Tumgik
#what a delightful surprise can’t wait to read the interview
complicitsacrilege · 8 months
Text
Tumblr media
Enjoy this T4T smutty Devil's Minion fic that I wrote for Vamptember 2023 but I'm too impatient to wait until September to post it.
Read Delectable in full on Ao3
And thanks to @butchybats for the beta!!
Rating: Explicit
Tags: devil’s minion, Trans Armand, Trans Daniel Molloy, t4t, Armand is gonna fuck that old man, Choking, Fingering, Face-Sitting, Blood Drinking
“You should leave,” though Daniel’s voice quavered slightly at the sight of the vampire before him, he stood his ground. He might’ve been staying in Armand’s penthouse, but this was his room, and let’s face it, it wasn’t as though he could’ve gone anywhere else in Dubai. He could probably use Google Translate or some shit to get by the language barrier but -
“Is that what you want,” Armand’s voice was smooth as his words cut off Daniel's train of thought. He took a step into the room, unblinking eyes pinning Daniel down to where he sat on the edge of the bed, just in his boxers and partially buttoned shirt. “Or if you’d prefer, I could reserve a room for you at the nearest hotel and have a car take you there - to avoid the language barrier.” Armand's eyes flashed with delight as Daniel's expression alternated with surprise and irritation.
“Stay out of my head,” Daniel growled, but as Armand advanced a step closer, he didn’t protest, nor did he agree to leaving in favor of a hotel. The interview wasn’t finished, after all. Daniel had to stay. This can’t have been for nothing. Yet as Armand stalked forward, stopping only when their knees were only inches apart, Daniel couldn’t speak the words he knew he should be saying: Leave me the hell alone.
“Do you really want me to leave, Daniel,” Armand asked again, a small smirk curling up the corners of his mouth. “I will, if you only ask.”
Daniel swallowed hard, certain that Armand could hear the click of his throat as he did. Knowing him, the bastard could probably hear the sweat beading at the back of his neck.
Armand gave a soft laugh, “My hearing isn’t that good, Daniel. But you certainly smell delectable .”
Read the rest on Ao3
14 notes · View notes
Note
Dear Marina,
As you know, life has been a bit crazy but I could not be separated from your writings for too long . Although my dear Captain and Rosey will have to wait, as I have yet to read the last two chapters, E and Elaine have been a wonderful companions in these weeks.
The Origin of the Hollywood Hullabaloos Biker Gang (I love the name, btw), was such a wonderful little surprise. The format was delightful, I adored the way that it allowed you not only to play with so many new characters but also with the idea of unreliable narrators- nothing more characteristic of E's story and of those around him.
E's and Elaine's life during the Hollywood years interest me so much that I was so happy to get a little glimpse. The idea of Elaine and Ann riding their bikes, having fun and most importantly, healing, it's so important for me. I always thought that, in some way, Ann was E's female counterpart, so it is not surprising that Elaine ends up loving her.
I admire how you were able to develop the Presleys' kids' personalities. I can already tell that Daisy Mae is gonna be my girl. Their childhood seems full of love, adventures, music, and the coolest mum in the world.
The celebrities appearances were wonderful. I loved Ann and how you were able to maintain her known respect and privacy towards her time with E, I could picture her giving this interview so clearly.
Now, Marlon? Sam? You are spoiling us! The fact that Elaine had a little crush and yet she was able to calm E was fantastic. I was not expecting to get Sam in the gang and I loved it (What rumors, Marina?!?!).
I have already told you before but your ability for world creation never seems to amaze me, so much so that sometimes reading them gives me this bittersweet feeling. What could have been if our sweet E had someone as wonderful as Elaine (who I see as a mixture of my favorite E's girls: Dixie, June and Ann)?
I also read "Even Educated Fleas Do It", so once I'm able to put my thoughts into words (besides of Jesus Christ, this woman is a genius), expect another comment!
Thank you so much for gifting us with all of these incredible stories. I never thought that I would get the chance to imagine another life for my favorite person, but now when I'm down I can always come here and immerse myself in a world where E had these fearless and wonderful women by his side throughout his life.
All the love, Cami.
PD: Did I totally imagine that Paul and Joanne are also part of this gang? Yes, yes I did.
Cami my darling, it makes me so happy I’ve got two worlds (so different yet so alike aren’t they?) that you’re enjoying and finding transporting. This one, Elaine and Elvis, really does occasionally mess with my head I become so certain it truly happened. The lore and myth I have for this family all the way into the 80’s will take ages to publish and get out but it makes me so happy you’re along for the ride and thank you for the encouragement! (And oh yes, you caught Elaine’s inspirations just right, and I can���t wait to put her in a room with Ann-Margret)
Yes! Fan additions to this bike-club are now Paul and Joanne and also Jerry Lee Lewis, maybe Jim Brow, too. I’m always curious who folks would enjoy seeing interact so, keep the suggestions coming.
8 notes · View notes
frizz22 · 2 years
Text
What’s in a Name Ch. 3 Welty Boys
Read on AO3
Ted watched from afar as Isaac stood proudly in front of the reporter who caught him after training. Watched as Isaac easily answered the questions and even joked, making the reporter laugh.
Pride welled inside him, Isaac had truly grown into his role as team captain and it made Ted’s heart happy to see the young man fulfilling his potential.
It was as Ted was heading back to the locker room that he overheard the reporter’s last question. “Isaac, are you worried, as captain, that anyone might want to go play for your previous club owner, Rupert Mannion, over at West Ham?”
A derisive snort escaped Isaac. “Not a chance. We’re Welton Boys through and through and Richmond til we die!”
Taken aback but the flood of emotion crashing through him at the statement, Ted exhaled, a wide smile on his lips.
Welton Boys.
He liked the ring of that.
And apparently he wasn’t the only one, Jaime, who Ted could tell was lingering in hopes of being interviewed as well, overheard as well and immediately barged into the interview, slinging his arm around Isaac. “Yeah, Welty Boys and Richmond til we die!” He crowed, catching the attention of more than a few of his teammates walking by.
It was then the other boys, still energized from training, picked up the mantra. “Welty Boys and Richmond til we die! Welty Boys and Richmond til we die!” They danced and chanted as the reporter grinned, and shook his heads at the antics even if he snapped a few pictures of their goofy behavior.
His heart, already quite full just from watching Isaac do their team proud, swelled even further as he watched the boys.
They’d come so far. So far from the divided team they were before.
Grinning, Ted turned back inside and bounded upstairs, only too delighted to share with Rebecca that she had a new nickname that would soon be hitting the press.
Knock, knock, knocking on the frame of her door as he entered, Ted beamed at Rebecca as she looked up at him.
“Ted,” she greeted warmly, setting her reading glasses aside. “What brings you up here so late?”
She was right, normally he didn’t come up to her office after training. Ted did try and limit how often he interrupted her work, because if he just went up whenever he wanted he’d be in her office all the time and neither of them would get anything done.
But he was too excited by the news to wait until Biscuits with the Boss tomorrow. “I think the press is gonna have a new name for Richmond and you tomorrow.” He informed her, striding further into the room.
Visibly deflating, Rebecca sighed. “Well, it can’t be any worse than the many things they’ve already called me. ‘Old Rebecca’,” she muttered, “shrew, ice queen…” She continued to list, pushing away from her desk. “What’s it going to be? Has Rupert contributed to it? It’ll be especially venomous if he has, Randy Rebecca is a possibility…” she trailed off, absorbed in her thoughts as she made for the couch as if receiving the painful news in comfort would ease it.
Surprised that she entirely misread him—because surely she couldn’t think Ted would be bounding in here to share bad news—Ted shook his head. “No, no, none oh that.” He rushed to reassure.
Blinking, Rebecca froze for a moment and then slowly continued to lower herself onto the couch. “No?” She drew out, brow creasing adorably in confusion.
Ted joined her on the couch, squeezing her knee in apology. “Sorry bout that, Boss.” He grimaced a little for emphasis. “I forget the press isn’t always kind to ya. This nickname, it’s a good one, I promise.”
Brow arching, Rebecca gave Ted an assessing, if a bit relieved, look. “And are you going to give me a hint? Or just what it is in general?” She asked.
The words ‘Welty Boys’ almost leapt from Ted’s lips, because he knew they’d make her smile. And by god did he want to make her smile after making her worry. And, well, telling her had been the entire reason for his visit… but now, now seeing her, Ted knew she’d just light up from seeing the paper in the morning and he wanted to experience that.
So, with some difficulty, Ted bit his tongue.
“You know, I actually don’t think I will.” He teased, settling back into the couch with a smug look.
Narrowing her eyes, Rebecca pursed her lips. “I could persuade you.” She remarked, voice dropping an octave.
Just about swallowing the tongue he just bit, Ted coughed to clear his throat, because surely he was misinterpreting her. “I don’t doubt it.” He managed, doing his best not to sound strangled. “But where’s the fun in that?”
A smirk curling her lips, Rebecca arched a brow. “Quite a bit of fun, I would think.” And was, was she really flirting with him? Ted couldn’t be sure if she was just being playful and his mind was takin it too far, but regardless of her intent, her comments were doing things to his lower half.
Very much needing to hide that fact, Ted jumped up, unable to stay put and remain respectful. “Well, looks like I’m a ‘no-fun-Frank’ then. Gonna make you wait until tomorrow’s paper comes out.”
“No-fun-Frank?” She repeated, a bit of judgment coloring her words. Before he could defend his made up name, Rebecca stood as well. “More of a teasing-Ted, I would say, but to each their own. If you’re only going to tempt me then I suggest you go. Some of us have work to do.” Rebecca winked at him during that last comment, taking the sting out of the dismissal.
Giving her a mini salute, Ted backed out of the room. “Don’t look at the paper til I get here tomorrow!” He ordered from the doorway, pointing at her.
Not bothering to restrain her smile, Rebecca merely rolled her eyes. “Sir, yes sir.” She mocked, saluting him back.
A grin in his lips, Ted slipped away.
~~
The next morning, Ted made sure to leave extra early and pick up a copy of the paper on his way in.
And, just as he expected, the front of the sports page showed his team dancing and smiling with the caption, ‘Welty’s Boys Not Going Anywhere’.
Excitement bubbling up inside him, Ted hurried to the club and, when he saw Rebecca’s car in the lot, up to her office. “Didn’t peek yet, did ya?” He asked in form of a greeting.
Arms crossing, Rebecca cocked a defiant brow. “And if I did?”
Ted halted midway through pulling her biscuits from his bag. “Hmmm, then you might not get these today.” He rattled the small pink box at her.
Sitting up straighter, Rebecca reached out a hand. “No need to be cruel, Ted, I was only joking.” She looked at him hopefully.
A chuckle rumbling through him, Ted made a show of checking her desk for a paper before depositing the box in her outstretched hand. “You ready for the real treat?” He asked, flourishing the paper.
Her mouth already full of biscuit, Rebecca held a hand up to hide it. “Nothing beats your biscuits, Ted.” She practically moaned, taking another small bite.
More than a little pleased to hear that, and the little sounds she made while eating, Ted selected the sports page and placed it with exaggerated care in front of Rebecca.
It took a moment. For her to register the words.
But when she brought her eyes back to Ted, they were glistening with unshed tears. “Ted?” She whispered.
Sliding the paper back towards his side of the desk, Ted read aloud a bit of the article.
“Captain Isaac McAdoo quickly and firmly put to rest any rumors of his teammates leaving Richmond for West Ham, which was recently purchased by Rupert Mannion, former owner of Richmond. McAdoo claimed that there was ‘not a chance,’ of anyone leaving and that they were ‘Welton Boys through and through and Richmond til [they] die.’
Never one to be outdone, fellow teammate Jamie Tartt, joined the conversation and started the chant, ‘Welty Boys and Richmond til we die’ which quickly spread to the rest of the team in the immediate area (pictured above).
While speculations concerning the Ted Lasso effect have run rampant since the American’s debut two years ago, perhaps it’s time to finally examine the Rebecca Welton effect.
Rupert Mannion could not be reached for comment.”
Ted finished, bringing his eyes up to Rebecca expectantly. And oh, was he rewarded with the most brilliant smile.
Sniffing slightly, Rebecca shook her head. “They really, they really said that?” She asked softly, dumbstruck.
Reaching across the desk to take her hand, Ted nodded. “Yeah, witnessed the whole thing myself. It’s why I came barging in her yesterday, almost couldn’t stop myself. Glad I did,” he tapped the paper.
And he was. Glad.
Glad he was able to read this article to Rebecca, that it sung her praises and finally gave her some of the credit she was due. Glad he finally got to see her happy with something about her in the press.
He squeezed her hand. “And I wholeheartedly agree. We’re all Welty Boys through and through.” He added, knowin he’d been Rebecca’s for far longer than he cared to admit. But as he watched as she softened further at his words, he couldn’t regret giving her his heart, even if she wasn’t aware of it.
“Ted,” she breathed, her hand twitching under his, as though it were unsure of it should flip to grasp his back. “I—“
But he was letting his own emotions have too much of a say in reading into their interactions—again. So, with a final squeeze of her hand, Ted stood, his fingers trailing over her soft skin before he pulled away entirely.
“You got work to do,” he interrupted cheerfully, afraid of what she’d say. “I got ya, loud and clear. Me too, or so I tell the Boss.” He joked, already slinging his backpack over one shoulder and ignoring the surprised look on her face at the fact that he was leaving so soon. “I’ll see you later! And if you get the chance, maybe shout out the window later today, let the boys know you saw the article. It’ll make them some pleased peaches to know they made ya happy.”
And he took off while she was still mouthing ‘pleased peaches’ in confusion. He really needed to get his feelings under control before he said or did something he couldn’t take back.
NOTE: someone mentioned this in their fic, that someone had written Welton’s Boys on the whiteboard and Rebecca saw it and added a heart to it (yes I remember all those details but not who wrote it or what fic it was). If anyone knows who’s idea this was, please tell me so I can credit them!!
11 notes · View notes
nataliadanielledyer · 5 years
Photo
Tumblr media
Natalia on the cover of Elle Mexico, July edition.
180 notes · View notes
Text
Day 109: Coffee Shop
"I can't believe this actually worked," Ron said as he stared at the line of customers that was out the door and halfway down the sidewalk.
"You're starting to sound like your better half," Harry teased as he made a perfect latte for the customer at the end of the counter.
Ron laughed, "I'm sorry but I just couldn't have imagined that a coffee shop would work out in Weasley's Wizard Wheezes." He shrugged and snagged one of the scones Harry had made that morning, "I assumed that people would have thought we were trying to pull something."
"We need to hire some help," he said as Lee sent another half a dozen drink orders in his direction.
"Right," Ron said. "I'll post something."
----------------
Five days later, after the shop had closed, Harry started going through applications. "Seriously, Ron?" he asked. "Is this really the applicant pool? There are dozens of applications here."
Ron shrugged, "What did you expect?" he asked through a mouthful of pastry. "You're Harry Potter."
He groaned and continued digging through. "Wait," he said, pausing on an application. "Did you see this?"
"No," Ron said without looking up from sorting through the crate of potions in front of him.
"This application says Draco Malfoy," Harry said, brow furrowed as he read through the application in his hands.
"Bin it," he said.
But the further Harry read through, the more sense it made. "I'm calling him in for an interview."
(Read more below the cut)
Draco Malfoy came in the next morning before the shop opened. He actually arrived before Harry, in fact.
"Sorry to ask you here so early," Harry said, unlocking the door and gesturing for Malfoy to enter ahead of him.
"It's no trouble," he said, voice soft and a touch hesitant in a way that Harry couldn't have ever imagined. "Thank you for considering my application."
This wasn't the boy he'd known. "Sure," Harry said with a nod as he turned on the lights. "Can I get you a cup of coffee?"
"Oh," Draco said, sounding surprised, "Umm, yes please."
He started brewing the coffee, "So, why do you feel that you're qualified to work here?" Harry asked.
"Right," he said, "Sorry, are you actually interviewing me?"
"Yeah," Harry said, looking over at Draco, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Isn't that why you were here?"
The other man shook his head, "Yes, of course. I'd very much like to apply for the job, it's just," he glanced down at his hands, shaking his head.
"Just what?" he asked curiously.
Draco glanced up, "Just that normally people don't actually want to interview me." He looked down again, avoiding Harry's gaze.
He cleared his throat and changed tactics, "I saw on your resume that you'd completed your Potions Mastery. Wouldn't you rather work within your own field?" he asked as he poured two cups of coffee. "Do you take cream and sugar?"
"Just sugar," Draco replied. "May I be blunt?" he asked as he accepted the cup from Harry.
"Please," he said, nodding toward the tables.
Draco took a seat and crossed one long leg over the other. "I can't find work in anything to do with creating potions or health care. Not that I blame them," he hastened to add, "But people don't generally want to trust an ex-death eater with their health."
"You were cleared of all charges," Harry protested.
A sardonic little grin appear on Draco's face, "You underestimate people's capacity to hate."
"Well, anyone with a Potion's Mastery ought to be able to manage making coffees and doing a little baking," Harry said, deciding right then and there that he was going to hire Draco Malfoy if he'd have them.
Draco blinked, "Yes," he said quickly. "Yes, I can."
"It's full time," Harry said. "We're able to offer 2 galleons an hour-"
"That's above minimum wage," Draco said, obviously surprised, "That's fairly uncommon for people who work in cafes."
He shrugged, "Perhaps, but it's the right thing to do. And whoever is working will split the tips. We're looking for a bit of flexibility where the hours are concerned. Lee, Ron, George, and Angelina rotate through to help with the busier hours but the position we're hiring for would be to cover more of the hours including opening duties and closing duties on a rotating schedule."
Draco nodded eagerly, "Yes," he said. "Yeah. I can do that."
"Good." Harry nodded, "Great, in fact. When can you start?"
"Are you serious?"
"Yes." Harry said before he took a sip of coffee.
"Sorry," he said, shaking his head. "I can start any time. I can start today, if you'd like."
"I would like that very much," Harry replied. "The shop is only open for 8 hours, but we're in an hour before and an hour after so once you're trained in we'll stagger a bit."
"Thank you," he said. "Seriously, I don't even know what to say."
He gave him a smile, "Don't thank me yet. You haven't been through a morning rush." With a little chuckle he stood up, "Let me show you opening procedures."
"Alright," Draco nodded, standing up and following Harry back behind the counter. "Potter," he said hesitantly.
"Harry," he corrected, glancing over at him from where he was pulling out aprons for the two of them.
"Harry," Draco said, "Sorry."
"Stop apologizing," he said, "You're welcome to ask any questions you have."
"Why are you doing this?"
"Honestly?"
Draco nodded.
"Because you were the only applicant that I felt like wasn't going to be more trouble than you were worth."
He swallowed, "I feel it's only fair to warn you that I have a rather undesirable effect on business. I wouldn't promise that I won't be more trouble than I'm worth."
Harry couldn't help but smile at him, "What I mean is that you are the only candidate who wasn't applying simply because you wanted to get close to me." He patted Draco on the shoulder, "I trust you."
He was surprised to find that he was telling the truth.
------------
Draco learned quickly. He was a good listener, he had a good memory of what repeat customers wanted, he was friendly and nearly always in a good mood, and he made food and drinks accurately. Harry couldn't have been more pleased.
They had the odd run in with people who didn't take kindly to being served by Draco but Harry was quick to nip that in the bud.
"I'm sorry," Draco said, after the first time Harry had kicked out a customer who had berated him."
"What on earth for?" he asked in befuddlement.
Draco was fiddling with his apron strings, "Chasing away your business-"
"Don't be ridiculous," he replied, "I have no interest in that sort of business," he bumped Draco's shoulder with his. "You're worth a hundred of him."
"Thanks," he whispered.
"Don't mention it," Harry replied.
----------
The longer they worked together, the more Harry liked Draco Malfoy. He was clever and funny, he worked hard, and he never made Harry feel like he was anything other than a guy who worked in a coffee shop. It also didn't hurt that he looked more attractive than anyone had the right to in slacks, an apron, and a button up shirt with rolled up sleeves.
One night, when Draco was supposed to have left a few hours before close but ended up staying because of how swamped they were, Harry couldn't help but blurt, "Can I get you dinner?"
Draco stopped wiping down the counter and turned to look at Harry, "You don't have to do that. I don't mind staying to help."
"Not because you stayed late," Harry said, "Just," he shrugged "because."
"Because?"
He nodded, "Because I like you," he confessed.
A delightful blush covered Draco's cheeks.
"I'd like to get to know you better," he said. "If you'd like?"
Draco smiled and nodded. "I'd like that very much."
------------
Within a year, Harry's coffee shop inside of Weasley's Wizard Wheezes became Harry and Draco's coffee shop.
------------
Day 108: Ideal | Day 110: Rough
298 notes · View notes
mcheang · 3 years
Text
Rita Skeeter interviews Lila
Still not back from hiatus but just had to post this. Warning, contains mild Ladybug salt
Curious about the magical happenings in France, Rita is sent by the Daily Prophet to find out the truth.
Since it is more or less impossible to follow the careful heroes, Rita starts by interviewing Alya, who has nothing but praise for Ladybug. The only complaint she had was that it was so hard to find out anything about her. The heroine was just so secretive! Luckily Lila was Ladybug’s best friend and agreed that secrecy was overrated.
Rita is not impressed when she meets Lila Rossi. Oh sure the girl had sensational stories Rita loved to write about. But that’s just it. Rita knew when a story was overblown and she knew Lila was a liar.
Then there was also the fact that a magic user divulging secrets would surely have been caught by the French Ministry of Magic, or at least covered up the truth.
No. Rita was not going to use Lila’s tales. Her readers would not be interested in a self-absorbed muggle anyway (and Rita has had enough of Gilderoy Lockhart. The man was a good story but horrible host. This Lila actually had the nerve to make Rita pay for the whole afternoon tea, claiming to have donated all her money to charity.)
Rita decided to wait as a beetle in Dupont. She saw the butterfly come in when Chloé made Rose cry. (Oh! What a scandal! Heroine biased to choose mayor’s bullying daughter as a hero?) then to her surprise, she saw Lila actually steal the akuma! (Compulsive lying muggle takes advantage of wizard’s magic!)
The fight was wonderful! Rita just had to transform back to take pictures. When the fight was over, she may have used a little magic to trip the other reporters, if only so she could ask the first question.
“Ladybug, why did you choose Chloé Bourgeois to be a heroine?”
Answer: Chloé was never really chosen. She just took the bee miraculous for herself. (Careless heroine loses magical artefact!)
“And yet Queen Bee has reappeared several times.”
Answer: she felt Chloé deserved a second chance when facing her father. Scarlet Moth was an emergency with limited time. (Heroine can’t find a suitable bee replacement. Is it that hard to find decent people?)
Delighted with the scoop, Rita felt like she might as well give Ladybug a little hint, one beetle to another. She warns the heroine to keep a closer eye on Lila Rossi if she wants more information on Hawkmoth.
When Rita returns, her story is a triumph. Papers sold out in a day.
The French ministry of magic reads her article and decide to help the elusive Ladybug by catching Lila in the act.
Lila is exposed and arrested.
Ladybug admits they had a tip off from one Rita Skeeter.
Furious, Lila starts ranting insults at the English journalist. Her insults were recorded and Rita read the report.
When Lila was having her trial, she was surprisingly truthful, stating to only regret having been caught and thinking everyone else were inferior. It is as if she drank vertisaserum! Her list of crimes were shocking, to say the least.
Tumblr media
232 notes · View notes
imnotwolverine · 3 years
Text
Wolfie’s Fic Recs | The Grand Library of Kink 1/2
Tumblr media
THE GRAND LIBRARY OF KINK - Allow me to give you a list of treats to quench the unbearable thirst between your thighs. 
>> Looking for part 2 of this list? <<
🖐WARNING: NSFW - SMUT below the cut 🖐
Author’s note: Let’s be honest. You probably are prowling the Tumblr grounds for the same reasons I am: there’s some darn good porn fics out here. And in the year I’ve been in the Cavillry, I’ve gathered a most wondrous collection of soft to extremely kinky fics. Time..to make a more comprehensible list of my favourites thusfar! (💦It’s long, so you better have some fresh panties at the ready💦)
In this library you’ll find:
Part 1:
Self-help 101  
Cherry Popping Goodness 
Vanilla With A Sprinkling Of Sex Toys 
Vanilla - Toybox Special 
Henry’s Hands Special
The Hook-up
Part 2:
Sensory Delights
The Triple Threat  
Fuck - The Geralt Special
Take It Like A Pussy - The Napoleon Special 
Hammer-time - The Walker Special 
Cpt. Cunnilingus - The Syverson Special
Thighs And Canes - The Sherlock Special 
Fem!DOM 
--
Tumblr media
Self-help 101
[This one’s all about the act of self love - solo masturbation]
Toys are for boys. Unless it’s in the bedroom..right? Almost The Same by @lunedelorient  [Henry x Reader]
Mike can’t help himself as his gaze falls upon your lipstick stains on a beer bottle. Where else would he like those stains to be? Lipstick by @emyearns [Mike / reader]
A toy arrives to sweeten the lonely nights when Henry is away. There’s only one minor detail as the package is being unwrapped; she isn’t alone yet. Flying Solo by me [OFC x Henry Cavill]
I love fics written in Henry’s point of view. In this one Henry can’t take it no more. He simply needs to let off some steam; I Need A Woman by @chamomilebottom [Henry Cavill x reader]
This man gets caught..a lot, doesn’t he? You give Henry a helping hand as you catch him in the shower in Welcome Home by @rosethornsanddaisies [Henry Cavill x reader]
I wasn’t sure whether I should put this in the self-help section. So consider yourself warned: watch out..you’re in for a solo-lovin’ surprise in On Display by @ladyreapermc [August Walker x Reader]
--
Cherry Popping Goodness
[There’s a first time for each flower to bloom - loss of vaginal/anal virginity]
The bookstore meet-cute, the skipping heartbeats, and the fluster of cheeks as she just read a steamy passage of her book aloud. It’s the perfect recipe for romance...though there is one tiny, tiny... Her Minor Thing by @ladyreapermc [Henry Cavill x erotica novelist!OFC]
For one night only, gigolo August Walker will make all your fantasies come true. His specialty? Sweet, innocent little flowers. Velvet Chains by @littlefreya [August Walker x reader]
The morning after the cherry popping, a bud starts to bloom. White Honey by @littlefreya [Henry Cavill x reader]
This fic! This. Fic. I hadn’t seen I Capture The Castle when I read this fic, but it made me fall for Stephen so freakin’ hard that I kind of watched the movie straight after. It’s sweet, blushing-cheeks worthy and utterly cinematic. Bluebells by @yespolkadotkitty [Stephen x reader]
August Walker, a virgin? Well..there’s a First Time For Everything by @hope-to-hell [August Walker x reader]
Theseus didn’t mean it to go this way. But he was so thirsty - and now for more then just a drink of water. To Die of Thirst by @hope-to-hell. [Theseus x reader]
It’s Geralt’s first time and isn’t a Witcher body just a fascinating thing..hmm... Anatomy Lessons by @princess-of-riviaa [Geralt x experienced!reader] 
I didn’t know bullet point lists could be this sensual and H.O.T. - First Time w/ Henry by @henchry [Henry Cavill x reader]
GOODNESS ME. Can first times be like this for everyone, please and thank you?! My Flower gives you squirt-inducing, sweet talkin’ Henry making the most out of this special little moment. By @viking-raider [Henry Cavill x reader]
Wait till marriage with August? Highly unlikely....right? Uncharted Territory by @chamomilebottom [August Walker x reader]
Now onto some other sanctuaries to plunder. (Anal that is) Poker Night @foodieforthoughts [Syverson x OFC]
Lets @littlefreya’s words entice you into a new world as you and Henry finally pick the Forbidden Fruit (yep, anal again) [Henry Cavill x OFC]
And now we’re on the anal train, I do notice that men barely ever get any backdoor lovin’ from their partners. And I know, I know: most men are really apprehensive about it. But goodness can it be good! Sy has learned of it’s sweetness and reminisces that first time in Sy And The Sex Tape by @hope-to-hell [Syverson x reader]
--
Tumblr media
Vanilla With A Sprinkling Of Sex Toys
[Couple’s sex with just a touch of kink] 
Let’s start with a game. Written in the language of love (French that is), this enticing bit of foreplay gets the blood streaming alright. Invisible Touch by @emelinelovesjc [Henry Cavill x reader]
Is it time for my favourite poetic foreplay fic?! YES it IS! Ode by @wolvesandhoundshowltogether just does something for me and I can simply not explain - just go ahead and read it and see for yourself! [Henry Cavill x reader] 
The key to good sex, is foreplay. And teasing during an event? You bet your  sweet ass you can get Henry riled up. Tease by @captainbigdy [Henry Cavill x reader]
Ready for some myrrh mountain-esque, super indulgent eroticism? Read Confessions by @captainbigdy [Henry Cavill x reader]
Birthday sex
What do you give a man who has it all, for his birthday? A little boudoir, a little make-out on the couch and...Happy Birthday by @rosethornsanddaisies [Henry Cavill x reader]
Apparently boudoir pictures for Henry’s birthday is on y’alls mind! A Picture’s Worth by @sunflowersstan gives you a belated birthday present - but that definitely should not spoil the fun. [Henry Cavill x reader]
Home (coming)
For once, Henry is forgiven for his ungodly early alarm clock: it’s beach time! And Kal will be there too. Home by @chamomilebottom [Henry Cavill x reader]
Henry, unfortunately, isn’t always home. In fact, he’s away quite a lot. Meaning it’s all the important to make up for lost time: Welcome Home by @geralt-of-baevia [Henry Cavill x reader]
And what’d you do if he finally comes home, but an impromptu surprise party is organised by his friends? Better Keep Quiet, baby. By @toomanystoriessolittletime [Henry Cavill x reader]
Does that come with side effects? When a 200 pound beast tackles you after coming home, you just might feel it in the next few days. Lust Worthy by @viking-raider [Henry Cavill x reader]
Home is also domestic goodness ( “Can I, baby?” He whispers against your cheek, placing a soft kiss to it, his eyes searching to meet yours. >> I mean..YES YOU CAN!! DO WHATEVER YOU MUST YOU HUNK OF A BEAR 😩) in this sweet ficseries chap by @lovelycavills: The Night [Henry Cavill x reader]
Tropes to lovers 
Friends to lovers trope, anyone? Of Fck It by @tillthelandslide gives you beers on the couch, friendly banter and then WOOPSIEDOODLIEDOO. [Henry Cavill x reader]
More friends to lovers with one accidental wet dream while lounging on the couch with Henry. Dreaming by @yoursecretsmutblog [Henry Cavill x reader]
Or perhaps PA/boss to lovers? Thunder by @toomanystoriessolittletime gives you Henry in full Geralt gear and rain..lots and lots of rain - meaning it’s time for a ..😏break. [Henry Cavill x OFC]
One more PA story to get the storm in your pussy settled. Years after working for Henry, you send a drunk text and he Answers. In the flesh. By @toomanystoriessolittletime [Henry Cavill x reader]
Tumblr media
Audio porn
Another thing I got quite attached to while I learned all about my kinks here on Tumblr, is audio porn. And what better than to have Henry do some audio recording for us thirsty women? Erotic Audios Present... By @thetaoofzoe [Henry Cavill x OFC]
More audioporn!Henry? @toomanystoriessolittletime has got you covered with Talk Dirty To Me, starring photographer Henry who has had.. a bit of a past - and doesn’t his voice sound terribly familiar? 🧐[au!Henry Cavill x reader]
Communication
Smutty fics practically always skip the “So what do you actually like”-part. Well. This fic covers it - and then some. The Interview by @peachyvulpixie. [Henry Cavill x OFC]
And communication is very - very important. Especially when moving stuff around, right Henry? A Little Bit To The Left by @lunedelorient [Henry Cavill x OFC] 
Communication is also key when you want to decide on sub/dom dynamics. Switch has daddy vibes, but in a domestic, confidential, well-established relationship. By @viking-raider [Henry Cavill x reader] 
Or, you may just want to tell sweet Henry that it’s definitely okay to get a little louder between the sheets. Express Yourself by @viking-raider [Henry Cavill x reader]
A thrilling ride
Want to “chose your own adventure” in smutty style? @sciapod’s got just the thing you’re looking for with BD Morning Energy  [Henry Cavill x reader]
Sometimes it’s rough, sometimes it’s sweet, but ever and ever; it’s truly Henry. Read about various types of horny Henry in Shapeshifter by @wanderinglunarnights [Henry Cavill x reader]
Body/orgasm insecurity
This was a very personal piece to write. I have difficulty reaching orgasms, especially with a partner, so for all fellow ladies with the same little problem: Henry is here to give you some Riding Lessons between the sheets. [Henry Cavill x OFC]
And I’m so, so glad that there’s at least a few of you here on Tumblr who can also get a little worried and even impatient between the sheets. Thankfully Henry is the posterboy of Patience, ready to unravel you piece...by.. delicious..piece. By @captainbigdy [Henry Cavill x OFC] 
Nipple love
Female nips get all the lovin’. But male nipples? Not often. Tease by @the-soot-sprite will make sure that is taken well taken care off. [Henry Cavill x reader]
Alright, and now for a little female nip-nip action, let’s dive right into the action. Rough lovin’, shovin’ Cavill is showing you how terribly fucked out he can get you in In My Thoughts by @jolly-polly [Henry Cavill x reader]
Horizontal vs. vertical sex 
Shower sex is such a delectable topic to read about (even though in real life it’s usually awkward and impractical). Let your dreams bring you..after workout Showers with Henry by @darklydeliciousdesires [Henry Cavill x reader]
Or perhaps honeymoon shower sessions? Mirror by @tillthelandslide [Henry Cavill x OFC]
Did someone say honeymoon? Marshall remembers having to climb through that darn window the night before he married you and it makes for a super sweet, domestic fluffy smutty sex scene. And did I mention there was family right at the other side of the door? 👀 Locked by @fourmarkdove [Marshall x reader]
After all that working out it’s time for some food. But what would Henry prefer: ragu or you? What’s Cooking by @writingforhenry [Henry Cavill x reader]
Netflix and Chill
Netflix and chill, anyone? This Movie Night becomes a little steamy 💦 by @writingforhenry [Henry Cavill x reader]
It’s really difficult to watch tv with Henry around, and Freya gets a little frustrated with his incessant teasing; can a woman not just watch some Mindhunter in peace, damnit?! The Refund by @wolvesandhoundshowltogether [Henry Cavill x OFC]
Play-time! 
From game play to girlfriend play during an extremely boring day in lockdown. Confined by @darklydeliciousdesires [Henry Cavill x reader]
More game chair smuttiness? It’s Game on! Mic on! - And ..Eh.. wait..what?! By @thecavillchronicles [Henry Cavill x reader]
Is tickle-play a thing? After a long day where everything seems to have gone wrong, you just need a good shag and Mike will make sure you can Sleep soundly tonight. @emyearns [Mikey x reader]
Alright, it’s a thing. Here’s some more tickle play with Marshall. Laughing During Sex by @promptandpros [Marshall x reader]
Hereby I declare that hairplay is also a thing. And with curls like Henry’s..I mean..come on. Love So Soft gives you dry-humping like horny teenagers after a bad day - and yes..hairplay. By @princess-of-riviaa [Henry Cavill x reader]
Needy Henry
Sad sky eyes are in dire need of some medicine, but Rose doesn’t realise until she’s getting some action for herself that the best medicine for Henry’s malady, is probably not watery soup. In Morbus Et Salus by @fanficsrusz [Henry Cavill x OFC]
Drunk Henry is in need of a midnight snack. And it’s a good thing there just happens to be one in his bed. Drunk In Love by @angrythingstarlight [Henry Cavill x reader]
And the next morning he might just be a really, really needy bear. (My boyfriend, for one, is always EXTRA horny when he is hungover 😂) Five More Minutes by @angrythingstarlight [Henry Cavill x reader]
A few more
And five minutes is probably all you get when you have kids. But it just makes these little mommy and daddy moments all the more sacred. Close To You by @the-soot-sprite [Henry Cavill x reader]
There’s also not a lot of time when you’re in a limo, trying to get your groove on. 🎶Driver roll up the Partition pleaseee 🎶by @fanficsrusz [Henry Cavill x reader]
Now to finish off this vanilla segment: vanilla kisses! Lick Me Till Icecream by @the-soot-sprite [Henry Cavill x reader]
--
Vanilla - Toybox Special 
[A special toy segment for you vanilla(ish) lovers] 
When it’s play time - long work day or no - Henry better be prepared for some frisky business. On Purpose by @wanna-do-bad-things (also hell yes for including some toys!) [Henry Cavill x one very frustrated OFC]
More toys? MORE TOYS! Command And Obey brings you dom!Henry being a terrible teasing ass, but alas..it still gets you all kinds of wet *shrugs* By @wanna-do-bad-things [Henry Cavill x reader]
Perhaps need some dom!Clark instead? With toys? We’ve got you covered. By @poledancingdinos [Clark x OFC]
Now, let’s not forget about Henry’s favourite toy of them all. His bike. In Good Vibrations by @deathonyourtongue [Henry Cavill x reader]
You find Henry pleasing himself with something you didn’t even know he owned; a fleshlight. Henry’s Toy by @viking-raider [Henry Cavill x reader]
Tumblr media
--
Henry’s Hands Special 
[I can’t be the only one who has the hots for hands]
Having a bad day? Talented fingers belonging to one caring man of a Henry are here to let off your steam. Burn The Couch by @meowpurrbooks [Henry Cavill x reader]
I’m glad I’m not the only one who has a complete and utter obsession with male hands. This fic is amazing in every way. It’s got suspense, hands AND Henry; Idle Hands by @thelastsock [Henry Cavill x Reader]
More handsy stuff is offered in this private drawing session. Draw Me With Your Fingers by @emelinelovesjc [Henry Cavill x OFC!author]
This fic? ..it’s hands-on work. I must give a disclaimer: I’m hard to please when it comes to daddy!fics, but this one I truly enjoyed. It perfectly rides (hehe) the fine balance between rough throat fucking, choking and usage of the endearing nickname ‘little fawn’. Hands by @twhstuckylover [Henry Cavill x reader]
Henry’s hands are here to warm you up on a cold day in Finger Work by @yoursecretsmutblog [Henry Cavill x reader]
--
The Hook-up
[A little less established, a little more messy. But definitely h-o-t-h-o-t-h-o-t]
Changing rooms may just hide a Dirty Secret (and crotchless pantyhoses) by @foodieforthoughts [Henry Cavill x OFC]
Being toyed around, Henry can’t stand it any longer - and goodness where did he leave that darn bowtie?! Caught In The Storm by @thelastsock [Henry Cavill x Reader]
Syverson is also not one who likes to be toyed around with, especially when you’re in the same bar wearing that deliciously short dress and his favourite high heels. Mine by @yoursecretsmutblog [Syverson x reader]
Dancefloor delights and popping buttons (is this a good time to admit I have ripped some shirts like that? *woops* 😅) - this quite exhibitionistic fic is an utter delight and I’m Glad You Came  by @foodieforthoughts [Henry Cavill x reader]
Since this is steady-hook-up I wasn’t sure whether to post it in this segment or the Vanilla segment, but ..yea..it definitely deserves a read! Rules Of Engagement has Em and Henry coming to the realisation that a friendly hook-up isn’t all that easy. Especially not when one foul IUD throws baby dust in their busy lives. By @ladyreapermc​ [Henry Cavill x OFC] 
Marshall specials 
An old friend/lover shows up just when you find yourself with the predicament of a broken down car. Before you know it you’re having car sex with one curly haired police officer in..yea..a police car. A Perfect Shitty Day by @toomanystoriessolittletime [Marshall x reader]
OOPH you girls are in it for the Walter hook-ups. Forget That Asshole follows up after you had one particularly disappointing blind date. And thankfully a blue eyed sweater-bear-man is there to provide you some much needed consolation.  By @penwieldingdreamer [Marshall x reader]
Sex on set
On set things might just get a little steamy, so might as well take ..*clip scene* ACTION! Touch Me Tease Me by @deathonyourtongue [Henry Cavill x OFC]  
More on-set delights? Perhaps with a touch of embarrassing nerves? Directed By La Petite Mort by @wolvesandhoundshowltogether [Henry Cavill x reader]
--
Tumblr media
>> Looking for part 2 of this list? <<
--
Artworks/edits are mine ❤️And as always: if you have more fic recs to add, share them in your reblogs/comments! 
--
492 notes · View notes
Text
I don’t really know him
ok so I’ve had this idea in my head forever. basically you’re a famous singer and go on the ellen show. 
also, here’s the art I imagine for the album cover. Just some simple art I made up!
the podcasts I mention are ones I actually listen to, and here’s the link to those!
conspiracy theories
in our time
warnings: like one swear word?
word count: 2.1k 
"It's so good to see you, Y/N!" Ellen smiled warmly at you. "Yes, you too," you beamed, shifting in the white chair. "I've been wanting to be on this show forever, you have no idea."
"Really?" She laughed. You nodded. "It's really an honor." "Well, we love to have you," she smiled again. "So what have you been up to these days?" "I've been pretty busy," you informed her. "I've been working a lot on my music." "Oh? Do we have a third album coming sometime soon?" You smiled, offering a small shrug. "I can neither confirm nor deny." "Well you can't just leave us with that!" You laughed. "I will say there is definitely a third album in the works. I'm saying absolutely nothing about the timeline, though," you said, making the motion of zipping your lips. "Really?" She leaned forward, intrigued. "Could we possibly hear some details of this album?" "I've already said too much," you sat back in your chair, grinning. "Well, if that's all you're going to say..." She looked at you expectantly, as if you would just crack and spill all the details. You just smiled, shaking your head. She sighed dramatically. "I guess we'll move on." "I think that's wise," you nodded. "I did want to talk about your second album." She pulled out a record, the big album cover being shown on the screen behind her as well. "I really enjoyed this, by the way. It's very good." "Thank you," you said, your face heated up at her compliments. "It's good to know people liked it. I really put myself out there for that one." "You did!" She said, looking back down at the artwork. "It was very personal." You bit your lip, nodding. "It was definitely a lot more so than the first one, which was kind of scary, if I'm being honest." "Yeah, well that's understandable," she nodded. "Was there a certain someone these songs were written about? I couldn't help but notice some of these are very much... love songs." You smiled again. "I'm afraid that's another question I can neither confirm nor deny." "Yeah, I had a feeling you'd say that." You nodded, trying to keep the flush off your face. There definitely was a certain someone those songs were about. They were about Harry. Every single one of them was about him, and you knew for a fact the songs on his newest album were about you. No one else knew, though. You two had done a good job keeping your relationship secret. It was annoying at times, but neither of you wanted to deal with the stress of the public trying to know every detail of your relationship. "Now, it's time for a few burning questions," she said, setting the album down in front of her. "Oh, delightful," you sighed playfully. "Oh, quiet, this will be fun." "Will it?" you joked, but leaned forward nonetheless. "Definitely," she picked up a stack of cards. "First- what is your favorite food?" "Ooh, I have to say alfredo. Or... like, fudge." "Fudge?" "Yeah, it's super good." "Good to know," she laughed, looking at the next card. "What is your lockscreen?" You had to bite your tongue to keep the smile off your face. Truthfully, it was a picture of Harry. He had his hair up in a clip, looking like a little tree on top of his head. But obviously, you couldn't say this. Thankfully, you had left your phone in your dressing room, so there was no way anyone would see. "My dog," you lied. This had been true for a long time; at least until you started dating Harry. "Aw, that's cute!" You nodded with a small smile, thinking of how cute your lockscreen really was. "Who is your favorite musician?" "Uh... I don't- like, as a person? Or their music? I could go a lot of directions with this," you chuckled. "Let's just go with... as a person." "Oh boy, there's quite a lot of those," you smiled. "I really admire a lot of people, truly. A few that come to mind, I guess... Megan thee Stallion, obviously-" You were cut off by loud cheering. You grinned out at the audience, laughing at their excitement. "See, they agree," you gestured out in front of you. "I just love her energy. And Lizzo, one hundred percent. I've gotten closer with both of them in the past few years, and I cherish their friendship. They're both wonderful people. Oh, I've met Taylor Swift a few times, and I love her so much, she's so kind." "Wow, you're moving up in the world," she smiled. "I don't know," you blushed again. "Don't be so humble, you're one of the big names now!" "I don't really like to think of it that way," you admitted. "Honestly, I just like making music. I'm so blessed to be able to do what I love." "And we're blessed to be able to hear it," she said with a sincere smile. "What about the other way? Who do you like, for their music specifically?" "Um, I'm into a lot of different stuff, I don't really have a specific artist or genre I like," you lied again. Lately, you had only been listening to Harry's music. "Really?" She seemed surprised. You nodded. "There is one, though, Charlotte Sands. I actually first heard her song, Dress, on TikTok and got really into more of her stuff." This wasn't actually a lie. You liked the song when you first heard it, and even more when you found out who it was about. "Oh, I've heard Dress! It's a very nice song," Ellen nodded. "But next question! What do you do when you can't sleep?" "I usually listen to a podcast." "What podcast do you listen to?" "Conspiracy theories. But not like, in a weird way," you laughed. "And also not to sleep." "Not to sleep?" "No, they're too interesting for that. When I'm trying to sleep, I listen to one by the BBC. I just play it really quietly so it's just background noise." "Interesting," she nodded. "But I'm more interested in the conspiracy theories. Not in a weird way?" She laughed. "No, not in like a crazy way," you clarified with a smile. "Like, I'm not super into them, but I'm kind of like, who knows?" You finished with an exaggerated shrug. Ellen laughed, along with the audience. "Well, it's good to know it's not in a crazy way." You nodded, still smiling. "But speaking of conspiracy theories..." She paused, leaning forward. "Harry Styles." You nodded, waiting for her to continue, and laughed lightly when she didn't. "Yes? What about him?" "Well, just what's your opinion?" You chuckled, raising your eyebrows. "My opinion? I don't really have an opinion, I don't really know him," you lied again. You most definitely did know him. "Well, just on what you've heard. He won a Grammy recently, did you know this?" "I did know this," you nodded. "And I don't know, I've heard he's a lovely person. I do like his music, actually." "Really? I thought you two were close. Judging from these pictures," you looked behind you, eyes going wide when you realized what they were. About a month ago, you and Harry had finally gone out together for the first time. It had been a simple outing; you had gone into a coffee shop to get some drinks. Harry had sat at the table while you ordered, then you walked out before him with both cups. He followed you a few minutes after, meeting up at a corner down the street. You tried to take as many precautions as you could so you wouldn't be spotted together, and you had really thought it worked. You had both been wearing masks, so you didn't think anyone would notice. Since that was so long ago, you thought you had gotten away with it. Apparently not. There was no denying that it was you and Harry, and there was no denying the love in your eyes as you looked at him. He was the same; he looked absolutely infatuated with you. "Um," you shifted in your seat, turning back to face Ellen. She had an excited grin on her face. "I always thought you two would be cute together." "Did you?" You asked, trying desperately not to blush more than you already were. You really didn't know how to react. You had been so careful, or so you thought. How had this picture not been leaked sooner? Ellen must have had this planned for a long time. She nodded. "So, it seems you do know him pretty well. Care to give us any more details? Are you two... official?" "Unfortunately, I think you know what I'm going to say," you managed to smile again. "I can neither-" She spoke over you. "Confirm nor deny, yes, I know," she sighed playfully. "Next question, then!" Once the interview was over, you rushed back to your dressing room. Just as you expected, you had at least 22 texts from Harry. Sighing, you unlocked your phone to read them. "Shit" "I'm so sorry" "I have no idea how they got that" "I know you wanted to keep this secret" "I'm so sorry they found out" "How did they get those?" "Why weren't those released earlier?" "Did Ellen plan this?" "She must have planned this" "I'm so sorry" "You were right, we should have been more careful" "I can say we're just friends if you want" "I can do an interview with Ellen next week" "I can lie" "I'll say whatever you want" "I'm so sorry" "This is my fault" You couldn't help but laugh, imagining how panicked he was while typing these. You weren't even that upset. You knew your relationship would come out sometime. Not wanting to make him suffer any longer, you tapped the call icon. He picked up on the first ring, not even saying hello before he was apologizing. "Baby, I'm so sorry, I feel awful, I know you didn't want anyone to know, but it's ok, I'm going to get an interview soon and I can-" "Harry," you cut him off. "It's ok. Really. I knew this would happen sooner or later, it's ok." "Really? You looked upset earlier." "I was flustered," you laughed. "And a little shocked. But I'm ok now. It's fine, I promise. Besides, now we don't have to hide all the time. We can go out in public if we want to." You could practically hear the smile in his voice when he answered. "Finally, I can take you out on a proper date, just like you deserve." You grinned. "Sounds perfect. I'm actually leaving here soon, do you want to meet at the coffee shop?" "I'd love to." "See you soon, then. Love you!" "I love you too." -----
“Really, though? “I don’t have an opinion, I don’t really know him?” A little rude, if I’m being honest.”
You laughed, swatting at his shoulder playfully across the table. “I didn’t know what to say! I panicked. I wanted to say “Oh yeah, Harry? I’m actually in love with him. He’s my favorite person in the entire world, and we’ve been dating for a year.” But I figured that was a little tactless.”
“Maybe a little,” he smiled, blushing at your compliments. “I can’t blame you, though. You probably handled it better than I would have.”
You laughed. “It was really hard! Every single question. She asked who my music was about. It’s about you! She asked what my lockscreen was. It’s you. She asked who my favorite artists are! Again, you.”
“Oh yeah, very sneaky with that Charlotte Sands song,” he chuckled. “A good hint. Do you think anyone will catch that?”
“Oh, definitely,” you smiled. “Your fans are literally the FBI.”
“Sometimes,” he agreed. “But they can’t be that good, since none of them found out about us.”
“True,” you nodded. “They’re losing their skills.”
“Oh, tragic,” he pouted. “Whatever will we do without being stalked every minute of our lives?”
“Maybe we could, you know, just live like normal people for a day.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
357 notes · View notes
britishassistant · 3 years
Text
@emyluwinter submitted:
It's me again and I'd like to write a few more points if you don't mind I want to hear more about the beautiful Uncle Divus.
His red car is parked at one of the empty intersections on a dark, late night. Crowley gave them experiment # Y26. The baby was fast asleep in the cradle in the back seat. Divus glanced nervously in the rearview mirror. Nervously tapping his fingers on the steering wheel, Divus tried to control his intense irritation and anger. His car was at the traffic light for 40 minutes, the green light has already lit up more than 8 times. - leave the baby under the bridge to go through all the hardships... What were you thinking, Crowley?! - Cruel swore. Divus hears a soft hoot from the baby. His expression softens. - I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. - Divus turns and adjusts his blanket. A small, completely helpless and such a cute child. What did he deserve at the birth of such a stupid biological father? - you are not to blame for anything, baby...I promise you, you won't end up under the bridge all alone. - Cruel gently touches the baby's plump, rosy cheek with his fingertips. - not today, not ever. But what can I offer you? - Сruel frantically considered all the options he could do in such a situation. Putting them in a shelter was too risky. He will not give his creation to any outsiders. What if they treat them badly? Divus leaned back wearily in the driver's seat, running a hand over his face. - there aren't many options, are there, little one? It's more complicated than all the chemical formulas I know. - Сruel chuckled, and then it hit him. His sister. His sister and her husband really wanted a child, but they could not do it. A soft and sly smile blossomed on his face. - I think I have a solution! - Cruel said smugly, settling himself more comfortably in his chair, and immediately jumped in surprise as the baby began to sob and cry softly. - sorry, sorry, kid. Well, well.don't cry. I give you my promise, you will be in the most beautiful family, I am sure they will love you with all their heart. How can you not love such charm? And I'll be your cool, adorable, and unique Uncle Divus. I will pamper you with gifts for all holidays and birthdays. Cruel froze for a moment, realizing his own words. - Uncle Divus..hah..who knew that under such circumstances I would become an uncle. Divus chuckled and finally turned the car in the direction of the desired turn *** TWST Anita looks in amazement at her brother in the middle of night and the baby in the baby's cradle. - Divus are you serious?! She still couldn't believe it. - More serious than ever. You'll make an amazing mother, I'm sure of it. - oh...Divus.. Can I see them? - His sister curiously picked up the baby blanket and looked at the road-weary Yuu, who was dozing peacefully with his arms and legs spread out as comfortably as he could. - Of course. So...If you need time to think, I'll understand. - I agree, Divus. But I must discuss it with my husband. Will you stay the night?" And we'll give you an answer this afternoon. A heavy stone was suddenly lifted from Kruel's shoulders, and a glimmer of hope was all he needed. - I'll be happy to stay with you.
Over the weekend, Divus visited his Yuu. Such a good and intelligent child, full of curiosity and mischief. Let Crowley suffocate at the very thought that he missed such a rare opportunity to educate and see a child grow up. Although what the thought was, Crowley hadn't even mentioned the baby in so long. - Uncle Divvy? - Little Yuu looks with interest at the man in the housecoat and the glass of wine in his hand. - What's wrong, puppy?- Divus gently pats the child's head. Yuu quite calmly climbs on the sofa, although not at the first attempt due to inexperience how to manage his body, but Kruel melted at the sight of the child carefully climbs on the sofa, and then sit on his knees. Especially since this little brash child allowed himself to behave like this with the great genius Kruel, whom Crowley himself was sometimes afraid of because of his experiments. And this fragile child would climb on his lap without asking. After fiddling with his pocket, Yuu handed Cruel a small bundle wrapped in a child's handkerchief. - I brought you some cheese and a couple of grapes. Dad said you'd like the taste. Cruel had to take all his fortitude not to burst out laughing at this cute action. "Thank you, little puppy, but I think this small dinner will be just a small snack for me.
Yuu's nose furrowed slightly - Mom said you can't eat like a hamster before dinner. - And she's absolutely right. By the way I heard that you are already learning to play the piano? Yuu lowers her head in embarrassment. - Uh-huh...Only I'm still small and I can't reach the pedals at the bottom. Putting the glass of wine on the table, Divus lay down on the sofa and put the baby on his chest. - all in good time, pup. TEST Anita comes into the room. - Divus you accidentally not saw. M? - she sees that Cruel dozed off on couch and curled up have uncle on breast peacefully sniffed in its fist Yuu. A small sleeping idyll in all its beauty, peacefully dozing on the sofa. What Cruel wanted Yuu to have.
Years later, Divus always watches every report, every interview or article from Yuu and his cameraman Yuuken. He is a good guy and takes care of Yuu like a great friend, which was to the delight of Divus. - Today we will conduct an interview with you at the national museum to personally see the main exhibition of this year! - Yuu spoke happily and full of admiration on the screen. - Beautiful work. Amazing exhibits and the most interesting stories are waiting for you today! - Yuu is suddenly interrupted by the Poison Queen, who bursts into the exhibition along with her minions and lieutenants. - Behold the greatest beauty!! Yuu sighs heavily and gets annoyed. - Why, all of you!!I have a live broadcast here!!Pick up your Poison Queen plume and let me run the story in peace!!I waited for this exhibition for six months and begged the boss for two more months to hold the broadcast here!!!Come on!!Shoo-shoo-shoo!!Not today!! Yuuken from the side of it is not visible on the screen. - In fact, the Poison Queen, let's at least today without incident!! The Poison Queen was in amazement that they were talking to him like this - you two don't know manners and decency?!? Yuu and Yuuken - Get out of here and let the others do their work!! Cruel was choking with laughter on the other side of the screen. - still the same cheeky pup. I can do a lot of these little scenarios, to be honest. And thank you for reading it!
aaaaaAAAAAAAAAAH!!!
Soft uncle Divvy!! Being so proud of his little sassy experiment!! I love this so much!!
Thank you so much for writing more!! I am HONORED that this AU inspires you enough to write about it!!
167 notes · View notes
emospritelet · 3 years
Text
Heatstroke - chapter 24/24
Last time, Gold confronted Zelena over trying to frame Regina, and Lacey caught the whole show on tape. This is the final chapter! Happy endings FTW!
[AO3]
x
Lacey set down the camera on the shop counter, and raised an eyebrow at Gold.
“So,” she said. “What do you want to do?”
He inclined his head, lifting a hand and letting it fall.
“It appears you have a story to tell about Miss West,” he remarked. “I feel the choice is very much yours. Perhaps Mr Glass can be persuaded that running an exposé is in the public interest.”
Lacey hesitated.
“Yeah, I think he would,” she acknowledged. “It’s just - Mayor Mills doesn’t know, does she? About Zelena.”
“I don’t think so.”
“I think maybe we should tell her,” said Lacey. “Before it all comes out, I mean. That would be the decent thing to do, wouldn’t it?”
“It would,” he agreed, and let out a heavy sigh, his head rolling back. “Well, that’s unfortunate.”
“What is?”
He raised his head again, sending her a stern look.
“It appears I’ve discovered a conscience,” he said. “The rumour was I didn’t have one. I blame you for this outrage.”
Lacey giggled, and leaned in to kiss him.
“Does that mean you’ll come with me to break the news?” she asked, and he offered his arm.
“To the Mayor’s office,” he said. “I’m sure Regina will be just delighted to see us.”
-
“This can’t be true.” Regina was staring at Lacey’s phone, having watched the recording twice. “This - this is impossible!”
“This must be a hell of a shock,” said Lacey, and Regina shook her head.
“I always thought she disliked me, but Mal told me I was being paranoid,” she said. “All this time she was plotting to ruin my life because my mother abandoned her? The nerve of the woman!”
“I guess sibling rivalry’s tough to deal with,” said Lacey. “Makes me glad I’m an only child.”
“Well, she certainly has my mother’s ambition and vindictiveness,” said Regina, with a sigh. “I don’t suppose you know anything about the father?”
“I’m afraid not,” said Gold. “Did your mother ever hint that you had a half-sister?”
Regina shook her head.
“She never spoke about her youth,” she said. “Other than to tell me she had to fight for anything she could get and I should do the same.”
She handed the phone back to Lacey and frowned at Gold.
“Exactly how long have you known about this?” she demanded, and he smiled.
“I heard what you did,” he said.
“That wasn’t what I asked,” she said coldly. “I know you, Gold. Were you holding onto this information until it was of use to you?”
“You think I’m working against you?” he asked, in a mild tone.
“I think you never do anything that doesn’t benefit you.”
“Well, perhaps you don’t know me as well as you think,” he said. “Or perhaps we assess risks and benefits differently. Either way, you have Miss French to thank for the investigation of her past and this recording. I merely - encouraged a confession.”
“Quite the sleuthing team,” said Regina, in a dry tone. “Can we expect a new office in town? French Gold, Private Investigators?”
“I don’t mind investigating his privates,” said Lacey, and Gold shot her a very level look as Regina curled her lip.
“Thanks, I’m going to spend the rest of the evening trying and failing to get that image out of my head.”
“You’re welcome,” said Lacey cheerfully.
“The question for you,” said Gold, “is how are you going to handle this? Miss French has quite a scoop on her hands, but she wanted to bring it to you first before raising it with Mr Glass.”
Regina shot Lacey a grateful look before sitting back in her chair with a sigh.
“There’s supposed to be a debate,” she said. “The two of us up on stage. You think it’s her intention to reveal the whole sordid story in front of the whole town?”
“I don’t believe she wants the rest of the town to know,” said Gold. “If they did, then her whole campaign reeks of sour grapes. She’ll want to play on the image she’s created while she’s been here. However inaccurate it is.”
Regina growled under her breath.
“I can’t believe I’m having to go through this charade!” she snapped. “I’m supposed to stand there and - and debate her when she’s trying to frame me for corruption and destroy my life!”
“We don’t have any actual evidence that she’s tried to frame you,” said Lacey, and Regina nodded impatiently.
“I know, I know. Nothing court worthy on that tape, however much she hinted at it,” she said. “If it’s okay with you, I’d like to hand it over to the Sheriff, get him to look into it.”
“If you agree to an exclusive interview with me after the debate, sure,” said Lacey quickly, and almost blushed as Gold shot her an approving look. Regina drummed her fingers on the desk.
“She’s far too good for you, Gold,” she said abruptly. “I hope you know that.”
He smirked at that, winking at Lacey.
“Oh, I’m well aware.”
-
Gold was finding it hard to stop grinning like an idiot now that he and Lacey were dating, and even found himself unexpectedly granting rent extensions, much to the surprise of nervous tenants. He made dinner for her again later in the week, and she stayed the night, Darcy curled at their feet as they drifted into sleep. It was pleasant being nuzzled awake by a purring cat and finding Lacey in his arms. It was a feeling he could get used to.
They had eventually managed to finish the interview, most of which was carried out in bed, and he had found himself telling her things he had previously had no intention of revealing. He blamed that on Lacey; it was difficult to maintain his usual cool distance when she was wearing his discarded shirt and looking at him as though he was a particularly delicious snack. She kept her word about giving him the final say on the article, however, and upon reading her draft, he noted that she had kept some of the more personal details to herself. He only felt the need to redact a couple of minor points about his early life, but was happy to let the remainder stand as it was. If the rest of Storybrooke was surprised at the intimacy of the piece and his sudden desire to be open about his life - well, they could all go and fuck themselves, as far as he was concerned.
The only opinions he cared about were those of his family, and it wasn’t too long before Neal called. Gold sighed as he looked at the number flashing on his phone. They’re gonna tease me relentlessly about this. Emma especially.
Shaking his head and smirking to himself, he picked up.
“Dad, hi,” said Neal. “Thought you might have called to let us know how your big social occasion went. You’re not avoiding the issue, right?”
“Of course not,” said Gold. “Been a busy week, that’s all.”
“Uh-huh. Emma thought you’d say that.” Neal sounded amused. “She’s been dying to find out about the dance, so I said I’d call for an update.”
“Tell her she needs a better hobby than worrying about my social life,” said Gold dryly. “How’s Henry? I was wondering what to get for his birthday.”
“Nice attempt at deflection, but I’m not done with you,” said Neal. “Come on, how did it go?”
“Uh - it was fine,” said Gold.
“Did you ask Lacey to dance, like I said?”
“Yes.” Gold hesitated. “We’re - uh - sort of dating now.”
Neal whooped, making him grin.
“Way to go! See, I knew you could do it!”
“Yes, well.” Gold scratched the back of his neck, feeling awkward. “It’s early days, I suppose. Very early days, but it’s going well.”
“I am so happy for you, really. Wait until I tell Emma.”
“She’s gonna tease me, isn’t she?” said Gold dryly.
“No more than usual.”
“A lot, then.”
“Hey, her teasing comes from a place of love.”
“Hmm.” Gold was amused. “Well, you can tell her I love her too.”
“And you can tell Lacey we can’t wait to meet her,” said Neal, and Gold’s grin widened.
“I believe the feeling’s mutual,” he said.
“Good. How about in two weeks’ time?”
Gold smirked to himself.
“Excellent timing,” he said. “It’s the Mayoral debate and election.”
“I’m almost certain we can find something better to do than listen to some crusty old politicians.”
“I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised,” said Gold. “It could be an interesting night.”
-
The evening of the debate arrived more quickly than Lacey thought possible, and she was nervous about more than just reporting the evening’s events. Gold’s son and daughter-in-law were due any minute, and there was a tiny part of her that kept whispering that they wouldn’t approve, that they would wonder why the hell Gold, with his money and power and class, was dating the likes of her. Stressing over her coverage of the election was a welcome distraction from the unwelcome internal monologue, and she concentrated on getting her things together for the debate, checking the recording equipment on Gold’s kitchen table and fretting about the sound quality.
“You’ve already checked it three times,” he said. “It’s fine.”
“I’m supposed to be writing the front page article!” she snapped. “What happens if I fuck up and don’t get anything recorded? I’m gonna look like a total idiot and Sidney won’t trust me with anything more complex than the hot dog eating contest!”
“I can record everything on my phone, if you’re worried,” he said. “Besides, don’t you do shorthand?”
“Yeah, but—”
“You’ll be fine,” he said gently, and kissed her head. “I promise.”
The doorbell rang, and Lacey started, heart thumping.
“Relax, that’ll be Neal and Emma,” said Gold, heading for the door. Lacey frowned at his back.
“Relax, my arse,” she muttered, shoving the recording equipment into its bag.
There were voices from the hall, and a sudden burst of laughter, and she closed her eyes, willing herself to calm the hell down. Footsteps from the doorway made her look up, and she was greeted by a warm smile and an outstretched hand. Gold’s son had his eyes, and curling dark hair above a ready grin.
“I’m Neal,” he said. “Really pleased to meet you.”
“Lacey,” she said, shaking his hand. “Uh - likewise.”
She was reminded vividly of the fact that she had flashed him on their first encounter, and felt a blush start to rise in her cheeks. If Neal was thinking of it too, he was better at hiding it than she was. His wife was a pretty blonde, with a kind look in her eyes and a plump baby in her arms, who was glancing around curiously at everything.
“This is Emma,” added Neal, “and that’s Henry.”
“We’ve heard a lot about you,” said Emma, shooting Gold a teasing look.
“Well, I won’t ask if it was all good, because I’m willing to bet it wasn’t,” said Lacey, and they chuckled.
“Maybe not at first,” admitted Emma. “Don’t hold it against the old bastard, though.”
“Oh, believe me, the feeling was mutual,” said Lacey.
“I’m standing right here,” said Gold evenly.
Lacey caught Emma’s eye and returned her grin. She felt herself relax a little, and leaned over to kiss Gold’s cheek.
“We got there in the end,” she said. “Uh - how hungry are you guys? I didn’t even think about dinner.”
She shot Gold a look, hoping that he would suggest something, and he nodded.
“We’ll head to Granny’s after the debate,” said Gold. “I have no doubt that Lacey will be demonstrating her excellent skill as a journalist, and I’d hate for you to miss it.”
“No pressure then,” said Lacey, and he smiled.
“You’re writing the article for the Mirror front page,” he said. “You have an exclusive with the Mayor herself after the debate. Sidney Glass clearly believes you to be as capable as I do.”
“Yeah, because I got that interview with you,” she said. “I didn’t tell him we were naked when I got most of that info.”
Neal closed his eyes with a pained expression.
“Shows ingenuity if you ask me,” said Emma abruptly. “I can usually get a ton of stuff out of Neal when we’re naked. Must run in the family.”
It was Gold’s turn to look pained. Neal put his hands over his face with a heavy sigh, and Lacey and Emma chuckled. Lacey decided that she liked both Emma and Neal very much. She zipped her bag and nodded to Gold.
“Okay,” she said. “Wish me luck.”
-
The town hall was filled with residents, chatting amongst themselves and casting curious glances at the empty stage. Ruby was seated next to Leroy on the third row back, and she winked at Lacey as she and Gold took their own seats. Ruby had been delighted to hear that the two of them had started seeing one another, and had only made a salacious comment to Gold on one occasion. Maybe two.
“Big turnout,” said Neal, glancing around. “I had no idea the people in this town were so into politics.”
“Usually they don’t bother,” said Gold. “The Mayor getting some competition appears to have piqued their interest.”
As though his voice had summoned her, Regina walked onto the stage, chin held high, looking calm and competent in a sharp black suit. Zelena followed, in a green dress with a soft silk scarf around her neck and gold hoops in her ears. A green folder was tucked under her arm, her hair tied up, and Lacey thought she was going for the image of a respectable school teacher. A gleam in her eye spoiled the look.
Dr Hopper was moderating the debate, and Lacey quickly checked her recording equipment and opened her laptop, rattling off a few sentences about the tense atmosphere of the hall and the opening statements from each of the candidates. Zelena gave a speech about decency and traditional values, at which Regina seemed to be stopping herself from rolling her eyes with some difficulty. Regina spoke of her record on town planning, law and order—she shot Zelena a look at that point—and prosperity.
“Thank you, ladies,” said Dr Hopper, when she was done. “Now, perhaps we’ll go to some questions from the press before we deal with those the townsfolk have submitted.”
“I have a question for Miss West,” said Lacey, in a loud, clear voice, shoving her laptop at Gold as she got to her feet.
Zelena’s mouth twisted, her smile more of a grimace.
“Of course,” she said lightly. “It’s - uh - I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.”
She waved a languid hand, and Lacey felt her mouth flatten.
“Lacey French, Storybrooke Mirror,” she said evenly, and Zelena let out a tinkling laugh.
“Of course, silly me,” she trilled. “How could I forget Storybrooke’s eager young reporter? Lending the local newspaper such an air of class in that - lovely - outfit.”
There was a muttering amongst the townsfolk, and Lacey distinctly heard Ruby say ‘What a bitch!’, but she smiled sweetly as though she hadn’t understood the insult.
“Yeah, I have a question about your motivation for running for Mayor,” she said. “You said yourself you’ve never been involved in politics, so what inspired you to make this move now?”
Zelena smiled widely.
“Well, as I said, I thought about where I could do the most good,” she said. “Storybrooke is a wonderful town, with many excellent qualities, but talking to its residents has made me realise that there’s a feeling that it may be lacking direction. I sense a need for a return to the basics of community. Neighbourliness. Family values. The traditions of small-town America that we all grew up with.”
“But you grew up in England,” said Lacey. “Wasn’t your father a diplomat? How do you know this view of America is either accurate or desirable?”
Zelena’s nostrils flared as she continued to smile brightly.
“Well,” she said. “Who’s been doing her homework?”
“Yeah, it’s just that people hear politicians mention tradition and family values, and all too often it’s a smoke-screen to hide racism and homophobia,” went on Lacey. “How would you address those concerns?”
Zelena spread her hands.
“I’d say look at my record,” she said. “Since I moved here I’ve made it clear that I’m happy to work with people of all backgrounds. It’s important that no one feels left out, and my initial conversations have led me to believe that there are concerns, and that some residents feel that their interests are not - fully appreciated - by the Mayor.”
“What kind of interests?” asked Lacey quickly, before Zelena could turn away, and her mouth twisted again as she tried to keep smiling.
“As I said, some feel that traditional family values are being lost in the push for modernity,” she said. “I’d like to reassure them that I stand for everything that Storybrooke represents. Decency. Morality.”
“Does that mean you think the Mayor is immoral?” asked Lacey, and Zelena pulled a face.
“I think there have been some questionable decisions at city hall under her watch, yes,” she said. “Does anyone really think that a seedy bar called Queens of Darkness is fitting for this town?”
“It’s a jazz club,” said Regina. “And there’ll be dance lessons each week. A perfectly respectable establishment, run by three accomplished businesswomen.”
Zelena let out that insincere laugh again, and Lacey sat down, retrieving her laptop from Gold and opening it up as Zelena addressed the room.
“Well, it’s not only the company the Mayor keeps,” she said. “We’ve all heard the rumours. Missing money, accounts not holding quite as much as people thought…”
“That’s an outrageous lie,” said Regina coldly. “Where’s your evidence, Miss West?”
Zelena smirked, as though she had been waiting for that very question. She held up the green folder, showing it to the room.
“I have the evidence right here,” she announced. “A brave employee of city hall managed to smuggle this out to me. Evidence that the Mayor has been embezzling town funds!”
There was a shocked intake of breath around the room. Lacey typed furiously.
“How dare you!” snapped Regina. “That’s a lie and you know it!”
“I believe this is my allotted time to speak!” Zelena snapped back. “I think the people of Storybrooke deserve to know exactly who you really are, don’t you? They should understand the choice before them!”
The doors at the end of the hall opened, and there was the sound of heavy boots on the floor. Zelena looked surprised, and then somewhat nervous, and a low-level muttering started up in the audience. Lacey glanced over her shoulder, watching as Sheriff Graham Humbert walked towards the stage with his deputy Dorothy Gale by his side. Regina appeared to be drumming her fingers on the lectern, and Lacey couldn’t work out whether it was anxiety or impatience.
“Miss West,” said Graham. “We’d like you to come with us, please.”
“Why?” demanded Zelena. “I’m a little busy winning this election, in case you hadn’t noticed.”
“It’s a matter of obstruction of justice,” said Graham. “If you could come to the station, please.”
Zelena opened and closed her mouth, a sudden flicker of fear in her eyes.
“What if I say no?”
“I’d prefer not to have to handcuff you,” said Graham.
“But we will if we have to,” added Dorothy, folding her arms.
“This is a conspiracy!” blurted Zelena, waving a finger at Regina. “Did the Mayor put you up to this? This is exactly the kind of corruption I’m talking about! The Sheriff being used as the Mayor’s enforcer!”
“Miss West…”
“Mayor Mills will do whatever it takes to silence me!” she went on. “She’s scared I’ve exposed her for what she is!”
“Miss West, I didn’t want to have to arrest you, but…”
“One hint of competition and she calls in her - her goon squad to crush it!”
“Oh, for God’s sake, I know you’re my sister!” said Regina loudly.
Silence fell, and Lacey hurriedly typed a few sentences, describing the shocked atmosphere of the town hall. Zelena was staring at Regina, eyes wide and nostrils flaring.
“I wasn’t going to mention it,” said Regina, curling her lip. “I wanted to give you a chance to be a decent person and deal with this in an honourable way. But since you’re determined to try to ruin my life for no good reason, then yes. I’m well aware we share the same mother, and frankly she’d be disappointed at this pathetic bid for attention.”
“How dare you—”
“I believe it’s my turn to speak,” interrupted Regina. “We’ve listened to enough of your rambling this evening. Since you’d been dropping hints about corruption in my office, I had Sheriff Humbert investigate. He told me earlier this evening that someone had been planting evidence to try to frame me. No doubt that’s what he wants to speak to you about.”
“This is—”
“The residents of Storybrooke know how seriously I take my duties as Mayor,” Regina went on, addressing the room as a whole now. “They know that I value their support and their trust. Of course I’d want any threat to that to be investigated. I’m just - I’m beyond disappointed that the threat comes from my half-sister.”
Her voice echoed around the silent room. Lacey was watching the townsfolk avidly, their eyes fixed on Regina as she spoke.
“I had no idea that my mother had had a daughter before me, no idea that I had another family member out there in the world,” she went on. “Her coming to Storybrooke should have been a time of joy and reunion. But instead of her reaching out to me, she tries to undermine me, to take away the most important job I have in this town.”
She looked down, shaking her head, and Gold leaned in close.
“I wonder how much of this is for the benefit of the voters and how much is genuine,” he murmured.
“Maybe fifty-fifty,” Lacey whispered back, and he nodded in agreement.
Regina raised her head, taking a deep breath, as though steeling herself for something unpleasant. Graham and Dorothy had edged towards the stage, Dorothy removing the cuffs from her belt.
“All I can do now,” said Regina, “is trust that justice will take its course.”
“You know nothing about justice!” shouted Zelena, as the Sheriff started reading her her rights. “You’ll pay for this! All of you!”
She was still yelling when Dorothy handcuffed her and marched her from the room. The sound of the doors closing was very loud in the silence that remained.
“Well,” said Regina, placing her hands on the lectern and looking around the room. “I think we can all agree that this was one of the more - eventful - political debates this town has seen.”
There was a ripple of nervous laughter, and she smiled.
“I truly hope that Miss West gets the help she so desperately needs,” she went on. “And when she has, I want her to know that she’s welcome to visit with Mallory and I. After all, we may not be able to choose our family, but that makes it all the more important to nurture the bonds we share with those around us.”
There were noises of agreement from the audience, and Gold leaned in close again.
“Ever the politician,” he murmured, and Lacey nodded.
“Storybrooke is like an extended family to me,” went on Regina, “and all families have their moments of conflict and frustration, but underneath that there is respect for one another, and a common set of values. I believe I have lived by those values for every year that I’ve served as your Mayor. I will always reach out to those in need and I will always act in the best interests of this town. Under my leadership, Storybrooke will continue to prosper. I guarantee it.”
There was applause, and a couple of cheers, and Regina nodded, looking extremely self-satisfied. She started taking questions, and Gold kissed Lacey’s cheek and whispered that he would see her in the diner when she was done. She watched him leave with his family, Emma balancing the baby on her hip and Neal pushing the stroller after them. Lacey turned back to listen to Regina field a question about the state of the town’s roads, bent her head to her laptop, and began typing up her article on the Mayoral debate.
She emailed the article over to Sidney before leaving for the diner, and walked back there with Ruby, who was chattering about the drama that had unfolded. Regina had been in her element when answering the remaining questions, and Lacey had felt a surge of satisfaction over her part in exposing a crime. Perhaps small town life offered the chance for rewarding work after all. She could see Gold and his family through the window, and his face lit up as she entered, making her stomach flip. Damn the man. I’m falling in love with him.
“Excellent job this evening,” he said, getting up to pull her chair out and kissing her cheek. “I got you a rum and coke, I hope that’s okay.”
“Perfect,” she said fervently, and took a slurp, relishing the taste on her tongue.
“How’d the Mayor look at the end of all that?” asked Emma, and Lacey pulled a face.
“The whole place gave her a round of applause, and she was looking about as satisfied as she could, I guess,” she said. “I still feel kind of sorry for her. Not every day you find out you have a half sister. Especially one that’s out to get you.”
“Well, it could have been a lot worse,” said Gold. “I very much doubt Miss West will present much of a challenge from a jail cell.”
Lacey nodded, taking another sip of her drink.
“Does this mean you and Regina are friends now?” she asked, and Gold smirked.
“Oh, I wouldn’t go that far,” he said. “What’s that term the kids use these days?”
“Frenemies?”
“That’s the one.”
“Kind of like we were,” she observed, and he laughed.
“Regina would fillet me with a letter opener if I even contemplated looking at her the way I look at you.”
“No, I don’t mean that,” she said. “I just meant - well, we kind of had that thing where we poked at each other to get a reaction, right?”
Gold looked as though he was trying very hard not to laugh, and she swatted his arm.
“Stop thinking about dirty stuff! You know what I mean!”
“I do,” he acknowledged. “And I, for one, am very glad that we - er - got the reaction we wanted.”
“You’re still thinking about dirty stuff, aren’t you?” said Emma shrewdly, and Gold shrugged.
“Maybe a little.”
-
They ate ribs, sticky with Granny’s special sauce, licking it from their fingers and washing it down with beer and wine and rum. By the time they got out into the cool night air, Lacey felt wonderfully tipsy, and regretted putting on her high heels earlier in the evening. At least there was no one else around to see if she fell on her arse, she supposed. Neal and Emma were walking ahead, pushing the stroller and talking quietly, and Lacey let out a sigh, slipping her arm through Gold’s for support, and resting her head on his shoulder.
“I ate too much,” she said, and Gold chuckled.
“We all ate too much.”
“You didn’t throw half of it over your lap, though.”
“No, I thought I’d leave that to you.”
“Stupid gravity,” muttered Lacey, and he laughed, squeezing her arm with his.
“Tired?” he asked.
“Yeah. Long day.”
“Maybe you should have an early night.”
She glanced up at him, and he was grinning at her, his eyes twinkling.
“How’s that gonna work?” she asked flatly. “Your family’s staying over. No way I’m letting you give me screaming orgasms while they’re in the room next door.”
“In that case I could sneak over to yours,” he suggested. “You could scream to your heart’s content.”
Lacey giggled, barging him affectionately with her shoulder.
“I think I love you, Mr Gold,” she said, and Gold stopped dead, turning to face her with a stunned look on his face.
“Really?”
Lacey turned to face him, taking his hand.
“Really,” she said. “I mean I’m kind of drunk, but that’s not why I’m saying it. I think I’ve sort of been in love with you for a while now. Is that okay?”
He was staring at her, wide-eyed, and a softness seemed to spill over his features, making his eyes gleam as he smiled.
“Well,” he said. “I think I love you, too, Miss French. Is that okay?”
“More than okay.”
He seemed to hesitate for a moment, then raised his chin.
“D’you want to move in?” he asked.
“Can I bring Darcy?”
“Of course.”
“Then you got a deal.”
He was grinning, and she found herself grinning back, her heart swelling with love for him.
“Let’s wait until after Neal and Emma go before I move in, though,” she said. “I think you said something about screaming orgasms?”
Gold’s grin turned wicked, and he bent his head to kiss her.
“I’ll be over later.”
She let his lips pull at hers, leaning in to feel the warmth of his body as his arms went around her, and let out a sigh of contentment. Yes. Life in a small town could be amazing.
46 notes · View notes
hyenahunt · 3 years
Text
Jun Sazanami - Idol Story 2
Writer:  Kino Seitaro
Season: Summer
Characters: Jun, Nagisa
Proofreading: 310mc (JP) & Skyress (ENG)
Translation: hyenahunt
Nagisa: ...What I'm reading now is a long novel titled "In Search of Lost Time", written by Proust. Have you read it before, Jun?
Tumblr media
[Location: Cospro Office]
Jun: ......
Nagisa: ......
Jun: (Man, this feels weirdly awkward...!)
(It's just me and Nagi-senpai here... Usually we either gather as all four members of Eden, or as the two of us in Eve.)
(So it's pretty rare for just us to be alone together like this.)
(It looks like he's reading some kinda complicated book, so I probably shouldn't try to make some awkward small talk or anything, right~?)
(Seems like I'm gonna have to wait here in the office for another half an hour, so maybe I'll just pick out some manga and do some reading too.)
(If I remember correctly, we've got some free manga lying around here from a collab we did — )
Nagisa: ...Jun. Is there something you'd like to talk to me about?
Tumblr media
Jun: Eep!?
W-what's up, Nagi-senpai? Hearing you talk outta the blue made me jump a lil'.
Nagisa: ...My apologies. I didn't mean to startle you.
...It's just that you seemed to be concerned about me in some way. I simply wanted to apologise if I'd done something to trouble you.
Jun: Nah, you haven't done anything like that. I was just wondering what kinda book you're reading, really!
I'm not all that familiar with big books like that, so I was just wondering if you wouldn't mind telling me what it was...
Nagisa: ...I see. Come to think of it, reading is one of your hobbies, isn't it?
...I believe you mentioned in an interview that you read a lot whenever Hiyori-kun isn't around, or something to that effect.
Jun: Yeah, absolutely! Whenever Ohii-san's around, he's so noisy that it's impossible to focus.
So I read a lot more when I'm alone in my room, y'see~
Nagisa: ...Is that so? You sound like quite the avid reader.
Jun: Ahaha. I wouldn't go so far as to call myself that, but you might be right there... ♪
(Whew, that was close...! Nagi-senpai might look like he's spaced out half the time, but he picks up on the smallest things~ Well, that's him and his perceptiveness for you.)
( — Wait, huh? Did I just proclaim myself an avid reader...?)
Nagisa: ...What I'm reading now is a long novel titled "In Search of Lost Time", written by Proust. Have you read it before, Jun?
Jun: Uhhh. Proo...?
Nagisa: ...Proust. He was one of the most influential authors of the twentieth century.
Jun: Oh, right. Sorry, I've never read it before. I'm kinda clueless about that kinda stuff, y'see.
Nagisa: ...Well then, would you like to try?
Jun: Wha?
Nagisa: ...I have no doubts about my own memory, so it's no issue if I were to lend this to you midway through reading it.
...I figured I'd try every now and then to read literature regarding the humanities, as you can gain a more thorough understanding of human nature from them.
This book is particularly interesting as it clearly depicts concepts of the human mind, and explores them, too.
...So if you'd be interested, I'd also like for you to read it, Jun.
Jun: Oh, um, well... I feel bad borrowing it while you're in the middle of reading, yeah~? And on top of that, it looks hella complicated, so I think I'm gonna pass.
I mean, I don't really read serious books like that... I don't have a clue about all those refined books you read, y'know~...?
Nagisa: ...Well then, what kind of books do you read?
Jun: Uhh, well. It's a lil' embarrassing to say...
Tumblr media
Nagisa: ...If you've been merely playing the constructed persona of an avid reader for the sake of interviews, and all your answers were in fact falsities, then that would be rather disappointing.
Jun: N-noo, you've got the wrong idea...! Ibara's whole constructed idol character strategy's got nothing to do with me!
I do read books and all, but um, how should I put this.... What I read is manga, y'see.
Nagisa: ...Manga?
Jun: Yep. Sometimes I pick up the odd light novel, too, but for the most part I pretty much just read manga.
I'm real sorry for getting your hopes up. Even I've been thinking about how I really gotta educate myself a lil' more, you know?
Tumblr media
Nagisa: ...I see.
...However, is there any issue with enjoying manga?
Jun: Come again?
Nagisa: ...Be it novel or manga, the fact that they are both works of writing doesn't change. Why do you feel the need to put yourself down for it, Jun?
...Personally, I believe one would derive the same kind of entertainment from either of them.
Jun: Wha—!?
Y-You're right~ That should be the case, huh...?
After seeing you read such complicated books, I felt a lil' self-conscious telling you I read manga, but...
You've got a point there — neither's better than the other, huh?
Nagisa: ...Indeed. Precisely because there is such diversity amongst people, competing for the merits of entertainment is a pointless errand.
...While we're on the topic, would you introduce me to what manga you read, Jun?
Jun: I'd be happy to give you some recs, but... I can't be sure if you'll like them, though?
Nagisa: ...Thank you. Rather than judging a book by its cover, it would surely be better to find out by reading it myself.
...I too will try to gain a better understanding of your interests, Jun.
...In exchange, I'll lend you Proust's works as I'd like you to read them.
Tumblr media
Jun: G-gotcha! I dunno if I'll be able to read 'em all the way to the end, but since it's no fair if I'm the only one giving recs, I'll take on the challenge!
Nagisa: ...Fufu. If you are to learn the pleasures of sating your own intellectual curiosity, Jun, then I too would be delighted.
...Here you go. This is the complete set of "In Search of Lost Time".
Jun: U-um, pardon me, Nagi-senpai, but... The heck's up with this absolute mountain of books?
Nagisa: ...Why do you ask? There are merely a dozen or so volumes in total.
...You look rather surprised, though. Is there something wrong?
...Perhaps this number of books is indeed too much for you?
Tumblr media
Jun: O-oh, um, not at all. Seeing such a huge stack of books was just a lil' overwhelming, I guess...?
I'm gonna give reading it a go so that I can grow as knowledgeable as you, Nagi-senpai~ But man, I dunno how many months it'll take me, y’know...?
✦✦✦✦✦
← prev ✦ all ✦ next →
26 notes · View notes
natrogersfics · 3 years
Text
PREVIEW - Game Plan: Chapter 3
Tumblr media
Artwork by @faith2nyc​ Catch up on Chapter 2  Read on AO3
He can’t breathe. Well, maybe he’s being a touch dramatic. It’s not as if the tightness he’s feeling in his chest right now is akin to having a three-hundred-plus-pound defensive end pinning him to the ground, though Steve’s certainly experienced that enough times to know it’s pretty damn close. And just like when he’s sacked in the pocket, he’s uncomfortable – irritated, even. But the worst part is, he doesn’t actually think it has anything to do with the interviewer that’s been trying to cajole him into a cringeworthy sound bite for the last half hour.
The irony that he’s now sitting for an interview does not escape him. When the Avengers had first announced his signing, the reception was a mixed bag. There were some who cheered, delighting in the idea of him mounting a comeback and raving about what a coup the front office had pulled. Nevertheless, many were skeptical. Hardcore fanatics were, at best, lukewarm about the idea of a former NFC West quarterback jumping to the AFC East. Pundits on Sports Center dissected his ability to play pro ball again after a two-season hiatus. Then there were the ever-unescapable critics. He’s sure they had a lot to say (and likely still do), but if he hadn’t paid attention to them back then, he sure as hell isn’t going to do so now.
Fast forward two weeks, one front page cover, and a charity campaign kickoff later, and suddenly the tides have turned. Such was the number of requests Natasha had received from podcast hosts to talk show producers alike to book time with him that they had no other option but to schedule back-to-back interviews while he trains at the Avengers’ remote facility out in New Jersey. And that’s how he wound up in his current predicament – his patience running thin as he sits mic’d up on a plush leather seat in the Press Room in the middle of his third interview of the day.
“Let’s talk about your career.”
The suggestion comes from his left, where a wooden desk with a surfeit of props across the surface has been situated on the makeshift set. Behind it sits Johann Schmidt, the famously mercurial host of the streaming talk show HAIL HYDRA! and known to sports fans across the nation as the Red Skull – a moniker bestowed upon him for his impossibly sharp features and his penchant for dressing in the fiery color.
“7 seasons, 102 games played, 23,671 passing yards, 171 total touchdowns, 73.4% pass completion rate…”
As Schmidt rattles off a list of his career statistics, he steals a glance towards the front of the room, half expecting Natasha to interject that his pass completion rate is actually 74.3%, not 73.4. But she doesn’t, and he realizes that unlike the last few times she’s cut in when an interviewer misstates a fact about him or his career statistics, she isn’t doing so now because her attention is elsewhere. Or, more accurately, it’s being monopolized by the towering stranger she’s been talking to since the start of this interview whose words now have her tipping her head back in laughter.
The thought triggers a bitter taste in his mouth, and right then and there, it hits him. The inexplicable tension in his body, the irritation he feels – it’s nothing short of the green-eyed monster.
He’s always been competitive. He is an athlete, after all, and he’s almost certain that anyone would be hard pressed to find one that didn’t prioritize winning. But jealousy is just not an emotion he’s ever leaned into. It’s childish, nonsensical, and he’s seen the crazy things it’s driven other people to do. Not to mention the fact that right now, he has absolutely no right to feel it – especially when it comes to Natasha. With that in mind, he shifts in his seat in an effort to shake the feeling away, turning his attention back to Schmidt.
“The New York Avengers haven’t had a successful run in the playoffs in quite some time,” Schmidt states into the windscreen covered microphone before him. “That said, it’s still the most storied franchise in the league, which is why it’s understandable that fans may be dubious about whether or not you’re the right man to lead the team back to glory.” Schmidt pauses, his expression bordering on menacing as he leans forward in his seat. “So, tell us, Steve, why do you think you’re the player to do that?” Schmidt lifts a shoulder. “What makes you so... special?”
“We all know I’ve suffered a major injury and that I haven’t played professionally in two seasons. So, I get it,” he acknowledges. “I get why fans are skeptical to give me a chance.” He shakes his head. “You ask what makes me the man to lift this team back up… What makes me so special? The answer, Schmidt, is nothing.” He shrugs. “It’s true that I’m often associated with LA because that’s where my career began. But at the end of the day, I’m just a kid from Brooklyn-”
“Just what every fan base wants to hear, am I right?” Schmidt interrupts, practically reveling in delight as he smirks. “The savior they’ve been waiting for… and he turns out to be nothing but ordinary.”
“Perhaps you see it that way, but I disagree,” he says, prompting Schmidt to raise a brow. “Being a kid from Brooklyn means that I can’t” – he pauses, shaking his head – “I won’t back down from a challenge.” He sighs. “So, while I can’t guarantee fans a Lombardi at the end of the season, what I can guarantee is that every time I put on that uniform, I will leave my heart out on that field.”
Schmidt is stunned into silence, and it’s only when the room suddenly bursts in applause that he comprehends why the man’s glib expression has soured into a scowl. Turning away from the host, he allows his eyes to sweep across the room to see the entire crew – both from the Avengers and from HYDRA – clapping enthusiastically. As he spots Darcy and Wanda in the corner, both of whom offer him two thumbs up, pride begins to surge through him. But it’s only when he sees Natasha next to them, her lips quirking as she gives him a nod of approval, that he smiles – his earlier discomfort all but forgotten.
“You killed it!” Natasha exclaims as he walks towards her at the end of the interview, and he’s surprised when she leans in to wrap her arms around him.
“Think so?” he says, returning the embrace and letting his lips pull upwards into a smile.
“Know so,” Natasha says as she pulls away. “Oh, there’s someone I’d like you to meet.” Natasha moves to his side, and he looks up to see the man she was talking to earlier standing before them. He’s dressed in an impeccably tailored charcoal suit, his stature massive enough that he could easily be a tight end or even a center. “Steve,” Natasha begins, “this is Thor Odinson, CEO of Point Break, the country’s leading athletic wear brand and your new sponsor.” Her words cause the tension in his shoulders to dissipate. “Thor, this is Steve, our starting quarterback.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Johann Schmidt stunned into silence before,” Thor says, flashing his perfect teeth as he smiles and extends his hand out to him. “Seriously, good job.”
“Thank you,” he says, shaking Thor’s hand. “But that was all Natasha. She prepared me well.”
He beams in pride as he turns to Natasha, because if he’s learned anything in the last two weeks, it’s that her dedication to her job is unparalleled. Every day since this media campaign has started, she’s easily the most prepared person in the room – ready to fire off a Plan B, C, or D when necessary. While things haven’t always been smooth sailing, he’s certain that nothing has ever escalated into a mishap because of her quick thinking. If he’s had any success in turning the public’s opinion on him, it’s only because he’s been fortunate enough to have her as his guide every step of the way.
More impressive than Natasha’s work ethic though, is her capacity for kindness, and it’s something he’s witnessed time again throughout their relatively short time together. As his Publicist, she’s often the first line of defense when it comes to the media, and though he’s only been back in the public eye for a brief period of time, he’s seen how brash they can be when they press her for information. And yet, she’s never been anything but professional, even when the person before her does not warrant it. Add to that the way she watches over her team and how lovingly she speaks of her sister, and he’s not sure how anyone can do anything but admire her.
“This one,” Thor says, pointing a thumb at Natasha, “is a force to be reckoned with.”
“Truer words have never been spoken,” he says to her more than anyone else, and as she playfully rolls her eyes, he pretends not to notice the hand Thor places on her shoulder.
“When he can nail interviews like that, my job is basically a breeze,” Natasha says, turning to Thor. “Anyway, shall the three of us discuss the rollout strategy for the sponsorship?”
“Yes, let’s,” Thor says, gesturing towards the door. “Lead the way, Nat.”
He arches a brow as he follows them out of the Press Room. Nat?
Read all of chapter 3 here
44 notes · View notes
the-himawari · 3 years
Text
A3! Mizuno Kaya - Translation [SSR] The Company President of April 1st (1/3)
Tumblr media
*Please read disclaimer on blog; default name set as Izumi
---
I’m Tachibana Izumi, and starting today, I’ve become a new employee working at MIZUNO Enterprise! It seems I’m the only employee who’s been recruited this year due to various circumstances, so I’m a little bit anxious…
But this is the start of my adult working life I’ve been longing for.
I’m not sure where I’m going to be assigned yet, but no matter which job is entrusted to me, I’ll do my best so I can contribute to the company...!
-pause-
Isuke: Good afternoon, Tachibana-san! I haven’t seen you since orientation, huh? How do you do? I’m the Human Resources manager, Matsukawa. It’s very nice to meet you.
Tumblr media
Izumi: N-nice to meet you! (The Human Resources manager Matsukawa-san; I was surprised at first at his tattered suit that looks unbecoming for a large company…) (But I felt moved when I heard that it was a way for others to let their guard down, and it’s his belief that he wants to cherish things.)
Isuke: Ahaha, are you nervous? It’ll be fine. You may be our only recent-grad hire this year, but don't worry since we plan to support you fully!
Izumi: Thank you very much.
Isuke: Now then, you will take a tour of each department today to gain a better understanding of the various aspects of our work. At MIZUNO Enterprise, we value the independence of our employees—. So after getting a look at the work that we do, you may provide your own request on where you’d like to be assigned. And we will respect it to the best of our abilities.
Izumi: Oh, really…! (As I expected, the company culture sure is free.)
Isuke: So then, he will take it from here. Please go ahead.
Mizuno: Yes.
Tumblr media
Izumi: (!?!? MIZUNO Enterprise’s President, Mizuno Kaya…!?)
Mizuno: Good afternoon, I’m Mizuno Kaya. It’s a pleasure to meet you.
Izumi: Y-yes! It’s nice to meet you!
Mizuno: Now then, how about we get going, Tachibana-san?
-pause-
Izumi: (It’s the first time I’m meeting with the President up close since the final interview…)
Mizuno: Sorry for startling you there. As the President, I must be able to properly explain both the company’s positive points and negative points myself—. And it’s a tradition to have the President personally give a tour of the departments to the new hires.
Tumblr media
Izumi: I see… (I was surprised at the amazing reception, but I’m grateful for this valuable opportunity. Let’s listen properly to what he has to say.)
-pause-
Mizuno: Here are our offices. Come in. We have a variety of departments in order for the company to function, including Administrative departments such as the the Human Resources department that Matsukawa-san from earlier belongs to.
Tumblr media
Izumi: (Woah…! It’s bustling in here.) (That department over there in particular is especially lively.)
Mizuno: Ahh, those guys over there are the members of the Sales department. Shall we head on over?
Tenma: Yeah, in that case, leave it to me. Of course, I’ll definitely deliver results that exceed your expectations. I’ll create the best product that will surprise and leave anyone impressed. Hmph, ME!!! I'm the one in charge here. I’ll make you think it was a good decision to entrust it to me, so look forward to it.
Tumblr media
Mizuno: He’s Sumeragi-kun. He’s famous as he’s called the smug-faced salesman and he’s extremely dependable.
Izumi: (I wonder if his smug face conveys to the customer through the telephone receiver… That’s some amazing technology.)
Yuki: The design of this document I made is cute and easy on the eyes, right? Fufu, are you interested? Then let me let you a story… One of our company’s dazzling management philosophies is…
Tumblr media
Mizuno: Over there is the beautiful salesman, Rurikawa-kun. He has many fans of his unique aura as well.
Muku: Awawawa, I’m a tri-coloured ballpen where only one of the colours has ran out. And I'm a flimsy, fluttering piece of scrap paper that’s been shredded—. I can’t believe I’m being praised like that…! B-but I’m happy you said so. If there is anything I can help you with, please let me know!
Tumblr media
Mizuno: Sakisaka-kun’s called the negative salesman, but he’s humble, earnest, and very kind.
Misumi: How’s the triangle over here~? I recommend this triangle too! By triangle, you mean a triangle~? Yay!
Tumblr media
Mizuno: Triangle salesman Ikaruga-kun is a mysterious person… He has more passion towards triangles than anyone else, and everyone is won over by his presentation.
Kumon: Yep, please let me know anytime! I’LL HELP YOU WITH ALL MY ABSOLUTE MIGHT!! I can ride my bike long distances at 100km/h, and I’m totally fine with meetings starting at 4 in the morning too! I’ll definitely, definitely do my best, SO PLEASE CHOOSE OUR COMPANY!!
Tumblr media
Mizuno: The hot-blooded, sporty salesman, Hyodo-kun, is a very hard worker and that fire and cheerfulness energizes you.
Izumi: Everyone’s so distinctive, brilliant, and they’re really wonderful people!
Mizuno: Indeed. And the one with the best performance in the Sales department is…
Kazunari: That, and that, and this too—everything’s a-okaaaay! ‘Kay, just leave everything to me~! Got it, piko! Beri-san~! Oh-em-gee, for real! I totes feel you~! It’s wicked lit and hella full of feelsies, right!*
Tumblr media
Mizuno: The party dude salesman Kazunari-kun takes pride in his overwhelming communication power. He was also the top sales performer in March.
Izumi: Amazing…!
Tenma: Damn it, just you wait and see. I’ll become the top in April.
Kumon: UWOHH, I’m not gonna lose either!
Muku: M-me neither…!
Tumblr media
Izumi: (Woah, woah… sparks are flying…!)
Mizuno: Even so, those guys go out to play after work together and their synergy is impressive as well.
Izumi: ! Oh, really…! (I see, they’re good rivals and coworkers. I bet their private lives are fulfilling too.)
Misumi: Ah, President-san~!
Muku: Could it be, is the person with you the rumoured new employee?
Mizuno: Yes. I’m just giving her a tour of the departments.
Izumi: I’m Tachibana Izumi. It’s nice to meet you!
Misumi: Wahh, nice to meet you~!
Tumblr media
Kazunari: Oh man, you’re a fresh, super cutie, huh! Like, legit swooned! Hey, hey, let’s exchange LIMEs, new hire-chan!
Kumon: That’s not fair, Kazu-san! I wanna become friends with Tachibana-san too!
Tenma: Heh, you do seem motivated, and you’ve got quite a good eye. What do you think, how about you come to the Sales department?
Misumi: Working together with you sounds so fun~!
Yuki: That’s fine, right? I’ll teach you lots of different things if you join.
Muku: We’d be delighted to have you! Of course, please call out to me anytime even if you decide to join a different department.
Kazunari: You’d seriously be super duper welcome! I’ll lend a hand for anything and I’ll be here for you ☆
Izumi: Wahh, thank you all very much!
Mizuno: Fufu, Tachibana-san, you’re a huge hit right away, hm?
???: Ohh, ohh, y’all at the Sales department!
Tumblr media
Izumi: !?
---
*Yeah I took some liberties here cause not even google could comprehend this slang lmao
| next
82 notes · View notes
twinkleallnight · 3 years
Text
Love, success and women
Wishing all a Happy women's day!
Book: The Royal Romance AU
Pairing: Drake x Olivia, Leo x Madeleine, Liam x Riley, Maxwell x Hana.
Word count: 1121
Disclaimer: All characters belong to pixelberry.
Rating: Teen
Prompt: I am participating in @choicesficwriterscreations day8 and @sunday-romance in bold.
Song inspiration: Words (Boyzone)
Tumblr media
“Olivia?” Riley tried to gain her attention from the paperwork she was busy with.
“Hmm?” Olivia continued looking into the papers she was holding.
Riley knew she had to be point blank to get Olivia speaking. “Why don’t you give Drake a chance?”
“For what?” Olivia shut the File she was working on with a snap. At the very next moment she regretted showing her reactions openly on the mention of Drake’s name.
“To be with you.”
“I don’t know what you are talking about.”
“How long are you going to try hiding your feelings for him?”
“There is nothing to hide.”
“Is it because he is just a common man and you are the Duchess? Or Is it because he doesn’t have much to give to the Duchess?”
“Who is falling short of things to give?” Hana entered in with Madeleine, bubbling in excitement.
Olivia took a sigh of relief. She knew, Riley won’t question her in presence of the other two ladies. The ladies sat around the coffee table.
Madeleine placed the special edition of Trendz, on the table, that featured the four of them on occasion of the International women’s day.
Riley squealed with delight, “Look at that. This looks great! Anna de Luca deserves a note of thanks for such a lovely editorial.”
“She surely does. She has placed our interviews verbatim. No editor’s cut. The message we wanted to send across to the women of Cordonia is printed very clear.” Madeleine informed.
“Even the gossip part?” Hana enquired.
“Not all, luckily I was spared. All those questions she asked me about Leo’s abdication and then us getting back together and getting married. She didn’t include them. I think she reserved them for her own curiosity.” Madeleine beamed.
“That means I am the gossip.” Olivia remembered how she was interrogated for being the only spinster in the group, and her plans to get married.
“She does mention that the Lythikans wait for the special someone in their Duchess' life.” Madeleine feeds in.
“I don’t care.” Olivia made it little by ignoring it again.
Madeleine reads out aloud the headlines. ‘The success stories of the powerful ladies at the royal court of Cordonia. Meet Lady Hana from the house of Beaumont who excels in performing arts. Countess Madeleine Amaranth- Rhys, an eminent name in the field of Cordonian history and civil law. Duchess Olivia Nevrakis, who defines self defense and security and Queen Riley Rhys- the force behind it all.’
“Kudos to us girls” Olivia said as Madeleine shared a hi-five. But that wasn’t enough for Riley.
“Time for a group hug!” Riley screamed and pulled Hana too with the other two ladies.
For next hour the ladies sat together flipping through the pages of the magazine, discussing what was written about their new project, what the impact will be on the people and what steps they have to take for further progress.
After sometime, Madeleine peered at her watch, “ It’s time to go.”
“Where?” questioned Olivia.
“Madeleine’s place “ Hana perked up.
“ You knew?” Madeleine looked at Hana with surprise.
“You know how Max is, he can’t keep anything to himself for long. “ Hana smiled.
“what is it?” It was Riley, puzzled this time.
Madeleine explained. “Leo wants to give the ‘women’, she air quoted, “ a treat. He requested us all to be there after our meeting.”
“And you don’t know what his plans are?” Olivia asked again.
“ No, except that he wanted to do some celebration.”
“ So I will see you all later, then.” Olivia got up to leave.
“Oh no, no, no, You are coming with us.” Riley grabbed her hand and pulled her back to the seating.
“What will I do there?”
“Experience the love my dear! May be it will help you decide.” Riley winked.
Hana and Madeleine nodded with knowing smiles.
Leo and Madeleine had made their humble home in a penthouse in the Capitol. Madeleine’s taste of green and gold reflected through the walls and drapes.
Leo was on his toes, serving his guests and making their day more special for them. Madeleine was moving with him in tandem.
The ladies were treated with drinks of their choice. And then she saw all the men looking at each other as if on cue. They raised a toast for their successful wives. Madeleine stood wrapped in Leo’s arms as he gazed down at her proudly.
Max had Hana’s back flushed to his chest. His chin rested on her shoulder. He kept peppering her with kisses.
Liam sat cosily with his queen on the couch, whispering sweet nothings that made her giggle every now and then.
Olivia was perched on the side chair. She kept looking at them. What could she say? Love is in the air. ‘I wish Drake was here too. I could have used some company.’ On the second thought she straightened up, ‘Not really, I have myself and what’s better than that?’ Now, Olivia was thankful that Drake wasn’t here. She couldn’t imagine such display of affections. Plus they were not married like others. Forget about marriage, she wasn’t even in relation with him. Was she? She shunned away her confusing thoughts. With him, it was never easy. With him, she would never know. They both were alike. They never spoke about their feelings.
She tried to focus on Leo’s speech, that she had missed out already as he concluded.
“...To many more such successful stories! This is for you Maddie. Olivia rolled her eyes, when she heard Leo start crooning but Madeleine was swaying with a broad smile.
“Smile, an everlasting smile.
A smile can bring you near to me.”
Max spread out his arms around Hana, as he sang next,
“ Don’t ever let me find you gone
Cause that will bring a tear to me.”
Liam took the next turn,
“This world has lost its glory,
Let’s start a brand new story, now,
My love.”
Leo and Max chorused
“ You think that I don’t even mean
A single word I say…”
And then there was complete silence. Olivia suddenly realised that all eyes were on her. No, behind her!
She turned with a jerk to find a bunch of her favourite Gladioli and those brown eyes peeping over them. Her heart beat raised. ‘No this can’t be real!’ she thought.
As if reading her thoughts, Drake dropped down in front of her, to hold her hand, to make her feel the warmth of his skin, to tell her that he was real. And then he broke the silence with his husky voice finishing the melody.
“Its only Words and Words are all I have,
To take your heart away.”
Tags: @annekebbphotography @alj4890 @anjanettexcordonia @bascmve01 @charlotteg234 @choicesficwriterscreations @cordonia-gothqueen @drakewalker04 @eadanga @gkittylove99 @glaimtruelovealways @krsnlove @hopefulmoonobject @indiacater @jessiembruno @kat-tia801 @kingliam2019 @shewillreadyou @lisha1valecha @mainstreetreader @neotericthemis @ntoraplayschoices @princess-geek @princessleac1 @secretaryunpaid @sirbeepsalot @speedyoperarascalparty @texaskitten30 @txemrn @sfb123 @sweatyrysconnoisseur @theroyalheirshadowhunter @aestheticartsx @yourmajesty09 @efecom @grsarco-blog @lovelyladyk88
105 notes · View notes
artxyra · 4 years
Text
The Secret Life of MDC | Part 6
Part 6: Just let them fall
Part 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05
Note: If you had read the original version on my website, I totally did not rewrite this entire part just to avoid a fight scene. 
The mission was simple: save the two idiot exchange students that don’t have any common sense. It was a frustrating task to even track them down. Base on the footage from security cameras and likely villains who are crazy enough to start drama, it is very likely that the dumb and dumber are safe but being hold over a pot of acid, fire, or water will killer animals. Who knows?
“You know, they just have given us an excuse to bring the Gotham miraculous crew back into action,” Andrena says as her bee-like wings flutter to life. Her eyes narrowly focus on anything strange.
To Gotham, Andrena is equivalent to Paris’ Melitta Bee (Chloe’s new alias once she was inducted back onto the team). Every member of Paris’ MT has a Gotham counterpart. For Ladybug it was Ladybird, for Chat Noir it was Lykoi. Then for the two missing members Viperion and Ryoku, there was Python and Naga. The only difference two their styles are more realistic and less magical.
“There is no time for play, Bee.” Ladybird walks out from the shadows, the current boy wonder walking behind her. She crosses her arms and lets out a heavy sigh. “As long as we are active in the fight any damage the two may endure could be undone. You know how I hate to bring out the team.” Everyone could see the tiredness behind the red and black mask that lies in her bluebell eyes.
“Tt. They deserve whatever comes their way.” Robin scoffs. From the corner of his eyes, he could see his siblings joining them on the roof. “What did you find?” This question wasn’t pointed to anyone directly, but they all knew there was one person with the answers.
“Red Robin—” Lykoi lowkey hums ‘Yum’ much to everyone dismay “—has appointed Oracle as our eyes, and together that have determined that the two missing students are located in one of five potential areas.”
“That does not help our case, Wing.” Nightwing would never admit it but a glaring Ladybird is a dangerous Ladybird.
Silence followed as everyone thinks of something.
 “Do we have to save them? They just made this worse on everybody.” It was Lykoi’s voice that surprisingly states this. Everyone turns to the cat theme hero with wide eyes. “What?”
“Normally under typical Paris standards, I would say no, but do to the fact that we are in Gotham and my job is on the line, I am legally obligated to say yes.” Ladybird pulls out her communicator and turns it on. “Everyone’s logged on.” A series of nods, groans, and yeses. “Good RR, what’s the plan?”
“Yes, but you’re not going to like it,” Red Robin could hear the impending groaning coming his way and he is not wide awake enough for this.
Which lead the Miraculous Team and the Bats to be split across Gotham searching for the two exchange students.
Ladybird and Robin’s location was empty. Nothing unusual about the location it was just an unused warehouse.
“I hate them.”
“Them being everyone or the two the idiots.”
“What do you think?”
Robin shakes his head and lets out a hefty sigh.
Lykoi and Nightwing’s location proved to be difficult to find. At first, that thought this was the place, but both heroes vigilantes were proven wrong.
“We both agree not to tell Ladybird.”
“Agree, she would kill us.”
“I heard that.” It wasn’t Ladybird’s voice that came through the comms. It was Oracle’s. “Don’t worry I won’t tell Birdie.”
Lykoi and Nightwing share a glance. It was better to be blackmailed by Oracle than be grilled by Ladybird—well that what they think anyway.
For Andrena and Red Robin, it was more of a battle of wits and smarts between the two. Actually, more on Red Robin than with Andrena (she didn’t want to be a partner with Red Hood).
“You better hope that one of the others found this fucking warehouse or I will kill you myself. These boots were expensive.” Andrena shrieks pointing to the mud that now lays pack on her boots.
“Yeah, yeah, I’ll make it up to you.” 
Andrena rolls her eyes and opens her communicator, Red Robin does the same. However, the outcome was different for the two. On Red Robin’s feed, it was static, he quickly goes into work to scramble the information given. Andrena sees a message from Red Hood.  It reads, “Found it, suckers!”
“Hood found the warehouse.” Andrena places her communicator back on her person and looks to Red Robin. She could see the invisible sweat and sleep on his face through the cowl. “Let’s go.”
RR lets out a frustrating sigh, but as he types a last-minute code into his device the static slowly turns into quality footage. Not high quality but enough pinpoint what is happening. The room is dark but there is an ominous green glow at the lower half of the screen.
“Shit,” RR murmurs through it was loud enough to catch Andrena’s attention as an electric blue glow begins to grow behind her.
“What?” It was breathless yet concerning. Behind her, the portal fully develops causing her to let out a low growl and pushing RR in the direction of their “ride”. “Just explain it to the others.”
The portal closes and the first person they are meet by is a somewhat disappointing Ladybird.
“Hey Buggy,” Andrena sheepishly smiles, better throw RR under the bus, “RR found something interesting. Check it out.”
Ladybird makes her way over to the bee and the third Robin, she eyes RR practically asking him the question, “what he found”. Everyone waits with bated breaths as he shows her the footage. This time unlike the awkward murky background, it shows Lila and Alya tied together on a mini platform that is slowly lowering to the ominous glow below them.
“Is it sad that I want to see them fall.” The ladybug theme hero sighs into her glove-cover hands. “Alright, we need a game plan. Hood, what did you find?”
“There is a tunnel beneath the building. There’s no exterior access.”
“Oracle is sending us a blueprint.” Red Robin adds to which Nightwing nods and checks in his own portable monitor. Robin tsks and crouches down on the ground.
The planning process to a good minute to formulate.
“Is everyone in position?” The question ran through everyone’s coms as their trained bodies wait patiently for the cue. The Questioner (most likely Ladybird or Nightwing) took their silence as an answer. “Let’s go.”
The vigilantes are immediately greeted by darkness.
“Argh, my hair!” All movement ceased to exist. The Miraculous Team automatically knew that screech. It was Lila’s. “Please, I promise Bruce Wayne will make your life worthwhile. I’m very good friends with him.” Everyone, aside from Robin, felt a shiver go down their spines. Robin had gagged at the thought of Lila, his girlfriend’s tormentor, being friends with his father.
“Are you sure we can’t kill her?” Red Hood asks, well more like stated but everyone knows what he meant. He didn’t receive an answer.
“Better yet, who’s the person that decided to capture the two. There are only two heat signatures in the building.” Tim fiercely types against his device.
Nightwing kicks down the door. The large thud grabs the two teens' attention.
“We’re saved.” Lila cries out in delight. Her face literally brightens much to everyone (aside from Alya’s) dismay.
“Yes, I can finally get that interview just like you said, gurl.” Alya squeals her body wiggling on the platform.
Robin staggers in his footsteps. Interview? Like you said? Something isn’t adding up.
“Are you girls okay?” Nightwing typically heroic voice shines through as Red Robin rushes to what he believes to be the controls for the platform.
“No! We’re tied together, slowly moving to our deaths.” Alya shouts, “Ladybug?”
“Uh... no, I’m Ladybird. Now hold still.” Balancing herself on the platform in front of the two, she pulls out a knife and quickly goes cuts to the first layers of rope. “We’re the villain?”
“He was getting something to surprise us.” Lila’s voice squeaks a little. Everyone pulls back to face Lila, not including Alya.
“What do you mean?” Robin fakes a cough and glares at the Italian girl.
“No, no,” Lila begins to sweat. Her mind running multiple scenarios to get out of this. “We have no idea where he went. It was pitch black for us.” Tears forms in her eyes. Alya tries to comfort her bestie but couldn’t due to their bindings.
“Red Hood, stay on high alert, Lykoi, Andrena, follow his lead.” Ladybird cuts through the final rope. Alya shuffles her feet to get away…
“Ah!” The reporter’s foot slips.
“Merde,” Ladybird deadpans and lets herself fall.
Her right arm wrap around Alya’s waist as her left grabs for the yo-yo. It was a split second; her feet did touch the unknown substance in the large pool. She was expecting a burning sensation, but nothing happens.
“What the hell, RR, get off the control and test out the substance.” Ladybird safely places Alya down on the concrete flooring. Nightwing and Robin run over to the two for different reasons. Robin pulls Ladybird into his arms and checks for any injury while Nightwing does the same for Alya. The ombre haired girl is visibly shaking.
Lila remains on the platform above the pool screeching her head off. Andrena could already sense a headache forming and flies up to the platform. “Venom!”
Lila freezes, her screaming ceases to exist.
Rather than pushing Lila off the platform (the temptation was very luring), Andrena wraps an arm around the liar and flies to the ground floor. Suppressing a shiver, she pushes the girl out of her arms and into Lykoi’s much to his dismay.
“Seriously?” Lykoi’s glare said it all.
“I have informed Oracle that we found the missing students. She informed me that the GPD eta is ten minutes.”
“Good, that will give us time to search the premises for anything odd.” Nightwing states.
“Way ahead of you,” Red Hood shouts from afar. Eyes rolls but they all shrug in the end.
“What do you mean there weren’t any prints or such leading to the student’s kidnapper?” Commissioner Gordon asks, well he yelled but his face isn’t red yet, as the faces the Bats (aside from the large bat himself) and the Miraculous Team.
“What he meant to say, was that nothing in this warehouse suggested that there was third person let alone a typical Gotham’s villain.”
“So, you're saying this was an act?”
“No, I don’t think all of it was an act?”
“Hmm… This isn’t going to go well with explaining this to GA’s headmistress.”
Ladybird might as well say goodbye to her life and curl next to Robin in her final moments. If this was just a fake, Lila and anyone who was involved with this plan of hers are in for a treat and she’ll have front row access to it.
“Just make sure that girls are returned to GA safely, Gordon,” Nightwing instructs, they knew what he was going for. It was to them out of her and on patrol—well some of them at the very least.
~*~
Marinette curls into Damian’s chest, looking at the screen in front of them. After a night like that she didn’t want to think about the consequences that the liar had unleashed.
“You okay?” Damian presses his lips against her forehead, their hands intertwine fighting for dominance.
Marinette doesn’t say anything. How could she? There was so much floating around her mind that she couldn’t place what she was feeling at the moment.
They stay in silence until a loud thud disrupts the environment.
“Bad news,” Dick and the rest of the family file in. “Rossi confessed to the kidnapping being a ploy.”
“Goddammit, there went my morning and quite possibly my entire week.” Marinette groans collapsing next to Damian and covering her face with her hand.
“Well it’s not liked your exchange program can get any worse. You have like three weeks left of it anyway.” Jason shrugs trying to make the mood lighter… it didn’t help.
“Not now, Jaybird,” Marinette growls, causing the hairs on the back of everyone’s neck to raise high. It was rare to see Marinette angry and Lila has done the impossible. Kwami may help in the morning, especially when Marinette doesn’t get her coffee.
~*~
Mari Needs Coffee @MarinetteMemes Is it too late to push someone off the roof of WE?  🤔 #shemesswiththewrongsgirl #ineedcoffee
Tag List
 *View my Tagging System guidelines for how to to be properly tagged or removed.
THE SPECIFIC TAG LIST IS CLOSED
Permanent Tag List: @vixen-uchiha | @i-is-mysterious | @kuroko26 | @maribat-is-lifeblood | @marinettepotterandplagg | @loveswifi | @ladybug-182 | @novaloptr | @elijahcrevan | @throneoffirebreathingbitchqueen @rebecarojas07 | @nanakeid | @mystery-5-5 | @sparkle9510 | @aestheticnpoetic | @toodaloo-kangaroo | @more-or-less-human-i-guess | @crazylittlemunchkin | @softlysobbingpostendgame | @purplesundaze | @fantasyloversblog | @susiej1118 | @chocolateherringtacofan | @tog84 | @thequeenofpotatoeunicornss | @slytherinhquinn | @i-wanna-be-a-ninja | @abrx2002 | @agumon1123 | @coralloverwinnerwolf | @sam-i-am-0222 | @princessanimeangel11 | @k-poplunardreams | @constancetruggle | @esperiali | @starlightshield | @itspiper25 | @bluesimani | @fandom-trapped-03 | @kawaiigiantjudgefish | @pawsitivelymiraculous |  @kadmeread | @our-preciousss | @greenloverforever05 | @animegirlweeb | @souleateralicestein | @corabeth11
Unspecific Tag List: @g-arya | @jardimazul | @jeminiikrystal | @zalladane | @bluerosette23 | @dast218 | @midnighttreesgaming | @myazael | @pepelachanel | @storyecho | @thezestywalru | @dreamykitty25
Specifc Tag List:  @virgil-is-a-cutie | @thejustmesimplyme | @mewwitch | @tamoni112 | @goggles-mcgee | @bb-basbusa | @mochinek0 | @schrodingers25 | @jessigurl-design | @shamefullove | @mindfulmagics | @scribblinggraveyard | @clumsy-owl-4178 | @captainmac6 | @vivilakitty | @sonif50  | @emjrabbitwolf | @northernbluetongue | @kanamexzeroyaoifangirl | | @zebrabaker  | @readinganawfullot | @thebananathatwrites | @urbanpineapplefarmer | @hypnosharkrebeldreamer | @zerotosiki | @poshplumcot | @luciferge | @mariae2900 | @minightrose | @theatreandcomicfreak | @thequestionablyhuman | @thepeacetea | @never-neverland | @sassydepression | @multishipper1needshalp | @actual-disaster-human | @queencommonsense | @novicevoice | @vgirl-10123 | @lunar-wolf-warrior | @dahjokester | @ur-average-reader |  @gimme-more-caffeine | @reaperfeels | @interobanginyourmom | @elspethshadow | @my-name-is-michell | @redscarlet95 | @razzledazzle247 | @casual-darkness | @romanoff-queen | @7-sage-7 | @lily-codie19 | @two-faced-biatch | @spicybelladonna |  @heaven428 | @worlds-tiniest-spook-pastry | @slytherinsheashire | @zazzlejazzle | @moonlitarchangels | @naclychilli | @dur55 | @i-like-fairytail-and-stuff | @scrumptiouslyelegantchaosqueen | @ravennightingaleandavatempus | @eliza-bich | @saltycolordonkeyclod | @thestressmademedoit | @queen-in-a-flower-crown | @elmokingkong | @wolf-for-life | @hoodiewitaboggie| @tellmeicantdothis | @frieddonutsweets | @k-poplunardreams | @moonlightstar64 | @sam-spectra | @bigpicklebananatree | @how-to-fuction-properly | @spookiist | @fidget-eep | @loysydark | @books-and-left-behind-journals | @paradoxal-occurance | @fantasiame | @swiftie-miraculer13 | @silvergold-swirl​
414 notes · View notes
Text
Fic: Winging It
Fandom: Triple Frontier
Ship: Frankie Morales x Jay ‘Lady’ Ray
Warnings: A bit of language and lots of cute baby stuff. Parental insecurities. Mostly just fluff with no plot. Dad!Frankie and Mom!Lady.
Summary: Lady doesn't like mommy and me class very much.
Words: 1,535
A/N: I don't know, I just wanted to have a moment with my favourite lovebirds and their spawn. Frankie x Lady masterlist.
”Uh! Gah!”
Jay laughs a little at the sight of Alma, six months old, doing frustrated push-ups on her play blanket while trying to reach for the red ball which, of course, gets pushed further away from her.
”Damn that fucker, right? Here you go, baby.” Jay rolls to ball back to the baby, who grabs it and proceeds to trying to stuff it into her tiny mouth. That doesn’t work, either, so she drops it, and it rolls away again. Not really having figured out how to crawl just yet, Alma reaches for the ball, almost gets it, but pushes it away even further, then watches in disbelief and disappointment while trying to move after it. Jay expects the baby to start crawling any day now but so far, Alma’s only wagging her lower body from side to side, unable to figure out that she actually needs to move her legs to get anywhere.
”Ah!!” Alma’s exclamation is filled with frustration.
”Come on, honey, you can do it,” Jay tries to encourage her dark-haired daughter. Alma pumps her upper body up and down, stares angrily at the ball, and yells, before slumping down onto her stomach, face in wrinkles.
”You get that from your dad,” Jay sighs. She gives the ball back the Alma, who happily examines it, quiet for a moment. Jay leans against the couch, keeping an eye on the kid but also taking the opportunity to enjoy not having to entertain her, even if only for a minute. God knows that’s all she’s done for months until she picked up her studies and working part-time two months ago.
She wasn’t sure what she thought motherhood would be like: would it come to her naturally or would she struggle with it, loath to be so chained to her gender and the role that came with it? She’s never been good at being a woman and what that entails, never wanted the epithet that so often seemed to follow her around in the army.
She’s lucky to have Frankie. He understands this part of her and lets her be who she is. Being together with him has definitely made her accept her womanhood in a whole new way, and she knows that she would never have had kids with anyone else but him. Frankie adores the baby and is just as hands-on with her as Jay expected. Being a mother is hard, she moves from one extreme to the other: immense pride at how well she is handling being a mother, and constant anxiety about not being a good enough mother. Frankie definitely makes the experience easier and it helps to know that he’s just as worried about his capabilities as a father.
The front door opens and closes and shortly after, Frankie shows up in the living-room. Alma drops the ball at the sight of him and gives a happy little shriek.
”Hey, chiquita!” Frankie crouches by the girl and lifts her up, hoisting her in front of his face, giving her a big kiss. Alma giggles in delight, arms flailing.
”How’s mamacita?” Frankie turns to Jay and gives her a kiss as well. She tastes a little sweat on his upper lip; it’s a warm, sunny day.
”So-so. We went to mommy and me group.”
”How was that? Are they still boring as shit?”
Jay’s had a hard time connecting with the other mothers, or at least some of them: they do not share values or opinions about child rearing, and boy, do those women have opinions.
”The Stepford wives are, well, the same Stepford wives,” Jay shrugs. “I suspect they think I’m a lesbian.”
“Excuse me, what?” Frankie stares at her. “Haven’t you told them about me?”
“Well, not as such. They keep bitchin’ about their husbands – seriously, why do people get married and have kids when it’s so obvious they shouldn’t even be together because all they do is nag? – and how they never help out. I said I’ve never had that problem with my partner, we do everything together.”
“Yeah, I wonder where they got the idea from.” Frankie rolls his eyes.
“I’m not calling you my boyfriend.”
“I’ve told you there’s an easy fix to that, we’ll just get hitched,” he shrugs, bouncing Alma on his thigh.
“And I’ve told you no,” Jay tells him patiently, not having this discussion again. She smiles at Alma, so happy in Frankie’s arms, and then glances up at Frankie again.
“Should I grow out my hair?”
“So you wouldn’t look like a lesbian?” he asks pointedly. “Nope. If you want to do it to try how you’d like longer hair, then yes, why not?”
“Would you like it if I had longer hair?”
“Jay, what’s all this? You never cared what I thought about your hair.” Frankie scoots closer, cradling Alma on one arm and sliding the other around Jay’s shoulders.
“I guess I only today realized that it’s just not about me,” she confesses, leaning a little against Frankie. “Everything I do affects Alma. Every snooty mom who looks down on me because I’m not like her is capable of denying Alma a friend to play with.”
“True,” Frankie agrees, “but do you really want our girl to play with kids whose parents are absolute idiots?”
“It’s not like we can conduct interviews with the parents every time she wants to play with someone in the park,” Jay points out with a weak smile. Frankie grins back.
“She’s six months old, baby. Just relax. We’ll figure it out along the way, okay?”
“So we’re winging it, just like we’re winging everything else with this kid?” Jay jokes lightly, thinking of the stacks of books on parenting and developmental psychology she’s read to prepare herself for this life-long commitment.
“I’m a pilot, I’m used to winging it.”
“Oh my God, you’re so funny!” Jay sighs deeply and makes a gun with her hand, putting it to her own temple and pretending to pull the trigger. Frankie shakes his head and looks down on Alma.
“My comedic genius is wasted here, chiquita. I can’t wait for you to be big enough to appreciate it.”
“You’re going to be the king of dad jokes.”
“Obviously.”
Frankie tickles Alma’s tummy, drawing a laugh from her, then looks back at Jay.
“Don’t grow out your hair,” he tells her softly, “unless you want to, of course. I like your hair. It’s so you.”
Jay smiles and passes her hand over her short-cropped hair. Had it been naturally curly, like Frankie’s, it would coil at her ears and the nape of her neck by now. But it’s straight and she’s overdue for a trim.
“Thanks, baby,” she tells him quietly, happy and grateful for his never-ending support. He nods, then frowns a little, as if a thought just occurred to him.
“Maybe I need to go to the next mommy and me group. Set those women straight.”
”They’d lose their shitif a dad showed up there, especially a hot dad like you,” Jay winks at him. ”Tell them I’m at the gym, they’ll love that. But don’t freak out: those of them who talk the most about how cute their babies are, have the most ugly-ass kids I’ve ever seen.”
She makes a face and then looks down at Alma, who’s making little sounds now, restless on Frankie’s arm.
”I’m so happy we managed to make a baby that’s actually cute.”
”With a mom like you, she has to be cute,” Frankie replies, leaning towards Jay for a kiss. She smiles and meets him halfway, lips separates so she can suck his lower lip, the little patch of facial hair right underneath the lip tickling her skin.
The kiss is interrupted by an angry shout from Alma, who is done with cuddles with dad. Frankie puts her down on her back and she proceeds to immediately turning onto her tummy and once again doing a pushup, clearly aiming for the red ball again. Her tiny brows furrow in frustration as she voices her unhappiness.
”Still struggling?” Frankie asks with a tender smile as he watches his daughter try to figure out crawling.
Jay nods. ”And that goddamn ball isn’t taking any orders.”
”She’s close, though.” Alma's almost getting up on her knees, but does not seem to be aware of it: she’s so focused on reaching her chubby arms forward she’s not realizing that she could use a boost from behind.
”It’s a good thing she’s cute, because she’s not that bright,” Jay scoffs, just as Alma emits a loud shriek and jump-starts in an unexpected engagement of her legs, and bounces forward just a couple of inches. It’s not enough to reach the ball but she seems to understand that she did get closer, because she’s flailing her arms in excitement. Frankie and Jay stare at her, both perplexed.
”Well... she shut me up,” Jay finally admits. Frankie rolls the ball towards Alma, who grabs it and then, quite neatly, spits up on it. She looks surprised, and raises her gaze to her parents.
”Wah-wah!”
Jay hands Frankie the burp cloth and stands up.
“Entertain the spawn, Morales. I'm gonna get dinner started.”
21 notes · View notes