#and my little Anthea! i wish I could give you the dark blue hair you deserve! | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

simpforfandom231 · 4 months

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Goddess with feelings *PT2*

As Anne and Y/N grappled with the shock of their newfound reality, Anne took a deep breath, attempting to steer the conversation towards practicality. "Y/N, we need to find a safe place, somewhere away from the eyes of mortals. Kronos will be relentless in his pursuit. Classes and your responsibilities will have to wait. We can't afford to underestimate the threat," Anne advised, her gaze reflecting a mix of urgency and concern.

Y/N, however, stubbornly shook her head. "Look, Anne, I get that this is serious, but I can't just abandon everything. I have classes to attend, and my little brother is at home. I can't leave him alone, especially with... whatever's happening."

Anne, her patience wearing thin, couldn't help but respond with a touch of sarcasm, "Y/N, do you really think Kronos cares about your class schedule or your little brother? This is bigger than any of our individual lives. We need to prioritize staying safe and finding a way to stop him."

Y/N, undeterred, retorted, "I understand, Anne, but I can't just drop everything. I need to pick up my little brother from home. He'll be alone, and I won't leave him in the dark about all this craziness."

Anne, realizing the gravity of Y/N's responsibilities, sighed. "Fine. We'll go get your little brother, but we can't take any unnecessary risks. Once we have him, we need to find a secure location. I know of a place that should offer some protection," Anne suggested, her tone more conciliatory.

Y/N nodded, appreciating the compromise. "Alright, let's go. I just need to make sure my brother is safe and then figure out how to wrap my head around all of this," she admitted, her voice a mix of determination and apprehension.

As Y/N started the car, the engine's low hum accompanied a brief moment of silence. Finally, unable to contain her confusion, Y/N turned to Anne and hesitantly asked, "So, do I call you Anne or Anthea? I mean, it's all still a bit confusing."

Anne, with a small smile, responded, "You can call me Anne. Anthea is more of a... divine name, I guess you could say. It's easier for everyday conversations."

Y/N chuckled nervously, the weight of the situation still sinking in. "Everyday conversations with a goddess. Never thought I'd check that off my bucket list."

Anne joined in the laughter, appreciating Y/N's attempt to inject humor into the surreal circumstances. "Believe me, Y/N, if I had a choice, I'd prefer less divine interventions in my life too."

Y/N grinned, finding comfort in the shared camaraderie. "Alright then, Anne. Let's go get my brother and figure out how to deal with the whole Kronos situation. I mean, do we need some sort of divine weapons or a manual on 'How to Stop Ancient Evils for Dummies'?"

Anne chuckled, "I wish it were that straightforward. But we'll figure it out together. And who knows, maybe we'll find a way to make this mess a little less divine and a bit more manageable."

As they drove through the city, navigating the familiar streets now tinged with an otherworldly tension, Y/N couldn't help but marvel at the bizarre turn her life had taken. Anne, the goddess of time, sat beside her, offering both guidance and an anchor in the storm of uncertainty.

The air inside Y/N's home felt tense as they entered. Y/N called out, "Matthew! Where are you?"

A moment later, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed down the hallway, and a young boy with blond, curly hair and crystal-clear blue eyes appeared. Matthew, around 16 years old, wore a mix of confusion and curiosity on his face as he looked at Y/N and Anne.

"Hey, Y/N, who's your friend?" Matthew asked, giving them both a quizzical look. His athletic posture and freckles on his face added to the youthful energy that radiated from him.

Y/N exchanged a glance with Anne before answering, "Matt, this is Anne. She's, um, a friend from class. We, uh, have a project to work on together."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, sizing up Anne with a scrutinizing gaze. "A project? You never mentioned bringing anyone over for a project. What's it about?"

Anne, maintaining a composed demeanor, stepped forward with a friendly smile. "Hey, Matthew. It's a surprise project. Y/N thought it'd be cool to get some extra help, and I'm happy to lend a hand."

Matthew's skepticism lingered, but he nodded, accepting the explanation. "Alright, as long as it's nothing too weird. I've got homework to finish, so don't distract me too much."

Y/N shot Anne a subtle look, a silent plea for understanding. Anne responded with a nod, acknowledging the delicate balance they needed to maintain.

As Matthew headed back to his room, Y/N turned to Anne with a whispered aside, "I didn't want to drop the whole 'goddess and ancient evil' bomb on him just yet. He's got enough on his plate with school and all."

Anne agreed with a subtle nod, "We'll tell him when the time is right. For now, let's focus on keeping everyone safe."

As Y/N and Anne prepared lunch packs for their journey, Y/N carefully selected snacks and sandwiches, her mind racing with the weight of the revelations she was about to share with her little brother. Anne, curious about the family dynamics, couldn't help but ask, "So, what about your parents? Are they going to be okay with us taking this trip?"

Y/N's expression shifted, and she sighed, realizing she couldn't keep the truth hidden any longer. "Anne, my parents... they're not with us anymore. They passed away in a car crash a few years ago. It's just me and Matthew now," she confessed, her eyes revealing a mix of sorrow and resilience.

Anne, taken aback by the unexpected revelation, placed a comforting hand on Y/N's shoulder. "I'm so sorry, Y/N. I had no idea."

Y/N managed a small smile, appreciating Anne's empathy. "It's okay. We've learned to cope, and Matthew is the reason I keep going. He's all I have left, and I can't lose him too."

Anne nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "We'll do everything we can to keep him safe. I promise."

With the lunch packs ready and the truth laid bare, Y/N called out, "Matthew! Get your coat; we're going on a little road trip!"

Matthew, still unaware of the extraordinary circumstances unfolding, appeared in the hallway, slipping into his coat. "Road trip? Where are we going?"

Y/N shot Anne a brief glance, silently asking for support. "It's a surprise, Matt. Just grab your stuff, and we'll explain on the way. It's going to be an adventure."

Matthew grinned, always up for a bit of excitement. "Alright, sounds cool. Let's do it."

As the three of them made their way to the car, Y/N couldn't shake the mix of emotions.

The car pulled away from the familiar curb, and Anne slid into the driver's seat. As Matthew settled into the back, he casually remarked, "Hey, this is your car, right, Y/N? Since when did you let someone else drive it?"

Y/N shot a glance at Anne, the weight of the situation pressing on her. "It's fine, Matt. Anne knows what she's doing."

Matthew, ever the curious teenager, raised an eyebrow. "Anne? You've never mentioned her before. And I thought you said her name was just Anne, not Anthea."

Y/N hesitated for a moment, glancing at Anne before responding, "Well, yeah, Anne is short for Anthea. It's just a nickname she goes by. And I never really talked much about her before because, you know, she's a recent friend from class."

Matthew eyed them both suspiciously. "A recent friend who's driving us on a surprise road trip? What's going on, Y/N?"

Anne, from the driver's seat, decided to jump in. "Matthew, Y/N and I are working on a special project, and we thought a change of scenery might help us. It's nothing to worry about; just consider it a spontaneous adventure."

Matthew, his curiosity piqued, asked, "Special project? What kind of project involves a road trip?"

Y/N shot Anne a quick look, silently asking for help with the explanation. "It's, uh, a research project for class. We're exploring different places to gather data. You know, like a field trip."

Matthew narrowed his eyes. "Field trip? Since when do field trips involve a surprise lunch pack and a mysterious destination?"

Anne, ever composed, chimed in, "It's a special project, Matthew. Trust me; it's all perfectly normal for this kind of research."

Matthew leaned forward, eyeing Anne curiously. "So, Y/N, is Anne your girlfriend?"

Y/N, caught off guard by the unexpected question, stammered, "What? No, Matt, she's just a friend. Why would you even think that?"

Matthew grinned mischievously. "Well, you're going on a road trip together, working on a special project. I've seen enough movies to know how this usually goes."

Y/N rolled her eyes, trying to hide her blush. "Trust me, Matt, it's not like that. Anne's just a friend. A really, really good friend."

Anne, sensing the need to steer the conversation away from potential awkwardness, interjected, "Let's focus on the road ahead, shall we? I know a safe place in New York where we can continue our research. It's going to be an interesting journey."

The car pulled into a well-lit gas station, its fluorescent lights casting an artificial glow on the surroundings. Anne expertly parked the vehicle, and as the engine hummed to a temporary pause, Y/N turned to Matthew and said, "Alright, Matt, quick pit stop. We need some snacks and energy drinks for the road. Anything specific you want?"

Matthew, always up for a snack run, grinned. "Surprise me! Just make sure to grab some of those fancy energy drinks."

As they stepped out of the car into the brisk night air, Anne stretched her legs, scanning the area with a watchful eye. Y/N and Matthew headed towards the convenience store section of the gas station.

Inside, the familiar hum of refrigerators and the scent of freshly brewed coffee greeted them. Y/N grabbed a basket, tossing in an assortment of snacks and, as requested, a variety of energy drinks. Matthew, eyes widening at the selection, couldn't hide his excitement.

"Whoa, you guys went all out! This is like a mini convenience store haul," he exclaimed, his enthusiasm contagious.

Y/N chuckled. "Well, we might be on the road for a while, so better stock up. Plus, I'm pretty sure we'll need the energy for whatever comes next."

As they approached the checkout counter, Matthew pointed to a display of travel-sized board games. "Hey, how about grabbing one of these? Might as well make the trip more fun."

Y/N, amused by the suggestion, added a compact board game to their haul. "Good call, Matt. It's a road trip; we've got to have some entertainment."

Back outside, Anne was waiting by the car, her expression unreadable. As Y/N handed her a bag with snacks and drinks, she noticed Anne's focused gaze.

"Everything alright?" Y/N asked, a subtle concern in her voice.

Anne nodded. "Just staying vigilant. We can't afford to let our guard down, especially with Kronos on our trail."

Y/N sighed, the reality of their situation sinking in. "Yeah, you're right. Let's just hope the energy drinks help us stay alert and ready for whatever comes our way."

The hum of the engine filled the car as Y/N took the wheel, and the road stretched out before them in the moonlit night. Glancing over at Anne in the passenger seat, Y/N noticed a faint golden glow in her eyes, catching her attention.

"Hey, Anne, what's with the golden glow in your eyes? Is that some kind of side effect of your powers?" Y/N inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Anne hesitated for a moment before answering, "It's... it's when I feel the rush of my powers or when strong emotions are coursing through me."

Y/N raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Emotions, huh? What kind of emotions make your eyes glow like that?"

Anne glanced out of the window, the soft glow casting a gentle light on her features. "Various emotions, really. It's a side effect of being a goddess. Sometimes it's linked to the intensity of the moment, whether it's anger, joy, or..."

Y/N sensed a subtle hesitation in Anne's voice. "Or what?"

Anne sighed, her eyes briefly meeting Y/N's before returning to the road. "Or, well, other emotions."

Y/N smirked, playfully teasing, "Other emotions? You're being a bit mysterious there, Anne. Spill the beans!"

Anne, unable to hide a faint blush, glanced back at Y/N. "It's... it's complicated. I don't always understand these feelings. They're different, and I'm not sure how to explain."

Y/N, now intrigued by the unexpected confession, couldn't resist pressing further. "Different feelings? Come on, Anne, you can't drop a bomb like that and not elaborate. What's going on?"

Anne took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on the road ahead. "Alright, Y/N, I'll be honest with you. I... I have strong feelings, and I'm not entirely sure how to define them. They're unlike anything I've experienced before."

Y/N, caught off guard by Anne's vulnerability, glanced at her with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "Feelings? Like, romantic feelings?"

Anne nodded, her blush deepening. "Yes, but it's more than that. I care about you deeply, Y/N. It's just... I'm not sure how to navigate these emotions. They're new to me."

Y/N, absorbing Anne's confession, felt a mix of emotions herself. "Anne, you're not alone in this. We're navigating uncharted territory together. And, you know, whatever you're feeling, I'm here for you."

Anne, grateful for Y/N's understanding, managed a small smile. "Thank you, Y/N. I appreciate your patience. This journey we're on, it's not just about Kronos and the ancient threats. It's about unraveling the mysteries of ourselves too."

Y/N, feeling a mix of curiosity and empathy for Anne's uncertainty, couldn't resist probing a bit further. "Anne, have you ever felt these... romantic feelings before? Like, for someone else?"

Anne glanced at Y/N, her expression contemplative. "I don't think so. I mean, I've been around for a long time, and emotions have always been a bit different for me. Romantic feelings, though, they're a mystery. I don't fully understand what they mean."

Y/N, realizing Anne's lack of experience in this aspect, decided to offer a more relatable explanation. "Well, romantic feelings are like this warm, fluttery sensation in your chest. Sometimes, you can't stop thinking about the person, and their happiness becomes really important to you. It's like... you want to be close to them and share moments that go beyond friendship."

Anne furrowed her brows, attempting to grasp the concept. "Close... beyond friendship? I've always cared about you, Y/N. Is that what this is?"

Y/N smiled, recognizing Anne's sincerity. "It could be. Romantic feelings are complex, Anne. They involve attraction, emotional connection, and a desire for something deeper. It's like finding a special connection with someone that goes beyond what you feel for other people."

Anne nodded, her eyes fixed on the road. "I see. It's a lot to take in, but I appreciate your patience and understanding, Y/N."

As Y/N stole a glance in the rearview mirror to check on Matthew, she noticed he had dozed off, his head comfortably resting against the window.

"Looks like Matthew's catching some Zs back there. Perfect time for deep conversations," Y/N remarked, attempting to lighten the mood.

Anne chuckled softly. "Indeed. I'm grateful for your openness, Y/N. These emotions are new to me, and having someone to navigate them with makes it a bit less daunting."

Y/N reached over, giving Anne's hand a reassuring squeeze. "You're not alone in this, Anne. We'll figure it out together, one mystery at a time."

As the road stretched out before them, the car carried not only the weight of an ancient threat but also the delicate journey of self-discovery and the exploration of emotions that transcended time itself.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky as Y/N continued to navigate the road. In the quiet of the car, the golden glow in Anne's eyes persisted, adding an ethereal touch to the fading daylight.

A familiar beat started playing on the car's stereo, and Y/N recognized it as "Shower" by Becky G. Anne, seemingly lost in the music, began to tap her fingers on the dashboard before breaking into a grin.

"Oh, I love this song!" Anne exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with a mischievous glint.

Y/N chuckled, the seriousness of their journey momentarily forgotten. "Yeah? Well, let's hear it then!"

As the infectious melody filled the car, Anne's hesitation seemed to melt away. She began to sing along with Becky G's lyrics, her voice surprisingly vibrant and filled with genuine enthusiasm. The golden glow in her eyes flickered with the rhythm of the music, adding an unexpected flair to the impromptu performance.

(Chorus) ♫ You light me up inside Like the fourth of July Whenever you're around I always seem to smile ♫

Anne, fully immersed in the moment, glanced at Y/N with a playful smile. Y/N couldn't help but join in the laughter, the joyous atmosphere contagious.

♫ And people ask me how Well, you're the reason why I'm dancing in the mirror And singing in the shower ♫

Anne, still singing, couldn't resist a bit of teasing. "Come on, Y/N, join me! It's therapeutic, I promise!"

Y/N, caught off guard but amused, began singing along, matching Anne's infectious energy.

(Chorus) ♫ La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la Singing in the shower La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la Singing in the shower ♫

Anne's eyes sparkled with a mixture of joy and the golden glow that seemed to intensify with the rhythm of the music. The car became a makeshift stage, and the duo, lost in the melody, embraced the spontaneity of the moment.

As the last notes of the chorus faded away, Anne laughed, the glow in her eyes softening. "That was fun! Sometimes you just need a good song to lighten the mood."

Y/N grinned, the weight of their journey momentarily lifted. "You've got a surprisingly great singing voice, Anne. Who would've thought?"

Anne shrugged with a playful smirk. "Being around for a few millennia gives you some hidden talents, I suppose."

As the sun disappeared below the horizon, leaving the world bathed in twilight, the car continued its journey into the night. The road ahead held challenges and mysteries, but for now, the echoes of laughter and the memory of an impromptu sing-along lingered in the air.

The road stretched out ahead, illuminated only by the faint glow of the moon and the soft beams of the car's headlights. Y/N, focused on the task of driving through the night, stole glances at the rearview mirror. There, Anne and Matthew were peacefully asleep, each lost in their own dreams.

Anne, with her golden glow now subdued, seemed almost ordinary in her slumber. The weight of her goddess status lifted momentarily as she rested, the complexities of her divine nature temporarily put on hold.

Matthew, in the backseat, curled up with the gentle sway of the car's motion. His earlier curiosity and excitement had given way to the tranquility of sleep, the events of the night tucked away in the realm of dreams.

As Y/N drove through the quiet night, the hum of the engine was the only audible sound. The world outside seemed to sleep alongside them, as if holding its breath in anticipation of what the new day would bring.

The soft hum of the tires on the road, the occasional rustling of leaves in the night breeze, and the rhythmic breathing of Anne and Matthew created a serene symphony within the confines of the car.

Y/N couldn't help but reflect on the events of the day. From unexpected confessions to impromptu sing-alongs, it had been a journey of surprises and revelations. The challenges that lay ahead seemed distant, temporarily eclipsed by the quiet beauty of the night.

As the car continued to glide through the darkness, Y/N's focus remained on the road ahead. The occasional glance at Anne and Matthew served as a reminder of the newfound companionship and the shared purpose that bound them together.

The night held its secrets, and the road unfolded like an unwritten story. With Anne and Matthew peacefully asleep, Y/N embraced the solitude of the quiet drive, ready to face whatever challenges the coming dawn might bring.

The motel, nestled on the outskirts of a small town, appeared nondescript in the pale glow of the moon. Y/N pulled into the parking lot, the engine's soft purr signaling a temporary respite from the road.

"We could all use some rest," Y/N muttered, her eyes heavy with fatigue.

Anne, still feeling a strange sense of unease, surveyed the dimly lit motel entrance. The receptionist, an elderly woman with weary eyes, seemed to cast a prolonged gaze at Anne before averting her eyes.

"Something feels off," Anne murmured to Y/N as they approached the reception desk.

Y/N, oblivious to Anne's unease, yawned and stretched. "I just want to get some shut-eye. Let's get a room for the night."

The receptionist, her gaze lingering on Anne again, greeted them with a forced smile. "How many nights will you be staying?"

"Just one night," Y/N replied, suppressing another yawn. "We need a room for three, please."

Matthew, half asleep and leaning against the counter, mumbled, "Yeah, a bed sounds great right now."

The receptionist's eyes flickered over Anne once more before handing Y/N a key. "Room 4. Sleep well."

As they made their way to the room, Anne couldn't shake the strange feeling. "Did you notice the receptionist? She seemed... off."

Y/N, too preoccupied with thoughts of sleep, shrugged. "Probably just tired. Let's get some rest, and we can figure out our next move in the morning."

Entering the room, they found it dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of old furnishings. Matthew, now more awake, plopped onto one of the beds. "This place feels kinda creepy."

Anne, still uneasy, nodded in agreement. "I'm getting a strange vibe too, Matthew."

Y/N, pulling off her shoes and collapsing onto the bed, dismissed their concerns. "It's just a motel, guys. Let's get some sleep. We have a lot to deal with tomorrow."

The first light of dawn gently filtered through the motel room's curtains as Y/N stirred from her slumber. The events of the previous day and the uneasy night at the motel lingered in her mind. Glancing at the clock, she realized it was still early, and the motel's swimming pool from the night before beckoned her.

Quietly slipping out of bed, Y/N tiptoed past the sleeping forms of Anne and Matthew. She grabbed a towel, slipped into her swimsuit, and made her way to the pool area.

The motel's courtyard was serene, the morning air carrying a crisp chill. The swimming pool reflected the soft hues of the waking sky, and Y/N felt a sense of calm as she dipped her toes into the cool water.

As Y/N began her morning swim, the rhythmic strokes echoed in the quiet stillness. The water offered a momentary escape from the challenges they faced, and the gentle exercise helped clear her mind.

Meanwhile, back in the room, Anne stirred awake, the unfamiliar surroundings momentarily disorienting. She noticed Matthew still fast asleep and Y/N's absence. Curiosity piqued, Anne decided to investigate.

In the courtyard, Y/N, wrapped in the warmth of the water, enjoyed the solitude. The morning sun began to cast a golden glow across the landscape. As she swam, thoughts of the day ahead and the mysteries that awaited were temporarily pushed aside by the simple pleasure of the moment.

Anne, reaching the pool area, spotted Y/N in the water. "Morning swim, huh?" she called out, a smile playing on her lips.

Y/N, pausing her strokes, grinned back. "Couldn't resist. Want to join me?"

Anne chuckled, toeing the edge of the pool. "Maybe later. Matthew's still sleeping. What time is it, anyway?"

Y/N checked the time on her waterproof watch. "Around 6. Early riser habit. You should give it a try sometime."

Anne smirked. "Maybe I will, once I figure out how to sleep without dreaming of ancient evils."

The duo shared a laugh, the morning breeze carrying away the weight of the night. As Y/N continued her swim, Anne settled into a poolside chair, watching the sunrise and the ripples Y/N created in the water.

As Y/N continued her morning swim, the water enveloped her in a soothing embrace, offering a sense of tranquility that eluded her on dry land. She glided through the pool with a grace that seemed almost instinctual, her strokes cutting through the water with a fluidity that spoke of a deep connection.

For Y/N, the water was a sanctuary, a place where the worries of the world momentarily dissolved. She marveled at the calming effect it had on her, a sensation she couldn't quite explain. The gentle lull of the pool seemed to cradle her, as if the liquid embrace held a secret language that only she could understand.

Throughout her life, Y/N had always been drawn to bodies of water—whether it was the ocean's rhythmic waves, a babbling brook, or, in this case, a motel swimming pool. Yet, the allure of water went beyond mere enjoyment; it was a refuge that calmed her restless soul.

As Y/N swam, she reflected on her affinity for water, a mystery that had accompanied her since childhood. It was as if the aquatic realm held a key to unlocking a deeper sense of peace within her. The sounds of splashing and the echo of her own breath underwater created a symphony that drowned out the noise of the outside world.

Back on the poolside, Anne observed Y/N with a thoughtful gaze. "You seem so at ease in the water," she remarked.

Y/N surfaced with a contented smile. "Yeah, it's always been that way. I can't quite explain it, but being in the water just... centers me. It's like my mind finds clarity, and the worries just drift away."

Anne nodded, a hint of understanding in her eyes. "It's fascinating. I've never seen someone connect with water like you do."

Y/N, treading water, looked up at the morning sky. "Maybe it's just a personal thing. Water has this incredible ability to cleanse and renew. It's a haven for me."

The two friends shared a quiet moment by the pool, each contemplating the mysterious connection Y/N had with water.

As Y/N emerged from the pool, droplets of water glistening on her skin, Anne couldn't shake the subtle intuition that had been growing within her. There was something about Y/N, something beyond the ordinary, that tugged at the edges of Anne's consciousness.

Observing Y/N with a thoughtful expression, Anne finally voiced her growing suspicion. "Y/N, there's something... different about you. Something I can't quite put into words."

Y/N, wrapping a towel around herself, raised an eyebrow. "Different? How so?"

Anne hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "It's as if there's a connection, a resonance with something greater. I can't quite pinpoint it, but it's like you carry an energy that echoes with the divine."

Y/N chuckled, dismissing the notion. "Anne, I'm just a regular person. Nothing divine about me."

Anne, persistent in her gut feeling, insisted, "I've been around for a long time, Y/N, and I can sense when something is out of the ordinary. Your connection with water, the calm it brings you—it's more than just a personal affinity. It's like a whisper of something ancient."

Y/N, intrigued yet skeptical, brushed off Anne's observations. "Anne, we're dealing with gods and ancient evils. My connection with water is probably the most mundane thing on the list."

Anne, however, wasn't easily swayed. "Mundane or not, there's a depth to you that transcends the ordinary. It's as if you carry a resonance with the divine, a subtle echo of something beyond our understanding."

Y/N, giving Anne an amused look, teased, "Are you saying I'm a secret demigod or something?"

Anne smiled, "Not exactly. But there's more to you than meets the eye. I can feel it."

Y/N, playfully rolling her eyes at Anne's comments, decided to lighten the mood with a touch of humor. "Anne, I appreciate the mystery vibes, but let's not jump to divine conclusions. Maybe you're just picking up on the fact that you have an immortal, otherworldly goddess crushing on a mere mortal like me."

Anne, caught off guard by the unexpected tease, blushed slightly. "What? No! I mean, it's not like... I'm not... that's not what I meant."

Y/N, still grinning, continued to tease. "So, what, you're saying it's not the gods, it's just you developing a crush on a mere mortal history buff? I'm flattered, really."

Anne, flustered but unable to suppress a smile, stammered, "Y/N, it's not like that! I just meant there's something unique about you, something I can't quite comprehend."

Y/N, enjoying the banter, raised an eyebrow. "Unique? Like, 'I've-never-met-a-mortal-quite-like-you' unique?"

Anne sighed, realizing she was being teased, but couldn't help but play along. "Alright, fine. Maybe there's a chance you're just a fascinating, regular human being. Happy now?"

Y/N chuckled, "Ecstatic. Just remember, if I suddenly start summoning lightning bolts or quoting prophecies, you were the first to notice."

The duo shared a laugh, the playful banter lightening the atmosphere.

As Y/N playfully teased Anne about the possibility of divine crushes, Anne found her gaze inadvertently drifting over Y/N's now wet and glistening form. The soft glow in Anne's eyes, amplified by the playful banter, didn't go unnoticed by Y/N.

With a mischievous grin, Y/N quirked an eyebrow and teased, "Well, well, Anne, is this the divine gaze you were talking about? Are you starting to see the mortal in a whole new light?"

Anne, caught off guard by the direct acknowledgment, blushed deeper. "Y/N, it's not like that! I... I didn't mean to..."

Y/N, still enjoying the moment, chuckled. "Relax, Anne. Just having some fun here. Besides, I thought you said you didn't understand these romantic feelings. Is this what they look like?"

Anne, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement, tried to regain composure. "It's not romantic! It's just... I was, um, observing. Not in a... romantic way. Definitely not."

Y/N couldn't resist pushing the playful banter further. "Observing, huh? Well, feel free to observe all you want, Anne. Just be warned, I might start charging admission for the divine view."

Anne, now thoroughly flustered, stammered, "Y/N, this is not— I mean, I'm not—"

Y/N burst into laughter, finding Anne's shy response utterly endearing. "Okay, okay, I'll stop teasing. No need to get all goddess-on-me. Let's just chalk it up to the mysteries of mortals and immortals getting a little tangled."

Anne, still blushing, managed a shy smile. "Yeah, let's go with that. Mysteries and all."

Anne, attempting to regain some composure after the playful banter, decided to steer the conversation in a different direction. She picked up a towel and, with a friendly smile, handed it to Y/N.

"Here, you might need this. We should probably head inside, get dressed, and check on Matt," Anne suggested, her cheeks still tinged with a lingering blush.

Y/N, accepting the towel with a grin, nodded. "You're right. Wouldn't want Matt to wake up and wonder where we disappeared to."

As they made their way back towards the motel room, Y/N couldn't resist a final tease. "By the way, Anne, if the divine gaze ever needs a repeat performance, just let me know."

Anne, now more used to Y/N's playful nature, rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a small laugh. "You're incorrigible, you know that?"

Y/N winked, "It's all part of my mortal charm."

Matthew, now fully awake and getting dressed, glanced at Anne sitting on the bed, a faint blush still lingering on her cheeks from the earlier banter. He couldn't help but notice her mesmerized expression as Y/N emerged from the bathroom with wet hair, dressed in a sports bra and black cargo pants.

"Anne, you might want to close that mouth before you catch a fly," Matthew teased, a playful smirk on his face.

Anne, snapping out of her unintentional ogling, cleared her throat, her cheeks now matching the hue of her blush. "I, uh... Sorry. I was just... surprised."

Y/N, overhearing the conversation from the other bathroom, chimed in, "What's the surprise, Anne? Never seen a girl in a sports bra before?"

Anne, attempting to recover, raised an eyebrow. "No, it's not that. It's just... unexpected."

Matthew, grinning, added, "Well, you better get used to it. Y/N's not exactly known for following the conventional dress code."

Y/N emerged from the bathroom, her wet hair falling in loose waves around her shoulders. Ignoring the amused glances, she yelled at Matthew, "Come on, slowpoke! We've got places to be, ancient evils to thwart, you know the drill!"

Anne, impressed by Y/N's confidence and killer physique, couldn't help but appreciate the transformation from the shy girl at university to this bold and resilient woman before her.

Matthew, pulling on his jacket, smirked at Anne. "You might want to avert your eyes, Anne. You're making my sister uncomfortable."

Y/N, now standing in front of Anne with a playful smirk, retorted, "Uncomfortable? Please, I'm used to it by now. Anne just needs some time to get used to my irresistible charm."

Anne, regaining her composure, rolled her eyes. "Irresistible charm? More like incorrigible mischief."

As the trio made their way down to the lobby to check out, Anne couldn't help but steal glances at Y/N, who had now changed into a white tank top and cargo pants. Y/N's casual yet effortlessly alluring appearance seemed to defy the challenges they faced, giving her an air of confidence and resilience.

In the soft glow of the lobby lights, Y/N's features seemed to catch the subtle sheen of determination, and the well-defined lines of her physique were accentuated by the snug tank top. The messy ponytail, a stark contrast to the bullied girl Anne had seen in the university halls, added a touch of rebellious charm.

Anne found herself captivated by this transformation, the realization dawning that Y/N wasn't just the history buff she thought she knew. In this moment, Y/N looked like a character from an action movie, a hot spy with an air of mystery and a dash of danger.

Matthew, noticing Anne's prolonged glances, nudged her with a playful smirk. "Enjoying the view, Anne?"

Anne, snapping out of her reverie, blushed slightly. "I... I was just... never mind."

Y/N, catching the exchange, grinned. "Ah, Anne, realizing that even in the face of ancient evils, I can still rock a killer look? It's all part of the package."

Anne, still processing the newfound awareness of her own feelings, managed a nod. "Yeah, well, consider me... pleasantly surprised."

As they approached the lobby desk to check out, Y/N exchanged a quick teasing look with Anne. "You know, Anne, if you're ever in need of a hot spy sidekick, I'm your girl."

Anne, trying to conceal the blush creeping up her cheeks, chuckled. "Noted. Let's just focus on surviving whatever comes our way first."

As Y/N approached the lobby desk to check out, Anne felt a familiar uneasiness settle in the pit of her stomach. The weird old lady behind the counter looked up, her eyes glinting strangely in the dim light.

Anne, suppressing her growing discomfort, leaned in to whisper urgently to Matthew, "We need to get out of here, now. That woman... there's something off about her."

Matthew, confused but trusting Anne's instincts, nodded. "What do you mean?"

Anne hesitated before responding, "I've seen her before. She's not just an ordinary motel clerk. We need to leave before things get worse."

As Y/N completed the check-out process, the strange old lady's gaze lingered on Anne, a dark smile playing on her lips. Anne's heart raced as the woman's eyes mirrored the unsettling glint Anne had seen in Miguel de Angelo's eyes.

The woman's voice, when she spoke, sent shivers down Anne's spine. "Ah, Anthea. It's been a long time, hasn't it?"

Anne froze in her tracks, her heart pounding in her chest, as the old lady mentioned her name with an eerie familiarity. The realization hit her like a bolt of lightning, and her mind raced to make sense of the impossible.

"Stheno," the old lady said with a sinister smile, confirming Anne's worst fears. "It's been quite a while since our paths crossed. You thought you could escape, didn't you?"

Anne's eyes widened in shock. Memories of encounters with Stheno, one of the infamous Gorgon sisters from Greek mythology, flooded her mind. She had thought those days were long behind her, buried in the ancient past.

Y/N and Matthew, sensing Anne's distress, looked at her with concern. "Anne, what's going on? Who is she?" Y/N asked.

Anne, still processing the revelation, whispered, "That woman... she's Stheno, one of the Gorgons. Ancient creatures from Greek mythology. I never thought I'd see her again."

Stheno's dark laughter echoed behind them as they quickened their pace toward the exit. The Gorgon sister had no intention of letting them escape so easily.

Anne's eyes glowed with an aggressive shade of gold, a manifestation of her divine nature as a daughter of Atlas. Y/N, realizing the gravity of the situation, drew on her knowledge from Greek mythology classes and felt a sense of impending doom. The mere mention of Stheno, one of the Gorgon sisters, sent shivers down her spine.

Matthew, witnessing Anne's eyes transforming, stood in stunned silence. This was the first time he had seen the unearthly glow in his sister's eyes, a stark reminder that their reality had become entwined with ancient myths and powerful beings.

Stheno, undeterred by the display of divine power, darkly grinned and spoke with a chilling calmness. "Anthea, dear, I need the seed. It's time to fulfill the destiny you've been trying to escape."

Anne, her voice resonating with an otherworldly authority, responded, "You won't get the seed, Stheno. I won't let you unleash that darkness upon the world again."

Y/N, feeling a surge of determination, stepped closer to Anne. "We can't let her have it. Whatever that seed is, it sounds dangerous."

Stheno, her gaze fixed on Anne, continued, "You can't resist your fate, Anthea. The seed belongs to the earth, and it's time to return it to its rightful place."

Anne, her golden eyes reflecting defiance, raised her hand, a subtle manifestation of the power she possessed. "We won't let you use the seed for whatever dark purpose you have in mind. We'll stop you."

As Anthea raised her hands, a brilliant transformation unfolded, engulfing her in a radiant golden armor that seemed to materialize from the very essence of her divine heritage. Y/N, Matthew, and even Stheno couldn't help but gaze in awe at the spectacle before them.

Anthea's skinny jeans seamlessly morphed into a gladiator-esque skirt, intricately crafted from a fusion of gold and black materials. The golden boots, a dream for any mythology enthusiast, wrapped around her ankles and calves with precise black leather straps, forming a harmonious balance between elegance and strength. Y/N marveled at the attention to detail, the craftsmanship of the boots reflecting a deep appreciation for both fashion and functionality.

Her simple white shirt and purple denim jacket underwent a profound metamorphosis, evolving into a set of golden armor that adorned Anthea's frame with both grace and power. The chest and back plates, held together by sleek black straps, exuded an intricate design. On Anthea's chest, a tree motif stood proudly, each of its three balls bearing symbolic significance. One displayed a clock and a swirl, representing the manipulation of time, while another showcased the symbols of the elements. The third ball, a mystery to Y/N, bore an enigmatic symbol, perhaps tied to Anthea's divine lineage.

In the palm of Anthea's hand, a radiant Greek symbol appeared, matching the golden glow in her eyes. The symbol seemed to pulsate with energy, resonating with the ancient power coursing through Anthea's veins.

A golden crown, adorned with delicate leaves and flowers, and embellished with glittering diamonds, manifested atop Anthea's head. It radiated regality, symbolizing her divine status and authority. Y/N couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sheer beauty and symbolism encapsulated in every detail of Anthea's transformed attire.

Completing the ensemble was a golden cape with black accents that billowed with a majestic elegance. The cape, attached to Anthea's shoulders by two oversized buttons featuring the same clock and swirl symbols, added a touch of drama to the divine spectacle.

Y/N, finding her voice amidst the astonishment, uttered, "Anthea, that... that's incredible. Your armor is like a work of art, a blend of strength and beauty."

Anthea, her eyes still gleaming with golden determination, nodded appreciatively. "It's the Armor of Atlas, a manifestation of my heritage and the powers bestowed upon me. It's meant to protect and empower."

Matthew, who had been silently observing the transformation, finally spoke up, "That's seriously the coolest thing I've ever seen. Can you teach me how to get one of those?"

Anthea chuckled, her regal demeanor softened by a hint of amusement. "Sorry, Matthew. The Armor of Atlas is a bit exclusive."

Stheno, recovering from her initial surprise, stepped forward, her gaze fixed on Anthea, Matthew, and Y/N. She chuckled, a sinister mirth echoing in her voice, as she spoke, "Well, well, Anthea. It seems I need to match the attire to keep things fair, doesn't it?"

With a subtle wave of her hand, Stheno underwent a transformation of her own. The old lady guise melted away, revealing an elegant, black-haired woman. Her wavy locks cascaded gracefully over her shoulders, adding an air of sophistication to her appearance. The transformation extended to her attire, shedding the old clothes for a sleek, form-fitting white tunic that accentuated her curves. Held together with a single golden button on one shoulder, the garment exuded a subtle elegance that matched her newfound demeanor.

In Stheno's hair, a delicate crown materialized, a nod to her Gorgon heritage. The crown, adorned with intricate details, symbolized the legacy of the Gorgon sisters and their connection to ancient forces. The transformation was complete, and Stheno now stood as a formidable opponent, radiating a dark allure that contrasted with Anthea's divine brilliance.

Y/N couldn't help but note the contrast between the two women. Anthea, adorned in the regal Armor of Atlas, emanated an aura of strength and resilience. Stheno, in her refined attire, embodied a different kind of power—an ageless cunning and a deep connection to the ancient forces she represented.

Stheno, with a wicked smile, addressed Anthea, "There, now we can have a fair match, Anthea. Two daughters of ancient lineage, facing each other once again."

Anthea, her golden eyes fixed on Stheno, responded with determination, "This is not a game, Stheno. We won't let you use the seed for whatever dark purpose you have in mind."

Stheno laughed, her voice echoing with a haunting melody. "Oh, Anthea, you always were the defiant one. But this time, I will ensure that destiny unfolds as it should."

The confrontation between Anthea and Stheno intensified, the air thick with the ancient energy that surrounded them.

Y/N and Matthew, realizing the intensity of the confrontation unfolding before them, exchanged a worried glance. Sensing the need to act, Y/N leaned in to whisper urgently to her brother, "We have to do something, Matthew. This is way beyond what we signed up for."

Matthew, his eyes darting between the powerful beings facing each other, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I'm not sure what we can do, but we can't just stand here."

As Anthea and Stheno locked eyes, each radiating a potent energy that seemed to reverberate through the very fabric of reality, Y/N and Matthew began to search their surroundings for any clues or tools that could aid them in this unexpected battle of gods.

Y/N, scanning the area, spotted a nearby wooden crate and gestured toward it. "Maybe there's something useful in there. We need to find a way to help Anthea."

Matthew, determined, nodded and followed Y/N toward the crate. As they rummaged through its contents, Y/N's mind raced with thoughts of how they could assist Anthea in facing an ancient force like Stheno.

"We can't match their power, but maybe we can find something that disrupts or weakens Stheno," Y/N suggested, her eyes scanning the crate for any potential weapons or artifacts.

Matthew, holding a metal rod he found, raised an eyebrow. "Like this?"

Y/N considered the makeshift weapon and nodded. "It's worth a shot. Let's just hope it's effective against ancient Greek creatures."

Stheno, her gaze shifting from Anthea to Y/N and Matthew, addressed them with a sly smile. "Ah, children of Poseidon, meddling in affairs beyond your understanding. Your interference won't change the inevitable."

Y/N, maintaining a facade of nonchalance despite the gravity of the situation, chuckled nervously. "Wrong pantheon, Stheno. You might want to check your divine lineup. We're just regular mortals caught up in this mess."

Matthew, holding the makeshift weapon with a determined expression, added, "Yeah, we don't have any beef with you or your divine drama. We just want to get out of this in one piece."

Stheno, her dark eyes narrowing, seemed amused by their banter. "Regular mortals or not, you've chosen to involve yourselves in the affairs of gods. There are consequences for such choices."

Y/N, exchanging a glance with Matthew, retorted, "Consequences, divine powers, ancient prophecies—this is getting a bit out of our league, don't you think?"

Stheno's laughter echoed through the air. "The League of Mortals versus the Pantheon of Gods. An amusing spectacle, indeed. But make no mistake; you're all entangled in a fate set in motion long before your time."

Y/N, trying to lighten the mood, quipped, "Well, if fate has a sense of humor, it better be ready for a good punchline."

As Stheno observed the mortal siblings with a mixture of amusement and disdain, Anthea seized the moment, redirecting her attention toward the Gorgon sister.

As the banter between Y/N, Matthew, and Stheno continued, Anthea, aware of the unreliability of her powers after the blast, focused her energy on summoning a golden sword. The radiant weapon materialized in her hand, its gleaming blade catching the ambient light, and Anthea squared her shoulders, ready to face the ancient adversary.

Stheno, observing Anthea's choice of weapon, let out a mocking laugh that echoed through the air. "A sword, Anthea? Do you really think a mere mortal weapon can stand against the power of an ancient Gorgon?"

Undeterred, Anthea held the golden sword with a firm grip. "This sword is forged from the essence of time and the strength of my heritage. It may be mortal in appearance, but its power is anything but."

Y/N, exchanging a glance with Matthew, whispered, "Anthea may not have her full powers, but that sword looks pretty formidable."

Matthew nodded, his eyes fixed on the unfolding battle. "Let's hope it's enough to level the playing field."

Stheno, her amusement fading into a more serious expression, took a step forward. "Your defiance is entertaining, Anthea. But in the end, you cannot escape the fate that awaits you. The seed belongs to the earth, and it will be returned, one way or another."

Stheno's malicious words cut through the air, her tone dripping with an evil satisfaction as she mentioned Lexa, Anthea's long-lost best friend from her childhood in the realm of gods. Anthea, frozen for a moment by the unexpected reference, felt a pang of sorrow and nostalgia for the friend she had lost.

"How do you think Lexa would react to this version of Anthea?" Stheno taunted, her eyes glinting with a cruel amusement.

Anthea, shaking off the momentary distraction, narrowed her golden eyes at Stheno. "You know nothing about Lexa or what she would think. Leave her out of this."

Y/N and Matthew, witnessing the exchange, exchanged concerned glances. Y/N whispered to Matthew, "Who's Lexa? Do you think Anthea knew her when she was a kid?"

Matthew shrugged, equally perplexed. "I have no idea, but it seems like Stheno is trying to get under Anthea's skin."

Stheno continued to press, "Oh, the memories of your past, Anthea. Do you remember the laughter, the camaraderie with Lexa? How do you think she'd feel seeing you now, entangled in mortal affairs?"

Anthea, regaining her focus, responded with determination, "Lexa knew me for who I am. She understood the complexities of our existence. I won't let you use her memory to distract me."

Stheno, sensing that her attempt to sow doubt had failed, sneered, "Your sentimental attachments will be your downfall, Anthea. But by all means, let's resume our little dance."

With renewed determination, Anthea squared her shoulders, her golden sword at the ready.

Anthea, her movements elegant and swift, launched a series of attacks with the golden sword. Stheno, equally agile, expertly dodged the blows, her dark laughter echoing through the air. The clash between divine powers and ancient adversaries intensified with each exchange.

As Anthea aimed a decisive strike, Stheno ducked with an eerie grace, avoiding the sword's edge. The Gorgon sister, reveling in the dance of battle, giggled darkly, taunting Anthea. In a swift counterattack, Stheno's blade cut across Anthea's arm, revealing a stream of golden blood flowing from the wound.

Anthea hissed in pain, her arm clutching the injury, but she didn't falter. Determined to turn the tide, Anthea gathered her strength for another assault. With a fierce resolve, she lunged at Stheno once more, this time managing to strike the Gorgon sister at her foot.

Stheno, momentarily staggered by the unexpected blow, sneered. "You may have drawn blood, Anthea, but victory is still beyond your grasp."

Y/N and Matthew, witnessing the intense battle, felt a mixture of awe and concern. Y/N whispered to her brother, "Anthea's strong, but Stheno seems like a formidable opponent. We need to do something to help."

Matthew nodded, gripping the makeshift weapon tighter. "We should find a way to distract or weaken Stheno. Maybe that will give Anthea an opening."

Stheno, reveling in her sadistic taunts, couldn't resist poking at Anthea's vulnerabilities. "Anthea, my, my. You even managed to find yourself a mortal girlfriend. How cute. I wonder how she'll taste when I fry her in a pan."

Anthea, fueled by a surge of anger and a desire to protect those she cared about, growled in response. Her eyes, now glowing with an intense golden fury, bore into Stheno's with an unwavering determination.

As Stheno continued her taunts, Y/N and Matthew, on the sidelines, couldn't bear to see their ally tormented. Ignoring the danger, they started screaming Stheno's name in unison, hoping to distract the Gorgon sister.

"Stheno! Over here! Look at us!" Y/N yelled, waving her arms frantically.

Matthew joined in, shouting, "Hey, snake lady! Your attention is needed elsewhere!"

Stheno, momentarily annoyed by the distraction, shifted her gaze toward Y/N and Matthew. Anthea seized the opportunity, launching herself at the distracted Gorgon sister. With a swift and decisive move, Anthea planted her golden sword into Stheno's chest.

As the blade found its mark, Anthea leaned close to Stheno's ear, her golden eyes ablaze with fury. In a low, menacing whisper, Anthea uttered, "Never underestimate me again."

Stheno, caught off guard, winced in pain. The taunts turned to futile gasps as she struggled against the unexpected turn of events. Anthea, her expression unyielding, maintained her grip on the sword, holding her ground as the ancient forces clashed in a decisive moment.

Stheno, despite the sword planted firmly in her chest, refused to yield. Through gritted teeth, she hissed a threat, "You have no idea what's coming, Anthea. You're not ready for the storm that awaits."

Anthea, undeterred and fueled by the surge of determination coursing through her, pushed the sword deeper into Stheno's chest. Her golden eyes locked onto the Gorgon sister's, and in a voice laced with unwavering confidence, she retorted, "Whatever's coming, they're not ready for me."

Y/N and Matthew, witnessing the intense exchange, couldn't help but exchange glances. Y/N muttered to her brother, "Anthea's a force to be reckoned with. I wouldn't want to be on her bad side."

Matthew nodded in agreement. "Definitely. She's handling this way better than I thought she would."

Stheno, despite the pain, attempted to chuckle, a sinister glint in her eyes. "You may have won this round, Anthea, but the storm is inevitable. You can't escape what's destined."

Anthea, her grip on the sword unyielding, leaned in closer to Stheno's ear. "Destiny may be written, but it's up to us to rewrite it. And I've never been one to bow to fate."

Stheno, realizing her taunts were falling flat, sneered, "You'll regret this defiance, Anthea. The consequences will be more than you can bear."

Anthea, not one to be intimidated, flashed a defiant smirk. "We'll see about that."

Anthea, with a swift and decisive motion, ripped her golden sword out of Stheno's snake-like body. The blade emerged, gleaming with a mix of golden ichor and the dark essence of the Gorgon sister. Stheno, weakened and reeling from the unexpected turn of events, hissed in pain, her serpentine features contorted with fury.

The mortal siblings, Y/N and Matthew, watched in amazement as Anthea reclaimed her weapon, her golden eyes ablaze with triumph. Y/N whispered to her brother, "She's really something else, isn't she?"

Matthew nodded, a mixture of admiration and surprise in his eyes. "I never thought we'd witness a showdown between a goddess and... whatever Stheno is."

Anthea, undeterred by Stheno's continued threats and taunts, stood her ground with an air of regal confidence. The ancient blood on her sword shimmered, a testament to the clash of divine forces that had unfolded on the roadside.

Stheno, her once menacing demeanor now diminished, glared at Anthea with a venomous intensity. "This isn't over, Anthea. The storm is inevitable. You can't escape the fate that awaits you."

Anthea, her gaze unwavering, responded with a stoic determination. "Fate may be a storm, but storms can be weathered. I'll face whatever comes my way."

As the echoes of their confrontation lingered in the air, the road ahead remained uncertain, fraught with the unpredictable twists of divine destinies.

Stheno, weakened but still seething with anger, breathed out her final threat with a venomous promise. "I will make sure Poseidon's children meet their demise, starting with this one." Her gaze fixed on Y/N, a sinister glint in her eyes.

Y/N, despite the gravity of the situation, shot back with a bold defiance, "Good luck with that, snake lady. I've faced worse than you at the university cafeteria."

Matthew, gripping the makeshift weapon, added, "You'll have to get through us first."

Anthea, her golden eyes narrowing at Stheno's threat, raised her sword defensively. "You won't touch them. Your threats mean nothing."

Stheno, with a malicious smile, vanished into a dark mist, leaving behind an ominous echo of her sinister laughter. The air, once thick with the tension of battle, settled into an uneasy calm.

Y/N, trying to shake off the adrenaline, turned to Anthea. "I guess we've made ourselves an enemy of an ancient Gorgon. Not your typical day at university, huh?"

Anthea, offering a small, reassuring smile, responded, "I suppose not. But you both handled it well. Not many mortals would face a creature like Stheno with such courage."

Matthew, still on edge, glanced around cautiously. "So, what's next? Are we safe?"

Anthea, her gaze scanning the surroundings, replied, "For now. But we need to be vigilant. Stheno won't give up easily, and there may be others who share her vendetta."

With Stheno's ominous presence gone, the residual tension in the air began to dissipate. Anthea's divine armor transformed back into the familiar clothes she wore before the confrontation. Anne's eyes, once ablaze with golden intensity, returned to their hazel color, reflecting the goddess's return to a more mundane appearance.

As the reality of the divine clash settled in, Y/N found herself flustered and hot, her mouth hanging open in awe. The rush from the intense battle, coupled with witnessing the transformation of a goddess, left her momentarily speechless.

Anthea, catching Y/N's flustered expression, offered a reassuring smile. "It's over for now. We should be safe. Stheno won't return so soon."

Matthew, still processing the surreal events, quipped, "Well, that was a day. I never expected to witness a goddess in action."

Y/N, regaining some composure, closed her mouth and managed to stammer, "I... I mean, wow. That was... impressive."

Anthea chuckled, her hazel eyes filled with warmth. "Impressive or not, it's not something you deal with every day, I suppose."

#rachel zegler #lucy gray baird x reader #lucy gray x reader #lucy gray baird x you #fandom #lucy gray x fem!reader #lucy gray #lucy gray baird #fanfic #tbosas #shazam #anthea page

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ukthxbye · 6 years

Text

Its Never As Simple As that

https://archiveofourown.org/works/16229933

(for @strangelock221b who asked @mizjoely if this had been written before and I just had to write it. Thanks to @stlgeekgirl for beta look at it)

��Sherlock.”

Molly stares at her mobile mouth agape at the text that flashed on her mobile,

A car will be there in 15 to pick you up. We are in need of a Doctor with current clearance for a medical examination and treatment of a patient. Thank you for cooperation, Dr. Hooper.

Mycroft needs someone who knows he is alive and couldn’t risk anyone else yet. She gulps as the anxiety rises. She uses it to help develop her excuse.

“Oh I know, but this stomach virus going around is a tough one. I just can’t make it the rest of the day” She lies to her supervisor, feigning a weak voice on the phone. Her stomach flips at the lie and she does not have to feign the reaction. Her supervisor lets her go home with good wishes of her feeling better. She bolts down to the supply closet first.

More lies. Soon as the largest one of her life is about to be over with, she gets to start all the new little ones.

Her stomach twists again in joy and anxiety of seeing him again, but in what state would he be she wondered. Mycroft was not forthcoming with why he needed a medical exam. She quickly fills her bag with gathered supplies for sutures, ointments, and salves. She knows Mycroft can get her anything she needs in a moment’s notice but she liked to have her own. The less I owe the better, she thinks. She steps in to retrieve her coat in the locker room. In its zippered pocket is the ring she usually slips back on as she walks out of the room and the building, heading home or to the pub with him. She stares at the pocket for a breath, slips on the coat and ignores its contents. She throws in a few pairs of gloves and gauze as well and catches the lift down.

There was a car outside waiting, non-descript but she has no doubt it is for her. She gets in quickly, ignoring a text from a co-worker asking where she went. On the way, she runs through every reaction to her possible. She didn’t know if he was conscious. No, that would have been hospital visit, I would have stayed at Barts. He is upright and mobile but likely injured, she ponders. Or maybe she is going to another hospital, after all, St. Barts might not be secure enough and is a bit on the nose considering his last appearance there, she thinks. She wonders if he even looks the same after all this time and she hates herself for the moment even giving it a thought.

The suited men waiting for her at the door made her jump.

“Welcome. Please follow me,” Mycroft’s assistant Anthea advises her.

Through a winding maze of hallways and rooms, they stop and enter one. “They will be with you shortly,” Anthea informs her and closes the door.

The room is eerily quiet and isolated.

It is small, windowless and white with a simple gurney and equipment table set near the far wall.

A dark wooden chair sits against the wall to her right and she paces a tight circle around the room before sitting in the chair and setting her bag beside her. Overpowering thoughts crash over her mind and any sense of calm she is clinging to. Years of holding onto a lie are done. She should feel relief. But she cannot find that emotion yet. She realizes she never really thought this all through. That she will have to face every piece of what she was asked to do. Her job, her friends, everyone will know. She looks at the pocket of her jacket and takes the jacket off, hanging it on the chair.

I get to see Sherlock first. Patch him up once again. That choice long ago no matter what he needed she would be there for him comes to its full circle. To believe in him no matter what. Oh but the prices she paid for it. What will it all cost now, she frets.

As if on cue, Mycroft enters the room and Molly shoots up from the chair. Behind him is a tall man in simple brown trousers and a white shirt with no shoes. Long hair strings down covering his face which is bearded.

Mycroft steps aside and the man lifts his face up. There was no mistake as his sharp blue eyes met hers.

“Oh my--” Molly starts but put her hand to her mouth to stop her words.

Sherlock stares for a moment expressionless, but his lips quickly rise into a grin.

“Hello, Molly Hooper,” he says, standing up tall and pushing his hair back from his face.

She grins back in response, biting her lip, “Hello again.”

She couldn’t deny the joy in her heart seeing him here and far as she could tell in one piece. Oh but that hair. It was clean and curly and wild like his beard. Though in fairness his curls have always been a bit wild. But now long and wet from whatever shower he took, with the scent of an expensive soap hitting her nose in this odorless sterile room, well, it has an effect.

Mycroft coughed, “Yes, all wonderful pleasantries and such but you are in need of some better medical attention than eastern Europe could provide. I’ll leave you to it.” and he walked out closing the door loudly behind him.

She was glad she did not rush to hug Sherlock.

“I am sure this is awkward but it is needed I am afraid. I can feel fever growing in one of the lacerations,” he says plainly.

“I should ask how you got them, but I’m sure it classified,” she says with a small shrug.

“Whipped and cane beat a few times most recently” he answers quickly.

“Oh…” she lets slip as her eyes widen.

“Let me take off my clothes so you can examine the wounds,” he said in low voice.

Those words caused her face to color scarlet and she looks away for a moment to breathe and compose. I was smart to wear a button up blouse today because I am sure the flush is all the way down now. Molly put her gloves on quickly, thought the latex snapping sounded like a cannon in the small room.

He keeps his eyes on her while he disrobes much to her confusion and secret delight. She tucks her chin down as she gathers supplies from her bag, but her eyes look to the side and up at him. She should look away, for a number of reasons. Reasons she feels no compulsion to tell him about now.

Sherlock lifts his shirt off over his head and Molly can see all the lines of red and white popping off his skin like a map. And the muscles. His abs are tight and defined but that is due to weight loss she suspects. She spies the lines on his arms, both healing wounds and the definition of his arms from weight loss But maybe not as she looks closer as he drops his trousers. No, there is more muscle there now. Perhaps he has really been running the whole time, she thinks. His pants are dark as her eyes slowly travel back up to his face. As he stands tall before her, her mind flashes to Tarzan, a favorite fantasy of her youth. Me Jane indeed. His hair, still wet, hangs in tendrils around his face. Her stomach flips at the thought of touching it. Only when he slips his thumbs in the band of his pants does she realize what is happening

“Oh, God sorry no! You can keep those on it's not that kind of exam,” She coughs out, voice cracking

He chuckles a bit. “Yes. Let's get on with it then?”

Molly knows she should have looked away when he got undressed, and she rubs her empty left ring finger unconsciously. But as Sherlock hops up on the gurney effortlessly, it triggers her to go back into a professional mode.

“I'm going to listen to your heart, check ears, and such first if that is ok?” Molly says softly.

Sherlock nods.

She takes a deep breath and quiets her own thoughts as she listens to his heart and breathing. Still, she knows if he was to check her pulse he would find it racing. But at least she can focus her mind even if her heart is betraying her as she lays a hand on his back. Otoscope now and checking his throat and eye response. This all happens in silence except their breathing. He anticipates what she is looking for next and this portion of the exam is done quickly. She puts the scope in her pocket and risks a look in his eyes as she moves on.

“I’ll take a look at your back first, that seems the worst of it,” Molly says as she shifts around to the narrow space between the wall and the gurney.

“Should I lay on my stomach?” he asks, holding her eyes for a moment.

She nods and gulps as he lays down. She can’t decide at first where to start but thinks neck down would be the way to go.

“I am going to start at the top and come down. Make sure everything is healing or find the ones that aren’t,” She relays to assure him.

Sherlock smiles, she sees it as his jawline shift. “I trust you.”

She waits for other words, but they do not come and she sees his eyes are closed. With a deep breath, she places a hand on his back to let him know her presence. She pushes the hair laying on his neck aside and he shivers involuntarily. She pauses staring at him and hopes she shifted her hand in time that he missed her responding shiver.

Focus dammit. You are above this and you are beyond this, she yells at herself internally.

With another breathe she begins looking at the wounds. Neck to shoulders, tracing lines and if he shudders at her touch, she gives it no notice unless he grunts in pain. There is no denying a large slash across his back is showing signs of infection. Bright red and warm to the touch.

“Gonna clean this one on your lower back really well. You were right about it getting infected,” she says, and then begins to look at his arms. “Just going to check others but I think you are doing pretty well under whatever care you got.”

She runs her fingers along some scratches, but most are old. And there are the white and dark scars she hopes are much older. Well, at least they look like it, she thinks to herself and feels a pang of sadness hit her throat.

“You shouldn't think so loud,” he mumbles out, lifting his face off the gurney a bit. It causes her to jump a bit, hearing his voice after a while of just her own thoughts and voice.

She shrugs to herself, “Can’t help it sometimes. Besides I am examining you, I can’t help if I see the past damage too.”

“Clean, I promise,” he says plainly.

“It's fine, Sherlock,” she reassures.

The awkward silence again. Her thoughts go to Tom briefly as she scans Sherlock’s body one more time, this time not as professionally. She knows she is mapping when she should be forgetting. But she lies to herself again. She swallows hard and pushes herself back to the correct thoughts and mind frame.

“Ok I am going to clean that wound and it’s gonna hurt. Just letting you know I got to dig in there in a couple spots so if you want me to get something to numb it...,” she relays while gathering her tools and chemicals on the table.

“Do your worst,” he smirks.”Can’t hurt any more than it did to receive it.” He settles his head on his arms, gripping the edge of the gurney with his fingers wrapping around the top edge

Molly begins her work, pulling apart the laceration with her fingers to get deeper. His muscle tightens as she slowly cleanses it.

“Perhaps a distraction would do,” Sherlock grits and breathes out slowly. “Mycroft has been quiet on the status everyone. How’s Mrs. Hudson?”

Molly smiles, getting a new piece of gauze from the table. “She is happy. Healthy. Traveled quite a bit with friends the last year. I went by for tea as often as I could”

“Excellent,” he says straining a slight smile. “Gavin?

“Greg is well,” she replies, digging in a bit to clean, eliciting a whimper from him.

He breathes shallowly for a moment and then it settles, his knuckles white as they loosen their grip.

Silence hangs heavy in the small room for a few breaths. But her mind is on fire. It’s been years since she heard them, but his thoughts practically scream from his body to her.

“John is well far as I know. I haven’t seen him awhile” she says softly, answering those thoughts as she finishes dressing the wound.

Sherlock shifts silently at her words. She knows, even if he doesn’t want to admit it, that John is the only one he truly felt concern for when he asked how everyone is doing. She wishes there was more assurance she could provide. Some tidbit of information that she could share to rekindle that secret bond she and Sherlock had before he left. Secrecy she might well pay for if Tom finds out. Well, if he finds out. Some things will remain classified between the parties involved. There are the lies for him again; just little ones I get to keep forever, she thinks.

“I will pay him a visit and surprise him of course, “ Sherlock breaks the quiet of the room and her loud internal musings.

Molly frowns, “Are you...sure that is a good idea? He thinks you are dead.”

Sherlock half laughs, “He will be ecstatic and reasonable I am sure.” Then he grimaces as she cleans off a wound near his neck.

“Sorry, should have warned you where I was. Just a quick clean on that one,” she says as she bites her lips.

He sighs, irritation hidden in it, “Its fine. Though if we are done, I am really looking forward to that shave and haircut.”

Molly strips off her gloves, “Yes that will do. Need to use this cream though,’ she says, handing him the cream as he sits up and stretches.

She watches him dress again, more staring she should not do, she reminds herself. Especially when her thoughts stray when he pushes back that hair behind his ears, and finds her eyes with those all too blue ones of his for much too long. Something akin to warmth floods his face and she finds her heart rate jump much to her dismay.

“Thank you again, Molly,” he starts as he shifts forward close to her but the door opens and both their eyes shoot to it.

Mycroft enters and places his hands in his pocket. “All patched up I presume? Well, we have much to discuss,” he says looking at Sherlock.

Then he turns to Molly and adds, “Thank you again for your service. Anthea will see you out and we have a vehicle to carry you to your flat to keep the illusion of, what was it, a stomach virus, yes.”

With a nod and look back at Sherlock, they all leave the room, her grabbing her bag and following Anthea to the left as Sherlock and Mycroft turn to the right without a second glance at her.

Molly gives them the same courtesy.

-:-

Sherlock sits back, hair freshly cut to his satisfaction and now he relishes a long due shave from that itchy beard.

“She is engaged you know” Mycroft stares his brother.

“Yes, I haven’t slipped that much. Not wearing the ring at work because of risk to it. Same reason she wasn’t wearing it now. Noted the indention from wear though; so outside of work it is always worn. She even rubbed the finger once as if she was feeling for the ring. Obvious sign of devotion.” Sherlock speaks like laying out facts for a case.

He feels smug always did when he deduces small and emotional things his brother might miss.

“Hm…” Mycroft breathes out his nose. “Yes, I would say so” he drawls out, curling the side of his mouth up in a knowing way, looking down at his brother.

Sherlock narrows his eyes, unsure what his brother is implying in his tone but moves on to his plans to greet everyone, including a trip to Barts.

“You have already seen Molly,” Mycroft teases, sitting and leaning back in his chair.

The corner of Sherlock’s lips curls up, “In all fairness, she saw the version she isn't used to. She needs to see what she aided into completion. A haircut and shave, along with the clothing is the culmination of our work together.”

Mycroft raises his eyebrow and knowingly smiling once again. “Ever the flair for the dramatic, dear brother.”

Again with that look, Sherlock ponders and changes the subject.

-:-

So what if I like surprises, Sherlock thinks to himself as he encounters Molly at her locker. Perfectly placed as she opens the locker, reflected in the mirror the Sherlock she knows so well and if she is honest with herself, loves.

She swallows, her lips creeping in slowly to grin responding to his slight but smug smile.

“Welcome back, Sherlock Holmes,” she says happily. Perhaps the lie was worth it in the end, she thinks.

“To the lab? After you. ” he gestures with one hand toward the door and the other formally behind his back.

#sherlolly #Sherlock Holmes #Molly hooper #the empty hearse #ukthxbye is ficcing #my fic

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