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littlemisswriter · 3 years

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Saving London - Part 2

Summary:

Now a Rook with a more structured calling to his life, Jacob finds himself delighted to be apart of the gang. Though his mind runs wild with opportunity as his ambitions tempt him to want more.

[I’m finally giving you the update you deserve! I want to make this a longer series because I have so much in store for this series! Posting more Jacob Frye content gives me so much life and I’m so excited to share it with you all! :)]

“You’ve got to be joking.” The monotone voice of his sister had come as nothing of a surprise to the newly found Rook.

“Oh, come on, Evie!” Jacob huffed, readjusting his cap as he looked onwards at his sister who sat with perfect posture at the small table. Her brows furrowed as she focused in on her activities of sewing up one of her dresses that was in dire need of a touch up. She hadn’t been too fond of the clothing yet saw no other option if she were to continue her day-to-day life without ridicule of the others. “It’s not as bad as all that!”

“You’re parading around the streets in a gang, Jacob. Tell me what part about that sounds remotely responsible.” A light huff then came as she pricked her finger, jaw clenching as she decided to lay off her efforts of the dress. It was too strenuous a task in the wrong mindset, especially with Jacob having been gloating about this new so-called gang he had found refuge in.

“I’m doing what is best for the city.”

“You’re being a bloody fool!” She stood abruptly, scraping the chair back against the hardened floor as her glare bore into the twin across from her. “I will not have my only brother run amuck of the city when he can barely put one foot in front of the other! This is dangerous, Jacob. We’re talking about the possibly of life or death. How can you not fathom that?” It seemed her lectures only came more often, and even from the pit of concern, Jacob could only bear so much from his twin. For once he wanted her to see things how he did, and the benefit of what joining the Rooks would do for London.

“You worry too much, dear sister.” He shook his head, glancing back at the door which he entered. “Anyways, I’m off.” She groaned, fists balling as she watched her sibling descend out of the room and towards the exit of the building. “Duty calls and I have a very important meeting to attend.” He opened the door, standing in the frame as he threw an empty grin. “Wish me luck!”

“Bloody halfwit.” Evie mumbled, hesitantly coming back to her seat as she regained her composure, while her brother had made haste through Southwark. It hadn’t of been the most welcoming of all boroughs at this time of night but knowing that a handful of his gang were awaiting his presence, it gave him confidence to continue through the dark streets.

The Duke of York pub had finally come into view after rounding the final corner, the sights and sounds of the liveliness from within already echoing down the street. He was eager to make way from his abode and indulge in a few drinks with pleasant company, though he also held a hint of doubt. His intent was more than just a few easy drinks on a night out, but a promotion in a sense.

The numbers to the gang were rising and he had yet to utter a word directly to its leader. It had been eating at him ever since he pulled the green jacket on for the first time. To be apart of something greater than himself was one thing, but to contribute in ways that truly mattered was another. He wanted proper training, combat skills, defense techniques… the lot. And by the way he had seen Lily hold herself in any sort of confrontation against the enemy gang had led him to believe that she was the one to train him towards his ambitions.

But the question was… would she find interest in training another mere Rook? A lump came up in his throat as he forcefully swallowed it down again. He just wanted more than what life had offered him, and perhaps with a push in the right direction, he could become so much more than he imagined.

Entering into the bright lights of the pub had him hold a hand over his eyes; the darkness outside in the streets a complete contrast to the environment inside. The music and chatter were louder than ever, a crowded atmosphere with more than half of it being Rooks had him physically relax. He was safe, now surrounded by those he was familiar with.

A few Rooks made use of their night by swinging themselves around the open floor, mostly too intoxicated to properly watch their footing or those around them. A handful gathered around the piano singing away any worries with sloshing drinks in each hand. Some stood chatting behind the bar while most had a seat on the tables surrounding. It was a sight to behold, and a few rough pats on the back in acknowledgement to his green colors had Jacob smile.

He came to the bar, turning to lean back on it while his eyes searched the perimeter. His sights sought out the woman that had brought all these people together, a confident leader which aspired others to fight for what was right. And the mere memory of her youthful appearance had Jacob’s fists ball subconsciously as his gaze darted around.

“Lookin’ for someone?” His head turned to the woman leant next to him, a pint in her hand and cool grin plastered to her lips.

“Ah, yes actually.” He cleared his throat and stood tall once more. “I’m looking for Miss Harvard.” There hadn’t been an immediate response but rather a slow chug to finish her drink before slamming back on the counter behind them. Jacob’s brow raised as he watched the woman wipe her mouth with the back of her hand before sticking it out in use of a greeting.

“Name’s Belle.” His eyes flickered between her own and her hand before exchanging a firm shake.

“Jacob.” A nod. She had obviously been sizing up the young lad, sights set from his feet up to his cap with a devilish glint in her eye. It hadn’t of made Jacob uncomfortable per se, but rather eager to find his leader before he lost an opportunity.

“You’re quite young. Fit too. We need more like you in this gang.” She pulled wider to the corner of her lips, exposing a toothy grin before flicking hair from her face and simply nodding over her left shoulder. “Boss is over there, and quite entertained she is.” Jacob followed her line, finally setting eyes on the woman sitting at the back corner of the pub. Her feet crossed over the edge of the table as a pint sat comfortably in her lap. Once again was her hood down, allowing her locks to sit around her shoulders.

Jacob couldn’t help but swallow the lump in his throat as how withheld she appeared. She looked like a leader, one that would ravage anyone that put a hand on her Rooks. And against all the rough and ready Blighters splayed throughout each burrow, she was exactly what London needed.

“If you wanna talk to her, go right ahead.” Belle paid for another pint as she leant off the counter, eventually grabbing her drink and smirking down at the young man. “But try opening with somethin witty and clever.” Jacob locked eyes with Belle once more. “She’s a hard woman to impress.” A wink was all he was left with as Belle left him alone at the bar.

“Well,” he muttered, watching Lily down more of her drink, a smirk subtly spread across her lips as she listened in on the conversation, “thanks for the vote of confidence.”

The Rooks around her had been passionately stuck in a card game, voices rising, and money exchanged in a competitive manner. She had simply sat back to watch her members indulge in a bit of gambling; a nice turn of events in celebration to just having reclaimed another stronghold in Southwark. Her gang was expanding and growing in size which aided her cause to bring down Crawford Starrick. The man had been nothing but a heavy weight over the city, and the people in it suffered terribly from the oppression.

It had to stop.

“You’re a bloody cheat, you are!” The large brute beside her, Travis, threw his cards down onto the table as he pointed over at the man across him, Pete. With his own hat and moustache adorning his nimbler features in comparison, he laughed at his friend as he took his money.

“You’ve a large head with nothing inside it!” Lily had laughed, taking another swing at her drink as her eyes cast over the pub. It was lively and loud, the people in it seeming to have been enjoying themselves after a genuinely long time.

Though the sudden movement of a Rook caught her eye, brow arching as she watched a young man slick back his hair under his cap and maneuver through those around him. He appeared to be making his way towards her which in turn had sparked her curiosity. He was easy on the eyes and held himself rather well, though seemed unfamiliar. He must have been new.

Jacob bravely came to the edge of the table, hands tensely by his sides as he lifted his sights to the very person that had made this event possible. His voice catching in his throat to see she was already looking at him, eyes slipping up along him as if to size him up. A lump caught in his throat once more as he did his best to ignore it, fingers rubbing against each other in nerves in contrast to how relaxed Lily had been.

His throat cleared catching momentary attention from those around the table. Travis took a gander at his before serving out another round of cards. “Yes, boy?” Lily looked between the brute back to Jacob, waiting to see how he would respond. He was out of his element, yet here he was.

“I uh,” he ran a hand down the side of his pants, clearing any sweat as he made memory back to Belle’s words. Witty and clever. “I wanted to introduce myself. Properly.” Not so much witty and clever as he had hoped, but upfront and honest which had to count for something. “I’m Jacob, Jacob Frye.”

“You a new recruit?” Pete had asked, looking beside him to get a glance at the man. Though he hadn’t appeared to take interest, eyes flickering back down to his cards as he threw coins into the center of the table.

“Yes, saved from my factory job down by Waterloo station.” Recalling which factory that had been, Lily bounced her brows with a shake of her head, throwing back the rest of her drink as she internally sighed. She was all for new recruits and leaving a good mark with them yet had somehow been waiting for a spark of some kind to flare. Greenie had been the only other assassin there to offer her any real company, but he was too pure; his mission set on finding the precursor artefact and allowing Lily to do all the field work. She wouldn’t have minded a little spice to her daily life.

“Well, you wanna play then, kid?” Another woman adorning green asked, looking between him and the free seat beside her. Jacob took a moment to glance between the offer and back to Lily shyly, watching as she sighed and pushed to her feet. And in that moment, he couldn’t contemplate what it was or why his brain snapped the way it had. But he felt his opportunity slipping and spoke without thinking.

“No, I’d rather buy the boss a drink.” The blurting had all movement stop. All eyes finally turned to him, most surprised and some with hidden smirks. Travis could only quietly chuckle to himself as he looked over to Lily, the woman’s interest having peaked as she stood tall, laying eyes on her Rook properly for the first time.

A spark. A bold use of words that had definitely drawn her attention. Jacob couldn’t believe what he had said, but bit back any fear and kept strong his stare. There was no taking back those words now, so why not simply own them?

Lily then chuckled, slowly making her way round the table to come before him. Watching her walk so casually had his fists ball as his cheeks began to burn. Now she stood before him, a short distance from each other as she simply tipped a grin at the man. He had her full attention, and a flare which she was willing to explore.

“I accept.”

She led them to the bar, others seeming to part for the woman as she stood side by side with Jacob. His hand ran through his hair again, lifting his hat merely to do so before returning it snuggly on his head once more. He actually had her by his side and couldn’t even think on where to begin in conversation.

“Two pints please,” Lily grabbed the bartender’s attention, turning to face her usual grin at Jacob, “on my Rook.” With a nod, their drinks were fetched as Lily slowly turned to face Jacob. Having a good look at her attire for the first time made his breath withdraw. It was a suit of armor, no doubt. Costing more than most at how intricate the patterns along her robes had been. A mix of red, dark grey, and black sewn precisely from top to bottom. Her coat covering most but seeming to accentuate her hourglass figure. A belt wrapped multiple time around her lower torso carried more than enough weapons to threaten any man.

Jacob was impressed and absolutely enamored to say the least.

“So… Jacob Frye, was it?” She teased his name on her tongue for the first time, satisfied with the quick nod that came from him. “How are you finding yourself settling into the gang?” The drinks were pushed between them, Lily watching as Jacob pulled a few coins from pocket and pushing it back across to the barkeep. The older man nodded before moving along.

“It’s thrilling,” he dryly laughed, seemed now caught up in every new aspect of his life. “I have the freedom to roam the borough. Not stress about money and putting food on the table. And,” he shrugged, straining a grin behind the mug lifted to his lips. It had Lily curious as to why he hid such an action, “I like the fights.” He had audibly quietening, as if relaying a secret he shouldn’t know. He knew it was a topic he couldn’t speak so freely about without receiving a lecture or a whack on the back of the head.

“There’s no shame in a little combat.” Lily turned, leaning onto the corner as he had had, almost mirroring him as she looked at her drink. Jacob turned to look at her, eyes openly laying to her features as she took her first sip. “Besides, you’re a Rook now. I would expect you to get into mischief every now and then.” She pointed her finger teasingly at him. “But not too much trouble, or Freddy will gut me alive!” Jacob hadn’t known who this Freddy was, but laughed along anyway as the humorous manner.

“Well, I’m glad you think so. Because,” he clutched tighter to his drink while subconsciously rubbing a hand to the back of his neck, “I wanna train. Under you.” Her eyes widened slightly at his forward motion, internally reassuring himself as he went on. “I’ve seen what you can do. What you’ve accomplished, and I want to do more.” Lily threw back her drink this time as he went on. “Being in this gang has given me a purpose to do right by the people. And now that I have the opportunity to explore this avenue, I wish to do it.”

His eagerness had been taken well; Lily unable to help her large grin at how willing her Rooks were to aid her cause.

“Your enthusiasm is delightful, Jacob. And most welcome.” She stood tall, leaning sideways on the counter as her hand perched on her hip. “I’ll tell you what. I’ll train you,” his own smile suddenly broadening as excitement shot through him. He stood straight, meeting his boss eye to eye intently as she went on, “and in exchange I’ll need you to do some running around for me when I’m not here. There is a lot of work to do, and I will no doubt need help seeing as I cannot be everywhere at once. Even though I practically am.”

The glint in his eyes at the new thrilling opportunity hadn’t gone unnoticed as Lily fed into all reactions he was giving her. There was strength, drive in this Rook, and she was happy to follow through and see how far this rabbit was willing to jump down the hole.

“If you do this for me and apply the training I give you, then I’m sure we can find more suitable tasks for you.” This was it. His leap of faith had served in his favor. “So… do we have a deal?” Her brow perked as he nodded eagerly, lifting his mug up to clink her.

“Yes we do, boss.” Lily took hold of her drink and the pair knocked them into each other before throwing back their contents. The use of her rank had only complimented her ego, Jacob feeding into it as she had personally agreed to train his growth in hand to hand combat. He always had an interest but never an opportunity nor the right mentor. But it appears that fate had something in store for him.

“Meet me here in three days, around noon I would assume. We’ll start your training then.”

Let the fun begin.

#assassins creed #jacob frye #fandom #assassins creed syndicate #assassin creed syndicate #evie frye #assassin's creed syndicate #frye twins #ac syndicate #Lily harvard #au #series

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unprofessional-bard · 4 years

Text

Out of Touch

Pairing: Jacob Frye x Reader

Warnings: Jacob being Jacob (aka a lot of teasing/flirting), just some grabbing around (nothing to explicit), angsty at first but ends with a slightly heated fluff.

Summary: Jacob has been your bodyguard for the past month under strict orders from poor Evie who had been dealing with your father's unnecessary worrying. Jacob is a rough, reckless man who killed and you were the daughter of a man who had taught you manners and raised you as if you were royalty. Two complete opposites... right?

Author's Note: Okay nsjdjdjdsjns this is basically a Han/Leia AU... I've watched the originals again and wanted to write a fic with their chemistry: a scoundrel and a princess - Jacob and my lovely readers 😚 And of course a big thank you to @marshmallow--3 for helping me when I got stuck while writing 😊💘

This fic is for readers of all genders! If I've written anything that says otherwise please please please let me know!

Enjoy!

"Ugh!" You huffed for the umpteenth time that day because of the boredom eating away at you. All you had been doing for the past month was to sit on your armchair in the library with a hawk watching over you. Or should you say, a rook?

A rather handsome rook at that.

"What is it now, your highness?" Your supposed bodyguard groaned at you.

"Would you stop calling me that?" You snarled at him as you pushed the wood in the fireplace around with the steel poker. The poker was dirtier than you imagined, which annoyed you even more as your hands got covered in ash and dust. "This whole being stuck at home thing is really getting on my nerves..."

Jacob gave you an offended look: "You've been stuck in a big, empty house with the most handsome man in all of London for the longest time, yet you still complain - unbelievable..."

You didn't bother looking at him as you walked to the door. If it were your first week with Jacob, you'd be gasping, throwing a book his way, yelling at him to shut up with his infuriating flirting; but you were used to it by now and chose to ignore him for the sake of your nerves.

You were born in London, but your family moved to Paris when you were younger and now, ten years later, you were back in London -not as settlers but as guests- with your father. Your mother had passed before you could begin your assassin training and it wounded your father deeply, leading him to cancel your training and keep you out of the "assassin" business. It didn't anger you before because you didn't care, grieving and moving on from your mother's passing took a toll on you and it took too long. When you turned 16 however, you started realising what a great opportunity your father had taken away from you and so you've been upset with him ever since. Five years had passed and here you were, stuck with a reckless assassin named Jacob, who's father was friends with your own for a long time until his recent passing.

The reason you were stuck in the house with the said assassin was nothing but for your own safety, at least that's what you've been told by a variety of people. How hard was it to put you in a carriage and let you sail back to France?

Too hard apparently. You didn't even really know why your father was in London in the first place. He kept saying "assassin business" and hid things from you, why did he even bother bringing you along in the first place?

"Remind me, for how long more will I be stuck with you?" You walked to the living room, Jacob right behind you.

"Two more weeks," he shrugged. "Why, bored of me already, your worshipfulness?"

You sighed loudly in irritation, to which he replied: "I bet I can get you to make those sounds with my-"

"Will you shut your gob?!" You turned around, eyes and arms wide open, shouting at him. "The audacity you have, if you were half the person your sister was-"

"Oh don't bother," Jacob spoke suddenly with a tone you haven't heard before. "I'm too 'wild' and 'vulgar' and 'rebellious' for the likes of you people, I know. Spare me the lecture."

Your anger cooled down and you almost felt sorry for him, thinking about how upsetting it must be to always being compared to someone, not better than him, but different. He didn't look you in the eye as he turned around to leave.

"I just wish that you'd cut it out when you're told to cut it out," you said quietly, not wanting to start up a fight with him. "Anyways... I am going out."

That made him halt in his tracks and turn around: "I beg your pardon?"

"You heard me." You said, determined. "I am going out and there's nothing you can do to stop me."

"Oh, trust me, you don't want to know the amount of ways I can stop you from taking another step," he said, still shocked.

"Well, I don't care. You either come with me or stay out of my way because I am going ou-" Just as you were reaching for the door handle, you felt your body being pulled backwards and pressed harshly against the wall.

"Good lord-" you gasped involuntarily. He was pressing against your body from behind, your face trapped between the wall and his face which was only inches apart from yours. "You make it so difficult sometimes."

"I do, I really do..." Jacob nodded as he held you in place but he wasn't hurting you . "You could be a little nicer though. Eh, admit it, sometimes you think I'm bearable."

A moment of silence settled between you as you pushed him off yourself and turned around, still leaning against the wall, rubbing your wrist: "Occasionally- maybe, when you're not acting like a rotter."

"Rotter?" He raised a brow at you. "Rotter..." he repeated as he very slowly closed the space between you two and gently grabbed your wrist. He smirked like the rascal he was as he carefully massaged your wrist - you both knew it wasn't hurt at all. "I like the sound of that."

It took you a short moment to realise what he was doing: "Stop that."

"Stop what?" He asked, confused.

"Stop that," you repeated, trying to pull your wrist away from his big hands; "my hands are dirty."

"My hands happen to be dirty too, your majesty. What are you afraid of?" His voice was low and it couldn't have been deeper.

"Afraid?" You tried to act confused as you felt the distance between you close even more.

"You're trembling..." he pointed out.

"I'm not trembling," you tried to chuckle but instead your voice trailed off.

At this point, he was towering over you: "You like me because I am a rotter... There aren't enough 'rotter's in your life."

"I happen to like polite men-"

"I am a polite person," his nose brushed against yours and it was then, you realised, he almost had you.

Just before he could close the little distance between you entirely, you pushed him off with little force and immediately went out the door.

Jacob was absolutely stunned at your sudden act and followed you out: "Oi!"

You smirked to yourself as you skipped around the streets amongst the throng of people, thinking that Jacob will have a hard time finding you and dragging you back home. Ten minutes were all you needed and before he knew it, you'd be back as if you hadn't stepped outside at all.

Well, you were wrong.

Just after three minutes of walking around the streets you finally took a turn and stopped to rest on an empty alley, but only after 20 seconds of freedom and starting to feel joyful because of finally being by yourself, you were harshly grabbed by your waist and shoulders once more and were pulled into a small cabinet behind you.

You yelped but a big, familiar hand muffled the sound as it closed over your mouth.

After you stopped moving and stood still, Jacob dropped his hand onto your shoulder and the other remained around your waist. Your back was, once more, pressed tightly against him; his breathing on your neck sending involuntary shivers down your spine.

"Let go," you demanded quietly.

"Sshh-" Jacob ignored you. You weren't exactly sure what he was up to, but it was starting to become suffocating in there.

"Let go, please..." you asked, softer this time. Although he wasn't pressing you down entirely and you could easily move out of his hold like you did minutes ago, Jacob noticed how you weren't really fighting to get out of there but decided to reply anyway.

"Don't get excited now," He whispered half arrogantly and half disturbed.

"Well, Mr. Frye, being held by you isn't quite enough to get me excited."

But your reply seemed to excite him: "I'm sorry love, but we haven't really got the time to do anything else at the moment."

Jacob let go of you just in time as some nasty looking Blighters finished passing by and stepped out of the cabin with you.

You straightened your clothing as Jacob growled: "Do you have a death wish? What were you thinking?!"

"Perhaps I do," you replied angrily but you didn't raise your voice at him. "What do you care? Other than getting an earful from Evie and your little gang of assassins?"

"Your father-"

"Of course," you sighed. "But you needn't worry, Jacob. If he cared about me even in the slightest, he would've respected my choices and left me back in Paris instead of getting me into this mess."

"But he does care about you, a lot in fact."

"Really?" You asked, smiling bitterly. "If he had cared from the beginning, I would've been an assassin now and we both wouldn't have been stuck in that cursed house for weeks! Maybe if he didn't wail as he does with everything and lost himself in his assassin business and actually cared for me, then he would've made sure I could take care of myself instead of 'protecting me from the dangers of the world!'"

You didn't realise the tears rolling down your face as you finished yelling at the once more stunned Jacob. After a moment of quiet, you began sobbing and broke down, falling onto your knees.

Jacob calmly approached you and kneeled down beside you, wrapping his arm around your shoulders and putting his hands on them.

"Please take me home," you sobbed quietly as you leaned in to rest your head on his chest. He didn't move while you cried a little more and thought about how hard it must've been for you. He couldn't imagine what he'd do if he wasn't an assassin and he understood your frustrations with your father.

He gently moved and picked you up bridal style. You had neither the energy nor the state of mind to fight him about it and let him carry you, wrapping your arms around his shoulders and burying his head in the crook of his neck.

"Hmph," Jacob hummed thoughtfully as he aimed his rope launcher to the edge of a roof. "Hold on tight love."

"What do you me-" you began but got interrupted when you heard a thwip, then a far away clang from above you; and just as you felt Jacob's arm tightening its grip, with a whoosh, you suddenly gasped.

In a matter of seconds, you were launched in the air and landed on a rooftop in Jacob's strong hold. How did we not fall?! you thought.

"Jacob!"

He switched your position from his arms to his back: "If this doesn't excite you, I don't know what will." he said smugly and just as you hugged his back tighter, he repeated the motion with the rope launcher and down you went.

You were surprised at how strong both Jacob and the rope was as it carried you across the sky, downwards to your house. It took maybe a little over a minute but it felt like more - and it certainly did pump some adrenaline through your veins. You shouted and laughed all the way through which put a different kind of smile on Jacob's lips.

You both almost fell over when you landed, but Jacob grabbed your legs and found his balance. You were right in front of your door, which made you sad as you had the most splendid time in a long while. When he let go of your legs, you only grabbed onto him tighter.

"What's this then?" Jacob smirked as he tried to turn his head around when you didn't let go. He could feel your heart beating on his back and it was still beating like crazy.

"Your grace demands that you carry them into their chambers," you demanded in an exaggerated way and smirked backed. "You asked for this, I told you to stop calling me those names."

"Very well," he sighed in defeat and adjusted your form on his back, then went to open the door. If this was all it took to make you smile, then so be it.

Jacob carried you all the way upstairs to your room but instead of dropping you on your bed right away, he somehow effortlessly switched back to the bridal hold.

Your smirk dropped from your lips as you noticed that you were trapped in his hold. He gazed at you for a while -your disheveled hair, your beautiful eyes, crimson cheeks that matched your perfect lips- and then slowly lowered you onto your bed, but as he did, he carefully climbed on top of you; he gave you enough time and space to tell him to stop or push him off, but you didn't.

Jacob moved closer until your noses touched and quietly asked: "May I have my kiss now?"

Without hesitation, but slowly, you lifted your head up and connected your lips with his in a soft, passionate kiss; he, however, immediately grabbed your face and pressed you back onto the bed.

Incredible was one way to put it, arousing was another, but you truly couldn't find the words to explain how utterly delicious that kiss was. Your hands were quick to find their place, cupping his face, his beard an absolute delight to feel on your fingertips.

Just as everything was getting more heated, however, there was a calling of your name along with Jacob's from downstairs.

"Damn..." you cursed, breathless.

"We'll continue this darling... later." Jacob smirked devilishly, he was as out of breath as you were. He quickly jumped off you while you called your father.

You both quickly fixed your attire and went out of your room to greet your father. A sour expression settled on your face, which Jacob noticed. He quickly but gently pushed you against a wall and gave you another toe curling kiss.

"Thank you, Jacob..." you managed to say when he detached his lips from yours. "For today- for everything, really. Much as you infuriated me, you also made this past month more bearable."

"My my, is this a confession?" Jacob said with a brow up.

"Don't get cocky," you pushed him off and went downstairs.

Maybe it was a confession, maybe it wasn't, nevertheless it would be better if you kept it to yourself, for you'll be on your way back to Paris in two weeks.

... But then again, you could make your last two weeks more interesting. He said it himself, you two weren't done yet - it wouldn't hurt to have a little fun and make this a memorable trip, right?

#jacobfrye #assassin's creed #assassin's creed x reader #jacob frye x reader #au

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randomestfandoms-ocs · 3 years

Note

Drop the Evie essay you wrote

okay so first of all it wasn’t really an essay the way some of my ramblings are, more like just me writing down all of my thoughts in a vaguely coherent manner bc my brain was running too fast to really organize it

and second of all, just to be on the safe side, these are the potential trigger warnings that I would give for the essay — I don’t know if they all actually come up or not, but better safe than sorry, so proceed with caution!

Potential TWs: being outed, parental neglect, character death (canon), suicide attempts (semi-canon), eating disorders, lots of mental health issues, and lots of general trauma and feelings of never being good enough, and canon typical references to drinking/drugs/partying/etc

so just like a fun fact, Evie’s vitamin water of choice is zero sugar strawberry lemonade and yes i spent too long reading reviews on different flavours all because gossip girl did an entire product placement episode

anyways now onto real thoughts let’s go lesbians let’s go

so okay evie has a... very negative experience with Lily’s various boyfriends and husbands. When Evie was younger she was always hopeful that this time would be different, that they’d be a family, that her mom would actually stick around, and every single time she’s been let down and left heartbroken. When her mom starts dating Bart, Evie is very against it but she just can’t be bothered to even try to talk to Lily — Lily will date him, maybe get married, play house, abandon her children, then get divorced, and the cycle will repeat, and Lily will never give a shit about how her children feel about it. Bart is just the latest rich man for Lily to set her sights on. Given the overall shittiness of most of Lily’s exes, Evie had figured she would be a lot more vocally against Lily dating again, but Bart...

Bart himself may terrify Evie, but Evie’s unwavering faith that Chuck will always protect her outweighs that fear, and Evie has long since given up on her mom caring about her opinions so she just takes comfort in the fact that Chuck will be there and tries to just ignore the rest — and the fact that Bart is pretty much always away does help with that. That being said, she was very distraught when Bart spends season 1 christmas with them, but then Bart’s “present” for her was flying Chuck home for a few days because Lily mentioned that Eric was teasing Evie about being excited about having Chuck as a brother, and he's trying to semi-win over the kids (aka bribe them into accepting him as Lily’s fiancé)

Evie speaks several languages! She started learning French and Spanish at a very young age, and then picked more up from Lily’s various husbands. She’s not fluent in all of them but she can hold conversations in eight languages — and four of them were from Lily’s boyfriends (and italian was half pieced together from French and Spanish), and she just keeps learning more because she tries to keep herself too busy to think at any given moment

Rufus is her favourite step-dad by far, but Chuck is her favourite step-sibling (and second favourite sibling, after Eric). That being said, Bart was surprisingly decent to her because even he quickly figured out that Evie has the innate ability to get Chuck to do basically anything, and he wanted her on his side, only he underestimated how much Evie hates him for treating Chuck like shit — as she says in 2x07, “if you want us to be a family, you should learn how to be a dad”

Evie has a bit of a thing for stealing coats lmao — it’s not unusual to find her stealing Chuck, Eric, Theo, or even Nate’s jackets when she gets cold or starts feeling particularly self conscious. At the housewarming party she actually gets to bothered by all the media watching her constantly that Chuck goes and gets her one of his blazers to replace the cropped one she was wearing, and she immediately feels a bit more at east

Evie is a jock like it’s understated but she’s on multiple sports teams at school and plays outside of school too — she’s also in dance classes several times a week, along with private vocal lessons, and being part of every theatre production at Constance Billard (musicals and plays), and is on the yearbook committee. Basically, Evie needs a fucking nap, and with a lot of pushing from Chuck and Eric and Theo (to balance out Blair “do absolutely everything in the name of Yale” Waldorf) she does eventually ease up on her extra-curriculars

She holds far too much power in the Constance-St Jude hierarchy. She’s a freshman, but it’s well known that Evie is completely untouchable. Some people (cough Jenny) might try to cross Blair, but no one is stupid enough to go after Evie — she’s not just Blair’s protégée, she’s also under Chuck’s protection. And when Jenny does try to cross her in season 3 (physical and emotional bullshit, public humiliation, telling the entire school she’d tried to kill herself and had been at Ostroff not “in florida”), well... she learns that even being family won’t stop her entire life from being destroyed

Speaking of Jenny... that’s a very messy relationship — I want to like Jenny, I really do, but I just... don’t so far. They’re a very sweet relationship early on, neither of them had dated before and they were just really smitten with each other and things were good. There were definitely some issues because of the Jenny-Blair war, but they’d been okay — or so Evie had thought, until Jenny dumped her by means of introducing everyone to her new boyfriend, Asher. Then of course there’s the party and Jenny outing her, and then just not talking to her for months until she needs something from them (an in to the White Party). Eric manages to convince Evie to play nice, but he does so under the impression that Jenny had apologized to Evie — he didn’t know she’d only apologized to him. Eventually Jenny does apologize and Evie tries to forgive her, and she keeps giving Jenny more and more second chances (especially once they become step sisters), but Jenny really just keeps hurting Evie to get on top because with Blair gone, Evie immediately becomes the new queen, and Jenny cares more about being queen than being nice. Little does she realize that part of why Evie became queen with no challenge is because she’s nice.

and regarding Evie’s other relationships... so serena was a really good big sister when Eric & Evie were kids — Blair was the responsible sister and Serena was the fun sister, but it was a good balance and it worked. But when the twins were around eleven and Serena was around 13, she became besties with Georgina Sparks, and everything went to shit. Serena started getting into partying and drinking and drugs and became just as flighty and unreliable as Lily, which takes a significant toll on the twins’ mental health — side note, one of their therapists at the Ostroff Centre believes that their significant codependency stems from the abandonment issues they have as a result of Lily and Serena just up and leaving them whenever anything “better” comes along.

And unfortunately for the twins, this was around the same time (grade 6) that Theo got sent to boarding school, so really they lost both their sister and their best friend at the same time, and Theo leaving also messed up the overall group dynamics and they half lost Nate too — he was still in their lives but he went from being the dad to Blair’s mom to being more of a big brother, and there was this sort of hole that didn’t get filled until a couple of years later.

And of course, a lot of it then fell to Blair to try to fill that hole and the holes left by Serena and Lily and went from being sort of “mom friend big sister” to “literally the closest thing we have to a mom”, which is also just a lot of pressure for a thirteen year old girl and part of why Blair and Chuck got a lot closer after he ended up becoming their dad was because she finally had someone that she could talk to too.

Also like full disclosure, Chuck never really intended to become their dad. He started off as a reluctant big brother because he was Nate’s best friend and Nate was the dad friend when they were younger, and Evie just kind of decided that she loved him and like no one can argue with Evie so all of a sudden he was part of the family. He doesn’t really become dad until the van der Woodsens move into the hotel because suddenly Eric and Evie are just always there, and he doesn’t even realize it until months later, after Serena is gone and he realizes that he’s been skipping parties to like play mario kart and shit with the twins and Blair is just like “lmao yeah buddy you’re the last one to get this memo”

and then there’s this list that I made of the NJBC’s roles in raising the twins and theo back when they were younger

Blair: holds their hands to cross the street, teaches them not to talk to people who wear sneakers or to strangers, teaches them how to dress themselves like respectable people, makes them finish their homework before watching tv, hates all of their nannies and only trusts dorota to take care of them Nate: teaches them to tie their laces and their ties, plays video games and sports with them, helps them with homework and doesn't get impatient when they struggle, lets them use his notebooks to draw in when they're bored Chuck: will destroy anyone who hurts them, teaches them street smarts and how to tell when someone is lying, is the one who lets them do dumb and reckless things because he'd rather they do them when he's there to get in trouble, still refuses to believe that they know what sex is Serena: reminded them that it's okay to have fun and draw outside the lines, stood up for them when lily was being a shit mom and always tried to protect them from the worst of her neglect, came up with games to play when they were sad to take their minds off whatever is upsetting them

And Theo!!!!!! Theo has been their best friend for their entire lives! They’ve known him since they were babies and the three of them have always been inseparable! Like highkey they were just a more functional NJBC lmao, and we love them for it! Theo getting sent to boarding school was really hard on all three of them but they stayed in constant contact and whenever Theo is back in the city, it’s almost impossible to see them not together. Theo does know that they were in the Centre, so once he’s back full time, he’s spending as much time visiting them as he can! Even when Eric and Theo are dating (and later when Evie and Theo are dating), the group dynamics really never change! It’s still always the three of them, and sometimes Jenny in s1, they’re still each other’s family, and they’re still just a bit too interdependent to be entirely healthy (it’s the trauma and neglectful parents)

on a slightly related note, neither of the twins drink anything other than champagne and sometimes wine, and neither of them touch drugs at all, and it’s entirely because of Serena. They’ve both seen how much she’s changed since she got into that scene, and especially since ‘liking partying’ turned into ‘alcohol addiction’, and they’re both too afraid of ending up like that to even take the risk. It’s something that definitely sets them apart from pretty much any of their peers, but they’ve gotten very good at just laughing it off with a “hey, I just don’t want to end up on Gossip Girl tomorrow” which people generally accept

(that being said, Evie did smoke for a while pre-canon bc cigarettes curb hunger, but she hasn’t smoked at all since ending up in the Centre, and once she’s out too many people have an eye on her for her to even try, and she does want to stop)

(TW ATTEMPTED SUICIDE, fairly detailed discussion) so okay the breaking point for the twins... lily had just gone awol again and Blair was away visiting her dad and evie was at the archibalds’ house hanging out with theo, who was home for a weekend, and eric didn’t want to call anyone because lily’s disappearance had left him in a spiral of feeling annoying and like people didn’t really want him in their lives and there wasn’t a specific trigger but instead of the spiral slowing down or evie/chuck/blair being able to pull him out of it, it just kept getting worse until he was slitting his wrist in the bathroom — only Evie had just gotten home and when he didn’t reply to her calling his name, she got freaked out and started looking for him and when she saw him, she just... couldn’t deal. She called 911 for eric but then she was just in the bathroom and covered in his blood and she didn’t know what to do and she needed to calm down so she grabbed a bottle of valium that she thinks was Lily’s but instead of just taking one pill she ended up taking all of them and downing them with a bottle of vodka serena had hidden — once she realized what she’d done she called Chuck and basically just said “I think I fucked up” and Chuck freaks out (understandably) and rushes to their suite and gets there basically just in time to see both of them being loaded into an ambulance; he claims he’s their brother and rides with them to the hospital where he calls blair, and arranges for his jet to pick her up asap, and then tries (unsuccessfully) to get in touch with lily

#lizziesxltzmxn #ask #answered #evie van der woodsen #about evie #freshman generation

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emybain · 4 years

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Reunion

I got the urge to write late last night and managed to spit this out. it takes place after the events in Seventeen, so I highly suggest you go read that before this! this is only lightly edited.

SPOILERS FOR SUPERNOVA

The leaves around Nova’s boots swirled up as a cold gust of wind blew through. Even through her many layers, she was still cold. The tip of her nose was an icicle; her fingers were so numb it was a miracle she hadn’t dropped the bouquet of flowers gripped between them. It was chillier than it should be for October, but a cold front was currently in Gatlon, and it refused to leave for another week, or so the weatherman had said. The stormy night they had the night before didn’t help with the atmosphere, either. The sun was nowhere in sight, hiding its warmth behind the clouds. It was truly a dreary day, and Nova wanted nothing more than to just go back to her apartment and drink hot tea while reading a book. Preferably in the presence of her boyfriend.

But she had a mission, and many times before, she had failed. Not today. She had been planning it for some time now, and it was too late to go back now, despite how much she really, really wanted to.

Once upon a time, she would never have thought she would be this terrified of visiting her parents’ graves. Then again, she supposed the idea had never come up to consider. It wasn’t like she knew or expected them to have a proper burial; her hatred for the Renegades had convinced her that they would’ve disposed of the bodies in an inhumane manner without a second thought. Now she knew she had been wrong. Not long after her birthday, when she had broken down in front of Simon and Hugh, Adrian’s fathers, Hugh had approached her and suggested she visit her parents. When Nova had nearly laughed, he explained that they, along with her sister, were in fact buried in a cemetery, given proper graves next to one another. Within an hour, he had found the location of the cemetery as well as the area their graves were in.

That had been in mid June, four months ago. Adrian had tried convincing her countless times to visit them, insisting that he always felt better after visiting his mother, but Nova couldn’t find the courage to. Until now, at least.

Adrian came up beside her, pulling up his jacket collar to cover his neck from the biting wind. “You ready?” he asked, observing her carefully. They were standing in one of the roads that ran through the cemetery, Adrian’s car parked just five feet away. She was debating telling him no, that it was a bad idea to even come, and to just get back in the car and drive to her place or go to headquarters where they could train in the training hall.

“Yes,” she found herself saying, her breath visible in front of her. Her feet refused to step up over the curb and onto the grass, still wet from last nights downpour. Adrian grabbed her free hand and squeezed it, offering an encouraging smile as he tugged her along.

As they walked through the grass, eyes sweeping over every headstone, Nova felt her body slowly grow numb. She thought of that children’s game where one would hide something and the other would have to search for it, only given clues based on how ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ they were in relationship to the distance they were from the object. It was how she felt now, but she was numb instead of hot.

How were they even sure they were going to find the headstones? Nova was positive that they had received no visitors since they were laid to rest ten years before. For all she knew, they were grown over with weeds and covered in mud. But her doubt started to diminish when she saw that even the old headstones, some dating back to over a hundred years ago, were kept clean and free of dirt. The only sign of their age was the weathered stone.

It seemed like they had been walking for forever, going through every aisle unsuccessfully, when Adrian’s hold on her hand tightened from behind her, stopping her in her tracks. She looked back at him, and could tell from his solemn gaze that he had found them.

Nova turned around fully, following the direction he nodded in. And there they were, three plain rectangular headstones with just their names and birth and death dates. Evie’s didn’t even have a birth date, which made sense because she, like Nova, was born at home and didn’t have a birth certificate. It only had her estimated age of death, which almost seemed crueler than only putting two dates with a dash in between them. A chill ran down Nova’s spine.

Adrian placed a gentle hand on her lower back, pulling her attention back to him. “Do you want me to stay or do you want to be left alone?”

Nova eyed the headstones again and gulped. Her palms were suddenly sweaty, fingers trembling. “I think I need a minute, but don’t leave, okay?” He nodded and leaned over, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. He gave her hand one last squeeze of encouragement before letting go. She watched him step back out of the corner of her eye until he was completely out of her peripheral, but she could still feel his presence behind her, comforting.

Inhaling shakily, Nova forced her feet forward until she was up close to the three headstones. Her legs sank from under her, knees coming to rest on the ground. Instantly, rain water began seeping up into her jeans. Her hands shook as she reached forward, placing the flowers on her mother’s headstone, which rested in between her father’s and Evie’s.

“Hi,” she whispered, clearing her throat. “I brought you flowers. Sorry it...um...took me a while.” She fell silent, at a loss for words. What did people say when they visited graves? Did they say anything?

Truthfully, Nova had too much to say and not enough time. She had a decade’s worth of being without her family. It was more about finding the right thing to say.

“I learned what really happened.” Nova licked her lips, instantly regretting it. Now they were going to be chapped. “And...and I’m so sorry.” She paused, voice faltering. The tears she was expecting welled up in her eyes; she didn’t try to wipe them away. “I can’t take back all the wrong I’ve done, all the things that go against what you worked so hard for and believed in, Papà, but I’m trying to be better.” She sniffled roughly and swallowed. While it hurt to talk at first, it slowly got easier as she pressed on. “I want your vision for the world to come to life, and I think it’s possible. I have a lot of friends and I know a lot of people that have the same beliefs and can help me.

“I’m not the same person I was a year ago,” she admitted, having to lift her lips up slightly for that. “And I’m glad I’m not. I was so blinded...so lost, that I failed to see reason when it was in front of me. But things are improving every day, and my support system,” she shook her head, “you would like them. They’re a little weird at times, but I love them.”

She grew quiet, searching her brain for anything to say. Anything that they needed to know before she had to leave. “Not a day has passed that I haven’t thought of you,” she said, voice dropping a dynamic. “I miss you so much.” A tear rolled down her cheek. “Papà, I want to be a better person because of you. You inspire me every day. Mom, I think about your hugs a lot these days, how they always managed to make everything better. Evie,” her voice caught in her throat, “I see you in a little boy whose name is Max Everhart, even though you were only a baby. You would’ve been around his age. He’s a sweetheart and incredibly intelligent. His brother is here with me, actually. He convinced me to come today.” Nova looked over her shoulder then at Adrian, who was standing a good ten feet back, hands in his pockets and watching her. He raised his eyebrows when she beckoned him forward, but did as she requested, coming to his knees beside her. Nova reached for his hand, lacing their fingers together. She leaned into him.

“This is Adrian,” she introduced to her family. “My boyfriend.” She smiled tightly up at Adrian, who rubbed his thumb along the back of her hand in response. “Um...he’s an amazing artist and one of the kindest, most selfless people I know. I have a feeling you would’ve liked him a lot.”

“You knew my mother,” Adrian offered quietly. His grip in her hand tightened. “She was sent to protect your family before...before she was killed.”

Nova let out a slow breath. “I suppose you could say fate brought us together, even if that fate had bad parts to it.” She paused for a moment. “I just wish you could’ve met him. He’s...he’s my best friend and I don’t know what I would do without him. He’s...taught me how to love and trust people again, among dozens of other things.”

They both grew quiet, just sitting there in the damp grass holding one another. A few tears streamed down Nova’s face unevenly. It was strange to think that after all of these years, she was finally reunited with her family. No, not in the way she had wanted, but they were here. After she finished speaking, a small breeze blew through, but this one almost seemed warm, seemed inviting. It stayed for a moment, and that’s when Nova knew that she and Adrian weren’t alone in the cemetery. She closed her eyes and let it surround her.

________

When they got back to the car, Adrian looked down at his communication band. “Oscar and the others are at the Sleepy Owl and want us to meet them there. Do you want to go?” The Sleepy Owl was a small book themed coffee shop that their group frequented often. It was also Max’s favorite place in the entire city.

Nova thought about it for a moment, then nodded. She reached across the console for his hand. Pulling his hand up to her lips, she pressed a kiss to the back, closing her eyes and holding him for a minute. When she pulled away, he was watching her with a soft gaze. “Thank you for being here with me. For making me come here.” He smiled gently and reached over, pulling her to him to kiss her lightly.

As they drove to meet their friends, Nova leaned her head on the window and watched the cemetery disappear, feeling lighter than she had in years.

#supernova spoilers #nova artino #Adrian everhart #danna bell #Oscar silva #ruby tucker #renegades #archenemies #anarchists #my writing

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cinnamortal · 4 years

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Look After You (1)

A/N: I want to give a huge thank you to Evi (@acciodracoo) for helping me work out some of the kinks in the planning of this plot as well as reading over some future scenes, and to Effy (I don’t know her URL, but still) for reading over this chapter and helping me smooth out all the icky wrinkles for flow efficiency. This chapter is dedicated to you both! Series Summary: October 3, 1976— the day your life fell apart. With your best friend gone and two hotheaded males that insist on trailing behind your every move, you might not escape the school year sane, or worse, alive. Series Warning — READ THIS BEFORE YOU CONTINUE: This fic is not for the light of heart. Over the course of the story, you will see elements that will include but are not limited to torture, mature and adult themes, reckless behavior that borders suicidal, and PTSD. If any of these bother you, please, do not read this fic. You have been warned. Word Count: 2,369 Warnings: Language.

Love had soft, unruly hair that never looked more perfect, combing through said hair while laughing at a joke his friend said, trying to tame a beast that took a form of its own. Love had hazel eyes that glinted in the candlelight as he grinned wolfishly. Love never glanced your way, but it didn’t stop the thousands of butterflies coming up your stomach, yearning for freedom.

Love took on the form of James Potter. Boyish in looks, crude in manners, and arrogant in speech, but it made him even more lovely. Your heart sat cradled in his hands ever since your first year when he shoved you while fleeing from a boil-covered Filch. He stopped to help you to your feet, flashing his signature grin before scampering off with his little gang, leaving you flustered as the warmth of his touch blossomed over your body.

But love was unfortunately not on your side. His heart fluttered at silky red-hair and dazzling green eyes that opened to a warm soul. Love had a tinkling laugh that could bloom flowers and lull the storming heavens. Love had creamy smooth skin and sharp wit along with perfect teeth and grades to match.

That Love embodied itself in Lily Evans. And she could never adore him like you did.

Lily did everything, but give the Quidditch Captain the time of the day. You caught every “Fuck off, Potter” and “Leave me alone, James,” she fiercely whipped his way. You envied every ignored flower and gift, readied yourself to slap away every eye-roll and scoff, as she showed no inkling of admiration for him.

None of that mattered to him. His eyes only focused on her, day in and day out. He’d scale the Astronomy tower if it meant getting her attention. And if you were being honest, you’d do the same for him. A girl one year below him, hidden in the shadow that Lily Evans cast over everyone. A shadow that followed anyone who dared to hate her — she was that lovely.

“Will you stop ogling and eat your dinner before it goes to waste?”

Of course, Louise Moretti commented on your every move again. With her piercing green eyes that always rolled and pressed pink lips, you weren’t sure you ever caught a smile from her in the five years you’d known each other. And with the way she scrutinized you, scraping at the outer edge of tough skin you’d grown, you didn’t think you’d ever want to.

“I am not ogling,” you snapped, forcefully pushing your mashed potatoes around with a spoon. “I just so happened to be looking over there when you looked at me.”

“Sure, (Y/N/N),” Nadeen snickered, dark eyes twinkling as she raised her goblet to her lips. “Whatever helps you sleep at night.”

Olivia laughed at the side comment, but when she caught your glare, a sorry smile crossed her lips.

“Leave her alone, Abadi.” Mary smiled even as she scolded, placing a small hand on top of yours. She pushed a single micro braid behind her ear, humming softly. “We’ve all seen you make eyes at that Ravenclaw boy.”

Nadeen’s playful expression dropped into a scowl, and something on her plate suddenly piqued her interest. “Sod off,” she grumbled, stabbing a boiled carrot with her fork.

“At least Nadeen has a chance with him. It’s pathetic to chase after a boy who couldn’t give a shit about you.” Louise popped a chip in her mouth, quirking a brow as you gritted your teeth.

Snipping back would only anger her more—you’d learned that the hard way. Instead, you kept quiet, smoothing out your potatoes with the back of your spoon. The tips of your ears burned, and suddenly your house tie felt like a noose strangling your neck. You could hear your heartbeat in your ears as Nadeen and Olivia watched for a reaction.

“Don’t listen to her,” Mary whispered, patting your hand gently. “Just eat and ignore her. It’s what I do.”

You shot Mary a thankful glance and took a bite of your dinner roll. A sudden sense of unease sunk into your shoulder and you slowly turned in your seat, looking around the Great Hall. Chatter and the clanking of silverware filled the air as students ate. You failed to find a single pair of eyes directly on you.

“Who’re you looking for?” Nadeen pulled you from your thoughts, leaning in her seat to peer over your shoulder.

You scanned the room once more and came up empty. “No one,” you mumbled as you turned around with a shrug. “Just got a weird feeling.”

“I get those all the time. Really gives me the creeps, especially at night,” Mary chimed in, eyes wide and serious.

You shared a look with Nadeen before you both burst into giggles. The other girls joined in and soon after, clutching your sides and wiping away tears.

When the laughter died down and everyone continued to eat, the unmistakable feeling of a pair of eyes burning holes in your back returned.

—

After dinner, you settled into your dorm with the other girls. Mary laid next to you, hands waving wildly as she shared details of her summer in the Alps. You envied her, considering your summer comprised of walking around a cold, empty house and arguing with your family’s house-elf, Pobkey.

“Oh!” Mary suddenly exclaimed, frantically scrambling off your bed and towards her opened tote. Rummaging through various blouses and skirts with her brows drawn together and a tongue pressed to her bottom lip.

“What on earth are you searching for, Mary?” Nadeen couldn’t help but giggle as she watched the mocha-colored girl scatter her belongings, making a mess in her side of the room.

“I found it!” Mary cried cheerfully, holding up a record case. “My cousin, the other witch in the family, sent me this for my birthday!” She beamed at you and the other girls, holding it out in front of her to showcase it.

“Well, what about it?” Louise huffed from beside Nadeen, eyeing the girl’s mess. “All that commotion for a little record?” She scolded.

“Let her finish, Louise,” you hushed, turning your head to smile softly at Mary. “Go on, then.”

She stuck her tongue out at Louise before continuing, “I thought we could have a little dance party. One last hoorah before we start classes tomorrow.” She then let out an excited squeal, clutching at the vinyl record. “It’s charmed! Any song we want, it’ll play.”

“Let’s do it!” You moved to kneel on your bed, grinning. After the tense and heavy goodbye with your father, a little lighthearted fun sounded ravishing. You climbed off your mattress and made your way towards Mary, taking the record from her hands. After sliding it out its sleeve, you opened the top of the record player in your dorm and inserted it in. “Which song, ladies?”

“’Killing Me Softly with His Song’!” Nadeen called behind you, jumping down from her bed.

“That’s not a dancing song, Dee,” Louise retorted, joining the Arabian girl as she slid off the mattress. “What about ‘Fire’?”

“You all are wrong. It should obviously be ‘Dancing Queen’,” Olivia chimed in, finally lifting her head from her book. The girl hadn’t spoken a word since dinner, slightly strange for someone who found facts to fit in every conversation, but you figured her pale complexion resulted from the exhausting train ride. She pushed up her glasses, giving a shy smile when she gathered all the attention in the room. “It’s only fitting.”

“’Dancing Queen’ it is!” You turned back to the record, eyes widening as it took over the vinyl player. The needle snapped down on its own, and the record began to spin.

Mary cheered when the music started pushing her trunk towards the wall in order to make more space for all of you to twirl around. You made your way back to the other girls, motioning for Olivia to join you. She threw her book up by her pillow and quickly climbed off the bed. You grabbed her hands as soon as she approached you, belting out the beginning lyrics.

You can dance, you can jive! Having the time of your life, ooh See that girl, watch that scene, Digging the dancing queen!

Olivia swung her arms with you, giggling as she spun you around. You squealed with her, laughing as she attempted to dip you.

Louise snatched Mary’s hand, attempting some sort of twist move that had both girls laughing boisterously. Nadeen hopped onto her bed, holding onto the post as she leaned out and sung into a hairbrush.

It felt good to let go and have fun instead of tiptoeing around your home, avoiding disturbance. It seemed like the deeper your father fell into his Death Eater investigations, the less he remembered he had a daughter. Only empty halls greeted you, leaving you with just the smiling portrait of your mother and a half-blind house elf that refused to let you do anything for yourself. Singing and dancing with your friends (and Louise) relieved the tension perfectly.

Until the door swung open.

Peeking her head in, Lily Evans looked amuse, but her tone of voice told another story. “Ladies!”

Mary pulled away from Louise and shut off the record, looking sheepishly, wishing to avoid any form of trouble.

“It’s a little loud. We can hear you all the way in the Common Room,” Lily explained, opening the door a little more to step in.

Your lips pursed. The stone walls and distance muffled the noise downstairs, likewise for upstairs; you were probably disturbing her precious “study time”. You kept your silence though, standing stiffly next to Olivia.

“We’ll keep it down. Sorry, Lily” Mary wrapped her arms around herself, twisting the pad of her foot against the hardwood floor.

“That’s alright. Goodnight, girls.” Lily turned around and left, closing the door behind you. You waited for her footsteps to quiet before sighing in relief, murmuring a few insults under your breath.

Your friends giggled at your behavior, getting used to you cursing her out every time she passed by. You turned the music back on, this time keeping Lily’s warning in mind.

You tried to embrace the shared lightheartedness for the rest of the night. But even as you shut your scarlet curtains and sunk into the squeaky mattress, you couldn’t fight off the anxiety prowling in your stomach. It continued to gnaw at you while your eyes grew heavy, settling into your ribcage.

Something—no, someone was off and you did not know who.

—

Just a week into your fifth year, you sat in the back of the library, already behind in some of your classes, feeling a bit weepy as you read over the prompt for your History of Magic essay. With the deadline approaching in two days, only a few words graced your page. You dropped your quill in your inkpot and let your head fall to the table with a gentle thud.

“Having a hard time?” Mary set her books on the table and sat next to you, curious eyes peering into your work.

“’How does the outcome of the Giant wars affect you personally?’,” you mimicked Professor Binn’s droning voice before sitting upright. “The bloody war happened nearly two centuries ago! It doesn’t affect me personally at all! And for the essay to total a foot long of parchment? Tosh!”

Mary giggled, flipping her Astronomy book open. “You’re thinking about it too literally. If the Giants had won the war, how different would life be for us?”

“We’d all be dead,” you huffed, eyeing the parchment with distaste. “Which sounds much better than writing this damned paper, mind you.”

“You’re utterly helpless.” Mary reached across your book and dipped her quill in your inkwell, flashing you a cheeky smile as she circled the needle around the rim. “You’ll fail this essay and never graduate.”

You rolled your eyes, but you failed to stave off the grin tugging at the corners of your mouth. “Thank you, Mary. Thank you for that.”

The brown-skinned girl flashed her pearly whites before focusing on her own assignment “Always.”

You watched her write before you decided to get a rough draft out. You scrawled out your introductory paragraph, propping your elbow on the table to rest your chin in the palm of your hand. Your (H/C) hair tickled your wrist as you leaned into your hand, hitting a stump in your thought process. “Mary?”

“Yes, dear?”

“Why does Louise nitpick everything I do or say?”

Mary froze, staring at her paper before sighing and setting her quill down. She turned her heard, chocolate eyes softening as she shrugged. “Beats me, really. I never understood it either. What matters, though,” she pointed at you with a stern look that would hardly spook a kitten, “is that you don’t let her rubbish attitude twist your knickers. She’s not worth the headache.”

You let out a barking laugh, wincing when Madam Pince shot you an icy glare across the aisles of tables. You lowered your head, biting your cheek. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard someone say, ‘twist your knickers’.” You only laughed harder when she joined in, pressing your hands to your face to muffle the noise.

“That was,” Mary wheezed between laughs. “That was how it came out. I couldn’t stop it from leaving my lips.”

You wiped the tears prickling in the corners of your eyes, shakily breathing from your belly laughs. “That was brilliant.” You smiled gently, leaning back in your chair. “I’m glad I have you, M. I don’t think I could survive this world without you in it.”

Mary smiled, picking her quill back up. “I’m glad I have you too, love.”

The feeling returned when you dipped your quill in the inkwell. The shuddering chill spread over your skin and down your spine, raising every hair. You swallowed, reluctantly turning around, afraid of spotting the razor-toothed monster your conscious conjured up in nightmares.

Melinda Mugwort: A Memoir, returning to its spot on the shelf behind you, greeted you instead. Relief washed over you as you turned back around, finishing the sentence you abandoned.

#look after you #marauders #the marauders #marauders x reader #james potter #james potter imagine #james potter x reader #james potter x y/n #sirius black #sirius black imagine #sirius black x reader #sirius black x y/n #hp imagine #harry potter #harry potter fandom #hp fandom

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thethoughtsfromthreeam · 4 years

Text

Sunshine

Pairing: Maxwell Lord x OC (Evelyn “Evie” Blaker)

Warnings: None

A/N: I have to admit I’m really struggling with this story. I don’t know if my brain is finally coming to the end of this writing jag its been on for the last month and a half, but I’m determined to see it through and get it posted. So we’ll see what the next couple of weeks bring.

Reminder: I ain’t ever seen Pedro Pascal in FUCK ALL, I’m just coming up with this as I go along, using imdb.com, wiki, and 84,000 tabs I got open to plan out this shit. I also write soft versions of his characters so if you’re craving asshole vibes, I ain’t got any but my own to offer.

Tags: @zeldasayer , @romanticgumchewer, @beskars , @coolmaybelateruniverse , @the-feckless-wonder, @lavenderl3mons , @pascalisthepunkest , @mandoandyodito , @randomness501 , @fioccodineveautunnale

[PART 1]

Part 2

Then Move on to Dinner

As Evie disembarked from the train, she felt as if she had been taken through a ringer and thought that she probably looked it. Such an auspicious start to her date with Maxwell Lord of all people. But she was here and as she stepped further into Grand Central Station, she looked around for Maxwell’s driver. When she spotted the man holding a sign with her name on it, she smiled while adjusting her small bag on her shoulder, walking over to meet him. Her look of apology was all over her face and he could clearly see it.

“Are you Bennett?”

“I am, you must be Miss Evie. Mr. Lord said you’d be easy to spot in the crowd.” She laughed and he smiled at her. They shook hands and he began to guide her out of the station, dodging the mass of people exiting the city for home after a long workday.

“I am so sorry, Bennett, there was a delay coming out of Poughkeepsie. I know you had to have been waiting a while.”

“Naw, it’s all good. But the traffic is a little heavy today, so let’s get going. I know Mr. Lord is already at the restaurant.” Evie had the rare knack for making friends with everyone she met, and Bennett was no exception. As they walked to the car, they chatted like old friends. They stepped out into the warm evening and Bennett pointed to the car.

As she climbed in, she continued to ask questions about the man’s family, how long he had been working for Maxwell, and when Bennett admitted he was an artist, she began to prod him about that, too. All the while, she was in the back transforming herself from seemingly mild-manner accountant to date worthy.

She didn’t have an opportunity to get ready on the train coming into the city as she had hoped, so Evie took a chance to update her make-up for the evening and twisted her hair into a sleek up-do. When she needed to change clothes, she asked Bennett if he could just briefly turn the mirror. He smiled and told her that there was a partition. He raised it and she slipped out of her sweater and slacks and into a deep gold cocktail dress. The crepe satin had metallic thread woven through it and it sparkled in the light. When she knocked on the partition, Bennett whistled when he saw her emerge as it lowered.

“Miss Evie, I’m pretty sure Mr. Lord will have a hard time keeping his eyes off you.”

“Yeah, well, I suppose that’s the goal of any date night, right?” She grunted as she moved to put on a pair of nude flats. As she put on her jewelry, Bennett kept talking.

“For sure, my Bette, that first night we met, I knew I was going to marry her. I couldn’t keep my eyes off her. She wore this pink dress that just. . . . Well, let’s just say it was a good night!”

They both laughed and soon Bennett was pulling up to the restaurant. She cleaned up her mess and stowed her bag under the seat before getting out, wrapping her green silk shawl around her shoulders. The sudden sounds of the city caused her to pause a moment before she rushed up the stairs and into the restaurant. She smiled at the hostess, who immediately took her to a private room upon hearing her name.

As she stepped into the room, Maxwell looked up, relief washing over him at the sight of her. He had been worried that she wasn’t going to come given how late she was. A small part of him wondered if Saturday night’s little adventure and promise wasn’t something his muddled brain hadn’t just made up. Seeing her in person again washed away all those uncharacteristic doubts that had been swirling around for the last hour.

“Maxwell, I am so, so, so sorry I am late. I’ve kept you waiting and I’m sure you’re hungry. I should have called you, but I didn’t realize how bad the delay was and then the traffic was bad. . .” She rambled on in her apology as he stood up to greet her, not even noticing the feral look in his eye. He took her hand and when he spoke her name, she looked up.

“Evie.” His tone was even but carried authority and it was often one his own staff heard from him. It easily broke through her worrying thoughts, bringing her back to him. “It’s fine. Things happen. What matters is that you’re here. Give yourself a second to breathe. We have all night.”

She heaved a sigh of relief and for the first time since she walked into the room, she smiled at him. He smiled back and dropped his hand to her lower back to guide her to their table. He signaled the young man waiting at the door and he left to get their waiter. He pulled out her chair and as she sat down, he caught a whiff of her shampoo – just as soft and warm as he remembered, and he felt his cock stir a little.

If Maxwell Lord weren’t already captivated by Evie Blaker, then tonight he would have been. When she walked in, wearing that golden dress, he felt as if the room brightened considerably and it was all he could do to talk to her. He was mesmerized by her everyday beauty, but she was a radiant sun goddess now. He wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her until she was panting for him, until she begged him to fuck her on the table, dinner be damned. Instead, he willed himself to calm down and for his erection to stop growing.

“Just a ginger ale and water please, Alonzo. And I’m sorry, wait. Maxwell, did you want another drink?” He straightened up at the sound of his name from her voice and simply nodded. The waiter bowed his head to fill their drink orders and the two fell into silence as they looked at the menu. He already knew what he wanted but waited patiently for her to decide.

“How did you know his name was Alonzo?” He asked.

“I asked him?” If she weren’t so kind, he would have guessed her questioning look was akin to something like, are you stupid? He never blushed, but he could feel heat rising in his neck in embarrassment. He cleared his throat to rid himself of this foreign sensation.

“You asked him.”

“Yes, and the young man over there is Zachary. And the hostess is named Melanie.” She smiled at the boy and he shyly smiled back before looking away. She looked back at Maxwell, whose mouth was slightly hanging open. He looked down at the menu before looking up. He saw her eyes sparkle with amusement. She had the courtesy not to giggle out loud at least.

“Oh.”

“You don’t really talk with the people around you, do you?” He thought about it and really, unless he had something to say to them, no he didn’t. And when he did, he was prone to speaking at them rather than with them. Before he could say anything, Alonzo returned with their drinks and to take their order, before whisking away the menus and signaling Zachary to follow him. The two were left alone.

---***---

His dinner with Evie was one of the most enjoyable nights Maxwell had had in some time. He found himself more open than he usually is on a date and he was certain her natural friendliness was the reason. Something about her made him answer her questions truthfully and to share even when not prompted. Their conversation was non-stop, even after the food came, and they seemed pressed to learn as much about each other as possible – as if both were worried this was a dream that would disappear.

While most people knew that Maxwell’s father committed suicide, he revealed how his mother died a much slower death. He talked about how that shaped him and his real feelings about Chimtech. He felt pride in the company’s success under his leadership, but knowing it was also the ultimate cause of his parent’s deaths made him feel a little resentful towards it.

They laughed together over his antics in college or at least the ones he was willing to share. And he shared tales of travel and the time he got lost in Prague that led him to the most beautiful church he had ever seen. As he shared, he became more and more relaxed. And Maxwell relaxed was a sight to behold for Evie – she was certain she was witnessing something special.

On her part, Evie loved to tell stories and she reached out to Maxwell when he talked about his father’s death because she too had lost a parent. She talked about how her mother’s sudden death in an accident caused by a drunk drive lead her to never want to drink. But she was close her to pharmacist father, who loved and was devoted his only child. And how he was supportive when she took a risk and went all the way to Notre Dame for college.

She also regaled him with stories from her childhood antics with her cousin and best friend, Maribel. He never laughed as hard as when Evie described how the two of them destroyed a pier and Maribel’s brother’s boat trying to recreate the Lancelot and Elaine scene from Anne of Green Gables. They thought they could do it better and she admitted they clearly didn’t.

“Well, to your credit, you did recreate the scene from the book pretty faithfully.” Maxwell laughed. She laughed too.

“That is true, although I don’t think Brad has forgiven us over the loss of his boat.” They sat back in their chairs, with little chuckles permeating the small room. She sighed as she took a sip of her drink and Maxwell watched her, a small smile on his face. He was more content and relaxed than he had been in a long time. Her sitting across from him felt so natural and a small part of him thought that he could get used to this.

“Would you like dessert?” He asked and she nodded. She wasn’t about to pass up the chance for dessert in a four-star restaurant in New York. After perusing the menu, Maxwell decided on a berry tart and she went for a caramel cake. They continued their conversation through dessert and as it wound down, Maxwell texted Bennett to bring the car around.

“I’m sorry, Maxwell, can I order a dessert to go?” She looked at him shyly, not wanting to seem greedy. He smiled with a hint of confusion but nodded as he finished his wine. After she placed the order, she excused herself to go to the restroom. He sat back and realized they had been sitting for hours but it seemed so much shorter than that. The warmth that haunted his dreams had enveloped him all evening and he was hesitant to let her go just yet.

When she returned, she noticed the box on the table and smiled. Maxwell smiled back and stood up to meet her. She picked up her things as he held out his hand and she slipped hers into his grasp. He lightly squeezed as they left the restaurant. Evie thought that holding his hand seemed to be the most natural thing in the world, as if his hand were made to hold hers perfectly.

Evie bid good-bye to Zachary, Alonzo, and then Melanie as they exited the building before giving Bennett a large smile when they stepped outside. He returned it and the couple slid into the car, with the door closing behind them. When he got back in the car, Evie stopped him.

“Here Bennett - this is for you and Bette.” She handed him the box and he looked stunned.

“For us?”

“Yes, it’s a caramel cake, you said that it was yours and Bette’s favorite dessert, right?”

“Yeah! You remembered?!”

“Of course! I had this for dessert, and you will both love it. It’s divine!” She patted his hand and he looked so happy that she not only remembered but cared enough to bring him something. She sat back, putting on her seatbelt. He set the cake down carefully so he could take it home before turning to Maxwell and asking where their next stop was.

“Give me a minute, Bennett.” The driver nodded and waited.

“Stay with me tonight.” His low voice didn’t demand, but it was firm, and he was glad it hid the desperation he was feeling. He wanted her to come home with him. But she no more wanted the evening to end than he did, and Evie simply nodded, and a smile bloomed on his lips. Finally, the sensations that haunted his sleep wouldn’t leave him at dawn’s first light.

“Home, Bennett.” The driver nodded and he pulled away from the curb to begin the trek across the city. As they sat there, Evie reached over to grab Maxwell’s hand and lace her fingers through his. He tightened his hand, as if to keep her from floating away from him.

“How did you know about cake?” He asked suddenly, but quietly and she turned to look at him with a confused look on her face.

“Because we talked earlier on the way in?” It was a question-comment.

“You talked about cake?”

“Among other things.” She looked at him closer. “You didn’t know Bennett was married, did you?”

He slightly shook his head no and she nodded in response. Bennett had been his driver for six years and until tonight, Maxwell didn’t know anything about the man. Evie squeezed his hand and looked out to the window to enjoy New York City in the evening. The two lapsed into their own silences for the remainder of the trip.

---***---

She expected Bennett to pull up to a large apartment building, thinking Maxwell lived in a penthouse. Instead, he pulled down a tree-lined street with large houses on either side. Bennett stopped in front of a three-story brownstone that exuded charm and warmth. She could see in the flower beds daisies, asters, and lilies interspersed with small ornamental trees. She was almost shocked at how homey and welcoming the property looked.

The car stopped and Evie withdrew her hand to grab her bag from under the seat. Bennett opened the door and Evie stepped out while Maxwell opened his own door and stretched his long legs as he walked around the back of the car. Evie was already into another conversation with his driver as he came up to them.

“You say hello to Bette for me and you’ll let me know what she thinks of the cake, won’t you?”

“Absolutely Miss Evie! You have a good evening with Mr. Lord.”

“Good-bye Bennett!” She gave him a small wave as Maxwell guided her up the steps. As they entered the house, again Evie found herself surrounded by a cozy and charming space. She stopped and looked around her, noting textures like dark wood and soft fabrics. It was clearly the home of a man and yet it felt homey and well lived in.

Instead of modern art, she noted classical style paintings and landscape photography hanging on the walls. She sucked in a breath at the beautiful stain glass that hung in the windows and she thought that the place was probably heavenly when the sun shone through them in the late afternoons.

“Not what you expected, I bet?” Maxwell watched her as she took in his home. His tone was playful, and she laughed.

“No. I expected a penthouse with a harsh modern look that was more like a magazine set than a real home. This is beautiful, Maxwell.”

“I detest modern furniture. It’s lifeless and cold. Give me a leather couch any day.” She supposed it made sense, he was a fashionable man, but he also came from money. He probably grew up in a similar house, where the traditional trappings of wealth surrounded him. She decided it suited him much more than anything she had imagined.

Evie didn’t move from her spot in the foyer, not sure what would happen if she stepped further into his home. For the first time since all this began, she felt apprehensive. Meeting in an office or restaurant is one thing, that could be considered more neutral meeting grounds. But here? She was on his turf and was keenly aware he had an advantage.

It seemed as if Maxwell could sense her hesitation and he stepped up behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders. He could feel tension there and he wanted to wipe it away, so he bent his head down and kiss her underneath her ear. She inhaled sharply at the sensation and her fingers gripped the handles of her bag. When he kissed the spot again, her eyes fluttered shut. They both knew what was going to happen next and they both wanted it. Saturday may have been the appetizer, but tonight was the dessert.

#maxwell lord #maxwell lord x oc #maxwell lord x reader #pedro pascal #pedro pascal x reader #ww1984 #Wonder Woman 1984 #fanfic

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harveywritings92 · 4 years

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Jacob Frye x Reader: prompt 12.

From my writing prompts 12. “Why have you been avoidin- What happened to your arm?!” == “ I tripped on some ice and landed on it, Also broke my phone that’s why haven’t called you, sorry.”

Note: obviously there were no phones in the 19 century just yet, so the reader asked a female Rook to deliver a note to Jacob that "got lost" somehow.

Evie's brow twitched as she watched her brother pace around the train grumbling to himself, he's been like this for two weeks her patience wearing thin! Two weeks ago Y/n went silent and Jacob been at his wits end trying to figure out where and why?

"I just don't get why she hasn't sent a message or something?" Her twin sighed before sitting on a couch across from her desk. "I don't know Jacob have you tried her cousin?" Evie huffed just wanting her brother out of her hair for five minutes!

Jacob gave her a blank stare causing Evie to face-palm "Aleck! her cousin is Mr. Bell have you check with him?" She snapped vexed and in disbelief that he hadn't figured out that Y/n was Aleck's cousin! They dating for what, since they first arrived to London? Evie closed her eyes for a moment and rubbed her temples then went tell him to go ask, But Jacob was already gone and his sister sighed relieved to finally get some peace!

Jacob was traveling via rooftops when something caused him to stopped on a chimney he looked down into a nearby market, he focused his eyes and he saw a familiar golden glow in the sea of blues and greens, "There you are love." he cooed before leaping into a hay cart before hopping out and rushing after the y/hc woman who nearly shrieked as his arms snaked around her waist, before realizing who it was. "Jacob, you scared me!" She sighed clutching her chest.

Then noticed he seemed upset. "Is something wrong?" Y/n asked concerned Jacob frowned he doesn't hear from her for two weeks the nerve of her obliviousness! He let go of her “Yes there is...Why have you been avoidin-" She turned fully around so she can face him Jacob got an eye full of her broken arm splint and plastered. "What happened to your arm?!" he demanded carefully examining her cast."I tripped on some ice and landed on it." Jacob winced having that mental image in his head, of his girlfriend in pain.

"I told a Rook to give you a note detailing what happen, maybe she lost it? Sorry." Y/n said completely naive to what really happened,Jacob's lips twitched knowing full well that his Rooks never forget things... Especially something important like this! he made a mental note to have a little chat with the rooks who were on patrol on the day of y/n's accident, particularly the women; He noticed she was struggling to hold grocerie bags and took the bags from her.

"Jacob you don't need-" He cut her off by booping her on the nose "Oh, but I do!~" he purred before the two walked back to Alec's Jacob kept fussing asking how she tripped and if she had gotten hurt anywhere else..if she was taking anything for pain?

The Y/ht woman wouldn't say much knowing full well he was gonna try and help, don't get Y/n wrong Jacob means well, it's just his bedside manner can be a little... overbearing? She recalled Evie getting a cold and the hazel eyed brawler pretty much went full mother hen and banned her from leaving the train...to make a long story short there were eight fires at least in the dinning car that week! The y/nat made a mental promise of never getting sick around her boyfriend.

Y/n didn't want to think what he'll do! Luckily he seem to sense her cunctation to his questions and shifted to Alec and upgrades or if Y/n's obtained any building blueprints (Reader works for the city this allows her to obtain building layouts for the twins to copy off, then she puts the blueprints back.) or maps to any hidden brotherhood caches around the city.

"I might though I still need time to translate it who wrote it did so in Hebrew." She explained then thought back to when they first met, the y/ht woman could hardly stand Mr. Frye he was always short towards her.

Jacob noticed her inner thoughts and and asked her what was she was thinking about? " Oh just thinking back a few months ago," The gang leader cocked a brow "Oh?" genuinely curious Y/n giggled "When you thought me some rich priss to afraid to get herself dirty." She mused enjoying how his ear turned pink.

"Well, you were dressed to impress so, I just thought..." Jacob didn't really want to finish that sentence, he was glad his assumptions of Y/n being a posh princess were wrong.

He nearly dropped to his knees and proposed, the first time she pulled the layout plans for the Whitechapel stronghold out from under her skirt giving him a nice view of her succulent thighs...speaking of her body were her bosoms getting bigger? Y/n noticed him staring at her chest and cleared her throat snapping him out of it.

Soon, they were back at Alec's the inventor hadn't even noticed they're entranced until his cousin snuck up behind and tickled his neck with her cold fingers. Mr. Bell nearly jump of his stool in fright before realize who it was. "Y/n dear! you gave me a fright!" He noticed Jacob and the shopping.

"Did you go out, is that alright?!" he asked asked warily causing Jacob to cock a brow at the inventor then shoot Y/n a look a that said *And here you thought I was overbearing?* The y/wt explained to her cousin that it was fine for her to walking outside she wasn't made of porcelain! She just broke her arm she wasn't dying.

"Sorry,it just when those children told me what happened I nearly had heart-attack, I promised your parents I'd look after you." Alec said really fast that Jacob and Y/n could hardly understand as Alec started hyperventilating, causing Y/n to try and calm him down.

"Aleck, Aleck...*snap,Snap* hey, hey I'm fine I'm still breathing aren't I?" she said gesturing to herself and sat her cousin back down. "It'll take more than a broken bone and a concussion to put me down." She forgetting Jacob was still there. "What? You didn't say you had a concussion!" He blurted out The y/nat woman winced..yeah she did leave that little detail out didn't she?

"What else You have been keeping from me?" he demanded Y/n assured him nothing, but then Aleck had to open his mouth "She can't hear in her right ear.." His cousin shot him a venomous look the assassin gave the y/ht an identical look, that clearly explained how she hadn't heard him running after her. "Y/n how bad was it?" He wasn't asking he was telling her to answer him, Aleck didn't want to get caught in the crossfire slipped away.

*Way to look out for me cousin dear!* Y/n pouted the she told Jacob the whole story of slipping on the ice, and remembered falling down some stairs...then blacking out, when she woke up she was in the hospital! Mr. Darwin and her cousin were waiting on her. "So you were comatose for three days, a have temporary hearing loss...and decided to keep it from me." Jacob exasperatedly summed up her injuries Y/n nodded then winced seeing his eyes narrow he was mad at her.

Jacob got up she flinched expecting him to blow up! instead she was surprised when Jacob pulled her into a tight hug. "*sigh* Woman you'll be the death of me." he huffed pulling away as Y/n stared at him bemused "a-Aren't you mad?" she stammered as the assassin pulled smirked at her.

"Oh, I'm furious~...But, I not about let my temper out someone in recovery." he said scrutinizing her form looking for sign of discomfort, his lips twitched seeing none.That was good but, he really wanted to make her squirm."Of course You realize, Now I won't leave you alone, right?" He chirped enjoying how the color drained from her face, needless to say Y/n was totally thankful to have that cast off and her hearing back in full, Cause Dr. Jacob had the bedside manners of a house cat and was a terrible cook!

#assassin's creed x reader #assassin's creed syndicate #jacob frye x reader #alexander graham bell

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moonlightfilly · 3 years

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Bun going up to Tan at the club like "hi I'm drunk. I'm gay. I'm new in town" sdkfkg

#help him kfdjghs #Manner of Death #Manner of Death spoilers #Manner of Death 1x01 #BunTan #MaxTul #Evie watches #Evie watches Manner of Death #tumblring by moonlight #Thai drama #bldrama #Bun #Tan

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wonderfulworldofmichaelford · 5 years

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Psycho Analysis: Imhotep

(WARNING! This analysis contains SPOILERS!)

The Mummy movies are a lot of fun. Who could hate a young, charming Brendan Fraser having the time of his life fighting mummies and raiding tombs? Clearly this was a sign of a long, happy, trouble-free career for the man!

Oh, I’ve gone and made myself sad… let’s just cut right to it and talk about Imhotep.

Imhotep is the villain of the first two films of the series, and he really helps set the tone. Things get a lot less funny and a lot more darker whenever he’s on the scene, changing the tone from “fun, goofy Indiana Jones-esque romp” to a more overtly horror tone. This makes sense, seeing as he’s a soul-sucking undead monster based on one of the classic Universal monsters… but that’s really a very surface-level look at Imhotep. You see, unlike Ahmanet, the previous mummy covered on here, Imhotep has a real personality and motivations beyond being a simple villain hellbent on domination. In fact, Imhotep doesn’t want to conquer the world at all. He has a very simple, even sweet goal that makes him instantly relatable and tragic: all he wants is the woman he loves.

Actor: Arnold Vosloo plays Imhotep to perfection. He hits all the right villain notes whenever the scene calls for it: he can be scary, intimidating, badass, hammy, emotional, and even sexy. The last one’s a given when you spend a lot of the movie either shirtless or wearing a revealing robe, you know? I’m guessing one of the reasons the third movie failed so hard is because he wasn’t there to bring his own brand of awesomeness to the table, though I wouldn’t know because I’ve never watched the third film and like to pretend everything in the franchise ended happily after the first two films and there was nothing but Scorpion King spin-offs until the end of time.

Motivation/Goals: Imhotep is such an odd villain. Despite being a very powerful mystical being who could bring the world to its knees if he wished it, Imhotep is motivated solely by love. All he really wants is to be reunited with his lover Anck-Su-Namun, and he goes to great lengths to achieve this goal, lengths that do put him beyond the pale but also add a layer of tragedy to him.

The second film has him awakened by a cult to try and steal a supernatural army from Dwayne “The Scorpion King” Johnson, which ends up leading to him becoming far less sympathetic and a lot more cliche in terms of goals, though the romantic and sympathetic qualities are there still. They’re just now forced to share screentime with character traits that Imhotep didn’t really have in the first film, and while they don’t ruin him by any means and they help play into his ultimate tragedy, it just feels kind of sad they made Imhotep return and use him for a “take over the world” plot when his first outing had him really stand out as a villain in a big-budget action movie that didn’t have such a trite motive.

Personality: Imhotep is a pretty nice and friendly guy, for an ancient mummy. In the first film especially, he’s awful open about his plans to Beni and even keeps his word to him, and just in general he’s rather affable… unless, of course, you get in his way, in which case he will kill you without hesitation. He ends up dropping a lot of his more affable personality in the second film, which does come to bite him in the ass. It’s honestly pretty sad, because all that really ends up making him a villain is the manner in which he goes about his goals. Obviously bringing his loved one back would be a grim affair no matter what, but he goes way too far, with his desire to be with the woman he loves driving him to disturbing lengths to be back with her. In fact, the fact that he is such a loving man really plays into his ultimate tragedy, as he continuously suffers for love and in the end his suffering is rendered moot. Maybe villains who can’t comprehend love are better off after all.

Final Fate: In The Mummy Returns, Imhotep is clinging to a ledge and begs for his lover Anck-Su-Namun to save him. Instead, she flees, and Imhotep sees a similar situation happening with Rick and Evy; it ends exactly as you’d expect a dangerous situation with a protagonist couple to end in a cheesy adventure film. Imhotep looks to them with a look filled with jealousy and respect, and then lets go of the ledge, falling into the underworld. It’s a rather depressing and tragic fate that really highlights that for all the evil he did, Imhotep really only wanted to be with the woman he loved, and after all the pain and suffering he endured trying to make that happen, it ended up being all for nothing. It also ends up being ironic and karmic; throughout the film, he shows a lack of empathy for those serving under him, so it ends up being fitting the only person he cares about genuinely would leave him in his time of need.

Best Scene: Imhotep’s giant sandstorm from the first movie. It has become an iconic signature scene of the trilogy for a reason, after all.

Best Quote: So I didn’t exactly find a great quote from Imhotep himself on Wikiquote (my usual source), but I did find a quote from Arnold Vosloo himself that I think sums up Imhotep quite nicely:

“I’m so thankful that all that stuff made it to the screen, because a lot of the time studio executives say that there’s no time, or ask why we should feel sympathy for this bad guy. I joke that I’m the romantic lead in the movie, I just happened to pick the wrong girl. Imhotep is kind of the tragic villain, I guess, and a lot of people have come up to me and said I was hating you, but then I reach a point when I was feeling sorry for you too. It's those different facets that help explain why this film is such a success."

Final Thoughts & Score: For such a bunch of silly adventure films, they sure did go hard when it came to giving us a fantastic villain. Imhotep is, to be fair, not the most complex character in the world; I think being in a film like The Mummy kind of necessitates you being rather simple. But much like the movies he inhabits, he takes his simple concept and runs with it, elevating it into being something greater.

I love how he’s a villain not motivated by power, greed, or ambition, but a desperate desire to be with the person he loves most. In these sort of Indiana Jones-esque archaeological adventure films, you kind of expect to have the main villain or villains being motivated by greed, or power, or something to that effect, but here those motivations are relegated to side villains and our big bad is simply someone who really wants the girl he lived and died for in his arms again. It adds a layer of tragedy to Imhotep, which is only exacerbated in the sequel and then comes to his ultimate conclusion with his final death.

I think Imhotep really shines where a mummy like Princess Ahmanet ultimately failed: he has a clear, defined personality as well as a more relatable goal than “destroy the world.” As much as I enjoyed Princess Ahmanet from the reboot, my wife was right to point out in her guest spot on Psycho Analysis that her personality boils down to being ambitious and graceful, and not much else. Imhotep, on the other hand, shows a lot of emotion, even to his final look to Rick and Evy, which says so much without a single word being uttered. Ahmanet never really got moments like that, but that’s because she was stuck in a movie with an attention whore like Tom Cruise; Imhotep is in a movie with certified nice guy Brendan Fraser, so of course he’s gonna get his fair share of development.

IMHO Imhotep deserves nothing less than a 9/10. He’s the perfect villain for the cheesy fun of the first two Mummy movies, but he’s also something more, something richer than these movies deserved, and is emblematic of what made those movies so special and beloved: how, despite their flaws, there was just some magic there that allowed the films to rise above their simplistic popcorn action reimaginings of a classic monster movie to become something that even decades after the fact people still love and cherish to this day. The only thing holding him back from a perfect ten is the fact that the second film doesn’t do him quite as much justice; I have to say, the whole “world domination” thing looks better on an ambitious royal like Ahmanet than it does on a tragic romantic like Imhotep. Still, there’s no denying that Imhotep is a cool, fun villain for some cool, fun movies.

#Psycho Analysis #Imhotep #The Mummy #The Mummy Returns #Arnold Vosloo

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darkmindsotome · 4 years

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Risque Rouge pt16

Tagging: @umbralaperture @otome-smut-queen @silver-fox-of-azuchi @tsundere-mitsuhide @jennacat84

General warnings for the whole fic: Angst, some fluff, Mental health issues, emotional things, trauma, blood, death and possible triggers. Please read responsibly.

Darkmindsotome Masterlist

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Chapter 16

After returning to the mansion Evie found herself trapped in a battle of wills with her two travelling companions. Napoleon was strongly insisting that she should get the injury looked at before it could get worse and Comte was politely ignoring her as she tried to explain she was always a fast healer so they really didn’t have to worry. She quickly found her protests to be completely powerless against them and it occurred to her that had she been someone else watching this farce play out that she might have thought it was rather funny.

Her argument in her defence would have been a lot more convincing if she was not struggling so much in removing herself from the carriage. Watching her shift uncomfortably, attempting to work out if her injured ankle could hold her as she tried to alight from the transport, caused Napoleon to chuckled as he shook his head. She was just like a troublesome child and he couldn’t seem to leave her alone.

Comte was also watching the rather stubborn girl with a look of amusement that was quickly removed from his face by the swift actions of Napoleon who had swooped in like an eagle wrapping her up in his arms and began carrying her towards the mansion.

“What are you doing? Put me down!” Evie yelped and began squirming as Napoleon carried her.

“Nunuche, just keep still.” His response was short and it was hardly for his benefit as even with her squirming like a fish on a line she was light as a feather in his arms.

The girl settled down apparently his warning had caused her to realise her raised voice and protests could attract an audience. She was blushing, casting her eyes down with a look that fell somewhere between bewilderment and embarrassment. It was enough to make him wonder if this was what having a little sister would be like.

From this close he could make out the dark shadows forming under her eyes, he recognised that look. It was one he had seen himself wearing when he passed every mirror and reflective surface during his reign as Emperor. He felt drawn more to her having seen this glimpse of familiarity. The weight of a crown, a title that was too heavy to bear and yet you had to continue moving forward as if it were nothing more than an illusion.

He crossed the entrance and went straight into the dining room. The only person there was Sebastian who was replacing the tableware. He looked up as they entered, his gaze moving from Comte to quickly fall on the spectacle of Napoleon carrying the girl.

“Mademoiselle Evie! Monsieur Napoleon what?” Sebastian quickly put down the silverware in his hands and approached them.

“Sebastian fetch the medical supplies and Arthur, would you?” Comte requested as he pulled out a chair for Napoleon to place the injured princess on.

“Right away Monsieur le Comte.” Nodding Sebastian noted the tension in the air and felt it more prudent to avoid pressing for further details and left the room.

Freeing himself of his burden Napoleon quickly glanced at Comte who was pouring himself a glass of rouge. He had felt the other man’s eyes in his back as clearly as if they had been daggers. It had been that way ever since they left the street to find the carriage. At some point during the trip home they had relaxed but they were back to being as cold and lethal as any blade.

“Thank you.” Evie felt incredibly stupid right now. She had not planned on being hurt and she certainly didn’t ask to be carried like that.

“You worry too much.” Napoleon smiled and ruffled her hair.

There was a brisk icy chill to the air and she knew it was something to do with Comte. He was angry, she really should apologise to him but she really couldn’t find the power to do so yet. Sebastian appeared with a basket of medical supplies and Arthur in tow.

“Well now I’ve heard they use the term ‘break a leg’ in the theatre my girl but you shouldn’t take it so literally.” Arthur’s jovial tone couldn’t have jarred more harshly with the uncomfortable silence. He had the same playful grin on his face she recalled from the night they met as he strolled into the room.

“It’s not broken I just turned my ankle. Why are you here?” Evie corrected him, her mood colouring her tone and attitude. She had missed breakfast, run out on brunch and she was past the point of having the energy to deal with anyone right now. What she really wanted was to return to her room and be alone.

“Why? I am a doctor after all.” Arthur gave a dramatic bow as he introduced himself.

“Doctor!?” Evie cried out.

Of all the people to get that qualification, she did not think he would be one of the ones to achieve it. She had seen him drunk, lecherous and he was clearly just as bad when sober with his liberal flirtations. He seemed far too carefree and focused on other activities for that to be his chosen career path. She clamped her mouth shut becoming aware that she had left it open and started to feel a little shameful for even having such judgemental ideas towards someone she had only met briefly.

“Arthur is a fully qualified medical practitioner. He has helped patch up all manner of injures during his stay here.” Napoleon interjected. Unlike Comte, who had taken a place at the table, he had decided to remain standing and was leaning against the wall staring out of the window at something in the sky.

“Oh, Napo you do care!” Arthur looked like a delighted child as he gleefully responded. Napoleon broke his gaze with the sky, rolling his eyes before moving to leave the room.

“Sebas, I’ll be back for dinner.” With a swirl of his red-lined cape, Napoleon exited the room. Sebastian gave an informal bow with his head as he still had hold of the basket.

“Well, I must say being able to treat the fine form of a delectable lady far surpasses treating Theo’s little bumps and scrapes.” Arthur spoke watching Napoleon leave before turning to look again at the swollen limb. “Now then would you remove your stockings for me or should you like me to?”

“What!?” There was something terrible that happened around Arthur. It was like he had hold of all the strings and could make her react to the slightest thing with very little provocation. Evie didn’t much care for being made into a puppet but she was also aware how little control she seemed to have against it. Would she have been more suited to this battle if she were a bit more worldly?

“Sir Arthur I understand you might be trying to lighten the mood but your little jokes seem to be having the opposite effect.” Sebastian gave a not so subtle warning as he flicked his eyes towards Comte.

“I will need to remove them in order to examine and treat her properly. It would be rather challenging to do so otherwise.” Arthur didn’t miss a beat or even show signs that anything was of his concern. His carefree attitude had Evie a little envious wishing she could imitate some of that cool detachment right now.

“Genevieve, I understand your concerns and Arthur is doing a fantastic job of adding to them.” Comte gave a pointed stare at the roguish writer from his chair at the table. “But could you remove your stockings please?”

“A-alright.” Evie traced the line of the top of her stockings with her fingers through the tulle of the dress locating the garter clips and then slid her hand under the skirt to release them.

She might have come from a world where an audience watches as others get undressed but there was no stage here and this was no performance. Self-awareness crept over her making her even more self-conscious as she tried to focus on her task.

Sebastian had averted his eyes busying himself with locating a length of bandage in the basket. He was the only one to show that level of courtesy. Arthur hadn’t taken his eyes off her movements since she started. There was a heat to his gaze that easily revealed something of his current thought process. Comte was also watching but his attention was directed more at Arthur than her.

She was grateful for her chaperone but she still couldn’t commit herself to make eye contact with him. Things between them felt stilted and awkward. She wanted nothing more than to lay the insecurities she felt inside her to rest but she also was not sure how to approach the topic again.

Comte could still feel his own blood pumping hard around his system from watching Napoleon’s interactions with Evie. Logic was currently winning in the balance of composure versus a less than elegant display of childish greed, although even he had limits.

He was not so naive to say he had no idea as to what he was feeling. This pent-up aggression that surfaced when someone was too close to her. How she recoiled from his touch and allowed others to handle her freely. He knew it as jealousy and he also knew how it could spell the end of everything in a relationship if it was allowed to manifest.

“Righty - ho let’s get this little tumble patched up then shall we? Don’t worry I’ll be sure to warm my hands first. Or would you prefer to help warm them for me, little dove?” Arthur teased taking great delight in the shade of pink that Evie had developed in her embarrassment.

“Arthur” Comte issued a warning in what was as close to a final proclamation as Arthur ever dared venture.

“Right right, as you command Daddy dearest.” Arthur busied himself with the injury. Compressing the swelling ankle and foot with a bandage in a completely professional manner that seemed to shock his patient.

Arthur had thought the night he discovered her in the hallway that she was rather entertaining. His first idea of her being a pure thing was not completely untrue. She had knowledge, that was obvious, so she was not completely ignorant of the world but the way she interacted with it felt intriguing. She had moments of being delightfully bold and then incredibly adorable in her introverted state. His smile didn’t leave him as he imagined her to be something of a female version of Newt.

The procedure continued on quickly in a rather uncomfortable silence. She thanked Arthur and did as he requested, removing both shoes so she could return to her room barefoot in safety. Her eyes flitted to the man sitting at the table, a glass of what looked like rich red wine in front of him. When their eyes met for the first time since returning, she felt her pulse race and was overcome with a desire to flee.

Comte watched as she fled the dining room. She was not as fast as she had been in making her exit from the café, he could have easily stopped her. Sebastian and Arthur both shared a look of confusion between them.

His eyes fell on the glass of Rouge he had poured for himself. The thick rich red that sat still enough to be a scrying pool. The only image it reflected to him was that of the retreating girl, he picked up the glass and drained it completely in the hopes of removing the painful illusion.

---

A small chateau emerged after the carriage exited the tunnel of flowering cherry trees. The pale stone of the building had swatches of mature ivy and other climbing foliage latched on to it. Its dark grey roof was in direct contrast to the fine almost white gravel that created a pathway to its doors.

Latour made adjustments to his suit and straightened the tie he hated so much. Everything had to be perfect, where one plan failed this one couldn’t. In order to achieve that certain requirements had to be met and this was one of those moments where he had to laugh at how easy it was to manipulate cattle.

There were fundamentally very few categories that moved the pieces on the board in a way that both fulfilled his wishes and also had the pawns believing every move was their own choice. This was where the elements of his past were more of a help than a hindrance. It was not a new game, it had been played out by nearly everyone since the dawn of envy and he was a master at it.

He was greeted by a member of the household staff and shown to one of the reception rooms where he was encouraged to take a seat. Family portraits filled the spaces between sconces, the tiled floor was partly covered by a large thick decorative rug at its centre. The high ceiling added to the feeling of openness in the room. Pale-yellow walls glowed like satin against the afternoon sunshine thanks to two large windows that flanked a set of large open doors leading out to a garden that would rival the Palace of Versailles.

There was just enough furniture in the room for it to feel comfortable without overcrowding, every piece by the latest design made to order from the finest catalogues. It was a display of subtle opulence that would be considered modest by the usual crowd of people that formulated circles around his host but it did nothing but generate bile in him.

Cattle breeding cattle, trading cattle for titles and money. Somehow, he managed to maintain his poker face as the staff filtered in and out of the room adding far too much refreshment to the low table in the centre of the circular seating for it to nourish a mere party of two.

As the room fell silent a man dressed in an olive-green suit appeared from the doors to the garden. His warm smile blended with the caramel brown of his hair. He gave the impression of a very affluent and approachable gentleman. His eyes, however, were sharp and belayed the idea that he should be easily taken for a fool.

“Well, now you must be the man who I have heard so many great things about. Welcome to my home Monsieur?” The gentleman spoke clearly as he held out his hand in greeting.

Latour was a quick study and was adjusting his own strategy according to his observations, raising from the settee to formally greet the man. A handshake was an easy to overlook and make or break detail in this subtle art. Too weak and he risked leaving the impression of lacking conviction, too strong and he would be seen as someone unable to negotiate with.

The trick lay in allowing the host to close their hand first and then mirroring the strength of their grip. Depending on the nature of the target you adjusted accordingly to either match their grip or appear a fraction weaker, thus giving the impression you are either equals or one that they could control.

“Latour. It is an honour to be allowed to see such a fine residence. I was very happy to receive your invitation Vicomte. Although I would be lying if I were to say I was not surprised that you should have heard of me.” Latour displayed all the actions of an honest and modest man. I was a perfect play that brought the right amount of flattery to the table causing the Vicomte’s body to relax.

“Nonscience. It is always a pleasure to be approached on behalf of such a worthy cause. Your benefactor spoke very highly of you at our last meeting. Please don’t stand on ceremony, sit.”

The Vicomte took his seat opposite and cast his eyes over the fine spread of amuse-bouche that was arranged on the table like finely crafted jewels. Latour could practically see the man’s mouth-watering at the sight as he replaced himself back on the settee.

“Merci. The pleasure is all mine Vicomte I really must thank you once more for allowing me to talk with you. Although news of your acts of philanthropy have left me feeling rather unworthy of such an audience.” Latour’s words of increased modesty moved the other man towards a desire to bolster Latour and his fictitious good deeds. It was another calculated move by a master in how to befriend someone quickly.

“Not at all my dear fellow I was very interested in your cause the minute I heard about it. Naturally, even in these enlightened times, there are always concerns for the weak and vulnerable. There really are far too many poor houses and not nearly enough safe havens for those upon release.”

Whether the Vicomte realised it or not he had just revealed enough valuable information to be vulnerable. Latour was aware of the news surrounding the man about how he supported charities that gave the impression of the balance of wealth supporting the less-affluent masses.

He could also smell the cheap scent and aftermath of daytime dalliances that removed the Vicomte’s saintly public halo. Cattle will be cattle. It mattered very little how far you travelled up the social scale you would always find signs of sinful temptation somewhere. Latour made a mental note of this information should he have need of it at a later date and pressed on with the meeting.

“You are indeed as open-minded and as kind as I have been led to believe. Indeed, a man that founded a refuge for women and sponsors so many dear sweet orphans could not be anything other than that.” Latour began the next phase of the game by fawning in convincing adoration of his host. It was a performance that worked like a charm every time.

“You flatter me too much. I am but a man who chooses to use my privilege in a manner that benefits others.” The aristocrat waved his hand dismissively.

“If I flatter you Vicomte it is only because you are so modest as to belittle your acts of charity seeking neither fame nor fortune from them.” Latour pressed on with his act of falsehood.

The sharpness of the gaze from the man before him had softened in the same way his mannerisms had become more relaxed. In a game of power and strength of will, it is a crafted balance of wit and experience that wins overall. Latour inwardly laughed at how easy these little games of influence played out in his favour.

“Well, then shall we get down to business? What exactly would you be requiring in order to turn this venture into reality?” The Vicomte selected a particularly gelatinous looking treat from the table and elegantly sliced into it with a silver fork. It slipped over his parted lips giving Latour a glimpse at his host's neck. The bob of their Adam’s apple as they hummed in delight and swallowed the sweet only added to the display that could easily unlock the hunger of the vampiric guest.

“Capitol. It is a sad and sordid detail but we cannot begin to even build one stone on the foundations without a massive injection of money.”

Not to be outdone by such a show of temptation Latour plucked a small cone-shaped pastry from the tiered cake stand and pushed it with a rather sinful action into his own mouth. He didn’t miss the way the other man’s eyes seemed to follow the cream-filled sweet with unbridled jealousy. Latour allowed a small smile to form on his lips that in turn saw the other man avert his gaze as he licked his lips unconsciously.

“I agree with you. It is such a sorry fate where many a good idea and man has fallen. Most of my funds are sadly tied up in other ventures at present. I can release a sum but it would not meet the demands in the long term.” The Vicomte adjusted himself in his seat the rest of his jewel-like jelly apparently forgotten.

Latour watched realising the gambit the Vicomte was probably hoping for. Among the many stories of the man’s good deeds, there were also multiple dark and suggestive rumours as to a hidden side. Most of these had involved members of the fairer sex and how he chose to reclaim debts owed. Latour was willing to bet that the way the man was practically salivating over him before meant he was not averse to the prospect of companionship no matter what the gender.

It hardly mattered to him. During his service to his Masque master, when he was a human, he had seen all and taken part in his fair share of forbidden temptations. What he was looking at was not so much a man who was denying his own desires but one lamenting his lack of leverage to force them into becoming reality.

If Vicomte couldn’t fund the project himself then he had to split the difference and share. Regardless of the charitable public persona, he was more the type to prefer holding the complete ownership of a debt owed. It made it so much easier when negotiating repayment on his own sordid terms.

“Naturally your grace I was not going to suggest—” Latour played the part of a humble man well. His voice took on the tone of grovelling without him even leaving his chair to prostrate himself at the other man’s feet.

This was his gamble. If the groundwork had a solid enough foundation it was little more than a nudge in his favour. If it wasn’t then his efforts would be for nothing and he should have to look for another source that could further his plan. Latour’s words were cut off before he could finish thanking the Vicomte for his time and excusing himself from the residence.

“I can certainly still help you in obtaining other sponsors who would though. My suggestion is that you allow me to host a fundraiser. I shall invite all my acquaintances and dear friends. That should provide adequate advertisement for your cause wouldn’t you say so?” The bait was taken. His suggestion was a power-play showing how unwilling he was to let Latour leave empty-handed.

“Vicomte… it is far more than I ever dreamed possible. I would humbly accept your offer and be forever in your debt.” Latour lowered his head in a bow hiding his wolfish grin.

“Come now there is no need for such declarations I am after all only suggesting hosting a small party. I look forward to working with you on this Monsieur Latour, I shall be more than happy to contact your benefactor and inform them of what I hope to be the first of many successful endeavours.” The Vicomte laughed happy to see that his suggestion would at least mean there was a chance for future meetings with each other.

It was a long game for the nobleman, if he couldn't hold a monetary value over someone he would hold a favour instead. Sadly for the Vicomte, it was a move that Latour knew would never work in his favour. One of them was far too good at playing these games for the other to really ever get what they desired.

“I am sure Monsieur Daga would appreciate that very much. I look forward to our little venture also Vicomte.” Latour stood this time and bowed. It was time to make his exit from the stage.

In the carriage ride back into the city quarter, he closed his eyes and thought of an old adage.

“It really is true you catch more flies with honey.”

---

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onlystylesangels · 5 years

Text

My Love For You (Pt. 2)

Requested: Anon: Imagine H being really in love w y/n celebrating his daughter birthday at Anne’s and everyone realising that Harry has found the one OMG THS IS REALLY CHESSY I LOVE IT

Pairing: Harry x Reader

Warnings: Fluff, some angst, death of significant other.

Word Count: 11k+

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

A/N: Second part to MLFY. This was sad for me to write and I hope you lovelies enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing this! Much Love!❤💓💞

“Evie! Evie! Darlin’ c’mon open the door, lovie.”

“No, daddy.”

“Evie… Look Evie I know you don’t like the dentist, but we gotta check those shiny teeth of yours, yeah?”

“Not today daddy.” Evie stuttered out.

“Would it be best if we invite Y/N wit’ us?” Harry said, as he was beginning to sound more convincing.

“Is she coming wit’ us?” Evie asked as her voice soft and heartbreaking for Harry. He knew that Evie was going to start tearing up.

“We can call her if she is available. Please open the door, lovie. I’m sorry, I should’ve not lied to ya.” Harry apologized, as he rested his forehead on the cold wooden surface of the door.

There was no response back behind Evie’s door. Which probably explained the soft footsteps that were heard behind the door.

“Call her daddy.”

“Now if she says yes, will you promise to open this door?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. Now open the door, Evie.”

Evie slowly opened the door as Harry stared down at Evie with saddened eyes. She was already dressed, because she thought they were going to the park, but when Harry told her that they were actually going to the dentist, Evie ran to her room and locked it. She hated the dentist, could we blame her?

“You said we were going to the park daddy, you liar!” Evie exclaimed, as her eyes began to develop tears.

“I know Evie. I’m so sorry little bub, but what else could I have done? You hate the dentist.”

“You didn’t have to lie, daddy. The doctor stinks. And the nurses are always mean.” Evie pouted, as Harry knelt down to wipe away the fallen tears that slipped down her cheeks.

“How so?”

“They put pens in me mouth. That’s mean!” Evie exclaimed as she squished her daddy’s cheeks together making him look like a puffer fish.

Harry smiled at his daughter as she concluded her argument that the dentist was the worst and the meanest place. He did agree with her, but he wasn’t going to tell her that.

“Darlin’. It’s their job. They keep kids like you safe from the monsters that are cavities.” Harry tried reasoning with little Evie.

“Cavities?”

“Yep.”

“You crazy, daddy.” Evie teased, as she removed her hands from Harry’s cheeks.

Harry’s smile faded into a frown, as Evie’s big green eyes looked brighter and happier.

“Crazy? Who you callin’ crazy, lovie.” Harry said as he tickled Evie's side, as Evie erupted with giggles and tried to tickle her daddy back.

Harry brought Evie close to him so he could give her a hug, “I love you Evie. Now let's go and check those little teef of yours.”

**//**

“Y/N are you sure they're going to be nice? What if they aren't.”

“Yes Evie. We'll be right there with you. Me and your daddy are going to be in there, sweetie.” Y/N cooed as she smoothed Evie's hair. “Promise. We'll be right here.”

Evie smiled and looked back at her daddy as he sent her a wink. “Do you want us to come inside bub?” Harry inquired as he bent down next to Y/N.

Evie looked to Y/N's eyes and then back to her daddy. Evie thought deeply is she wanted Y/N and her daddy in with her.

“No. I think I can do this.” Evie smiled as her smile made Harry and Y/N smile and cheer for little Evie.

“Yay! My lovie. You’re growing up so fast.” Harry cheered as he rubbed his glossy eyes.

“Go on then, Evie. We'll be out here.” Y/N said as she leaned forward and pressed a kiss against Evie's forehead. “Proud of you little Evie.” Y/N smiled as Evie gave her a hug and hugged her dad who was busying himself by rubbing his glossy eyes.

“No mo’ tears daddy.” Evie softly said as she smoothed her daddy's cheeks. “I love ya daddy.” Evie smiled as she waved her little hand before she went into the room, she pressed a kiss on Y/N’s cheek.

“She loves you, you know? She really adores you. She adores you more than me!” Harry confessed as he kept wiping at his eyes.

“I adore her Harry, best yet I love the little one.” Y/N giggled. “You’re still crying, darling?” Y/N asked as she wiped the little tears that were threatening to leave Harry’s beautiful emerald eyes. “There.” Y/N smiled.

“You’re too good to me, darlin’.”

**//**

“Daddy! The toofman gave me candy!” Evie exclaimed from the back seat of Harry’s car.

“You sure they're candy? They might be mints, lovie.” Harry said as he looked at the rear view mirror watching his little daughter inspect the contents of the circular little pebbles.

Evie tastes the little circular pebbles and she gags as she tastes a distinct mint flavor.

“Daddy they're mints!! Y/N do you want some candy?”

“I don't think they're candy, sweetie. Didn't you just say they were mints?”

“Darn it! I can't tell jokes.” Evie pouted as Harry and Y/N both laughed and Evie laughed along with them.

The car ride was pleasant. Harry focused on the road while Evie talked with Y/N during the drive.

Y/N couldn't describe how she adored little Evie. She is an amazing little kid, she's smart and she has a love of art probably getting it from her dad or mother.

She wondered where her mom was. It's not really her business to know about the mother of this adorable little girl, but she was curious, that's all.

**//**

“Okay, my little bub go on and go to bed I’ll be there in a bit to tuck you in, yeah?” Harry says as Evie starts hopping up trying to get her daddy’s attention.

“Carry me, daddy!” Evie giggled, as she waved her little hands.

“Alright, lovie.” Harry smiles. “Y/N, I’ll be right back. Got to put this little bub for a nappy.”

“Sweet dreams Evie!” Y/N smiled as Evie waved and smiled back at her. Harry walked off carrying a sleepy little Evie as he walked towards a hallway that led to Evie’s bedroom.

Y/N stood standing near the dining table, smiling to herself. Oh how Y/N loved Harry and Evie. They were gems to her, the most precious thing that she came across with and she is always thankful of Evie. She was the reason of Y/N meeting Harry and Evie. That precious day was soon going to change into a time that Y/N herself didn’t know she was going to enjoy the company of a precious, little three-year-old and her dad. A man that she has known for months and who she fantasized of. Is it bad that she fantasizes about Harry?

“I’m back, love. Now, what was it that you were talkin’ ‘bout your feet?” Harry asked as he made his presence into the lonely living room interrupting Y/N’s recent thoughts.

“Uh, yeah. I had this pain since yesterday at work. I was standing most of the time and wearing my favorite high heels. But by the looks of it, they aren’t my favorite anymore.” Y/N added, her hand smoothing down the little hairs on her head that just couldn’t take the hint of staying flat on her head.

“Love, why don't ya sit down, don't want ya to get your feet hurtin’ more than they already are.” Harry encouraged, as he sat down on the couch. “Ya have foot support?” Harry asked, as Y/N finally sat on the couch.

Y/N shook her head, as she started to massage her socked foot.

“Gotta get 'em fo’ ya. Don't want your feet feelin’ sore all the time. I don't want ya complainin’ about them.” Harry expressed, his hands wrapping around Y/N’s right foot.

“You tired of me complaining, Harry?” Y/N beamed with a smile.

“Not at all darlin’. Jus’ looking after ya, thas’ all.” Harry said as he sent her a wink.

Harry rubbed Y/N’s feet, massaging the aching flesh of her foot. While doing so, he would look up to Y/N and smile and look back down smiling as he continued massaging Y/N’s feet.

Y/N's heart started thumping and thumping. Has her heart ever beat this fast? She didn’t know. She can’t recall the moment her heart thumped this hard and loud that she can literally hear the thumping in her ears.

“You're tickling me, Harry!” Y/N exclaimed as she tried to ignore her loud, pounding heart.

“'S not on purpose, love!” Harry smirks, as he continues massaging and tickling part of Y/N’s foot that makes her laugh the most.

“Stop Harry! You're tickling me!” Y/N laughed out, her hands trying to cover her feet that so Harry wouldn’t have the advantage to tickle her again.

Harry laughs and stops massaging her feet and just tickles Y/N’s sides.

“'S fine love. I'll let you have your fun with me as well.” Harry teased as he put on Y/N’s socks back on. “Why didn't ya stay home, love? If your feet were hurtin'?”

“I didn't want to let Evie down. I wanted to be with you both anyways.” Y/N confesses as she smiles looking down at the floor.

“Ya wanted to be here with us? Are you sure it's not because of me?” He smirked, as there was a distinct change of demeanor in his eyes and face. Was it lust? No. It couldn’t be…

“Jus’ jokin’ love. I know you come here to see little Evie.” Harry stated. His last statement becoming a wind of lost words.

That teasing manner of his was driving Y/N insane. He knew what he was doing with that face having so much emotion but also cockiness.

Boy was Y/N in for a reckless ride of emotions.

**//**

“Y/N. I want you to be at this meeting and I need you to write notes of the next big thing that they talk about, okay?” Her boss rephrases. Her short blonde hair looking a little stiff from the tight bun on top of her head.

“Today? I have another meeting with the secretary and other colleagues. Can Emma do it instead?” Y/N reasoned. Her boss giving her an expressionless look.

“I’m asking you to do it, Y/N. Besides, I really think you can do this. I only ask people to do this for me if I trust them, and you Y/N, I do trust.” The blonde woman explained.

Y/N nodded in response and tells her that she can do it even though in her mind she is telling herself to just skip that meeting. But knowing Y/N, nothing will change her mind from going to that meeting.

Speaking of a reckless ride of emotions. Y/N was currently sitting through a long, boring meeting about a company wanting to partner with the company that Y/N is working for. Why couldn’t she man up and considered the idea of opening her own coffee shop? Ever since she graduated from college she had the idea of opening a coffee shop that had its own bookstore, but she really wasn’t sure if she should have done it. Now? Now she actually wished she considered it.

“Alright. That will be all. Does anyone have any further questions before we end today’s meeting?” A colleague said. Someone that Y/N didn’t even know worked in this building.

Everyone shook their heads as Y/N was relieved to seeing everyone getting up and gathering their papers and notes. Y/N gathered her notes that she took while colleagues were presenting their new solutions investing on new things to buy and then sell to other companies.

She stepped out of the meeting room and walked passed other cubicles. Her mind only focusing on leaving and getting home and treating herself to a relaxing bath. But before she could think more about relaxing, she heard Cami’s voice call her from behind her.

“Y/N! There is someone asking to see you. It’s that good looking lad with green eyes and his little daughter.” Cami informed her. Her eyes glancing down at the papers in her hands and back up to Y/N.

“Uh… Are they in the front desk?”

“Yes. Go on, go. I’ll take these papers to the boss for you.”

“You sure, Cami? I can take them to her right now I don’t want-”

“Nonsense. I got it. Now go with them, don’t want the good looking lad waiting too long.” Cami winked. Her eyes not leaving Y/N’s as her face started to evolve into a pink and red tint on her cheeks.

Oh. Is it really that obvious?

Yes. It is obvious she told herself.

Once Y/N grabbed her coat and purse she had a smile plastered on her face when she entered the coat room. Her hands started to tremble for a weird reason. Was it because she was excited to see them or was it for something else? She couldn’t really explain it but boy, she was excited to see them.

She walked quickly, passing other people that walked beside her. Her smile never faltering, her smile got even wider when she landed eyes on the beautiful family of two.

As Y/N came closer to them, Evie waved her little hands catching Harry’s attention. His gaze moved from looking down on Evie to Y/N, his eyes wandering on her face and seeing the big smile on her face.

God, how he adored her beautiful smile.

“Y/N!” Evie exclaimed. As she was bouncing on her toes.

“Hi, lovie!” Y/N exclaims. As she brought Evie close to her to hug her.

Harry stays behind them, admiring them both.

Evie and Y/N separate from each other as Y/N looks up to find Harry smiling down at them.

“Hi love.” Harry smiles.

That smile would be the end of her.

Harry came close to her as he embraced her as well.

“How are you Y/N?” He asked, his voice sounding like luxurious velvet.

“I’m great. How are you Harry.”

“Splendid.” He smiled yet again. “Lovie. Why don’t you show Y/N your new sneakers, yeah?” Harry encourages by patting Evie’s shoulder.

Evie smiles up her dad as he returns the smile to her. “Y/N, I got my new sneaks yesterday! Do ya like ‘em?”

“Of course, lovie! I adore your new sneaks. Might have to get myself some too!” Y/N mused, as she knelt down and booped Evie’s nose.

Harry glanced at Evie giving her one of his infamous smiles. “I wanted to- we wanted to ask you if you can go to the park with us today? I hope we didn’t interrupt your shift.”

“No, it’s alright. I was just about to leave when you two came in. Good timing.” Y/N grinned. “Is it nice out there? It was quite chilly when I got here.”

Harry nods in agreement and continues. “Feels like spring out there. It must be coming early this year.”

Both Y/N and Harry stand awkwardly near the exit of Y/N’s workplace.

“I think we should get out, yeah?” Y/N reminds, her hands tucked in her heavy coat pockets.

Harry nods and takes Evie’s hand in his.

“Shall we go to the park?” Y/N suggested, as Harry ran a hand through his messy head of curls.

“Ye- Yes. Let’s get goin’.” Harry stutters, as Evie giggles at him.

How did Evie see the effects that Y/N gave her dad whenever they were around each other?

Is it really that obvious that even Evie laughs at her dad for stuttering trying to get something out without his cheeks turning a light shade of pink? If it was obvious to Evie then it was totally obvious to them both, right?

**//**

The walk was pleasant. The park that they were going to was very close to Y/N’s job which was convenient. Her feet started to hurt just a little but she thanked Harry when he surprised her one day giving her foot support.

“Had to get ‘em fo’ ya, darlin’. Don’t want your feet hurtin’ again.”

He cared for her so much and she felt bad for accepting the foot support that he got her. He used his time and money in getting her something that Harry knew Y/N was going to use. It’s just he didn’t have to get it for her, but he wanted to anyway. He was just too kind for his own good.

Harry and Evie walked beside each other as Evie held her dad’s hand and Y/N walking beside Evie. The weather was beautiful, even though it was in the middle of January. The sun was blazing and with its brightest rays and the wind whispering short nothings.

“Daddy? Can we sit there?” Evie asked, as she shaded her eyes with her hand

“Of course, lovie. Choose where you fancy, yeah?” Harry smiled down at her as Evie ran to a bench under a tree that overlooked the river.

“This park is really beautiful.” Y/N acknowledged.

“It is innit?” Harry said as he looked at Y/N and admired her beautiful features.

How he was lost in love with her.

“We have never been to this park before. Just the one near your house.”

“Yeah, but I think I like this one better." Harry said as he sat down on a bench overlooking the still frozen little pond.

Y/N walked behind him as Evie ran towards them and held Y/N’s hand.

"It's almost Daddy's birthday, Y/N." Evie added, her eyes glancing back to Harry.

"Really? When is it, lovie?"

"Ask him!" Evie whispered yelled. "Daddy can I play with the other kids?" Evie asked Harry as they were all settled on the bench.

“Sure, lovie. Be careful please, okay?” Harry warned Evie as she rolled her eyes and hugged Harry.

“Okkayy.” Evie elaborated, as Harry smiled of her sassiness.

Evie ran towards a group of little kids that were nearby so Harry and Y/N could keep an eye out.

“Love her! She is such a little sassy little bub, isn’t she?” Y/N asked as she bumped Harry with her arm.

“She is. Don’t know where she gets it from.” Harry added, he looked down and began playing with his rings.

“So, I heard from Evie that your birthday is coming soon. When is it?”

Harry smiled. That cheeky smile that shows off his beautiful dimples. “First of February.”

“That’s next week Harry! Why didn’t you ever tell me?” Y/N questioned, as she put a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I dunno. Jus’ thought ya didn’t want to know.” Harry stated as he made it sound like a question.

“Of course I want to know! I would probably make you a cake or get ya a present of some sort.”

“Stop, love. Don’t want ya gettin’ me anythin’. Being in your company is already the best thing I can ask for.” Y/N’s face reddened, as her whole body started to warm up as she started to unzip her jacket. Gosh she was burning up. Along with the heat, butterflies consumed her belly as Harry smirked at himself from her reaction.

“Look at ya. Got ya all red ‘n blushy.” Harry teases as Y/N gently hits him in the arm.

“Stop it will you!” Y/N exclaimed as Harry continued to laugh finally making Y/N laugh along with him.

**//**

“Evie? Can you come here and get your lunch? I jus’ finished makin’ mac and cheese.”

There was shuffling heard from the end of the hall as Evie ran towards the kitchen, as she had a stuffed bunny in her hand.

“Mac and cheese!” Evie exclaimed right after she sat down on a chair.

Y/N admired Evie and watched Harry as he carefully put the pasta in a little plate. He was so concentrated that he didn’t even bother to turn off the burner.

“Alright, love.” Harry said as he walked towards the dining table. “Here ya go, little bub.” Harry set the small plate in front of Evie as Evie clapped her hands from excitement.

“Tank you daddy.”

Harry stood near the table making sure that Evie had everything before he walked himself towards Y/N.

“Do you need anythin’, love? Water, soda, anythin’?” He asked, as Y/N shook her head and looked towards Evie as she enjoyed her lunch.

“She loves mac and cheese.”

“Yeah. Wouldn’t blame the little bub. I love mac and cheese as well. You?”

“Love it.”

While Evie finished up eating her mac and cheese, Harry went into the kitchen to wash up the dishes he used to make the pasta. Y/N was sat on the couch by herself and she got up, curious to look at the photo portraits on a shelf.

She walked herself towards the the shelves that had pictures of faces that Y/N didn’t recognize and only two portraits that she recognized was Harry and Evie.

Her mind wandered to the thoughts and feelings that each person felt when Y/N picked up one frame and saw each unfamiliar face smile. They were all so happy. But there was one picture that caught her eye, one that only showed a woman carrying a newborn baby in her arms and a man kissing the woman on her forehead and having his hand on top of hers while she had both wrapped around the baby.

Was this her? Was this Evie’s mother? It had to be, who else would this woman be. Y/N felt happiness but a rush of sadness at the same time. She set the picture frame back on the shelf where it belonged and went to sit back down on the couch. She looked over to the dining table and saw that Evie wasn’t there anymore and glanced over to the hallway and found Harry walking over to her.

He moved slowly towards the living space, he kept rubbing his eyes and he almost bumped into the chair that Evie sat on.

“Fuck sakes!” Harry whisper yells. He pushed the chair in and continued his way towards the living room.

“Are you alright? You look a little woozy.” Y/N cautioned.

“Yeah. Jus’ a little tired tha’s all.” Harry slowly said.

“I’ll go if that’s alright. Don’t want you to stay awake because of me.”

“No, no, love. Please stay as long as you want. Don’t want ya to feel forced to go because I’m jus’ gettin’ a little tired.” Harry added. He rubbed his eyes and let out a yawn. “Plus, like I said,” He pauses and lets out a yawn. “I love havin’ you here.” Harry smiles as Y/N smiles back.

After an hour of talking about work and more about Evie’s birthday party, Harry and Y/N were both covered in a blanket as they were enjoying a show that was currently playing in the background.

Y/N tilted her head to see Harry intently looking at the tellie. She wanted to ask him what was in her mind, but right now? He fascinated on what was on the tellie, this could surely wait another time, but no. She was just that curious to ask him.

“Harry?” Y/N asked. Harry shifted and abruptly looked over to her eyes.

“Yeah, love?” Harry asked. He rubbed his eyes from looking at the tellie for far too long. “Is there somethin’ ya need, Y/N?” Harry asked as he smiled.

“No. I just wanted to ask you something?” Y/N’s statement coming out as a question.

“Go ahead, love.” Harry chuckles

“Okay. I wanted to ask about Evie’s mother. I just saw the pictures on the shelf and I saw a woman carrying a newborn baby. And I know it is none of my business to know this you don’t have to tell me anything if you-”

“It’s fine, Y/N. It’s just been a long time since someone has asked me about her and I think today is better than any to talk about her.” Harry confessed.

Y/N shifted her weight so she face Harry. Her arm was on a cushion of the couch and her head resting on her hand.

“We were happy. We met in college. She was going for a psychology degree as I was going for a fashion design degree.” Harry said as he ran a hand through his curls. “I loved her so much. I miss her everyday whenever I think ‘bout her. We were happy and so in love before little Evie came into our lives. Every single day I thought I was dreamin’ like nothing felt real, but then it was real, ya know?”

Y/N nodded, “Yeah. I know what you mean. You feel as if it’s fantasy but it’s not it’s just reality.” Y/N added.

“She was young when it happened, she was twenty-one and I was twenty-two. We actually met two years before we started dating.” Harry said. He rubbed his eyes and inhaled deeply before he continued. “She was so amazing before she gave birth to Evie. We decorated the nursery room together. When she told me that she was pregnant, I fuckin’ lost it. I fuckin’ cried and held her so tight that she kept trying to get out of my embrace ‘cos she told me I kept squishing her.” Harry laughs.

“When we found out that we were goin’ t’ave a baby-girl we were both so fuckin’ happy. We came up with some names but we honestly couldn’t choose only one. We never decided on a name. So I decided to name our baby girl Evaleen. A name that would always remind me of Evelyn.” Harry confessed. His smile slowly diminishing to a frown.

Y/N held Harry’s hand as she noticed his eyes getting a little watery and watching his face change, his lip started to quiver and his voice shaky.

“She did amazing while she was in labor. But right after… right after-”

*Flashback*

"Baby, you have to let me go. Find someone else to love and someone that our little girl enjoys being around. When you find that special person I want you to throw this ring in the ocean.”

"Evelyn don't talk like that! You're going to get through this baby, I know you can. You're so strong you can go through anything my love." Harry confirmed. As Evelyn’s hand cupped Harry’s cheek and wiped away the fallen tears.

"Not today, Harry. This is the end. You don’t know how much you made me feel so happy, loved. Harry you gave me the best adventures while we’ve been together all these years. I love you so much. Thank you for this little baby girl. You gave me this beautiful little us and now she is lucky to have you as her daddy." Evelyn whispered. Her eyes slowly closing and opening again.

"This is it, my darling. We will meet again somewhere and I will always, always love you till the end. I love you so much Harry and our little baby girl." Evelyn whimpered, her hands trembling as Harry held onto them for dear life.

"Don't leave me Evelyn, please don't leave us!" Harry croaked, his eyes forming tears as Evelyn smiled and underlined Harry's jawline with her finger.

The monitors made a loud sound once Harry looked over to the machines and saw the flatline of her heart. Doctors and nurses came running into the loud, but silent room and ran towards Evelyn’s side. Her body still, her hands beginning to get colder and colder by each minute that had passed. Evelyn was no longer with him. She passed away not even saying a goodbye to their newborn baby girl. A newborn that has not been granted her name yet. Harry couldn’t believe that the woman that he has been with for so long was taken away from him, his sobs becoming louder each time the doctors tried to get her heart beating again. But with each electric shock, Evelyn’s heart never sounded on the monitors. She was gone.

“She was gone jus’ like that. I think it was five or six hours after she gave birth to Evie, the doctor and nurses told us that Evelyn lost a lot of blood. They were goin’ to make blood transfusions, but they were too late. Evelyn died once the doctors had the blood transfusions ready to use.” Harry concluded. He looked down at his hands and played around with one particular ring. “This is the ring that she wants me to throw into the ocean. I promised her I was goin’ to throw it once I found someone new, but it’s jus’ not that simple to forget all those memories that you had with the first person you fell in love with. It’s jus’ not that simple.” Harry cried out. His hands grasping Y/N’s.

“I'm sorry Harry. If I knew I wouldn't have asked you this. I know you're still hurting from your loss. I know by just hearing you say beautiful things about Evelyn she would have been a caring mother to Evie. You're so strong Harry. I know you were in a lot of pain, but you raised Evie. You raised this little bub of joy. She's a true blessing and I just know that Evelyn is looking down at you both, she's proud of you Harry.” Y/N praised. Her hand wiping away the tears that have fallen down Harry’s cheeks.

“I really miss her, Y/N. I jus’ want to see her again, jus’ for another minute.” Harry croaked in the crook of Y/N’s neck.

Y/N held Harry in her arms for as long as he wanted to be. She didn’t move a single muscle she just stood there hugging Harry so he could let everything out.

Y/N loved Harry as a friend and she was heartbroken when Harry told her everything that happened with Evelyn. He was once happy before. He was in love with Evelyn and fate had to end their relationship right after they both saw their baby girl be born. It was unfair how Harry had to lose someone so close to him and to Evie that she didn’t want to see Harry in a situation like this ever again. A beautiful soul such as Harry’s didn’t deserve to face the tragedy and sadness that he felt years ago, but he did, and that’s the facts. Him and his family didn’t have to go through this.

“Harry. I’m always here if you need someone to talk to. With anything, I’m always here.” Y/N comforted.

Harry wiped his eyes, and inhaled deeply. “Thank you love.” Harry smiled shyly. “Shit, I got snot on your shirt, sorry Y/N.” Harry apologized as Y/N smiled at him.

“It’s fine Harry. I don’t want you to worry about the shirt. It’s just a shirt, hun.” Y/N laughed. Her hands cleaning his wet cheeks and giving him a kiss on the forehead.

“I got you, Harry.” Y/N whispered.

Harry loved her company. He was going to be honest, he tried hiding his face into the crook of Y/N’s neck so she wouldn’t see his tinted pink cheeks from the simple kiss she gave him. He felt safe while being enclosed in her arms. He hasn’t felt safe since Evelyn. His mind admitting that yes, he was gaining feelings for Y/N but he didn’t want to accept just yet. He wasn’t ready to accept it and love someone else and he also didn’t want to lose someone else he loves.

Harry unwrapped himself from Y/N and held onto her hand.

“Thank you, Y/N. For being here and for comforting me, love.” His hand making little circles on hers.

“Of course, Harry.” Y/N smiled. She looked down to see Harry’s hand. His ring finger adorned with ring that Evelyn gave him. She smiled up at him and he smiled back, his beautiful dimples showing.

“Daddy?” Evie asked once she came into the living room.

“Evie. Hi little bub.” Harry let go of Y/N’s hand and looked back to see his little girl.

Evie rubbed her eyes, as she slowly walked herself towards the couch. “You’re crying.”

“It’s nothin’ bub. I jus’- Daddy was jus’ sad for a bit, yeah. Nothin’ to worry about, lovie.” Harry sniffed. Evie motioning him to bend down to her height.

“You’re okay now?”

“Yes, lovie. I’m okay.” Harry takes ahold of Evie’s little hands in his. “I’m okay now.” Evie hugs Harry and kisses him on the cheek.

Y/N was sat on the couch admiring Evie and Harry from a distance. She was about to get up before Evie ran to her and gave her hug as well.

“Tank you, Y/N.”

“For what, lovie?”

“Making daddy feel better.”

Harry stood before them and smiled. Staying still so he wouldn’t interrupt this beautiful moment of his daughter and Y/N.

Harry didn’t want to end this too short but he had to send Evie off to bed and he was positive that Y/N was getting a little tired since it was now midnight.

Harry clears his throat and sits down on the couch. “Lovie? I think it’s time for you to go back to bed, yeah. I think Y/N wants to rest up too.” Harry assures. His hand set on Evie’s shoulder.

“Okay daddy. Can I say bye to Y/N first?” Harry nods as Evie gives Y/N one last hug.

“Goodnight, tall girl.” Evie smiles, her eyes wanting to close any minute now.

“Goodnight sweetie.” Y/N answers.

Evie gives Harry a goodnight kiss before she runs off to her bed waving a last goodbye to Y/N. Harry had his arms crossed over his chest and looked into Y/N’s eyes.

“I would ask you if you would like to spend the night here, but I also know you work later today. I could drive you back home?”

“It’s alright, Harry. I can catch a bus. I don’t want you to leave Evie here alone.”

“Right.” Harry concluded as he went to the coat rack and grabbed Y/N’s belongings.

“Be careful, Y/N. And please call or text back when you get back home, yeah?” Harry asked. His eyes meeting Y/N’s as she nods her head and zips up her coat.

Harry walks beside Y/N as they are both nearing the door. Harry opens the door for Y/N and she walks ahead and looks back to catch a last glimpse of Harry before she leaves.

“See you soon?”

“Yes, Y/N.”

Y/N steps a bit to hug Harry, but before she could walk away and unwrap her arms around him, Harry lands a kiss on her forehead.

“Goodnight, love.” Harry said with a grin.

Y/N whispers a ‘goodnight’ in return and begins walking away from the house. Her thoughts causing her to walk slowly by that single kiss that Harry gave her. That simple kiss, causing her to smile to herself as she walked herself towards the bus stop. The smile never leaving her face.

**//**

“Evie, darlin’? Are ya ready yet? Come on, lovie we gotta get goin’.”

“Daddy? Is lunch ready?” Evie asked Harry, her little hands messing with her hair.

“I prepared it yesterday, lovie. Is there somethin’ else ya wanted?”

“Peanut butter crackers.” Evie simply said with a smile.

Harry ruffled Evie's loose little hairs and smiled down at her.

"Of course, lovie. But jus' one little packet, yeah." Harry warned. His eyes intently looking at her when she reached into the box of the peanut crackers.

He had to make sure she was only going to take one. There has been times that Evie has taken three or four packets of those little crackers that cause her to get super hyper.

Once Harry brushed Evie's hair and made two little braids; (courtesy of his mum for teaching him how to braid hair.) They were both ready to go. Every morning Harry would take Evie to daycare and after he would say his goodbyes, and he’s off to work.

Harry entered the chatty reception room where all the receptionists were all talking. Harry walked over to the tea kettle and made himself a tea and poured it on a little cup.

Harry walked away from the little breakfast station and walked towards the hallway where his little office was located at.

While walking, he sees a woman who Harry has befriended these past few years since he’s been here. The woman was around her mid-fifties or so Harry thinks, (Harry never asked her about her age, he was too scared to.) When he first met her she looked intimidating. But once he started to talk to her more he realized that she was one of the nicest women he’s ever met. She was also sometimes Evie’s babysitter whenever Harry had to go on a trip out of the country to look at different fabrics from other countries.

“Harry, love!” The woman said with a smile.

“Peggy!”

“It’s been so long since the last time I saw you!” Peggy exclaimed as she hugged Harry’s tall frame.

“I know. Been a bit busy tha’s all.”

“Busy? With work or-,”

“Work and personal things.”

“Ah, I see. So how’s the little bub?”

Harry smiled, “She’s good. Jus’ took her to daycare.” Harry finished. “How have ya been Peggy? I heard you went on a trip to Rome. How was that?”

“It was amazing, Harry. Wished you come. There were so many beautiful clothing designs. They were just exquisite.”

“Mhm, I heard. Gonna have to design somethin’ with those fabrics. Did ya get extra Peggy?”

“Don’t I always.” Peggy teased, as she lightly elbowed Harry on the arm.

“I still have to get somethin’ for little Evie. Not sure what she wants.”

“Oh yea! It’s almost her birthday. Planning on inviting me, Harry?” Peggy asked, her eyebrows raised.

“Of course! Would love to have ya there, Peggy.”

Their boss came out of his office and scolded at them. They both began walking towards their offices.

“I’ll give you the fabrics before you leave, yeah?” Peggy informed him, “Please let me know when you’re planning Evie’s birthday party.”

Harry nodded, “Of course, Peggy. See you later.”

And with that they were off. They both went into their offices and worked on their current designs that they were working on.

Harry had this particular design that he was working on. He told himself that it was design that was going to be gender neutral. The design he had in mind was going to include ruffles. A lot of ruffles. A big bow on the neckline and sheer fabrics that he started to use when he got this idea of the new clothing designs.

With each drawing, intricate little designs covered the paper. He carefully examined each fabric carefully and made sure that it was going to look beautiful after his design was finished. But before he could put the fabric on a mannequin the door to his office abruptly opened. His boss glancing over to him.

This can’t be good.

Harry didn’t like his boss very much, he was nice at times but for the most part he would be a complete asshole. Harry had to always hold off his creative, unique designs because of him. He always wanted something new, fresh, but every single piece the company has done has been the same design over and over again. Who could understand him?

“Harry, I want you in my office. We got to talk about your recent designs.” The man demanded, as he dusted off his expensive looking suit.

“Yes, sir.” Harry simply replied back.

He got up from his chair and walked towards the door, examining the room making sure everything was in its proper place before he went to his boss’s office.

As he was now facing the door of his boss’s door he breathed in deeply and exhaled quietly before he twisted the doorknob.

There he was met with his boss sitting in his chair, his eyes fixed on his computer screen.

Harry cleared his throat as he walked towards his desk. “You wanted to see me sir?”

“Yes, Harry. Please sit down.”

Harry obliged and sat down. His hands on his lap and eyes fixed on the man that looked too serious all the time. (Wondered if he ever smiled.)

“I wanted to talk about our recent designs. They weren’t… uh, how could I say this. They weren’t that great.” The man criticized.

Harry took a huge gulp before he could respond back to him, “Sir. I worked hard on those designs. Why are you sayin’ they aren’t that great?” Harry questioned.

Mr. Blair was no stranger to criticizing his employees’ designs, but for some reason Harry had more criticism from him.

“They weren’t good, because I specifically told you to design men suits. I didn’t ask you to design trash such as dresses for men or suits for women, I said men suits.” Mr. Blair snarled, “If you aren’t going to design what I ask you to design then it was nice having you here, Harry.” Mr. Blair finalized

Harry was shocked, his eyes were intently staring at Mr. Blair as he kept his hands on his lap. His tongue swirling in his mouth as he was starting to get frustrated from this whole discussion.

“You know what Mr. Blair? I designed those because I wanted to bring somethin’ different to this company. Don’t ya get tired of designing the same thing every fuckin’ time?” Harry fumed, “Every time I designed something different I always got called in here to hear how you didn’t like ‘em, but at the end of the fuckin’ day my creations are the ones that are selling more than those suits you want us creating all the damn time. So yeah Mr. Blair, it was nice meetin’ you too. It was a real bloody treat working for you.” Harry finished. He stood up from the chair and left the room without speaking another work to Mr. Blair.

Oh how he was relieved in quitting his job. He obviously had to find somewhere else to work which had now surfaced his head. Why did he have to say something? He thought.

“Fucks sakes!” Harry exclaims in the confines of his office. He holds his head as he starts pacing the room, trying to figure out what the hell he just did.

Harry grabbed a box and stuffed every little portrait he had on his desk and his sketchbooks along with some fabrics he was working, hell he took all the little fabrics that were lying around in his office. He shoved everything in the box with each puff of air he exhaled. What was he going to do now?

Harry walked the long corridor and walked towards Peggy’s office, the door to her office slightly open.

“Peggy? Are ya in there?” Harry asked, as he opened the door more and peeked inside to see Peggy sitting at her desk.

“Harry! Hi! I actually got your fabrics here. I was jus-,” Peggy’s gaze travels down to the big box that Harry held with his arm. “Harry? What happened? Why are you carrying a moving box?”

“I quit my job?” Harry said, his statement ending in a question.

“Why in the world would ya do that?”

“Personal reasons.” Harry answered. His gaze going back to the box he was carrying.

“Oh love. He yelled at you again about your designs? Come here love.” Peggy motioned him to sit down on a chair and handed him the fabrics that she promised she was going to give him.

“I know Mr. Blair was always an asshole with you, but that doesn’t mean he took away your talent. Look, Harry. You got so much talent, love. You have created these beautiful pieces of clothing, I know somewhere or someone will appreciate your artistic pieces, yeah? I need you to know that. You can design what your heart desires and no one is going to take that opportunity away from you. You never know, you might even own your own fashion line and company.” Peggy encouraged as she smiled up at Harry.

"You think so, Peggy?"

"Of course. You're a talented young man. There will be endless opportunities for you." Harry glanced back at the sketchbooks and fabrics that were randomly throw in the box.

"You got the fabrics. Use them for one of those designs that I know you've held off for so many years." Peggy got up from her chair and went to stand next to Harry, his grip on the box tight. "You know you can create anything you want, Harry. This is your chance." Peggy smiled as she hugged Harry a smile now making its appearance on his face.

"You’re always good with words, Peggy." Harry laughed as he made Peggy smile bigger than ever.

**//**

“Evie will you please jus’ sit down and eat your dinner, lovie?”

After Harry left work he went to pick up Evie and they spent the whole day together at home. Harry noticed when he went to pick her up she seemed very jumpy than usual. She kept running around and it took ten minutes to get Evie in his car. He thought she was just happy to see him or maybe she just had an incredible day?

“Daddy! Look I got a moosestache!” Evie exclaimed as a black marker was in her hand.

“Darlin’, please put that down. Come here and eat your dinner, yeah?”

“Daddy, look!” Evie ignored him and began running around the living room.

Harry had a frustrated frown, his eyes moving each way Evie went running around.

"Evie! Why are you so hyper? Did they feed you bubs at daycare?"

"No daddy! I took two packets of peanut butter crackers!" Evie giggles. Evie still running around the house.

"Evaleen Styles! Come back here!” Harry motioned, his hand on his hip. “How did you get two packets of crackers. I was right there when ya got one."

"You went in the bathroom to get me brush for me hair. I got another one from the shelf!"

"From the shelf? Lovie, you could've fallen!" Harry admitted. His hands on his head as he exhaled a sigh. “Jus’ please, Evie. Sit down and eat your food.” Harry said his eyes having no emotion.

Evie realized his change of demeanor and walked towards the table. As she sat down and began eating her spaghetti.

Harry was stuck in his little office where he had outfits on racks and mannequins wearing unfinished pieces. He stared at a drawing that he was currently drawing. A familiar face that he loved looking at if he was lucky enough, he would be seeing the face everyday. Y/N’s face was just a little sketch. Lines and scribbles defining her beautiful hair and her facial features making it difficult for Harry to finish the face. Next to her face he began drawing a shirt that had elements of Y/N’s fashion pieces. Before he could finish adding the last little designs on the shirt, the door to his little office opens, Evie staring back at him.

“Oh. Hi, lovie.” Harry said, his eyes soft.

“Can you read to me?” Evie asked. As she tried rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

Harry simply smiled and put his sketchbook and pencil down on his desk and walked towards Evie. “Of course, lovie. Come here.” Harry picked her up as Evie smiled, her eyes ready to close any minute now.

Harry finished reading to her and was about to kiss her goodnight and to tuck her in.

“Daddy?”

“Yeah, Evie?”

Evie’s softened and her smile left her face as she looked down at the little book that was in her hand that Harry just finished reading to her.

“M’sorry I ate two packets of peanut butter crackers.” Evie apologized, her gaze ignoring Harry’s.

Harry softly patted her little head and grinned, “Lovie. I’m not mad at ya. I was jus’ worried ‘bout you. You could’ve fallen, my little bub.” His hand tucking a strand of her straight hair behind her ear. “I was afraid somethin’ would have happened to you, lovie.” Harry confessed, his smile leaving. Evie concentrated on his face. She hated seeing her daddy without showing off his dimpled smile.

“You look sad, daddy. Can I make you smile?” Harry nodded as he held onto her little hands in his bigger ones.

Evie puckered her lips as Harry laughed at her silliness.

“The kissy face. Tha’s a classic, lovie!” Harry laughs as Evie laughs along with him.

“Love you, daddy.”

“I love you, Evie.”

Harry kisses Evie’s forehead and tucks her in, making sure she stays warm the whole night. He leaves her room and leaves on her little nightlight.

As Harry lies down on his bed, he switches his light off and goes instantly falling asleep thinking about the one person that was thinking about the whole day.

**//**

It was the weekend. Y/N was busy cleaning her little apartment and listening to music while doing so.

A couple miles away from Y/N, Harry was up an hour early packing a small duffle bag for Evie because she was going to sleep over at her auntie Gemma’s house. Harry didn’t really sleep well the day before because of stressing over finding a new job and creating designs for his future employers.

His mind kept circling back to his past job and always circling back to Y/N and how she was during this beautiful Saturday morning. For the rest of the week he couldn’t take Y/N out his thoughts, and he was glad too. Thinking about her didn’t bother him at all it made him smile during random times throughout the day. As for Y/N, she was waiting for Harry to text her or call her. She would’ve called or texted him but she didn’t really want to because she worried that he was probably busy with Evie or maybe he was doing something important.

After Y/N had her breakfast and sat on the couch, relaxing with a book in one hand and a coffee mug in the other, she was happy. During her reading, she received a text and then a call right after she noticed the text message.

“Y/N?”

“Harry, hi.” Y/N greeted. She set her book down keeping her hand on the page she was in so she wouldn’t lose her place.

“Hello, love. Did I interrupt you? Were you doin’ somethin’?”

Y/N smiles, “No, no. I was just reading. What’s going on?”

“Okay, good. I jus’ wanted to invite you to dinner or maybe if I could come over or if you could come over today?”

“Er- um, sure?” Y/N replied back as she slapped her forehead, embarrassed from not being able to reply quick enough. “And Evie? How is she?”

“She’s good, Yeah she’s doing good. I jus’ got from my sister’s, I took Evie there cos she’s been askin’ to spend the night and hang out with her cousins.” Harry added.

“Oh, I’m glad she’s doing good.” Y/N said. Harry and Y/N didn’t say anything for a bit before Y/N spoke again. “So, do you want me to go to you or you c-,”

“I can come to you. If tha’s alright wit’ you.” Harry assured. As he searched on his laptop some top good take-out restaurants.

“Yeah, yeah. That’s fine. At what time will I be expecting you?”

There was shuffling heard in the background and a little ‘ding’ heard.

“Uh, maybe at five or six? I’m still thinkin’ when. I’ll message you, love, when I am near your place, yeah?” Harry confirmed.

Y/N nodded.

“Love, will that be alright?” He asked, as Y/N’s side of the line was silent.

“Oh, yeah. Sorry, I nodded yes. Forgot it was a phone call.” She confessed, as Harry let out a little laugh.

“Oh! Don’t be sorry, love. It happens.” Harry smiles, “I’ll let you know when I get there, okay? And don’t make anythin’. Jus’ leave that to me, yeah?”

Y/N nodded again and scolded herself for doing it yet again.

“You nodded again, huh?” Harry asked, as Y/N giggled in the background.

“Yeah.” Y/N smiled.

“You’re too cute, Y/N. I’ll see you later then, yeah?” Harry smiled. They both hung up the phone as soon as they said their goodbyes.

Was Y/N ready for this little dinner date? Could it be considered a dinner date? No, no, It’s just dinner.

Or was it?

**//**

Hours after Y/N talked with Harry on the phone, she started to organize everything in her little apartment. Shoes, random items that were on the coffee table were either thrown away or put where they actually belong. She even got every candle she owned and lighted them and put them wherever in the apartment. Yeah, she barely had any visitors, so today was a busy day in cleaning.

Harry on the other hand was busy looking for restaurants to get dinner from. The only times he did eat out was the breakfast place he would go with Evie and to fast-food restaurants.

All he thought though was he was hoping that Y/N was going to like this restaurant he was currently looking at. An Italian restaurant that he has never gone to and a place he never thought existed in London.

**//**

The dark blue embers of the night came. Harry was just finishing up dressing himself up. While doing so, he was on the phone with Evie. He told her he was going to hang out with Y/N for a bit and she was all giggly when she heard where he was going to go. As Harry finished dressing up and gently brushing his loose curls he was ready to head to the restaurant and go to Y/N’s home.

He was beyond excited. He’s been wishing to see her for a whole week and now he was ready to see her again, like birds coming back to the city when it’s warm out.

Meanwhile, Y/N was sat on the couch watching one of her favorite shows. Candles were still lit as other candles were blown out a long time ago.

While watching the third episode of the show, Y/N’s phone vibrated as a text came in from Harry. Seconds later there was a knock and Y/N shot up from the couch immediately and walked towards the door. She looked through the peephole, already knowing who it was, but she just did it for precautions.

Y/N was met with a smiling Harry, his hands busy with two bags of food, and his mouth dangling his car keys.

“Harry, hi. Please come in, and let me help you with those bags.” Y/N invited as Harry hummed in response and walked in before her.

Y/N set the two bags of food on the kitchen counter and grabbed plates and cups.

“Hi, love. Didn’t get to properly say hello to you.” Harry said as he leaned in and kissed her cheek. Her cheeks blushed as she quickly turned around, busied herself with thee food.

“You can, um- sit down, Harry.” Y/N said as she motioned to the chair that was close to the little dining table.

Harry sat down but then got up and walked towards her.

“I would like to help you, Y/N. May I?”

Y/N nodded as she gave the other plate to him.

As motioned hands were at work putting in Italian breadsticks, three different types of pasta and dessert being the last thing left in the bag.

“Harry, how much was all this?” Y/N asked as she glanced at the bag and back to him.

“Don’t worry ‘bout it, love. It’s my treat, so let me treat you, yeah?”

Y/N smiled as Harry smiled back and gave her side a gentle nudge with his elbow.

As they both walked themselves to the coffee table in the living room, they were eating their dinner and talking about how their past week has been and ongoing plans for Evie’s birthday party.

“Still have to ask the little bub what she wants.” Harry said, “Although, she has told me ‘bout gettin’ her these baby bananas. I guess she loves bananas like me.” Harry laughed, his dimples indenting on his cheeks.

“I think I might get her a painting set. I’ve noticed she loves to draw and paint.” Y/N acknowledged, as she swirled her fork in her spaghetti.

Harry nods as he chews a mouthful of pasta and swallows. “Mhm, yeah. She does love painting the little bub.” Harry smiles, as he goes back to swirling his fork in his food.

“So you quit your job. Why’s that?”

Y/N let Harry chew on his pasta as she did the same. Harry sent her a lopsided grin as she smiled back at his silliness.

“Yeah, I quit the job. Boss didn’t like my clothing designs and I was jus’ tired of hearing him how he hated them. So, I quit the job and now I’m sending some off to other fashion designers see what they think. Hopefully I get a bloody job.” Harry beamed, his expression falling as he thought back to those years he was in that building. Designing and creating, but everything went to waste because of his boss not accepting them and just pushing them aside.

Y/N set her plate on the table and found Harry’s wandering eyes on his plate.

“Harry. You’ll find a job soon. I know it must feel awful, but I know someone will find your work amazing as I find you amazing as a person, yeah?” Y/N comforted, her hand on his cheek. She grabbed a napkin and cleaned a corner of Harry’s pink lips. As she was brushing off the food off his lip Harry stared at her eyes that were so concentrated on cleaning his upper lip.

“You’re such an angel, love.” Harry whispered, his hand now landing on her cheek. She took off her eyes off his lips and looked directly at those precious emerald eyes that she has enjoyed staring at.

“Come with me.” Harry whispered, his smile present along with his dimples.

“Where?” Y/N grinned

“Jus’ come with me.” He said, as he stared at her lovingly, his hand still on her cheek.

Harry grabbed Y/N’s hand. Before they walked out from Y/N’s apartment, they put the leftover food in the refrigerator and they both walked towards Harry’s car.

The ride was silent. Harry would sneak little glances at Y/N when she wasn’t looking.

After ten minutes of driving, they finally pulled up next to the house. Harry got out first and walked to Y/N’s door so he could open for her. Harry’s hand was still intertwined with Y/N’s.

Once they set foot on the house, Harry closed the door behind them and guided Y/N towards the hallway that she knew too well. Near the guest bedroom that she stayed in was another door that she has never been to.

“Harry?”

Y/N felt strong hands, land on her shoulders and they swiftly dragged up to cover her eyes.

“I’m going to guide you from here, yeah?”

Y/N nods her head and starts walking when Harry begins walking behind her.

They stopped abruptly as Harry leaned over her shoulder and twisted the knob to open the door.

“Okay, we’re here.” Harry says. He removes his hands from Y/N’s eyes and lets her examine the room. The room that Harry has created so many clothes for people. Creations that he adored making and drawing.

“Harry… This is so beautiful. You designed these yourself?” Y/N asked. She was overwhelmed when she saw so many blouses, trousers, and even jewelry pieces that were on mannequins.

Harry watched her as she admired pieces of clothing and drawings that were on a corkboard. She examined each sketch that were on his desk, sketches everywhere as if they were splashes of paint.

“I wanted to show it for so long. May I give you a tour, love?” Harry smiled as he offered her to take his hand.

“Please do, Harry.” Y/N beamed as she took a hold of Harry’s hand.

“I know you already started exploring on your own, but I jus’ wanted to personally give you a tour of the small space.” Harry beamed, his hold on Y/N’s hand never leaving. “Here are my latest designs I have sketched and those on my desk are jus’ ideas.” Harry informed. Y/N’s scanning through each little sketch.

“And this? Is this a dress?” Y/N asked, a particular sketch she was holding in her hand.

“Yes! That is a dress that I am planning on making for men and women to wear. I also wanted to make suits for women and some accessories. What do you think of this one?” Harry asked as he picked up one sketch that had a woman sketched wearing a navy blue suit.

“I love them Harry! Everything here is so unique and beautiful.” Y/N complimented, her eyes locking with Harry’s.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah! I’ve never seen pieces of clothing so beautiful. These fabrics are amazing and the designs, oh my goodness, Harry. You’re such a fucking talent!” Y/N praised, her hand gently squeezing his.

“Thank you, love. The reason why I design these clothes is ‘cos I want people to feel comfortable in what they’re wearing. I don’t want them to feel as if they are forced to dress as because of their gender. I want them to embrace their individuality and that is what I do in everything I create.”

“You’re so passionate about fashion and designing fashion, Harry. You have probably changed so many lives with creations that you have designed and that’s so amazing! I adore this room and I adore your uniqueness in everything you do.” Y/N confessed. Her eyes looking down at their interlocked hands. “You’re amazing at what you do, and I adore that about you, Harry.”

“You’re jus’ beautiful, Y/N. You always know what to say and how to make someone’s day better with that cute smile of yours, love.” Harry mused.

They both adored each other, it was obvious, but was it obvious to them? They were both perfect for each other. Harry was passionate and just a kind beautiful soul, whereas Y/N loved that about Harry and she was someone that Harry started to love and he loved her company. And best of all she’s an angel with Evie.

Harry led them both to the living room, he offered her some water but she politely refused. Harry then walked towards the vintage player near a shelf of books. He turned it on as slow music started to play.

Harry walks back to Y/N as she was sitting on the couch.

“Dance with me, Y/N?” Harry asks his smile never leaving. Y/N pinched her lip and grabbed a hold of Harry’s hand in hers.

“Just promise me you won’t step on my feet.” Y/N beamed, her smile as big as ever.

“I promise, love.” Harry says as he twirls her and Y/N lets out a giggle.

Harry swayed himself and Y/N along the empty floor of the living room. His hand gently holding onto her back. His chin resting on top of Y/N’s head, smiling. Y/N grinned as she hid her head on Harry’s chest. She smelled the familiar cologne. Vanilla and forest woods filled her senses. His hands felt so gentle and soft. Everything about him was just amazing and pure. So she left her head there, not daring to look up at beautiful eyes that she would always lose herself while looking at them. His touch was soft, soft breaths were heard more than the music playing in the background. And his heart. His precious, beating heart making her relax and close her eyes while she was in his arms. But she opened them and felt Harry remove his chin from her head. He looked down at her, admiring the sight in front of him. Y/N did the same. Her eyes intently staring at those green hued eyes. They were so close that they could feel each other’s breaths. They were mere inches from touching noses, and lips. Harry continued swaying them both as Y/N held onto Harry tighter. They were so close to touching lips, but before Harry could lean in, Y/N moved her face away and was prepared to sneeze, (fake sneeze). She detached from his arms and went to the kitchen island and retrieved her glass of water.

“Oh. Bless you, love.” Harry said as he ran a hand through his curls.

Y/N hums in response and sips onto her water, eyes wide from the last moments that she shared with Harry.

Harry stood in the middle of the living room, his fingers pinching his lower lip.

“Ha-,”

“Y/N-,”

“You go first.” Harry said. A soft smile on his face.

“I think I’m going to head out, Harry.”

“Let me drive ya, yeah?” Harry offered, his hands deep in his trousers pockets.

“No, I’m fine, Harry. I’ll just catch the bus again.”

Harry shook his head in disapproval. He walked where he left his keys and grabbed his jacket and Y/N’s.

“I’m taking ya, love. I don’t trust bus drivers, especially at this time.” Harry added. Y/N nodded her head and grabbed her jacket from Harry’s hand.

She couldn’t say no to his offer. Why would she decline? She wanted to spend as much time with him even though their time was limited because they were heading towards her apartment where she would dread of saying goodbye to him. But she was too stubborn to kiss him back and instead of kissing him back she decided to fake sneeze. What a classic save.

Harry drove, his sights on the road, but there would be tiny moments and glance at Y/N. He wanted to kiss her so bad. Why did she have to sneeze? He wanted those, he wanted her. Not sexually, but he just wanted more time with her. Times where they can hang out with each other and talk about personal stories and talking more about what they love doing. He wanted that so bad. He wants to be honest with her, but he feels like it won’t end up well.

The car ride came to a stop when Harry pulled up to Y/N’s apartment. Y/N was about to jump out of Harry’s car when Harry stopped her by holding onto her hand.

“Goodnight, love.” He smiled, his eyes tired.

Y/N smiled back and told him the same. They said goodbye and Y/N was walking up to her apartment as Harry drove off once he made sure she was in her apartment, safely. She prepared herself to go to bed and she lied down on her bed staring up at the ceiling.

Fuck! What the fuck was she going to do? She couldn’t just lean in and kiss him. She didn’t like Harry that way, or did she? Either way, she was relieved that they didn’t kiss it would have worsened the friendship that they had. She couldn’t do it, she couldn’t kiss him and act as if the kiss never happened. And with that, with that she was glad that she leaned away from him. But for the rest of the night she couldn’t fall asleep. She knew she wanted to kiss him so bad and there was no way that she was going to doubt it, gosh how she wanted to kiss those beautiful heart-shaped lips of his. How much she really wanted to tell him that she has been loving him ever since the first time he started calling her to hang out or those times when he would simply invite her so she could spend more time with him and Evie. Why was she too stubborn to tell him that she wanted more, that she craved more than what they already were? Why was she scared? Why won’t she tell him?

Why won’t he tell her?

A/N: I hope you enjoyed this part! Next part is going to be up hopefully by next week. (That’s my plan!!) Love you all so much and I would love to hear what you thought, and your feedback is always appreciated! Much Love! 💞❤💕💕

#harry styles #harry styles fanfic #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles fluff #harry styles angst #harry styles writing #harry styles request #harry styles prompt #requested prompt #Onlystylesangels writing #harry styles imagine #harry styles imagines #MLFY2

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2k18leo · 4 years

Text

((This may get lost in all the finale talk but I wanted it finished in time for Leo Day, so without further ado, here is Rogue’s personality sheet))

Name: Rogue

Age: 16 (November 5th)

- Leo 16, Donnie 16, Mikey 15, Raph 17, April 17

Gender: Female

Species: Australian Water Dragon

List the most important things about your character.

- Was an actual lizard before her mutation

- Was shipped from Australia to be a pet of a gothic teenage girl

- Did not retain an Australian accent because she was too young to learn one when she was shipped from Australia

- Gets called multiple creative nicknames from Leo, including but not limited to:

-- Ro

-- Rogue-y babey

-- (to the tune of Row Row Your Boat) Ro-Ro-Rogue-y baby

-- Stripes (they both call each other this)

-- Tails

-- Hot Fry ( ??? don’t know where he thought of this)

-- Spade (because of the shape of the mark on her back, which resembles a spade)

-- Reggae ( ?? )

-- Babey Spade

-- Moulin Rogue (to which she always laughs and responds, “it’s Rouge, dumbass!”)

- She loves to paint and be artsy with Mikey

- Will patiently listen while Donnie explains the technicalities of his latest inventions, and is also eager to be a test subject for some of his newer creations

- Absolutely loves to pull pranks with Leo and will sometimes sneak out with him on the shellhogs to race around the city

- Lives with April because “living with all guys is just a little too much sometimes” (but will crash with Leo if she is over there too late) and helps take care of Mayhem when April is at school/work

- She will sometimes instigate the Disaster Twins and their tomfoolery because she finds it so amusing

- She is actually not much of a fighter (but is well aware how to weaponize her tail and claws) but Raph has offered to help train her in their downtime

Physical Details

- Slim waist

- Thick thighs

- Short torso with long legs

Height: 5’6” (with Leo 5’11”, Donnie 5’11”, Mikey 5’6”, Raph 6’4”, April 5’5”)

Weight: ~ 130lbs

Skin: All scales

- Creamy pale green in color over the majority of her body

- Has “glove” markings on forearms and shins

Hair: None

Eyes: Blue eyes, long eyelashes

Other defining features/extra anatomy:

- Long tail with 17 stripes

- Has horizontal stripes from her eyes to the back of her head

- Three fingers/toes on limbs

- Has a heart-shaped marking in middle of torso on ventral side

- Has a spade-shaped marking in middle of torso on dorsal side

Habits:

- Constantly laughing with Leo

- Picking at her scales

- Will tap her claws or tail if she is jittery

- Will subconsciously quote movies if it seems appropriate for the situation even if no one around her knows where the quote comes from

- Will flick her tail if irritated

- When she gets nervous, her tail will suddenly curl around an object close to her for support (more often than not this object is Leo and he thinks it’s precious)

- When she’s being flirty, the tip of her tail will caress under his chin *enter heart-eyes Leo*

- Her tail moves in the night, accidentally knocking stuff over while she sleeps

- Often has sarcastic quips escape her mouth

Gestures/Mannerisms: She likes to sweep her tail around to help her hips sway back and forth

Voice: I am still figuring out a voice actor that I feel would fit her well. I’ve thought about Elizabeth Gillies, Liana Liberato, Sabrina Carpenter, Peyton List, etc. If you have any suggestions, I’m always open to options ! :)

Style: Athletic but casual (a cropped sleeveless hoodie with a choker, and a bandana wrapped around her arm)

-Personality-

Loves/Favorites:

- Food (will eat anything as she is omnivorous)

- Sunny days (loves to bask in the sun)

- Keeping her nails long and sharp

- Music (almost any kind. She can dance to pop, rap along to hip-hop, belt out to the Hamilton soundtrack (where Donnie will join in sometimes), dance to country music while breaking out in a southern accent, and sway lovingly to some nice jazz)

- Spooky stuff (Horror movies, Halloween, ghost stories, etc.)

- Movies! (Disney, Action, Horror, Sci-Fi, Adventure, Mystery)

- Watching/playing basketball (has somehow managed the ability to dribble with her tail)

- Playing Baseball (is not a bad short-stop)

- Swimming (she’s pretty fast underwater with the help of her long strong tail)

- Playing games (be it video games, card games, board games, etc.)

- Creating art (she loves to draw and paint, and also has a subtle love for photography)

- She has a huge ole’ crush on Leo <3

Hates:

- Cold weather (unless it’s snowing)

- Cloudy days (she loves the sun, duh)

- Rom-coms (too cheesy for her taste)

- Bad grammar (her previous owner (while Rogue was not fond of her) went to a college-prep school and she often overheard her speak with proper grammar)

- Burnt popcorn (a trAGEDY)

- A bad sense of humor (she’s thankful that pretty much all the turtles are able to laugh and not take anything super seriously because she often has some sarcastic quips that escape her mouth)

Hobbies: She draws, watches movies, will pick up a book occasionally

Talents/Skills:

- Dribbling a basketball with her tail

- Drawing/painting

- Memorizing movie quotes

Fears/Nightmares: Waking up one day back as a regular lizard

Best Quality: Sense of humor

Greatest Flaw:

- Not great at communication (gets cranky when she doesn’t have her alone time but is not good at expressing that)

- Sometimes gets jealous that she’s the “odd man out” and it wouldn’t matter if she wasn’t there because the boys already have April, but loves April all the same

- Perfectionist (likes things done a certain way) but only sometimes

Character Strengths:

- Playful

- Patient

- Good-natured

- A good sense of humor

- Laid back for most things

- A rationalist (very practical)

And the coinciding weaknesses: She’s not the best at opening up to anyone

What she wants and doesn’t want

- She wants to move towards having an actual family. Perhaps getting some training under her belt to know how to fight.

- She wants to stay away from her previous owner (and the snake that Evie always picked on her with, Calamity)

How does the character picture herself? Rogue: Oh gosh, what did everyone else say? This is kinda weird. Erm, I guess I’m a great swimmer. I like to laugh a lot so the boys never fail to make me. I’m not a neat freak, but not a crazy slob either? I like to think I’m fun to be around.

How do others see her?

- Leo: She’s beautiful, funny, short, has a great laugh, is always down to part-aaay. She laughs at my jokes! My jokes! You know that’s a quality girl!

- Donnie: Yeah, she’s… perfect for Leo, I guess. The two of them can get a bit riled up at times but she has a good heart. Plus, it keeps him busy and not a distraction for me when I’m trying to get work done.

- Mikey: Omigosh, I love her! She’s an awesome artist! She painted this piece on my shell right here, can you see it? Right here. Yeah, she’s great. Not a perfect chef, but I introduced Kondescending Kitchen to her and I think I’ve got her hooked.

- Raph: Shorty? She’s the best! She knows just when to bring Leo back down to Earth. Is always down for any athletic event. *whispers* she throws a mean spiral on Lace Face. I’ve been training with her a few nights a week, y’know to get her strength up. But it’ll be awhile before we take her on any type of mission.

- April: Oh, that’s my girl! Rogue is hilarious, and definitely great with Mayhem. She lives with me at my place, which isn’t bad. She isn’t a slob, so that’s great.

- Splinter: Is that the one with the tail?

Five adjectives that she would use to describe herself. Rogue: Oh, I guess… hmm… funny? Reasonable, happy, laid back, aaaand… artsy?

Five adjectives others would use to describe her.

- Leo: I’ll say it again. Beautiful, cute, funny, short, hilarious, pretty, smart, smokin’, (no, no, Leo, you’re only supposed to do 5. You’re good) … but I can keep going. (nah, I think we got it, thanks!)

- Donnie: Let’s see… Intelligent, humorous, independent yet social, and likeable

- Mikey: She’s tons of fun! Super friendly, a crazy good artist, awesome gamer, and very responsible when need be.

- Raph: The girl’s tough, athletic, smart, a jokester, and pretty trustworthy.

- April: She’s so funny, we laugh all the time. And we have inside jokes and secrets that I trust her with. Super sweet, but she also has a daring side that hypes me up. Aaand, she’s considerate. A good roommate and friend.

- Splinter: When did Blue get a girlfriend?

Most valued possession: Rogue: Oh, uh… probably the bandana that I have wrapped around my arm here. The boys gave it to me as sort of a family token. I didn’t like the look of it on my face since it hid my stripes but I always like to know where it is even if it’s not on me.

Darkest secret and/or treasured memory: Rogue: Wow, you guys ask a lot of questions. Ummm, I guess I shoplifted this hoodie. That’s not the worst thing in the world, but I’m not sure. Not many people know but I don’t think it’s a huge deal. A treasured memory I guess is when I met the boys for the first time. Also the day I escaped Evie.

Most proud accomplishment and or greatest failure: Rogue: I mean, I’m pretty proud of all the art I make. I guess the best thing I ever accomplished was escaping Evie, my previous owner. Everything kinda went uphill from there.

Current motivation: Rogue: Motivation for what exactly? To keep living? I guess my family. The turtles and April have really opened my eyes to what a happy life could actually be. It’s great. Everyday is an adventure with them and they make me feel so loved.

How does she view the future and/or the past? Rogue: I guess I regret not escaping Evie’s place sooner. That was just not a great time for me. But, hey, it’s all better now. I’m happier than I’ve ever been.

What is her philosophy on life and death? Rogue: Well, back before the mutation, when I was still at Evie’s place, I was just a lizard that didn’t really care one way or the other. Evie would constantly shove her other pet, a snake she named Calamity, super close to my cage. Us Aussie Water Dragons are common prey for snakes so it scared the shit out of me. It happened so much that it got to the point where I would just think ‘whatever. If the snake is going to eat me, go ahead. This isn’t a life to live anyway, being in this cage.’ It sucked and the best day of my life was when I escaped. Now I spend everyday with a smile on my face. I want to live life to the fullest! And the turtles really make that feeling come true.

What kind of energy level do they usually have? Rogue: I’m normally pretty calm and chill but I have been known to get riled up with Leo. Mikey and his bubbly side also hype me up sometimes.

How does she show and/or handle: love, affection, grief, pain, anger, sadness, conflict, change, loss? Rogue: I was conflicted with how to feel when the turtles first invited me to their home. Up until then all I had known were dead crickets and a glass box on all sides of me. So, it was definitely weird for me. I mean, Calamity didn’t like me so all I got were stupid threats from her. But loving the turtles came so easy to me. And ever since I met them I had felt a different feeling towards Leo, but the sensation was so foreign to me that I didn’t really understand. I liked him, all of them, but it was just a feeling of wanting to be around him more.

Does she have a temper? Rogue: I think I’m self-aware enough to admit that I have a small temper and I handle it with major passive aggression. I’m not great at confrontation and I’m used to letting things that really get to me sit inside. It’s not the healthiest practice, but…

How does she respond to the surrounding world, the ‘unfamiliar,’ and other people in general? Rogue: You mean everything outside my cage? It’s fantastic! I can’t tell you how wonderful it was to taste the fresh air when I first escaped. The only type of “friendship” I had was with a tarantula in Evie’s room. He and I weren’t close but I preferred him to Calamity anyday. So coming out into the world and seeing the turtles, I was super nervous. Everything was unfamiliar to me.

Polite or rude? Rogue: I like to think I’m polite? I mean, I was never really taught any manners from Evie.

Stingy or generous? Rogue: Umm… both? Neither? I don’t have much to share or hoard.

What kind of ‘public’ face does she display? Rogue: The turtles know I’m not crazy about Evie, so they accept that I don’t always want to talk about her. I’m pretty much an open book, though.

Leader or a follower? Rogue: Both? Neither? I have the reasoning to be a leader in some cases, but I will always do what Raph says if he’s giving orders… even though I don’t go on missions with them. He and April are the oldest and definitely know more about the world than I do. As far as I’m concerned, he’s the leader and I respect him too much to argue about that.

More happy by themselves or in a group? Rogue: I spent years alone in a cage. I love being around people. We don’t even have to be doing anything, but their presence makes me feel a bit safer.

Does he/she have any addictions/dependencies/fixations/fetishes/ or other strange behavior? Rogue: Is popcorn an addiction?

What is her sexual preference/experience/values? Rogue: I like Leo.

-History/Background- Rogue: I feel like I’ve talked enough for one day. I’ll let Taylor finish this off.

Setting: Present day in Rise universe

Occupation: Nah, she’s a mutant lizard, although she sometimes wishes she could help pay rent for April’s apartment because she spends so much time there. April doesn’t mind it since she’s already used to the boys raiding her fridge, but a job under Señor Hueso was mentioned at one point (and might possibly play a role in the future)

Educational background/other learning experiences: Her previous owner has good grammar, but she did not develop the ability to speak until after mutation

Intelligence Level: As smart as a pet of a prep-school kid can be. She also has learned plenty from the turtles and April.

Short Term Goals: Probably finishing a book or a video game.

Long Term Goals:

- Finding the perfect weapon for herself.

- Keeping the family she was so lucky to find

Family:

- Has no idea about her biological parents since she was shipped out so early in life. Doesn’t really bother her that much, though.

- Previous owner: Name is Evangelique (Evie) Flint, who named Rogue and took care of her fine, meaning she was fed adequately. However, Evie favored the other pets that she owned (her snakes and scorpions) and would sometimes get the snakes close to Rogue in order to freak her out (Australian Water Dragons are often prey for snakes). When Evie was moving houses with her family, Rogue was able to escape. She never looks back.

Friends:

- Leo: She and Leo are super close and became fast friends. He flirted with her for months before she actually caught on. Rogue always thought he was cute but was pretty clueless when it came to romance. April filled her in and helped them get together (the best wingman). He is always able to make her laugh and it’s not difficult for her to reciprocate. He enjoys playing with her tail. They’re young and in love but still best friends. The others refer to them together as “The Stripes.” He doesn’t really get seriously jealous because he trusts her with his brothers. He adores her laugh and the heart-shaped mark on her chest.

- Donnie: They’re cool friends. She looks up to him as if he is older than her because of how smart he is. He’s more calm with her than he is with the boys because he’s seen her rational side. She’ll stay out of his way when he’s busy, but won’t decline being a helpful assistant or test subject for an experiment.

- Mikey: She thought he was super funny, like Leo. He was fascinated by her splotches and patterns, and was overjoyed that she liked art as well. One of their first times bonding together was over video games.

- Raph: He approached her first when they first encountered her, mainly as a way to shield his brothers if she was a threat. She likes to play some type of sporty game with him even though she is not nearly as in-shape as the rest of them. It was his idea for her to start sparring. He appreciates how tough and level-headed she is. He thinks she’s a good fit for Leo.

- April: Rogue was fairly relieved to make friends with a girl. April loved her look and thought the choker and hoodie was awesome. She lets Rogue sleep on her couch whenever she pleases, and she thinks it’s great that Mayhem likes her.

- Splinter: They’re not close. She’s met him a couple times and only because she felt it weird that the rat had yet to introduce himself. It’s sort of a mutual respect that they have.

Backstory:

- Born in Australia and shipped to Poughkeepsie, where Evie lived. She was lonely and constantly tormented by her owner and the snake, Calamity, who lived just a single frame of glass away next to her cage.

- After years of living in Poughkeepsie, Evie’s family decided to move to Detroit because of her mother’s business demands.

- Early on in the move, Rogue was able to escape and out of the vehicle and off the Mid-Hudson Bridge into the Hudson River. The river carried her down to Manhattan where she consumed an Ooze-quito and became mutated.

- I’m still figuring out a story on how she met the turtles and the events leading up to the present because she’s currently been with them for nearly half a year (I’ll probably write some drabbles on it in the near future, so stay tuned)

-Combat-

Physical Strength:

- Her tail is the strongest part of her body

- She has enough strength to workout with the boys, but cannot do any of the heavy weights that they can.

Coordination/Reflexes: Not bad reflexes. She’s not clumsy, but her tail has been known to knock things over in an environment she is unfamiliar with.

Fighting Style: Is typically prone to striking with her claws and/or tail

Unusual Abilities/Powers: Nothing mystical about her besides the mutation

Weapons/Other Gear: Has yet to find a weapon that works for her

((couple things, Tumblr completely messed with the format of this but oh well, yes I referenced Leo’s pose from the episode Newsworthy, but I just adore his pose so much that I was super excited to draw it, they may or may not be holding hands, that’s up to your interpretation :D, but yeah. this personality ref sheet was super long but I really wanted to milk this character because I hope she sticks with me for a long time. If you read the whole thing, thank you so much, I appreciate you more than you realize :) ))

#tmnt #tmnt leo #happy Leo day #Leo day #ninja turtles #teenage mutant ninja turtles #rise of the tmnt #Rise of the teenage mutant ninja turtles #rottmnt #rottmnt rogue #tmnt rogue #my oc #my character #rogue #rogue x leo #tmnt leonardo

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ikenbar · 4 years

Text

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice Pt 6

Warnings: Ike being an angsty angst, Adorable fluff, cheesy lines, foreshadowing, aaaaaaaaaaaand cliffhangers :D

(Chapter One parts one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven here :))

((Please read the author’s note on part one if you’re new here :D))

A HEADS UP!! The first character introduced is not mine... the second one is though...

Chapter One:

Part Six:

The dining room was the loudest room in the house, but it wasn’t because of the noise inside of it. The walls were a nice pearly white, but you could barely see them from the amount of plant life Maria had sprouting all over the room. A large oak table sat in the middle of the room. The table was decorated with a gold table runner, various scented candles, and a centerpiece made of dried flowers. Seven matching dark oak chairs and one highchair surrounded it and, accompanying two of the chairs were Maria and the mystery guest. Maria was dressed nicely in a casual summer dress and high heels. She had her brunette hair tied up in a bun with a Hawaiian hibiscus planted in the middle of it, honoring her Hawaiian heritage. This look was a nice change from her usual rolled up jeans and white button-up tied to her waist.

The man sitting across from her was extremely handsome. From the way his legs were crossed to how he folded his hands together, he held himself in a manner that showed elegance and poise. He wore a black button-up shirt and dress pants that matched the hue. A pick tie was pulled lazily from his neck and the first button of his shirt was undone. His black hair was short with his bangs barely teasing his eyes. His skin was pale, showing that he spent most of his time indoors and his rectangular glasses told me most of that time was spent in front of a computer. His eyes were a beautiful violet and they were gentle as he listened to Maria talk about nothing in particular. From the way he held himself, to the smile he had resting on his face, I knew one thing was certain.

He was hiding something.

The mystery guest looked up at me. His soft smile grew wider as he straightened his posture slightly and removed his glasses. “You must be Ike.” His voice matched the monotone one I had heard earlier. I gave him a slight nod as I walked further into the room. Maria looked back at me and beamed.

“Yes, she is!” She got out of her chair and forced me closer to the man as he stood from his chair politely, “Lucien, this is Ikamara but we call her Ike. Ike, this is Lucien.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” He held out his hand, which I took with a nod.

“Likewise.” I said, firmly shaking his hand. Maria smiled widely and bounced in place.

“I’ll let you two get acquainted while I help Bart in the kitchen.” her voice sounded like it had something blocking it. Likely a vat of giggles. I sighed, finally catching on to the reason why Lucien was here. Even though no one stayed long enough to ask for my number, Maria still tried really hard to set me up with a boyfriend. Whether it was some client she met at the pharmacy she worked at or the ticket booth salesman at the theater, it didn’t matter to her. As long as they were cute and wouldn’t mind a tough-skinned partner. They were always way in over their head though. She is sweet to see past my tough exterior, but men don’t have the time for that. Nor do I have the time to let them in. I’m fine with being single. I didn’t need some man coming in and throwing off my life completely. I had things under control and I wished my family would just let it be. They never did though.

As Maria left the room, Lucien smiled at me and offered Maria’s seat. I took it, suppressing an eye roll, and Lucien returned to his chair across from mine, the old chairs slightly squeaking under our weight.

“I’ve heard so much about you in the little time I’ve been here.” Lucien politely started some small talk.

"Oh? Like what?" I asked as I folded my arms across my chest.

"Well, Sam tells me you two play soccer together after school sometimes.” He paused as if he wanted me to touch on the topic. I didn’t. So he continued, “...and Maria says you’re a great cook, Ashton says you can play the piano very well, Bartholomew bragged nonstop about your work ethic, and Lola would giggle every time we mentioned your name so I could only assume she likes you as well.” Lucien chuckled slightly at his own joke, “Your family must really care about you having so many nice things to tell me about you.”

“Right, and I know exactly one thing about you.”

“And what’s that?” He chuckled, neglecting my rude response.

“Ashton tells me that you are a friend of Bart’s?”

“That’s right.”

“How is it that I have known them for so long and haven’t heard of you.”

“Because Bartholomew and I are only really connected through my father.”

“...and?” I pried.

“My father died when I was a child.” Lucien’s eyes drifted slightly and his once soft smile was now gone, “I didn’t have much reason to keep in contact with him after that.”

I gulped. “... I’m sorry for your loss.” I meekly said, looking away from Lucien and regretting my rude responses. Way to go, Ike. I lectured to myself inside my head, Why are you so insensitive?

Lucien caught onto the awkward silence in the room and spoke sweetly, “Thank you but it is in the past now. There is no need to be sorry.” Lucien brushed a stray hair away from my face as he lifted my chin to face him. He smiled at me reassuringly. I nodded slightly and quickly pulled his hand from my face. Lucien took no offense to this as he leaned back in his chair and continued, “After my father’s death, I didn’t have a way to keep in contact with Bartholomew. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago when I was watching the news and a story about a certain up and coming production company and their new hit show caught my attention. I noticed that the man I grew up with was the same man that owned the company. So, I moved to get in contact with him again. I was able to find his information on their website and got to catch up with him after all these years. I couldn’t visit right away because I was away from Loveland for my studies, but Bartholomew let me know I was welcome to dinner when I came back.” Lucien tilted his head slightly as his gentle smile grew, “Does that clear things up? Are you able to trust me now?”

“Who said I didn’t trust you?”

Lucien gestured to me, “From your slouched back and folded arms, you’re practically screaming it.” I looked down. My arms were folded tightly to my chest and I was sliding down my chair. My feet were slightly pointed to the door as if I were ready to run to it at any minute. Embarrassed, I cleared my throat and straightened myself in the chair as I unfolded my arms. Lucien chuckled as I did so, reveling in the fact that he caught me red-handed. I felt my face burn slightly.

“It’s not that I’m untrusting.” I lied, “I’m just overprotective.”

“I can understand why.” Lucien’s soft smile returned, “With a family like yours, I would be too.”

“And it is your family too!” A cheery voice came walking out of the kitchen. Bart carried a large pot out with him. The pot seemed a lot smaller than it really was as he held it in his large hands and against his even larger body. He wore a red lacy apron that was covered in sauce stains. But even the stains looked delicious. Bart was a phenomenal cook. It was a skill he wouldn’t admit he had but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t let us stop praising him for it. He didn’t cook often but, when he did, you could tell it was for a special occasion. I hoped that occasion was because Lucien was visiting and not because I had sealed a deal with Victor. Just the thought of disappointing Bart ruined my appetite.

Bart had a large smile planted across his face as he looked at the two of us, “The food is nearly done! Evie, be a dear and set the table.” I nodded and stood up.

“Evie?” Lucien asked standing as well.

“Yes! Evie!” Bart chimed as he placed the pot on the table, “We wanted Ike to know that this house would be a different experience from her other foster homes and start a new life with us! Evelyn is her middle name, so we started calling her Evie! It’s like another way of calling her ‘dear’ or ‘sweetheart.’”

“I see…” Lucien seemed to be lost in thought.

“Only they can call me Evie.” I caught on to his train of thought before it spiraled out of control. I turned and looked Lucien dead in the eye, “You try calling me that and I will sew your lips shut.” Lucien tried smiling at me but, after seeing how serious I was, he frowned and nodded.

“Ike it is.” He said just as seriously.

“Isn’t she a hoot!” Bart laughed joyfully, “I’m glad to see you two hitting it off!” I rolled my eyes and disappeared into the kitchen to avoid any more contact with Lucien.

I walked to the cupboard where the plates were stored but stopped when I saw Maria was already holding them, smiling widely at me.

“So?!” She badgered, “What do you think??”

“I think you aren’t getting my hints.” I took the plates from her, but she held her grip. I looked at her with an annoyance dripping from my every pore.

“Come on!” Maria begged, “Give him a chance! Lucien is different! You guys had a conversation and he is still willing to stay for dinner!”

“The night is still young!” I said hopefully as I gave the plates a good tug, taking the plates from her and turned back to the door. Maria took my shoulder.

“Ike.” She spoke softly, “You can’t stay closed off forever.” I loosened my expression for a moment. ...Was I being too hard? Even though I was rude, he was still nice to me and still wanted to stay. Maybe…

I quickly shook my head and moved my shoulder from Maria’s hand. It didn’t matter if he had stayed. He would see how bad I am as a partner and leave me behind just like everyone else did. And I’d be ok with it. We’d do this whole shindig over again with a whole new person and he would leave as well. It always happens.

The doorbell rang. “I’ll get it!” Maria’s voice was cheery again as she jogged out of the kitchen. I sighed as I watched her leave. Maybe I should have canceled and stayed home or gone to St. Richards for a drink. I started making plans to sneak out but they were interrupted when I heard someone say my name in the dining room.

“Ike mentioned that you wanted her to have a different experience here then her other foster homes,” Lucien’s voice resembled one of a therapist’s, “If you don’t mind me asking, why is that?” There was a slight pause in the room as Bart thought of what to say. I used this pause to quickly start to move back to the dining room and stop the conversation from continuing.

“Ike had been through plenty of foster homes before ours.” My feet stuck to the ground when I heard Bart’s voice. It was a tone he rarely used. Very serious but with a soft undertone. It was the tone used when he talked to me about how his company was going under. And the tone he used when he first called me Evie.

I stayed by the kitchen door, unable to move, as Bart continued, “Some of which left her with scars, mental and physical, to remind her of them. I mean, when she first came to us, she wouldn’t even speak. We wanted her to know we would give her nothing but love. The kind of love every fifteen-year-old deserved.”

“She was only fifteen…” Lucien’s voice was soft, “What... did they do to her?” I regained feeling in my feet and briskly walked out of the kitchen.

“What kind of silverware do you want, Bart?” I asked uselessly, making the two men jump at my sudden appearance in the dining room. Their conversation ceased at once. I couldn’t have Bart answer him. It wasn’t because I didn’t want him to but because I knew he couldn’t. Bart and Maria were extremely empathetic people. When I explained to them what happened in those homes, they wept like children. They apologized over and over for something they had no control over. They were even afraid to touch me for days after I told them because they were afraid they would hurt me in some way. Whenever the conversation was brought up about my scars after that, they would start getting overly emotional and shut down. I hated seeing them like that. I hated the look they always had on their face. The look of unjustified sympathy.

“Uh, forks!” Bart said, trying and failing to bring back his normal joyful tone, “Can’t have spaghetti without forks!” I nodded and started placing down the plates. A slender hand appeared on top of mine, stopping my actions. I looked up and saw Lucien smiling at me.

“Allow me.” He said moving the stack closer to him, “You can get the utensils.” I tensed. That was an obvious attempt to get rid of me so they would continue their conversation. I wouldn’t let that happen. Before I could decline his offer, a loud laugh came from the dining room doorway.

“Wow, did mom bring home yet another guy for Ikie?”

I looked over and saw my elder foster brother, Christopher, smirking at Lucien and I from the dining room. Chris had been assigned to this foster home the same time as I did. The foster care center thought it would be a better idea to have someone there that was my age to help me out of my shell. He had only stayed a couple of months until his mother got back home from her business trip, and he had to leave. He had created such a strong bond with Maria, Bart, and the kids while he was there so he came to visit almost daily. Despite being assigned to be his foster sister, our relationship wasn’t nearly as strong as his relationships with the others. That was my fault though. I should have worked harder to better the bond between us. I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. His love was way better spent on the little kids then on me.

“Chris!!” Sam raced in from the family room and right into Chris’ arms. Chris gladly accepted him and raised him up and into the air.

“Hey buddy!” He laughed, giving him a nudge, “How’s my favorite brother?”

“I heard that!” Ashton called from the living room. Almost everyone in the dining room burst into laughter. I took that moment to slide the plates away from Lucien and finish setting the table. Ashton popped his head in and glared at Sam, “You still have to watch Lola.”

“Danggit.” Sam cursed and jumped from Chris’ arms and ran back into the family room.

“Swear jar, mister!” Maria returned to the dining room and besides Chris.

“Wonder where he learned that one.” Chris playfully glared at me.

“Hey now,” I threw my finger at him, “My mouth is way dirtier than that and you know it.” The room laughed again as Chris approached me. I held out my hand for a handshake but he pulled me into a hug. I sighed and gave him a few awkward pats on the back.

“How was work?” Chris asked cheerfully as he pulled away from me.

“Long.” I sighed as flashbacks of that day’s events came to mind, “How was yours?”

Chris worked at a kid's TV show company with his best friend from college. They were both history majors who wanted to do more to interest people in the history of Loveland. So they started working on their own TV show shortly after Bart and I started making ours. His show was dedicated to the history of Loveland and the events that led to the happenings of today. The show was animated to lure the attention of kids but still had an alluring story to capture the interest of adults as well. Their show was slow to take off but I really saw some potential with it. I thought it was a really good way to get people to teach people the events of the past as to not recreate them, and I wanted Chris to know that I supported him. In fact, I was one of the first to invest in their company. Though I had to pay him anonymously. He would have never accepted my money if I had offered it outright to him. He was too modest for that. Or too prideful. Either way, he wasn’t going to take my money so I made it an offer he couldn’t refuse.

“Same.” Chris sighed, “It’s hard to find someone who would be willing to fund such a small and underappreciated show. And before you offer,” Chris held a hand up to my mouth, which I had opened in protest, “I don’t need your money. I want to work for it.” I sighed and nodded, suppressing a smile.

“What, Sam and Ike get a hug and I don’t?!” Bart pulled Chris into a big hug, one Chris was happy to return. “Welcome home son!”

“Thanks, Pops!” Chris grunted from inside Bart’s tight grip. Bart dropped him and pushed him over to Lucien. “I would like to introduce one of my good friends, Lucien!” Chris put out his hand and Lucien accepted it.

“Hi! I’m Chris.” He said enthusiastically, shaking his hand.

“Lucien.” Lucien was a very patient man. Or very good at hiding his emotions. Either way it was commendable, “I’ve heard a lot about you. Your father is very proud of what you have accomplished in your show.” Chris looked taken aback. He chuckled nervously as his ears reddened. I arched my eyebrow. Lucien seemed to know how to make anyone flustered. I looked up at him and saw he was already looking at me. I tensed and quickly avoided his eyes. He wasn’t going to get me blushing next! I wouldn’t let him!… danggit.

“Your face is red, Ike.” Lucien asked, pulling my attention back to him, “Are you feeling well?” He raised a hand and held the back of it to my face. His hand cooled my burning cheeks. I quickly stepped away from him.

“I’m fine.” I quickly said, straightening my flannel, “It’s just hot in here.” Lucien was quick to respond.

“I believe the fault of that falls entirely on you.”

Everyone’s mouths dropped as they turned to look at me. The flames on my cheeks intensified. Lucien’s stare was calm as he relished in the moment. This man…

I quickly regained my composure as I cleared my throat. “Well then I’ll leave to make things a little more comfortable for you guys.” I pushed past the crowd of testosterone to get to the kitchen, despite their playful pleads for me to stay. I walked into the kitchen and leaned on the counter. If Lucien thinks he can just get away with something like that-

“I’m sorry Lulu.” Chris’s voice carried from the dining room, “Ikie has been that way for years. I’m afraid nothing has changed.” My hands tightened on the counter. There they go again. Apologizing for something I did. For something I wasn’t sorry about. Like what I felt was useless as long as their image came first. I was twenty-three years old. I wasn’t some child they could cover for. They had done this for years. I knew there was no chance they would stop.

“Don’t worry.” Lucien laughed, “It’ll take a lot more than that to scare me away. Trust me.” I scoffed and rolled my eyes. If that’s what Lucien thinks then that night was going to be a long night.

(Next)

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