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cryptcutiee · 9 months

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Karma Is My Boyfriend

Pairing: Leon Kennedy X Reader (gender neutral) Synopsis: In search of good karma, you do a random act of kindness by paying for the coffee of whoever comes in behind you. That person ends up being a rather attractive man. Tags: Fluff, Comfort Warnings: Use of pet names (sweetheart, sweet thing), age gap (if you squint) Song: Karma - Taylor Swift Word Count: 1.6K Author's Notes: Ahhh hello Tumblr! I haven't posted any writing in a very long time. This is my very first fic on this account, but I do have more in the works. So if you want to see more from me or a part 2 to this, lmk! This is my first x reader story in years so comments and feedback is appreciated!

The day had barely started, yet everything that could go wrong was going wrong. Alarms you set decided not to go off. You had burned your breakfast. The hot water in your shower lasted a total of two minutes before it plunged you into an ice-cold drizzle. Clothes you wanted to put on had mysteriously vanished into thin air. You had dressed in attire you didn't want to wear when it started to rain as you were leaving. It was a bunch of little things adding up to a horrible morning. That didn't bode well for your luck today, which made you worry. Today was significant. You were waiting to hear back from that apartment complex. You needed to get approved for it. The current studio you were living in was crap, and this place would be a major upgrade. With how your day was going, your hope was at an all-time low.

This is how you found yourself standing across the counter from your best friend at the local coffee shop. They were a barista here, and although gossiping on work hours should be frowned upon, they always had time for you. Besides, it seemed slow today. Nobody was in line, and the few patrons lingering around were sitting at tables chatting or working. So you vented about your entire morning as your friend took down your coffee order. You got your usual which was no surprise. With the way your day was going, why would you try something new?

Your friend's eyebrows quirked up at how much of a nightmare your morning had been. "Sounds like you're having a bad energy day."

You leaned against the counter with a deadpan expression. "No shit Sherlock. Normally I wouldn't care, but I can't afford for today to be a bad day! At this rate, I'm going to get denied." You groaned. Anxiety was eating at you, and with how everything had been going, you had little faith in good news.

"Hey, hey, hey!" Your best friend pulled your attention back, "Thinking like that will just make it worse. What if you put some good energy out there, you know, like karma or something?"

You blinked as you took in their words. Karma? You understood the concept of it. Doing bad would attract bad, and doing good would attract good. A sigh left your lips as you stared across the checkout at your friend. "How do you suggest I go about that?" You're sliding your debit card across the counter as you stare them down, waiting for whatever idea they have.

Your friend put on their thinking face, and within moments their expression lit up with an idea. "What about a random act of kindness? You could pay for whoever comes in next!"

The idea rattled around in your brain for a moment. It wasn't like you believed in supernatural forces, but what exactly did you have to lose? "Fine, charge the next person's order to my card. Please don't make a big deal out of it though! I'm not doing it for recognition."

"You got it! Now go wait over by the pickup end. I'll get your order out."

With a nod to your friend, you moved over to the pickup area. Your fingers drummed against the counter anxiously. Eyes darting down to your phone as you waited for that email from the apartment complex. You could hear the bell on the door as you scrolled through your notifications. You listened to your friend speaking to what sounded like a man, but you kept your eyes stuck to your screen. He ordered a black coffee, and then your best friend said the words that made you focus more on the conversion feet away from you.

"I'm happy to say your order today has already been covered!"

When you looked up to see who you had paid for, you may have encountered one of the most attractive men you have ever seen. He had to be older than you, but he looked like he took care of himself. His shirt clung to his fit form, and those arms looked like they could pop a seam on his sleeves. Maybe karma did exist because the universe had just dropped this gorgeous sight right into your lap.

"Oh?" The man's low timber caused something to crawl down your spine. "By who?"

You could see the gears turning in your best friend's brain on how to answer the question. They knew what you asked for but could also witness your reactions from the sidelines. "By the person who ordered before you."

The man quickly put the pieces together, and his eyes glanced at you, the only person waiting for their order.

Mentally you were screaming and cursing at your friend for putting you in this situation, but at the same time, you were thanking them. As if to send the message home, they called out your name and slid your coffee order to you. Your eyes met his, and you felt your stomach do a flip. His eyes were breathtaking. If you looked too long, you thought you'd drown in them. With all the courage in your bones, you mustered an awkward smile. Hand reaching over to grab your coffee, you noticed out of the corner of your eye as the man moved toward you.

"Hey." A slight smile touched his lips as he approached, "Were you the one that paid for my coffee?" He knew it was you, and there was no point in lying to this stunning man.

"Yeah, I did. Don't worry. It was nothing." You replied, trying to shrug it off. "I just wanted to pay it forward. Trying to get some good luck." That same embarrassed smile glued to your face. Talking to this man wasn't in your cards today, but it was going better than everything else this morning.

"I can't just let you do that without introducing myself. I'm Leon, Leon Kennedy." Leon extended his hand out. Your own wrapped around his for a handshake while introducing yourself. "Why are you looking for good luck? Something wrong, sweetheart?"

Your free hand shot up in denial. "Oh no, nothings wrong! I'm waiting for an important email. It's to see if I got approved for this apartment I applied for." There was no reason for you to be telling Leon all of this. He was a stranger, but he was easy to open up to. "My morning was a disaster, and I didn't want the bad luck to continue, so my friend suggested I do something for good karma." You gestured to the barista in the background, your best friend. "Sorry, that all sounds a little silly."

"Not at all." The corner of Leon's lips lifts into a smirk." It's cute, honestly." Those blue eyes of his glimmered with interest as he spoke. It caused butterflies to flutter in your tummy. Suddenly your nerves aren't about the email. They're more about the man in front of you. "Do you have any plans today? I hope I'm not holding you up."

As fast as you can, you shake your head in response. "You aren't! I don't have anything to do today except wait." You watch as your friend delivers the black coffee Leon ordered. Their eyes glance at you with a knowing look. When Leon turns his back to them, they give you a thumbs up before scurrying back to the checkout.

"Then you'll let me repay you by grabbing dinner with me?" Leon grabbed his coffee, a sure look in his eyes. "It's the least I can do for a sweet thing like you, besides it'll get your mind off that email."

Did you just get asked out by some guy you bought coffee for? He was undoubtedly good-looking and had effortless charisma. Saying no would be a mistake. "Sure!" You automatically flush at how enthusiastic you sound. "I mean, that sounds like a nice distraction."

Leon let out a faint chuckle. "I usually get turned down. Maybe I have all the good karma today." Your eyes meet as he takes a sip of his coffee. "You like Italian? I know a good place, my treat."

"I do." Your lips curl into a soft smile. "Do you want to exchange numbers? Here." You open a fresh contact page on your phone and hold the device towards him. Your fingers brush against his as you pass your phone over to Leon. It causes a light blush to paint your features, and you can only hope he doesn't notice. As he's putting his number in, the faint chime of your notification tone rings out.

Leon's eyes dart to the pop-up, and he grins. "Looks like I'm your good luck charm." He comments, passing the phone back to you.

Your eyes automatically search the screen and see an email notification. The apartment complex approved you. A wide smile breaks out on your face. "I guess you are, Leon. Maybe I should keep you around." You can feel his blue eyes on you as you say that.

"Maybe you should." There's a beat of silence between the two of you. It suddenly feels like you got trapped in some romance novel. "So, celebration dinner then? Send me your address, and I'll pick you up at seven." Leon breaks the silence with that intoxicating tone of his.

"That works for me! I'll text you."

Exiting the coffee shop, you feel much better than when you arrived. Your newest contact, Leon, is on the screen, and you can't get that smile off your face.

Karma is the guy on the screen, coming straight home to me.

#.˚ ༘ cryptcreeps #cryptcutieewrites #cryptcutieeposts #leon kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x you #leon s kennedy x reader #leon s kennedy x you #leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon kennedy fluff #leon kennedy fanfic #resident evil x reader #resident evil x you #resident evil

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randonauticrap · 5 months

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Say Yes

Pairing ~ Jin Grandet x Reader

Word Count ~ 2.5k

Synopsis ~ Based on Jin's 18th Level Bond Story: Jin proposes a game to you in which no matter what question he asks you, you have to say "yes"... and you have to mean it. Appearances from the domestic affairs faction!

Author's Note ~ I've been absent for awhile, but it felt SO good to get back into writing for my favorite man. This is my first entry into @aquagirl1978's "A Series of Firsts" event, with my darling Jin and the prompt "First Kiss"! SO excited about my love finally getting his own feature in a fanfic writing event! <3

“Man! What a meal.” Leon whooped as he settled into one of the plush chairs around the fireplace with a hand over his swollen stomach.

“It was amazing, thank you Leon.” you said earnestly, moving inside the door to the sitting room after Yves and Licht.

“Sure was.” a silken baritone voice rumbled from behind you and two large, firm hands settled on each of your shoulders, giving them a squeeze as he spoke. “It was so good that I got to hear this pretty little thing moan, and I’ve always wanted to hear that.”

“Jin, god.” you muttered softly, the palm of your hand finding your forehead to hopefully hide the heat that had risen painfully to both of your cheeks.

“Ooh, say that again, sweetheart, I liked the sound of it.” he chuckled deeply into your ear and your whole body shivered before you decidedly pulled away from him to avoid further embarrassment. You liked Jin, it was no secret; not to you, nor to the other princes of the domestic affairs faction. You were pretty sure that even Jin himself knew, which didn’t bode well for your little crush. After all, wouldn’t he have said something at this point if the feeling was mutual? But he kept on teasing you as usual, pulling you along on his little string, then letting you go. Internally you had groaned when you’d realized the irony of the beast and prey analogy, but if that wasn’t the best way to describe your situation, you had yet to discover it.

“Jin!” Yves fumed, glaring at the 1st prince over the tray of sweets he carried in his arms. “Must you be so vile everywhere you go?” He set the tray down on the short table in front of the fireplace and dusted his hands off before plopping down next to Licht on the long, velvet couch.

“Vile? Yves, you wound your older brother.” Jin feigned hurt, making a show of placing his palm over his heart. You giggled at their antics before you could stop yourself, and Jin sent a wink your way. With the giddy feeling that pooled in your lower belly at his small gesture, you decided that perhaps you needed a little something to drink. At this point, it couldn’t hurt; at least alcohol would help explain the near permanent blush coloring your face.

"Anyone else want some?" You called out as you popped the champagne bottle open.

"I'll take some!" Leon replied. "I'm not usually a champagne guy, but we're celebrating tonight, so count me in." You chuckled, pulling another glass from the stand that Yves had brought in from the kitchen and pouring two glasses.

"You know what I prefer." Jin's sensual voice was so close to your ear that you jumped, spilling a little of the champagne on the table in front of you. He chuckled, sending sparks through you as the hairs on your arms and the back of your neck raised. The double entendre was not lost on you, even as he reached over you to get to the whiskey bottle; the defined muscles on his arm nearly close enough to your face to touch. You couldn't help but stare at the protruding veins on his forearm that snaked up and around to his bicep like a trail on a map, just begging to be followed. Even as he pulled his arm back to his own body, whiskey bottle in hand, your eyes followed the rippling muscles underneath his smooth skin. Nothing else in the room could possibly be as fascinating.

Behind you, Leon coughed forcibly and thankfully awoke you from your hypnosis. You blinked, at last tearing your eyes away from the first prince to focus on salvaging yours and Leon's drinks. You had always been a master at nonchalance, so your inability to act composed around Jin was very new, and wholly unwelcome. It made you feel like a fish out of water: floundering on the hard ground and pitifully attempting to breathe in air that wasn't meant for you.

Finally, you were able to take Leon his glass, and you perched next to Licht on the couch with your own, following Jin's motions in the chair next to you from the corner of your eye. He was so relaxed, his posture open and yet commanding all at once. A low simmering power radiated from him; a power he often disguised with seductive nuance. But you knew that the moment he decided to take charge, every other prince in the room would willingly fall in line behind him. He was the eldest, and though he did his best to disregard his position, the authority was there.

Even so, he preferred to take the backseat, to work from the shadows, to let the other princes take the credit that was owed him, and you both admired and disfavored that. You wished he thought more of himself; like you do. You thought the world of Jin Grandet, in too many ways to count. It's why you'd fallen in love with him to begin with. He was kind, fiercely kind beneath his mask of indifference. He was loyal to a fault, and so intent on making a positive difference in the world without even rising to claim the glory that accompanied it.

However, in that darkness is also where he hid. He hid his pain and his suffering, and buried his worth under years of guilt. The darkness befit him, but it also betrayed him. You saw it in his eyes sometimes; flashes of something he'd never allow his brothers to see… something only you had been given access to. It haunted him, and you wanted nothing more than to infiltrate his darkness with moonlight and stars. Sunlight was too bright for the likes of you and Jin; too blinding, too intimidating. But the moon shone light enough; light enough to expose the truth and still bring peace to his wounded heart.

You brooded quietly over your drink while the princes chatted, slipping further and further into a warm, murky daze as the champagne filled your senses. You didn't even notice the eyes of the first prince on you until he broke through your silence. "Let's play a game." He clapped his hands together and you jumped, your focus pulling back to your current reality with a snap. "Belle, you first. No matter what I say, you have to answer "yes". If you say "no", you lose."

"That's a terrible game." Licht muttered beside you, but you weren't paying attention. The room had a nice, fuzzy glow surrounding it, and Jin was looking at you so earnestly. How could you ever say no to him?

"Do I have to mean it every time I say yes?" You giggled, wriggling in your seat a little.

"Yes." Jin said, setting his glass of whiskey down on the coffee table in front of him.

"I thought it was my turn, Jin. Hehe" You teased, suddenly feeling a little lightheaded.

"It is, sweetheart. That was just an example." He smirked, leaning towards you. He was still several feet away from you, but it suddenly felt like he was invading your space; taking the air you needed for himself. But it was pleasant, heady, and you leaned closer, happy to lose yourself in him.

"Okay then," you challenged. "Hit me."

"I'll start you off easy. Do you like Yves's sweets?"

A laugh bubbled forth from your lips. "Yes, of course! Anyone who doesn't just doesn't have taste buds."

Yves squeaked and you turned your head to find his face red. "Thank you." He murmured, a soft, embarrassed smile on his face.

"You're welcome, Yves." You chuckled, then turned back to Jin, whose gaze had never left you. "Easy peasy, next."

"Alright, how about… do you enjoy Sariel's lessons?"

You grimaced, recalling the particularly difficult one you'd had earlier this afternoon. "You're not playing fair, I told you about my day." You muttered under your breath and forced yourself to think back to last week when you did well on several of the assignments he'd given you, and the perfume Sariel had treated you to in return. "But yes, I enjoy them for the most part. Sariel is always nice enough to reward me with things when I do exceptionally well, and he doesn't have to do that."

Surprise as well as something you couldn't quite pin down colored Jin's features momentarily. "Sariel gets you gifts?" You nodded enthusiastically.

"I'm wearing the perfume he got me right now!" You stuck your arm out to him, no longer shy as the alcohol blurred some of your senses.

"Such a lightweight." Jin murmured softly, but there was no malice in it. He and Leon shared a look you didn't understand before Jin accepted your outstretched arm, wrapping his long fingers around your forearm, and leaned his face down to nuzzle his nose into your wrist. The gasp that escaped your lips was completely involuntary, but the sound mingled with Jin's quiet groan as he took in your scent mixed with the scent of the perfume, and you felt your face fully flush at the barely concealed eroticism of the moment you were sharing.

"Smells good." He murmured, his eyes falling closed for only a few seconds before they pulled back open and trained on you. "But I could do better. I know some scents that would suit you perfectly." His voice was almost low enough to be a growl and a hot shiver ran through you, settling in your lower belly as he let your arm go and sat back in his chair. "Last question." His voice was quiet and measured, but you felt the emotion behind it, and you were suddenly nervous.

"Okay…"

"Do you have feelings for me?"

All motion in the room ceased - even the flames in the fireplace seemed to halt their dance - and every eye fell on you. You gulped, knowing that what came next could either make you the happiest woman alive, or shatter your heart into a million unsavable pieces. Your heart thumped loudly in your ears as your panicked eyes met his focused ones. You had never seen him looking so intently at anything before, let alone you, and you fought to keep from squirming under his gaze.

I guess it's now or never…

"Yes." You breathed softly, then before anyone had time to respond, you added quickly. "Your turn!" Jin's eyes widened in surprise at the turn of events, but you didn't give him any time to question it. "Will you ever admit your feelings for me?"

The silence in the room stretched on, the air becoming even more tense now that Jin's question had been thrown back in his face. You sucked in a breath that didn't have nearly enough air in it as you waited for his answer, your eyes locked on each other with no indication of either party giving up. But after several torturous moments of silence, Jin's chest deflated, and his quiet murmur of "Yes" filled all of your senses like the oxygen you had been momentarily deprived of.

"Well, I think it's time for us to wrap up here. Licht, Yves." Leon clapped his hands and ushered his brothers out of the room, throwing Jin another pointed look before closing the door behind himself. You never took your eyes off of him, not while Leon, Yves, and Licht had gotten up, and not when they left. You were too afraid that the mirage in front of you would disappear and you'd wake up in your cold bed after another beautiful dream. You also couldn't be too sure that what Jin was saying was what you wanted him to be saying, so you waited, anxious and yearning all at one time, for him to explain.

"You know how I feel about falling in love…" Jin murmured quietly and your heart dropped.

"Yes." You whispered, breaking eye contact in favor of staring at your feet. It already hurt. Your poor heart already hurt.

"My simple plan to not fall in love, especially not with a commoner, has worked well for me for a really long time." He explained, and you nodded, still not looking at him. "It's always been easier to spend a night of fun with a woman and see her off the next morning with a satisfied smile on her face." Despite the fact that you knew this already, your gut twisted into jealous knots and tears sprang to your eyes. You blinked them away as best you could. Jin heaved a large sigh and rubbed his palm over his eyes. "But this plan sort of fell apart when I met you, see."

For the first time since you both were alone, your eyes snapped up to his face. He was smiling sort of sadly, emotions dancing across his face in a distorted line as he measured his next words. "You're understanding, caring, sweet, fun, funny… you're incredible. I wanted to protect you from somebody like me, but I went and fell for you like the selfish ass I am." He buried his face in his hands and shook his head, and before you could stop yourself, you were standing up and taking the few steps that would erase all space between you.

You cupped your hands over his and lifted his face to meet his eyes. "I don't want protection from you, Jin. I want you." You whispered, thumbing his cheeks gently as he stared up at you. It happened quickly after that. His arms wrapped around your waist and pulled you into his lap, your legs straddling his muscular body, and leaned up to press his lips to yours, urgently deepening the kiss like he had been starving for you for ages and now that he had tasted you, would never be letting you go again. Your fingers twisted into his short chestnut locks and tugged as you moaned softly into his mouth, savoring him just as much. He pressed the tip of his tongue to your lips, seeking entrance, and you parted them willingly, allowing the newfound heat to overtake you. He grunted and squeezed your bottom with his large hands; only then did you realize you had been grinding onto his lap in your frenzy.

You pulled away to catch your breath, pleased to find Jin as breathless as you. Stroking his hair, you bumped his nose with your own. "You know what my next question is, don't you, Jin?" You murmured teasingly onto his lips, and he smirked in response, his grip tightening on your ass. "Yes." He purred, lifting you up in his arms as he stood. You yelped, then laughed, wrapping your legs around his middle and your arms firmly around his shoulders as he carried you out of the drawing room and back towards his own. "Good thing I like carrying you, sweetheart. Cause you won't be walkin' anywhere for awhile after tonight."

Tags for the Lovelies: @aquagirl1978 @rhodolitesroseforclavis @ikehoe @queengiuliettafirstlady @maries-gallery @nightghoul381 @judejazza @xbalayage @kissmetwicekissmedeadly @alvieeru @aria-chikage @tele86

#ikemen prince #ikepri #ikemen series #jin grandet #ikepri jin #leon dompteur #ikepri leon #yves kloss #ikepri yves #licht klein #ikepri licht #ikemen prince jin #ikemen prince leon #ikemen prince yves #ikemen prince licht #a series of firsts #a series of firsts ccc

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writeandsurvive · 3 months

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Could I request a Vince from Fire Country x female reader, where they are in a secret relationship as she is a convict, and is the fire fighter program, obviously Vince and Sharon are divorced, with the prompt 1 and 29? Please and thank you

This is my first Vince Leone fic and I hope I did a good job 🥺 So much love for Vince/Billy, he deserves the best❤️

Warnings: inmate!Reader, forbidden relationship, punch, fire fighting

1. I’m afraid I can no longer remain professional.

29. I wish we could stay like this forever

Stay Like This ~ Vince Leone

Vince Leone’s first thought when he saw you, was how a gorgeous woman like you with an angelic face can be an inmate? If you had been wearing an orange jumpsuit, he’d have thought you were someone working at Three Rock, or perhaps visiting someone. But no, you were indeed in prison and he felt stupid. What demons were behind this angelic facade? What have you done?

The first time you and Vince actually worked together, he was surprised to see how much work you did. You weren’t scared of hard work, understanding the urgency of the situations, how every second counts. As a Department Chief of Cal Fire, Vince Leone has very high expectations when it comes to his firefighters and he simply wished you were one of his. On the other hand, you didn’t really pay attention to the Chief, but rather focused on your tasks, listening to every order Captain Manny Perez was giving you. You couldn’t let the fire win.

The second time was at Three Rock. Vince was visiting his son Bode in the evening and as he was waiting outside, he saw you going from the showers to the female lockup. “Hi sir,” you simply said, walking past him. He only nodded at first, but called out your name a few seconds later, making you spin.

“I just wanted to let you know that you’re doing a great job. Makes me wonder if you had some sort of training?”

You shyly smiled, “No more training than what we learned here.”

“Well, that’s impressive. Keep it that way,”

“I’ll try my best, thank you.”

From that moment, you started to develop a crush on Vince Leone. Maybe it was the way he complimented you, or his smile, or his handsome face, his hair, his mustache. Probably all of the above.

You weren’t sure when things took a turn. Maybe it was when Vince caught you before you fell from a cliff and held your body pretty tight against his, or maybe it was when you stayed by his side as he was stuck under some rubbles after a whole building collapsed. “I can’t, Chief, I can’t,” you cried out of exhaustion, fear and frustration as you tried to move the huge piece of rubbles he was under.

“It’s okay, we’re gonna figure this out, yes?”

“I don’t–I, I’m sorry. What can I do?”

“Not let me die in there?” he chuckled, trying to get you to stop panicking.

“Vince!” you shouted, not laughing and looking around for a solution.

“I’m Vince, now?”

“I’m sorry, Chief, I just–”

“You can call me anything you want. Except in front of the others, of course.”

“Do you really want to talk about that, now?” you exclaimed.

“Well I wouldn’t mind the distraction until the forklift gets me out of here. Please?”

You talked for several minutes about everything and nothing. He told you a bit about Bode, his passion for the job and music. He even mentioned Riley at some point but didn’t dwell on it. Knowing from Bode what happened to Riley, you weren’t surprised. You told him why you were in jail and how long you still had, where you were from originally, your family. You told him you’ve been playing violin since you were a kid, and he immediately said he wanted to hear you play.

“Only if you’ll play guitar and sing for me.” you answered.

“Deal.”

Vince never imagined being in a serious relationship after his divorce. After Riley’s death and Bode’s departure, his marriage imploded and so did his heart. So of course, a relationship was out of the question. He never wanted to fall in love again. But he found himself falling for a younger inmate. “Way to go, Leone.” he mumbled to himself once he came to the realization of his feelings for you.

If you put this on paper, the relationship was meant to fail. Both you and Vince actually thought so without saying it out loud. However, you just couldn’t stay away from each other. Vince would sneak into Three Rock every time he could, even if it was for a quick hello and a kiss. You’d talk almost everyday over the phone, whether you saw each other or not. Most of the time you were in the field, Vince would find a way to steal from Manny’s, so you were under his command, and right next to him.

However, one day you found yourself lost and surrounded by fire with one of Vince’s firefighters. You really thought it was the end for you, that you were going to burn alive. And your only thoughts were for Vince. You were silently begging him to save you, promising him the perfect relationship once you were free. The guy you were with was panicking too, and taking it out on you.

When you heard Vince’s voice and started to feel some water, you fell on your knees, crying like a baby. You didn’t know how long you stayed like this, only that Vince picked you up. You held onto him like never before and he held you tight. “You’re okay, baby. I got you.” Maybe some people overheard and noticed things but it didn’t matter at this very moment.

Shortly after, Manny was holding you as you saw Vince punching the hell out of his firefighter. “How irresponsible are you!” He shouted, “That was not my order! Not only did you put yourself in danger but you put–her in danger too. We will discuss this.”

As much as his anger was justified, the punch wasn’t and Vince found himself in some troubles with his superiors. You felt extremely guilty because you knew you were the reason Vince punched the guy. Overtime, you’ve found ways to meet with the man you love; a small distance away from where you sleep.

You were sitting in the grass when you felt two hands on your shoulders which made you jump. “I'm sorry honey,” Vince said softly, sitting next to you. “You usually hear my footsteps.” he wrapped his arm around your shoulders, his other hand cradling your cheek, and you kissed softly.

“I was deep in thoughts.” You admitted, resting your head on his shoulder.

“Wanna share?” He asked.

“Are you in trouble, V?” You looked at him, worried.

He sighed before answering, “Kinda, but it'll be alright.”

“Are you sure? I mean, I know you punched him because of me and I–”

“You're right. I was freaking out because I thought I was going to lose you, and I should have had a better control of my emotions.” He kissed your forehead. “Don't feel guilty, baby. I'm afraid I can no longer remain professional.” He admitted. “I think it'll be better if from now on, you stick with Manny.”

You nodded to that, but felt extremely sad. It wasn't like you and Vince had a lot of time together, and even though it was work and you were fighting fire, being under his command was when you two were able to be together the most. And this was going away.

“Hey,” he grabbed your chin to make you look at him, knowing what was going through your mind. “You only have 8 months. After that, we'll be able to see each other whenever the hell we want.”

“You deserve better, Vince.” You whispered, tears forming in your eyes.

“Don't ever say that again. I love you, I wanna be with you, no matter what. You brought me back to life.”

Since it was summer, the night weather was actually better than during the day. Vince laid down on the grass, taking you with him. He was holding close to him, while your head rested on his chest. Staring at the sky and stars, you stayed like this for a long moment. “You're the best thing that ever happened to me, Vince Leone. I wanna be a better person for you.”

“You already are, not that you were a bad person in the first place.”

“I wish we could stay like this forever.” You said after a beat.

“Soon my love, we'll have forever.”

#fire country #fire country fanfics #fire country imagines #vince leone #vince leone x reader #vince leone fanfic #vince leone imagines #billy burke

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drenix004 · 7 months

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𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐋 ━━━ 𝐋𝐄𝐎𝐍 𝐒. 𝐊𝐄𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐃𝐘 ~chapter 1~

𝑺𝒐𝒖𝒍︙❝Leon never believed in the tale of soul mates, not until he met the woman who is now his wife… now, they were a lethal couple completing secret missions after what happened in Raccoon City.❞

❛We know each other so well that even when we improvise we get things right.❜

warnings: mention of alcohol, drugs, death, obsession, among others, if you are not comfortable, don't read it !

rating: 18+

pairings: Leon S. Kennedy x female Oc

¡English is not my first language, so there may be mistakes, don’t hesitate to correct me.!

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The experiences Nefer Kennedy had gone through before arriving in Raccoon City in the midst of the chaos had marked her and her husband deeply. That traumatic event had left a deep mark on both of them because of the losses they had suffered. But not only that, it had also triggered strange behaviors, especially in Nefer.

Since then, Leon and Nefer had not been separated. Even sleeping had become a challenge due to the nightmares that tormented them. When they dared to close their eyes, Nefer had to take refuge under the bed because of the fear that haunted her. Leon remained by her side, sitting on the floor, guarding the door and watching over her.

Fear had also invaded Leon Kennedy. He had a constant feeling that if he closed his eyes, the horrible creatures would reappear, and relive the hell they had lived through. A movement beside him made him look away from the door. He frowned as he saw his wife awake, staring at the door.

-Nefer?-he whispered, bringing his hand to hers. -What's wrong?

-Quiet,-Nefer sat up slightly, -it's too quiet. They could appear at any moment.

Leon kept silent, knowing what his wife meant. The excessively quiet places reminded them of the possibility of the Tyrant appearing.

-Nothing is going to happen, my dear. -He brought his wife's hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. -We're safe here. - But the image of Nefer being tossed like a doll by that creature brought a knot to his stomach. He tried to smile, but it was more of a grimace than a smile.

Nefer looked at him before turning her attention back to the door and sighing, returning to her original position. He moved closer to Leon and began tracing shapes on his skin with his thumb.

-Do you know where Claire is?

-No." His wife's touch reassured him.- And while we're at it…. can you explain to me what happened between you and Ada? -The caresses stopped, and Nefer involuntarily shrank in place, avoiding answering.

-I don't know what you mean,-he said evasively, averting his gaze, not wanting to meet Leon's blue eyes. Her encounter with Ada Wong before meeting her husband had been strange and awkward.

-Nefer Kennedy, you can fool anyone but me. -Leon turned fully toward her, not letting go of her hand.

-You got shot and kissed by her,-Nefer began, reminding him of what had happened with the Asian. Leon sighed.

-We already talked about this, the shot was unintentional and the kiss was out of my control,-Nefer sighed this time. -What really worries me is what he said afterwards: -"I like your wife's lips better" -he repeated the woman's words exactly.

Nefer choked on his own saliva.

-Anything you want to say? -Leon continued, noticing his wife's nervousness, which was becoming more and more evident.

-Ah,- she exhaled, looking into his eyes. They had a gleam in them that did not bode well. -She kissed me too, only she…. -He tried to find less abrupt words, but he couldn't find them at the moment.- She stuck her tongue down my throat.

Leon's eyes widened before an exclamation escaped his lips. -What?!

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The flashing lights made her squint in discomfort. She felt a constant ringing in her ears, and every time she moved her head, she experienced painful pulsations that made her curse. -Could you dim the lights, please? -she looked at Benford. This man had to be present at every procedure to make a proper report. -Are you feeling dizzy? -Benford called for a military nurse when the woman nodded. The sound of the door opening made her sigh with relief. Through it entered a woman in her forties. The woman approached Nefer. -Your heart is beating faster than normal, you are experiencing tachycardia,- she quickly pressed the emergency button. -You've exceeded one hundred and fifty beats per minute. I need you to stay calm. -That's great news! -My chest hurts, damn it. More medical personnel came through the door. -Don't stress,- they reminded her. -How can I not be stressed, damn it? -The monitor beeped, alerting the staff. -He's reached 200 beats per minute. Start the Valsalva maneuver and massage his carotid sinus. Nefer felt two fingers placed next to her neck and began to apply light pressure. -Adam, I love my husband,- she said. But he did not respond. -Let's first concentrate our efforts on reducing the heart rate,- replied one of the staff. Nefer groaned as he felt a pressure in his chest. Get him out of here. -I can't leave, that's a strict order,-Benford contradicted when they tried to get him out. -Well, but fix it! -Nefer shouted as he felt a dizziness that made him roll his eyes back. He felt like he was reliving a situation from the past, when he had overdosed on Oxycodone at the tender age of fourteen. -She had exceeded two hundred beats per minute!

The woman's vision became blurry, the beeping became louder and louder, preventing her from hearing what was being said. And suddenly, everything faded away. She could no longer feel anything, hear anything, or even see anything. He felt calm, as if in a kind of limbo. Benford watched with concern as they tried to treat Nefer, while she feared for her responsibility in this situation. He had promised Kennedy that she would be in good hands and that they would meet at the base where they would train after making sure Nefer posed no danger to the others. How could she face Kennedy and tell him that things had gotten complicated? There was something in Kennedy's look that made it clear he was willing to do anything, even if it meant facing prison or death. -By all that is holy in this world, let Nefer not die, for if he does, I will be next,- Benford muttered as he followed closely the medical efforts to save Nefer.

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Five days. Five fucking days without seeing his wife or hearing from her. The training had begun from the moment he arrived, and without a doubt, it was extremely demanding. By the end of each day, he was riddled with cuts, blisters and bruises all over his body.

The first three days were a challenge he was not prepared for. He was sure that this training was much more intense than military service. After all, he was preparing to become a government agent.

The lack of sleep was taking its toll. He had lost count of how many times he had kissed the ground during hand-to-hand combat.

On the fourth day, he was allowed to see little Sherry. The little girl told him what she had been doing during the days they had been apart. She even mentioned that she had seen Nefer, which, of course, caught Kennedy's attention, who didn't hesitate to ask. Sherry admitted that Nefer didn't look well at all. When she saw her, she had wires all over her body and was asleep, so she wasn't able to spend much time with her.

This only added to Leon's concern, but he decided to push those thoughts aside and make the most of the time with the blonde. Her visit was a respite for him, a respite he certainly took full advantage of. Little Sherry's visit only motivated him to keep training, which led him to make a deal with his superior: if he managed to at least hit her in the next melee, he would get information about Nefer.

Day five arrived, and Kennedy had kissed the ground more than ten times, but somehow, that gave him a slight advantage. He already knew how his instructor attacked, had memorized his moves before taking him down. by the next round, sweat trickled down the foreheads of both men, whose tense muscles and heaving breaths reflected the intensity of the melee they were engaged in.

The instructor, a burly man with decades of special forces experience, had his eyes fixed on Leon. His face was serious, and his eyes sparkled with defiance. He moved his body with agility, with the dexterity of someone who knew every trick and technique in the book. Every strike and block was executed with lethal precision.

Leon, standing his ground with determination, a series of quick exchanges of punches, blocks and dodges followed until an opportunity finally arrived. When his instructor attempted a low kick, Leon ducked and slid to the side, managing to avoid the blow. Quickly, he grabbed his opponent's leg and twisted it hard for a few seconds. -Very good, Kennedy,- the instructor congratulated him, -you learn fast,-he touched his arm and Leon let go, -a deal is a deal. She's in sector B, arrived a day and a half ago. -Did you know that? -You needed some form of motivation, didn't you? -He had to admit that the boy had potential. Go before I regret it, you have half an hour. If you're a second late, I'll make you run an extra two kilometers.

-Yes, sir,- he gave the characteristic military salute before walking briskly toward his destination.

-All right, ladies, let's get the next one to the center! -shouted the instructor, preparing for the next fight. Someone else has to kiss the ground.

PREV|NEXT

#husband!leon kennedy #leonscottkennedy #husband leon #leon kennedy x oc #leon s kennedy #leon kennedy x reader #resident evil #resident evil 2 #leon kennedy fluff #leon kennedy #re2make #resident evil x reader #re2 leon #re4 leon

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endlesslystarlitskies · 1 year

Text

Lost and Found- Part 8

A/N: Here’s the next part I promised! Thank you to everyone following along with this story! I appreciate you guys!

Genre: Horror, action, adventure, Romance, Slow-Burn,

Pairing: Leon Kennedy x Named Reader (Named but not Described)

Summary: Ella was one of the missing hikers who was kidnapped by the villagers. She narrowly escaped being sacrificed, but her friends weren’t so lucky. Managing to survive out in the woods with her previous skills and knowledge, she runs into Leon, and that meeting begins the longest, most dangerous adventure of her life as she tries to help him save the girl she saw being taken into the church. What will happen along the way? Only one way to find out.

Warnings: Canon typical violence and gore, Death, Murder, Monsters, Suicidal ideations mentioned

Word Count: 4,772

Part 7 Part 9 Story Masterlist

The settlement directly after the locked door was almost completely empty, and Ella had learned that that never bode well, staying close to Ashley as a bad feeling settled in her stomach.

They came across the large metal door, and Ella helped Leon push it open, the latter moving forward to make sure there were no enemies up ahead. “Alright, come on.” He cleared, and Ella waited for Ashley to start moving before walking, being right beside her. A gasp and scream had Ella and Leon spinning around, seeing the man with the hat, who Ella had learned from the villagers was the Chief, holding Ashley’s arm. Leon acted quickly, stabbing him in the bicep with his knife. It succeeded in making him release Ashley, and Ella pulled her away as she watched the Chief look at Leon, anger shining behind his eyes. In a fast move, he hit Leon in the chest, sending him flying to the dirt. Ella raised her shotgun as Ashley ran to check on Leon, Ella worried for him but knowing better than to take her eyes off such a big threat. The Chief turned, shutting the gates before bending the metal of the lock with ease, making it impossible to go back that way. “Your soul requires cleansing.” His words were ominous, Ella feeling a chill run down her spine as the chief turned, looking at Ashley. “Come child.” “In your dreams, asshole.” Ella muttered, firing her shotgun as Leon told Ashley to run, the man stepping back but otherwise being unaffected. Ella lowered her gun as she backed away, before following after Leon and Ashley as Villagers started coming out of their homes.

Ella had known it had been too quiet before. She stayed behind Ashley, making sure a villager didn’t get too close as they tried to run their way through the area. “Leon!” Ashley screamed in terror as a villager made his way towards her. “Don’t worry about them!” He ordered, and Ella shot the villager in the head. “Go!” She shouted, Ashley gritting her teeth in fear before doing as she was told. The bridge leading to the other side was blocked, forcing them to go on an unstable looking platform over a ravine, and Ashley’s foot fell through the wood, forcing them to a stop. “Fuck-” Ella moved to help her as Leon shot a villager behind them. “We need to go!” Ella had to bite her tongue to keep from telling Leon his words weren’t helpful. She helped free Ashley’s foot, but the splintering of wood got her attention, the villager Leon shot having fallen back onto the bridge and now it was falling apart. “You gotta be kidding me.” He cursed, before turning to them. “Run!” Ella didn’t have to be told twice as all three of them ran to the other side as the bridge collapsed. Ella had made sure to stay behind Ashley to make sure she got across, but as Ella’s foot hit the stone ground on the other side, she almost slipped back. Fortunately, a strong hand grabbed her elbow, pulling her to safety and making her fall into a hard chest. She was glad her weight didn’t knock Leon off his feet, the blonde seeming unphased as his eyes were on something behind them. Ella turned, seeing the Chief staring at them from the other side. Leon held his gaze, his own hard as he watched to see what the large man would do next. However, after another moment, the Chief turned and began to walk away, accepting his defeat for the time being. Ella let out a breath, before realizing she was still standing very close to Leon, his hand holding her arm. She stepped away, ignoring the feeling in her chest and looking at Ashley to make sure her ankle was okay. It was a relief it hadn’t gotten hurt falling through the wood, as that would have been really bad. “Listen, you’re the one he wants. If we see him again, you run.” Leon spoke to Ashley as they walked forward, and Ella had to agree. He couldn’t get a hold of Ashley. He was too big of a threat, and getting her back would be difficult. “Wh-What about you?” Ashley asked in concern, concerned that Leon wouldn’t be able to handle The Chief. “I’ll do my job.” Leon stated definitively, his tone serious. While the statement was badass, it did nothing to reassure Ashley, and Ella decided to add a little light to the atmosphere. “Well like I said before, it’s not my job, but I’ll make sure he doesn’t get himself killed. Don’t worry.” She winked at Ashley, and she nodded, seeming to relax just a bit. Ella looked at the back of Leon’s head, shaking her own. He could be comforting, but it seemed he had no real control over it, and it was hit or miss. It was a good thing Ella was here. xXx

They cautiously moved forward, all three on edge after their encounter, and soon they came across a large building they had to go through in order to get to the other side. It was empty, so Ella didn’t think too much about it- that was until The Chief crashed through the wall and slammed into Leon, sending him down into the lower story of the building. Both she and Ashley ran to the railing of the building, Ashley screaming out his name in worry as Ella watched with wide eyes, debating if she should follow or stick beside Ashley. The Chief turned to look up at Ashley after her yell, Ella gripping her shotgun, but Leon beat her to it as he shot him in the shoulder, gaining his attention. “Cease your pointless struggling. Abandon your body to the will of our God.” His words sent a child down Ella’s spine as she was reminded of the parasite residing within both Ashley and Leon, and how it could take over them at any moment. “You’re a shitty missionary, you know that?” Leon fired back as he got to his feet, his gun aimed at the man as he stepped towards him. Ella almost wanted to tell him that now was no time for witty one-liners, but she didn’t want to risk distracting him or getting the Chief’s attention. The large man stopped, bending down to pick up his hat, unaffected by Leon’s shots. “Oh Almighty! Grant me the strength to crush your enemies!” He prayed, and Ella felt anger flow through her, her hand gripping the wooden railing. Any mention of their shitty religion was a great way to make Ella’s blood boil as she remembered that it included sacrificing others in the name of their god, and she wanted nothing more than to shoot the Chief in the head with her shotgun. “Run!” Leon's voice snapped her out of it, and Ella watched the Chief advance on him, Leon getting next to a barrel of oil as Ella saw what he was going to do next.

She reluctantly ran out of the building with Ashley so he could set the barrel off, despite wanting to help take care of the man who had been a thorn in their side for a while. Ashley came first, however. The explosion sounded soon after the two girls left the building, but Ella had a feeling that hadn’t done the trick. Ella’s heart raced as she stood outside the burning building, her worry increasing every second that passed. What if Leon could’t take care of the Chief on his own? He had been unable to thus far, after all. “You can go and help him, I’ll be fine!”. Ella turned, looking at Ashley. Ella was clearly conflicted, but she could see the young girl was just as worried for Leon. However, Ella didn’t know if she could leave her out here by herself, opening her mouth to voice her concern. “B-” “Go!” Ashley’s shout caught Ella off guard, but she didn’t waste any time as she nodded. Breaking the window and avoiding the backdraft, Ella vaulted through it, ignoring the heat as she looked at the scene in front of her. Her eyes widened at the sight of the former Chief, his body changed into that of a grotesque monster. He was large and fleshy, lined with black veins and armed with four long claw-like hands that stretched out inhumanly, the only thing left of him from his former self being the upper half of his body. The lower half was gone, what was left of his spine poking out of the remains of his back, and Ella could have thrown up right then and there. However, she watched as he threw a burning piece of wood straight at Leon like a spear, and the blonde barely dodged to the side before he started reloading his weapon. The thing was hanging right in front of the platform she was on, his back to it, and Ella snapped out of it as she moved. “Lord, grant me your strength!” The monstrous voice bellowed as he prepared to send another piece of wood at Leon, who was still loading his shotgun in a hurry. “I’ll grant you something!” Ella shouted, catching the creature's attention as he turned. He didn’t have a second to react before Ella fired her shotgun straight into his face, having been holding it out only a few inches away.

The thing crashed to the ground, a large crater in his head as he crawled forward pathetically.

“Lord. . .Saddler. . .” She didn’t know how he spoke considering most of his mouth was gone, but soon he fell limp against the ground, Ella feeling a sense of satisfaction. She almost wondered when she had gotten to the point of not caring about the fact she was killing other humans- or former humans-, but she didn’t dwell on it. “Where’s your “Almighty God” now fucker?” She muttered, spitting the title as she did. The words had the last of her anger falling below a simmer, and she let out a breath. “I thought you didn’t like cheesy one-liners.” She looked away from the dead corpse to see Leon looking up at her, a smirk on his lips. “Yeah, well I guess you’re rubbing off on me.” She returned with a smirk of her own, putting her shotgun behind her back as she took him in. He seemed relatively unharmed, which was all she could ask for. “If you guys are done, I think leaving the burning building would be a good idea!” Ashley called from the broken window, gaining their attention. With that, they moved quickly, making it out just as the building collapsed, though Ashley had to put out some embers that caught on Leon’s shirt, before helping him up. “You’re welcome?” Ashley gave him a look, and Leon chuckled. “Thanks.” He smiled softly, Ashley returning it before Leon looked to check his weapon for a moment. “This fire’s bound to catch their attention. Let’s keep moving.” He told them, and Ella had to hold back a groan. Of course he wanted to just move forward without taking a second to breathe. She expected nothing less at this point.

Uh, guys? I’m not going to turn into one of them, right?” Ashley asked as they walked, looking back at the burning building for a moment.

Ella didn’t expect Leon to actually say something comforting, so she opened her mouth to answer, but he beat her to it.

“I won’t let that happen, I promise.” Ella would give him that one, thinking it wasn’t bad considering. Feeling Leon said it all, she just gave Ashley a pat on her shoulder to show her that she felt the same way, promising the same, and Ashley smiled appreciatively to them both.

When Ashley looked away from her, Ella’s lips fell into a soft frown as she watched Leon’s back. She’d focus on making sure he didn’t turn into one of those things either. xXx

It wasn’t long at all before they made it to the stone castle, Ella’s brows raising as she took in the impressive building. She had never thought she would actually see a castle in real life, having only seen them in movies and tv shows before now. “Whoa. . .” It was huge, and as cool as it was to see one, she had a feeling that things were going to get a whole lot worse inside. That feeling was all but confirmed when the drawbridge behind them raised by itself after they crossed it, blocking off their exit. “You know. . .I had self-preservation instincts once.” She grumbled, mostly joking, but that didn’t stop her from receiving an unamused look from Leon.

“At least we don’t have to worry about being followed.” He pointed out, trying to find the good in the situation, but Ella didn’t let him. “Yeah, or having an easy means of escape.” She immediately added, her tone sarcastic. “You’re supposed to be the optimistic one.” He sighed, and Ella scoffed.

“That’s on you for actually believing I’m optimistic. I’m a realist. I just try to keep it inside most of the time for current company.” She was of course referring to Ashley. “Then try harder. Come on.” She definitely walked right into that one, and she relented as she let out a breath.

“Alright, into the creepy castle we go then. Whatever could go wrong?” She murmured quietly, putting a hand on her gun as they moved forward.

xXx

Luis had ended up contacting Leon, and when she heard it was him, Ella moved over to the blonde, putting her hand on his shoulder and leaning in to hear what Luis said. Leon gave her a curious look, but she ignored it. He didn’t move away so there was that. Ashley came closer as well, leaning on Ella, and it was like they were having a fun little group hustle. Listening in, she rolled her eyes when Leon joked about Ashley just having to see the castle, looking at the young blonde with a shake of her head and disappointment in her expression, making Ashley giggle. However, Ella’s attention was stolen when Luis mentioned having medicine to slow the progress of the infection. Hope blossomed in her chest, as that was exactly what they needed so they would have time to find a way to have the procedure done. At least something good would come from this trip inside the castle.

xXx Somehow, the Merchant had been a little bit ahead of the entrance to the castle, once again amazing Ella. She knew she’d get a straight answer, but she had still tried as they re-stocked their supplies. It was tradition at this point, with Ella asking and never getting a straight answer. It was like they were playing their own little game, one that Ella always lost. She didn’t really mind it, and they were out of there quickly, all three of them in a hurry to get to the courtyard and get that medicine. xXx

Leon looked through his binoculars, spotting the way to the courtyard, as well as one of those red robed, skull wearing cult members. Ella’s favorite.

“Courtyards gotta be through that gate.” He said as he let Ella take a look herself. “Don’t think our hosts are gonna roll out the red carpet.” He quipped. “Yeah, what gave you that idea? The men wielding crossbows or the giant ominous catapult?” Ella scoffed lightly, letting out a sigh as she returned his binoculars. “Have we tried just. . .asking nicely? Do you think that might earn us some brownie points?” Ella joked, and Leon and Ashley looked at each other, before shaking their heads in answer. “Damn. Well, there goes my plan.” She shrugged, earning her a small grin from Ashley, proving that she could still bring some positivity to the table without being an optimist.

xXx They hadn’t even been in this castle for an hour, and they had already met a new terrifying creature to fuel Ella’s nightmares, dodged flying, fiery rocks, and fought a horde of cult members. The good news was Ella had gotten to use a catapult to destroy other catapults and a door. It had been awesome. Ella knew better than anyone that you had to enjoy the little things. They made it to the castle doors, and Ella stopped. “Okay, if there’s another horde of religious assholes, I’m going to kill my-” Leon gave her a look of warning. “Kill everything inside.” She corrected with a sickly sweet smile. She quickly noted that he was touchy about those kinds of jokes. Ella and Leon pushed the doors open, and fortunately, there was no one there to greet them. At least not immediately. “Whoa. . .” It was Ashley’s turn to marvel at the inside of the castle, and Ella had to agree. Despite its creepiness, the castle was pretty amazing, if you took out all the cult murderers inside of course.

Walking deeper into a wide, open room, Ella bristled as an annoying, nasally voice filled the large space, the three looking up as the dumbest looking man Ella had ever seen walked into view. He wore one of those powdered wigs and old-timey English outfits, his face ghostly white with powder, and blush covering his cheeks. “Oh what the hell-” Ella grumbled under her breath, having never could have guessed that someone like this would be their next obstacle. This castle was already shaping up to be the worst thing that could have ever happened to them. “A most warm welcome to my castle.” He spoke up as he slid his fingers against the fancy railing. “Such a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, Mr. Kennedy.” He leaned forward, sneering down at them. Ella’s immediate reaction was to wonder if she was chopped liver, but she quickly decided she wasn’t upset that the man didn’t acknowledge her.

“Who, the hell, are you?” Leon asked with furrowed brows, clearly sharing Ella’s immediate annoyance and disgust with the man.

“Me? Oh please, call me Ramon. And allow me to get straight to the point.” Oh wonderful. Ella really didn’t feel like sitting through a stupid monologue. “I would like you to hand the girl over to me. . .now.” He gestured to Ashley, and Ella glared, hating that he thought he could just ask and they would do what he said. “Yeah, fat chance Ramon. The girl’s just fine, with me.” Leon immediately declined in that condescending tone Ella was starting to love (as long as it wasn’t directed towards her).

“Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kennedy.” Ramon’s disappointed and annoyed tone ticked Ella off as she watched him press his fist against the railing with every title. “How noble. Nonetheless, you see, the girl must be ours. With the girl as the very source, your United States, and then-” He threw his arms out and his head back. “The entire world shall overflow with his grace! For that, is the Iron Will of my Master, the most Holy, Lord Saddler!” Ella’s grip tightened on her gun as she scowled. They would never let that happen. “So then, you will comply, yes?” Was this guy serious? Ella knew she had joked about asking nicely, but she would have never actually tried it, unlike this man, who had to know that they wouldn’t just accept like that. “Never!” Ashley snapped definitively, wearing an angry expression of her own. “You heard the lady.” Leon stepped forward. “Yeah, that means fuck off Powder puff!” Ella added her own flare, just wanting this guy to shut up, and it was then he acknowledged her for the first time, wearing the most disgusted expression as he looked down on her. Ella was taken back by it, wondering if he had really hated that insult, or if there was something else to his glare. “How unfortunate.” He sighed, before snapping his fingers and turning towards the two very large and terrifyingly dressed guards behind him as he folded his hands behind his back. “Do make sure our guests feel at home, now that they have chosen Death.” The guards opened the door for him, Ramon disappearing behind it just as the one directly under the upper floor opened, castle guards with different weapons and shields filling the room. “Oh great. Here we go again.” Ella sighed, grabbing her shotgun and stepping in front of Ashley, alongside Leon.

xXx

Ella really hated the men with large wooden shields. Dealing with them was difficult, as they hid behind the shields constantly, making it hard to land a shot. Which she knew was the entire point, but she still hated it. Fortunately, Leon had used a small hand grenade after a minute, taking care of them quickly. The rest weren’t so difficult, though one of them had the large parasite that grew out of its head, the thing having teeth, and Ella despite it. Leon and Ella caught their breaths for a moment, before looking around to find a way through the castle, as the large doors the guards had come from were now locked. It took them a minute, but Leon hoisted Ashley over a wall, and she unlocked a metal gate for them, giving them access to an opening in the wall they had to squeeze through. This led them downstairs into a creepy, circular room where there were bodies hanging by chains on walls and doors, and a low growl emitted from somewhere nearby. “God, I hate this place.” Ella murmured, feeling nauseous as she looked away from the rotting bodies. More evidence of the innocent people this cult had hurt in the name of their religion. She didn’t understand how anyone could justify murder in this way. What kind of God asked that of their followers?

She shook the thoughts she knew she would get no answer to from her head, focusing on their surroundings. The door they needed to go through was locked, and the three searched around in hopes of finding a way through. Fortunately, Leon found the key. Unfortunately, it was on another dead body. Ella was just glad she didn’t have to look there, as she didn’t know if she could handle getting that close without throwing up. She didn’t understand how Leon could be so casual about it. Leon had turned to walk back towards them, Ella stepping back to get out of the hallway, ready to get away from this area so she didn’t have to smell the bodies any longer. However, when Leon walked onto the wood that was between them, it gave way, the man disappearing from their sights. “Leon!” Ashley shouted as Ella ran to the edge, looking down in search for him. She had worried that the fall was high, but fortunately, her eyes found him quickly, and Ella let out a breath.

He looked perfectly fine, if not a bit disheveled from the fall, Ella preparing to help him back up. She stopped, however, when she watched Leon freeze as he looked up at something Ella couldn’t see, the girl opening her mouth to ask but being cut off by Leon’s hand telling her to be quiet. Ella felt anxiety fill her as she quickly realized there was something else down there with him, but what could it be?

Leon made a hand motion, Ella interpreting it as him telling her he had to go around, and she nodded, watching as he crouched down and moved as quietly as he could out of sight. When she couldn’t see him, her anxiety worsened, but she knew she couldn’t leave Ashley behind, no matter how much she wanted to follow him down and make sure he would be okay. She had to remind herself that he could take care of himself, and Ashley couldn’t. However, she almost abandoned that all completely when the sounds of crashing metal hitting stone sounded, and Ella watched as a large creature with long, razor sharp claws suddenly ran in the direction Leon had gone with a roar, the only thing stopping her being Ashley’s startled gasp at the loud sounds. Ella mentally cursed, getting away from the hole in the wood and mentally berating Leon for falling down in the first place, even though she knew that was unreasonable.

He just always had to get himself into trouble, didn’t he? Why did she get attached to someone who was so prone to danger again? It wasn’t her best life decision, that was certain. xXx

After what felt like forever, the gunshots subsided and were replaced with a silence that made Ella’s heart pound so loud she could hear it. She was sure he was fine, but she couldn’t help but worry as the seconds ticked by.

Soon, however, she heard movement to the right, behind the metal door a body had been hanging from. She immediately raised her gun, preparing for an enemy, but as blond hair came into sight, relief washed over her. “Leon.” She breathed, feeling all her anxiety subside as she holstered her gun. “Hey, sorry.” He could tell she had been worried, and Ella pressed her fist against his chest, not unlike what he did to Luis back in the house where they fought off the hordes of villagers, though much less rough and violent. She could feel his heart beating beneath her closed hand, which helped get rid of the rest of her worry.

“Could you try never doing that again please? It would be greatly appreciated.” She murmured, the relief doing well to cover the slight shakiness still in her voice. Leon chuckled, his hand covering hers for a moment.

“Yeah, I’ll do my best.” He promised, and Ella nodded, removing her hand and turning to the door they could now open. She noticed Ashley was looking at her, meeting her eyes and seeing the knowing glint, but she didn’t understand what it was for. Ashley didn’t say anything, the three moving forward as Leon unlocked the gate. “So what happened down there?” Ashley asked as the door creaked open. “Nothing. You were right about the animals though.” Leon answered, referencing a comment Ashley made after hearing the growling before Leon fell through the floor. Ella wanted to scoff, wondering what kind of an animal had metal razor sharp claws and a sickening roar. She was just grateful Leon was okay.

xXx

After dealing with two puzzles involving gongs and swords, they circled back to the room they had been in before, now being on the upper floor. Leon had decided he wanted to jump across chandeliers, and as much as it looked like fun, Ella knew when she could and couldn’t do something, letting Leon take that on and being amused at Ashley getting on to him. The young girl seemed very concerned with Leon’s willingness to jump across the decorative lights, as if the man wasn’t constantly doing far more dangerous things. Eventually, Leon unlocked the door that had been keeping them from the platform on the other side where the doors were, both girls heading that way. “Leon are you kidding me? Jumping across chandeliers, seriously? Who does that?” Ella pursed her lips to hold back a laugh as Ashley continued to scold him, making Leon chuckle.

“What’re you my mother?” He joked, Ashley giving him an unamused look at that, and Ella couldn’t hold back a light laugh that time, finding that the two acted like siblings in the way they bickered with each other.

“Alright you two, let’s get going yeah?” She shook her head, opening the door for the three of them since the other two had been preoccupied. Making it into the next room, the three made their way down the stairs before an intercom on the wall sounded as an eerie laugh echoed through the speaker. Ella quickly realized who it was, letting out a sigh of annoyance. She had hoped that somehow, they wouldn’t deal with him again, even if she knew how unlikely that was. “Salutations, Mr. Kennedy. Are you ready to hand over the girl?” The more he spoke, the more Ella realized she really hated his voice. “Not this guy again.” Leon breathed in annoyance, and Ella hummed her agreement. “I’ve taken the liberty of preparing some entertainment for you. Without further ado: The Gallant Knight protects the Princess Fair!” Did her powder puff comment really piss this guy off so much that he was just completely ignoring her existence? Ella didn’t know whether to be happy or offended at that. Ashley shuddered as the intercom cut, Ella not being able to blame her. That guy was creepy as hell.

“Well, that sounds like fun.” Ella sighed, knowing they would have to go through Powder Puff’s entertainment in order to move forward through this damn castle.

They tried the door off to the side that led to a small library, but the only other door in there was locked, which meant they’d have to go through the hallway to the large wooden doors.

Ella knew this was about to be a real headache.

#Leon Kennedy x reader #Leon Kennedy x OC #Leon Kennedy #Leon Kennedy Fanfiction #Leon S. Kennedy #Resident Evil #Resident Evil 4 #Resident Evil 4 Remake #Lost and Found

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cloveroctobers · 1 year

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somebody like you — joe x oc x bode leone

A/N: here’s my attempt to write for joe again! It’s the month of fluff so I thought why not? I just want my man to be happy so…but we’re also talking about ME here who loves a little (A-LOT in this case—some difficult topics will be discussed later on throughout this piece) angst on the side. I should seek therapy, ha! Anyways, You’ve been warned?

S/N: if you haven’t seen fire country this is me telling you to watch it. Although I’m using a gif for a different character/show that I haven’t watched…we’re gonna pretend that this works for bode’s character! Max has always been a cutie to me sorry lol. + GIFS BELONG TO THEIR RIGHTFUL OWNERs ALWAYS! + kinda lengthy unintentionally.

・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ ・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ ・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ ・

she doesn’t know what time it is or care.

What she does know is she hates the person calling her right now. She was supposed to be sleeping in—which was always but that’s besides the point! Winters in New England can be brutal and she wasn’t much of a winter girl. Let’s just say she couldn’t wait for spring to arrive so that the view can provide some sort of livelihood around here. Now don’t get her wrong, the snow was pretty to look at and there were some fun activities to get into but after almost breaking her car door due to it being frozen shut? She was done.

After what felt like the twentieth buzzing from her phone, she made a attempt to reach for her bedside table. If her long arms didn’t reach out far enough to grasp her phone, then that was the person on the other line’s problem. Lucky for them she was able to grab it, snatching the device close to her face. With slits in her eyes she rested the phone right by her face on her pillow and slid a finger across the screen.

“What?”

A laugh was breathed into the other line by a familiar voice, “come on! Don’t tell me you’re still in bed.”

“I’ve been trying to call you for over an hour now, wanted to invite you up to mine for breakfast.”

A grunt sounded from her throat, “I thought we had a understanding. You don’t wake me up until after 6pm.”

Joe wasn’t surprised at this response. The pair were complete opposites, whereas he didn’t mind early mornings which allowed him to get things done—especially as a business owner; while she was the creative night owl and thrived when the stars twinkled in the navy sky.

“I made hashbrowns along with other surprises,” Joe persuaded, making her eyes peel open at the thought, “and I’m actually out front.”

Which really means the back entrance, however due to where his ranch was located, it was really the front entrance for him.

Letting out a long sigh, she flopped on her back in thought as she stared up at the ceiling that appeared as if it was experiencing some water damage. She knew if she mentioned this to her dad over her weekly facetime calls with him, she wouldn’t hear the end of it. It also looked as if it was starting to spread but that was another problem for another day. She had to worry about if she wanted to move from this metal-framed plushy bed.

When a growl erupting from her belly, she found her answer.

“Fine, you win this time.” She sat up and stretched with her hands raised high above her head, limbs stiff, “Let yourself in, I’m gonna get myself ready.”

The wind could be heard from the other line as Joe pulled the screen door back, “I always win…but thanks for your permission, your majesty, my arms were starting to get frostbite. And hurry up, some people are starving here.”

“Hurry up, some people are starving here.” She mocked the man as she picked up her phone ready to hang it up, “Kiss my ass, Joseph Narine.”

And was in fact met with the dial tone as Joe held the phone in between his neck and shoulder. He couldn’t help but laugh at his friend’s grumpiness, kicking the back door shut with his leg as he carried the food through the entry way. Joe could still feel the draft of the fifteen degree weather as he stood in the entrance, the wooden stairs peeking out from up head while he turned to the door on the left.

His brown eyes immediately went to the door mat in front of the storm door, chuckling to himself as he read the message that never got old to him which read: protected by fuck around and find out surveillance. The man shook his head as he managed to twist the knob open. A sigh of relief escaped his lips as he felt some warmth inside of the farmhouse brush over his face. Taking a few steps to the oval table covered in plaid tablecloth, he placed the tray of food on one side.

Joe stared over at the various of plants that decorated the two tables right in front of the bay window, out into the snow covered scene out back. Sure she had a nice view but Joe actually preferred the view on the side of the house which held the screened-in porch better, since he could see out towards his own land instead. Smiling to himself, he was brought out of his thoughts as a meow caught his attention.

“Hey, Cassius.” Joe greeted the black feline that jumped onto the table. He then picked up the cat with one hand to pet behind his ears, “you know your mom doesn’t like you on the table and I’m guessing she’s been depriving you of food because of her terrible sleeping patterns.”

He glanced over at the pet bowl that rested against the white panel column that divided the kitchen from the living room. “I got you, boy.”

Joe told the black oriental shorthair as he placed him back onto the floor. First Joe moved over to the deep stainless steel kitchen sink to wash his cold hands, then back around to the pantry for Cassius’ food.

“There you go.” He caressed the cat’s back as he heard some creaking from up ahead.

He stood up as she stomped into the kitchen, “whaaat?! She’s alive!”

She took the rope to her fuzzy housecoat to whack at Joe who laughed at her. She then reached around to gently latch onto Cassius’ tail, caressing it as she said, “hey, babe.” Before carrying on her way.

“Tea or coffee?” She asked, although she already knew the answer.

Joe went back to the table to push the poinsettia further down the table as he went to work unloading the breakfast, “uh tea.”

“Grey.” She stated just as he added at the same time, “Earl Grey.”

Giving a thumbs up at the brown skinned man, Joe found himself softly smiling at the woman as he returned back to his own task.

“No work today?” She asked, while preparing the electric kettle.

Joe huffed as he took a seat, deciding to pick with her, “there’s no way I had work today waiting around for you.” Which earned a swift middle finger from the woman, “Nah…todays the day I let my new assistant manager run things for me.”

Her eyes went wide before she clapped it up for her friend, “I’m proud of you! I’m also a little shocked that you’re allowing this.”

“I am too,” Joe furrowed his brows, “but don’t think for a second that my guard is completely down. I’ve got cameras set up that I can tap into at any time from my phone, I also will be checking in with Ginny and Padma and will be there for closing shift just to make sure things are in fact, running smoothly.”

The electric kettle began to whistle just as she slammed the cabinet shut, now holding two mugs. It was her turn to laugh as she set the mugs on the opposite counter, disappearing behind the wall to retrieve the kettle from next to the stove and back to his mug.

“Tell me you’re not a control freak without telling me you’re a control freak,” she responded as she filled the mug with steaming water, “I thought days off are meant to be just that.”

“It’s a partial day off,” joe argued as he bit into a raspberry white chocolate scone, “this is my business we’re talking about here. Sure it’s been two weeks already with them but this is the real test.”

She couldn’t be mad at that, considering hearing how much of a pain in the neck it was for Joe to get the blue farm up and running. However he was headstrong, determined, and persistent and wouldn’t give up on his goals in life.

That was admirable.

“Well have some faith in them,” she suggested grabbing the tea bag next to place into a mesh tea ball strainer, then carefully placed it into the water, “you did hire them with good reason.”

“Yeah, it was in the budget.” Joe stated matter of factly which made her roll her eyes.

Of course this is what he would say. If Joe could do it all on his own, he certainly would. He did it in the beginning when he first started out and would try again if it ever came down to it. Joe can take the weight when he didn’t have to.

Carefully placing the mug in front of him, she attempted to snatch the scone that he was eating but Joe was too quick for her. Her stomach growled almost in anger as she sucked her teeth at the man who raised his hands in surrender.

“The hell was that?”

“It’s called hunger and you come to my house eating in my face without offering me a bite? And I made you tea? How shameful!” She whipped back around, tossing her robe over her pajamas as she grabbed the canister of sugar and back to the fridge for a slice of lemon.

Joe snorted, reaching for the small spoon to place three drops of sugar into his tea and plopped the lemon slice into the beverage, “You’re showing your true hospitality skills so don’t take that out on me. I bought the food!”

“Which you didn’t share!” She yelled back as she filled up her mug with ice.

“There’s a whole tray of food.”

“I wanted your scone.”

“There’s more scones in the container.”

“I wanted yours, Joe!”

“Well, that’s too damn bad!”

Which made the pair snicker at the joke while she prepared herself some ice coffee. Which never made sense to Joe, if it was freezing outside you should have warm items not cold! It was a whole debate between the two and he didn’t hide the judgmental look he shot the woman’s way as she finally plopped down in the chair beside him.

She rested her head in the palm of her hand as she sipped at the straw inside of her mug, watching Joe watch her.

“You went out last night?”

“You know I did.” She popped her tongue, before setting her bagel mug back down.

Joe inhaled at that.

She had a history of being a party girl once before back in college she told him when they became friends. She seemed to have it together after college was over with internships and working more minimum wage jobs, until she landed a job with a great company out here as a model builder. She shit-talked the job just like many people did their own but found joy in creating miniature houses and crochet objects to sell on her Etsy account.

“I hope you’re taking care of yourself, Darcy.”

She snorted at the man’s concern as she plucked up the said hash brown and held it up in the air then sunk her teeth into it, “Okay dad, I don’t need a lecture from you either.”

This was true since her dad sat her down earlier that year to steer her in the right path. He even encouraged her to get back into therapy, which was funny since he was ignorant towards the whole thing until he got with his new psychologist girlfriend. She was always in Darcy’s dad’s ear about something and she didn’t particular care for her either.

As petty as this was going to sound, at her big age, she’ll never be Darcy’s mother.

It felt too fast for Darcy’s dad to move on from the passing of her mother, in her opinion. Yet he didn’t want to hear that and kept the topic mainly on his daughter and her issues.

“I know,” Joe was gentle with his approach, “I just want to make sure you’re doing okay, that’s all.”

“I promise you I’m not throwing my life away,” she reassured her dark haired friend, “As a thirty year old, I should be wrapping it up and brainstorming about a 401k right?”

“I didn’t say all that,” Joe tilted his head to the side with a small smile, “anyone can still have fun at this age, we’re still young and cool as shit but i just hope you’re not into…anything else.”

“Don’t worry bud,” she said after chewing her potato, “none of that hardcore shit is ever entering this glorious body again. Sticking to the tequila and the occasional shrooms.”

Joe nodded as he blew at his tea, “…anything else for the pelvic pain?”

“Let’s talk about something else!”

Joe knew that was the limit as he sipped at his tea. He paused as he thought this over, “Georgia’s going to trial in a couple of months.”

Darcy hummed at this, unsure what to say. She knew how Joe felt about the southern peach and how he was still in denial about her being able to kill someone—let alone Cynthia’s decaying (at the time) husband. However she knew only bits and pieces of what Joe knew about her background and how she shifted Wellsbury the moment she rolled into town.

“And you’re gonna be there?”

“She’s my friend, I should be there.”

“Are you though,” Darcy asked with slits in her eyes, “you don’t really know what anybody’s capable of and then your whole thing with Cynthia…” she found herself gagging at the image of that happening and still struggled to swallow that down.

Joe frowned at this. It was a difficult decision considering he didn’t know where he really stood and Cynthia…it was either never the right time to discuss it or she was too busy to be bothered—all things considered of course.

Joe announced, “If you were accused of a crime, I would be there for you.”

“Duh,” Darcy clicked her tongue, “you might even be the person I call to help me bury the body…but our relationship is not the same as those two.”

Joe sighed, “you’re impossible!”

“I’m realistic.” She beamed as she finally bit into a scone, “don’t let your crush on Georgia and your past relations with the red head cloud your judgment. You don’t need to be involved in their nonsense.”

Exhaling Joe glanced off to the left out the window, in thought for some time, leaving the two to quietly eat their brunch.

“Hey, if you don’t know this already. I love you for your generous heart but those two and their problems don’t have to become yours unless you let it. Some may call it selfish but I call it smart, you have to protect yourself first and always especially if you let emotions get in the way. And if you don’t, I’ll kick your ass.”

Joe listened carefully to what she was saying but couldn’t help but to take it with a grain of salt. He knew Darcy meant well and if he let his big sister in on his business, she would probably tell him the same exact thing. They were alike in a lot of ways…don’t tell them he thought this! Darcy was in protect mode as Joe was in concern mode and that’s simply because they let each other in.

The brown skinned man puffed out a breath as Darcy was eating, lightly swinging her crossed feet back and forth while she watched Cassius run off into the living room. Her attention then went back to staring out the large window, which gave the wide view of land and hills covered in thick snow.

“Oh!” A thought suddenly occurred after awhile, “I think I drunkly made you something last night.

“Really?” Joe quirked up his brows in wonder.

She shoved the rest of the scone into her mouth as she scrapped the chair back, “mhm. It’s somewhere down here, I just hope Cassius didn’t chew it up.”

“He wouldn’t dare!”

“He’s only on his best behavior when you’re around so maybe,” Darcy shrugged her shoulders as she walked around the chair to enter the living room.

Joe took the time to look around the kitchen as he continued his breakfast. It’s not like he hasn’t been over plenty of times before, it was almost as if this house was just as much his since he had a key himself. He couldn’t help but to wonder what this house would look in the next five years—he even thought about how his ranch would look also! Would they still be neighbors from a distance? Joe didn’t ever see himself living out in California where his parents and sister resided. He was too attached to Wellsbury and always felt at home.

“Here you go!” Darcy called out, tossing this thick but soft object at Joe who scrambled to catch it, “I was going to name it for you and everything but I can’t do all the work for you.”

Joe analyzed the green object with beady eyes and a small pink v-lined smile, “is this a pear?”

“Yup! Don’t ask me how long it took me to make because I hardly remember anything when I got back here. Just that I was hungry and made that for you. And since I can’t give you any pears from my pear tree right now, that’s the best that I’ve got.” Darcy informed Joe who found himself smiling at it.

He’s seen a few of Darcy’s crochet items on Etsy and even purchased a few to send to his niece and her friends out in California. Now he was getting his very own and knew that it was meaningful.

“Well…you could also share your pear jam that you have sitting on your shelf back there.” Joe teased.

“You needy, ungrateful, asshole,” she spewed back making Joe laugh.

“No, seriously. All jokes aside, this is really awesome and I appreciate you thinking of me, even if when you’re shit-faced.”

“Oh, don’t flatter yourself, Narine.”

“Someone’s got to.” Joe winked at Darcy who rolled her eyes.

Darcy glanced at the sage pear and asked, “do you really like it? Or you just like it to not hurt my feelings?”

“Shut up, you know I do. If you wanted, I would buy all of the crochet things you make, since the dollhouses are more expensive and might be a little suspect when I have the guys over—but that just means it came from you! And I know you make these crafts with such care and I like supporting you. Whatever you need. I just think you’re pretty neat, that’s all.” Joe rambled and Darcy found herself sitting up straight as she listened to him.

He was rambling. It was something that he did when he let his nerves get the best of him?

“You think I’m pretty and neat or just pretty neat?” Darcy challenged.

Joe felt his eyes widen, “Geez. Who’s flattering themselves now?”

She smiled a real soft smile at him that made Joe feel something inside. Something he felt once before, except this warm feeling began to spread from not only his chest then to his cheeks but all over.

What was happening?

His hand soon found her clothed wrist before slipping his hand to lock with her’s. This was new. Darcy watched this interaction, squeezing her own hand back against Joe’s. The image was nice to examine, how his hand fit like the perfect puzzle piece against her own. It took some time for her eyes to meet his, she ended up taking a sharp breath, thanks to the intensity that was in his coffee bean eyes just now.

“Is it crazy to love you?” Joe suddenly said; that Darcy had to mash on her ear to make sure she heard him correctly.

She laughed it off, “no, just look at me. I’ve got all the best qualities but to be in love with me? Maybe. If that’s what you’re saying.” She quickly added.

It was Joe’s turn to squeeze her hand, “maybe everything we went through with everyone else, is the reason why we should be together.”

He was leaning towards her now, his hand still in her’s while he crossed over with the other to cup her warm face, “can I love you?”

Was Darcy dreaming right now? What the hell was going on? This was just supposed to be breakfast and now it led to this? Was Joe okay? Was she okay?! She was sure she was holding her breath but she’d be lying if she said her heart wasn’t pounding in her chest right now. It’s not like she didn’t ever think of the possibility and made up a secret contract if they weren’t married by thirty-five…you get it but was this out of convenience for him? Or could they truly be something great? At this time? There was so much to discuss but his breath was brushing against her Cupid’s bow and the weight of his forehead felt comforting against her own.

Her eyes were locked on Joe’s as he kept glancing from her’s to her lips. All she had to do was seal the kiss and Joe was the one waiting for her answer. He didn’t want to continue pushing boundaries—if he was but he always led with his heart.

Her lips were parted and just as she was about to brush her lips against his, a pounding at the front door caused them both to jump away.

Joe cleared his throat, rubbing at his mouth as Darcy fought to slow her breathing. The knocking and the doorbell kept going, almost rapidly as Darcy seemed to be in a dazed state.

“Can you get that?”

“It’s your house.” Joe held his hands out in confusion but the glare she sent his way, made him sigh, placing the crochet pear on the table as he began making his way through the living room.

He passed through the living room and down the narrow hallway to the front door. Unlocking it, Joe pulled the door open, a little annoyed to reveal a man standing with his back to the screen door.

Once he turned around, Joe couldn’t believe who he was seeing right now. He heard all about him and seen pictures but what was he doing here?

“Uh, hey. Is Darcy around?”

Joe awkwardly stretched out a smile and held up a finger behind the screen door and slowly went to close the door, “just a second.”

He sped-walked down the hallway back to Darcy who still sat frozen, hands clutching her iced coffee now in thought.

“Darcy…you’ve got company.”

“Who is it?” She kept her eyes trained out the window.

“It’s Bode.”

“Yeah, right.” She snorted.

However when she received no response from the man, her head snapped up to meet his gaze.

“You’re not joking?”

“Nope. He’s here, probably freezing out there too.”

“Joe!” She scrapped her chair back, “what the hell is he doing here?”

“I don’t know!” He yelled with raised shoulders,” Maybe you should find out.”

“Why?”

“To get closure.”

“I should get my bow and arrow.” She decided, “and shoot him in the ass, all the way back to California.”

Joe gripped Darcy’s shoulders to keep her from heading the opposite way and through the doors to get the said item from the screened in porch. He turned her back around, still gripping her shoulders and tried to be encouraging, “it doesn’t need to go there.”

Darcy raised a challenging brow.

Joe corrected himself, “I stand by what I said. Just hear him out so that you can both move on.”

“So we can get together?”

Joe paused, “…if that’s what you want?”

“Well, what do you want?”

“I want you to be happy!” Joe exasperated, “and it would be fantastic if that ends up being with me but—I think you need to get through that chapter first.”

“It was kinda closed when he basically told me he was done with my ass after I screwed him in that place.” Darcy muttered, letting Joe let out a low whistle.

He knew how much that stung.

“Just...go with the flow. And if things go south and you need a tag team? I’ll be here.” Joe cracked his knuckles.

Darcy snorted at Joe’s attempt to be threatening, “you’re too cute, Joey.”

Joe was bashful with a shrug of his shoulders as the door bell and knocks sounded again.

“Always so impatient,” Darcy scoffed, “wish me luck.”

“You’ll be okay.” Joe gave her shoulders a squeeze and a gentle rub, “and I’ll be here finishing this delicious breakfast all by myself.”

Darcy groaned as she stomped out of the kitchen and headed to the door. Joe watched with a small smile on his face, rubbing at his beard before he moved to take a seat back at the head of the table. Shortly after, Cassius reappeared to sit in Darcy’s seat instead.

“Thanks for the company, Cassius. I think I’ll need it.” He commented as the cat meowed at him.

Darcy took three deep breaths and glanced down at her outfit. She was still in her damn pajamas—which didn’t equal to her being at her baddest but whatever! This wasn’t about showing off, they had bigger issues to face and she didn’t exactly know what he was here for.

Taking a few more seconds to herself, she opened the door to see Bode there in the flesh blowing heat into the palms of his hands. His curly hair was longer now and lost its pattern…and she hated it. The crinkles were evident by his eyes, most likely due to the stress of losing his baby sister, having a falling out with his dad, and landing his ass in jail most likely resulted in that. He appeared still tired behind his blue-green eyes, otherwise than that he still looked the same.

“Darcy. Are you gonna let me in? It’s freezing out here and I’m definitely not used to this type of weather.” Was the first thing he said to her.

She titled her head to the side, hand still on the door, “what are you doing up here? Shouldn’t you be fighting fires or whatever it is you got yourself wrapped into?”

“I can explain all of that if you just—can we talk inside, please?”

Darcy swallowed, giving the man a hard stare before she unlocked the door and stepped to the side to let him in. He stalked in, standing in the official entryway and peered around.

“I see you’ve done well for yourself.” His low voice boomed off the walls.

Darcy almost slammed the door shut, locking it behind them as she turned to face the taller man. Crossing her arms, she eyed his boots covered in snow, “shoes off in my house. The snow messes with the wood.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Bode muttered as she carried on down the hall.

Bode figured it out for himself to place the shoes by the empty space underneath the mirror on the wall. He didn’t see any other shoes in the entry way, only a bookcase to the right, and a grandfather clock to the left. There was also a bedroom to the left with a daybed and to the right, he spotted another bedroom with a full-sized bed and wallpaper. No signs of any baby furniture, Bode noted to himself as he briefly glanced at the steps.

Perhaps there was something upstairs?

He took his time walking down the hallway, the wood creaked at his steps which let Darcy know he was heading her way. The living room was bright and open with a mixture of white and light gray paneling, along with a large painted white built-in entertainment center. There was a flatscreen on the wall that Bode admired before he turned back to Darcy who was watching him in curiosity.

One leg was crossed over the other as she sat in a green chair, waiting on him. She had a finger pressed into her temple as she pointed with the other, “you can take your jacket and drape it over the chair if you want.”

“Thanks.” Bode answered while he moved by the fireplace and plopped down on the brown bubble leather couch.

He wasn’t sure how long he would be here but he also had some respect. The man decided on unzipping his jacket and pulled his beanie from his head, scooping some hair behind a ear while spreading his arms along the length of the couch.

Darcy’s eyes were hot on Bode’s as he met her stare and held it. However his held amusement in them that she just wanted to smack right off. His intention wasn’t to be smug sitting here right now, not after how they ended but it was a little humorous that she still had so much fire in her—always.

“I’m not here to attack you—

Bode started just as Joe called out, “Tea, coffee, or water?”

Bode was confused as he leaned forward, then remembered that there was a man that previously opened the door. “That depends…are you the new boyfriend and plan on poisoning me?”

“Only if she sends the signal.” He vaguely called back.

Bode laughed at this.

“Um, I think I’m good for right now. Thanks man.”

“Sure.” Joe went quiet, now messing around with his phone.

Darcy sighed, beginning to roll her neck around, “Bode…why are you here so unannounced?”

“I’m pretty sure you have me blocked so…there really wasn’t any other way.”

“Couldn’t use your mom’s phone to reach out first?”

“I think she’s blocked too…which actually hurt her feelings by the way.”

Darcy began chewing on her bottom lip. She didn’t particularly feel a way towards the woman, she was a mother after all but she also didn’t appreciate being bombarded by Sharon Leone either.

Bode deeply inhaled, “look…I just want to apologize for everything. I don’t like the way things ended between us and it wasn’t anything you should take personal…I was just dealing with—jail. The weight of it all and everything else surrounding it. Unfortunately you became part of that and you didn’t deserve any of that.”

It was Darcy’s turn to exhale at that. Slowly she nodded her head, “but I had to take it personal because I opened myself up to you when I shouldn’t have. We should have strictly stayed friends, especially since you just ended things with Cara.”

“That wasn’t that fresh.” Bode muttered, “We were together in high school up until I first started using. I always felt like she was more into me than I was into her…which is shitty to say but the truth. We later had a slip up when I moved out of edgewater but we never got back together. When I looked at you, I didn’t see temporary. I don’t know what I saw.”

“Oh, how special do I feel.” The words were dry, coming from Darcy’s lips.

Bode continued, “I’m not trying to do the whole comparison thing but I just want you to know that i shouldn’t have treated you as a one-two night only and then ghost you. I’m sorry about all of it and for saying that’s all you could be to me. I’m sure you’ll make someone very happy if it’s not—sorry man, I didn’t catch your name?”

“It’s joe!” He answered with a mouth full of food.

Darcy stared up at the ceiling in annoyance.

“Joe,” Bode smiled a bit, “and I’m not expecting any forgiveness just yet…just some understanding and for you to tell me anything that you need…or feel.”

Darcy picked up on Bode’s words and knew that he knew something. He was officially a free man and seemed level-headed but Darcy knew that was probably only a matter of time.

“I thought about all the things I would say to you but I didn’t get the chance because once you finished what you had to say, time was up. I wrote you a letter, kept it for months, then I burned it. I wanted to sleep around to get over you but that wouldn’t give me satisfaction. And months later when I’m back here in the MA…I have your mom knocking on my door just like you.” Darcy lightly shook her head at the memory and now Sharon tried to persuade her.

Bode propped his elbows on his knees then. He licked at his bottom lip, “where are they, Darce? Where’s our baby?”

Joe flinched in the kitchen.

Darcy wasn’t sure what noise came out of her throat just then but she felt like she was suffocating. She already knew that Sharon knew since she came to plead her son’s case, thanks to her dad being good friends with her and knew Bode’s dad, Vince avoided the topic all together. So the secret was out of the bag and Bode knew…but how much?

“Bode,” she started, “do you think a baby is going to fix this?”

“No…but I deserve to be in our child’s life.”

“I would have never—I wouldn’t no matter how big of a paper cut you left on me.” Darcy was strong with her words and he knew she meant them.

“Then why did you never tell me?”

“You hated me.”

“I never hated you,” Bode denied, “I hated my situation. I’m telling you my actions never had anything to do with you. Never.” He placed his hand on his chest.

She remembered the rough but passionate love-making, how he never wanted to look her in the eyes while he welcomed her in between his thighs. The first time she didn’t think much of it but the second she had to question it. That argument was short lived since the guards were escorting them away from each other. It continued on the phone but never finished, on her end, since everything was always timed.

He didn’t make her feel wanted.

She wasn’t sure why she was seeking that from him in the first place.

“…there is no baby.”

“What?” Bode whispered, “my mom told me. I-I saw the sonogram your dad had. The screenshot of your growing belly he had as his screensaver. What are you talking about?”

Darcy hugged herself then, feeling her insides ache. “She didn’t make it. I was eight months, six when your mom stopped by. Your mom wanted to adopt her because i wasn’t ready to be a single mom or rather a mom period. That’s why she came out here on her own. The baby was stillborn and I had to deliver her…the whole thing was brutal and traumatic…I wasn’t ever expecting you to come here.”

“…so you just assumed it would be better if I never knew at all.” Bode caressed his beard with his knee beginning to bounce in agitation.

That’s when he took the suede stool in front of him, lifting it up and over at the fireplace. Joe was on his feet in a instant as Bode began pacing the living room floor now. Darcy remained seated, holding her hand out to halt Joe from approaching him.

Bode rubbed at his mouth, “did you name her at least? Or think about how our daughter would have been better motivation to continue to get my act together? Or were you only thinking about yourself like you always do?”

“You think I’m selfish? I was dealing with this shit all on my own! You were risking your life everyday with those fires. You don’t know what that felt like feeling a life that you created growing inside of you, day by day, just to be ripped away like it never happened!” Her face was hot as she spoke her words, “To release death into the world instead of life! You don’t know! You don’t ever let anybody in, so why would you place that pressure on a growing child? to be better when you should want that for yourself! It’s not always about you either, Bode! I mean my god!”

Bode swallowed then, hearing the pain that was in Darcy’s throat. He knew that it must have been devastating and he would have done his best to be there or at least have his mother—

“I’ll fix the fireplace.” Bode glanced at crack, “but I just wish you would have told me.”

“What difference would it make? You didn’t love me. And she’s gone, we wouldn’t be a family and I didn’t want to be a mom.”

Bode was frowning now, “mom said you were pretty far along when she saw you last. There’s a cut off time if you didn’t want her—

“I know. I was going to give her to a family that could support her better. Love her better.”

“What makes you think I wouldn’t love my daughter?”

“I don’t know what you’re capable of Bode.”

“Wow,” He was in shock, “at least I know how you really feel.”

“I mean, how do you think it would work?”

“I don’t know but I would at least try! Which is something you didn’t want to do or want to give me the chance to do. And I have rights!”

“Those rights wouldn’t help you as soon as the court saw you have a record.”

Joe sharply inhaled at that and even dropped his head hearing this.

That was a harsh thing to say and she knew it.

They all did.

“I don’t mean to sound like a bitch but that’s just how the screwed up system works. I had the best interest for the baby, for her, if she made it.” Darcy began to zone off but that was short-lived.

“I don’t know if I believe that.” Bode muttered, “it honestly feels like you took what little time we had away. I was in the dark. Once my year was up I could have tried to get custody, or at least my parents or shit, even your dad could have raised her! so you didn’t have to be bothered. I’m on the right path now and that says more than what you’re doing.”

“Excuse me?” Darcy sat up now.

Bose folded his arms together, leaning on one leg more than the other as he pressed a finger to his cheek, “Your dad’s girlfriend told me that you’re going out more, blacking out…which sounded odd to me since, hypothetically, if you just gave birth not too long ago and easily gave our girl away…what were you celebrating exactly?”

“Fuck her and fuck you.” Darcy bit.

“It’s a valid thought.”

“It’s bullshit.”

“Is it?”

“Yeah because if you really think the decision to give up a child—my child,” Darcy felt her throat tightened as she pointed at her chest, “would be easy then you don’t know me at all. And to think we called each other friends once upon a time.”

“Well I guess we’ll never know, will we?” His stare was hard on Darcy’s who clenched her eyes at this time.

It sure felt like he was blaming her for the death of their child, although there was medically nothing that could have prevented this tragedy.

“I don’t ever want to see you. Just disappear again, you’re good at doing that.”

“Whoa, hey.” Joe intervened, “I think there’s a lot going on right now and the both of you should stop this and try having this conversation again, once you’ve both calmed down.”

Bode scoffed out a laugh, “that’s the problem with her man, she didn’t want to try. She wanted to get even. I deserved to know.”

Joe knew the last part of the sentence to be true but it wasn’t his place to speak on.

“You’re the one who shut me out back then! Why would I use our baby to get you to talk to me?” Darcy was on her feet now.

“Don’t you get it? None of that matters! I’ve lost enough in my life and my daughter is just another thing to add to the list! But you couldn’t give me that because you’re too pissed about old shit!. When you knew, it shouldn’t have been about us anymore. Are you listening?!” Bode couldn’t help but to let the emotions raise his tone.

“Get out.” Darcy felt her eyes burning.

Bode just stared at her.

She screamed, almost murder, “GET. OUUUT!”

He raised his hands and slowly stepped back and away from the woman. Bode leaned over the couch and snatched up his hat that he clenched tightly in his hands.

“…can you at least tell me if you named her?” Bode repeated while stood sideways in Darcy’s view, keeping his gaze straight.

Darcy sniffed and puffed out, “Cherie Leone. She had your dark blonde hair and your nose; she was a beautiful baby.”

“Hm. despite what you think, I would have given her the world.” Bode felt himself getting choked up too, a balled up fist went to his mouth before he sniffed and turned to exit the house.

Joe stepped after him, unsure what to say but knew that must have been hard to finally hear the truth. However his friend was behind him and as he turned to her, he had to quickly catch her by the waist as her legs gave out from underneath her.

The pair sat in each other’s arms with Joe caressing Darcy’s face as she sobbed. Darcy sobbed so violently that she was struggling to catch her breath, which worried Joe.

“What do you need me to do?” He was trying not to panic.

Darcy sat on her knees, pressing her forehead into Joe’s chest, one hand caressing her back while the other applied pressure in the crook of her neck.

This was what she needed.

Somebody like Joe.

#Spotify #ginny and georgia joe #ginny and georgia season 2 #ginny & georgia s2 #ginny & georgia joe x reader #raymond ablack #raymond ablack x reader #fire country #bode leone #bode Leone x reader #max theriot #max theriot x reader #queued

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winksasleeplesseye · 1 year

Text

File #008 - This Much is True

City of the Dead

Pairing: Leon Kennedy x OC

Warnings: Slight mention of death

Word Count: 4.4k

Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Amara, Leon, and Ada’s first steps were to gather all that they could from the NEST lab. Correction, Amara and Leon’s first steps. As it turns out, being knocked off a platform by Annette Birkin into piles of trash doesn’t bode well for anyone, most of all Ada.

A piece of shrapnel embedded itself in her leg and Leon had to be the one to bandage her leg, so now it was up to the two of them to retrieve a sample of what Ada called the G-Virus.

Walking to the entrance of the lab made Amara realize how many leagues above her all of this was. Everything from the ceiling to the floor shines like a new penny, all the colors in this place were muted, Umbrella opting to stick to going full super evil corporation with all the black and white.

Just about the only thing in this place that had even a hint of color was the splash of an almost blood-red in their logo plastered behind the front desk’s wall. Something about it all creeped her out.

Amara had never really actually seen a place like this in real life, in movies? Sure, but they always were far enough removed from reality that one could never think they’d really exist. This really is some sci-fi bullshit.

“If this place doesn’t scream evil, I don’t know what does,” Leon seems to read her mind.

“Took the words right out my mouth.”

First goal? Get the G-Virus. Second goal? Pilfer any info left that she can get her hands on from the computers. Maneuvering around the front desk, she fiddles with the mouse waking up the computer. She wasn’t only a sharpshooter on the Bravo team, she was the communications specialist…at least she could put her skill to good use again.

Her fingers skirt across the keyboard, she’s not usually one for hacking but considering the computer is password protected, she needed to get in somehow.

Umbrella11. UmbrellaCorp98. EvilPeople1.

Those are just a few of the passwords that she tries, just for fun because they clearly don’t work. Guess hacking is the only option. She cracks her knuckles briefly.

Leon comes behind her, looking at the screen as she began to work. “Since when did you become a hacker?”

“First computer I ever played with as a kid was an Apple computer, computer classes were sparse on base but I took all the ones I could,” She explained, continuing typing.

“That doesn’t explain how-”

“Lots of curiosity, Leon.” She had hacked into the FBI and CIA databases once or twice before on a dare from Chris, Rebecca, and Forest one late working evening, it took her a good twenty minutes to calm them down. Then, they eventually tried to find the more silly documents about UFOs but had no luck.

“Won’t Umbrella know you’re hacking them?” Leon sounded a little more than distressed. For the first time in the whole evening, Amara is more than confident in something.

“I could hack the government’s servers with the goddamn president’s computer and they wouldn’t know who did it. Relax, rookie. Who would they even send to stop me? A boogeyman?”

“I wouldn’t push your luck around the monster magn-”

“Done.”

“Done?” He looked back at the screen, eyes widening as the email interface popped up. Their eyes both scanned every detail they could take in. “I’m impressed.”

“You’re welcome,” She smiles before getting up from the desk chair.

The emails detailed various correspondence between each scientist, and each section of the lab, all working on something different in what reveals itself to be a sprawling facility.

The G-Virus was in the West area. So, West area they’ll go.

Amara couldn’t help but marvel at the advanced technology and what had to be millions of taxpayer’s dollars that went into this underground labyrinth. Impressive. Leave it to Umbrella to build a monstrosity like this.

As they moved deeper into the East wing of the facility (because of course, nothing is ever just easily accessible), Amara couldn’t help but notice the remnants of what she could only assume was disaster littering the halls. Mutated creatures, sickening amalgamations of flesh, skulls, and greenery that would arise, abandoned equipment, and corpses of scientists were all a bone-chilling sight.

“Why would you ever need to hack anything?” Leon asks randomly, holding his gun at the ready for anything in this place. The area, the greenhouse she assumes, certainly had become overgrown with vines, they practically burst from the seams of the ceilings and floors. If the zombies weren’t bad enough, now they were wrapped up in dangerous flora. Fun.

Amara briefly glances at Leon, noticing his focused expression. “STARS needed to know who we were dealing with, it was purely professional. Not like I’m stealing money or anything.”

“That’s fair.”

“Why? You gonna lecture me about patriotism or something, Mr. Kennedy?”

“After all this bullshit? I’m the last one to lecture.”

There’s a comfortable silence between them after that.

The silence unfortunately makes Amara more hyper-aware of the wound she waved off earlier. Every step, every vibration from the bottom of her shoes up to her waist made it hurt a little more. In fact, her legs had become a little more unsteady as time wore on.

There’s a particular tingle in Amara’s muscles that seemed to be spreading. She’d likened it to the prick of needles on her skin or when an acupuncturist pressed those microneedles under someone’s skin or even the momentary loss of blood flow from applying too much pressure to a limb.

Only problem? None of those were happening at the moment. That scared her more than anything, more than the zombies, or even the gross creatures she’d been fighting with Leon all night.

She never considered herself one to get anxious about her health, every visit to her doctor gave her a clean bill of health, the standard for a woman in her line of work and her age.

Hell, she barely ever got a cold but this gash, slash, wound, or whatever it was…is beginning to sting.

Damn it, why doesn’t she just tell Leon?

It really, really scared her to admit that she may or may not turn into the very thing they’re trying to fight. A monster to be taken down. A mindless thing only craving flesh. That devastated her more than she wanted to let on because that would result in Leon having to eventually be the one to take her out of her misery, and she couldn’t quite accept that reality yet.

That and the drive she still possessed, the rage of all that had happened—she couldn’t just die having failed her friends, failed the city she’d grown to love, failed in her purpose to be someone to be proud of. Especially in a world that seemed determined to crush her under its heel.

So, she pushed down the pain once again. They needed to get that sample, and just maybe she could fight whatever is ravaging her body long enough to get out of there alive.

Leon took the reins on solving the puzzles and passwords, he’d been more watchful of her since that encounter and a more stubborn part of her wanted to remind him that, goddamn it, he didn’t need to but the more in pain Amara relented, telling him she was fine and opting to look through all the computers they came across.

One, in particular, threw her right back to the night she’d learned of everything. The emails were vaguely familiar to her.

August 23, 1998

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

Subject: TIP / Illegal Activity at Umbrella Corporation

You don't know me. Have to make this quick. They might be monitoring.

I’ve been working for a few months as a researcher at Umbrella Corporation facilities underneath Raccoon City. All sorts of NDAs I am very much breaking right now but seriously, fuck these guys.

Terrible things are happening here. Don't understand it. Don't believe half the things I saw. Colleagues talking about viruses of some sort, creating something that is a perversion of every natural law I know. People are being hurt and Umbrella is making money.

It needs to be exposed.

Dated August 23. Two days before Amara got a call from Roslynn. Before Mayor Harris’ press conference. This is–was John’s computer.

Amara hadn’t seen this email in the files. She saw John’s correspondence with other researchers, questioning the morality of it all, but this one was hidden in folders deep on the desktop. They must’ve intercepted this one quickly, at least he had the sense to keep a backup.

John’s logs echo the same as the files she’d found in his home office. Talks of test subjects in different trials and their reactions to “chemicals” that resulted in gruesome side effects.

A beauty cream or medicine doesn’t exactly make your flesh rot off the bone, does it? Just reading about it made Amara’s gag reflex come in full force, but she also could attribute that to whatever flows in her veins.

Opening up the email interface once more, Amara decided to compose something to hopefully someone or someones that could use this information. Attachments and all. It’s what John would want her to do, she’s sure.

September 30, 1998

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]; [email protected]

Subject: Don’t waste this. (Attachment)

Hopefully, these things find you both well, and find you by an internet cafe.

Here’s hoping this information is enough.

She hits send, powering down the computer. That was simple enough for them both. Though, this was assuming Jill already left the city as they planned.

The East wing housed even more monstrosities if that were possible.

NEST was really living up to its name. Well, the name that Amara christened for it. As far as stupid lines, she didn’t have Leon beat though.

A nest of insanity.

That made Amara briefly smile to herself again, stupid jokes made the world go around after all.

“How’s the side?” Leon asks, for what felt the billionth time.

“Leon–”

“I know you you’re hurting–”

“Please, drop it!” Amara snapped but instantly recoiled at the harshness of her own words. She hadn’t so much as risen her voice like that all evening. Until now, that is. “I didn’t–I’m sorry, Leon…I just want to get this over with. The sample is within reach. Don’t worry about me.”

“I–fine. But at least let me put some of this medicine, I’m not budging this time. Fair enough?”

This time, Amara, running on fumes, actually lets him help her.

“Absolutely fair. If it’ll help ease your mind,” Somehow, Amara finds the strength to push herself up on a nearby counter.

Leon pulls out the said medicine, carefully pulling up the fabric of her shirt. This is probably the second time in the evening that their shared proximity made Amara’s head spin. The first was the hug he gave her earlier. Nobody had handled Amara quite like Leon was, he was gentle and meticulous about cleaning the wound in a way that didn’t have her wanting to wince at every touch. Her mind also couldn’t help but think that he was pretty good with his hands.

His handling could be said for just about everything between them this evening, both of them seemed to be in sync. It kind of reminded her of Jill and Chris in a sense, those two seemed to be unstoppable when paired up. Amara definitely would’ve recommended Leon for a spot with STARS. Zombie outbreak, notwithstanding.

“I care about you, more than I should,” he said softly, his eyes conveying a message of true worry that broke her out of her thoughts.

The words of what she felt towards Leon formed more and more as the night wore on so her next sentence came to her easily.

“I care about you too.” Leon stands back to full height, placing his left hand in hers and stroking her face with his right hand. “Seems I’ve got my own knight in shining armor, haven’t I?”

“We’re not out of the tower yet, come on,” Leon pulls away, but gently helps her off the counter.

After readjusting her shirt, she surveys the room. Another lab, nothing special. All the necessary equipment for working with hazardous chemicals and viruses but her eyes happen upon a face…her face on one of the nearby monitors. Had she not glanced around, she might’ve missed it.

“What the hell?” Her feet carry her over to said monitor. Leon is immediately puzzled by her movement.

Her headshot from S.T.A.R.S.

She knows it is because she remembers that burgundy-colored shirt. It got stained not even five minutes later with juice Jill gave her that day. Her hair was also way shorter. The staff photographer told her, “You look great.” Though, Amara knew she kind of was running on three hours of sleep that day.

Upon closer inspection, a file that is extensively detailed is laid out before her. These people needed to learn to close their tabs. Doctor Li seems to be the one that headed up her file.

NAME: Amara Moore

AGE: 21

BLOOD TYPE: O-

NOTES: Subject’s blood is fascinating. Her blood type already made her a perfect candidate for blood donation but studying it further has proven it fruitful.

Subject’s blood is predisposed to mutations. Not to mention, her blood response is exciting, implanting her blood with different antigens proved Wesker’s theory correct.

It’s only a matter of time before we can fully acclimate the subject to what Doctor Wesker wants. How we’ll do that is anyone’s guess.

That’s when it clicked in Amara’s head. Wesker stole her blood that very day. There was a blood drive that day outside the station, something that was an annual thing and part of the RPD’s community outreach.

They tested her blood.

He wanted her to survive Spencer Mansion. He wanted her alive for this. Did he know this outbreak would happen? He wanted her to get infected somehow. The world could’ve fallen out from beneath her feet at this moment.

Shit. She’s infected…

…with what?

How could that be possible? That thing slashed her, not bite her. The answer is right before her eyes, yet she can’t process it. Her eyes felt like they had been looking at everything and nothing on the screen.

“You alright?” Leon asks, breaking her eyes from the screen.

Something in her is screaming to tell Leon now. Tell him this but she stays silent.

“I’m good, just gathering more stuff for the authorities. Mind-boggling.”

“Oh, okay, you just…acted like you saw a ghost or something.” They walked away in silence, passing through a red-tinted fluorescent hall that sprayed out steam against them. More than likely to sanitize whoever walked in and out. Then another, these were blue-tinted.

Amara examined the room with a slow sweep. Did this place not have one area in it that didn’t look straight out of a sci-fi film? Tanks line the wall, floor to ceiling, cylindrical tanks were what their technical name was. The liquid inside was clear but it was what was inside the tanks that were a little more…horrific.

Lights inside the tank lit up weirdly misshapen, mangled body parts. One of them contained a form that only had red, huge yet beady eyes on the grey surface of it. Another looked like a set of hands, the last not even remotely resembling anything Amara could recognize as a life form.

To the left, was their Holy Grail, which they all fought all night to get to. Ada called it G-Virus.

There it sat, the last vial to sit within the container.

Leon grabs it without a second thought, “Huh, that was easy.”

Amara’s gut reaction is to hit him in the arm gently. “Don’t say that, you’ll jinx it!”

“Ouch! Easy with that arm!”

“Please, I barely grazed you,” A weight lifted briefly for Amara. “Now let’s get the hell back to Ada.”

Just as they reach the other side, inching closer to freedom from this awful place, something crashes through the ceiling.

Somehow, that thing that put her in this predicament is still alive. Amara rolls her eyes, she was less afraid of it, just more annoyed than ever actually. Does anything die in this fucking place?

“You again?”

“Your ass, again?”

Leon and Amara both aim their guns, ready to go another round with this thing.

“Move! He’s mine!” Annette visibly limping from some unknown injury, runs between them. “This has to end.” She loads a white, small gun with something.

“This has to end.” One shot.

“Sorry, William. You left me no choice.” The second shot is what seems to incapacitate the monster. A monster she called William? Amara and Leon cautiously approach it, though she wouldn’t dare touch it. The smell emanating from it held a pungent, irritating scent.

It had grown exponentially since their last encounter, more pulpy, fleshy, and sinewy limbs and bits than she’d like, and yeah, certainly still more disgusting. An uncomfortable shudder rolled down her spine just thinking about the fact that she now has the same blood of this thing infecting her veins.

“You called this thing William, why?” Leon asked Annette, kneeling close to it. She shook her head, looking over the creature that lay before them all.

“It shouldn't have been like this,” she spoke, though it sounded less like a response to Leon, and more like an observation. “It’s Umbrella’s fault, this whole mess.”

“You realize that you’re Umbrella too, right?” Amara raises a brow, she found it hard to give the woman the benefit of the doubt.

Leon questions her more. “You saying you weren’t involved in this?”

“Yes…but we never meant for this to happen!”

“Tell us everything, right from the start.”

And she does. Starting from the night that a team of soldiers came to retrieve the G sample from William, bloodied and in a rage having injected himself with G to go after them, all the way up to this very moment. Amara can’t help but find herself more intrigued by the developments, not in a good way. Leon seems to put two and two together, probably having found out more than Amara did in their time apart within the sewer facility.

“So, you made this monster.”

“We never intended this to happen.”

“You can spin this any way you want, you’re still responsible.” There’s no time to even react as William reawakened, thrashing about so swiftly that all Amara remembers is Annette, the momentum, and then it all goes black.

Amara finds herself practically embedded into the wall, leaving a dent in its place. She must have passed out briefly. She opened her eyes slowly, letting out a choked cry when her brain registers the pain in her side and back. Someone had to be looking out for her because somehow her back isn’t broken.

Leon, coming up from a lift, rushes over to her, “Amara, Jesus, are you okay?”

She gazes up at Leon, vision blurred slightly at the edges but Leon is the clearest thing she can see.

“You’re beautiful.”

He tries to fight a smile, albeit the worry on his face is more evident. He shines his flashlight briefly into one of her eyes. “And you’re concussed.”

“No, it’s a c-clear, reason thought…or maybe my vision is a bit blurry.” Amara flashes him a stupid grin, trying to mask the pain. To be honest, that hit knocked all the air out of her lungs, and taking in breaths kind of…hurt.

She definitely didn’t want to mention the fight earlier and that wound. The last time she looked at it underneath her shirt is when Leon applied the medicine, it looked disgusting but now she can feel it searing through her abdomen, it was a strange hot, and cold sensation. That thing had gotten her twice now.

“Let’s get you up now, huh?”

“Yeah, yeah…but I may have to take you up on that offer I offered earlier.”

Leon doesn’t even hesitate, holstering his gun and carrying her like a bride on her wedding day. She wanted to remind him of the gunshot wound in his shoulder but it was hard to think with the throbbing pain her whole body was producing. “I’ve got you.”

“My hero,” Amara coughs out, still trying to lighten the mood. She just really needed some air to enter her lungs again.

“We’re going back to the lab.”

“But-“ Annette. Amara wasn’t the only one hurt, that monster crushed the former–she remembers that much, at least–, a sickening squelch as it squeezed her between its claws, tossing her aside much in the same way except Amara knew it had to be fatal. She called it William.

Without Annette, what could possibly be done for her?

Leon went as quickly as he could while carrying her, damn near stumbling against the door to the infirmary as it slid open. He put her down gently on the other cot, Sherry still occupying the other one.

Claire must’ve left to get the medicine she needs.

Amara notices a screen near the bed lights up, the readout on it seems to have scanned her. An infrared picture comes up on the screen. A robotic voice reads out what inevitably she didn't want to tell Leon.

“G-Virus detected in the host.” He was frozen, eyes darting between the screen and her for any sign of deceit. He found none.

“Amara, why didn’t you say anything?” He asks, but Amara didn’t so much as twitch a muscle, Leon frowned. “Shit.”

“There has to be something here…an antidote maybe?” Leon asked her, a crack in his voice she’d never heard before. He asked as if Amara had the answer but she was just as stumped as he was. She wasn’t exactly resigned to her fate, but without Annette, there were no answers.

“There’s…s-something…” Speak of the devil, Annette barely hanging onto life practically crawls through the doorway. “It’s where–where you found that sample.”

Annette holds something in her hand.

Sherry’s medicine.

Claire comes in not even a moment later, helping Annette as best she can to get near Sherry.

Annette takes a few heaving breaths, “If you want to survive, you’ll need the anti-viral but it won’t eradicate it all…”

“That’s something, right?”

Oh, Leon, so hopeful, so determined. It’s probably why Amara understands why she likes him so much. He’s unwavering in wanting to help, even if the odds of that happening are slim to none.

Claire helps Annette a little more as she fights with everything to speak, “Only problem is…hasn’t been tested, it may not work now.”

“Then why–” Amara’s voice is cut off, not even realizing she’s halfway on the floor until Leon has her by the arms.

“Shit, Amara,” Leon places the back of his hand against her forehead. She’s hot and cold at the same time, she already knows that’s what he’s feeling. “You don’t feel good. Why didn’t you say anything?” He asks her again, desperate to know.

“I’d rat-rather save the trouble, especially when it feels like I’m dying.” No use hiding it. She was possibly going to die and there was nothing he, she, or anybody could do about it right now. Tragic.

Miscommunication is a uniquely human characteristic that would eventually drive us all to the brink of insanity but Amara didn’t want to give Leon false hope until she knew for certain there was something that could be done. If that anti-viral didn’t work, she’d at least be happy in the knowledge that Leon could be the one to get this info out if she couldn’t.

Umbrella still deserved to be exposed, especially knowing what they had done to her.

Her body finally starts to realize that sad fact, so she lies down on the cot.

In another display of tenderness, Leon runs a hand over the top of her head. “I’ll get the anti-viral, you stay here and rest. We’ll make it through this, all of us.”

A nasty feeling wrenched in Amara’s gut. Maybe some of them will.

A burning, almost stinging sensation hits her eyelids and all the events come crashing hard on her body. Rest doesn’t come easy but it came anyway for Amara.

Both Leon and Claire go in separate directions. They both had their priorities.

Leon wanted to be angry. But, he just couldn’t. Seeing Amara’s face and the screen that revealed what he inevitably already knew worried him more than anything.

In fact, he was more worried that Amara wouldn’t make it. A bullet wound is easy to recover from. A virus that turns someone into a zombie, or even worse what Annette’s husband had become? Not so much.

If there’s one thing he can get right tonight, it’s helping her. Failure wasn’t an option. Not again. He’d already failed Marvin, failed the gun shop owner and his daughter, and now Amara? No, he co-wouldn’t let that happen.

Time was running out and he needs to get that virus out of her, he needs to help her if not for his own sanity, his conscience. She kept pushing him off, telling him she was fine…like she wanted to waste away and save him the trouble of noticing.

The thing was…is that he noticed her long before he got here. That brochure, the one she called stupid earlier in the evening, had given him pause on the second read-through. He barely skimmed it the first time but out of boredom, he looked again.

He did envision a more cool, suave introduction for when he originally was meant to arrive, but that didn’t exactly pan out, did it?

Leon wasn’t exactly ashamed…okay, maybe a little– to admit he looked over the team photo as he packed up everything to come here–she was just as pretty, just as sweet as he imagined–even now as everything went to hell in a hand basket, a smile ignited in him as he remembered the photo.

Right now, she didn’t look so good and it scared him. That same face, full of joy in the photo was a stark contrast to what she looked like now.

He should’ve pushed harder, sooner; had he kept the pressure on her, she wouldn’t be in the position she is now.

It was an easy choice to find the anti-viral. Way better than the alternative of having to choose to kill her or letting her suffer in silence till a painful end. Amara may have wanted him to be the one to pull the trigger but he refused, he couldn’t let anyone else die. Frankly, besides saving the city, he couldn't care less about anything else.

He needed her to be okay.

#leon s kennedy #leon scott kennedy #leon kennedy #leon kennedy x black oc #Leon kennedy x mixed race oc #resident evil oc #black resident evil oc #mixed race oc #mixed race resident evil #city of the dead fic #original character #resident evil 2 remake #re 2 remake fic #re 2 remake fanfic #tumblr formatting kills me #new banner bc fun

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sofrpc · 5 years

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⌖*ﾟ— 550+ UNIQUE AND UNDERUSED MALE NAMES

as requested, i have created a masterlist of 550+ unique and underused male names ! these are all listed in alphabetical order, and although i dont claim any of these as my own, please don’t copy and paste straight into another masterlist. feel free to use the names in any way you like, i hope this gives you muse for your characters (my faves are bolded) — also smash that like or reblog if you found this useful, thank you !

abel, acacius, ace, achilles, adagio, adaiah, adalius, adley, adelio, adonis, adrian, adriel, aiden, akello, alain, alarik, alastair, alek, alfred, alfonzo, ali, alisio, alonzo, amari, amedeus, amias, amos, anakin, andre, ansel, anton, anwar, apollo, aragon, aramis, archer, aries, arlo, arrius, artemis, asher, ashton, asriel, atlas, atlantis, atticus, auden, august, auri, austin, avery, axel, aziel

bacchus, baden, bailey, baldwin, balin, balton, bandit, banks, barley, baxley, baxter, baze, bear, beau, beck, benson, bentley, berlin, bianco, bishop, blade, blaine, blaze, bode, bodhie, booker, bosley, boston, brandon, brantley, brayden, braxton, brecken, brennon, brett, briley, brinley, brock, bruno, bronx, brooks, bryce, bryson

caelan, caesar, cade, cador, cage, cain, caleb, callaway, callen, callister, callum, calvin, camden, campbell, carlisle, carlo, carrick, carter, casey, casper, castiel, cedric, cesar, channing, charles, chase, chuck, clifton, clinton, cleon, coen, coleman, colton, crew, cristiano, cooper, corbin, corey, cortez, cravin

dale, dallas, dalton, damari, damian, damon, dane, dante, dario, darius, davon, dax, dean, declan, dedrick, delius, demarcus, demetrius, dennis, denzel, deon, derek, devon, dexter, dillon, dimitri, dion, dolan, dominic, drake, drew, drystan, duke, dwayne, dwight, dyson

eaton, echo, edan, eddison, eden, edrick, eli, eliam, elias, elijah, elio, eliseo, ellis, emilio, emerson, emmett, enoch, enzo, ernest, eros, essex, evan, evian, ezra

fabian, falcon, fallon, farley, felix, fenton, finley, finnick, floyd, flynn, fonso, ford, forester, francisco, franco, freddy, frederick, frodi

gabe, gabriel, gaius, gabin, galvin, gareth, garrick, gaston, gaveel, georgie, gemini, giorgio, glade, gonzalo, gray, gregory, greyson, griffin, grover, gunner, guy

haim, hadden, hadley, hale, hammond, hanan, hanson, harden, harley, harris, hayes, helio, helix, hendrix, hermes, hiram, holden, holland, holmes, houstan, howard, hudson, hugh, hugo, hunter, hyde

iago, ian, icarius, idris, iker, ilario, indigo, isaak, isaiah, israel, ithiel, ives

jace, jadon, jago, jahziel, jairo, jakez, jakobe, jamari, janos, jaron, jasper, javier, jaxon, jayden, jaylon, jaziel, jenson, jeremiah, jermaine, jersey, jett, joaquin, jonas, jose, joss, jovani, joziah, judas, jude, julian, julius, junior, justice

kace, kaden, kael, kairo, kahlil, kai, kaleb, kamden, kanan, karson, kashton, kasper, keenan, keiran, kennedy, keon, kenton, kenzo, keyon, kez, kiah, killian, kingsley, kito, klaus, kobe, koby, kodah, kohen, kolton, kristian, knox, kyan, kynan, kyson

lamar, lamont, lance, landon, laney, larkin, lawyer, lazarus, leandro, lee, legend, lennox, leno, leon, levi, lex, liko, link, locke, loki, loman, lonzo, lorenzo, luca, lucian, lukas, lyam, lynx

mac, machi, macklin, maddox, magnus, maison, major, makeo, malaki, manning, mano, marion, marlon, mars, martez, mathias, maxton, mekhi, meyer, micah, milian, miller, milo, montey, montez, myles

nakos, nasir, nathaniel, neel, neriah, nero, nevada, nicolo, nicklaus, nickolai, nico, nike, nikos, nixon, noah, nolan, norton, nye

oakley, oberyn, obi, obsidian, octavian, oison, olimpio, olsen, omar, ontario, onyx, orion, orlando, oskar, oslo, oryn, otis, oxford, oxley

pablo, paley, palmer, parker, parson, pauly, paxton, pearce, perkin, phelix, phoenix, pierre, pike, podrick, porter, preston, prince, puck

qamar, quinten, quillon, quince

racer, radley, rafael, rafer, ralph, rambo, ramiel, ramone, randall, raven, rayan, reed, reese, rhydian, ricardo, ridley, riker, riley, river, robin, rocco, roderick, roland, roman, romeo, ronan, roni, rowan, royden, rufus, ryder, ryland

sadler, safari, salem, salix, salvador, sami, santiago, sawyer, sean, seaton, severo, shayne, shiloh, silas, silvano, simba, skander, skyler, slade, spencer, spiro, stanley, stefan, syrus

talmon, tane, tanner, tate, tatum, tavis, teddy, terence, theo, theon, tirion, titus, tobias, tommen, tonio, travis, trey, troye, trystan, turner, tyrell, tyrese, tyson

ulan, uri, uriel, urien

vadim, vale, vance, valentine, vaughn, venturo, venus, vermont, vero, victor, vidor, vince, volante, voss

wade, walker, walter, warner, warren, watson, waylan, wayne, wilder, wilson, wilton, wolfgang, wyatt, wynton

xander, xavier, xenos, xylon

yates, york, yuri, yusef

zacharias, zade, zavier, zayn, zed, zeke, zero, zeus, zion

#names masterlist #male names masterlist #name masterlist #masterlist #rph #my masterlist #mine #mine: masterlist

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bullet-prooflove · 1 month

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Remedial: Bode Leone x Reader

Tagging: @kmc1989 @muligatorrr @jeysbae @cloveroctobers @dizzybee03 @a-porcelain-gir1 @@missy203 @floydsglasses @@alixw22x @@shelbygeek @yousigned-upforthis @zippeylay @@chickenshit03 @vaneyvfs @drunkangels @timmybradford @freecreationpost @words-and-seeds

Companion piece to Luke's 'Solitary Man' and Vince's 'One Night' - All pieces featuring the boys dealing with Sharon's death.

It starts with a remedial lesson because Bode is so fucking bad at actually taking care of people that Cap decides he needs extra help. At least that’s how he sees it at the time.

He’s fourth generation Cal Fire, he should be able to handle the Emergency Triaging Course but he doesn’t. Instead he fumbles the whole thing, he can’t remember the steps, the terminology slips right out of his head, he grows upset and frustrated because everyone else is keeping up but him...

He’s struggling.

There’s a lot riding on being here at Fire Camp, he feels the weight bearing down on his shoulders every damn day and sometimes it stifles him, it becomes so much that he feels like he can barely breathe.

“You must think I’m stupid.” He says as the two of you sit in a secluded space near the lake. Your leg stretched out in front of you as he tries to secure a bandage around it. You wince and he pulls away immediately, his gaze flickering up to meet yours. “Too tight?”

“I don’t think you’re stupid.” You tell him as you lean forward to untie the knot just under your knee. “But I do think you put yourself under a lot of pressure.”

“I need this program.” He tells you as he begins to unwind the bandage. “My dad hasn’t been doing well since my mom died, the thought of him being alone up here…”

He trails off, focusing on the task at hand.

“My mom she made me promise that I’d keep an eye on him, make sure he doesn’t become the grumpy old widower who lives up on that hill.” He finds himself telling you before he gently picks up your leg and resets the position. “She didn’t want us to drift apart the way we had before.”

“You carry a lot on your shoulders.” You say quietly as his warm palms navigate your calf. “I can’t imagine what it’s like trying to jump through all these hoops, while you carry that on your back.”

“It’s tough.” He says as he begins to wrap the bandage again. “Sometimes it feels like I’m sinking you know? And every time my head breaks the surface, something yanks me back down and I’m drowning all over again.”

“Is that what happened today?” You ask him softly.

“My hands were shaking.” He says, his voice a little rough. “I couldn’t grab hold of the bandage, I kept thinking of my mom, the night she collapsed…”

She’d been up here helping with the cookout when the seizure had hit her. She’d smashed her head on the picnic table on the way down, there had been so much blood. He’d tried to wake her up, stifle the bleeding, but rivets of crimson just kept running through his fingers.

“Bode,” You say gently, your palm coming to rest upon his shoulder.

It brings him back to the present, to the lake. He looks up at you and there’s such anguish in those vibrant blue eyes of his, such grief, such despair. Your palm comes to rest upon his cheek, your thumb chasing away the tears that stain his grizzled features.

For the first time in forever Bode finds himself taking a breath.

Love Bode? Don’t miss any of his stories by joining the taglist here.

Interested in supporting me? Join my Patreon for Bonus Content!

Like My Work? - Why Not Buy Me A Coffee

#bode leone #bode leone x reader #bode leone x you #bode donovan #bode donovan x reader #boe donovan x you #fire country

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house-of-nevs · 4 years

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MONDO NEW CHERRY WHAT THE EVEN?

'It has actually happened, Cherry #23! The last one, #22, came out in the year 2000. She took a little break, but now she has to leap through time in order to still be 18, right? Yeah, it looks just like the 8-page teaser thing we just did, but this is a real 32-page comic book. It has the first chapter of the epic graphic novel, Cherrypocalypse, which continues the story begun in #22, the Alien Abduction Roswell/X Files issue. Also features a story by Mark Bode, 'Attack of the 50-Ft. Cherry', & pinups from Huy Truong, George Webber, Danielle Gransaull, David Harrigan & Leon Braojos, also a little tease on the back cover for Reed Waller's Flower Chamber, a new Omaha the Cat Dancer story, which is going to be serialized in subsequent issues, which will be coming out a little more frequently now.

Available at cherrycomix.com'

Via Larry Welz's Facebook profile.

See, um, some of you in The Filthypages!

#Cherry Poptart #Larry Welz #Underground Comics

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cerealbishh · 1 year

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"Hey. It- It's your birthday?"

"Yeah."

"Why didn't you say anything?"

"Guess I've been focused on other things today."

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lokirupaul · 3 years

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Lokiru Paul : Jason Sudeikis Is Having One Hell of a Year

Jason Sudeikis Is Having One Hell of a Year

He got famous playing a certain kind of funny guy on SNL, but when Jason Sudeikis invented Ted Lasso, the sensitive soccer coach with the earnest mustache, the actor found a different gear—and a surprise hit. Now, ahead of the show’s second season, Sudeikis discusses his wild ride of a year and how he’s learning to pay closer attention to what the universe is telling him.

BY ZACH BARON, GQ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILL & AUBREY

July 13, 2021

Shirt, $188, and tie (worn at waist), $125, by Polo Ralph Lauren. Pants, $255, by Aimé Leon Dore. Watch, $10,200, by Cartier.

On the day that he wrapped shooting on the second season of Ted Lasso, Jason Sudeikis sat in his trailer in West London and drank a beer and exhaled a little, and then he went to the pitch they film on for the show—Nelson Road Stadium, the characters call it—for one last game of football with his cast and crew. There's this thing called the crossbar challenge, which figures briefly in a midseason Ted Lasso episode: You kick a ball and try to hit not the goal but the crossbar above the goal, which is only four or five inches from top to bottom. And so Sudeikis arrived and, because he can't help himself, started trying to hit the crossbar.

Jason Sudeikis covers the August 2021 issue of GQ. To get a copy, subscribe to GQ.

Shirt, $228, by Todd Snyder. Shorts, $480, by Bode. Sneakers, his own. Socks, stylist’s own. Watch, $6,300, by Cartier.

Confidence is a funny thing. Sudeikis has been riffing on it, in one way or another, for his whole professional life—particularly the comedy of unearned confidence, which he is well suited, physically, to convey. Sudeikis is acutely aware of “the vessel that my soul is currently, you know, occupying”—six feet one, good hair, strong jaw. He's a former college point guard. On Saturday Night Live, where most of us saw him for the first time, he had a specialty in playing jocular blowhards and loud, self-impressed white men, a specialty he took to Hollywood, in films like Horrible Bosses and Sleeping With Other People. He became so adept at playing those types of characters, Sudeikis said, that at some point he realized he'd have to make an effort to do something different. “It's up to me to not just play an a-hole in every movie,” he said. In conversation he is digressive, occasionally melancholy, prone to long anecdotes and sometimes even actual parables—closer, in other words, to Ted Lasso, the gentle, philosophical football coach he co-created, than any of the preening jerks he used to be known for. But he can definitely kick a soccer ball pretty good.

So he's up there trying to hit the crossbar, and he's got a crowd of actors and crew members gathering around him now, betting on whether he can hit it. And he's getting the ball in the air, mostly, but not quite on the four-to-five-inch strip of metal he needs to hit, and the stakes are escalating (“I bet he can get it in three.” “I bet he can get it in five”), and after he misses the first five tries, Toheeb Jimoh, the actor who plays Sam Obisanya on the show, says, “I think he can get it in 10.” Then Sudeikis proceeds to miss the next four attempts. But, he told me later, “there was no part of me that was like, ‘I'm not gonna hit one of these. I'm not not gonna hit one of these.’ ”

Like I said, confidence is a funny thing. You have to somehow believe that the worst outcome simply won't happen. Sometimes you have to do that while knowing for a fact that the worst outcome is happening, all the time. “It's a very interesting space to live in, where you're living in the questions and the universe is slipping you answers,” Sudeikis said. “And are you—are any of us—open enough, able enough, curious enough to hear them when they arrive?” This sounds oblique, I guess, but I can attest, after spending some time talking to Sudeikis, that everything is a little oblique for him right now. He had the same pandemic year we all had, and in the middle of that, he had Ted Lasso turn into a massive, unexpected hit, and in the middle of that, his split from his partner and the mother of his two children, Olivia Wilde, became public in a way that from a great distance seemed not entirely dissimilar to something that happens to the character he plays on the show that everyone was suddenly watching. “Personal stuff, professional stuff, I mean, it's all…that Venn diagram for me is very”—here he held up two hands to form one circle—“you know?”

Shirt, $195, by Sid Mashburn. T-shirt, $195, by Ralph Lauren. Vintage pants from The Vintage Showroom. Belt, $2,500, by The Row. His own sneakers by Nike x Tom Sachs. Socks, $18 for three pairs, by Nike. Pendant necklaces, $2,100 (tag), and $3,000 (bar), by Tiffany & Co. Jacket (on bench), $498, by Todd Snyder.

Anyway, Sudeikis hit the crossbar on the 10th try. “It's a tremendous sound,” he said of that moment when the ball connects with the frame of the goal. He'd done what he knew he would do. Everyone on the pitch was cheering like they'd won something. It was, for lack of a better way of describing it, a very Ted Lasso moment—a small victory, a crooked poster in a locker room that says Believe. “There's a great Michael J. Fox quote,” Sudeikis told me later, trying to explain the particular brand of wary optimism that he carries around with him, and that he ended up making a show about: “ ‘Don't assume the worst thing's going to happen, because on the off chance it does, you'll have lived through it twice.’ So…why not do the inverse?”

Watch Now:

10 Things Jason Sudeikis Can’t Live Without

Ted Lasso. Man—what an unlikely story. The character was initially dreamed up to serve a very different purpose. Sudeikis first played him in 2013, in a promo for NBC, which had recently acquired the television rights to the Premier League and was trying to inspire American interest in English football. The promo was the length and shape of an SNL sketch and featured a straightforward conceit: A hayseed football (our football) coach is hired as the football (their football) coach of a beloved English club, to teach a game he neither knows nor understands in a place he neither knows nor understands. The joke was simple and boiled down to the central fact that Ted Lasso was an amiable buffoon in short shorts.

But Sudeikis tries to listen to the universe, even in unlikely circumstances, and for whatever reason the character stuck around in his head. So, in time, Sudeikis developed and pitched a series with the same setup—Ted, in England, far from his family, a stranger in a strange land learning a strange game—that Apple eventually bought. But when we next saw Ted Lasso, he had changed. He wasn't loud or obnoxious anymore; he was simply…human. He was a man in the midst of a divorce who missed his son in America. The new version of Ted Lasso was still funny, but now in an earned kind of way, where the jokes he told and the jokes made at his expense spoke to the quality of the man. He had become an encourager, someone who thrills to the talents and dreams of others. He was still ignorant at times, but now he was curious too.

In fact, this is close to something Ted says, by way of Walt Whitman, in one of the first season's most memorable episodes: Be curious, not judgmental. I will confess I get a little emotional every time I watch the scene in which he says this, which uses a game of darts in a pub as an excuse to both stage a philosophical discussion about how to treat other people and to re-create the climactic moment of every sports movie you've ever seen. It's a somewhat strange experience, being moved to tears by a guy with a bushy cartoon mustache and an arsenal of capital-J jokes (“You beating yourself up is like Woody Allen playing the clarinet: I don't want to hear it”), talking about humanity and how we all might get better at it. But that's kind of what the experience of watching the show is. It's about something that almost nothing is about, which is: decency.

In the pilot episode, someone asks Ted if he believes in ghosts, and he says he does, “But more importantly, I think they need to believe in themselves.” That folksy, relentless positivity defines the character and is perhaps one of the reasons Ted Lasso resonated with so many people over the past year. It was late summer, it was fall, it was in the teeth of widespread quarantine and stay-at-home orders. People were inside watching stuff. Here was a guy who confronted hardship, who suffered heartbreak, who couldn't go home. And who, somehow, found his way through all that. Someone not unlike Sudeikis himself.

“If you have the opportunity to hit a rock bottom, however you define that, you can become 412 bones or you can land like an Avenger. I personally have chosen to land like an Avenger.”

Sudeikis likes to say, in homage to his background in competitive sports, that there's no defense in the arts. “The only things you're competing against, I believe, are apathy, cynicism, and ego,” he said. This is a philosophy of Sudeikis's that predates Ted Lasso by many years, though you wouldn't necessarily have known it until recently. He grew up outside Kansas City, in Overland Park, Kansas, a “full jock with thespian tendencies,” as he once described himself. His uncle is George Wendt, who played Norm on Cheers. “He made finding a career in the arts, in acting or whatever, seem plausible,” Sudeikis said. But mostly he was drawn to the camaraderie of athletics. When Sudeikis first tried his hand at professional improv, in the mid-'90s, it was through something called ComedySportz, a national chain with a fake competition angle, teams in sports uniforms, and a referee. Brendan Hunt, who co-created and costars on Ted Lasso, initially met Sudeikis in Chicago, he told me. Sudeikis had traveled the eight hours up from Kansas City to do a show: “Suddenly there's a beat-up Volvo station wagon, like an '83, and this is '97, I think, and these two guys get out, all bleary-eyed, and wearily change into their baseball pants. And one of them was Jason.”

Sudeikis had gone to community college on a basketball scholarship but failed to keep up his grades, and he eventually left school to pursue comedy. For a while, he said, his sincere aspiration was to become a member of the Blue Man Group. He got close. “They flew me out to New York,” he said. “That was August of 2001, right before 9/11. And I got to see myself bald and blue.” (In the end, he wasn't a good enough drummer.) By that time, he was living in Las Vegas with his then partner, Kay Cannon, doing sketch comedy at the newly formed Second City chapter there. “Ego,” Sudeikis told me about this time, “that gets beaten out of you, doing eight shows a week.”

Eventually he was invited to audition for Saturday Night Live. “I didn't want to work on SNL,” Sudeikis said—he'd convinced himself that there were purer and less corporate paths to take. “At a certain point in your comedy journey, you have to look at it as like McDonald's,” he said. “You have to be like: ‘No. Never.’ ” Then he got the call. “It was like having a crush on the prettiest girl at school and being like, ‘She seems like a jerk.’ And it's like, ‘Oh, really? 'Cause she said she liked you.’ ‘She what?!’ ”

Suit, $4,860, by Tom Ford. Vintage t-shirt from The Vintage Showroom. Suspenders, stylist’s own. Shoes, $1,535, by John Lobb.

Sudeikis auditioned, of course, and was hired, in 2003—but as a writer: “It was like winning a gold medal in the thing you've never even trained for. You just happen to be good at the triple jump, and you really love the long jump.” He wrote for a couple of seasons, but he was unhappy—Cannon was still in Las Vegas, and Sudeikis missed performing. Finally he went to Lorne Michaels, to ask for a job as a member of the cast. “He had the best line. I go, ‘I had to give up two things I love the most to take this writing job: performing and living with my wife.’ And on a dime, he just goes, ‘Well, if you had to choose one…’ ”

At Saturday Night Live, Sudeikis often channeled the same level of cheerful optimism and forthright morality that he'd later bring to Ted Lasso, but audiences didn't necessarily notice it at the time. One of Sudeikis's most famous and beloved early sketches on SNL as a performer is 2005's “Two A-holes Buying a Christmas Tree”—Kristen Wiig and Sudeikis, chewing gum, oblivious to their surroundings, terrorizing Jack Black at a Christmas tree stand. It's a joke about a very familiar form of contemporary rudeness; it's also a riff on a certain kind of man who speaks for the woman next to him, whether she wants him to or not. And people laughed and moved on to the next bit, but to this day Sudeikis can tell you about all the ideas that were running through his head when he created the sketch with Wiig. “That scene was all about my belief that we were losing touch with manners,” he told me. “And yet it's also about love, because he loves her, and that's why he interprets everything for her—she never talks directly to the person.” But, he said, sighing, “once you start explaining a joke or something like that, it ceases to be funny.”

Sudeikis brought this type of attention and care to the movies he began acting in too, like the workplace comedy Horrible Bosses, even if it was lost on most of those who watched them. “That movie, Horrible Bosses, is riddled with optimism,” he said. “The rhythms of that movie, of what Jason Bateman and Charlie Day and I are doing, are deeply rooted in Ted Lasso too. But people don't want those answers. They want to hear the three of us cut up and joke around.”

So that's what Sudeikis did. He got used to a certain gap between his intention and how it was understood. During his time at SNL, his marriage fell apart. “You're going through something emotionally and personally, or even professionally if that's affecting you personally, and then you're dressed up like George Bush and you're live on television for eight minutes. You feel like a crazy person. You feel absolutely crazy. You're looking at yourself in the mirror and you're just like, ‘Who am I? What is this? Holy hell.’ ”

For a time he became a tabloid fixture. He remembers “navigating my first sort of public relationship, with January Jones, which was like learning by fire. What is the term? Trial by fire.” In a 2010 GQ article, when confronted with a question about rumors that he was dating Jennifer Aniston, he sarcastically responded that she should be so lucky. “And obviously I'm fucking joking, you know?” Sudeikis said. But back then, he treated interviews like improv—Yes, and—and that could create misunderstandings. Asked once on a podcast about what people tended to get wrong about him, Sudeikis responded, “That I was in a fraternity—or maybe that I would be.”

To that point, Hunt told me, “He's much less the assumed fraternity guy than you'd think.” But Hunt said he also understood where the impression came from: “I don't know where he learned it necessarily, whether it was from his parents, or his basketball coaches, but he exudes an easygoing confidence. And it's easy to hang with a guy like that. But some people are also like, ‘Fuck that guy,’ intrinsically.”

Shirt, $188, and ties (worn at waist), $125 each, by Polo Ralph Lauren. Pants, $255, by Aimé Leon Dore. Shoes, $782, by Alden. Socks, $15, by Smart Turnout. Watch, $10,200, by Cartier.

When he won the Golden Globe, Sudeikis gave a dazed speech while wearing a hoodie, sparking glee and speculation about his mental and physical states. “I was neither high nor heartbroken,” he said.

Shortly after Sudeikis and Wilde got together, near the end of his SNL run (he left the show in 2013), Wilde made a joke during a monologue that she read at a cabaret club about the two of them having sex “like Kenyan marathon runners,” and Sudeikis spent years answering questions about the joke. “The frustrating thing about that is that Olivia said that in a performance setting,” Sudeikis said. “It wasn't like she just was saying it glibly in an interview.” He described the experience of growing into celebrity, and confronting other people's misperceptions of him, as a disorienting one. “You're just being tossed into the situation and then trying to figure it out,” he said. The picture of him that was circulating wasn't exactly the one that he had of himself. But he didn't fight it, either. “You come to be thoughtful about it,” he said. “But also try to stay open to it. I don't ever want to be cynical.”

So he tried to stay open. But it wasn't until Ted Lasso that people really saw the side of him that comported with the way he saw himself. Last year, as it became clear that the show was a hit, he found himself answering, over and over, some version of the same question. The question would vary in its specifics, but the gist of it was always: How much do you and this character actually have in common? Sudeikis told me that over time, in response to people wondering about his exact relationship to Ted, he developed a few different evasive explanations. Ted, Sudeikis would say, was a little like Jason Sudeikis, but after two pints on an empty stomach. He was Sudeikis hanging on the side of a buddy's boat. He was Sudeikis, but on mushrooms. Sometimes, in more honest moments, he would say that Ted is the best version of himself. This, after all, is how art works: If it was just you, then it wouldn't really need to be art in the first place. And so Sudeikis learned to separate himself from Ted, to fudge the distance between art and artist.

Except, he said, after a while, every time he tried to wave off Ted, fellow castmates or old friends of his would correct him to say: “No.” They'd say: “No, that is you. That is you. That's not the best version of you.” It's not you on mushrooms, it's not you hanging off a boat, it's just…you. One of Sudeikis's friends, Marcus Mumford, who composed the music for the show, told me, “He is quite like Ted in lots of ways. He has a sort of burning optimism, but also a vulnerability, about him that I really admire.”

Hearing people say this, over and over again, Sudeikis said, “brought me to a very emotional space where, you know, a healthy dose of self-love was allowed to expand through my being and made me…” He trailed off for a moment. “When they're like, ‘No, that is you. That is you. That's not the best version of you.’ That's a very lovely thing to hear. I wish it on everybody who gets the opportunity to be or do anything in life and have someone have the chance to say, ‘Hey, that's you. That's you.’ ”

And if he's being honest, that's the way he feels about it too. “It's the closest thing I have to a tattoo,” Sudeikis said about Ted Lasso. “It's the most personal thing I've ever made.”

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On the first Saturday in June, Sudeikis flew with his children, Otis and Daisy, from London to New York, where he owns a house in Brooklyn. “Brooklyn is home,” he told me simply. While filming the first season of Ted Lasso, he'd had the house renovated—there was black mold to get rid of and other changes to make. “So Olivia and the kids had to rent a lovely apartment in Brooklyn Heights. But it's not home. It's someone else's home.” Saturday was the first time Sudeikis and his children had set foot in their own place in two years. “The kids darted in,” he said. “Last time Daisy was in that house, she slept in a crib. So now she has a new big bed. It was hilarious. I walked up there after like 15 minutes and both rooms were a mess.”

He and Wilde, he said, no longer share the house. They split up, according to Sudeikis, “in November 2020.” The end of their relationship was chronicled in a painful, public way in the tabloids after photos of Wilde holding hands with Harry Styles surfaced in January, setting off a flurry of conflicting timelines and explanations. Sudeikis said that even he didn't have total clarity about the end of the relationship just yet. “I'll have a better understanding of why in a year,” he said, “and an even better one in two, and an even greater one in five, and it'll go from being, you know, a book of my life to becoming a chapter to a paragraph to a line to a word to a doodle.” Right now he was just trying to figure out what he was supposed to take away, about himself, from what had happened. “That's an experience that you either learn from or make excuses about,” he said. “You take some responsibility for it, hold yourself accountable for what you do, but then also endeavor to learn something beyond the obvious from it.”

In the first season of Ted Lasso, the comic premise of the show is revealed to be a tragic one: Ted is in England, far from home, doing something he doesn't know how to do and probably shouldn't be doing at all, in order to give his failing marriage space to survive. When the character's wife and son visit, in the show's fifth episode, his wife tells him, “Every day I wake up hoping that I'll feel the way I felt in the beginning. But maybe that's just what marriage is, right?” It's a wrenching moment that also gives new meaning to the show: Ted Lasso's heart is big, but it can also be broken as violently and as easily as anyone else's. By the end of the season, Lasso is divorced and renegotiating his relationships with his now ex-wife and son.

The first season of Ted Lasso had already been written—had already aired—by the time Sudeikis found himself living some aspects of it in real life. “And yet one has nothing to do with the other,” Sudeikis told me. “That's the crazy thing. Everything that happened in season one was based on everything that happened prior to season one. Like, a lot of it three years prior. You know what I mean? The story's bigger than that, I hope. And anything I've gone through, other people have gone through. That's one of the nice things, right? So it's humbling in that way.”

And in fact, the seeds of Ted's heartbreak, Sudeikis said, went all the way back to a dinner he had with Wilde around 2015, during which she first encouraged him to explore whether Ted Lasso could be more than just a bit on NBC. “It was there, the night at dinner, when Olivia was like, ‘You should do it as a show,’ ” he said. They got to talking about it. Sudeikis asked why Ted Lasso would move in the first place, to coach a team he had no real reason to coach: “ ‘Okay, but why would he take this job? Why would a guy at this age take this job to leave? Maybe he's having marital strife. Maybe things aren't good back home, so he needs space.’ And I just riffed it at dinner in 2015 or whenever, late 2014. But it had to be that way. That's what the show is about.”

I said to Sudeikis that I thought that while it was common for artists to put a lot of their lives into their art, it was less common that they end up living aspects of the art in their lives, after the fact.

“I wonder if that's true,” he replied. “I mean, isn't that just a little bit of what Oprah was telling us for years and years? You know, manifestation? Power of thought? That's The Secret in reverse, you know?”

But…if we're being honest, is that a thing you wanted to manifest?

“No. No. But, again, it isn't that. It wasn't that. And again, that's just me knowing the details of it. Like, that's just me knowing where it comes from, where any of it comes from.”

But he acknowledged it had been a hard year. Not necessarily a bad one, but a hard one. “I think it was really neat,” he said. “I think if you have the opportunity to hit a rock bottom, however you define that, you can become 412 bones or you can land like an Avenger. I personally have chosen to land like an Avenger.”

Is that easier said than done? To land like an Avenger?

“I don't know. It's just how I landed. It doesn't mean when you blast back up you're not going to run into a bunch of shit and have to, you know, fight things to get back to the heights that you were at, but I'd take that over 412 bones anytime.”

He paused, then continued: “But there is power in creating 412 bones! Because we all know that a bone, up to a certain age, when it heals, it heals stronger. So, I mean, it's not to knock anybody that doesn't land like an Avenger. Because there's strength in that too.”

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In February, Sudeikis attended the Golden Globes, which were being held remotely on Zoom. He had his misgivings about the event—the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, which votes on the awards, had been in the news for a series of unflattering revelations about its organization, and also the show was taking place in the middle of the night in London. Tom Ford had sent over a suit for Sudeikis to wear, and he tried it on, in his flat in Notting Hill, but he felt ridiculous, there in the middle of the night, and so changed out of it and into a tie-dyed hoodie made by his sister's clothing company. “I wore that hoodie because I didn't wanna fucking wear the fucking top half of a Tom Ford suit,” he said. “I love Tom Ford suits. But it felt weird as shit.”

“With kids, knowing is half the battle. But adulthood is doing something about it. ‘I'm bad with names.’ ‘I'm always late.’… All right, so win the fucking battle by doing something about it!”

The rest of this story you know: Sudeikis ended up winning best actor for Ted Lasso and gave a dazed acceptance speech while wearing the hoodie, and this in turn sparked glee and speculation about his mental and physical states. For the record, “I was neither high nor heartbroken,” Sudeikis said. It was just late at night and he didn't want to wear a suit. “So yeah, off it came and it was like, ‘This is how I feel. I believe in moving forward.’ ”

Lately, Sudeikis told me, he had been trying to pay more attention to how he actually felt about any given thing, to all the various signs and omens that present themselves to a person during the course of living their life. Even in his past, he said, there were moments that were obvious in retrospect, in terms of what the universe was trying to tell him, messages he missed entirely at the time. In Vegas, where he was living with Cannon before Saturday Night Live, he developed alopecia and his hair stopped growing, and he didn't know why. And then, at the end of his 30s, “during the nine months before Otis was born and the nine months after he was born,” Sudeikis developed extremely painful sciatica. “I went and got an MRI and was like, ‘Oh, yeah, the jelly doughnut in my L4, L5, is squirting out and touching a nerve.’ ” But why? When he had his second child, this didn't happen at all. So: why?

“I mean, since last November,” Sudeikis said, “the joke that feels more like a parable to me is a guy is sitting at home watching TV and the news breaks in to say flash flood warning. About an hour later he goes outside on his porch and he sees that the whole street is flooded.” You've probably heard the rest of this joke before: While the guy is praying to God for some kind of help, a truck, a boat, and a chopper come by, offering aid, which the guy turns down. God'll provide, he says. Sudeikis finished the joke: “Two hours after that, he's in heaven. He's dead. He says, ‘God, what's up, man? You didn't help me.’ God goes, ‘What do you mean, man? I sent you a pickup truck, I sent you a speedboat, I sent you a helicopter.’ ” So, Sudeikis said, “you can't tell me that hair falling out of my head wasn't—I don't know if it was the speedboat or the pickup truck or the helicopter, but yeah, man, it all comes home to roost. What you resist persists.”

He went on. “That's why I had sciatica,” he said. “That's the speedboat. That was like: ‘Hey, you gotta take a look at your stuff.’ ”

And this is another way that Sudeikis and Ted Lasso are alike, because both are always learning and relearning this lesson, which is: Be curious. Both are philosophical men whose philosophies basically boil down to trying to live as decent a life as is possible. Not just for the sake of it but because to be curious—to find out something new about yourself or someone else—is to be empowered. “I don't know if you remember G.I. Joe growing up,” Sudeikis said, “but they would always end it with a little saying: ‘Oh, now I know.’ ‘Don't put a fork in the outlet.’ ‘Why?’ ‘Because you could get hurt.’ ‘Oh, now I know.’ And then somebody would say, ‘And knowing is half the battle.’ And I agree with that—with kids, knowing is half the battle. But adulthood is doing something about it. That's the other half. ‘I'm bad with names.’ ‘I'm always late.’ Oh! Well, knowing is half the battle. All right, so win the fucking battle by doing something about it! Get better at names. Show up five minutes early, make it a point to do it. So, I'm still learning these things. But hopefully I've got plenty of time to do something about it.”

Sudeikis smiled a little wearily: “I mean, at the end of that joke, the guy still got to go to heaven, you know?”

Zach Baron is GQ's senior staff writer.

A version of this story originally appeared in the August 2021 issue with the title "Jason Sudeikis Paints His Masterpiece."

PRODUCTION CREDITS:

Photographs by Hill & Aubrey

Styled by Michael Darlington

Grooming by Nicky Austin

Tailoring by Nafisa Tosh

Set design by Hella Keck

Produced by Ragi Dholakia Productions

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