 

“I hate Las Vegas,” I complained, saying ‘Las Vegas’ with disgust. “I may have lived there, but I will never consider it my home.” 

“What’s in Las Vegas, Lil mama? Got yourself an actual boyfriend you’re hiding from Reid?” Morgan joked, sitting across us in the jet. I gave Morgan a serious look, causing him to put his hands up in defeat, terrified, “I’m sorry, you must really hate it there.” 

 I looked at Spencer, who must have been sad but understanding as he knew my reasons, “You know you’re the only thing I don’t hate about Vegas, right?” I held his hand tightly. Las Vegas was something I did not take to heart lightly. It may have been the place I first met Spencer since we were neighbors, but it was also the place where my parents died and where my adopted family raised me. 

I never did love my new family. I sometimes wished I was in the car with my parents where they died. My new family only took me in, hoping I was a potential move to higher their social standing. You see, they were what Rose in Titanic called, ‘new money’ and they wanted their image to look good by becoming a ‘four-member household family. So when I was 5 years old, my new parents Robert and Maria took me out of foster care into their family, along with their son, Peter. 

When they saw that I wasn’t into their pretentious and insecure life, they immediately shut me down, ignoring my needs and wants, only doing things to me that would help their image look better. That’s where I got my rebellious and cold side. Every time I was brought to galas and high-class events, I’d always take the chance to spite and humiliate them, attempting to embarrass them. I became a strong person at a young age as they physically abused me after each spite done to them once we were at home. From there on, I knew my actions had consequences, so I decided to save myself from more bruises and scars. Nobody at my age at these high-class events liked me. They could sniff that I wasn’t one of them, so I was friendless. That was until Spencer moved, residing beside me. I knew he wasn’t one of those socialists so we became friends. It was too unfortunate that we never went to the same schools as he went to a public school while I went to a private one. I thought I could manage different schools but at the age of 12, my best friend moved to California to attend college at Caltech. He once too thought it was the end of our friendship, but I told him to wait 6 years for me as I planned on running away for college. And I did. That’s where I got my independence. 

I grew strongly independent as I saved up all my allowances these 6 years to finally run away to California. I wasn’t accepted into Caltech but I managed to get into the University of Southern California which was only 20 minutes away from Spencer who was getting his doctorates, meaning I still had the chance to see him, and I did almost every day. 

When I finished University and when he finished getting his two doctorates, we applied together into the FBI academy, becoming agents at the Behaviour Analysis Unit. The team found it cute and humorous how we were best of friends, making them play matchmaker a few years after, managing us to going out together. We’re not yet labeled as ‘boyfriend and girlfriend’ yet but we’re somewhere there and it was good enough for them, especially Morgan. 

Despite having a case that revolved around the mass killings of socialites, I still prayed that my family was dead or that I wouldn’t bump into them while working on the case. But I was wrong. I found out my brother Peter was one of the latest casualties whose body was dumped and we managed to pin an unsub, a Michael Brown, who was rejected from high-class society and killed the socialites he encountered, but he confessed that he didn’t kill Peter. The team was hesitant to believe him, but I did. As Spencer and I were rewatching my parents of television, begging to stop the murders, I found their body language quite odd. 

After convincing Hotch that there was something weird about them, we traveled to my old house, interviewing them. It was challenging, seeing them after so long. They didn’t even bother taking a second look at me as they preferred to talk to the rest of the team. I knew they were disappointed in me leaving but I was the only one who could get them into confessing. 

I made my way into the living room where they sat to talk with Morgan. “Let me talk to them, Derek,” I asked politely but seriously. “Y/N, we don’t want to talk to you-” “LISTEN TO ME.” I forcefully interrupted, “I know there’s something up between you to and you better tell me quickly. I want to get out of this state as quickly as possible.” I screamed, scarring my parents to jump.

“I-I didn’t do anything.” my mother stuttered. 

“‘I’ so that means you didn’t kill him,” I then turned to my father, “But he did.” My mother jumped and went on her knees, crying her eyes out, “P-please, your father didn’t mean it, he was only trying to lecture Peter. It was an accident.” 

“So let me guess, you helped him dump Peter’s body somewhere far away from this house and tried to frame it on Michael Brown? Fucking pathetic, mother. We’ll be discussing more of this at the police department.” I said, looking at the team, “Let’s go.”

As I walked with Spencer, hand-in-hand, Morgan followed behind, patting my back, “That was badass, Y/N. I’m again sorry for that joke in the jet, I didn’t know.” 

“Not to worry, Morgan,” I reassured him. 

On the way to the police department, Spencer wrapped an arm around me, holding me tightly, “I’m sorry about Peter and your parents, love.” I placed my head on his shoulders, “There’s nothing you have to be sorry about. My family never loved me. In fact, they aren’t my family, I consider you and the team my family.” 

SPENCER’S POV

As we arrived, Y/N asked me if I could take her place to follow up on any questions with Rossi behind the glass. I was beyond grateful for this opportunity as I wanted to talk to her parents. 

Before entering I stopped Rossi, “I don’t think there’s anything to follow up with them concerning the case but I was wondering if you could sit with me as I tell them something concerning Y/N and me.” Rossi smirked, knowing where this would go and nodded, “Anything for you, kid.” 

When we stepped in, Y/N’s parents looked up as they saw me, a familiar face. “I still can’t believe you and Y/N are still in touch, in fact, working alongside each other.” Maria faintly smiled. “How was she been?” 

“For your information, she’s been flourishing.” I proudly said. 

“Oh?”

“Yes, after she left you, she attended University at the University of Southern California, graduating top of her class with honors. We were 20 minutes away from each other so I’d constantly helped her in her academics and made sure I was there for her all the time.” 

“You’ve been a good friend, Dr. Reid.” Maria nodded. 

“Well, we’re more than friends actually. We’re not exactly boyfriend and girlfriend yet but we’ve been going out for quite some time and we’ve been happy together. We complete each other. I love her with all of my heart and I just want to let you know that I’m planning to ask her to be my girlfriend and have her move in with me. I don’t need your permission, I’m just letting you know.” I said full-heartedly, looking at Rossi who gave me a small thumbs up. 

Before Maria could speak, Robert finally spoke up, “Well we just want you to know that despite our reputation has shattered, we’re glad Y/N has someone like you to be by her side when we didn’t. You two will make a great couple.” he faintly said. 

“Thank you, and I know we will.” I stood up, walking out with Rossi who still hasn’t left his smirk. 

“When are you going to tell her, kid?” he asked

“Now,” I replied. 

I ran outside the interrogation room, only to find her sitting at a desk, patiently waiting for me. As she saw me, she stood up walking towards me, “How’d it go-” I stopped her by kissing her passionately, wrapping my arms around her body. As we let go, I took a deep breath and said, “Y/N, I love you so much, you know that.” I spoke, “It’s about time I ask you to be my girlfriend and move in with me. Will you do me the honor and accept?” 

She happily nodded, “I accept a thousand times.” she hugged me, “The only thing good about Vegas is you, Spence and that’s not a coincidence.”

#spencer reid x reader #spencer reid #spencer reid imagines #spencer reid imagine #spencer reid x you #spencer reid x y/n #spencer reid oneshots #mgg #matthew gray gubler #criminal minds #BAU #BAU team #requested #prompts #spencer reid fanfiction #spencer reid fanfic

[kaetiesmindpalace]

Many the Miles -- A Destination Fear One Shot (Dakota Laden/Reader)

Requested by @spookiesandstuff       

       Your wonderful boyfriend Dakota’s birthday was coming up in roughly a week and you already knew what you were going to get him. You started dating him thanks to social media, and it has almost been a year that you two have been together. The only downside has been that the relationship has remained long distance for the time being. Family matters kept you where you were while he’s in Nevada thanks to his show Destination Fear and when he was working with Ghost Adventures. The two of you have tried in the past to see each other in person, but things seemed to get in the way every time. Until now, hopefully.

      “So, I have a plan and I need your help executing it” you send to Tanner and Alex in a group chat.

      “What’s the plan?” Tanner replies.

      “We’ll gladly help, but we need to know what we are getting into,” Alex responds.

      “Okay, I want to surprise Dakota at your place for his birthday and I need help getting there and making sure he will actually be there for the surprise,” you send quickly, “We haven’t seen each other face to face at all in this relationship. Seeing each other through a screen is completely different. I just want to see him.”

      “That’s adorable,” Alex replied.

      “Of course, we’ll help you! Are you flying in the day of his birthday or sooner?” Tanner responds, already wanting to figure out the nitty gritty of it all.

      “I just purchased a ticket where I should land in Vegas at around 11:40 am the day of his birthday,” you send back.

      “Sounds good. One of us can come get you while the other makes sure that Dakota doesn’t go off anywhere or questions where the other went,” Alex replies.

      “I can come get you if you want,” Tanner responds.

      “Sounds great. Would it be a dumb idea to do the hide in the box thing some soldiers do to surprise their young children or genius?” you respond back.

      “Genius,” Tanner and Alex reply almost instantly.

      “Sounds like we’ve got it all figured out, just make sure there’s a box for me there that I can get into. It’ll probably be a good idea to also wrap it once I’m in it to give the effect that it’s an actual present that isn’t human,” you send quickly, super pumped that the plans seem to be falling into place.

      “I’ll make sure we have everything,” Alex responds.

      “Alright, I’ll see you guys soon,” you reply.

      The week seemed to fly by so fast knowing that you were going to see your boyfriend soon. After a few video calls with Dakota throughout the week, frantically packing the night before, and a long plane ride, you’re in Las Vegas, Nevada. Quickly grabbing your luggage, you make your way out to find Tanner.

      “Hey, over here!” you hear in an all too familiar voice you have heard on livestreams when checking up on everyone and the episodes of Destination Fear.

      You turn to your left and notice Tanner waving you down. You speed walk over to him with your bag and give him a huge hug.

      “It’s great to finally see you in person, Tanner. Thank you so much for helping me with this,” you say.

      “Not a problem. If you’ll follow me,” he says while leading you towards his vehicle.

      Once closer to the vehicle, he turns towards you, gestures at the passenger side door, and in a posh accent proclaims, “Your chariot awaits,” causing you to laugh at his antics.

      You quickly get your luggage and yourself in his self-proclaimed chariot before the two of you get seated, buckled up, and headed towards the boys’ place. Music is blaring from the radio interspersed with conversation and lyrics being screamed at the top of both of your lungs. You’re happy with how easy it has been to connect with Dakota’s friends. You knew that their friendship was pretty tight-knit and there was a part of you that thought it may take a while before they warmed up to you. You were gladly mistaken. Before you knew it, Tanner was pulling up to the house.

      “I’m going to text Alex that we just got back. Let’s wait here for Alex so we can assess the situation before we get you in the house to get in the box,” Tanner proclaims after parking and pulling out his phone.

      “Sounds good,” you say and wait for Alex to come out.

      It did not take long for Alex to come through the front door and make his way towards the two of you. Once you guys noticed him, the two of you got out of the vehicle.

      “He’s distracted with editing right now, so we don’t have to be extremely quiet since he has his noise-cancelling headphones on. Honestly, you couldn’t have timed it better,” Alex states while also giving you a hug, “Follow me, and we’ll get everything ready.”

      “Thanks for all the help you’ve done so far Alex. It’s great to finally see everything coming to fruition, and to see everyone,” you say as you follow the boys into the house.

      “Not a problem,” Alex replies before gesturing to the supplies requested for the surprise, “I hope these suffice. With most videos, they seem to be crouched down in a box, so I went with a shorter yet wide box with no writing on it. As for the wrapping paper, I just thought something funny should be used since he will be expecting that it’s a gift from Tanner and I.”

      When you noticed the supplies, you could not contain a laugh. Alex picked out bright pink Dora the Explorer wrapping paper for this occasion.

      “I’m glad he couldn’t hear that laugh or else this surprise would have been a bust, but I love the choice in wrapping paper,” you remark while trying to contain your giggles, “Okay. Let’s get this show on the road and get everything set up.”

      With that, the boys helped you into the box and proceeded to make it look like a present by closing the flaps with some tape and wrapping it all up. There was not much for you to do while in the box than be quiet and not move around much.

      “Alright, you’re all wrapped up and ready to go. We’re going to go get him so sit tight and wait for the magic to unfold,” Tanner stage whispers to you through the cardboard.

      “You got it, dude,” you reply and commence your wait.

      Alex and Tanner left, and time seemed to drag while in the box. There was not much you could do or else you would give yourself away, plus the boys had to convince your boyfriend to stop editing for a bit for the surprise to happen. Who knows how long that would take? You were lost in your own thoughts when you heard footsteps followed by an all too familiar laugh you have heard on your numerous video calls the week prior and beyond.

      “Really? Dora wrapping paper?” Dakota laughs out.

      “You think we would take this seriously?” Tanner chuckles along.

      “Well, don’t just stand there. Go ahead and open your present,” Alex proclaims.

      Your heart started to race a bit. You were getting even closer to seeing your boyfriend face to face with every rip of wrapping paper you heard.

      “You’re going to have to open the box to see what’s inside,” Tanner explains, probably from a weird look Dakota was giving the plain box, “Here are some scissors to get the tape.”

      A quick slicing sound and the dull thump of the scissors being placed on a flat surface told you it was time. You quickly popped up through the box flaps after hearing the scissors being put down and yelled, “Surprise! Happy Birthday!”

      Dakota looked at you trying to process what just happened for a few seconds before a giant smile spread across his face. He quickly walked right back over to you in the box, put his hands on each cheek, and kissed you. It was as magical as you thought it would be. After a few seconds, Dakota broke the kiss and put his forehead against yours.

      “I can’t believe you’re actually came here,” he whispers to you before saying louder, “This has to be the best birthday present ever!”

      “Of course I would come! I’m here for the week. Now, help me out of this box so I can hug you properly and get some cuddles in,” you proclaim.

      That week was filled with crazy antics and many kisses and cuddling moments. You and Dakota could not have asked for a better visit, and there will be plenty more times to come.

#kaetie writes #destination fear #dakota laden #tanner wiseman #alex schroeder #dakota laden x reader #dakota laden/reader #one shot #long distance relationship #surprises

[drprettyboyspence]

Absence of Light

Dr. Spencer Reid/reader 

Summary: The BAU team decides to go to a Halloween festival and Y/n, Spencer’s girlfriend, wants to visit a haunted house with him. Unfortunately for Spencer, he’s terrified of haunted houses. 

words: 1.3k

warnings: none to my knowledge, Spencer gets scared but there’s nothing angsty really, it’s really fluffy :) 

a/n: maybe it’s kinda weird to write a halloween fic in the middle of july but whateverrr Spencer is definitely the type of person to celebrate halloween all year long, hope you enjoy!! 

Spencer Reid loves Halloween. Anyone who’s ever spent more than a day with the guy could tell you that, he’s a fiend for the spookier time of the year. Some may speculate his love of the season is derived from him being a Scorpio, but Spencer Reid had never been the biggest fan of astrology. Most likely Spencer’s love for Halloween stemmed from his insecurities mixed with his child-like excitement for the history of the holiday. In Spencer’s own words, “That’s the best thing about Halloween, you can be anyone you wanna be!” So, no matter the reason, Spencer Reid loves Halloween. Ironically though, one thing Spencer Reid definitely doesn’t love, is the dark. 

“C’mon Spence! Let’s go in the haunted house! This is so fun!” Y/n, Spencer’s best friend and since only a few months ago, girlfriend, yells from across the crowd, where the rest of the BAU stands. It had been Garcia who originally proposed the idea of the annual Halloween festival to the team, and everyone had quickly agreed, even Hotch. So that’s how Spencer has found himself in this current predicament, there’s a small small tiny itty bitty chance that Spencer has been terrified of haunted houses since he was just a little boy in Las Vegas. He knows it’s laughable, his coworkers will attest to the fact that Spencer will run into a burning building to save a victim, and he’s been known to take his FBI vest off in hazardous situations more times than his team can count, so in what world does that brave man get squeamish about the prospect of walking into a haunted house with his girlfriend. Spencer feels trapped between a rock and a hard place, he can’t refuse to go into the haunted house because he might risk seeming like an uninterested boyfriend and that’s the last thing he would ever want to do in this blossoming relationship that has already brought him some of the best memories of his lifetime, but he also can’t admit in front of the entire team that he’s afraid. He doesn’t want Morgan teasing him for the rest of his life like that time they got stuck in an elevator together and honestly Morgan still brings it up whenever there’s an elevator on the case. So Spencer needs to make a rash decision, a decision that entails him having to suck it up for a few minutes and walk through the god damn haunted house. Spencer plasters on a relatively fake smile, he can never be truly fake smiling when his beautiful girlfriend is holding his hand and giggling, but he isn’t the most excited he’s ever been that’s for sure. Spencer and Y/n walk into the haunted house and are immediately plunged into darkness, darkness that makes Spencer’s breath go out of his lungs, the loss of light making his anxiety spike. 

“You alright Spence, you’re squeezing my hand pretty tightly baby.” Y/n’s voice alerts Spencer to the fact that he is indeed almost crushing her hand within his own, he didn’t even realize he had increased the pressure. 

“Oh Y/n, I’m sorry! Ya I’m fine don’t worry, I didn’t even realize I was holding you so tightly.” Spencer tries to give a reassuring smile to Y/n before realizing obviously she can’t see him due to the absolute darkness the two are submerged in. They continue walking and a crudely drawn mask pops out of the darkness with a burst of smoke, causing Y/n to jump a little and laugh while Spencer gasps audibly and feels his heart beat spike dangerously once again. 

“This is so silly! I love haunted houses!” Y/n expresses, still laughing from the ridiculous mask that had popped out in hopes of scaring them. Spencer is honestly a bit glad for the darkness in this moment to hide from the embarrassment that something as stupid as this could startle him so badly. A scratchy tape of spooky growling rumbles up from somewhere ahead of them and Spencer has to force his feet to continue walking towards the sound. In a normal situation the noise would be laughable, but paired with the darkness it’s unsettling. Spencer clears his throat and tries to speak in the least shaky voice he can. 

“This is laughable” he says lightly, trying to show he’s not scared of a pesky little haunted house. 

“Don’t lie to me Spence, I know you’re secretly terrified, nothing scarier than a record tape of growling!” Y/n’s joking but it’s true, there’s nothing scary about the sound and the fact that it’s scaring Spencer is ridiculous. Spencer giggles awkwardly and nods before once again realizing she can’t see him. See this is why he doesn’t like the dark, besides the fact that it’s human nature to dislike the absence of light and the mysteries that may be hidden under the veil of darkness, Spencer doesn’t like darkness because as someone who talks using his hands and head to communicate often, he feels very inadequate in this moment in the dark. They continue walking around a corner when a man dressed as some sort of ghoul jumps out in front of them, causing Spencer to yelp in surprise and jump across the hallway, feeling immediately embarrassed. Y/n must realize at this point that Spencer isn’t joking because even though they’ve only been dating for a few months, they were best friends for close to two years before and Y/n is Spencer’s crime solving partner as they always playfully call each other. 

“Spence, tell me the truth, are you okay?” Y/n says, reaching around in the dark for Spencer’s hand which she had let go of when he jumped in surprise just a moment earlier. Her voice is softer than it had been earlier and Spencer finds himself relaxing slightly at the sound of it. 

“I gotta tell you Y/n, I’m terrified of haunted houses, it’s so silly, I’m an FBI agent but I’m absolutely terrified of something as silly as this, I’m sor-”

“Oh Spencer why didn’t you tell me! Never apologize for being scared of something, I never would have forced you into this silly house if I had known!” Y/n feels extremely guilty in this moment and she wishes she could sit Spencer down and give him a hug right now but they both know they have to continue walking through the house or else they will never get out and that’s the last thing Spencer wants.

“We’re almost there baby, squeeze my hand as hard as you need to and we’ll get through this together, I’m not going anywhere.” Y/n’s kind words give Spencer the courage to continue walking through the house and he feels much lighter after confiding in his girlfriend, the rest of the house seems much less scary. As they finally exit about five minutes later, the lights from the other attractions as well as the moon overhead light up Spencer and Y/n’s faces and Spencer takes in a deep breath of relief at the reappearance of light. Spencer grabs both of Y/n’s hands as soon as they get out of the house.

“Y/n, thank you so much, I honestly could not have done that without you, thank you for being there for me. I love you Y/n” Y/n’s face lights up when she hears the three word phrase she had been waiting for the right moment to say to Spencer. 

“I will always be there for you Spence, I love you.” She replies back lovingly and leans up to kiss Spencer quickly, his hand coming up to caress her face slightly. 

“Alright lovebirds I didn’t know a haunted house could be so romantic! Let’s go get some food before they sell out!” Morgan’s voice interrupts the couple, the rest of the BAU team coming around the corner. Y/n and Spencer share a side smile and laugh before intertwining their hands together once more and following their friends. Spencer Reid loves Halloween, even when he gets a little bit spooked. 

#spencer reid #dr spencer reid #spencer reid imagine #spencer reid x reader #criminal minds #criminal minds imagine #reader insert #imagine #y/n #spencer reid fluff #fluff #spencer reid x you #spencer reid x y/n #criminal minds fluff #spencer reid fic

[wiypt-writes]

Stark Spangled Banner

Ch29. The Sokovia Accords Part 2: No, You Move.

Summary: Whilst discussing the proposed accords, Steve gets some bad news which makes everything pale into insignificance. And then, another ghost from his past comes back to haunt them.

Warnings: Bad language, Smut! (NSFW, Under 18s) Bad Language words.

Pairing: Steve Rogers x OFC Katie Stark

A/N: Elements of this have been reworked/rewritten…for reasons which will become apparent at some point! And I’ve also added in the scene with Natasha at the church. I love the banner and edit too from @angrybirdcr​.

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Katie Stark and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Chapter 29 Part 1

Stark Spangled Banner Masterlist // Main Masterlist

 Steve had hoped that the more casual setting would defuse the seriousness of the situation. But that went out of the window an hour or so later when Rhodey and Sam started going at it. Steve was sat in the arm chair carefully reading through the accords packet with a deep frown, Katie perched on the arm of the chair reading over his shoulder. Tony was reclined on the chaise to their right with his hand covering his face as Sam and Rhodey argued, Natasha sitting patiently down by Tony’s legs waiting for them to be done. Vision and Wanda were on the sofa to their other side, neither having said much.

“Secretary Ross has a Congressional medal of Honour,” argued Rhodey from behind the chair. Katie turned to look at them both. “Which is one more than you have.” He mocked Sam.

“So let’s say we agree to this thing. How long is it gonna be before they Low-Jack us like a bunch of common criminals?” Sam shot back.

“A hundred an seventeen countries want to sign this. A hundred and seventeen, Sam, and you’re just like, no, that’s cool. We got it.”

“How long are you going to play both sides?” Sam snapped.

“I have an equation.” Vision spoke loudly before Rhodey could reply, causing both men to quiet down and everyone to look at him. Steve lifted his head from the packet bringing his arm up to rest on Katie’s thigh.

“Oh, now this will clear it up,” said Sam sarcastically.

“In the eight years since Mr Stark announced himself as Iron Man, the number of known enhanced persons has grown exponentially. During the same period the number of potentially world-ending events has risen at a commensurate rate.” Vision steeped his fingers together as he looked around a everyone.

“Are you saying it’s our fault?” Steve asked tensely, his hand on Katie’s leg became heavier.

“I’m saying there may be a causality. Our very strength invites challenge. Challenge incites conflict. And conflict breeds catastrophe. Oversight isn’t an idea that can be dismissed out of hand.”

“Boom,” Rhodey exclaimed, believing that Vision had solidified his point.

Katie shook her head sighing,

“Sorry Vision, I disagree.” Everyone’s attention now turned to her. “Being supervised is one thing. But from what I’ve read these Accords want us to give up total control of what we do and when we do it.” She paused as Steve’s arm slid from her leg to wrap around her back. She then turned her attention to Tony and looked at him as he remained still, hand over his face. "Clearly this has been in the pipeline for some time now, so why are we only just hearing about it?”

Tony glanced at her from underneath his hand, not offering an answer, as she continued.

“And less than a week to come to a decision on something like this? They’re trying to back us into a corner without giving us any proper time to discuss or negotiate the terms and its wrong.” She finished simply, shaking her head and crossing her arms.

“Boom.” Sam repeated from behind her.

“Tony.” Natasha addressed him as he removed his hand from his face. “You are being uncharacteristically non-hyper verbal,”

“It’s because he’s already made up his mind,” Katie raised her eyebrow.

“Kiddo, you know me so well.” Tony scoffed then groaned, standing up and moving over to the kitchen area with a sigh "Actually, I’m nursing an electromagnetic headache. That’s what’s going on. It’s just pain. It’s discomfort.” Another frustrated sigh escaped him as he faffed with something in the sink. “Who’s putting coffee grounds in the disposal? Am I running a bed and breakfast for a biker gang?”

Tony moved to the other countertop slapping down the coffee mug and coffee pot before pulling his phone from his pocket and dropping it onto the fruit basket, then turning it on revealing the hologram of a young man.

“Oh, that’s Charles Spencer, by the way,” said Tony with fake carelessness. “He’s a great kid. Computer engineering degree, 3.6 GPA, had a floor-level gig at Intel planned for the fall. But first, he wanted to put a few miles on his soul before he parked it behind a desk; see the world, maybe be of service. Charlie didn’t want to go to Vegas or Fort Lauderdale, which is what I would do. He didn’t go to Paris or Amsterdam, which sounds fun.” He spat sarcastically, “He decided to spend his summer building sustainable housing for the poor guess where: Sokovia.”

He slammed his mug down as he stared round the room in anger, whilst Katie looked over at Wanda who bowed her head the moment her home was mentioned.

“He wanted to make a difference, I suppose. We won’t know because we dropped a building on him while we were 'kicking ass’.” Tony ran a hand down his face before taking a drink of his coffee. “There’s no decision-making process here. We need to be put in check! Whatever form that takes, I’m game. If we can’t accept limitations, if we’re boundary-less, we’re no better than the bad guys.” He concluded, walking around the counter to lean back against it holding his arms over his chest.

“Tony,” Steve began gently. “If someone dies on your watch, you don’t give up.”

“Who said we’re giving up?” Tony questioned.

“We are for not taking responsibility for our actions.” Continued Steve. “This document just shifts the blame.”

“I’m sorry, Steve. That is dangerously arrogant.” Rhodey interrupted “This is the United Nations we’re talking about. It’s not the World Security Council, it’s not SHIELD, it’s not HYDRA.”

“No, but its run by people with agendas, and agendas change.” Steve shot back, earnestly.

“That’s good.” Tony answered, re-joining the group. “That’s why I’m here. Look, Cap, me and Kiddo, when we realized what Stark weapons were capable of in the wrong hands, we shut it down and stopped manufacturing.”

“Yeah, but Tony, we chose to do that.” Katie jabbed at her chest as she blazed at her brother, her voice gathering momentum and volume. “If we sign these then the next time something like that happens we won’t have the right to choose!“

"What if this panel sends us somewhere we don’t think we should go?” Steve continued his hand gently rubbing at Katie’s back. He was glad they were on the same page, but he didn’t want her getting upset and falling out with Tony. “What if there is somewhere we need to go and they don’t let us?” He took a deep breath and shook his head. “We may not be perfect, but the safest hands are still our own.”

Tony looked down at the couple who both stared back at him. He rolled his eyes again. Of course they would be united on this, they were united on everything. But there were bigger things at stake here. If they didn’t agree, they’d be forced to retire, and the team would be split up. And he couldn’t let that happen.

“If we don’t do this now, it’s gonna be done to us later. That’s the fact. That won’t be pretty,” Tony explained, his tone almost pleading.

“You’re saying they’ll come for me?” Asked Wanda quietly.

“We would protect you,” Vision added placing a gentle hand on Wanda’s shoulder.

“Maybe Tony’s right.” Natasha spoke, turning her eyes to both Katie and Steve, trying to get them to see her point. Katie looked at her incredulously, and Steve’s mouth fell open a little in surprise. “If we have one hand on the wheel, we can still steer. If we take it off-”

“Aren’t you the same woman who told the government to kiss her ass a few years ago?” Sam frowned, interrupting her in disbelief.

“I’m just…reading the terrain.” She sighed. “We have made some very public mistakes. We need to win their trust back.”

“Focus up – I’m sorry, did I just mishear you, or did you agree with me?” Tony looked at her.

Natasha rolled her eyes. “I want to take it back now.” She groaned but Tony was quick to cut in.

“No, you can’t retract it.” He said, waving a finger at her. “Thank you. Unprecedented. Case closed I win.”

As Katie shot some annoyed response back to Tony, something along the lines of him being ‘an egotistical, arrogant prick’, Steve felt his phone going in his pocket. He shifted slightly to pull it out and glanced down. It was a message from Peggy’s son, Michael.

‘She’s gone, in her sleep.’

As the meaning behind the words sunk in, his throat tightened, and suddenly the damned accords didn’t matter anymore. Taking a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest, he felt the familiar sting of tears in his in his eyes but he didn’t want to break down, not here, not in front of the team.

“I have to go.” He breathed out, handing the Accords to Katie before standing and leaving the room quickly without meeting anyone’s eye.

He made it to the stairwell, leaning against the railings, pinching the bridge of his nose in an attempt to calm himself down but he couldn’t. The tears began to fall and he slumped down onto one of the steps. Which was where Katie found him a few minutes later, shocked to see his shoulders were shaking. She said nothing until she had made her way down to him, wedging herself on the step beside him between him and the wall.

“Stevie?” She asked quietly inspecting his face, seeing the tears across his cheeks. “Sweetheart, what is it.”

“It’s err..” He sniffed and wiped at his nose with a finger, not looking at her “It’s Peg. She’s gone.”

“Oh, no.” Katie muttered, dropping her head. Poor Peggy. She had been quite ill over the last few weeks and the Doctors had said it was unlikely she would recover, but the both of them had been hoping to get to see her to say their goodbyes. Katie felt the tears sting her eyes as she opened up her arms and Steve immediately fell into them. Sometimes it was much too easy to forget how young and inexperienced life wise he actually was at heart and Katie simply held him, as she felt his tears hit her neck. Gently she ran her fingers through his hair as they sat still, not saying a word.

"Will you come with me to the funeral?” His voice was hoarse and muffled but she heard him anyway

“Of course I will.” she said looking at him as he pulled away, his eyes red. She reached up to wipe his face with the back of her hand as he rest his forehead against hers. “Of course I will.”

***** London was caught in the middle of a summer storm when they arrived, four days later. The wind and rain whipped Katie’s hair about her face as they stepped from the StarkJet onto the tarmac of Gatwick Airport. They made their way towards the waiting car, Steve’s large hand taking her smaller, and somewhat colder, one in his as they walked, Sam pacing at his other side. The drive to the hotel was filled mainly with Sam and Katie chatting as she pointed out various landmarks to the man, Steve remaining silent on the whole apart from chipping in when he was spoken to.

His sombre mood continued through to the evening, and when Katie told him that Sam was meeting up with some of his old Air Force buddies and suggested that the two of them head out for something to eat, he was torn between wanting to go out and try to enjoy some time with her, and this strange urge he felt to simply curl up in the relative safety of the hotel room with her, alone. And then there was the war which was raging inside him, an internal battle in the depth of his conscious and mind. He was married to Katie, he loved her, more than he’d ever loved anyone. And yet, here he was grieving so much for a woman who, when all was said and done, he hadn’t actually known for that long. Peggy was his past, Katie was his here and now, his future, his forever. So why did he feel this way?

“Stevie.” Katie’s voice gently shook him from his thoughts and he turned away from the view of the Thames he’d been observing through the floor to ceiling window of their suite and faced her. “We don’t have to go anywhere to eat if you don’t want to.”

“I’m sorry.” He sighed, shaking his head. “I just, I feel…”

“Upset? Tired of pretending you’re okay?” She supplied and he gave a little huff of laugher, shaking his head as he looked at the soft, deep blue carpet of the room.

“You know, are you sure you don’t have some kind of secret mind reading power?” He looked at her once more and she smiled softly.

“No, I just know you.” She stepped forward and held out her arms and Steve moved to fall into them, his cheek resting on her head as he let out a shaky breath. “You don’t have to hide it in front of me, you know.” She pulled back to look at him, her hands cupping his face.

“I love you.” He leaned down and pressed his lips to hers in a soft kiss. “You know that, right?”

“Of course I do.” She frowned before her head tilted to the side as she considered what he had just said, suddenly understanding. “Wait, is that what’s bothering you? How I feel?”

His lack of response spoke volumes as he looked down once more, his large hands gently wrapping around her wrists, moving her hands to her side so he could lace his fingers between hers.

“Oh, Steve!” Katie shook her head and her fingers tightened around his. “You’ve every right to feel how you do, Peggy meant a lot to you.”

“She did, yeah, but so do you.” He glanced at her, his blue eyes shining with tears. “In fact, you mean more to me than anything else ever has. I just wanna be sure you know that.”

“If I didn’t know it, I wouldn’t have married you.” Katie shrugged simply. “But, Soldier, just because you love me the way you do, doesn’t mean that you never loved Peggy, or that you still can’t in some ways.” When he didn’t reply, Katie studied him for a moment, before she took a deep breath. “Steve, look at me, please.” He did as she asked and she gave him a soft smile. “It’s okay, I promise you I understand.”

He gave her another little smile as she stood on her toes to brush her lips against his. “Now, I’m gonna draw you a bath. You’re gonna get in, and you’re gonna relax.”

“Is that an order, Ma’am?” He smiled and Katie chuckled.

“Yeah, it is. And you know what else I’m gonna order? A fuck tonne of room service.”

It was Steve’s turn to chuckle as she smiled. “Then we can raid the mini-bar and bunker down for the evening. How’s that sound?”

Steve smiled, his hand reaching up to brush a piece of hair behind her ears. “It sounds okay, but would be a whole lot better if you said you were gonna join me in the bath.”

Katie smiled, her eyes flashing a little as he leaned down and captured her lips with his, the kiss slow and deep. Her arms slid up round his neck, fingers softly skating along his hairline and he let out a contented sigh as she broke away, his forehead pressing to hers, hands softly flexing on her hips. Without another word she pulled away before taking his hand, and gently leading him through the suite to the bathroom.

***** Steve didn’t sleep well that night. His mind was in overdrive, his subconscious showing him people he hadn’t seen in a very, very long time. He dreamt about Peggy, Bucky, Howard, the Howlies…and Katie. Even in dreams about his past she was there, ever present, just like she was in his life. When he woke up from a particularly vivid flashback about crashing back into the ice, he jerked bolt upright with a yell, his breathing desperate and ragged. Katie sat up beside him, her hand on his clammy back as she gently soothed him, her calm and quiet. Steve swallowed, turning to face her as she sat looking at him, concern etched on her face. She made to get out of bed to fetch him a glass of water but he stopped her, his large hand curling gently around her arm. He needed her, and he wasted no time at all in making sure she understood that. As she lay underneath him, her hands wrapped around his back, nails biting his skin, he fucked her, hard and fast, into the mattress, the relief washing over him like a tidal wave. When he evened out, he rolled onto his back, pulling her with him, his hand carding through her hair as hers traced random shapes over his chest. The pair of them lay still, gentle and loving touches and kisses being shared as they simply talking until the sun rose. And then Steve found himself back over his wife once more as he stuffed himself insider her again, only this time he made love to her, as softly and as gently as he could, needing to feel every single inch of her against him as he surrendered to that bliss that only she could ever make him feel.

They took a room service breakfast and at just before Eleven they met Sam in the Reception of the hotel and made their way to the church. Steve, who had been asked by Peggy’s family to be a pall bearer, hung back outside as Katie and Sam took their seats along the front pew of the Church. It wasn’t long before the choir began to sing and Katie turned as the procession walked down the aisle. Steve held the front right-hand corner of the coffin, carrying it with stiff steps, his cheeks wet, eyes red rimmed and full of tears. Katie felt Sam squeeze her shoulder, and she turned to face him briefly.

“My heart is breaking for him, Sam.” She whispered through her own tears as Sam dropped his hand to take hers, as they both watched the six men place the coffin at the front of the church. Sam released Katie’s hand with another gentle squeeze and they shuffled down to make room for Steve who took her left hand, seeking out her comfort and contact as he stared at the picture to the side of the coffin. It showed the Peggy he had known, back in the Forties, standing tall and proud in her uniform.

When the choir song ended they all sat, Steve staring down at his wife’s hand wrapped in his, and he began to play with her wedding and engagement rings, twirling them round her finger, his mind straying to his wedding and how he had told Katie at the toasts he was only strong because she made him that way. He was so glad she was with him now. Lost in his thoughts, he suddenly felt her hand contract around his, quite hard, and he looked up at her. When he did she nodded her head in the direction of the podium. Steve’s eyes followed then did a slight double take at who was stood there.

Agent Thirteen of Shield special service and his ex-neighbour.

“Margaret Carter was known to most as a founder of Shield.” The woman who’s name Steve recalled being told by Natasha was Sharon, began, sounding nervous. “But I just knew her as Aunt Peggy.”

Peggy’s Niece? Steve couldn’t believe his ears. All that time she had been living across the hall, spying on him…and she was Peggy’s niece?

“She had a photograph in her office, Aunt Peggy standing next to JFK. As a kid, that was pretty cool. But, it was a lot to live up to. Which is why I barely told anyone we were related.” Sharon glanced down at Steve, like she was offering him some form of explanation.

“I asked her once how she managed to master diplomacy and espionage at a time when no one wanted to see a woman succeed at either.” Sharon swallowed before she continued, her voice becoming stronger. “And she said, 'Compromise when you can. But when you can’t, don’t. Even if everyone is telling you that something wrong is something right. Even if the whole world is telling you to move, it is your duty, to plant yourself like a tree, look them in the eye and say, 'No, you move.”

Katie glanced at Steve then to Sam, the three of them sharing a knowing glance. Those words were powerful, especially given the situation with the Accords. And for Steve, it was almost like Peggy was speaking to him, still giving him advice even in her death.

Despite the utter sorrow he was feeling, Steve couldn’t help but smile at the sentiment.

Thanks Peg…

*****

Katie watched as Steve leaned against the end of one of the pews, lost in his thought. He’d by passed the part where they were actually putting Peggy into the ground, saying he didn’t want to see it so instead, Katie had given him a moment to pay his respects along, waiting for him to give her some direction as to what he wanted to next.

As always, he seemed to know she was there before she even made a sound and he looked up, giving her a small smile as she walked down the middle of the church aisle towards him.

“Hey, Sweetheart.” He smiled as she stopped in front of him, opening her arms to give him a hug.

“How you doing?” She asked softly, her lips brushing his temple as he pressed his face into her neck.

“I’m okay.” He assured her, pulling back. “Just, suppose it’s sunk in that she’s actually gone, you know.” Katie gave him a sad smile. “When I came out of the ice, I thought everyone I had known was gone. Then I found out that she was alive. I was just lucky to have her.”

“She had you back, too.” Katie looked at him.

“Yeah, and at least I knew where she was, unlike Bucky.”

“Don’t give up on him just yet, love.” Katie rubbed his arm as he placed a kiss to her forehead. Steve glanced once more to the front of the church and Katie followed his glance to look at the flowers placed on the alter.

“It was a nice service.” She said, her arm looping round his waist.

“Yeah, it was.” A familiar voice spoke and both of them whipped round to see Natasha strolling towards them. Steve let out a little scoff and looked down, shaking his head.

“You know, I thought I saw you before but convinced myself I was seeing things.”

“Well, I was sorta in the area.” She shrugged. There was a pause before Steve voiced what was on his mind since he’d left the compound a few days ago.

“Who else signed?” Steve asked.

“Tony. Rhodey. Vision.”

“Clint?” Katie asked.

Nat smiled slightly. “Says he's retired.”

“Wanda?” Steve looked at her.

“TBD” Nat answered. Katie looked at Steve before Nat took a deep breath. “I'm off to Vienna for the signing of the Accords. There's plenty of room on the jet.”

Steve sighed and bowed his head.

“Just because it's the path of least resistance doesn't mean it's the wrong path.” Nat continued. “Staying together is more important than how we stay together.”

“Are you trying to convince us or yourself?” Katie asked and Natasha merely held her gaze.

“What are we giving up to do it?” Steve shook his head as Natasha turned to him. “I'm sorry, Nat. I can't sign it.”

“Me neither.” Katie added. “Not as they stand.”

“I know.” Nat smiled.

“Then what are you doing here?” Steve looked at her.

“Well, like I said, I was in the area.” Nat’s eyes flicked to the alter. “Plus, knowing who she is and what she did. I might never have met her but, well, it felt right to pay my respects.” She then looked back at them both. “Plus, I wanted to see you, check you were okay.” She said the last part to Steve more than Katie and he gave her a little smile as she moved to give him a hug.

****

They decided to go to the wake, and Katie took the chance to seek out Sharon where she was standing among a group of people, making polite conversation but clearly looking for a way out, which Katie was happy to provide, squeezing her elbow gently, and gesturing with her head for the blonde woman to follow her.

“I really am sorry about Peggy,” Katie began as they settled at an empty table. “She was a phenomenal woman.”

"Thank you,” Sharon said softly. “That means a lot. You know she liked you?”

Katie chuckled “She told me once or twice.” “I think she was happy that Steve found someone.” Sharon smiled. “Someone that makes him happy.”

Katie glanced at where Steve and Sam were waiting at the bar. Steve shot her a glance over his shoulder and smiled softly, before Katie returned her attention to the woman opposite her.  

“So this accords thing?” Sharon changed the subject “It’s really happening?”

“Looks that way, yeah.”

“And where do you stand on it?”

“I’m not signing” Katie shook her head. “Not the way they stand, that’s for sure. And seeing as they don’t seem to want to negotiate terms, it’s a non-starter.”

“Does Steve feel the same?”

Katie nodded. “And Sam.”

Before Sharon could question her further, Katie’s eyes flicked to a point over her shoulder and she gave a side smile as the boys approached.

“Ladies,” Sam baritone smoothly, sitting in the seat next to Sharon and setting down a drink in front of her. From the look on the blonde’s face, this surprised her, but she accepted nonetheless with a thanks. Steve sat next to Katie handing over another glass of wine, whilst pressing a soft kiss to her lips.

“You okay?” She whispered before he pulled away completely. He nodded and cleared his throat.

“Yeah. I saw just telling Sam about what Nat said.”

“And I was cheering to an honourable discharge.” Sam snorted sarcastically as he raised his glass. “Again.”

“Sorry, for jumping in but, if you’re not signing the Accords then what does that mean for you all?” Sharon looked round the table

“I dunno.” Steve smiled softly, shaking his head.

“Ultimate fighting?” Sam cut in, and Steve snorted as Katie laughed. “I told you, you’d be great at it.”

"More like an early retirement.” Steve stated, a small smile playing on his face.

“Not really that early though is it, Cap?” Sam continued his ribbing “I mean like you are hundred or whatever…”

As was natural with these type of functions, a few hours later people started to leave and eventually Peggy’s children headed over to the table to say their goodbyes. As they all stood to offer their condolences once more, something Michael said about Peggy being a woman of many surprises, brought back something which had been weighing heavily on Steve’s mind since he had left the church.

When Sharon stated that she was heading back to her hotel, Steve suggested that she walked with them, but for the most of the short walk, he remained silent, brooding over his thoughts. And it was only when they reached the door to Sharon’s hotel that he spoke, telling Katie that he’d meet her and Sam in their hotel bar in a couple of minutes.

She shot him a puzzled look but he had simply shook his head in a silent instruction not to argue. So, she merely shrugged, linked her arm through Sam’s and they crossed the road and headed straight inside, crossing the lobby.

“What’s all that about?” Sam asked as he held the heavy wooden door open for her. Katie shrugged and stepped into the room.

“Beats me, he obviously has something on his mind.” She said, walking into the large wooden bar which curved along the back of the circular room. “Can I have…” she trailed off as she spotted the TV on the wall behind the bar tender, which was programmed to the BBC news.

Her eyes widened and she felt Sam stiffen besides her.

“Is this…is this live?” She asked the guy who was waiting to serve them. He nodded. “Can you turn the volume up?”

He nodded again and obliged.

“…at the moment we know that over 70 people have been injured and that number is rising. At least 12 are dead, including Wakanda’s King T'Chaka. Officials have released a video of a suspect who they have identified as James Buchanan Barnes, the Winter Soldier. The infamous HYDRA agent, linked to numerous acts of terrorism and political assassinations.”

Katie swallowed as the picture of the suspect flashed across the screen. It looked like Bucky alright.

“Shit.” Sam said, from behind her.

“Go, get Steve.” She urged, “I need to call Tony.”

*****

“My mom tried to talk me out of enlisting, but, um, not Aunt Peggy. She bought me my first thigh holster.” Sharon smiled as they walked through the lobby.

“Very practical.” Steve nodded.

“And stylish.” Sharon smiled as she stopped by the elevator, pressing the call button before she turned to look at Steve.

“CIA has you stationed over here now?”

“In Berlin, Joint Terrorism Task Force.”

“Right. Right.” Steve nodded. “Sounds fun.”

“I know, right?” Sharon chuckled.

“I’ve been meaning to ask you.” Steve took a deep breath, finally voicing what was on his mind. “When you were spying on me from across the hall…”

“You mean when I was doing my job?” Sharon interrupted but Steve ignored her.

“Did Peggy know?”

Sharon considered him for a moment, before she let out a gentle sigh.

“She kept so many secrets. I didn’t want her to have one from you.” Sharon lay her hand on his arm, and Steve felt the weight lift off his shoulders. He had been so scared that Peggy had been lying to him for the past few years, to hear that she hadn’t was a relief.

“Thanks for walking me back.” Sharon nodded to the elevator “Tell Katie and Sam I’m grateful.”

She moved to give Steve a hug, and he obliged, but the broke apart when they both heard footsteps running towards them.  

“Steve…you gotta see this.” Sam urged and Steve frowned, looking at him, before he spotted Katie running into the lobby, and looking round.

He moved instantly towards her, and she spotted him, hurrying straight towards him.

“Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” He asked, his hands gently curling round her upper arms.

“There’s been a bomb in Vienna.” She explained, taking a deep breath. “A deliberate attack on the signing ceremony.”

Steve felt himself grow cold. “Is everyone okay?”

“I got through to Tony and they’re all safe but the King of Wakanda. He’s dead, Steve” Katie took a deep breath. “And…” She trailed off licking her lips as she took a deep breath.

“Katie, what is it?” Steve’s voice wasn’t unkind but it was firm as he looked at her, and she threw her head back, looking at the ceiling for a moment before, with a monumental effort, she looked back at him, swallowing deeply.

“It’s Bucky, Steve.” Her voice was almost a whisper. “It looks like he’s responsible.”

**** Chapter 30

**Original Posting**

#stark spangled banner #steve rogers #Katie Stark #steve rogers fanfiction #steve rogers x ofc #steve rogers x original female character #steve rogers fic #mcu #mcu fanfic #chris evans #chris evans characters

[katehuntington]

Title: Wedding Bells Fandom: Supernatural Characters: Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Reader Pairing: Dean x reader (gender neutral) Words: 1150 words Description: After solving a case in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Winchesters and you are heading off. While you are fast asleep in the back seat, they pass a chapel, and Dean can’t help but let his mind wander. Warnings: Fluff. Seriously, that’s it (I know, shocking) Author’s note: A lot of rare sightings in this story! Soft fluff, a 1K story instead of the usual 5 or 6K, and a gender neutral Reader. This one is for all the people out there who feel excluded when it comes to reader insert fanfiction. I love you, and you matter. Thank you for inspiring me, Mert! Beta’d by the lovely @winchest09. Thank you, darling!

     Flashing lights, neon signs. Big casinos luring innocents inside, even though it’s clear the house always wins. But then again, not many people in Las Vegas can be considered innocent. 

     Dean takes in the scenery as he drives his 67’ Chevrolet down The Strip, the brightly lit billboards and advertisements reflecting on the Impala, gliding over the polished black paint job like colored raindrops. Flamboyant hotels tower high on both sides of the boulevard, exclusive cars that cost more than a single family home waiting for the red light. Scarcely dressed ladies parade the cross walk like models, headlights their spotlights. One with curly blonde hair, wearing nothing more than a tied up top and a mini skirt, looks over at the Winchesters, winking at the boys.      “This town is crazy,” Sam scoffs from the passenger’s seat, watching the girls pass in front of them.      Dean huffs. “Sure is.”

     There was a time that he would have loved this place and would have begged his brother to stay a couple of days. The stripclubs, the bars, the food. Twenty something Dean would have had tons of fun gambling, drinking and partying until the early hours, to wake up in a trashed hotel room with a stranger in his bed who he can’t remember the name of.       But after being on a case involving a cursed slot machine for two days, he has had enough of the city known for second chances and lost wages. It’s not wisdom that came with age that triggered his change of heart. Neither is life experience the cause of his desire for normal and simplicity. No, the true reason is fast asleep in the back of his car.

     Dean glances over his shoulder, a smile pulling at the corner of his mouth when he sees you curled up against the leather seat, using a duffel bag as a pillow and his leather jacket as a blanket. The hunt tired you out, but the older Winchester is glad you got through it without a scratch this time. The expression on your pretty face is peaceful, eyes closed and mind calm, even breaths passing your lips.

     His hand slides off the wheel and turns the volume button of the radio to the left, toning down Elvis on the local station; he wouldn’t want you to wake up because of the music. The light turns green and he steps on the gas lightly, making sure the moving car doesn’t stir you. 

     The Impala rolls up the iconic Las Vegas boulevard, heading north. They leave Ceasar’s Palace, the Bellagio fountains and the Venetian casino in the rear view mirror, the road now flanked by bars and restaurants. When another red light forces them to stop, Dean’s eyes wander to a small white building on the corner of the intersection. It’s one of the many wedding chapels this city is known for.

     Sam glances aside at his older brother, perceiving the dreamy stare. When he follows Dean’s gaze, he too notices the church, brightly illuminated in true Vegas fashion. ‘Little White Chapel’ the road sign says, ‘24 hours drive up wedding window’. The younger Winchester scoffs at the absurdity, but his face falls slightly when he turns his head to observe Dean, who witnesses a newly wedded couple coming out, intoxicated, yet clearly head over heels.

     “You ever think about it?”      The driver is pulled from his own thoughts, tearing away his eyes and briefly looking over at his brother. He’s very well aware what Sam is aiming for; he’s asking if he ever considered marrying you. Before answering, Dean glances over his shoulder again to make sure you’re still asleep.      “Check the glove compartment,” he says.      Somewhat puzzled Sam frowns, but does as told. He opens the lid, but isn’t sure what he’s looking for.      “Behind Dad’s journal,” Dean adds.      His brother pushes the leather bound book to the side. His eyes grow wide when he notices what’s behind. Stunned, he pulls out a small jewelry box. As if he cannot believe there could actually be a ring inside, he opens the lid, revealing the golden band with a single diamond. 

     “Whoa…” he utters, completely astonished. “How long have you had this?”      “Couple of months,” Dean admits. “Been waiting for the right time, but with everything going on…”      He doesn’t finish his sentence; Sam knows what he means. He nods, the wordless gesture telling his older brother he understands where he’s coming from. 

     The light turns green and the silence returns as Dean turns left and heads to the highway, but he can see his sibling staring down at the tiny box in his hand from the corner of his eye. The beautifully cut stone catches the city lights, reflecting flakes unto the ceiling of the car.      “Better put that away,” Dean suggests, hinting at the back seat.

     Sam carefully closes the lid of the jewelry box and hides it in the glove compartment again, exactly where Dean left it. For a long minute it seems all has been said, but after pondering on it for a while, he decides to offer his older brother some advice.      “Don’t wait too long.”      Dean glances aside. “What d’you mean?”      He watches the man in the passenger seat collect himself, carefully thinking through his words before he speaks.      “I picked out a ring for Jess,” Sam starts. “I had it for about a month, when…”      His unspoken words fill the air between them. Even after all this time, Jessica still has a piece of Sam’s heart. Dean cannot imagine what it’s like, to lose the one person you love. The sheer thought has him anxious. But pretending that Death, who has been chasing them for many years, will not catch up at some point, is naive. Especially with the life they are living, case after case, apocalypse after apocalypse. Sammy is right; he has to pop the question sooner than later.       “I won’t,” he promised, offering an empathetic smile.

     Dean keeps his promise, because when they pull over for the night, Sam takes the hint and gives him a moment alone with you. Under a pale street light, in the parking lot of a cheap motel, he asks you to marry him. Without a shadow of a doubt, you accept, falling into his arms and hiding your tears in the crook of his neck. They don’t even check in. Instead, Sam is hauled into the car before heading to the interstate, taking the ramp to Las Vegas. After all, a shotgun wedding seems only fitting for two hunters. 

      In the little white chapel, with Sam as their witness, the two of you vow to love and to cherish each other, for better and for worse. Not even God can take this away, no matter what happens tomorrow.

     It’s you and him, ‘until death do us part’.

Thank you for reading. I appreciate every single one of you, but if you do want to give me some extra love, you are free to reblog my work or buy me coffee (Link in bio at the top of the page).

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[reminder-to-breathe]

11/6/21 7:52a

Here’s the list of everything I will change if you come back:

And I want to say that things changes will take effect immediately, if they don’t - you are entitled to call me out on my BS and never speak to me again.

- We will personally speak to my parents and tell them the entire situation and how our relationship has been, I will admit to them that a lot of the issues have come from me and my inability to communicate and my overall immaturity when it comes to long term relationships and commitment.

- We will fly to Vegas (maybe for Christmas I know the girls would love to see her) and personally apologize to your mom and admit all of my faults to her and take her out to a nice dinner (maybe the stratosphere tower!)

- I will take a weekend day off to speak to your dad personally and apologize, and thank him for helping you in your time of need and tell him that this was my fault and I admit it and I’m making the changes I need to, and if we can plan family days together I will take off every so weekend so that we can hang with him as a family all together.

- I will sell my cats, do a deep vacuum and cleaning of the place and maybe a saging to make sure the place doesn’t trigger your allergies anymore.

- we will go mattress shopping together and get a bed that is comfortable for both of us to sleep in together so that there is no more issues.

- I will stop my birth control to see if it is what is causing my moods to flip

- I will clean the house more and do the dishes and do the laundry and clean every room of the house besides just mine.

- I will make a more conscious effort to connect with your kids and take us out to go do more family friendly activities. I would say we could start taking steps towards adoption but I know that’s way in the future from now.

- I will do a better job of parenting my own child so that she doesn’t say mean and hurtful things and do things she shouldn’t.

- we will get a small fish tank since I know you’ve been wanting one for the kids.

- I will work on communicating better, I will probably end up deleting all of my social media and taking a break from it all and solely focus on you and our relationship. I will delete my Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, but I will probably keep my tumblr so that I can journal still since it is the best coping mechanism I can use.

- if I am struggle to communicate with you; I will write a tumblr post and send it to you so that you can see what I am struggling to say in person but I hope that’s not the case since I want better than that.

- I won’t go to bed early on you anymore, I will make sure our time together is quality and that you don’t spend a moment thinking you are alone: I will tell you every morning and night that I love you so much. I will tell you how much you mean to me and compliment you always.

- we will find a better way to budget so that we are never arguing about bills anymore; we will have everything laid out so everyone knows what we are spending - we will have a set budget for grocery trips and cannot go over it (might have to Amazon order to make this easier)

- You will have free range and permission to hang out with whoever you want, I will hang out with you and Preston and I won’t let it trigger me anymore. I’ll chat and hang just like you hang with me and Ashley. I never want you to feel like you can’t have him in your life.

- we will have designated date nights where we have my parents or ophelia babysit the kids so that we can get out and be alone and have actual couple times; and I want to stress this one a lot, because this is something I need - I need us to build our relationship back strong and this means feeling like a true couple. I don’t know how often we will need a date night but if it’s every week; every two weeks; every month - I want us to stick to it and commit and we will have a place picked out and the budget is open because our relationship is worth any cost.

- I want us to book a family vacation, all together, for us to go and take a step out of our comfort zone here and go start to explore the world with the kids. I don’t care how much it costs - money is money right? You earn it back again. I’d love to go to Oregon but I’ll let you pick anywhere you want to go. I just want the adventure with you. We will plan and book this ASAP so we can have something to look forward to.

- As far as moving everything back in, we can go at your pace, if you want to leave things in storage I will help pay half the bill for you, if you want to immediately move everything back in, I will help you do that too.

- I will burn or sell all of my rave clothes, anything revealing that you don’t agree with me wearing, anything that you don’t want in the house it won’t be here. I won’t attend any raves/events without you if you are not comfortable and if you’d like to go - I will always make sure we have childcare lined up so that we can both go together. I never want to do things without you again.

- we will start working out together, just like the date nights I want us to have a couple thing that we do together, I want us to push eachother to get to our goals and not fall short. We will sit down and figure out the best time and frames to go.. I suggest Tuesday Wednesday fridays after you get off work or we can do Saturday Sunday Thursdays before I head to work. (I’ve clearly thought this through).

- anyone who you are uncomfortable with me speaking to over text (since socials will be deleted) you may personally go through my phone and block/delete the number

I don’t know what else I can think of right now, this is the first steps I know need to be taken… if there is anything else you want/need everything can be addressed. Just know I love you. I want to do everything in my power to make things right.

#me #personal #mine #love #diary #journal #heartbreak #pain