#also that one is a gif that took me like. 4-6 HOURS to make?? lowkey embarrassing but yeah

[ververa]

In Her Kiss

So, the anon said: billie dean x reader, reader is billie's assistant and they're flying to some haunted place but the reader is terrified of flying and billie offers to sit next to her to help calm her down, she's usually a strict boss but she has a soft spot for reader. when the flight takes of the usually calm and shy reader begins to have a panic attack, strongly gripping billie's hand and cry. billie is a bit surprised of how much pain this is causing the reader but tries to do everything in her power to make her feel better, like let her cry in her lap or kiss her to distract and ground her( bc she's lowkey into her and reader of course has a fat crush on billie). little angst with lots of fluff pls🥺

A/N: I absolutely loved this idea and I did my best to write is as good as possible. Also this song kinda made me think of Billie Dean and inspired me, and bc I was looking for something suitable for over 6 hours, I’ll just put it here as well.

Thank you so much for the request! Hope you’ll enjoy it <3 

Words: 2.087

Billie Dean Howard x reader

You had always known that living a normal life wasn't for you. You found everyday routine boring. You looked at other people and thought to yourself that it wasn't how you wanted to live. You wanted something spectacular. You wanted to do something important. Experience things that other people were afraid of. You wanted to explore and learn.

That's why you started studying paranormal activities. You didn't necessarily know what you'd do after graduating, but you didn't care. You enjoyed it and that's all that mattered. You were one of the best students in your group and they even offered you some help with getting PhD. The only thing you had to do was to spend some time being around something or someone that actually  had something to do with paranormal activity. Luckily for you your father knew the person, who helped you get to the one and only Billie Dean Howard. Getting to work with her was like a dream come true for someone like you. Of course at first it was mainly because of your PhD and your inner curiosity, but it changed when you met her.

Billie Dean was a very demanding and rather strict boss. It was hard to manage her chaotic, a bit hectic schedule and life or keep up with all the paranormal things and thereby satisfy her. The pressure was enormous at times. That's why most of her previous assistants lost the job after a month or two at best. But there you were - working for Billie for almost 6 months and doing just fine. Her film crew was even joking that you broke the record and set the bar high. 

But you just really liked Billie. She was not only incredibly charming, but also sensitive and empathetic. The first time you saw her you were immediately smitten. Though you knew very well that your relationship would remain strictly professional. But you were still happy that you had a chance to be around her at least.

 You absolutely loved your job. It gave you opportunities to develop different skills and get a lot of experience. It was tiring, of course, but you aspired to be the best assistant Billie Dean had ever had. And you were. Everything was perfect, until one day Billie told you to book plane tickets, because you were leaving for filming new episodes of her show. 

You really like traveling, especially with Billie. You just hated being on the plane. You were so terrified of flying that the thought of it itself was enough for you to get anxious. There was no way for you not to go since you were Billie’s right hand and the only person, who was able to organize everything the way she wanted. 

“Miss Howard, this one time I could work remotely” you said as you were on your way to some interview 

“Y/N, you know it’s impossible. I need you there with me” 

“I can manage everything being here” you kept trying to convince her

Billie stopped and looked at you.

“I don’t get it, why going there is such a problem?”

“I…” you hesitated, you weren’t really sure how to tell her that you weren’t afraid of ghost, but flying caused you panic attacks “I just don’t like flying” you confessed 

Billie frowned. For her going there wasn’t just about work. She hoped that spending some more time with you would help her understand her feelings or rather figure out your feelings. Billie couldn’t deny she had a soft spot for you. You were always there for her, often staying overtime just because she was exhausted after a long day at work. She found your shyness incredibly adorable and kind of admired how calm you were - even at haunted places where you had to go with her. Billie Dean had always been pretty talkative and most people found it annoying after some time, but not you. You were always intently listening to her, willingly giving her all your attention. And she just loved it. She liked how everything seemed to be so simple when you were there helping her. At first she tried to be professional. She tried to convince herself she didn’t like you that much. Though it changed completely after you visited the Cortez. You were the one who took care of her and helped her calm down after the incident at the hotel. And just then, as you held her in your arms, she realized she wanted more.

Ever since then she was attempting to flirt with you. She was doing her best to show you that she, in fact, was interested in being someone more than just your boss. Yet you seemed to be oblivious to all her efforts. It was quite frustrating, but she wasn’t the type who give up easily.

“It’s only about 4 hours on the plane… It’s not that much. I really need you there” she gave you her best smile, but you were too stressed to pay attention “Y/N, I believe in you. You’ll be fine. And if it makes you feel any better I can sit right next to you in case you need someone to help you calm down”

You looked at her biting your lip. You still weren’t really convinced, but as you looked into her brown eyes you couldn’t say no, so you nodded.

“Great!” she exclaimed “Don’t worry about anything. I’ll take care of you, just like you take care of me” she beamed 

You tried to smile, but you failed as the anxiety was slowly taking over your mind and body.

For the next few days Billie made sure to keep your mind occupied, so that you wouldn’t worry about the trip too much. She practically made you go with her everywhere. She took you to an expensive restaurant, where you had dinner and even convinced you to go shopping with her - hoping it would help you relax at least a little bit. It did work, as your mind began thinking about the way she acted around you instead of the flight. Yet as the day of your departure arrived you were a nervous wreck again.

You kept working of course - checking if everything and everyone were ready. You knew there was no turning back and you wanted to do it for Billie, but you still couldn’t help all those negative feelings.

As Billie saw you at the airport she began feeling guilty for making you go. You were so pale and seemed as you could faint at any time. How she wished she could save you from all that stress.

“It’s going to be okay” she whispered to you as you were looking at the plane “Don’t worry” Billie kept talking as you were getting on board  “I’ll be right next to you all the time” she added as you took your seats 

You nodded inhaling sharply. You could already feel drops of sweat forming on your forehead, as you buckled up. You looked outside the window and stared at the wing for a few minutes. You paid no attention to anyone or anything. You tried to focus on one thing hoping it would help you stay calm.

Billie observed you carefully. All she wanted was to know if you felt something for her. Making you stressed out so much definitely wasn’t her intention. She frowned as she saw your hands clenching both armrests of your seat.

“Oh, honey, you can hold my hand” she said already taking your hand into hers 

You turned your head at the sudden touch of her soft hand. You faced her and as your eyes met Billie felt how her heart hurt at the sight of the tears in your eyes.

“Y/N, it’s okay. Everything is okay” she kept repeating 

You could feel how your chest was becoming heavier and heavier as the plan started taking off. You closed your eyes, squeezing Billie’s hand. Your heart was pounding and your breath became shallow. You tried to breathe deeply, but you felt like you couldn’t get enough air and so you started panicking. 

“I can’t. I can’t… Billie I can’t” you kept repeating shaking your head

“What? What you can’t? It’s okay, Y/N”

“It’s not… I can’t… I want out... ” your voice was cracking as the tears started flowing down your cheeks 

Billie looked at you concerned. She didn’t expect it to be that bad. Actually, at first she thought you were exaggerating and being dramatic, but after a few minutes she realized that it really was causing you a lot of pain. 

“Shhh” she pulled you closer “You’re okay, honey. We’re okay. It’s okay, I’m here” she embraced you in a tight hug “You’re doing great. You’ll be alright” she kissed your forehead 

“No. No. No. Please, please, please… I can’t be here. I want out… Billie, please” you cried 

“Is there any problem?” asked a flight attendant, who just approached you

“No. There’s no problem. She just doesn’t like airplanes” Billie explained 

“Oh Lord… I hate it. Why did I agree to go with you?” you kept talking “Ughhh. I fucking hate it. Why did you make me go?!”

“Y/N, you need to calm down, because they may basically kick you off the plane”

“Good! I want to leave” you said, still not looking at her “I’m so stupid…” 

“Y/N, for God’s sake! I need you to calm down”

“I-I can’t”

“Just breath, sweetheart. Come here” she pulled you even closer than before, so that your head was partially resting on her chest “Hear my heartbeat? Just focus on that”

You inhaled sharply and tried to do what she said. You kept your eyes closed and did your best to focus on her heartbeat.

“You’re okay, I’m okay, we’re okay” she said calmly, brushing your hair 

“I t-think it works…” you whispered 

“Thanks God” she breathed a sigh of relief “Will you open your eyes?” she asked after a while

You shook your head - no.

“Why?” she wiped the tears from your cheek with her palm

“I don’t know...  I don’t want to see…”

“You don’t want to see people, the plane or me?”

“All of these”

“Oh” Billie bit her lip looking at you 

You were sitting straight, you were a bit calmer, but still tensed.

“Can I do something to help you relax?”

“I don’t think so” you said clenching your hands in fists 

“Can I try at least?”

“I really appreciate the effort, but I doubt anythi-” you didn’t manage to finish, because her lips collided with yours 

The kiss was gentle and short, too short. You wanted more, but Billie pulled away. You opened your eyes only to see her smiling at the sight of the bliss on your face.

“I… umm... “

“What, does that feel good?” 

You nodded making her chuckle.

“And did it do the trick?” she smirked 

“Well, you could do it again just to make sure”

Billie laughed leaning in to capture your lips one more time. The second kiss was more passionate, though you still couldn’t get enough of her. You had dreamed of it for so long. You would most likely straddle her lap and keep making out if it hadn’t been for the other passenger.

“Geez, could you take it somewhere else?” he complained 

At these words, your usual shyness was back. You blushed profusely and sat straight not looking at Billie or anyone.

“You’re so cute when you get shy” she said putting a strand of your hair behind your ear

You looked at Billie and bit your lip. You weren’t sure what was going on between the two of you.

“I’m sorry I made you get on the plane. I didn’t realize it’s that bad” she said

“It’s fine” 

“It’s not. I just wanted to spend some more time with you and figure out if there’s any chance that you like me as much as I like you”

“Wait. You’re saying that you like me?”

“Yes” she admitted 

“You know you didn’t have to try this hard? You could just tell me… without making me get on this goddamn plane” 

“Well, this definitely isn’t anything like how I imagined it... ”

“So… what is it between us?” you asked hesitantly 

Billie Dean smiled caressing your cheek before kissing you once again. You smiled against her lips. All that you wanted to know was in her kiss. And that for sure was the best answer you had ever got. 

Tag list:

@midnight-lestrange​

@natasha-danvers​

#billie dean howard #billie dean howard x reader #sarah paulson imagine #AHS #ahs imagine #ahs murder house #ahs hotel #request

[youngcollectedtired]

karasuno x Reader

I like writing Haikyuu imagines and x-readers.... so here’s one. (Lowkey about my life not even gonna lie... send in your ideas, i’m practicing my headcannons too.)

Warnings? None 

Pairings? Not really... I mean nothing specific yet except, platonic noya x reader

Plot: You’re graduating in a few months. You’ve been working and studying non-stop. Noya, your best friend convinces you to take a night off all while revealing your somewhat adult life to your new friends (the karasuno team). 

You were exhausted. Legs aching, fingers bleeding, body crying and yet it seemed all of that was worth it when you saw that paycheck.

You lived alone, insisting on your parents to try your last year differently. So far, a few months in you've gotten the swing of things.

Work early mornings, pack your uniform, start school after lunch and get off school at 4. Friday’s were usually a full day of work, which is why today you wanted to cry. It wasn’t your ideal job, instead you preferred teaching, but your uncle needed the help so you volunteered, the sweet girl as you were. It helped you were getting paid. 

You paid rent to your parents, bought your own groceries, paid for your own gas when you needed it and basically functioned like an adult. You knew it would be good practice. And yet your anxiety kept you from taking it a step further and completely relying on yourself. 

Your parents were good like that, helping out when you got overwhelmed, acting as good landlords while teaching you responsibilities and savings. 

None of your friends knew, well friend. Except, Noya. Even though he was always working on his volleyball skills he was over a lot. Almost like a roommate. You'd planned to see him and the others this evening. Something about hitting all of the ramen shops in town, you were glad Saturdays and Sundays were reserved for you. 

Still, you really debated on staying in. Besides, you were sweaty and your feet hurt. Like heck. 

It seemed Noya read your mind because as soon as you pulled your shoes off, your phone rang. 

Sliding the call you raised it to your ear and pulled off your scrub top, “hello?” 

“Hey we’re on our way,” he announced, causing you to nod absentmindedly, “alright see you soon,” he meant to say love you, but you could hear Tanaka challenge someone from over the phone and Noya yell in encouragement as the call ended.

You didn’t even bother to acknowledge it, picking up a few stray items knowing he and they would want to come in. Your flat was simple and cute and easy to keep clean. Your legs dragged you to the kitchen as you slowly began undoing your tight French braids. The waves coming down your back. 

You bypassed a bottle of water, going straight for a protein drink with a good shot of energy. Daichi would probably disapprove but it was okay for now. You pressed one of the many buttons on your coffee maker, creating a cup of coffee. You’d need the energy. While that was brewing, you washed out your recently used tumbler, filled it with ice, creamer and vanilla syrup to barely halfway. 

You downed the small bottle of energy right before your door began to shake an eager and loud knock shaking it. Before keys jungled and it turned. 

Noya raced in, leaving his bag at the door. Behind him were an array of boys, all having changed. That was quick, you noted before realizing just what time it really was. 6 am. Or no pm, did you really work a 12 hour shift??

Maybe who knows.

Tsukkishima cackled, “Did you get skip school today or something y/n? That’s not very becoming of you.”

Looking him dead in the eyes you began pouring 6 oz of black coffee. With no fear, you downed it all, “ Tsukkishima unlike you some of us have to work for a living,” and you chased it back with the flavor of your caramel drink. 

Tsukkishima seemed caught off guard, “do I have time to take a quick shower and change?” You asked Sugawara who nodded, “take your time, you look exhausted.” 

You deadpanned, “Wow thanks.”  

He shrugged with a grin, “I only speak the truth.” 

You rolled your eyes, “Try not to trash my place.”

Take your time you did.  Washing your hair, the waves finally bouncing into individual curls as you conditioned it. It fell to just the bottom of your back and as you rinsed it, the comforting smell washed over your body. As you exited the shower, you pinned your hair up and pulled on your only fluffy blue robe. The fabric is soft against your skin. Knowing Noya had probably picked out some clothes for you, you took the lotion and perfume for yourself before exiting the bathroom.

True to your words Noya waved you over from your room, "Sugawara helped me this time."

You nodded, too tired and relaxed to say anything, 
"Can you make me another coffee?" You asked as you shut the door. 

You instantly smiled when you saw the clothes he'd picked out. Exactly your style. Your hair was still dripping thankfully, as you preferred to do it when it was that wet. You pinned a cotton wrap to it, as you lotioned your legs and arms, perfuming and adding deodorant to the problem areas. Over your underwear and bras you slipped on sheer tights, careful not to create a hole.

With the cool breeze coming in, you were grateful for him. Otherwise you probably would have forgotten. Over those thighs he paired one of your favorite shorts, thankfully cleaned. Again you praised him, for coming over when he did to help you with his and your laundry. 

He was like your roommate after all, coming over late to enjoy dinner, cleaning up, doing laundry, and all of the above. It worked for you both. As you adjusted the tube top, with spaghetti straps, you pushed open your bedroom door deciding now would be a good time to do your hair.

Tsukkishima sneered, seeming to get under your skin, "He said take your time, not all of our time. I'm not getting any younger.

You rolled your eyes, pulling the cotton wrap free, "No you're getting older, Tsukkishima, I thought you noticed those grey hairs," you gestured to the back of your head staring him dead in the eye before disappearing into the bathroom.

You could faintly hear Tadashi assure him, that all his hair was indeed blonde. You hid a snicker behind a cough. As a result of the cold and your added color you took special care to moisturize and diffuse your hair. You flipped your hair back, styling it to fall on both sides, before walking away, knowing the curls had a mind of their own.

"I was only in the shower for like 15 minutes, Tsukkishima, don't get your panties in a wad," You teased as you grabbed a black and white flannel you may or may not have stolen from someone. 

You slipped into your vans easily, "Ok I'm ready, am I driving or?" You swung the keychain as you also grabbed your wallet.

Daichi nodded, "The ramen shop with all the different flavors is in another town over." 

You grinned, "Well good thing I decided to get a bigger car, let's go." 

The car was lively, filled with you and Noya's special playlist for the road. 

Sugawara leaned forward, "I didn't know you worked," the thought spread through the van and nearly everyone leaned forward, also confused but intrigued.

She was 17, what kind of job could she have?

You laughed tiredly, easing on the breaks. "Hah yeah, my uncle owns a clinic in the city, so I take a bus in the mornings. I mainly just work medical records but today he had me getting patient vitals and answering phone calls, staff was a bit short," you explained the Band-Aids on your fingers. The hangnails on your fingers had gotten caught by the files you'd pulled free from the metal shelves.

Did it hurt? Yes. Yes it did.

Sugawara leaned back into his seat nodding, "That's cool!" Hinata yelled, "I didn't know you wanted to work in the medical field," Tanaka stated curiously.

You shook your head, turning down the music and said "I didn't," with a laugh, as you turned down into a small parking lot you explained, "I wanted to be a teacher, but I can't exactly go to school for that while also getting a degree in Medical terminology, it's just what I'm good at so I'll probably have to stick with it," you shrugged parking the car.

Kageyama nodded, "Is that why you're on your own?"

Hinata nudged him roughly, "Don't make it sound so mean!"

You laughed it off, "My parents are like my landlords, I pay rent, water bill and electric bill in smaller amounts per month so I get used to the idea of living on my own. I buy groceries and get to and from work on my own, and if I can't pay it they don't worry about it," you explained, "I usually make the deadline every month, which is why tonight I can buy everyone dinner."

Sugawara made a face to stop you, but you stared him down causing him to close his mouth. You smiled.

Noya chuckled, "Yeah I already tried that, arguing doesn't work for her."

You rolled your eyes having heard him, "Come on guys this ramen isn't going to eat itself." 

#haikyuu #haikyuu!! #nishinoya x reader #karasuno #volleyball #anime #x-reader #karasunoxreader #workinghighschooler #nocovidhere #blackreader #workingreader

[ellewritesathing]

So Close - S.S. XVI

Summary: The universe has a funny way of putting the things you want right in front of you, but just out of reach. Stiles and Y/N have been best friends ever since Scott brought him home, but when Stiles realizes that he might want to be something other than best friends, she leaves to go to some fancy private school up North. Now that she’s back though … maybe he’s got a shot? A Teen Wolf AU in which the reader has always been so close to Stiles and yet so far.

Prologue - S2E1 Part 1 - S2E2 + S2E3 Part 2 - S2E4 + S2E5 + S2E6 Part 3 -  S2E7 +S2E8 Part 4 - S2E9 + S2E10 Part 5 - S2E11 + S2E12 Part 6 Part 7 - S3AE1 Part 8 - S3AE2 + S3AE3 Part 9 - S3AE4 Part 10 - S3AE5 + S3AE6 Part 11 - S3AE7 + S3AE8 Part 12 - S3AE9 + S3AE10 + S3AE11 Part 13 - S3AE11 + S3AE12 Part 14 Part 15 - S3BE1 + S3BE2 Part 16 - S3BE3 + S3BE4

Word-count: 3.5k+

A/N: nano’s lowkey kicking my butt but i’m super excited to get back to writing fics when december comes around

“You know, I really hate driving on this thing,” you mumbled as you took off your helmet. Scott took it from you as you shook out your hair. “I mean, look at this. My hair’s a mess.” 

He didn’t answer and you were about to complain some more when you saw him walking around the bike to talk to the twins. What were they doing back? 

“You’re back in school?” he asked them. 

“No, just to talk,” Ethan said as you stood next to your brother. He cast a quick glance at you before turning back to Scott. 

“Well, I’m not really in the talking mood, so-” you said as you looped your arm through Scott’s. 

“Plus, talking’s kind of a change of pace for you guys,” Stiles interrupted you as he walked up to the group. “Usually, you’re just hurting, maiming, and killing.”

“You need a pack,” Ethan continued like he didn’t hear you and Stiles. “We need an alpha.” 

“Yeah …” Stiles pretended to think about it. “Absolutely not. That’s hilarious though.”

“You came to us for help. We helped.” 

“You beat his face into a bloody pulp,” Stiles argued. “That’s not helping. In my opinion, that’s actually counterproductive.” 

“Seriously, that’s what you guys were doing while I-” you started, pulling on Scott’s arm again.

“Why would I say yes?” Scott asked interrupted. 

“We’d add to your strength. We’d make you more powerful,” Aiden said. “There’s no reason to say no.” 

You rolled your eyes. You liked it better when he wasn’t talking. 

“I can think of one,” Isaac said as he strode over, pointing a finger at them with the same hand that was holding Cora’s. “Like the two of you holding Derek’s claws while Kali impaled Boyd.” 

“Yeah, that was real helpful, guys,” you said sarcastically.

“I don’t know why we’re not impaling them right now,” Cora chimed in. 

Aiden shifted just enough for his blue eyes to shine and his fangs to drop. “You wanna try?” 

You stepped forward and put a hand out to Cora to stop her from engaging. Scott pulled Isaac back by his wrist. You took a deep breath and stepped back so you weren’t in the middle of everything.

“Sorry, but they don’t trust you,” Scott said, diffusing the situation. “And neither do I.” 

He pushed past them and Stiles followed. You started to as well, but stopped when Cora lingered. You grabbed her hand and pulled her away from them, and Isaac trailed after the two of you. 

“I don’t get why you always stick up for them,” Cora said once you were a few feet away. 

“I don’t stick up for them,” you said. “I just don’t want you to all worked up before your big geometry test.”

“Ugh, don’t remind me.”

---

The school was a nightmare. You hated mischief night. As fun as it was to pull pranks and get free candy, it was exponentially less fun to hit with a toilet paper roll on your way to class. You put on a smile for Cora because she was having enough trouble adjusting to high school as it is. The look of relief on her face when Derek called was enough for you to encourage her to ditch the rest of the day. Yeah, she needed to catch up a lot but she also needed to not murder her classmates. 

Noah had come to deliver an announcement to the school and you’d bumped into him in the hallway. The two of you were talking about the book you were reading in English when Stiles came running up to you. 

“The William Barrow?” he asked, bulldozing over your conversation. “The Shrapnel Bomber? Spotted nearby?” 

“Stiles, what are you-” 

“A little closer than nearby, actually,” Noah admitted. 

The frown on your face deepened as your dad blew past with a team of officers, talking about he needed to know where every entrance and exit in the school was. 

“Okay, can either of you tell me what’s going on here?” you asked. Your eyes followed your dad until he rounded a corner. 

Noah told you about the bomb that Barrow set up years ago and then he told you the reason why he did it. The kids on the bus had glowing eyes. And now he’d escaped from the hospital, with the intent to set off another bomb. 

“We, um-” you put your hand on Stiles’ arm after Noah. “We happen to have some friends with glowing eyes.”

“Yeah,” he sighed. “You wanna tell ‘em or should I?” 

The original plan was to split up to cover more ground, but at some point you’d met up and gathered Lydia and Allison to tell them what happened. The police already cleared the building but Lydia was sure Barrow was still there, and you had to figure out what to do once he was caught. 

“The bestiary is literally a thousand pages long,” Allison said as she lifted the blinds. “If I’m going to find anything about flies coming out of people’s bodies, it could take me all night.” 

“I’ll help you,” you said. Stiles was giving you a look. “It’ll go by faster that way and it’s not like I can concentrate on my classes with Barrow still out there.” 

He nodded and you started following Allison out the window. 

“And remember,” Lydia said, “The word in archaic Latin for fly is ‘musca.’”

“Got it,” Allison said as she climbed over the ledge. 

“See you guys later,” you smiled and waved at them before following her out.

---

After a good few hours of combing through the bestiary for any mention of flies, Chris got home with dinner. Allison pushed herself up and walked over to the door, throwing a look over her shoulder to you. 

“You coming?” she asked. 

“Yeah,” you sighed. “You go ahead. I’m gonna call Scott with an update.” 

“Okay,” she smiled. “Hey, uh, I know this is awkward, but-” you raised an eyebrow and she laughed. “Never mind. I’ll save you some pizza.” 

“You’re the best.” You grinned at her as she closed the door behind her. You dug out your phone and got up while you waited for it to ring. Voicemail.

“Okay, so Allison and I have basically spent the day doing nothing,” you sighed as you paced. “Well, nothing helpful. Flies are able to carry messages from the dead, but Barrow’s not dead. Beelzebub is the Lord of the Flies, but I think he probably has better things to do than mess with teenagers.” The lights started flickering and you got quieter. “Just call me back, okay?” 

You hung up and walked over to the door, but it wouldn’t open. You tried again but it was locked. You heard something fall over and spun around to find five shadowy figures getting closer to you. You engaged Derek’s knife and called for Allison, but it didn’t help. Fighting didn’t help. 

You heard the Argents yelling your name when they closed in, but they started to sound further away. The room was cold. One of the shadows put their hand on the side of your face. They cradled your face, and you were faintly aware of the burning sensation. Just like you were faintly aware of your screaming. 

You couldn’t pull your eyes away from the glowing orbs just behind the shadow. Or were they in front? They were gone in the instant that you blinked. And so was everything else - except for the darkness. 

You weren’t sure how much time had passed between calling Scott and Chris pouring water on your face. You gasped as you woke up and scrambled to get your back against a wall. 

“Y/N, what happened?” Allison asked, trying to get close to you. 

“I- I don’t know,” you said. You were stuttering. You were freezing. “There were five of them. They- they came out of the shadows. They were the shadows-” 

Your phone lit up and you could see Stiles’ name flash across the screen. He could be in danger. You reached for it and got up. 

“I-I have to go,” you said. 

“Y/N, wait-” Allison caught your arm. “What happened?”

“They were wearing black and I couldn’t see their faces. Their eyes were …” you searched for the word. “Haunting. Glowing. Almost like …” 

“Like what?” 

“Fireflies.” 

---

You ran out of the Argents’ apartment building and called Stiles. He didn’t answer. You checked your messages. 

“Hey, so don’t panic,” he started. You hated it when he said that. “I know you hate when I say that but just- just trust me, okay? Barrow was after Kira and we’re on our way to the substation to go save her. It’s no big deal. Call me when you get this.” 

You checked your most recent message. 

“Okay, so you didn’t call me. It’s cool. It’s fine. Scott says you called him but whatever.” He took a breath. “Uh, this is kind of awkward but your dad is kind of taking us into custody because we may or may not have destroyed the power station. If you could meet me at the police station, that would be great. Oh, this is Stiles, by the way. In case you didn’t notice from the-” 

Your phone cut him off and you shoved your phone in your pocket and started heading to the police station. Scott, Kira, Lydia, and Stiles were on their way out when they got there. 

“Oh, so your phone does work?” Stiles asked as you ran up to him. You almost tackled him with the hug you gave him. “Woah, hey, I’m fine. I told you- why are you so cold?” 

“I don’t- just hug me, okay?” 

“Yeah, okay,” he said softly, tightening his grip around you. You pulled away when Scott cleared his throat and handed you his jacket. 

“What happened?” he asked. “You look terrible.” 

“Thanks,” you mumbled. “I don’t know exactly what happened. I was at Allison’s and I called you … and the power went out so I tried to go find Allison. The door was locked and-” you looked up at Kira. “I’ll tell you at home, okay? Right now, I just want to go home.” 

---

Not to sound narcissistic or anything, but considering this was the second time you almost died in six months, you expected a little more concern. But Scott was more concerned about Kira getting her phone back. He even gave her your helmet so she could ride on the bike with him! Sure, you hated that bike but still. A little brotherly concern would be nice. 

“Okay, this one will get you into all of the perimeter doors,” Stiles explained as he handed Scott a key. You stopped sulking in the passenger’s seat and paid attention. “This one into the evidence room. And this one’s for my father’s office.” 

“You didn’t steal these, did you?” Scott asked. You rolled your eyes. 

“No. I cloned them using the RFID emulator,” Stiles answered with a nod. 

“Is that worse than stealing?” Scott asked, frown on his face. 

“That depends on your definition of worse,” you said, leaning over the armrest to get closer to the conversation. “But it’s a lot smarter.” 

“Aww, thanks,” Stiles smiled and looked down at you. You realized just how much closer you had gotten. 

“Uh, Scott, can I ask you something?” Kira asked. She led Scott a few feet away and you moved back to your side of the car.

“So they’re cute together. Don’t you think?” you asked. 

“Who?” Stiles asked. You pulled a face. “Oh, Scott and Kira? I mean, yeah. They’ve both got that sunshine child thing going for them.” 

“Yeah, but-” you stopped when they headed back to the car. 

“Okay,” Stiles grinned at them. “So, now almost everybody’s out dealing with the blackout. But there’s always somebody at the front desk. There’s dispatch and usually a night shifter or two.”

You listened as Stiles explained the plan to the two of them and that he could only be lookout because of the investigation around Noah. That your dad was in charge of. He sunk back in his seat and watched Scott and Kira leave. 

“So you think they’ve got a shot at pulling this off by themselves?” you asked quietly, slumping back in your chair. 

“Oh, not a chance in hell,” Stiles answered. “But Scott goes along with all my dumb ideas so-” 

“Your ideas aren’t dumb,” you said, pushing yourself up. “Reckless, maybe. Never dumb.” 

“You think so?” Stiles asked. 

“Of course.” 

“Listen, we, uh, never really got the chance to talk,” Stiles started. “About, you know, that night our parents were missing … and Scott wasn’t …” 

“I remember,” you said.

“You do? Great, uh …” he took a deep breath. “Listen, I’m really sorry for-” 

A car pulled in front and you pulled Stiles down. Peering over the dashboard, you saw that it was your dad. Stiles was unusually quiet next to you. 

“I’ve gotta go help them,” you whispered. You were so close to him. 

“Yeah,” he said quietly. “I understand. I’ll, uh, text Scott.” 

You nodded and made your way into the building. What you were going to talk to your dad about, you had no idea. But you had to try. 

“Dad!” you called after him, pushing through the doors. “Dad! I need to talk to you.” 

Rafael looked surprised to see you. You couldn’t blame him. “What’s wrong?” 

“I just-” you took a breath. You needed something. “Why did you stop coming to see me? I know Willow Creek was a lot closer, but why didn’t you … call? Or text?” 

Rafael looked away and took a deep breath. “Y/N, I … I thought we were in a good place.” 

“We were, but then I got kicked out and you dropped off the map,” you said. “You didn’t even tell me you were coming home.” 

“I didn’t want to have to bring you guys into this,” he explained. “I just wanted-” 

“Wanted what? To do your job and leave?” you asked. “Were you even going to tell us that you were back?” 

You heard the doors open and felt Stiles stop next to you. Rafael was staring at him but you couldn’t look away from your dad. 

“Stiles, what are you doing here?” he asked. 

“I-” 

“I asked him to come,” you said. “Because he’s always been there for me. Just like Noah has always been there for me. Unlike you.” 

You turned to leave and Stiles said he’d be right behind you. You stormed out to the parking lot and sat on the Jeep’s hood while you waited for everyone to finish. 

Stiles was out first, but he didn’t say anything. A few seconds later, Scott and Kira ran out with dumb, goofy grins on their faces. 

“Are you finished?” you asked. 

“Yep! All the pics deleted,” Scott beamed. 

“That was awesome!” Kira was still visibly excited. “I mean, terrifying. Completely terrifying, but kind of awesome! I’ve never done anything like that before. Have you?” 

You choked back some laughter when you saw how quickly Scott’s face fell. 

“Yeah, once or twice,” Stiles said. Kira hummed in acknowledgment. 

“So I guess I should take you home,” Scott said. Kira looked a little crestfallen as they walked away. 

Stiles turned to you. “I guess that’s our cue, huh? After all the excitement of, uh, getting some new emotional baggage to carry around?” 

You laughed pushed yourself off the Jeep. “You know … Cora texted me something about a blacklight party at the loft. If you wanna take your troubled childhood and use it as an excuse to do a little underaged drinking?” 

“I don’t need to use my troubled childhood an excuse for my underaged drinking,” Stiles scoffed. “I’ve got plenty of other reasons to drink underage!” 

You met up with Scott and Kira at the party, but excused yourself to grab some waters for the group. Before anything too crazy happened, you needed to make sure everyone at least had some water in their systems. 

When you got back to the group, however, you found Stiles’ face smeared with luminescent lipstick. You handed the waters out and shoved Stiles’ in his chest. “Seriously?” 

“Y/N, it’s not- it’s not like that!” he yelled over the music. You were already stomping away. 

“I don’t think I care what it’s like anymore,” you said. You laughed. “I mean, honestly, Stiles, I don’t know what I expected. Go have fun with whoever kissed you. Heck, go have fun with Lydia! Just leave me alone.” 

You shrugged him off and went to find wherever they kept the alcohol in the loft. You ended up finding Allison and handed her another drink. She was staring in the direction of Cora and Isaac slow dancing to electro-dance music. 

“Rough night for you, too?” you asked, bumping into her arm. 

“I’m not moping,” she said when she turned to you. “Seriously, I’m not. So don’t pity me.” 

“So this doesn’t have anything to do with the fact that Scott’s here with Kira and you thought Isaac was into you until he asked Cora out?” you asked, downing your own drink. 

“Maybe,” she admitted. “Okay, give me that. I’m not moping sober.”

“That’s the spirit!” you laughed. 

“Wait, why are you moping?” she asked a few drinks later. “And why is Stiles dancing with some girl in a wig?” 

“I’m moping because he’s dancing with some girl in a wig,” you said. “God, I can’t believe I just said that out loud.” 

“So you’re seriously saying you’ve never told anyone how you feel about him?” Allison asked, laughing slightly. 

“I’m saying that …” you sighed. Looking around the room. “That I need to find Lydia. How long has it been since you saw her?” 

“I don’t know … a little while ago.” She frowned. “You’re right. We should find her.” 

You got lost in the crowd and eventually found Stiles racing out of the loft. You grabbed his arm. 

“Hey, have you seen Lydia?” you asked. 

“Seriously, you’re still mad at me about that?” he asked. 

“No- well, yes. But I haven’t seen her since we got here and I’m really worried about her,” you said. 

“I’m sure she’s just making out with Aiden somewhere,” he sighed. “Is that all? Because I’ve gotta go.”

“Where are you going?” you asked. 

He sighed again and pulled out a key. It was glowing under the UV light. “To figure this out.”

---

The sun had started to come up by the time you and Stiles broke into the chemistry classroom. Stiles closed the door carefully behind you and then went to the supply closet. His mystery key fit perfectly. 

“Stiles, that doesn’t mean anything,” you said gently. 

“What? You’re talking to me now?” His words were harsh but his voice was quiet. He was confused. Hurt. 

You watched him go up to the blackboard and take a piece of chalk. He wrote matching atomic numbers next to the originals. His handwriting was an exact match. 

“Does that also not mean anything?” he asked. His voice was shallow. 

You put your hand on his and took the chalk out of his grip. “Hey,” you said gently. “Look at me, okay? Stop looking at the numbers.” 

He did. There were tears in his eyes. “I thought you were mad at me?” 

“I was,” you said. “But I think I was just jealous. It doesn’t matter now.” 

“You forgive me?” he asked. 

“I-” you looked down. And you realized that you did forgive him. He’d done nothing wrong. “I understand that it wasn’t your fault. There’s nothing to forgive.” 

“There’s a lot to forgive,” he said. “Y/N, I- I’m scared. I don’t remember doing this. I’m getting worse.” 

“I know,” you said softly. “So am I. I think Allison’s the only one that's not … not falling apart.”

“I’ve been having these nightmares,” he started. He shook his head and scratched his neck. “I don’t know. Can you still call them nightmares if they happen when you're awake? Or when I think I'm awake. Am I awake?”

“As awake as I am,” you said. 

You reached for his hand when he started picking at his nails again. They were a little bloody and ragged looking, but that didn't matter to you. 

“You promise?” His voice was small and it trembled with every word. He looked like a scared little boy. 

“No matter what.” 

You squeezed his hands and pulled him into a hug. When he pulled away, his hand was cupping your jaw. He ran a hand through your hair, finger stopping behind your ear, and frowned. 

“What’s wrong?”  you asked, tilting your head to the side. 

“Nothing.” His eyes snapped up to meet yours. “Nothing at all.”

You frowned. He was acting strange. “You’re sure nothing's wrong? Cause you’re acting a little-” 

“Actually, I’ve gotta go,” he said. He pulled away and started heading for the door. “I can’t do this.”

“Do what?” You asked, walking behind him. He was going so fast. “Stiles, you drove me here. Stiles!”

But he was gone when you reached the hallway.

“Great,” you mumbled. “Looks like I’m walking home.”

Part 17

#stiles stilinski #stiles stilinksi x reader #stiles slow burn #stiles stilinksi imagine #so close #teen wolf #teen wolf au #teen wolf rewrite #mccall!reader