#wishing we just had another person to help out but NOPE

[mandycantdecide]

yeah i'm booking a day off because fuck this shit

#i can't burnout again i just CAN'T #i feel myself getting closer to it every goddamn day #wishing we just had another person to help out but NOPE #anyways #enough ranting #sorry moots <3

[kennahjune]

Steddie

I’m joining the s3 steddie train :D

…

Steve was late. He was so late and so dead. Robin was going to kill him— he’d never make it out of Scoops Ahoy alive.

This was his thought process after dropping Will Lucas and Max off at Mikes. This was also his thought process the entirety of the way to Scoops while he shoved his way through the mall.

The moment he entered the small shop Robins eyes locked on him in a glare. Steve barely gave her a second before he was going to the back room to get ready for his shift.

He heard the back room door open behind him.

“You’re—“

“24 minutes late I know,” he said as calmly as he could while trying to relax his breathing.

“Yeah and—“

“And you get an extra 25 minutes for your break, yes Robin I know!”

Steve finally closed his employee cubby and turned to look at Robin. “Look. Im sorry I was so late today but Will, Lucas and Max are assholes when they’re being petty and they needed a ride to Mikes cause all the others were busy! I’ll take closing shift today to if you’re really that mad.”

Robin stared at him angrily from the doorway. “Fine.” She uncrossed her arms. “And yes, you will be taking the closing shift tonight. I have a study date with a friend that I can’t miss.”

“It’s summer vacation?”

“Shut up!”

Steve shrugged when the door closed.

He closed the door to his employee locker with a little more force than necessary. He had a migraine building and the bright, florescent lights of the mall weren’t helping in the slightest.

He walked out and began his shift.

…

Eddie wanted to enjoy his day off. Preferably by himself. But Gareth and Jeff decided that his personal life was their personal life. So here they were.

He had wanted to spend the day away from the mall, considering that that was where everyone seemed to be nowadays. But the guys were insistent.

So they were walking around. It wasn’t too bad, considering Eddie had gotten himself a new record and tape with his newest paycheck. They were sitting at the fountain when Gareth shouted right in Eddie’s ear:

“HOLY SHIT!”

Eddie just about punched him with how hard he jumped. Jeff spit out his Pepsi all over Eddie.

While Eddie was worrying about getting the sticky drink off of his skin, Gareth continued with; “is that HARRINGTON in Scoops?”

Well. Now he has Eddie’s attention.

Sure enough, just in Eddie’s line of sight, was Steve Harrington in a sailors uniform and a dorky hat.

A dorky hat that was soon snatched up by his current customer, Billy Hargrove.

Jeff clapped him on the shoulder and leaned over him to get a better view. “Is that Hargrove?”

“Yep.” Eddie popped the P.

“It looks like he’s messing with Harrington.”

“Yep.” Another pop on the P.

“And Harrington looks like he’s gonna fucking explode.”

Eddie agreed. Harrington was red in the face and not in the cute blushy-way he usually gets (don’t ask why Eddie knows that). He was talking back to Hargrove, probably something bitchy and sarcastic in typical Harrington-fashion based on the way Hargrove seemed to recoil for a moment before jumping back.

“Should we do something?” Gareth asked skeptically. Jeff shrugged where he was pressed against Eddie’s back.

“I’m going in.” Eddie stood and nearly knocked Jeff down in the process.

“Hang on—“

“Nope! Wish me luck, boys!” Eddie yelled over his shoulder while he dashed over. He heard them both get up and follow him.

…

Steve wanted to cry.

His head hurt so fucking bad and his back was killing him and he had ran into a shelf earlier and had a killer bruise on his arm and leg from it and everything was too fucking much.

Then, in all his asshole and dick glory, in came Billy Hargrove.

At this point, Steve would rather take another plate to the head then have to deal with his annoyingly aggravating voice. Hargrove came in, probably expecting Robin to be there, but got Steve instead. And honestly Steve would rather deal with him then leave Robin with him.

So he’s been enduring it, giving his own comments and comebacks but overall hating his life and just wanting to curl up and die.

Then his savior showed up. In all his black leather and chains, Eddie fucking Munson.

Hallelujah.

Hargrove seemed to back down the moment Munson showed up. Which wasn’t too strange considering that Munson supplied over half of Hawkins’ weed supply. Including Steve’s own for a while. He hasn’t bought in a while cause of the brat brigade.

But not the point.

Hargrove nodded to Munson. “Munson.”

Wow. Real cool, Billy. Steve held back a snicker.

“Heeyyy, Hargrove!” Munson cheerily greeted. But there was something about his smile that was off, to Steve. It seemed tighter than usual, his eyes not crinkling with the motion like normal. Don’t ask why Steve knows this.

Munson’s eyes seemed darker, too. Like he was angry. Maybe Hargrove didn’t pay him? Steve couldn’t bother to care with how bad his head started to pound.

He shouldn’t be at work with this migraine. He knows that. His doctor’s told him this multiple times. But he owes it to Robin for being late so much and he needs to prove to his dad that he can take care of himself.

“So what brings you here, Billy?” Munson asks casually, stepping farther into the shop. Steve seems to finally be forgotten about, and he places his head down on the counter. The cooled surface definitely helps with the spinning room.

He hears Hargrove say something back, but he isn’t paying attention anymore. His eyes are stating to go blurry and he really needs to sit down. But then Munson says something that catches his attention:

“Just leave Harrington alone, man. Last I checked he did nothing to you.”

What the hell? Steve wished he could lift his head and see what Munson was doing. What he looked like when he said that. If he looked as mean as he sounded.

Steve only lifts his head a few moments later when he feels a hand on his back. He shoots up quicker than he intends, and nearly falls back down if not for the hands still holding him up.

“Shit,” he grumbles quietly to himself, whining even quieter at the sudden rush of pain and the black dots in his vision.

“Easy there, your highness.” Munson.

Steve blinks slowly, letting Munson set him down in a booth. He doesn’t remember walking over but he’ll take it. He puts his head back down and intertwines his fingers behind his head. He groans quietly again, the pounding slowly receding.

“Hey man, is there something we could do? Do you need anything?” He heard Munson ask.

We? Steve wants to ask, but finds himself not caring. “Water, and my bag from the back please,” he rasps out. Talking makes the pounding worse.

He hears someone rush off to the back and a moment later a hands on his back again and is helping him sit up.

“Here ya go sweetheart.” Munson slides the glass of water and bag over to him.

Steve silently reaches into his bag and pulls out his small “to-go” med-kit. He carries it around mainly for the kids. Mike tends to be clumsier than he comes off as and Max is always trying out some new skateboarding tricks. From inside the kit he pulls out a pill bottle and swallows 2 with the water and goes for another 2 before a hand stops him.

“I’m pretty sure you’re not supposed to take more than 2.” This voice is new but familiar. Steve squints past the blurriness and makes out someone he recognizes from school; Gareth Emerson.

“4,” Steve manages past the lump in his throat. Munson, Emerson, and someone else Steve doesn’t quite know look at him. Munson continues to hold Steve’s hand on the table, rubbing his thumb over his knuckles. It weirdly intimate but the comfort is very welcome.

“4 what?” The other guy asks.

“4 pills. I usually take 4.”

Munson and Emerson both wince. The third guy looks at him like he’s insane. Steve finally recognizes him as Jeff,… something. He actually never got his last name.

“Dude— are you trying to overdose!?”

Steve winced at the sudden loudness, whining quietly. Munson shushed Jeff and Steve heard him rush out an apology.

The bell over the door dinged at that moment, and Steve found himself face to face with Max, Mike, Will, Lucas, and— for some reason— Jonathan.

“Uh— hi?” Steve attempted for a greeting.

“‘Hi!?’” Mike yelled. “Hi yourself man! We called your walkie at least 4 times!! What the hell?”

“Are you ok? Why didn’t you answer?” Will asked in a much quieter tone.

Lucas and Max wasted no time before slotting themselves in the booth with Steve. Munson remained across from Steve, and Emerson and Jeff now hovered farther away, but Lucas slid right in next to Munson and Max next to Steve.

“What the fuck, Harrington?” Max demanded. But she clung to his shirt tightly.

“Language, Mayfield,” he reprimanded quietly.

Mike paused where he stood. “Why are you talking so quietly? Shit— do you have a migraine?”

Suddenly 4 pairs of little eyes were gazing at him with unmasked concern. Holy shit was this overwhelming.

“Guys—“

“Why didn’t you say that, Steve?” Lucas asked.

“Are you ok? How long has it been going on for? Asked Will.

“Why are even here if you’re not able to function properly?” Mike reprimanded in his own caring-ness.

Max clutched to him tighter. “Why aren’t you at home? You could’ve called in sick or something!”

“Shhh!” Mike shushed her.

“Don’t shush me—“

“Shut up!” He whisper shouted. “You have to be quiet and try to control your temperature while resting in a dark, quiet room to try and help with migraines. Pain killers help to but no more than 3.”

Everyone stared at him. He went a little pink under the sudden attention.

“Nancy gets migraines a lot from reading in the dark.”

Jonathan came over right then. Steve was suddenly overwhelmed by all the people surrounding him.

“Uhm—“

“Hey,” Munson called. Steve forgot about him for a good moment. “This is cute and all, but maybe we should not surround him? Poor boy looks like he’s gonna cry.”

Everyone turned to look at him. Tears had— in fact— sprung to his eyes.

“Sorry!” All the kids rushed out quietly at the same time. Max climbed out of the booth and Munson and Jonathan both assisted with helping Steve to the break room. Jeff and Emerson stayed with the kids, but Mike came with them since he seemed to know what he was doing better than the 3 of them.

On their way back to the room though, Steve’s legs nearly gave out from under him. Shit. It’s one of those days. Munson just barely managed to catch him under the armpits while Jonathan got him by the waist.

“Woah there, sweetheart.” Munson grunted.

“Careful, Steve,” Jonathan said quietly.

“Sorry. Spinning.” Steve exhaled shakily.

Mike came rushing back after realized they weren’t with him. “Damn. Spinning? Are you able to walk? Or are they gonna have to carry you?”

Jonathan looked up at the mention of having to carry Steve. “Yeah— I’m not able to carry him. I am so not strong enough for that.” He had the decency to look apologetic.

Munson chuckled quietly and the sound reverberated through his chest where Steve’s head was. It was soothing.

“Don’t worry Big Byers. I’ve got him no problem.”

Steve was given no warning before he was being picked up in a bridal carry. He winced sharply and laid his head on Munson’s shoulder. Jonathan whistled lowly from somewhere beside them and Steve blindly kicked his leg in his direction, scoring in kicking him in the arm. Jonathan snickered.

…

When Munson chased off Hargrove he didn’t expect for Harrington to all but collapse in on himself and try to fucking overdose on like 5 pain killers. He also hadn’t expected to be bombarded by 4 kids and 1 Jonathan Byers. Least of all did he expect to be carrying Harrington bridal style to the break room of Scoops Ahoy.

Somewhere behind him, Gareth turned the sign on the door to closed. Eddie silently thanked him.

The kid— who he vaguely remembers as Nancy Wheeler’s younger brother— opens the door and startles a half asleep Robin Buckley.

“Hello,” Jonathan throws her way before pulling a chair out for Eddie to sit on.

“Uh— hi? What the hell—“

Eddie takes the seat with Harrington in his lap. Robin looks dumbfounded.

“Migraine,” Jonathan helpfully supplies.

“Really, really bad migraine. Vertigo included. Full package tonight, folks.” Mike adds.

“Ok— um, is he ok? He doesn’t look ok. If it was so bad why didn’t he just call in sick?”

“That’s a good question,” Mike retorts quietly while rooting around in a freezer.

“What are you looking for”, Robin asks.

“Ice pack. The dumbass has everything in that first aid kit of his except a damn ice pack.”

“Language,” Harrington reprimanded quietly from where his cheek was against Eddie’s chest. Eddie chuckled quietly when Mike retorted with a half-assed “sorry”.

Eddie couldn’t help but admire the now sleeping Harrington in his lap. He bent in half like a shrimp, his knees just about to his chest, and his hands gripping tightly onto Eddie’s still-Pepsi-soaked t-shirt. But he looked so at peace while asleep. Like he hadn’t just had the worst migraine Eddie’s ever seen and wasn’t just about to pass out on his feet. Eddie smiled.

Mike comes over silently, managing to sneak up on Eddie and make him jump slightly and causing Harrington to whine. He’d been whining a lot today. And under “different circumstances” Eddie would’ve found it hot as fuck.

“Sorry,” Mike whispered. He seemed to be able mellow out a lot when he actually tried. He seemed like such an asshole out at the booth but now he seems quieter. These kids really cared about Harrington, huh?

“Here.” Jonathan helped him out and gently picked up Harrington’s head. Eddie caught Harrington actually kind of leaning into his touch. A strange but endearing friendship. Mike placed the ice pack— now wrapped in a cloth— on Eddie’s chest where Harrington’s head lays.

Harrington lays back down and is out like a light soon enough.

Eddie zoned out until there’s a very, very soft knock on the door. When he looks up, Jonathan is letting the other 3 kids in while Jeff and Gareth stand in the doorway.

“Is he ok?” Asks Jonathan’s little brother.

Jonathan nods and pats his head. “He’s ok, Will.”

The redhead walks over and takes a silent seat next to Eddie so she’s next to Harrington. She takes Harrington’s hand in hers and proceeds to just sit there and hold it.

“He’s ok, Max. Just a migraine,” the third kid, Lucas he thinks, reassures with a hand on Max’s shoulder.

“That’s what he said before. And then he was in the hospital.”

Woah, what?

“Hm?” Lucas looks at him.

Oh. He said that aloud.

“Wait what?” Robin asked quietly.

Jonathan’s whistled lowly. It seems to be a bit of a tic for him. “Yeah uh— funny story. Hargrove broke a plate over Steve’s head last year and nobody realized how bad it actually was until he passed out after claiming it was only a migraine.”

“He ended up in the hospital for like 2 weeks,” added Lucas.

“He needed several stitches on the side of his head.” Max unhappily supplied. Lucas squeezed her shoulder.

“It was a stage 4 concussion,” muttered Will and Mike put his head on his shoulder.

Eddie caught Gareth and Jeff’s eyes across the break room. Huh.

The Will kid came up to Eddie suddenly. “Thank you. For uh— helping with Steve. It means a lot to us. He means a lot to us.”

Mike, Max, and Lucas all nodded.

“Hang on,” Lucas piped up. “Who are you?”

…

So uh— set myself up for a part 2 there :’D

Part 2

#stranger things #steve harrington #dustin henderson #mike wheeler #eddie munson #robin buckley #will byers #max mayfield #lucas sinclair #jonathan byers #nancy wheeler #corroded coffin #steve harrington x eddie munson #steddie hcs #steddie fics #steddie #steve harrington whump #steve harrington gets killer migraines #the boy has 3 and counting concussions

[starlit-typewriter]

Genshin SAGAU, Creator of Teyvat, but not Humanity Part 4

So fun fact, I got Lyney on 12 pity, with no guaranteed after posting that previous section, so uh. He doesn’t need to be jealous of his siblings anymore I guess.

Warning for Spoilers up to 4.6

Masterlist | Prev Part | Next Part

~~~

Cold

It was very cold,

Freezing actually, numbingly cold and frigid. The icy hands of hypothermia creeping up your legs to encase your body into an icy coffi-

Ok, well maybe that’s a step too far.

But it’s cold.

Why is it cold?

Oh it’s snowing that’s why.

You look down at your feet.

Yep, there’s snow.

You wiggle your toes, and see the snow on top if them shift. 

You giggle to yourself at the amusing sight. You look up to see if there’s anyone else.

It’s empty, just a vast expanse of snow and wind.

Wait, no it’s not. There’s a building right over there, it’s massive, tall and imposing with gigantic walls and windows.

Oh there’s a person in one of those windows, hopefully you’re not trespassing.

You can’t really make out who it is, their black and white figure is blurred by the heavy snow and wind, but you try waving to them anyway.

If there’s so much snow and wind shouldn’t you be colder than this?

You blink,

“- gnoring me, I swear,”

You turn your head, and your friend is there.

“Hellooo, why do you keep spacing out?” she complains, taking a sip of her drink.

The two of you are at a cafe. 

She proposed that the two of you meet up now that the weather is nice and take a walk together and get some exercise. Somehow that exercise ended with the two of you sitting in a heavily air conditioned cafe.

You blink, weren’t you just cold.

Oh right, you look over to your side where the AC is blasting on full volume.

“Why don’t we move to different seats,” you offer, “The AC is giving me a headache.”

~~~

“Another successful day of adventuring completed!” Paimon cheered, spinning around as the Traveler handed in the receipts for all their completed commissions. 

The Traveler smiled at her enthusiasm as they accepted their reward from Katheryn, before heading over to where Paimon was floating.

“Hungry for dinner?” They asked, knowing the answer already.

“Of course!” Paimon exclaimed, “As if that’s even a question.” She paused, bobbing slightly as she stared the Traveler down. 

“Hmm, Paimon can’t help but feel you’re up to something, but she can’t figure out what.”

The Traveler takes their time, hemming and hawing as they stroll down the streets of Fountaine with Paimon floating closely behind, riling her up with frustration.

“Grrr, c’mon just tell Paimon, or I’m gonna burst,”

The Traveler laughed at their companion’s frustrated face, before turning to face them with a cheeky smile on their face. “Well, I’ve got a bit more energy than usual, so why don’t you choose a restaurant for us to visit,” they proposed cheekily.

Paimon’s eyes opened wide with anticipation, “really!” She exclaimed, shooting up with anticipation, “you better not be messing with Paimon,” she threatened, eyes sparking.

“Nope,” the Traveler drawled, as they made their way over to the nearby waypoint. They placed their hand on it meaningfully, and extended the other to Paimon. “Where are we going tonight?”

Paimon squealed with happiness, shooting into the Traveler’s arms. “ Komore Teahouse please,” she begged, “We haven’t had hotpot in so long,”

“As you wish,” and in a burst of energy the two disappeared from the streets of Fountaine.

The smell of sweet Sakura blossoms greeted Paimon's nose as the two appeared in Inazuma. 

Thankfully there weren’t too many gawking standerbys, many of them having gotten used to the Traveler's unique ability of traveling through waypoints.

She quickly darted out from their arms and turned to check on them. While it may look effortless, she knew that teleporting took a lot of energy out of the Traveler, and as their traveling companion it’s her responsibility to make sure that they don’t overwork themselves. 

Their breathing was fine, but their head rested on the waypoint, eyes closed. Paimon gave them a moment to collect themselves, hovering anxiously. Within a few seconds their eyelids opened, sending Paimon a reassuring smile.

“Are you sure you’re ok?” Paimon asked, feelings slightly guilty at how enthusiastic she was at coming to visit Inazuma, even though she knew how much energy it would take.

“Of course, I did offer after all,” the Traveler replied easily.

The two made their way to Komore teahouse, Paimon made sure to float a bit slower than usual, just in case the Traveler was still tired.

She’s sure they noticed, since they bumped her playfully before whispering “race you,” into her ear and darted off. 

“HEY NO FAIR,”

The two adventurers raced each other down the streets of Inazuma before skidding to a stop outside Komore Teahouse, the Traveler slapping their hand on the sign triumphantly as Paimon panted behind them.

“No, huff huff, fair,” Paimon complained, pointing their finger at the Traveler accusatorially. 

Before the Traveler could gloat about their victory, a familiar voice interrupted the duo.

“Woah woah what happened here,”

“Thoma!” Paimon exclaimed, perking back up. 

The Traveler exchanged warm greetings with the Kamisato housekeeper, as the three headed into the teahouse to catch up.

“-lace flooded and then!” Paimon paused mid story, mouth hanging open.

“And then what?” Thoma asked eagerly engrossed in the story.

The expectant silence was interrupted by a loud stomach gurgle.

There was a moment before all three of them burst into laughter.

“I think Paimon got so engrossed in story telling that we forgot to order food,” the Traveler commented between giggles.

“Hey!”

Thoma took the initiative to stand up and order food for the group. The Traveler tried to get up as well, but was ushered back into their seat. 

“C’mon, it’s already bad enough manners that I made guests wait this long without food, at least let me order it for you,” Thoma pleaded playfully, 

 “I think we’re more friends than guests at this point, ” Paimon chimed in, floating up from her seat.

“You know that’s not what I mean. C’mon, you guys save me some face here.”

After some light heckling and teasing, Thoma darted off to grab some dinner for them.

The Traveler leaned forward in their seat, face still a little pale. 

Paimon floated beside them anxiously. “Are you feeling ok?” She asked quietly, the Traveler doesn’t usually take this long to recover from a teleport trip.

The Traveler hummed lightly in agreement, now fully leaning on the table, “just a bit drowsy.”

Paimon bit her lip nervously, she floated around the Traveler’s head anxiously.

It seemed as if her hovering was annoying them since they soon tilted their head up to gaze at her with slight annoyance. “I’m okay, Paimon, honest.”

Paimon didn’t believe them.

“Are you sure, because -”

“I’m fine,” they cut her off, “I’m more worried about you.”

Paimon blinked, “Me?”

“Do you think I haven’t noticed how much hovering and how anxious you’ve been? I just wanted to- ” they cut themselves off in frustration.

Paimon sagged a little, she didn’t like making the Traveler worry about them.

The Traveler sighed, “If this is about the Kn-”

“No,” Paimon interrupted, “It’s not.”

A disbelieving face was her only answer.

She bit her lip. Maybe she wasn’t as good of an actor as she thought, or it was just the Traveler being able to see through her.

She didn't really want to explain, but considering that they were willing to push themselves in order to try to cheer her up, well. Paimon felt guilty for keeping it from them.

“It’s just not fair!” She burst out, a scowl painting itself on her normally cheerful face. 

“Her being blessed you mean?” The Traveler confirmed, sitting up properly to face Paimon.

“I don’t trust her,” Paimon admitted, her hands twisting together. “She’s so scary and we never know what she’s going to do next, or who she’s going to hurt. Not to mention she’s Fatui Harbinger!”

“So are Childe and the Wanderer,” 

“That’s different and you know it! Wanderer’s working for Nahida now and Childe might be a Harbinger but he won’t hurt us, you can beat him up any day!”

The Traveler sighed, “this is because I lost isn’t it.”

“That’s -” Paimon couldn’t refute that.

The two fell into a bit of an uneasy silence. 

“I’m not the strongest person in Teyvat Paimon. I never have been,” they explained gently.

“I know,” Paimon mumbled, “I just, don’t like the fact that she’s now going to get stronger because of us.”

“You don’t know that- ”

“Yes I do!” She shot back, “So many people we meet just get inexplicably stronger and they all think it’s thanks to us but we haven’t done anything and it’s been fine so far because they’ve all been our friends and have been really nice to us but-”

She gets cut off when the Traveler pulls her into a hug. 

“I’m sorry,” they apologized, “I didn’t know you’ve been struggling with this.”

Paimon relaxed in their hold, “It never really bothered me until now,”

“Me neither,” they admitted, leaning into their hug more.

“Food her-” Thoma paused in the doorway at the sight of the two hugging. “Uh, did I barge in at a bad moment, because I can- ”

“It’s fine,” Paimon exclaimed, flying out of the hug. “We were just uh-”

She looked over to the Traveler for an excuse, but they just shook their head and shrugged.

“Practicing what we’d do if there was an earthquake,” she finished lamely.

Thoma blinked at that admittedly pretty bad excuse, but thankfully knew not to push.

“Alrighty then, well who’s ready for- ”

“HOTPOT,” Paimon’s eyes widened to the size of Dinner plates as the smell of the tray in Thoma’s hands finally reached her nose.

The rest of the meal proceeded merrily as Paimon got to fill her stomach, Thoma got caught up with all their recent adventures, and the Traveler got to bask in good company.

They were pretty quiet, as is the norm, since they prefer to let Paimons speak for them.

Until, well.

“Thoma, what did it feel like when you got blessed.”

The other two fall into silence at the Traveler’s question. Thoma swiveled his head to see the Traveler staring at him with an uncharacteristically serious look. 

Their golden eyes bored into his face, it was easy to forget when they were chatting over a meal or talking walks together, but the Traveler was famous for more than just their adventures. 

Despite their young appearance, they’d always held themselves with an innate grace and authority Thoma had rarely ever seen. A kind of aura that made you wonder whether they were secretly an ancient powerful Yokai in disguise. 

“Uh, well,” Thoma stammered.Even though he could confidently say they were friends, and that they would never lay a hand on him, the fact that the Traveler was so much more powerful than him was hard to ignore at this very moment. “Haven’t you gone through it yourself?”

The Traveler shakes their head, “I don’t remember being blessed,” they responded shortly.

“Well,” Thoma scratched his head, mulling over his words, “I can’t really compare it to getting a vision-” he trailed off, deep in thought.

He looked around before his gaze settled on their empty hotpot bowl. 

“I think I'd compare it to drinking a warm bowl of soup on a freezing cold day.” 

The Traveler quirks a brow, surprised.

“I thought it’d be more dramatic than that,” Paimon added, looking slightly disheartened as well.

“Sorry,” Thoma scratched his head, slightly embarrassed. “That’s just the best way I could think of to describe it.” 

He paused, before angling himself towards the pair to better explain his train of thought, “You know there are some days where it all feels a little overwhelming and exhausting,”

The two nodded in response.

“Think of it like that, its been a super long day, the weather’s a mess, you’re cold and tired and you just want to crawl to bed.” he gestured, trying to convey what a busy day would look like. 

“Then you go inside, and there’s this warm bowl of soup waiting just for you, it’s the perfect temperature so you don’t don’t need to worry about burning you mouth and it just warms you from the inside out and give you more energy to keep going.”

By the end of his story the two were nodding in unison. 

“Does that make sense to you,” he finishes weakly.

“Better,” the Traveler commented, looking over at Paimon who was nodding enthusiastically. 

“Sorry, it’s just that no one’s ever really asked me about that before.” He laughs sheepishly. Internally grateful that the Traveler’s gaze had directed itself elsewhere.

“Really?” Paimon exclaimed, “I’d have thought um-” she trailed off awkwardly.

Thoma knew where they were going, “Lord and Lady Kamisato never mentioned such things to me, they know about my blessing of course, but they never tried to pry into the specifics.”

“Ahh, gotcha,” 

The table lapses into an awkward silence.

“Is there a particular reason why?” Thoma asks eventually.

The two look at each other for a bit before turning back to him.

“Just a bit of investigating,” the Traveler responds vaguely. “It just seems weird to us that this has been happening for years now and now one is really sure why.”

“Well, most of us assumed that you were the one doing the blessing,” he responded, stacking some of the empty plates together. 

“WHAT!” Paimon exclaimed, flying backwards in shock.

“You didn’t know?” Thoma looked surprised.

The Traveler shook their head alongside Paimon’s vehement denial.

“Oh, well that’s a bit awkward,” he laughs, “But don’t worry, we soon realized that you had no control over it,”

“Good,” Paimon nodded, “The last thing we need is people thinking we’re intentionally withholding a blessing from them, or worse people trying to get close to us for the blessing.” She shuddered.

The Traveler nodded in agreement, yawning slightly.

Thoma, perceptive as always, offered to get them a room at the Kamisato estate, only to be met with polite refusal.

“Thanks for the offer Thoma, but we’re probably gonna head out first thing tomorrow morning,” Paimon said, “Plus it’s not like we’re camping outside with our teapot and all,”

“That’s true,” Thoma noted, “then pass on my regards to you Teapot butler for me.”

“Will do, and pass on ours to Ayaka and Ayato.” The Traveler responded kindly.

~~~ 

Later that night, Paimon and the Traveler were getting ready to sleep.

“Ooof, Paimon is stuffed,” she stretched, floating down towards the bed.

“Satisfying meal?” the Traveler commented wryly, tucking their legs under their chin from where they were seated on their bed.

“Mmhmm,” Paimon agreed, curling up under the blankets. 

“Thank you,” she said, after a short pause.

She didn’t need to elaborate, the two had traveled together for far too long for that. Despite how it may look to outsiders, and how the Traveler might joke about her being emergency food, she knew how much the Traveler treasured their relationship and vice versa.

She remembered the darker days at the beginning of their partnership, when the Traveler would wake up in the middle of the night screaming for their sibling, or days when they could barely talk, overstimulated by the world around them. Whilst Paimon was no expert doctor, she knew how to bring the traveler out of their shell and what they were comfortable with.

She knew that the Traveler still had a difficult time meeting new people, and that even though that had a near total mastery of Teyvat’s language, its not one that they enjoyed using.

There were still bad days of course, and bad nights, but Paimon knew how to deal with them better now.

A soft snore interrupted her train of thought.

She looked over to see the Traveler comfortably asleep.

Yeah, things are good the way they are.

She curled up in her own blankets and let darkness overtake her.

~~~

Poke,

Poke, Poke

A soft giggle.

Paimon scrunched her nose and turned to her other side to avoid the poking, to no avail.

The soft pokes to her squishy cheeks continued.

Paimon became fed up before long and shot out of bed, ready to yell at the Traveler for waking her up like that, only to be faced with, not the Traveler.

A stranger stood in front of her with a confused look on their face.

“You weren’t supposed to wake up,” they muttered in confusion.

Paimon stared at them for a brief second before bursting into a scream.

~~~

Masterlist | Prev Part | Next Part

~~~

Taglist: @bunniotomia,@lucid-stories, @ymechi, @chocogi,  @ra404, @ash1, @esthelily, @tottybear, @mmeatt, @quacking-simp, @reemthetheme, @universallyenthusiastsage,@resident-cryptid, @fantasyhopperhea

If you'd like the join the taglist, please send me an ask, it's a lot easier to keep track and I'd hate to miss anyone.

Or if you just have any questions or comments, my ask box is open!

#genshin impact #genshin impact sagau #genshin sagau #sagau #genshin cult au #My writing

[yandere-writer-momo]

Yandere Baki Head Canons:

All Yours

Yandere Katsumi Orochi x Fem Reader

Alternate Reality AU

When (your name) had wished for Katsumi to return her feelings, she hadn’t meant to this extent. The man never left her alone for more than an hour. Her phone constantly rang with calls or messages when the Karateka would get a smidge of free time.

How was she to know that woman was genuinely a witch? A witch who transferred her to an alternate reality where Katsumi adored her? One where he was obsessed?

It was her fault for seeking that woman out for a charm to make her crush like her, but she didn’t think she’d be transported to another world when she rescued Katsumi from the flaming dojo all those months ago… did she die in her old world? Was this some kind of screwed up Isekai misadventure? The thought alone made her head hurt… just like this current call with the Katsumi of this reality.

“(Your name)? How about I bring you some takeout once I’m done with my class? I miss your face!” Katsumi rambled on the other end of the phone as you gave a stiff smile. You were head over heels at first about the attention you received from him, but it became old quickly. Even though this man was Katsumi, he wasn’t the Katsumi you adored. Nope! This version of him was like a ripoff version of him in a bad fan fiction.

“That’d be lovely. Thank you, Katsumi.” (Your name) knew he probably clicked his heels together on the other end of the phone when she said that. The man was so eager to please…

“Okay! I’ll get your favorite then, darling!” Katsumi continued to chatter. “I’m so happy you finally accepted my affection… I’ve been after you for years.”

Yes… in this reality, it was Katsumi who pursued rather than her. Was this how the Katsumi felt in her world when she’d show him affection? Overwhelmed and exhausted? God she felt like an even worse person…

“I appreciate you, Katsumi.” (Your name) replied in a soft voice. “Be safe today.”

“I will! I can’t wait to see you.” (Your name) closed her eyes and hung up. The young woman placed her face in her hands and softly cried.

This was her reality now and she needed to accept it. She needed to accept that she’d never go back to her old world and she’d never be able to apologize to the Katsumi there.

“I’m sorry, Katsumi… I’m so sorry.” (Your name) cried softly into her hands.

A few hours later and Katsumi was on her doorstep with a bag of takeout. A huge smile on his face when she opened the door. “(Your name)! I bought the goods, hopefully this will cheer you up. I noticed you’ve been a bit down lately…”

(Your name) gave Katsumi a soft smile to try to reassure him. “You’re always so thoughtful.” Why couldn’t her old Katsumi be a bit like him?

Katsumi’s face flushed as he bashfully kicked his feet from side to side. “Well, I try to have your best interests in mind. I just want you to be happy.”

And that’s when (your name) broke down in tears, the Karateka quickly pulled her into his arms. “Hey, I didn’t mean to upset you-“

(Your name) leaned forward and pressed her lips against his in a gentle kiss. A kiss that made her whole body shake while desperation consumed her. She felt like such an awful person for the way she exploited this man, but he always said the right words… he was everything she ever wanted. Was it wrong to indulge him?

Katsumi’s eyes blew wide open for a second before he jumped right into the kiss. His hands grabbed at whatever flesh he could reach as he maneuvered the two of them into her apartment. His foot shut the door behind him.

“Your lips are so soft and you smell heavenly.” Katsumi whispered against her lips, his forehead now pressed against hers. “Can we… can we continue in your room?”

(Your name) thought for a minute before she gave him a teary eyes smile. “Yes… I’d like that.”

And as their clothes were discarded with each step they took towards her room, she couldn’t help but smile.

If this was her fate, she’d embrace it. All she had ever wanted was to be loved, even if it was by this obsessive man. This obsessive man with the face of her first love.

“I don’t have protection… is that okay?” Katsumi asked with a blush, the man’s eyes anxiously scanned over your bare form.

“That’s okay.” You held your arms out for him. “I’m yours, Katsumi.”

#baki the grappler #baki hanma #baki son of ogre #baki x reader #baki the grappler x reader #yandere #yandere imagine #yandere fic #female reader #yandere baki #baki orochi katsumi #orochi katsumi #katsumi orochi #Yandere Baki x reader #bakihanma #baki headcanons #Yandere au #yandere headcanons #baki dou #baki #grappler baki #yandere x reader #yandere x you #Yandere doppelgänger #alternate reality #Yandere Karateka #yandere imagines #yandere concept #baki fanfic #Baki fanfiction

[captainsophiestark]

Come Here Often?

Cassian x Reader

Masterlist - Join My Taglist!

Written for my personal fic writing challenge for 2024, Sophie's Year of Fic! Featuring a new fic being posted every Friday, all year long :)

Fandom: A Court of Thorns and Roses

Summary: Everyone in the Inner Circle knows Cassian and Y/N have feelings for each other, except the two idiots in question. Thankfully, the IC's not known for minding their own business, especially in matters like this.

Word Count: 1,772

Category: Fluff, Humor

Putting work into an AI program without permission is illegal. You do not have my permission. Do not do it.

"Are you sure you don't want to go see a show at the Ampitheater tonight?" I asked, trying to give Mor a guilt trip with no more than a look as we carried bags towards the river house. She just scoffed at my attempt.

"I already told you, I can't. I wish I could, but our lovely High Lord has me doing work all night tonight."

I huffed. "Fine. Let me know if I can do anything to help with the work, since I'm losing my theater buddy."

Mor shot me a grin. "I'm sure you could find somebody to replace me if you really wanted to."

I narrowed my eyes at her. I knew what she wasn't saying: that I should invite Cassian. To do something, if not to go to the amphitheater. I regretted ever telling her I'd caught feelings for the Illyrian general.

"Whatever, Mor," I scoffed, failing to come up with a better comeback. She grinned, clearly sensing her victory, but luckily for me I'd reached my room. "Enjoy all that work you have to do tonight!"

I didn't wait for her response before ducking through the door and shutting it behind me. I could hear her laughing as she continued down the hallway to her own room, but I did my best to block it out as I dropped my bags.

I hovered a little longer in my room, taking my time putting away the things we'd brought back from the market, until I heard Mor leave to go do whatever work Rhys had her doing. I checked both ways in the hallway when I finally emerged before heading down to the kitchen.

All of my friends had been hounding me about Cassian lately, and as much as I loved them, if I heard another word from anyone trying to nudge me into asking him out or whatever, I was going to lose it.

I made my way towards the kitchen, intending to make myself a snack before figuring out what I wanted to do with the rest of my evening, but I stopped short at the sound of harsh whispers coming from within. It sounded like somebody was having a heated conversation, and I didn't want to interrupt anything. But then my stomach rumbled, and I decided to go in anyway.

I cleared my throat and made as much noise as possible so I wouldn't interrupt any Inner Circle members in the middle of something serious. When I rounded the corner, I found Cassian and Azriel sitting at the table in the middle of the space, leaned back in their chairs and trying way too hard to look casual.

"Hey guys..." I said, eyeing them both suspiciously as I slowly moved further into the room. Az gave me a little nod, and Cassian gave me a smile that looked more than a little forced. "What, uh... what are you both up to?"

"Rhys needs my help with something," Azriel said, standing abruptly. I narrowed my eyes at him, but of course his expression gave away nothing as he headed for the door. "I'll see you both later."

I watched him go, then turned my gaze to Cassian once Az was gone. His back was to me, so I couldn't read his expression, but his shoulders were tensed and he hadn't turned from the doorway Az had disappeared through.

"Okay..." I said, deciding to just move past it as I turned to the counter to start making myself a snack. "What about you, Cass, you got anything going on tonight?"

Cassian cleared his throat. "Me? Nope."

I heard him shifting in his chair behind me, and a moment later he was standing at my side. I prayed he couldn't hear my heart racing faster at his proximity as I tried to keep my focus on the fresh fruit in front of me.

"So, uh, you..." Cassian's wings rustled behind him, usually a sign of nerves. I frowned. "You come here often?"

I paused, setting the knife down and opting to slowly turn to face Cassian, one eyebrow raised. He fidgeted as he stared back at me, and I caught him forcing a grimace off his face in favor of a small smile. I'd never seen him look so nervous before.

"I... Cass, we both live here."

The grimace returned in full force, and I couldn't help smiling as Cassian brought a hand to his forehead.

"That's not what I meant to ask you," he said, shaking his head and meeting my eyes again. "What I meant was, uh... do you have a bandage?"

"A bandage? Did something happen? Did you get hit-"

"Dammit! No, I'm fine. Never mind, I need to go find Az-"

He started to push off the counter, but on a reflex, I stopped him with a hand on his forearm. He stopped dead in his tracks and stared at me, and my heart almost stopped in my chest at the intensity of his gaze.

I quickly pushed down the butterflies in my stomach to give Cassian a once-over. No matter what he said, he clearly was not fine. I didn't see any obvious physical injury, but a hard hit to the head would definitely explain some things, and when I met his eyes again he had a weird look in them.

"Cassian, are you sure you're okay? What's going on?"

He took a deep breath and then hesitated, his eyes darting over my face and his brow furrowed. Then, he sighed, his face and shoulders relaxing with him.

"I'm sorry, I just... I was trying to ask you out." My eyebrows shot up, but Cassian continued before I could muster a coherent response. "I've been wanting to do it for a while now, but I lost a bet to Az last week and my 'punishment' that I finally had to go through with it. I've been trying to figure out the best way to do it, but... I guess that wasn't it."

Cassian huffed a little laugh at himself, his expression drooping as he stared at the ground. I just blinked at him for a few seconds, trying to process everything he'd just told me.

"Hold on... you're asking me out because you lost a bet to Az?"

"Not just for that," Cassian assured me quickly, looking worried. "Or, I guess, if you're not into it, then maybe yes?"

I just laughed, which didn't seem to make him feel better. I felt guilty, but I also just couldn't help it. My heart leapt as I put a hand on Cassian's shoulder and his eyes snapped to mine again.

"Cass... I barely escaped that exact same bet with Mor last week."

His brows furrowed. "What?"

"Yeah," I said, laughing a little. I couldn't quite help it. Cassian apparently felt the same way about me as I did about him, as evidenced by our friends' ridiculous tactics. My heart soared, and I stepped a little closer to him. "I cheated a little to get out of losing, but she's been pressuring me to ask you out somewhere anyway for the last week and a half."

"Because... you like me?"

"Yeah. A lot."

The frown finally lifted from his face, replaced with a beaming grin that made my heart race. Slowly, he moved one arm to wrap around my waist, pulling me a little closer to him. I let one hand rest against his chest, and Cassian's lopsided smirk almost made me faint.

"Our friends are going to be rubbing this in for a long time, but I can't make myself care," he said, voice low. I bit my lip and smiled up at him.

"Same. Especially since I think they're all out of the house right now on a fake assignment for Rhys."

"That's definitely a perk of all their bullshit."

"So... what now?"

Cassian's eyes flashed as he leaned forward, pulling me flush against his chest. He dropped his mouth towards mine until they were barely inches apart, then met my eyes. Based on his grin, I knew he could hear my heart beating out of my chest.

"I have a few ideas," he breathed.

A heartbeat later, his lips were on mine, and fireworks exploded in my chest. Being with Cassian like this just felt right, and now that we were finally together, I never wanted to let him go.

I wasn't sure who initiated it, but we deepened the kiss as Cassian's grip tightened on my waist. I let my hands wander over his chest, to his shoulders and arms, but stopped dead in my tracks when I heard a disgusted scoff from behind me.

Cassian and I broke apart, arms still around each other, and turned towards the door to find our friends standing there, staring at us with their hands on their hips.

"Well, I guess this is what we wanted," said Mor with a shrug.

"Pretty sure I told him to ask her out, not make out with her in the kitchen," Az chimed in from beside her. Rhys and Feyre just grinned at us, while Amren stared, clearly unimpressed.

"Do you all mind?" Cassian ground out, his hands tightening a little more around my waist. Mor just grinned and skipped into the kitchen completely undisturbed, heading for my unfinished fruit platter.

"Not at all," she said. Cassian sighed, but I couldn't keep myself from laughing. Our friends were absolutely ridiculous, but I loved them dearly. And Cassian and I had just made out in the kitchen, so I really don't think much in this world could've ruined my mood.

"Why don't the two of you go see a show or something?" Feyre suggested, following Mor into the kitchen, the other batboys following behind her. Cassian narrowed his eyes at his brothers, but I just smiled, at last stepping out of his grasp and taking his hand.

"That's a great idea, Feyre. Cass? What do you think?"

His expression softened the minute his gaze shifted to me. My heart melted.

"Sure. How about we go to Rita's after, too? Do some dancing?"

"Sounds like a plan. Just let me go get changed."

"I'll meet you back down here."

We shared a smile, and I leaned up to give Cassian one last quick kiss before turning on my heel to go get ready. Rhys and Az both smiled at me as I left the room, and I shot them a wink as I left. I would've preferred it if they'd all given Cassian and I our space tonight, but at the end of the day, we wouldn't have admitted our feelings for each other without our nosy, pushy friends. So I couldn't exactly stay mad at them, at least not this time.

****************

Everything Taglist: @rosecentury @kmc1989

#sophie's year of fic #a court of thorns and roses #cassian #cassian x reader #a court of thorns and roses fanfiction #a court of thorns and roses oneshot #a court of thorns and roses imagine #acotar #cassian fanfiction #cassian imagine #cassian oneshot #acotar fanfiction #acotar oneshot #acotar imagine #acotar x reader #morrigan #azriel #the inner circle #the night court #rhysand

[ratsonastick]

Painting Red

ClarisseLaRue x Fem!ShyReader

(SORRY NOT FULLY EDITED)

You never talked to Clarisse, partly because you never had the time to make new friends and she was a scary person to approach. 

You heard of the stories, of how she would beat kids up and try to drown them in the toilets, all these stories made it a lot harder even to want to befriend her. 

But it wasn't until the day you hated the most (besides capturing the flag) arrived were you forced to talk to her.

Camp Day. 

Camp day was exactly what it sounded like, it was a day when all the older campers were paired up and had to create an activity all the younger campers would enjoy and they would rotate in groups to come to your activities. 

As a younger camper, you hated it, and you still do to this day. 

“Ugh, I’m so happy! I'm paired with Luke.” Your friend Hailey said as she skipped next to you “Who's that?” You asked, your mind slightly clouded as you stressed about your partner being Clarisse. 

“You're kidding right,” She asked as she stopped skipping and looked at you. You shook your head and stopped walking to look at her. Hailey shook her head and put a sweet smile back onto her face “Okay whatever, who's your partner.” 

You looked down at the paper to double-check, maybe it had magically changed? Nope. 

“Clarisse la Rue.” You mumbled, folding the paper back up and shoving it into the pockets of your jean shorts. Hailey’s face went into a pencil-straight smile and nodded her head slowly which made you scoff and walk past her. 

“Maybe it won't be that bad…” She started to say before you cut her off with a side-eye. “Okay just go find her and talk about what you guys want to do,” Hailey suggested which made you sigh.

“She's going to want to do hardcore things! I just want to sit and paint and yell at the younger kids.” You mumbled which made her smile “Hey! At least you guys have something in common! Yelling at the younger campers.” 

You shook your head and eventually, Hailey walked off getting distracted by something. You kept on walking, trying to find the curly brunette who always seemed angry at the world. 

Eventually, you found her, sitting on the steps of her cabin eating an apple. You took in a deep breath and decided to walk up to her, it was either now or sometime later. When you grew close enough Clarisse looked up and scanned your body, trying to search for something, or maybe memorize what you looked like. 

“Hi Clarisse, sorry to bother but we were paired up for the camp day thing …” You started but she cut you off. “Okay, pick something to do.” She mumbled and you nodded your head, “Okay!” 

You stood there for a few more seconds before abruptly turning and walking away, leaving Clarisse staring at the back of you with a weird look. 

Another camper from her cabin walked out and stood next to her, “Why are you letting her choose? She probably picked something stupid.” 

Clarisse shrugged her shoulders “Are you trying to be nice to her?” The camper started again which made Clarisse give them a mean look “Stop saying stupid things, I’m just not going to be there half of the time, so I might as well let her do something she likes.” 

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

The next day you gathered some items and started to walk towards the crafts cabin, it was sunny out, and you had to pull your hair back so the sweat wouldn’t gather in your hair. You secretly wished that Clarisse would help you carry these things, you had seen her carry heavier things and act like it was nothing, so where was she when you needed her for the first time. 

Almost like you had manifested it Clarisse appeared at your side, her face was blank with annoyance but you still whispered out a small hello just to be nice to her. “So what are we doing?”

‘We’? The last thing you heard from another camper was that you were doing this on your own, now she's saying it's going to be a group activity like it should be? What! 

“Uhm I was thinking we could just keep it simple and do painting.” You spoke readjusting the things in your hands, she gave you a weird look for what you choose but you looked forward “Hey! You said I could choose. If you have an issue with painting, that's on you for not telling me.” 

You talked back to her, Clarisse was a bit surprised how strong your voice sounded, it was almost attractive to her. 

The two of you continued to walk and when you arrived at the small cabin you placed the items down letting out a small sigh of relief. 

Clarisse sat down and tossed a ball in between her hands as she avoided looking at you. You didn’t want to ask her anything so you quietly started to get to work. Placing out plates and bottles of paints for the next day. 

After a few moments Clarisse looked up at you and watched as you started to work, she couldn't help herself but stare at you from behind, you were cute. 

For a few moments Clarisse started to feel ashamed of herself, what was she doing? She was supposed to ditch you like she had been telling everyone and yet she sat here. For some reason your presence was nice, and how you didn’t force her into conversations like everyone else. 

You on the other hand felt a bit awkward, the silence was nice but since you've never really talked to her before it felt like there was this tension surrounding you. After 30 minutes Clarisse finally got up from the comfy chair and walked over to you “Do you need anything?” She asked, her face seemed like she was being snarky but deep down she honestly wanted to help. 

“Uhm could you just help me carry these boxes back to the shed?” The boxes were almost emptied but Clarisse still reached for the one that looked the heaviest. 

The two of you walked out of the art cabin and remained side by side, it was a bit awkward but also comforting. No one looked at you strangely because you had her at your side, it was nice. 

Clarisse wanted to speak up but for once she didn’t know what to say. She didn’t hate you and she genuinely wanted you to like her for some reason. These feelings were so strange to her, and a part of her didn't know what to do. It had only been a short few hours and yet she was still craving to grow closer to you. 

As you grew closer to the shed you quickly opened the door placed the box on the ground and turned to face Clarisse, “So I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then?” you spoke softly, your hands moving around because they didn’t know where to go and Clarisse noticed how your cheeks were flushed from the air. 

“Yeah, see you tomorrow.” 

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

When it came time for campers to come to your activity you stood there nervously, fixing things that didn’t even need adjusting. 

Clarisse was getting annoyed by how frantic you seemed and stood up from her chair “Y/N sit down.” She ordered you in a gentle voice and you obeyed, sitting down in the seat she had been sitting in before you, her scent still lingering.

She stood with her arms crossed looking at the door, only a few moments later and campers started to flood in. there were so many Ares campers and a part of you wondered if Clarisse had told them to come (She did.) 

You stood up from the chair and started to explain what to do, which was to paint whatever and just not get messy. You turned to the record player and turned it up so people could listen to music as they talked. 

You were proud of yourself, for doing this all, and eventually found yourself sitting down and painting. You didn’t know what to do exactly but you found yourself drawing a heart. And not just a simple one but a scientifically accurate heart. 

To some it might have looked weird because it most definitely wasn't something cute to paint, but as Clarisse sat down next to you she nudged your shoulder with a smirk on her face “That's pretty” 

You smiled at her, turning back to your paper and looking at it. You could still see her looking at you, or maybe it was the painting in your peripheral vision. 

Clarisse couldn’t paint, she never really tried, so she decided to draw the moon and sun. She hated how it looked, it was like a kid had drawn it which made her grow slightly angry. She let out  huff and she placed her brush down which caught your attention. 

“What's wrong?” You asked softly and she rolled her eyes “Nothing.” You nodded your head gently and looked away “If it was nothing you wouldn’t be angry … So tell me how I can help.” Clarisse looked at you surprised you wanted to help her, even though she was having one of her fits. 

“I cant draw the moon, or the sun.” She sighed and you nodded your head moving slightly closer to her to look at the paper. Clarisse liked how you smelled, your shampoo and perfume mixed together to create such a calming aroma. 

She relaxed as she watched you sketch something out for her using a pencil “There you go.” You smiled as you leaned away. 

Clarisse nodded her head as she started to paint inside the lines, she messed up the warmth you gave her when you were close. 

When the activity ended Clarisse and you were left cleaning everything, you didn’t mind, humming slightly to the song on the record player. 

Clarisse tossed things into the trash whereas you were a bit more careful not wanting the paint to splatter on the ground. 

You were both quiet, Clarisse occasionally looking up to see what you were doing. When you finished cleaning you both came a little bit closer combing the trash together. 

While you did so a plate accidentally flung back and splattered onto you which caused you to gasp quietly. 

Clarisse stood there covering her face so she wouldn't laugh “Don’t you dare laugh Clarisse.” you spoke, your eyes still closed so you wouldn't see the mess on you. “I’m not … I promise” She whispered small breaths of air escaping her mouth instead of laughter. 

“It's all on my face” you whispered as you brought your hand up to feel it, “Mhmmm” She hummed as she looked around for a paper towel. 

“Here let me” She whispered as she grew closer to you, the breath from her nose fanning your cheek gently as she brushed your skin with the towel. 

The moment strangely felt intimate, or maybe a part of you wanted it to be. 

“I almost got it all” She mumbled as she turned your chin to the other way to rub the paint off the other side. Her movements were slow, almost like she didn’t want the moment to end. She then started to scrub your lips, but after a few seconds it wasn't the towel that was touching you, it was her finger. Gently caressing your lip causes it to open slightly. 

“Y/n?” She whispered out softly causing you to hum in response “Can I?” She asked, not wanting to fully say it. 

You opened your eyes slightly realizing how close she truly was, and all you did was nod before closing your eyes once more and feeling her lips instead of her finger. 

Her lips were soft and tasted like cherries, like she had prepared for this moment ahead of time and wore chapstick. 

After a few moments she pulled away her slightly warmed face “Okay well I should go” She whispered out taking a step back and leaving you behind confused. 

Clarisse felt a bit ashamed, not because she kissed a girl, but because she kissed someone, period. 

It felt weird to share such an intimate moment with someone, it's something she never really cared to do before (especially because she was an Ares kid) Being in love with someone just never crossed her mind, it was always just other ways to appeal to her father. 

As she left she started to miss the feeling and regret not staying closer to you, she wanted you. 

You on the other hand were still standing where you were left, your fingers gently grazing your lips, the feeling of her chapstick still on your lower lip. 

While you looked for the art you made you started to realize you couldn't find it on the drying rack, it was gone … but Clarisse’s still had hers here, probably meaning she took yours and left hers behind for you. 

The next few days you didn’t look for Clarisse, hoping that eventually she’d come to you when she was ready. And when it came to the fifth day, footsteps could be heard walking towards your bunk in your cabin. 

When you looked up from your book you saw her standing there, wearing jean shorts for what seemed like the first time (Hopefully not the last they had you gagged truly) 

“Kiss me” She spoke out like it was a demand, she wanted to feel you again, she wanted to know how it felt to feel love and not violence for once. 

And you obeyed. 

#percy jackon and the olympians #x reader #clarisse la rue #clarisse x reader #wlw #camp half blood #dior goodjohn #luke castellan

[hopelesslyromanticshark]

Hi!!! I hope your doing well!! I was wondering if I could request Travis Stoll x Female Reader (daughter of Poseidon) friends to lover, a headcanon preferably. There is seriously not enough fanfics about him.

⋆⭒˚.⋆ travis stoll x daughter of poseidon! reader hcs

content: travis stoll x daughter of poseidon! reader hcs warning: language (i think?? statically speaking, probably), kisses between people who are in love (gross lol) author's note: okay, okay, so i went into this one with high hopes but then i hit a wall. i have literally no idea what happened but i got lost in my mind and this came out. deepest apologies but it's alright??? to me anyways. i tired fixing it a few times but that just made it worse so this is what we get i guess. i hope you like it, that's kinda all that matters to me.

you guys have such a cute meet-cute...in travis' opinion. you not so much.

it had been meant for percy, he clarified every time you guys told someone this story.

percy had brutally kicked his ass during training and travis was determined to get revenge in his favorite way; harmless but extravagant pranks.

the children of poseidon were known for their light colored hair, natural highlights that were similar to when the sun glimmered off the water

so, naturally, travis bought blue hair dye and snuck into the cabin, pouring the whole bottle into both the shampoo and conditioner.

that night during dinner, travis made a point to bring his siblings attention over to the poseidon cabin, a proud smirk on his face.

"this is gonna be awesome," he told connor, who looked around with similar excitement.

"stoll!! You're dead!!" a shrill voice called, causing travis and connor to both spin around and they were meet by the sight of the daugther of poseidon, shaking with rage and blue highlights.

connor quickly moved away from his brother, determined to not become collateral damage.

"would it help if i told you that was meant for your brother?" travis managed to squeak out before a huge blob of water came crashing down on him, soaking the boy to the bone.

you've been besties ever since 🤩🫶

you got your own revenge, travis finding sand and blue glitter in the pockets of his clothes for months.

you two became known as a sort of power couple, of course behind your backs.

any mentions of you two being together romantically led to flustered faces and half-hearted rejections of the concept

which crushed the both of you, hearing the person you were starting to fall in love with reject that idea of you two together

nope, totally fine, doesn't even matter. who cares? I don't care

one evening, following a rather daring prank against the ares cabin, travis couldn't seem to find sleep.

he laid in his bunk in his over crowded cabin and in between counting sheep, he'd think of his best friend.

his best friend that he wished was more than just a best friend.

travis huffed to himself and something snapped inside him

he threw his blankets off and went to one of the nearby windows, making sure to avoid the campers on the ground as he went.

he pushed it open, sloppily falling out of the window without much grace. he got back up and began walking towards cabin 3, determination filling his bones

but then he stopped, tilting his head as the sight of another camper breaking out of their cabin caught his attention.

the exact camper he had set out to see actually

"y/n?" he hissed across the courtyard, the girl spinning away from the window with wide eyes.

"travvy?" she whispered back, glancing around before approaching him, her arms wrapped around herself and her eyes refusing to meet his.

"what are you doing out?" travis pushed, pushing a rock around with his foot, hating how awkward this was going. she was his best friend, for gods sake.

"could ask you the same thing."

"touché."

there was a pause before their eyes finally met. a moment of nothing and then something.

the son of hermes and daughter of poseidon were now kissing in the middle of all the cabins, their arms holding solidly onto the other and their lips basically sealed together.

months and months of pining all accumulated to this moment, this desperate and wanton kiss.

now, they proudly wore the title of power couple.

author's note cont. : real talk, i want to like this one so bad but i just... can't. something about it rubs me the wrong way. and by something i mean my writing but I've tried to fix it a few times and it has gotten better. but, i'm not gonna dwell on this, live moves on and it's at least decent!! anyways, love yall and hope you're having super fun and fantastic days.

#postcards from covey ౨ৎ #all my love ౨ৎ #hoo #percy jackson #pjo #travis stoll #travis stoll x reader #connor stoll #percy jackon and the olympians #percy pjo

[integra1127grimmreaper]

Should Probably Leave (Joel Miller)

Joel Miller Masterlist

Series Masterlist

Warning: fluff, implied smut, angst

Summary: After being Sarah's babysitter for the past ten years, Joel and you finally act upon your feelings for one another but your chance at a good life pushes Joel to make sacrifice it all. Inspired by - Chris Stapleton's - You Should Probably Leave.

"So, officially part of the workin' class..." a very familiar voice drawls out from behind, causing you to turn around with a broad smile.

"Hey, Joel... thought we weren't comin'."

Joel audibly scoffs, "miss my favorite person's graduation party...? Never", giving you a playful wink then.

You roll your eyes at his words, "favorite person? Only because I've babysat your kid for cheap for the past ten years."

Joel presses a hand to his chest in pretend offense, "ya wound me, Sweetheart."

With another eyeroll, you softly chuckle at him, "where's Sarah?"

"Out back, with the rest of the kids" he nods his head in the direction, "she'll come round to pester ya soon 'nuff."

"Guess she don't need me much anymore now she's a teenager..." you remark disheartened as you think of the once four-year-old little girl that used to cling to like a barnacle.

"Nah, ya still her best friend" Joel attempts to cheer you up.

You respond with a weak smirk, shrugging, "if ya say so."

"Ahem..." Joel clears his throat, awkwardly scratching the back of his head, "got ya a lil graduation gift."

"Really...?" you stare at him in starry-eyed disbelief.

"It's at the house though" he nervously chuckles, "wanted to give it to ya in private, without makin' a fuss"; referring to the house filled with people.

"No-fuss-Miller..." you giggle at his explanation and his chuckles along, nodding.

"Yeah. Come round later and I'll give to ya?"

"Sure thing, Miller" you broadly smile in agreement.

The interaction between Joel and you end when your mother calls you over to talk to someone and you leave Joel to head over to them. What you didn't notice though; was the look of yearning on his face as you walked away from him.

"Hi there..." you smile at Joel when he opens the door for you.

"Hey, c'mon in" Joel flashes you a dimpled smile, stepping aside to allow you entrance.

"Sarah home?" you enquire at how quiet the house was.

"Nope. Sleepover at a friend's" Joel responds, shutting the door.

"Was hopin' we'd do a movie night" you plop onto the couch with a disappointed sigh.

"Sorry to disappoint ya, hun..." Joel plops down next to you, a small gift box in hand.

"That my gift?" you eagerly eye it.

"Ain't we an eager beaver...?" Joel teasingly bobs his head from side to side, handing it over to you then.

"Don't start with me, Miller..." you shoot him a glare, lips twitching in amusement as you open the box.

"Oh my gosh, Joel!" you stared open mouthed at the silver pedant necklace.

Joel shyly smirks at your reaction, "it's a Celtic infinity knot cross. Symbolizes everlastin' love, friendship an loyalty, least what the guy at the jeweler said..."

Your heart couldn't help but skip a beat at the mention of everlasting love. Could he possibly feel the same as you? Then again, he mentioned friendship, so it was only wishful thinking on your side as always. Joel had never once shown any interest you and you were quite sure he never would.

"Want me to put it on for ya?" Joel enquires, snapping you out of your thoughts.

"Sure" you hastily move your hair out the way for him to put on.

"Perfect..." Joel remarks, admiring the pedant resting on your chest.

Reaching up to touch it, your stared starry-eyed at him, "it's beautiful, Joel... thank you."

Joel silently returns the stare; you were absolutely breathtaking, and he wanted to kiss you more than anything at that moment. Knowing that it was quite impossible but not wanting you to leave just yet, Joel offers up something he had never before.

"If ya still keen on the movie night, I don't mind still doin' it... that is, if ya fine with it."

Ecstatic at his offer but not wanting to seem too eager, you teasingly act taken aback, "ya really prepared to sit through a chick flick just to keep me company, Miller?"

Joel scoffs, rolling his eyes at your remark, "as if I ain't done it every time Sarah an ya have a movie night..."

"She always falls asleep halfway through..." you chuckle, nodding in agreement.

"Then ya forced to sit through the rest of it with just my ol' ass for company" Joel drawls in response.

"Ya ain't old..." you scoff, lightly slapping his arm in protest.

"If ya say so" Joel utters out under his breath, giving his head a little shake then, "so, what torture ya got for me this evenin'?"

Reaching for your bag, you flash him a sly smirk, "actually brought two, one to watch with Sarah an one you would enjoy, for after she fell asleep..."

"Really?" Joel's eyes widen in excited interest, "whataya got?"

Taking the DVD out, you playfully wave it in front of his face.

"Oooo... that's one of my favorites!" Joel gasps, snatches it out of your hands in excitement.

"I know" you chuckle in response, "thought I'd repay ya for all the times ya were to finish watchin' all those chick flicks with me."

"Ya a doll!" Joel comment, causing you to lightly blush at his words.

"No problem..."

"This calls for snacks an some drinks, don't cha think?" Joel enthusiastically jumps up from the couch scampering towards the kitchen whilst you shook your head, giggling in amusement.

*

I know it ain't all that late But you should probably leave

And I recognize that look in your eyes Yeah, you should probably leave

'Cause I know you and you know mech And we both know where this is gonna lead You want me to say that I want you to stay So you should probably leave Yeah, you should probably leave

As interesting as the movie was, you found Joel to be way more; sneaking side-eye peeks at him every time you took a sip your drink.

What you didn't know was; that Joel was quite aware of what you were doing, making it extremely difficult for him to fight the urge to just give in and kiss you. As much as he wanted to, Joel knew it was impossible, you were everything could possibly want a woman; smart, fun, strong, and most importantly; you cared deeply for his daughter. Even though you were only twelve years older than Sarah, you were the closes thing to a mother figure she had ever known. Although it seemed that she wasn't fazed by the possibility of you moving away, Joel knew his daughter well enough to know that the girl was shattered by it. You were the most constant woman in her life and soon you would be leaving, it wasn't far off to believe that the girl felt that she was losing her second chance at having a mother. Sarah never knew her real mother, so there wasn't much to miss about her. But you... you were part of her life for the past ten years and that meant the loss of you would hurt far more.

Sarah wasn't the only one being torn apart by the realization though, Joel was too. He wanted more than anything to keep you by their sides, yet he knew it was impossible. You were still young, had your entire life ahead of you, was just about to start the career of your dreams, unlike him. He was washout and old, a father to a teenager and he knew it would be selfish of him to ask you to stay with them. You had your own life to live, even if it meant breaking his and Sarah's hearts in the process.

*

There's still time for you to finish your wine Then you should probably leave And it's hard to resist, alright, just one kiss Then you should probably leave

'Cause I know you and you know me And we both know where this is gonna lead You want me to say that I want you to stay So you should probably leave Yeah, you should probably leave

Like a devil on my shoulder, you keep whisperin' in my ear

And it's gettin' kinda hard for me to do the right thing here I wanna do the right thing, baby

As the movie continued, Joel was finding it more difficult to keep his need for you suppressed, especially when you lean into him to rest your head against his shoulder. Lost in the moment and as if it was the most natural reaction, Joel absentmindedly places his arm around you, pulling you closer to his side.

Attempting your best to hide a satisfied smirk, you begin playing with the taut material of his t-shirt spanning across his middle.

"Whataya doing...?" Joe's voice calls you out.

"Er... nothing" you slowly retreat your hand, but Joel stops it.

"Now why don't I believe ya, Sweetheart...?"

"Don't know what ya mean" you murmur, feeling put on the spot as you attempt to pull away from him.

"Nuh-uh..." Joel quickly responds, gripping your chin to look him in the eyes, "ya know exactly what I mean."

"Joel..." you softly plea, tears of frustration prickling your eyes.

"Jesus..." Joel mutters out at the needy look in your eyes. Not able to any further deny either of you of what you both desperately wanted, Joel's head tips down to capture your lips in a gentle kiss.

Letting out a soft whimper, you reach up to bury your fingers in the back of Joel's hair; allowing him the opportunity to slip his tongue into your mouth and deepen the kiss.

"Just as sweet as I thought ya would taste..." Joel slur against your lips.

"Less talkin', more kissin'..." you grumble out, causing Joel to chuckle as he pulls you into his lap.

"I got ya, Sweetheart..."

The kiss becomes more heated then as Joel's hands travel up your dress to grip at of your bottom. Letting out an approving at the contact and feeling the swell of Joel's erection beneath, you slowly began grinding down onto it. Breathing out a deep moan, Joel's grip on you tightens as he assists by rocking you against his clothed member.

Breaking from the kiss for some air, Joel rests his forehead against yours, "wanna take this to the bedroom?"

You against him once with a soft whine, "please..."

*

Sun on your skin, 6 am And I been watchin' you sleep And honey, I'm so afraid you're gonna wake up and say That you should probably leave

'Cause I know you and you know me And we both know where this is gonna lead I want you to stay, but you'll probably say That you should probably leave

Yeah, you should probably leave Oh, you should probably leave

Joel silently stared at your beautiful features as you laid sleeping draped over him, you were absolutely magnificent, and he still couldn't believe that last night had happened. He felt like the happiest man alive at that moment, yet he knew the feeling would be short-lived and it was killing him to have to attempt it. You could never be his, not the way he wanted you to be, not when you had so much potential ahead of you.

He wished that last night had never ended and that this morning had never come. Joel knew he had to let you go and live your life, even it meant breaking both your hearts to do so.

NXT

#joel miller #joel x reader #joel x you #joel tlou #the last of us #pedro pascal

[turvi]

Who Did This to You?

Young Severus Snape x f! Reader

Summary: A prank played by Marauders on Y/n went wrong. Now Severus is furious.

Warning: bullying, kissing

Only 12 mins to go and then Professor McGonagall will wrap up her lessons and Y/n will be in the arms of one Severus Snape. She can't help the beaming smile on her face at that thought. Ever since she was able to break through the emotional walls Severus built throughout the years (which was a difficult and time taking task no doubt) they have been inseparable.

They mutually decided to keep their relationship seeing they had only two years left at Hogwarts not wanting their relationship to become yet another target for Marauders and they enjoyed the time they spent away from prying eyes, they could hold hands a minute longer, they could kiss until their lungs begged for oxygen.

Y/n looked at her watch again. Only five minutes left. Her heart fluttered. Merlin, she is whipped. Can she help it? Nope.

"What a pretty smile Y/nn am I the reason behind it ?" Sirius whispers

"You wish Padfoot" Godric Y/n promises time has not moved slower.

"Class Dismissed" as soon as those words came out of Professor McGonagall's mouth Y/n picked up her bag and made a beeline towards the door when she felt a tug on my skirt. When she turned around to find the cause she found Sirius' hand tugging her skirt.

"You know love your skirt is too short for my liking" Sirius chuckles darkly

"Sirius leave my skirt people are looking," Y/n said sternly

"He is right you know love your skirt is so long we can't even see your knees I think we should fix it," James said

Before Y/n even could take her wand out to defend herself James muttered a spell decreasing the size of Y/n's skirt so much that she feared if she bent forward slightly the whole corridor would be able to have a peek at her lacey panty. Tears brimmed her eyes all of a sudden feeling too cautious of the eyes of students now on her as they giggled and whispered she quickly put her hands on her skirt.

"Merlin, Y/n we didn't mean to make it that short let me fix it," Sirius said raising his hand towards her but she backed away from him.

"You have done enough Sirius. You have embarrassed me in front of the whole school."

Sirius opened his mouth to say something but Y/n put her palm up

"Just get away from me. There is a limit to do pranks Sirius." she yelled as her cheeks are now tear stained dropping freely when she turned around to get away from public eyes, hands held tight around the skirt as she ran away giggles increasing in volume as she made poor attempt at holding her skirt down. As soon as she turned around the corner she collided into someone.

She lost her balance due to the impact but the person in front of her grabbed her shoulders, she looked up to apologize to whoever it was. Severus. His onyx eyes quickly accessed the situation

Her heart now pounded against her chest as she tried to hide the fact she was crying but her lover's cold hand held her chin to make her look up.

"Who did this to you" his voice cold and deep sending shivers up her spine.

Before she could respond she heard footsteps halting behind her. She turned around to see Sirius and James followed her. Now Severus saw red. It was enough that they bullied him, but bullying his girl is too much.

As Severus took a step forward they took two steps back not liking the look on his face they never saw but before he could even speak Y/n held him back.

"Leave it Severus they are not worth it" he just looked at her before turning back to them.

"You better apologize to her now or my potions will destroy you so badly your own mothers will not be able to recognize you" he sneered

"We are extremely sorry Y/n we honestly didn't mean to, we will never bother you again," James said quickly

Severus took a step forward again this time making them run away.

As he looked at Y/n again she started sobbing into his chest as he increased the size of the skirt back to normal. He rubbed her back to calm her down.

"shh, I am here love, it's ok."

"Was that the first time you stood up to them?"

Severus softly chuckled at her inquiry "Yes love I shocked myself too"

"I was coming to surprise you but they ruined it"

He held her face gently between his hands as he brushed her lips with his.

"They can't ruin what we have love" his words mumbled as he kissed her like there is no tomorrow.

They break apart to take breath and Severus nuzzled his nose on her.

"How about we sit near black lake?"

"Yes please"

As Y/n took lead to go to the lake Severus grabbed her hand pulling her towards him. Her back hit his chest as he wrapped his arms around her and pressed soft kisses on her neck.

"I love you, Y/n"

Tears brimmed her eyes for the second time as she replied "I love you too Severus"

A/N: Was it good?

#severus snape x y/n #severus snape #severus x reader #severus x you #severus snape x reader #snapedom #young severus

[fabuloustrash05]

Some of My TMNT Hot Takes (PART 2) 🔥

Warning: More Opinions

Part 1 Here

I don’t like that in Mutant Mayhem Donnie is not a “science guy” but instead is more of an anime and pop culture geek. I’m not against him being an anime fan (I love anime too) but I wish we saw more of his science and being a tech genius side instead of him just liking stereotypical “nerdy stuff”. If that makes sense.

I don’t like the Punk Frogs (any version).

The 87 crossover episodes in the 2012 series (as much as I did enjoy them & are great episodes) should not have happened. They leave no real impact or development to 2012’s overarching story and just waste time. These episodes could’ve covered more important things that 202 was desperately lacking like like character exploration and character dynamic development. It was just nostalgic fanservice. The arc in S5 specifically would’ve work better as a movie instead of a 3-4 episode arc in the (most likely non canon) final season.

Shinigami being Mikey’s second love interests ruins her character a bit (for me personally). That was a pointless decision that did NOT need to happen. She would’ve been our first recurring female character to not be a love interest, but nope!

People are allowed to like/ship Donnie x April in ROTTMNT (this is coming from someone who’s not crazy about April being shipped with the Turtles).

I ship Yuichi with 2012 Leo more than Rise Leo (still ship Rise Leoichi, but I just think 2012 Leoichi is way more interesting, plus 2012 Leo deserves a good love interest).

The humans in Mutant Mayhem look ugly af (I know that was probably an intentional design choice but still. It looks bad.)

I hate Raph x Casey (any ver). I’ve stated in part one that I don’t like Raph (any version) being in a romantic relationship with human characters and yes, that meant him with Casey. Not only that but Raph and Casey being a couple ruins their whole dynamic and iconic friendship I love so much. I’m all for friends to lovers but they are a line that should not be crossed. Not every friendship needs to turn romantic.

2012 Karai’s hair looks bad.

Fans often over exaggerate Rise Donnie’s character and badly mischaracterize him in fanfics and fan comics to the point it makes him feel like he’s an entirely different character.

Shinigami should have been revealed to be a villain.

Rise Donnie was just as mean to his brother as fans claim 2012 Raph was to his. Yes, they both do love their families and I’m NOT saying either of them are abus!ce (they’re not), but fans praising Rise Donnie for doing similar things fans criticize/hate 2012 Raph for doing just makes them hypocrites.

Venus does NOT need to be in every iteration of TMNT. It gets kind of annoying when fans keep on saying that she should be in all the other iterations when in truth her presence would not make sense based on the already established canon story. The only (recent) version of TMNT where I think her being included would’ve fit the best and deserved to make her comeback in is ROTTMNT.

The side plot of 2012 Karai being mutated and later getting brainwashed by Shredder was a waste of time and the most boring arc in the series.

2012 April, Donnie and Casey being in a poly relationship does not fix anything with their problematic dynamic and massive flaws with one another. I'm not saying you can't ship all three of them together, you do you! Idc But in reality their relationship would be a train wreck, that's why I personally don't ship 2012 Capriltello.

Renet is probably one of the most powerful allies the Turtles have in the 2012 series.

Rise Donnie would NOT hate 2012 April. He’d go crazy over her psychic powers and want to study them to help her explore them more.

From what I've seen so far, Leo x Usagi seems like the only GOOD ship in the 2003 series (this hot take might change tho).

Raph had the best character arc and development in the 2012 series and changed the most out of the four brothers. Next would be Leo. With Mikey and Donnie have little development (or none at all sadly).

#hot take #tmnt #teenage mutant ninja turtles #mutant mayhem #tmntmm #tmnt 1987 #tmnt 2012 #rottmnt #rise of the tmnt #tmnt 2003 #tmnt leonardo #tmnt raphael #tmnt michelangelo #tmnt donatello #april o'neil #casey jones #tmnt karai #tmnt shinigami #renet tilley #venus de milo #yuichi usagi #usagi miyamoto

[luvistqrzzz]

me personally i think you need to write something sunoo

you're the one i want at the end of the day

01:54 sunoo x f.reader genre: timestamp, f2l, fluff wc: 0.9k warnings: being drunk, profanity, one kiss

summary: when a piggy back ride home leads you to another destination

an: the fact that i had this in my draft for ages and was thinking when to post it😭😭... TYSM for reuquesting this luv🫶🫶 hope you enjoy this <3... i wrote this in a whim one day so excuse me if this isnt that good :/

'Sunoo-ahhhh', You slurred as the said boy dragged you out of Jay’s front door.

Jake, Jay's roommate who was leaning against the door frame, made a disgusted face, 'Fuck, get her out of her. How is she so wasted?'

Turning towards Jake, you raised an accusatory finger at him, 'Yah! I am not… Wasted!'

'Sure you aren't, Y/N', Sunoo whisper screamed. 'Now, let's go.'

After somehow managing to pull a drunk girl out of the house, he sat down on the curb beside you who was swaying slightly before you plopped your head down on Sunoo's shoulder.

The boy stiffened for a fraction of a section, feeling you so close before relaxing again. He was glad that it was 1 o'clock in the morning and the dim street light hid his blushing cheeks. 

He put an arm around you, slightly shaking you, 'Y/Nie, get up, we need to get to the apartment.'

You pulled your head up. 'Nope! I won't. I like it here, with you.' You giggled, snuggling closer to your roommate plus best friend.

Sunoo couldn't help the butterflies filling his stomach, this was so unlike you. Alcohol and its effects. 'We are sitting on a curb', he sighed, making you stand up with him.

You whined a bit before Sunoo pulled up behind him in a piggy back style. 'You have left me no choice, Y/L/N Y/N.'

Thankfully the apartment was just a few blocks from Jay’s place. 

Walking down an empty road in a cool summer night, Sunoo felt a calming silence settle between the two of you.

He turned his head back to find your head on his shoulder, looking up towards the starry night sky. He felt a funny little happiness in him at the sight of your beautiful drunken face staring into the dark abyss. 

'It's so pretty', you mumbled innocently, having sobered up a bit.

Sunoo nodded but you continued, 'I can count 1, 2, 3… 14, 15 and yes, 16!' You exclaimed looking at Sunoo. 'My 16th star, you.'

He chuckled at your antics, his heart doing a little leap, 'Y/N, you aren't in your right mind.'

What were you even implying? Sunoo didn't want his mind to run into false assumptions but the way you looked at his and pressed your cheek against his, he almost wished you felt the same. Almost.

'I am, Kim Sunoo! You are prettier than those stars, you know.'

'Oh really?!' He continued walking.

'Did you also know?' You whispered into his ear, giggling. 'That I like you Kim Sunoo so so much! Oops! That was a secret.' You whimpered, I don't think you like me back, though.'

Sunoo couldn't even control his beating heart and the way his stomach was jumping at each of your words. Were you being real? No no, these must be your drunken words.

But a small voice inside his head spoke, Aren't drunken words sober thoughts…?

You couldn't possibly like him… right?

Well, wrong because the poor red haired boy didn't know how hopelessly in love you were with him, how he was the literal sunshine of your life and how you would give anything to make him feel happy.

Sunoo stopped in his tracks as you whispered, 'I really mean it, Sunoo-ah. I might be a bit drunk but- Ouch!' You yelped as he suddenly dropped his arms causing you to tightly grip on to his shoulders with your feet dangling. Being short definitely had its disadvantages.

You grimaced, placing your feet on the ground. Your head spun a little as you tried to position yourself but you were a lot more sober than the past five minutes, thanks to your sudden words.

The boy before turned around to face you, 'Did you…' He began, however interrupted by you.

'At least give me a warning before dropping me off like that!' You huffed, turning your gaze away from his, shy from your sudden earlier confession.

However, you had to admit that it was long coming. You just needed the push of liquid courage. 

Sunoo moved closer to you, taking your face in his hands, forcing you to look at him. You felt your cheeks burn up at the sudden contact.

'Did you…' he continued, 'Mean what you said two minutes back?'

You looked down at your feet, fidgeting, 'Would you hate me if I said I did? Would you sto-'.

No, you couldn't continue because in the next moment you saw Sunoo step closer to you, taking your face in his hands and met eyes with you, they held this intensity in them, saying something. 'No', he breathed out. 'I wouldn't hate you. I could never hate you, Y/N. I- i like you too.'

You almost couldn't help the smile forming as you closed the distance. Sunoo tensed a bit before melting into the kiss and pulling you by the waist.

When he finally broke the kiss, you looked up towards his bright eyes before you both bursted into a fit of giggles.

'Do you think the convenience store will still be open now?' You wondered.

Sunoo frowned, 'Why do you ask?!'

You smiled, taking his hand, before replying, 'I wanna sober up.'

'... And maybe have a late night picnic at the park beside it with my boyfriend!'

permanent taglist - open send an ask to be added - @rikizm @str0l0gy

feedbacks and reblogs are appreciated!

work belongs to @/luvistqrzzz do not copy repost or translate my work

#enhypen imagines #— works ! #enhanet #hyfenet #enhypen fanfiction #sunoo x reader #enhypen x reader #enhypen fanfics #enhypen smau #sunoo fanfic #enhypen au #sunoo imagines #kim sunoo #enha fics #enhypen fluff #sunoo fluff

[unadulterated-syd]

Carl Grimes x Male! Reader

Warnings — Mentions of scars + Ron in his angsty era (hes forgivable as always)

Req — anyways, i have a request for a carl grimes x male reader, where the reader has facial scars (two on either side of his mouth) from an incident before the apocalypse hit and hes really insecure about them and maybe in alexandria they could finally relax and the reader started noticing people staring at his face and asking about his scars more and he got insecure again then begins to accidentally distance himself from carl not realizing until carl finds him in his room and asks why and it takes a while but carl gets the reader to spit it out then carl just comforts the reader and cuddles him and all that fluffy bs

I went a little off track with this one + this is like season 5 or 6 Carl so he acts a bit sillier / more nervous

The apocalypse had seemed to not be the worst experience of your life— the lives taken leaving scars on your heart, but not on your skin.

You only had to share the stories of your heart with one person. And he always understood your boundaries, that it was far too hard for you to come out and say things.

However, you always told him eventually, because he knew you well enough to know you needed to tell someone.

You and he had been elated at the discovery of Alexandria, it was a beautiful place, and the people were shockingly lovely. For the most part, that is.

On your first day there, you held Judith while the two of you sat in for an interview— Deanna would have preferred that the two od you went in seperately but you refused.

You could never be too careful, but she did remind you of your pre-apocalyptic grandma. She got extra points for that.

Carl lightly answered her questions as you looked out the houses front windows, exploring the small sea of people— small for a town, huge for the world as it was now.

"And you, Y/n? Inspirations?", she broke you from your thoughts, eyes sealed on your face.

It felt like her eyes bored into the scars that lay there, scars that had nothing to do with an apocalypse. Ones that rested in a life you wished dearly to move from.

You pressed on anyway, you couldn't scare her away on day one. Pressing your tongue to the roof of your mouth, you made a soft click before responding.

"Nope, no not really.", you paused, "I'll do anything you need, I'm a good shot."

"Shot?", it was her turn to pause, as if she couldn't fathom you and carl handling guns, "No, that's not necessary. We've got better jobs for boys your age."

You didn't respond, looking back out the window.

—

The jobs as promised never really came— not for Carl anyways. They sent him to school with the other kids, wanting you to do the same, but you refused.

Reluctantly, Deanna sent you to watch over the younger kids— mostly concluding of Judith and Sam, whilst the other kids took classes and the adults did their jobs.

Ron and Carl got close quick, followed by Carl and Enid becoming friends as well. It felt a bit lonelier, but you were glad he was healing.

And it all felt fine until Ron came to grab Sam. He was upset, god knows why, but he tried to hold it together— be nice to the new guy, especially infront of his brother.

"Sam, c'mon.", he grumbled, leaning his weight against the right side of the doorframe, obviously in a hurry.

You looked up, sat on the floor in front of Sam, setting up a railroad track for his train engine. Sam looked over his shoulder, blinking at his older brother.

"But, Y/n and I are busy— he's helping me build this for Choo." Ron's eyes rolled, but he figured he ought to treat you kindly.

"Well hurry it up," his eyes flickered to you, letting out a breath of excess air, "Please."

"Sam we can finish tomorrow." You whispered, sensing the anger from the older boy— standing up you offered the younger boy a hand.

He didn't take it, clicking another piece together, in turn ignoring you all together. You looked at Ron, offering him an apologetic half-smile.

"Sorry."

Ron groaned, taking a couple steps further into the room, "C'mon, Sam, do this tomorrow— mom wants you home, and I want to go out. Hurry up."

Sam frowned deeper, pushing himself up, and grabbing his coat. On the way over to Ron, he turned to wave and wish his goodbyes.

All was fine but awkward until you heard their conversation on the way out— one you assumed you weren't supposed to hear.

"What's with Scarface, you need to listen dude—"

He hadn't even said it to hurt you, merely just to jab at his sensitive younger brother. But it hurt more than it should have, a lot more.

Everyone has scars. You told yourself, but that didn't fix it. That didn't fix the attachments to a time before, the memories you couldn't run away from due to the scars.

Not that Scarface as a term itself made you feel good.

—

It didn't take Carl long to notice the absence, the days where you'd walk him and Judith home now ended with Michonne bringing her home after patrolling.

Times where you'd sort through your clothes together, creating a full load for the washer rather than his now barely filled loads— ones he'd forced Judith's excess clothes into.

You'd both had such an insync schedule that he hadn't even stopped to recognize, one that felt wrong without you there.

But the worst part was the nights, nights were you'd sit on his floor together, peacefully enjoying the feeling of comfort— the feeling of being anything but alone.

He was too scared to ask, maybe you needed space— maybe everything he'd built with you had been too much or too fast for you, you two were kids.

Maybe he had gotten to close with you, maybe you hadn't even felt the same things he did. It wasn't like you'd discussed your relationship, it just felt right as it was. To him.

All he wanted was to make the right move.

By that point it'd weighed to heavy on him, dropping Judith off in the mornings with no Hello, no Good Morning. It felt like a rip in his heart, one he could heal if he was attentive.

He told Michonne that he'd get Judith today, and he walked with Ron so he would be the last in there— Sam being the last kid to be picked up if anyone besides Judith showed up.

"Y/n." He greeted, nervousness hidden well, taking fast steps into the nearly vacant room. You looked up, Judith cuddled in your arms.

"Carl?"

"Y/n." He called again, now stood in front of you. You gave him a confused look, why was he fumbling so hard to say anything other than your name?

"Sorry, sorry. Uhm."

"Carl spit it out." You encouraged, eyes studying his face as you did so. "What do you need?"

"What's wrong? Why are you being distant, if I did something tell me."

"What?"

"I mean it, Y/n. Did I scare you off? Was.. was something too much? Just tell me. Please."

"What are you talking about?"

His face fell, defeated completely. He felt invalidated, but you were confused. You hadn't even recognized the distance you'd created, the nervousness and heartbreak you were pushing on him.

"Have I not been around?" You asked, setting Judith in the crib you'd grabbed her from. Your look was geniune— he could tell you hadn't even known.

"Yes. Yeah, yeah, really distant."

"I'm sorry." You offered, looking down, "I.. I uhm. I haven't felt too well, seems silly now—"

"It's not silly, whatever it is."

"I told you I didn't like my life before this.. it's just— Ron said something and it scared me. He said something about some scars I have and it.."

But, he didn't make you finish. Why would he? A mixture of understanding and relief reluctantly washed over him.

"Dude.." He wrapped his arms around you, maybe too tight, not that you'd tell him that. "You can talk to me, tell me things... Ron says stupid things he—"

"I won't take it to heart, Carl." You hummed, settling your head into the collar of his flannel. "I didn't mean to be distant, it really just happens sometimes.."

He smiled, letting out a little laugh. "I feel a little stupid— I mean I.. well I have some questions now."

"Yeah?" You offered, pulling back enough to be in the embrace and see his face. He looked brilliant when he smiled— it didnt happen often but when it did everything bad seemed to disappear.

"Are you.. we, are we.." He thought about it, clicking his tongue and finally looking at you again, "Are you my boyfriend?"

You blinked at him for a moment— suprised he didn't shrink into himself when you took a moment to think. "Are you my boyfriend?'

"I want to be." He muttered, straightening himself out, "I really want to be."

"Yes, Grimes. You can be my boyfriend." You paused, grinning, "Don't get too cocky, I know I'm awesome and all."

"Oh, I will."

—

tags -> @loser-fics , @hea-vin , @ariianelle

#the walking dead #twd #carl grimes #carl grimes x reader #carl #the walking dead fluff #carl grimes x male reader #mlm #male reader

[lianobody]

Warnings: Worshipping behaviour, yandere platonic hashiras.

[Name] was a Goddess a very powerful one she cared for her people and gave them blessings her worshippers cared for her deeply but a certain group of 9 say they worship [Name] more then anyone or anything.

At night all the Hashira goes to an altar with your picture on it when they saw they picture all the Hashira smiled even Giyuu. with a lot of offerings on it. It can be roses or your favourite things. All the Hashira were very devoted to you and they all have there reasons for it. “Let’s pray for our loving Goddess!” Gyomei said all the Hashira nodded.

“Dear divine thank you for making us live another day. Without you we wouldn’t feel any emotion we hope we can forgive us for all the sins we did and if you can’t we promise we do anything for you to forgive us”

After the Hashira were done praying they got the gifts they got you and they placed it down on your altar. “I wish one day our divine one could come to Earth” Giyuu mumbled but yet all the Hashira could hear him. “I hate to agree with you but I want her to come down to Earth to” Sanemi said glaring at Giyuu rudely. They were about to go home until..

Someone dropped down from the building and fell face flat! It left a hole in the wall and the Hashira were mad and wanted to kill you for destroying your altar. The person taught they were a demon as they had black horns. “This demon destroyed our goddesses altar. We have to kill them brutally” Muichiro muttered madly. “I’ll make sure to torture them with a heavy poison!” Shinobu smiled in a menacing way. Obanai was about to stab you until you woke up. They looked at your appearance and you had star pupils? Only there divine one has star eyes! And you also have black horns? Do they think your there goddess? NOPE! They think your a copycat! “This copycat had the urge to copy our divine one appearance!“ Obanai madly said. “These are the people I helped when they were in a rough time. I remember but I don’t blame them for thinking I’m a identity fraud I wouldn’t believe myself either” you taught to yourself. “Wait I’m actually not a fraud!” You said! You were not scared as you were immortal. But not to your surpriseyou were “lying” that you were the God they worshipped. “You have guts to lie that your our divine one your nothing but a demon” Sanemi said smiling in a menacing way. You we’re going to defend yourself until Mitsuri’s blade scratched you. “That’s what you gets for disrespecting our God! >:(“. Gyomei about to finish the final blow until your Black blood was shown. All of them were thinking “Wait I taught demons had Red blood like us? Wait! That means!” They all went down all their knees immediately after they realized. “Please forgive us our divine one we were foolish and mistaken you for a demon and a fake” Gyomei said while crying. “It’s ok guys I forgive you all! You guys can stand” All the Hashira signed in relieved and they stood up. They wouldn’t know what to do if you didn’t forgive them they were grateful that your such a forgiving and nice God.

“Our divine one we are so grateful you ascended to earth!” Rengoku said coming one step closer to you. “I hope we will be of worth to you!” Tengen said. Meanwhile every Hashira was already thinking of a way to kidnap you. “Would you like to come with us. You don’t hav a place to stay..” Muichiro curiously said. “Oh don’t worry I’m good! I can just Uhm use magic to make a building” all the Hashira was mad at that! They needed there Goddess to stay with them! So Gyomei knocked you out and you were bleeding a little your very strong but physically weak. Sanemi went to go check on you “Lets hope she will still forgive us..” wiping your Black blood away.

Headcannons

Remember it’s platonic

• Some of the Hashira didn’t worship you in the beginning but after you went into there lives they couldn’t find a way for you to get back out.

• Sanemi didn’t worship you and often ignored the posters of you until after he killed his mom. While we was walking home still sad about his moms death he started to cry until he saw a poster of you. He felt happier? But why did he his mom died because of him. Until it clicked he felt happier because you felt pity and sadness for him you wanted to be his new mom. And he accepted that rather quickly. When he was still a kid and was killing demons by tying them up he said some lines such as “This is for [Name]” or “[Name] is proud of me” and after he kills the demon he says “I know your proud of me my divine one” or “My divine one are you proud of me? Why am I even saying this I know you are..right?” Sometime he kills people for sacrifices to you surely you enjoy the things he does for you?

• Even through he is colourblind he can see you in colour

• Tengen’s clan worshipped you so he was forced to worship you but he didn’t pray to you or participate in any religion related stuff since he didn’t participate in any religious stuff he taught you hated him. But after his clan died he felt lighter in his body and he felt Happier when it was raining he didn’t have an umbrella but an umbrella flew his way untouched and he taught you gave mercy on him. You still loved him you gave him a second chance he must make it up to you! He prays every night for forgiveness for 2 straight months. When he thinks he’s forgiven he does rituals. The rituals are that he kills people and puts their blood in a cup and prays hoping you will ascend to earth.

• Giyuu knew about you in the beginning but he really didn’t worship you he barley paid attention to you until his elder sister died he taught that was you punishing him for his ‘sins’ but he hated you he despised you after Sabito died he hated you more for not blessing him with luck until he ears a voice in his head saying “I’m sorry please forgive me” and he taught that was you. Why are you begging him to forgive you? Your the god not him but it doesn’t stop him from obsessing over you. Always praying to you and begs for blessings once in a while and you give them to him but not exactly.

• Giyuu is also the second one closest to you he taught you human things and took care of you. You see him as a dad. But he sees you as a fragile thing that needs to be protected.

• The day before Kanae died Shinobu saw Kanae having photos you everywhere the house and she was mad at her for this “Big sister! If [Name] was a really powerful god then why didn’t she save our family!” Kanae was smiling and just patted her head which made Shinobu rage intensify. After Kanae died Shinobu saw this as a warning to worship you and she did praying to every night but then she guilt tripped herself that you were her saviour and she convinced Kanao and Aoi to worship you to.

• Mitsuri didn’t worship you in the beginning as she didn’t know who you were but after her failed marriage courting she was walking and saw an altar she went in it and saw a picture of you. She saw how you were the most beautiful thing to exist she needed to worship you. She found out your name, your family member, your favorite things and your backstory she cries when she saw how you were so mistreated by your parents because you tried to go to Earth. she needed to protect you! And she did by killing people who spoke badly of you.

• Obanai was the first one to worship you while all the females in his family was worshiping the serpent demon he worshipped you. He had a dream of you and you were talking to him how he will escape one day. He woke up he didn’t want the dream to end. Before he met Mitsuri you were the only female he liked (Platonic) he kills people who dear disrespect the first women who helped him thru his trauma. He dreams of you 4 times a month and your the ones giving him dreams and you make sure to check on him daily.

• Muichiro didn’t really like you only because Yuichiro didn’t like you so he listened to Yuichiro but then after Yuichiro died he hated you more. Until he randomly started to forget things but why did he remember the hatred he has for you? Until it clicked. He only remembers you because you matter to him.. He’s happy he doesn’t forget you he prays to you daily and goes to your altar a lot.

• Muichiro clings onto you often when your in the basement no where to run.

• Gyomei Didn’t worship you as he worships Buddha but then one day we was walking past your altar he didn’t have any intentions to go in but he had a gut feeling to but then something unexpected happened. He acutally could see how you look like but he couldn’t see the people around him.. only your picture. This much be a sign he has to worship you! He worships you and prays to you daily. When he’s eating he always leaves a chair beside him as your sitting with him.

• Rengoku didn’t worship you in the beginning as he taught your the reason his mom died and his dad is an alcoholic until one day he saw senjuro praying to you. He didn’t like that one bit but he didn’t confront him but then the next day he saw Senjuro so much happier Rengoku knew it was your doing he decided to worship you. Whenever he’s in a conversation he always brings up you but if a person says anything rude about you ex: “She’s not the divine one” the only thing that will save them from death if there in another religion or they just say there joking and say compliments about you and Rengoku will join then into saying compliments.

After you ascended all the Hashira were so happy and they needed to kidnap you to make sure your ‘safe’ you can’t be rude to them its impossible for you to! You allow them to be clingy to you and kill people for you even though they disturb you. To make it even worse they are delusional to! They read all the scriptures about you they say no one can compare the worship we have to anyone else. They think you enjoy the things they are doing to you.

#demon slayer #yandere platonic demon slayer #yandere platonic #hashira #yandere demon slayer #worshippers #yandere worshipper #yandere platonic worshipper #yandere platonic demon slayer worshipper

[elizabethemerald]

A Shade Darker than Red: Part 8

An alarm sounded in the Monitor room of the Watchtower. The Justice League’s hidden space station base had been home to Bruce Wayne since the confrontation between himself and his family. He was begrudgingly giving them the space they demanded, though he knew eventually he would have to return to Gotham no matter their wishes to the contrary. Gotham needed Batman. He was the only thing that stood between the rogues and the common people of the city. 

When the alarm sounded he typed a few keys to cancel the alarm and show the full information on the screen. It wasn’t one of the usual JL alarms. They had monitors all over the planet and beyond sensing everything they could think of and most national and local governments had their own ways of reaching the League in the event of a disaster. Plus they tried to reach out to as many regional heroes as possible so they could call for backup if they needed to. 

Instead of one of those regular ones, it was one of Bruce’s own alarms that would only sound if he was on Monitor duty. He had numerous issues that he alone was monitoring, like his personal rogues and the other JL members in case they went rogue themselves. This alarm came from Arkham Asylum. A break out. In the most restricted section of the Asylum. That could only mean one thing. Joker. 

Bruce stood to his feet and stepped away to take a zeta tube down to Gotham. He clenched his fist in annoyance as a sudden rush of air revealed Superman to be standing in front of him. 

“Clark.” 

“Heading somewhere, Bruce?” Superman gave him a look that Bruce didn’t know how to interpret. Probably condescending. 

“Alarm in Arkham. If the Joker’s breaking out, I’m needed in the city.” Bruce went to step around Clark and was even more annoyed when Clark stepped with him, effortlessly keeping himself between him and the door. 

“The League doesn’t involve itself in cities with local heroes unless they specifically ask for help.” Clark said. “You wrote that rule yourself. It was one of the first rules you put in there.” 

If Bruce had less control over his facial expressions he would have sneered. Of course he had put in that rule, he didn’t want any of the League messing things up in his city. 

“Gotham is my city.” He kept the snarl out of his voice with difficulty. 

“It stopped being your city when you broke your own rule.” Clark said plainly. 

“Gotham needs Batman.” Bruce stepped forward into Clark’s space, his hand drifting down towards his utility belt, the motion covered by his cape. Except another rush of air passed by him and his hand came up empty when he reached for his kryptonite. 

“Let’s keep this conversation civil, shall we?” Flash said from the entrance to the Monitor room, Bruce’s utility belt in his hand. “I’ll go put this in lock up for now.” 

A blink and he was gone, less than a second later and he was back, empty handed now. 

“How did you-?”

“Disarm your traps?” Bruce stepped back from Clark at Wonder Woman’s words. He was now edged in by three of the most powerful members of the League and they had already removed his tools from him. Diana gave him a smug look. “It would seem an email was sent to certain members of the League with how to bypass your precautions in the event that you began acting out against any of us.” 

“They sent the whole League-?”

“Nope! Just us.” Flash now had popcorn in his hand. He couldn’t tell if Barry was eating out of anxiety or because he was feeling smug at having the upper hand over the Bat. Probably smug. “Honestly I’m a little upset about your contingency plans for if I go rogue. That’s kind of rude, Bruce.” 

Bruce ignored that, instead focusing on what that meant. He had kept those files secured so no one could ever find them. And he had modified the design for his belt’s defenses since leaving Gotham. 

“How did they find that information?”

“I don’t know what to tell you Bruce. You personally trained two of the best hackers on the planet. Maybe your cyber security just doesn't match them. And it’s not like you’ve given them a lot of reasons to trust you.”

He didn’t need to be lectured by them. A mad man was attempting to break out of the asylum again and he needed to be there to head him off and send him right back. He moved to step around Clark again and this time was met by Diana. 

“I’m needed in Gotham.” He glared at all three of them. 

“If the heroes of Gotham ask for our aid, we’ll respond. But if they don’t ask, we don’t interfere. That’s our rules. That’s your rule. Or are you about to go back on another of your rules?” Diana asked him, her eyebrow raised. When he just stood there and fumed for a few moments she continued. “If I need to I will personally ensure you cannot leave the station, or the medical wing until after this crisis is resolved. Is that what you would like me to do?” 

Bruce glared at them, but returned to his seat at the Monitor control. He needed to be healthy enough to fight Joker when he needed to. None of his proteges had his knowledge and experience with dealing with Joker. Eventually they would call for his help and he had to be ready. 

.

Danny and Jason steadily made their way through Arkham towards the maximum security ward. Danny set off the occasional alarm, sometimes even sticking his arm through the wall to set off a hidden sensor that wasn’t sensitive enough to his presence. Jason watched him curiously as he floated next to him. 

“Why are you doing that?” 

“Hmm? Oh!” Danny looked confused where he was currently elbow deep in the wall fiddling with the wires until another alarm suddenly sounded. “If we went in full ghost style, got to the Joker and got back out without leaving a trace, eventually someone would assume something supernatural, and one of the Justice League’s magic users would get involved. If we got in and out without a trace other than the alarms and cameras getting disabled the assumption would be an extremely skilled assassin, which would make people paranoid. Now they’ll just think a regular run of the mill assassin came through. Skilled, but not extraordinary. A mystery not a threat.” 

“That makes a lot of sense. You’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this.” 

“Yeah. Jazz getting our parents put away was great in a tonne of ways. We were finally able to actually be ourselves without worry and I will never complain about the removal of the Anti-Ecto Acts. But it brought us all into the spotlight. And ghosts don’t really belong under the spotlight anymore than they belong under a microscope. So Jazz and I, along with my advisors, put together some briefings on how to normalize the paranormal.” 

“Interesting. I guess as king you have to put a lot of thought into this sort of thing.” 

“Yeah. It’s for the best for everyone if ghosts faded out of people’s minds. I’m sure you can imagine the chaos and carnage some of these folks could come up with a little ghostly firepower.” 

Danny gestured to the sleeping inmates around them. A little ghostly favor from Nocturn and all the inmates in Arkham would be sleeping just long enough for them to get in and get out. They were passing into the maximum security ward only a few more cells until they came to Joker’s cell. Danny stopped with his arm out, forcing Jason to stop as well. 

“You’re sure this is what you want?” 

“He’s hurt enough fucking people. It isn’t even just about avenging my death anymore.” Jason had never been more sure of anything in his life or afterlife. 

Danny nodded and marched forward. The pair of them could already hear the mad ramblings of Joker, the only person in Arkham who was still awake. Danny allowed his full royal regalia to cover his body, blackened armor, ice crown and cloak of stars sparkling onto his body like ice forming on a still lake. When he’s facing the bars in front of Joker’s cell, Danny doesn’t phase through, instead letting his body melt around the bars like a Terminator. 

“Oh, what’s this? Visitors for Uncle Joker? Well welcome to my humble home.” 

“Silence Worm.” Danny ordered and Joker’s mouth snapped shut against his will. Danny held his hand out to the side and a burning green crowbar appeared in his hand. “I am coming seeking vengeance for one of the numerous deaths you caused. Your end will be swift and painful.”

Joker struggled for a moment before he was able to open his mouth again. 

“And which death are you avenging? There’s been so many, I can’t keep count!” 

“The death at your hands of Jason Peter Todd-Wayne. Formerly Robin.” 

Joker’s eyes gleamed as he looked over Danny’s shoulder to make eye contact with Jason’s ghost. The mad man began cackling with glee before Danny silenced him with a blow to the face with the crow bar. However Joker came back up and cackled again. 

“Oh the little bird’s wings were clipped! Too bad I didn’t get the chance to clip them again, I-”

Danny’s eyes blazed with a green light as he brought the crowbar down again. And again. And again. Unlike Joker who had enjoyed Jason’s torture, Danny was methodical. Almost calm as he carried out Jason’s chosen vengeance against one of the worst serial killers in existence. Jason thought he would feel joy, that he would revel in Joker’s pain. But he didn’t. All he felt was a soul deep satisfaction as his death, and all the deaths at Joker’s hands were avenged. 

.

Dick suited up as Nightwing as Cass quickly dressed into Black Bat. An alarm in Arkham was never a good thing and the two of them raced towards the island. The rest of the family spread out around the city to make sure they could find any traces of an escapee quickly. This was the most unified the family had been since Jason’s funeral. They were trying their best to keep together, but the strain of managing Gotham’s crime without Batman was starting to wear on them all. If they didn’t come up with a permanent solution soon either their family would fracture and fall to in fighting or one of them would have to ask Bruce to come back. Neither option was good in Dick’s mind. 

The two of them pulled up outside the prison, hopping out of the Batmobile and heading to the office of the head of security. Surprisingly there was a still living person in the office, though he was watching the monitors and only gave them the barest look before returning his attention to the monitors. 

“Where’s the Bat?” 

“Not here. What are we looking at? Who’s breaking out?” 

“Nooone.” The guard growled, pointing at a map of Arkham where they could see the trigger points for the alarm systems that were going off. “Someone is breaking in. And heading right towards maximum security. I’ve pulled back my men so none of them get killed.” 

“We’ll head in and try and head off the attempt.” Dick said and nodded to Cass who immediately fell in behind him. He didn’t let it show, though he was sure Cass could tell, but he was nervous. Maximum security meant some heavy hitters. Including the Joker. The last thing he wanted was for that psycho to get out and have his way with the city. 

.

Danny rolled his shoulders and let his head fall back in relief. He flicked his wrist and the crowbar vanished into the air. Joker was dead. His beating had been thorough. Behind him he could hear shaking breaths from Jason as the other ghost mourned his own death. Vengeance was always different for living than it was for the dead. The stories the living told always liked to insist that vengeance didn’t help, but for the dead it provided a different kind of catharsis. 

“D-Danny? Why aren’t we leaving?” Jason asked, his voice a little uneven. 

“Just one moment.” Danny kept his focus on Joker’s corpse until he felt something shift. 

He reached out and a massive, clawed shadow shrieked out from his arm to snatch something that glowed dimly with a green light like some enormous, eldritch bird of prey. He snarled at the soul held tight by his powers. 

“Joker, as the High King of the Infinite Realms, for crimes against a citizen of the Realms, I sentence your soul to Oblivion. May your name fade from all memory.” 

Danny closed his fist. The shadowy claw that held the soul closed as well shattering the remnant into nothing. He dismissed the Kingly power with a wave of his hand then left the cell. Jason followed just a little behind him, still overwhelmed with the emotions he was feeling. He still managed to ask the question that was on his mind though. 

“What was that about?” 

“In theory, he deserved his eternity in a hell of some kind. But could you honestly say that he would actually suffer? Ancients, he only stopped laughing now when I crushed his windpipe. And for a soul as rotten as his there was too much risk of him coming back somehow. I wasn’t going to risk him becoming a ghost or making a deal.”

“Good. May his name fade from all memory.” Jason recited grimly. 

The two of them were making their way back out of the maximum security ward as quickly as they could while they talked, Danny again making sure to trip alarms on their way out. Jason suddenly came to a stop outside one of the cells. Danny stopped with him and looked in at the young blonde woman asleep on her cot. 

“Can you wake her up?” Jason asked. 

Danny nodded and snapped his fingers and the woman immediately shook herself awake as if coming out of a quick nap. She rubbed her eyes then bounded towards the bars with a bright smile on her face. 

“Hood? What are you doing in here? I heard you died again!” Harley said, her normally bubbly voice hiding a lot of grief and worry. 

“Yeah, I died again. But my friend here just finished avenging me.” Jason looked at her seriously. “Your ex is gone. He’ll never bother you again.” 

Her smile had dimmed at Jason’s first words, but brightened again, turning slightly manic as she grinned. 

“Good. That asshole hurt me real bad, being locked in here with him is a special kind of hell. Next time I get out, me and Red are gonna get out of town and go on a vacation to celebrate.” 

Danny stepped forward and said, with far more formality than Jason usually heard from him. “I hope you feel your suffering at his hands is avenged as well. He will never harm another.” 

“Thanks kid, I do feel better. Now you two gotta get outta here! If the alarms are going off it won’t be too long for the bats to show up.”

They both nodded and ran, the prisoners around them waking up as Nocturne loosened his hold. Danny reached out and grabbed Jason’s shoulder making them both invisible just as the door in front of them opened from the other side. Jason felt his core clench with longing as he saw Nightwing and Black Bat, posed and ready for combat. The two ghosts flew over their heads and out into the city proper. 

“You know what, Danny?” Jason asked once they were hovering in the air over Gotham. “I think I might like to try and talk with my family soon. I miss them.” 

“Sure thing Jayce.” Danny said though he looked a little distracted as he looked out over the city at something Jason couldn’t see. The two of them portalled away from Gotham and into the Infinite Realms, Jason’s first death successfully avenged.

#dp x dc #danny fenton #jason todd #batman #superman #wonder woman #the flash #joker #a shade darker than red

[bad268]

Second Place (Theo Pourchaire X F1 Academy! Reader)

Fandom: RPF/Formula 2/3

Requested: Nope, just happy Theo is leading the championship now

Warnings: alcohol, Theo pushes the reader but no one's injured, hurt/comfort ig

Pronouns: You/your but fem reader (F1 academy driver&heels)

W.C. 1342

Summary: Theo is upset about always being in second place.

As always, my requests are OPEN

MASTERLIST // HITLIST

~~(^Google/Motorsport.com)

Another race, and another second place for both you and Theo. Solid results for you, but for Theo, it just made him angry. He was always getting second place, rarely first, and while he hated these second-place trophies, you thrived on them. He could never understand despite knowing you for a decade and being with you for nearly two years.

You decided to go out to celebrate the results with your friends that night. Theo and his friends joined once they found out you were going to the same area. That’s how you, Theo, and a large group of your friends found yourselves at a club, closing in on midnight.

At first, it was great. Everyone was partying, dancing, drinking, talking, and having the time of their lives. Well, everyone except Theo. 

He was silently fuming as he nursed his eighth drink of the night. Why? Why did he always have to come in second? Why did you always celebrate second-place finishes as if you won the championship? Why did you not see second place as the first loser? Why did he feel envious of you for the same result? Maybe it was the alcohol coursing through his veins, but the liquid courage helped him ask you about it when you stumbled over to the booth he was hiding in.

“Hi Theo,” you giggled, leaning into him as you placed a kiss on his cheek. You did not notice the way he gripped his glass harder as his thoughts ran wild. “Why aren't you celebrating with us? Is your social battery dead? We can head back to the hotel.”

“How do you handle always being in second place?” He snapped, pushing you away enough to cause you to lose your balance for a second. You sobered up a bit at his reaction. He had never been one to get jealous of your results and he was not the type of person to hurt you in any situation.

“I see it as being reliable, I guess,” You answered, taking a breath and seat across from Theo. “I am consistently getting second place and my team can rely on me to bring in good points.”

“But doesn’t it ever get to you? Never winning?” He retreated back, almost like a moment of clarity despite the amount of alcohol in his system. You took it upon yourself to grab the glass and move it out of his reach; it was time for him to get cut off.

“I don’t see it like that,” you responded immediately. You could see that he was eating himself up over second place, but you needed him to see the other side, the positive side because he was spiraling. “Second place is still great points, and that’s how I was pretty much able to secure the championship this year. I just need one more second-place finish in a feature, and I win.”

“But don’t you wish that you won every once in a while?” He asked genuinely. “Standing on the top shelf, hearing your anthem, getting the biggest trophy, just the pride in saying that you won a race. Don’t you want that?”

“I do, but I’m not going to risk everything over a small chance to lead,” you responded, semi-understanding where he was coming from. “It’s everyone’s dream to win, but if I’m consistent enough, I can win either way. So many people have won races, then didn’t finish in the points, so their points are never consistent. I would rather say that I can achieve the same results at every race than say I won a single race. I’d rather win the bigger picture.”

“How…” He trailed off, looking around the club in disbelief. He was mainly just avoiding eye contact with the woman in front of him, but he could not fully understand her train of thought. “How do you stay so positive throughout the season? I just don’t get it.”

“Because you’re drunk, Theo,” you laughed, moving to stand. “You are drowning your sorrows in alcohol. Let’s go back to the room, and when you’re sober, I’ll help change your mind about being in second place because second place is just as great as first, if not more so. You just need to see it.” 

~~

It’s Thursday night. You would both be in the cars tomorrow for the practice and qualifying sessions, but tonight, you were sitting on the couch in Theo’s room, eating room service. Theo had remembered everything from the drunk conversation, but he regretted the way he talked to you immensely.

“I just want to say I’m sorry for how I brought up the conversation at the last race party,” he admitted, turning his full attention to you. You, on the other hand, did not understand where this apology was coming from. To you, he was just being hard on himself and needed some uplifting, especially after last year’s battle against Felipe Drugovich. 

“You don’t need to apologize, Theo. You were drunk-” you started but he cut you off.

“Being drunk isn’t an excuse!”  He was generally upset with how he brought up the conversation, and he was confused that you just brush it off. “I pushed you, and you almost fell! Being drunk does not excuse me from being a dick to you.”

“You weren’t a dick, let’s get that straight,” you put your foot down. “You were down, and you were upset. Sure, the alcohol didn’t help, but it’s a conversation we can have now, sober. Why were you so upset that you got second, and why do you think it’s so bad?”

“It’s just,” he sighed, taking a minute to sort through his thoughts as you grabbed his hand, reassuringly. “I’m always second. I was second in the championship last year, I am second in this championship, I haven't won a race since Bahrain, but I got second loads of times! Why am I always second? Am I that bad of a driver?”

“You are not a bad driver,” you comforted, pulling him into a hug. He immediately hid his face in your neck as you ran your fingers down his back and through his hair. “You are second in the championship by like five points, Theo, and you’re right. You haven’t won since Bahrain. How many has Vesti won this season?”

“Like four races, I think,” he answered. You pulled him out of your neck, placing your hands on either side of his face, and looking into his blue eyes.

“And you are keeping up with someone who has won three more races than you,” you put into perspective. “Don’t you see? All those second places add up quickly. You are five points behind someone who won more races. You are consistently in the points, not Vesti. As long as you keep up this streak, you’ll have the championship in no time.”

~~

“And Theo Pourchaire crosses the line in second place, and he takes the lead of the championship!” 

Theo was on the moon, or the podium. It’s crazy what a little difference in perspective can do for you. He jumped out of the car and immediately wanted to hug and thank you, but alas, you were racing in your own race. 

He stood on the second-place podium and for once, he was happy to be there. You were right. There was nothing wrong with coming in second place. It was solid points. 

That night, you both met up at the club. Instead of drowning his feelings in eight pints, he only had a couple because he was too busy dancing with you.

“Was I right? Second place is just as good as first, you can admit it.” You joked with him on the walk back. Well, more like ride back as you took your heels off at some point during the night, and Theo was not about to make you walk to the hotel barefoot. 

“You’re onto something,” he joked back, looking back at you on his back. “I’ll admit you’re right after we both win the championship.”

~~~~~

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[punchdrunkdoc]

Part 3, Chapter 8

Summary: After the events of S3, Matt Murdock is trying to once again balance life as a lawyer and a vigilante. But he’s been scarred by loss and betrayal - will a mysterious new neighbour help him heal? Or will her secrets drag him back into the darkness?

Notes: This is a slow burn romance with an original female character, told in 3 (maybe 4??) parts. There is mystery, intrigue, action/violence and angst - all the good stuff!

Also available on AO3 and Wattpad

Masterlist

Reference pics

————–

PART 3

Chapter 8

Calina crouched down, circling the opponent in front of her.

A kick came at her left flank but she rolled to the right, dodging the strike. She sprang back to her feet, her hands up in front of her face in a classic defensive pose. She darted away from another lunge, using her quick, agile grace to duck and dance away from the danger.

That’s when her attacker started to get frustrated. Sloppy. The next punch was so telegraphed that Calina had time to follow up her side-step with a kick of her own. The top of her foot whacked the outer thigh of the woman opposite causing her to stumble back with a muttered oath. “Dammit, Calina.”

Calina just shrugged.

Katya rubbed at her leg, and turned to complain to the other Widow doing stretches in the training room. “She’s no fun to spar with.”

Yelena raised her eyebrow. “And this is news to you? Its been like this since we were kids. She’s too quick.”

“You always managed to get some hits in,” Katya reminded her.

So did Matt, Calina thought, before banishing the memory of the fun they’d had fighting together in Fogwell’s. She didn’t need a reminder of that place. And she was trying her best to push all thoughts of Matt to the deepest recesses of her mind.

Otherwise she’d curl up on the floor and start crying.

Which she couldn’t afford to do right now. Not when they were so close to finally putting an end to Volkov’s operation.

To keep her self sane, she’d suggested training to Katya...but it wasn’t doing the trick. She needed a better opponent - someone who would keep her mind more engaged. Someone she always had a hard time besting.

She needed Yelena.

“I don’t know,” Calina said to Katya, goading the woman in the corner. “That was a long time ago. Maybe she’s gone soft.”

Yelena took the bait. She sprung up from the floor and strode over to the sparring area. “Be careful what you wish for.”

Calina took up her defensive position again. “Bring it, shorty.”

Katya sucked in a sharp breath. “You’ve done it now, Calina.”

Calina just grinned. She knew what she was doing. Taunting Yelena about her height was a sure fire way to rile up the other woman and bring out her vicious side.

And that’s just what she wanted.

Yelena launched herself at Calina, catching her around the waist and wrestling her to the ground, where she had her pinned in seconds.

Calina shook her head as she got to her feet. It was always the same with Yelena - no preamble, no easing in to a fight. Just straight to brutal offence.

Calina met Yelena’s smirk with a wry smile. “Beginner’s luck,” she commented.

Yelena shook her head. “Nope. I’m just better than you.”

The next round ended when Yelena tumbled to the floor after Calina sweeped her leg. “You were saying?” Calina taunted.

Yelena’s glare signalled a change in the tone of the fight. Banter was replaced by steely-eyed focus. Punches that were pulled now landed with full force. It took all of Calina’s concentration to dodge and evade Yelena’s attacks...and she wasn’t always successful.

There was a reason Yelena was their best fighter.

As Calina took another bruising tumble to the floor, she wondered if this was what she really wanted. Not the distraction from her thoughts, but the pain.

A punishment of sorts, for ruining things between her and Matt.

I’m a good person; I’m worthy of love.

She tried out her mantra as she ducked a left hook from Yelena. But the words crumbled into dust in the face of the truth:

She’d lied to the man she loved, again and again. She’d hurt him with her deceit and her dishonesty.

I’m a shitty person; I’m not worthy of anything.

Her knee exploded with pain as Yelena managed to land another hit while she was busy berating herself. She staggered back on the mat and pressed her gloved hand to the throbbing joint.

“Ouch,” Katya winced.

“Yeah, sorry, Calina,” Yelena said, still bouncing on the spot. “You tapping out?”

Calina shook off the pain and raised her fists again. “No. Let’s go again.”

“You sure?”

Calina just nodded and started circling Yelena. Pain or distraction…it didn’t matter. Either way, she needed this.

As she met Yelena in the centre of the mat for another round, she tried to block out all thoughts of Matt. She focussed all her attention on the attacks coming her way. 

And she was oblivious to the silent ringing of her phone…

--------

Matt was pissed.

It was now 48 hours since the fight with Calina, and his emotions had come full circle. The despair and fear were gone, and his hopeful optimism had faded, leaving him boiling with rage again.

Because Calina wasn’t picking up her fucking phone.

It was deja vu all over again. Just like after the aborted kiss in the gym and the misunderstanding in the bar, Calina had disappeared and was ignoring his calls.

Matt hated it.

He didn’t exactly have the best track record when it came to mature, healthy relationships, but even he knew that you needed to actually talk to the person you loved to make things work.

Matt threw the phone on his bed and pulled on his mask. He’d spent all evening dialling her number and listening to it ring incessantly. Now it was time to act.

He didn’t know exactly where the Widows’ hideout was, but he knew where they were planning to be. And if he had to scope out that carpet warehouse for the next six months just to get a glimpse of Calina, so be it.

Determination fuelled his run across the rooftops of the city and across the river into New Jersey. Determination, and frustration. As well as the ever-present simmering anger, and a healthy dose of self-righteous condemnation.

She needed to stop doing this. This…silent treatment, cold shoulder thing. It was driving him crazy. Especially since she had all the power in their current dynamic. She knew where to find him. She knew how to contact him. She could show up to his office or his apartment, or climb into his goddam bedroom window at any time of the day or night…but he couldn’t do the same. 

She was off the grid, and he had nothing but a phone number she wouldn’t answer and a vague geographic location.

Which he was approaching now.

He slowed down as he reached the derelict industrial park where she’d found him the other day. He stuck to the shadows as he stalked through the abandoned lots on his way to the warehouse, intent on not giving himself away. He may not agree with the Widows’ plan for Volkov and his men, but he wouldn’t jeopardise it.

He’d come to terms with the fact that this wasn’t his fight. It wasn’t his place to pass judgement on how the Widows’ claimed their freedom and their safety. He wouldn’t interfere. He-

Pop. Pop. Pop.

Matt froze as he picked up the sound of muffled gunfire. He crouched down behind a rusted-out delivery truck and sent his senses out into the night, trying to pinpoint the location.

It was coming from the warehouse.

Pop. Pop.

More gunfire.

And the unmistakeable sound of flesh hitting flesh.

Then shouts in Russian - both male and female.

It looked like tonight was the night the Widows’ took on Volkov.

Matt started running again, heading for the site of the battle.

He wasn’t going to interfere with the Widows’ fight. But he couldn’t just stand idly by while they faced danger.

--------

It happened while Calina was recovering from her fight with Yelena.

The two of them lay side-by-side on the mat, panting as they caught their breath from the exertion.

Yelena tapped her hand against Calina’s thigh - the closest part of her she could reach - and grunted out, “Good match.”

Calina huffed out a laugh. Only Yelena could face off against someone with a deadly look in her eye and fight no-holds-barred, just to turn around afterwards and call it a simple ‘match’ - as if they’d spent the last hour playing tennis or chess instead of pummelling the crap out of each other.

“You too,” Calina replied, not without affection. She and Yelena might butt heads more than any of the other Widows, but she still loved her. In the way you’d love an overbearing, stubborn older sister.

After several minutes of rest, they both clambered to their feet, Calina wincing as her left leg protested the movement - Yelena had walloped her knee again with a hook kick during the third round. Yelena rubbed at her side as she gulped down her water bottle and Calina held back a smile. It looked like she’d done some damage too, which was always cause for gloating when going up against Yelena. 

Katya shook her head in exasperation. “Satisfied now?” she asked Calina. “Did you get everything out of your system?”

Calina let her smile loose and rolled her neck. “Yup.”

“I hope it was worth it. The two of you are going to be in pain tomorrow.”

Yelena opened her mouth to reply when Inessa barrelled through the door of the make-shift gym. “Volkov just arrived at the warehouse. He’s here!”

The other three Widows exchanged a look, then they all set off running at once. They sprinted across the hallway, through the main room, to the control centre - which was a fancy term for a few desks and a bank of monitors displaying the feed from the warehouse.

Anya was sitting in front of said screens, barking out information to the rest of the Widows in the room. “…three in the docking bay. Nine more in the room with Volkov. That makes 18 in total.”

“18 men?” Yelena clarified as she leaned over Anya to peer at the footage.

The seated Widow twisted around to greet the team leader. Then did a double-take at the sweat soaking Yelena’s hair and the burgeoning bruise over her left jaw. “What the hell happened to you?”

Yelena waved her hand. “Nothing. Did you say 18?”

“Yes,” Anya replied. “Plus the two lackeys.”

‘Lackeys’ was the term they’d come up with for the scientific staff recruited by Volkov’s team. From what they’d been able to determine from their surveillance, they were little more than broke science majors from the local college looking to make some extra cash by setting up the lab.

“18? That’s Volkov’s entire faction, right?” Katya asked.

Anya nodded. “Based on our intel, yes.”

‘Our’ intel was really Anya’s intel. The tech wizard had spent weeks glued to her laptop, diligently researching every single person captured on the footage from the warehouse. Between her facial recognition software, the information from Ranieri’s laptop, and her illegal backdoors into the databases of the CIA, KGB and Interpol, she’d managed to ID Volkov’s entire gang.

A few were previous operative from the Red Room - part of Volkov’s original team. Some were family members, converted to Volkov’s cause. But most were hired guns - murderers and Bratva mafiosos smuggled out of Russian prisons and onto US soil with the promise of freedom in exchange for a little light kidnapping and brainwashing. 

And they were all in the same place, at the same time.

“Volkov’s gotta be either stupid or supremely confident to amass everyone in the same location,” Calina commented.

“I don’t think he has a choice,” Yelena said. “We took out most of his top mercenaries in South Carolina - this is all he has left. And he’s paranoid enough to want as much firepower around him as possible.”

“18 of them against 9 of us? That’s doable,” Katya commented. 

“That’s more than doable. Its a cake-walk,” Yelena replied. She straightened up and crossed her arms before addressing the room. “Okay, everyone, it’s go time. We have the chance to end this tonight, and we’re not going to fail. We’ve been training for weeks for this, so you know what to do - tranq and remove the lackeys unharmed, and take out everyone else. Leave Volkov to me. Be ready to move in 5.”

Calina turned to leave with the other Widows but Yelena caught her arm. “You up for this?” she asked.

Calina rolled her eyes. “I’m a little sore, but you didn’t do that much damage, Yelena.”

“I’m not talking about that. I heard you talking to Katya earlier. About your fight with Matt.”

Calina bit her lip. “Oh. That.”

“I know what I said in Maine, but if you want to bail on this, you can. You have nothing to prove to us.”

Calina shook her head. “I’m coming. I can’t just sit here while you guys are out there fighting.”

“Okay then. Go get ready.”

Calina nodded and ran to her bunk. She slithered into her Black Widow suit, zipped up her boots and quickly re-braided her hair. Then she slotted her guns into her thigh holsters…and took a second to breathe.

This was it.

After tonight it would all be over. One way or another.

She glanced around the room and watched as her sisters geared-up and checked their own weapons. A sudden bolt of fear hit her at the thought of one of them being injured.

Or worse.

It never used to be like this in the Red Room. Back then, they’d been teammates in name only. Just individual soldiers going into missions side-by-side. Another pair of hands. Another set of skills. Useful back up…but nothing more.

Now, these women were her friends. Her sisters.

There was Anya, with her logical brain and lack of filter.

Inessa, with her weird sense of humour and bubbly personality.

Viktoria, with her quiet, stoicism.

Yelena, with her fearsome loyalty.

Katya, who she was closest to out of them all. Kind, thoughtful Katya.

She didn’t want to lose any of them.

So she would fight tonight. Not to kill - if she could help it. Not out of vengeance or anger.

She would fight to protect.

She would fight to make sure every single Widow made it back here safe and unharmed.

She would fight for her sisters.

Surely Matt would understand that, she thought. Then she shook her head, trying to quell any further thoughts of Matt. She couldn’t go into this battle with any more fear running through her veins.

Like the fear of never seeing him again. Of leaving things between them in such an ugly, dreadful state.

She didn’t hold out any hope that they could still be together - not after all her lies and with all the blood on her hands - but they deserved some kind of closure, didn’t they? She wanted to see him again, even if it was just to say goodbye.

And that could only happen if she survived tonight.

So she took a deep breath, adjusted the straps on her Widows’ bites and shook out her arms, trying to loosen the tightness in her muscles. As she did, she met Katya’s gaze from across the room. She saw the same hint of fear in the other Widows’ dark brown eyes. Calina smiled to reassure her. “We’ve got this,” she mouthed.

Katya nodded. “We’ve got this,” she mouthed back, and a small smile formed on her lips.

“Hell, yeah, we’ve got this,” Inessa said out loud, having followed the silent conversation. “Do you hear that, everyone? We’ve got this!”

The tension in the air around the Widows’ suddenly transformed into excited anticipation. A few of the others whooped and joined in, “We’ve got this!”

Yelena just shook her head. “Did that really need saying?” She grabbed her rifle and slung it over her shoulder. “Let’s go.”

--------

At first, everything went to plan.

Upon reaching the warehouse, the Widows had split into three teams of three - one group snuck around the back to the delivery bay, the other took up position near the front, and the third scaled up to the roof.

Yelena was on the roof team, and it was her role to snipe Volkov with a tranquilliser dart. The aim was to take him out of the equation early on, but leave him alive for interrogation after the fighting was done.

The other two member of Yelena’s group - Viktoria and Sanvi - had the task of infiltrating the lab and extracting the lackeys.

And that was the part that went to plan - sort of.

“We’re out,” was the whispered status update from Viktoria that came through Calina’s ear piece. “But we were spotted.”

At the same moment, Calina heard shouting from within the warehouse, and the sound of gunfire suddenly pierced the night.

“There goes the element of surprise,” Anya said before rising out of her crouch and racing for the docking bay doors.

Calina just shrugged and followed. It had always been an acceptable risk. From the moment they’d identified the lackeys as innocent pawns, they’d always planned to get them out first, no matter the consequences. It was a line in the sand which separated the Widows from Volkov and his faction - innocent civilians were not going to become collateral damage tonight.

And if that meant they had to go in hot - instead of taking out Volkov’s men with stealth - so be it.

Anya and the rest of their group reached the door first, and Calina cursed her earlier sparring session with Yelena for slowing her down. She gritted her teeth against the pain in her knee and kept running, finding an extra burst of speed when the soft pop-pop-pop of a silenced handgun drifted from the open door. She entered the docking bay moments later to find three guards sprawled on the concrete floor, all felled by single bullets to the head.    

“Clear,” Anya reported. 

“Clear,” repeated Katya from her section. “Nice of you to join us, Calina.”

Calina rolled her eyes and checked behind her. No one was following. “Clear,” she called out.

“Let’s go,” Anya said, moving further into the building. They could hear the sound of fighting from the main section of the warehouse, so they all picked up the pace.

Calina breathed steadily as they checked and cleared each corridor and room on the way, the four of them working in perfect synchronicity, their movements honed by years of training. Her earlier anxiety was gone, replaced by a calm determination. The muscle memory of countless previous missions guided her actions and she slipped back into ‘solider’ mode seamlessly - like donning an old, worn-in coat.

This was the life she knew best. As much as she struggled against that concept, her ease and composure in this situation proved it.

All thoughts of Matt, and his opinion on this operation, were forced deep into her subconscious. There was no room for moral quandaries here. Self-recrimination and guilt could come later.

Right now, there was only the gun in her hand and the teammate in front of her.

And a plan that was about to go to shit.

————–

Chapter 9

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