#I have nothing interesting to say I just wanted to show my new mug

[moonstruckme]

And then I have one but idk which marauder to make it for so I’ll let you pick whoever you think it fits better. I have to take medicine for my OCD and anxiety but it’s embarrassing. So I’m like imagining who you pick staying the night with the reader and her skipping her medicine because she’s embarrassed but being off medicine messes you up. So clearly the reader would be alittle down and out of it so her friend asks her if she’s okay and if she took her medicine. Welllllll the marauder hears that and later that night when they are getting ready for bed he simply hands her a glass and asks her to take her medicine please and mentions how he wants all of her that includes the quirks, need for medicine, and need for comfort sometimes too.

I decided to make this part of the Sirius x Remus' roommate saga, hope that's alright! Thanks for requesting sweetheart <3

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4 | part 5

cw: some symptoms of withdrawal, reader takes prescription meds

modern au

Sirius Black x fem!reader ♡ 1.5k words

Apparently, even when Sirius gets you out of your flat for the weekend, Remus is still always in the middle of things. 

“I can’t believe you got him to watch New Girl,” Remus complains over speakerphone as you make yourself a cup of tea. Sirius had offered to do it for you, but you’d brushed him off, and he’d been too busy secretly delighting in how comfortable you are in his flat to argue further. “James and I have been trying to get him to watch the first episode for years.” 

“Mmm, you’ve got to start on season three to get people interested, then go back,” you tell him wisely. “I showed him my favorite episode, the one with…uh…”

You trail off, and Sirius looks at you over the top of the couch. There’s a dissatisfied pinch between your brows.

“The one with the spider?” Remus prompts knowingly. 

“Right.” You blink a couple of times, refocusing on your mug as you pour hot water in over the teabag. “That one.” 

“Well, the apartment is quiet without you, but I’m glad you’re having fun.” 

Sirius’ mouth curls as he waits for your response. Though he sometimes still gets jealous of the easy intimacy between you as roommates, he’s come to enjoy the entertainment value of your banter with Remus. The apartment’s just as quiet with me, you’ll say, or You don’t even want to know what kind of fun we’re having. 

But your gaze has gone distant, and after a few seconds, the reply doesn’t seem like it’s going to come. 

Sirius feels worry snake around his ribcage, a light but noticeable pressure. A few hours ago, you’d complained of a headache, and ever since then you’ve seemed in an odd headspace. You’re quieter than you’ve ever been around him, you claimed not to feel like lunch, and he’s caught you stumbling or losing track of your thoughts on more than a couple occaisions. He’d asked once if you’d wanted to go home, but you’d promised you were fine and Sirius didn’t want to push the issue. He loves having you here, he really does, but he hopes it’s nothing about being in his home that’s making you seem so…off. He’d compromised by suggesting you show him that show you’re always referencing (Remus and James were right, it actually is pretty good) in the hopes that a few hours of relaxation would help restore you to yourself, but you don’t seem to be feeling better. 

Even over the phone, Remus picks up on it too. “You alright?” 

“Mm?” You blink. “Oh, yeah.” There’s a forced cheer to your voice, and Sirius watches as you roll your shoulders as if bracing yourself. “I’m just a little tired, I guess.” 

Remus hums, the sound crackling through the speaker. “Did you take your medicine last night?” 

You take him off speaker. Sirius turns when your eyes dart towards where he’s sitting on the couch, taking the coward’s way out on instinct and pretending he wasn’t paying attention. 

“I’m fine,” you say quietly into the phone. Sirius can’t hear Remus well enough anymore to make out his response, but he recognizes the slow, coaxing inflection of his friend’s voice. Your own tone sharpens in contrast, though you sound heartbreakingly exhausted. “I’ve got it. Yep, thanks. See you tomorrow.” 

You blow on your tea as you join Sirius on the couch, not a trace of apprehension about you. He extends his arm invitingly, and you slot underneath it like it’s home. 

“I gather you two aren’t used to time apart,” he teases, trying to entice a smile from you. 

It works, albeit only slightly. The curve of your lips is minute, but he’ll take it. “We’re both homebodies,” you say simply. “We’ve grown too used to being around each other.” 

“His privilege and your curse,” Sirius laments, exaggerating his grunt when you elbow him in the ribs. “Fine, you’re both very lucky. I’m just glad I managed to snag you for one weekend.” When he aims a saccharine smile your way, he suspects you set your cheek on his shoulder as a ploy to hide your blush. It melts him regardless, like ice cream in the summertime. “Want to watch another episode, lovely girl?” 

He frowns when all that gets out of you is a hum, rubbing your bicep as he presses play. 

He manages to get some dinner into you by insisting you try takeaway from his favorite Thai place in the neighborhood, and you seem amenable to the idea of an early night, all but drooping over the sink as you brush your teeth. 

Sirius will never admit it, but his heart is pounding as he takes a glass down from above the kitchen sink, filling it with water. He hopes this isn’t a massive overreach. This thing between you is still relatively new, and the last thing he wants is to make your first stay at his place awkward for either of you, but he cares about you. From what Sirius can tell, you’ve withdrawn into what seems like an unhappy place inside your head, and he can’t just leave you there by yourself. 

He catches you just as you’re leaving the bathroom, passing you the glass of water as casually as he can, as if it's the most routine thing in the world, before taking your place at the sink. “Don’t forget your medicine,” he says softly, taking his toothbrush from beside yours in the cup.

For a moment, you’re quiet. Sirius squirts toothpaste onto his brush, trying his damndest not to look for your reaction in the mirror. 

“You heard Remus on the phone.” It’s almost a whisper. Nowhere close to a question.

“I didn’t mean to,” Sirius apologizes, glancing up at your reflection. You’re looking distant again, your gaze fixed somewhere to the left of his face. “I’m sorry if I heard something you didn’t want me to, but it’s…did you forget?” 

You take another long moment to reply. Sirius is careful to stay quiet, giving you space as you chew your lip, but when your eyes meet his in the mirror you look so crestfallen his heart nearly stops. “I didn’t forget,” you admit. “It’s just so embarrassing, I didn’t want you to know.” 

He can’t stay still anymore. His toothpaste drops with a wet smack into the bowl of the sink when he sets his toothbrush on the rim, and he’s got your hands in his in a second. “Sweetheart, what do you mean?” He keeps ahold of one of your hands, letting his other one coast up your arm to your shoulder, where his thumb massages your collarbone familiarly. “It’s not embarrassing. It’s just, it’s something you need to be yourself. Like…my sparkly doc martens, you know? Or Remus’ chocolate hoards.” 

Your laugh is brief, more a huffed exhale than anything, but Sirius grins at you nonetheless. His hand moves up to cup the back of your neck, thumb soothing over the edge of your jaw. 

“You know what I really like about you?” he asks. You don’t look inclined to answer, but your left brow flicks up as if to say Go on. “Everything.” 

You scoff, seeming lighter even as you pull away from grasp. “Shut up.” 

“No, really,” he insists, vying for your hand back. “Getting to know you, it’s been amazing. Every new thing I learn is just something more to like.” You finally stop fighting him, eyes wary as he grips you by the shoulders, keeping you in place. “I want to learn everything there is to know about you, whenever you’ll let me. And I know I can’t expect it all at once,” he says, voice dropping into a more sincere register, “but I want all of it, including the parts you think—wrongly, I might add—are embarrassing.” He gives your upper arms a light squeeze. “Got that, pretty girl?”

A light blush colors your cheeks, and Sirius grins. You’re getting harder to fluster these days, but he delights in making it happen whenever he can. “Okay,” you say, still a tad sheepish for his liking. He plants a kiss on your cheek. 

“Good. Now go get your meds. I don’t want you passing out during breakfast tomorrow because of withdrawal.” 

“That’s not how it works,” you snipe, but he hears the rattle of pills as you dig through your overnight bag. 

“Whatever,” he says breezily, picking up his toothbrush to put a new dollop of paste onto it. “I just can’t reckon with the idea that Remus still knows things about you I don’t. Shouldn’t I outrank him by now?” 

“You’ve had roommates,” you tell him, coming back into the bathroom with the glass of water half empty. “You’re really going to tell me that they don’t know more about you than I do right now?”

Sirius makes a noncommittal, muffled sound, pointing to his toothpaste-filled mouth as excuse not to answer. 

“Right,” you say drily. “Maybe we should call your pal Remus and see if he happens to recall.” 

Sirius has never spit so fast in his life. 

#sirius black #sirius black x reader #sirius black x fem!reader #roommate!remus #sirius black x y/n #sirius black x you #sirius black fanfiction #sirius black fanfic #sirius black fic #sirius black fluff #sirius black angst #sirius black hurt/comfort #sirius black imagine #sirius black drabble #sirius black oneshot #sirius black scenario #sirius black series #the marauders #remus lupin #marauders #marauders era #marauders fanfic #marauders fanfiction #marauders fic #the marauders era #marauders fandom #hp marauders

[cameronspecial]

Assisting In Deception (Part 2)

Pairing: Rafe Cameron x Reader

Warnings: Mentions of Sex and Assassinations.

Pronouns: She/Her

Word Count: 2.8K 

Summary: Rafe makes an unusual offer that Y/N takes just to prove a point to her cousin.

Masterlist

Y/N enters Rafe’s office to see him scrolling on his phone at his desk. His coffee is left cold in its mug while his focus is on his phone. He looks in her direction at the sudden feeling of another presence in the room. She walks over to the chair in front of his desk and waits for him to put down his phone. “Yes, Ms. Y/L/N. What do you need?” he offers, giving her his full attention. She readjusts her posture with the sudden new gaze on her, “I know it’s a little early, but I was wondering if I could have March 18th off.” His eyebrows knit together in confusion. She isn’t one to request time off unless she is sick and he highly doubts she can predict being sick six months in advance. He knows she is a planner, but no one could schedule a sickness.

“Okay, may I ask why you need the day off?” 

“For my cousin’s wedding. I mean it would be great if I could have the whole six months just to look for a date, but I could do with just the day.”

“You need a date for the wedding?” 

“It’s not necessarily a need. It just would make my life a little easier to go to the wedding without being questioned by my relatives about why my romantic life is non-existent. It also doesn’t help that there are like a million parties before the actual wedding that I will be going to solo.” 

Rafe shifts his body weight forward, placing his elbow on his desk and his chin on his hand to show his interest. He feels as though fate plopped this opportunity in front of him. What are the chances that Y/N needs a boyfriend at the same time that he needs a girlfriend? “I have a proposition for you,” he states, calmy like what he is about to say is an everyday offer. Y/N’s head tilts, “What would that be?” He looks into her eyes and it feels as though he is about to reveal a deep dark secret. “I want you to be my girlfriend.” She sits there in shock for a solid minute; her mouth hangs open, saying nothing. Rafe worries, waving his hand in front of her face, “Ms. Y/L/N?” “I’m not sure what to say about that,” she admits with bewilderment all over her face. Rafe nods, “I should clarify. I would like for you to be my fake girlfriend. I would go to all of your family events and in exchange, you would let me use you to show the media that I’m not everything they say I am.”

“I see. So you want to use me.”

“Well, yes. But I shouldn’t have used that word. We would just make media appearances together and that’s it.”

“Theoretically, if I were to say yes, I need more details on what you would require me to do.” 

“Exactly what I said. You could flaunt me in front of your family. I’d go to the engagement party, bridal party, the wedding and any other thing related to the wedding. For me, you would just need to make one or two event appearances, be seen with me in public a few times and maybe one interview. That’s it. If you agree, we could write this all down in a contract.”

“What about the fact that you are my boss? Don’t you think people will say things about that?” 

“They probably will, but everyone will have criticism of who I say I’m dating anyway. I have full confidence that you can charm the public.” 

Y/N takes a second to ponder what he is saying. She weighs the pros and cons of his statement and in her mind, the cons come out on top. “I’m sorry, Mr. Cameron. But I don’t think I’m comfortable with the idea of being in the spotlight. Thank you for offering though.” She gets up from the chair and makes her way back outside.

——

It’s been a few hours since Y/N has been in his office and she can’t stop thinking about what he said. She turned down the offer because she wasn’t sure it was a smart idea with her crush on him. The relationship would be fake, but the possibility of her catching true feelings for him could be a risk. It would be too painful if that happened and then they had to stop dating. She would rather take the annoyance of being single than the pain of heartbreak. She still can’t believe how calm and collected he was throughout the whole conversation. He acted like he was asking her what she wanted for dinner, not like he was asking her to lie to the world about their relationship. The ringing of her phone snaps her out of her thoughts. 

She takes it out of her pocket to answer it. “Hey Y/N, how are you? Did you get Francine’s wedding invite?” Natalie asks through the phone. Y/N shakes her head at her cousin’s inability to hide what she really wants to know. Natalie has only ever had one interest in life and that is one-upping her cousin. “I did, Nat. Are you going?” she plays into her cousin’s game. 

“Of course, I’m going. I love Francine, so I would totally want to go to her wedding. Plus, Richard can take the day off. I’m thinking of getting us matching hats for the wedding. Well, a fascinator for me and a top hat for him.” 

“That sounds like a great idea. I’m glad that you are happy with Richard.”

“So… Are you going to be going to the wedding solo again?”

The hint of pity and patronizing in her tone irritates Y/N to no end. Y/N responds without another thought, “Actually, I do have a date. Not that it is your business really. Anyway, I have to go. My boss is calling me.” She hangs up the phone and sighs at what she has to do. She gets up from her desk, knocking on Rafe’s door. She enters at his approval and sits herself in the same chair again. “I accept,” she informs. “But I want a say as to what goes into the contract.” 

“I can work with that.” 

Rafe holds his hand out for her to shake. As she shakes it, worry floods through her. She realizes that this isn’t just going to be something her family is going to see, but the whole world is going to know about their relationship. What will they say when they learn she isn’t the heiress of some big company? What will they think if they learn she is his assistant? She buries her stress deep inside and promises to not let it out until this whole thing is over. 

——

The staff lounge is empty except for Topper sipping his tea whilst on his phone. He may be the head of legal at Cameron Development, but he always makes sure to get to know everyone in the company, no matter the rank of their job title. “Ahh, well if it isn’t the new Mrs. Cameron,” he jokes when he notices her at the door. She smiles at him and walks to the Nespresso machine, “That is not a new nickname that you are calling me. So I see you got the contract.” Topper laughs at the seriousness of her voice at what he called her. “That I did. I have to say I was not expecting to see a contract about your relationship with Rafe when I woke up this morning.”

“Me either. All I wanted was someone to go to my cousin’s wedding with me. And now, I am going to be paraded around his world.”

“Well, you could’ve just asked me. I’m always available to take you out.”

“Thanks but the only taking out I’m considering right now is the one where you would need a gun. All jokes aside, I think it’s going to be fine. Rafe is a good boss.”

“He is and if he ever gets on your nerves too much, you can always come to me.” 

“I’ll definitely keep that in mind.” 

——

Rafe looks around the subway station horrified about the state of the place. His expensive dark blue polo shirt and tan dress pants are a stark contrast to the hot and rat-infested platform. Y/N giggles at the look on his face, “It’s like you’ve never been on  the subway before.” “I haven’t,” he admits, looking at her with raised eyebrows. Her head moves from side to side and she hesitantly takes his hand to guide him onto the arriving subway.

One of the stipulations of the contract is that Y/N gets to take them on their first “outing” as a couple. She wanted to go out with him outside of work to get to know him more than the very little he’s allowed anyone he works with to get to know him; the exception being Topper and Kelce, who grew up with him and were given jobs when he took over the company. The other rule she stipulated is that she wants a soft launch of the relationship until it is necessary for her to be revealed as the mystery girl. At least, this way she can keep her privacy as long as she can. She had told Rafe to dress casually, but she really shouldn’t have been surprised that he still arrived looking like a million dollars. 

He keeps his sunglasses on as he pauses to sit down beside her on the subway seat. He takes a chance to glance at the costumed cookie monster and looks back at her. “Do you have to keep your sunglasses on? We are on the subway,” she questions, leaning in to talk to him. His eyes dart to the muppet beside him, “Yes, because me wearing sunglasses indoors is the strangest thing here. Why couldn’t we have taken my car?” She shoots him a playful glare. “Your fancy dancy car would bring too much attention to us and that is the last thing I want right now,” she explains, checking the subway screen to see how many stops until they get off. “Where are we going anyways?” he inquires, following her gaze. 

“It’s a surprise.” 

——

The pair exit the station and the sight before him is one he is familiar with. He isn’t sure what “regular” people restaurant is around Central Park, but he lets her steer them in the right direction. He looks down at their joint hand and he can’t help but notice how they interlace together perfectly. He shakes himself out of his observation and looks up to see the reason why she stopped. In front of him is a street cart that appears to be selling hot dogs. He looks over at her with a questioning look, “You want me to eat food that has come from a cart?” 

“Oh, come on. It’s not that bad. And this place has a permit. It’s fine.”

“You can eat that stuff, but I’m not risking it.”

“Stop being so snooty. Eating is part of a date. So you are going to go sit on that bench and eat whatever I get you. If you are a good boy, then maybe I’ll get you a Spider-Man or Spongebob ice cream. Dealers choice.” 

He stares at her in surprise that she talked to him in such an ordering manner. She always speaks her mind, but she normally does it in a less commanding way. He listens to what she says and goes to sit on a bench looking over the lake. After a few minutes, she comes back with two hot dogs and water bottles. She hands him one of each, “I have ketchup and mustard packets if you want. I didn’t get you a New York hot dog because I thought I would ease you into street food culture.” He takes the packets with thanks and adds the condiments to his meal. They eat in silence until she breaks the silence. “So you grew up in the Outer Banks. What’s that like?” He looks over at her, finishing chewing before answering, “Yeah. It was quiet.” 

“Wow, this has been a great conversation. Thank you for participating in it!”

“I don’t know what you expect, Ms. Y/L/N. I’ve never been much of a talker.” 

“First, when we are outside of the office, you can call me Y/N. Second, what I expect from you is to stop being Mr. Cameron, my boss, and to be Rafe, my boyfriend. If people are going to actually believe we are dating, then you have to separate those two.” 

“Okay, fine. I see your point. Ask me another question.” 

She grins at his offer and takes a second to think about it, “You are never playful or smile, so why do you tease me sometimes? It’s the least serious I’ve ever seen you.” 

“You’re the only one who isn’t afraid of me. Plus, it amuses me how flustered you get.”

Y/N is rendered speechless and she uses one hand to put her hair that is framing her face on both sides of her face behind her ear. The conversation flows in small talk while they finish their hot dogs. She takes their garbage and stands up, “You’ve been good. I guess I can get you an ice cream. Do you want Spider-Man or Spongebob?”

“Are those the only two options? What about the other flavours?” 

“Yes. Now, choose.” 

“Spongebob.”

She nods and heads back over to the stand. He watches as she pays for the sweet treats and returns to him. Rafe didn’t want her to pay for everything on the date, but she had put it as a requirement in the contract. He takes the package from her, opening it as soon as it makes contact with his hand. The disappointment on his face is evident on his face and she laughs. “This does not look like the picture,” his lips turn in a microscopic pout. Her head moves from side to side, “Things rarely do, Boss.” 

——

Y/N returns home from the date a little after five to find Juni sitting on the couch, watching TV.  “Where have you been? You didn’t tell me you were going out, Sweetie,” Juni interrogates, getting up from the couch to be closer to Y/N. She chuckles at her best friend worrying like her mother. She gives her a hug, “Did you forget that I told you about my fake date with Rafe today?” “Oh, yeah. I did. Sorry, I’ve been so busy with work that I forgot. How was your date with the Big C?”  she apologizes, sitting herself down at the kitchen island. 

“One. That cannot be your new nickname for him. Two. It was good. He opened up to me a little bit, so we are making progress. It was adorable, he was so disgruntled that the Spongebob ice cream wasn’t like the picture. Also, apparently, he teases me because he likes to see me flustered.” 

The loving look in Y/N’s eyes causes Juni to frown, “Just be careful with him. I don’t want you getting hurt in this whole fake dating thing, Sweetie. I’ve never seen these things end well.”

“Don’t worry. I won’t fall for him. He’s my boss and nothing more.” 

Alexander enters the apartment with no knock and an annoyed look on his face. “Why must people be so crude? Why does no one want a serious relationship anymore?” he complains, settling himself on the couch. The girls turn with concerned looks on their faces. “Another bad date?” Y/N poses, getting up from her stool to sit beside him. “Yes, this guy literally told me all he wants is a fuck buddy. And when I asked him why he still tried to match with me even though my profile said I wanted a relationship, he said that he just thought I was lying and would agree to just fucking when I saw his face,” he answers and lets himself be embraced by Y/N. Juni gets up to rub his back in reassurance, “Ugh, I hate men that are so cocky like that. I’m sorry the date went bad. He doesn’t realize what a great guy he is missing out on.” 

Heat rushes to his cheeks and he scratches the back of his neck. They look into each other's eyes. Anyone but them can see the obvious attraction between the two. Y/N looks between the pair with a slight bit of jealousy. She wishes that she could have chemistry like that with someone, but that would require believing in love first.

Taglist: @loves0phelia @thelomlisrafecameron @wickedlovely121 @aprilrudgate @loving-and-dreaming @thepatriarchykeychain @maybankslover @abbybarnesstuff @wh0reforbucknasty @spencereidbasis

#assisting in deception #rafe cameron #rafe cameron x reader #outer banks #rafe cameron fanfiction #rafe cameron imagine #rafe cameron x y/n #outer banks fanfiction #rafe cameron x you #rafe cameron series #rafe obx #outerbanks #rafe cameron x female reader #rafe fanfiction #rafe x reader #rafe imagine #rafe fic #rafe outer banks #outerbanks rafe #outer banks rafe #outer banks imagine #outer banks x reader #obx #obx imagine #obx fanfiction #obx fic #obx x reader #obx x you #obx x y/n

[writesleah]

christmas headcannons ✰ m. riddle

➻ pairing: mattheo riddle x reader

➻ genre: pure fluff (are you surprised i managed to write something with no angst whatsoever)

➻ warnings: mentions of childhood neglect if you squint, nothing else just super adorable, fluffy mattheo

➻ a/n: I ADORE THIS MAN these might just be projections of my feelings towards christmas but i swear he loves it too

this man adores christmas

he always denies it, but he always looks forward to it

every. single. year.

when you two are just starting to speak, he might mention how he enjoys the 25th, but nothing more than that

the second he gets comfortable with you, it’s non stop rambling

“two months until christmas”

“it’s almost december”

it would be annoying if you didn’t adore him so much

it’s not just christmas day, it’s the entire month of december, the entire season of winter

he’ll always be begging you to do some sort of christmassy activity with him, thinking you’ll say no because it’s stupid

he feels like it makes him seem childish, so you have to reassure him that you love his enthusiasm and adorable date ideas

from december 1st, the two of you will be ice skating on a lake, or drinking candy cane flavoured hot chocolate whilst watching the snow fall

every single day is a new opportunity to do something vaguely related to christmas or the winter months with him

if you ask him what he wants for christmas, he’d either give you the biggest list you’d ever heard, or he wouldn’t ask you for anything and just say he didn’t know what he wanted - one extreme to the other

i think his obsession comes from the constant craving of a good christmas during his childhood

i don’t think his parents would’ve been interested in christmas at all, so it left him always wishing he could enjoy it

when he found you, he realised that there are people who do actually care about his interests or his favourite time of year

he was utterly grateful for your understanding, even if it seems incredibly simple to you

the second you ask him if he wants to watch a movie with you, he decides it has to be a christmas movie

no matter what time of year it is, always a christmas movie

his favourite movie is the grinch, you watch it every year

he also likes the polar express, but just because he can laugh at the animation and tease you for not liking its uncanny valley effect

he can’t watch home alone, it’s just a little too relatable, considering his childhood, but he never admits to that, he always says he thinks it’s boring

he would stay at hogwarts over christmas as long as you stayed with him

staying at school meant that you could have the slytherin boy’s dormitory all to yourselves, without any of the boys he shared with blabbing on and ruining your peace

on christmas eve, he likes to get all cozy in bed with matching pyjamas and a mug of hot chocolate each

christmas morning is his absolute favourite

he goes above and beyond with your presents

you always feel like he shows you up, considering that he always tells you to either pick one thing from his extensive list, or not to get him anything at all, leaving you scrambling to figure out what he wants

he reassures you that he loves whatever you get him, and makes sure that you like your presents too

the entire morning, he’s rambling on about how excited he is for the food

he loves brussel sprouts, even though you can’t stand them

he hates pigs in blankets, thinks they’re the absolute scum of christmas dinner, much to your dismay since you love them so much

so when you have brussel sprouts on your plate and he has pigs in blankets, you’ll both give them to each other, so you have double the amount of the food you like

roast potatoes are common ground. you both like them

he’ll always pour the gravy for you if you want it, and he’ll always help you to fix your food onto a plate

he can’t ever stop helping you, even if he knows you don’t need it

when you finish eating, he immediately either wants to watch a movie or play some sort of game, depending on who else stayed at hogwarts

and yes, as much as he hates it, he will watch the eastenders christmas special with you

#fanfic #harry potter #benjamin wadsworth #harry potter fanfiction #hp fanfiction #mattheo riddle x you #mattheo x you #mattheoxreader #mattheo x y/n #mattheo riddle x y/n #mattheo riddle x reader #taylor swift #mattheo riddle #christmas #headcanon #christmas headcannons #mattheo riddle headcanon

[feirceangel]

Imagine | First Love (Nami)

Imagine having a crush on Nami and trying to act on it.

Warnings: reader is clumsy, Sanji is your wingman, fluff

Word Count: 1,651

(Not my gif!)

There is always a certain grace that follows her every move. It's uncanny how poised and meticulous her actions seem.

You've always admired Nami for her strong personality and will, but you'd be lying if you said you didn't think she was beautiful.

The way the sun bounces off her glowing hair, her coy smile, her mesmerizing eyes. You could go on forever but you fear you're starting to sound like Sanji.

She seems so put together.

So very much unlike you.

Whereas she can speak eloquently and move with unmatched grace, you're the opposite. You stumble over your words and even stumble while walking across the ship deck.

The number of times you've felt your skin prickle with embarrassment as you fumble in front of her is unparalleled.

Just the other day, you tripped on one of Zoro's weights and face planted. You got up immediately, waving away concerns with a chuckle as Luffy pointed and laughed along with you.

Until you noticed Nami smiling along. Her smile froze you in your tracks. That's when you got nervous.

No one wants to look like a fool in front of their hidden crush.

Thinking about it makes you groan.

You're currently slumped in the kitchen, stirring a cup of tea that's lost it's heat ages ago. Sanji is working away cooking supper for everyone, humming a soft tune.

You wish you could be more open like he is.

Sanji never shuts up about how gorgeous and perfect Nami is, but you can never bring yourself to match that energy.

Of course, you're never left out of his compliments. He never plays favourites. You love him for that but, even so, it is hard watching him swoon over Nami.

You're afraid that she'll realize you could never give her as much as Sanji can.

After all, you can't cook very well and you don't wait on her hand and foot. And, you're not wealthy, so you can't buy her nice things.

Another sigh escapes your lips as you stare at the table in front of you. A new mug of steaming tea lands by your hand.

"Are you okay?" Sanji asks, his voice soft, "You've been staring at nothing for over an hour."

"It's... it's nothing. Just tired," you say, sitting up straighter to take the hot mug in your hands.

"Really?" He says, voice full of disbelief.

You nod, knowing your words would betray you.

He frowns slightly, resting his hands on his hips. You feel bad that he's concerned about you, but no one on this ship knows about your feelings. And you're not about to tell anyone.

Sanji turns around, towelling down a freshly washes pot, "It's about Nami, isn't it?"

Your jaw drops at that question, eyes wide.

"How'd you know?!"

"Ah, so it is," he chuckles.

A frown plants itself on your face.

"Don't worry, I won't tell anyone," he reassures you. "It's just, I want to help you."

"Help?" You're confused, "Don't you like her too? Doesn't that make us love rivals?"

He glances over his shoulder, "Don't be silly, I love you both but not that way. Besides, I have my eye on someone else."

His confession throws you off.

All this time you thought he'd be mad about your crush on Nami and now he's saying he isn't even interested?

"Really?"

He hums a yes.

You take a moment to soak in this new information. Sanji has way more experience in romantic things than you do, so advice from him might be useful.

"So, what should I do?"

"Everyone expresses and shows love in their own way. I can't tell you what to do."

As if sensing your disappointment, he continues, "But I can tell you that you should go for it."

"What if she hates me?"

"She could never hate you," he shakes his head, "If anything, she'd respect you for saying something."

"You think so?"

He smiles, "I really do."

You return his smile. Surprisingly, his advice was solid.

Not what you had expected.

You had been expecting a lecture on how to do everything for her and shower her in gifts/affection.

This advice is something you can work with. A bit of a confidence booster to lift your morale.

Now you just have to act.

~

If you weren't so clumsy, this would be much simpler.

You started the day by getting Nami her coffee while she gauged the weather and heading of the ship.

It would've been perfect, if you hadn't stumbled on the stairs leading up to her.

So, instead of a lovely cup of coffee, she got a spectacle of you collapse in a puddle of said coffee at her feet.

"Are you okay?" She asked, staring down at you in concern.

"G-good morning Nami," you bypassed her question. You started to gather the pieces of the broken mug, "I wanted to get you coffee, but, uh, I dropped it."

She smiled gently, "I can see that. Do you need help?"

"Nope! Nope I got it. Bye!"

Obviously that hadn't gone in your favour.

Fast forward a bit, and you’re fishing with Usopp and Luffy. On a day when you don’t have much else to do, you often try your hand at fishing. Sometimes you luck out and catch something.

This time, your hook snagged on an old treasure chest. A small one, but exciting nonetheless.

You clutched it close to your chest so that Luffy and Usopp wouldn’t steal it and crack it open themselves. You called for Nami to see and she ran to your side as soon as she heard ‘treasure chest’.

“Look what I got, Nami!”

Beaming with pride, you broke the rusted lock and flung it open to reveal a small handful of berry and a pair of angry crabs.

Your nose scrunched in disappointment as Luffy cheered, “Sanji! Cook these!”

Your captain grabbed the animals and raced to the kitchen, Usopp close behind him.

Casting a glance at Nami, your dour mood lifted a bit seeing her laugh as she sorted through the berry.

“Sorry, Nami. I was hoping there’d be more than some angry old crabs,” you sighed.

“Y/n, don’t be so hard on yourself! Maybe next time you’ll be luckier,” she grinned as she dumped the seven berry into your hand.

“Oh, you can keep those,” you shook your head.

She tilted her head to the side, “Really?”

“Yeah, I want you to have them,” you smiled, “You deserve them for all the work you do.”

Nami looked away after accepting the coins back into her hand. You might have been mistaken, but you could’ve sworn you saw a tinge of pink dusting her cheeks.

“Thank you, Y/n.”

And now you’re here, in the kitchen once again. The blond cook isn’t here, surprisingly. You’re okay with being alone right now though.

A soft knock makes you lift your head off the table, “Yeah?”

Nami is standing there, in a gorgeous blue bikini with her ginger hair down on her shoulders. You can’t help but smile at her.

“Hey, Nami!”

“Y/n, come suntan with me,” she says, grabbing your arm to drag you out of the kitchen.

“Sure,” you grin.

You often suntan with Nami when you’re in need of rest or some down time. Being underneath the hot sun and next to the hot navigator is always a good time.

“Just let me get my swimsuit on!” You race to your room and get changed before finding Nami outside.

She’s lying on her back, looking peaceful and elegant as ever. She looks up and smiles at you as you approach.

“Y/n! Sanji is making us some drinks,” she grins conspiratorially, “It didn’t take much to convince him to bring us snacks too.”

“Sweet,” you settle down on the lounge chair beside her. “Sorry again about the coffee.”

“It’s alright, Y/n. It’s the thought that counts, right?”

You nod, heart swelling with affection.

Just then, Sanji appears carrying a tray of goodies. He passes your drink to you with a flourish and does the same for Nami.

“Nami-swannn,” he singsongs, “Don’t you think Y/n-chan is looking absolutely divine today?”

You flush with embarrassment. What is he up to?

To your surprise, Nami replies back, “Y/n always looks divine, Sanji.”

You feel like your jaw has dropped straight to the floor. “Do I?”

She levels her gaze at you and beams a smile, “Of course!”

“You always look wonderful too, Nami!” You manage to speak over your giddiness. You cannot believe that Nami thinks you’re pretty! “Your hair looks like sunbeams right now.”

“You’re sweet,” her smile is short-circuiting your brain.

You didn’t even realize that Sanji made himself scarce.

“You know,” she adds. “I was happy you thought of me this morning. And when you found that treasure chest.”

Your heart is hammering in your chest like a frantic tap dancer.

She notices your silence and turns to fully face you. Slowly, she reaches out a hand and entwines her fingers with yours.

Your heart skips a beat before you give her hand a slight squeeze.

Is this really happening?

“I like you Nami,” you blurt out, not at all eloquently.

She smirks, “I like you too, silly. You know you don’t have to buy my love, right? I don’t like you cause you have money, or you do things for me. I like you because you’re you. Kind, caring, badass.”

Tears form, prickling your eyes as she speaks such kind words. She tightens her grip on your hand, “Be my girlfriend?”

You nod, unable to contain your happiness as you sniffle, “Yes!”

She leans over and places her soft lips on yours. You move your lips against hers, not caring who sees. You’re lost in the moment of the first kiss of your relationship.

The first kiss of many.

#female reader #imagine #reader insert #one piece #one piece reader insert #one piece x reader #op #nami #nami x reader #fluff #xreader #straw hat nami #one piece imagine #one piece nami #cat burglar nami #one piece x y/n

[alicerosejensen]

I already read everything you have published and I love it.

Following up on your previous post, how long will it be until Leon feels ready to propose to his girlfriend, and if she says yes, would they like a big wedding or something more private? Also, how would things be before the wedding?

One last thing, what is your native language?

We will consider this a continuation of part 3, which I am still translating.

It's all good. I receive all requests and will definitely answer them, but since English is not my native language, I do it quite slowly.

The text mentions a song by Lana Del Rey (sorry, I just love her music).

I take pictures and gifs from Pinterest.

It's been a good three years of relationship. It was funny how an ordinary interest turned into something more serious, which Leon cannot refuse, preferring to keep safe and with him like some kind of diamond.

And that diamond was you. The diamond who was sitting at the same table with him, with both legs thrown on the next vacant chair, while your hands were flipping through a new book about the Incas or the Maya? Leon didn't listen too closely, preferring to just admire you in the morning sun, forgetting about his cold coffee.

It was natural that two people who know each other well enough and have strong feelings for each other decided to legitimize their relationship, but a number of problems arose: 1) His work does not seem to forbid, but also does not understand the presence of a family. There are some D.S.O programs to protect the data of their agents' families, but Leon has never been interested in them. 2) Your age difference. Leon was almost forty and you're still too young. Yes, college will soon be left behind, but you are unlikely to want to start a family so early, despite the fact that it was somewhere in your plans. Just not now. 3) Despite the fact that he deeply loved you and knew that the feeling was mutual, Leon had no idea if you saw him as your husband.

Besides, the last thing he wanted was for you to get hurt. More precisely, he didn't want it at all! But he loved you so much that he partly began to understand Glenn Arias in his madness because of the death of his wife.

It has nothing to do with the case, but Leon really wanted you to put a ring on your ring finger and become Mrs. Kennedy. However, he has not yet fully decided on it himself.

How can he carefully find out from you what you think about this? Leon gave you a worried look, but you didn't even notice it, too absorbed in reading. He had already turned his back to you to pour the coffee into the sink, and immediately froze as soon as he suddenly heard you quietly humming some strange song to yourself. Cacciatore? Some Salvatore? Limousines? Leon didn't comment on it in any way, just made sure that you didn't talk to him. "I just wanted to sing the chorus of my favorite song."

A sudden impulse, but then a message came to your phone and you reached for it to read it, and then showed Leon a couple of photos of your young friends from their honeymoon.

Leon regarded this as a great opportunity to carefully find out your attitude to marriage without giving himself away.

"Don't you think they got married too soon?" - You shrugged indifferently as you typed an answer to your friend.

"It's none of my business."

While you were carefully looking at the photos of friends in love from France, Leon stood still not knowing how to choose the right words. He rinsed the mug in the water, putting it in place and decided to start carefully "attacking" again.

"If you were choosing a place for your honeymoon, where would you go?" - It was risky, although you just looked away somewhere to the side, tilting your head to the side like a child, thinking about the question. - "Paris too?"

You were hiding like you ate something very sour.

"Paris is banal. I would have thought of something more interesting."

"For example?"

"Don't know… maybe Spain?"

Leon coughed. Not the most pleasant memories. For some reason, he imagined you wandering around Salazar's castle in search of various trinkets and trying to ask Ganado about their history, while he drags you everywhere by the hand, trying to shoot infected Las Plagas with a shotgun and pistol.

And then he will find you drinking tea with this same Salazar, talking sweetly about some abstract topic. The pictorial art of the fifteenth century, for example? At least this thought and the image that appeared before his eyes lifted his mood with its absurdity.

He rewarded you with a half-smile and dismissed the idea of marriage indefinitely. Until college graduation.

Until next week, actually.

Leon was just going into the store to restock some groceries when he accidentally bumped into a fellow agent. The conversation would not have gone beyond greeting if a little boy of five or six years old had not hit Leon's legs. He didn't even apologize and just ran on through the store until his father called out to him.

"You should apologize! Go up to Leon and apologize for pushing him!"

The child looked excitedly into his eyes, but still obeyed, slowly approaching an unfamiliar man.

"In fact, it's not necessary…"

"They need to learn to be polite. Do you have any children Leon?"

It was a strange question. Of course, before the outbreak of the G-virus in Raccoon City, Leon had some kind of plan for the rest of his life after graduating from the police academy. And in this plan there were two Kennedy babies, a house with a pool and a golden retriever, and of course a charming wife. Only Leon personally hammered the last nail into the coffin of his dreams.

Leaving your wife alone with a child in this dark world where every day there is a chance that another psycho terrorist may take it into his head to arrange another zombie apocalypse? That's not what he wanted.

But he still annoyed Hannigan with his questions. As if assessing the risk, Leon stared at Ingrid while she wiped her glasses.

"Is there a specific reason why you are interested in this topic?"

"No."

"Then stop wasting my time!"

Fair. Despite the information he obtained, Leon continued to walk like a gloomy ghost around his own house occasionally looking at you strangely. You caught those looks every time you asked him what was the matter, but he waved it off.

And then he asked you about that wedding. Then you had already separated and you were a bridesmaid without a couple. However, you had a good time without it, cherishing the hope that you, too, will someday have a beautiful wedding with a honeymoon.

Leon nodded, taking a sip of Jack Daniels from his glass. A beautiful wedding… with a bouquet of flowers, gifts, guests, a sweet cake and a magnificent white dress. A wedding in the best traditions…

That's what he couldn't give you. An important day in your life (if you agreed to marry him) is likely to become a normal weekday with the receipt of a marriage certificate. You deserve what you dream about, and he probably deprives you of it feeling boundless guilt.

Leon doesn't want to let you go. He hates the idea that you will leave again, leaving him in this empty apartment. however, he does not want you to suffer through his fault. Leon has long admitted to himself that he wants to come home to his family - to you and at least one Kennedy baby. But fuck, he's almost never around because of these missions! And you didn't think about motherhood as such at all. He's almost forty, not you!

But he decided to try again the attempt of careful questioning when you laid him on the bed so that he lay on his stomach to get a light massage before going to bed.

"So Paris is a bad idea?" - Leon thought when you frowned, sitting on his lower back and gently kneading his back. - "What about the Eiffel Tower? The Petit Trianon at Versailles? Those famous French delicatessen cafes? I thought you said you'd like to visit the Moulin Rouge sometime."

"Well, maybe someday. Paris is beautiful just not right for my honeymoon."

You said you wanted something original. So you ended the conversation and continued the massage in silence. And at night felt through a dream how Leon's palm touches your cheek, and then goes down to your neck, collarbones, all the way to your stomach, until he hugs you tightly, pressing you to him. Yes, it woke you up, but maybe he had a nightmare again? Leon wasn't sleeping, and you knew it, so you turned around and put your head on his chest, falling asleep again.

I don't care if you guessed about his thoughts or not, but after much thought, Leon still decided to try his luck.

Life is too short not to try to at least become a little happier.

He bought a cute diamond ring, trying to find something not boring and at the same time not pretentious. However, after tiring the consultant, he finally gave him an entertaining idea: if you don't like what Leon chose, you can come here again and buy any other ring that you like more.

You brought him such relief and comfort after meeting with all these viruses and parasites that Leon saw no problem in buying another ring in case you didn't like it at all. Of course, you can't tell him about it, but he knows his girlfriend's emotions too well.

Leon also ordered dinner at home, considering that due to your workload in college, you didn't sleep much, completely devoting yourself to the last academic year. Besides, he didn't invite you to the restaurant because he still wasn't sure of your answer. Positive or negative? If you do not want this, at least the home environment will not create severe discomfort.

And here you are sitting in your home clothes, calmly eating your favorite food, watching some action movie with your boyfriend, not knowing about the blue velvet box in his jeans pocket.

You can see that Leon is very nervous, scolding himself for the fact that it would be better to rehearse the speech in advance, but you are so absorbed in the film that you do not pay any attention to him at all until exactly the moment when he takes the plate from your hands and puts it on the table.

It took a few seconds for the tired brain to figure out where the dinner had gone.

Your palms immediately find themselves in his warm hands and it looks so cute when women's palms seem so small against his background.

You can admire this endlessly or until the moment when Leon silently, with obvious anxiety in his eyes, in horror, hands you a velvet box, waiting for a reaction.

For God's sake, say something, but don't be silent!

"Is that what I'm thinking or am I wrong?" - You open the lid looking at a charming ring matched to your finger size. And despite the fatigue of the gyrus, they understand that this is an unusual gift.

This is a marriage proposal!

"If you're not ready… fuck… I remember you told me that one day you would want to start a family, and I'm actually the worst option as a husband who is often not at home, although I try, sweetheart…"

"Do you want to start a family with me?" - In his opinion, you looked at him like he was crazy. But in fact, you were trembling slightly and were ready to lose consciousness if he answered in the affirmative now.

"I understand that it's probably too early for you. Understand, I'm not saying that if you agree now, then we will immediately go to the bedroom to make a mini Kennedy. You still have to go to college… damn it, how difficult it is… It's just a suggestion. I want you to be with me as my wife, I want at least one child from you, if you don't mind. You know, Hannigan told me a little bit about these programs to protect the families of agents… they're not bad."

Leon stumbled over every word, sweating profusely, once again afraid to turn to you. Suddenly you are frozen in horror at what is happening, despite the fact that he is actually calmly trying on an engagement ring, carefully examining the carat. You can't say you didn't like it. But because of your admiration for the new decoration, you practically did not listen to what poor Leon was talking about.

"You know, I'll understand if you've never considered me as a husband."

"It just always seemed to me that you needed a mistress and not a wife. You never said you wanted kids. "

You intertwined your fingers with him to calm him down a little. How grateful he was now for the support provided.

"This is problematic. Because of my job. I love you, but I wouldn't force you to do anything. I'm still a little scared of what I'm saying. Some agents have kids, hell, the B.S.A.A guys quietly start families because they get paid well, but when they die… what's the use of a hero father if he's dead? The choice is yours. If you ever carry my child, then I will do everything so that he lives in a safe world, at least on an island of tranquility without bioweapons and other shit. I may often not be around, but I'm willing to try. I no longer want to lose my happy future with the woman I love because of the bastards who think they are the rulers of the world."

Confusing and at the same time understandable. Leon has conveyed to you his thought, his dream, leaving you the right to choose. He was so afraid to look at you that he was surprised when, instead of fright or horror, he saw the serenity of a real angel holding his hand.

"What do you think?" - He asked, and you giggled merrily.

"I think you should wear a bulletproof vest." - Frank laughter rang through the apartment. And you moved to Leon's lap with the grace of a cat, touching the sensitive skin of his neck with your lips while he held you under his hips. - "I don't want to become a widow, but you'll have to run away from my father's bullets when he starts shooting at you with his hunting rifle."

Leon smiled cheerfully, putting his arm around your waist and forcing you to look at him.

There has not been a single boyfriend of yours who has passed a strict paternal check regarding the future spouse for the only daughter. It was a fucking test that no one could pass because you were still considered a little girl.

"We will resolve this issue. Your father is hardly more terrible than a Tyrant." - of course, you had no idea who it was. - "Can I take your answer as an agreement to become Mrs. Kennedy?"

"Perhaps." - You hung on his neck, admiring the two blue pools, and touched his lips with your feather-light kiss. - "But that means we won't have a big wedding, right? Like it's dangerous, I'm a big government agent about whose personal life no one should know, even the president himself. - You merrily parodied the timbre of his voice, realizing how ridiculous it turned out, but you both liked it."

"Yeah"

He was so vulnerable stroking your thighs. The realization that he can't give you what you want…Leon felt a stone of guilt fall on his shoulders, crushing him painfully. All he needs is for you to be happy and then he will be too.

"Well, it's not scary at all!" - You still continued to wrap your arms around his tense body. - "But you didn't just ask me about the honeymoon, did you?"

"This is what I can give you. I am not sure that it will last a whole month, but we will take everything from it."

All the light from the lungs seemed to have disappeared. Your joyful face can bring a dead man back to life! And Leon really came to life feeling like shit a little less.

"However, if you have deprived me of a bachelorette party with sexy strippers and a wedding cake - although no, we will order it anyway - I reserve the right to choose the place of our vacation on my own!"

"Anywhere angel. Even to a remote village in Spain"

Your eyes sparkled cunningly foreshadowing an exciting journey. Leon needs to listen more carefully from now on about your new hobbies.

______________________________________________________________

Claire laughed out loud as she turned over the card, on which Leon's handwriting had written one:

"When I agreed to a honeymoon in Peru, I did not think that I would spend hours looking at the Maya and the Inca skulls! Marital duty is not a soft bed in an expensive hotel, but a trip in the style of Lara Croft and Indiana Jones!

P.S while I'm writing this, I have to keep an eye on my wife so she doesn't break her neck climbing the fucking pyramid."

#leon kennedy #leon scott kennedy #leon kennedy x you #leon s kennedy #leon x reader #leon kennedy x reader #leon s kennedy x reader #resident evil #resident evil x reader #reader

[2996-sana]

Roommate Chronicles

Y/N couldn't help but feel a tinge of apprehension as they were introduced to her new roommate, Roseanne Park. Jisoo, their mutual friend, had insisted that Rosé was a great person, but the initial encounter left Y/N questioning Jisoo's judgment.

"Hi, I'm Y/N. Nice to meet you, Rosé," Y/N greeted with a friendly smile.

"Hey," Rosé replied, her voice laced with a hint of aloofness as she gave a nod of acknowledgment.

Moving into the shared apartment did little to thaw the icy atmosphere between them. Conversations were scarce, and when they did occur, they were brief and laced with an uncomfortable chill.

"Hey, do you mind if I borrow your hairdryer?" Y/N asked, hoping to break the tension.

"Sure," Rosé replied, handing over the hairdryer without making eye contact.

Y/N couldn't understand why Rosé seemed so closed off. They wanted to bridge the gap and establish a connection.

"You know, we should try to get to know each other better," Y/N suggested tentatively.

Rosé looked up from her book, her eyes briefly meeting Y/N's. "I guess we could give it a shot," she replied, her tone softening slightly.

Days turned into weeks, and as they settled into their routines, Y/N and Rosé found themselves sharing more moments together.

Y/N, while preparing dinner, said, "So, what's your favorite food, Rosé?"

Rosé, cautiously, responded, "Hmm, I don't know. I guess I like Korean barbecue."

Y/N smiled and suggested, "We should go out for barbecue sometime! It'll be a good chance to bond."

Surprised by the invitation, Rosé replied, "Yeah, that could be fun."

As their conversations grew, Y/N discovered that Rosé's quiet demeanor masked a world of thoughts and emotions.

Excitedly, Y/N shared, "You won't believe what I learned in my Political Science class today!"

Rosé, genuinely interested, asked, "What was it?"

Their discussions became more frequent, ranging from light-hearted banter to sharing personal anecdotes.

Teasingly, Y/N remarked, "You know, Rosé, for someone who seems so aloof, you're actually pretty funny."

Rosé chuckled softly and admitted, "Yeah, I guess I have my moments."

Jisoo and the other friends noticed the slow progress between Y/N and Rosé, but couldn't resist playfully teasing them.

Teasingly, Jisoo remarked, "You two are practically inseparable now. Are you sure you're just roommates?"

Blushing, Y/N replied, "Come on, Jisoo, don't be ridiculous!"

As their bond strengthened, Rosé began to show her care for Y/N in subtle ways.

Touched, Y/N asked, "Wait, did you leave this note on my desk? It's so sweet."

Trying to downplay it, Rosé responded, "Oh, it's nothing. Just thought it might brighten your day."

Despite these gestures, doubt still lingered in Y/N's mind.

Confiding in Jihyo and Mina, Y/N shared, "I can't shake off the feeling that Rosé actually hates me."

Reassuringly, Jihyo said, "Sometimes, people struggle to express their emotions. Give her a chance, Y/N. You might be surprised.” During spring break, when their friends all left for their hometowns, Y/N and Rosé found themselves alone together for an entire week. It was a chance for their dynamic to evolve. During spring break, when their friends all left for their hometowns, Y/N and Rosé found themselves alone together for an entire week. It was a chance for their dynamic to evolve. Y/N, coughing weakly, said, "I think I caught a cold, Rosé. Ugh, this is terrible." Rosé, concern evident in her voice, replied, "Oh no, that's not good. You should rest and take care of yourself. Is there anything I can do to help?" Y/N, surprised by the genuine concern, smiled weakly, "Thanks, Rosé. That means a lot. Could you bring me some hot tea, please?" Rosé immediately sprang into action, returning moments later with a steaming mug of tea. She handed it to Y/N, saying, "Here, this should help soothe your throat."

Y/N, touched by the gesture, said, "You didn't have to do this, but I appreciate it. You're being really sweet." Rosé shrugged, trying to hide her blush, "Well, it's not like I want you to be miserable. Plus, it's what friends do, right?" The word "friends" lingered in the air, and both Y/N and Rosé felt the weight of its significance. As the days passed, Rosé took on the role of caretaker, making sure Y/N had everything they needed to recover. Y/N, looking up at Rosé with gratitude, said, "I didn't know you cared about me. To be honest, I kind of thought you hated me. "Rosé's eyes widened with surprise and a hint of pain. "What? No, why would you think that? I might not be the best at showing it, but I do care about you. A lot." Y/N, her voice filled with vulnerability, confessed, "It's just... You've always seemed so distant, and I couldn't help but wonder if I did something wrong." Rosé sighed and sat down beside Y/N on the couch, their shoulders almost touching. "I've always had trouble expressing my emotions. It's not that I don't care, it's just... I've been afraid to let people in. But with you, it's different. You're different." Y/N turned to face Rosé, her eyes searching for the truth. "Different how?" A soft smile graced Rosé's lips. "You made me realize that it's okay to let someone in, to care about them. Being with you has changed me, Y/N. And I don't want you to ever doubt how much you mean to me." Tears welled up in Y/N's eyes as she reached out to hold Rosé's hand. "I'm sorry for doubting you, Rosé. I'm just grateful that we had this time alone together. It made me see a side of you I never expected." Rosé squeezed her hand gently. "Don't apologize. I should have been more open with my feelings from the start. But now, I promise to do better." In that moment, the walls between them crumbled, and their connection deepened. They realized that beneath their initial misunderstandings and guarded facades, a beautiful friendship had blossomed. From that day forward, Y/N and Rosé's apartment was filled with laughter, genuine conversations, and a newfound understanding. They had come a long way from being mere roommates to becoming confidants and best friends. After spring break, when their friends returned, Y/N and Rosé joined the group for a gathering at Jisoo's place. Laughter filled the room as they shared stories from their time apart. Y/N and Jennie seemed to be in deep conversation, their voices hushed and smiles exchanged. Rosé watched them intently, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, trying to decipher the nature of their conversation. Lisa, noticing Rosé's contemplative expression, couldn't resist teasing her. "Hey, Rosé, seems like Y/N and Jennie are having a good time. Are you feeling a little jealous?" Rosé's eyes widened, caught off guard by Lisa's remark. She quickly averted her gaze and scoffed. "What? No way. I'm not jealous. They're just friends, right?" But deep down, Rosé's heart clenched with jealousy, even if she didn't want to admit it. Y/N was important to her, and the thought of someone else getting too close made her feel uneasy. Meanwhile, Y/N and Jennie continued their conversation, unaware of the turmoil it stirred within Rosé. Their voices were laced with laughter and shared secrets, their camaraderie apparent. "You know, Y/N," Jennie said with a sly grin, "I think someone might be a little bit jealous." Y/N furrowed her brows, pretending innocence. "Jealous? What are you talking about, Jennie?" Jennie leaned in closer, lowering her voice playfully. "Rosé. She's been watching us with that intense look on her face. It's obvious she doesn't like sharing your attention." Y/N's eyes widened in surprise, a blush creeping up her cheeks. They stole a glance at Rosé, who quickly averted her gaze, but not before Y/N caught a hint of a pout on her lips. Trying to keep the situation lighthearted, Y/N smirked. "Oh, really? Well, I guess I'll have to pay her some extra attention then." Jennie chuckled, enjoying the playful banter. "Go ahead, make her jealous. Let's see how she reacts." With a mischievous glint in her eyes, Y/N moved closer to Rosé, her voice intentionally loud enough for her to hear. "You know, Jennie, it's been really great talking to you. But I have to say, there's someone else who's been occupying my thoughts lately." Jennie's eyes widened, realizing the extent of Y/N's playful act. She played along, nodding knowingly. "Oh, really? And who might that lucky person be?" Y/N glanced at Rosé, who was now listening intently. She smiled, her voice gentle yet intentionally audible. "It's Rosé. There's just something about her that captivates me. Her smile, her talent, her caring nature... I can't help but feel drawn to her." Rosé's eyes widened in surprise, a mix of emotions flickering across her face. Y/N's words hung in the air, causing a brief pause in the conversation. Jennie, sensing the weight of the moment, nudged Y/N lightly. "Well, it seems like you've made quite the confession. Now it's up to Rosé to respond." Y/N turned to Rosé, her voice softening. "Rosé, I hope you know that everything I said was true." Rosé stared at Y/N, her expression a mix of surprise and vulnerability. Her voice trembled slightly as she found the courage to speak. "Y/N, I... I didn't know you felt that way. I've been so afraid to let my guard down, to let you see how much you mean to me. I like you Y/N, in ways I can't fully express." The air around them shifted, the unspoken tension now replaced with a raw honesty that brought them closer together. In that moment, the weight of their unspoken feelings dissolved, replaced by a newfound connection and understanding. Y/N reached out, her hand gently touching Rosé's. "Rosé, I don't want to play games or hide our emotions anymore.”  From then, their apartment became a sanctuary of shared laughter, affectionate gestures, and whispered confessions. Y/N and Rosé's dynamic transformed into something beautiful and undeniable. They spent countless evenings curled up on the couch, engrossed in deep conversations and discovering new sides of each other. Rosé, once aloof and guarded, now opened up, allowing Y/N to witness her vulnerability and genuine warmth. Y/N couldn't help but marvel at the way Rosé's eyes sparkled when she talked about her passions, the way her laughter filled the room, and the gentle touch of her hand as they intertwined their fingers. In return, Y/N shared her dreams, fears, and aspirations with Rosé. She found solace in her presence, knowing that Rosé would always be there to support and uplift her. One evening, as they sat side by side on their balcony, watching the sun dip below the horizon, Y/N leaned her head on Rosé's shoulder. Her voice was soft, filled with gratitude. "Rosé, I'm so grateful for you. You've shown me a kind of love and understanding I never thought possible. You've changed my life in ways I can't even express." Rosé turned to Y/N, her eyes shimmering with affection. "Y/N, being with you has brought a lightness to my heart that I didn't know I was missing. You've taught me how to love and be loved, to embrace vulnerability without fear. I'm thankful every day for the chance to be with you."  Their once-distant hearts had found their forever home in each other's embrace, forever grateful for the serendipitous twist of fate that had brought them together.

#blackpink scenarios #blackpink x reader #blackpink imagines #rosé x reader #Rosé imagine #blackpink imagine

[teaberrii]

Chapter Twenty: The Ex

Alhaitham has the looks and the smarts. He will also be the stand-in CEO for his grandfather's company for a year.

But, he's been mysteriously cursed to turn into a cat every night since his eighteenth birthday… until he meets you, an employee at his grandfather's company, who rescues him as a cat and changes him back with one kiss.

Alhaitham/You

Notes:

Cross-posted on AO3

Female reader

Chapter index at the end of chapter one

Thoma is driving Ayato home from the hospital that night when Ayato's phone goes off. When Thoma glances at his friend in the rearview mirror, Ayato is already talking to the person on the other end. The call is brief, but from the look on Ayato's face, it isn't good news.

When Ayato slips his phone back inside his pocket, Thoma asks, “Is everything okay?”

"...The lead role they offered me went to someone else."

The car slowly rolls to a stop at a red light. “Is that… bad news? I thought you wouldn’t take it.”

Ayato sighs. “I was seriously considering it.” He looks at Thoma in the rearview mirror. “You were right. I am using acting as a lifeline… but even so, I’m not doing a good job.”

“...Ayato.”

“And this call just proved my point. I know who took the role.” When Ayato tells Thoma the actor’s name, Thoma also knows who he’s talking about. A rising, young actor whose career took off when he had a supporting role in a major drama production that became extremely popular.

“Answer me honestly, Ayato,” Thoma says as the car rolls forward. “Do you really want this role? This is your last chance. If you really want it, you need to say something. There's a chance they'll reconsider."

Ayato doesn’t know what comes over him, but it’s as if Thoma’s words are the final push that leads him to make the call.

“...Yes,” Ayato says after a moment. “I’m willing to audition if that’s how they’ll make the final decision.” As soon as Ayato gets off the phone, he glances at Thoma, who has a small smile. Ayato looks out the window. “You asked me if I want to continue acting, and I do. I don’t hate it. I don’t love it. Regardless, I want to do better.”

And, he might find a more meaningful purpose behind it.

◆◆◆

You’re on a small coffee break with your coworkers the next morning when they bring up Alhaitham dropping out of the panel to determine the company’s next big production. One of your coworkers nudges you.

“Do you think you got lucky? You don’t have to make a big presentation in front of the CEO.”

If only they know you’re dating him. Alhaitham never told you he dropped out, but you can already guess why. And, if you're right, it’s a smart move.

“Are you nervous?” your coworker continues to ask. “It’s coming up in a few days!”

“Well, I’ll put my best foot forward. That’s all I can say.” Then, you pick up your coffee mug and walk out of the lounge, leaving your coworkers wondering what kind of interesting idea you’ll present this time.

You’re about to reach your desk when your phone buzzes. Once you take it out of your pocket, you see that it’s a message from your manager.

It’s urgent. Come to my office now.

What is this about?

When you reach his office and close the door behind you, he doesn’t even gesture for you to sit down.

“Is something going on between you and the CEO?”

You’re so caught off guard by the question that you say the first thing that comes to mind. “What?”

Then, he turns his laptop around and plays a short video that shows Alhaitham coming out of a room. Shortly afterward, you come out of the same room. “This was at the Awards Night, was it not?”

There is only one reason you can think of why that video exists. You remember the crazy reporter and his malicious intent of giving people keychains or charms with a small hidden camera. But… even if someone caught you and Alhaitham… who would blackmail you? And why?

Regardless, nothing could’ve prepared you for this, and you’re at a complete loss for what to say until you finally gather your nerves.

“Nothing happened that night,” you say. “Who sent this?"

"It was sent anonymously."

You almost roll your eyes. Right. Of course. 

"Isn't this illegal?" you ask. "Filming someone without their permission?"

As you listen to your manager talk, you start wondering if he’s worried about you or the company’s reputation. You agree that a CEO dating an employee doesn’t sound professional and can lead to a whirlwind of gossip. But that shouldn’t be any reason for you and Alhaitham to break up. 

“Do you know if anyone else has this video?” you ask. "Because I didn't know about this until you told me."

“I don’t, and I hope no one else does."

You want to ask if this is such a big deal. There's nothing scandalous in the video, but perhaps it's about the speculations. The rumours. Even though you're not a public figure, Alhaitham is. At least with his tenure as CEO. If it comes down to it, you or Alhaitham might have to clarify what you two were doing together.

Once you leave your manager’s office, your phone buzzes. It’s a text from Alhaitham, and you quickly enter an empty meeting room to take his call.

“...I saw the video,” he says after listening to you recall what happened with your manager. “It was also sent to me.”

Well, that's just great. Does that mean the rest of the company has seen it, too?

“Did that person want anything from you?” you ask.

“...No, surprisingly.”

That's strange. You’d thought that this person would demand money, at least.

"Let me get this straight," you say. "They just sent you a video and... that's it?"

"I have my speculation. We obviously have more questions than answers, and perhaps this is what they want."

"Playing mind games, huh? That's dirty."

“Regardless, whatever the reason, I won’t let them get away with it.” Alhaitham looks out the window. “I won’t let anything happen to you. I promise."

As you're heading back to your desk, you go through all of your emails on your phone. Apparently, this person is too cowardly to contact you directly. You're so busy on your phone that you don't notice Ayato and Childe walking toward you.

"Busy, busy, I see."

You look up upon hearing the familiar voice. “Ayato!”

Childe frowns. “Aren't you forgetting someone?"

“And Childe.”

“That’s better.”

You look at Ayato. “What are you doing here? Another shoot?”

"Some last-minute touches," Ayato says. "But… you might see me less often from now on."

You’re about to ask why when Childe spills the beans. “Just between us… he’s going to be busy rehearsing for a lead role.”

“A lead role… that’s huge!”

Ayato smiles. “I guess you can say I’m finally taking a step forward.”

“We’re going to be losing one of The Strays pretty soon,” Childe says. When you smile, he does too. “Well, you finally smiled.”

“Hm?”

“You looked a little down,” Ayato says. “Is everything okay?”

“...Ah. Well, sort of, I guess,” you say quietly. You lower your voice, and after telling them what happened, both of them look baffled. Then, Childe’s expression turns stern and Ayato frowns.

"That's ridiculous," Childe says. 

“As… crazy as that sounds,” Ayato begins, “You’re in good hands if Alhaitham is dealing with it.”

You sigh. “I know. But still… I’m just… a little rattled.”

“Well, it’s not just Alhaitham who has your back,” Childe says. He and Ayato look at each other. “If anything happens, we’ll be there for you. And if it’s any reassurance, I didn’t get that video… which means I doubt anyone else has gotten it, too.”

“...I hope so.”

“My, what a crowd.”

You recognize the voice almost immediately. When you turn around, your guess is right. "Kaeya!" Tighnari is beside him, holding a laptop. “And Nari!”

“Hiya.”

Kaeya’s eyes don’t stay on you for long. He glances at Childe, who’s looking at him with a small frown.

“Today is just full of surprises,” Childe mutters.

Kaeya chuckles. “You’re right. Good surprises, though.” He looks at Ayato. "You must be Kamisato Ayato."

The two men shake hands as Ayato says, "Yes. And you are...?"

"Kaeya. Kaeya Alberich."

“What brings you here?” you ask.

“We had a meeting for Sumeru Geographic,” Tighnari says.

“It couldn’t have been online?” Everyone turns to Childe.

Then, you and Tighnari glance at each other. In an attempt to break the semi-awkward silence, Tighnari says, “In-person meetings are usually better, don't you think? You get to see everyone's faces.” When Childe frowns at him, Tighnari wonders if he said something wrong.

“Lumine told me you aren’t coming to the party,” Kaeya says. “It’s a shame.”

You look at Childe as he says, “Oh, don’t worry. I’ll still be there. Maybe just not in the way you expect.”

“...That doesn’t sound slightly threatening,” you say quietly.

Kaeya smiles. “Well, you’re always welcome.”

“We should get going,” Tighnari says. “We have another meeting.”

As Tighnari and Kaeya walk off, Ayato says, "He's quite charming."

“A fake pretty boy,” Childe mutters.

You and Ayato glance at each other, and Ayato swings an arm around Childe. You pat his back.

“So... about what you said earlier..." Then, you lower your voice. "Does this mean you're infiltrating a party as a cat? What an exciting life.”

“Truly living the dream,” Ayato adds. "It would make a great series. Childe's Catventures. A catchy title if I do say so myself."

Childe frowns. "Oh, I'm sure it'll be a hit until I claw someone's eyes out."

"Hopefully not Kaeya's," you say quietly, and Childe gives you a deadpan look.

As you and Ayato smile at each other, Childe’s phone goes off. You watch him answer it, and his face quickly turns serious.

“What do you mean we lost some of the footage?”

A pause.

“...Uh huh. Yeah.” Childe looks at Ayato. “Yeah, I’m with him right now. Sure. We’ll be right there.” As soon as Childe gets off the phone, he says, “One of the interns accidentally corrupted the audio file for the scene we just shot, and now there’s no sound. They’ve already tried fixing it, but nothing’s working.”

“I suppose this means we have to reshoot,” Ayato says.

Childe sighs. “Yes, but the problem is that the actress has already left. They can’t get in touch with her.” Then, he looks at you and smiles. “Do you happen to have time right now, Mademoiselle?”

“...You aren’t asking me to act, are you?”

“It's just a small scene. You'd be the closest person we have who can pass as the original actress." Childe gives you an innocent, desperate look. “Please?”

Can you really say no?

◆◆◆

It's the first time Signora has been to the CEO's office, but she has mixed emotions. Alhaitham had reached out to her directly, saying that there was a matter he wanted to discuss with her. The only problem is that he never specified what it was.

She knocks on the door. As soon as she hears “come in”, she opens it and sees Alhaitham sitting at his desk with a stern expression.

“...You wanted to see me?” she asks.

“Take a seat.”

When she does, Alhaitham turns his laptop to her and plays the video. “...This video was sent from your laptop.”

Not even five seconds in, Signora looks puzzled. “What is this?”

Alhaitham turns his laptop back. “You tell me. This was in my inbox this morning.”

Signora holds up a hand to stop him. “Hang on. You’re saying that someone sent that video using my computer?”

“...Are you saying you didn’t send it?”

Signora was walking along an empty corridor, looking for her way back to the main hall for the Award ceremony when she heard faint voices. When she looked around the corner, she saw Alhaitham coming out of a room. As soon as he disappeared down a set of stairs, Signora saw you walking out of the same room. S he raised a brow. Well, that wasn’t suspicious at all.

“I saw the news about that reporter hiding cameras in keychains he gave to people that night.”

“You took one from him?” Alhaitham asks.

“I had no idea there was a camera in there. So, when I saw the news, I had a friend look into it. He took the keychain apart and got whatever footage that stupid camera recorded.”

“...A friend?”

"I know he didn't watch any of it. I was with him."

“So, you never saw this video.”

“No," Signora says. "I admit I saw you and her that night. I never knew it was caught on camera.” She looks him in the eyes. “It wasn’t me who sent that video to you.”

“What about your friend?”

“...Dottore?”

When Signora stays quiet, Alhaitham says, “You look a little conflicted.”

“I don’t see why he would do this.”

Her guess is as good as his. Alhaitham hasn't the slightest clue about who this person is, but you must know him… right?

◆◆◆

You sigh out of relief as soon as the shoot is over. It's a small scene, but the mental fatigue is kicking in.

“Was this your first time in front of a camera?"

You turn to Ayato who’s still in costume. “Does posing for normal photos count?” you joke.

Ayato smiles. “You’re a natural.”

“Ah, you’re too kind, Ayato. But thank you. I did my best.”

“Well, I’d say you two are a hit.” Childe walks up to you and Ayato. “The director likes this better than the one that was originally filmed.”

“You also worked hard, Childe,” you say.

“It’s the first time I saw someone do a complete rewrite on the spot,” Ayato adds.

Childe waves his hand dissmisvely. 

Then, your phone starts going off. At first, you think it’s something for work. Well, you aren’t completely wrong.

Oooh, they’re cute!

I’d buy the snack they’re advertising hahah

They look good together

When you finally find the source of the comments from your colleagues, you're getting an influx of messages from people joking about whether you're changing careers or making your "much anticipated" acting debut. Someone had taken a short clip of you and Ayato together on set and shared it internally, getting tons of reactions.

Well, you guess it’s better than the other video going viral.

When you get an incoming call from Alhaitham, you quickly step aside to take it.

“...Do you know someone named Dottore?”

You stiffen at the name. “Why do you ask?”

After he tells you what he learned from Signora, your jaw almost drops. It sounds like something that only happens in fiction. You should know. After writing so much of it, after all.

Alhaitham says your name which makes you say, “I… yeah, I do know someone named Dottore.” You sigh. “...He’s my ex.”

Alhaitham unconsciously grips his phone tighter.

◆◆◆

You're heading to your school reunion after work, but your mind is on other things. Perhaps Dottore heard about you from Signora. You were also on TV. There was also the photo incident with Ayato. In other words, it feels like you're a public figure now with everything that's happened.

The thought of Dottore possibly stalking you is enough to give you goosebumps. Thinking back to when you first got together... he might've already shown some questionable behaviour.

It was like a scene out of a movie. Dottore had you caged against a locker in an empty hallway. Both of you had arrived earlier than usual for school. You were here to study at the library for your first-period test. Dottore was here to work out.

“I couldn’t hear you,” he said, leaning closer to you. “Could you say it again?”

You were a blushing, nervous mess. It only took about half a year for the guy you’ve been crushing on to notice you.

“...I… I like you.”

Dottore smiled, though it didn’t reach his eyes.  “I like you, too, kitten.”

Once the bus doors open, you quickly get off and head toward Lambad’s Tavern. You bump into Dehya on your way there, and you let her rant a little about what's been going on at work before she picks up that you seem a little off. After telling her what happened, Dehya is at a loss for words.

“Good God. That's like... borderline threatening."

"It definitely messes with your mind," you mutter.

“I agree he could've easily heard about you, but how would he know who your manager is? That's stalker behaviour."

You push open the doors to Lambad’s Tavern when you hear, “Oh, c’mon, Collei. Don’t be like that. We’re all old friends, aren’t we? Besides, he’s in town just this week!”

You face forward and you freeze upon seeing the red eyes that once made your heart race.

“Long time no see, kitten.”

◆◆◆

Back at the office, Alhaitham has just finished a meeting. He closes his laptop and rubs his tired eyes. Is there a possibility Dottore will show up at your reunion tonight? Just as Alhaitham mulls this over, he gets a notification that the semi-viral video of you and Ayato got taken down. 

You’d told him about it, including the story behind it. While Alhaitham is proud of you for stepping out of your comfort zone, he's bothered by the comments. You and Ayato look good together? Alhaitham takes that as you and Ayato are professionals. Still, Alhaitham sighs. Maybe it won't bother him as much if people know about your relationship.

How long will this secret relationship continue?

Bzzt. Bzzt.

Kaveh: Hey junior. Up for a drink tonight?

A drink, huh? That doesn’t sound like a bad idea.

Where?

Kaveh: Lambad’s Tavern 😀

Chapter Twenty-One

Tag list: @suoshiii @lordbugs @seirenspinel @lxry-chxn @sakiimeo @ash-in-lavender @ceylestia @deathkat657 @forsh4dow @kalpie @elernity @sentieence @chichibleeps @sunsethw4 @hjjks @nqctre @just-simping-over-genshin @tanspostsblog @uchihaeirin @vynbin @ayanokomu @dksfl920 @alatus1808 @itztaki @thetwinkims @imkaaayy @angeilix @starlighttotheleft @letthewindlead @thelonelyarchon @certaindreampost @winterpein @theprinceofkhaos @vvyeislazzy

#alhaitham x you #alhaitham fluff #alhaitham x reader #al haitham x reader #genshin x reader #al haitham fluff #al haitham #alhaitham #alhaitham x yn #alhaitham x y/n #genshin al haitham #al haitham x y/n

[ghostlyshellofapuppet]

141 x crafty gn reader

Ok it's only August but I've started thinking about what I'm going to make my family for Christmas to start early, and this fic mentions nothing about Christmas. Also I'm newer to writing so if you notice something weird or not good please leave something in the comments to help me get better

Price

• Doesn't know anything about crafts except how to make those ships in bottles, wood working and glueing things together. Can't even imagine being able to make the things you do, seeing the process and the finished results, Price wouldn't be able to finish it or think of that in the first place.

• Is very proud of you once he sees you finish something, still doesn't know how you do it, but very proud. Any paintings, knitted items, clay objects, wood burning pieces, anything you make he is complimenting. You put so much time, energy and thought into that and you made it, good job.

• If you need help with anything Price will try, he's not the most crafty person but he has very steady hands. But if you happen to need help with something wood, he's got you, it's in good hands. Price has been woodworking since high school and it's never left him since he used to make small things on missions when he had nothing else to do

• I feel like if he had to pick another craft to pick, he'd be decently good or pottery, give him a little bit to find what pressure to use when shaping but will eventually make a mug for you

Ghost

• As much as I want to say he's into crafts, I can't see it that well. Yes he can sew but anything other than that and it's kind of a mess, but he likes watching you work and your processes. Watching you being so focused on something you didn't even hear him walking into the room with a drink and food for you since you've been at this for hours, and he loves that you can just relax like this, ( if you have been on the edge of giving up on it), but please take a break, you haven't blinked in two minutes.

• Ghost will take you to craft stores and just wander around with you, he likes messing with those posable hand models. He will also happily buy you whatever you want/need, more wire, a cake decorating set or also long as you don't burn yourself a wood burning kit

•If you tend to have most of your best ideas at night he tries to stay up with you so you don't stay up too late, but he can be distracted if you try to make him help. If not he's checking the clock every five minutes trying to decide when would be a good time to stop you

Gaz

•Likes pottery but doesn't do it often, he doesn't have a place too. His mother has a pottery studio he can use if he's but most times he's on base or out on missions. He can do some designs on the pottery and has an eye for details but isn't great with a paint brush.

• Also likes seeing you make stuff, Gaz used to watch his mom make new mugs and plates for the kitchen and would sit with his grandma listening to her stories. He finds it relaxing.

• Would help you with anything, Gaz can do a good amount of small craft just from stuff he's picked up over the years. He can sew, build and design very well and would love doing projects with you. You want to build a new coffee table, he's already getting ready to go to the hardware store.

• Gets excited towards the end of projects, seeing everything come together after working on it is very satisfying for him, especially if it's something you or can use. Build a table, he can't wait to set his drink on it.

Soap

• Is very happy when he sees your crafts and will want to show you his drawing if your interested. You also paint/draw, he wants you and him to draw each other and trade them at the end.

• Probably ok at other crafts but still tries. Don't let him around hot glue or resin, he doesn't mean to make a mess but he does, resin is on the floor and he likes playing in the cooled down but still moldable hot glue.

• He's likes watching you make stuff if he's tired but would like to help if you're okay with it when he's more awake. If you want to do crafts without his help he's also good with just drawing in his book, probably drawing you.

• Will cheer with you when you finish a project, if you've been working on it for a really long time it calls for take out, a movie and possibly more art supplies.

If you made it down here thank you for reading and I hope you liked it

#cod x reader #fanfiction #x reader #simon riley x reader #john price x reader #kyle garrick x reader #john mactavish x reader #ghost x reader #price x reader #gaz x reader #soap x reader #cod #141 x reader

[sankttealeaf]

Do you think Gortash would be a good dad? I'm curious to hear your thoughts! Im wondering how he would even react to the news, If it were to happen accidentaly. I think it would be an ego boost for him? Or maybe even a turn on???

hi anon!!! ive had Thoughts about this!

i think he'd be alright as a parent. not great, but not completely awful. he's present, mostly! world's most mid dad. he has that on a mug he never uses.

for a man who ive always headcanoned to want to preserve his rule over faerun (and bane's grip on the land too), having kids is the next option because he'd be able to mould them to take up his mantle when he's gone. theyre just another step in his plan to keeping the world under his control. i think he would be thrilled to find out about it, and then something else would get his attention and it's pushed to the side until he can properly process it.

as someone who had an absent (to put it simply) parent growing up, theres always that lingering fear that i would end up just like them and i think thats the case for gortash as well. humanising him for a second, there may be a part of him that keeps his distance because what if, yknow? sending his child off to be looked after by nannys and other staff while he stays at the opposite end of the building to get work done. that way nothing bad can happen to ruin his well crafted step by step plan in keeping rule over the world. okay done humanising him, back to evil now

i think as the kids get older and become more curious about things he may take more of an interest then. you cant really... do much with babies. hes not about to babble at them or play with them, but a toddler who wants to explore and look at things? come along, child. let me show you some machines you are way too young to be near.

definitely calls them child or boy or girl. thats kind of funny. also could be projecting on how raphael treated him growing up in the house of hope. thats less funny.

teaches them the ways of bane from the moment they can start to understand words. ik theres studies(?) out there saying u should talk to your young kids like normal to help with their vocabulary and gortash definitely does that. this man cannot do baby talk. he sits with them over dinner discussing politics and leadership. bedtime stories? no, no, he's telling them in depth political moves hes planning on doing

ive specifically thought about this in terms of my durge, rue and gortash, and how its a good ending for him but a bad ending for her. its a vague au in my head right now but man. who let the bhaalspawn and banite have kids?

that poor child. as well loved as a child growing up in a political atmosphere with an emotionally distance mother & a father whos only taking notice of them when theyre old enough to start properly learning things can be... thats gotta be a rough childhood...

#; tea time #anon #bg3 #enver gortash #man i think about him way too much #worlds most mid dad is the funniest way to describe him #hes a boy dad in my eyes #though the thought of him being forced into tea parties with a daughter... #or the intense storyline of the dolls shes playing with. he might enjoy that #but in all my headcanons i picture him with a son #idk! #im still vaguely thinking about the rue & gortash ending where they marry and have kids #they have a daughter in that au #thanks for asking!! i love thinking about this awful man #(and projecting onto him)

[whatevermywpis]

Can I req a oneshot for unnämed? I'm dying for fluff and compliments rn so if you can include that in it then I'll be giggling kicking my feet and shit. Uhfhjddgn as for the plot...go wild dear. Thanks for reading this and if you do pick it up then I hope you'll be giggling kicking your feet and shit at it too lmao 😭

Oooo even though it’s not what I would usually write I do understand the appeal~ ^^

𝙿𝚑𝚘𝚝𝚘𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚙𝚑𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚛𝚝

𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Fluff

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: Unnämed.

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐞: On.

𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞: Oneshot.

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐬: They/Them.

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: Soft kisses while in bed, pictures of someone so beautiful, and just a generally very chill day for the both of you..

Your photographs on the floor

Their heart and yours are captured in a single shot.

More under the cut ^^

Is it the smell of their perfume that woke you up or the way they're hugging you so tightly right now? Today's morning was cold as well, you don't mind that it's comfy and nice under the stack of weighted blanket. Slowly you stopped feeling sleepy and decided to wake up and leave the bed so as to not-

“You’re leaving so early again… stay?” Peaking out the blanket still looking sleepy was your best friend, sometimes you wonder if you had spoiled them too much.

“I can’t~ besides it’s my turn to make breakfast this morning, remember?” Despite saying that you can’t bring yourself to leave the room just yet, not without admiring their cute sleepy form, and apparently this just put you in their perfect timing as they grabbed from the blankets. “Hey!”

Despite still not wanting to wake up yet they still had the strength to pull you from where you stood, as you pouted pulling their cheek they swatted your hand away in a half awake manner. They’re ridiculously adorable for someone so beautifully hot, it makes you a bit jealous of your best friend however you do think that you’re already lucky for having them as a friend.

On the table next to your small shared bed was your camera, as well as the photos you took from yesterday, colors swirling in the cards which looked so beautiful. So as they fell asleep again you quietly took a picture of them and walked away. Truly you’d never think there would be a day you would be this close to your muse if it had been you from years ago… you’re kind of happy that you at least became a close friend of theirs.

Maybe you got lost admiring the photo but you were quickly pulled out of your trance by the beeping alarm clock, groans were heard next to you reaching out trying to shut the clock up, but all they managed to do was knock off some of the photos and blank films. Shaking your head seeing as how silly they were you turned the alarm off for them before leaving the room.

Scrolling through your phone nothing new seems to be showing up, the same old thing going by, nothing really piqued your interest, with the coffee machine being the noise to cut your silence you sighed at the otherwise loneliness of yours.

The way you see the world is like how your father did, a place full of colors that needed to be captured, so that was what you did, you took pictures of the world. Some joked that you were like a thief stealing colors from the world but really it's just a few pretty photos in your eyes, photography was a love you shared with your father.

Taking your coffee mug in your hand, you moved into a different room along with the photo you took this morning. Shuttering the sound of your camera slide out another photo in black, giving it a quick flutter a flower appears in the frame. The colors which are so vibrant on every petal copied onto the smaller frame in your hands, the photos you took.

In your photo album, the colors leaked out into the real world as its own world, the space you created taking the colors of the real world yet somehow something felt missing in those pages. The colors that swayed you could never compare to that feeling in your heart.

“They’re lovely..” the vibrancy of your album dulled in their presence, hair messed up from sleeping, weird but cute pjs, and honestly they’re as beautiful as the devil. “So this is why you left me~? To take pictures so early in the morning?”

click

“Maybe~?” You took their photo as they stood staring at your album, that gentle smile could never be replicated no matter the angle or lighting, perhaps even when you have the best of the best, it's just not the same as the real thing.

Your one and only muse, your best friend whose colors are so unique there’s only one of them in this world, Man how did you get so lucky? You were everything they could ask for from a friend, but you knew you could have been more, you could have done so much more for them.

“Hey! What did I say about taking pictures?” Quickly hiding the photo into your pocket, you tried to pretend you didn’t knew anything and played dumb. “Come on now, don’t play dumb with me sweetie.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about” taking the camera out of your hands while you were distracted, they held it up trying to take a photo of you as well.

“Stand still now~” you photo being taken as you tried to reach for your camera from them, like a melody both of your laughter created a song.

The warm and gleeful smile of theirs was something you never plan on breaking, not even the colors you took can replicate the beauty they possess. You reached for your camera however unsurprisingly they just held it higher and over your head, they were just that adamant about getting your picture just like how you took theirs.

Your blurry colors in the photo as a result of you reaching out for that camera, they were a bit upset they couldn’t take a clear photo of you the way you did to them.

“Here let me show you.” Steady you helped them position the camera and very rarely you smiled into the lens, click. Your photo looked good enough but it was dull, but you knew it wasn’t theirs nor the camera’s fault, you were naturally dull looking after all.

“It’s beautiful, just like you.” You could never understand what type of beauty they saw in you, what was it really?

Unlike the vibrant colors of your flowers, or the soothing colors of your paintings, even the colors of your coffee mugs, you had nothing but the dullness of the world.

“Smile, it makes you look lovely.” Surrounded by your photos on the wall, the colors reflected off them by the sunlight lit up your boring room. In the middle of it you smiled for their eyes and their eyes only.

“There we go..”

At the edge of your world, you stood staring at the dead stars in the sky, a moonless night led by the stars made you feel quite lonely tonight. You hated your life so much at this point it's not even funny to joke about anymore, the dark colors of clouds began to gather plunging the colors in grey, black, and white. The world just grew lonelier with each passing second, it was also getting colder for you too.

You felt hopeless, you felt betrayed, you felt sad... so what if you got lucky and didn't need to do much to achieve something? It still hurts to even live like you do, living in fear and pain, the photos have all but lost their worth to you, perhaps you could trade all your luck for a normal life? Because if it was possible you would have done so in a heartbeat.

As you sat there on the sands, the sea rose and fall back out like a rhythm, the quiet song of the sea longing for its moon. The unpleasant smell of cigarettes was in the air, and it bothered you a lot but you couldn’t say anything about it. Next to you a stranger about your age appears, cigarette in one hand, staring a far into the never ending view of the sea.

You appreciated the company, even when it probably wasn’t what they meant to do. But it really didn’t matter at that point for you both now did it? You both were at a stage of your life where things have reached rock bottom, or maybe that was just you, delusional you.

“Hey… you’re really quiet you know?” Looking into their eyes, it’s as if all the color in the world had dimmed, it’s just like how you imagined it.

The gentle winds continued blowing, but it was too cold for you, it was too cold just wearing a thin shirt and pants. The stranger tossed you their hoodie with cat ears, it caught you off guard for a second as you turned to them.

“You were shaking like a leaf, kinda stupid of you not wearing a jacket when going out here.” It was warm… it was suddenly so warm.

Unknowingly it had probably been a while since a total stranger had treated you this nice, your tears spilled out of nowhere catching yourself off-guard, the warmth you never knew you missed so much. You couldn’t stop crying like a child, why couldn’t you do so?

The stranger only continued smoking, sitting there staring at you crying, they remembered when they were like that once, having been through a lot and just wanting to break down. You were so vulnerable to a complete stranger that it baffles them a lot, don't you know that they could just take advantage of your situation?

Still, they didn't say anything, just letting you silently cry your heart out to the sea, and for a while, it felt as if you both were in a world of your own.

"Sorry to bother you like this... you probably didn't need to see this, it was a bad idea to come here for me." you couldn't bring yourself to put on the hoodie so you just hugged it instead, the smell of cigarettes still heavy in the air.

"It's no problem... We all have that moment in life when we need to just let loose, you chose to be here alone to do that didn't you? I should be the one apologizing for choosing to sit here." throwing the bud away into the crashing waves you couldn't care less but only continued looking at the moonless skies.

"It must have been the same for you if you're here as well huh?" With a small nod from them, lying down in the sand you both looked up at the starry night sky, there might be no moon, but instead, you witnessed a beautiful starry sky.

"Wait you still kept these photos? It's been a while." Curios to what they were saying you peaked over their shoulder to see the moonless sky in a photo.

"They were pretty so why not?" the photos of the night you both first met, the memory of your breakdown, to be honest, you wondered what happened if you hadn't met them.

"You're lying~ you wouldn't keep these certain photos in a different album for no reason." You snapped your head back as they said those words, the album in their hands was the one you thought you had hid really well. "Glad to see your skills only continued to improve the way you wanted it to."

"How the hell did you even find that one?" quickly snatching the album out of their hands you flipped the pages checking if you had lost any of the photos, thankful nothing seemed to have been lost.

"You're terrible at hiding your stuff." turning back at them from the quick tap you took the photo they took from the album. “The sea has so many deep secrets that’s hard to understand, yet I understand my sea just fine”

You smelt the unpleasant smell of cigarettes once more in your little space, turning at them you only saw them tuning their guitar. It was nostalgic having this smell in the room, even when you learnt how much you hated the smell of it.

“You know, there was something you said on our first meeting that kind of stuck out to me.” Their arms around your waist, head on your shoulder looking at you decorating the album.

“And it was?” You could feel their smile as they bury their face into the crook of your neck.

“Well…”

“I want you to be there when I die.” You turned to them confused by what they were saying, the cigarettes in their hand have long but extinguished.

“Wouldn’t you rather a loved one was next to you rather than a total stranger?” You can’t help but stare at them sighing, their tired eyes looking at the skies above.

“Now why would I want mourning? I’d rather have someone who would be happy for my choices” the smile on their face, a sad smile, a tired one.

“…If you’re dying then at least make sure to compensate me while you’re still alive, until the day you decide to do so.” The shocked look on their face, that strange expression you rarely see from other people… “starting now then.”

The camera you bought along you was some how of use right now, you took a photo of the sea and skies, you wanted to see what they would say, how they would react. They laughed, it was kind of like pure joy type of laughter, but maybe it was just you and not what they meant when laughing like this.

“Alright then, it’s our little promise.” The child-like glimmer in their eye as they help up their pinky finger, playing along you hooked it with your finger as well. “I trust you will keep your end of the promise, my lonely sea”

“ you’re creepy.” However you can’t deny the butterflies in your stomach, especially now that you’ve gotten a better look at those ocean eyes of theirs. “Don’t die on me so soon, my lovely moon..”

“Cheesy”

“Who started it first then?”

I had no idea what I was writing pffft, I’m not really good at writing but thank you for trusting me to write this.

-au-chan.

#unnämed x reader #unnämed #u-san x reader #x reader #vtuber x reader #u-san

[epithet-beloved]

Parental/Mentor Naven Headcanons mayhaps? 👀

MENTOR NAVEN NUKNUK

synopsis… Headcanons on what Naven is like as a mentor figure!

ft. Naven Nuknuk, Yoomtah Zing (mentioned)

tags… mentor/menteé dynamic, reader is a student teacher, author is projecting real hard, epithet erased spoilers, but only if you squint

word count… 691

a/n… I DON’T PLAAAAY WITH MENTOR NAVEN!!!! As a student teacher myself, i’m so projecting here… live laugh love the 9–5 isn’t worth it <3 ✧ 🦝

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 You’re Naven’s teaching assistant.  Being a teacher is DIFFICULT if you have no training, so he’s relieved when you, a student teacher, volunteer to team-teach interpersonal communications with him.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 He may be your mentor, but honestly there’s a mutual benefit to your dynamic.  He shows you the ropes of a work day, and you ease his anxieties about teaching his preferred subject.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 There’s an image in my head of you showing Naven lesson plans and he just pales.

“...W-What’s a unit of learning, may I ask?  Hm…  Is there a real difference between key concepts and key skills?”

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 All these terms are so new to him.  Honestly for a hot second it’s more like you’re mentoring him.  

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 The more you get used to your workflow and dynamic, the more his side of the mentoring comes in.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Naven may seem like a doormat to strangers, but he always knows just what to say and do.  If you’re anxious, he senses it, and he talks you through whatever it is that’s stressing you out.  He’s a real comforting presence.  It’s like you can talk to him about anything.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 When you become more comfortable talking about personal lives, Naven is just full of whimsy and enthusiasm for certain topics!  He loves babbling about different teas, what books he read recently, where he and his wife went for dinner last weekend… Honestly, doing something unexpected as he rambles is the only time you can ever catch him off guard.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 That’s another thing.  He has eyes on the back of his head, you swear it.  You’re doing any kind of slacking off and he peers over at you with squinted eyes and a furrowed brow.  How can one side-eye with unopened eyes?  No idea, but he has perfected it.

“...You better not be checking your socials during work hours.  How do I know?  Hm, I’m just psychic!” He jokes with a giggle.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 When you’re in an office together, sometimes one of Naven’s new chauffeurs will swing by, speedwalking to his desk and lightheartedly lecturing him on how he forgot his lunch.  It’s rather amusing to watch.  Sometimes she’ll talk with you, but you know she’s just here for Naven from how impatient she is waiting for him.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 You wonder just how on Earth the guy can have so many chauffeurs in such a short time span…

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Naven is the king of silly little office games.  There’s this thing called ‘mugging’ someone, where you’ll leave a mug full of treats and nice things with a note saying they got ‘mugged’ and they’re now in charge of mugging someone else.  And to tell you Naven LOOOVESSS doing things like this.  He’s so cheesy, but he likes livening up the workplace you’re in with him.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Sometimes he’ll take you to STEM because a guy could always need an extra pair of hands!  He does warn you that his colleagues could be a little, ehhh, eccentric, but nothing his protegé can’t handle!!

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 You’re well taken care of in STEM, Naven makes sure of it!!!

“If you need me, do tell me!” Naven reminds you once more as you board the lift up to his office.  “I won’t know otherwise.  Communication is very important!  People… can sometimes be unprofessional.  It’s happened before, and it can happen again.  I wouldn’t want my favourite student to run into the wrong person!”

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Speaking of, he loves calling you his favourite student he’s as cheesy as a charcuterie board i swearrrrr…

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 If you’re inscribed, then he’s so interested.  He asks tons of questions, curious about what your ability does, how it affects you daily, etc. etc.  He’s so attentive, and it’s almost flattering how much he wishes to get to know you and help you out.

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Once you get close enough, Naven may invite you to work for him at STEM.  He trusts you, and he knows you’re a capable worker!  Plus, he can even provide accommodation if you live too far!

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 Really, how could you refuse when he looks at you so hopefully?  He knows you can make a difference, and he’ll pave the way for younger people like yourself to make it happen.

#🦝's writings #𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 request ! #epithet erased #epithet erased imagines #epithet erased x reader #anime campaign #anime campaign imagines #anime campaign x reader

[shade-pup-cub]

Febuwhump 2024, Day 9: Wind & Chain - Bees

Fandom: LOZ/Linked Universe

Summary: Determined to at least have a sip of alcohol after being told no, Wind sneaks a bottle of honey mead, not knowing that interior of the bottle was coated with raw honey. Wind knew he was allergic to bees, but not their honey... He should have listened.

CW: underaged drinking (a single glass), allergic reaction, closed airway

“Wind, put that down.” Time’s ‘Disapproving Dad’ voice was firm, face showing no give in what the youngest wanted to do.

Wind rolled his eyes dramatically. “Come on! It’s one swig!”

“No.”

Grumbling, Wind sat the pint of ale that he had been eyeing all night. He sat down as if he was a sack of potatoes being dropped into the chair next to Legend. He crossed his arms over his chest, giving the best mean-mug pout he could give.

“Got caught?” Legend snickered.

“What do you think? I’m a pirate, we drink!”

Warriors leveled the kid with a look. “Does Tetra allow you to drink?” Wind lowered his head.

Twilight ruffled the sun bleached curls, asking, “Why do you wanna drink so bad anyway? There isn’t anything overly grand about it and getting drunk can get messy.”

The youngest looked around the room, everyone relaxed and laughing, enjoying the rare chance to do nothing. “I guess… I don’t know. I just want to, to say that I have. To be like you guys!”

Eight heads turned towards him.

“Like us?” Sky asked first. “You think all of us drink or have drank before?”

“Haven’t you?” Wind tilted his head curiously.

Sky softly smiled. “Skyloft has a strict tradition of the first time you drink any alcohol, it is on your wedding day. It is part of the ceremony. The groom holds the cup for the bride to drink from, then the bride holds it for the groom.” He looked a bit too dreamy while talking about it. He was probably imagining his and Sun’s wedding that was going to happen the next time they made it back to Skyloft.

“Drinking is a big thing in my era.” Wars leaned back some in his chair. “You drink when you eat, when you have friends or family over, during formal gatherings and galas. Gets rather bland after a while.”

Wild did his own head tilt, but it was very wolfie like. “I wonder if that’s how it was pre-Calamity. I had a memory of being at a royal event and trying not to laugh at the face Flora made when she would sip the wine.”

“Have you had any since you woke up?” Wind was now interested in the others' thoughts.

“Today was the first time.”

“Aaand?” Wind bounced slightly in his seat. Wild gave the most stoic face, shoving the drink in his hand into Twilight’s chest. That answer was clear.

Taking a large swig of the new pint, Twi gave the same gesture to Wild with his empty pint. “I was raised by Humans, not Hylians, so I have a higher drinking tolerance. Especially since our drinking age is sixteen. What about you, Old Man?”

“Never.” The uproar that followed his answer had Time laughing. “We don’t have true alcohol in my era, but I have been drunk on multiple occasions.”

Still laughing, Wind asks, “On what, then?”

“Milk.”

Silence…

“Cryptic bastard.” Legend mumbled. “Only the nobles can afford anything worth the damn. Besides, I’m not old enough. Unlike Twilight’s early start, our drinking age is twenty-one.”

“So Fable drinks?” Warriors smiled, knowing he was going to get under the Vet's skin. “I’m sure she’s fun to be around after a few drinks.”

“Warriors, stay clear of my sister.” Legend growled.

“Sister? Wait, Fable is your sister?!”

With the new information being loudly discussed, Four and Hyrule made their way to Wind’s side. Four nudged the younger’s arm. “Drinking won’t kill you unless you are being irresponsible with it.”

“That’s anything in life.” Hyrule added, still laughing at Wars and Legend. Both had landed on the ground in a friendly rough housing fight.

Well into the night, Wind couldn’t sleep. He was homesick and nothing he did was helping him to keep his eyes shut. The others were no help with hoe some of them snored so bad they could wake the dead. He counted Seagulls in his head, but that just made him miss home more. Giving up, he quietly grabbed an extra treat Wild left in the room. It was thick caramel covered apple slices with a drizzle of dark chocolate.

With a bit more of a full belly, Wind yawned, but his mouth was now lined with the thick caramel and it stuck to his teeth. Something to drink would do the trick!

Tip toeing back to his bag, he snagged his canteen. Only issue was that there was nothing inside. Sitting that back down he looked around. They hadn’t restocked on water, teas, milk or anything else that served as a hydrator. But they did have a few bottles of mead…

‘Just a sip to get my mouth cleared.’ He kept telling himself.

A bottle of Honey Mead and a small cup later, Wind darted to the bathroom that joined the two large rooms they had rented out for the night and locked the doors. Looking at the bottle, it had a big honey bee on it. He hated bees!

Biting his bottom lip, he uncorked the dark bottle, poured half a glass and smelt it. His nose wrinkled at it, but it still smelt sweet from the honey. He shrugged and had it down in one. It had a subtle burn, followed by the smooth sweet honey.

He should have read the back of the bottle. Yes, the initial drink was made with honey, burning away the properties that Wind was allergic to. On the back it said that extra honey was added after distilled.

The door knob from the opposite room jiggled. “One minute!” Wind loudly whispered.

He was about to be caught. He put the cork back in the bottle, rinsed the cup out and was about to rinse his mouth out when he felt it. It was getting harder to swallow, harder for air to be breathed. He looked into the mirror, seeing the signs of an allergic reaction: neck and face puffing, skin reddened and splotchy, hives forming on his cheeks. The panic set in quickly, knocking over the glass he drank out of and it shattered all across the floor.

“Wind, are you okay? What just broke?” It was Wild.

“W-Wi-” He couldn’t get the other’s name out. His eyes watered in fear as he reached the door, fumbling to unlock it. He swung it open and was met with a very worried Wild.

“Wind! Holy Hylia, what happened? Did you get stung by a bee?”

Wind wasn’t even going to ask how Wild knew of that allergy. He took Wild’s wrist and pulled him into the bathroom. He wheezed as he presented the bottle he had drank from.

“You drank this?” Wild spun the bottle around, looking for anything he needed to know. “Shit Wind! It has raw honey in it.”

‘Am I gonna die?!’ Wind asked in sign.

“Not on my watch. Sit down, I need my slate.” Wind was grateful for the urgency behind Wild’s movements and his stealth. Last thing Wind wanted was one clothes, Time specifically, to wake up and see what had happened.

Though it was only a few seconds, Wind could no longer get air in. When Wild arrived back at his side, he slipped off the seat of the toilet, crashing into Wild.

“Wind? Damn it!” A pink fairy was released from Wild’s slate and she fluttered above the two until she swirled between Wind’s face and chest. He took in small breaths, eyes still as wide as saucers looking up the other.

Wild pulled out a Hearty Potion as he situated Wind into a sitting position. “Drink.”

Wind shook his head no. ‘Not one of those. We haven’t restocked!’

Wild rolled his eyes, pulling out a Fairy Tonic instead. “Drink or I’m forcing it down your throat.”

Wind saw the fire in Wild’s eyes and didn't go against him. He took a few sips until his throat loosened enough that he could drink the whole thing. He gulped in air greedily, leaning heavier into Wild’s side.

“How did you know?” He softly asked.

“Know what?”

“That I am allergic to honey and to bees?”

“As the designated cook, I needed to know if I should avoid making certain things. Your Granny told me about your allergies and your dislike the first time I got to see your world.”

“Oh.”

They sat there letting Wind gain his composure again before they needed to go back to bed. When that time came and the glass was cleaned up, Wind grabbed hold of Wild’s hand, silently asking to not be left alone. How could the Champ say no? He couldn’t. And if anyone asked about why Wild and Wind were sharing a bed, the answer was that Wild had a nightmare.

~

“Who drank some of my mead?!” Warriors asked as they packed up the rooms.

“No one drank your nasty bottle of honey mead.” Legend waved a dismissive hand.

“Vet, did you drink it?”

“I just said it was nasty and you think I did it?”

“Yes!”

As the two bickered over who did or didn’t drink Warriors alcohol, Time stood next to Wind and asked in a softer tone, “Wind, did you have anything to do with this?”

Wind turned his eyes up towards the eldest all innocently, saying, “I’m allergic to honey.”

#ao3 writer #febuwhump 2024 #febuwhump #hero of winds #short #sweet #silly #linked universe #lu boys

[crisalidaseason]

Greetings for you

I came here from your platonic posts and wanted to say thank you for writing stuff like that, I get pretty tired of searching the tags and finding nothing but porn. I don't know if you are receiving questions but I really wanted to see your take on platonic relationship with Levi, as a brother or a best friend you choose

Say nothing more, platonic Levi is my passion. Hope you enjoy it! Also, sorry for the delay, I almost had my liver stolen by a duende.

Platonic! Levi x reader

Cw: canonverse, Levi is traumatized, Levi is a little bit parentified, reader is portrayed as being younger (a cadet), attempted funny moments, Levi is a bit of an old man at heart

He is a tough cookie. He is difficult to connect with, his personality is not the most pleasant and he is demanding. Which means you won't have special treatment in the beginning and much like everyone else, you feel a little intimidated by Levi. But, you also noticed that he is not disrespectful, nor does he abuse his power over the cadets. Despite his mean first impression, Levi seems to be a man of honor and values and that sparks your curiosity to know him better.

Connecting with Levi is possible. Hange did it, everyone can do it. But he has a soft spot for people who enjoy tea time -and also knows how to brew it correctly - he likes silent companionship and quality time. He is not against people around him, but he likes a calm and quiet ambiance. He likes strategy games but not many people play with him and that's how you strike his interest.

"I've been playing for a few years now" he would say whenever you lost the first few rounds "have patience, I can teach you some tactics"

Whenever the night is difficult for both of you, tea and a tactic game is your bonding time. He did teach you some important observation skills that only an experienced captain would acquire. He is a good teacher, patient and precise with his words, but he also learns with you. Levi never seemed to underestimate anyone despite his mean face and scary aura, he always treated you and the other cadets as fully capable of things.

Levi is very observant, but a bit confused with the younger cadets actions and even expressions. Whenever the teenagers he is unfortunately taking care of come up with a new stupid game or an out of pocket gossip, Levi looks at you with the "what the fuck is happening" eyes. You explain to him, but he remains confused, shaking his head as if he was dealing with idiots.

You make him tea before your sleep curfew. Levi is a difficult person to change routines, but you try to introduce him a new kind of tea once in a while. In the beginning he would look at the mug with utter distrust, taking an almost inexistent sip and taking a bit too long to give you a final judgement.

"not bad" he would say "but I still prefer black tea"

And then he would come out of nowhere one night and ask:

"do you still have that lemongrass tea from a few weeks ago?"

Levi is a very disturbed man, but he learned not to show. Even his night terrors are contained. Unfortunately that strains him in many ways. He is constantly under a chronic pain from muscular tension. Because of that, he is quick to notice when your own feelings start to spill on your physical health.

"the doctor is in our base this week, go" he would randomly say to you one morning.

"but-"

"it's an order from your captain, go"

When your personality is down, he also notices. Despite him never being able to open up, he is a good listener and he is also good with advice. It's not pretty, he does say things you don't wanna hear, things you need to accept before it consumes you, but he waits for a better moment to tell you. When you're emotionally devastated he just listens, offering you a tea or any other beverage of preference, scheduling specific work activities he knows you enjoy doing. Levi is discreet with his help, making it seem like you just trauma dumped on him.

"I'm sorry, captain. Didn't mean to just rant about my life"

He would dismiss your worries with a hand gesture.

"it's not good to keep it in, it lowers your performance on the field"

He lies. You know he keeps everything in, but you appreciate him wanting to help you.

He hates messy places, and you often try to clean things before he arrives. Unfortunately Levi is extremely particular with cleaning and you accepted that he will end up finding something wrong. Levi does take time to teach you though, even if he ends up doing it himself later on (when you're not watching). It's a psychological thing.

"tsk, I'll have to teach you how to mix up bleach"

"cotton rags is for wood, newspaper for glass"

"Come here, I wanna see you doing it"

"Yes, circular motions, softly. You're cleaning, not sanding the dust off.

"NO, don't touch the bleach without gloves!!"

Whenever your squad goes to town and Levi is there, he looks like a dad monitoring a toddler. Cadets are rarely granted free time to wander around and you kinda go overboard on visiting shops and squares.

"you have one hour to return to our meeting place or else I'll hunt you down and make you clean the basement with Jaeger"

He ends up either staying nearby or straight up following you if something is off. He is paranoid ok? Give him a break.

He is such an irritating injured man. He hates being reminded of meds time, wound cleaning. He does it all, but complaining the entire time.

"captain, the more you let the nurse change the dressing the faster you heal" you try to convince, but he still frowns.

The good side is that he has more time to play games and rest. But at the same time you become his messenger bird.

"deliver this to Hange, but only to Hange!"

"fiiiineeee"

He does it on purpose, you think. Just to make you leave and stop watching over him all the time.

If you're injured, he is equally as insufferable. Asking the nurse to check on you hourly. Making you drink atrocious potions he bought from the market. He might think Hange is insane, but he looks just like them while threatening you to drink from the spoon.

"it's just medicine! you either drink it or I'll force it down your throat"

Such a sweetheart isn't he?

#levi Ackerman #levi x reader

[catharsis-in-darkness]

Grief of Hearts Pt. 1

pairing: Ricky Olson x OFC Iris

warnings/tropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers, angst, fluff, smut, language,

summary: Iris' passion has always been passionate about music, specifically her band. What happens when she gets to open for her favorite band of all time and finally gets to meet her heroes?

author's note: enjoy this emotional rollercoaster yall

word count: 1011 words

Iris Hart

"Ya know I was thinking about it, and I think we should try to do some more ballads Riri." My best friend Nora told me from her place sitting at her drum kit.

I looked at her and raised my brow.

"What happened to 'oh my god Iris I want to hear you scream your lungs out, this song is too soft'??" I mocked her in a high-pitched tone.

"I'm just saying," She shrugged.

"Our most popular songs have more singing in them than screaming. Maybe we should try to do it more."

"I think she might be right Iris." Arlo said while grabbing his guitar from its stand.

I let out a groan. I have nothing against them wanting to do a different style of song, I just don't want to completely give up our bands sound to be popular. From the start, this was never about becoming famous. This has always been about making music that's genuine. I heard a scream making me flinch.

"WHAT'S UP BITCHESSSS!!" Carter, our bass player yelled walking into the garage.

"Do you have to do that every time?" Nora asked with a mug on her face. I let out a laugh and gave Carter a hug.

"Yes, Yes I do." He smiled innocently.

"Honestly, it keeps things interesting." I chuckled.

"Whatever, let's start with Psychopath." Nora said rolling her eyes.

"So I've been writing this song, it needs a little work though. I feel like the verses and chorus don't mesh well." I told the group as we sat in my basement. I pushed my hair behind my ear, grabbing my notebook showing them the lyrics. Before anyone could say anything, I was interrupted by my phone ringing. Our manager Asher was calling.

"Hey, Ash what's up?" I asked as I answered, putting him on speakerphone.

"Okay, so BIG news! I have a tour lined up for you guys!" He stated excitedly.

"Really with who?!?" Arlo asked.

"The one and only, MOTIONLESS IN WHITE!!!" Ash practically screamed through the phone.

We all gave each other excited glances.

"THE Motionless In White, wants us on tour with them?!?" I asked, my heart beating faster than it ever has.

"YES!! The tour starts in a month. I guess, Chris heard Ten Thousand Screams and wants you guys to open for them!!" Ash told us.

"I mean obviously we're gonna say yes! Right guys?" I asked before seeing everyone else looking at me with disbelief.

"Okay, Perfect! I will let them know you guys are in! I'll send you updates!" Ash said before abruptly ending our call.

"Guys... WERE GOING ON TOUR!!" I screamed before jumping around excitedly.

"OUT OF EVERYONE?!? MOTIONLESS FUCKING IN WHITE WANTS US TO TOUR WITH THEM?!?" Carter screamed.

"WE MADE IT GUYS!!" I yelled before forcing everyone into a group hug.

"You guys are literally so dramatic." Nora said pushing all of us off of her.

————————————————————————— Chris Motionless

"So, I found this band. They're called "Grief Of Hearts" and they're really fucking good." I told all of the guys, while we were at practice.

"No shit! I've heard of them, their song 'Psycopath' is so fucking good!" Vinny said while looking at me with wide eyes.

"I've invited them on tour, so hopefully they'll be willing to join!" I exclaimed. Vinny looked the most excited, while Rick, Ryan, and Justin looked confused.

"Let's hope they're actually good..." Ricky said, looking away from me.

—————————————————————————

Iris Hart

"Hey Guys! I just wanted to come on stream to give you guys an announcement!" I smiled at all the people commenting.

"We are officially going on tour with Motionless In White and Knocked Loose!!" I let out.

"Starting September 16th, We will be opening for the Scoring The End Of The World Tour!!!" I exclaimed. My heart was racing. We have never been apart of something this big. Yes, we have done many shows, but nothing this fucking huge.

"The guys and I will be giving you guys updates! So stay tuned, and make sure to follow us on all of our social media!" I told them, before reading some of the comments.

"Honestly, I've never been this nervous for a show before. I know we're just openers, but this is huge for us!" I said, replying to a comment.

I stayed on the stream for a little longer before ending it. I honestly couldn't believe I would be touring with my favorite fucking band. I'll finally be able to meet the men that quite literally saved my life.

—————————————————————————

"Okay, we've got everything?" I questioned. I don't want to have to come back and knowing these dipshits something will be left behind.

"We're all set!" Arlo told me.

"I'm 90% sure we're not missing anything!" Carter said.

"90 percent?" Nora asked with her brow raised.

"Yes Nora, 90%. If anything's missing I will personally pay for it." Carter smiled at her innocently.

I rolled my eyes at them before starting the GPS towards Scranton. It was longer than a 24hr drive, so hopefully I wouldn't lose my mind making it there.

"Arlo, you're okay switching out halfway through right?" I asked skeptically.

"Yes, of course! Anything to get away from them." He said, side eyeing Nora and Carter who were arguing over who got the back seat.

"EVERYONE SIT YOUR ASSES DOWN!" I yelled startling them. They slowly made their ways to their seats. The small sprinter van we rented wasn't much, but it fit all of us. That's all that we needed. Something reliable and spacious. Honestly, we needed something a bit bigger, but we couldn't afford much. I'm praying to whatever or whoever is out there, that this trip won't send me on a psychotic break.

With that, I started the long ass drive from Colorado to Pennsylvania. The lovely sounds of my band mates filling my ears. I connected my phone to the car, playing 'Bleed the Freak' by Alice in Chains trying to drown everything out. I cannot wait to get the fuck out of this van, even though we just got into it.

Part 2

#motionless in white fanfic #miw fanfic #ricky olson fanfic #ricky olson x ofc #fanfiction #fanfic

[a-simple-imagine]

In the Company of Ghosts

Synopsis: Katherine Howard takes a particular interest in the latest crew member of the divorced, beheaded, live tour.

Pairing: Katherine Howard (Six the Musical) x gn!reader (or OC)

Words: 18.1k+

A/N - its finally here. the story I've talked about for months!!! Obvious this is just my interpretation of the queens based on all the UK tour shows i saw and backstage. a few moments mentioned in here actually happened, guess which ones? I was vague with descriptions and katherine isn’t as bubbly as you might be expecting so keep that in mind.

TW - swearing, vague mentions of abuse and past relationships, nightmares, panic attacks and a surprise kiss.

Katherine Howard didn’t like going on tour. she could understand the value in going but it just took a lot out of her both, mentally and physically. there was once a time when traveling and meeting new people was just oh so exciting but now she found particular comfort in the familiar. this was not her first tour nor would it be her last. they had been putting on this show for some time now and had built up quite a loyal following. some would say too loyal but that's the price of popularity. the other queens would stress the importance of telling their stories but surely most people, or at least the ones who care, would have seen the show by now. it's not like they tell the full truth anyway. just a prepackaged version they could fit into five-minute songs. suppose that was better than nothing. when she first found herself in this strange new world, Katherine spent a lot of time researching her past. it was hard. there was not a lot compared to some of the other queens. and from what she could understand many painted her poorly. so many years passed and still so few believed her. That had been how Parr had convinced her to put on the show; it was a chance to tell her story the way she wanted. Katherine liked singing and dancing, she used to spend a lot of time practicing before she went to court. and then there were parties and such. often with these tours, they would work to keep the crew the same assuming it was possible. it was simply easier that way. the occasional fresh face amongst the sea of familiarity. she's gonna have to learn some new names. if not just to be polite. she doesn't mind. it's the least she can do.

it's the first stop of the tour. a relatively small theatre that only seated around seven hundred people. they had performed in bigger and smaller. Katherine much preferred a smaller space, it made the performance feel more intimate. the start of a tour is always a little awkward, it takes a minute to get used to being away from home, spending practically every day with the same handful of people, and having to perform seven shows a week. as much as Katherine would prefer to spend her time in the dressing room if she wanted to eat the only place with a fridge and microwave was the green room. on entering she finds Catherine of Aragon - Catalina - sitting on the sofa, a mug of tea or coffee in hand. at the table sits the newest member of the 'divorced, beheaded, live tour'. they are but a humble members of the technical team. neither is talking. they are both far too invested in their phones. there is a brief second where she catches the newbie's gaze, they offer a small smile but she simply pretends she did not notice; opting to seem distracted by the announcement coming through the speakers. She had nothing against them, she hardly even knew them after all, she just was not in the mood for small talk. she just wanted to eat before the show.

this stop was one of the longer legs of the tour beaten only by the holiday leg coming up in December; over a month in one place. most stops ranged from a few days to a week but they would be staying here for just under three weeks. they were still getting used to being around each other so much. Katherine spent a fair amount of time with the other queens so, for the most part, she was used to them. She knew their personalities and quirks far too well. she even knew the crew to some extent. but the newbie was a mystery. they have hardly interacted. they mostly keep to themselves as they work. then again, they had not even been together a week. their first interaction had happened randomly in the hallway. She hadn't been paying attention to where she was going and crashed into them. they kept repeating how sorry they are. it was fine. Katherine really did not care too much. it was only some water. why were they acting like it was the end of the world? they couldn't even look at her.

"It's fine, don't worry" Katherine assured them as nicely as possible. bending down, she picked up the water bottle that had crashed to the floor. "really," she held the bottle out for the other. "unlike Anne, I won't melt from just a little bit of water."

that was a joke; a bad attempt at breaking the tension. Anne was sure to get her back for it later should she hear about it. the other didn't so much as chuckle but they did take back the bottle. "thank you," mumbled out. "I'm really sorry, again." they scurry away before anything else could be said. Katherine wonders if the nerves are just part of them or, like some of their fans, it was because they were the stars of the show. they would have to get over that quickly if they wanted to stick around for the entire tour.

the end of the week approaches quickly and yet somehow still not quickly enough. it's a two-show day; they had just finished their early evening show. the crowd was surprisingly engaged. they were not always the best of crowds. never the same vigor as an evening audience. and Katherine is tired. She does not quite understand why she is so drained. this kind of schedule is far from new to her. it is the nature of this industry. and yet she sits at the counter in the green room, nursing her meal and drinking enough water to rehydrate a desert. surely, she would come to regret it but for now, it was hitting the spot. there are few people in here, others will arrive soon but for now, it was just her, the newbie, and two members of the theatre staff. in walks, Anne, wrapped up in a fluffy brown dressing gown and carrying Tupperware and a water bottle. she tosses the bottle on the couch and continues through the room.

"urgh," she groans loudly, drawing all attention. "i don't think i can keep doing this. it's killing me."

"you're fine," Katherine comments but Anne just shrugs.

"I'm never fine, I'm literally dying," a dismissive wave of her hand. She offered polite smiles to the theatre staff as she passed the table before placing a single hand on the shoulder of the newbie. they look up at her. "what are you doing after the show?"

they shrug a little. "uh... going home."

"few of us are going the social club," Anne asks; she was trying to organise drinks to celebrate the end of their first week of shows. Katherine wasn't too sure she wanted to attend. the other queens became even more of a handful when intoxicated especially Anne which is saying a lot. "you should come," the other queen continues, her hand drifting over their shoulder as she makes her way to the microwave. "I'm not gonna put it in the chat 'cause people I don't like will come," one of the theatre staff laughs. Anne must assume it's about her because she is quick to defend. "I know that sounds mean but it's true."

"i don't know,"

"I think it'll be good for you. you're always so nervous" Great job Anne. that'll make them feel better.

"Maybe," they sigh softly, awkwardly glancing at their phone and then back at Anne. it was nice that she was inviting them, if not a little surprising.

"Well, the offer is out there. come. don't come." the microwave beeps as she types in each number then springs to life. "it's up to you."

in the spirit of a successful week together, Katherine deemed it appropriate to join the other queens tonight. the social club is not a particularly fancy place; the smell of alcohol was strong when you step through the door. a small stage sat against the far wall, where a local band was just finishing setting up. Anne lead them through the slim crowd towards the bar. Catalina and Jane weren't in attendance and neither was most of the crew. she wonders if they were busy or Anne just hadn't invited them; safe bet that she was a little too picky about the company she kept. the bar is manned by a single young woman whose reading a book; Katherine couldn't quite see the cover. As she notices them she perks up, places her book down, and heads over. She presents a pleasant smile.

"quiet night?" Anne hums softly.

"you could say that," the bartender nods, a soft little chuckle. "got to find some way to kill the time, y'know," she shrugs. "what can I get you?"

they order a round of drinks before heading to a booth hidden away in the corner; pulling a small table onto the end. Katherine found herself nestled on the end beside her cousin. it wasn't that she regretted coming but the weight of the week was really starting to hit her. She is quiet for the most part, listening to those around her. and then she hears a familiar voice as someone approaches the table.

"sorry, I'm late." a phrase she heard often. it was the newbie looking a little flustered. Katherine hadn't expected them to actually show up.

"i didn't think you'd actually come" Anne comments quickly. a split second of silence before continuing. "not in like a bad way."

Katherine could practically see the wheels turning in their head. they regret coming now. don't feel welcome. she'd feel the same way. when they glance at her, she offers a small genuine smile; it seems to invite them to pull up a chair next to her and everyone goes back to their own conversations.

Katherine used to consider herself to be quite a social butterfly. any excuse to have fun and make new friends. she dreamed of the lavish parties and celebrations that came along with court life but reality had been a little different. now, she almost struggled with socialising when it came to new people. perhaps it was a subconscious coping mechanism; a beheading was enough to deter anyone from making new connections. somehow, she was still that young girl with a desire to be seen and heard while also being a completely different person. her eyes focus on the drink Anne had insisted Anna buy the newbie as they attempt to make conversation. occasionally she would nod a little to show she was listening. they speak with such a strange degree of care that it almost felt unnatural. She assumed they were just nervous.

it seems a week was more than enough time for a degree of familiarity to develop amongst the group. it makes sense considering a lot of them had worked together before; they just had to get back into the same old routine. of course, not everyone was comfortable being part of the team yet. Katherine almost felt bad that it was so obvious. almost.

"I'm just running to get some coffee... if anybody wants one?" it's announced to the whole green room but most people don't respond. Katherine catches their gaze for just a second and as they turn to leave she perks up.

"Can I join you?" Katherine asks, sitting up on the couch where she'd been chatting with Jane. they give a little shrug.

a dark grey sky accompanies the mass of people visiting the city center. it's painfully silent as she walks just a step behind them. katherine can't help but feel a tad unwelcome on this venture for coffee; she just wasn't a fan of the filter stuff the theatre provided. far too bitter for her sophisticated palette. her mind wanders to the streams of people around her. l

"-for tonight?" their voice pulls her from her thoughts, having only caught the end of the question.

"huh?"

"the show, today? Are you excited?"

now it's Katherine's turn to shrug. it had been a long while since she was genuinely excited to be on stage. She loved performing, truly, but nowadays it was more about comfort. if she wasn't on stage what would she be doing? She didn't have any qualifications or practical skills so many jobs were simply off the table. Maybe she could be in another show but that would be a lot of work. it took her long enough to get used to this show. plus, the others knew about her past which was so much easier than explaining to strangers why she wasn't always the best in crowds or how she didn't like to be touched. "I don't know if excited is the word I'd use."

"yeah... I figured," they glance briefly at her, nodding as if they actually understood the reasoning. "it's still pretty cool for me."

katherine smiled gently. this whole thing was still pretty new to them. obviously, she couldn't speak to their previous experience but she liked the think the show was exciting in the beginning. It's short and sweet with catchy songs that people of all ages seem to enjoy. even now, there was the occasional crowd that just possesses so much excitement, it was infectious. but they were far and few between so for the most part this was just her day-to-day and as far as the techie goes, their enthusiasm would die slowly. thankfully, the coffee shop was not too far from the theatre. a jingle rings out as the door scrapes open and they're greeted by a warm caffeinated embrace. an old gentleman stands in front of the till conversing with one of the two baristas on shift. Katherine's eyes immediately search out the menu decorating the back wall. What did she want? something sweet was always the way to go but there were just so many options.

"do you want anything?"

For a split second, there is a jolt of panic, Katherine shakes her head quickly. "I can get my own."

"no, it's fine. I don't mind," Stepping towards the counter, they exchange pleasantries with the barista before ordering two different drinks.  "what do you want?"

"you really don't have to," she tries again, they hardly know each other, and she didn't want them to think she expected free things.

"just pick something, the poor girl is waiting,"

"uh... a mocha then." Katherine states looking towards the other for some kind of reassurance that it was okay. "with salted caramel, if possible."

"with caramel too? remember who has the bigger paycheck here," the awkward little chuckle that follows their words makes her think it's a joke. at least she hoped so. maybe they were a tad more comfortable than originally thought. tapping their card on the machine, they move along.

"Thank you,"

They smile a little. "it's alright."

once again silence falls between them as they wait. Small talk really wasn't her strong suit and clearly, it wasn't theirs either. "So, uhm, whose the other drink for?"

"What?"

"the other drink? you ordered two, one is for you I assume so?."

"oh, it's for Parr." they respond. "she's the main reason I'm here."

Interesting. She had been expecting the name of another technician or manager; they all seemed to be a little friendlier. Katherine wouldn't dream of just asking one of them to go out of their way to get her coffee and she really hasn't expected it from Catherine. "you don't have to get her stuff, you're not an assistant,"

"It's alright," they shrug. "gave me an excuse to get out of the theatre, and now I can have coffee that doesn't taste like motor oil."

"you're too nice,"

"is that a bad thing?" Was it a bad thing? Katherine couldn't quite decide. there wasn't enough genuine kindness in the world but it was easily manipulated. give a little take a lot. stop for a quick picture and suddenly they're telling you their entire life story and asking for an autograph as well. "uh... Katherine?"

"hmm?" She looked at them but their focus seemed to be right past her.

"you might wanna look behind you." A slow turn of the head reveals two girls whispering in the corner. her brow furrowed in confusion about why she should care but then she noticed it. the t-shirt with 6 tiny coloured crowns. Guess they were fans. they turn away sharply when they notice her looking.

"they've been staring since they came in."

Katherine sighs softly. She didn't hate the fans but there was a time and a place that wasn't a random coffee shop during her break. still, she offers a smile which brings them over to investigate. they're cautious at first but their faces light up when they finally realise who she is. it's a slow few minutes as they gush over the show and queens, only interrupted by a coffee cup being shoved in her face.

"We should probably get going, sorry ladies" they insist. Katherine takes the coffee in hand. "show to do and all."

a smile that contrasted drastically with the disappointment of the two girls adorning Katherine's face. "I've really got to go, sorry," she isn't really sorry. "enjoy the show." and with that she scampers away after the others whose already on their way out the door. "thanks for that."

"no worries. I'm sure they could have gone on forever."

"you don't know the half of it," they chuckle slightly. once again they fall into silence, Katherine just a step behind as they make their way back towards the theatre with an ever-growing curiosity about the newest edition of the divorced, beheaded, live tour. such a small team of people means every absence is obvious so it was no surprise that they were greeted almost immediately as they entered through stage door. this was a prime example of when being nice backfires. another coffee was being shoved in her hand before she can even register what was going on. the techie being led away to do some last-minute checks before the show.

"thanks for coming along." called back to her. Katherine offers a smile as she follows along behind until their paths diverge. guess she was supposed to deliver Parr her coffee now? it's mere seconds before she hears her name being called. "I, uh... wanted to ask if you wanted to do lunch tomorrow? double show day after all." Katherine stares back like a deer caught in headlights. completely dumbfounded by such a simple invitation. "don't feel like you have to though- text me, yeah?" and with that they disappear once more, sure to be scolded for their tardiness.

Turning into the green room, Anne sits at the counter enjoying a bowl of something. "where's my invite to lunch?" Katherine ignores her, breezing past to spy Anna and Catalina sitting on the couches.

"Maybe we should all go?" Anna adds playfully. She chooses to ignore them all completely and just go find Cathrine. the dressing rooms sit down a long corridor of the green room. each door is adorned with makeshift name tags. A few knocks on the door to Parr's bring her into view.

"Coffee,"

"Why do you have it?"

"they had to go do something so I said I'd deliver it," Katherine replies.

"oh," there's a weird pause. "thanks."

the girl smiles, bidding her fellow queen goodbye as she heads for her own dressing room. the invite to lunch had been so random, she wasn't sure what to make of it. if it was going to be as awkward as the walk to and from the coffee shop, it didn't seem like something she wanted to do. she would rather eat alone than feign interest in small talk.

even to her own surprise, Katherine decides to accept the invitation for lunch. it would keep things civil amongst the group. she had to ask one of the other queens for their number. Anne was the one to remind her that they were all in a workgroup chat together but was nice enough to share since she had it saved. apparently, they had really bonded the first couple of days here. she wondered when they had the time for team building but didn't question it.

a cute little cafe filled to the brim with hungry customers is the destination for their early lunch. the fact that it was full was a good sign. "have you been here before?" she asks

"me? no, one of the ushers recommended it."

"cool," was all she could think to say. this was already feeling awkward and they still had a whole meal to get through. She had been expecting at least one of the others to be here; queens or crew alike. probably Anne but it was just the two of them. Katherine puts her nervous energy into grabbing a menu.

"can I ask you a question?"

She doesn't look up from the menu. "sure."

"did you always wanna be a performer?" seemed like a pointless question considering she had been doing this show for a good couple of years now. even the musical has a line about how much she likes singing. then again, they were missing the vital information about what she had been doing pre-smash hit west end show. she was just a dedicated performer with the same name as an old English queen.

a shrug. she used to just dream of going to court and serving the queen. being a good wife in the future. it's what was expected of her. Of course, plans changed and now she was here in search of new hopes and dreams. singing and dancing was just a skill from the past that came in use. "It's what I'm good at."

"yeah, but is it what you wanted?" was it what she wanted? it was hard to say when she never expected to ever be in this situation. having to make a living for herself. working with the other queens. it was a unique situation.

"did you always wanna be a techie?"

"god no." their response was so quick, Katherine lowered her menu to look at them.

"not what I was expecting."

Yeah... I'm not even sure I want to do it now."

her brow crinkled a little. dedicating your time to going on a year-long tour as a technician seemed like a pretty big commitment for someone who didn't want to be a technician. "you don't like working with us?"

"It's not that. I was late to the game in wanting to do this kinda thing so it's just a little disheartening how far behind I feel," they explain. "I'm also like stumbling through it so I feel more like a burden than anything else."

Katherine could relate. considering when she was born she was definitely a little older than most performers with the exception of the other queens. She also felt like she was completely stumbling through life; it had been a few years but there were still things she'd never seen or experienced before. "I'm sure you're better than you think."

"I can coil a cable and that's the most important thing, I suppose."

Katherine was about to respond when a waiter approached the table. she realised she'd been hogging the menu the entire time and yet hardly even looked at it; she ends up just ordering a salad out of sheer panic. everywhere had salads. she wasn't that hungry anyway. ?? Between the cast, crew and members of the theatre staff, it was a little cramped in the green room for lunch. the queens and crew mostly took up the couch while the staff all sat around the table. a clear divide down the centre of the room. Katherine was sitting at the counter awaiting the ding of the microwave as she picked up bits and pieces of the many conversations happening around her. Are you working tomorrow? Does anyone have a pen? I'd argue that's weirder. then there was the newbie who was positioned between Catalina and Jane, nodding along as they stared at a phone screen.

"fuckin' hell," abruptly leaves their lips. they clearly hadn't meant to say it out loud as they look around to evaluate the situation.

"what's up?" Jane wonders.

"just people being unreliable," they huff, showing their screen to Jane.

"oh, sweetie,"

"What happened?" Catalina is the next to ask.

"my Airbnb just cancelled," they declare. "so guess I'm gonna be homeless for the next two weeks."

"you've got a couple days, maybe you can find somewhere last minute?"

"Why don't you stay with us" Anne suggests brightly, turning to look sharply at her. Katherine frowns a little.

"Are you sure? I don't wanna impose."

"no, it's totally fine. we have a spare room, right Katherine?" Katherine felt her jaw tense. she couldn't exactly say no or she would look like the bad guy here but she also wasn't entirely comfortable with the idea. most eyes in the room fall on her as they all become invested in the tales of the homeless techie. by some miracle, the microwave finally dings and she's quick to turn and collect her food.

"Are you staying far from the venue?"

"homeless but still picky," a playful comment from Anna.

"it's not far," Anne continues on. "like a fifteen-minute walk."

"if Katherine's okay with it..."

she had hoped if she just didn't engage they would stop including her but all pressure once again fell on her. picking up the Tupperware, Katherine slowly turned back around and presented them with a closed-lipped smile. expectant eyes all stared back. "uh..." she really wanted to say no. it wasn't her fault the Airbnb cancelled so why was she suddenly the one forced to accommodate? She wanted to be comfortable in her own space and that was harder with a complete stranger staying in the other room; well not complete stranger but still. "sure. it's fine with me."

"i feel bad."

"why? it's totally fine."

"Are you really sure?"

with a heavy sigh, Katherine grabs a fork and makes her way back over to the counter. no, she wasn't sure. but that didn't matter anymore, she had already agreed. it was the right thing to do.

"yes." Anne declares happily, "your staying with us."

"thank you."

"Maybe I'll even get a brunch invite now,"

they audibly groan. "you're never gonna let that go, are you?"

anne's shoulders rise and fall in a shrug. "I think it's cute that you went on a date with our little Katherine."

katherine kept her head low, focusing on the meal before her but a sinking feeling crept into her stomach. it wasn't a date... was it?

"not a date." they urge.

"it definitely was."

"Anne," Jane's voice is firm but calm and Katherine glances up to see the other girl put her hands up in surrender.

"I'm not doing anything."

"It's fine," they insist. "I'm starting to get used to it."

it wasn't a show day but Katherine still found herself wandering around the theatre. their first show was a couple of days away and there really wasn't much to do around here, not alone anyway, and she liked the get the lay of the land at every new stop. being back at her digs was proving less than favourable when Anne and the newbie seemed to be getting along like a house on fire. this theatre had a cafe that was open to the public although today it seemed to be particularly empty. she got herself a coffee before deciding to head for the auditorium. Katherine stared up at the stage, it always felt a little weird seeing it so dark and dull... and then a light pops on. and then another. her eyes scan the room and to her surprise, she comes across a familiar face. they wave a little when they seemingly spot her.

"hey," just when she thought she's escaped them, they end up here too. Katherine walked the length of the auditorium to the lighting desk; waving a little as she goes. "what are you doing here?"

"what are you doing here?"

"playing with the desk," they answer honestly. "I got permission as long as I don't mess with the pre-sets. you?"

"i just needed to get out of there,"

"fair," they nod a little. "bummer that you ran into me then." Katherine let the question hang in the air, turning her attention to the lighting desk. it was all a mystery, an assortment of buttons she never got to press. "do you want a go?" Katherine hesitated before nodding. "okay great." they shuffle aside, urging Katherine to take the centre spot. she let her fingers trace over the buttons. it was an entirely different world from back here. "have you done anything like this before?"

"nope,"

"during the show, the lighting is cued so it's mostly a case of hitting the button at the right time."

"oh, so you guys basically don't do anything?"

"funny," they huff out a laugh. "you see the overhead lights?" she looks up in the direction they're pointing at the four lights pointing towards the stage. "let's just fuck with those for now. they're numbered so if we do..." Katherine watches them proceed to press a variety of buttons as they explain to her what they're doing. "it really is as simple as typing in exactly what you want. each light is numbered and then if you press at full it's gonna be as bright as can be and so forth." that made sense. it all seemed pretty simple but then again she wasn't the one actually doing it and there were still a bunch of buttons she simply didn't use. "oh you can also change the colours, depending on the type of light so if you just put in the number and then press enter, it'll show you what colours make up the light. adjust the percentages, adjust the colours." she nodded a long. this was perhaps the most confident she had ever seen them, especially around her. It seemed they were really in their element here. "how about I give you a situation and you light it? just basic colours, I'll even be the model, if you want?" Katherine isn't feeling too confident about being left alone with the desk and that must have shown on her face because they immediately backtrack. That confidence faltering a smidge. "we... don't have to."

"no, it's not that-" they had seemed so excited when explaining what to do, she kind of didn't want to disappoint. She was also worried about breaking something and ruining the entire show. "let's do it."

an eager smile is quick to appear. "great- let me get in position." she watches them scurry off down the aisle and climb onto the stage; that was definitely not the correct or safe way to enter the stage. "who should I pretend to be?" Katherine shrugs. "should I do one of you guys?"

She thinks on it a moment but ultimately she had no answer. She had no clue what she was doing or where this was going if she was being honest. "uh... who do you like best?"

"What?"

"whose your favourite queen?"

"That would be like asking me to choose my favourite child," they answer, a playful smile gracing their lips. the pace the length of the stage before turning back. "I think I'd make a mean Anna."

a strange tug in her stomach. that definitely wasn't the answer she had been expecting, Anne maybe, that made sense but Anna? now she couldn't help but wonder where she sat on the list. Anne was the fan favourite, everyone knew that, it was that way as far as history goes and the same for the show. Katherine knew she was popular to some degree but often the meaning of her song seemed to be completely overlooked. most didn't care for a message, they were just there for a good time. "let's go with Anna of Cleaves then."

"so we want warm colours like reds or oranges but not too intense. think you can do that?"

Katherine gives a firm nod before looking down at the desk. she had no clue. "maybe."

"how does her song even go again? sitting here all alone..." The words to get down fall from their lips in what Katherine would describe as a casual speaking tone. it was like background noise for her panicked attempt at working the desk. "are you okay up there?"

no. "mhmm,"

"do you want some help? I went through things pretty quickly so I wouldn't be surprised if you were a little confused, I would be."

"uh..."

"so do you remember the numbers?" Katherine nods. that was perhaps the only part she remembers, each light has a number and there is a small lighting plan next to her. "just take it one light at a time. "turn them on at full so they're as bright as can be." okay. she could do that. she types in each light number alongside 'at' and 'full' which brings up the four lights at the front of the stage. the newbie stands under the lights, arms wide. "now just change the colours. type in the number of the light and press enter then the colour wheels should show up."

"okay, i got it." Katherine takes it one light at a time as they flounce around the stage speaking the words to get down. She decides to do the four lights in alternate colours. red. orange. red. orange. it takes her a minute or two but there is a sense of pride when she is done.

"how's that?"

they come to an abrupt stop centre stage to admire her work. "perfect. I wanna make a change though."

"so not perfect then," Katherine insists.

"it's just what I asked." They place their hands on their hips in some kind of power pose. "we're just gonna tweak. it's a lot of colour so let's change that to warm white." Katherine nods. "do you know what I mean?"

"not really."

"then why nod?" Katherine shrugs. She did have a basic idea. warm colours were like reds and yellows whereas blue is cold. warm white she assumes is just a creamy white but she didn't want to say that in case she was wrong. "so we have open white, warm white and cold white. open is kinda generic white lighting. cold lighting is a little harsher and warm is more soft and cosy."

"so you want me to make some of the lights warm white?"

"yes," with complete disregard for health and safety, they jump down from the stage and come running to her side. Katherine takes a clear step to the side to allow them better access to the desk. "so to make things easier it's usually better to take away than start from nothing so what lights should we make white?"

Katherine shrugs. "does it matter?"

"not really," they insist. "just pick two of them."

"let's go with the two in the middle."

"Okay," they adjust the colours so that the lights return to their original state.. "so just adjust those two to be warm. think... bright and sunny." they flash a smile before leaving to run back onto the stage. "how is my anna impression going?"

"you're doing great,"

"oh yeah?"

"mhmm, the fans would love you." Katherine calls out before turning her attention back to the lighting desk. "think you could do a whole show?"

"oh definitely," they reply.

"get back on your mark then, Anna" Katherine scolds.

"Sorry," hands up in surrender, they stumble into position. "I'll be good."

"so... I would just take away the blue and green, right?"

"try it." super helpful. Katherine sets to work messing with the colour wheels; it made sense to start with the blue and then green. red was warm so it can stay. "paid for with my own riches. where my hounds at? release the bitches."

"woof" Katherine yells out with a bright smile. it just felt right. "how's this?"

hmm, they glance up. "a little too warm but still pretty solid- I like it. it really compliments the orange."

"Really?" She hadn't meant to sound so surprised. This was just new to her so she can't imagine being any good.

"yeah," they nod, walking up to the edge of the stage. "you're so good at this. you ever think about becoming a lighting technician?"

"you gonna go on as me, every night?"

"I'll... give it a go- for sure." They sit on the edge of the stage and slide down to the floor; beginning the journey back to the desk. "might have to give me some tips."

"I could do that," Katherine turns to look at them standing just right behind her. "I think you'd make a great Katherine"

"Well, thank you but I don't think I'm quite as talented as you are."

"don't say that,"

"why? it's true," their brow furrows. "there's a reason I'm stuck behind a desk instead of belting out show tunes."

"without you. there would be no show."

"no. Without you, there is no show. without me, they'd just get someone else to push some buttons."

"nonsense," a dismissive wave of her hand. "you're important to this show," she could tell they still didn't believe her but she wasn't lying. maybe they see themselves as another clog in the machine but out of everyone here, they'd made the most effort with her. sometimes Katherine wishes she was the girl she used to be. that confident, friendly girl who could make friends with anyone and nobody treated her like some delicate little bird who would break if they so much as look at her the wrong way. "at least to me you are," her voice is quieter now, dropping her gaze.

"what do you mean?"

She didn't want to continue. Why didn't she just keep that to herself? "I just... you're- I mean, out of everyone you've really made an impression on me. I talk with the others but they just don't treat me the same way you do."

She dares a very quick glance at them to see a small smile. "and I appreciate you." a gentle tap to the end of her nose, she takes an abrupt step back. at least they didn't ask her to elaborate. "I really admire your courage. it takes a lot to get on stage and sing like you do- about what you do. and I'm happy to have some small part in that." Katherine's expression softens, and she looks at them properly. " plus you don't think I'm weird and I appreciate that."

"didn't quite say that," She teases, returning their smile. a genuine smile, that spreads over her lips and brings a rush of heat to her cheeks.

"should we leave before we end up breaking anything?"

"you don't trust me?" Katherine inquires.

"I don't trust myself," they correct. jumping down the step, they start leading the way backstage. "let's go." Katherine steps down and follows after them.

"Are you finished?"

"here? yeah. I gotta grab some stuff before heading back though, so I'll meet you back home?" it's posed as a question but Katherine doubts it needs an actual answer.

"see you later."

It's a few days since her tech lesson in the theatre and Katherine was feeling more comfortable with her living situation. She no longer actively avoids being in the shared space. In fact, some small part of her wanted to seek out their company.

it had been a long opening night with just about everything going wrong in one way or another. Firstly, the show started late, which wasn't their fault personally but the theatre staff were trying their best. the general public can be complicated and entitled. Not to mention that there were an unusual amount of latecomers so the doors did nothing but swing open every five minutes. And what crowd they did have was quiet; painfully so. You could have heard a pin drop in that auditorium. One of the microphones glitched during House of Holbein. Parr managed to slip on confetti during the mega six. It didn't help that she just wasn't feeling herself. Katherine wanted nothing more than to go home to bed. Hiking her bag further up her shoulder, she bid a quick farewell to stage door before pushing through the door. She could hear the fans before she could see them but she never expected there to be this many. every pair of eyes instantly locked onto her and they started closing in fast. Katherine took a deep breath but anxiety flooded her veins; she suddenly felt really warm and clammy but it was fine. This was fine. They just wanted to say hi. She could do this. She plasters on a fake smile and grabs the first pen in sight, signing a purple programme. And another. And another. With each one done, two more popped up. three more. she was surrounded by them. each person getting closer... and closer... until time stopped. What was happening?

thump. thump. thump.

was that her heartbeat? it was getting louder. and louder. and louder in her ear. it felt like it was trying to break out of her chest; she couldn't breathe. Katherine stumbled backward to try and find something to steady herself but instead, she collapsed against the wall. falling to the ground, hand clamped over her chest like it would keep her heart inside. faint voices drowned out by her heartbeat.

thump. thump. thump.

Was she having a heart attack? Was this the end for Katherine's Howard? dying alone outside a random theatre's stage door. It was a kaleidoscope of blurry images before someone came into focus.

"Hey Katherine, are you- I think you're having a panic attack," A panic attack? It couldn't be, this felt worse. Through teary eyes, she looked up at them in time to notice their hand coming towards her slowly. She flinches instinctively and they stop. Her head falls to rest against the wall as she struggled through rapid breaths "Katherine" their voice felt distant like she was sinking deeper and deeper underwater. "can you focus on me?" she didn't move. "I won't touch you, I promise. just focus on me, okay?" she blinked away tears, looking at them. "it's okay. it's fine. you're safe." she just shook her head rapidly. this wasn't safe. she didn't feel safe. "Just breathe. Inhale for three, out for four," She watches them take a large inhale in, count to three and then exhale. "can you do it with me this time?" they ask. "in,"

one. two. three.

"And out."

one. two. three. four.

"good. and again..."

it could have been minutes or hours before she finally calmed down. it was all a bit of a blur. but the people around her had started acting weird. Most didn't approach Katherine without caution before but now they were walking on eggshells. Every conversation seemed to be about how she was feeling. Scared to say the wrong thing. She knew it was because of what happened at stage door but this was just awkward.

Katherine loiters at the side of the stage, waiting with the other queens for the soundcheck to start. Anne and Jane are sitting on the edge of the stage laughing about something. Catalina, Anna, and Catherine are chatting in a little group. It's like she's not even here; they've hardly acknowledged her. The newbie hands everyone a microphone one by one.

"how long is this gonna take?" Anna inquiries, brushing herself off as she stands up. "just I have to get my hair done."

"do you wanna go first?"

"Can I?"

They shrug. "why not." As they approach she can feel heat rush to her cheeks; she can't even bring herself to look at them. a mumbled thanks as they hand over a pink microphone. they don't question it as they continue on to Parr. "we gonna start with Anna because she needs to go. if anyone needs any monitor, I'll fill in for Anna." they yell across the auditorium to the sound engineer. "is everyone else fine?" there's a mumbling of yeses. "perfect. Anna, take the stage." it's a slow process. They have to check levels individually and then there were the in-ear monitors which required a little extra effort. Parr seemed to be the only one to have any real issues. once done, everyone is eager to leave the stage. However, Katherine lingered once more, waiting for the others to filter out. She wanted to talk to them. Clear the air a little after the other night. "do you ever take a day off?" she remarks on approach, they were putting the microphones back in order.

"no time for that," they reply but they don't even look at her. "did you need something?"

Katherine wavered, debating whether she should come up with some kind of excuse or just admit to wanting to talk to them. In the end, she just shakes her head. it was pointless anyway, they seemed annoyed with her. She couldn't blame them. "I'm gonna finish getting ready. see you later."

"bye."

exiting the stage, she almost collides with Anne. She wears an inquisitive expression slightly suppressed by the darkness of the wings. "what was that all about?"

"what do you mean?" Katherine breezes past. in no mood to entertain her cousin but she can hear her following behind.

"you two were becoming besties, and now you can't even look at each other." Katherine sighs loudly. "i just wanna know what happened."

"nothing happened."

"Katherine," pressure encompasses her wrist to which Katherine freezes. For a second she almost loses herself to the growing pit in her stomach but instead, she yanks herself free from Anne's grip. "sorry- sorry." Anne backs away, hands held up in surrender. She blinks a few times and takes a deep breath.

"everything is fine. it's just all... a lot right now and I need to finish getting ready for the show."

"you know you can talk to me, right?"

katherine's eyes fall to her wrist. Anne grabbed her without a second thought and she froze. it almost happened again. That anxiety. the fear. she thought she was past this. "I know." her cousin meant well but she had no intention of taking her up on the offer. "just... drop it, okay?" Katherine keeps walking, albeit a little faster, towards her shared dressing room. thankfully, it was empty.

Multiple conversations with them never seem to pass small talk, no matter how hard she tried. Katherine was trying not to take it to heart. Being on tour for the first time was hard. They're probably just overworked and no longer wanted to deal with her. It was a rarity for Katherine to let anyone new into her life. Acquaintances didn't become friends; She avoided it as best she can. Not to say she was just mean to everyone but the goal was never to make connections. She connected with the other queens through shared experiences; nobody else would ever truly understand what it was like being a Tudor queen... or getting her head chopped off in her and Anne's case. The crew on tour knew her through proximity. She talked to some more than others but the idea of a tour "family" was far from a myth.

it was a particularly chilly day as Katherine made her way along the pavement. the air was crisp, fresh and with it being so early there was hardly anyone around. a jogger speeds right past get. she made sure to leave early so nobody would see her on the way out. she's not even sure anyone will be awake when she arrives. it takes a second for her to remember which apartment building she was supposed to be looking for; they all looked exactly the same. what apartment were they even staying in again? She hesitates before selecting the one sitting in the corner. she's almost certain she remembers Anna mentioning the park just opposite, or maybe she said at the end of the road? looking over the numbered buttons, Katherine selects the top one. that seemed right. it hums. and hums. and hums. She almost gives up when she hears a quiet voice. "hello?" it's hard to figure out who it belonged to. "hello? anyone there?"

"it's- it's Katherine." why does she seem so unsure about her own name? there's a moment of silence before a loud buzz signals the door's unlocked. Guess it was the right building or some stranger just let her in. After a marathon of stairs, she was at the top floor. This place would really benefit from a lift. With each knock against the door, a bigger wave of regret washes over her. This was a bad idea. Her problems were her own to deal with. Nobody wanted to hear her whine about her problems especially not this early in the morning. the click of a lock and the door screeches open. There is nobody behind it but as Katherine pushes further inside, she spots a figure already back in the kitchen.

"you're here early," Jane pours water into one mug and then another.

"I wasn't sure you'd be awake," Katherine remains in the doorway, still unsure about being here. Jane would never tell her to leave even if she wanted her to; she's much too nice. Maybe that's what drew Katherine here. Even if Jane didn't care about her issues, she would never admit it. She wouldn't laugh either.

"couldn't sleep,"

"any particular reason?" Jane doesn't answer. Simply picks up both mugs and heads towards her, offering one up.

"what can I do for you, Katherine?" the girl accepts the cup, wrapping her hands around the ceramic; it was just slightly too hot like it was boiled a fair amount of time before she arrived. Katherine follows Jane back to the kitchen. it was nothing particularly fancy but it did have an island counter. it was really clean. a tube of Pringles sits centre next to a bowl of fruit and a couple of books. Jane takes a seat at the small kitchen table and Katherine does the same. the pit of uncertainty bubbles deep inside. it seemed really silly now that she was sitting here staring at a clearly tired Jane. She just stares back with a small smile; sipping on her coffee. Katherine took a deep breath. "this is stupid," she grumbles to herself.

"That's okay," Such a tender voice. "do you want some breakfast?"

The thought of eating right now churns her stomach so she shakes her head. Katherine focuses on the coffee in her cup, the way the steam rises up into the air and disappears. She wished she could disappear. "I..." she swallows hard. "I'm not sure i can do this."

"and that's okay too. it's just nice to see you," Jane insists. "but do you want me to ask about it?" she keeps her gaze low but nods a little. "what's wrong Katherine? is it about the other night,"

her whole body physically cringed. Everyone had asked how she was doing but nobody actually mentioned that night. She knew, everyone else knew but still. "kinda."

"you have nothing to be embarrassed about, Ka-,"

"I'm not embarrassed," she bites back. it was an obvious lie. She couldn't even look at Jane.

"It was a very normal reaction."

"oh yeah? everyone has panic attacks at stage door?" She was being too defensive, she could hear it in her voice but she couldn't help it. it felt wrong talking about it. it felt wrong having someone try to understand. this was the first time since it happened that she even called it what it was; a panic attack. "it's been ages..." Katherine trails off. In the beginning, panic attacks were frequent even with the show, she used to use side exits to avoid crowds. It took the other queens suggesting therapy to help. touch was something she would probably always struggle with but she hadn't experienced a panic attack like that for years. "I thought I was past this,"

"Katherine,"

"It's stupid,"

"Katherine," Jane repeats, a little firmer this time. "it is not stupid. you relive your trauma every night on stage for hundreds of people, I would be more worried if that didn't mess with your head. sometimes it all just gets a little too much."

"does it happen to you?" Katherine asks quietly, looking up at Jane. Her smile falters for a split second.

"Sometimes, I still have nightmares... rarely but they surprise me," Katherine always saw the others as put together. they seemed to get over the past in a way she never quite could but perhaps she had been mistaken. "it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with me and there is nothing wrong with you."

Katherine doesn't really know the details of that night past the initial feelings but with the way she was being treated, she imagined it to be quite a bad attack. "they definitely think something is wrong with me," she mumbled to herself. They hardly spoke a word to her now so clearly she scared them. "I don't even know what happened- not really."

"I was told that you were surrounded by fans and just started panicking. then the newbie found you, moved the crowd back, and tried to help. You weren't happy with their help and stormed off." a vague memory of calming down and seeing nothing but them. She also could picture herself storming off. "you weren't very nice but nobody blames you. not even your techie."

"they're not mine- and they have a name."

"your closer with them than most," Jane's smile grew but that only made Katherine want to disappear more. "it's sweet."

"Not anymore." if what Jane said was true and she snapped at them then she can understand why they were giving her the cold shoulder.

"Have you tried talking to them?"

"yes. many times, Jane."

"Okay, no need for the attitude."

"Sorry," Katherine hums softly, as she takes a sip of her coffee. it was lukewarm and far from sweet enough for her sophisticated palette. "it's just weird... I don't know what to say and they don't seem too interested anyway."

"Have you tried apologising? not for the panic attack obviously but maybe they just weren't expecting your reaction," Jane shrugs a little. "I'm sure they would understand."

Katherine simply sighs. a long heavy sigh. why did everything require meaningful conversations? couldn't they just forget it happened and move on? "can I ask you something?"

"you can ask anything you like,"

"how do you know if someone is being genuine?"

Jane looks... confused making Katherine sink down in her seat a little. She takes another sip of her cold coffee. "what do you mean?"

Katherine almost didn't continue. almost content with pretending she never even asked but she would probably feel more regret if she did. Talking was the whole reason she was here. her head was a tornado of thoughts and feelings right now, she wasn't sure what was real. "I don't know, like, how do you know if someone is being real with you? not just pretending to be your friend." While her social skills could use a little work, Katherine, admittedly always had trouble navigating relationships. She attracted the wrong kind of attention. that wasn't her fault, she had been told that many times. but if she just hadn't been so naïve? so trusting? Her feelings are her own, nobody controlled her deep inside. Jane no longer looks confused but she doesn't smile either, just stared back as if inspecting her. "I've just had a little trouble in the past," her voice but a whisper, she was hoping Jane couldn't hear that part. "feelings are fuck-" the sound of a door brings another into the living area, stopping Katharine short. It was Anna. She drifts slowly to the kitchen, a little groggy from sleep. Jane offers a smile. Katherine does too but she doesn't want to be here anymore.

"didn't expect you to be here, Katherine."

"yeah, sorry. I was just discussing something with Jane."

"don't let me stop you," too late. Anna meant no harm, she simply happened to be sharing digs with Jane but she hadn't come all this way to discuss her issues with both of them. They all fall into silence, listening to the gurgling of the kettle boiling.

"It's okay," Katherine lied, she looks at her coffee debating if she should finish it before pushing her chair out to stand up. "we're just finishing up anyway,"

"really?"

"it's fine. don't worry about it." Katherine was quick to respond. "I'll see you guys later." she practically ran out the door before anyone could question her further. So much for seeking help from Jane, she was left feeling almost exactly the same; confused and a little fucked up. Her back hits the nearby wall biting back any sort of tears before setting off down the staircase.

Another day. Another Show. With her makeup freshly applied, Katherine lounges on her chair scrolling through Instagram. Social Media was such a strange thing to get accustomed to. There was just nothing like it back in her day. you couldn't connect with people instantly or access so much information. People can be so nice and supportive while others will call you a slut for taking a picture in a skirt. It was all wild.

"where were you this morning?" Anne saunters into the room, tossing her stuff on a vanity table.

"huh?"

"you left early," The girl walks up behind her. "just disappeared. where did you go?"

Katherine raises her shoulders in a shrug, meeting Anne's gaze in the mirror for just a second before going back to her phone. "does it matter?" her phone abruptly slips between her fingers and into the other woman's possession. "give me my phone."

"you kids and your phones," she teases, a smile on her lips as she poses in the mirror. Katherine is less amused. Anne was probably on her phone most out of the queens, so much so, she was charged with creating content to help promote the show. She was always asking Katherine for pictures or to be in videos. "you could have at least smiled." Katherine holds out an expectant hand and Anne returns the phone. "you were missed at breakfast."

one new post on her Instagram story shows a happy Anne Boleyn standing behind her while she looks annoyed. why would she post that? Katherine did not look great in it. "I had breakfast with Jane," she admits, placing her phone down on her vanity.

"Seymour? why?" Katherine shrugs a little. Anne waits for a response that was never going to come but she is quick to change the subject after a beat or two. "we're going for food after the show if you wanna come?"

"Maybe," Probably not though.

"cheer up, cousin, for thou shall soon have a room full of adoring fans."

Her brow furrows "Thou?"

Anne offers a bright grin as she takes a seat, starting to unload her makeup bag. The next click of the door brings Anna into the room, a near mirror of this morning. "you're late, cleaves."

"says the girl who only just started,"

A call for warm-ups hums through the dressing room speaker, giving Katherine the perfect opportunity to escape before she had to deal with any more questions. She is the first to arrive aside from Jane, whose role as dance captain was to lead the session. When she spots Katherine, she wears a sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry about this morning."

"don't be, just forget I said anything." Next to walk on stage was Catalina. she's all warm smiles and hellos but katherine can still feel Jane's gaze burning into her.

"we'll finish this later, okay?"

Katherine nods a little to appease Jane rather than in agreement. It was easier. For now, she just wanted to focus on the show. on the fans. on the music. on literally anything else.

a delicate finger traces over the damaged skin that encircles her neck. it was feeling a little sensitive tonight; phantom pain some would say. On days like this, she couldn't help but think back to that frightful day; a constant ugly reminder. Her 'K' choker lay across her vanity. That was reserved for the show; her everyday chokers weren't as flashy. Anne bore the same burden of the past although during the show her costume covered her neck. a knock brings her back to reality and the door opens before she can respond. "Anne told me to come grab her phone," they announce. Katherine turns sharply, scrambling for her choker and stumbling through putting it around her neck. "sorry."

"it should be over there," Katherine points to Anne's part of the room.

"uh...thanks," they wonder across the room. "are you coming with us?"

"Where?" she asks, struggling to find the clasp.

"for food? I figured Anne asked you." Katherine shrugged a little glancing over at them. They were too busy looking through all the stuff Anne had scattered along her vanity. She wasn't the tidiest of queens. "I don't know where we're going through," unsuccessful on the vanity, their attention turned to the rest of the room. They head for the rack of robes hung on the wall, locating the one with Anne's name stitched on their root through the pockets. a triumphant smile, they perk up, phone in hand. "I swear she'd lose her head if it wasn't screwed on." Katherine would laugh if it didn't hit a little too close to home. The two of them were rarely alone, especially now. Perhaps this was the perfect time for that talk Jane recommended. But she just watched them head for the door; her opportunity for a private conversation dwindling.

"I'm sorry," she blurts out as their hand reaches the doorknob. "... I'm sorry," she repeats; slower this time. they turn back to her, clearly a little confused. She felt queasy like she was gonna throw up.

"you're sorry?" Katherine nods but refuses to meet their eyes. "for what? you don't have to come, it's really not the end of the world."

"not that " she sighs softly, struggling to force herself to continue. Was it too late to back out? She was fed up with the awkward conversations but maybe that was just how it was meant to be now. there was no guarantee her apology would even work so all of this could just be one massive waste of time. "for the other night." their brow furrows and she begins to wonder if they're simply pretending to not remember. "I... I didn't mean to snap at you."

"oh... that. it's fine."

"no it's not, I shouldn't have reacted like that, you were just trying to help."

"Katherine, it's fine, honestly. you have nothing to be sorry about- I'm sorry I didn't know what to do to help." Katherine could feel the tears threatening to fall but she was not about to cry in front of them. not again. She looks up through watery eyes. "are you okay now?"

"mhmm." she hums. She knew they knew she was lying. it was clear in their expression.

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure," she said as confidently as she could muster. "it's all good."

"Okay," they say quietly. "I'll see you for dinner?"

"Maybe," Katherine forces a slight smile to try and emphasise her okayness.

"I think you should come," and with that, they leave her alone. a sigh of relief did little to relieve her of the weight on her shoulders. That conversation was just weird. why couldn't she just be fucking normal instead of this awkward little mess? Katherine falls down onto the nearest seat and then there is a knock. at least she knocked this time.

"What else did Anne forget?" Katherine calls out, looking as the door opens to reveal Jane. oh... great.

"thought I'd come check if you were still here," she hums, stepping over the threshold and closing the door behind her. "we should finish our conversation from earlier."

"I said it was fine, Jane," Katherine insists. Jane walked up behind her chair, looking at her through the mirror. she looked like she'd been crying although that wasn't entirely inaccurate. "can we just forget about it, please?"

"I don't want to forget," Her voice is gentle to the ear. "it was clearly important if you show up at my door unannounced."

"Jane, ple-" Two hands settle on her shoulders bringing her to an abrupt stop. she doesn't like to be touched. Jane knows that. it took her a long time to get used to the idea that it can be tender and gentle; not just a means to an end but after the other night, she's a little unsettled by it. Katherine just stares into the mirror ahead of her.

"you asked me how you know if someone is being genuine," Katherine nods slowly. "the answer is, you don't- connecting with other people is all about trust and it's hard but when it pays off it's worth it." jane smiles softly at her in the mirror, "I wish you'd allow yourself to enjoy this new life instead of clinging so painfully to the past,"

"It's... not that simple." Her past lived on through history books. Strangers dedicated entire books to telling her story; fact or fallacy. Every night she gets on stage to stage and sings about her past. how was she supposed to move on from something she wasn't allowed to? Jane sighs so softly, it almost didn't feel real.

"I know and it never will be, the ghosts of the past haunt us all but that doesn't mean we can't live." what does that even mean? ghosts of the past? Jane's hand finally slip from her shoulders. "you deserve to be happy, Katherine." with that, Jane takes her leave but not without leaving a final comment. "I think you should come to dinner."

Katherine didn't know how to take that? Happiness in its truest sense was something she was not familiar with. That is not to say that she was miserable but her past was so shrouded in darkness, it always hung heavy. it was in this moment, she noticed her choker was askew. scar peaking out a little. a ghost of the past. her fingers brush against the skin just like earlier before adjusting her choker, grabbing her stuff and rushing off to catch up to Jane.

Deciding to join the others for dinner had turned out to be a good thing. Her apology, as awkward as it was in the moment, had seemed to work. The conversation flowed a lot more naturally. It felt like they were back to where they were before her panic attack. even the other queens seemed to stop worrying so much.

"you okay?" they ask. The two of them walk in the back with Anne, Jane and Catherine ahead of them. A few others had joined them at dinner but ultimately parted ways earlier. "you're being awfully quiet."

"I'm fine, just thinking."

"About what?" they wonder, Katherine glances at them but they're looking ahead. "if you don't mind me asking." she doesn't respond. she doesn't want to admit how much they've played on her mind. "can't believe we leave tomorrow. I'm excited for a new city but I've loved being here."

"longer you stay somewhere the nicer it is," Katherine responds, grateful for the change in conversation. "you get used to it. fall into a routine. get to know the staff."

"that makes sense," they agree. "did you see the girl sat in the stalls that just had a giant picture of Anne on her t-shirt?"

"it was hard to miss," Katherine hums. As much as they're blinded by lights on stage, the audience was still highly visible. It's one of the great things about live theatre. that connection with the audience. it also means that when performing, you can spot who is trying to record the show when they're not supposed to be. who sings along. who just has the biggest smile on their face because they're loving every second of it. "wonder who her favourite was."

"My guess would probably be Catherine Parr." Katherine lets out a huff of a laugh.

"What are you two saying about me?"

"Nothing," Katherine is quick to reply.

"we're talking about mega fans actually," they call out. "go back to your own conversation."

"ooooh," Anne hums. "got quite the attitude now haven't they? I remember when you couldn't even look me in the eye."

"yeah because you were a massive bitch." they respond sharply, earning a laugh from all.

"that's it. I'm locking the doors tonight, you can sleep in the street."

"I have a key, Anne." they reply. "now mind your business, I was talking to Katherine, not you!"

"you're always talking with Katherine like we get it you're obsessed with her- one step away from getting a shirt with her face plastered on." Anne teases softly, a notice or smirk as she glances back at them. Clearly, someone was listening to their conversation but that wasn't surprising. She was very good at listening to everything; always seems to know exactly what was going on.

"fuck you," the fire back, middle finger in the air although the smile suggests they enjoyed the teasing. "Katherine just isn't an asshole like you."

"Whatever," Anne murmurs. "go back to flirting with my cousin."

"Definitely not what is happening," they reply. Katherine feels heat rush to her cheeks. "but fine." they turn to her. "she's a piece of work."

"tell me about it," Katherine agrees, smiling a little.

"gossiping about me now," Anne calls back. "as thick as thieves those two, huh Jane?"

"That's enough," Jane reacts. "leave them alone."

"yeah, Anne. leave us alone."

"so that's too far but they can call me a bitch- I see how it is, Seymour. always picking favourites."

"Everyone knows I'm Jane's favourite, she buys me little touristy things in every city we visit."

"you do?" Parr questions.

"excuse me for wanting to be nice to the people who help put on our show every night. It's their first tour."

"I'm nice." Parr defends. "I literally baked brownies for everyone the other day. vegan brownies."

"They were so good." they comment. "just Anne's a bitch."

"let's not call each other bitches, please." Jane scolds

"don't act like you care now," Anne huffs dramatically. "it's too late."

"stop being a big baby Anne."

"Where has the attitude come from- Jesus Christ."

the rest of the walk home continues as such. Katherine is quiet for most of it, watching her cousin argue her own niceness although historians seem to disagree. many paint her as some scheming harlot. it's amusing... she hasn't seen this side of the newbie. a clear sign of how comfortable they've grown to be. although it never feels that way when they speak to her. always a distance between them. how does she get past it? what does she have to do? She wasn't like Anne, she didn't dare insult them. nor was she tender and understanding like Jane. She was awkward and immature tainted with memories of past relationships that weren't so easily forgotten.

That panic attack at stage door had left Katherine in a weird situation. She was falling back into bad habits. Remembering things she was usually great at blocking out. Sleeping was hard. It was a matter of luck whether she would have a good night or a bad one. Those ghosts Jane spoke about were infections in her dreams. Everything's fine and then Henry Mannox flashes before her eyes. or Francis Dereham. he was the most frequent. Even the king himself made an appearance. each with a smile, one she once believed to be genuine, that morphed into a malicious grin. it made her angry. it made her sad. it made her confused. As if fate deemed it so on deciding to get up, she finds them in the kitchen. "you're up late."

"i could say the same about you," she responds a little too defensively. "what are you doing?"

they shrug. "can't sleep- same as you I guess." Katherine doesn't bother responding, just walks closer to the kitchen aisle. "do you want some tea? might help with insomnia." it wouldn't. what she really needed was to shut her brain off long enough to drift off. for the ghosts of the past to just leave her alone for five bloody minutes. she doesn't say that, simply nods.

"thank you," hummed as a mug slid across the counter. Katherine stares into the tea as if inspecting it and they fall into silence. it's a little uncomfortable; neither wants to acknowledge anything that may or may not have happened. She takes a sip of her drink which goes down nice; warmth spilling over her body. "this is just what I needed."

"Are you okay?" she'd been hearing that question far too much recently. "like really okay?"

"mhmm," she nods.

"Are you lying?" it catches her a little off guard. other than Anne and maybe, Jane, most take her at her word. They wouldn't dare suggest she was lying even if they thought she was.

"I'm fine,"

two hands wrapped around their cup, they walk around to her. "there is something going on in that little head of yours" they say quietly. "I'm worried about you,"

"There is nothing to worry about," Katherine assured them. a soft sigh slips past their lips.

"you don't have to lie to me, Katherine," they respond. "you should try to get some sleep." and with that, they take their leave. Katherine remains in the kitchen a while longer, slowly sipping on her tea before returning to her chambers to attempt to fall asleep.

There is a week before their next show, in their next city and each member of the tour is free to do as they please. Anne invited Katherine to join her on a trip somewhere in Europe but she ultimately decided to decline. Being on tour was intense and she just needed some time to just be alone. No pressure to be anything but herself. She had booked a flat for two weeks and other than having dinner with Maggie and Joan one night, she hadn't done much.

Walking through the door, Katherine offers a smile and a polite hello to the person on stage door. Today was just a rehearsal along with some checks before the show opens. She heads straight for her dressing room, tossing down her bag. This theatre appeared larger than the last but not big enough that she didn't have to share a dressing room. this time around it's with Parr, who seemed yet to arrive. walking into the green room, she pops her lunch in the fridge.

"Fancy meeting you here, Miss Howard." her ears perk up, and she closes the fridge door to see them. She offers a bright smile. "already raiding the fridge, I see."

"hello to you too,"

they're smiling back, that's a good start. "you're early."

"figured I'd have a look around so I don't get lost."

"look at you, taking your job seriously." they tease and then she hears them. Anne.

"where is my favourite crew member?" echoes through the corridor.

"I have a name, Anne."

"you do?- oh yeah, Katherine's techie, right?"

"Why do I belong to Katherine?" they ask, glancing at her. Anne is yet to actually enter the room, lingering in the hallway.

"you spend the most time with her? My dear sweet cousin is quite the character but she doesn't fair well with new people," they finally enter the room, patting them on the shoulder. "she likes you though. dare I say, a lot."

"is that true?" they turn to her. as does Anne who clearly hadn't realise she'd been here the whole time.

"I'm not the one shouting about how they're my favourite," Katherine defends.

"what can I say? I'm a sucker for this face," an arm slumps around their shoulder, pinching their cheeks as they struggle to get away. "they're really cute, don't you think so Katherine?"

"Sure,"

"When we have time off, I sometimes think I miss you Anne and then I remember what you're actually like."

"you love me,"

"do I?" there is clear sarcasm in their voice. "I don't remember saying that."

"We all know it's true." few pats on their back and Anne is heading for the door. "now if you'll excuse me, some of us have actually jobs to do instead of just standing around chatting,"

"I don't think I can make it through the rest of this tour with your cousin, to be honest,"

Katherine smiles a little clearly showing her amusement. "I wanted to ask you something if that's okay?"

"of course,"

a nervousness bubbled in her stomach. Katherine wouldn't call herself shy per se but they seemed to bring it out in her. "I..." she trails off, no longer confident in her approach. "I was just wondering where the bathroom is?"

their brow quirks, meeting Katherine's gaze. "uh... it's just to the left of the lift." they answer. "was there anything else?" they ask. She just shakes her head. "okay, well, I have to go check some equipment ready for tomorrow so I'll see you later?"

"see you later." Katherine watches them walk away, letting out a heavy sigh. it was going to be a very long day.

the sun has long since set when they're finally finished for the day. Katherine is left feeling rather good, surprisingly. perhaps she'd missed the company of the others more than expected.

the show went well. the audience actually seemed engaged but she hadn't expected so many to be waiting outside. her eyes were fixed on the cameras inside the stage door booth. she could do this. As long as no one grabbed her or got too close, she'd be fine... hopefully. She waved good night to the person on the stage door before bracing the throng of people with a deep breath. luckily they didn't swarm her, in fact, they were polite enough to step back when asked. Katherine understood the value of interacting with fans even if she just wanted to go home. signing programs. taking pictures. She almost didn't notice them leaving through stage door. almost. when she spotted them, she bid farewell to the fans and rushed to catch up with them.

"hey,"

"oh, Katherine, hey," they seemed surprised and not necessarily in a good way.

"do you mind if I walk with you?" she asks. "I know it's not far but still."

"I don't mind." they offer a smile that makes her relax a little. it's awkward at first, neither party speaking.

"it's nice out tonight,"

"oh, yeah," they nod, glancing upward at the stars. it's a clear night graced with a full moon. "full moon too."

"they say a full moon brings out all the weirdos."

"weirdos? you worried about stray werewolves roaming the streets?"

"Definitely," Katherine plays along. "you're here to keep me safe, I am the star after all."

"oh I see, always after something," they playful raise their arm to salute. "don't worry, your majesty, I shall keep you safe."

"I very much appreciate your service," a smirk pulls at her lips, only to disappear a moment later when she feels their hand brush against hers. her heart beats heavily in her chest and for a second she thinks she might panic. it's clear they took notice because they move away.

"Sorry- sorry, I didn't mean to..." they trail off. they were clearly trying to hold her hand but why? Was it just part of the act?

"It's okay," her voice is quiet. it wasn't okay per-say, her stomach had dropped and her heart was racing. but she's working through it. not all touch was bad. sometimes it's just how people show they care. their hand was surprisingly soft. "we should probably stay close- just in case, you know?"

they laugh. a small laugh but a laugh all the same and she feels a gentle pressure against her hand. "you do realise I don't know where you're staying, right?"

"shit- right, it's this way," she begins leading the way. Katherine was staying very close to the venue this time around. seemed easier and ensured she wouldn't be walking too far alone at night.

"you struck gold with this place," they hum, looking up. "I'm miles away compared to this."

"It's a nice little space."

"alright. now that I have kept you safe from the big bad wolves, I shall be on my way," they release her hand and bow playfully. "i bid thee farewell, your majesty."

"really committing to the bit here, huh?"

"go big or go home," they shrug, turning sharply on their heel they head off down the street. "have a good night, Katherine," Katherine watches them for a moment before heading inside. Was she shaking?

legs dangling off the edge of the stage, Katherine watches the crew work around her. the show will start soon. they've just finished warm-ups. the others have gone to finish getting ready but she lingers patiently. She spies the occasional member of staff wandering past the auditorium; looking inside to get a glimpse of what's happening. cute. She enjoys seeing them around the building just living their lives. she'll often stroll into a green room and find theatre staff, it's just every day for them. always so professional. it must be nice to be paid to watch the show.

"don't you have a show to get ready for?" a shadow lingers over her. "we have to open the house soon."

Katherine rises to her feet. "I was waiting for you to finish,"

"oh and what could a big star like you want with little old me?"

"hardly a big star," Katherine insists. outside of mega fans and musical theatre circles, Katherine was a nobody. at least nowadays she was, she was once a queen. a real queen.

"bigger star than me," they shrug. "what are you after?"

"I just wanted to ask you something." Katherine insists.

"Are you actually gonna ask it this time?"

Katherine bites her tongue. she'd laugh if she wasn't so embarrassed. "I wanted to ask if you'd like to do something after work today?"

"Oh," their brow furrows. "just the two of us?"

"if that's okay," Katherine replies. "I was thinking like a movie or something? or we could just get a drink? anything, really..."

"Okay."

"okay?"

"Okay," they repeat. "why are you so nervous? we've hung out like a bunch of times,"

"I'm not nervous," her voice betrays her so she tried again. "I'm not nervous- so a movie then?"

"Sure, why not. I need to go home first though if that's okay. should we meet at the cinema or you could come back with me, up to you."

"that's fine," Katherine smiles a little. "i have to get ready for the show so I'll see you in a bit."

"break a leg," Katherine moves rather quickly backstage. a particular pep in her step as she headed straight for her dressing room. she had a little time before beginners but she still had to put on her costume and do some final touches. She was feeling good about the show today but even more so for what came after. pushing into her room, she finds Catherine fixing herself in the mirror.

"where have you been?" Catherine asks as she enters.

"just chatting," Katherine shrugs, taking her costume from the rack. "I'll be quick, don't worry."

"you've got time, I was just curious," a knock sounds on the door. As much as they've all seen each other in various states of undress, she holds off on getting changed. Catherine heads over and opens the door to reveal Anne. She wore her iconic green two-piece and a devious grin. great.

"what's up?"

"I came to speak to Katherine,"

"what do you want?" she questions suspiciously.

"heard on the grapevine that you, my friend, have a date."

"Who told you that?" her reply is sharp; so sharp that it'll lead Anne to incorrect conclusions. how did she even find out so quickly? it had been all of fifteen minutes since she asked. had they told her? "we're just hanging out."

"so it's true then," a grin paired with the excitement in her voice brings a bad feeling to Katherine's stomach. she loved Anne but there are many things she'd rather keep to herself. her cousin had a habit of teasing her. and as harmless as it may seem, it didn't always sit right with her.  This was a prime example. "I knew it! awww my baby cousin is growing up," she wipes a metaphorical tear from her eye.

"Anne," Katherine growls.

"where are you going?"

"we're just going to the cinema," Katherine shrugs. "it's not a big deal."

"you're right- it's a huge deal."

"stop it," Katherine scolds.

"what's happening?" Catherine abruptly enters the conversation. Katherine wanted to sink into the floor never to be seen again.

"Katherine has a little date with everyone's favourite techie" Anne hums.

"do you think the rest of the crew likes that we show favouritism?" Katherine asks, trying to change the conversation.

"We love them all," Anne waves a dismissive hand. "maybe not as much as you like some of them but still,"

"Can you go away, please?" Katherine urges. "I have to finish getting ready."

"maybe if you didn't spend so much time chatting, you'd already be ready," Anne states. "like the rest of us. your dating life isn't more important than the show."

"you just-" she stops herself short, closing her eyes and taking a deep centering breath. "okay, well, leave so I can finish."

"fine. I'm going," Anne twirls around. "just know, that I'm gonna tell everyone about your little date."

"Please don't," she wasn't even sure if it was a date.

"too late," Anne runs off down the hallway. "Anna, guess what I heard."

Katherine groans loudly.

"you shouldn't be embarrassed, you know," Catherine says after a moment. "it's good that you're putting yourself out there, Katherine. if this is what you want, then I really hope it works out,"

she would have preferred if this conversation wasn't happening but she appreciated the effort. "thanks." she offers a little smile. "I hope so too."

Post-show, Katherine was feeling surprisingly great. the performance went swimmingly and she was feeling good about doing something afterward. but as the costume was packed away and the makeup was wiped away that familiar feeling began setting in. She knew it was just nerves, this wasn't anything to panic over. In fact, her nerves meant she cared and that's a good thing. As she waits, she's convinced they've simply forgotten about her. then she realised they would probably take a minute or two considering they had to help tidy up and whatnot. eventually, she decides to check outside only to find them chatting away at stage door. they offer a bright smile when they notice her approaching.

"hey,"

"Hello," Katherine smiles back.

"shall we get going?" they bid farewell to stage door and Katherine does the same, following behind. despite the time, there was a sprinkling of what she would describe as dedicated fans left waiting outside the door. She really didn't want to stop tonight but she did so anyway. luckily, they were nice enough to wait as she spoke with fans; even going as far as offering to take pictures.

"Sorry about that," Katherine says when they're far enough away. there had only been a few but still, she made them wait and that deserved an apology.

"Don't be," they shrug casually. "it's part of the territory. it's nice that you make time for them and I love walking out and seeing their disappointment when they see me instead of one of you guys. sometimes I even get a clap which is nice."

"you guys deserve just as much attention,"

"I don't know about me personally but sure," they nod a little.

"you too," Katherine assures. "everyone. a show takes a team."

they look at her as if waiting for her to continue. "you were really good tonight."

"thank you," Katherine smiles. "am I not good the rest of the time?"

their face drops a little, she can see the panic in their eyes. "i didn't mean it like that- you're always great. just i don't always watch the show so it's kinda like-"

"I'm kidding," Katherine chuckles. "guess you haven't changed that much after all." it's clear they've grown in confidence since the start of the tour especially around the other queens. guess it just wasn't the same with her. still just a little shy.

"what do you mean?"

Katherine shook her head. "nothing- how far away are you staying?"

"not far. I didn't pick the location," they reply. "it's what I get for sharing. can't all stay like 5 minutes away."

"Who are you staying with?"

"Nate," ah fellow technician. Head of LX. the conversation falls short and just when Katherine thinks to speak up they've arrived. it's a house, surprisingly. small. they unlock the door and she follows them inside.

"Something smells good," they comment.

"that would be my dinner," Nate responds as they walk through to the kitchen. Sat at the table is Nate with an iPad sat before him. "didn't know when you'd be back so I haven't made enough for... three? hey Katherine."

"It's fine. we're not staying," they reply before turning to her. "just give me a second to change then we can go."

Katherine watches them leave her standing awkwardly centre of the room. she lingers for a moment before deciding to take a seat opposite Nate. they don't say anything to her but begin tapping on their screen. "you enjoy your day off?"

Nate shrugs. "it was pretty slow. I probably should have done more."

"days, where you don't do anything, are the best kind," Katherine comments. "I have Friday off and I'm not sure I'll get up to much."

"i have Friday off too," they enter the space a lot quicker than expected. they don't look much different but the lack of a giant SIX logo on their back was apparent. "think I'm gonna do some exploring, I don't know." they shrug. "should we go?"

"yep," Katherine stands.

"where are you going?" Nate asks.

"cinema," they respond. "enjoy your food."

"Enjoy your movie,"

"we will," they call back already halfway towards the door.

"bye Nate." she shuffles after them.

"see ya, Katherine."

The night air is a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the house. Katherine is just a step or two behind them. "so what are we seeing?" they glance back at her and she realiSes she hasn't actually checked what was showing this evening. shit.

"uh, I thought we could just see what was on when we get there,"

"hmm..." they hum softly. "you didn't pick a movie?"

"I wasn't sure what you'd wanna see,"

"you didn't plan this? god, you've had hours." despite the cool air, Katherine was left feeling warm. She could tell they were just joking but they were right. She really hadn't planned this very well. all her energy had been focused on asking in the first place. they take pause to allow Katherine to fall in step.

"I was busy putting on a show for like six hundred people, sorry,"

they laugh a little. "oh really? it's almost like I was there too, crazy."

"Well, you didn't think to look either."

"you asked me out," they defend. "didn't know I had to plan my own dates now."

"...date," Katherine repeats slowly. definitely not what she had been expecting to hear. she looks to them to gauge their reaction to the idea; they seemed pretty confused. neither a good sign nor bad. perhaps she was overthinking here, they had agreed to come thinking it was a date so that was a good thing.

"is that... not what this is?"

"i don't know," that was the truth, she wasn't sure if she had intended for this to be an actual date or not. she had simply wanted to hang out with them. She didn't understand her feelings surrounding that. She didn't hate the idea though. that much was clear. "we've hung out a lot so I wasn't sure what you thought,"

"We hang out a lot," they repeat. "but this felt different. plus Anne was teasing me about it."

"urgh Anne," Katherine groans lowly.

"she's certainly something," they chuckle. "it's cute though. She really cares about you,"

"I guess," Katherine nods. "I wish she'd like chill out sometimes."

"that we can agree on." they nod feeling a little relieved about the situation. there was no confusion or awkwardness. This was a date. and she was okay with that.

Katherine had such a skewed idea of romance. her knowledge directly translated from her past as well as a love for romance movies. this idealised sense of what romance should be was ingrained in her brain; an attempt, no doubt, to wipe away the reality of the few relationships she had. a trip to the movies was more common in teen romance but she enjoyed the quiet focus that came from picture houses. courting had changed since back in her day and was much less of a grand affair. the basics remained. people always liked thoughtful gifts alongside meaningful compliments. but what was known as hook-up culture played a much more prominent role. kissing and even sex, we're no longer such a massive deal. however, just like in the past, they seemed to be expected from her after courtship. This had played a lot on her mind when it came to even the suggestion of dating. how would she handle that? She didn't even like hugs most of the time, never mind anything else. As they walk home together, it's buzzing around her head like a fly. what were they expecting here? does she go full teen romance?? she could do that, right?

Katherine swayed back and forth on the balls of her feet as they lingered outside her current apartment. they had a show in the morning. a matinee. Sundays were a blessing and a curse.

"This was fun," as awkward as she felt saying it, she had to be the one to break the silence.

"yeah... even with the complete lack of planning," they tease, a playful smirk settling on their lips. it reminded her of Anne.

"I already apologised, okay?" an exaggerated sigh. "i don't really do this kinda thing and if I didn't just ask, I was gonna end up running away again."

"Katherine," their voice is gentle. "you don't have to be sorry. We could have done anything, I like hanging with you." their smile brightened. "there's a reason everyone says you're my favourite." her heart was racing. that familiar feeling that accompanied her panic attacks. she liked them. everyone seemed to know that but was this how it was supposed to feel? in the past, it hadn't felt like this. She didn't feel like she wanted to run away. Katherine took a deep breath to try and calm herself down. they seemed to notice. "are you okay?"

she nodded quickly. "I... like hanging with you too." she admitted quietly, dropping her gaze.

"thank god you don't hate me or this would be super awkward." Katherine laughed but didn't say anything. She was so nervous her hands were shaking and she was almost certain if she looked at them, she'd start crying. so moments of silence fly by. "okay- uh, well, i'll see you tomorrow? for the show." Katherine nodded a little. she wanted to speak but her words were caught in her throat, coming out as more of a mumbled agreement. but as they turned away, she finally looked up.

"wait," she called out quickly.

"what's up?"

"uh..." it feels like her heart is trying to burst out of her chest but it was now or never. This was fine. everything was fine. things always worked out in movies and isn't that what everyone wanted? A romance worthy of a movie? Fuelled by adrenaline, Katherine steps forward and presses their lips together in a feathered embrace. it's so incredibly brief, it didn't seem real but the look on their face said differently. She shouldn't have done that. "i' m sorry," she states; clearly and concisely before the panic can truly set in and the tears begin to form. "I- that, sorry," Katherine makes a getaway to the door, scrambling through her pockets in search of the key. this can't be happening. this wasn't real.

"Katherine." their voice rings in their ear but she can't bare to face them. hands shaking so much, it's a struggle to find the keyhole. "wait"

"I'll see you tomorrow," they yell back, finally managing to get the stupid door open. it's from the crack between the door as she pushes it closed, she dares to gaze upon them once more. "I- sorry." the click of the lock brings with it a weird sense of security; almost separating her from the embarrassment. Katherine falls back against the door letting each emotion settle in her stomach. a drop of water falls against her leg making her realise she was crying. She couldn't believe she just did that. it had been going so well.

Katherine does not want to go to work. she had woken up in an absolutely foul mood that would almost certainly worsen under the pressure of weird stares and playful teasing. the end of last night played over and over in her head. the last time she kissed anyone had been many years ago. the reality wasn't a movie, she couldn't just do that and expect everything to be okay. had that happened to her, she would freak out. alas if she doesn't go to work, that would be as equally embarrassing. She had to suck it up and go.

on arriving at the theatre, everything is completely normal? Of course, the theatre staff had no clue. the first queen she comes across is Catalina, she is alone in the green room making a cup of tea. Anne mentioned telling everyone about her date but if that's the case, Catalina didn't ask. nor did Anna when she bumped into her on her way to the dressing rooms. she was absolutely dreading the moment she saw Anne. Catherine walks into the dressing room humming along to whatever she was listening to. they smile at her through the mirror.

"Katherine?"

"huh?" Katherine turns to Catherine whose looking at her with furrowed brows.

"Are you okay? you seem a little out of it."

Did she really not know? "just... didn't sleep too well,"

"maybe you should take a nap," Catherine suggests. "you've got time."

"i'll be okay," Katherine insists.

"if you say so," Catherine smiles softly. "I'm definitely taking a nap after the show."

it's mostly small talk but Katherine appreciates it. it's a distraction as she gets ready for the show. during warm-ups, she spends the entire time wondering when Anne would make a comment but it never comes which is somehow worse. had they mentioned how badly it went that even Anne was taking pity on her? She was trying so hard not to think about it or think about the tech crew who were currently in the green room. they were surely in there too. she cares not to even lay her eyes upon them out of sheer embarrassment. they probably hate her now. Jane calls her out for not paying attention. she tries to focus on the task at hand. it's hard.

the show was fine. nothing was going wrong but Katherine was struggling to focus. a theatre packed with people and yet her eyes were simply drawn to them. they seemed to be doing the soundtrack for this show; a rarity that places them front and centre. unable to avoid their gaze. she doesn't know exactly what she was expecting from them but it wasn't zero reaction at all. they were being very professional unlike her.

the break between shows was spent in the green room; slumped in the corner feeling awfully tense as she picks at the salad she had brought for lunch. the other queens chat around her but hardly acknowledge her existence. She spots them immediately as they walk into the green room. slumping down in her seat in hopes of being further ignored but it's pretty clear they're heading straight toward her.

"Can I have a word?" she feels she is in no position to refuse. placing her meal aside, Katherine follows them out into the hallway. "... are we like... okay?" Katherine is unsure of how to respond. she doesn't deem it so but she nods. "then why are you avoiding me?"

"I'm not." Katherine lied but what was she supposed to say? yes, I am avoiding you so if you could kindly leave me alone to wallow in my shame that would be great. that wouldn't go down well. "I just... I didn't think you'd wanna see me."

"why?" Katherine frowns. the reason was pretty obvious.

"because... y'know..." Katherine shrugs.

"Because you kissed me or because you ran away and slammed a door in my face?" there was a harshness to their tone but she couldn't blame them. She may not know what they are angry about exactly but it was justified.

"Both... I guess," her skin ran hot. a dusting of pink that was sure to express just how ashamed she felt. it was never supposed to turn out like this. why did she have to ruin everything? "I'm sorry," she mumbled quietly. that familiar speed of her heart. the anxious feeling. Katherine swallowed hard. "i shouldn't have kissed you like that. i sort of just panicked," An attempt at a storybook romance gone so terribly wrong. but what was Katherine to do when she had no good experience to draw from? she created such a distance that that craving to be close and normal had overwhelmed her. She had acted without thinking. "and I know it's like expected but then i got flustered. i wouldn't want somebody doing that to me so I just ran, it was easier-" she was rambling. a messy explanation that didn't excuse what she did. they seem to watch with an unreadable expression. "I'm just sorry for it all. I ruined everything"

"Katherine," slipped softly from their lips and they take a step forward, physically reaching out. Katherine took a step back. she felt gross. oh so slimy and gross. it was all so weird and messed up. "you didn't ruin anything."

"but-"

"Just let me talk for a second," they interrupt gently. "is that okay?" Katherine nods a little bit. keeping her gaze fixed downward. "you didn't ruin anything. I clearly did something wrong if you thought I expected a kiss."

"you didn't," she insisted quickly. "I..." she trailed off. she was supposed to be letting them talk and she couldn't even do that? no wonder they hate her now.

"I need you to take a deep breath for me" Katherine swallowed hard. "okay?" she nods once more, doing as instructed. a long deep breath followed by a slow exhale. it didn't make her feel any better. "the kiss was a surprise but I didn't hate it and I accept your apology for slamming a door in my face."

"Sorry," she repeats like it's the only word she bloody well knew. perhaps the sincerity lessens with each apology. Katherine wouldn't forgive herself. their little laugh is pleasing to the ear

"It's okay,"

"It's embarrassing,"

"yeah," they agree. Katherine just chuckles weakly.

"Look, Katherine, I like you but I don't and won't ever expect anything more from you. just going to watch a film was enough."

it didn't seem real. relationships were transactional no? She wasn't enough. She had never been enough. she knew that much. "I'm-"

"Please don't apologise again," they insist sharply. "can you just look at me, maybe?" it's taking a lot to keep her in this spot. even more to force herself to look at them. That inkling of irritation seemed nonexistent anymore. she couldn't quite place the expression on their face. "your company will always be enough, Katherine." an avalanche of emotion brings hot tears bubbling to the surface. it paired nicely with the overwhelming urge to throw up. "I know you're dying to say something, Anne,"

a chorus of laughter erupts from the green room as Anne steps into the doorway.

"I wasn't eavesdropping." she defends, folding her arms over her chest. "if you wanted to have a private conversation, maybe don't do it in the hallway right next to us."

"Okay, but you didn't have to basically have your ear to the wall."

"I think you know me better than that," Anne waves a dismissive hand. "you two are literally so cute."

"Thanks, Anne, appreciate it," their voice was clearly sarcastic. "i think we're done so you can go sit back down now."

"I'm fine here, to be honest,"

"come on," that was Anna, she basically drags Anne away. they let go of her hands with a gentle smile.

"how about we just start over?" she nods a little. "couldn't shut up before and now won't say a word,"

she puts on a small smile. "i would like that," she comments as confidently as possible. "yeah."

"perfect. I have to eat and run some checks so I'll see you later?" Katherine nods a little earning herself a chuckle. "bye Katherine."

"bye," she watched them walk away before heading back into the green room returning to her spot in the corner. she's expecting a barrage of questions but they never come. the only difference is now Anne keeps looking at her with a giddy grin. it's not long before they reappear in the green room with a sandwich.

"don't you have a job to do?" Anne hums playfully. "shows in like an hour." they just ignore Anne, coming towards her.

"I was thinking since we're both free on Friday, maybe we could do something?" they propose. "it's fine if not, I know you were looking forward to staying home but thought I'd ask."

"I would love to," Katherine replies softly,

"oh- great, uh... I'll actually plan something but don't worry it'll be like super chill."

"Okay,"

"I'd love to go out Friday, thanks for asking" Anne comments earning herself a middle finger. "so rude.

"Anne, you're working so you can't come either way,"

"I'd still like an invite,"

"Why would they invite you?" Catalina questions. With a slow groan, they just head for the door.

"I'll message you later, Katherine."

slumped in the corner, she stabs her fork into the greens of her salad. moving them around from one edge of the tub to the other. the queens all continued chatting around her, it felt like she was in a bubble. they didn't have long before the next show. she would have to go out her costume back on soon. your company will always be enough, Katherine. her company was enough. was that true? she couldn't be quite sure. years had taught her so differently, it was hard to believe. even as their voice played over and over. She still had some doubts. even as Jane insisted she was normal. she still had some doubts. even as Anne pushed her to enjoy this new life; to treat it as a second chance. she still had some doubts. but perhaps that was okay. she wasn't perfect and she never would be. it was like Jane said, her past was her past and it'd always be part of her but that didn't mean she couldn't enjoy herself. a date. a second date. in just 4 days. She was already feeling nervous but this time, it feels like a good thing because her company was enough.

#Katherine Howard #katherine howard six #six the musical #k howard #six the musical fanfiction

[saltygilmores]

Thoughts While Watching Gilmore Girls, Season 2, Episode 8, Part 1 ("The Inns and Outs of Inns")

I'm skipping past the second half of the previous episode (I really couldn't think of anything interesting to say about it. It was that whole thing where Rory and Paris get initated into The Puffs, and the Mother/Daughter Fashion Show). You can read my previous reviews here.

This lady held out her cup for a refill. Jess looks down at the mug and walks right past her. I found his terrible customer service inexplicably delightful. I'd say she was gonna stiff him out of a tip for that move, but no one in Stars Hollow tips anyway.

Jess: It's 7:45 am, do you want me to go to school or openly defy child labor laws? Idk, I think you should have a word with the Walmart corporation first, the place hired a 17 year old to drive a forklift during school hours. Luke: Stay out of trouble. Jess: Guess that means calling off the chickie run down at the salt flats. What in the everliving hell does that even mean? What teenager talks like that in 2001, the Year of our Lord? Damn you, AmyShermanPalladino. *sighs deeply*. *Opens Google* "A chickie run is a high-speed drag race toward the edge of a steep bluff above the ocean using stolen cars." It's apparently a reference to the movie Rebel Without A Cause with James Dean. Well, I learned some pointless new information today. Thank you, Mr Mariano. You may not serve customers their coffee but you do serve up hot steaming cups of old timey references. Lorelai and Sookie: We're coming up with names for the new inn. Michel: How about the Money Pit? The Outhouse? The Inn Headed for Bankruptcy?

Heh heh.

I only recall seeing a police car in Stars Hollow two other times (when Kyle's party got busted up and the time Jess comes back in season 4 and gets pulled over? Am I forgetting anything?). Here's the big emergency that called the mythical, rarely seen Stars Hollow Police into town. Spoiler alert: It was some chalk.

And now this pathetic town of bored people with nothing better to do are going to call an emergency meeting over some chalk. Taylor is fa-reaking the fuck out.

Taylor: I've got a dead body outside of my store! Sheriff: No, you have a chalk outline in front of your store.

Sheriff: My partner's out doing a headcount to see if anyone is missing. Until then, just hang tight. Let me remind you how many people live in Stars Hollow. Sometimes it may seem like you only see the same 15 people over and over, but the mind can play dirty tricks on you.

Yes Taylor, just hang tight for a few minutes while one police officer does a head count of nearly 10,000 people. A police officer going around counting people to see if anyone happens to be dead is one of my favorite bits of absurdity in the entire show. 30 seconds later:

Golly that was fast!

Heh heh heh. It is a pretty stupid prank. I think most of Jess' pranks are amateur at best. I believe in his potential. He could come up with something way better. The people of Stars Hollow deserved to be Punk'd for how they treat him. I give this one an A though, because it pissed everyone off so thoroughly, and that's all that matters.

Gilmore Girls wardrobe department: LAYERS! MORE LAYERS, DAMN IT! Wardrobe Assistant: He's in a shirt under a shirt under a vest! I cannot layer anymore! *cries*

Sooo purdy.

Luke jamming a screwdriver into a toaster is highly erotic.

It goes without saying that from here on out we are going to be pausing often to admire screen shots of Jess with absolutely no context. Tomatos Sign: Spotted

Oh, we haven't gotten to the part where Jess murders Shane and dumps her body in the lake. We'll get to that in season 3. In my gritty Gilmore Girls reboot titled The Hollow, there could be several justified homicides. For one example, it's canon that Luke never throws Taylor off a bridge, so my reboot would seek to correct this.

HE'S JUST A LITTLE GUY LET HIM SULK AND LURK What the hell else is there to do in Stars Hollow anyway? The image of Jess of visiting an arts and crafts store is pretty hilarious.

What the hell is AmyShermanPalladino's obsession with swans? "Swans scream one thing, Mom. Sigfried and Roy." Ah yes, another fine early 2000's tasteless "gay" insult. Luke & Lorelai are discussing the grave consequences of missing or even being late to a town meeting. To which I say, if Taylor threatens you, just tell him you're gonna squeal to the Feds about all of his shady financial crimes. That'll shut him right up.

He's been in town for like what, a week and he's already a "situation". I think that's awesome. Your mere existence on this Earth is so powerful that you've thrown an entire community into disarray. Good for you, baby. Good for you.

May I remind you again they are calling this community meeting because of some chalk. "When Mrs. Lanahan couldn't buy lettuce from my store, she drove straight to Woodbury instead." You know what, I just gotta bide my time and let the nutcase rant, because Walmart will eventually drive him out of business for good and in a double scoop of justice, I have faith that he'll also be taken down for his money laundering crimes.

This committee of 85 year olds will seal Jess Mariano's fate. It looks like Hell's waiting room. Jess loves a good town meeting because it's the only time he gets to stay home and whack off in private. Luke tries to give Taylor $1 for a head of letuce (actually, first he asks "how much is a head of lettuce?" which is something he should know if he's running a diner, but I digress. "The CHARGES against your nephew are numerous!" Let's hear them, shall we? He stole the "Save the Bridge" money. But Taylor was going to launder that money, what will he do now? He stole a gnome from Babette's garden. He "hooted" one Miss Patty's dance classes. Please try to imagine Jess ever "hooting" a woman (uhh, she means catcalling...I guess? I could see him calling out some sarcastic quip/witty observation though. He took a garden hose. Why Jess? Why? How did they know he did it? What did he intend to do with it? Where did he keep it? With the 500 baseballs he stole from the school? He set off the fire alarms at school last week. This is a more serious prank that would have gotten him in big trouble if he was caught. And again, Lane and Dean go to this school. Hello? I know at this point Jess and Rory don't know each other well, but that's still major gossip, so why are Rory's boyfriend and best friend always keeping this stuff from her? I am Jess Mariano's defense lawyer and every last thing my client does to annoy the citizens of Stars Hollow is justified. Lorelai, sarcastically: I heard he controls the weather and wrote the screenplay to Glitter** (**a movie starring Mariah Carey that came out in 2001 and is regarded as one of the worst movies of all time and was a box office bomb and possibly the biggest blight ever on MC’s career). You know, Lorelai is being sarcastic by saying she thinks Jess controls the weather but she hates him so much I wouldn't put it past her that she actually believes that. I mean, she already believes that the sun shines out of Dean Forrester's ass. Bootsy: I never like the look of that kid, I knew he was bad as soon as I saw him. AGAIN HE'S BEEN HERE FOR LIKE A WEEK. The subject of the meeting turns from Jess to piling onto Luke for no good reason, and my man Lucas is just about to burst a blood vessel defending himself and Jess from these nutjobs. I honestly couldn't love him more. He's so REAL. Please don't stroke out on us, we need you. Taylor: "There is a consensus among all the towns people that Stars Hollow was a much better place before Jess got here." Kindly go to hell, Taylor Doose.

Dean spending two days on his hands and knees scraping Jess' prank from cement is a beautiful kind of justice. Edit: A commenter made me wonder how Jess made his artwork stick to the cement. Off to Google I went once again. Apparently you can use hairspray to set chalk art, but professional chalk artists use high grade varnishes to set their designs. Jess never half-asses anything. He puts his whole, cute little ass in. You also have to wonder how in a town full of unemployed busy bodies with nothing better to do than notice everything that goes on in town right down to when Rory Gilmore farts, not a single person heard or saw any of this happening. Lorelai fretting that the Independence will be sold to a corporate hotel chain is realistic and it would inevitably happen in my gritty Gilmore Girls reboot titled The Hollow. The Independence Inn would become a Holiday Inn, Luke's would become a Starbucks, Doose's would become a Walmart, and Dean Forrester's house would be a parking lot after a meteor crashed through the roof.

Someone should bash your head in with a safe.

Never in the history of mankind has a single individual sown so much havoc with a single stick of chalk.

Every time I look at that wool jacket lining I feel super itchy.

The captions should really say "okuh", and not "okay." Because that was a stellar "okuh". Get it right. Just another injustice perpetuated against Jesstopher Mariano.

Oh, she did. To be continued in Part 2 so I can add more screen shots.

#gilmore girls #rory gilmore #lorelai gilmore #luke danes #jess mariano #denise rewatches gilmore girls #literati #Gilmore Girls Season 2 #The Inns and Outs of Inns