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heartmix · 2 years

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Girls' Night (Aaron Hotchner x Reader)

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner x fem!reader

Word Count: 900+

Warnings: mentions of alcohol, mentions of harming people

A/N: Every time I watch this episode I always picture what role I would play in the ending scene. This is short and barely any hotch x reader moments but it's there. Don't say I didn't warn you.

masterlist \ criminal minds masterlist

Getting free time with this job was a wonder. It came with working throughout all of the states, working during different time zones and well different cases that start to look the same. Carving out a time to just go out and have fun was something that needed to be planned in advance to get everyone prepared. Well of course this team can never plan anything right.

"I can't find a babysitter." JJ stressed as she sat next to us getting off of what I assumed to be her last attempt at finding a babysitter.

"And I need to be at hotch's place by 5. Might just sleepover if anything." You sighed already missing the amazing girl's night you were about to have.

"Oh come on you too?" Emily groaned.

"I can't help it. I already told him I could."

"Oh those Hotchner men, you can't say no to them." Emily teased making you blush, it was true.

"Why what did you guys have planned." Rossi asked seeming interested in the conversation.

"Girls night. Pen booked Salsa lessons and the bar is having fiesta night. Planned it for a while now." I sighed seeing Spencer join us now.

"I can pick up Jack." Rossi offered.

"I can babysit Henry." Spencer piped in making us all raise an eyebrow.

"Oh, Rossi I can't let you wake up that early." You tried even though you were very close to letting him win, if he wanted to you weren't going to put up a fight. Both you and Hotch saw him as a father figure, it isn't his first rodeo watching Jack, often doing it so you and Hotch could have date nights.

"Spence you haven't babysat alone before." JJ seemed hesitant even though it looked like it wouldn't take much convincing to get her to cave in.

"Yeah you can and you will. Go have fun tonight." Rossi nudged your shoulder with a smile.

"Oh come on. I can handle it." Spencer defended himself which earned you a chuckle.

"You know, I think Spence will be fine on his own and Rossi wakes up early anyways being older and all." Emily persuaded me and JJ as we both shrugged and gave in. We needed the girls' night out.

"Watch it." Rossi warned making all of us chuckle.

Maybe you should have just been a good girlfriend and just stayed in to watch Jack. Why did Rossi and Emily make you go out last night, it was all a mistake. You were regretting every decision ever since that plane ride, and it looked like all the girls were also. Clearly, none of you thought about waking up early to watch Hotch in his race and forgetting how much noise would come with it.

"Woo! Woo! Couple hours, couple hours, and you guys didn't come home until sunrise." Spencer taunted making you want to strangle him.

"Why are you yelling?"

"Make him stop."

"If I had my gun on me I would shoot everyone here." You mumbled as you heard Rossi and Derek chuckle somehow throughout all the noise that was happening.

"Calm down kiddo. We're almost out of here." Rossi reassured you wrapping his arm around your shoulders.

"With my estimate, Hotch should be finishing any minute." Spencer added making you smile at the thought of the event being over and seeing your boyfriend of course.

"Y/n! Do you see daddy?" You heard Jack's excited voice come through all the noise, making you change your mood for the cheerful boy.

"I think I do Jacky! There he is! Cheer for daddy." You said cringing from your tone of voice and JJ did the same who was right by you.

All of you tried your best to cheer but a few claps and small smiles were all you were gonna get from the girls. It was the best we could do but it was worth it to see the man smile at us. He was probably smiling the most at Jack but it's still a win.

"Come on jack, let's go see your daddy!" Derek said running to Hotch with Jack on his shoulders.

"You did it!" The smaller Hotchner excitedly said once he reached his dad who was all smiles seeing the little boy.

"Yup, I did it, buddy, can you believe it! This is for you." Hotch said putting the medal around Jack's neck.

"Did you see my sign?"

"I did! It looks fantastic." The older man praised trying to regain his breath.

"Look at you, how do you feel?" Rossi piped up.

"I think I'm gonna live."

One by one everyone on the team complemented the man as they should, he has been working hard to train for the marathon. A few jabs came from Emily but nothing new, it earned a chuckle from you. As everyone said their praises and the last person to speak was you which everyone was waiting for.

"Why do you look worse than me." Hotch beat you to it making his way over to you wrapping you in his arms not caring about the sweat. That was the least of your problems right now.

"I could take you right now don't be fooled, agent." I mumbled causing everyone to laugh.

"Okay okay, I believe you."

"Anyone wants to go get something to eat?" Spencer asked making everyone agree.

"Yeah and hopefully that will help me get this tequila out of my system." You mumbled as Hotch took you in one last time to place a kiss on your head before grabbing Jack with his other arm making our way away from this hell hole.

#criminal minds #aaron hotchner #hotch #aaron hotch fanfiction #aaron hotch imagine #aaron hotchner imagine #aaron hotchner x reader #criminal minds x y/n #criminal minds x reader #criminal minds imagine #criminal minds fanfic #fluff #fic #imagines

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unlikely-cypher · 3 years

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Old timey baby sittin- Jameson Jackson x reader.

💥💥PLEASE READ:💥💥

There's some background lore to this that reader is in a poly relationship with the egos, as well as my headcannon that Jameson can talk as this takes place waaaay after the cannon lore and he gets his voice back.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

“Hey babe?” Chase’s voice called up to you from downstairs, he sounded stressed and in the midst of a panic attack.

“What’s up Cheese?” You yell back, poking your head out from the computer room.

“Can you come down here please, I could really use your help.” he asked. You made your way downstairs and saw Greyson and Sam standing in the living room, their backpacks still on as they looked around.

“Hey kiddos! What’s up?” You turned to them with a smile as Chase’s face sunk.

“I forgot I had to work today but I also have the kids, could you please please please watch them, it's just for like six hours. I tried to call Bing but he wasn’t free and I don’t really trust the kids in that house.” He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

“Of course! We’ll be fine, Jamie also has off today so it’s not just me.” You reassured him and he finally cracked a smile.

“Is that alright with you kids?” Chase turned to them, ruffling them both of the head as they nodded. “You're a lifesaver! I owe you big time. Text me if you need anything or text the Doc, he might not like to think about it but he also raised two kids.” he bent down and kissed you on the cheek before heading out the door.

“So, uh, you guys hungry?” You asked before shooting a text to Jameson begging him to come inside and help. You had babysat before but you were confident that you had no idea what you were doing. “I have dinosaur shaped chicken nuggets?” you offered.

“Dinosaurs!” They threw down their backpacks before following you into the kitchen. Jameson walked inside and walked over to the sink to wash his hands from the garden dirt before turning to greet the kids.

“Heya doll! I see we’ve got a couple of rugrats on our hands today!” Jameson walked over and helped you get the ingredients ready for dinner.

“You talk funny.” Greyson pointed out and Jameson turned around to him, his mustache twitching slightly in amusement.

“Tell It to Sweeney old sport.” Jameson retorted with a smirk, squinting down at Greyson.

“Yo Gatsby, you’re trying to pick a fight with a child.” You pointed out while you put the chicken nuggets into the oven.

“I was simply…” He started before he lost his smirk and adjusted his hat in embarrassment. “Very well then, Daisy.” He turned his attention back to you. “What are we gonna do with ‘em?”

“What did kids do back in your day?” You asked him then almost instantly regretted it as you saw the wheels turning in his head.

“Well back in my day, we would take a hula hoop and a stick and see how far we could get the hoop to go! Oh it was the bees knees!” He looked lost in thought for a moment.

“That sounds very cute but I was more thinking we could like watch peppa pig or Sofia the first? Which do you guys prefer?” You asked as you handed them their plates.

“Those shows are for girls and whilst i’m sure Sam wouldn’t mind, a young lad like Greyson doesn’t want to see that hogwash. He wants to watch a man's show! Like hunting in the wild or golf!” Jameson retorted, cutting off Sam as she went to speak.

“I know back in your day, men and women were divided in pretty sexist terms but the times have changed, love bug.” You tried to add as much venom into your words as you could without alarming the children. They looked back and forth between both of you, munching on their chicken nuggets.

“I’m aware, Pumpkin.” He threw just as much venom back, his arms crossed, ready to make a point. “But I must say-”

“I wanna play minecraft.” Greyson said, interrupting Jameson.

“Yeah Minecraft!” Sam agreed before climbing down off her chair and running to get her bag.

“Oh my god I should've known, they are Chase’s kids.” You laughed in spite of yourself. “Don’t forget to eat the rest of your nuggets please Sammy Sam! I’ll pull it up on the TV and we can all play together okay?” Sam nodded, quickly finishing the rest of her nuggets then racing her brother into the living room.

“Mind craft? Is that some sort of brain puzzler in the paper?” Jameson asked, deeply confused, swiping a nugget off the tray.

“Wouldn’t you like to know, square.” You tried to walk by him with a smirk to follow the kids but he pulled you into his arms with a frown, his mustache drooping at the sides.

“Now now doll, you know I was just being fluky!” He gave you puppy dog eyes and you folded instantly. You leaned up to kiss him softly, his mustache tickling your nose. He tried to lean down into the kiss but you put your hand on his chest and pushed him back slightly.

“Back in my day the babysitters often snogged just out of sight of the children.” He whispered, his blue eyes shining with mischief.

“As heavenly as that sounds, I haven’t played minecraft in so long and I really want to. But if you play your cards right, I’ll reward you for helping me later.” You winked as a deep blush coated his cheeks. “Come on, I’ll help you build your house.” You laced your fingers and pulled him into the living room.

The hours flew by and soon all of you had made a very nice looking base. Jameson almost had a firm grasp on minecraft but still questioned almost everything he saw, to which Greyson would roll his eyes at him and explain. Chase returned home, pleasantly surprised that the house hadn’t burned to the ground and that both of the kids were okay. He put them to bed in him and Jackie’s room before returning downstairs.

“I’m honestly very proud of you.” Chase smiled at you after picking up the controller Greyson was playing on.

“I almost had to give Jamie here a talk about modern sexism but honestly it worked out pretty well!” you replied as Jameson shook his head at you with a smile.

“She thinks I don't know my wooden nickels but I’m hip to the jive!” He defended himself.

“Sure ya are pog champ.” Chase cracked up before heading back upstairs.

“What is a pog??” Jameson looked insulted.

“Come on grandpa lets get you to bed.” You stood up and stretched before heading towards the stairs.

“I believe I am owed a great deal of barneymugging for my help today!” Jameson stood up and chased after you up the stairs.

#jameson jackson x reader #jj x reader #septic egos x reader #jameson jackson

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neerasrealm · 4 years

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AAAAAAAAAAA I LOVED that poly!Slender x reader x LJ!! I didn’t originally request it, but if it’s not too much, can I please request a sequel (featuring the adorable Slendra Jackson?) Ty! 😁😁

Anon you have no idea how happy this request made me- I NEVER get asks about my OCs so you calling Slendra adorable and aSKING TO INTERACT WITH HER??? MADE ME REALLY REALLY HAPPY SO THANK YOU- sorry this ask took a bit to answer, I only got your ask late in the evening so I had to finish it off over the course of my morning. Thank you again for the ask!! I hope you like what I came up with- (put it under a cut since it’s a little long)

‘’More wine, dear?’’ Slender asks you from across the couch. It’s late, and quiet. A rare combination here in the mansion. Somehow, every other person in the mansion is downstairs, in their room or somewhere else. Meaning you and your two boyfriends are free to occupy the couch by yourselves and have a quiet evening, and you couldn’t ask for more. Being curled up against Jack’s soft body with Slender’s arms wrapped around you both. Even Jack is being quiet for once, his face resting against Slender’s chest. He might be asleep- you’re honestly not sure.

‘’Sure.’’ you murmur back, looking up at Slender. He seems to smile despite his lack of face and reaches over to the coffee table, pouring you some wine from the already-half empty bottle sitting on it. A benefit of not being human, you guessed, was being able to drink a lot of the stuff without worrying about intoxication. As you’re taking another sip from your glass a soft, shy voice interrupts you.

‘’Mama? Pops? Dad?’’

The three of you look over at the voice’s owner. A short girl with fiery hair and brownish-purple skin. Her eyes are bright and gold, and she has pale red horns and dark red claws that scratch gently against the bannister she’s holding. Your shared daughter- it’s odd, she’s not related to you, she’s adopted like every other child in the mansion, but she’s one of the few that calls you mom. Everyone took fairly naturally to you dating the mansion’s ‘dads’, just treating it like you were dating anyone else, but Slendra? She’s been calling you mom since day one. Not that you're complaining.

‘’Need somefink, luv?’’ Jack murmurs behind you. He sits up a bit.

Slendra shifts where she stands. ‘’...can I get a bedtime story?’’ she asks quietly. Slender IMMEDIATELY sits up, alert. ‘’I-I know I’m a little old for it but-’’

‘’Ye can’t ou’grow bedtime stories, kiddo.’’ Jack says. Slender nods. You can’t help but smile a little bit at the two’s excitement- though Slender’s is far more obvious. You can’t blame them. Slendra is beginning to hit that- odd phase where kids think they need to act like adults. Except she’s only five years old. Damn demon aging. ‘’Ow abou’ me an’ Slen do i’ fer ya? I’ll do th’ voices an’ ‘e can narra’e. Like when ye were li’le.’’

You look at the two of them. ‘’I want in too.’’

‘’Ye can be th’ damsel in distress.’’

You give Jack an offended look and playfully slap his chest. ‘’Rude. Slender fits the damsel role better and you know it.’’

‘’...I do look good in a dress.’’ Slender says as he climbs off the couch. You and LJ cackle in amusement. Slendra giggles shyly.

The three of you follow Slendra upstairs to her room and walk inside. Her room is like a mix between Jack’s room and Slender’s office. Her walls are a deep lavender with darker swirls running across them. Her bed is round, oddly, and covered in pillows. She has a desk piled high with books and papers for her drawing and writing habits and her ceiling is covered in not only glow in the dark stairs, but music notes too. Her carpet is soft and your socked feet sink right into it. There's shelves on nearly every wall, full of toys, trinkets or books.

The little demon girl crawls into her bed and grabs her favorite stuffed toy- a purple and green dog you tried to win for her at a carnival but...well of course the game was rigged. It was actually her older brother EJ who managed to win it for her. With a little help from his demonic strength of course. She named it Scam, and you’re still proud of her for that.

The three of you all sit down at the foot of her bed. "Wha're ye in th' mood fer then?" Jack asks.

"Can you make a story?" Slendra asks, her eyes shining. A toothy grin curls up Jack's face.

"Oh, I ge' ta flex me wri'in' t'nigh', eh?" He reaches into a puffy sleeve and pulls out a book. Slendra grins excitedly. You glance at the book's cover. Apparently Jack's homemade bedtime story is called 'The Damsel's Dragon'.

He clears his throat and opens the book. "Once upon a time, there wuz a pre'y young lass named…" Jack holds the book over to Slender. He shoots Jack an annoyed look and sighed.

"Damsel N. D. Stress." He finishes in the most airy, feminine voice you've ever heard him do. The three of you laugh while Slender fixes his tie.

"Damsel wuz th' pre'ies' lass in th' land. People came far an' wide ta see 'er an' 'er collection 'f antique ties. All th' men in th' land wanted 'er 'and in marriage, bu' she wanted none 'f tha'." You watch Jack hold the book over to Slender again.

"I hate you." Slender mutters. Slendra giggles. "Oh if only a big, handsome clown would come to admire my ties... if only…"

You laugh so hard you almost fall off the bed. Jack's hand reaches over quickly, his palm against your back, and pushes you back up. You snicker. "Sorry, sorry continue."

"Damsel spen' 'er days in 'er castle, wishin' an 'opin as th' worl' wen' by. Until one day, th' castle began ta shake! 'Er ties fell off th' shelves, 'er wine smashed to the ground!"

"Not the wine!" Slender exclaims in that airy, overly dramatic voice. You snicker again.

"Th' castle stopped rockin' an' Damsel ran up ta th' top tower ta see wha' 'ad 'appened. When she go' up there, she saw a big migh'y dragon sleepin' on 'er castle's roof!" Jack stops and nudges you. "Ye're th' dragon." He whispers. You grin.

The book is handed to Slender again. "Mr dragon, whatever are you doing up on my roof?" He exclaims. Jack holds the book over to you. Slendra looks at you excitedly. You're nowhere near as good at voices when compared to Slender and Jack, but Slendra doesn't seem to mind. You clear your throat.

"I'm taking a nap of course!" You growl out. Jack smiles as he passes the book to Slender again.

"Fockin' 'orrifyin', luv."

"Jack!" The three of you yelp. He laughs a bit.

"Sorry."

"Well you can't nap up here!" Slender continues with the story. "This is my castle! You have to go somewhere else!"

You lean over Jack's shoulder to see your next line. "Mmmm…No." You say.

"Now Damsel wuz'nt tha' dumb. She knew be'er than ta argue wiv a dragon, an' so she wen' back into 'er castle an' began lookin' fer a way to ge' rid of th' dragon."

"Good to know you don't see me as a total idiot." Slender murmurs.

"Wha' do ya mean? This isn' you, i's Damsel."

"Of course it is."

Jack grins to himself and looks back at the book. "She looked through 'er ye ol' phone book an' foun' somefink ta 'elp 'er!" He looks up at Slendra for a moment. "Th' mos' famous dragon extermina'or in th' worl'. 'Er name wuz Jackie Ardlens."

You force yourself to to 'awe' at the Slendra self-insert. She doesn't seem to have realised the character is literally named after her.

"Jackie came ta th' castle an Damsel led 'er up ta th' tower."

"It's terrible!" Slender exclaims. "That great big ugly dragon does nothing but snore all day!"

"I don't snore." You retort. Slendra looks at you. You clear your throat. "I don't snore." You say again, this time in your dragon voice. She laughs.

"Oh dragon," Slender continues with the story, ignoring you. "I've brought someone to drive you away!" You can't help but smile at how much he's actually getting into this role. Slendra is certainly enjoying it too.

"Huh? Drive me away?" You growl back at him. "How am I supposed to fit into a car?"

A grin curls up Jack's face. "Jackie stepped forward an' looked up a' th' dragon." He passes the book to Slendra who looks surprised, but then smiles wide.

"I've come to make you leave this poor lady alone!" She reads. "Why do you want to stay on this castle so bad?"

"Why the sun of course, it's nice and warm up here. And this castle is the comfiest bed I've ever had!" You read back.

"Hm…" Slendra cups her chin in her hand, pretending to think. "Well I say we build a new tower for you to sleep on! That way both of you will be happy."

Slender clasps his hands together. "Of course! That can be arranged." He says. Jack takes the book back and turns to the very last page.

"An' so, they buil' a big ol' tower fer th' dragon ta sleep on, an Damsel continued ta collec' 'er ties an' live 'appily ever after." He closes the book and smiles. "The end."

Slendra smiles wide. "I liked that one."

"Good." Jack leans in and kisses her forehead. "Now ge' yer res, swee'pea." He says softly while Slender pats the girls head.

"Mama?" As you're following Jack and Slender out of the room Slendra calls you. You stop and look at her, curled up around Scam, a bright golden eye looking at you. "I love you."

You swear you can feel yourself practically melt for a moment. You smile at her. "I love you too, sweetheart." You say softly. She smiles, a couple fangs glinting in the light, then closes her eyes and snuggles up under the covers.

#creepypasta #creepypasta oc #creepypasta x reader #slenderman x reader #slenderman #laughing jack #laughing jack x reader #slenjack #writing #writing requests #request #ask #anon #anonymous

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artificialqueens · 4 years

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My Favourite (Gigi x Nicky) - Mina

A/N: Im sorry it’s been so many queues! The next fic I write is gonna be reallly long and good and yes so I did this in the meantime. Definitely not my best work but I hope you enjoy it anyway :>

Gigi and Nicky have silently competed over the title of Arcelia’s favourite aunt for months now, until they coincidentally have to babysit her at the same time.

Gigi Goode was a reasonable woman. She was reasonable enough through her childhood that her parents declared that she was a gifted child, even though all she did was study and be a good kid in general. She was reasonable enough in high school that she managed to enter the most prestigious University in the country, and secured the valedictorian title since she went into her first class. And of course, Gigi was nothing sort of an unreasonable woman so she made connections everywhere - work, organizations, charity, so on. What mattered was that she made connections to smooth her life. A reasonable woman needed a best friend, someone to call when she felt down or felt giddy, and for her, the best friend came in the form of Jackie Cox. Tall, had an IQ of 148, liked to read psychological books for fun, and most importantly, she had dimples. The Persian was perfect as a best friend, Gigi adored that woman, aspired to be like her, even. She was successful, beautiful, and had a good sense of humor even though people around them didn’t find it funny.

The brunette had found a reasonable job with a more than reasonable pay, finally could afford the apartment she had aspired to live in since she was a mere high school freshman, and because she was a very reasonable woman, Gigi had planned to hit the club and maybe make out with a guy or girl – she wasn’t picky – because tonight was Friday night and she had made it through a very tough day at work. Some asshole didn’t turn in their report on time and left Gigi reeling because everything had to be delayed. That was fine. It had passed and everything was fine so she was allowed to treat herself to a nice make-out session.

At least until Jackie had called her and asked for her help. “We really can’t miss tonight’s banquet,” she said hurriedly, and Gigi had heard a child crying faintly in the background. “We can’t bring Arcelia because the invitation says no children allowed – “

“And why is that, by the way?” The brunette asked, putting down the tight red dress she was going to wear realising that she wouldn’t be having a make-out session tonight. “Isn’t it your own company?”

Jackie sighed into the phone, Gigi could practically hear the frown on her face. “I know. It’s – it’s ridiculous but Jan’s brother was supposed to go with her but he’s suddenly down with the flu and She refused to go alone. You know how it is.” she sounded so agitated that the brunette couldn’t help but felt pity for her.

“Is Arcie crying?”

“Yeah,” The Persian woman sounded so tired, and Gigi thanked God profusely that she didn’t have a child yet. “She kind of senses that we’re going to go somewhere? She’s definitely handful.”

The brunette hummed, finally settled on a pretty black sweater after rummaging her closet. “You love her anyway.” She chuckled, fumbling through her purse to find her set of keys.

“Of course. I wouldn’t trade her even for the quietest kid. She – “ Jackie hesitated, “She said she wants a sibling, you know?”

“A sibling?” She had to swallow down her laugh, Jackie could hardly keep track of her wife, let alone two children.

“Yep,” the older woman simpered, “we aren’t ready, not so soon after adopting. We’re still adjusting to the life of parenthood, you know.”

“I know.”

Gigi was in the elevator when Jackie asked timidly, “You’re coming, right?” She could hear the worry in her voice, the sound of Arcelia squealing echoing through the microphone.

“Yeah, of course,” she replied, “Be there in 10.”

“Thanks, Gigi.”

She was behind the wheel less than five minutes later. She truly didn’t mind that he had to babysit Arcie on a Friday night when she was supposed to be hitting on people at the club, Gigi adored that kid. It was starting to get repetitive, anyway, ordering a drink, chatting up the bartender, buying a drink for the most attractive person in the room, dancing, kissing, groping, and then the sweaty and sticky situation she would end up into by the end of the night. Perhaps it wouldn’t be repetitive if she had someone to take care of, someone who cared about her just as much as Gigi cared about them. But so far, she hadn’t found one. The people she went to dates with rarely got a ticket into the second date, because she would find them too boring, too daring, too pessimistic, too enthusiastic, and she was a reasonable woman who needed a reasonable partner, so she shrugged them off her shoulders and went home without looking back. Maybe baby sitting her friends kids gave her a sense of commitment, or maybe she just liked watching Arcelia smile.

She was reasonable. Very reasonable, in fact, that she grinned when Jackie opened her door with a distressed demeanor 10 minutes later. “Hey Jack. Where’s the baby?”

“Inside..” She answered, chewing on her. Gigi arched her eyebrow. “Hey, I’m going to apologize to you. You’ll forgive me, right?”

The younger woman tilted her head. “Are you not going to the banquet?”

If it was true, it was truly not a big deal for Gigi. Sure, she hadn’t gone to the club because of this but after thinking about it, she would rather soak in the bath up rather than going to a sweaty and sticky place. She had bought a book last week, too, so maybe he could catch up on her reading. Probably not.

Jackie sighed. “We’re still going. But,”

“Spill it. It’s okay.”

The other grimaced, and Gigi started to feel something stirring in her stomach. Definitely not something good. “Jan didn’t know I already called you to babysit,” she started, “so she texted Nicky to come over and she’s already inside with Arcie.”

Oh. Oh.

Gigi didn’t know what to do with the information.

Nicolette Doll, Jan’s best friend and by extension Jackie’s friend, a tall, thin French woman with golden blonde hair and a stupid accent. Gigi didn’t like her, and Nicky certainly didn’t like Gigi much either. They’d met many times, might’ve even been friends a couple years ago perhaps, and she couldn’t pinpoint when exactly they began to despise each other but the animosity was certainly there. Nicky was a bitch, controlling, ambitious and strikingly similar to herself, which the brunette hated her for. The only time they willingly interacted was when Arcie was involved, silently competing over the esteemed title of ‘Arcelia’s favourite aunt’.

Gigi was the favorite aunt because she bought her favourite chocolate milk last week, obviously. Nicky tried her best, she supposed, she wore daisy perfume and did funny voices for the characters in picture books, made macarons for fun, but of course the brunette was much more likeable or else she wouldn’t have been in the running for so long, and what Gigi wouldn’t give to knock her gigantic ego down a few pegs.

She snorted. She wasn’t going to let Nicky snatch up her hard-earned position. Gigi was Arcelia’s favorite aunt and God help her if she ever lost to Nicky fucking Doll. “Cool.” She replied, leaning casually against the doorframe. “I’m still going to babysit her.”

Jackie frowned, eyes clearly expressing her hesitation towards the idea. Gigi couldn’t blame her, really, because the last time they babysat together Arcie had cried so much that Jan had refused to talk to either of them for a week. But that was then, this was now and the brunette was sure that they could handle each other just fine.

“Don’t stress too much about it, Jack,” she grinned reassuringly. “Where’s my favourite niece?”

“She’s your only niece.” The Persian woman replied dryly, opening the door behind her and allowing Gigi to step through.

Their apartment was warm, a more modern place combined with little family touches that made it feel homey and safe. Normally Gigi would’ve thrown herself over the couch, maybe opened the fridge to check that the couple was still capable of buying food, but when she glanced at the love seat where Nicky sat covering her eyes delicately with her fingers and counting down from ten in that stupid French accent, Gigi didn’t even attempt to conceal her scowl.

“Hey Gigi, it’s been so long!” Jan beamed from the kitchen, a tiny dark haired child hugging her leg as she struggled to tie up her dress one handed “Someone’s been very excited to see you.”

“Hi honey,” Gigi beamed, grabbing Arcelia’s attention as she came running over to her instantly with a squeal. “and here’s my favorite niece in the world! How are you doing, sweetie? I haven’t seen you in a week and look at how much you’ve grown.”

The child giggled, gently tugging on the brunette’s hand. “Aunty Gigi, play with me! Dolly’s counting to ten while we hide my new teddy!”

Arcelia pointed to a tuft of brown fur sticking out from between some cushions, the tag of what Gigi knew to be a very expensive toy shop poking out as well. Shit, Nicky was pulling out the big guns. Fine, two could play it that game.

“She’s going to grow up spoiled,” Jan complained at the gesture, even though her wife was practically dragging her out the door. “You always buy her things. Why don’t you just have your own children?”

“It’s no fun,” Nicky spoke for the first time, eyes still covered by well manicured fingers. “My own kid requires me actually taking care of them. With Arcie, you two do the taking care and I can do the spoiling.”

The blonde huffed. “Whatever,” then, she kneeled down to speak to her daughter who was still hugging Gigi. “Hey baby, Mommy and Mom are going out now, okay? Be good with your aunts.”

Arcelia grinned, sticking out her tongue playfully.

Jackie bent down to plant a kiss on her forehead. “Bedtime’s at 9, kiddo. ‘Ahbak. Don’t throw a tantrum when your aunties tell you to go to sleep.”

“I won’t” The child nodded determinedly, hands on her hips. Gigi laughed painfully, she knew from years of babysitting experience that was most definitely a lie.

“Be careful, okay?” Jackie looked back towards the two woman, lip again pulled nervously between her teeth. “Call me if anything goes wrong. And remember that she’s not allowed chocolate after seven. I’ll be re-“

“We’ll be fine Jackie, go to the fancy banquet or whatever.” Gigi rolled her eyes, shooing her out of the door and pulling Arcelia close to her side. “It’s not like we would ever fight in front of her” she scoffed, shooting Nicky a piercing glance.

“Merdé, of course not. You Americans worry so much.” The French woman remarked. She peaked through the gaps between her fingers with narrowed eyes “Arcie, I hope you hid Jeromeo well because I’m getting hungry!” She growled, stomping her feet against the hardwood. Of course Nicky had somehow made the kid name her bear fucking Jeromeo.

Arcelia shrilled, sprinting to go hide behind the kitchen countertop. “You’ll never find him!” she yelled triumphantly, dark brown hair peaking just slightly overtop the marble. “Not over my dead body!”

“We’ll see about that, petite fille. If I don’t find him, I’ll have to eat you instead!” Nicky grinned, jumping up off of the couch and almost comically pausing when she saw Gigi standing awkwardly to the side, fiddling with the hem of her sweater. “Oh yeah, hi Gigi.” The French woman smirked, eyes bright and taunting while tiny strands of hair fell out of her loose ponytail to frame her face.

Right now, it was white blond, cut short to brisk the tops of her shoulders. Gigi could picture herself running her fingers among the strands, hands grazing her scalp and tugging softly. She scoffed to herself, no way in hell was she going to be running her fingers through Nicky’s hair anytime soon. Why would she even want to.

The other looked up, grin tensing into an offended frown. “Are you making fun of me?” She raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms.

Gigi faulted, flinching at the angry tone. “Wh – how? I didn’t even insult you.”

The blonde didn’t stutter, tilting her head. “You scoffed. You think I didn’t hear you?”

Gigi scoffed again, just to prove that she could. She looked over at Arcelia, who had forgotten about whatever chasing game her and Nicky were going to play in favour whispering something to Jeromeo, petting his soft head carefully.

She studied the stuffed animals detailed embroidery, tan fur resembling the French woman’s own hair. “You bought her that?” Gigi asked nonchalantly, mind running through ideas of how she could top it. A toy boat, maybe? Some nice clothes?

“Yeah,” Nicky answered, looking caught off guard. “She actually declared me as the aunt of the week moments before you arrived.”

Gigi scowled, watching as Arcie swung the teddy around fondly in her arms. “Oh please. I’ll have the title by next week tops.”

“You really think I would let you do that?”The shorter woman asked sagely, raising a challenging brow. “I am her favorite aunt ever, so no matter wh-“

“I am her favorite aunt ever times a thousand, you fuck – “

“Fuck!” Arcelia giggled against her wrist, looking up at the two older women with a grin. Gigi gaped, staring down at her with horror and frantically waving her hands in front of the Persian child to will her to stop. Arcie only said it louder, smiling innocently while chanting the curse word around the living room like a nursery rhyme.

Nicky cackled, clapping her hands at Gigi’s misfortune. “Have fun explaining that, Miss Goode.”

She was fucked.

***

“Do you want coffee?” Nicky asked, pursing her lips and gesturing to the kettle sitting on top of the marble counter. Gigi looked up from the couch, smoothing down the layers of blankets and pillows while Arcelia fiddled happily on the living room rug.

The brunette glanced up, blinking, “Can you make me a hot chocolate?”

The older woman snorted. “I was generous enough by offering you a cup of coffee.” Still, she reached for the mason jar full of cocoa powder and carefully sifted it into a mug.

Gigi shrugged, pulling her gaze away from Nicky’s hands (dainty, elegant hands) back to the television. “It’s for Arcie, though.”

The Blonde tilted her head, narrowing her eyes, “You don’t want some?”

“No,” The shorter woman scrunched up her nose, “I need something stronger than hot chocolate.”

“What, like a drink?”

She hummed. “Yeah, can’t drink it with the little one present, though.” Arcelia looked up with a bright smile, cheeks puffing out like a squirrel. Gigi pulled her close, ruffling her dark hair.

Nicky sat down on the sofa after, setting the mug down carefully on the table and taking a sip of her own coffee. “What movie is this?” She asked as the intro music played, running her eyes critically at the screen.

“Frozen. You know, Elsa, Anna, all the magic shit.”

“Shit!” Arcelia giggled quietly, to enamoured with the movie to really pay attention. Gigi groaned, bringing a hand to her head in frustration.

The blonde laughed, throwing her head back, “Jan’s gonna be fuming if she finds out all the words you’ve taught her.”

“Yeah,” she replied with a sigh, picking at the edge of the couch cushions, “At least I’m your favourite Aunt, right Arcie?”

Nicky clicked her tongue, “No way. I’m her favorite aunt, I won this week fair and square.”

“Fine,” The brunette sighed in defeat, rolling her eyes, “But we’ll see about next week. She obviously is gonna pick me.”

Nicky smirked, “You think so? I’d like to see you try.”

The blonde focused her attention back to the movie, not giving Gigi a second glance. The younger woman tried to do the same, but every few minutes she couldn’t help but gaze conspicuously in Nicky’s direction, eyes roaming the others features appreciatively. Gigi told herself it was because the French woman happened to have white blond hair, a very distracting color in the dimly lit room. Yes. Gigi was sure. Nicky Doll’s only attractive body part was her white blond hair. Soft, golden, white blonde hair.

Why was she thinking about Nicky Dolls attractive body anyway? Gigi shook her head, she was just tired because she had had a long day and needed something to relax and Nicky was right there, eyes narrowing in disdain because some character in Frozen did something stupid, lips pursed and bitten a diluted red.

“Why,” The blonde started exasperatedly, startling Gigi out of her thoughts, “does Elsa have to isolate herself in a fucking room?”

“Language,” The shorter woman chastised, glancing down at Arcelia who was slumped over her lap, eyes sleepy and unseeing. “She didn’t want to hurt her sister.”

“Oh s'il te plait, she already has gloves,” Nicky pointed out with a frown, leaning back against the sofa.

“It’s still dangerous.”

The blonde puckered her lips again, ready to complain but clearly thought better, instead running a hand through the child’s hair gently and leaning down to face her, “Hey, sweetheart, do you want a hot chocolate?”

Arcelia shook her head tiredly, eyes unmoving from the screen, so Gigi sighed and tried to enjoy the movie for her sake, even though she had seen in hundred of times before.

At least until Nicky complained again.

“Anna is the stupidest character I’ve seen, and I’ve seen plenty of stupid characters.”

“She’s not stupid!”

The blonde snorted into her coffee. “Falling in love with a man she met on the same day? Stupid, if you ask me.”

Gigi shrugged. “We don’t know about that, really. Don’t you believe love at first sight?”

“I don’t,” Nicky answered curtly. “Love at first sight means you only look at the person’s appearance, right? It means you fall for a person because of their looks, and not their personality.”

“So are you saying,” The brunette laughed a little, “that you’re willing to date anybody as long as they have a great personality?”

Nicky groaned, looking back at the movie. “I’m still shallow enough to prefer good looking woman, Gigi. And I don’t just fuck anybody. I’m not like you.”

She laughed again, leaning her head back against the sofa. “I actually wanted to get laid tonight.” Gigi reminisced, remembering the leather jacket she had left at home. She would’ve looked ravishing in that.

“I don’t need to know that, you dummy.”

Gigi didn’t answer, instead looking down to check on Arcelia, who was already sleeping. It was rather an odd position to fall asleep in, head resting on Gigi’s thigh while her legs tangled in between Nicky’s.

“She’s sleeping,” murmured the French woman quietly.

“No shit.”

“Should we take her to her bed?”

“Yeah,” she replied, “She’ll get cranky if she’s in that position too long.”

Nicky scooped the child up into her arms easily, hand brushing slightly against Gigi’s side. The blonde nodded, signalling to the younger to wait while she put the kid to bed. Gigi didn’t have to be told twice, her mind was reeling. She didn’t understand how she was feeling, heart racing although she couldn’t pin point why. Maybe it had all started when Nicky had touched her thigh, but she’d never felt so romanised by it…ever. Repulsed, sure. But this was an entirely new reaction and it bothered her, so so much.

Nicky wasn’t ugly. She was really attractive and even if the brunette didn’t like her, she had to acknowledge that. Nicky was so attractive, she looked like a model straight out of a fashion magazine that Gigi might’ve fawned over when she was younger and fuck did that make her head spin. Her lips were pretty as well. They looked soft. Gigi wondered if they felt as soft as they looked.

She was fucked. Especially when she realized just how much she wanted to kiss the older woman and melt into her embrace. She was extremely fucked, especially when said woman was in the other room and was coming back to sit next to her to continue watching the movie. With nothing separating them now.

“So,” Nicky announced once the child was taken care of, sitting elegantly back down on the lounge, “You believe in love at first sight, then?”

“Not really. But countless people fell in love at the first sight, so who am I to squash the theory?” Gigi shrugged, eyes burning holes into the television scream to avoid Nicky’s piercing gaze.

The blonde clicked her tongue. “There’s no theory,” she mused, “it’s just statements after statements and people can lie, you know.”

Gigi hummed, “But will we ever know?”

“No.” She shrugged. “I didn’t believe in love until recently, actually.”

Her heart stung at the hint behind those words, shoulders slumping in disappointKent although she didn’t really know why, “Did you finally find a girlfriend? Gee, took you a while.”

Nicky chuckled, picking at her cuticles with a sigh. “No, still single as ever.”

“Oh,” Gigi immediately relaxed, “Well, that makes two of us I guess.”

She knew she had stepped into personal territory, but Nicky didn’t seem to mind. “I want to find someone but I’ve been so busy with work, you know? And dating apps don’t really work for anyone, so..”

“Why are you telling me this? Ew.” Gigi stuck out her tongue, scrunching her nose up in disgust.

“Why?” The French woman raised an eyebrow, “You jealous?”

The brunette scoffed, but it didn’t sound as convincing as it should’ve. “No. Why would I be?”

“I don’t know,” the other replied, “maybe because you have a crush on me?”

Oh god.

Shit shit shit. “I don’t.”

“Gigi,”

The brunette didn’t move.

“Cherì,”

Gigi hesitantly looked up, the French nickname sounding warm in her ears. It felt weird, and yet familiar at the same time. Her breathing hitched when Nicky held her shoulders, expression unreadable and satire.

“You do, don’t you?”

Gigi still didn’t move, still staring at the taller woman in disbelief. She herself had only come to realize that fact just now, but how could Nicky –

Oh. It made sense now. “What am I thinking right now?” She asked breathily, eyes wide in terror.

Nicky looked dumbfounded, emotionless facade faultering. “What?”

“Answer me. What am I thinking right now?” There was no better explanation as to why Nicky was able to guess his feelings right away, plus that stupid French accent certainly added to the witchy aesthetic. Nicky was a fucking mind reader. Gigi was sure of it.

“How am I supposed to know?”

“I don’t know, by reading my mind?” She reiterated, waving her hands to encourage her to continue.

“Why the fuck would I be able to read minds?”

“You tell me!”

“No,” Nicky snapped, “I don’t read minds. You’re just an open book.”

“But,” Gigi narrowed her eyes, “You were able to deduce this five minutes after I realised it?”

The French woman’s jaw dropped wide open, eyes once again widening. “You mean to tell me you realized that you like me five minutes ago?”

“Yeah.”

“And before that?”

“I hated your guts.”

“I hated your guts too, by the way.”

Gigi smirked, lifting her chin, “Past tense”

The blonde rolled her eyes, “Can I kiss you?” She sounded depraved, fingers twitching on top of Gigi’s shoulders.

“What?! Why?!” The brunette jolted, recoiling backward.

The other woman sighed deeply, looking like she was contemplating her choice. Maybe she would’ve taken back the words but it was rather late for that. “That means I like you, you dumbass. And I know you like me back, you’ve been hinting at it for months and I was waiting for you to finally crack.

Gigi stared at Nicky in disbelief, eyebrows raised. “I didn’t give you any hints. What are you talking about?”

“You asked me to put sun screen on your back even though it was the middle of winter?”

“That’s a completely valid ask, you perv!”

“Okay, what about all the times you’ve laughed at my jokes.”

“Maybe I hated you but if you’re funny I’m still going to laugh.”

“When you winked at me during brunch”

“Crystal punched me seconds before that.”

“When you go to the vegetable section with me at the grocery store.”

“Because Arcie likes vegetables?”

Nicky groaned, face red in embarrassment. “I’m so humiliated right now, damn it.”

The brunette laughed, hesitantly wrapping her arms around Nicky’s waist. “No, don’t be. I still like you back, remember?”

The taller woman looked up and stared at Gigi with an open mouth, as though waiting for her to take it back. “Wait, you meant it?”

“Of course,” Gigi snorted. “Enemies to lovers, or whatever.”

They were silent for a moment, just basking in each other’s presence. Gigi’s eyes traced every line of Nicky’s face, wondering what would it feel like if she touched it.

“Can I kiss you?” The blonde asked quietly, rolling her eyes while Gigi giggled at the words.

It was a very sweet kiss.

And because Gigi was a very reasonable woman, she kissed Nicky back

#rpdr fanfiction #gigi goode #nicky doll #gigi x nicky #jankie #lesbian au #fluff #enemies to lovers #mina #concrit welcome #submission #s12

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oh-theatre · 5 years

Text

Sycamore High: An Excuse (Chapter 37)

A/N: Hey looky here, I actually spent time and really worked hard on this chapter. I'm not proud, I don't think I'm ever proud of my writing but I did love doing this SO much. I love spending more time on writing, I used to do it and then lost that but now I'm back and hope you guys will like it! ALSO ALSO, This story is coming to end BUT there is a sequel already in the works so :)

summary: Finals Day 1

words: 3,961

warnings: Swearing, forced kissing, crying, yelling

Edited by: @theyreallidiots (Thank you so much love!! You're amazing and it means so much!)

Ao3 Link

Finals Day 1…

“Not a word of it to Ted, ok?” Chad whispered, Henry wanted to protest but the look Chad gave him made him decide otherwise. He finished cleaning up the dishes, Chad packed his things. Ted returned holding his own belongings, Chad sighed walking over to him. “Your hair...kiddo” He mumbled trying his best to fix the mess Ted called hair. Ted pouted swatting his hand away.

“Hey hey, don't mess with the signature look” He complained, reversing any work Chad had just done. Henry watched the pair, his heart tugging at him. He couldn't help but think of it. Chad had always wanted kids, he made that clear when they got together. Henry, on the other hand, wasn't so sure. He didn't hate kids, he just wasn't sure of himself. His parents weren't the best examples, until Chad came along Henry was practically a robot modeled by his parents. But then he fell for that stupid theatre kid, who greeted him the first time he walked into the auditorium. Now here they are, years later, married. Not married. No the past 24 years of blissful marriage were a lie, and he knew that this shouldn't have changed anything. But it sat itching the back of his mind, you're not married, he is not the father. He was still the same man, and yet here Henry stood doubtful. It wasn't fair to Ted, and it wasn't fair to Chad.

“Ready to go dearest?” Chad asked sweetly, extending his hand. Henry took it without hesitation letting him lead him to the door. Chad looked back at the frozen Ted. “Kiddo?” Ted shuffled for something in his bag but grumbled.

“Forgot something in dad’s office” He informed “Be right back” He rushed out of the room scrambling down the hall. Chad chuckled turning back to Henry. He studied his face, his blank expression, the way his eyes sat firmly in one spot.

“Whatcha thinking about love?” Chad inquires, cupping his face gently. Henry averts his gaze, shuffling his feet. “Henry? Henry, I know you, what's wrong?” His voice was firm. He shook his head, feeling able to move once more.

“Nothing, everything is fine” Henry assured, both men knew he was lying but before Chad could try again, Ted returned. Both professors turned to him expectantly, his face was unreadable holding a piece of paper. “Ted?”

“I wasn't trying to snoop…” He mumbled, his eyes were glazed over, he couldn't pin down what he was feeling. “I thought it was on your desk… but I… found this?” He holds up the paper, Chad bites his lips. Henry squeezes his hand, the adoption papers trembled in Ted's hand. Chad stepped forward. “I'm not really sure I understand it...Its... it's confusing…” He admits, his voice hitches. Chad moves forward again, Henry follows.

“Ted...come sit” Chad offers, moving himself to the couch. Ted stares, but nods. Henry follows, Ted sits in the middle of the pair, a tight grasp on the papers. Chad takes a deep breath, he opens the papers still in Ted's hand. “Let's go over this slowly ok?” Ted swallows nodding.

“Ugh! I don't get it!” Ted exclaims, Chad peeks his head out through the kitchen. He takes off his over mitts sitting next to his son on the table. He takes a peek at what Teds working on, Ted moves the paper towards him. “I just don't understand math ok?” He sighs rubbing his head.

“Let me see” Chad requests, he takes the papers studying them diligently. He nods, taking another pencil. Henry watches from the counter. “Let's go slowly ok? Don't think of doing it all at once, break down the problem” He demonstrates with one of the problems, Ted tries next. Henry smiles as Chad works carefully with Ted, calming him down, reassuring him. Even when he got frustrated.

“Which would mean that x equals 6.4 and y equals 5.8!” Ted finishes, he turns brightly to Chad “Right?” Chad laughs smiling.

“Exactly, good job Ted” He congratulates, he sits a little longer just in case.

“So… so there… there was a p-problem...with me?” Ted manages, Chad shook his head softly. He pointed to something on the paper.

“Never Ted, look” He shows him another paper “Henry and I…” He looks over at his...at Henry biting his lip. “Henry and I... aren't technically married” He explains, feeling that pull again

“H-how is that possible?” Ted asked turning to Henry, who raises his eyebrows. He didn't know how to explain it, not calmly. “You showed me photos! You were both there!” He claims, Chad nods.

“Yes but apparently… we never got a real marriage certificate. It's very confusing but when we went to get our marriage certificate we were told we were married but it wasn't true” Chad rambled, Henry hated the part that came next. “Our marriage license was real, but we looked into it and the clerk who was meant to ‘sign off’ on our marriage” He sighed “Forged it, he um… he didn't agree with our way of living” Oh.

“Oh…” Ted muttered, his mind began racing. “How was that even allowed? How did you go through 24 years without there ever being a problem?” Ted rushed, Chad took his shoulders.

“There were problems but we could never figure out what it was and it went away eventually,” Henry explained, he felt the need to participate. “But this won't go away” He gestured to the paper. Ted turned to him, he had one simple question.

“So what are you going to do?” Henry and Chad shared a knowing glance. Married or not, they still had these moments, those moments where you know exactly what the other is thinking.

“We’re going to get married,” they said in unison, both sharing a smile.

~~~

“Paul, please! Just listen!” Marley begged Paul scoffed one foot already at the door.

“No! I don't wanna see him, I don't wanna talk to him! You and Alice do whatever the fuck you want but I have school” He huffed pulling away from his mother. He stormed out, Marley frantically following him. She grabbed his arm carefully, turning him towards her.

“First of all language!” She scolded, he sighed tapping his foot impatiently “I know you don't want to, and you don't have to! I just wanted to make sure, I would never ask you to do it Paul” She insisted, he softened in her grasp. “Good luck with finals, ok? I'll pick you and Alice up and we can go out for dinner, alright?” He nodded, the idea bringing a small inkling of joy.

“Love you mom” He told her, she released him smiling sadly. He slid into his car, throwing his things in the back. He pulls out his phone. He wonders what the group chat name is this week. Ted enjoys changing it every week.

Stressed, Depressed and A Mess

Paul: Mood on the name Teddy boi

Bill: Was there something you needed Paul?

Paul: Just wanted to know if any of yall needed me to pick you up

Ted: Busy, can't talk

Bill: I could use a ride if that's alright

Paul: Yeppers be there soon

He goes to close his phone but received another message. A message from an unknown name pops up.

The Fuckiest of Fuckers

Oh… never mind

Em: Hey babe, I know this is super last minute but could I get a ride?

Paul: Always and forever

Em: I need a ride, I need a ride, I need a ride

Em: Haha that was so funny

Paul: Pick you up soon

He chuckled finally stuffing his phone away, pulling out of the driveway. He picked up Emma first, receiving a kiss on the cheek. She sat in the passenger's seat choosing the music, and Paul thanked god he wasn't picking up Ted. There would be a war. Bill was next, seeing as he lived the farthest away, and he sleepily joined them sitting in the back seat.

“Everyone gucci?” Paul asked as he pulled away from Bill's house. Emma turned the music down a bit, Bill buckled himself in.

“Mmhm,” he hummed, “No Ted?” He inquired, Paul looked at him through the mirror shaking his head. “Hmm, everyone ready for finals?” Emma laughed dryly.

“Never” She answered, Paul, nodded in agreement. Bill chuckled softly pulling out a book from his bag. The rest of the ride was relaxing, Emma played soft music, Bill read in the back, Paul drove. They stopped for coffee picking up more orders than expected, in fairness it was Emma's fault. She asked the group chat if they wanted anything, and Charlotte, Jackie, and Ted were all eager to get some caffeine. They arrived at school soon after, setting up outside the lockers. Jackie and Charlotte joined them. They sat in their usual circle of lawn chairs, two empty for Ted and Tommy.

“Your coffee m’ lady” Paul served, handing Charlotte her drink. “And one bitch juice for Jackie” He joked handing Jackie her own drink. She took a giant sip staring him dead in the eye.

“Hey Paul, did you make this?” She asked “It does taste a little bitchy, with a hint of fucker”

“Language!” Charlotte and Bill finally yelled. Jackie and Paul shrunk in their seats, their faces heating up. Ted arrived shortly after, grumbling as he sat in his chair. “You alright?” Bill questioned, Ted, buried his face his arms. Paul and Bill shared a look, simply patting him on the back.

“I hate literally everything” His voice muffled, Paul nodded. “I just wanna go home and sleep” The group snapped in agreement. Charlotte glanced at the empty chair, her heart sinking.

“No Tommy again?” She inquired, Ted looked up, the dark under bags of his eyes becoming prominent. He shook his head no. “Oh… sorry”

“Way to make it awkward bubbles” Jackie whispered, Charlotte swat her pouting. She chuckled, kissing her girlfriend on the cheek “I'm only kidding” Ted wasn't going to lie, it hurt just a bit. Guess now he knew how Bill felt. Emma and Paul teasing each other sharing their own private secrets. Jackie and Charlotte giggling, smothering each other with kisses. He missed Tommy, he hadn't seen or talked to him in almost 2 weeks. He was at school, he knew that much but every time he tried…

“Oh my god I'm going to kill Alice” Paul muttered, Emma, peaked over raising an eyebrow “She keeps insisting I see my dad-” His eyes widen, Ted and Bill turn both on high alert.

“Your dads back?!” Ted screeches, “Are you ok? Do you need help? You can stay at my house” Ted offers frantically, Bill nods. Charlotte and Emma eyed the three of them. Paul hates to admit he suddenly feels a weight lifted.

“I’m fine, guys, really” He assures, Ted sighs leaning back. “I'm not seeing him, but Alice insists I give him another chance” He gestures, throwing his hands up. Emma takes it squeezing it gently. He gives her a grateful smile. “I didn't want to tell anyone, because of finals…”

“I’m sorry dude,” Ted says, Paul gives him a smile. He curses himself, what a shitty excuse he was. Ted doesn’t tell him something and Paul freaks out, but the other way around? Ted’s a fucking angel. “But seriously, you can stay over at my house until he’s gone”

“Thanks, if Alice convinces mom to that family dinner, I might take you up on that offer” He joked, Ted smirks. Bill glares, not at Paul but for Paul. “Hey, buddy... you good?”

“Moriarty, not Sherlock” Is all Bill mutters, and to everyone else it means nothing. But Paul and Ted share a knowing look.

~~~

“Raise your hand if you one-hundred percent just failed your final” Ted announces plopping his lunch down at the table. Everyone except for Bill raises their hand. Ted nods, affirming his doubts. Everyone has their lunches out, and some kind of study guide. Ted follows suit, taking out his own math guide. “Look, it's just two more days of tests and then two free days and then summer!” He tries, lazy ‘woos’ are echoed. They worked silently, occasionally looking up to talk with one another or eat.

“Ted, can I talk to you?” A voice asked from behind. He glances up, his eyes turned fiery. Billy stands holding his lunch in his hands, staring expectantly. Paul and Bill stand, glaring. Emma cracks her knuckles (she wouldn't actually punch him, but man she wishes she could).

“What do you want?” Ted spits, he literally spits. Nothing comes of it but there was an effort. Billy eyes the group but sighs.

“I just want to talk, ok?” He raises a white flag with his face, Ted nods.

“Fine-”

“Ted” Bill and Paul warn in unison, he holds up his hands nodding. They sit down doubtful but watch him follow Billy out of the cafeteria. Billy leads him to a secluded corner, Ted becomes warier as they continue.

“Ok, what do you want?” He asked, his voice his firm and annoyed. He might have given Billy the chance to speak to him, but not a lot of time.

“I wanted to apologize,” Billy informs, Ted folds his arms waiting “I am sorry” And so he goes on to list and apologize sincerely to Ted. It's a good one too, one Ted surprisingly appreciates. Once he’s finished, Ted assumes it's over but Billy stops him from leaving. “How did you know?” His voice is softer now, almost chilling.

“Know what?” Ted wonders as Billy shuffled his feet, kicking the ground. He fails to meet Ted's eyes.

“How did you...know you were…” He can't finish, as if the word is too revolting. Ted's face falls annoyed, as his arms rejoin his side.

“Bisexual” He scoffs, Billy swallows nodding. “I mean, I suspected for a while and told my friends and family but I wasn't sure until…” Ted trails off, his mind picturing exactly when he knew. Under the willow tree, sitting with Tommy. He cupped his face, locking their lips together. A sad flutter was felt, a soft moan escaped Ted's mouth. “I wasn't sure until I kissed Tommy” Ted confirmed, Billy finally met his eyes. He had never seen the teen look so small. He expected a response, or some kind of joke. He didn't expect to suddenly be pulled into a kiss, his lips meeting Billys. It was rough, hard, almost painful. It wasn't Tommy. Once he registered what was happening, he pulled away immediately. He stared baffled at a very regretful Billy, he shook his head leaving instantly. He didn't know where he was going, but he had to go.

~~~

“He kissed you?” Paul questioned as the group walked home. The trio of boys were planning a study session and had decided to do it at Paul's house.

“He kissed me” Ted recollected, nodding his head.

“Are you going to tell Tommy?” Paul pressed, the three of them were just staring ahead.

“Yes...maybe… I don't know” Ted sighed, He stuffed his hands in his pocket “Not like he’d care” He mumbled “I feel like lately, he's just looking for an excuse… and this could be what he needs to end it...”

“Does that mean he’s gay?” Paul inquired, he had a whole list of questions formulating in his mind.

“Doesn’t justify his actions” Bill chimed, Ted turned to him.

“No one said it did, and I don't know” Ted shrugged, he didn't know a lot about this situation. Paul nodded processing, he went to ask another question but Bill wasn't done.

“That’s sexual harassment” He claimed

“Bill-”

“It is Ted, it was forced upon you” He argued, Paul actually agreed. Ted wanted to protest. “Look, whether or not he’s gay or whatever doesn’t excuse the fact that-” He stopped, holding up a finger “He bullied you and Tommy, and-” he held up two fingers now “Forced a kiss on you, when you clearly didn’t want it” Bill explained, Ted hated the fact that he was right. They kept walking passing by Tommy's house, Ted stopped.

“Ok, I'll be right back, I'm going to go talk to him” Ted declared, Bill and Paul nodded assuring him they would go to Emma's house quickly before returning. He waved them goodbye, knocking on the door. It opened after a moment.

“Ted? What are you doing here?” Tommy asks bluntly, Ted realized how long it had been since he’d seen Tommys face upfront. Able to stare and admire his features, the twinkle in eyes, the way he’s brows furrowed adorably.

“I wanted to see you…” He admitted, his eyes gazing towards his lips. Tommy sighed before ushering him in. They stood face to face now in the living room. “How...how are you?” Ted tries

“I’m busy Ted so…” Tommy said, Ted bit back his lip.

“You're always busy, you know, I haven't seen you in two weeks” Ted blurts, Tommy looks taken aback. He wrings his fingers. “I think I might have actually forgotten your face”

“Ted don't be ridiculous” He chided, his voice was annoyed. “I’m sorry that I have finals” His voice wasn't sorry, it felt rehearsed.

“We all do! Doesn't mean we isolate our boyfriends!” He shouted Tommy scoffed rolling his eyes. They went back and forth, the argument heating up. Ted only noticed Tommy's tear after the blur from his own tears cleared.

“I'm busy ok?! Not everyone has parents who don't care about their grades”, “I get it, you're busy! You have to study! Doesn't mean you ignore me!” “I'm sorry I can't be your perfect ray of sunshine 24/7 Ted!” “You're not even making an effort!” “I'm trying ok?” “Trying is ignoring me?” “Trying is focusing on school! I don't revolve around you Ted”

“Billy kissed me!” Tommy's face fell, he stumbled back.

“What?” He barely whispered, he shook. “A-are you ok?” He came forward, he still kept his distance but his face changed. It wasn't anger or frustration, it was concern. Now Ted's heart hurt.

“I’m fine, not that you would care” He cursed himself as soon as the words left his mouth. Because the soft sobbing, as Tommy clasped his mouth, said otherwise.

“Of..of course I care” he cried, “You think I don't care?” His voice raised in volume now. “If I get anything less than a perfect ‘A’, my parents would kill me, so maybe you should just go” His face was blank now, Ted couldn't read it. He shook his head making his way for the door, as he opened his heart broke just a little bit “I care so much” Tommy whispered as Ted shut the door.

~~~

“Don't want to talk about it?”

“Nope, let's just get to studying,” Ted said as they stood outside of Paul's house. Bill shot him a reassuring look as Paul unlocked his door, fumbling with his keys.

“Ugh, I really hate-” He paused as he opened the door, his face fell. Sitting in the kitchen was Alice, Marley and… Joe. Ted instinctively put a protective hand on Paul's shoulder, Bill was on alert.

“Paul I am so-” His mother tried but Paul simply shook his head. He couldn't speak, he never could around Joe. He could feel his heartbeat pumping in his chest, the blood filling his ears. He wasn't there anymore, he was little being yelled at, huddling close to his mother. Not his mother now, Paul had buried himself in Ted, who wrapped his arms around him.

“Why is he here Ms.Matthews?” Bill asked politely, Ted did his best to comfort Paul.

“It was my idea Paul” Alice came forward, she looked sadly at her brother “You would never see him on your own…”

“So you ambushed him?!” Ted accused, he cursed himself lowering his voice feeling Paul flinch in his arms, he whispered an apology.

“I-i didn't mean it like that” Alice persisted, she looked to Paul “Paul come on… look at me” But he didn't, Ted tightened reminiscing himself on the scene. When the two of them were little, clutching onto each other for an ounce of safety. Paul mumbled something into Ted, but he understood.

“We are leaving” He decided firm, “Ms.Matthews, Paul will be at my house” Ted explained. Though sad, she nodded gratefully. Bill left last making sure they weren't being followed before taking Paul's car and driving to Ted's house. Ted hadn't driven in a while and drove slowly, much to his own annoyance. Bill sat in the back cradling the frightened teen, something had washed over him. Something made him crawl back to the little boy he once was, the little boy he worked so hard to leave behind.

~~~

New Chat

Em: is he going to be ok?

Ted: Yeah, he's staying over at my house for now

Em: Can I see him?

Ted: Probs not tonight sorry, he's not really up to seeing anyone

Em: Understandable

Em: Tell him I love him

Ted couldn't help but smile. He nodded to himself showing the text to a sleepy Paul. Paul gave him the tiniest smile, burying himself a little further into the bed. Ted, Paul, and Bill sat on Ted's bed. Paul was in the middle leaning on Ted, Bill and Ted were on either side.

Ted: He knows, and he loves you too :)

Em: Fucking dork

Ted: Correction, fucking useless

Ted: Gotta go, see you tomorrow

Em: Farewell

“Can't sleep, watch?” Paul mumbled Ted chuckled nodding. He stood moving to the small tv on his wall, grabbing the remote. He passed it to Bill, who switched to Netflix. “Mmm ‘Big Mouth’?” Paul suggested Bill and Ted shrug nodding. Once the show is found, they huddle close watching tv for the rest of the night.

~~~

“Izzie! How many times have I told you not to touch Token?” Jackie scolded seeing the mess scattered on her floor. Dirt was spilled everywhere, glass shattered. Izzie stood on the other side of the room cradling Token pouting, on the verge of tears. “You have to clean this up!”

“I'm sorry! I didn't mean it!” Izzie cried Token slithered around her shoulders trying to comfort the little one. “You never let me play with Maggie or Token!” She defended, Jackie softened. Walking carefully around the mess she walked over to her sister, carrying her to the bed. She sat comfortably on the bed, Token nestled in Izzies arms.

“Look, I’m sorry…” Jackie comforts “But you need to be more careful ok?” Izzie nods, she hands Token to Jackie who takes the corn snake happily. Izzie hops off the bed.

“I'll go get the cleaning supplies!” She exclaims, rushing out of the room. Jackie chuckles setting Token down on her bed.

“You'll be back in your home soon” She comforts the slithery snake. She pets him sweetly pulling away when her phone buzzes.

Bubbles

Bubbles: Jackie, Jackie, J!

J: Char, what's wrong?

Bubbles: Ok, so I was just sitting at my desk doing homework and then my phone rings and it's an unknown number so I pick it up cautiously and its Sam! And he wants to talk to me tomorrow and alone and I'm scared

J: Ok bubs, I need you to take a deep breath. I won't let him do anything, ok? You won't go alone no matter what. And we can just talk to the principal in the morning if you really feel scared.

Bubbles: Thank you

Izzie rushes back, holding a bucket and a bunch of supplies. Jackie gives her a big thumbs up before turning back to her phone.

J: I gotta go, but I love you

Bubbles: Love you too

Neither of them registered what they had just confessed until the next morning.

#sycamore high #tgwdlmhs #musical theatre #theatre #musical #starkid #tgwdlm #the guy who didnt like musicals #joey richter #lauren lopez #jon matteson #robert manion #jaime lyn beatty #corey dorris #mariah rose faith #ao3 #archive of our own #writing #my writing

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somedayonbroadway · 5 years

Text

The Call

Chapter 1

Summary: David Jacobs is out of the game. There was a reason he was a veteran operator for the emergency call-center. That is, until one call changes just about everything. It's a race against time to save this young teens life. And it all falls on David's shoulders.

"911, where is your emergency?"

"I need a police officer, 119 East Central Street, 3rd floor. I got a woman here, she's stabbing herself and a child!"

"Operator 602, state your emergency, please."

"Hi, there's an accident on Highway 28, and I... I... Like, I think somebody's dead!"

"911, what's your emergency?"

"I'm at the Beverly Resort. My girlfriend, she's..."

"What's going on there?"

"She jumped from the 12th floor balcony."

"She jumped off the 12th floor balcony?"

"911, what is your emergency?"

"Oh, God, I hit someone with my car. I hit him! I think I've killed him!"

"All right, listen carefully. Pump the chest hard 30 times. You need to count out loud, go ahead."

"911, what's your emergency?"

"911, where is your emergency?"

"Please, I need assistance right away!"

"911, where's your emergency?"

"There's a lot of blood, I know, but you need to keep pressure on the wound."

"I shot my wife."

"You shot your wife?"

"Yup. She's lying on the floor..."

"911, where's your emergency?"

If there was one thing that David knew, it was that his job was anything but easy. It was a stressful, mentally challenging, insane job that David was so grateful to have.

But it was days like these that made him wish he could be anywhere else.

"Christine... put the gun down," he ordered gently. He'd been on the line for several minutes now. He hadn't made any real progress. This kid was scared. She didn't know what to do. She was out of control and she couldn't stop it.

"I didn't mean ta do it!" she insisted, her Jersey accent strong and harsh. "I didn't mean it!"

With a shake of his head, David tried to figure out what to say next. "Christine, put the gun down! It isn't worth it!" he tried. He didn't want to lose this girl. She could still have a future.

Through the headset, David could hear the black and whites, screaming at this disturbed young woman, ordering her to drop the gun without an ounce of gentleness. David understood that. Their job was to protect the rest of the civilians. His job was to help the person on the other end of the line. "Put the gun down! Put it down!"

"Christine! Listen ta me-"

It wasn't the first time it had happened. But that didn't mean it made it easier.

And that was it. The line went dead.

For a second, the young man contemplated getting up, leaving his station for just a moment. He had every right to. It was a way to protect themselves from all the stress put on them everyday. So many lives put in their hands. But right now, David just prayed the next call he got was from a group of kids making a prank call.

He didn't need to get up. The Quiet Room would still be there later if he needed it to calm his nerves. So, he took a deep breath and let his computer know he was ready for another call.

"911, what's your emergency?"

The operator couldn't help but let himself slump over just a bit in relief when an angry, but familiar voice met his ears. "Goddamn it! Why am I in here?!"

Letting himself laugh, David just shook his head. "Hey there Mr. Kloppman, how ya doin'?" he asked, knowing full well what the answer would be.

"Not good, kiddo... I'm in jail," Mr. Kloppman began to explain. David let himself smile. This man wasn't a bad guy, just got himself into trouble a bit too much. The first time he'd called, David had been on the line with him for close to an hour as the old man gave him his life story. Not that David minded. He was an odd guy, but that didn't mean he wasn't entertaining as hell. "Ain't no one's tellin' me nothin'!"

Knowingly, David could only sigh and ask the question he asked every time this man was on the line. "You been drinking again, Mr. Kloppman?"

It was almost comical the way the man quieted down immediately. Everyone around the hive knew this man. They only got a call from him every few weeks, when he'd fallen off the wagon again. He'd had a rough life. Plenty of reason to start drinking. But he was trying to get better. "I s'pose..." he replied sheepishly.

Nodding, David just shrugged. "So you know what you have ta do. You gotta ask your DO for another call, okay?"

"... okay... thanks, kiddo..."

"No problem. Stay outta trouble, alright sir?" David asked, a small smile still on his face. It really was a nice break from all the stress.

"Alright, kiddo. Bye bye." And then that was it. David let himself sit for a moment, letting himself just breathe. For a moment, everything was okay.

"Does he still call you, 'kiddo'?" At the young, feminine voice, David spun around in his chair.

"Of course he does, Smalls" he responded to the small woman behind him. "It's a hell of a lot better than 'sweetheart'." She playfully rolled her eyes at him.

"That's fair," she replied, turning away from her own station for a moment. "So how's Les? Still a little rascal?"

With a sigh, David shrugged. "You know it. My mom just got him braces. The kid is not happy about it and I never get to hear the end of it," he explained. His little brother was certainly a handful. There was no questioning that.

Snorting, Smalls replied, "At least he'll have straight teeth when he grows up! My parents couldn't afford that kind a' sh-"

"Ah, Smallsie, always such a charmer ta walk in on," a voice interrupted. A grin spread across both of their faces as they looked up to see a young police officer walking through their building, right towards them, along with a woman of the same uniform.

Smalls, ever sarcastic and good for a laugh, looked around. "Did anyone call for a stripper?" she called jokingly. David just rolled his eyes as the young female cop burst out laughing.

"Hey, Jack. What're ya guys doin' here?" he asked, standing to his feet so that he could shake his friend's hand before he was pulled into an embrace.

Jack always was one for hugs. "Nothin' much, man. Just thought we'd stop by b'fore I have two little monsters ta deal with when I get home," he shrugged, letting him pull back and then slinging an arm around the woman's shoulders.

With a grin, Small's kicked her feet up onto her desk, twirling a pencil around in her hands. "Katherine, I understand that you helped deliver a baby yesterday," she commented, sounding almost impressed.

The female cop nodded, a grin growing on her face. "Yes ma'am. Seven pound, eight ounce little princess," he stated, smirking over at Jack who placed his free hand over his heart in offense.

"Excuse me, I was there too!" he insisted.

But the woman only laughed. "He was holding her hand and covering his eyes. He's the true hero here," Katherine corrected sarcastically. It seemed to be good enough for Jack who nodded his head and smiled.

"Thank you."

David laughed. He had the best friends. He'd gone to high school with these people. And college with Jack. They hadn't always been close, but he still absolutely adored them. In fact, they were now his closest friends.

"Really though, she saved the mama's life," Jack stated. The pride in his eyes wasn't something that could be looked over. It was so clear how madly in love he was.

A hum brought the officer out of the trance. Small's was staring at the with a sort of false admiration. "You guys are disgusting," she breathed before turning back to her desk and getting back to work.

Jack chuckled a bit, turning to kiss his girlfriend and partner on the side of her head before he stepped away from her and towards David. "Hey, can I talk ta you f'r a minute?" he asked quietly.

With a slight nod, David pushed himself up from his chair. "Darcy! I'm goin' on break!" he called as his boss walked by. Then he lead Jack out to the small patio they had outside. David's favorite place in the whole building.

The fresh air was always so nice.

He leaned up against the railing of the small outdoor space. Jack stood across from him, leaning back on a chair pushed up against one of the tables. "What's up?"

"Just about everythin'," Jack laugher, scratching at the back of his neck nervously. "I was wonderin' if ya finally wanted ta meet my boys," he stated.

Ah yes. Jack's boys. His little brothers. His half brothers. The adoption hadn't been easy. Not with the many potential guardians that were apart of all of their lives. Though, they were unwanted and never seemed to be good for anyone. Jack's family was anything but conventional. Their mother was anything but loyal or faithful.

"Yeah, I'd love to!" David grinned. The adoption had been closed a year ago. They kids were officially Jack's. And while David was one of Jack's closest friends, he still had never met the boys. "When should I be over?"

"I was thinkin' tomorrow night?" It was like Jack was scared to have him over it wouldn't surprise the young operator. Those kids had been through enough in their short lives. New people weren't exactly their favorite things. But Davey was beyond touched that his friend was allowing him to meet them. It was a big step for him. It was important.

"I'd love to, Jackie," he smiled.

Jack grinned. "Cool..."

Meeting Jack's brothers was the ultimate kind of trust. David knew that all too well. The stories had been everywhere. They'd been hurt as children. All of them. But Jack trusted him. And David couldn't help but be so incredibly happy.

But he wasn't done at work yet.

"... Then I want you to take the child in your arms and exit the building quickly," he heard Specs instruct as he made his way back to his desk. Jack walked past him and took Katherine's hand as they made their way out.

"See ya, Mouth!" Jack called as he pulled Katherine away from Smalls.

David just nodded and waved at his friend with just two fingers. "Later, Kelly!"

As soon as their friends left the building, Smalls was turning to David with a questions. "Hey, what's the code for multiple stabbings?" she asked in a rush, muting her call for just a moment as the young man tried to recall.

"Uh... Two forty-five," he responded in a rush.

The small girl nodded. "Thank you!" She turned back to her own call immediately, leaving David to take a breath and try to get back into the game.

For a moment he stared at his screen. He listened to the people around him. His coworkers. Some of he bravest people he'd ever met. This job was so important. He had to know that. They all did. It was crucial. They were protecting people.

He clicked on his space bar, indicating he was ready for another call. Instantly, he had one. "911, what's your emergency?"

"Help me! Please... someone's trying ta break into my house!"

The voice was panicked. Nothing David hadn't handled before. But it definitely brought him out of his daze. He sat up straighter. "Okay, okay, breathe for me, pal."

"I'm all alone! My parents went to see a movie! They won't answer their phones!"

"I understand that, buddy. What's your name?" David asked calmly as the trace on his computer began to run.

The boy was breathing hard on the other end of the line. David could hear him. "B-Benjamin... Neilson..." Immediately the man typed the name into his systems.

A picture came up easily. David allowed himself to vaguely study the face of the kid. Blond hair, grey-blue eyes. Lanky and tall. He was sixteen. "Alright, pal. I've got all your information here," he stated, taking a breath. "Can you get out of the house, Benjamin?" He was typing frantically. Just like he always did. The more information, the better.

"No! No! He's out there!"

"Okay, take a deep breath for me, kid," the operator instructed before switching his headpiece over to the radio. "Any units clear to handle hot prowl in progress? 23 Kinnard Street. PR is alone and hiding."

"Seven-Adam-Thirteen, responding!"

The man switched back as quickly as he could, feeling his chest tighten as those panicked gasps met his ears again. "Police are on their way, buddy!"

Benjamin Neilson was hiding behind a wall. He didn't want to move. Whoever was there might see him. All of the lights were off. The only noise that could be heard was a juggling lock and the voice of a stranger on the telephone.

The boy was about to say something else, beg this man to make the police get there faster. But the shattering of glass made him jump a foot in the air. He could hear someone reaching through it to get to the lock on the door. "Oh my God, he just broke the window! He's coming through the back!"

David's whole body went from somewhat to tense in an instant. He had to breathe. He had to be the strong one. "Benjamin, go find a room and lock yourself in. Right now!" he instructed, trying to think. That was right. Those were the right instructions. "Do not disconnect with me, okay? Stay on the line!"

The boy didn't respond. He just darted towards the stairs in front of him. He sprinted in through an open door and closed it as quietly as he could. "Okay! I'm in my room!" he stated, standing against the door. "But the door doesn't lock n' I don't know where ta hide!" he cried out in a whisper.

"It's okay, Benjamin! I need you ta stay calm," David tried.

But the boy was anything but calm. "He's gonna find me!" he whispered urgently. He looked around his room.

"Okay, is there a window in that room, Ben?" David asked quickly.

"Yeah..."

"Here's what I need you to do..."

The only place he thought to go was beneath his bed. It was obvious. But it was all he had.

Footsteps were coming closer. The board outside his room creaked. The kid whimpered. He wished beyond anything that he had a bat or a weapon of any kind. But he'd seen the outline of the man. He was huge. He'd be no match for him.

"Buddy, stay quiet for me, okay?" David demanded, seeming to sense the situation, even from miles away. "Don't say a word."

The boy didn't. He held his breath as he ears his door creaking open. The intruder seemed to think someone in this room wouldn't have already heard the glass shatter.

The man's shoes were covered in dirt and mud. They were old and worn brown work boots. That was all the kid could see of the guy.

David muted his end of the call again. "Seven Adam Thirteen! What's your ETA?"

"Eight to ten!"

That was too long. Looking around, David caught a glimpse of his supervisor, doing his own job. He zeroed in on David just as the young man threw his arms up helplessly. There was no way anyone was going to get there in time.

Benjamin was beginning to get dizzy. He didn't want to risk making a sound. The man was still in his room. He was looking in the closet. Behind the curtains. But Benjamin didn't move. Eventually he saw the man lean out the open window. He must've seen the one shoe he'd dropped down there. It looked like he'd jumped and ran.

The man didn't check beneath the bed.

Footsteps began to leave the room in a haste. The kid breathed a sigh of relief. "I... I think it worked. I think he's leaving..."

"That's good, kid. Just-"

The line went dead. David felt himself panic for a moment. The boy surely hadn't meant to hang up the phone. The man had to still be inside the house. He'd told him to stay on the line.

In a moment of pure panic, of idiocy, David called back.

That meant the phone rang.

Benjamin answered the call immediately. "I don't know where he is!" he hissed, terrified.

"Benjamin-"

"Oh my God, I think he's coming back!"

All David felt was nauseous. "Kid-"

"I think he heard the phone ring!" He cried, trying to push himself from his hiding place. He had to get up. He could hear the man coming back. He could fight. He could-

David heard the boy scream in pure terror. "Benjamin?!"

Benjamin struggled beneath a huge man who'd just ripped him from his safe haven. "Let go! Let go!" he demanded, trying so hard not to sound completely horrified.

"Kid-" David's heart sped up. He tried desperately to figure out what to do next. The boy more than likely didn't have the phone by his ear anymore. He was stuck, listening to a child beg somebody to just let him go.

"Shut up!" another voice screamed.

"Get offa-" Benjamin let out a muffled sob when a strong hand rushed to cover his mouth.

Then the man reached for the phone.

And David could hear his quick, irregular breaths. Something told him that this was more than some burglary. He'd gone after the kid specifically. There was more to this. And that scared him.

He'd given the kid away.

"Wh-whoever this is... the police are on their way to that house right now," he stated carefully, trying not to let his voice shake too much. He felt his hands begin to tremble as his face went pale. "The only thing for you to do is let that boy go..."

This is what a panic attack felt like.

This was his fault. He'd given the kid away. He'd made a mistake.

"I suggest you leave that house before you do something you regret... you do not have to do this..."

The breathing was quick. But the man wasn't scared. He was angry. Driven by grief and adrenaline. He looked the boy up and down as he struggled below him. He pinned the boy's arms beneath his knees as he reached to run a demeaning hand through his hair. And, without truly even thinking about it, he let out a small, but horrifying reply.

"It's already done."

Benjamin screamed.

And then the line went dead.

David couldn't breathe. The trace disappeared. The picture faded. He knew he wasn't supposed to panic. He knew he wasn't supposed to not know what to do. He knew he was supposed to have the answers and the fix.

He knew he wasn't supposed to call back when there was an intruder. What did I just do?

Ripping off his headset, David ran. He ran to the Quiet Room as those three words echoed in his brain.

It's already done.

That boy was targeted. He didn't know why, but he was.

The door slammed shut behind him. He was the only one in the room. He stepped away, pacing as he tried to get his limbs to stop shaking. "Oh, God..." he breathed, reaching up a trembling hand to run through his hair.

The door was opened behind him. The man flinched as he whirled around, his vision blurred as tears filled up in his eyes.

"It's already done." It was all he could hear. Over and over again. Even as he barely made out the form of his boss standing before him.

"What the hell was that?" Oh great. Darcy has been listening to his call. Of all things. "That ring gave him away." The older man was scolding him like David didn't already know. Like David wasn't tearing himself up right now. It must've taken the man a moment to see the tears in David's eyes. Because he expression softened. "Just... help me out here. What were you thinking?"

Immediately, David shrugged, completely at a loss for words. He could still hear Benjamin screaming. "I... I wasn't... I..." He could hardly speak anymore. Nothing was coming out right. "I don't know... I didn't..." He still couldn't breathe. "I'm just normally... I wasn't focused like I usually am and I... I don't know..."

He could've vomited right then and there. A child had just been kidnapped.

And it was his fault.

#fanfiction #Newsies #David Jacobs #The Call #Jack Kelly #Katherine Plumber #Smalls #911 call #alternate universe #angst #drama #suspense

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