#Alex you oblivious little sh...

[neko-kitcat]

The first KISS! Page 107-108

#The kiss #prince henry #alex claremont diaz #alex x henry #rwrb spoilers #red white and royal blue #new years eve #rwrb fanart #Alex you oblivious little sh... #THE KISS!!! #!!!!

[angelsfalling16]

Love You So Much It Hurts

My first ever FirstPrince fic! It was a little rushed, but I hope you all like it!

Summary: Henry is finding it difficult to keep his feelings hidden for any longer, and when Alex confronts him to find out why he's acting so weird, the truth comes out.

Word Count: 2333

Day 1 of Tropetember: friends to lovers au

Read it on ao3

***

Henry has just about had enough. Alex is extremely infuriating, and it’s going to push him over the drink. Drive him into complete insanity and an early grave. Somehow, Alex is oblivious to all of this.

They’re supposed to be studying for midterms next week, but instead, they’re sprawled out across Alex’s bed as he drones on about one of his classes and some kid in the class who is always trying to outdo him. Usually, Henry wouldn’t mind listening to him and would be actively trying to engage with him in the conversation, but today, he’s too busy trying to focus on making sure his heart doesn’t beat out of his chest.

“Hey, are you alright?” Alex asks abruptly, apparently sensing that Henry hasn’t been paying attention to him for the past few minutes.

“Yeah. I think I’m just tired.”

“Then, take a nap,” he suggests. “You look cozy enough in my bed, and I don’t mind.” The offer shouldn’t be weird, but it does weird things to Henry’s chest. It wouldn’t be the first time this has happened.

Neither of them have ever had the best sleep schedules, so they took naps when and where they could, including in each other’s beds. And yes, that occasionally meant waking up with their arms around each other because there wasn’t quite enough space for them to spread out comfortably.

It wasn’t something they ever really talked about. It was just something they did. Even after Henry came out to Alex during his junior year of high school. Alex made sure that he knew they were still friends and that nothing was going to change between them just because Henry liked guys.

Henry was both relieved and a little wounded by that. On one hand, he was glad that Alex was neither angry nor disgusted with him. On the other hand, he was harboring a huge crush for his best friend, and it hurt to know that he would never feel the same way.

And right now, those feelings have only gotten worse, and it feels wrong to sleep in Alex’s bed. Like maybe he’s taking advantage of him or something.

“I thought you had a date tonight. With Sheila. Or was it Shane?” Definitely something that started with a ‘sh’ sound. “I don’t want to be in the way.”

“Don’t worry. That won’t be a problem.”

“Don’t try to pretend like Alex Claremont-Diaz doesn’t fuck on the first date. You and I both know that that is far from the truth. That’s practically all you do.” He accidentally lets a little bitterness slip into his tone, and Alex gives him a weird look.

“I, uh, just meant that I could go to their place instead.”

“Oh. Right.” Henry hadn’t thought about that. In fact, he very much tried not to think about who Alex went home with because that only tore new and deeper wounds into his heart.

He’s honestly not sure how much more of this he can take.

Alex is his best friend in the whole world, but maybe living together was a mistake.

It’s not like he hasn’t known since forever that he has feelings for Alex, but this is different. It’s like something has shifted between them ever since they moved into this apartment together. It just kind of made sense. Alex is in his second year of college and Henry his third, and they knew that they could get along because they practically lived at each other’s houses when they were younger. 

But something about spending most of their time together and seeing sleepy Alex in the morning pre-coffee every day has caused him to fall in so deep that he knows he has no hope of every getting out of this hole he has dug for himself. And when Alex came out to him as bi shortly after they moved in together, Henry allowed himself to fill with hope. Maybe Alex could like him after all.

But then he kept bringing home someone new every week, whoever had caught his eye in one of his lectures, and it started to hurt.

Henry is in love with him, and he can’t pretend like that doesn’t have some effect on their relationship. Like it doesn’t kill him to see Alex with someone else, especially these people who don’t deserve someone as incredible as him.

“You know, I could always cancel and stay home,” Alex says, placing a hand on his arm.

“Why would you do that?”

“Because something is obviously upsetting you, and I hate to leave you alone in this state.”

Henry shakes him off and slides off the bed. “I’m fine. I’m not actually tired anymore. I think I’ll go study in my own room. Have fun on your date tonight,” he adds politely.

He shuts himself in his room but doesn’t sleep or study. He just slumps to the floor against his door and tries to find a solution for all of this.

He could move out at the end of the semester. Transfer schools and never talk to Alex again.

That’s a terrible idea, he knows. It wouldn’t be fair to either of them, but especially Alex, who hasn’t actually done anything wrong.

He just can’t seem to think rationally when it comes to Alex. He makes him so mad that he wants to hit him, but he also wants to kiss that infuriating grin off his face. He wants to fall asleep next to him and make him breakfast in the morning. He wants to take him on a romantic date and then make him forget about every other person he has ever had in his bed. He wants to make Alex his.

But he can’t because Alex doesn’t see him that way, and he has to find a way to deal with that before it wrecks their friendship.

***

A little over an hour later, there’s a knock at Henry’s bedroom door. That’s weird. Alex never knocks. He usually just comes blazing in, talking a mile a minute, barely giving Henry any time to catch up. But when Henry opens the door for him, he’s unusually quiet.

“Aren’t you supposed to be on your date?”

“Yes, but I canceled because there is something more important that I need to do.”

“And what would that be? Find someone better looking?” Henry asks, hating himself for the way that his jealousy makes him act. He turns away from the door and goes to sit on the end of his bed, putting some distance between them.

“Noo,” Alex says slowly, giving him another weird look. “I need to be here for my best friend. Even if he is mad at me for some reason. Seriously. What’s going on with you?”

“Nothing. It’s like I told you earlier; I’m just tired.”

“You’re always tired, which is terrible, and I wish you would get more sleep. But this is more than that. You’ve been avoiding me for a while now and acting really weird about me dating people. I hate to have to ask this, but are you actually not okay with my being bi? Does it bother you?”

“What? Of course not. I accept you fully for who you are, and I’m glad you told me.”

“Then what’s going on? Because I spent the last hour running around the block and trying to figure out what I did to upset you, and that was all I could come up with.”

“You didn’t do anything wrong. Not everything is about you, remember? This is something that I have to deal with on my own.”

Alex steps farther into the room and settles on the edge of the bed, close enough to Henry to touch him but not close enough that it will be accidental.

“You don’t have to go through anything on your own. I’m here and I care about you, and I would do anything to make you happy.”

“I know, and that’s why I—.” Henry just barely cuts himself off before he just comes out and says the one thing he has been trying so hard not to say. “I just don’t want to burden you with this. It would ruin our friendship, and I don’t want to lose you.”

“God, Henry. What’d you do? Kill someone?”

“No. Of course not.”

“Then what could possibly be so bad that you can’t tell me? We tell each other everything, even the truly embarrassing things we wish we could forget. What could possibly be so bad that you can’t tell me?”

Henry groans and pulls at his own hair. He can’t do this. He can’t tell him the truth. But he can’t keep hiding it from him either. He has to make a decision. So, with a deep breath, he makes it.

“I’m in love with you.”

He can’t bear to look at Alex, doesn’t want to see his expression and know how disgusted he is with him. He wonders if it’s too late to take it back but doesn’t want to. Even though he knows the destruction that those five words can cause, he’s glad that they’re out there. It was killing him to keep them in. He just wishes Alex would say something so that he knew whether or not he should start packing his things.

Finally, Henry glances over at him, and he’s just sitting there looking stunned. Henry thinks that, maybe for the first time in his life, Alex is absolutely speechless. He never thought he’d see the day. He only wishes it wasn’t due to what he just said.

“Look, it doesn’t have to change things. I mean, I know it will change some small things. But like, we can still be friends. If you want.” He’s rambling in a fashion very unlike him, but he can’t seem to stop. “Or I can leave. I never meant for you to find out, and I don’t want it to ruin things. But if you’re weirded out by it, I get it.”

“Just. Give me a minute to process. And don’t go anywhere. The last thing I would ever want is for you to leave,” he says earnestly, finally looking at Henry.

Henry nods. He doesn’t want him to leave so that’s something. That’s better than telling him to get out of his sight and never return. It’s already better than the way that Henry’s family acted when they found out he was gay; they just pretended not to hear him. Only his sister acknowledged him, accepting him fully and helping him move out as soon as he graduated high school. He still doesn’t talk to them that much, which is why he’s so fucking terrified of losing Alex.

He’s part of his family. He just hopes he hasn’t screwed that up by loving him too much and passing a line he shouldn’t have.

When Alex is presumably done processing, he reaches out to place his hand over Henry’s. Which doesn’t tell him anything.

They’ve held hands before. But it didn’t mean anything. They were always really close, almost like brothers, except not because Henry couldn’t keep his stupid gay heart from falling for him.

“So. You’re in love with me?” Alex finally says.

“Yes. I do believe we’ve established that already.”

“I know. I just.” He pauses and takes a breath. “Do you know how I realized I was bi?”

“By getting drunk and hooking up with some random guy?”

“No,” he says, shaking his head and smiling a little. “Because I moved in here with you, and during the first week of living together, I saw you step out of the bathroom wearing nothing but a towel slung over your hips, and I couldn’t stop thinking about all of that exposed skin and how badly I wanted to touch it. Then I went to some stupid party and got stupid drunk and made out with some random guy with blond hair that was nowhere near as soft as yours. But all that time, I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah. And I was so terrified of what it all meant, not because it meant that I liked guys but because it meant that I liked you. And I couldn’t bear the thought of losing you.”

It’s Henry’s turn to smile as he realizes what Alex is saying. “So, basically, we’re both idiots.”

“Um, speak for yourself. I’m doing great in my classes.”

Henry laughs and shoves him. But then he keeps one of his hands on him, wrapped around his arm, not wanting to let go.

“I had no idea you liked me. You were always with someone else, and I hated it,” Henry admits quietly.

“Hey, look at me.” Alex brings his hand up to gently cup Henry’s jaw and tilts his head so that their eyes meet. “None of them meant anything to me. They were just a way for me to try to forget about you. Of course, it didn’t work because every time they left, you were still there looking gorgeous as all hell.”

The corner of Henry’s mouth quirks up. “You think I’m gorgeous?”

“Yes. And I love you. I’m sorry it took so long for me to realize it.”

Henry shakes his head. “You don’t have to apologize.”

“Alright. Well, can I kiss you?”

“Yes.” So he does, taking Henry’s face in both of his hands before pulling him down into the best kiss he’s ever had.

It’s soft at first as they tentatively learn each other’s mouths. Then, Henry sighs and Alex slides his tongue over his lips, and the kiss deepens.

It’s everything that Henry has ever dreamt of and more. It’s perfect.

He’s not entirely sure this means that they’re a couple now, but he hopes it does. For the moment, though, he’s content to wrap himself around Alex and kiss him until they both forget where they are.

Henry loves him and Alex loves him back, and that’s all that matters right now.

#firstprince #rwrb #red white and royal blue #alex claremont diaz #henry fox mountchristen windsor #my writing #love you so much it hurts #its a first kiss fic #bc that's what I'm good at #lol #i'm really nervous about posting this #but it makes me want to write a more drawn out childhood friends fic for them #hmm #tropetember

[emospritelet]

Twisted Fate - chapter 27/28

Last time, Gold essentially told Neal that he was his father, and it didn't go all that well. Here's what happened next

[AO3]

-

Belle licked her lips somewhat nervously as she approached the entrance to the park. It was a walk she and Gold had taken before, though not since she had given birth, and it felt strange to be out on her own with Gideon in his stroller. The maple trees were thick with leaves, the air pleasantly warm in the late spring sunshine, and she pushed the stroller at a sedate pace, eyes casting right and left for any sign of her father.

He was waiting for her near the diner entrance, baseball cap twisting in his big hands, his shoulders a little hunched, and she was surprised to feel a sense of relief at his own signs of nervousness. He smiled awkwardly as she approached, cramming the hat back on his head and wiping his hands on his jeans before stomping over to meet her halfway.

“Hey,” she said. “Right on time.”

“Yeah, traffic wasn’t too bad,” he said gruffly.

He hesitated before leaning in to kiss her cheek. Belle put her free arm around him, and he surprised her again with a quick hug before drawing back.

“So, this is the little fella, is it?” he said heartily, peering into the stroller. “He doing okay?”

“Keeping us up at night,” said Belle. “Alex tends to get up to see to him, though.”

Moe’s smile slipped a little at the mention of Gold’s name, but he nodded.

“He’ll soon settle down, I guess,” he said. “Took you a little while to start sleeping through.”

There was a moment of silence, and Belle tried to think of something else to say. Moe lifted a hand to gesture towards the diner and let it fall against his thigh with an awkward slap.

“Uh - shall we go and see about something to eat?” he ventured.

Belle nodded, and he went to hold open the diner door for her to enter with the stroller. By the time they were seated, their coats off and drinks and food ordered, Gideon had woken up and was staring around with bright-eyed interest. Belle struggled to pick him up out of the stroller with her broken arm, and Moe took over, unfastening the straps and scooping him up in the crochet blanket of soft yellow wool.

“Here we go, little man,” said Moe. “You come and sit with Grandad.”

Belle couldn’t help smiling as he bounced Gideon gently in the crook of one arm.

“Seems a sharp little mite,” he said, grinning as Gideon grasped his finger. “Strong grip.”

“I think he might end up with your height,” said Belle. “He’s got long legs.”

“Nice to think he’ll have something from our side, I suppose,” said Moe. “Not got your eyes.”

“Eye colour can change,” she said. “Hair colour, too. But yes, I think he’ll have brown eyes in the end.”

Moe grunted, but didn’t comment further. The waitress brought their drinks: iced tea for Belle and beer for her father, and she stirred the tea with a straw before taking a drink. He sipped at his beer, looking out the window towards the park.

“Looks like a nice neighbourhood,” he observed.

“Yes, it’s lovely.”

“I guess Gold likes his comforts.”

“No reason he shouldn’t, is there?” said Belle, a little stiffly.

He shrugged, and there was a moment of awkward silence. She prayed that he wasn’t going to pick a fight five minutes into their reconciliation.

“So,” said Moe. “This is your life now, is it? You’re staying in Boston?”

“Until I finish my studies, yes,” she said.

“And after that?”

“Well, I need to find a librarian post,” she said. “So we’ll see.”

“Guess you won’t be back to Storybrooke, then.”

“Not unless the library opens up again.”

“Always thought you might work with me in the shop,” he grumbled, and she sighed.

“That was alright to help out and for something to do between my studies, but you know it was never my interest,” she said. “Besides, I don’t have your talent for it.”

“So you’ll be moving elsewhere?” he said. “Maybe to the other end of the country?”

“I don’t know, Dad.” He grunted, and she added: “I’m not thinking that far ahead, to be honest. Let me get my Master’s out of the way and we’ll see.”

He grunted again.

“How’s the shop doing, anyway?” she asked, in a bid to get off the topic of her life plans. Moe grimaced.

“It’s going okay. Lot of work for one person.”

“I told you to get some help.”

“I told you I couldn’t afford it.”

It was on the tip of her tongue to tell him that he could if he cut back on the booze, but Belle let it go.

“And how are you feeling?” she asked. “Last time we spoke you said you were going to see the doctor.”

He rubbed the back of his neck with an awkward hand.

“Haven’t had time.”

“Dad…”

“Don’t fuss, I’m okay!”

Belle bit her lip and took a sip of tea to keep from snapping in frustration.

“What about you?” he asked after a moment. “You feeling okay?”

Belle wrinkled her nose, but nodded.

“I’m okay,” she said. “A little tired, that’s all.”

“You look thin.”

“Yeah, well, looking after a newborn is pretty hectic,” she said. “I don’t know how people cope alone, I really don’t. Having Alex there has been a godsend, really.”

Moe grumbled something under his breath.

“Took him long enough to step up,” he muttered, and Belle’s mouth flattened.

“He didn’t know I was pregnant,” she said coolly. “The moment he did, he turned his life upside down to provide for me and the baby. Do I need to remind you of the level of support I had from you?”

Moe looked uncomfortable.

“I thought we’d moved past that,” he said. “I told you I wasn’t proud of myself.”

“Oh, and while we’re on the subject,” added Belle, voice sharp with her rising irritation. “What did you think you were doing, telling Alex I was engaged to Gaston, of all people?”

His discomfort seemed to grow, and he shifted in his seat as though he would rather be elsewhere.

“I just wanted what was best for you,” he muttered. “Thought it’d make him back off.”

“He couldn’t have backed off any further if he tried,” she said tartly. “Our break-up was pretty extreme, if you recall.”

Moe looked down at Gideon, who was still staring up at him curiously, and sighed.

“Look, I thought I was doing the right thing,” he said awkwardly. “Not like I knew what would happen. I never wanted you mixed up with that man.”

“Well, I did get mixed up with him,” said Belle bluntly. “We’re now in a committed relationship, and he’s the father of your grandson. And of future grandchildren, if I have any say in the matter.”

Moe looked up sharply, mouth open, and the outraged look on his face made her want to giggle, even as she clicked her tongue in exasperation.

“He’s changed,” she said. “He’s not the same person that broke up with me. He’s facing his issues and being honest with me, and with himself.”

“First time for everything.”

“He’s well aware of his failings,” she said sharply. “He wants to make up for what he did. He already is!”

Moe grumbled something incomprehensible, turning the beer glass between his fingers, and Belle wanted to snatch it out of his hand and dump it over his head. She swallowed her anger down and concentrated on trying to make him see sense.

“He’s good to me, and to Gideon,” she went on. “He’s a wonderful father, and I think he’ll be a wonderful partner, too. He’s already made himself indispensable; I honestly don’t know what I’d do without him.”

“It’s a start, I suppose,” said Moe grudgingly.

“Plus,” added Belle, as if he hadn’t spoken. “I love him. I know you two don’t exactly get along, but I’m afraid you’re going to have to learn. Or at least pretend, for Gideon’s sake.”

Moe wrinkled his nose a little, but nodded reluctantly.

“Suppose I can try,” he said ungraciously.

“Suppose that’s all I can ask,” said Belle, in a very dry tone, and sipped at her iced tea.

-

The door had slammed shut when Neal stormed out, and Gold leaned his free hand against it, letting his head drop as he clutched the handle of his cane. For a brief moment he considered going after Neal, but dismissed the idea almost immediately. He would need both time and space to process the idea that - what? That he had a father who wanted him? Who had searched for him? Who had failed to protect him?

The oven beeped cheerfully from the kitchen, announcing that the brownies were done. Gold sighed, pushing back from the door and making his way to the kitchen on feet that felt like lead. His mind was a tangled mess, filled with loud admonitions, heavy, cloying guilt and the biting shards of anxiety. It took all of his concentration to get the brownie pan out of the oven, and he still managed to burn his thumb, dropping the pan of brownies onto the cooling rack with a curse hissed out through gritted teeth. He rushed to run the burned skin under the cold tap, eyeing the pale ghost of his reflection in the kitchen window. He looked sad and drawn, insubstantial, as though a part of him had left the apartment along with his son. His son.

Gold shut off the water, leaning on the sink, shoulders hunching as they began to shake with his weeping. He sucked in air, trying to calm himself, but it was as though a dam had broken inside him, torrents of emotion pouring through to drown him. He lifted a shaking hand to wipe his eyes and burst into fresh tears, leaning on the counter to hold himself up as his legs threatened to give way beneath him.

Somehow he managed to get the cane underneath himself and make his way into the lounge, where he dropped onto the couch and buried his head in his hands, his body wracked with heavy, choking sobs. Bae was alive. Alive and well, and with a son of his own. It was more than he could have hoped for. More than he deserved. It was too much.

-

Belle rolled her shoulders in an attempt to work out the tension as she made her way up the street to the apartment building, the cool of the evening just enough to make her shiver. Gideon dozed in the stroller, oblivious to passing strangers and the steady hum of traffic, and Belle turned to avoid another woman with a stroller, a jogger veering around both of them before carrying on his way at a steady pace.

She had sent Gold a text to let him know that she was on her way back, but he hadn’t responded. Belle hoped that that meant he had been taking a nap; he needed to if he was going to insist on getting up with Gideon every night. What she had told her father about his indispensability was true, and she was aware that the drive and determination that had made him a successful businessman had the potential to break him. He would run himself into the ground trying to care for her and his son if she didn’t remind him to rest.

All things considered, the meeting with her father could have gone a lot worse. He had shown an interest in Gideon, had almost apologised for lying about Gaston, and had seemed, if not exactly enthusiastic about Gold being in her life, at least grudgingly accepting. Over the meal, she had encouraged him to speak further about the flower shop, and life in Storybrooke, and once they were off the topic of her relationship, he was relatively pleasant company. It was a start.

She called a cheerful greeting to Marco as she entered the apartment building, heading for the elevator and letting out a sigh of relief as the doors swished closed and it made its way upwards. The corridor leading to the apartment was silent, and she opened the door, pushing it closed behind her and locking it. A quick peek into the bedroom told her that Gold wasn’t sleeping. The apartment smelled like warm chocolate, and she suspected that he’d been baking something. She shook her head with a fond smile; it seemed she would have to force him to take a break after all.

“Hey!” she called. “I’m back, and I managed not to yell or storm out of the diner, so that’s progress, don’t you think?”

She opened the lounge door, putting her head around it, and Gold glanced up from where he sat on the couch, elbows on knees, his head having been buried in his hands. He had been crying, his face wet with tears, his eyes glistening. She hurried over, falling to her knees on the rug at his feet and putting her hand on his thigh.

“What’s wrong?” she asked anxiously. “What is it?”

“It’s him,” wept Gold. “Neal. It’s him. He’s my son. He’s my boy.”

He began to cry again, his face crumpling, and Belle pushed up on her knees, sliding her free hand over his shoulder and pulling him into a one-armed hug.

“But that’s wonderful!” she said excitedly, sitting back on her heels as her fingers combed through his hair. “How did you find out? Did you talk to him?”

“He came over.” Gold wiped his eyes, dashing away tears. “Dropped off some books for you. They’re in the kitchen.”

“Never mind the books,” said Belle impatiently, and he let out a laugh that was almost a sob.

“That must be the first time you’ve ever said that.”

“What did Neal say?” she persisted. “What did you say?”

“I - I was just talking, really,” he said, his voice still trembling. “About Milah, about Bae. And - and I mentioned Milah’s name, and the name she had given our son, and - and that’s when he knew, I think.”

“So it’s really him?” asked Belle. “It’s really Bae? He must have changed his name.”

“He did.” Gold nodded rapidly. “He changed it. He told me. He - God, Belle, he just left! I told him, and - and he stormed out! I - I don’t know what to do. What do I do? What if he won’t talk to me?”

Belle drew back a little, hand sliding on the smooth wool of his pants.

“I think you should give him some time,” she said gently. “It’s a lot to process. For both of you.”

“Yes.” Gold ducked his head, nodding again. “Yes, I suppose you’re right.”

“He’ll need time and space to think about it,” she added. “And I suppose he’ll want to talk to Emma about it, too.”

Gold nodded, lower lip trembling.

“In the meantime,” she said. “I think you should call Archie, tell him what’s happened.”

“Yes,” he whispered. “Yes. I’ll call him tomorrow.”

“You should keep your Friday appointment,” she added. “Gid and I can drive up with you, and I can go and see Dad.”

Gold sat back a little, a tiny smile on his face.

“Your meeting went well, then?”

Belle pulled a face.

“It went okay,” she said. “I only wanted to smack him around the head a couple of times, so I guess it wasn’t too bad.”

Gold’s mouth twisted wryly, as though he understood her feelings.

“I’m glad it went well enough that you want to see him again, though.”

“Yeah.” She sat back on her heels, chewing her lip. “He was happy to see Gideon, anyway.”

“Good.”

He had dropped his eyes, biting anxiously at his lower lip, and she tilted her head to the side a little.

“Try not to worry that Neal left like that,” she said gently. “It must have been a shock, but you can’t think that means he won’t ever talk to you.”

“I know,” he whispered.

“I know he doesn’t want anything to do with his mother,” she added, “but your part in his early life was very different. You wanted him. That must mean something.”

“Yeah,” he breathed. “But what?”

He glanced up at her, dark eyes wide and anxious and filled with fear, and her heart broke for all the love he had inside him, and all the years he had kept it hidden away and locked up tight to stop it hurting him.

“I don’t know,” she said honestly. “All you can do is be patient with him, and I’m sure he’ll talk to you. I gave Emma your number. Maybe he’ll use it.”

Gold smiled, another tear spilling over and tracking its way down to run over the curve of his lower lip. His hand cupped her cheek, his touch warm, and he leaned forward to touch his forehead to hers, breath sighing out to brush her lips.

“Thank you, Belle,” he whispered. “I already owe you more than I can ever repay, and now you’ve led me back to my son. Thank you.”

She smiled, reaching up to stroke her fingers through his hair as she nuzzled his nose with hers.

“It’s fate,” she whispered. “It wasn’t my doing, it was just meant to be.”

“And without you, I would never have found him,” he said softly. “Thank you, Belle. I love you.”

He kissed her forehead, his lips a soft, wet circle between her eyes, and he lowered his mouth to hers. Belle kissed him gently, lips pulling, tasting the salt of his tears, and Gideon broke into a grumbling cry behind them, making them break the kiss with a soft chuckle.

“I’ll see to him,” she said, and pushed to her feet. “What can I smell, by the way?”

“Oh - brownies,” he said, sitting back and wiping his eyes again. “Can I get you one?”

“Please.” She smiled at him. “Shall we have some tea? And then you and I can curl up and have an early night. I think we both need some sleep.”

Gold returned the smile, and nodded.

“I am in your hands.”

-

Belle leaned on the kitchen counter, listening to the low hiss of the kettle as the water began to heat. Gold had gone to take a shower after putting Gideon to bed, and she was making a cup of chamomile tea for them both, hoping it would help him get some sleep. Her phone buzzed urgently in the pocket of her loose pants, and she fished it out, smiling a little as she saw Emma’s name on the screen. She swiped with her thumb to answer, nudging the kitchen door closed with a foot.

“Hey,” she said. “You okay?”

“Holy shit, Belle!” exclaimed Emma. “What the fuck?”

Belle sighed, leaning back against the worktop.

“I know,” she said.

“This is - I mean this is insane!”

“Tell me about it,” said Belle, with feeling. “How’s Neal coping?”

Emma sighed heavily.

“Still kind of freaking out,” she admitted. “How’s Alex?”

“He stopped crying, so that’s progress.”

“Shit.”

“Yep.”

There was a moment of silence.

“What do we do?” asked Emma. “This is huge.”

“I told Alexander that Neal was gonna need some time to process the idea,” said Belle. “I think they both will. Alex has spent decades looking for him, and to actually find him, not just a random stranger, but one of my best friends… he’s feeling kind of overwhelmed.”

“Overwhelmed is an understatement,” said Emma. “We haven’t said anything to Henry, by the way.”

“Oh, I didn’t expect you would,” said Belle. “I won’t mention it, of course.”

“Thanks.”

Another moment of silence. Belle hesitated before speaking.

“What’s your gut feeling on how this’ll go?” she asked, and heard Emma inhale deeply.

“Honestly? I don’t know right now. It’s brought back a lot of the crap he was dealing with in therapy, so I’m hoping he goes to see his therapist again. I mean he spent a lot of time dealing with his mother abandoning him, but this is a whole new thing.”

“Yeah, Alex is seeing his therapist on Friday.”

“Hey, maybe we could get a discount for multiple referrals.”

Belle chuckled.

“I doubt Neal wants to drive to Maine each week.”

“Guess not.” Emma was silent for a moment. “How are you coping?”

“Saw Dad today,” said Belle. “He managed not to piss me off too much, so that’s progress.”

“Good.”

“Yeah, he seems to want to patch things up,” she said. “I don’t think he and Alex are ever gonna be the best of friends, but I’m hoping we might at least be able to dump the hostility.”

“Knock their heads together if they’re gonna be assholes about it.”

“Yeah.” Belle sighed. “Right now it’s the least of my worries. I need to concentrate on Gideon and - well, and Alexander. He’s been making really good progress at opening up and being honest with me. I don’t want him to start reverting because things get difficult, you know?”

“You should get him to talk about it,” suggested Emma. “Don’t let him sit and brood. I’ll do the same with Neal.”

“Okay. Good idea.”

“Well, I’d better go,” said Emma. “I think that’s him back from the store. Call you tomorrow?”

“Okay. Thanks, Emma, I really appreciate it.”

“Anytime.”

Emma rang off, and Belle slipped the phone into her pocket, hearing the shower shut off. She turned back to the tea, pouring hot water onto bags of dried chamomile flowers and stirring. Emma hadn’t given an outright no to Neal wanting to accept Gold, and that gave her hope for a happy ending. After all their years of loss and pain, they deserved it.

-

The next day dawned dull and cloudy, which suited Gold’s mood. He had checked his phone several times during the night, just in case Neal had sent a message. Nothing. He supposed that wasn’t surprising. Belle had been the one to get up with Gideon in the night, telling him firmly to stay in bed, but sleep had been elusive, and so he found himself making coffee at five-thirty in the morning with grainy eyes and a heavy ball of anxiety in his belly.

He carried the cup of coffee through to the lounge and sat down, staring out through the window as the city came to life. His eyes strayed to the toy rabbit, tucked onto the end of one of Belle’s bookshelves, and after a moment he got up to take it down. Sitting back down, he turned the rabbit between his hands, the familiar feel of soft plush fur against his fingertips. He wondered if Neal would remember it, if he would remember anything of the short time they had had together. Not for the first time, he felt a surge of anger at Milah for taking him away, but his rage burned brief and hot, quenched by a heavy wave of overwhelming sadness for all they had lost. Tears pricked at his eyes, and he blinked them away, shaking his head. What’s done is done.

“You know, you really should rest.”

Belle’s voice made him look around with a sad smile. She was leaning in the doorway, the light from the hallway behind her, but he could see the look of sympathy in her eyes. It only made him want to cry again.

“It’s early,” he said. “Go back to bed.”

“I will if you come with me.”

His smile grew, and he set the rabbit down on the coffee table, propped up against Belle’s book pile.

“Alright,” he said. “But I’m bringing my coffee.”

“Deal.”

Lying down beside her felt good, his tired body sinking into the mattress as her arm went around him, and she pressed a kiss to his shoulder.

“Try to get some sleep,” she said softly. “I can get up to feed Gideon. You need to rest if you’re not gonna fall on your face.”

“I’ll try,” he murmured.

He could already feel his eyes sliding closed, Belle’s warmth and scent a balm to his soul. The coffee grew cold on the nightstand.

-

He woke with a start to find the bed beside him empty. Glancing at the clock he swore under his breath. Ten seventeen? Fuck!

He bounced out of bed, grabbing his robe and pulling it on as he grasped his cane and headed for the kitchen. Belle was making tea, and smiled brightly as he entered.

“Morning sleepyhead,” she teased. “How are you feeling?”

“A little better,” he admitted. “Thank you for letting me sleep.”

“I think you needed it.”

“Yes.”

He had needed it. He certainly felt better, although that underlying fear was still there, creeping beneath his skin.

“How’s Gideon?” he asked. “I didn’t hear a thing. Must have slept like the dead.”

“He was pretty quiet,” she said. “I fed him and changed him - gotta say it’s not that easy with one working arm - and now he’s sleeping.”

“Did you have breakfast?”

“Just tea so far.”

“In that case why don’t I make it?”

He opened the fridge, taking out a pack of bacon and fumbling it in his tiredness. The bacon hit the floor with a slap, and Gold sighed.

“You know what?” announced Belle. “I think it’s a little late for breakfast. What do you say to going out for brunch? We could go to the diner. Eggs Benedict, coffee and cinnamon Danish.”

He smiled, bending to retrieve the bacon.

“That sounds perfect.”

-

By the time they had drunk their tea, and Gold had dressed, Gideon was awake and clamouring for attention. He took over from Belle, changing and dressing him before tucking him into the stroller. He took a seat on the couch while Belle was tying up her hair, one eye on the stroller, and checked his phone for what felt like the hundredth time. His mouth flattened when he saw there were no messages, and when he looked up Belle was watching him with a look of sympathy in her eyes.

“It’s still early days,” she said, and he nodded.

“I know.”

He turned the phone between his hands restlessly, and Belle put her head to the side.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Fine,” he said automatically.

“Do you not want to go out?” she asked. “It’s okay if you don’t.”

“Of course I do,” he said. “You’re right, I should really eat something.”

“I can live without cinnamon Danish.”

He flashed her a grin.

“Perhaps, but that sounds like a terrible existence.”

Belle giggled, and he slipped the phone into his pocket and pushed to his feet, tugging the cuffs of his jacket straight and grasping his cane.

“Lead on,” he instructed, and she smiled, pushing the stroller towards the door.

“You’ve made the right choice,” she assured him. “I’m sure everything will seem much better after we’ve eaten our own weight in pastries.”

“I’ve no doubt you’re right,” he remarked, still grinning.

“Besides,” she added. “Getting out into the fresh air will do you good. It’s not like staying in the apartment will make a difference, right?”

She pulled open the door, and Neal blinked, fist raised ready to knock. Gold felt his heart leap into his mouth and pound against the back of his throat. He swallowed it down, trying not to let his raging anxiety show on his face.

“Neal!” gasped Belle. “You scared me half to death!”

“Hey,” said Neal, looking uncomfortable. “Sorry. Bad timing, I guess.”

“Not at all,” said Gold, his tone light.

Belle glanced at him, and then at Neal, and beamed.

“Uh - you know what?” she said brightly. “I think I’ll just - uh - I’ll go on ahead and wait in the diner. I could really use a cup of coffee. I’ll see you later.”

She scurried off before Gold had a chance to object, and he raised a hand and ran it through his hair, trying to think of something to say.

“Well,” he said, to fill the silence.

“Yeah.” Neal hunched his shoulders a little. “I - uh - I guess we need to talk.”

“Yes.” Gold hesitated, then stepped back and held open the door. “Please. Come on in.”

Neal seemed to slip past him, shoulders lifted awkwardly and body twisting, as though he wanted to be sure they didn’t touch. It made Gold’s heart sink a little, but he reminded himself that Neal could have avoided him altogether. The fact that he had come over at all was promising. He shut the door behind them, following Neal into the lounge.

“Can I get you something?” he asked. “Coffee?”

Neal shook his head, and Gold gestured to the couch before sitting in his chair, setting his cane to the side. Neal perched on the edge of the couch, threading his fingers together nervously, and Gold was reminded of himself in Dr Hopper’s office. The thought made him want to smile.

“I’m glad you came over,” he said gently.

“Getting news like that isn’t the kind of thing you can just ignore,” said Neal.

“Perhaps not,” agreed Gold. “But even so, I wasn’t sure you’d want to see me again. At least not right away.”

Neal shrugged awkwardly.

“I spoke to Emma,” he said. “And - and I know she didn’t say anything to you about my mother, and she’s the only one who knew her name. So there’s no way you could know unless - unless you knew, right?”

“I suppose not.”

“So I figured we should probably talk.”

“Right.”

Silence, but for the gentle tick of the clock on the lounge wall. Gold threaded his fingers together, in and out, trying to think of something to say that wasn’t trite or just plain desperate.

“I’m sure you must have questions,” he said. “I’ll try to answer them. Whatever you ask me.”

“Okay.”

Gold waited for him to speak, but there was only silence. He bit his tongue to keep from filling it with his own pointless rambling. Neal was looking at the floor between his feet, but after a moment he picked up the toy rabbit on the coffee table, turning it over in his hands.

“That belonged to you,” said Gold, making him look up.

“Yeah, so Belle said. At least - she said it belonged to your son.”

“It’s all I had left,” said Gold quietly. “Milah - your mother took all the pictures. Not sure what became of them.”

“I dunno.” Neal looked uncomfortable. “I don’t have ‘em. Maybe she took them with her. Maybe she threw them away.”

“I hope not.”

Gold thought it was the most likely explanation, but decided against saying so.

“I don’t suppose you remember me,” he added, and Neal wrinkled his nose.

“Sorry.”

“That’s alright. You were very young.”

“I kind of remember this.” Neal held up the rabbit, ears flopping from side to side as he did so. “I mean I don’t have a clear memory of it, or anything, but it seems - familiar.”

Gold smiled wistfully.

“That was your favourite toy.” he said. “When your mother took you, she left it behind. I was frantic. Wondered how you’d sleep without it. I suppose she got you something else.”

“I think there was a bear at some point.” He shook his head. “I don’t know. Like you say, I was very young.”

He ducked his head, and Gold tried again.

“I used to tuck it in bed with you when I read you stories at night,” he said. “You liked to be read to. You liked painting too; I’d put paper down on the kitchen table and you’d make a wonderful mess with the colours.”

Neal said nothing, thumbs stroking the fur on the rabbit’s cheeks. Gold wondered what he was thinking.

“I wouldn’t have been surprised if you’d said you didn’t want anything to do with me, you know,” he said. “I’m sure you blame me for a great many things, and sometimes it’s easier to make a clean break to spare yourself more pain.”

Neal looked up at that, dropping the rabbit back on the table and sitting back a little.

“Like you tried with Belle, you mean?”

His voice was flat, and Gold inclined his head.

“I deserved that,” he said quietly. “Breaking up with Belle was a terrible thing to do. It was one of the worst mistakes I’ve ever made. I was a coward, and I pushed her away. You are clearly far braver than I.”

Neal glanced away, his mouth twisting, but after a moment he looked up.

“Why did my mother leave?” he asked, and Gold let one shoulder rise and fall in a half-shrug.

“She and I were incompatible,” he said simply. “She wanted travel and excitement and lots of attention, and I wanted to provide a stable, secure home for my son. There wasn’t much we could have compromised on, looking back.”

“Guess not.”

“Perhaps it was my fault,” he added. “I knew she was unhappy, but I don’t think I realised the extent of that unhappiness. I never thought that she’d leave and take you with her. Looking back I should have. She was always - restless. Never content. Always chasing whatever she thought was over the horizon.”

“Yeah, I remember that we never stayed in one place long,” said Neal. “One day she’d decide it was time to move on, and we’d take the car and go. I guess maybe it was because she hadn’t paid the rent or something, right? She used to tell me it was an adventure. I don’t even remember going to school all that much.”

Gold shook his head, anger at Milah bubbling up once more after years of simmering beneath the surface. He tried to swallow his rage; Neal didn’t need to see it.

“I’m so sorry,” he whispered. “I should have protected you. I should have made sure she couldn’t take you from me. I - I tried to find you, I swear! I searched everywhere I could think of, followed every lead...”

“Yeah, well, when I got older, I guess I looked for you too,” said Neal, shoulders hunching a little. “Hit a dead end pretty much straight away. How come you weren’t on my birth certificate?”

Gold spread his hands, palms upward.

“Because I didn’t know,” he said simply. “As I said, by the time she saw fit to tell me I had a son, you were eighteen months old, and I was young and stupid and didn’t realise the importance of being formally named as your father. Another mistake I’ve been kicking myself over.”

“Was she with someone else?” asked Neal. “Before she came back to you, I mean.”

Gold pulled a face.

“I presume so,” he said. “She never liked to be alone, it has to be said. When she left I assumed she’d had a better offer.”

“So - so how did you know?” asked Neal, ducking his head a little and looking up through dark lashes. “You said you knew I was your son. How? Maybe she lied to you about that, too.”

“Maybe she did,” admitted Gold. “I can only tell you what I felt in my heart when I held you for the first time. I could feel that you were mine. It’s hard to explain.”

Neal wrinkled his nose, glancing away for a moment.

“No, I kind of get it,” he said. “I felt like that with Henry.”

“But with Henry there was no question that you were his father, was there?”

“No, of course not,” said Neal. “But I still get what you mean. It’s - it’s like there’s a bond there. Instant love, right?”

“Right,” said Gold softly. “That’s it exactly.”

Neal nodded, looking down at his joined fingers and swallowing hard.

“You were really looking for me?” he whispered. “All this time?”

“Ever since I lost you.”

Gold could feel a lump in his throat, tears threatening to well up and spill over once more, but Neal shook his head.

“No!”

He pushed to his feet, hands opening and closing as he paced back and forth, shaking his head. Gold got to his feet, stepping forward and grounding the cane between his feet, his heart hammering against his ribs, and Neal whirled to face him.

“I know how much you hurt Belle, how you forced her out of your life,” he said. “How do I know you won’t do that to me? How do I know you won’t do it to Henry?”

“Please!” Gold could hear the desperation in his voice. “I swear to you, I would never do that!”

“Why not?” demanded Neal. “You did it to Belle. You claim to love her now, but you pushed her away like she was nothing!”

“I pushed Belle away because I was afraid,” said Gold, his voice shaking a little. “It was a terrible, hurtful thing to do, and I regret it every day! But I swear to you, son, I will spend the rest of my life trying to make her happy, and - and being the best father to Gideon. And - and if you let me, I want to be the best father I can to you, too.”

Neal shook his head, pacing back and forth.

“Man, I turned my back on my parents years ago!” he protested. “I thought I was done with this! I’d made up my mind that you either didn’t know or didn’t care and I’d made my peace with it! And now - what? You want to play happy families? You can’t make it right! You can't open the story of my life and go to page 738 and think you know me!”

“I know that,” said Gold gently. “I know. You and I have missed time together that we are never gonna get back, and there’s nothing I can do to make it right. I know that.”

Neal ducked his head, almost as though it hadn’t been what he had expected to hear. Almost as though he had wanted reassurance instead of reality.

“But I want to try to build something,” Gold went on. “I want us to - to have the best relationship we can. I’m well aware that I’ve missed almost the whole of your life, and it kills me, son. I swear that I will do whatever it takes to win your trust and - and be a family.”

Neal was silent, staring at him for a moment, and then he let out a heavy sigh, running his hands over his face.

“I don’t know what you could do,” he said. “I don’t know what anyone does in this situation.”

“No,” admitted Gold. “I don’t think there’s a protocol for this sort of thing.”

“Should maybe ask one of those shows where they find long-lost family members.”

“Oh, believe me, I went on a number of those,” said Gold dryly. “With no photographs of you I knew it was a shot in the dark, but I tried anyway.”

“Wow.” Neal shook his head. “That must have been—”

“Soul-destroying,” Gold supplied quietly. “But it was all I could think of left to try.”

Neal stared at him for a long moment, then let out a mirthless chuckle.

“I guess this makes Gideon Henry’s uncle, huh?” he said. “That’s weird.”

Gold smiled, a little thrown by the abrupt change of subject.

“Yes,” he said. “Would Henry mind, do you think?”

“Probably take it in his stride,” said Neal, with a shrug. “He doesn’t let much faze him.”

“He seems a very bright boy,” said Gold, and he smiled.

“Yeah, he’s amazing” He shifted, toes scuffing the rug a little. “I don’t want him hurt. You get that, right?”

“It’s the last thing I want, believe me,” said Gold sincerely, and Neal nodded.

“Emma and I haven’t said anything to him,” he said. “Figured I’d talk to you first.”

“I understand,” said Gold. “It’s a lot to take in.”

“It’s not just that,” said Neal. “More like - we don’t actually know, do we? I know you think you’re my dad, but from what you say, my mother could have been lying. Guess there’s only one way to know for sure.”

Gold felt himself relax a little further.

“A test, you mean?” he asked. “Yes. I could arrange that, if you’re willing.”

“I’d rather know than not, wouldn’t you?”

“It wouldn’t make any difference to me,” said Gold. “But I can understand why it might to you.”

Neal blinked.

“It wouldn’t?” he asked, looking surprised, and Gold smiled.

“You’ve been my son in my heart from the moment I knew of your existence,” he said calmly. “Test results wouldn’t change that.”

Neal stared at him for a moment, then shook his head.

“You really mean that?” he asked quietly. “You’d really want to be a family with - with someone who isn’t even your kid?”

Gold licked his lips, hands folding over the handle of his cane.

“My father never wanted me,” he said bluntly. “He made it very clear throughout his life that I was nothing but a drain on his time, his money and his spirit. When I lost you, he told me I should count my blessings. That I’d been given a second chance at life, and I should make the most of it.” He shook his head. “Family - true family - it isn’t about blood. It’s about those you choose to be with.”

Neal pressed his hands together in front of his face, almost as though he was praying.

“Emma said that to me once,” he said quietly. “Back when we first got serious.”

“She seems like an extraordinary young woman,” said Gold.

“She’s the best,” said Neal immediately. “Way too good for me. I guess maybe that’s something we have in common, huh?”

Gold let out a soft chuckle. There was a moment of silence, and Neal let his hands drop to his sides, shaking his head a little.

“Papa?” he whispered. “Is it really you?”

Gold’s self-control crumbled, tears spilling over as his lip wobbled uncontrollably.

“Oh God, Bae!” he wept. “Oh God, I’m sorry! I am so, so sorry!”

He reached out, desperate to touch his son, expecting him to recoil, but Neal stepped forward, hesitating only slightly before throwing his arms around him and hugging him tight. Gold wept, clinging to him as he felt a loosening in his chest, a lifting of the heavy weight of grief and guilt. He wasn’t sure how long they stood there, but when Neal drew back he too had tears in his eyes. Gold smiled, trying to steady his trembling lip.

“I guess Belle must be wondering where you are,” said Neal, his voice a little rough with emotion. “This is so weird. It’s almost like she’s my stepmother.”

Gold laughed.

“I’m sure she won’t mind that,” he said.

“You should marry her.”

“Oh, I intend to,” he said. “If she’ll have me.”

“Are you kidding?” Neal shook his head, dashing tears from his cheeks with a thumb. “She’s crazy about you.”

“Then I’m possibly the luckiest man on this earth,” said Gold.

“Something else we have in common.”

They shared a grin, and Gold made a decision.

“Would you come to brunch with us?” he asked. “You could invite Emma and Henry, if you like.”

Neal ran his hands over his face and let out a tearful chuckle.

“What the hell,” he said. “Brunch it is.”

#fic: twisted fate #rumbelle #rumbelle fic #my fic

[zebraslovescupcakestoo]

Awkward Encounters While Walking My Friend’s Dog

I was in my office and just finished my paper work for the day. It was a rare occasion that there's only a minority criminal activities and we didn't had any emergency calls yet so this is a very good day so far. Fortunately, my chief told me that I can take the rest of the day off after so I'll take this chance to relax a bit at home before the kids comes home from school by Sheba's turn.

That is until I saw someone at my door who rarely wore a navy blue jacket and I knew him well enough that he doesn't wear it without a good reason. “Sam, are you attempting to shop lift right in the station?” I asked him. He shushed me. “Hey! Are you done? Kit told me that you've don't have much today. We need to get out ASAP with you.” Did he said we and with me? Who is he talking for and... why does he looked a bit bigger with that jacket that he rarely used? Lawyers do have a three piece suits but Sam had his signature yellow sweatshirts on most days and doesn't take the coat parts unless he had to.

But then I heard am animal noise and some wiggling... then it made sense.

I have a friendly dog who likes to run around You may have seen us on our daily walk

Sam have brought his dog today! “Sam, why are you hiding Tia-” He hushed again. “Félix, just finish that sh!t and let's go. I don't wanna deal with any more pot-heads today!” He really doesn't liked being with people that he gets 'bad vibes' from. I know that he's hard to get along sometimes, but I know him well that he's a really nice guy and hopefully one day he can be a bit more nicer... “Alright, just let me report these and then 'we'll' head out. That poor girl needs air.”

We frequent the river and the parks around the town When I see someone I know she'll always let me stop and talk

When we exited the station without drawing suspicions, Sam finally let out his boarder collie, Tiara. She's a very friendly and beautiful dog. I'm also her favorite human next to Sam. It might come to a surprise that I'm a bit fond of dogs but not as much since as I'm more of a 'cat' person. For some reason since I can remember, dogs liked me, even the more ferocious ones like a guard dog.

She gets a little anxious when she sees another dog But with people, she's always been relaxed

“I hate it whenever I take her for walks, there's a bunch of idiots that wanted to see her.” Sam complained. “Then why couldn't you, I don't know, take a different route?” I might not relate cause I never had dogs in my life. “Félix, I already tried it three times, I can get lost in the Amazon jungle and there's still people that wanted to talk to my dog. She's a beauty but she's not exactly that one with white gloves and worked in Disneyland.” He sighed. I know it wasn't his or Tiara's fault that people liked her, but I do understand that being in the center of attention can be daunting.

But she's not very discerning when it comes to choosing friends And there seems to be a certain type of people she attracts

“Let's stop at the local supermarket before we stop at my house. It's my turn to make dinner and I was thinking making macaronis. Would you like to join us for dinner tonight?” I'm not a five star chef but I can do more than just slapping PB and J sandwiches. It was usually Sam who covered our coffee  most of the times so I thought that this would be a nice gesture in return. “Yeah, sure, at least your cousin is out of town at the moment.”

“Why?” I asked confused. “Same reason why there's less branches in your backyard.” Ohhhhhh... Alex and Sam 'helped' to get a ball back a few days ago before he had to leave a while for 'business' reasons.

Translation: Alex refused at Sam's idea because he himself is more capable climbing trees and getting the ball than him. He pulled the tourist rule about not allowed to 'work' so Sam decided to 'reason and negotiate.' By throwing him up in the tree and then tells him off with his lawyer degree skills and the loop hole in that rule.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

We walked for quite some time and like Sam described, some people were attracted to her. If this was a dog show, she'll be winning first prize for sure. Sam was beginning to get a bit grumpier as soon as there's a few people that walked up to Tiara. “OMG! Is that your dog?” “Awww! Hey there!” “Who's a good doggie?”

They ask me lots of questions and offer their affections and I feel obliged to uncomfortably stay

I would feel a bit sad for him cause he has to deal with this, but I took that back when I looked up to him as saw that he was 'flipping' them off with both hands.

Their behavior may be crude but to ignore them would be rude and my mother didn't bring me up that way

“I found out that I could do this for a good amount of period and they still wouldn't notice it. How hilarious is that?” Sam smirked but I had to scold him and make him stop before they noticed it. All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

After they had their attention and noticed Sam's response, I had to scold him. “Sam! You can't put everybody on the hate list forever. Just because, and I know, there's bad people, there are also good people that really didn't meant any harm.” “ Félix, if I had to 'politely' accepted a salad dish recommendation and crap like a parrot for the next couple of days, you can at least let me steam off some 'pet peeves' or what I preferred to call some major psychotic f#king hatred.” I sighed deeply in frustration and rubbed my eyes. I swear sometimes that he must be related to Bendy like a long, lost elder brother. “Listen, I can hear your problems anytime over coffee if you promise not to do it again like that.” I offered so that way he's not gonna cause more damage. He shrugged but decided to agree. “Fine... Only because I trust you and when you're around.”

She's utterly oblivious to my concerns of their intent She runs to greet them with a wagging tail

Thankfully, the 'fans' soon resumed their ways without them noticing my friend's behavior. How can someone like him have a sweet dog like that? I decided to ask for real this time since I rarely ask about his past before he moved. “Hey Sam. I've never know how you got your dog since we've met. How did you got her?” I desperately search around for an easy exit point but the incoherent small talk starts before I have the chance to bail

He then told me the story. “Eh bien, Félix, it was when I returned back home from the war. After I reunited and returned with my twin brother, Simon, we both headed to our childhood home. Mind you, I didn't go back after that night he and my ex we're cheating on me at the time and before the war. That place was then passed on my brother since I didn't claim half of it. Which I didn't care for the old barn but anyways, I then soon found out that during those times I was 'missing,' they got married, had triplets which was a big surprise back home and what's more surprising but not that it's new by now, they look a lot like me at that age.” I can't argue with that cause I saw them in pictures and in persons at his birthday party. “I found they're really nice family. They are so-” “They're a bunch happy-jolly ranchers and I can only tolerate so much like my brother. They all drive me nuts but at least... they aren't bad.” He then said. I know that Sam's not much of an optimistic, but I do understand where he's coming from. “So apart from that, I did had a small apartment in the nearby town and build my career from law school. One day, they showed up on my rare days off and they gave me a puppy. She was from a litter in a neighboring farm and they wanted to give me a companion since I didn't have anyone and I was being 'cold' to almost anyone.”

My senses always tell me that I'm going to be mugged So I reach to get my wallet and my phone

“Well... maybe they wanted you to help you and wanted to give some affections? I get that sometimes from pets. I'm sure they really cared about you and wanted you to be happy.” “Félix, if I wanted some 'affectionate' companion at the time, I would have gone to a brothel.” I frowned a 'WTH' face at Mr. Sourpuss. But he then he got a gentle expression I occasionally see. “But... at least she's reducing my stress and well... comforts me.” I can imagine him sleeping and his dog snuggling in his bed. Most people wouldn't want dog hair in their beds but some would take the risk. He really is a nice guy deep down. I flinch as they utter unintelligible words And then sigh with relief when I detect a friendly tone

“Also, one of the best part is that she doesn't throw dishes at me when I called her mom's a bi-” “SAM!” Happy place is now temporary closed.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

We walked a bit more until we hit at a winery store. It seems like they're having some sort of a wine tasting stall outside of their store. I end up in a fug of fags and stale cider breath and I try to hide my obvious dismay

Like the previous group, they notice us and they went for the dog. How can a half drunken people be out like this at this time of the day?

She seems to be a breed that has a certain appeal to types whose diet consists of bark and boos for every meal

The owner had handed out cups of wine to both of us before he joined the others to have his turn petting the beautiful dog. Sam took mine and he dunked both cups into the drain. “White wine taste better anyways.” I would have 'remind' him again, but the dog's affections can distract people. Plus, I don't drink so he get a pass just this once.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

After a few minutes, we resumed and left those people with happy drinking. “Gee, Sam. Tiara is really is a special dog.” He laughs. “Ha! I had her for 5 years and you think I wouldn't noticed it? The kids loved her just as much.”  I agreed. We already had a cat until we lost her a few years ago. The twins barely remembered him cause they were little, but our cat was so cuddly to me and he had a fulfilling life. I was pretty sad when he died and I wasn't ready for another one since then. Not to mentioned that the twins were a bit too wild to take care for one, no matter how many times they brought up the subject and I had to remind them the responsibilities that comes with it. But at least they started to learn a bit once Tiara came into the picture. “At least it's a good experience for them. Maybe one day we can have a pet in our house once they've learned their lessons.”

I do my best to avoid certain areas of the park where the druggies and the rough teenagers dwell

We then stopped at the grocery store. Unfortunately, dogs aren't allowed. Sam then handed the leash to me “I'll go. You stay here with her. I don't want anybody so something to her like tying cans to her tail.” “But Sam, I'm the one who's in charge of-” “Where do most pasta stuff is shelved?” He reminded me. “...Top. The top shelves. I'll wait here.” I forgot that time we both got in there and it was one of those tall-short problems that got 'solved.' Sam was going to grab an item that was on the top shelves but I said I was going to grab it. That smart@ss agreed, picked me up and said 'OK, you can grab it.' Oh my Ra! That was so embarrassing! Sometimes, it was better to grab my twins than tagging with him.

I rarely venture out with her when it has gotten dark lest we catch the attention of some drunk may be well

I was enjoying some alone time and dazed for a few minutes. I rarely have this type of moments so I indulge myself to clear my head. Sadly, life doesn't go the way we planned when I saw a familiar bodyguard coming towards me. It was Boris Von Wolf. Bendy's right hand man and the second command in Alfonzo's mafia. I gritted my teeth. What is he doing here? I try to keep away when there are people hanging round the benches and the sitting walls and swings on the playground

He seems to noticed me and smirked. So of course, he walked up to me. “Well, well, well. If it isn't the 'ace' detective himself. He he! Taking the night off? Well, at least we'll be sleeping better for tonight.” I just glared at him. “I'm still not falling for your dirty tricks. You two and the rest of you scums can't fool everyone forever. One day you'll pay for what you've done for the innocents.” I spatted. He then cracked his knuckles. “Oh really? Are they ALL innocent to begin with? You're just as dumb as Bendy always said.”

Then suddenly as if out of nowhere they appear staggering hands out slurring:

He then reached out at me, or at the thought of the moment at least. I winced for impact until I heard:

“BAHHH, Who've we got here?”

I widen my eyes and turned my head next to me to see the big, bad wolf being a softie to Tiara. Oh yeah, I forgot to watch her from anyone who tried to harm her. For someone like him who detested 'good guys,' he sure has a huge soft spot for dogs. If that wasn't enough to convince you, does these words that came out of his mouth sounds like it? 'Who's a good doggie? Is it you? Is it you? Dawwwww!'

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

Now this is a rare situation. It's not exactly threatening, but it isn't good either. I'm risking my friend's dog to the second most powerful man of the Chicago underworld who's infatuated with her friendly doggy charms. I was not trained for this kind of situation! As if it didn't got any worse, Sam came out of the store.

They greet me with a wink and they offer me a drink and I say thanks but it's too early in the day

He got stunned to see me and the other two. I mouthed 'I swear I didn't mean to!' He just waved and singed me to say 'I know what to do.' He then handed me the grocery bag and did a karate chop on the wolf's fedora. Hard. I choked.

Though they catch me unprepared, I've long stopped being scared I just find it hard to work out what to say

The sun hasn't set yet and they already started to light up the matched. Boris grumbled as he rubbed his head and fixed his hat. He glared up to see Sam. “Oh, what a nice, f#kng, surprise to see you here. I should have paid better attention.” He dusted himself off from invisible dust as he got up.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

Boris then got face to face and stared at Sam like it was some sort of contest. From my point of view, they're only about a head apart in height. On one side we have a football/boxing body builder type while the other was decently built but taller person. While one is close combat expert while the other is more technique planned. It's a bit of a competition in a brawl.

And then there's me with only a dog... whom she did nothing wrong.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

“I see that you're still working for pigeons, lamp post.” Boris 'greeted' “I see that you're still an ottoman for your bat brat, ya wolf skinned doormat.” Sam replied. Sam and Boris is like me and Bendy, we don't belong in the same room together. “You're just jealous that I don't have to work that hard to get anything I want such as money, love and power. There's nothing that you and the kid next to you can't compete with what we have.” Boris said. But Sam brushed it off. “I object, cause I found one thing that MY cat partner let me have that your 'cat' partner will never let you have.” He squinted his eyes. “Oh really? What is it, bird brain?”

Accessorized with diamond white and cans of special brew It's really very sweet in its own peculiar way

Sam then smug a big grin as he grabbed me and Tiara in both his arms, while he had both his hands free to 'flip' him off. “I get to keep my dog, B!!!!!!!!!!!!tch!”

Ok! Now we're gonna die, thank you Sam, you gave me a reason why I will die so young.

Though they may cause some alarm, they don't mean any harm They only want to come and have a play

I can see the shaking anger from Boris as if he's gonna go rampage. “Oh, by the way, I think that specific duck meat that only sells in here, you know, that one your cat person loved so much? I think I saw only one left. It would be ashamed if someone else grabs it before you do.” Sam suggested. That made Boris calm down a bit. “Dang! That's the only ones Bendy likes only for here! Fine, you win this time, but don't you think you'll get off easy next time. You're only lucky that it was today's special dinner. I bid you two losers an unpleasant day. ” He then entered the store.

All the local whiners want to make friends with my dog and I'm far far too polite to walk away

“Lucked out indeed. He can't beat me that easy and he knows it's bad luck to mess with a black cat, righty-o, Félix?” Sam teased. “You're old enough to know I don't say righty-o.”

Dad, if you're still watching me from above, what did I do to deserve a friend like him and where would I be without him?

----Author's notes-----

Haaaaaaaaaah! I'm lagging nowadays! I wanted to do stuff but I just MEH!

So at least One-shots are faster and better. So I did made a story with my personal OC fave with his dog. It's a boarder collie, so they're very eye catching.

The song inspired this was Awkward Encounters While Walking My Dog by Thomas Benjamin Wild Esq

There is also that Felix the cat catch phrase ‘Righty-o’ I bet that Felix really doesn’t like to do it for some reason. Which on the other hand, my OC was based on the fruit loops mascot with his catch phrase of ‘Just follow your nose!’ which I could see him doing that but added: cause I can smell bullsh!t with mine!

I know that Boris is loyal to Bendy and would do anything, but I bet that he wouldn't harm any dog unless it's threatening his buddy. Including police dogs if there are any in the main BBTIM AU.

So I hope that everyone is doing well so far during these times. I know that there is a lot going on including recent events these past few weeks, but I do wish everyone the best.

BBTIM humanized characters belong to @marini4 and OC humanized Sam Toucan is mine.

#bendy before the ink machine #au #humanized #Bendy and the Ink Machine #bendy #boris the wolf #boris #Felix The Cat #Felix #OC #sam toucan #fanfiction #fanfic #marini4

[chain-unchained]

June 17

(Just a heads up, this is entirely a filler chapter with Ashe, Sebastian and Sam-- and this is where I reeeaally start taking creative liberties with the game systems.)

“Ugh, it’s too hot to practice…” Sam groaned, as he and Sebastian walked away from Alex’s ice cream stand, cones of creamy frozen goodness in hand. “And it’s too hot to do anything else today...”

“You say the same thing every year.” Sebastian pointed out, raising a brow at Sam’s drama. “Why don’t you ever ask for an air conditioner for your birthday present? Or just save up and buy one yourself?”

Sam’s expression became quite sheepish. “Well… I know how expensive they can be, especially when it starts heating up, so I’d feel bad asking Mom to spend that kind of money.” He admitted, hastily licking up a trail of melted chocolate ice cream as it ran down the side of his cone. “And my paychecks aren’t usually that big, y’know? With what I have left after giving half to Mom for rent, I’d have to spend a whole year saving to afford one. It’s like…” He gestured with his hands, “I can either be a penny-pinching miser for something that I’ll only use for a couple of months a year, or I can have fun with my money and spend it on stuff I’ll actually use all the time, like strings for my guitar or a new amp.”

“Or you could work more than once a week.” Sebastian was deadpan in his delivery, crushing his friend just a little; it was a playful jest, of course, one meant in good fun. “Even if you picked up just one extra shift every week, it’d give you more to work with.”

“Yeah, I know…” Sam hung his head a little in defeat. “Can you blame me, though? I don’t want to work at that awful place! Even if it does have air conditioning, it’s not worth it. I don’t know how Shane puts up with Morris for forty hours a week, every week.” He looked thoughtful as he took a bite, using his tongue to lick up some that got on his upper lip. “Y’know, speaking of Shane… he seems different lately. Like, he seems more… I dunno, clear-headed? Maybe it’s just me, but…”

Sebastian ran his tongue around his own ice cream to keep it from melting too quickly. “He’s stopped ordering beer when he comes to the saloon on Fridays.” He pointed out, much to Sam’s surprise. “… You didn’t notice because you never turn around when we’re playing pool.”

“Cos the last time I turned around, you hit the 8-ball into the back of my head.” Sam pouted a little; amongst their little friend group, he was definitely the most oblivious. “I wonder if he’s trying to stop drinking. If so, that’s gotta take some serious willpower.”

“Why don’t you ask Ashe and find out?” Sebastian pointed over Sam’s shoulder. “He’s right over there.” It was pretty common knowledge in town at that point that Ashe and Shane were close, so it made sense to ask a question like that of him rather than going directly to the source.

“Huh?” Sam turned around and followed Sebastian’s finger; sure enough, Ashe was heading up through the north of town, past Harvey’s and Pierre’s and up towards the mountains where the Carpenter’s was. To their surprise, he was carrying quite a large, empty burlap sack, with a pickaxe strapped across his back. “Oh, good idea. Hey, Ashe! Ashe!”

Faintly hearing his name being called, Ashe paused, looking back over his shoulder curiously. “Oh! Hey guys!” He turned around and waved, waiting as Sam and Sebastian made their way towards him. “Happy birthday Sam~ I was actually heading to the mines to get a birthday present for you.”

“Aw, that’s real nice of you.” Sam was touched by his thoughtfulness, but he couldn’t help but be concerned. “Aren’t the mines dangerous, though? I wouldn’t want you to get hurt on account of me.”

“I dunno, I bet it’s a lot of fun to go exploring in them.” Sebastian shrugged his shoulders a little. “It’s got to be more exciting than anything else you can do here in town.”

Ashe just smiled, adjusting the strap of the sack slung across him. “It can be a little dangerous, but there’s a rescue team on standby in case things go wrong. Even though they’re technically Joja employees, they’re really nice. And it’s really exciting to see what you can find down there~” An idea struck him, making him press his palms together in delight. “I know! If you guys don’t have anything else to do, why don’t you come to the mines with me? I bet we could find a whole vein of valuable gems.”

The two taller males could practically see the gold coins dancing in Ashe’s eyes at the notion. “Well… I mean, it’s better than anything else we could have thought of.” Sam admitted, glancing over to see Sebastian’s own eyes glinting a little. He knew his best friend hated the mundanity of life in Pelican Town, and was probably extremely keen on the idea. “The mines have gotta be cooler than out here, right?”

“Oh, definitely.” Ashe nodded enthusiastically. “The mines stay super cool—sometimes a little too cold, but that’s when you get warmed up with some mining~”

That was enough to sell the still-reluctant Sam, whose ice cream at that point had already half-melted from the humid heat around them. “Alright, count me in. What about you, Seb?”

“Definitely.” Sebastian tossed what was left of his ice cream into the nearest trash bin as the three of them began up the path towards the north; on their way there, they passed Robin, who was on her way to Pierre’s for Caroline’s weekly aerobics class. They played off their passing casually, as Robin would definitely protest them heading into the mines if she knew what they were up to—even though she was a mother only to Sebastian, she had that motherly ability to cow any unruly teenagers if she felt like they were doing something dangerous. Since she had only just left for the class (the class that Jodi also went to every week), that gave them a solid three hours to explore before their folks got suspicious.

Right off the bat, the interior of the mines was noticeably cooler—it was easily a ten to twenty degree difference, making the trio sigh in relief. Having never really been inside the mines before, Sebastian and Sam were surprised to see a sort of ‘base camp’ setup right past the entrance—it was a small setup, to be true, with a little first aid station and a portable restroom. Usually the rescue team was comprised of two Joja employees, but that day only one was present, a mousy ginger-haired girl with huge glasses.

“Hi Ellie~” Ashe greeted as the three of them approached; the sudden sound of his voice made the meek girl practically jump out of her skin, having been so absorbed in the book she was reading that she hadn’t heard them enter the cave. “Are you working alone today?”

“A-Ah, hello Ashe…” Hastily, Ellie put down the book and fixed her now lopsided glasses, thoroughly flustered by that point. “Y-Yes, it’s just me today. You know h-how it is during the week…” Looking to the unfamiliar young men with Ashe, she asked hesitantly, “A-Are these your friends?”

“Mmhm.” Gesturing to Sebastian and Sam, Ashe introduced, “This is Sebastian, and this is Sam.”

“Hey, nice to meetcha.” Sam greeted with a friendly smile, while Sebastian raised his hand in hello. “So uh, how does this whole setup go exactly?”

Ellie got to her feet. “W-Well… You sign your name into this logbook, just so we have a record of you coming in should anything happen.” She gestured to the crate with said book on it. “Th-then we get you fitted with some safety gear and weapons, and you go off and… do your thing.” She seemed to recall something and looked to Ashe. “U-Unfortunately, you’ll have to stick with the left path; P-Percy signed in a-about an hour ago and reserved the right path for the day.”

“Drat.” Ashe scuffed the toe of his boot into the ground with a pout. “The right path is always loaded… Oh well, it can’t be helped.” It always felt like his rival was one step ahead of him; just when he thought he was catching up, Percy managed to widen the gap between them even further. “… The mines split off into two different directions.” He explained to his friends, who both looked slightly puzzled.

“F-From what we can tell,” Ellie added as she retrieved some safety gear for them to put on, “the left path is from the hey-day of the mining operation; the right path was started when the left path started running out of resources, but due to a cave-in, the whole operation was shut down before much p-progress was made, hence why it tends to be more resource-rich. B-But I’m sure you’ll be able to find plenty all the same.”

She helped the boys into the gear—nothing too grand or complex, considering it was a setup that Joja realistically made very little money on and thus had no incentive to do anything more. Helmets with headlamps, gloves, some rather dull-bladed swords. She did give Sebastian and Sam their own pickaxes, before strapping what seemed to be some kind of monitoring devices to their wrists. “Sh-Should anything happen, these alarms will send a signal to me to come get you guys. B-Be safe in there, and good luck.”

“Thanks, Ellie~” Ashe smiled merrily and proceeded onward, with Sebastian and Sam quick to follow; the path into the mines was straightforward for a short distance, before it diverted sharply into two distinct paths like a forking road. “I still can’t believe Percy beat us here.” He couldn’t help but pout, giving the right path a longing look before he led the two to the left.

“Are you really so strapped for money that you need those resources to sell?” Sebastian asked as he too came to walk beside Ashe.

“Well, not really…” Ashe admitted meekly; suddenly, a fire lit up in his eyes, and he pumped his fists in determination. “But the more money I make, the more I can improve the farm, which means more money, which means more improvements! I absolutely, absolutely, absolutely have to make my farm better than Percy’s.”

Sebastian and Sam shared a look around the short male. “Why is that so important?” Sam couldn’t help but inquire slowly. It just seemed so out of character for Ashe to be so money-hungry and so competitive, when usually he was one of the friendliest folks in town.

“…” Ashe’s arms fell to his sides. “Because if I don’t, Joja will take grandpa’s farmland and turn it into factories.” He murmured, his shoulders slumping as he came to a stop.

“Joja will—wait, come again?” Sam’s eyes nearly bugged out of his head. “Seriously?!”  

“Mmhm.” It was all Ashe could do to simply nod his head in confirmation, leaving Sebastian and Sam somewhat speechless. “I can’t let that happen. I won’t let that happen. So…” He clenched his fists for a moment, before thrusting his finger outward dramatically. “That’s why I will build a farm better than anyone’s ever seen before! And to do that, I need lots and loootsa G, so let’s get to mining!”  

It was such an abrupt about-face that it practically gave the boys whiplash. They’d had no idea of the kind of pressure that Ashe was under, but it wasn’t exactly their fault; despite how nosy the farmer could be, he was pretty tight-lipped about himself and his goings-on at the farm, as though he preferred to endure his burdens all alone. Whatever the reason was, Sam and Sebastian had gained some pretty horrific insight into just how depraved Joja was.

“What gives them the right to try and take your grandpa’s farmland?” Sam tried to press, jogging to keep up with Ashe who had picked up a quick pace in search of treasures. “That can’t be legal, they can’t just take what doesn’t belong to them cos they feel like it. And I knew Percy was kind of an ass, but I didn’t think he was a Joja stooge.”  

“It’s a long story.” Ashe seemed perfectly content to leave things at that, smiling that carefree smile of his as he marched resolutely onward. “We’re starting to get kind of deep now, so we might end up seeing a few slimes here and there. They’re harmless—actually, they’re really cute and squishy, and they seem to like attention. Sometimes, they even lead me to where a good ore vein is~”

Clearly, the boys weren’t going to get much more than that out of him; one of Ashe’s more deserved reputations was of his unyielding stubbornness. “… Wait, slimes?” Sebastian repeated, as what Ashe had just said sunk into his brain. “You mean like, the kind you fight in Dragon Quest?”

“Yup.” Ashe looked over his shoulder and grinned. “In fact, I’d say the ones in here are way cuter.”

Almost as if on cue, a little green blob bounced into view from around a large jagged boulder, its little antenna swaying too and fro as it merrily went along its way. “Oh, there’s one now!”

Completely startled by this revelation—that creatures much like the ones they’d slain in video games existed in their world, in these mines not far from town—Sam let out a startled yelp, tripping over his own feet in his haste to step back; he was, of course, horrified when dozens of the little round blobby beings popped out of nowhere and swarmed them, drawn from their hiding spots by the sound of activity and voices. Just as Ashe had said, they were completely harmless, simply bouncing uselessly off of their legs like a thrown pillow or stuffed animal would.

“…. Is this real life right now?” Sebastian crouched down and dangled one by its squishy skin; it felt kind of like mochi without the rice flour coating. The slime wriggled and squirmed a little, looking up at Sebastian with an expression of overt curiosity mixed with a desire to be freed.

The sound of Sam’s raucous laughter filled the mine; Ashe and Sebastian looked down to see the slimes practically converging on him, jumping and crawling all over him as he tried in vain to push them off. “I-It tickles when they move!!!” He wheezed, the weight of all the slimes on his upper body pinning him to the rocky ground. “D-Don’t just st-stand there! HALP!”

“Welp, RIP Sam.” Sebastian tossed the slime he was holding into the slime-pile and began to walk. “He lived a good life.”

“If we find a neat gemstone we’ll be sure to leave it on your grave~” Ashe chimed as he traipsed off with Sebastian.

“H-Hey, where are you guys going?!” Sam sputtered, his eyes nearly bugging out of his head once more—before another slime happily squished onto his face.

Of course, they went back once the joke had run its course, if only out of pity for the guy who seemed completely incapable of getting the slimes off for fear of hurting them. It was a good introduction to what the mines were like, though, especially once Ashe told them that the only threat slimes posed was thanks to their tendency to swarm like that—it was easy to get into some real trouble if there were other monsters lurking about.

 “Oh yeah, I completely forgot.” Sam suddenly recalled their original reason for wanting to talk to Ashe some time later, as they were chipping away at a vein of silver ore—it wasn’t a gemstone, sure, but silver was still valuable in its own right. “We wanted to ask you something, Ashe.”

“You wanted to ask him something.” Sebastian corrected as he gave Sam a pointed look. “Don’t drag me into your nosiness.”

Ashe swung his pickaxe hard enough to chip a good chunk from the vein. “Me?” He asked, giving Sam an inquisitive look as he knelt down to pick the chunk from the ground. “What is it?”

“Is there something going on with Shane?” Sam wiped a bead of sweat from his face with his shoulder and leaned against the handle of his pickaxe as he spoke. “He seems different than usual, and we noticed that—” A small pebble struck him in the back of the head; he jerked his head around to see Sebastian casually sifting through a pile of chipped fragments, humming in that kind of ‘innocent’ way that was a dead giveaway that he had chucked it. “…. Sebastian noticed that he stopped ordering drinks at the bar. We figured asking him directly wouldn’t work out too well, and you’re one of the people he’s closest to, so…”

“I just want to clarify that I have no part in this.” Sebastian announced bluntly, leaning around his friend to give Ashe a dead serious expression. “Sam was the one who wanted to stick his nose in Shane’s business.”

“Dude, why are you trying to throw me under the bus?!” Sam whipped around again to fume at his friend. “Admit it, you’re curious as hell too! Otherwise you wouldn’t have said anything in the first place! And why are you acting like it’s such a big deal, anyway? It’s a small town, everyone knows everyone’s business eventually!”

As Sam ranted, Sebastian looked away with a smirk and cleaned some dust out of his ear with his pinky finger; it was way too much fun to rile up his friend like that, especially since Sam had the tendency to go way over the top as he was then. “Methinks the lady doth protest too much.”

“What does that even mean?!” Sam threw his hands up in defeat.

The sound of Ashe giggling brought Sam’s energy back down; the two looked towards the farmer and found him nearly doubled over with repressed laughter. “It’s not a big deal, guys.” He managed to giggle out, straightening up and wiping a tear from his eye; he was almost jealous of the kind of friendship that they had with one another, the kind where you could sit and insult one another for hours just to see who could come up with the most creative shit talk. “Shane decided to quit drinking, that’s all.”

It was the confirmation that they had suspected, but to hear it was still a surprise, considering how much of a beer hound Shane had been up until that point. “Damn. What do you mean, it’s not a big deal?” Sam asked. “That’s kind of huge for him, isn’t it?”

“Of course it is.” Picking up his pickaxe again, Ashe gave it another good swing, sending bits and pieces of rock and silver everywhere. “But I… I think he’s kind of embarrassed about it. He said the last thing he wants is for the whole town to start bringing up how glad they are that he’s not a drunkard anymore. He just wants everything else to stay the same…” Another swing revealed little flecks of red embedded in the rock, and he set the pickaxe aside to crouch down and get a closer look. “Change can be really scary, so having something normal to cling to can make it less scary… right?”

Sam and Sebastian exchanged a look. “A match made in heaven.” Sam stated with a sage nod of his head.

“I can already hear the wedding bells ringing.” Sebastian agreed, making Ashe’s face turn red.

“H-Hey, what do you mean by that?” He demanded, becoming quite flustered by their casual comments. “It’s not like that with us at all. We’re just good friends. Besides, Shane… Shane needs to focus on getting better. Something like that would just get in the way. Yeah, it would just distract him from his recovery!”

His adamant protests and excuses made both males snicker. “The lady really doth protest too much now.” Sebastian teased with a smirk. “Oh, calm down and listen.” He added, when he saw that Ashe was getting even more worked up than Sam had been a few moments ago.

“Think about it.” Sam took the opportunity to sit down beside Ashe for a break, gesturing for the smaller male to join him as Sebastian did the same. “Shane’s been set in his way for years and years, right? Everyone in town knew what a bad place he was in; we just didn’t know how to get him to see that. But then you showed up, a total stranger, and within just a few months Shane decides that he’s gonna call it quits with booze. Now why would he do that for someone he hasn’t known for very long, and not for the people he’s lived with for years?”

Ashe didn’t say anything for a moment as he pulled his knees up to his chest. “… I didn’t have anything to do with that.” He insisted emphatically, once he had given some thought to what he wanted to say. “All I did was pester him until we were friends...”

Even as he said the words, he knew deep down that he was lying to himself. If that were really true, then why was he letting all of this bother him so much? “….” Catching the look that the two were giving him, he quickly added, “E-Even if what you’re getting at is true, there’s no chance anything would happen with us. Absolutely zero. Shane isn’t into guys, and surely it’d make people in town feel uncomfortable…”

“How do you know he’s not into guys?” Sebastian dug around in his pocket for his pack of cigarettes. “Did he ever say that, or are you just assuming?”

“…. It’s a pretty safe assumption.” Ashe mumbled, his face only turning redder.

“Thought so.” The flame of Sebastian’s lighter lit up the space for a moment, followed by the sound of the end of the cigarette smouldering as Sebastian took a drag on it.

“We’re not trying to embarrass you or make you uncomfortable.” Sam assured Ashe as the farmer buried his face in his hands. “We’re really not—”

“Oh I am.” Sebastian corrected, earning himself a smack on the shoulder from his best friend.

“—We just wanna help you out a little.” Sam continued, after giving Sebastian one hell of a stink eye. “You’re our friend, after all. And it’s pretty obvious how much you care for the guy, and how much he cares for you.”

For a long moment again, Ashe didn’t say anything. It felt strange, to have the ‘because we’re friends’ card played against himself for a change. “… I don’t want to ruin what we already have.” He finally murmured, resting his chin against his knees; for once, none of his characteristic bubbliness was present. “And it would feel like I’m just taking advantage of him when he’s vulnerable… I really appreciate what you guys are trying to say, but…” He lifted his head up and looked to each of them in turn, putting on the best, most convincing smile that he could. “I’m really happy with letting things stay the way they are~”

It was painfully obvious what a lie that was. But before either Sebastian or Sam could say anything more, they felt a faint rumble in the ground. “Uhh… that wasn’t me.” Was the first thing that Sam could think to say as the three of them looked around for the source.

“I think we’d actually die of oxygen depravation if it was you.” Sebastian quickly snuffed out his cigarette. “It was probably a minor earthquake or something—” That explanation began to fall apart as another rumble, then another still followed, each growing slightly stronger than the last. “… Ashe, should we be worried?”

“Uhh, maybe?” Ashe scrambled to his feet and cranked up the light on his headlamp as he looked around; a rumble strong enough to nearly knock him over seemed to come from the direction of where they had been coming from. Slowly, all three of them turned their heads to look, their headlamps illuminating upon a massive, deep purple slime as it came to loom over them—unlike the little ones they had encountered before, this one glared down at them with terrifying eyes, its little deely-bopper antennae swaying back and forth in agitation.

“I-Is this one harmless too?” Sam stammered as he and Sebastian also hastily got to their feet, staring up with jaws hanging slightly at the monstrosity before them. “What the hell even is it?”

Ashe swallowed nervously. “S-Slime EX.” He answered, suddenly finding his mouth quite dry. “And, uh… it’s not harmless. If it squishes you, it’s game over.”

Sebastian could picture what being crushed by that thing would be like—moist, heavy, suffocating, and thoroughly unpleasant. Definitely something to avoid at all costs. “Any advice on how to deal with it?”

“Yeah.” Ashe grabbed onto each of their arms and began to backpedal, practically throwing them in the opposite direction of the slime as he shouted, “RUN!”

That was it, they were all done. Screaming at the top of their lungs, the boys fled, with the enraged slime giving chase—it could move pretty damn fast for a squishy amorphous blob. “This is not how I want to go out, man!” Sam wheezed, pumping his arms as hard as he could to get some more momentum in his running. “I’m too young! I haven’t even had a girlfriend yet!!”

“Less bitching, more running!” Sebastian barked to his friend, glancing over his shoulder to see the slime gaining on them and zipping ahead of the two in order to ensure his survival. “Sorry guys! Survival of the fittest, you understand!”

“IF THIS THING DOESN’T KILL YOU THEN I WILL, SEB!” Sam shook his fist after his friend. “YOU ASSHOLE!”

 Collapsed in a big heap, the three began to try and catch their breath; somehow, they’d managed to outrun that thing, though at the expense of going much deeper into the mineshaft than they probably should have. “I-I actually want to die right now.” Sebastian groaned, resting his sweaty face in his hand as he leaned against Sam for support. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d done that much physical activity.

On Sam’s other side, Ashe too leaned against him, his head tilted back and his eyes closed as he clutched at his chest. Compared to the other two, he was much more winded, but all of them were too caught up in what had just happened to notice.

“I-I can’t believe… we got away…” Sam coughed, sliding down against the wall he was slumped against; as he did so, he felt something pointy dig into the small of his back, making him yelp and quickly sit back up.

Ashe too straightened up, fanning himself with his hand and doing his best to calm his racing heart. “I’m so sorry, guys.” He apologized, his entire body beginning to shake now that the danger had passed and his adrenaline was wearing off. “Th-that was really dangerous… I-I shouldn’t have brought you here.”

“Wh-what are you apologizing for?” Sebastian shook his head and leaned forward to look at Ashe from around Sam. “We knew the risks from the start. It’s not like you twisted our arms into it; we came with because we were bored.”

“Still….” Ashe let out a long, heavy breath. “I guess I wouldn’t feel as bad if we’d managed to find anything more than a few chunks of silver.” He admitted. “It just feels like this was a big letdown.”

“Are you kidding?” Sam managed to laugh as he got some of the wind back in his lungs. “We got to explore a place we’d normally never go to, we got to see real life monsters, we found some silver, and we almost died! This was the most fun I’ve had in a long time.” For once, Sebastian agreed with his friend, nodding his head as Ashe looked between the two. “… Okay seriously, what the hell keeps poking me?!”

Finally fed up with the sharp jabbing pain in his back, Sam emphatically pushed the two off of him and twisted around to see just what it was. It took a few seconds before his brain registered what he saw, and when it did, his jaw practically hit the floor. “Uhhhh….”

“Whoa…”/ “Holy shit.” Ashe and Sebastian both uttered simultaneously, crowding around Sam as they looked upon a huge vein of jade; what had been poking Sam in the back was a chunk of the gemstone that jutted out from the rest. They had actually just hit paydirt by complete accident. When the revelation sank in, they all shared a long look, before they busted out laughing in disbelief.

They were still laughing and joking about their unreal luck when they finally returned to the front of the cave, hauling the sack filled with jade as it was too heavy to carry properly at that point; what was really the icing on the cake was the look that Percy gave them as they passed, as he had came out from the right path mere moments before them with a much smaller trove.

“Thanks for suggesting that we come with you today, Ashe.” Sebastian thanked, as they emerged out into the furnace that was the outside.

“Yeah, seriously. Thanks!” Sam agreed with the most ecstatic grin. “Man, even splitting what we got three ways, this is gonna be worth like five paychecks~ I’ll be able to get that AC for sure!”

Relieved that things had worked out, Ashe laughed happily. “I should be the one thanking you guys.” He insisted with a merry smile. “If you hadn’t come with, I wouldn’t have made out with much of anything today—”

“Ahem.”

The unmistakeable sound of a displeased mother clearing her throat killed the jovial mood in an instant; to the boys’ horror, Robin and Jodi were waiting for them, both wearing the kind of ‘you’re in so much trouble’ expression that struck fear into the hearts of even grown men. In all the excitement, the three of them had completely lost track of how long they had been in the mines.

“…. Well, it was nice knowing you two!” Ashe suddenly broke away from them, monkey-climbing up the hill to their left up to where Linus’ tent was pitched as he made his grand escape. “I’ll be sure to leave flowers on your graves!”

“ASHE, YOU LITTLE—GET BACK HERE AND SHARE IN THE MISERY!!!” Sam raged, as Sebastian just tugged a cigarette out from the pack in his pocket and lit it, already resigned to his fate. The haul was totally worth getting into trouble for, and if it weren’t for Ashe, they wouldn’t have had arguably the best time of their lives. So just this once, he could get away with it.  

#sdv shane #sdv #sdv sebastian #sdv sam #sdv farmer #sdv fanfic #stardew valley #stardew valley fanfiction #stardew valley shane

[this-sapphic-paradise]

Girls night. Sarah Lance flirting with Lena. No one knew Lena was queer. You have 30 minutes.

Ask me stuff~

I wasn’t asking for prompts, buuuuuuut I’ll amuse you XD

….and I totally misread it as “game night” instead of “girls’ night” :xxxx but here it is!

“So…a Luthor, huh?” Sara asks with her usual playful smirk; crossing one arm over her chest while still allowing her other one to move so she can take a sip of her drink. She leans against the wall in a very nonchalant manner.

Lena looks at the woman next to her, and just by the way Sara is standing there, by the way she seems so at home among people she barely knows, it tells Lena just how confident Sara is. And she likes it.

“Yes,” the reply comes with a matching smirk, “A Luthor.”

Lena’s voice sounds raspier than it had before when they were all playing silly board games, Sara notices, and she can’t help but wet her lips. “I imagine it mustn’t be easy… but you seem to have a good group of people who genuinely like you.”

There’s a lot Lena is used to getting right after people find out she’s a Luthor – anger, sarcasm, doubtfulness over her character…just to name a few – what she isn’t used to is understanding or sympathy, let alone the recognition that there are people around her who like her for who she is. It makes her heart beat faster, sending a rush of blood to color her cheeks. Lena doesn’t acknowledge how the words affect her, though, choosing instead to smile politely and nod. “I’m really lucky Kara decided to give me a chance. I guess in time she just won the others over.”

Smirking once more, Sara leans closer as if she is about to whisper a conspiracy secret, “I don’t know, Ms. Luthor… From what I’m seeing–” Sara pauses for effect, blatantly letting her eyes travel up and down Lena’s body, before continuing, looking at Lena through her lashes, “It seems like you won them over.”

From across the room, enhanced hearing picks up a familiar elevated heartbeat. Kara’s immediate thought and what makes her look up and try to find Lena among the small crowd in her apartment is that the woman she cares deeply for is in danger.

But then she actually sees her. 

Lena blushing and trying hard not to smile at Sara; Sara leaning even closer to Lena, chuckling lowly, and saying things Kara is too mad to hear.

“Huh… I didn’t know Lena’s gay.” Kara is brought back to reality when she hears Winn’s remark.

Kara’s eyebrows furrow, and she notices the way Lena seems so at ease with Sara’s advance. “Sh-She’s not…” She replies in complete denial over what her eyes are seeing.

“Right! I’m sorry.” Winn rushes to correct himself, oblivious to Kara’s feelings. “I mean, woman-loving-woman… Bi? Or maybe pan? I don’t know… I have to ask her.” He says chirpily. “Hey! Do you think that’ll make CatCo donate even more money to LGBT NGO’s now that she owns the company??”

But Kara can’t focus enough to listen to him, her attention is focused solely on Sara and how she’s now brushing shoulders with Lena.

“Is my gaydar broken??” Alex asks Kara and Winn in a hushed whisper. “When does one develop such radar??? Because I did not see that coming!” she says, nodding toward Lena and Sara.

“There’s nothing there to see, Alex!” Kara continues to deny the obvious. “Sara is just… she’s just being friendly, okay?”

“…Even I know what ‘Sara being friendly’ is code for…” Alex mumbles under her breath before taking a big gulp of her drink.

“You know what?!?!?!” Kara says a little too loudly, moving her arms about, startling her sister and Winn in the process. “You two are just too nosy, you know that?!!??!” Kara stage-whispers it. “I’m going there, you’ll see that I’m right, they are just friends, and Lena’s not gay!”

Winn raises his hands in mock surrender while Alex just raises an eyebrow, finding her sister’s reaction way too interesting.

As Kara walks toward Lena and Sara, Winn leans over and whispers to Alex, “Lena’s totally gay…”

“So gay.” Alex whispers back without missing a beat. “I can’t believe I never saw it before.”

#drabble #m: lena #m: kara #Anonymous

[ynsimagines]

Supergirl: Tessa Danvers: Chapter 1

I don’t own supergirl, the only charcter that’s mine is Tessa. Without further ado meet Tessa Danvers, everyone.

I sighed as I looked up at the clock for what felt like the hundredth time. I was in my last class of the day, and couldn’t wait for it to end. I was in my sophomore year of college, and sometimes I wondered if I was wasting my time maybe I should just pursue make-up and you-tube full time. Though I knew my mother and sisters would kill me if I did that. Hell, they didn’t even know about the whole you-tube thing. After what felt like another year class finally let out. I looked at my phone I realized I had a text message from Kara. “Your going to help me get ready tonight, right?”

I rolled my eyes slightly over the fact that she even asked that question, and resisted the urge to say “duh”.

I choose to say “Of course” instead.

I arrived at the apartment Kara and I shared, “thank Rao, your here, I have no Idea what I’m gonna wear.”

“The dilemma of every women that’s ever gone on a date.” I sighed, “but come on lets see what you’ve got.”

.

We had narrowed it down to a couple of different options when there was a knock. Kara opened the door to reveal our older sister Alex with a very serious look on her face.

“I have a conference in Geneva and I need to be on a plane in 2 hours.”

“And I have a blind date in a half an hour and I need you both to help me pick out what to wear.” Kara exclaims.

“Why do you have to do this to me, and Tess?” Alex grins walking into the apartment.”

“Because your my sisters, and you both love me.”

“Your right,” I nodded. “We narrowed it down to two choices.”

Somehow the process of Kara picking out an outfit for her date turned into discussing her early mid-life crisis. So Kara ranted while me and Alex tried to decide between the blue or the coral shirt.

“You always wanted to be normal.” said Alex.

“Yeah, having a crappy boss, and nothing to wear this is what normal looks like,” I added. Although if I was being honest it was always pretty sad to me how Kara decided not to use her powers.

"Kara, you’ve got a good job, you’re cute,-”

“Yeah, and thanks to your alien DNA you can’t get pimples.” I said, causing Kara to giggle.

“I want food, is pizza ok?” I asked heading into the kitchen.

“Yeah, you know the number.”

By The time I got back I noticed that Alex helped Kara make her final decision, and was getting ready to leave.

“Stay out of trouble, do your schoolwork, and I’ll call you when I’m back.” She said hugging me “Love you kiddo.”

“Love you too sis.”

“Tess, I need help,” I walked over to kara, and took the hair tie from her leave it down. I finger combed my fingers through her hair before moving it all to one side.

“Perfect,” asked Kara.

“Yeah.”

“Perfect,” asked Kara.

“Yeah.”

“Yes, do you have any idea how amazing you currently look?” I exclaimed.

At that she smiled, “thanks, I have no idea what id do without you.”

“Keel over, and die, so you’re gonna have a good time on your date, and when you get back I wanna hear all about it.”

“Yeah, okay.” She said giving me a hug and a kiss, “Don’t touch the pizza till I get back.”

“No promises.”

.

A couple hours later I was sitting on the couch eating a piece of pizza, and editing my latest video when Kara came back into the apartment covered head to toe in water. I stud up from the spot, my eyes widened at the sight of kara.

“What the hell happened to you?”

“I promise I’ll tell you in a second, I just really need to change out of these clothes.”

I turned on the tv while I waited for Kara when the news caught my attention. Too my shock they were talking about a plane crash, with no one other then my sister standing on top of the plane.

“Well I guess I don’t need to explain anymore.” Before I knew what I was doing I latched on to Kara hugging her tightly.

“I’m so proud of you,” I said trying not to get overly emotional.

“Really?” she asks almost in tears like I am.

I nodded, “Ever since you got here you’ve wanted so badly to help people, and tonight you finally did that.” I told her.

Kara smiled at me, “thanks Tess,” she said pulling me in for another hug, and kissing the top of my head.

“Now come on I’m starving,” sh said guiding me back over to the couch.

“Yeah, saving an airplane tends to work up an appetite,” I joked causing Kara to give me a playful nudge.

.

“Guardian angel or human wrecking ball?”

“What?” Kara gasped out, I gently patted her on the back to try and calm her down, of course not everyone’s gonna have something nice to say, but Kara proceeded to stand up and yell at the t.v. causing me to roll my eyes.

“Oh my god.” We both turned around in surprise to see Alex standing there. She clearly wasn’t happy, but Kara was oblivious as she excitedly ran up to Alex and went on one of her rambles.

“Are you okay?” asked Alex.

“Me?, Am I okay, are you okay?”

“Wait why wouldn’t Alex be okay?” I asked confused. My oldest sister looked at me for a minute knowing I would figure it out when it hit me.

“Oh my god, you were on that plane,” I said in shock. My legs started to feel like jelly, like they wouldn’t be able to hold me up anymore.

"Tess, I’m okay” said Alex putting her hands on my shoulders in reassuring big sister mode. I nodded feeling only little better, but putting on a brave face.

“Kara, what were you thinking?” There it is I thought to myself.

“You exposed yourself, everyone will know about you, and you cant take that back.”

“I don’t want to this is what I was talking about, Alex” said Kara. “I didn’t travel 2,000 light years just to be an assistant.”

‘That’s for damn sure,’ I thought to myself.

“I’m gonna go to bed, I just carried a plane on my back.” said Kara sadly walking off to her room.

"What the hell, Alex?” I asked. “You and I both know how lost that girl has felt since she arrived here.”

“Its not safe for her to be out there,” argued my oldest sister.

“She’s basically indestructible,” I said, getting angrier and angrier by the second.

“Yeah, basically being the key word there.”

“I’m gonna go before I say something I regret,” said Alex walking out of the apartment before I could do anything to stop her.

So what do you guys think, let me know if you have any questions or suggestions.

#supergirl #kara #kara danvers #supergirl imagine #kara danvers imagines #alex danvers #cw #DC comics

[theragingthespian]

when we get there

“I’m glad you’re okay.”

Lena looks up, and oh, Kara’s looking at her with soft eyes, an even softer smile. 

(It’s funny how everything about her is that. Soft. Soft touches and glances, that little intake of breath whenever Lena brushes their hands together. A soft embrace, arms wrapped around her shoulders.

It’s so opposite of what she’d think. Of what she knows Kara can be. So different from the sharp words she shared with her mother, from the grip on her as Kara flew them away from the explosion.

She wonders if she just imagined Kara’s quick words I’ve got you, you’re okay.)

Lena searches for words, because Kara’s just watching her quietly, and that’s all it takes for her to be overwhelmed. “Thank you.”

Kara nods, a quick bob of the head, her feet replacing in the same spot. “Do you- do you need anything?”

“No, I’m actually about to leave.” Kara’s shoulders fall with? Relief? Lena almost thinks she hears a good. “I’m just going to head home and pack.”

That has Kara away from the door and right in front of her faster than she can blink. Careful, she thinks, because Kara makes this whole charade more difficult through acts like that. “You’re leaving?”

“Yes? I-” Kara’s chest is heaving, and her eyes are wide. She’s afraid, and Lena admonishes herself for all of the two seconds it takes her to realize.

(To be fair, she’s not used to this. To people caring. Not after Lex.

She’s not used to someone believing in her wholeheartedly. To someone coming to her aid without her having to ask, especially when she doesn’t ask. 

To someone not wanting her to leave.)

“Not permanently, Kara.” She reaches out with her hand, smiling despite herself when Kara automatically slips her fingers between hers. “There’s far too much here for me to do that.”

If she forgot what hugging Kara feels like- and oh, honestly, how could she ever- but if, then Kara’s arms around her reminds her that it’s more than she ever could have imagined from a simple hug.

(There’s nothing simple about it.

Kara’s last hug had been arms braced around her shoulders as she did the same, a solid reassurance that Kara, Kara was there for her.

Now, Kara’s fingers twist desperately in her shirt, pulling her close. Her heart racing under Lena’s palm when she places it over her chest to steady herself from the suddenness of it all.

There’s a need to it. Not for anything she can give or get, but just-

There’s a need for her.)

Kara huffs a little at her cheek. “Sorry.” Kara’s fingers tighten in her shirt before drawing away. “Sorry,” she repeats. “After this week, that would’ve just-” She sucks in a quick breath, pressing a fist to her chest as she exhales heavily. 

“It’s fine.” Lena allows a quick smile, because oh, Kara still looks worried. “I quite enjoy it.” It pays off when Kara’s eyes widen, blinking a few times as a flush crawls up her throat. Her glasses have slid down, and Lena’s shocked again- not the first time this week- by how unusual a shade of blue her eyes are. 

(She doesn’t know how people can think Kara is anything but extraordinary when Kara looks at her like that.)

Lena eases them back along the bridge of Kara’s nose, not missing the hand that almost settles on her waist but hovers there at the last second. “W-where are you going?”

“The beach.” Endless blue sounds nice right now. The waves breaking against the sand. National City is wonderful- Lena can’t help but look at Kara as she thinks it- but she needs the quiet now.

(She needs to regroup.

Needs to be able to compartmentalize and push down being framed and kidnapped and left for dead by her mother. Or not.

All in all, she needs to get away.)

“I just thought a break was in order.”

“No, yeah. You-” Kara laughs. “You definitely deserve it.” She glances toward the balcony, forehead creasing in thought. “A break sounds really nice.”

“You could come.” Lena jerks backward and brings her hands together, twisting them around each other. That- that was not in the plans, but Kara was looking so, so tense and conflicted and maybe, maybe Lena can return the favor.

(Maybe she can help.)

Except that Kara hasn’t really reacted. Her mouth has dropped open, jaw working for a second before snapping shut. Lena drops her eyes to the floor, because Kara is her friend. Kara took the time to bring her donuts of all things and visit to make sure she’s okay, but that doesn’t mean Kara wants to spend more time with her.

(Kara has a family. One that loves and supports her. There’s really no need for her to be around a Luthor any longer than she has to be.

Lena can understand that.)

Lena waves her hands. “I’m sorry. That was- it’s getting late Ms.Danvers, I really should-”

Fingers circle around her wrist, easing her movements until she’s looking up to Kara. “I’d love to.” She swipes a thumb, just under her wrist and tilts her head. “If the offer still stands?”

 “Of course.” 

“You’re what?”

Kara twirls her fingers around the drawstring bag, swings it by her legs as she groans. She was this close to being able to shout that and run out the door. 

(Nevermind actually being able to do that so fast Alex wouldn’t even know, but still, she likes to keep things fair.)

“I’m going on a trip.”

“I got that.” Alex raises a finger, draws a circle in the air. “The part before that.”

“It was more after but okay.” Alex pinches her side. “Okay, okay. Lena invited me. I’m going with Lena.”

“Where?”

“The beach.”

“Which one?”

Kara freezes. “Um.” Okay, so maybe the details were a little, tiny bit murky. “I don’t know. The one with water? I don’t know Alex, it just- it sounded really nice.”

Alex’s face softens, hands tugging her close to pull her into a hug. “Hey, that’s fine. You’re right. It honestly sounds great,” Alex wiggles her fingers against her stomach, “despite knowing absolutely nothing.” She hums. “What about work?”

“I’ve got plenty of days, and Snapper gave me an article to work on anyway.” Alex gives her a wry grin. “What?”

“Nothing, nothing.” Kara reaches over to take the bowl of chips right out of Alex’s grip and starts shoving them into her mouth. “I’d stress eat too if I was going on a trip with Lena Luthor on Valentine’s Day.”

Kara swallows. She hadn’t really thought of that. “It’s not- we’re not. It just happened that way, and,” Kara holds up her finger, wags it, “that’s not till tomorrow when we’ll already be at the beach.”

Alex rolls her eyes, but oh, it’s full of enough affection that Kara quietly passes back the chips. “Fine, you’ll be at the beach with Lena Luthor on Valentine’s Day.” 

“Right, yes. Okay.” Kara taps her foot, because she’s supposed to be meeting Lena and she’s definitely cutting it close. “I’m going now, okay?”

“Have fun.” Alex hugs her again, and when she goes to pull away, Alex’s grip tightens, “Be safe. I know-” Kara makes to move away again, because she knows that tone but Alex keeps her there. “All I know is what she’s done, and it’s good. Still though, be safe.”

“I trust her.”

“I know,” Alex smiles then, grip easing off her shoulders, “and I trust you, so go. Knowing you, you’re late.”

“A little.” Kara smiles at Alex’s quick breath of laughter, already easing out the door when she hears a quiet I love you. “Love you too!”

Kara dusts off her hands as she shuts the trunk. Lena bites her lip, because really, who was she to tell Kara that she couldn’t load up the bags?

Just as she’s about to slip into the driver’s seat, Kara’s hand eases around her elbow. “Do you think I- I can drive, you probably didn’t get much sleep while you were in-” Kara blanches, “Sorry.”

“Jail. You can say it Kara. Not like I’m still stuck there.” She curls her fingers over Kara’s arm, adds, “Because of you.”

“That’s not- anyway, you can sleep on the way there.”

Lena almost points out that was the night before last, but still, she didn’t fare any better in her own apartment, flashes of green and her mother’s cold, cold eyes startling her awake every time. “I’d appreciate it. Thank you, Kara.”

(She doesn’t mention how Kara’s shoulders drop with relief or how her eyes trace every tip of the car before she gets in. 

She doesn’t ask why Kara has to clench her hands into fists before letting out a breath when she buckles up, making sure the window is rolled down three times before doing so.

She does lean over and rest her head on Kara’s shoulder, hoping to offer what little comfort she can.)

She waits until Kara seems relaxed again, shooting looks downward to her with the same, soft smile in place, corners tucking in and eyes bright as street lights hit them just right.

She pulls away, tries not to miss the way her side is immediately cold without Kara’s warmth pressed against her. She glances out the window. “You’re flying.”

She wonders how many times she can do this, casually tossing clues out there that she knows even as Kara continues on remaining oblivious, but then Kara’s hand is smoothing over her clenched knuckles, fingers that were pinched tight around her seat belt relaxing as Kara says, “You’d know if we were flying.”

And then she winks.

Kara Danvers winks at her, and oh, she has to fight to keep her hands in her lap instead of pressing over her chest in an effort to keep her heart there as it throbs.

“I made a playlist? If that’s okay with you? I mean, I already made it but I mean,” Kara mimics plugging it in, “playing it?”

“I usually sit in silence.” Kara pales, and Lena finds a laugh bubbling up before she can stops herself. “I’m kidding Kara, that sounds wonderful.”

(It is. 

Kara’s got wonderful taste.

By that Lena means she doesn’t know a single song, but she finds herself humming along after Kara belts out song after song, wiggling in the seat beside her in what she thinks is dancing.)

“Oh wait. Snacks.” Kara jerks the car to the side, and Lena’s always wondered what the bar overhead was for, but now she clings to it as Kara simply drives on. Kara slips out of the car, barely pausing to ask, “Anything specific?”

“I’m fine.” Kara frowns. “Really, I am.”

A few minutes later, and Kara once again shocks her. 

She’s used to people listening to her, hanging off the edges of their seats, ready to listen to her commands or find some irrefutable flaw.

(She doesn’t know why they act like it’s so hard. Why they try picking through her words to paint a terrible image.

She’s got plenty of flaws, practically is the artist herself.)

Kara is not one of those people. She bounds to the car, arms full of packaged snacks and balancing a tray of drinks. She proceeds to dump all the snacks in her lap. “Whatever you don’t want, just pass it to me.”

Kara eats four bags of chips, two packs of trail mix, and enough cookies to make Lena gag.

Lena smiles. Kara hasn’t even stopped to look what she’s passing her, only taking barely enough time to separate it from it’s packaging and shoving it into her mouth. Lena goes to press a brownie into her hands, but Kara pushes it back at her.

“You haven’t had anything, and those?” Kara taps at the brownies, circles around the colorful candies pressed into it. “Those are the best.”

(While they’re good- great, she’s never stopped for food from a gas station but now she wonders what else she’s missed- she thinks she knows something even sweeter.)

Kara shifts to the side, arm propped oddly against the console. It looks uncomfortable for her, but she shakes her shoulder. “C’mon. Go to sleep.”

“I’m not really tired.” It’s a evident lie, and judging by Kara pressing her lips into a fine lie, she knows it as well. Lena tries to keep her movements slow, hide her eagerness as she leans against Kara’s shoulder.

(She’s asleep before they even get on the highway.

She doesn’t even stir when Kara’s lips brush over her head.)

Lena’s asleep. 

Lena’s asleep, and Kara thinks they’re here, but she’s not- she’s not really sure? She makes sure that it’s the right address that Lena put into the GPS twice before getting out.

(It’s not at all what she imagined. 

She imagined some huge house off in the distance, separated from everything and everyone. Instead, she’s greeted by a small house, paint peeling off the sidings.

There’s a certain charm to it, something that says this was all Lena and nothing to do with the Luthors.)

Kara immediately tastes the salt on the breeze, wind picking up her hair. She spreads her arms and can’t wait for the sun in the morning, the birds flying overhead. She goes to toe off her shoes when she stops. Lena’s in the car, has been mumbling in her sleep for the past hour and something tells Kara she shouldn’t wake up alone.

“Okay, okay.” She eases the passenger door open, and oh, her heart warms at the sight of Lena’s chin tucked into her chest, shoulders rising slightly with every breath. 

All semblance of slow flies out the window when she leans forward to unbuckle Lena, Lena’s heart beating all she hears and perfume all she smells. She unlatches it quickly and darts back, because she’s pretty sure even Lena could hear her heartbeat right now for how hard it’s thudding in her chest.

She’s slipping one hand behind Lena’s back and the other under her knees when Lena’s head lolls to the side, lush green greeting her when Lena squints up.

“I was um, I was going to carry you?”

Lena’s lips quirk upward, a sly little thing that makes Kara fumble and wipe her palms on her pants. “By all means.”

(She doesn’t sweat, she doesn’t sweat.

Oh gosh, she’s sweating.)

“Cool, cool.” Not cool. Saying cool is definitely on the top ten list of uncool things to say. “Cool,” oh okay, she’s just- she’s just going to keep saying it and firmly cement herself as the uncoolest person ever. 

Kara tries not to jostle Lena too much, notes the soft breaths against her neck are already evening out again. She stands for a moment, staring at the door and judging whether it’s appropriate or not to break Lena’s door instead of waking her before quietly asking, “Lena, where’s the key?”

Lena hums. She squirms as much as she can in Kara’s arms when Kara decides to poke her fingers into her side. “In my pocket.”

Kara pats around, thankful for the cool breeze, because oh, her heart’s still drumming along and her palms clammy- she freezes. “Lena, you don’t have pockets.”

Lena smirks up at her, less sharp than she’s used to, and Kara didn’t think her heart could feel any warmer, but with Lena blinking sleepily up at her, it does. 

It takes another minute of prodding before Lena brandishes the key, and Kara’s mouth hurts from smiling so hard. She manages to maneuver enough to slip the key in and shoulder her way in.

The room is dark, save for the moonlight flooding in through window after window. It’s small and compact, barely adorned with anything besides the couch and a table.

“I’ll take the couch.” Kara tries to look down at Lena when she speaks, but Lena remains firmly nestled under her chin. “I’ve never had to worry about any guests.” Lena laughs, a warm puff of air against her collarbone. “Or family.”

Kara pulls Lena a little closer at that, at the bitterness seeping into her tone and cutting her laugh short. Still, it takes her a minute to understand. “There’s only one bed.”

“Yes.” There’s a pause. “I didn’t think about it.”

“You’re not sleeping on the couch. It’s your place, and I practically crashed your vacation.”

“You’re my friend and I invited you. You’re not sleeping on the couch.” Lena finally jerks up at that, and oh, her eyes are almost blue now. 

(Kara definitely does not stare.

She doesn’t forget what they’re talking about while looking at Lena, mouth set in that firm line she knows Lena falls into when she’s being stubborn. She doesn’t forget to breathe when Lena leans closer- as if they’re not close enough, pressed against each other- and whispers her name.)

Kara blinks. “Is there enough room for both of us?”

“Only if you’re a cuddler.” It’s accompanied by an eye roll that could give even Cat a run for her money.

It’s a joke, she knows it is, but that doesn’t stop her from shrugging her shoulders. “Good thing I am then.”

Lena doesn’t say anything. Her hands tighten the grip around her shoulders, and Kara starts walking, proud at leaving Lena speechless for once instead of her.

(Though she would be lying if she said she didn’t love when Lena left her speechless.)

Lena wakes up with the sun in her face and wind drifting easily over her.

She can’t remember the last time she slept past dawn, the last time sleep actually felt like sleep and not a jumbled mess of thoughts and images that left her reeling.

(Then she remembers gentle hands guiding her down and tugging the covers over her. Kara laying down on top of the blankets until Lena pulled and pulled at them until Kara relented and scooted under with her. 

Kara’s hand had left a scorching path from her shoulder, to her her elbow, to her hand until it finally settled at her waist and then fell into the slip of space between them. 

Remembers Kara barely breathing or moving and laying flat out until Lena had reached back to tap at Kara’s hand and- I don’t bite. Kara snorting and sliding closer to her, laughter right at her ear.)

She rolls over, squinting at the sunlight and finds the bed empty.

(Her face falls.

The thought of waking up beside someone, beside Kara, more appealing than it’s ever been.)

There’s touches of Kara all about the room. Clothes draped over the only chair in the room- it’s halfway done as if Kara thought about folding them at the last minute only to give up. The wind sifting in is no doubt her doing. Lena’s never so much as glanced at the window much less unlock it and shove it up to let the air in.

(Sleeping late throws her off balance, makes her see things differently. She shouldn’t be seeing opening windows something so inherently Kara, letting in anything and everything.

She shouldn’t be thinking about unlocking windows for Kara.)

Lena breathes in deeply, and oh, there it is. Not so much the sun and wind waking her up but that. The rumblings of the coffee maker as the scent wafts rapidly through the small house.

(Is it too much to consider filling Kara’s home with flowers this time for something as simple as coffee?

Lena finds a waiting cup for her, already cooling with just the right amount of creamer she usually denies herself and makes a note in her phone.

Nothing’s too much for Kara.

Coffee, she means, nothing’s too much for coffee.)

“Thank you for the coffee.”

Kara shields her face with her hand when Lena steps into view, mug held closely in her hands. “I just hit a button.” She smiles, slips her toes through the sand, “Morning.”

“Mm,” Lena eases down to sit beside her as she sprawls out across the sand, neither of them bothering to change from their pajamas. She takes a long sip before nodding, “Good morning.”

Kara buries deeper into the sand, scooping it up in her palms and letting it slip through her fingers. The sun glides over her skin, warming every inch of her and leaving her buzzing.

(Lena glances down at her when she sighs happily, and she thinks it’s not the only thing.)

“I,” Kara grabs at the sand and can’t help clicking her tongue when it slides away from her fingers. A bird squawks overhead, and Lena jumps, frowning up at it in a way that lessens the tightness gathering in her chest. “We didn’t have them.”

Oh, now she can feel Lena’s eyes on her. Not removed and calculating like when Kara asks about her inventions but inquisitive, a hint of concern tightening around the edges.

“I used to be jealous.” Lena peers back up to the sky before dropping her gaze back down to her, “Yeah, I know. Of the birds.” Kara presses her hands against her stomach, hopes to alleviate that ache there, but it’s always there, sometimes it’s just a little easier to forget. “They could just- they could fly whenever they wanted. It was their sky.”

“Kara.”

“-It’s fine.” It’s not about fair. It’s not about her thinking she shouldn’t have heard Lena calling out for Lex in the middle of the night, or oh, how she clung to Kara, apologizing to and for things Kara couldn’t see or understand.

Even though it’s there, it’s not about that. She wants to tell Lena.

“It’s better now.” Now she knows that if she moves her shoulders just so, it’ll tilt her just like them. That if she keeps her legs squeezed tight together, straight behind her, she can take off faster. “Now, it’s ours.” She closes her eyes, feels silly and dumb and-

And Lena’s hand folds over hers. 

“I never- we never actually went to the beach.” Lena worries her lip between her teeth, and Kara realizes it’s the first time she’s ever seen them not painted red or dark. “I mean, we had a house of course, but we didn’t-” Lena’s hand clenches until Kara’s fingers get in the way, pads of her fingers rubbing over her knuckles. “I didn’t think it could get more quiet than home, but I was wrong. Whenever we went on a trip, we just all kept to ourselves and the silence- it was-”

Lena jerks a hand through her hair. “What I mean to say is, I’ve never done this. Just sat on the beach, but,” she smiles, and there it is, brighter than the sun.

“I’m glad it’s with you.”

(Kara doesn’t hesitate to say it back, doesn’t question how her heart does a little jump of joy at the words.

It’s there and it’s nice and she’s so, so tired of everything being convoluted, because when Lena smiles at her, everything falls into place just for a minute and she feels like Kara again.)

Fingers wiggle into her side, and she almost pops at the hand before her mind catches up that the only person who’s ever done that to her is Kara.

Lena groans, turning her face more into the couch cushion. She had left Kara dozing on the beach after being assured it was fine, that the sun was better than sleeping at night.

(She’d never seen Kara that tired. Eyes barely staying open and head falling to the side.

She wonders when the last time Kara properly slept or recharged was.)

She doesn’t remember falling asleep, but now it definitely seems like she had the right idea in mind. “What?”

“Come on.” This time Lena does slap the hand away. “I’ll use my freeze breath if I have to.” Lena cracks open an eye, but Kara’s beaming down at her, no stuttering or reaching for excuses. She meant to.

(She understood. She told herself it daily, that she understood that Kara couldn’t tell her. That she was a Luthor, and her own actions didn’t help the case to make them seem all that trustworthy.

But she can’t deny that Kara speaking freely about it without a hint of remorse doesn’t remove the weight on her chest.

She can’t deny that it doesn’t solidify whatever this is to her, because oh, Kara trusts her.)

“Where?” Kara smiles even harder, mouth dimpling and Lena’s breath catches when Kara tucks a few strands of hair behind her ear.

“You never got to experience the beach right? That means you haven’t seen the crabs?”

“The crabs?”

Which is how she finds herself scouring the beach with a flashlight as soon as night falls alongside Kara. 

(Not to say it’s remotely the oddest thing Kara’s got her to do here. She doesn’t typically try and cook or sing as she does so. She doesn’t dance around the kitchen. Today she does though.

Usually she doesn’t smile or laugh or feel lighter than she has in years. Today she does though.

With Kara.)

“Oh, oh.” Kara wraps an arm around her shoulders, drawing her down and pointing. “Over there, one’s about to come up.” A second later there’s a shift of sand, and-

“Oh.” A pale, little crab pops up, and Kara’s moving so much beside her, she thinks she’s about to combust.

“Isn’t it the coolest? Eliza showed Alex and I.” Kara shines the flashlight beside it, catches it on the edge of the light as it scuttles about before diving back under the sand. 

“It is.” Lena turns to Kara, finds Kara looking just as eager as she feels. “Are there more?”

Kara grins and taps her ear, “Tons.”

(They’re out there until she her flashlight dies and her feet are dragging. 

This time when they crawl in bed, Kara’s behind her without any coaxing, sighing against the back of her neck, whispering about Valentine’s day, and-

Lena sleeps well for the second night in a row.)

“I don’t really want to leave.”

Lena smiles, and when her hand settles at the crook of her elbow, Kara watches it for far too long. “Next time we’ll stay longer.” They both freeze, and Lena backs up, “I mean-”

“I’d like that.” Kara bumps their shoulders together, “You’re schedule is a lot more iffy than mine, so you find out when you can take some days and I’ll work around it, okay?”

Lena’s heartbeat doubles in her ears, and oh, okay, Kara really shouldn’t be listening, but she is and it’s wonderful. Lena dips her head, “Okay.”

Kara drives again, Lena jumping into the passenger seat without Kara even having to ask.

(She doesn’t like cars, doesn’t like the confinement. Being the driver, being in control makes it easier, and Lena picks up on that without her saying anything.)

Every time she glances over, Lena’s watching her with this look that’s tender and happy and content.

(How many times can Lena say that? How many times has Lena been happy and fulfilled only to have it ripped from her grasp?

Probably as much as she has.)

Lena all but demands that she drive to her own place instead of Lena’s and walking back, despite Kara pointing upward and saying she has other means.

When Kara pulls up beside her apartment complex, her stomach twists. This has been fun and relieving and everything she needed. “I know you didn’t plan on me coming, but thank you. It was,” Kara pries her hands off the steering wheel and twists her fingers together, “it was wonderful.”

“Thank you,” Lena says, and oh, it’s right at her- Lena’s lips press against her cheek. “It’s the most fun I’ve had in- I’m not even sure.”

Lena’s smiling shyly at her, wisps of hair falling from the messy bun she put it in earlier and Kara moves forward.

(She almost doesn’t, but then she hears a voice, hears dive.)

Kara leans over the console, nose brushing over Lena’s cheek. “Can I kiss you?” Lena’s breath comes out in a rush as she nods and then-

Lena’s kissing her softly, and oh, they should have been doing this the whole time. Kara keeps her hand gripped on the console to prop her up, but Lena has no restraint, hands slipping from her neck to her jaw back down to her collarbone. Her nails digging just enough into her shoulders. 

Kara tries to press forward more, feels the gear stick dig into her hip and anymore, it’ll break. It’ll be a casualty, the only casualty Kara will be more than happy to sacrifice even if it’s in Lena’s car, because with the way Lena’s tugging her closer, she’s pretty sure she wouldn’t mind.

Lena pulls back, hands cupping her cheeks to keep her close and breathing heavily at her jaw. Kara butts their heads together gently, and Lena laughs, quiet but sure, just between them. “I don’t suppose you’d like to go to lunch with me tomorrow?”

“I thought we were already.”

Lena’s answer is a searing kiss, drawing back before Kara can forget the question. “I meant as a date.”

Kara smiles, knows it’s on the side of lopsided and maybe just a bit goofy, but Lena’s shoulders drop in relief at it. “I know. I’ll bring it, so we can have more time. Text me what you want?”

“I will.”

“Okay.”

Lena bites her lip, and oh, that’s nicer to see now that she knows how Lena’s lips feel against hers. “You have to get out of the car so I can drive home Kara.”

“I know.” She waits until Lena shoves at her shoulders, keeping the door open for her so Lena can slip into the driver’s seat and sneaks another kiss. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight Kara.”

“Goodnight.”

When she unlocks her door, she’s surprised to find Alex asleep on her couch. Kara steps lightly over to her, brushing Alex’s hair out of the way. “Alex?”

Her sister’s muscles tense immediately before falling, brown eyes hazy when she blinks up at her. “Hey.” Alex scrubs at her eyes, and Kara’s reminded of late nights and shushing each other in case Eliza heard. “I thought we could catch up on some shows?”

“That sounds awesome.”

Alex smiles at her, dropping her gaze down to rearrange the blanket before her head snaps back up, eyes squinting as they rove over her face. “How was it?”

“Um, good. Great.” Kara bobs her head, tilting it when Alex smirks. “What?”

“That it?”

“Yep.” A conversation for tomorrow definitely. With coffee. And donuts, Kara adds, because she’s still not too sure how it’ll go down. She plops down halfway beside Alex and halfway on her, ignoring the wheeze- it’s dramatic, she’s not that heavy.

“Kara?”

“Hm?”

“You’ve got lipstick all over your mouth.” 

(She maybe accidentally, totally on purpose doesn’t wipe it off until the next morning.

She doesn’t really see the point when it’s just there again after lunch.)

#supercorp #supergirl #supergirl fanfiction #thank yall for being patient