#I heard from my brother that as a boss he's super hard . Not surprising

[akesdraws-blog]

📷 Under the Public Eye 📷

•°Mikey's Room°•

Mikey upon entering the room simply felt totally excited, it was like being in his best dream. A large room so that he could move around completely, a huge beanbag in which he quickly dropped, it was like being on a cloud and he had a control on one side, his temptation to press all the buttons on the control became present, and suddenly He immediately started doing it. Some turned on soft music in the background, raised and lowered the volume, then began to play with the lights, noticing how he could change not only the intensity of the brightness, but also the tone, he spent a few moments playing with the control, until he heard the The door opened, and he could see a group of girls who had entered, they were even more beautiful than in the photographs.

M. -If I'm in a dream, never wake me up!- I speak with emotion looking at the girls

It was clear that everyone would give very special treatment to the young Turtle, some massages, a little food, Mikey felt like the kings of the movies and comics that he saw. He could make jokes and hear the angelic laughter of the girls who were around him. Although the message that came to his phone brought him back to reality

°Remember what we came for, don't start playing and be brief°

Leo's gentle reminder made him have a pout on his face, but even though he didn't want to admit it, his brother was right, he had to focus on the original mission, even if it meant saying goodbye to the rest of the Angels in the room. .

M. -Alright, Let's Get Serious- he encouraged himself as he looked at the girls.

After a few seconds in which he let each one speak, unfortunately he realized that he did not share interests or tastes with the majority, some were more like a version of Donnie in the form of a super sexy woman, others reminded him of people from a Show of gossip that Splinter saw, and some confessed that they were really just curious to see what the famous anonymous hero was. So he had to say goodbye to most of them…and there he was in the room again…all alone.

M. -It's not fair!, My beautiful Angels- he whimpered as he buried his face in the puff.

Although while Mikey was whining about losing such an opportunity, he heard the door open again, and when Mikey turned to see who it was he was surprised. She was a girl with fluffy hair and a bit disheveled, besides that she had arrived panting, as if she was catching her breath, it seemed that she had run to get where she was, and she was also wearing lovely light pink shorts, I noticed some pins that she had on her long aqua green sweatshirt.

Y/N. -I'm sorry, the bus took longer than expected and- she stood still for a moment looking at Mikey and quickly checked her phone -I was in the wrong room! The boss is going to kill me!!- she screamed, terrified. M. -Everything okay, pretty? - I asked a little confused. Y/N. -No, nothing is fine!- he said again, squeezing his head. -I was supposed to get to the locker room, and then meet the special client, but I arrived directly with the client instead of the locker room!… they're going to kill me. run- he said the last thing practically whining M. -Hey, calm down, do you want some water to cool your head? -He offered, showing her a bottle of water.

After a few minutes they both started talking, Mikey listened attentively and a little amused about how it was hell to go by bus, and how you were practically fighting just to get off at your stop and to top it all off he ended up getting off at the wrong stop, which caused the delay.

Apparently Mikey was that special customer, although it certainly wasn't hard to guess.

M. -So Mrs. J is more terrifying?- I ask, trying to imagine the sweet woman that way.

Y/N. -She will look pretty, but believe me, Mrs. Julieta is terrifying- she said having a small shiver of fear. -But leaving that aside... what do you like? What do you do? Tell me something about yourself- he asked with a smile

M. -Me?- I ask a little surprised.

Y/N. -Yes, don't they ask you things?- I asked a little amused.

M. -Well, it's not like anyone wants to chat about this- she responded with a bitter smile on her face -Normally... they run away- she finished saying, rubbing her own fingers.

Y/N. -Well... I do want to know about you- she spoke loudly to make him look at her. -I'm excellent at listening- she added to encourage the turtle.

For Mikey, it was what was necessary for him to start talking non-stop and it really seemed like the girl was paying full attention to him, since he even asked about some things.

They easily spent an hour straight talking, Mikey had never felt listened to at that level, not even with his siblings.

Y/N. -Wait, wait, you mean you were the ones in the basketball pizza accident?- he asked, still laughing slightly.

M. -I know, they almost caught us- he responded between laughs.

Y/N. -But they are still incredible- she mentioned with a kind smile, although a small bell soon rang.

M. -oh, that's right- he scratched the back of his neck lightly -Hey, and if by chance I wanted us to talk a little more, what would I have to do?- he asked with a slight smile.

Y/N. -Well... you would just have to ask- she replied happily.

They both continued talking for much longer, and Mikey was the first to tell his brothers that he already had his companion.

And of course he was not going to pass up the opportunity to take a photo with the charming beauty who was going to be his guest.Although, no one told him that he couldn't take her somewhere else, right?

Y/N. -It can't be! This is amazing!- she shouted loudly with emotion as the air ruffled her hair.

M. -A VIP turtle style trip baby!- spoke loudly on his rocket skateboard

That's right, Mikey had the great idea of taking you out of the place to take you for a walk.

And of course he wasn't going to do it like any other boy.

He carried you in his arms while he skated on the roofs of the buildings and when he jumped he propelled himself with the rockets of his skateboard.

He was relieved that you weren't scared, but rather that you enjoyed it as much as he did.

And the end of his trip was right at the top of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Y/N. -This was amazing, where did you learn to skate like that and jump and all that?- She spoke excitedly as she watched the cars pass by below.

M. -Well, we are highly experienced ninjas- he responded with a smile full of pride -But this is my favorite place, my brothers don't really like coming here, except for Raph, sometimes we come just for the view- he mentioned while playing with the wheel of your skateboard

Y/N. -It's a beautiful sight- she waved her feet in the air -I never in my life believed I'd be here one day, although I never really considered it.-

M. -I could bring you whenever you want- she proposed, smiling at him. -Although... I would need your number, you know, for when you want me to bring you or maybe you want to go somewhere else- she added with a malicious smile.

Y/N. -Subtle... but we are prohibited from giving personal information to clients- he explained with a smile, but upon noticing the disappointment on the big turtle's face, he took out his phone. -But if by accident the client discovered my number, he wouldn't be able to do anything.- she shook his phone while looking away

Mikey quickly understood the hint and went over to the girl's phone to see the number and quickly wrote it down on his own phone, but before putting his phone away he sent a message and waited for the girl's phone to ring.

Y/N. -Oh wow, a message from an unknown number... who is it from?- he asked with a smile.

M. -Surely an incredibly, super amazing, funny and extremely handsome guy- he responded while showing his muscles.

Y/N. -And not so modest- she added, a little amused, to stretch slightly.

Time passed when both of them kept in touch, having small dates or even getaways from work.

Soon Y/N became Mikey's exclusive companion, although they were still under the excuse that she was for the reveal event.

Rebecca's plan was simple.

Plan a story (In case a reporter asks)

Create moments (Let a fan spontaneously take a photo of a quote)

Give the perspective of a real and loving relationship.

That was it, it was the perfect plan for the world to see the turtles as more than just mutants.

So that they were seen as ordinary individuals, like any other citizen.

But the union that was beginning to form between Mikey and Y/N was beginning to be unique and unexpected, as if they were best friends, or much more than just friends.

The day of the big reveal had finally arrived.

The turtles had custom suits made, and they were the first to be at Eric Sacks' former residence, which currently belonged to Vernon.

Although Mikey was previously the most excited about the cameras and being officially called a hero, he was now practically throwing up with nerves into a bucket himself.

M. -When did we eat Chinese food? -He murmured still with his head stuck in the bucket.

D. -Not recently- he answered while giving it small pats on the shell.

M. -I can't do it Don, I want to go home!-He complained while he hugged the bucket.

D. -Come on, Mikey, everything will happen quickly- he tried to encourage his brother. -Wait, I'm going to bring you something for the nausea and maybe a mint- he said, walking a little quickly.

Mikey was beginning to consider escaping through the nearest window, but when he went to look out he only saw a large number of people gathered outside, waiting for the big moment to be let in and that only made him more nervous.

M. -I can't do it, I can't do it, I can't do it- he murmured in a low voice.

Y/N. -What can't you do?-

D. -I already have the medicine- he quickly approached with a glass of water and a pill

That soft voice, as if it were his saving angel, made him look at you and it was as if all his nerves disappeared.

His head had gone blank the moment he looked at you, a beautiful orange dress, with a cocktail style, and that silk shawl that covered your neckline, for a moment he felt his heart stop.

Y/N. -What's wrong Mikey?- You asked as he got a little closer.

Gosh, had you even worn a tangerine perfume? You even had a lipstick of a soft orange tone, the simple fact of thinking about what it would taste like made you go, you literally went with its color.

He quickly took the medicine that Donnie brought and quickly walked over to take a closer look at you.

M. -If I just died, please tell me that you are the angel that will take me to heaven- I speak with a flirtatious smile.

Y/N. -Oh Mikey- the comment took her by surprise and it was inevitable to blush.

D. -I see that you don't feel so bad anymore, right? -He spoke a little amused while he saw his brother as a complete lover.

Y/N. -Are you sick or something?- I asked a little worried.

M. -Pff, not at all... but if you want to be my nurse, I can say that I feel horribly bad- when saying the last thing he feigned a dramatic tone

Once Donnie checked that Mikey was better they went to the welcome room.

They could hear Vernon and Rebecca finishing their speech thanking them for the protection the turtles had given the city for so many years.

Although when Y/N noticed how Mikey moved a little in his place he just took her hand.

Y/N. -Don't forget your beautiful smile, Mikey- he whispered with a big smile.

M. -Never- he responded to lean down a little and kiss her cheek.

Soon the cameras were constantly catching them after the big reveal.

Some magazines even ranked them as the most loving couple in all of New York.

They just wanted to stay together as long as possible.

• ~°•. ~•°. ~°•. ~•°. ~°•. ~•°. ~°•

Tags:

@post-apocalyptic-daydream . @turtle-babe83. @turtlesmakemehappy . @dilucsflame33. @thelaundrybitch. @scholastic-dragon. @leosgirl82. @tmnt-tychou.@little-bunny-in-space . @happymoonangel. @lazyafgurl. @kikithedreamerwriter. @cleos-chaos-corner. @androidships007.

#tmnt fandom #tmnt 2016 #tmnt bayverse #tmnt 2014 #bayverse mikey #bayverse turtles #tmnt movie #tmnt michelangelo #tmnt mikey x reader #tmnt x you #tmnt x y/n

[talesfromsiteredacted]

Random Grabbag of Interesting Threats and Insults Heard at Site (REDACTED)

Various and sundry threats overheard around site, some directed at the staff, some at the anomalies, some at the Chaos Insurgency. Some are from the anomalies. Hell, I've got a few here. There's rumor about a Most Inventive Threat competition starting. No context, just hostility.

"I swear, if you start in with the singing again... I'm going to cut out your vocal chords, nail them to the front gate, add a warning sign, and spread the word far and wide the Viking penalty for raping eardrums applies here."

"Whomever decided Doctor Bright was Site Command material is gonna get a very special lemon basket, with combustible citrus."

"You're going to get cheesed, mate." "Cheesed?" "Like getting creamed, but a longer, more involved, and more agonizing process. With knives possibly involved."

"Wow... in the D&D game of life, you rolled a nat 1 on not just intelligence, but wisdom and charisma too."

"Keep staring at my sisters like that. I'll show you the Sumerian Cheese Grater trick."

"Keep pushing. Heard Ferdinand would just love a dinner date with you. One more comment like that, and I'll butcher, cook, and serve him your corpse."

"Wanna find out what happens when an idiot gets thrown in a miniature black hole? Keep asking 'When's lunch?' and you'll get firsthand experience."

"Why do you make easy-peasy lemon squeezy into hard hard lemon impossible?"

"Clef... touch my dark roast again, I'll shoot you with your own shotgun."

"Mock Dr. Kondraki again, you'll find out why butterflies can be terrifying."

"This. Is. Why. You. Leave. The. Keters. Alone. Now, piss off before I spank you again with your own baton, kid."

"Meh. You may have top clearance, but you don't have friends, and you don't have taste."

"The Keter? Nah, your willy isn't even Euclid." A pause. "Really weird thing to call your dong, Doctor Bright."

"What do we do with a drunken Bright? Lock him in the brig, and turn a very cold hose on him, of course."

"Interrupt my work once more, and I will be forced to suture your mouth shut."

"Those bastards! I'm going to carve their livers out with a rusty dull spoon!"

"It shouldn't be possible to play a ukulele with malicious intent, but here comes Clef, proving me wrong. One more super slow Tom Petty song, he'll be wearing that damn ukulele as a necktie."

"I could put a sack of manure through 914 on rough and get a better argument than that."

"The Chaos Insurgency must love stupid people, there's so many. Either that, or they need to start using a better temp agency."

"You call this coffee? I call this a mug of disappointment."

"Say it. You'll be eating Tuna Surprise slurries for weeks." A pause. "Why Tuna Surprise slurries? You'll be missing all your teeth."

"Huh. Surprised you can even breathe with your head so far up your own ass."

"Jeremy. My dude. You. Reek. You're out here, smelling like one of 682's chili farts, unwashed, ungroomed, uneducated... and you want a piece of my cake? Hah. Until you rediscover the wonders of a shower and soap, you ain't even touching my ladyfingers."

"Listen to me, Leonard... there is no place in the entire fucking mulitverse where I would find your creepy ass attractive. Now, fuck off before I treat you like a lich, you worthless wreck. You got no game, and lo! No maidens. Maybe 073 can teach you 'Not Being a Creep 101', you need it. Get the fuck out of here, pathetic maidenless wretch!"

"Big Brother told me about this thing he did to a guy with a wire waistcoat and a bicycle pump. Thinking of trying it on a certain annoying doctor."

"Put another fish in the damn fountain. I'll pulverize you with a trout."

"Dr. Gears... I know you're trying to set a good example, but right now you look like a poster for 'The Horrors of Insomnia and Overwork'. You need a long ass nap, boss."

"Grr. The Chaos Insurgency, can't stop them, but can't round them up, push them into a meat grinder, and use them as mutated shark bait."

"Okay... someone get Dr. Glass up here. Dr. Clef is delusional again. He just said Dr. Bright had a good idea. That's not possible."

"Wow. Contracting 008 might actually make this moron into a mere fool."

"I'm not sure if I should hit you with a shovel, shove a live snake up your ass, or just throw you in the incinerator."

"I'd sooner gnaw my own leg off and beat myself to death with it instead of have even a cup of coffee with you. Go away, Karin."

#scp foundation #tales from site redacted #agent rabbit

[himemeika]

HE IS INVOLVED I KNEW IT WOULD BE THAT BASTARD

#I heard from my brother that as a boss he's super hard . Not surprising #being a pain in the ass fits his personality /lh #still I do dread when that day comes. #Then again if I just wait overpower myself in preperation again I could fuck his shit up with ease. Just like Dvalin. #What kind of loser has a hydro vision anyways why don't you get a geo one like a chad /j #.txt #Nick.txt #Nick talks too much #Vamppostz

[recklessmark]

mine

—when the bodyguard your dad hired is your long lost rival.

Pairings: bodyguard Mark x mob-boss Reader

Words: 2.4k

Warnings: unprotected sex (be safe!), dirty talk, rough sex, oral sex, spanking, slut shamming, orgasm denial, mark is possessive but cute at the end.

The sounds of your heels clicking against the ground filled up the silent patio. You stormed into your house after receiving a text from your dad, basically demonstrated that he had sent you a new bodyguard since your job had been getting more intense lately. This should be the umpteenth guard that your dad hired, how are they supposed to protect you when every time you get into trouble, they can’t even take care of themselves.

You locked the door, kicking your shoes off before walking inside. Noticing a figure of a man sitting on the couch, you frowned. One hand holding the gun holster, the other finding the light switch. But they immediately fell onto your mouth when the man in question himself turned around due to the sudden light in the room. Your eyes went widen, still not believed in what you saw. He stood up, a coy smirk displayed on his face as he slowly approached you.

“You miss me?”

You looked him up and down, confirming that you were not dreaming, “M-Mark Lee? You’re alive?”

Your back is against the wall as Mark pressed his body on you, your faces were an inch away from each other. You’re babbling, dying to know how it’s possible for your long lost rival, Mark Lee, revitalized from his death and now standing in your house. Mark had been on the back of your head since the day you heard the news of his death from a combat. Apparently you’re supposed to hate him but that period of time was the darkest of your life, you practically couldn’t live without him.

He leaned in, his nose was brushing yours, “If I knew my appearance can earn that reaction from you, I would accept the job offer sooner.”

You tensed under his muscular body, his face plastered with arrogance. You squinted your eyes at him, “So you’re the body guard that my dad hired?”

Mark nodded, “Didn’t know that my death make your career path a lot easier. You’re the boss now huh?”

You pushed him away, you needed to go since you’re melting into his touch and that’s definitely not a good sign. You fixed your clothes before walking away.

“You can sleep on the couch or in the room next to the balcony. We’re going to the estate tomorrow.”, you called behind your back, “And don’t even think about breaking into my room at midnight.”.

You remembered that time you saw Mark sitting in front of your house with blood everywhere. You did let him stay at your place since he was terribly injured with two bullets in his shoulder and a gash on his ribs. He was super lucky to magically survive after that much damage, and you thought you could be a surgeon that you were phenomenally able to save him with some basic medical skills. Mark stayed with you for two weeks and literally broke into your room every night despite of your death threats and the locks on your door that you only bought because of him. You pathetically had no sleep at that time, how were you supposed to sleep peacefully when your hot enemy was pressing his chest against your back. You sighed, Mark Lee is the first bodyguard you didn’t kick out on the first day and the only bodyguard you let staying at your place.

—

You’re questioning yourself about the faith you put in Mark, your used-to-be enemy, that you actually allowed him to be your bodyguard and now you’re guiding him to your estate. What if he’s preparing for a terrorization?

“So why did you fake your death?”, you asked, only loud enough for him to hear clearly.

Mark glanced at you as he’s trying to find the perfect vocabulary for the situation, “The boss thought I’m a threat to the gang so they attempted to kill me many times, unsuccessfully though.”

“That you’ll murderer that coward and replace him? What in the mysterious novel is this?”, you laughed almost choked on your spit.

Everyone eyes landed on you and Mark when you stepped inside the building, the faint smile on your lips had soon faded away. They respectfully greeted you as you made your way to the office.

“What are you involved with?”

You heard him question when you’re in the elevator. Your fingers tapped on your lips,

“Pharmaceuticals”

“Drugs”

You darted your eyes at him as the word fell out of his mouth. “God, I’m trying to make it sound legal, no need to say it out loud like that.”, you gave him a warning look before continued talking.

“Automotive recovery and repair”

“Grand theft auto”

You’re not bothered to yell at Mark or whatsoever, as if he hadn’t done all that things.

“Defense trading”

“Selling illegal weapons”

You stopped a bit, looking at the number on the monitor screen of the elevator.

“And contract execution.”

The elevator was finally on the highest floor, which only has your office and the meeting room. You stopped at your track when you see a gap on your office door, you always remember to lock it up before going home, except it’s...

“Y/N!”

You almost passed out, you should’ve mentioned that you totally hate surprises. How do people find it’s funny when they scare the fuck out of somebody?

“Lee Haechan? When did you get here?”

You lost your balance when Haechan jumped on you for a hug, “Last night.”

You fumbled on your feet as the weight on you hardened your breathing. “God, do you always have to cling on me like that?”

His arms wrapped around your waist, he rested his head on the crook of your neck as he noticed the man that had been standing at the door frame.

“Who’s this? You better not cheat on me!”

You frowned, pushing Haechan away, “Cheat your ass! He’s my bodyguard.”, you turned around to look at Mark.

“Hey, you should go check the new people. If they mess up, I’ll kick your ass.”

You asked Haechan to leave before he continued making something up. You don’t know why he has a thing for pretending to be your boyfriend, sometimes cousin or even worse is step brother. He always knows how to get you into trouble and never take responsibility for that. You don’t know how come he’s your best friend and your assistant.

You locked the door after he already left, not care about Mark still froze at his space. You sat down, reorganized the stacks of papers on your desk.

“He’s your boyfriend?”

Your eyes flew up only for you to see that Mark was hovering over you, his hands pressed on the desk.

You looked back down, “Why would you care?”

He remained silent, you shrugged, unbothered by his question. Neither the two of you broke the silence first until you completed all the work, it’s already night time outside. You glanced at Mark, who’s sitting on the couch next to the window with his gaze focused on you. You flustered, wondering if he had been like that for 4 hours straight since you came to work after lunch.

“Let’s go.”

—

You’re walking to your car in the parking lot when someone familiar drew your attention.

“Jaehyun!”

You hollered while running towards the man. He caught you in his arms as you peck on his cheeks, which was not become unnoticed by Mark. He recognized the man, Mark had a few combats with him before.

You noticed the expression on Jaehyun’s face changed lightly when his gaze shifted. You knew what’s it about.

“He’s the bodyguard my dad hired, I’ll explain but I have to leave now okay?”

You gave him a small kiss on his lips before turning around, pulling Mark with you.

—

“Get out!”

Mark snarled when he finally pulled up in the garage. He walked out, leaving you confused in the car. Did he just yell at you? You gasped as the door beside you flung opened, he recklessly took off your seat belt before pulling you into the house.

“What the hell Mark?”

You asked when he pressed you against the door, still could not comprehend what’s happening.

“Shut up!”

He groaned into your ear, his head was on the crook of your neck, you squirmed as his hair tickled you.

“Have you done flirting with every man you meet? You want to be a slut so bad don’t you? You want Jung Jaehyun to fuck you right? And either whoever the man in your office was!”

Your body tensed under his, his breath hit your skin giving you some feelings. Both of your hands attempted to push Mark away by his shoulder but he didn’t move an inch. He left your neck to face you, his eyes gave you death stare.

“Mark take a fucking breath, okay?”, you muttered out. His eyes were still boring holes into you as you continued, “Haechan is my assistant and Jaehyun”, you stop, “I like him.”

“That jackass? That? Him?”

You frowned, “He’s not a jackass.”, you debated.

Mark grabbed you around the waist, “He doesn’t ever touch you again. Understand?” His tone was venomous. “You’re mine.”

You stood in silence as your brain functioning his words. His proximity to you was turning the heat in your veins from anger into something else.

“Oh yeah, Mark? I’m yours?”

“Mine.” His face was mere inches from yours.

You narrowed your eyes. “Fucking prove it, then, asshole.”

He tightened his grip around your waist and practically threw you onto the couch. You turned and tried to crawl away but he pulled you back down, forcefully, and slammed his hips into your ass. You could feel his erection straining against his trousers as he ground into you. You braced your hands on the couch as he kicked your legs apart and shoved your dress up around your waist.

“You want me to fucking prove it?”

He cupped your ass in his hands and squeezed hard before ripping off your lace panties and throwing them on the floor. One hand snaked around your waist to keep you from escaping while the other ran along your slit. Mark placed his finger in his mouth tasting you groaning lowly and then pulled it out with a pop. He kneeled down and ran his tongue along your slit before digging in. His tongue circling your clit before darting into your hole then going back. You moaned, your hands gripping the edge of the couch as you felt your orgasm fast approaching.

"M-Mark..." you whimpered as your legs started to shake. He groaned against you as he kept going, the vibrations making your mind go blank. "I-I-I'm... I'm go-gonna..."

He pulled away in a moment, leaving you undone. You whined, desperate to come. Instantly his hand came out and wrapped around the back of your neck pulling you close to him and smashing his lips into yours in a sloppy kiss, his tongue dominated yours as you can taste yourself on it. His other hand ran up your thigh until it reached your ass and he gripped a cheek roughly causing you to moan out.

“Do you think you deserve to cum? You acted like a slut so I treat you like one.”

He started to kiss and bite along your neck stopping every so often to leave some marks. You heard the metallic click as it was unfastened and then his zipper as he freed his cock. Then, in one motion, he slammed into your cunt.

“How about this, huh? Do you like my cock inside you?”

You gritted your teeth and nodded, Mark smacked your ass, hard. “Answer me, goddamnit. Do you like my cock inside you?”

“Yes,” you breathed.

“Say it.” He began a slow but punishing rhythm, pistoning into you as hard as he could. “Fucking say it, Y/N.”

“Yes–Mark....” He punctuated each of your words with a deep thrust. “I – like – your – cock – inside – me – ”

“You like it when I fuck you hard?” he growled as he began to speed up.

“Yes… yes… oh God, yes,” you moaned, giving yourself over to the pleasure.

“You filthy fucking slut… you like it when I fuck your pussy from behind like this?”

“Yes! Mark, yes!” you could feel your climax already approaching as Mark reached down to rub your swollen clit with his hips slamming into you nonstop.

“Are you mine, Y/N?” he roared.

“Yes, Mark, I’m yours!”

With that, your orgasm tore through you, your back arching as your body pulsed around him. You had barely come down from your high when leaned over, “You should be grateful that I let you cum. Turn around, dirty girl. I want your mouth.”

Mark pulled out of you and you turned around kneeling in front of him, still feeling boneless. He grasped your hair and you let your jaw drop open; he bucked his hips forward and you could taste yourself on his cock. You sucked him greedily as he thrust forward.

He groaned as he emptied himself into your mouth; you swallowed everything Mark gave you before slowly licking him clean. He fell flopped himself onto the couch, shaking from the force of his release, before wrapping his arm around your naked body.

For a few long minutes, the only sound was your labored breathing as you tried to recover.

“Do you actually like Jaehyun?”

Mark mumbled but loud enough for you to hear, his breath was still heavy.

You leaned in to rest your head on his shoulder, your legs curled up, pressing against your bare chest. “Yes, but I guess it doesn’t matter anymore.”

His hand brushed your hair comfortably, “Why?”

“Didn’t you just claim me like two minutes ago? You can’t change your mind.”, Mark couldn’t help but giggled, he pressed his chin on your head. “Since when you have feelings for me?”, you looked up only to see his sharp jawline, his signature scent filled up your nostrils.

“I don’t know dude, may be that time when you held a dull dagger on my throat or when you attempted to shoot me with no bullet loaded in the gun.”

You slapped his arm playfully, “That was an accident!”

The room went into silence again, your eyes stared into the city outside of the wall of windows.

“Do you know when I figured out my feelings?”

Mark traced your fingers with his thumb, waiting for your answer. “I kissed Jaehyun because it’s the last kiss, I thought you don’t care.”, you intertwined your hand with his, “But I know you’re my everything the moment you I saw you sitting here, that my long lost hot rival is alive.”

©️  DREAMYKRAM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

#nct mark #mark lee #mark blurbs #mark boyfriend #mark imagines #mark lee imagines #mark lee scenarios #mark lee smut #mark scenarios #mark smut #nct smut #nct u smut #nct x reader #nct scenarios #nct imagines #nct mark lee

[willyoulovemeinthemorning]

The Prodigal Daughter Chapter 1

Summary: As the secret daughter of Jason Gideon, you’ve always had a certain proclivity towards profiling. After finishing the Academy, you finally have your chance in the BAU- only months after your dad’s passing. Will it all be too much? Will you find yourself sharing another proclivity with your father for a certain genius with big puppy dog eyes?  A/N: Hello! This is my first fic in a very long time, but this story idea has been living in my head for upwards of 6 or 7 years! Please go easy on me, and I hope you enjoy! a big thanks to @candlesandsoftrain for being a great beta! Couple: Spencer Reid/Fem!Reader
 Category: Fluff/getting to know you games with the team Content Warning: nothing in this chapter except lots of flirting, tension, sexually charged drinking games, etc. Later chapters will include NSFW Word Count: 4000+

Chapter 1

The years moved by much too fast for your liking. You were older than you were willing to admit, and the years had been hard. Time moved so oddly- it was so difficult and slow when it was happening, but when you looked back, it was as if it sped by like a freight train.

Today was your first day at your new job-  you were 27 and you’d been waiting your whole life for this day to finally come. After hearing stories about your father all through your life; catching the monsters in the dark as well as those that hide in plain sight… you wanted to be a superhero too. And lucky for you, you had a certain proclivity towards reading people. So, you became a profiler. And after years of grueling school, training and fighting to earn your place with no one knowing the legacy in your blood line, you did it.

No, those weren’t tears in your eyes… it was just dusty in the bullpen, that was all. You could feel him everywhere. You knew this was where he lived and breathed and worked for so much of his life. Your mom never understood how you ended up being so understanding about never seeing him, while your brother spent so much of your lives incredibly bitter and angry at him for “abandoning” you both. You always told Stephen that dad spent every minute of every day trying to make the world a safer place for the two of you to grow up in. And now you could finally continue his life’s work.

You caught a few pairs of eyes looking at you when you entered the bullpen for the first time, walking through like you’d been there a million times before- because in your imagination, your dreams, you had. Dad was always so descriptive with his words, and it was never hard to get lost in his stories.

You walked right to the Unit Chief’s office, knowing that Agent Hotchner was already in there waiting for you. You were supposed to have your first meeting on Monday, but when the team didn’t get back in time from their last case- a strangler in Minnesota, he had called you and you rescheduled to accommodate those dang annoying serial killers. Now it was Wednesday, and you could feel the tired energy in the room. It was filled with the sounds of scribbling pens and pencils on paper, the groans and squeaks of chairs as everyone tried to stay comfortable while doing their paperwork. You spotted a few very attractive people around you, but tried to keep your eyes forward as you headed for your destination.

After knocking on the door, you heard a shuffling of papers as a low, gritty voice welcomed you, “Come on in.”

“Hello, Agent Hotchner. Nice to see you again.” You offered your hand, which he took with his baseball mitt sized one. It was rough and strong, and reminded you of your fathers when you were young. You could tell these hands had seen a lot of conflict.

“Y/N , you’ve grown up a lot since last I saw you.” He had a kind smile on his face, which surprised you, even after all this time. Aaron Hotchner was always such a serious man, even when you were younger. “And please, call me Aaron. You know that.”

You chuckled in response. “I know, but it feels weird to call you that now that you’re my boss.”

“Hotch will do then. Morgan will give you quite a hard time if he hears you calling me ‘Agent Hotchner’, I can promise you that. Sit, sit. Let’s get through all the necessary annoyances so I can properly introduce you to your new team.”

After all of the finalized paperwork and introductory nuisances, Hotch finally stood up, indicating it was time to enter the bullpen again, but with a promise of introductions to your new team. You felt a small pang in your heart. You wished your dad could have been here to do this instead of Aaron. He took notice of your second of discomfort- something you were sure to get used to quickly working with profilers.

“Y/N, he’s here… in you. I know how proud he would be of you.” He said to you with a hand falling to your shoulder.

With a smile, you accepted the comfort, turning to look at him again. “Would you mind… could we see Uncle Dave first? I think it would make me feel a little better to have him next to me for this.” That damn dust was at it again. You were fine, really. You’d been preparing for this emotion for months now- there was nothing to surprise you.

With a gentle smile, Aaron- no, Hotch, you remembered- nodded. “Of course. Follow me to his office.” It didn’t escape your notice that, as you followed him, you were on your way to your dad’s old office. Each step brought you to a place you’d heard about, thought about, dreamt about, but had never seen. But when you walked in behind Hotch, you knew this was nothing like your father would have kept it. It just screamed Rossi.

“Y/n! If it isn’t the smartest and brightest star from the Academy, falling right here into our laps at the BAU!” Dave cheered as he saw you, shooting up from his chair and almost running to you, pulling you into his arms while Hotch closed the door to offer you all some privacy.

“Uncle Dave, you can’t believe how amazing it is to have you here on my first day.” You said into his shoulder, holding him close. He was always such a big supporter of your career- there every step of the way whenever your dad couldn’t be. You always said that you were lucky- god blessed you with a loving, mildly helicopter mother, and two superhero dads so fight all the monsters for you.

“You’re gonna be great, kid. Unless your academy grades and reputation were all a lie to get you out of their hair!” He laughed, low and warm.

You giggled, pulling back from him and punching him lightly in the arm. “Rude.” You took a deep breath, and both men noticed that you were preparing yourself to say something important. “Aaron, Uncle Dave... I made it here on my own, with my mother’s maiden name and no one knowing who my father is. I am so proud to be the daughter of Jason Gideon, and I miss him every day… but I think I want to keep my birth last name a secret for now, if you’re both okay with that. They legally changed my name when I was a baby, and while I would be so proud to have his last name again, I’m- just not ready to hold up his legacy just yet.” You explained to them, hoping they understood. Your parents had decided very early on that they didn’t want you to have the last name Gideon. It was just- too dangerous. Your father had put away too many bad people, especially people that preyed upon little girls, to risk your life that way. So while you thought of yourself as Y/N Gideon in your mind, you’d never said it out loud before. Not once.

“Of course, kiddo. Whatever you want, we’ll follow your lead. Hopefully Garcia can’t find anything with your last name, but we’ll have Kevin keep an eye on her search history in case she finds anything. But if you’re worried about anyone finding out, I would tell her and promise her to secrecy though. Because if super tech genius finds out before you tell her… everyone will know.” He explained, and you laughed. You’d heard about Garcia. Your dad used to drive her crazy. You considered Rossi’s advice and nodded, understanding and deciding to think on it.

“Ready?” Hotch said after a moment, gesturing to the bullpen, where you could see several people grouped up at a desk, staring into Rossi’s office with curiosity and perhaps a little bit of uncertainty.

“As I’ll ever be.” Rossi squeezed your hand and you smiled at him, a big toothy smile shining back at you. With two men you knew you’d already trust your life with by your side, you walked out of the room knowing that these people who you already knew so much about would soon also hold your life in their hands. “Team, I’d like to introduce you to the new member of our team, Y/N L/N. She’s transferred in with top marks from the Academy, and she’s been highly recommended by all of her professors.”

You blushed at his compliments, rolling your eyes at him. “I didn’t have the highest marks in ALL of my classes. Shooting targets took me a while.” You smile, waving at the team awkwardly. “Hi everyone, it’s an honor to be here with you. I’ve heard so much about all of you. You’re all pretty famous around the bureau. I can’t wait to meet you all and get to know you as my team instead of people I’ve been idolizing for 10 years!”

Everyone laughed, and a tall, dark and handsome man walked forward with a giant grin on his face. “Hey, Y/N, I’m Derek Morgan. You are welcome to continue to idolize me as much as you’d like.” You could have snorted, he was so much like your dad described.

“Nice to meet you, Agent Morgan.” You said with a mildly flirty smile, holding your hand out to him happily. No worries for you, you were definitely going to like your job if you had him to look at all the time.

“That’s enough touching for now, little newbie,” a big beautiful blonde said from behind him. “That is my man-candy you’re ogling and groping, thank you very much.” There was no venom to her words, just something that you could only describe as adorable teasing. She was so colorful, it was almost as if there was a light shining around her. She was just a glowing ball of sunshine… You knew you’d be fast friends with her. “I’m Penelope Garcia, resident tech Goddess and most loyal beck and call gal.”

You took her hand and shook it, before doing a slight curtsy, earning you a giggle. “An honor to meet you, Tech Goddess Garcia.”

“Ignore her, they’re perfect for each other because of their over inflated egos.” You heard a blazé voice coming from the other side of Derek Morgan. “He’s eye candy for us all, much to her dismay. She’s never been one for sharing. I’m Emily, one of the few normal ones here.”

“Normal, pfft. She’s far from normal. You should hear her talk about her cat. Jenniffer Jareau, but my friends call me JJ.”

You took both of their hands in firm handshakes, grinning at them both. “Nice to meet you, and thank you for the permission to ogle, Agents. As far as normal, I sure hope not. Normal is vastly overrated.” You grinned at them. Damn they were cute. Was this whole team models who decided to become do-gooders and join the FBI?

“Halloweentown, 1998, said by Debbie Reynolds.” A small voice in the back of the group piped in, confident in words and speed, but somehow… demure and shrouded in uncertainty, too. The team parted so you two could see each other, and you swear your heart stopped beating for a few seconds. In front of you was the prettiest, most adorable, hottest guy you’d ever seen. He had a sexy professor thing going on, but simultaneously looked like he was an anxious teenager, terrified of being bullied by this newcomer.

You longed to hold him and protect this stranger from the rest of the world and heal any wounds he had succumbed to in the time before you. He was staring at you too, eyes wide like a deer caught in headlights, pupils a little bigger than you can only assume they would normally be. After a snicker broke you both from the weird moment, pretty boy smiled a little and gave an awkward wave. “Hi. Doctor Spencer Reid.”

Oh. God. Your heart stopped a second time, and you swore, this is what a stroke felt like. You’d heard about Spencer for the last ten years. Your father loved him almost as much as he loved you and your brother. Maybe even more sometimes. The BAU resident genius, IQ of 187, eidetic memory, born in Las Vegas and wasn’t allowed in most casinos due to his card counting ability. Ability to empathize and love in a beautiful and incredible way- your father adored him, and because of how he spoke of him, you… you’d always had a crush on this faceless idea in your head with his wild mop of hair and tall, lanky frame. You had a general picture from all these years, but nothing had prepared you for this.

“H-Hi. I’m Y/N. N-Nice to meet you.” You said, trying your hardest not to sound like a little school girl with a crush on her teacher. You’d just met the man, for god sakes. You heard another snicker, and this time you knew it was from Morgan just from the proximity of the sound and the testosterone you could feel from the gesture. You tried to ignore your flaming red cheeks, and held out a hand a second before remembering that he hated being touched by strangers. A big germaphobe, always calculating the risk of what contact could mean for him. But before you had a chance to pull away, he reached out and took your hand, giving it a squeeze. You must have looked as shocked as you felt, but no one else noticed because everyone was staring at Reid with the same expression you were wearing. And to be honest, he looked just as surprised, if not more so.

Garcia made a breathy squeak sound, and somehow, that broke the tension of the moment, and you and Reid pulled away at the same time, both looking like you’d just been shocked by electricity. You stretched your hand out, staring at it, feeling on edge all over again, thinking about how good his hand felt in yours, and how good it would probably feel other pla-

“Well, I hope you all will be on your best behaviors, and treat Y/N like you would want to be treated as a newcomer in a team like ours, seeing what we see.” Hotch finally broke the silence. “Y/N, if you have any problems, come find myself or Rossi and we’ll help sort them all out.” Nodding, you looked at him and smiled, suddenly very embarrassed that your boss and your uncle just witnessed all of that. As profilers, they were going to come to so many conclusions, and each was more embarrassing than the last.

“Pretty boy and pretty girl, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-” You heard Derek sing-songing and he walked away, looking like the cat who got the cream. He was interrupted only when Emily punched him quite hard in the arm, looking at you with a wink and a smirk as she headed back to her desk as well. You tried to avoid looking at the genius again, but it was… difficult to say the least. You wanted to memorize everything about him. You wanted to pick his brain and listen to every fact he’d ever memorized. You wanted to experience him in all the ways your father had gotten to and more.

You watched as the team dissipated and then your eyebrows furrowed. “Rossi?” You asked, stopping him in his tracks as he was headed back to his office. “Where’s my desk?” He looked over his shoulder at you and you could tell he was holding back a shit eating grin as he pointed with his thumb to the desk directly across from Reid.

Fuck. You both looked at each other… or well, you looked at him, and he looked away like he’d been caught doing something and sat down, looking at his paperwork blankly. As you headed to your new desk, you’d give anything to know what was happening inside that massive brain of his.

Staring at your empty desk, you imagined what you could put there. Pictures of your family, pictures of your friends and your cats… One day you would put up a picture of your father… one day. For now, you grabbed your briefcase from your side and opened it up. You started unpacking some of your first day necessities; pens and notebooks, little toys and bright objects to remind yourself that there is good in the world. Your pile of books out; you always kept at least ten books on you at all times. One for every kind of mood you could be in- and at least three that you hadn’t read yet and were planning on.

As you prepped your desk, you could feel those eyes on you, analyzing your every move. You wanted to look up and see if you could find what he was figuring out within those eyes, but you tried to keep busy so you wouldn’t embarrass yourself again.

“Another book nerd, I see.” You heard that deep, caramelly sweet voice behind you. Derek sat on your desk right next to you and smiled a toothy smile at you. “Pretty girl likes to read, huh?”

Smiling at him, you raised a brow. “Reading is an exercise in empathy; an exercise in walking in someone else’s shoes for a while.” You were about to quote the originator, but someone else beat you to it.

“Malorie Blackman. British children’s literature writer and science fiction author.” Your head snapped to the person in front of you, who wasn’t looking at either of you.

Smiling at him, you nodded, and then turned to Morgan. “Yup, Malorie Blackman. Empathy is a huge part of the job, right? Reading allows us to experience a million different perspectives- which, as proflers, is necessary to catch the bad guys. I read so I can try to understand as many perspectives in this world as possible.”

Derek looked a little impressed, at least, and you couldn’t get a read on the gorgeous mop of brown hair on the desk across from you. Derek picked up one of the books still on your desk, not organized in your little library yet. “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings?” He comments, and you catch Spencer’s eyes flick up at the title, curious.

“It’s my favorite. Not only do I love birds, but I’m a very big Maya Angelou fan. I’ve… always kind of felt like a bird stuck in a cage. Flitting about, trying to figure out what to do with my life and who I am... No book has ever made me feel more seen or understood as a human being.” You caught those big, interested eyes and you almost felt like you might have shared too much. You’ve always been an open book, but somehow, the way he was looking at you made you feel more vulnerable than you had… ever.

Derek nodded and smiled, putting the book down on your desk. “Well, lady genius, I’m going to try and get everyone to get together tonight for drinks, would you be interested in getting to know us in a more fun environment, or would you rather just go to the library with Pretty Boy over here and nerd out together?” He teased, making both of you blush.

“I-I don’t know. I’ve spent all of the years of my adulthood studying and sleeping and working to get here, so I haven’t really… spent a lot of time at bars?” Admitting that wasn’t the best feeling, but better to be honest than try to make up a lame excuse.

“Do I hear we have a light weight to peer pressure?” Derek said, loudly enough to catch the attention of everyone else. JJ and Emily looked enthused, and Rossi poked his head out of his office to chime in.

“Someone’s convincing Miss nose in a book Y/N to go out for drinks tonight? I’m in and I’m buying!” That was met with an uproarious approval from everyone on the team, with the exception of Reid, who was just looking at you, seemingly waiting on you to decide.

You bit your lip, noticing how Reid’s eyes fell to your lips in reaction. Well… if you could spend more time with the prettiest boy you’ve ever seen looking at you like that more… “Well… I guess. Sure. Sure, okay, I’m in.” You finally agreed, everyone whooping and hollering in celebration at you giving in. “Doctor Reid? What about you?” You looked at him through your eyelashes, and you could swear you saw his eyes dilate more.

“Oh, pretty boy barely ever comes out drinking with us anymore. He’s always holing himself up in his apartment- books from floor to ceiling, books in the fridge, freezer, on the bed, in his drawers and closets…” Derek teased, reaching over to Spencer and ruffling his hair.

Reid looked at Morgan and shoved his hand away and tried to fix his hair, rolling his eyes. “I do not have books in my freezer. That would be a terrible spot to put them, it would completely ruin the delicate spines.” You smiled at him in support, and he sat up a little straighter. “I… I’m in. For tonight.” He looked right at you when he said it, and you couldn't help but feel a little flutter in your stomach at the idea that he was going just to get to know you.

Morgan seemed to be thinking the same thing, and the face he gave Reid as he stood up and sauntered away said more than he needed to outloud. Once Reid looked away from Morgan, your eyes met and you both smiled again. “You’re a fan of Maya Angelou?” He asked, nodding towards your book.

“I am. I was always drawn to books that had birds on the covers, but then I actually read it and realized how beautiful it is on the inside.” You held the book in your hands gently. It was a mutual love, one your shared with your dad.

“The number of bird species in a person’s surroundings correlates directly to happiness levels.” He said, smiling at you like you were the most interesting thing in the world. The attention should have made you uncomfortable, but it just made you feel warm… important.

“Really?” You searched his eyes, wondering how much information was in that brain, stacked away for use when necessary. “That’s so interesting. I thought most people found birds annoying because of all the noise.”

He shook his head. “On the surface, they think it’s annoying, but once one becomes used to the sounds all around them, they find the background noise comforting. Most people find absolute silence much more disconcerting.”

“Absolute silence, for sure. But comfortable silence between two people who find solace in each other… I think that’s my favorite background noise.” He looked at you as you spoke, a small bit of hope flickering in both of your faces. You’d felt… alone, since your fathers spirit left this world months ago. It had been so hard to be at school and unable to go to his services, terrified of people finding out who your father was and that information altering your career. You hadn’t even applied to the bureau until you had your recommendation letters in order- you didn’t want Aaron giving you any false starts just because he knew. You liked to visit his grave once a month and tell him all the things you wrote in your letters to him. You carried around his private notebook as a reminder of the people in the world he saved, the people you wanted to save. You clutched your briefcase close, knowing you couldn’t put it in your desk with Reid watching you so closely. You’d find time to slip it in later, when no one was looking. With that eidetic memory, you knew he’d recognize it immediately, and you didn’t want his curious gaze to ruin your secret just yet. You wanted the team to form their own opinions of you before they knew... because the moment they knew, everything would change.

Next chapter

#Spencer reid #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fanfiction #spencer reid fic #spencer reid fluff #spencer reid imagine #fluff #criminal minds #criminal minds fanfiction #criminal minds insert #spencer reid insert #criminal minds imagine #Spencer Reid x reader #Spencer Reid x y/n #Spencer Reid x you #dr spencer reid #Spencer Reid self insert #criminal minds self insert #jason gideon #candlesandsoftrain

[cosmiclatte28]

Single (Jeno x you)

a/n : i may forgot how to write (?) anyways this is a jeno piece I work quickly today for @neopalette

hope this is entertaining enough and to all dream stans out there this is for you :D 

setting is all dream members considered to be in the same age as you. 

enjoy!!

People have been pestering you with the same question, “Why are you still single?”

Well you cannot really answer them and say, “I don’t know why don’t you date me?” As much as you want to shut them up with those words, you knew it’ll only turn awkward.

Well to be honest, you've been asking yourself that. It's not that you're unattractive or unsocial. You're the total opposite! Cute, caring, and fun.

You have friends or a group of school's princes as your hang out friends. It's just a lucky coincidence. You're the childhood best friend of Jeno and that guy’s really like your brother (despite the same age you share). He always brings you to his outings and you slowly develop a good friendship with the boys.

What irks other people is that the fact you're in a position every girl is willing to die for. Standing on the side of the class, leaning to the wall while laughing with a circle of the most popular guys in the school.

Now their question is, why are the boys so attached to you and why are you not dating anyone of them? Well, first you do want to date anyone of them. Literally anyone because you feel so chill and relax around them. They make you feel save too! But what is this? Friendzone? Maybe. Or “I see you as my sister.”

One day as you walk through the hall with one of the boys, Jeno, both of you overheard a group of girls talking.

“I know right, there's no way she is not leeching over them. Did she use some magic? She's so usual like us why do they choose her?”

“You're right its either she pays them, or she buys them with money. She came from a quiet decent family. No way she is not crushing anyone there. If she does not, she's crazy.”

You try to ignore them, but your heart is sad. No, you do not “buy" your friendship. They even treat you more than you did to them.

Jeno heard them and apparently, he was riled up and he went to the group of girls who looked shocked but tried to act normal.

“Excuse me pretty girls,” he nicely greets them with his smile and friendly composition. You close your eyes, knowing this will just give you trouble.

They look struck by Jeno’s close presence and melt into his charm. “I am here to remind you, what you’re doing is making false rumor and that is not good. It doesn’t suit you.”

Jeno forces a deadly smile and turns his heels back to you when the girls nod their head like they heard him clear. Their eyes found yours and you already gulp down the heavy lump in your throat when they send you a death glare.

“What are you doing?” you question Jeno once he returns to your side and starts walking as if nothing happens.

“Just reminding some girls what they’re doing is not good.” He shrugs his shoulder “You should speak up you know. You’re a great listener to us and what they said were wrong, so you should speak up.”

You nod “I know, it’s hard Jeno. I’ll let them think of me that way, besides you guys know my real side, why do I have to bother them.”

That actually makes a little bit of sense according to you and Jeno, but when you meet the gang during lunch break and Jeno told them what happened, well the boys cannot keep it low.

“I’m not going to help them anymore.” Renjun scoffs when he hears the story.

“You should really speak up (y/n)! You’re our amazing friend and we cannot let them think of you this way.” Jisung chimes in, which is something rare.

You smile and laugh “Thanks guys, but this doesn’t sound like you at all. I am the one getting judged, why are you the confused one? Besides what bothers me is not that, but something else.”

“And what exactly is that?” Haechan suddenly pops into the discussion. He surprised all of you, well earlier Mark and him were called for a help in the teacher’s room, and you guys were sitting on the backyard (a rare meeting place) so it’s a surprise they found you.

“I cannot tell you now. I promise I’ll tell you once I am ready.” You fiddle with your uniform skirt.

“Okay, we won’t push you.” Jeno smiles at you and you thank the others as the bell of the last quarter rang.

--

You spend the last quarter lost in your own mind. You keep on questioning yourself, is it true you look like that in other people’s eyes. Of course they do not know what happened between you and the boys behind their back.

You listened to every single problem they have, they share it to you through messages at the middle of the nights. Each slowly opening up to you, showing their vulnerable sides. You never judge them, instead you comfort them by staying with them. Just listening and being there for them. They like you because of that and you never share their secrets to the other. It started with Jisung opening up to you, then Chenle, then the harder shells to read like Jaemin Jeno and Renjun. Mark and Hyuck also lately come to you for sharing sessions.

You know people do not have to know that to clap and give you recognitions, you did this out of empathy and care. Plus they make a good gang to play and have fun with. Having a friendship bond with boys is less dramatic and more fun.

You push a smile back to hide your own emotion and luckily they bought it when you say “Let’s not bother or mind what others think about me. As long as you know the real me, I am glad with it.”

--

“You should stop acting like you’re fine.” Your longest best friend says when both of you have parted ways with the others and walk side by side on the empty road.

You look at Jeno and he doesn’t have his friendly smile on. His face looks serious.

“I am fine, but I could probably use a boyfriend card to take care of me and make me finer.” You joke around a little bit. Teasing the boys about you wanting a boyfriend is always fun.

They always say no but they never cross the line because they are afraid that being in a relationship with you may cut the nice friendship if things go wrong (break ups!)

“You’re still questioning that?” Jeno sighs, you’ve been talking about this to him. You always code him that you want to know what it’s like to be in a relationship, but Jeno just says “You’ll regret the drama”. He did date a few girls but finally settle on being single until he is ready for commitments. You, on the other hand, are single from birth. You always befriend boys to the point where they’re too comfortable with you to see you in a romantic way.

“Well I always wonder why and where did I do wrong.” You shrug your shoulder

“I want to be in a relationship! I want to know what it’s like to  have someone take care of me, or me taking care of them. I want short goodnight and good morning texts. I want to walk with them home and maybe grab some bite along the way while we discuss small things. Oh and I want to just you know sit together, listen to a music from a shared earphone and act like we’re the main characters of a movie!” you have stars in your eyes and as Jeno stares into the sky, he notices the beautiful sunset.

“You’re being single for too long. I tell you, that did not always happen.” He mocks your ridiculous idea and playfully ruffles your hair “You read too much fantasies.”

“I never read them.” You glare at him and he nods “Now that explains why you also sound so clueless about relationship. Look, it’s not as simple as saying I love yous and holding hands in public. There’s more and as much as I hate to tell you this… I have to.” He pauses and you stop walking.

You look at him. Waiting for Jeno to continue “Look, you don’t need a boyfriend right now. You’re taking care of so many people and that’s great, but that is time consuming already. If you have a boyfriend, then you will pay more attention to them and counting the time you spend taking care of us, will make you neglect your life and study and fail school. Which is something I do not want to happen.”

Your eyebrow raise “Conclusion?”

“You don’t need a boyfriend, or at least right now you should focus on taking care of yourself. You did a lot to us, let us take care of you in return.” Jeno whispers, and deep inside his heart he adds “or maybe let me take care of you in a way you always wish to get. You don’t know how much I love you and seeing you want a boyfriend only pains me. Will I be ready to lose you?”

“Fine. It’s not like I can buy one from a store.” You start walking again and Jeno follows you.

“Silly idea, ignore that okay.” You feel shy about saying that to him, what will Jeno think of you? A creepy freak.

NO. IN JENO’S HEAD YOU LOOK SUPER CUTE. WANTING TO HAVE A BOYFIE, EVEN GOING INTO THE DETAILS.

“Alright, this is it, good bye and good night (y/n)” Jeno waves as you enter your porch and open the door. You look to the house right next to yours, separated just by a wall. Yes he is your neighbor.

“Good night Jeno! Thank you for accompanying me.” You disappear behind the door and continue your lonely life.

“Hey Jaehyun hyung-“ you greet your brother who is amazingly already homed already at this time.

“Oh hey, dinner is on the table.” He juts his chin to the dining table and your eyes fall to the set of plates.

“You’ve eaten?” you ask while washing your hands, getting ready to change and eat.

He nods “Boss was awful today, I got home quickly and was hungry. Sorry I left you to eat by yourself.”

“Any news about mom?” you ask when you’re back on the table ready to eat.

Jaehyun still sits in front of the TV, looks like he is having a bad day and is afraid of lashing emotions to you, thus he avoids you.

“She’s probably with that man again. No news.” He sounds bitter. Well, after father left mom also left to find another man. You were left alone with your brother, who has to work hard for you and him.

“Help me with some clothes will you?” Jaehyun asks when you’re done cleaning up and washing the dish. “We need to deliver the laundries to the neighbors.” Jaehyun stands up from his seat and goes back to you with a packed fresh clothes.

You and your brother run a small laundry services for the neighbors here. Well, your family left both of you with the house and utilities inside them, one of which is a laundry machine and a dryer. So for additional income you and Jaehyun did laundries.

“It’s by the end of the road, can you please drop this tomorrow morning? I am taking the one on the other side.” He shows you which packages should go where and with that you leave to your room.

You’re glad your father still pays for your tuition, but you have to keep your scholarship going or you’ll be in trouble. Right as you finish studying and doing your papers, your phone vibrates and Jeno’s name appear.

“Good night (y/n), sweet dreams!”

You glance to the window and look into the window across yours, it’s Jeno’s room and you can see his silhouette sitting on his desk probably still gaming. You smile a little and text him back and the next thing you see is his room going dark. Oh he really is sleeping!

You set your alarm and also take the long awaited sleep you needed.

--

“Good morning (y/n) oh and Jaehyun hyung!” Jeno greets you and Jaehyun on the front of your house. Jaehyun’s locking the door and taking his bike to work.

“Morning Jeno.” You feel happier with this kind of small acts. It’s not new, but something about his smile and genuine happiness is making you energized.

“Don’t forget to drop the laundry.” Jaehyun said after hugging you goodbye.

You don’t forget. With Jeno on your side, you walk to the house on the edge and knock on their door to deliver the package and receive the money. It’s nothing big, but definitely enough to buy you lunch and safe some for the piggy bank.

“Still running the laundry business eh?” he looks surprised, guess you usually deliver them not in the morning or he’d known already.

“Yes, usually I send them near evening, but today is special. Imagine if the school finds out I am doing this, maybe they’ll stop saying I bought my friendship, right?” you try to liven up the mood but Jeno is in pain.

“Let’s just enjoy the day!” Jeno boldly hugs your shoulder from the side and drags you with him into the school.

“Woah what’s with the sudden closeness??” Jaemin interrogates once he saw you and Jeno entering the school in an uncommon way, which is Jeno bringing your bag and having you on his back.

“She fell on the way here, and I guess she has to check her ankles and clean her wound.” Jeno shuffles you up on  his back and you hide your face from the stares.

“Oh hurry then! I’ll help with the bags. Leave it here, Renjun can help me.” Jaemin takes over your stuffs and Jeno makes a run to the nurse office. There is still no one on duty, but he knows basic help.

He washes the blood carefully and puts disinfectant to your scrap, you almost kick him but his reflects are quick.

“I think your ankle is swelling. I am no professional but that is not normal.” He points to your ankle and right, its not.

“Do you want me to stay here? We can skip the first quarter and wait until you feel better. You fell hard earlier, did you black out?” Jeno sounds worried. Well he remembered how you suddenly wobble, lose balance and fell before Jeno could catch you.

“Forgot breakfast I guess.” You bite your lips and Jeno in a dash of an eye has fled from the room and return with a pack of milk and sandwich.

“Eat, or you’ll faint again.” He gently opens the wrapper for you and like his promise stays with you there.

“Want to listen to this?” he suddenly hands you one earphone piece and you pick it up carelessly. Not realizing that Jeno has been doing the things you wish to receive from a man.

“Nice song,” you comment as you focus with your left ear to the music playing. You don’t feel anything weird until break time comes and Renjun surprises both of you.

“Oh sorry for disturbing! I was just going to check on you but I guess I came in the wrong time.” He chuckles nervously and disappears before you can call him and say nothing is happening.

That’s when you lock eyes with Jeno, one piece of earphone connecting both of your ear and he was near to you. Oh now you understand.

“He thought we were in a moment?” you giggle

Jeno smiles, he loves seeing you this happy. He laughs too and brushes your hair away “This is it right? Something you want to experience. Getting taken care of, doing cheesy things like this.” He teases you

Realization hits you late and you laugh until a tear escapes your eye “You’re right! This… oh gosh! Jeno are you trying to let me feel this sensation?”

“What sensation?” his heart suddenly beats faster.

“Like I am treasured and getting taken care of? I feel loved??” you sound so happy and that makes Jeno both happy and sad. Happy to see your genuine laugh and sad why hasn’t he noticed this sooner.

“You deserve this (y/n), and I am stupid for not realizing this sooner.” He holds your hand and gives it a gentle squeeze.

You suddenly feel butterflies in your stomach, Jeno’s close body doesn’t help your heart beat slower and the music playing in your ear is no longer clear. You can only hear your heart beating faster and your eyes are only locked inside Jeno’s deep warm eyes. Why did you not notice this? His eyes are warm and comfortable. You never want to cut this moment.

“I’m going to break the rules, why don’t we try to step further like more than friends?” he turns red and you are sure your cheeks are also red.

“Guess we can try and see where it leads us to,” you sing song give him the green light.

“Okay then, from now on, don’t be surprised if I change into your dreamy boyfriend type.” He winks and you laugh. Life’s great and you’re happy whenever you are with Jeno.

Maybe you both did not realize that life brought you together for a long time not just to be friends but something more.

That something, is going to be decided when both of you are ready to find out!

For now, you’re glad that Jeno took the first step into getting to know you as more than friends, and you are more than ready to share what you’re dealing with to Jeno.

  end

#jeno imagines #jeno scenarios #jeno x you #jeno x y/n #jeno x reader #jeno soft hours #jeno oneshot #jeno fanfic #nct dream fanfic #nct dream fic #nct dream fluff #jeno fluff #jeno packs #lee jeno #jeno #nct jeno #nct dream masterlist #nct dream scenarios #nct dream imagines

[chaoticpuff17]

A Dangerous Game

part 8

Masterlist

She was only unconscious for a few minutes at most, but the way that Namjoon reacted to it would have made anyone think that she’d been in another car crash. He’d very swiftly scooped her up from the floor and deposited her on the bed propping her up against the pillows and giving her a stern command not to move while he went to inform Miss In of the incident. Given the fact that her head was still swimming, she didn’t argue choosing instead to remain lying on the mattress willing the nausea to go away and the room to stop spinning.

When Namjoon returned a few moments later, he took the liberty of planting himself right next to her at the head of the bed.

“Could you move?” She glared weakly at him from her position propped on the pillows, but her only response was an unamused stare and an arm being thrown over her shoulder to pull her into his side. She felt too ill to really put up more of a protest.

“The doctor will be here soon.” He spoke after a few moments of silence. “His orders are to keep you in bed until he arrives.”

“You’ll get no argument from me.” She huffed groaning as she tried to shift away from him.

The man sighed tucking her back into his side. “Lay still. You’ve already fainted once today. I warned you that all of this upset wasn’t good for you.” She seemed to deflate at that. Of course he had to be right. It was the cherry on top of everything that had happened today. “I know that today has been hard on you, but you need to rest.”

“Today wouldn’t be so hard if you had just let me leave. I could have been home by now.”

He chuckled looking down at her fondly. “How could I let you leave? The game isn’t finished yet, jagi.”

“Is this all a game to you? Is my life a game?” she demanded pushing herself up against the pillows to glare at him.

“Rest, jagi.” He sighed leaning against the pillows with a sigh. “You can fight all you want after you’re better.”

A knock on the door pulled both of their attention. “Enter!” Namjoon called allowing a man she could only assume was the doctor he had called for to enter the room. And she had to do a double take. Were all the men who worked under him secretly super models? The man who entered was perhaps one of the most handsome men she had ever seen in her life.

“Namjoon!” The doctor greeted with a bright smile. The informality of the greeting surprised her. No one else had referred to RM by his name, even more odd was that Namjoon allowed it.

“Seokjin.” He greeted though without the same warm smile. “I expected you earlier.” There was an admonishment behind those words though it didn’t seem to faze the doctor.

“I was dealing with Jungkook. Kid got all bruised up during a job.” The man shrugged. “He’ll be fine. Kid’s built like a tank.”

“Is this the patient?” He asked moving over to the bedside medical bag in tow. “I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting the lady yet, well not while she’s been conscious. I’m Kim Seokjin, the doctor for the knuckleheads that hang out around here, but pretty ladies get to call me Jin.” He flirted winking at her. “How’s that head feeling?” He asked her shooing Namjoon off the bed so that he could have better access to her.

She stared at the man sizing him up.  He looked kind enough, but looks could be deceiving in this world. If she had met him before her life had gone to hell, she would have assumed that he was nothing more than a kind doctor, but she knew better. If he willingly worked for Namjoon, if he was a friend of Namjoon, he couldn’t be as innocent as he seemed.

“It hurts.” She finally answered.

“I bet it does.” He hummed bringing out a thermometer to test her temperature. “I heard you took a fall. Can you tell me what happened?” The man seemed completely at ease even with Namjoon hovering over his shoulder.

“I stood up. I got dizzy…”

“She’s been agitated all day.” Namjoon interrupted crossing his arms over his chest. “She vomited once after she woke up, tried to jump out a window, and fainted after she stood up.”

The doctor hummed noncommittedly, but kept his focus on her as if waiting for her to answer for herself.

“I’m fine.”

“Y/N.” Her captor scolded.

“I’m fine.” She snapped back sick of the coddling, sick of Namjoon.

“He is right, Y/N.” Seokjin frowned bringing a flashlight up to her face. “Can you look right at my nose please? That’s great. Can you follow my finger without moving your head? Good, good. You took a rather hard hit to the head, Y/N. You’ve got a bit of a concussion. Normally I would do a CT to confirm, but I don’t think, Joonie will let us do that today.” He loudly whispered to her in a dramatically conspiratorial way.

“Hyung!”

“Joonie?” She snorted holding back a laugh. RM one of the biggest crime bosses in Asia was being called Joonie by his hyung. It was surreal.

“Let’s take a look at that cut shall we?”

“Go for it.”

The doctor lifted up the bandage apologizing as she winced as the adhesive pulled. “Well that doesn’t look good.” He cooed taking note of the raw itchy skin under the bandage along with the cut that he had stitched up.

“I’m allergic to medical adhesives.” She murmured keeping her eyes on the bed spread.

“What?” Namjoon seemed to perk up at that information. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

The look she leveled him with bordered on disbelieving. “I’m sorry if that slipped my mind during the whole kidnapping thing.” She huffed before turning a far gentler eye to the doctor who was looking over the wound with concern. “I found out a long time ago. It’s fine. It’ll itch and blister a bit, but it won’t do any long term damage. How’s the cut, doc?”

“Well, it’s not pretty, but the stitches are fine. It should heal up nicely. I’m going to clean it and then put a fresh bandage on alright?” She nodded her understanding allowing the doctor to do what he needed to do and wincing at the feeling of the antiseptic. “I’m going to send over some ointment for the blisters okay?”

“Thank you.” She murmured. She may have hated Namjoon, but the doctor was nice enough. She had no reason to be rude to him.

“Let’s take a look at those bruises okay? Can you sit up for me?” She nodded again allowing the doctor to help her sit up. “Namjoon, can you step outside for a moment?”

“No.”

Jin sighed turning towards the other man in annoyance. “I need to check on her bruising. If you hadn’t hit her with a car I wouldn’t need to. Now, give the poor woman some privacy. You can come back in after I’m done.” Namjoon didn’t move. “I’m not going to let her jump out a window, Joon.” Still no movement. The poor doctor looked like he was about to punch the crime lord or at the very least slap him upside the head.

“You hit her with a car. You bruised her up. Now I’m going to have to partially undress her to check on the bruising, and the least you can do is give her some privacy.” No movement. “I’ll call you in after I’m done. Go.” He ordered.

Finally Namjoon moved giving them both a wary look but following the doctor’s instructions and leaving the room. Jin didn’t make a move to do anything until the door had firmly closed behind Namjoon.

“Okay, Y/N. I’m going to help you undress. You have some bruising on your side from the crash. Is that okay?”

He was gentle waiting to do anything until he had her consent. He carefully undid the zipper at the back of the dress slipping the straps from her shoulder and allowing the garment to pool at her waist before draping a throw blanket over her to preserve her modesty. She decided then that she definitely liked this doctor more than she liked his boss. He was kind.

“It’s not too bad. I don’t think you got the worst of the damage, but you’ll be tender for a few days at the very least.”

Her ears perked up at that. “Do you know how the other passenger is doing? Eun-ho. Officer Choi Eun-ho. He was in the car with me. Is he alright?”

He sighed the easy smile falling from his lips replaced by a more pitying look. “I think he’s at the hospital. I don’t know much though.”

“But he’s alive?” She asked choking back tears as she did. “He’s alive?”

“Yes, he’s alive. As far as I know, he’s alive.”

“Oh thank god.” She sobbed hunching in on herself and allowing the tears to fall.

The doctor sat down beside her gently rubbing circles into her back as she cried. “It’s alright. You’re going to be alright.” He cooed letting her get it out of her system. “Namjoon isn’t a bad person. He won’t hurt you.”

“I just want to go home.” She sobbed.

“I know. I know.”

They stayed like that until her crying had calmed down. He helped her back into her dress, and even helped her clean up her face.

“You’re going to be alright, but I have to let Namjoon back in the room now.”

“Okay.” Her whisper was hoarse barely audible, but it was there.

He hesitated looking like he wanted to say something more. “I know this is hard, but you can always call on me if you need anything.”

“Thank you.” He nodded leaving to go get Namjoon.

“How is she?” Namjoon asked striding into the room and back to her side his eyes scanning her from head to toe. “Why does she look like she’s been crying?”

“It’s been an emotional day.” He shrugged not giving away anything else. “She’ll be alright, but you have to rest.” He admonished her sternly but gently, almost motherly. “And you.” He turned a stern gaze on Namjoon as well. “No more upsetting her. I don’t want any more calls saying that she fainted.”

“She’ll be alright?” Namjoon asked moving to sit on the bed beside her again.

“She’ll be fine so long as you don’t go upsetting her.” Seokjin sassed. “Now, Y/N. I’ll be back in a few days to check on those stitches, okay.”

“Sure, doc.”

He smiled and ruffled her head like a brother would. “Only light activity. Light foods so that they won’t upset her stomach, and plenty of fluids.” He ordered.

“Thank you, hyung.” Namjoon nodded patting his friends shoulder. “I’ll take care of her.”

“No upsetting her, Joon. I mean it. She’s been traumatized enough as it is.” He waggled his finger in the younger man’s face, and Y/N had to stop herself from laughing.

“I understand, hyung. Don’t you have other patients to see?”

Jin laughed walking out of the room, and Y/N had to do a double take. It sounded like windshield wipers, actual honest to god windshield wipers.

part 9

#bts #bts fic #yandere bts #namjoon #namjoon x reader #mafia namjoon #yandere namjoon #rm x reader #rm #mafia #dark romance #fanfic #soft yandere

[lazypeachsoul]

who you really are.- Loki Laufeyson.

chapter one.

Warnings: this fic will include discussions of gender, pronouns, etc. This chapter does not include any warnings.

Word count: 1,6k.

A/N: This is the first chapter to a multi-part fic I created thanks to and idea by @insanitybyanothername. Thans for the inspiration! I hope you like it 🌼 This is more of an introduction to the story so not a lot of Loki x reader action.

Masterlist.

To be added to my taglist use this forms or write me an ask!

The first stages of a relationship can be challenging. A mix of excitement over the newness of the feelings and the awkwardness of trying to learn how to be around eachother created what many called the ‘honeymoon phase’. And everything they talked about seemed to grow exponentially when one of the parties was a god still trying to get used to Earth, or Midgard as he called it.

When you had first met Loki things had been rocky at best. You were another worker of Stark Industries who was tasked with leading the team creating the better and improved gear for the newest avenger, whose identity still hadn’t been disclosed.

It wasn’t until weeks into working with only notes about this mysterious person and their powers that the announcement was made. John Doe as your team had been calling him was none other than the nordic god Loki of Asgard. The uproar that the announcement caused shook the entire company. Tony Stark was offering shelter to the same man who had tried to destroy the world in 2012 and people were not happy.

Even within your team the situation was tense. Some members had quit because they had been personally affected by his actions and others remained just because they were curious about him. And that unfolded in the first try-on session for the gear.

He had appeared followed by Thor and your boss Tony Stark. Introductions were short and Loki didn’t seem to be in the mood for socializing. He remained silent, rolling his eyes and scoffing at the details you tried to explain about the new gear. And the tenth time he seemed to underrate your design you had to intervene.

“Anything wrong?” As much as you tried to keep your voice leveled the tension in it was not that well hidden.

“I am unable to comprehend why I can’t wear my asgardian attire. Thor does and nobody questions it.” He pointed to his blonde companion who seemed to be nervous about his brother's reaction. “I don’t trust midgardians to create something advanced enough for my capabilities.”

“I can assure you your ‘capabilities’ have been taken into account.” You responded through gritted teeth. “And as for the need of the new gear, since you are here on the intergalactic equivalent of parole you have to wear it so that you can be controlled in missions.”

The room grew quiet and the surprise was evident on everybody’s faces. Some of them were probably surprised you would unveil the real reason for the wardrobe change, others were surprised at your boldness when speaking to a god, and one person in the room was surprised at the sparkle he had seen in your eyes when you spoke.

Months after that interaction things seemed to have changed drastically. Loki was adapting as best as he could to his new home, although he would never call it that, and you had become a willing companion on that journey. So willing that it became something beyond platonic, leading you to your current situation.

Loki had arrived back from one of his missions hours ago and you still hadn’t seen him. Normally if he wasn’t too tired he would quickly clean up and visit your lab, spending the rest of the day sulking or complaining about the mission and avoiding the bureaucratic side of the job, reports apparently were too human for him to do.

But you still hadn’t heard a peep from him, making you wonder how bad the mission could have gone. You received Loki’s gear merely an hour after the announcement of his arrival and when checking the damage you didn’t see anything that would show big wounds or injuries, so him being hurt was out of the question.

Maybe Loki just was in one of his moods and waiting would be better. You were wrapping up your work and exiting your lab when you saw a red cape turning the corner of your hallway. Thor. he could help you to understand how Loki might be, they were on the mission together.

Holding your jacket and bag closer to yourself you picked up the pace, trying to keep up with the big strides of the God of thunder. You caught him waiting for the elevator,a situation that even if you had been working for the Avengers for years still felt weirdly normal for a god.

“Hey Thor! How are you? How did the mission go?”

You were sure that his booming voice when greeting you could be heard all around the floor, but it never failed to make you smile. Although you were infinitely closer to Loki, sometimes too close according to the people around you, Thor had become a part of your life. He had told you multiple times how happy he was that you and Loki were ‘pursuing a courtship that he hopes will last eons’ and he had always tried to tell you how grateful he was for how you treated his brother.

“The mission went great, we managed to put the fear of justice in them. They will always remember the Avengers are here to stop their evil plans.” He explained, making the entire mission sound like a fantasy book. “Loki was incredible, he served justice and showed his potential. You should be proud.”

“I am, Thor. Always am.” You admitted with a smile on your face. “Speaking of Loki, have you seen him? He didn’t come to my lab when he arrived.”

Thor looked back to the metal doors of the elevator, fidgeting with his armour. He never usually shied away from conversation so his reaction put you off slightly. Was Loki angry? Or maybe he lashed out and Thor didn’t want to give you a bad impression of his brother?

The elevator finally dinged signaling the arrival of the cabin. He entered quickly before turning and looking at your defeated form.

“Loki was okay, just deep in thought over personal matters.” Seeing you frown at his words, the man quickly tried to mend the situation. “His own personal matters, not yours. Yours as in courtship matters. He’s very serious about the courtship, do not worry about that…”

Seeing Thor tripping over his words would have been really funny if the situation didn’t worry you. From what you had gathered, Loki seemed to be overthinking something personal but not about your relationship. Great, that didn’t make you relax one bit.

“Maybe you could visit him. He went out but he must be back by now, that way your worries could be forgotten.”

“Yeah, maybe i should do that. We both know how Loki gets when he thinks too hard.”

Thor smiled at the comment, making way for you to enter the elevator and finally allowing the doors to close.

The living quarters of the superheroes were strictly out of reach for everybody but them. Workers were only allowed if invited or were needed for whatever reason. You had only been there once, Loki having invited you to wait in the living room while he got ready for one of your dates, truly teenager style. Normally both you and Loki preferred to find comfort outside the limits of the compound, like your apartment. Out of hearing range of super soldiers and trained spies.

When the doors opened to the quarters everything seemed eerily silent. The only other time you had been there the living space had been as noisy as you would imagine a house inhabited by earth’s mightiest heroes might be.

“Almost everybody is resting or training. That’s why there’s so much calm. Loki’s chamber is at the end of that corridor. I think it would be best if you went alone, he has a tradition of pranking me when I get close to his property since we were children.”

“Thank you Thor. I look forward to hearing more about that tradition someday. Relax, you must be exhausted from saving the world.”

He was thanking you back but you had already started walking down the hallway in the direction you had been told. It wasn’t difficult to find his room, it seemed to be separated from the rest of doors and had a much more regal look to it, more than likely his way of making his room more apt for his rank.

You knocked on the solid wood and waited for a response. When you knocked again, with more strength this time, the door moved and opened letting you enter. You knew you probably should have waited for Loki’s answer but seeing as the door wasn’t locked you thought he wouldn’t mind.

Upon entering the room you were in awe of the decoration, the area looked closer to a palace room than the basic compound design. Stepping further into the room you found a big bed, sheets undone and clothes strewn on top. Looking closely you saw what seemed to be a short sleeved dress, but you quickly discarded the idea. It probably was an asgardian tunic of some kind.

You heard movement to your left, finding the door of what would most likely be the bathroom. Loki must have been cleaning up after a rough day. You took a step towards the door ready to knock on it when the door opened unexpectedly, making you and the person at the other side jump upon seeing each other.

Your heart seemed to drop when the figure emerging from the en suite was not your boyfriend but the most attractive woman you had seen in your life wrapped in a towel. After years of learning through movies and tv shows the first thought that came into your mind was that Loki was cheating, but a closer look to the woman and you saw that mischievous spark in her gaze.

“Loki?”

“W-what are you doing here?”

Taglist: @teenwonder @kyli314

#marvel imagine #marvel fic #marvel x reader #loki x reader #loki odinson #loki imagine #loki laufeyson x reader #loki odinson x reader #loki odionson imagine #mcu imagine #loki laufeyson imagine #myfic

[dccomicsimagines]

Christmas Surprises - Barbara Gordon x Reader - Part Two

Part One

Requested by Anon -  Hey, I was wondering if you could do a sequel to the Barbara Gordon x Male Reader Christmas fic you did? Have it be a Christmas setting again and have it be where it takes place a couple years later and babs and reader having another Christmas party where they invited everyone and their kids are toddlers now and reader has been really busy fighting crime and babs worries that he won’t be there for Christmas and a miracle happens and reader happens to get there on time and it’s super fluff :)

***

“Higher, Daddy.” Mary screamed in delight as you held her above your head and spun her around. 

“Always the daredevil.” You laughed, blowing a raspberry into her cheek. 

Barbara walked into the living room with your suitcase in her hand. “Are you sure you have to go? It’s so close to Christmas.” You set Mary down. Mary ran over to the Christmas tree to look at the carefully wrapped presents. It was a habit of hers. 

“Sorry, sweetheart.” You pulled Barbara into your arms, kissing her passionately. She sighed, returning your kiss. Your voice dropped to a whisper. “Dick needs me on this one. He got into a big mess when he went undercover for Spiral.” 

Barbara snorted. “He’s always getting into messes. It’s the Grayson way.” She looked into your eyes. “You’ll call if you need help and you’ll be back in time for Christmas, right?” 

“Yes, boss.” You smirked, winking at her. “How can’t I come back to the most beautiful ladies in the world?” Mary ran back to you and hugged your leg, giggling. “And my beautiful little man too? Speaking of James, where is he?” 

Barbara shook her head. “He’s hiding. You know he hates it when you leave.” 

You kissed Barbara’s cheek. “I’ll talk to him quick.” Mary took your suitcase from Barbara and started to open it. “Stop her from ripping everything apart, Babs. I can’t miss the flight.” 

Barbara turned away, stopping Mary. You sighed and left to find your son. “James, where are you, bud?” You went upstairs. He had three hiding places upstairs. You checked under your and Barbara’s bed first. Nothing there except rolls of wrapping paper. Your heart ached at the sight. You were going to miss a lot this year.

Eventually, you found James in his closet, tucked into the top shelf. “Jameo, come out now. I want to say goodbye.” You pulled him out. He stayed stiff and curled up in your arms. 

“No.” James pushed at your chest. “I don’t want to say goodbye.” 

You sighed. James was the more emotional of the two. You knew that scared Barbara, afraid James would become more like her brother than her father. Honestly, it didn’t worry you. Dick was the same way when he was younger. You could see a lot of Dick in your son. “Honey, I know you don’t like me leaving, but I have to go work.” 

“You always work.” James hit your shoulder. You sat down on his bed, shaking your head.

“No hitting.” You kissed James’ cheek despite him wiggling away from you. “I know I work a lot, but adults have to work. Besides, I’ll be back for Christmas and we’ll have a big party with the family. You’ll get to see Grandpa Jim and Papa Bruce.” 

“But you’re not going to come back someday.” James burst into tears. He hid his face into your chest. You blinked, surprised by this sudden turn. Kids’ thoughts always amazed you. 

You held him tighter, kissing the top of his head. “I promise that I will always do my best to come home.” Tears burned in your eyes, but you held them back. You had to be strong, even if you wanted to burst into tears too. “Where did you get this idea?” 

“Bobby told me how his Daddy didn’t come home.” James looked up at you. Your breath was taken away. His eyes were so much like Barbara’s. “His daddy went to work and never came back.” 

You pursed your lips. Bobby’s father was a cop. “I know, sweetheart.” You touch your nose to James’, looking in the eye. “But his daddy helped people, just like I help people. I will always try to come home to you.” You weren’t sure what else to say.

“Daddy.” James wrapped his arms around your neck, hugging you with a death grip. You held him tighter. Burying your face into his hair, you breathed in the smell of his baby shampoo. You had given him and Mary a bath last night.

You looked up to find Barbara watching from the doorway with tears in her eyes. “I love you so much.” You kissed James’ head again. It took all you had to get to your feet. “Take care of your sister and your mama for me, okay?” 

“Yes, Daddy.” James let you go and allowed you to set him back down on his feet. He ran over to Barbara, hugging her leg. 

“It’s time. You better get going.” Barbara took your hand. You pressed a kiss to the back of it. 

“Thanks, Babs.” You moved past her and hurried downstairs. 

Mary ran to you. “Daddy, you have to take a cookie with you.” She handed you a Santa shaped sugar cookie that you had made yesterday. 

“Thanks, sweetheart.” You kissed her head, taking the cookie while picking up your suitcase. “Be good for your mother. I love you.” You flashed Barbara a charming smile. She frowned at you. 

“Just come home soon.” Barbara went to your side, kissing you sweetly. “And if you are not back for the Christmas party, I will kill you.” 

You laughed. “And there’s the Barbara I know.” Barbara pushed you out the door. You waved to the kids as you walked down the driveway to the waiting cab. The Gotham suburbs were quiet for this time of night. It made you miss the city.

Once you were in the cab, you took one last look at the house to see Barbara, Mary, and James waving from the front window. You smiled, heart shattering. One day, you wouldn’t have to leave them behind again.

***

“So (Y/N) is off to Bhutan to save his brother again?” Dinah asked, taking a sip of her hot chocolate. Barbara nodded with a sigh, stirring her hot chocolate absentmindedly. The two of them were in the kitchen at Barbara’s house. Mary and James were taking their naps. The house was too quiet.

“I know why he has to go. I mean it’s Dick.” Barbara bit his lip. “And I can’t say no, because I left to help you last month, but it is so close to Christmas.” She took a sip of her hot chocolate. “We haven’t even taken the kids to see Santa yet. Not to mention shopping.”

Dinah raised an eyebrow. “I thought you said you wrapped presents yesterday.” 

“Only the ones we’re giving to other people. (Y/N) and I were waiting to go buy for the kids.” Barbara rubbed her temples. “It’s just hard not to have him here.” 

“I think you forgot about the Christmas party.” Dinah hid her smile behind her cup. 

“Oh and the Christmas party.” Barbara put her hands on her hips. “(Y/N)’s idea, of course, and now he’s not here to do any of the work for it. Typical Grayson behavior.” 

Dinah laughed out loud. Barbara glared at her. “Sorry Babs, but you said the same thing when you were going into labor too.” She changed her voice to sound like Barbara’s. “I’m going to have to push two humans out of me and all (Y/N) had to do was orgasm. Typical Grayson behavior.” 

“I did not say that.” Barbara blushed, even as she remembered shouting those words. The mixed expression of bewilderment and shock on your face when she said that was priceless. Dick had been in earshot and laughed until he collapsed onto the floor. 

“Sure, sure.” Dinah shook her head. “I’ll help you out if you want. Ollie is doing his brooding thing. I want to stay clear until he finally gets over himself.” 

Barbara raised an eyebrow. She opened her mouth to speak, but closed it when she heard little footsteps running down the stairs. “Oh no.” She closed her eyes when those footsteps were followed by a scream and a thump. “I swear Mary never learns to slow down.” Barbara left the room with Dinah in tow to check on her daughter. 

***

You pulled a photo out of your pocket. It was a recent one of Barbara and the twins. You took it on a beach trip you went on last summer. Your heart ached.

“We’re to the drop point you paid for, sir,” the pilot shouted over his shoulder. You were in a small biplane far above the ground. It wasn’t the best transportation, but you had to take what you could get. 

“Okay.” You tucked the photo back into your pocket securely and tightened the straps on your parachute. “Thanks.” 

“Just don’t die.” The pilot glanced back at you worriedly. “I don’t want blood splatter on my plane.” 

You laughed, smirking at him as you stood up. “Don’t worry. I’m pretty good at this sort of thing. It’s in the blood.” You jumped, somersaulting in the air.

The fall was great. You had a huge grin on the whole way down. Getting too into the fall, you waited a tad too long to pull the parachute. “If Barbara were here, she’d kill me,” you mumbled to yourself as the ground caught up to you quickly.  You released the parachute early and rolled into the landing.

Slamming into several rocks, you flipped to your feet just in time to stop yourself from rolling off a cliff. “Swell.” 

“Judging by that performance, you must be related to Agent 37.” You looked up to see a tall, muscular man with a keffiyeh on his head. He crossed his arms, looking annoyed. 

You smirked, recognizing that annoyed look from Dick’s descriptions of the guy. “Tony the Tiger, right?” 

He sneered at you. “I should kill you for that.” 

“Like you would.” Dick’s voice made you smirk even wider. “I know you love that nickname.”  

“Dickie boy, my brother, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes?” You ran to hug him once he stepped out from behind Tiger. “Look at you. Super spy.” You spun him around. Dick laughed, hugging you back and letting you manhandle him. “Getting into trouble like always.” 

You set him down. “Not too much trouble.” Dick smiled, drinking in the sight of you. He had been with Spiral for a year. You haven’t seen him in so long. “Thanks for coming, (Y/N). I know it’s a bad time of year for you to be gone.” 

“As long as you come home with me, we won’t have a problem.” You ruffled his long hair. “You need a haircut.” 

“Enough.” Tiger pushed himself between the two of you. “We have work to do.”

You raised an eyebrow. Dick shrugged. “I’ll explain it to you later,” Dick whispered, gesturing for you to follow him and Tiger. You sighed, wondering what you got yourself into.

***

“James, don’t run off.” Barbara jogged to catch up with her son. 

“But Mommy, Daddy would love this.” James bounced on his toes, pointing at the store display. Barbara sighed. Her heart was going to take a while to slow back down to a normal pace. 

Barbara tightened her hand around Mary’s. Mary was the runner. The one she always had to watch. You said she got that from Dick, who was ran off a lot as a little kid, but Barbara knew you were the real runner of the Grayson clan. “Jameo, why do you think Daddy would want a...” Barbara stared at the display. “A can opener?”

“Because Daddy is always opening cans.” James smiled proudly. Barbara bit her lip, giggling. She caved. Why did both kids have your smile? Her heart ached, wishing you were here for the hundredth time this hour. 

“Okay.” She picked one up with her free hand. “But now you hold Mary’s hand and no running off.” James obeyed and they headed to the front of the store. 

“Mommy, can I get Daddy that?” Mary said. Barbara stopped, turning to follow Mary’s gaze to see she was pointing at a piece of black lingerie.

It took everything Barbara had not to burst out laughing. Mary wouldn’t understand. “W..why would Daddy want that?” 

“Because it’s pretty.” Mary smiled sweetly. 

Barbara took a deep breath. She told herself not to imagine the look on your face when Mary gave you that. “Okay then.” She took one in her size, figuring she might as well. 

“Daddy is going to love our gifts.” Mary clapped her hands excitedly. Barbara made sure to grab her hand again. 

“I’m sure he will.” Barbara shook her head before leading the kids to find more gifts. 

***

You shook your head. “This is insane.” 

“Shut up.” Tiger smacked the back of your head. “Get in there and distract Talia al Ghul.” 

You shivered from the roof of the monastery. Talia was below, meditating. It was strange. You never knew her to meditate, but then again Damian did, so Talia must have taught him. “She knows me, you know. This won’t work.” 

“Use the hypos we gave you,” Dick said, pulling on a monk’s robe. “Tony and I need to end this once and for all.” 

“Barbara is going to kill me,” you muttered under your breath. You jumped, landing far away from Talia. Walking calmly, you acted like you were just strolling the monastery grounds. 

You stopped near Talia, studying a statue a few feet from her. She tensed, but relaxed after a moment. Her eyes stayed closed. “(Y/N) Grayson, so we meet again.” 

Cursing Dick and Tiger under your breath, you turned toward her. “Hello Talia, how are things?” The stupid hypos must not be working.

Talia opened her eyes and looked at you. “I didn’t know you worked for Spyral.”

“Oh so hypos is working?” You laughed, shaking your head. “Well, at least I didn’t mess that up.”

She clicked her tongue. “Are you here to stop my father?” 

You rubbed your chin, smiling when you realized she clicked her tongue like Damian did. “No, I’m just here to make sure my brother can come home.” 

“Brother? Richard is here?” Talia hopped to her feet.

“Maybe?” You pursed your lips, wondering if you should answer that. A sigh escaped you. You weren’t meant for this spy stuff. 

Talia grabbed your arm and dragged you inside the monastery. “He’s walking into a trap.” 

“Wait, what?” You allowed her to pull you along, heart skipping a beat. 

“My father wanted your brother here.” Talia led you deeper into the dark monastery. “We must move quickly to save him.”

“Dick, what have you gotten yourself into?” you whispered to yourself, shaking your head. 

***

“Grandpa Jim, can you help us make a snowman?” James asked, pulling at Jim’s arm as he tracked in snow from outside. 

“James, remember boots off before you come into the house,” Barbara sighed. She filled up Jim’s cup of coffee. Jim had stopped by the house for a visit. He and Barbara were sitting in the kitchen while the twins played outside. 

Jim ruffled James’ hair. “I’ll come out in a moment. Let me finish this coffee first.” James smiled.

“James, boots now.” Barbara pointed back toward the entryway. Jim laughed as James shuffled back to the entryway. “I swear neither of them ever remembers, but then again, neither does (Y/N).” Barbara shook her head with a sad smile.

“When is (Y/N) supposed to be home?” Jim studied his daughter over his cup of coffee. 

“Christmas Eve, hopefully in time for the party.” Barbara sighed. “I haven’t heard from him. I shouldn’t have let him chase after Dick.” 

Jim nodded. “Dick is running around with the circus again, huh?”

Barbara pursed her lips. Jim still didn’t know about her and your other lives. She hoped to keep it that way, especially since she and you weren’t going out as much. “Yeah, he’s always getting into trouble and (Y/N) has to bail him out.” She glanced out the window at Mary who was struggled to make a snowman. You would normally be out there helping her. Barbara’s heart ached. She missed you so bad. “(Y/N) is going to bring him home this time though.” 

Jim smiled sadly. “He’ll be here in time, Barbara. (Y/N) has never let you down.” 

She laughed. “No, he hasn’t.” She remembered how many times you showed up late, but always able to make up for anything you missed. That was a Grayson thing too. As just to prove her thought, James came in with a mop and tried to clean up the mess his boots made on the floor. 

Jim downed the rest of his coffee. “Look at him, just like his mother.” He got to his feet. “Come on, bud. Let’s go build a snowman.” 

“Really?” James cheered, grabbing Jim’s hand to pull him to the entry. Barbara caught the mop that James promptly dropped. She shook her head and finished cleaning up the mess. 

Once she was done, she went to the window to watch her father and her children build snowmen. She sighed. Slowly, she took a few pictures on her phone and sent them to you. You probably won’t get them until you were back in civilization. 

Barbara shook her head to stop herself from slipping down a slope of self pity. She should make the most of this moment. With a skip in her step, she put on her coat, boots, and gloves and went out to join her family.

***

“(Y/N)!” Dick screamed after you as you ran straight into the line of fire. Talia gasped when you slammed into her, knocking her to the ground. The bullets rained into the wall behind you. You wrapped your arms around her. 

“I’m not trying anything with you, I swear,” you laughed, amazingly calm despite the danger around you. You rolled Talia and yourself out of danger and behind cover. 

“I never thought much of you, (Y/N). Now I could see I was wrong.” Talia smiled at you, squeezing your bicep. 

You raised an eyebrow. “First of all, not the time as we are probably about to die. Second, yuck because you slept with Bruce, and third, I’m married to the smartest, most beautiful woman in the world.” Talia smirked. You shifted away from her, almost forgetting about the bullets showering around you. “Fourth, you’re Damian’s mom.” 

“What is your point?” Talia shifted closer to you.

“I mean no.” You rolled back out into the line of fire and somersaulted into the air. Within moments, the shooters were disarmed and unconscious. 

Dick ran to your side. “(Y/N), what the hell was that?!”

“Calm down, I’m fine. Talia is fine and coming onto me.” You turned back to where you left her. Your eyes widened. She was gone. “Well, not anymore, thank goodness.” 

Dick wrinkled his nose. “Well, Tony thinks you’re crazier than I am, and I didn’t think that was possible.” 

“Duh.” You wrapped an arm around Dick’s neck and gave him a noogie. Dick grunted, trying to escape. “I was the original, you know.” 

“Uh huh.” Dick escaped, glaring at you. “So I’ve officially resigned from Spyral. That was my deal with Tiger. I’ll help him with Ra’s and I’m free.” 

You sighed in relief. “Good, because it’s time to go home.” You wrapped your arm around Dick’s shoulders and pulled him toward the doors. “We got a party to crash.” 

“Can you crash a party when it’s at your house?” Dick teased, his arm settled around your waist. 

“You can if you’re late.” Dick and you came to a stop when you saw the mountains you needed to climb. 

A groan escaped you. “Did you forget to ask Tiger to give us a lift before he left?”

“Oops.” Dick blushed. You flicked him in the forehead, shaking your head.

“If Babs kills me, I hope you know it’s your fault.” You rolled your shoulders. Dick just laughed as you both started your journey back home.

***

Barbara vacuumed the living room. She glanced behind her to check on the twins. They were sitting at the dining room table, making paper chains to decorate for the party. Honestly, Barbara was quite proud of herself for thinking of something to keep them busy while she cleaned. 

She sighed. You had sent her a quick text, saying you would probably be late for the party, but you’d make it. She shook her head, feeling sick. 

“Mommy, look,” Mary shouted over the vacuum. Barbara turned it off to see Mary wrapping her paper chain around herself like a scarf. “Aren’t I fancy? Like Selina?” 

Barbara paled slightly. “Yes, like Selina.” She cursed Bruce for bringing Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman, to the twins’ last birthday party. Mary had fallen in love with her, thinking Selina was the fanciest woman in the world. It burned Barbara. You reassured Barbara that doesn’t mean Mary didn’t think she wasn’t the best, but it hurt to see her daughter look up to a hopefully former thief. 

Mary giggled, pleased with herself. Barbara sighed again, turning the vacuum back on. “He’s probably going to bring her tomorrow too,” she mumbled under her breath. Everything in her hoped you would be here in time anyway. Please let the Grayson magic work for you once again.

***

“Layovers suck,” you retorted as you walked through a market in Hong Kong. 

“At least now you have time to buy Babs and the kids presents.” Dick smiled guiltily at you. You felt a little bad for the guilt trip, but then you remembered how this was all Dick’s fault and suddenly you didn’t feel bad. 

“At least.” You stopped to look over a display of snack foods. It was a wide selection, but you picked up two boxes of Koala’s March cookies and two bags of Fujiya Milky candy. You bought the snacks and kept going. Dick trailed behind. “I’m not mad at you, Dick. I’m just scared I won’t make it back home in time.” 

Dick sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Well, I feel bad. I’m the reason you’re here instead of at home with your family.” 

You bumped his arm. “Hey now. I’m happy I get to finally bring you home after you spent a year with Spyral.” You stopped by a jewelry stall, gazing at the probably fake jade rings. “Think Barbara would like this?”

“She’ll know it fake,” Dick said, wincing when the stall owner glared at him. He gave them a sheepish wave. 

“True.” You moved on before Dick was murdered by the stall owner. “I can’t wait for you to see the kids. Mary runs around without looking like you did and James hides like you did.”

“Like I did? You are the one who runs,” Dick shook his head. 

You rolled your eyes. “I remember when you were two and you ran ahead and slid right into the elephant dung.” 

Dick blushed, groaning. “Why do you have to bring that up?” He smirked. “I remember when you ran so fast that you startled the elephants into a stampede and they took down the big tent. Mr. Haly was so mad, but somehow you talked him out of telling Mom and Dad.” 

Your eyes burned slightly. “Yeah, that was a good day, but not as good as you falling in the elephant crap.” A look at Dick told you he was getting emotional too. “Hey, let’s see if I can find something more than snacks for my family, huh?” You clapped a hand on his shoulder and led him on. Dick smiled and the two of you let the moment pass. 

***

“He’s not going to make it.” Barbara slammed down the plates. Alfred looked at her worriedly. 

“Master (Y/N) and Master Dick still have a few hours. They were on their last layover, weren’t they?” Alfred asked, taking the plates from Barbara. They were getting ready for the party. Alfred had offered to come early along with Cass to help set up. Cass was entertaining Mary and James to keep them out of the way. 

Barbara sighed. “I’m sorry. He’ll be here.” She smiled weakly, close to tears. Alfred rubbed her back. “It’s just been hard. This is his favorite time of year, especially with the kids.” She sank down to sit at the dining room table. Alfred moved to keep setting it up for the buffet dinner they were going to have. “I keep thinking, (Y/N) would love to be here for this or that.”

“You and Master (Y/N) have been gone before?” Alfred asked, knowing the answer, but trying to be kind. 

“Yes, but not over Christmas. This is as bad as being gone for the kids’ birthday.” Barbara shook her head again. “Sorry, I’ll get it together. He’ll get here, he always does.” 

Alfred smiled. “Yes, Master (Y/N) does have that Grayson knack of always making it work. Master Dick does the same thing.” 

Barbara laughed, changing the subject. “I can’t wait until he sees what the kids bought him.” She paused when she heard little feet running into the room. James appeared around the corner, jumping into Barbara’s arms. “What is it, sweetheart?” she soothed. 

“Daddy is not coming home.” James sobbed like his heart was broken. “They said the snow is too bad.” Barbara’s eyes widened. She jumped to her feet with James still in her arms. Hurrying to the living room, she felt like a bucket of ice water dropped over her. 

“All flights to and from Denver are canceled due to extreme winter weather conditions. This is a once in a lifetime storm.” The reporter said it calmly, like it didn’t ruin the Christmases of two kids and their mother. Cass was holding Mary, who didn’t seem to catch on it meant Daddy wasn’t coming home. “Moving on, here are some Christmas cocktails to add to your spirits this holiday season.” 

Barbara shook her head, holding James tighter. “(Y/N), please find a way.” She closed her eyes to hope.

***

You collapsed to your knees when the announcement had been made. “She’s gonna kill me.” You covered your face with your hands. Dick kicked your side.

“Stop being so overdramatic, we’ll be home by Christmas Day then.” Dick grabbed the scuff of your shirt and pulled you back into your seat at the airport lounge. 

“No, we’ll miss the party. The party I wanted to throw. The party that was my idea.” You shook your head. “Babs is going to be so pissed.” 

Dick snorted. “Yeah, she’ll be pissed about that.” 

“But like I said this is all your fault, having to go get yourself in trouble again, Dickie boy.” You got to your feet to pace. The lounge wasn’t too crowded since most people had already left to wait everything out. “There has to be something we can do. Batplane?”

“One, Bruce won’t let us. Two, it wouldn’t fly in this weather either.” Dick shivered, looking out the window at the swirling snow. “This is nuts.”

“Says the Dick.” You flicked his forehead. Dick smacked your hand away. Suddenly, you froze. A lightbulb flashed in your head. “That’s it. We’ll call Wally.” 

Dick shook his head. “I don’t think even he could run in a storm like this.”

You swore under your breath. “What about...Clark?” A smile pulled at your lips. “Oh he could do it.” 

“Yeah, but it wouldn’t be comfortable for us.” Dick rolled his eyes. “Just give up already.” 

You pouted, elbowing Dick’s side. “I’ll find a way.” You got to your feet to grab your phone and make some calls.

***

Barbara was in a depressed mood throughout the party. The kids seemed to inherit her mood, becoming cranky and sullen. Everyone was enjoying themselves, but were aware of the dispositions of their hosts.

“Don’t let this get you down, Babs. I mean he’s (Y/N) Grayson. He’ll find a way,” Tim said, sitting down next to her on the couch. Mary had fallen asleep in his arms. 

“You need to stop hero worshiping the Grayson brothers.” Barbara let James crawl into her lap. “(Y/N) is not perfect.” 

“I didn’t say that, but he always makes it work.” Tim bit his lip. “He’ll get here.” Almost as if on cue, a shout and a thump came from the roof. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked up. 

“Babs, were you expecting someone?” Jason teased, going outside to see. Mary woke up with a start.

“Santa!” She ran out after Jason with only her socks on.

“Mary!” Barbara followed quickly with James still in her arms. “Come back here until we know what that was!” 

Mary ignored her mother, running into the snow with her socks. Jason picked her up. “Is he here? Did he bring Daddy? I asked him real nicely.”

“I don’t know about that,” Jason said, eyeing the roof. Bruce came out with Tim  and Damian behind him. 

“What happened?” Bruce asked, going right to business. 

“Not sure.” Jason shrugged. 

Suddenly, out of nowhere, a deep voice sounded. “Ho, ho, ho.” 

“SANTA!!!!” Mary screamed. Jason winced. “SANTA, DID YOU BRING HOME DADDY?!?!”

“Mary, stop.” Barbara sent her a stern look. James shivered from the cold in her arms.

“TT, probably a lunatic of some sort.” Damian crossed his arms. He went to the side of the house to start climbing when he heard laughing followed by a shout and suddenly Dick Grayson fell from the roof. He twirled in the air and landed on his feet. Damian jumped back in surprise.

Barbara’s jaw dropped. Everyone else was speechless. Jason just laughed. “Where Daddy, Uncle Dickie?” Mary asked, reaching her arms out for him. Dick smiled charmingly. He took her and spun her around. 

“He’s coming. He just had to thank Santa for us.” Dick kissed her cheek. James whined, wanting attention too. Dick took him from Barbara, showering both kids with love. 

“Santa?” Barbara looked back up at the roof, confused. Suddenly, from behind the chimney, you stepped out with your suitcase and slid down the roof. With a grace that mirrored Dick’s, you landed on the ground easily. 

“Merry Christmas!” You bowed, holding your arms out. “I told you I would be back in time.” You only had to time to look up when Barbara ran to you with enough force to knock you over into the snow. She fell on you hard, but you found you didn’t care. 

Barbara kissed you, holding the sides of your face. You wrapped your arms around her, not caring about how numb the snow made your back. 

“Get a room,” Jason said teasingly. Barbara turned to glare at him. Suddenly, two balls of energy joined the dog pile.

“DADDY!” Mary screamed in delight. “Santa brought you like I asked.” 

“Daddy, we missed you,” James added quietly. You hugged all three of them, happy to be home.

***

Hours later, you were sipping some eggnog as the party died down. Bruce, Alfred, Tim, and Damian went home. Dick crashed on the couch. Jim had retired to the guest bedroom and the kids were asleep in their beds. Cass was getting ready to sleep on an air mattress in the laundry room. Jason passed out in an armchair.

“Well, I guess Jay will stay the night too,” Barbara whispered, covering Jason with a blanket. 

“Might as well.” You took a bigger sip of your eggnog, watching Barbara with love. Your heart warm and full.

Barbara hummed. She came over to take your hand and led you back to the kitchen. “So now you tell me how you got home? I heard the Denver airport had been shut down.” 

“Right, well I called Santa.” You smirked when she glared at you. “What? It’s true.” 

“No, you did not.” Barbara crossed her arms. “Come on, did you call Superman? Wally?”

You downed your eggnog and took her into your arms. “I told you. It was Santa. He stopped to pick us up and just dropped us off as he went by. He said Mary wished me home for Christmas.” 

“(Y/N).” She frowned. You kissed her lips, feeling the frown melt under your touch.

“Babs.” A thrill went through you as she melted, kissing you passionately. “Let’s go to bed.”

She sighed. “Fine, but only because you won’t tell me what you did.” You scooped her up in your arms. She giggled. “Why do you have to be so charming all the time?”

“It’s funny. I was wondering why you have to be so goddamn beautiful all the time?” You kissed her again. Maybe someday you would tell her you were telling the truth. Maybe you would explain how you called Zatanna who knew a guy who knew a guy who knew Santa Claus and you convinced him to stop by to pick you and Dick up. Maybe you would let her know that the ‘ho, ho, ho’ she heard was the real Santa Claus. You shook your head. She wouldn’t believe you anyway.

“I love you, (Y/N) Grayson, even though you drive me up the wall.” Barbara played with your hair. 

“I love you too, Mrs. Grayson, and I would love to drive you into a wall.” You smirked at her giggle and hurried to your bedroom with the love of your life in your arms.

***

Barbara bit the inside of her cheek as Mary handed you her present. “Daddy, you’re going to love it.” She bounced around excitedly. 

“I sure am.” You smiled, not knowing what was coming. It seemed like forever to Barbara, heart stopping as she waited for you to rip off the wrapping paper and open the box. Your jaw dropped, brow furrowed in bewilderment. She tasted blood in her mouth from how hard she was biting.

“See, isn’t it pretty, Daddy?” Mary asked innocently. You pulled out the black lingerie. Jason and Dick burst out laughing while Cass pressed her hand over her mouth in surprise. Jim shook his head, kicking both Jason and Dick in the shin. Mary looked confused.

“I love it, sweetheart.” You smiled smoothly, pulling Mary into your lap. “Why did you get me this?”

“Because you like pretty things.” Mary kissed your cheek. You met Barbara’s eye from across the room. She couldn’t help, but smirk back at you. You shook your head. She watched as you checked the tag, growing your own smirk when you saw it was in her size. 

You hugged Mary and attacked her with kisses. “You’re right, I love pretty things.” 

“Mine next, Daddy.” James ran up. You took his present like it was irreplaceable, showering James with attention too. 

Cass appeared at Barbara’s side. “Did you do that on purpose?” she whispered.

“No, that was all Mary, but the look on (Y/N)’s face was rich.” Barbara smiled. “I knew he would think it’s funny.”

Cass nodded. “(Y/N) loves you and your children very much.” 

Barbara wrapped an arm around Cass’ shoulders. “Yes, he does.” She kissed Cass’ cheek. Thank goodness to the Grayson magic, Barbara thought to herself as you acted like a can opener was the best thing in the world. 

#barbara gordon #barbara gordon x reader #barbara gordon imagine #batgirl #batgirl imagine #batgirl x reader #male reader #dc comics imagines #dc reader insert #batfamily #batfamily imagine #dick grayson #dick grayson imagine #nightwing #nightwing imagine #christmas

[mk-empress]

Battle Against The Disco Devil

The Boss Fight

Mario, Olivia, and Professor Toad came back to the DJ toad, with forty other faceless toads. The trio had gone through many challenges and horrors, but they were finally close to taking down the yellow streamer. I laid on my couch feeling bored. I could hear the DJ talking in the dance room. I couldn’t hear what he was saying at first, but then he announced something.

“Yo, yo, yo! It’s DJ Toad bringing you the...uh, well not the LATEST hits, but... It’s music! Get out on the dance floor with those eyeless freaks and our special guest, Mario!” The DJ shouted.

Soon after I could hear that song again. I was already tapping my finger to the rhythm of the music. I told the DJ earlier that I wasn’t going to dance unless everyone did. I wondered if he obeyed. I got up and cracked the doors a little bit to see if everyone was there.

“Woah...” I whispered. Everyone was there! They were on the dance floor boogieing with Mario. I was drawn to it. “I dig it...” I whispered again a little louder this time. I was nodding my head to the beat. The music was good, the toads were dancing there, the disco ball was lighting up the room... wow. “Oh yeah... Oh yeah... Oh yeah...” I said to myself. The toads were bustin’ some sick moves. I couldn’t keep still, the music was so satisfyingly epic. It was bumpin’ in there- and I was missing out! I couldn’t resist. I swung open the doors and jumped down onto the dance floor.

“It’s groovy!” I shouted! I was in the middle of it. I started bustin’ out my own moves. I heard the toads shouting and running away, but I didn’t care. I was so engrossed by all of this. THIS is a REAL PARTY! 

“Hey! I know you’re in the groove and all, but you totally blew all the toads off of the stage! AND you punched out their eyes earlier! Did you do that just so they would dance with you? That’s monstrous!” Olivia accused me. I simply spun and faced them.

“Lady, I couldn’t stop grooving now if I wanted to. So I guess we’re gonna have to... FACE. OFF.” I told them. “I am PUMPED. I’m gonna own this dance floor ‘til the break of dawn. And, seeing as there’s no sun to rise in here, that means this groove is never gonna end! HEY! C’mon! I’ll start with some moves even amateurs can appreciate. Ooh, c’mon.” I said. 

My punchers appeared on my hands. Mario ran toward me. As he approached, I got down and swept him off his feet. I jumped up and thrust my fist down toward Mario’s face, but he rolled out of the way in time. I ended up creating a hole in the stone using the punchers on my hands. In the STONE! Impressed yet? Mario got back up and busted out his hammer. He charged at me and tried to slam it into my chest, but to his surprise, I caught it. I yanked the hammer from his grip and threw it to the side. While Mario wasn’t looking, I flipped back and kicked him in the chin, sending him upward. I jumped too and put my hands together, then I slammed them into Mario’s chest. I hopped back.

“WHOO! Had enough, Mario?!” I asked. 

Mario stood back up, looking rather sore. Mario dashed toward his hammer, picked it up, then charged at me again. I got down and tried to trip him again, but this time Mario jumped over me and smashed his hammer into my back. That hurt!

“You wanna dance? You wanna DANCE, bro?! Let me show you what you’re up against! Yup! One, two! Alriiight!” I jeered. “One, two, PUNCH!” I then slammed my fist across Mario’s face, removing one of his eyes. Mario fell back and screamed. I felt REALLY good! 

Mario clutched his face and stared at me with one eye. I smiled at his suffering. Then, he pulled a shiny-looking ice flower and transformed. He threw several ice balls at me, and the balls were fast! I raised my arms to defend. The ice balls felt like rocks hitting me. When I lowered my arms, I realized Mario was behind me, then he bashed my back with his hammer harder than last time! I felt a lot of pain. I could tell something was wrong, but I wasn’t about to give up over a BACK ACHE! When I whipped around to face Mario, and he had just finished consuming one of those red mushrooms, then his eye came back. I was getting REALLY annoyed with this lame plumber KILLING my vibe! I stomped on the floor hard, and a yellow aura flew from me.

“Is it time for me to bust out my super-secret special dance move? Let’s hear it! Make some noooise!” I yelled. Before I finished charging my special, Olivia transformed into the Earth Vellumental. I wasn’t sure what they were thinking, but I was confident that I was about to SLAUGHTER Mario! As soon as I rushed toward Mario, Olivia as the Earth Vellumental summoned a large, stone wall between us. I smashed my fists into the stone, breaking it into chunks, but by breaking the barrier down, I used up all my energy And it canceled the rest of my special. I started to sweat, and I was getting really exhausted.

“No way! You dodged my special move?! Get back over here so I can two-step on your face!” I screamed at them. Olivia changed back into herself and got behind Mario. Suddenly, he grew the 1000-fold arms, then he picked up his hammer. Mario grabbed one of the rocks from the stone wall off the ground and threw it at me. It was an easy dodge, but Mario used that as a distraction to get behind me. As soon realized where he was, Mario bashed open my back with a crushing blow to my spine. I was sent forward a bit. 

Suddenly, I realized I couldn’t move. I couldn’t feel my lower body. I was shaking uncontrollably. I could feel blood running down my back. I was in excruciating pain! I heard a bit of celebrating behind me. It grew louder. I looked up and saw Mario was handing out lots of mushrooms to the eyeless toads. The mushrooms regenerated them. The toads started heading upstairs toward to exit of the temple, each one stopping to thank Mario and Olivia, even the DJ toad gave them his gratitude. 

Mario and Olivia went up the stairs too, heading toward the streamer spool. I heard the sound of them destroying it. I saw the yellow streamer fall apart, then my disco ball fell down and shattered. I could see and feel the sun’s light shining on me, before it returned to the sky. I was still half paralyzed on the ground. I tried to get up, but I immediately collapsed again and screamed. I looked behind at my back and I saw only blood. Even turning my neck hurt tremendously. I looked up at the door, and saw Mario and Olivia staring down at me. In my mind, I was begging them not to leave. I didn’t want to rot alone in this abandoned temple. Mario turned around and walked away, but Olivia stayed a little longer. She gave me a sorry expression, before following Mario out of the temple. 

I was left alone, dying and paralyzed. I felt hopeless. I gripped the floor while clenching my jaws shut. The pain was something that I’ll never, ever forget. I was just waiting to die at that point. I cried. I remembered watching the red streamer and the blue streamer fade away. I then swore that I would kill Mario for them. I was so enraged that I went mad. Now, I realized the brutality of my actions. I began to feel bad. It didn’t matter. What I did was done, and it was far too late to redeem myself. My regret means nothing. What I did to those innocent toads was unforgivable, and I was paying the price. My body started to become numb. I was losing too much blood. I didn’t try to stay awake, I just closed my eyes and waited for death to take me. I couldn’t avenge my brother and sister. I couldn’t protect the streamer I was ordered to guard. I couldn’t kill Mario or Olivia. I couldn’t do anything. I failed everyone.

I’m sorry.

#pmtok #pmok #pmtok hole punch #my story #the legion of stationery

[spine-buster]

The President Wears Prada (William Nylander | Chapter 18

A/N: Remember that there’s a DOUBLE POST this week because of my birthday that happened yesterday!  Look out for Chapter 19 to be posted Thursday at 7:30pm.  I think you guys will reeeeeally like that one :)

January 24th, 2020

Aberdeen Bloom was amazed.

The welcome reception that the NHL planned in the hotel was full to the brim of what seemed like every NHL president, general manager, and their assistants mingling and munching on perfectly prepared hors d’oeuvres.  Everybody was staying at the Ritz-Carlton, a fifteen minute drive from the Enterprise Centre where all the hockey-related festivities were taking place.  While the all-stars had already been bussed to the Enterprise Centre, she was here with Brendan and Kyle, trying to assert her presence in a room full of men who thought they were gifts to God’s green earth.  She wondered if any of the other executive assistants – a good 99% male, from her observations – felt the same way.  It was when she was standing in that room that she realized how much of an anomaly she truly was, and if some guy gawked at her because he hadn’t seen a female since October, she wouldn’t be surprised.  Hockey was an old boy’s club, and there was no better proof for that than the makeup of the people in this room.  

Many people came up to speak to Brendan and Kyle – Aberdeen thought they were almost like the star debutantes at the ball, except one debutante already had three Stanley Cup rings; the other debutante was like the belle of the ball, as one of the youngest GMs in the league, and everybody wanted to talk to him.  The only thing they’d do is give Aberdeen a quick nod after they finished their conversation before walking off.  It was like she ceased to exist, or existed only as a figure to nod to once the discussion with the ‘big boys’ was over.  Nobody was giving her the time of day.  She didn’t even know why she had to come here and do this when—

“Aberdeen,” Brendan’s voice cut off her thoughts.  She straightened out her back and looked more attentive as he looked back at her.  “Who do you think will come and speak to us next?  Let’s make a bet.”

She smiled.  She knew that instead of sulking she should be working the room as much as possible, inserting herself politely into conversations Brendan and Kyle would have with some of the other presidents and general managers.  “BriseBois has been eyeing Kyle for five minutes, so twenty bucks and an extra day off says it’s him,” she said confidently.  

Brendan laughed, as did Kyle.  “My bet’s on Ken Holland,” Brendan quipped.  “Here to talk to us about Tyler Ennis.  Everyone knows they want him.  Hometown boy.”

“It’ll be Sakic.  To talk to us about Naz,” Kyle said.

“DUBBIE!”

All three of their heads turned to see Brisebois smiling and making his way over.  Aberdeen smiled.  She leaned into Brendan.  “I’ll take that twenty bucks in a Starbucks gift card.”

***

Aberdeen thought that maybe Frederik Andersen should be the one seemingly babysitting Auston Matthews, but she digressed.  Because he was attending the All-Star Weekend but not actively participating in any of the festivities due to his slight wrist injury, he was free to do (what seemed like) whatever he wanted.  He could visit both locker rooms, he could chat with all the guys, he could take pictures with everyone.  All she had to do was make sure he got to the benches during the Skills Competition and she could consider it a job well done.  

She didn’t want to follow him into the locker room – that was a bit much – so she stood outside and watched as he interacted with Fred and Mitch before moving on to some of the other players: Jack Eichel, Brady Tkachuk, and Mathew Barzal, for the most part.  When he was finished, he looked almost surprised that she was still there waiting for him.

“They’re going on in ten.  Where should we be?” he asked.

“I’m just gonna lead you down quickly, but I’m watching with Brendan,” she informed him as they began to walk down the corridor together.

“Aw, come on.  You can’t keep me company?” he asked.

“There’s no way I’d be caught dead on a camera beside Auston Matthews, thank you very much,” she joked, but at the same time, was totally serious.  If even one hair on her head was caught on camera, she was sure Auston’s fangirls would know her name, address, social security number, and blood type within the hour.  “Let alone at the All-Star Game.  And let alone with you looking like that.”

“Like what?!” he wailed.  

“Oh, come on Auston.  You look like you were a cast off of Anchorman and you know it.”

“I’m fashionable.”

“If you say so,” she rolled her eyes.  

“I thought those types of comments were only meant for Willy, anyway.”

“They’re meant for any of you when you look like this,” she covered herself, giving him a full up-down, causing him to laugh and shake his head.  

They walked past the Western Conference locker room, bustling with all the players and the media walking in and out of it.  Auston stopped again to say hi to some guys that he could see – Tyler Seguin and Connor McDavid – before Aberdeen watched another player making his way towards them.

“This your girl, Matthews?” Matthew Tkachuck asked, a devilish smile on his face.

Aberdeen crinkled her brows.  Gross.  “Ew Matty,” she watched Auston as he made a face.  “This is Shanahan’s executive assistant.”

“Oh!” Matthew’s face and demeanour completely changed as he took off his glove to shake her hand politely.  “I’m Matthew Tkachuk from the Calgary Flames.  It’s nice to meet you.”

Aberdeen laughed at how these boys could switch from being rats one second to upstanding gentlemen the next.  “Nice to meet you, Matthew.  How do you know Auston?”

“U.S National Development Program,” Auston answered for him.  “We were on a World Junior team together.”

“Yeah, not to mention I was on a line with Mitchy in London,” Matthew added, referring to his junior career with the London Knights of the OHL.  “It’s like I’m practically on the Leafs,” he smiled.

“You wish,” Auston scowled.  

“You’ll be on the bench watching, yeah?” Matthew directed his question towards Auston.  Auston confirmed he would be.  Matthew’s attention went back to Aberdeen.  He gave her a very visible up-down before biting his bottom lip.  “How about you?  You gonna be on the bench with Auston?”

“I’ll be sitting with my boss, but thanks for thinking about me,” she smiled over-politely.  She heard Matthew chuckle but he still didn’t take his eyes off her.  “We should go, Auston.  I don’t want Gary Bettman angry at me for keeping the star of Toronto backstage for too long.”

Matthew said his goodbyes.  Aberdeen and Auston continued walking down and around the corridors until they came to the entrance to the ice.  Some of the arena workers, recognizing Auston, began showing him the way.  “Now stay here and be good,” she said.

Auston smiled mischievously before winking and walking away from her.  “Only for you, Aberdeen.”

“And tell Matthew Tkachuk if he even thinks of me, I’ll kick him in the balls.”

“Will do, baby.”

***

She saw the number pop up on her phone and the request for a FaceTime call.  She hesitated at first, not knowing if she should accept.  Sure, she was alone in her hotel room, it was late at night, and she was sure everybody had gone to bed, especially Brendan and Kyle.  Nobody would be knocking on her door.  Nobody would be calling her asking her to get a suitcase ready so they could take a private jet to Phoenix to fire a head coach.  And even though her first thought was that this had to be some sort of practical joke, she quickly reconsidered.  The last time this was requested it was in the back of a cab and an automatic no.

Not for anything, but less than 24 hours ago he was in her.

So she accepted.  

William’s face popped up on the screen.  He was clearly already in his pajamas, his hair tied back with an elastic atop his head.  Aberdeen remembered that Toronto was an hour ahead, so it was even later for him.  “Hello minskatt,” he smiled.

She’d just showered, and her hair was in a towel.  She tugged it off so she didn’t look too ridiculous.  “Hey Willy.”

“How are you, minskatt?” he asked sweetly, biting his bottom lip slightly as he watched her hair fall out of the towel.  “How was today?  Long day?”

She nodded her head.  “Long but good.  I met a lot of the other GMs.  Well, most of them just sort of nodded their head at me after having conversations with Brendan and Kyle before moving on.  It’s like they don’t know how to speak to women.”

“They probably don’t,” he quipped.  “Did Auston behave?”

She smiled.  “Yes, Auston behaved.”

“So I don’t need to kick his ass?”

Aberdeen giggled.  “No.  You’d never, anyway.  He’s one of your best friends.”

“I’d still kick his ass if he gave you a hard time.”

She continued to smile.  “How was your day?  What did you do?”

“Miss you all day,” he said.

She rolled her eyes.  She did that a lot today between him and Auston.  “What did you really do?”

He shrugged.  “Went to the gym.  Talked with my brother.  Just the usual boring stuff.  Nothing as exciting as what you did.”

“Nothing I did was too exciting,” she admitted.  She hated to admit it, but it was true.  “I don’t mean to be rude when I say that.  It’s just – I could have networked, I really could, I mean I know how to work a room, but these guys just weren’t having it.  Well, everyone besides Julien BriseBois from Tampa.  He was super nice.”

“It’s okay, minskatt.  I’m sure tomorrow will be better,” he said encouragingly.  “There’s a luncheon, right?”

She nodded her head, a bit surprised that he remembered her schedule.  She hoped that would run smoother than what had happened today at the welcome reception.  But now, at this moment, with Willy on FaceTime and two more days until she got to see him in Nashville, she didn’t want to talk about work.  She’d only left him this morning and she was already missing him.  “Hey Willy?”

“Hmm?”

“I…I’ve never really asked, but why do you always call me that?  Minskatt?” she asked.

“Because that’s what you are,” he said like it was the most obvious thing in the world.  

She knew that it meant ‘my treasure’.  She remembered that quite vividly.  “Yeah, but like…why my treasure?  Why not just darling or honey or whatever?”

“Do you want me to call you those?” he asked worriedly.

“No!  Not at all.  I…I like minskatt.  I love it, actually,” she admitted for the first time out loud.  After months of blushing about it and hearing him say it in her dreams, she was finally able to admit it.  “I just don’t know why you’d choose that over the hundreds of other things.”

William shrugged his shoulders again.  “I just heard it a lot growing up from my grandparents.  My grandpa would call my grandma that all the time.  When I was really small, I thought it was her actual name.  And I just…I don’t know.  I think it’s the nicest thing.  Because you’re my treasure.  That what you are to me, always.  From the moment I met you.  You’re my treasure.”

Aberdeen smiled sheepishly.  God, he was so…good.  So pure.  So characteristically William that she honestly didn’t have another word for it.  “For what it’s worth, you’re my treasure too, Willy.”

***

January 25th, 2020

Aberdeen decided to get breakfast on her own, without waiting for Brendan to call.  She’d fallen asleep talking to William last night – they both had, gag – but she still felt pretty energized and ready for the day.  She threw her hair in a bun, knowing it would be easier to style when she got back from breakfast for the luncheon, and put on a simple pair of yoga tights and a University of Toronto hoodie.  

She figured that most of the guys were either still asleep or would have ordered room service, and she was pleased to see that the dining room for the continental breakfast was basically two-thirds empty.  She grabbed a plate and loaded it with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, and hashbrowns.  She then poured herself some coffee and orange juice and settled into a table, taking out her phone so she could browse the news or read an article while she ate.  

She was in a completely tranquil state of mind until she heard a voice from behind her.  “Hey!”

It startled her.  She turned around to see Mitch standing behind her, holding a plate stacked with food.  “What are you doing up so early?”

“Same thing as you – eating!” he smiled.  He looked behind him.  “Hey guys!  Aberdeen’s here!”

She leaned back to look past him and saw Fred’s giant body towering over the egg buffet and Auston looking like he literally just rolled out of bed pouring some cereal into a bowl.  Fred smiled and Auston waved.  She looked back at Mitch.  “You’re all up?”

“You seem shocked,” he said as she settled into the seat across from her.

“I’m not shocked about you, because you’re just an excitable puppy,” she said.  “I’m more surprised about Auston.  Does he usually get up this early?”

“You’d be surprised,” Mitch shrugged.  “When we’re on the hockey grind, early wake up calls are just a part of life.”

Fred and Auston came to the table eventually, with Fred sitting beside Aberdeen and Auston beside Mitch.  They spoke casually – about the events of last night and the upcoming day ahead of them, what they would do with their day off tomorrow before having the fly to Nashville on Monday to meet the rest of the team.  Auston suggested that they all go to the big arch.  Mitch wanted to have lunch at a smokehouse.  Fred wanted would arrange the Ubers.  

They looked at Aberdeen.  It was a while before she noticed.  “What?” she asked with a mouth full of breakfast sausage.

“What do you want to do Sunday?” Mitch asked like it was the most obvious thing in the world.  

She was confused.  “I’m coming?”

“Obviously,” Auston piped up.

“Why would you think you’re not invited?” Fred asked.  “You’ve been with us for how long now?”

“I just…I don’t know,” she digressed.  “I know I’m, like, part of the team or whatever—”

“So why wouldn’t you come?” Fred followed up.

“I—you guys constantly freak me out, you know that?” she asked.  “Like, I don’t get why a bunch of hot shot hockey players want me to tag along with them on their day off.”

“Why wouldn’t you think that?  Willy likes you tagging along everywhere,” Auston said.

Aberdeen suddenly stiffened at Auston’s words, thrown around so casually, but they were so charged for her.  “So does Jason,” Mitch added quickly.  “And Brendan, even.  I mean, Brendan wouldn’t have invited you here if he didn’t trust you with us, or you with us, you know?  I mean, the All-Star Game is Peter’s thing.”

She’d heard that once or twice before.  “It’s just it’s still new to me, that’s all,” she said, trying to remain calm.  “I don’t want to intrude on your private time.  I’m already around you guys practically all the time as it is.  I don’t want to overstay my welcome.”

“Not sure that’s possible,” Mitch said.  “You’re always welcome with us.  We love you, Aberdeen.”

***

When Aberdeen went back up to her room after breakfast, she took a long look at herself in the mirror.  Long.  She knew she was loved by many people: by her parents, her grandparents, her siblings, by Kasha, by friends like Masani and Tom and Margot.  By Brendan, at least in his own way.  By William.  She was loved by William.  

Could she add the Toronto Maple Leafs to that list?

***

February 5th, 2020

New York City in the beginning of February was much different than, say, New York City in the summer, even New York City at Christmas.  With nothing to really look forward to – no holiday or event, no long stretch of time where the city swelled with tourists and it felt so alive – New York City was just…well, New York City.  Big.  Imposing.  Busy.  

Brendan had lived here for a few years, both as a player and an NHL executive, and he’d gone out for an extended lunch with a friend, so Aberdeen had nothing better to do than to walk down to Magnolia bakery and grab a half dozen cupcakes to eat and then bring home to share with Kasha – two red velvet with cream cheese icing, one confetti, one lemon, one coconut, and one truffle.  It was her way of saying thanks, because Kasha had been picking up donuts from Bloomers or Glory Hole at least once a month since they moved in together.  The perks of flying on a chartered flight was that she knew the cupcakes would be safe all the way back to Toronto.  

When she got back to the arena, she made sure the box of cupcakes was placed in the box where she’d be with Brendan and Kyle that night, knowing that nobody would touch it. It was when she exited the press box and began making her way through the corridors between the locker rooms that she saw someone she was not expecting at all: Saylor, Kasperi’s girlfriend.  She looked very glamourous, with her hair and makeup done professionally.  

When she looked up from her phone – which she didn’t do often – and saw Aberdeen, she smiled excitedly.  “Ohmygod, hi Aberdeen!” she greeted her enthusiastically.  

“Hi, Saylor.  You traveled to New York with Kasperi?” she asked, trying to make small talk.

“I actually had a shoot booked, but I scheduled it so I could come to New York the same time as the guys came,” she revealed, clearly proud she was able to get the gig.  “You know, because I model.”

Aberdeen resisted the urge to roll her eyes.  Saylor reminded her every time they spoke about her modelling.  Well, Instagram modelling.  Aberdeen didn’t think she’d ever walked a runway or appeared in an editorial.  It was mostly just the aforementioned Instagram modelling with a YouTube channel where brands would send her clothes or “collab” with her for exposure.  “Yeah, I remember Saylor.  Sounds fun.”

“It is!” she smiled excitedly.  “I’ve been super lucky so far.  But I mean hey, with a bit of makeup and good angles, lots of girls could be models.”

“I’m sure,” Aberdeen giggled.  “Wouldn’t be me though.  Not with these bushy Persian brows,” she joked, knowing full well thick brows were very in right now and that a lot of girls got them dyed or microbladed to look like hers.

“Persian?” Saylor was confused.

“Yeah.  My dad’s Persian.”

“Ohmigosh, I knew you were mixed with something!  Your nose totally gives it away.”

Aberdeen froze, though a strained smile was on her face.  She knew she had a Greek nose, that it was pretty big with a prominent bridge, not elegant at all like Siena’s, but she didn’t think it was that big of a deal.  She didn’t know what Saylor was trying to say or imply, but she tried to play along anyway.  “I thought it’d be my hair.”

“Well, that too.”

Aberdeen nodded her head.  Before she could say anything else, Saylor’s phone began ringing.  “It’s my agency,” she said as she looked down at her phone.  “I’ll talk to you later.”

“See ya.”

Aberdeen watched as Saylor left, her hips swaying back and forth in her skin tight Levis.  She brought her hand up to her face, feeling the bridge of her nose before patting down her hair.  She sighed.  At least Saylor didn’t see the Magnolia cupcake box – she probably would have made a comment about that, too.

Aberdeen thought back to New Year’s Eve, when Morgan and John sat at her table and told her the story about Bee; about how she’d gotten messages from fans making fun of her weight and looks and how they’d called her the team cum bucket.  Aberdeen shivered.  She didn’t understand how people could have such vitriol in their heart for another person they hadn’t even met.  And having it be directed towards Bee McTavish of all people.  Those were targeted attacks, mostly because they were jealous of who Bee was dating (as they should, because Morgan was a great guy).  But Aberdeen wondered if Bee ever got those types of comments from people she knew – other wives or girlfriends who maybe couldn’t hold their tongue or thought that looks were the be all, end all of someone’s worth.  

Aberdeen knew better than to think that way.  She knew it was all bullshit.  How you presented yourself to the world was one thing – with your clothes, your hair, your makeup – and it was somewhat an extension of you, but it wasn’t who you were as a person.  Like, Aberdeen always liked to look fashionable and presentable at work, because she knew she was in a highly professional environment and on any given day she’d shake hands and speak with a billionaire, but her clothes didn’t define her.  Her personality defined her.  Her work ethic defined her.  Her respect for her job, her bosses, and her colleagues defined her.  Her ambitions defined her more than her clothes ever would, than her clothes ever could.  She knew Saylor didn’t mean any harm, that it probably wasn’t said maliciously at all, that it was only said because she didn’t know any better and nobody in her privileged life had called her out on her language that bordered on offensive.  Aberdeen wasn’t going to hold it against her unless it kept happening and it did get offensive.  

But she highly doubted that.  

***

The Leafs lost to the New York Rangers 5-3.

William had knocked on her room door.

She let him in.  

He kissed her the second the door closed and she felt overwhelmed by the feeling of his lips on hers, like she always did, really.  They hadn’t been able to connect in Nashville or Dallas after the All-Star Game because her room was right beside Brendan’s, so they had to wait until the night they got back to Toronto.  The Leafs weren’t doing particularly well lately, but nobody would be able to tell by the way William was acting.  He brushed off the losses fairly easily, not liking to dwell on them too much.  

“You okay after tonight?” she asked.

“It’s fine, minskatt,” he said as he kissed the tip of her nose.  “Better now.”

She smiled slightly.  She highly doubted that she made the situation better, but she’d take it.  “Come to the washroom with me.  I have to wash my face.”

“That’s sexy.”

She smacked his arm.  He just gripped onto her hips tighter.  “I can ask you to leave.”

“You’d have to make me at this point, and I’m a strong boy,” he raised his eyebrows.  

She scoffed, dragging him into the washroom with her as she took off her makeup and cleansed her face.  William leaned his body against the wall behind her, so she was able to see him and look at him through the mirror.  He was so patient, and literally just watched her as she went about her nightly routine.  He didn’t say a peep, didn’t complain, didn’t rush her.  He just watched her with a look in his eye that told her, fascinatingly, that he was enjoying just watching her, like he was captivated by her simplest movements.  

She pat her face dry, looking at him through the mirror.  “Can I ask you something?” she asked.  It was so quiet she could practically hear the electric current going through the lightbulb.  

“Of course, minskatt.”

She was hesitant, mostly because she didn’t really know if William knew anything about it, but also because she should probably be asking Morgan.  She set the towel down on the counter.  “Do you know what happened with Bee last year?”

William didn’t look too bothered by the question.  “You mean when her mom passed away?” he asked.

“No,” she shook her head.  “The…the other thing.”

“Oh, that,” William nodded his head.  “Yeah, I know what happened.”

“Morgan said it was someone who knew Kasperi’s ex.”

“It was.  Her name was Cassie.  Kasperi’s ex, I mean,” he clarified as he stepped closer towards her.  “The girl who actually approached Bee in the restaurant was named Danielle.”

“Had you ever met them before?” she asked.

“Cassie, of course.  Danielle, no,” he said.  “Why?”

“Does Kasperi exclusively date models?”

“Basically,” he giggled slightly.  “Why, minskatt?”

“It’s nothing,” she shook her head.  “I just—I saw Saylor earlier tonight, and she mentioned how she was in New York City for a photoshoot with a brand or something.”

“She’s one of those Instagram models,” he said, wrapping his arms around her and nestling his head into the crook of her neck.  He placed light kisses on her skin that made her feel temporarily drunk.  “You should be a model,” he mumbled against her skin.

“Yeah, I don’t think so,” Aberdeen replied sarcastically, though the feeling of his lips still on her skin made her brain mush.  

“Oh come on.  You’d be a great model.  My model,” he continued with his compliments and with his kissing.

“Not with this nose,” Aberdeen quipped.  “At least that’s what Saylor said.”

William stopped his movements.  It was quiet again.  She continued to watch him through the mirror as he looked at her, speechless.  It shouldn’t have come out like that.  She didn’t plan for it to come out like that.  But like most things to do with William, nothing ever went according to plan.  Ignoring him certainly didn’t go to plan – look where they were with that.  “Excuse me?” he asked, finally.  “What did she say to you?”

“It’s honestly not even a big deal,” Aberdeen said, trying to sound as confident as possible.  “She found out I was half-Persian and was like ‘Oh your nose totally gives it away’,” she mimicked Saylor’s voice.  “Then when I mentioned as a joke that I thought it would have been my hair that gave it away, she was like, ‘That too’, like it was so obvious.”

William looked angry – a confused angry, like he couldn’t believe something like that was said to her by someone so close to one of his best friends, but at the same time, could totally see it being said by her in particular.  Nobody else had commented on it when they found out – at least nobody on the team had – but of course Saylor did.  “Minskatt—”

“Please don’t make this a big deal,” she interrupted him, seeing the look in his eyes.  “It’s not the first time someone has said something like that to me and it’s definitely not going to be the last.”

If she didn’t want him to make a big deal out of it, he wouldn’t.  That didn’t mean that he wasn’t still angry about it, though.  And it didn’t mean he’d look at Saylor differently now for what she said.  “But minskatt…you know I think you’re beautiful, right?” he asked softly.  

Aberdeen nodded her head.  “I do,” she said confidently.  “I know you do.  But, like – and no offence – but I think I’m beautiful.  And – again, no offence – that’s more important than you thinking it.  I have enough confidence in my appearance to not let it affect me.  That’s why it doesn’t matter what she said.”

William smiled at her.  Proudly.  “No offence taken,” he said, biting his lip.  “That’s all that matters.  Still makes me want to talk to her though.”

Aberdeen whipped around so she could face him.  “Don’t you dare,” she warned.

William’s smile turned from prideful to facetious.  “Gotcha.”

Aberdeen scrunched her face at him, but he didn’t care.  He dipped down and kissed her again, refusing to stop even as he picked her up in his arms and placed her on the vanity.  He stood in between her thighs as he kissed her and kissed her and kissed her, not wanting to ever stop.  “You know I think you’re pretty great, right?” he mumbled against her lips.

Aberdeen stopped, their faces only inches apart as she stared at him, smiling slightly.  She brought her hand up and let her thumb caress his bottom lip, the slightest bit swollen from all their kissing.  His eyes were so, so blue as she looked into them.  Sometimes she didn’t think he was real.  “I think you’re pretty great, too.”

#william nylander #william nylander imagine #william nylander fic #william nylander fan fic #toronto maple leafs #toronto maple leafs imagine #toronto maple leafs fic #toronto maple leafs fan fic #william nylander blurb #toronto maple leafs blurb #nhl #nhl imagine #nhl fic #nhl fan fic #nhl blurb #hockey #hockey imagine #hockey fic #hockey fan fic #hockey blurb #the president wears prada series

[mrsalwayswrite]

This Night (40s!Bucky Barnes x Hispanic!OFC)

Summary: When she saved a scrawny blond in a back alley, she would never have anticipated the ripple effects it would have. Nor how meeting someone with a pair of baby blue eyes and cocky smirk would draw her in, encouraging her that for one night, to taste revelry like she never had before.

This is my submission for @allaboardthereadingrailroad​ Marvel Diversity Challenge! My prompt was “a little danger never hurt”. 

I am going to admit, I’m super nervous to post this. I’ve never written a person of color before and would be horrified to accidently offend someone. That being said, I also had so much fun writing this piece. I adore 40s Bucky and Steve, so I was excited to finally have the inspiration to write them. 

Few notes:

-All translations are via google and what I can remember from university (if any of my Spanish is wrong, please please please someone tell me and i’ll correct it!)

-I threw in some 40s slang for fun, so that will be in italics.

-In the little research I did (again, someone please correct me if I am wrong), in the 40s there were not many Hispanic or Latino people living in NYC yet. So for my OFC and her family, they would very much stand out. 

Warnings: a few swear words, some angst, sexual tension, topic of racial discrimination and inequality 

Words: 8k (the story kept growing, i’m so sorry)

<gif is from Pinterest>

She clutched the parcel to her chest, trying to avoid the muddy puddles on the sidewalk. Mr. Hendricks would be furious with her if she got any mud on the packaging of the parcel. He always said it reflected his reputation.  

 Weaving through those walking down the busy Brooklyn sidewalk, she could feel the few glares and inaudible comments following in her wake. She tried to ignore it, knowing was not the first nor last time others judged her for her different skin tone. Though she doubted she would ever get used to it. One of her older brothers would try and cheer her up saying the white folks were jealous since they burned when in the sun too long while Spaniards became more beautiful. Without fail, she would smack him but end up laughing along. 

 Peeking at the address scrawled in precise handwriting, she surveyed the street names around. A sinking feeling in her gut confirmed her fear- she had somehow gotten lost. 

“Mierda.” She hissed, turning around in a circle. Not just to try and relocate her whereabouts but on the off chance her mother happened to be behind her to whack her over the head for swearing. 

 Not wanting to be run over by a fellow pedestrian, she stepped off the sidewalk into an alley nearby while she tried to get her bearings. She brushed down the front of her workwear, dark blue, princess style dress with its Peter Pan collar, double pockets and pleated skirt. A glance at her tights showed a couple spots of mud she somehow managed to still get on her even though her kitten heels were still mostly clean. A miracle really. 

 It was only mid-afternoon but Mr. Hendricks hated when she returned late from delivering parcels. He was the best tailor in Brooklyn and practically thrived off that title. He employed her to help keep things organized, the shop looking nice and delivering parcels to their patrons. It was mindless work but that did not bother her. It was a job...and she was lucky to have one. Being from one of the few Hispanic families in the area was not a perk when trying to find work. She knew the only reason she even got this job was she willingly took half the pay he would have given to anyone else, she could sew well, and she was pretty. 

 A crash at the end of the alley drew her attention behind her. There was some hushed talking followed by another sound of something hitting the ground. Hard. 

 Logically, she knew she should walk away. She was already lost. Her mother frequently reminded her to not involve herself in other people's business, it would only get her in trouble. The problem was her curiosity was a near palpable thing, driving her forward, along with her independent streak the size of the Upper Bay. So when she heard what sounded like a smack and another crash, her feet started moving without a second thought. 

 She darted around a half brick wall to find herself at an "L" intersection. And at the end of both alleys, stood a tall man with a face like a bulldog and the sleeves of his shirt rolled up to his elbows, fists at his side. Below him lay a much smaller, blond man who was sprawled out on the dirty ground. The smaller man groaned, rubbing a hand on his jaw. He rolled onto his side, then slowly and painfully rose back onto his feet, his own fists in front of him in a poor imitation of a boxer. 

 "You think you somethin' special, huh?" The larger man jeered, a nasty smirk on his face. He leaned on his back foot, preparing to throw another punch. 

 The smaller man raised his fists but made no other move, prepared to take the hit and most likely go back down. 

 So, she decided to do something stupid. 

 "BILL!!" She cried out, her voice echoing off the brick walls of the alleys. 

 Both men froze, turning to look at her. 

 Tucking the parcel under her arm, she jogged over to the smaller man, uncaring now of the muddy puddles. "There you are, Bill. I've been so worried. You promised to show me where Mrs. Wilcox lives. I tried to find her myself but I got so lost." Ignoring the quizzical look from the blond man, she stood between the two men, meeting the eyes of the larger one. She twirled a strand of her long, black hair around her finger, nerves getting to her but she pressed on. "I'm so sorry for whatever trouble he has caused you. He won't bother you again. We have to go now; our boss will dock our wages if we aren't back soon."

 The man trailed his eyes over her as if looking for a lie tattooed on her skin or dress. Finding nothing of interest, he stared hard at his victim for a long moment. She found herself holding her breath, silently praying her ruse worked. 

 Finally, he rolled his shoulders and unclenched his fists, his thick jowls still tense. "Keep ‘im away from me or next time his ass will end up in the hospital."

 Slowly, she released her breath as she watched the bulldog of a man turn on his heel and stomp away, back down the alley and onto the main sidewalk. 

 "Are you hurt?" She asked, looking over the smaller man. As he dusted off his brown trousers and tan jacket, she was surprised to realize he stood about her height, and probably about her age, in the young twenties. If her guessing was any good. 

 He rubbed his jaw again and winced where an impressive bruise was already growing. "I've had worse." 

 She could not help but smile at his nonchalance. His bright blue eyes met her own honey brown. A timid smile echoed hers, his face so open and expressive. Something about the man she found endearing already. Maybe defending him was not such a stupid action.  

 "All that stuff you said, about lookin' for me and gettin' lost…"

 She huffed a laugh. "I am actually lost. I'm trying to find this address here." She showed him the scrap of paper with the address scribbled on it.

 It took only a glance before he handed the paper back with a smile. "You're not too far. Only three streets away….I... I can take you there if you like."

 "Oh, I'd hate to impose on you."

 "No, it's really fine. Seems you saved me from...well…" He shrugged, sticking his hands in the pockets of his tan jacket. 

 "And... you...don't mind, you know, being seen with me?"

 "No, why?" Eyebrows furrowed and lips pursed slightly, he stared at her like that was the strangest question. 

 It was in that moment she knew, whoever this scrawny man was- he was a good man. The difference in their ethnicity made no difference to him. He was a rarity in her experience with most New Yorkers. 

 Even though it was 1940 and this was supposed to be a land of equal opportunity. 

 It was not. 

 With a shrug and momentarily, awkward silence as they both thought about their own answers to his question, they fell into step with one another as they headed back out of the alley.

 "So, what's your name? Or is it actually Bill?" She spoke up once they hit the sidewalk. 

 "Do I look like a Bill?"

 She squinted her eyes then shook her head giggling. "No, you don't."

 "It's Steve…. Steve Rogers."

 "It's nice to meet you, Steve."

 He directed them down another street. Their shoulders brushed occasionally as they walked, due more to their need to maneuver around puddles and other pedestrians than any sense of intimacy. "You gonna tell me your name or do I have to make one up for you?"

 "Oh! Sorry. It's Elana Morales-Díaz. So, what caused the fight?"

 The tips of his ears and cheeks turned pink as he ducked his head. "He, um, we...we had a disagreement."

 "Obviously. I would hate to know you're friends and beat each other up for fun."

 "My best friend is a boxer. He's tryin’ to teach me some moves…. does that count as beating each other up?"

 She pretended to think about it. "I may let that one slide but it sounds like you might need some new friends."

 "Yeah," he chuckled and peeked over at her. "Know of any openings?"

 "I just might."

 They stood at an intersection waiting to cross the street when they heard a shout from further down the road. Neither paid much attention initially until the shout repeated itself. 

 "STEVE!"

 The blond looked down the road, a smile on his lips. He waved and tugged on Elana to move away from the curb. She followed along, surprised since he told her they needed to cross. 

 A man glided through the pedestrians easily, a few lingering looks thrown his way by some of the women. When he noticed her standing next to Steve, his eyes widened for a brief moment before a lazy smirk appeared on his face and his strut became more pronounced. With boxing gloves dangling over his shoulder, his white shirt and black trousers, he looked like he just walked out of a gym. Especially with the way his dark brown hair ruffled in the breeze, a few strands sticking up like he had run his hands through it a few times. 

 "I leave you for one afternoon and I come back to find you with the prettiest gal in all of New York." 

 Steve rolled his eyes. "You're always at the gym now."

 The man put Steve in a teasing headlock. Only after a flirtatious wink at her, he released the smaller man. "So, you gonna introduce me to this wolfess, Steve?"

 "Ah, right. Elana, this is my best friend, Bucky Barnes. Buck, this is Elana."

 "Nice to meet you." She said, a small smile at their interactions. It reminded her of her brothers.

 The man -Bucky- reached over and took her hand but instead of shaking it, pressed a kiss to her knuckles, maintaining eye contact the whole time. "Pleasure is mine."

 Oh, he was a charmer. The kind her mother warned her about. Then again, her father had the same devilish charisma and Elana liked to remind her mother of that. To which her mother would laugh and say that's why she warned her daughter of those men, she knew from experience. With just a wink and kiss, she would fall madly in love, leave her home and give him five babies before she even knew it. It was always after this statement often said loudly and with feigned annoyance that Elana's father would wrap his arms around his wife, lovingly kiss her temple and remind her how long he had to chase her before she even agreed to go on a date with him. 

 "So how do you guys know each other?" Bucky asked, those blue eyes bouncing between the two of them. 

 Steve coughed, rubbing the back of his neck. It was then Bucky finally seemed to notice the slowly darkening bruise on Steve's jaw. 

 "Steve!" He grabbed his friend's face and glanced over him, concern etched in his movements and expression. "What happened this time, punk?"

 "Nothin'...just a disagreement. I had 'im on the ropes."

 He dropped his hand, running it through his brunet hair. "You gotta stop pickin’ fights, one of these days…" The implications hung heavily in the air. 

 "Ah, Steve…" When he looked over at her, she nodded toward the parcel still in her arms.

 "Oh right! Sorry. Buck, I gotta take her to drop somethin' off."

 Bucky shrugged. "Lead the way, punk."

 "Jerk."

 The three of them quickly crossed the street. Steve, and soon Bucky when he understood what was going on, pointed out markers for her in case she got lost again. In a short time, they arrived at the house, one of the nicer ones in Brooklyn. The boys waited on the sidewalk as Elana walked up to the front door and handed the parcel over with the man's tailored suit. 

 "Where you off to now, doll?" Bucky asked when she approached them. 

 "Oh, I need to get back to the shop. Mr. Hendricks will most likely be upset with how late I am anyway."

 "The tailorin’ shop near Prospect Park?"

 "Yeah." She played with a strand of her hair, trying to hide her nerves.

 "What a coincidence. We were headed that way ourselves, right, Steve?"

 "What?" Steve looked at Bucky, head tilted in confusion. Bucky cuffed him in the back of the head. "Oh, yeah. Yeah. Um, gonna take a nice walk in the park."

 Elana could not help but giggle at the two. With Bucky looking skyward like he was silently praying for patience to deal with his best friend; meanwhile Steve rubbed the back of his head and glared at his best friend. Although she just met them and hardly knew them, she found herself enjoying their presence. Friends were not something she had in great supply...or any supply really. 

 Plus, if she was being honest with herself, she found her gaze drifting to the tall, charming brunet more times than she cared to admit. The butterflies in her stomach did not help the situation. She knew it was foolish. He was attractive and knew it. But when he turned those baby blues on her and winked, she could not help but be drawn to him, like a moth to the flame. 

 "How come we ain't seen you round before? I know I'd remember a dame as beautiful as you round Brooklyn." Bucky said on her left side while Steve walked on her right. Neither one crowded her space. Sometimes one would touch a hand to her back to direct her steps or hold her elbow when she jumped a puddle. It was sweet instead of condescending. 

 She shrugged. "I recently got the job at the tailor shop and I live in Queens."

 They both winced making her laugh. She would never understand this animosity the boroughs had with each other. 

 "Well that explains a lot." Steve muttered. 

 "Hey!" She nudged the blond with her shoulder as she muttered. "Me gusta Queens. Ustedes dos están celosos."

 "What language is that?" Steve asked, curiosity evident. 

 "Spanish."

 "Is that why you have an accent?"

 She nodded, unable to meet their gazes as she answered. "My family moved here from Spain when I was six." Although she had grown up here in New York City, gone to school just like the other kids, she still maintained a slight accent to her words, different from the stereotypical New Yorker's accent. 

 "Say somethin’ else." Bucky smiled down at her. 

 She laughed. "Like what?"

 "I don't know. Anythin’."

 "El cielo es azul. Me duelen los pies con estos tacones. Me he reído más con ustedes dos que en semanas".

 Bucky had almost a dazed look on his face. "That's beautiful."

 "You have no idea what I said."

 "Doesn't matter." The brunet stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Steve can talk in Irish." 

 "Buck…"

 "What?" 

 "I mean, a little." He rubbed the back of his neck. "My ma came from Ireland." 

 Bucky snorted. "You wrote a poem for a girl in the second grade in Irish and read it to her on the playground. I'd say that's more than a little."

 Steve's face was red and jaw dropped as he stared at his friend. "How...how...how do you know that?" He sputtered. "We weren't even friends yet."

 Bucky winked at Elana as he answered. "Gotta be friends with the right people."

 The three of them walked back, talking and laughing. Well it was mostly the boys talking and teasing one another but she enjoyed just listening to their banter. Occasionally they would direct a question to her or she would throw out a remark that had them laughing. 

 She guided them to the back alley of the street front shops. Mr. Hendricks disliked her walking through the front unless she had her work apron on and clean shoes. 

 "Well thank you for helping me and walking me back."

 "It's not a big deal." Steve said. 

 "We'll see you round, yeah? I'd hate to just meet a gorgeous dame like you then never see her again." Bucky threw a wink at her, adjusting the boxing gloves still over his shoulder. 

 She opened her mouth to tease them then stopped. She truly hoped this was not the last time she saw these two. In a spur of the moment decision, she stepped closer to say goodbye. She pressed her cheeks to Steve's first, giving the traditional cheek kiss. She did the same to Bucky, though she had to rise on her toes to reach his face, and she suspected he bent over slightly. 

 "Hasta luego, mis amigos."

 "What was that, doll?"

 She looked from Bucky's smirk to Steve's red face and back. "A traditional goodbye."

 "Mmm…I could get used to that." The boxer teased, nudging his friend who refused to meet her eyes now. 

 She smiled and started to open the back door when Bucky's hand grabbed her forearm, stalling her movements. 

 "Hey, wait." Those baby blue eyes met her honey brown ones. "It's Friday night.  We usually go to the Stork Club for drinks and dancin’. Come with us."

 "Oh, I don't know…"

 "Come on. It'll be great. If it helps, we'll pick you up from your house."

 She could not help the laugh that slipped out at the thought.  "You'd come to Queens... to get me?"

 "It might break my heart to leave my beloved Brooklyn but I'd do it for you, doll."

 "Honestly it'd be dangerous for you to come to my house." 

 "A little danger never hurt." He brushed some of her hair behind her ear, sending shivers down her spine. 

 He was trouble, complete trouble for her...and she knew it. But the longer he stared at her with those pleading eyes and hand now at the nape of her neck, she could feel her resolve crumbling. "I have three brothers and a protective father."

 "They can't be that bad… Come on, please? Steve, help me out!"

 Steve just laughed, raising his hands in surrender. 

 She bit the inside of her cheek thinking about it. Her brother Mateo owed her for when she covered for him when he almost got caught smoking cigarettes behind the apartment building. Tonight, her parents were supposed to visit her eldest brother and his new wife in the Bronx. 

 "Ok…" She whispered. 

 "Yeah?" A beaming grin spread over his face.

 "Ok...I'll meet you there though."

 "Yes!" Bucky bent over and kissed her cheek loudly. "You won't regret it! Nine o'clock!"

 "Nueve. Estaré allí."

 "I still don't know what you said, doll, but I love it."

 She laughed, pushing him away from her. "Go! Before I'm even more late."

 Before they were three steps away, she ducked inside the back of the shop. Hopefully she was able to slip in unnoticed. The shop should be closing soon so Mr. Hendricks would be in his little office room. 

 She leaned against the back door, hands pressed against her cheeks to will away the warmth in them. Thankfully with her brown skin, the blush would be harder to notice. As she stood there, the realization of what she just agreed to finally hit her. An icy fist landed in her gut, drowning the blush away. She had never been to a club before. She had no idea what to wear...or how to act. How was she even going to get there? 

 Underneath the fear though was a determination to go. Why couldn't she have fun for one night, like other young women she regularly saw and envied. Both of those Brooklyn boys seemed nice. Thinking about them brought the flush back to her skin, especially when she thought of the kiss on the cheek from Bucky. He was trouble and fun and charming and devilish and… and she wanted to spend more time with him. And Steve, the sweet, kind, funny guy that he was. She liked them both. But when thinking about those baby blue eyes, insufferable smirk and broad shoulders...her heartbeat sped up and butterflies erupted in her belly. 

 "Oh Dios, ¿qué voy a hacer?" She whispered to herself. 

 *****

 Just after nine o'clock, Elana climbed out of the taxi. She stared up at the sign that brightly screamed ‘Stork Club’. So many people milled about, either walking into the club or chatting, waiting for others in their group. A couple people already looked like they had been hitting the bottles for some time, if the rambunctious yelling and obnoxious laughter said anything. The atmosphere was loud and vibrant with an air of debauchery...and she had not even stepped foot in the door. 

 "Oh Dios, ¿por qué estoy aquí? Estúpido. Tan estúpido. Debería irme. Ni siquiera se darán cuenta." She murmured to herself, her hands wringing the strap on her clutch. Actually, it was not even hers. She "borrowed" it from her mother's closet and prayed that she could return it before her mother noticed.

 "Elana!" 

 At the call of her name, she turned around to see Bucky and Steve crossing the street, dodging a car that decided they were taking too long. 

 "You made it!" Bucky exclaimed, bubbling with excitement. He scanned her over, giving a low whistle. "Damn, doll, you look beautiful."

 "Gracias." She smoothed down her floral-patterned tea dress that reached mid-calf, her kitten heels still on from earlier. Her raven hair hung loosely down her back, unstyled in the typical curls that most women wore. There had been no time to try one of those hair styles and not bring attention to herself before she snuck out. Just to make her even more self-conscious, the cherry red lipstick she wore felt heavy on her lips. Something she only wore on rare occasions. "You fellas clean up nicely."

 Checking over them, they each wore nice suits. Though Steve's looked a size or two too large and the prominent bruise on his cheek ruined the look a bit. Bucky was practically sinful in his suit, showing off his broad shoulders and strong legs, his hair slicked back. Improper thoughts flooded her mind and a heat warmed her cheeks. She had a feeling she would need to go to confession tomorrow. That was tomorrow’s worry though, tonight was about fun.

 "Ready to have the time of your life?" Bucky asked, excitement practically bubbled under his skin. 

 "That's a high standard."

 "Guess I better not disappoint. C'mon!" He grabbed her hand, pulling her towards the crowded, open door. In her sudden fear, she reached back and snagged Steve's hand, dragging him along. She would never admit it but having both of them on either side of her made her feel better. 

 There were several different calls for Bucky, vying for his attention. He just waved or yelled something back but kept her hand in his, pulling them through. She noticed more than one disappointed female face when Bucky passed them. It churned something in her stomach which she tried to ignore. 

 When they finally entered the dance hall, she froze. It was nothing like she imagined and so much better. At the far end was a stage with a large band playing an upbeat song that made her bounce on her toes without realizing it. A large bar area was set up, packed with people already looking for something to wet their throats. Booths and tables lined the walls. Already the hardwood, dance floor looked packed with couples jiving. Mirrors and photographs hung on the walls making the place feel bigger even when it was so crowded. The air smelled of alcohol, sweat and a youthful zeal she had never experienced. 

 It was intoxicating and nerve-wracking. She could not wait to join in. 

 The next thing she noticed when she glanced at all the people...she was the only non-white person there. 

 "Let's get a table." Bucky tugged them along towards an open booth on the right side of the dance floor. 

 She slid in on one side while Steve scooted in on the other. Bucky stood at the end, grinning ear to ear as he seemed to quickly survey the place. 

 "Right." He tossed his suit jacket on the seat next to her then clapped his hands, the sound muffled by the volume from the band nearby. "What kinda drink would you like?"

 "Ah, vino?"

 He nodded and waltzed towards the bar, throwing an arm around the shoulder of one of the men standing there waiting. 

 She turned back to the blond. "You're not drinking?"

 "Nah, too many health issues to make it worth it." 

 She hummed and took note of Steve's fidgeting. "Is this your first time too?"

 He chuckled. "No. I just don't...well, this isn't where I'd prefer to be on a Friday night...but don't tell Bucky... though he probably knows."

 "What would you rather be doing?"

 "Drawin’ or paintin’, maybe playin’ cards but I'm terrible at them."

 "You're an artist?" The realization warmed her heart. This scrawny man with a heart too big for his body and kindness an invisible cloak around him. It made sense somehow. He could look past the ugly and see beauty and somehow capture it. 

 "I don't know if I'd say that...I just enjoy it. It's usually what I end up doin’ when I come here. Doodlin’ on a napkin while Buck dances with every girl he can."

 Her stomach dropped while hearing that, which was stupid. So stupid. She swallowed thickly, hoping Steve did not notice, before she spoke again to distract herself. "Well if you doodle something tonight, can I see it after?"

 "If you like."

 Bucky appeared a minute later with a foamy glass of beer and a glass of red wine. Carefully, he placed them both on the table. "Ready to cut a rug?" He asked, looking at her expectedly. 

 "Um, I don't...I've never danced like this before." She hesitantly admitted. Steve gave her a sympathetic smile like he understood. 

 "Don't matter. I bet you're a swell dancer." He held out his hand for her. When she did not immediately accept his hand, he wiggled his fingers. "C'mon, ain't that hard. I'll teach you."

 With a sigh, she took his hand, his smile beaming as he tugged her out of the booth. She could not help but smile back at his sheer enthusiasm. It was contagious. 

 He led her off to the side of the dance floor. Putting one hand on her lower back and taking the other in his hand, he began demonstrating the steps. Her eyes stayed glued to his feet while he moved, willing her brain to understand and not make a fool of her. 

 "You got this, doll. Told you, you're a natural. Just follow my movement, let me lead."

 So she did and before she knew it, they were flying around the dance floor. 

 Bucky was an amazing dancer and it showed in how he effortlessly led her. A couple times she stumbled or stepped on his toes but he would just grin and encourage her to keep going. The faces of those around them blurred. The music seemed to sink into her blood and with every beat of the drum or clap of the hands from the band, her heartbeat echoed it. It was intoxicating and she had not even had a sip of alcohol. Now she understood why people flocked to these dance halls. There was something freeing in them, losing yourself to the music and movements. For a short time, you could ignore the outside world and all its trials. Here, you could be free. 

 Eventually she begged a break, practically panting from the several songs they danced through. The brightness in her eyes and smile though showed how much fun she was having. Still holding hands, they weaved through the crowd back to their booth where Steve sat with a napkin in front of him, pencil in hand and eyes focused downward. She slid into the booth first, Bucky right behind her. 

 "Have fun?" Steve asked, eyes bouncing between the two before him. 

 "I can't breathe." She giggled out, hand pressed to her chest. Her lungs struggled to fill up properly but instead of installing fear into her, it only made her laugh. 

 Bucky took a long sip of his beer and slung his arm behind Elana, on the back of the booth. "Told you, you'd have fun. You're a great dancer."

 "Only cause I had a great teacher." Taking a sip of her wine, she focused on the quiet artist.  "Did you draw something, Steve?"  

 "Yeah, just a little sketch."

 "Can I see it?"

 He slid the napkin over to her, nerves obvious. Giving him a small, reassuring smile, she flipped the napkin over and felt her heart stop and jaw drop. The pencil sketch was of Bucky and her dancing. His mouth was next to her ear, whispering instructions or flirtatious comments, his hand on her lower back. Her gaze was on his chest but the brilliant smile on her lips gave her away. The sketch was so realistic, it was astounding. It completely captured Bucky's confidence and her nervousness but somehow the opposite emotions only added to the image, bringing a sense of balance and trust between the two dancing partners. 

 "Steve, esto es…. hermoso…. increíble." She breathed out, never taking her eyes off the napkin. When she finally looked up to see him blushing and fiddling with the pencil, she smiled. 

 Bucky had been leaning against her so he could see the sketch also. "That might be your best one yet, pal."

 "Thanks, guys. S'nothing."

 "May I keep it?" She softly asked, eyes tracing the delicate lines and shading.

 The embarrassed blond flapped a hand at her. "Course. It was for you if you wanted it anyway."

 Silently, she reached across and squeezed Steve's hand, unable to convey all the emotions she was feeling. "There's one thing you got wrong."

 "What's that?"

 "I'm not that pretty."

 Both Steve and Bucky chuckled.  

 "Elana," Bucky started, gazing down at her. "He drew you like-"

 "Bucky!" A silky voice interrupted. A young woman stood at the end of their booth. Her blonde hair in perfect curls, bright red lipstick matched the equally bright red dress she wore. Her eyes zeroed in on the handsome brunet at the table, ignoring the other two patrons like they were just wallpaper. "Wanna dance?" 

 The sun-kissed woman could feel Bucky's hesitation. Nudging him gently in the ribs, she nodded towards the interloper. "Go. Have fun. I still need to catch my breath."

 With a nod, he slipped out of the booth and followed the beautiful woman onto the dance floor. The two easily fell into step like they had done this a million times, each movement flawless and smiles on both of their faces. 

 She turned back to Steve, ignoring the churning in her gut. "What's your favorite thing to draw?"

 They talked for a few minutes about art classes he had taken and the few commissioned pieces he had done for local businesses. The passion he spoke with about art, hands flapping and eyes alight, it was impossible not to join in his enthusiasm. 

 The presence of someone standing at the end of the table drew their attention away from the quick sketch of a monkey Steve had drawn on another napkin. This young woman had a haughty expression on her otherwise pretty face, glaring down her nose at Elana. 

 "You shouldn't be here." She stated, venom lacing every word. Hands on her curvy hips, the gold stitching in her emerald dress catching the light from above. 

 "Ruby, we-"

 "No one is talkin’ to you, Steve." She barked then continued glaring at Elana. "I bet you're a real floozy, comin’ in here lookin’ like that. Well news flash, no one wants you or your kind here."

 Tears stung in Elana’s eyes, threatening to fall. She knew this would happen. It always happened. There was always someone to remind her she was not one of them, even if her own eyes could see it. She had hoped tonight would be different. That for once, she could fit in. 

 "I want her here. She's my date."

 The lady -Ruby- spun on her heel so quick, her dress flared out. "Bucky," she crooned, her voice sugary-sweet, so different than a moment ago. "You're lookin' like a real Fred Astaire out there tonight. Let's go-"

 Bucky did not even look her way as he slid back onto the bench, eyes focused on Elana. "You alright there, doll?"

 She nodded numbly, staring at the table. Twirling a strand of hair absent-mindedly around her finger, she tried to force the tears from falling. It was not even the worst insult she had heard hurled at her, but it still cut her to the quick. Every time. 

 "Why don't we head out, yeah? Steve there looks like he's gettin' a little warm and the music ain't so good tonight." Bucky said gently. 

 She nodded again, not trusting herself to speak. 

 "Bucky, stay…" Ruby tried one last time but he leveled a glare at her that made her take a step back. 

 "Take a powder, Ruby, I ain't interested."

 Bucky wrapped his hand around Elana's, entwining their fingers as he slid out of the booth with her right behind him. Without even a backwards glance, he led the three of them out of the dance hall. Elana kept her head down the whole time, unable to meet anyone's eyes for fear of what she would see. 

 The night air was blissfully cool after the heat of the dance hall. It kissed her skin as if trying to help calm her down. At this point, the street was not as busy, everyone mostly inside now. Only a few pedestrians and cars interrupted the quiet scene. 

 "Elana, I'm so sorry."

 "Debería irme. No debería haber venido. Soy tan estúpida." She muttered to herself, not even hearing Bucky's statement. It was a foolish idea to come out. For so long she had tried to fit in, especially as a child. Her mother always told her to be herself and embrace her difference. That was easier said than done. Tonight felt like a taste of it when she was on the dance floor. What things could have been like if everyone was accepted. If where she was from did not matter. She had been so happy dancing with Bucky, this handsome devil who treated her like she was special, holding her hand in front of everyone. Sure, Steve said he danced with a lot of girls but for tonight, she was someone while on his arm. She was someone special. 

 And oh, did she love the feeling of his hand wrapped around hers. Him holding her close as they danced, his warm breath hitting her neck just right. He was trouble, through and through. Her mother would call him a Casanova and tell her to run the other way. Yet she did not want to. He drew something out of her. An almost recklessness. A desire for more. More in life. To experience life with a passion. Both this new feeling and Bucky’s presence were addicting...and she found herself unable to turn away. At least not for tonight. She wanted to revel in it tonight. 

 It was not until a hand cupped her cheek and tilted her head up to meet a pair of worried baby blue eyes that she was jolted from her internal spiral. 

 "Hey, hey. I have no idea what you're sayin' but it don't sound good. Why don't we walk for a bit, mmm? The night's still young."

 Wordlessly, she followed. It was then she noticed Bucky was still holding her hand, palms flat against one another's. That realization drew a small smile on her lips. On her other side walked Steve, hands in his pockets but a genuine smile on his face when he caught her eye. Even after all this, these two Brooklyn boys wanted to be with her. With that in mind, she shoved her despair and pain away. Let tomorrow bring what worries that came with it. Tonight she wanted to be reckless without fear of the consequences. Tonight was supposed to be fun.  

 "Can't believe Ruby would say that. Always thought she was a nice dame." The brunet mused, slipping his suit jacket back on before taking Elana's hand once again.

 "She only showed what she wanted you to see, Buck."

 "Dance with a girl a couple times and she thinks you owe her or somethin'."

 The blond quirked an eyebrow at his friend.  "Was it only dancin'?"

 "What you gettin' at, Rogers?"

 "You ditched some other girl for her once before."

 His head swiveled to stare at the smaller man in shock. "I did?"

 Elana spoke up. "Sounds like you have quite the selection of dance partners to choose from."

 Steve snorted. "Guy has been doll-dizzy since he was twelve."

 "What can I say? I appreciate fine art." Bucky said with a self-satisfied grin.

 "Don't usually lock lips with paintings or statues…"

 "You know what, Rogers!"

 Elana laughed as Bucky let go of her hand to race around her and put Steve in a headlock. The two pretended to box for a couple minutes, grins on both their faces. When finished, the champion boxer slid up to her, a rakish smile teasing his lips as he claimed her hand back.

 "Well if those gals are fine art, you sweetheart, are a masterpiece." He twirled her around once, making her dress flare out around her legs. "Have I told you yet how beautiful you look tonight?"

 "Yes, Bucky."

 "Good, I'd hate for you to forget." He winked and the trio started walking again. 

 "Oh, here." Steve suddenly said, fishing something out of his pocket. He held out his hand almost shyly.  

 She took the offered item to see it was the napkin with the sketch on it. "Oh, Steve. Muchas gracias." She leaned over and pressed a kiss to his cheek, leaving a red stain behind. "Oops."

 "Here." Bucky tossed over a handkerchief to Steve. 

 She glanced at the napkin one more time before reverently placing it in her clutch. She already knew where she was going to put this in her room so she would always remember this night.

 "Oh drat." Steve said after glancing at his watch. "It's almost eleven. I have class early tomorrow."

 "Go on, punk. I'll look after her."

 Elana hugged Steve and was thrilled when he squeezed her back just as tightly. "I'm so happy to have met you."

 "This isn't goodbye, right?"

 "I hope not. You have more artwork to show me."

 He blushed yet nodded before giving Bucky a quick hug. 

 "Night, Steve."

 "Night, jerk."

 Together, they watched Steve walk down the sidewalk, wave back at them then disappear down the next street. 

 "Wanna keep walkin'?"

 She nodded. She knew she should go home. It was getting late and she still had to get back to Queens. Yet walking side by side with this man whom she had only met several hours ago, she found the idea abhorrent. Glancing up at the night sky, only a couple of the stars were visible through the smoke, clouds and street lamps. They were lovely though, a reminder that there were greater things out there, one just had to look for them. At least, that is what her father always said. 

 "Hey," Bucky's voice pulled her attention back, "I never got to say it earlier but thanks...for havin’ Steve's back earlier today. Punk doesn't know when to quit."

 "I'm glad he got in that fight...is that odd? If he didn't, I wouldn’t have met either one of you."

 "Alright, this ONE time I'm glad he got in a fight. Though, we probably would have ran into each other eventually."

 They walked in comfortable silence for a couple minutes. Two cars passed them separately and only a handful of people walked their way. Otherwise it almost felt like they were alone. It was peaceful, still holding hands and wandering the streets of Brooklyn.  

 "Y'know, I was kinda hopin' we'd get at least one slow song at the dance hall."

 "Me too." She confessed. 

 "Well, we should!" An idea sparked in his eyes. "Wait here." He moved over to one of the parked cars near them. He tried to open it but it was locked so he moved to the next one. This one opened without hesitation and he slid in. The whole time Elana switched between watching Bucky and scanning the streets for someone to yell at them. What was he thinking? Suddenly music came on, drifting from the radio through the open passenger door. 

 Bucky stood there, leaning against the car with the biggest grin on his smug face. "Who needs a dance hall?"

 She laughed, understanding what he had done. "We’re going to get in trouble."

 "No, we ain't. C'mon."

 "Oh, Dios mío, yes we are!" 

 "Dance with me." He cooed, standing before her looking like an Adonis. 

 With that lazy smirk and enthralling blue eyes staring down at her, refusal was not an option. The words died on her tongue as she stared up at him. The music was slow, a singer crooning about his love. The moment felt like something from a fairytale story her mother would tell her as a little girl. She knew she should go home. Stop this heat that seared through her when she found herself caught in his eyes. Stop the butterflies in her stomach when around him. Stop the way she melted under his touch, his hands always so gentle. 

 But she wanted this. Right now. To pretend this was her reality. To dance with her prince under the stars. That love did not care about the differences in their skin tones. For when the sun rose and this dream faded, reality would seep back in. Plus, he was a charmer. Doll-dizzy. She would not keep his attention past this night. 

 For now though, she could pretend. Enjoy the night in a way she never had before. 

 He placed her hands behind his neck and his on her hips. Standing there under the streetlight and distant starlight, they danced, swaying back and forth. Her head landed on his chest, feeling his heartbeat beneath it. So steady and soothing. The world faded away around them, the only things that mattered was their dancing and the music. It wrapped around them like a warm, thick blanket. Enveloping them in a sense of security and vitality. One of his hands slowly traced her spine leaving a trail of fire behind. His cheek pressed against the top of her head. She felt safe...and wanted. A heady feeling that she could sense herself beginning to crave even more. Her hand tangled in the hair, her fingers lightly scraping the back of his neck. 

 "Say something in Spanish." He whispered, his lips against her scalp. 

 "Gracias por esto ... todo esto. Ha sido la mejor noche de mi vida".

 She looked back up at him, hoping to convey without words what she said. As she lifted her head up, their eyes locked. Tension filled the empty space around them, pulling them closer. For a split second, his eyes drifted to her lips and back up. Her heartbeat began racing anew. Slowly, as if waiting for her to turn away, his head tilted towards hers, his hands gripping her just a little tighter. His breath fanned across her face, warming her inside and out. She swore her heart was going to beat out of her chest. His nose brushed hers, an almost timid action that drew a smile from her. He chuckled silently then somehow pulled her even closer. She closed her eyes, a gasp escaping her when she felt the faintest touch of his lips on the corner of her mouth. 

 "Hey! Hey, you kids! What ya doin’ with my car?!" 

 All the tension evaporated like rain drops under the scorching sun. 

 "Shit...c'mon!" He grabbed her hand and started running away. Holding on tight, she ran next to him, as well as she could while wearing heels. The yells of the car's owner soon a distant sound behind them. 

 Finally, they stopped two streets later. He let go of her hand, running his hands through his hair and pacing. She leaned against the brick wall, hand over her mouth, giggles spilling forth between gasps of air. Never in her life had she done anything like this. She closed her eyes as the giggles turned into full-body laughter. One hand covered her mouth and the other wrapped around her own waist to try and contain the sound. This night was nothing like she expected but it only seemed to get better and better. This newfound revelry of youthful zeal, this silly recklessness...she wanted more and more of it. 

 When the laughter dissolved into small chuckles, she wiped her eyes as she opened them, hoping her make-up had not smudged too much. Not that she particularly cared in the moment.

 What she saw standing before her killed the laughter on her tongue. 

 Bucky stood just at arm's length, staring at her like she was the stars in the heavens. 

 In a single step, he crowded her against the brick wall. "Elana…" he growled, voice low, and it might have been the most exhilarating sound she had ever heard. One of his hands cupped the back of her head, as he lowered his lips to hers. The kiss was gentle, their lips just pressed together. A soft pressure that made her melt into his arms. 

 He leaned back to press his forehead against hers. His breath just as shaky as hers, both still breathing hard from their run. 

 "That was my first kiss." She blurted out, immediately regretting the words once they escaped. 

 He leaned back to look her in the eye. "Really?"

 She shrugged nervously. "Not many fellas lining up to kiss a girl like me."

 "Their loss, doll face." He smirked, running a thumb over her bottom lip. "May I have the honor of your second kiss ever?"

 She giggled and nodded. 

 This time when their lips touched, it felt like more. The first was like licking the spoon used after mixing cookie dough. A taste of what was to come. The second kiss was eating warm cookies right out of the oven and practically ascending to heaven. 

 His lips slanted over hers perfectly, as if they were formed just for her. Their mouths moved in tandem, picking up speed. No longer were the kisses sweet and gentle. His tongue traced her bottom lip and she willingly opened her mouth to receive it like a present. These kisses were all-consuming and fiery. It was as if his touch seared into her soul, leaving an imprint there for all eternity. 

 She knew right away when she met Bucky Barnes, he was trouble. He was the kind of man her mother warned her about. The kind to sweep her off her feet and make her forget the world around her. He was kind, charming and so full of life. Yet she knew even as she was wrapped in his arms, lips pressed against his, that there was one truth that would haunt her. Even if she ignored it for now. That truth would never leave. So she overlooked it, sinking deeper and deeper into his kisses and embrace. Drowning herself in him. With her back pressed against the wall, her hands tangled in his hair and mouths devouring one another, she had never felt more alive. 

 Tonight, she would choose the fire he poured into her. Tonight, she wanted to enjoy life without fear. Tonight, she wanted to pretend that this night would never end. To thrive in this feeling of passion and life, that nothing could go wrong. 

 For the truth was one day, he was bound to break her heart.

#marveldiversitychallenge #marvel #marvel fanfic #marvel fanfiction #Bucky Barnes #James Buchanan Bucky Barnes #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes x ofc #bucky/ofc #bucky fic #Steve Rogers #Hispanic!ofc #POC character #40s!steve #40s!bucky #40s! #1940s #mzwrites

[takadasaiko]

Job First, Dinner Later (a Phoenix Initiative short)

He hated guns. He hated the weight of them in his hand, the jarring sensation as the hammer pulled back to kick the firing pin forward to send the bullet flying through the barrel. The loud CRACK as it exited, speeding towards the target. It was always towards the target.  Muscle memory, even in the chaos, was as strong of a weapon as anything else.

In that moment the world froze around him. Silent, save for the shout of pain when it made impact.

Because it almost always made impact.

Except when it didn't.

Shit.

He hated guns, but he hated being shot at even more.

Lucas dove to his right, barely missing the onslaught of return fire. He flipped a table as he moved, using it to duck behind, back braced and neck bent. It was nice to live in the moment and all, but he really needed to learn how to take himself out of it in the middle of a firefight.

Or keep himself out of a firefight. Yeah. That was probably the safer option.

"All we want is Martinez," one of the shooters - probably the one he'd been aiming for and missed. Figured. - called out and Lucas squeezed his eyes shut tightly, pulling his screaming thoughts under control. He was good under pressure. He was even good in a fight, given just the right set of circumstances. He just needed to stall them.

"Allie?" he called back, the name rolling off his tongue as a serious question. "I mean, she's a helluva bookie, but she's really picky about new clients and --" Another bullet pinged off the overturned table and his mouth snapped shut.

"Alejandro Martinez, turned State against his brothers."

"If by brothers you mean the super violent gang he was recruited into at twelve years old, I'm gonna step out on a limb and say he's taken a different direction in life." Shuffling caught his attention and he listened carefully. Okay. He thought he knew where they were. "And maybe you should too," he offered the unsolicited advice as he pivoted, still crouched low to the ground, around the table and took aim at....

An empty room. This just wasn't his day.

Lucas loosed a long sigh as he felt the barrel of a gun press against the back of his head. "I'd ask you how you keep your steps so quiet, but...."

"Not gonna matter long," the voice behind him growled.

"You know my team has this place surrounded, right?" Lucas asked, frozen where he was with the gun pointed uselessly in front of him.

"Your team ain't been anywhere near here, only you. Gun down."

He hated when they called his bluffs. If asked, he considered himself a talented bluffer. Most days, at least. Apparently not today. Lucas laid his weapon down and raised his hands slowly. Deliberately. Not that it was going to do a damn bit of good. He was a dead man as soon as he'd missed the shot.

Well, he'd been a dead man more than once.

He swore he felt it before the action unfolded. A wisp of air,  a spark of energy. She'd have told him he was absurd, but she always knew how to make an entrance. Silent, undetected until the very last moment, and that's exactly it. He knew she was going to save him before the man behind him had even pulled the hammer back.

The pressure at the back of his head was the first to go, relieved instantly and followed by a yelp of surprise. Even facing the other way, Lucas could practically see her hauling his attacker back and off his feet, using surprise and strength in tandem to fling him back, grabbing his weapon in mid-flight and wrenching it from his grasp. Lucas turned, feeling his mouth drop open without permission as he watched her straighten over the downed thug - Marcus Henry, he recognized now  that he could see him - that had been ready to decorate the warehouse floor with brain matter. His, to be exact. Not preferable.

Henry shuffled back, shocked by the shift in power. Instead of staring down at the lanky brains-behind-the-operation with a gun to his head, he found himself staring up at Sam Henderson. Tall and lean, all muscle and intentional strength, her dark eyes bore into him. "Hi there," she greeted, her words casual and her voice sharp as a knife. "You might want to tell your boys to drop their guns.”

Lucas whipped back, finding two of Henry’s followers staring wide-eyed. One started to raise his weapon but, with barely a glance, Sam leveled her stolen gun in her left hand and the would-be attacker was dead before he hit the ground. His partner set his own gun on the concrete floor and backpedaled towards the exit.

Sam let him, her focus returning to Henry. “Do you know who I am?"

"No," Henry managed and Lucas was relatively sure that this man - whose kill number was well into the double digits - was ready to piss himself from the look on his face.  He'd been on the other end of one of Sam's looks before. Usually when he was late for a dinner that she had made it on time for.

"I'm with the Surripere Coalition."

Real fear fell over him. "I don't know what he has to do with --"

Shit. Again. Shit.

"He has nothing to do with this," Sam answered, and in one swift, unplanned  move she twisted, leveled her gun at him, and took the shot.

The bullet clipped his left shoulder hard enough that Lucas felt it bite through vest and dress shirt and down to scrape across skin.  He yelped loudly as he turned with the  momentum and let himself fall facedown against the floor. The filthy, disgusting floor. She owed him big time for this.

"But my boss would like a word with you about guns you stole last month," Sam finished.

"Why?" Henry managed, fear saturating the short question.

"Because you thought you were stealing them from the LAPD, but you were stealing them from us," Sam answered. There was a pause, as if she were giving him a moment to mull it over, before Lucas heard a loud THUMP and what he was 99.9% sure was a body hitting the floor behind him.

A foot nudged him. "You're good, drama king."

He cracked an eye open and rolled over to meet her gaze. "You shot me."

"I clipped you." Sam reached down to offer him a hand up, which he took. "Martinez safe?"

"On his way out of the country. I got my snitch whisked away to a new life and you got -" his gaze flickered to the unconscious man -  "your gangbanger enforcer."

"He's a means to the end. You gonna tell me you've never rescued someone that didn't deserve it?"

"Can't win 'em all."

A small, amused sort of smile quirked her lips up at the corners. "Sure we can." She reached forward, her fingers latching around his vest and dragging him to her where he found his lips pressed to hers. He melted there, arms easing around her waist as he leaned into the kiss. He could feel the chaos of the gunfight slip away and, just for just a moment, there was only this. Only them.

"Maybe we can," he murmured as they broke, green eyes meeting dark brown.

"We will," she promised and tipped up, a quick and playful second kiss against his lips signaling  that  it was time to go.

Lucas' eyes drifted closed, despite himself, savoring the brief moment. When he opened them again she was gathering up her bounty. "I'm thinking Italian for dinner."

"Job first, dinner later," she breathed.

"Gnocchi?"

A huff of a sigh met him. "Sure." A pause and the barest of smiles that anyone else would have missed. "Have I mentioned I love you?"

"I'm gonna guess it's the reason you married me."

"As good as your cooking is, that's not the reason." She offered him a wink and then was gone, leaving Lucas alone in the warehouse.

His cell phone rang and he picked it up.

"Boss, we've got Martinez. You good?"

"Golden. Fill him in. I'll see you in a few."

He ended the call, his gaze shifting to the door Sam had left through and winced at the gash along his shoulder.  Okay. Right. Jobs first, dinner later. That's the way they worked.

End.

---

Notes: I don’t tend to write prose for my original work very often anymore. These two are leads in a pilot project of mine and, when I had an exceptionally rough night a couple of nights ago, this is what happened. I love my battle couple.

If anyone’s at all interested, I love chattering about then. Happy to take any questions if you have them.

#The Phoenix Initiative #writing #original writing #battle couple #power couple #Sam Henderson #Lucas Finley

[ibelongtowrath]

It’s Always Been You - Mammon x Reader

I decided to take a break from writing solely smut, and wrote some angsty fluff and some light smut for my 2nd favorite boy Mammon.

If you've read my other stories you know I've mostly written super-detailed, super-explicit smut, so this is quite new for me haha. I thought of this story in the shower and banged it out in a few hours. I couldn't NOT write any smut in, but it's definitely minimal.

I had fun writing this one, I hope you enjoy!

-----------------------

It’s you. It’s always been you.

Sure, Mammon’s been around for a while and had his fun. He’d dated a couple witches here and there, but never wanted anything serious. He was too busy enjoying himself, spending his little heart out with his precious black credit card, not caring about much else besides himself and the things he wants. He is the Avatar of Greed, after all.

It’s all he cared about...until you came along, that is. You came to the Devildom, and his view of the world did a complete 180.

Curse you, he thinks. 

Curse you and your ethereal, otherworldly beauty that makes it hard not to stare at you. Curse your soft, full lips that make him want to wrap you in his arms and kiss you until your lips swell. Curse your perfect smile, the one that lights up your entire face, and the way your eyes crease a little bit on the outside when you do. Curse the way you pull your hair into a ponytail, showing off your pretty little neck that he wants to pepper with loving kisses. Curse the gorgeous curves on that beautiful body of yours, and the way you tug your skirt down and wrap your arms around yourself when you’re self-conscious.

Curse it all...because you’re leaving in a month, and he hasn’t been able to tell you any of these things.

It’s not like he’s never had any opportunity to - he sees you every day, after all.

But he also sees the way you talk to the other demons. He hears the cute lilt in your voice you say “good morning!” to everyone at the breakfast table, your skirt lifting as you bound into the room. He sees the way you blush profusely when they tease you, like when you left your journal on the table and Asmo began reading a passage out loud. 

He sees you hug Levi and celebrate when you’re playing a game together and win a hard boss battle; he watches you and Satan smile at each other when discussing the new novel that was just published by your favorite Devildom author.

He sees and hears these things, and it makes his blood boil with envy. Mammon is the Avatar of Greed. He shouldn’t care about anyone except himself - hell, it’s practically written into his DNA.

But it’s you. It’s always been you. He was the first demon you made a pact with when you first arrived in the Devildom and to RAD, much to his chagrin.

You annoyed him at first, of course. Here you were, a measly human, yet everyone made a fuss over you. You broke rules, you spoke your mind, and almost got yourself killed a few times. Somehow, all these things helped you work your way into Mammon’s greedy, ice-cold heart.

He’s labeled as a tsundere by Levi, the resident otaku, and he sees himself in every aspect of the definition. All his brothers can see how he feels about you, in spite of the many ways he tries to hide it.

And yet...you’ve always treated him equally. He’s insulted you, been an arrogant fool, and yet you’ve still welcomed him with open arms. Another thing he needs to add to his list of things to curse you for.

Lucifer announced that you have a month left at dinner, and Mammon felt a confusing wave of emotions wash over him in that moment. There was anger, there was sadness...there was a whole torrent of things he wasn’t used to feeling.

He needs to tell you how he feels, or he’ll live the rest of his thousands of years he has left in total regret. 

Even if it’s unrequited, he doesn’t care - at least he wouldn’t have to live with the anguish of never knowing.

Later that same night, Mammon lays in bed, staring up at the ceiling. His room is filled with material things - a pool table, high-tech stereo speakers and a projector, even a car on the upper level. He owns all these things, but he can’t fill the empty hole in his heart - a hole that will surely get bigger once you leave for good.

His D.D.D. charges on his nightstand, and he reaches over to grab it. It’s 1:15 in the morning. His fingers hover over your name in his contacts as he debates whether or not to send you the message. He remembers you agreeing to help Levi in a tournament later this week, and he hopes you’re still awake practicing.

Mammon’s fingers move faster than his brain can catch up with, and he hits send before he has a chance to hesitate.

Hey Y/N - can you stop by my place for a sec?

He waits in silent agony for a few minutes until his D.D.D. pings. Your name flashes across the screen, and his heart jumps in anticipation.

Yeah. I’ll be there in a few. Just finishing up this match. 

Your reply sends the torrent of emotions flooding through his body again. Mammon lifts himself up out of bed and walks over to his couch, waiting for your knock on the door.

It comes about ten minutes later, causing Mammon to leap up from the couch. He coughs and composes himself. He waits a few seconds before opening it, desperately trying to make it seem like he wasn’t sitting around and waiting for you to come.

You step into the room. Your eyes are as bright as ever, and your hair is pulled into a loose side ponytail. You flash a smile at him, that gorgeous smile with those pretty lips, clasping your hands together at the front.

“So...what’s up?” you ask Mammon.

He opens his mouth to speak, but suddenly, the words won’t come out. He watches you as you tilt your head, looking confused.

Before you can even react, Mammon wraps his arms around you, pressing you into his chest in a tight embrace. Your eyes widen in surprise. Your arms are pinned to your sides, and you’re unable to move. But...you don’t mind.

What’s going on? you think to yourself, more puzzled than annoyed.

“H-hey, Mammon,” you say, then cough, trying to cover up the awkward stammer. “I can’t hug you back if my arms are stuck down here.”

Mammon stiffens, then loosens his grip on you, finally allowing you to move your arms. You bring them up and wrap them around his back, pressing your head into his chest. He takes one hand off your back, lifting it to stroke your hair. You close your eyes, savoring the comforting motion.

The two of you stand there, locked in an intimate embrace for what seems like several minutes. Mammon loses track of time, never wanting to let you go, his head resting against your soft hair. 

After some time, you step back and he lets you; he looks down at the ground while he raises an arm up to scratch the top of his head, a crimson blush spreading across his cheeks.

“I, uh, I-I...” Mammon falters, as though his brain is short-circuiting and he forgot how to speak.

“Y/N,” he says. He speaks your name so tenderly, so full of emotion you can feel your own cheeks beginning to sport their own lighter shade of crimson.

“Y/N,” he says your name again. “I-I...I know you’re leavin’ soon. A month. And I...I know ya probably don’t feel the same way about me. I’m sure one of my brothers stole your heart. Probably Lucifer or Satan, those charmin’ bastards. But anyways...I...I really care about you, and I-”

“Mammon.”

Your voice cuts through his stammered speech, and Mammon pauses, his heart clenching in anticipation of your next words.

“It’s you, Mammon,” you whisper, the slightly higher pitch of your voice betraying your calm demeanor. “It’s always been you.”

Mammon gapes at you, unsure if he heard you correctly. He’s praying he heard you right, heard you say those beautiful words he’s been dreaming of you telling him every night.

“You’re the first demon I made a pact with, remember? You’ve always told everyone how you’re my first man...well, you are.”

He watches the adorable way you bite your lip and blush, wanting nothing more than to reach his hand out and stroke the soft skin of your adorable cheeks.

He wants to kiss you so badly.

“W-well, ya couldn’t have told me that sooner?!” Mammon exclaims.

“A-ahem,” you cough again in a poor attempt to cover up your embarrassment. “It takes two to tango, doesn’t it?”

He laughs and, unsure of what to say next, decides to let impulse take over. He gathers you into his arms again, looking at you tilt your head up at him as he lifts his hand, stroking your cheek gently. 

The gesture is so tender, so soft, you feel your own cascade of emotions swelling up inside of you. You reach up and grasp his hand in yours, squeezing it gently. Mammon cups your face, then leans down to meet his lips with yours.

At the touch of his lips on yours, you experience something you’ve never felt before. The feelings tormenting your heart finally subside. As Mammon leans in further, deepening the kiss, you start to feel a sense of...

Home.

So many times, you’ve heard others talk about love. They say when you’re in love, you feel butterflies in your stomach. They flit around, gripping your heart with a nervous, jumpy feeling every time you see your lover. They tell you that you’ll stumble around, falling head over heels.

No. That’s not what love is.

This love you feel for Mammon is nothing like butterflies fluttering around your body, wreaking havoc on your heart. You feel comfortable, at ease. You feel like where you’re meant to be is wrapped in his arms.

You feel like you’re home.

At the touch of your lips on his, Mammon feels his icy heart thawing. Suddenly, he no longer wants things only for himself. No, he wants to give you his all - he wants to give you the world. Anything you want, he will give you, be it material or a piece of himself. He’ll give you his entire heart.

Mammon is unsure of how long the two of you stand there, lips and arms locked in a tight embrace. All he knows is that he never wants it to end.

You break off the kiss after a while, taking a moment to breathe. You inhale, then giggle, looking into Mammon’s sapphire blue gaze, flecked with pools of gold.

“I’m yours, Mammon. Yours and only yours,” you declare, staring into his gaze.

You’re his. 

He kisses you again, but this time it feels hungrier, more fervent. You kiss him back, igniting a fire deep within him. He feels your hips grinding against his leg, and a small moan escapes from his lips into your mouth. He meets his tongue with yours as you roll them together.

Mammon’s hands dance up the curves of your hips and waist, and you hook a leg around him, pressing yourself closer against him. He reaches down and cups your ass, then suddenly lifts you off the ground, carrying you towards his bed. You laugh, the lovely lilt of your voice like a calming wind chime ringing throughout the room.

Mammon turns, sitting on the bed so that you’re in his lap, your legs on either side of him. He feels you pull at his shirt, urging him to remove it. He obliges, his defined abdominal muscles on full display. You run your hands up and down the length of his long torso, delighting in the way the ridges of his abs move your fingers up and down as you do so. His breath hitches.

Leaning back, Mammon watches you as you remove your own shirt, the sight of your naked breasts bouncing free in the dimmed light of his room drawing out another sharp breath from him. His hands reach up, cupping and massaging them, then rolling the sensitive bud of your nipples between his fingers. He leans down, tonguing your nipple and eliciting a moan as you wrap your fingers in his snow-white hair.

He tugs at your shorts, starting to pull them down. You stand in front of him and nod, giving him your full permission to remove them. Mammon looks at you then, the beautiful sight of you, and keeps his eyes trained on yours as he pulls your shorts and panties down your legs, discarding them on his floor.

You climb back on top of him, tongues meeting in a fevered dance as you grind your hips against his, feeling the hardened bulge at the front of his sweatpants. He reaches a hand between your sensitive folds, feeling how wet you are with your passionate arousal.

Mammon feels your moan against his lips, and the way your hands reach down, pulling his pants and boxers down until his dick springs out. He angles you forward with his hands, his length teasing at your entrance. You roll your hips over him, the wet heat of your walls clenching around him as you move up and down in a steady cadence.

Your bodies dance together as one, paired with fevered, passionate kisses as the two of you make love in a hypnotic rhythm. You roll your head back in the pleasure of the movement, your hair falling in shiny dark rivulets cascaded across your back. 

Mammon has never seen anything so beautiful before. He watches you then, your bare breasts bouncing with every roll of your hips, your beautiful curvy silhouette in the dimmed light of the room.

You are his, and he is yours. 

And in that beautiful moment, you are together as one.

Your climax follows shortly after, leaving you gasping in ecstasy. He chases his own release as you come undone around him, feeling his heat as he spills into you.

Mammon lies on his back after, your head resting on his chest. He strokes your hair, feeling your eyelashes fluttering against his skin as you struggle to stay awake.

“Hey, Y/N,” he says, cutting through the silence.

“Mmm?” you respond sleepily.

“I love you.”

“I love you too, Stupidmammon.”

“Oi! I thought we all forgot about that stupid nickname from Levi’s dumb game,” huffs Mammon.

“Nope. Never.”

He sighs, starting to feel his own losing battle with the sweet embrace of slumber.

“Hey...can we make love every night ‘til ya have to leave?” he asks, running his hand up and down the curved ridge of your spine.

“Okay,” you respond. Barely a few seconds later, Mammon hears your light snore, causing him to chuckle. You’re adorable, even when you snore.

It’s you. It’s always been you...

Mammon drifts into sleep, happy that you’re his.

He doesn’t have to hear you say it solely in his dreams anymore.

#idk i banged this out in a few hours #hopefully there's no errors cause i didn't have anyone proofread lol #obey me #obey me mammon #mammon #obey me swd #obey me shall we date #shall we date obey me #obey me! #obey me: shall we date #obey me fanfic #obey me fandom #fluff #a little smutty #obey me fluff #obey me smut #om mammon #swd mammon

[ezpezlemonsquez]

Okay, so basically I was in a mood for adult gaang reunion, so I wrote this. Here you are, hope you’ll enjoy ✨

“Just like old times”

“Suki, come on, we’re gonna be late!” called out Sokka, entering their hut. Again. “Everything’s ready but you two.”

His wife laughed.

“Relax, Sokka, they won’t start without us. And you know that Yue needs to have her hair done.” She raised her eyebrows, while she was running fingers through her daughter’s hair.

“Yeah, dad, you know that” she took up, making a face to him. Sokka shook his head both with disbelief and a smile. He sat down, watching his beautiful ladies.

“I’m not worried they’d start without us, though” he explained. “There’s no fun without Sokka, duh.”

Suki rolled her eyes, but didn’t say anything.

“I’m just concerned Katara’s going to get there earlier than I am.”

His wife even turned her head from Yue’s hair to him, only to see his priceless face expression.

“You didn’t bet with Katara again, did you?” she asked, lowkey already knowing the answer.

“Well, I couldn’t let her win just like that.” Sokka shrugged his shoulders. Suki sighed.

“You’re gonna lose, sweetie” she proclaimed.

“Not if we sticked to my schedule, I wouldn’t.”

“You didn’t make the time for mom to braid my hair, dad” slipped Yue. “You knew what you were getting yourself into.”

“Why excuse me, I assumed mom can braid your hair on ship” explained Sokka, extremely offended. His daughter shook her head as much as Suki’s hands in her hair allowed her to.

“Absolutely not possible.”

Sokka looked at his wife, seeking help. Suki shrugged with a smile.

“There’s nothing I can do. You knew what you were getting yourself into.”

Chief sighed and shook his head, defeated. This whole trip already started to go totally not as planned.

***

Sokka got off the ship and wasn’t even surprised that the first person who greeted him wasn’t neither Zuko, nor Aang, nor Toph and not even Mai.

“Hello, looser.” Grinned Katara. Sokka rolled his eyes.

“Yeah, yeah, shut up” he mumbled, hugging her in greeting. “It’s all Suki’s fault, by the way.”

Katara laughed.

“It kind of is” admitted Suki, also going for a hug. “It’s so great to see you, Katara, how are you doing?”

“I’m great, I’m really great. Tenzin is growing up so fast, you wouldn’t believe it.” She laughed. “I can’t believe it’s been almost a year.”

“I know, right? You’ve been out of the South for so long, we really missed you back there.”

“I didn’t” slipped Sokka teasingly, unpacking things from the ship. His sister hit him in the arm.

“Go back to carrying stuff, Sokka” she spat.

“Wait, honey, I’ll give you a hand” suggested Suki.

“No need, I’m doing great!” cried out her husband, taking three more boxes. “I mean, I definitely can see right now, so... tell me if I step on somebody, please” he puffed, trying to see the road.

Suki shook her head.

“Excuse me” she whispered to Katara and went to help out her husband. She took from him two boxes so that he could actually see something. He smiled to her gratefully. Katara grinned. And then she saw a little girl getting off the ship, rubbing her eyes sleepily.

“Are we there yet?” she asked, yawning and when nobody answered her, she looked around. Katara crossed her arms, waiting to be noticed. “Aunt Katara!” cried out Yue immediately after she spotted her. She ran towards her and before Katara knew it, she wrapped her little arms around her.

“Aunt Katara, I missed you so much!”

Katara laughed, hugging her niece back.

“I missed you, too, Yue. Look at you, all grown up! You’re a beautiful young lady.”

“Not as beautiful as you are, though.” Grinned Yue and her aunt shook her head. “Are Bumi and Kya here? And uncle Aang?”

“They are, you’ll meet them at the palace. And Tenzin’s with them as well.”

“Oh...” Yue made a face. “Is he still so squishy-looking?”

“I’m afraid he is” laughed Katara. “And you certainly are Sokka’s daughter” she added silently, shaking her head. Sokka walked up to them and took Yue’s hand.

“We’re ready, you’re coming?” asked his sister. She nodded and all four of them set off to the Fire Nation Royal Palace, where the rest was waiting for them. They saw Toph first, even though she didn’t exactly see them.

“Zuko” she started, before anyone was able to say something “needs to be put in his place. Who does he think he is, huh?”

“Uhh, try the Fire Lord” smiled Suki.

“Yeah, yeah, I don’t give a f...”

“Toph” interrupted her Suki, warningly. Toph seemed confused for a moment, but she finally understood when someone started to aggressively shake her hand.

“Right. Hi, kid.”

“Hey, aunt Toph” said Yue, very proud of herself for not giving Beifong a hug. “It’s nice to see you.”

“Yeah, I’d say the same about you but since I don’t actually see you...”

Yue grinned.

“I know. Hey, mom, dad, can I go inside and look for Bumi and Kya?”

Sokka nodded.

“Sure. But don’t forget to greet every... aaaand she’s gone already.”

“I don’t know why you sound so surprised, Chief Boomerang, you’d do exactly the same.”

“I know, right? It’s terrifying.” Smiled Sokka. “Anyways, it’s great to finally meet up. Man, I’ve been waiting for this whole reunion thing. We should do this annually.”

“We do” reminded Suki. “You came up with it.”

“Oh, right, I’m a genius.”

“You know, even with the inability to see, I can give you this look” said Toph, making a face to him, as if she’d been saying ‘really?’.

“And even with the ability to see, I can pretend I don’t get it” announced Sokka. “Come on, Toph, I’m sure Zuko has already repaired whatever you were mad with him about” he said, putting his arm around her shoulders and dragging her up the stairs.

“I am mad” spat Toph but let Sokka lead her inside the palace. “Present tense. And you didn’t even give me a chance to say hi to Suki.”

“I was pretty sure you did that.”

“What a detective” scoffed Toph.

“One more word and I’ll push you down these stairs and you know it” threatened Sokka. His friend just shook her head in response. Upstairs waited for them Aang.

“Oh, great, I was supposed to go after Toph, but I see this problem has been already resolved.” Laughed the Avatar.

“Who are you calling the problem, Twinkletoes?” tried to spit Toph, but she got quickly undermined, as no one reacted.

“Sokka, finally” sighed Aang, hugging his friend.

“Long time no see, huh, the fearsome Avatar?” Grinned Sokka. “I heard you’re doing pretty well by organising the world.”

“I am, thank you very much.” Laughed Aang. “Republic City is glowing.”

“I believe you. The South Pole is glowing, too.”

“I know. Just a little bit more and we’ll be there, promise.” Smiled Aang. “Suki, you look beautiful!” he called out, when he saw her. He held out his hands to hug her.

“Thank you, Aang, so do you.” Laughed Suki. “We missed you.”

“He promised they’ll be back soon” slipped Sokka, giving Aang a judgy look.

“Can we please move along?” Toph kicked her heels. “I gotta kick Zuko’s butt.”

“Toph, you cannot do this.” Sighed Aang, walking with her further to the palace. “We’ve been over this.”

Sokka and Suki smiled to each other. He put an arm around her waist and gently kissed her temple. Katara placed her hand at her brother’s shoulder and smiled.

“Come on” she encouraged. “Zuko and Mai are dying to meet up with you two. Besides, dinner’s almost ready.”

Sokka gave her a knowing look.

“Well, you should’ve started with that, sister!”

***

They met with the rest in the dining room. Everyone was there — Yue played with Bumi and Kya (and Kya’s waterbending), Mai was trying to calm down Izumi, who was somehow scared by Ty Lee and her tricks, while Aang tried to prevent bloodshed between Zuko and Toph. Sokka sighed.

“Just like old times, huh?”

“Just like old times” admitted Suki. She slipped out of Sokka’s arm and walked up to Ty Lee. The Kyoshi Warrior lit up immediately as she saw her.

“Hey, boss.” She smiled, bowing to her funnily. Suki shook her head.

“Hello, my dear warrior” she replied, bowing back. “Come on, bring it in.” She laughed as Ty Lee hugged her excitedly.

“It’s so good to see you, Suki. I wish you would visit us more often.”

“Me too.”

“We’re going to” assured Sokka, walking up to them. “This period of time was just super hard for both of us.”

“It was.” Nodded Suki.

“Hi, Ty Lee.” Sokka held out his hand to her and smiled.

“Sokka” greeted him Ty Lee, squeezing his hand. “Everything alright at the South Pole?”

“They’re certainly doing better than we are” replied Mai, before anyone else could answer the question. “I’d give you my hand but they’re both kind of busy.” She looked at her daughter suggestively. “It’s great you made it, though”

“We get it.” Smiled Suki. “You’re not getting much sleep, are you?”

Mai snorted.

“Much is overstatement.” She looked over her shoulder. “Oh, great, my husband’s coming. Well, Izumi, dad will put you to sleep.”

“Sokka, Suki.” Smiled Zuko and hugged both of them. “Yue’s greeted me like fifteen minutes ago, what took you so long?”

“Oh, see, she greeted him” said Suki to Sokka, smiling suggestively. Sokka made a proud face.

“She’s got great manners, she even addressed me Fire Lord Uncle Zuko.” Laughed Zuko.

“Speaking of” slipped Mai, handing his husband the baby. “It’s your turn to put Izumi to sleep.”

Zuko raised his eyebrows.

“No, I’m pretty sure it’s your turn now.”

“Nope” denied Mai, shaking her head.

The two of them looked each other in the eye for a moment, until Zuko finally gave up. “Damn it, why is uncle still in Ba Sing Se when I need him?” he mumbled. Mai smiled triumphantly. “Okay, sweetie, say goodnight to your uncle Sokka and aunt Suki and aunt Ty Lee, you’re going to sleep. I mean, I hope you are.” He gave his friends ‘I am so done’ look and was about to leave, when he reminded himself of something else.

“Oh, and of course make yourself comfortable, guys. Dinner will be ready in ten minutes.”

Suki smiled.

“Don’t worry, we won’t start without you.”

“We won’t?” groaned Sokka.

“No, we won’t, Sokka.”

Zuko rolled his eyes with a smile.

“Thanks, Suki” he said and left with little Izumi pulling his hair, which he was totally indifferent to.

“Wait, Zuko, you forgot...” started Mai, going after her husband. Ty Lee smiled to them and went back to the table. Suki hugged Sokka.

“Just like old times.” She sighed, repeating his words. Sokka smiled and hugged her tighter.

“Just like old times.”

#atla #avatar : the last airbender #zuko #avatar #avatar: tla #gaang #gaang imagine #older gaang #adult gaang #mai #maiko #sokka #sokka x suki #sukka #fanfic #fanfiction #suki #katara #aang #kataang #ty lee #izumi #bumi #kya #tenzin #yue #toph beifong #toph #lin beifong

[bestfrownsforever]

Heartache Arcade

Sorry for not having a proper cover again...hopefully these will do.

Also 1. my friend CLG is my co-editor now! Per's a master at finding grammar mistakes even I miss (ex. if you want the re-edited Dawn of a New Era then it's on Amino) so per'll be helping me from now on!

And 2. I'm hoping to keep a consistent schedule so expect a new Best Frowns Forever story every Tueaday! Starting with this story...

After having some brief fun as a Frown Lord, Puppycorn already hit a massive roadblock.

"Anyone else think this job doesn't make a whole lot of sense?" he asked while meeting with his co-workers around his bedroom table, "I mean yeah, it's fun to hurt people and stuff, but if we're so good at our jobs, then won't everyone be too scared to go outside anymore? Or maybe they'll leave the kingdom!? And if they do, should we want them to because it'd be bad if they did!? What should we DO!?!?"

Unikitty wrapped an arm around him from across the table. "Calm down, little bro," she assured him, "They're not going anywhere when the rest of the world sucks too."

"The solution's easy," Grandmaster Frown added, "Try luring them in with something fun and cutesy and make them almost want to suffer!"

"Oh come on," Hawkodile objected, "Something big pops up in the kingdom out of nowhere with us openly running it? They'll know it's a trap."

"Unless they're so desperate for a break that they'll take anything that looks happy and shiny," Dr. Fox suggested, "And Master Pain was the king of cringe before Frown's birthday."

"Hey!"

"I'm saying that as a compliment! You probably still like all that kiddie junk the citizens miss anyway, so why are you complaining about no ideas?"

Unikitty flew over to her brother. "I think she's trying to say that instead of using the things you like to try being cool, you can use them to actually prove your coolness as a Frown Lord!"

"Okay," Puppycorn considered, "But I already did accident-prone skateboards and roller skates...and that spiky ballpit."

"You mean I did them and you STOLE MY CREDIT!?" Dr. Fox reminded him before Brock pushed her away.

"Okay, someone needs a timeout...and if it helps, I've had the idea for a haunted arcade for a while now. But you're not wrong about the whole obvious trap thing, so from one gamer to another; how would you make it work?"

Puppycorn thought long and hard about the possibility until it hit him like his past self running into a brick wall.

"WAIT, I've been thinking into this job too hard! Grandmaster Frown did all this to be himself again, right? So maybe instead of haunted, the games can just be really hard to beat!?"

Everyone seemed interested except for the pouting Dr. Fox.

"But if they manage to win those games, wouldn't that be the best feeling ever?"

Puppycorn hummed until he lit up again like the lightbulb popping out of his head.

"They'll only get a few tickets and we'll make the prizes super expensive!!"

"Good enough."

Grandmaster Frown rose. "Then let's get to work, people! These games will need some Frown Lord-flare, and they sure aren't gonna make themselves!"

Puppycorn and Brock were the first to follow him to Dr. Fox's lab, dedicate many long days to porting the most difficult games they could find, and even more to making their own until after countless attempts at giving up, Puppycorn finally saw all his hard work pay off and open for business.

No one saw exactly when the new building appeared in the middle of town. It was just another rainy afternoon with nothing going on until people looked at their windows to see a massive, pale gray block of an exterior with a burgandy arching roof and neon colors everywhere from behind the windows. A tall sign next to it read "Heartache Arcade" with "& Casino" under it in smaller letters, both in some of the same bright neon colors.

Most closeby citizens came to the conclusion that their tyrants set it up, but some of them approached the arcade anyway, as if to say "How are they gonna break us this time?"

When they stepped in, they were greeted by giant rooms with arcade machines, gambling tables, and brighter lights everywhere, with a large prize counter and shelves for toys and other kinds of trinkets in one corner. They couldn't believe how everything seemed so...innocent.

They split up, each walking over to a different game or observing more of the retrospective dream around them, while Frown and Puppycorn spied on them from behind an "Employees Only" door.

"C'mon..." Puppycorn whispered, "Just play the games already!"

"Give 'em a bit more time," Grandmaster Frown replied, "They'll rip themselves in half before you know it."

Puppycorn turned to the nearest citizen, Theodore, stepping up to a slot machine, which hated having them there, but the others convinced him that gambling would make things all the more entertaining to watch.

"Supreme Slots, huh?" Theodore wondered before shrugging, "Well, guess it's worth a shot."

Puppycorn wasn't too surprised when Theodore bet the little money he had and won on his first try, only to get too cocky and lose it all too fast. Grandmaster Frown had a good laugh while Puppycorn looked the other way to spot Bim-Bom wrapping a hand around the joystick for the game he was most proud of; Furious Fetch.

Bim-Bom seemed happy at first, but just when Puppycorn worried even more, she got a a little confused as to what she was playing. Did she get to the lava pits yet?, he thought, Or the bugs? She's gotta know how hard running and jumping is by now though, right?

Then he heard the Game Over music.

"What!? There's no more lives!?"

Finally, a good reaction. Puppycorn was already holding back laughs and wagging his tail watching Bim-Bom pull out another token to play again. And then another. And another until she almost reached the end of the first level.

"WAIT, jumping on them doesn't kill them either!? What gives!?"

"That's the point!" Puppycorn snickered. She clearly wanted to give up but pulled out another out coin anyway. Maybe even keep going until she didn't have any left. But as if his silent prayers were answered, Bim-Bom slipped the token into the slot and lost almost as soon as the level started that time. Screaming, she stormed off to try something else as Puppycorn lost it.

"Cut it out!" Grandmaster Frown ordered, covering a hand over Puppycorn's mouth, "The evil laughing can wait, just don't blow this for us."

Puppycorn nodded, prompting his boss let go. They continued to look around, realizing more and more citizens were getting frustrated over what they were playing. And switching to other games or slots didn't help, it only strengthened the chorus of the most mixed reactions they'd ever heard in their lives.

"These games SUCK!"

"This was all the money I haaaaaaad!!"

"I can do this, I just need ONE more coin...anyone got some?"

"At least this isn't the other stuff we've had to put up with, calm down guys!"

"Are you nuts!? This is WAY WORSE!"

Puppycorn was too proud of himself to keep the door open. He shut it to chant and dance without a care until Grandmaster Frown laid a hand where his shoulder would be.

"Huh?"

"Not bad, Pain. Consider this your first

independent accomplishment."

"Really!? Aweso-"

They jumped at the sound of a sudden crash from the back room.

"Yeah," Frown ordered, "now take care of this place before the ragequitters can."

Puppycorn proudly nodded and saluted. "I'll do my best, boss sir!"

#unikitty au #Unikitty #unikitty! #best frowns forever #grandmaster frown #pain!puppycorn #fear!brock #misery!unikitty #plague!dr. fox #hazard!hawkodile #story #heartache arcade #heartache arcade & casino