#hea henry

[hussyknee]

Red, White & Royal Blue: Collector's Edition Henry PoV bonus chapter by Casey Mcquiston.

(transcribed from the page pictures posted)

This is the coda to the end of the book, so don't read it if you haven't read the book first. Sadly, the Collector's Edition doesn't seem to be available on Kindle so. Arrrr matey.

Download link for file at the end.

....

HENRY

“I am not asking you to believe in it, or even to like it,” Henry says stonily. It’s been a long morning already. He is beginning to perspire. “I am simply asking you to show a modicum of respect.”

“To–to your quiche?”

“Yes. To my quiche.”

Bea puts down her tape gun and wipes her eyes. “Pez!”

“Yes?”

“Henry says he’s going to make us a quiche!”

Pez’s squawk of a laugh bounces down the stairs. “Pull the other one!”

“I make them all the time for Alex,” Henry insists. “They are perfectly edible.”

“So, when you promised us breakfast if we got up early to help you.” Bea says, “you meant that you were going to make us breakfast?”

“Yes!” Henry says hotly. “Stop laughing!”

“I’m sorry!” Bea says. “It’s only that...well, Henry, the last time you cooked breakfast for me, you were twelve and you put a sausage in the microwave until it exploded.”

“That was your idea! And it’s been ages since then! I’ve studied, all right? I’m quite good now. Those pictures I send the group chat aren’t just for show.”

“Oh, aren’t they?” Bea says rudely, as if his incredibly generous offer to cook her a shallot-and-thyme quiche with mushrooms from the farmer’s market means nothing at all. As if he’s lived in this house for five entire years without learning to use its kitchen.

Perhaps if their lives weren’t so chaotic, if Henry weren’t flying out of New York every time Bea had a spare moment to fly in, he could have proven this to her earlier. But Pez, who lives mostly in the city now and visits so frequently he’s earned his own Secret Service code name (Cardinal, since Henry is Bishop), should know better.

“Percy Okonjo,” Henry says as Pez joins them, “you were here last weekend when I made mince pie. You loved it.”

“Did I?” Pez wonders aloud, with an annoyingly Bea-like lilt.

“Look at this apron!” Henry gestures to himself and the navy blue apron he’s wearing. Alex gave it to him for his birthday last year. “Would a man who can’t make a quiche have an apron like this? It’s monogrammed.”

“You’re royalty, babes,” Pez points out. “Everything you own is monogrammed.”

From the pocket of his serious-home-cook apron, his phone buzzes. Reinforcements. The FaceTime connects, and Alex says, “Good morning, love of my li–”

“Alex,” Henry interrupts, “tell them about my quiches.”

Alex pushes up his sunglasses and frowns into the camera. He looks so lovely with his faded T-shirt and jean jacket and shaggy hair. Pure American heartthrob, might as well have a cowboy hat on. Henry never does tire of it.

“Sorry?”

“Bea and Pez don’t believe I can make a quiche.”

“What? Have they seen your apron?”

“That’s what I said!”

“Henry’s quiches are great!” Alex says loudly, to the kitchen at large. “I almost never find shells in them!”

That sets Bea and Pez off again. On the screen, Alex’s face crinkles into laughter.

“Thank you very much, Alex, you’ve been a tremendous help,” Henry groans. “How are things? Florist this morning, wasn’t it?”

“Just finishing up.” Alex says with a grin. “Final approvals done. Everything looks great.”

With only one week until moving day and two until the wedding, it made sense to divide and conquer. Henry agreed to stay in New York and finish packing up the brownstone with help from Bea and Pez, while Alex, June, and Nora are ticking off the last of their checklists in Texas.

“Of all the surprises that wedding planning has brought us,” Henry says, “your ability to micromanage floral arrangements has certainly been...one of them.”

“You know I love to curate a vibe,” Alex says.

“That you do,” Henry agrees. “Where are the girls?”

“Getting donuts,” Pez answers before Alex can. He holds up his phone, open to a photo of June blowing a kiss while Nora fellates an éclair.

“Donuts!” Bea says. “Now there’s an idea!”

They spend the rest of the day drowning in cardboard boxes and bin liners, packing everything but the furniture and the downstairs television. Pez reminds him once an hour that they could pay someone to do this, but Bea is stubborn, and Henry is reluctant to let anyone else wade into all the intimate trappings of his and Alex’s life. It was bad enough explaining the contents of the trick drawer in their dresser to Pez, much less some mover he’s never met.

When it’s done, Bea puts A Knight’s Tale on in the living room and promptly falls asleep on Pez’s lap. Pez passes out too, but Henry stays awake, because Heath Ledger deserves an audience. And because he knows if he doesn't wake Bea and move her to the guest bedroom, he'll have to hear about her back spasms in the morning.

David hops up beside him on the loveseat, and Henry strokes the top of his snout until his little body relaxes into Henry's side.

"Nervous old boy," Henry hums. It still does seem like the ultimate irony that the dog he adopted for emotional support has anxiety. David has grown more and more worried all week, as more and more of his home disappeared into boxes. "We won't leave you, I promise."

The brownstone has been a good house for them. Sturdy brick walls, neighbors that actually let them be. Henry has loved it more than he ever loved Kensington, or at least as much as he loved Kensington when his parents both lived there too. Some mornings, when he comes downstairs to find Alex with the coffeepot and the kettle already on, he feels the way he did when his family all slept under one roof. This roof is quite a bit smaller than that one, but the feeling isn't.

So, perhaps David hasn't got entirely the wrong idea. It is hard to let the place go. For the past month, Alex has kept asking Henry why he's staring, and the truth is that he's been committing to memory exactly how Alex looks in every room. How the bannister fits in his hand, the place on the foyer wall where he always braces himself to pull on his shoes.

Everything that's happened in the past five years has happened, at least in part, inside this house.

…

It's seven months after Alex's mother's second inauguration, and Henry is wishing he had never even heard the word "credenza." Then he wouldn't have to decide where to put one. Alex is arriving in half an hour to help him move it, but Henry still doesn't know where. Across from the fireplace, perhaps? But what if he wants to put a sofa there? Does he want a regular sofa, or a sectional? Should it go upstairs, in his study? Or should he leave room for bookcases?

He longs to be back on a beach, sipping something from a pineapple.

It’s been a long, glorious summer since Alex packed up his White House bedroom, called Henry, and asked, "Do you want to get the fuck off the continent?" They did Dubai first, then Lagos. Rio, for old time's sake. Buenos Aires, paper lanterns in moonlight and Alex flirting with the bartender for free drinks. June through August became a lovely blur: Alex asleep against his shoulder on the plane, Alex throwing his Portuguese phrase book out the window of a speeding car, sand in unmentionable places, Alex Alex Alex. Endless runways and half-arsed disguises, swimsuits that got smaller and smaller until they simply didn't wear them anymore. Falling in love, the sequel, with fresh suntans and all the time in the world.

And now here they are in Park Slope, where Alex is renting the second floor of a brownstone two blocks from Henry's.

It's practical, they agreed, to live in the same neighborhood before they live at the same address. They've scarcely gotten a chance to date the normal way yet– if it can be called "normal" when their combined security teams are headquartered in an empty apartment down the street. Still, Henry wants this to last.

They've sprinted headlong into everything so far, but now he wants move slowly, in delicious increments. He wants to savor nights, minutes, firsts, to covet them and then let them dissolve on his tongue, like the sugar cubes he snuck off his gran's filigreed tea trays when he was small. He wants a life.

He wants someone to tell him where to put this damned credenza.

It's a vintage Broyhill Brasilia piece, walnut with clever brass drawer pulls. June helped him pick it out when she was in town with meeting her editor, but she never gave him any advice on where it should go. He hasn't ever been allowed to decide where furniture should go before.

So, it’s...there, in the center of the empty living room, the first piece in the entire house.

“Maybe you could start with a rug or two,” says Alex from the foyer.

Henry turns to find him with his keys in one hand and a paper bag in the other, smiling in a beam of mid-morning light, and, ah. Yes. There it is. That sweet, sharp gasp of nerves. The half second when he forgets how to use his mouth. If he knows nothing else, at least one certainty remains, which is that seeing Alex Claremont-Diaz in the flesh will always do this to him.

Alex in a photo is handsome, but Alex in life is a symphony. He’s refracted light with a cherry cola chaser. He’s got a Fibonacci jawline and a troublemaker smile and thick forearms built for posing in doorways with his sleeves rolled and thumbing corks out of champagne bottles. The first time Henry ever told Pez about him, he said, “God, but he’s lethal.” It’s only worse once you get to know him.

“Weird place for a credenza,” Alex comments. He kisses Henry’s cheek, then passes him a warm bundle wrapped in parchment paper. “Hope you like sausage-egg-and-cheese.”

“I don’t know where to put it.”

“Sandwich goes in your mouth, typically.”

“The credenza.”

“Ohhh, right,” Alex says, pretending to have just caught on. He winks. Henry sighs theatrically but accepts a second kiss, on the lips this time. “Why don’t you just put it right here?”

He points to his left, where a blank wall stretches from the front door to the foot of the stairs. It does, upon closer inspection, appear to be the exact right size.

“Oh,” Henry says.

This is where they overlap. Where he ends and Alex begins. Great gooey puddle of feelings, meet course of action; endless burning energy, meet point of focus. Agonies, meet your most obvious, most natural, most inevitable conclusions. It’s frightening sometimes for a person like Henry, who has spent his entire life pedaling his agonies about like baguettes in a posh little bicycle basket. What is he to do with them now?

Yes," Henry concedes, "I suppose I could," and Alex laughs.

...

It's the summer of 2022. Henry has opened his third shelter, and Alex has just finished bulldozing his first year at NYU Law.

A few boxes of books still wait at Alex's place, but otherwise, he lives in Henry's brownstone now. Their brownstone. A UT pennant beside a Chelsea scarf on the living room wall. A fridge full of Topo Chico and Bulmers. Two pairs of shoes by the front door, brown Barker derbies and Reebok trainers. Nobody could mistake it for anyone else's.

It's their first Chore Sunday (Alex's idea), and Henry has put the last of the laundry in the dryer. He's in the kitchen doorway, watching Alex unload the dishwasher.

Alex once told Henry the type of man he's typically attracted to: tall, broad-shouldered, pretty eyes, a little haunted. Bit of attitude and a smile that makes you curious. For Henry, it's never been so simple. He liked boys in his classes because they bothered with the assigned readings and fancied one of Philip's awful Eton friends because he could sail and smelled of cinnamon. The only thing all his Oxford boys had in common was that they didn't know how to speak to him. He's never had a type, and he's always been sure Alex was singular, anyway. Alex is unlike anyone he's ever met before or since.

But here, now, watching Alex bend to remove a salad bowl from the bottom rack, he is confronted with the hard truth. All those boys did, actually, share one trait.

"Are you gonna help me with this," Alex says without even an investigatory glance over his shoulder, "or are you just gonna keep staring at my ass?"

...

It’s Christmas 2022, their first since Alex officially moved in, and Henry is going to make a yule log if it kills him.

Perhaps he’s been too ambitious. He’s rather new to all. Growing up, he was rarely permitted in the kitchens, and he concentrated his uni diet on fast food and takeaway. He can make toast and boil an egg, and he’s got a deft hand with the coffee percolator and a gin swizzle from time to time. He knows about food– the finest foods, actually, he’s yet to meet an Englishman who can select a better brie– but he never learned to cook, until recently.

Recently, as in when Alex became too fanatically involved in his second-year coursework to remember to feed himself.

It began with force-feeding Alex a bacon butty twice a week. Henry’s arms suffered little constellations of grease burns, but bacon was easy. And those faded, so they didn’t deter him for long. Curiosity piqued, he taught himself the basics of pasta, how one can simmer almost anything with garlic and onion and butter and it will taste good over noodles. It bolstered his confidence enough to truly commit, and now, between hours at the shelters and video calls with his mum, he watches tutorial after tutorial on how to brown butter and roast chicken. Only half of what he makes turns out the color it’s meant to, but he loves it.

He loves walking to the market on the corner and hunting down specific ingredients from the family recipes June sends him. In fact, it’s become such a regular pastime that the paparazzi have cottoned on, which is why his mother finally forced his security team to hire an actual body double. Now some bloke named Angus with his height and build and nearly the same face goes on diversionary strolls while Henry peruses jarred chilies.

With all his independent studying, he was certain he could manage a dessert. He wanted to do something impressive, since they’ve convinced their families to let them host Christmas dinner. Only, his sponge has gone all wrong, and if he’s learned anything from Bake Off, he knows it’s not meant to have cracked in five places when he tried to roll it up. Paul Hollywood would have him pilloried.

“Think you might’ve left it in too long?” Oscar asks from across the kitchen island. He’s wearing his white elephant prize, a sweatshirt airbrushed with the slogan YOU CAN’T SPELL CONSTITUTION WITHOUT TITS. Inexplicably, Henry’s own mother brought that one. “Lookin’ kinda dry there.”

“I appreciate that you are trying to be helpful,” Henry enunciates, “but if you say one more word I may start crying, and then we’ll both lose some respect for me.”

Later, when Pez has persuaded him to “call it, mate, put it out of its misery,” he carries his disgraced platter of ganache and cake and marzipan out into the living room and lets everyone go at it with spoons. The house feels full to bursting, and not just because of the Christmas crackers. There are all three of Alex’s parents, Henry’s mum, June and Nora, Bea and Pez, Shaan and Zahra on speakerphone, occasionally an awkward Philip and Martha via FaceTime, and, because he had nowhere else to go for the holiday, Angus.

(“I don’t like him,” Alex muttered when Henry suggested inviting his own body double to Christmas dinner.

“Why not?”

“Because he looks exactly like you, but I find him deeply unattractive, and that freaks me out.”)

Ellen tells everyone the story of the year Alex got his first real bike for Christmas and knocked out his two front teeth by Boxing Day, which prompts Catherine to recite eight-year-old Henry’s letter to Father Christmas, in which he requested a leather-bound journal and a holiday to East Wittering so he could gaze at the sea. Bea pushes Henry behind the upright piano, and he takes requests for an hour. It only ends when Pez rewrites half the lyrics to “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” to be about his own lactose intolerance. No one wants to follow “tidings of Lactaid and soy.”

After the third round of mulled wine, when Alex’s parents have called their drivers and his mum has retired to the guest room, June and Nora find themselves under the mistletoe. Everyone whoops and whistles until Nora finally pulls June in by her Christmas-light necklace and kisses her to a round of applause. June's cheeks turn red, but she looks pleased as anything.

"I can't believe it took this long for y'all to finally kiss." Alex says, to which Pez bursts into laughter. "What?"

"Alex," he says fondly. He drains his glass and pecks Alex on the forehead. "You gorgeous, stupid little turnip."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Pez just shakes his head and strolls off to the kitchen.

"Wait," Alex says.

He frowns, like he does when he's trying to recall something incredibly minute and specific from his torts textbook. Then, suddenly, a light goes on, and his own mug is clunking on the lamp table, and he's running off after Pez.

"Pez, what's that supposed to mean?"

...

It's late morning the summer before Alex's last year of law school, 2023, and Alex is the first word out of Henry's mouth.

Truthfully, that's how he begins most mornings. On a Monday morning five time zones away, "Alex" pitched low to the screen of his phone. On a Friday when Alex's early lecture is cancelled, "Alex" in F major, muffled in the pillow as his body moves and the day stretches out before them. Half three the night before an exam, a hoarse "Alex," followed by, "turn the bloody light off and come to bed."

This morning, it's because David is barking at the door. A rainstorm is brewing, and if jet lag didn't have Henry dead under the bedclothes, the gray gloom would. Alex was the one who surfaced from sleep half an hour ago and blearily ordered three entire pancake breakfasts from some 24-hour diner a few neighborhoods over. He should have to get up and answer the door.

“Alex.” Henry mumbles, turning over.

Alex has got the quilt tugged up so high he’s only a shock of wild curls on white linens.

“Nnnghh,” Alex groans from the depths.

“Breakfast is here,” Henry says. The doorbell helpfully rings again. David howls.

Alex’s face appears, pouting. There’s a crease from the pillow down one of his cheekbones, a comet’s tail in a constellation of freckles. “Can you get it?”

Henry rolls his eyes but smiles. Inevitable.

He drags himself out of bed and pulls on the joggers and hoodie from last night’s flight. It’s not until he feels the breeze on his ankles as he descends the stairs that he realizes they’re Alex’s, not his.

On their doorstep, a pink-haired delivery girl is looking bored under her bicycle helmet.

“Sorry to keep you waiting,” Henry says. He fishes a crumpled bill out of Alex’s pocket. “For your trouble.”

The girl pulls a face.

“Got any real money?” she asks. Her accent reminds him a bit of Alex’s mum.

He blinks down at her hand, which is holding a twenty-pound note. “Ah. Sorry again. Er.” He snatches his wallet out of the bowl on the credenza and gives her all the American dollars he has.

“She’s gone, Davey,” Henry says afterward to David, who’s now fretfully circling the living room. “You’ve protected us from another fearsome home invader. Well done.”

He lets David out into the back garden to do his business, then carries the food upstairs. Shockingly, Alex is awake and propped up against the headboard.

“I’m getting too old for red-eye flights,” Alex says, rubbing his eyes.

“Love, you’re twenty-five,” Henry reminds him. He deposits the bag on the nightstand, and Alex wastes no time tearing through the plastic and tucking in to his breakfast. “And I’m older than you.”

“Yes, you are. But like... I get why we have to go to Philip’s kids’ christenings. The cousins, though?” He sets to work smothering his pancakes in syrup. “I mean, at least my cousins would stack their baptisms. One and done, baby.”

Henry opens his mouth, prepared to answer with one of a thousand things. That the tabloids will have even more of a field day than usual if he stops doing his chores, that there will always be a church dedication or a swan upping or an appointment for a top hat fitting, that he’ll always be obligated to have one foot in London and one day they’ll have to choose where to settle down. It’s far from the first time they’ve had this conversation.

But then Alex shovels a massive bite of pancakes into his mouth and says, “Anyway, I love you. Do you wanna have June and Nora over tomorrow? We can play Mario Party again. I wanna see them get in a fistfight. Oh, and my dad’s in town next week, and he said to tell you he’s bringing that book you asked about–”

And that’s when Henry knows: He doesn’t ever want to go back.

...

It’s the end of spring 2024, and Henry is not eavesdropping, per se. He excused himself to answer a call from Shaan, which really could not be avoided. Shaan has taken to his new life as a househusband with predictable aplomb, and most of his calls these days involve Henry getting to talk to a baby who is clearly destined to become prime minister. He simply can’t send that to voicemail.

It’s the first time they’ve had room in the schedule for his mother to visit since Alex accepted his law job, which Henry understands very little about but has been assured is the most strategic next step for Alex’s career long game. When Henry left the room, Alex was still trying to explain it to Catherine. It all sounds terribly prestigious.

He is just returning to the sitting room with a fresh pot of tea when he hears his name from around the corner.

“–and the next morning Henry and Arthur vanished,” his mother is saying, “and when Uncle Algie called, I told him that Henry couldn’t go on the annual pheasant hunt because he was violently ill, but actually Arthur had taken him to Rome for two weeks on the set of that go on ridiculous car heist film he was working on, the one with, oh, what’s his name–“

“Jason Statham,” Alex says promptly, through wheezing laughter.

“That’s the one!”

“Loved that movie,” Alex says. “I can’t believe Henry got to be on set.”

“It was all Arthur’s idea, but he was right to do it. Uncle Algie is a dreadful bore, and Henry despises his son. Guilford. Did you meet Guilford at the wedding?”

“Henry made sure I avoided it.”

“Yes, that’s for the best,” Catherine says daintily. “He has matured into an absolute dickhead.”

Henry wishes he was in the room to see the way Alex sputters out, “Oh my God.” Alex always forgets that Catherine went to uni and married a commoner from Sheffield.

And then Alex sighs and says, “When Henry and I get married–”

Henry manages to recover the teapot before he drops it.

It’s not a surprise to hear Alex mention marriage. They’ve been sorting it out for years: political logistics and Alex’s child-of-divorce anxiety and a thousand questions about a royal wedding neither of them actually wants to have. He’s already bought an engagement ring, even, and judging by how tetchy Alex gets whenever Henry tries to put his underwear away for him, he’s not the only one.

But it is the first time he’s heard Alex mention it to his mother. He dropped it so casually, so matter-of-factly, as if he’s been talking to her about marrying Henry for years. Henry supposes it’s possible he has been. Is this why Alex had tea with her in London last month and told Henry he wasn’t invited? Have they been conspiring?

They’re discussing hypothetical guest lists now, which cousins secretly hate one another and who wore an inappropriately large fascinator to whose birthday tea, but Henry isn’t listening anymore. He’s thinking of a cafe table in Rome, his dad waving over a second round of gelato.

In his memory, he’s nine years old, and his father is saying, Whoever you marry, Henry, make sure they think your mum is a laugh, because she is. She really is.

He clears his throat and finally rounds the corner. “Tea, anyone?”

...

It’s 2024, and nobody knows they’re engaged.

Granted, they’ve only been engaged for about three hours, but Henry is curious to see how long they can go. It feels nice to keep a secret that doesn’t have to be a secret. It’s more that they’re keeping it like a pet, or something especially beautiful from the garden that they’ve coaxed into a jar.

A record is spinning on the turntable, one of Alex’s, maybe the Joni Mitchell he borrowed from Bea. They’ve shoved their phones under the couch cushions and ordered a pizza the size of the moon, and now they’re sitting in the center of the living room floor, demolishing it. They kiss, then eat more pizza, then get distracted kissing again. Henry licks a streak of pepperoni grease from Alex’s forearm, which is a fantasy he didn’t know he had until he’s living it. They tangle up on the rug, and Henry decides he’ll take Alex sailing next weekend, or even out to the edge of the river, just to see him against a horizon.

Four-nearly-five years in, the main thing he’s learned is that Alex is a world without end. All Henry wants is to go on with him forever. To keep finding new favorite parts, to keep turning things over and studying their soft bellies and finding the best bits.

So, he will.

...

It snows on New Year’s Eve 2024. Alex looks out the window and shrugs off his coat.

The Young America Gala may be no longer, but Nora, June, and Pez aren’t to be stopped from throwing a New Year’s party, especially now that Pez has gotten his own part-time flat in the city. They’re the three fates of New York City’s holiday social circuit: birth (June, managing invitations), life (Pez, topless), and death (Nora, also topless).

“What if,” Alex says, turning to Henry on the foot of the stairs, “we don’t go to the party?”

“Nora will murder me,” Henry says. “She told me she’s not afraid to do that now that I’ve given up my title.”

“Murder is still a crime even if you’re not officially a prince.”

“Yes, but she said, quote,” he puts on his best American accent, “They can’t put me in the Tower anymore. Who’s gonna arrest me now? Mr. Bean?”

“Why don’t we just send Angus? It’s dark. Maybe she won’t notice.”

“Where’s your double, then?”

“We live in New York, I’m sure I can find a male model somewhere.”

“As always, sounding the very bass string of humility.”

“Is that fucking Shakespeare?”

“Henry IV.”

“I’m gonna give you a wedgie, you fucking nerd.”

In the end, it doesn’t take much to convince Henry to stay in. Lately, it never does. Alex texts June a flimsy excuse, and they toe off their shoes and relax out of their button-downs.

Henry does have to admit he’s exhausted, in the way that one only can be on the last day of the year, when every other day of the year piles way up behind it. It’s been a big one: Alex’s first law job, the endless press about Henry’s decision to surrender his title, the engagement, Bea’s wedding, the incident with the croquet mallets and the Dutch ambassador at Bea's wedding.

Sometimes Alex jokes that they squeezed it all into one calendar year because no headline can stick if there's another next week, but it's only half a joke. They've been bone-tired for months.

"I'm surprised you're the one who wants to stay home," Henry says. "I remember a young lothario who lived to ruin people's lives on New Year's Eve."

"Ruin?" Alex says. "That's not how I remember it."

"It certainly felt that way at the time."

They drift to the kitchen, past all the traces of the year. The dried flowers, the new scuffs on the floorboards. The box of bound manuscripts of Henry's first finished poetry-ish short-fiction-ish essay-ish collection. The holiday cards from senators and diplomats and old Texas friends, topped off with Alex's favorite of Rafael Luna and his astonishingly fit partner in matching Christmas jumpers. Henry would think Raf had been forced into it if it hadn't come with a case of beer and a note of thanks for letting him stay over the last time he visited Alex and had one too many tequila shots at drag bingo.

Alex withdraws a bottle of Clicquot from the refrigerator and says, "We're not washed, are we?"

“We're aging," Henry points out.

"That's right," Alex says, eyes immediately sparking at the opportunity. Henry preemptively sighs. "You're almost thirty."

"Almost twenty-eight is not almost thirty."

"It basically is. You're old. You'll be thirty a whole year before me. You'll be popping antacids and I'll be in the club, popping my p-"

"You're not even in the club now."

"I could be, I'm just choosing not to, because I don't want to deal with the snow. That's not aging, it's growth."

He slides Henry a glass of champagne and adds, "It's probably time for us to start talking about what's on your Do Before Thirty list, huh?"

Henry takes the glass and chooses going with Alex's bit over pointing out that he's entering his late twenties, not dying.

“I’ve done quite well on that front so far, actually,” he says. “Wrote a book. Started a nonprofit. Engaged to the love of my life.”

“Involved in an international sex scandal.”

“Shook the hands of all five Spice Girls.”

“Best dressed at the Met Gala.”

“Cried in the Water Lilies room at the MOMA.”

“Grew your hair out, then cut it all off.“

“Taught myself to make beef Wellington.”

“That one’s, uh, still in progress,” Alex hedges. Henry gives him an affronted look. “But, yeah! Definitely. And you got really good at scones.”

“That I did.”

“Right,” Alex agrees. “So what’s left? Streaking? Dropping acid? Having sex on our kitchen island?”

Henry takes a moment with that one.

“Having sex on our kitchen island?”

When the clock strikes the new year, the house is quiet. The timer on the light over the front stoop clicks off. The champagne bottle rests between two glasses on the edge of the sink, spent and sticky around the rim, a single soggy strawberry at the bottom of each flute. Miles out from their apartment, fireworks fight the snow over the East River, but in their kitchen in Park Slope, the only sounds are the two of them.

Henry, almost twenty-eight, presses his warm body to the cool marble and gets his midnight kiss.

...

“Do you know what today is?” Alex asks on a lukewarm September.

It’s 2025. He’s in the doorway of Henry’s study, where Henry has been all evening, answering emails.

“Hm? No.”

When Alex doesn’t immediately fill the silence, Henry looks up from his laptop screen.

“What is it?”

“Five years since the story broke,” Alex says.

It takes a moment for him to realize what story Alex means; there have been so many of them. But of course, he means that gigantic, terrible one. The one that changed their lives forever.

“Oh,” Henry says. He closes his laptop, leaning back in his chair and away from it. “Well. Hated that.”

“Yeah,” Alex agrees. “Zero out of ten. Would not do again.”

His tone is light and casual, but when he folds his arms across his chest, Henry can see his glasses in the front pocket of his flannel. It’s been months and months since the last time Alex didn’t feel confident enough to wear them.

For his part, Henry can remember much of that day, but not all of it. He remembers stirring sugar into his morning tea when Shaan walked in wearing an expression Henry had never seen before. He remembers Pez arriving like the cavalry in Gucci slippers, hustling Henry away from his handlers with the same graceful disdain he used to direct at Eton classmates who stared at them too much. He remembers Bea finding them in the music parlor and refusing to hear Henry’s apology, and he remembers Alex’s call and Alex’s arrival.

The funny part, though, is he can’t remember anything between Bea and Alex. He knows that Philip was involved, and there were stories on every news channel, and he spoke to his mother at some point. But the space in his memory where those hours belong is simply blank. His psychiatrist says it’s post-traumatic stress disorder, and Henry is inclined to agree, considering the two of them spent the entire following year recalibrating Henry’s anxiety and depression medication around the event.

Those hours will always be gone. There are things he will never get back.

Most of the time, though, when he thinks of that day, the second worst thing that's ever happened to him, he thinks of Alex's hand in his under a Buckingham Palace table. He remembers, clear as a bell, Alex's voice telling him they would survive it together. It happened to Alex too. It wasn't what they would have chosen, but it was what they received, and they've done their absolute bloody best with it.

He rises from his desk, crosses to the doorway, and gathers Alex up against his chest. Their size difference isn't that pronounced—Henry is taller but lean, Alex shorter but sturdy—but in moments like this, he's thankful for the way Alex's cheek perfectly aligns with the crook of his neck. He's grateful for how effortless it is to slip a kiss to Alex's temple.

Neither of them says anything else. It's all been said a thousand times, in speeches and through official statements and in the dark when it's only the two of them. It's enough to stand here in the center of the house, in the quiet, and let it hold their weight.

...

At the end of 2025, Henry has a bad day.

There's nothing specific that causes it. The days just happen like this sometimes, even with all the therapy and medication and supportive partnership and fulfilling creative projects in the world. There are other people, he supposes, who don't spend their lives waiting for the next bad day. He's had every bloody luxury but that one.

Alex comes home from work to find him curled up on the armchair in the study, staring out the window at the light-polluted night sky over the row of brownstones across the street.

“What are you doing?" Alex asks him.

"Looking for Orion," Henry deadpans.

Alex kneels on the rug in his tailored suit pants and rolled-up sleeves and rests his cheek on Henry's knee, the way he often does when Henry's in a mood. Henry's fingers slide into his curls. They've grown a bit longer in the past few months. Lately. Alex looks quite like he did when they met, except for the glasses and the stubble dusting his jaw.

“I’m tired of big law, “ Alex confesses. It would appear he’s in a mood too. “I know it’s only been a year and a half, but...I kind of hate it.”

Henry contemplates that, along with the dark circles around Alex’s eyes.

“You don’t have to do it, you know.” Henry tells him.

Alex looks at him like he did in that hotel room in Paris the first time they woke up together, like the only thing he knows for sure about what he’s being offered is that he wants it completely. It’s an intimidating look to receive, but it’s only ever improved Henry’s life in the end.

He kisses Henry’s knuckle, just below his ring.

“I have some ideas.”

...

In February 2026, a flu sweeps through Park Slope. Neither Alex nor Henry can agree on who gave it to whom first– Henry knows it was Alex, since he’s been up late consulting with his mum about a voting rights bill in Texas, and his immune system always suffers when he gets upset about Texas—but regardless, they’re trapped in the brownstone together for a week. At least Alex doesn’t have to work through his illness the way he usually does, since he resigned from his job last month.

Somewhere around day five, Henry realizes it’s the longest consecutive amount of time they’ve both been home in years. They always seem to be leaving or returning: rushing off to appearances, climbing out of security caravans in half-undone suits, meeting Cash at the curb at three in the morning with bags over their shoulders. It’s nice, in a way, to get reacquainted with this home they’ve built together.

While Alex naps, Henry paces the entire floorplan.

The first floor, with its long living room and the original beams and mantelpiece, which Henry had restored before he moved in, because he always has been precious about the history of things. Then the kitchen and the deep blue cabinets and the wide back window over the knotty pine dining table handed down from Alex's dad. Upstairs, on the second floor, the guest bedroom with all of his mum's preferred hand creams in the attached washroom and the sitting room with the shelf of swan figurines Pez started collecting years ago in a dramatic fit of June-related yearning. One more flight up to the top floor, with his study and Alex's office and the hall with their photo from Shaan and Zahra's wedding and, at the far end, their bedroom.

The bedroom is his favorite part of the house, and not only for the obvious reasons, no matter how much Alex tries to imply otherwise with suggestive eyebrows. He loves the high ceiling and the chipped plaster medallion of roses at the center. They picked out the bed together, and every morning that he wakes up in it, he gets to turn over and see Alex's loose pens and glasses wipes scattered atop the dresser and know that this, his life, is still real. Perhaps he likes the room best because it feels separated from every other part of the house, lifted up and bundled in, which is the first time he's ever been safe in a tower.

Most importantly, of all three levels of bay windows jutting from the redbrick front of the brownstone, only the one in the bedroom has a seat. They've filled it with velvet pillows and mossy green cushions, and once or twice a year, on one of their vanishingly rare slow days, Alex will climb in and fall asleep.

That's where he finds Alex when he eases into the room with a mug of soup in each hand. He recognizes the quilt wrapped around him: they slept under it in Alex's childhood twin bed the night Ellen won her second term, and then Alex crammed it into his suitcase and brought it back to Washington.

He stirs as Henry sets the mugs down on the dresser.

“Thanks,” he says in a hoarse voice.

Henry nudges in beside him, gingerly removing Alex's glasses from beneath his elbow before they get crushed.

"You know," Henry says, "I chose this house for the bay windows."

Alex blinks at him, fully awake now. "Really?"

"I thought you might like them. You always talked about the one you grew up with. Hoped they might make the place feel like home."

Alex smiles. "They do."

Henry looks at him in his quilt, sleep-mussed and flushed from fever and overdue for a shave, and he remembers that night in the yellow house in Austin. Before Alex led them back to his old bedroom, he peeled up the cushion in the living room window seat and showed Henry pages of elementary school scribbles still hidden there. And he told Henry that he thought once of hiding a picture there too, if only he'd had the nerve to tear it out of his sister's magazine.

Love, Henry has found, has a way of growing backward. You fall in love with a person in the present, and then every person you've ever been gets to fall in love with every past version of them. A sleep-deprived Georgetown freshman falls in love with an Oxford sophomore who's testing out undoing the top button of his shirts sometimes. A ruddy-cheeked teenager with his nose in a book loves a backtalking lacrosse captain. A boy comes home from school with perfect marks and sees a picture in a magazine, and the boy from the picture pauses on a palace staircase.

The crux of it is, he loves every version of Alex to ever sleep under that quilt. Everything else is mostly set dressing

"I'm having a thought," Henry says.

"Congratulations," Alex deadpans automatically. Then, "Tell me."

"This life we have here," Henry says. "This house. It's good, yeah?"

"Yeah, of course it is."

"But we could have a good life somewhere else too."

Alex frowns. "Like where?"

"Somewhere... farther from everything, maybe? Somewhere we could slow down, and things could be quieter, and you could do the work you want to do. I think I could use some time away from it all, honestly. Maybe I wouldn't even have to have a body double anymore."

Alex considers that for a long moment. They both know where Henry means, even if he doesn't say it. Besides New York and DC, and London on its best days, there's really only one place Alex would seriously consider living. They've joked about it before, but Henry's always thought it might be nice to spend a few years somewhere completely different than he's used to. A place where he could see the stars.

At long last, Alex sniffs and says, "You're gonna fire Angus? He was just starting to grow on me.”

...

“If you don't wake Bea up, you're gonna have to hear about her back spasms in the morning,” says a voice that is most certainly not Heath Ledger's.

Henry startles awake to find Alex leaning over his shoulder from behind the loveseat, curls everywhere. The room is dark, and the end credits are rolling.

"You're not home until tomorrow," Henry mumbles.

"Moved up my flight," Alex says. He's so close to Henry's face, he's gone a bit cross-eyed. His lips bounce off the tip of Henry's nose. "I missed you."

It's only been a few days, but the truth is Henry missed him too. He supposes he should be used to empty beds and time differences by now, especially when they began that way, but he suspects he'll never stop waiting at the door. You know what will be the best part of getting married?" Henry asks Alex.

"The line dancing."

"The way I won't have to miss you nearly as often."

Alex softens, then maneuvers himself over the armrest until he's draped across Henry's lap. David climbs on top of him and curls up on Alex's left buttock.

Letting go of the house has been hard, but this particular decision was easy, once they finally said it out loud. A gradual, careful withdrawal from public life, at least for a few years. They’ve given so much of themselves to the world and had the privilege of feeling a legacy take shape beneath them, but they need rest too.

It was June who convinced them, actually. Even now, there are certain things only June can say to Alex. Early in the spring, when she was finally transitioning out of her speechwriting job for Raf, she called Alex from Colorado and told him she was moving to New York to be closer to Nora and Pez, and she wanted to sublet the brownstone. When Alex pointed out that he was still living in it, she said, "We both know you've been looking at farmhouses in Austin for six months, it's time to shit or get off the pot."

(Henry loves his particular collection of Americans. They truly do say what's on their minds.)

The new house is beautiful. Henry's only seen it in person once, but the previous owner was a reclusive tech executive with shockingly good taste, so Architectural Digest featured it last year. He's had the article open in a tab on his phone for two months, and he scrolls through all those perfectly lit photos twice a day, getting high on possibilities. Lazy mornings in the wide sunroom, midnight dives in the lake. It's easy to imagine Alex mellowing into a brisket-smoking, tamale-rolling Texas dad out there, and it's just as easy to imagine them basking under cedar trees until their mid-thirties and then deciding they're ready for another round. The wonderful thing is, they can take their time either way.

It isn't a full release from their obligations, but it is the next step after formally relinquishing his title. More boundaries, more of their own rules about what they will and won't do. No royal wedding, but a private ceremony at the lake house and a honeymoon unpacking boxes. A job for Alex at a smaller firm where he can finally get his hands in the earth. A quieter life.

"You're right," Alex says. "You know what else is gonna be awesome about married-people life? We can have actual, real-life date nights. Just imagine it: free refills and bottomless chips and salsa."

"Oh, I've got another one," Henry says. “You can finally show me how to navigate an H-E-B."

“Baby, don’t talk dirty to me in front of company.”

“Please,” says a groggy voice from the couch.

“Hi, Bea.”

“Time’s it?”

“One in the morning.”

“Ugh.”

Grumbling and tugging a blanket around herself, Bea wakes Pez and the two of them head off to wash up before bed. The odds of Pez returning to the couch for the night or availing himself of their bed so that Alex has to sleep on the couch are just about even, based on six years of Pez falling asleep at their house. It’s a comfort to know that when they leave the brownstone and June moves in, Pez will still be making himself at home in it.

Downstairs, surrounded by boxes, Alex crawls out of Henry’s lap and slides a large shopping bag out from behind the loveseat. “I brought you something.” Alex says.

Inside the bag is a box made of the sort of heavy cardboard that augurs something expensive. He imagines Alex hurling his patched-up rough-ridden leather duffle into the overhead compartment of the airplane and then sliding this bag under the seat so carefully that there’s not even a crease in the paper.

He takes the lid off the box and unwraps layers of tissue paper to reveal a hat. A cowboy hat. It’s made of gorgeous, thick felt, with a cattleman crown and a satin lining. A nearly identical one has hung in Alex’s office since he moved in, though Alex’s is midnight black and this one is a warm, pale sand. Where Alex’s hatband has a small gold buckle, this one has a silver pin in the shape of an English rose.

“It’s a Stetson,” Alex says. When Henry looks up at him, his cheeks have darkened faintly. “I know it’s not really your thing, but you ride horses, and it’s kind of a big deal where I’m from to get your first Stetson, so I wanted to be the one to give it to you since you’re about to be an honorary Texan. You don’t have to wear it if you don’t want–“

“I love it,” Henry interrupts.

Alex pauses, then breaks out in a grin. “You do? I was afraid you’d think it was a joke.”

“It’s the least ridiculous hat I’ve ever been given,” Henry tells him. “It didn’t even come with a matching tailcoat.”

“Nah, but maybe we can get you some Wranglers,” Alex says.

“Some chaps, perhaps.”

“I just told you not to talk dirty to me.”

Henry laughs and kisses him over the open box, thinking of the next year of their lives. Sunday morning fry-ups, swimming holes, a wedding cake that doesn’t wind up on the floor. Tomorrow he needs to ask if Alex checked on the bakery while he was in Austin, and if they have any more packing tape, and whether Amy’s daughter has gotten her flower girl dress yet.

Tonight, though, Alex is home a day early, and the house is making all its soft, familiar night-time sounds around them. No one sees in through the windows. No one comes in through the gate.

“Henry,” says Alex.

“Alex,” says Henry.

“You and me,” Alex says.

“You and me,” Henry agrees.

End.

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#red white and royal blue #rwrb #firstprince #casey mcquiston #rwrb bonus chapter #image transcribed #queer lit #queer media #lgbtqia #mlm romance #HEA #henry fox mountchristen windsor #alex claremont diaz #june claremont diaz #bea fox mountchristen windsor #pez okonjo #nora holleran #polyamory #knee of huss #free access #rwarb #rwarb bonus chapter #rwarb collector's edition #rwrb collector's edition #red white and royal blue bonus chapter #red white & royal blue bonus chapter #red white & royal blue collector's edition #red white & royal blue

[dollsome-does-tumblr]

note: this is not a comprehensive list, just what i could think of today. good enough for now, i say! ✨

#it was so hard to choose an ofmd moment. i listed every moment basically and then had to narrow it down. #also really torn between the villaneve kiss and the end of s3 #technically the end of s3 made me happier for longer #but that kiss deserves RESPECT and AWE!!!!! #i know no one else will vote for sex ghost henry era but that's just because they did that for me specifically #dollsome's deep thoughts #polls #these are my more recent tv joys so i might have to dig deep and ponder the more ancient ones soon #p.s. i meant to also have ted and rebecca being each other's christmas dates on here but i accidentally left it off #which feels somehow thematically appropriate for poor tedbecca :'( #i also just realized i forgot grace and frankie living HEA. damn it!

[is-the-milk-fresh]

Ngl i actually fucking loved the FNAF movie. Like maybe its because a month before it came out i watched markiplier and activated a hyper fixation of it, but it was LIT

So many bits felt directly out of the Silver Eyes book trilogy. Like the scene in the arcade with foxy or honestly the whole ending was v similar to fourth closet's ending. Fuckin loved it.

Also the fact that it was all super faithful EXCEPT for the big differences which felt very intentional. Like i think its implied Mike is Henry's son here? And tbh if they do sequels that'll be far less complicated plot than actual fnaf lore.

Vanessa being ole Willie's daughter make so much sense!! Like obviously its completely different from the games. But in terms of characterisation / place in the story she was already Willie's 'protégé'. Here she's just literally his daughter. I also liked how she was essentially what people assumed Mike in the games was? Someone who was abused but complicit in hiding the 5 kids death.

If they do get a sequel i hope we get some explanation on the Schmit and Afton family backstories. Like Aunt Jan?? Such a similar name to Aunt Jen. Also whether a CC character exists? Or whether Elizabeth exists.

Because if Mike is Henry's son then that would put Garret as Charlie's counterpart rather than CC's. Especially since willie wasn't wearing the suit when he killed him and Garret isn't possessing any of the current animatronics (unless ofc 'Its Me' on the glass was Garret and they are a CC counterpart but idk ive only just seen the movie)

My favourite bit was Cassidy tho. Idk if this has lore implications for their gender in the actual games but god they were spot on. The kid playing them was great, you could tell they were having fun it, unsettling little angry ghost boy my beloved

So yeah the movie was super camp but so fun and the puppet design was FANTASTIC

#10/10 fucking loved that shit #if i got anything greviously wrong lore wise im gonna be honestly idgaf. i literally watched it an hour ago these are my initial thoughts #i finished reading the silver eyes trilogy this week and finished the 8hr lore video on YouTube last night so the lore is BUZZING in my hea #FNAF #fnaf movie #five nights at freddy's #five nights at freddy's movie #fnaf theory #i am CONVINCED I TELL YA that they are Henry's kids #spoilers

[tightjeansjavi]

Like Real People Do

Joel Miller x f!reader

A/N: @peterhollandkait came up with this tooth achingly cute idea and I just had to write it ♡ ♡ ♡

Summary: You, Joel, and Ellie arrive in Jackson for the first time. Joel sees your real smile for the first time in months, all thanks to Jackson’s horses.

~word count : 2.0k~

Warnings: some angst, protective! joel, soft! joel, established relationship, so much fluff, comforting themes, joel is so soft! you will literally feel your heart clench and tears will fall on the screen! some swearing, banter, teasing. No use of y/n, (+18) minors dni !!

Songs used:

“Like Real People Do” by Hozier

“Kiss Me” by Ed Sheeran

“You and Me” by Niall Horan

Joel Miller has not seen your true, real smile in months. He doesn’t even remember what your sweet, infectious laugh sounds like. He hasn’t heard it in so long. The journey you, Joel and Ellie endured together, was a rough one. It started with Tess dying, Bill and Frank, Sam and Henry and just minutes ago, you and Joel almost lost Ellie.

You both felt numb, weak, vulnerable when the possibility of losing her, became very real.

The ride into Jackson was a somber one. You listened to the familiar sound of horses hooves crunching beneath the snow as the three of you rode into town for the first time.

You couldn’t help but lean down from the saddle, giving the horse you were riding, a gentle pat on its neck.

Joel was riding alongside you and you could feel his gaze fall upon your face. You had yet to speak a word, and he was visibly concerned.

You had met his gaze and gave him a slight nod. There was a smile tugging on the corner of your lips, but it didn’t reach your eyes.

Ellie had noticed your demeanor had changed gradually over the course of the months that you traveled together. It was slow at first. A change that didn’t take place overnight.

The thing was, you all had gone through some form of change. It was inevitable to evade.

Ellie held the same look of concern as Joel had. She pulled her horse up alongside his leaning over as she spoke.

“Hey, is she…is she alright Joel?”

Joel let out a breath of air as he looked over the kid that he had grown so fond of as if she was his own. He used to view her as a burden, cargo to transport. Now? Ellie was practically his daughter. His daughter, that he nearly lost today.

“I’m not sure, kiddo. She’ll be okay though. Don’t go worryin’ yourself alright?”

The three of you were visibly amazed when the tall, wooden gates of Jackson were opened as you rode through. You never believed that a town like this would work. That you would ever see a community thrive like this. Kids running, laughing. Smiles, people hugging, more smiles. It felt as though you were in a simulation. The sweetest dream that you never wanted to wake up from.

Joel had halted his horse suddenly. His eyes were focused on a man, who was hauling wood to build a structure. It was Joel’s younger brother, Tommy. You could see the shock, confusion, and relief wash over Joel’s features when he realized it was his brother.

“Tommy!” He shouted. His tone laced with disbelief that his brother was actually here, in front of him, and very much alive.

You watched them embrace, hugging each other so tightly. Joel nearly had tears in his eyes as he felt an overwhelming rush of emotions course through his veins.

“What the fuck you doin’ here?” Tommy asked. He was in equal disbelief that his brother was here, in front of him, and very much alive. The last thing Tommy expected was for Joel to come all this way looking for him.

“I came here to save you.”

They embraced again, Joel laughing, with the biggest smile on his face.

Maria and Tommy had shown the three of you all that Jackson had to offer. Ellie was sticking close to your side, with your arm wrapped around her shoulders.

Joel walked behind you, always feeling like he needed to be there to protect you, and Ellie. Even in this town, this paradise, he was on guard.

As soon as you heard a familiar whinny, your ears perked up in the direction of the stables. Ellie had zoned in on the beautiful brown foal with her head curiously sticking out above the open stall door. Ellie had grabbed your hand as you two quickened your pace, stopping just outside the stall door.

Shimmer, as you came to learn her name, softly nickered as Ellie had gently started to pet her, pressing her soft velvet nose into the teen’s warm gloves.

“What’s her name?” Ellie had asked Maria.

“Shimmer.”

Ellie had given the filly a kiss on the nose. Speaking softly to her.

“Shimmer, you’re so beautiful.”

You were gently petting Shimmer’s mom, a soft Palomino mare. She immediately reminded you of your old mare, Honey. You were holding in your tears and Joel could sense it.

“How many horses are on the property?” You asked.

“Thirty. Counting our newest member.”

Ellie had given you a little nudge, a genuine smile on her face. “Did you hear that? 30 horses! We should totally go and pet them all. C’mon.” This was Ellie’s way of attempting to cheer you up. You had taught her everything you knew about horses and she wanted to share this moment with you.

You had looked back at Joel for a moment and he had given you a small nod in return.

“Would that be alright, Maria? If we went inside and checked out all the horses?” You asked.

“Of course.”

Ellie had grabbed your hand once more, finding the opened door to the stables as you walked in together.

“So, what are we thinking? Are all these guys Quarter Horses, or Mustangs?”

“I’m thinking of a mix of both. It’s hard to tell with their winter fur being so thick.” You gently touched each horse's nose, as you walked past their individual stalls. The familiar barn smells of hay, grain, and horses washed over you. It took you back to your days on your uncle's ranch, long ago.

“This one is a Paint though, right?” Ellie had stopped in front of the next stall. “Woah, this guy has a blue eye, and a brown eye. That’s so sick!”

“That’s right kiddo. This one is a Paint.” You spoke with a soft smile. “You remember the different coat colors I taught you, right?”

“Yeah! So this guy is a chestnut Paint?”

“Bingo. You’re right on the money with that one kid.”

Neither of you had heard Joel enter the stables. You both were too immersed in the horses to hear him. He had quietly leaned against one of the stall doors, his arms crossed over his chest, with a big grin on his face as he watched his girls fawn over the horses.

His heart warmed at the sight of you smiling again. He killed to see it and now here it was, written across your pretty face, that he adored, loved, fought for.

Ellie had looked up from the horse she was petting and when she spotted Joel, she had that little mischievous grin as she walked over to him. She gave him a light punch to his shoulder.

“Dude, I know you got it bad for her but like, do you really need to stare that much? She might start thinking that you’re a creep man. You’re always staring at her.” She teased him.

Joel grumbled in response as he uncrossed his shoulders from his chest and gave his kid a begrudgingly light punch back. “I ain’t starin’ that much. What’re you talkin’ about? Just admirin’ her smile is all. There somethin’ wrong with that?”

Ellie let out a soft giggle, shaking her head. “Damn, admiring her smile, really Joel? You big ole softy.”

Joel gave her a slight warning look when she called him a softy.

“I ain’t a softy.”

“Okay, old man. Whatever you say!”

“Ellie–don’t you start with that shit–” he let out a sigh, rubbing his gloved hand over his face. “You little shit.” He muttered under his breath as she was walking back over to Shimmer.

You were further down the stalls, stopped in front of the last horse that was a leopard spotted Appaloosa. Only then you could hear the heavy footsteps of Joel’s worn boots approaching you.

“Hey.” You softly spoke, gently stroking the horse's forehead, while twirling a piece of its long forelock between your gloved fingers.

“Hey, darlin’ You–you alright?”

You let out a soft sigh, your lashes fluttering as you looked up at him, giving him a small, reassuring nod.

“I’m okay, Joel.” Images of Ellie getting mauled by that dog outside of Jackson, flashed through your mind. Ellie was safe, she was alive and petting Shimmer, you silently reminded yourself.

“Are you sure? We can–we can talk about it if you want?” he spoke softly to you, fumbling over his words because he too was afraid of losing Ellie. His main concern in his mind, at that very moment, was you.

“Joel, Please. I don’t–I don’t want to talk about it.” You looked away from him feeling the tears begin to prick in the corner of your eyes as you blinked them away.

“Hey, darlin’–honey?” He gently grasped your chin between his gloved fingers, tilting your head towards him so you were looking at him once more.

You let out a shaky breath when your eyes met his concerned ones.

“Do you remember what breed of horse this is?”

“Leopard Spotted Appaloosa.” Your man didn’t miss a fucking beat.

“Between Ellie’s shitty puns, and your constant horse facts, you think for a second I wasn’t payin’ attention? I love hearin’ her shitty puns and your silly horse facts darlin’ Could listen to them all goddamn day.” Joel’s words sent the tears you were holding at bay, free falling down your cheeks.

“You really paid that close attention to my horse facts? I never thought you really cared for them.”

“Oh, Honey. C’mere.” His heart was breaking deep in his chest when he saw your tears fall. He was already pulling you into his arms, wrapping you up in his warmth as he hugged you tightly. “I love ‘em, and you taught me everythin’ I need to know about horses darlin.’”

Damn this man. Damn him for being so gentle with you. Damn him for listening to your silly horse facts and remembering them. Damn Joel Miller for loving you so tenderly.

“You’re terrible. You know that cowboy? Damn you.” You spoke with your cheek firmly pressed against his chest, listening to his heart beat, and his deep chuckle that vibrated through you.

“You don’t mean that, sweet girl. You love me for it.”

“I do.” You whispered.

He gently lifted your head from his chest, holding your face in his gloved hands as he stroked your cheekbones with his thumbs. His forehead was lightly resting against yours, lips nearly touching.

“We’re gonna be okay. All three of us. What happened back there? Ain’t ever gonna happen again. I swear to you darlin’ I'm gonna keep you and Ellie safe. Whatever it takes.”

Your arms were loosely wrapped around Joel’s middle, feeling his warmth through his thick coat. “No. We’re gonna do everything we can to keep her safe. You and me. Whatever it takes, we’re keeping her safe. We’re a team Joel, remember? I got you, you got me.”

“I got you, you got me. Always.”

Your lips lightly brushed against each other, before the gap was closed. It was the softest, sweetest, heartfelt kiss you had shared together. Joel Miller kissed you, like real people do.

Ellie had seen the whole thing go down from where she was petting Shimmer and she let out a playful gagging sound.

“Oh my god, gross! Really you guys? In front of the horses? Shimmer, close your eyes! You don’t wanna see that! Yuck!”

You pulled away from Joel’s sweet embrace with a soft, heart melting giggle as you looked over his shoulder at Ellie.

“He started it, he kissed me first!”

“Oh yeahh, I'm sure he did! Y’know there’s young eyes watching! Gonna scar these poor horses man!” Ellie said with a laugh.

Joel kissed you once more, just for good measure, and you could feel his grin slowly appearing when Ellie let out another sound of disgust at her adoptive parents making out in the middle of the fucking stables.

How fucking adorable.

#joel miller #joel miller fanfiction #the last of us #pedro pascal characters #joel miller x reader #joel miller x you #joel the last of us #joel miller fluff #joel miller x f!reader #joel miller x female reader #joel miller blurb #joel miller imagine #joel miller the last of us #tlou #joel miller fic #the last of us fic #the last of us imagine #tlou fic #ellie williams #tommy miller #pedro pascal fanfiction #joel miller angst

[fallenangelkitten]

Drink Me

Synopsis: You ask Geralt to drink one of his potions before he fucks you.

Warnings: rough sex, primal, smut, ass play, choking, breading kink, breath play.

Note: I used to be fallenangelbb here on the Henry Cavill side of tumblr but deleted my account and have regretted it ever since. So here I am reposting my work :)

His hand dragged across my thigh, his growl still echoing in my ears. His fingers left an unseen trail of fire in their wake, causing a shiver to dance up my spine.

“G-Geralt?” I asked, trying desperately to push my nerves to the side. I wanted this, needed this.

He only let out a gruff in response, not once taking hips lips off of my midsection, fangs dragging across my ribs. How was I supposed to be able to ask this of him, let alone think at all with his distractions? I sucked in a breath as he lightly bit down at the junction.

“Speak, girl,” he commanded, lifting his eyes to mine. I was captivated by him. I had been from the moment we’d met all that time ago. His honeyed eyes flashed as he spoke once more. “Patience is a virtue I do not have- not with you. If you think I can’t sense how whatever thoughts that roam your pretty head make you feel, you’re mistaken.”

Heat spread across my cheeks at the bluntness of his words- and know I did. I knew how he could scent me. Pick up on what just thinking of him did to me.

“Drink one of your potions,” there was no point in holding back my thoughts from him.

A roll of shock flashed across his face, but it was gone as quickly as it appeared. Only his blank expression with amusement flaring into his fiery orbs. “A potion? What makes you think you could handle me in that state?” As a new wave of heat flowed through my core, a noise grew in the back of his throat. “I see. You want me to take you,” his already earthy voice was somehow even more coarse.

He rose from where I’d laid against the thin mattress, leaving my body cold and utterly empty. I couldn’t help the whine that escaped my lips. An amused grin splayed across his face, the slightest dimple forming. It so rarely happened that it always left me awestruck. He began striding towards the door of the bedchamber. “Do not move, girl.”

My hands clutched at the sheets as I waited but he returned as quickly as he had left. The only difference being the vial he held in his hand, the ominous black liquid sloshing against the glass. My thighs involuntarily squeezed together in anticipation as I watched his head tilt back, the muscles in his neck contracting as he swallowed.

It never took long. I watched the veins under his pale skin work, dispersing it through his body. He had his back turned to me as he pulled the tunic he always wore under his armor over his head. The shinier skin of scars that adorned his back captured my eye; a constant reminder of just how strong he was.

By the time his britches hit the floor and he turned to me, onyx clouded his eyes. Deep veins branched from around them and-

Gods.

The size of him.

He snarled as I watched him move towards the bed, determination laced in his step. I hadn’t realized I had propped myself up onto my elbows until he shoved me back down, calloused fingers ripping into my nightgown. I was bare beneath him, my reflection bouncing off of his twin back orbs.

He didn’t give me the moment to prepare myself as he pried my already quivering legs apart, shoving himself deep into me. A rough hum of satisfaction formed in the back of his throat, a gasp releasing from mine. His movements were steady, but powerful; each one jarring my body.

One of his hands clutched my hip, lifting the lower half of my body off of the mattress with ease. I whimpered as I felt him plunge even deeper than before. My eyes began to drift shut each time he hit that overly sensitive area that only he could access.

They quickly reopened when I felt a hand grip my jaw.

“Look at me while I fuck you.”

Gods. Hearing the gravel in his tone sent a new wave of pleasure through me. I didn’t dare speak, but I held my gaze. I felt his pace quicken and hand sink to my neck, his index still lingering on my jaw. The pressure causing me to quiver and clench against his throbbing cock.

I was dripping, leaking from my entrance. The hand supporting him latched onto my hip, his large fingers gripping onto my bottom. The pressure on my throat increased, causing me to breathe in short pants.

One of his fingers grazed the tight entrance below where his cock continued its assault. He gathered my arousal before it could drip onto the bedding, using it to push into me.

I was pulsing, my mind hazing with the lack of steady oxygen. The feeling of being so very full. But it was the sounds he made- the deep grunts and growls of pleasure- that sent me over the edge. My cunt desperately clung to him, his nails on my neck dug into me as I felt him exhale.

The feeling of his hot cum was relieving inside of me. And I knew he would continue his lax thrusts, ensuring that not a drop left me. I only then realized he allowed my eyes to drift shut, reopening them to his dark gaze watching my every move.

[mermaidicecreamsstuff]

Across the Ink-Verse AU doodles. (Sorry I was taking so long I've been bored and I'm in a college tuition crisis for 3 months)

Charles Drew belongs to @mrseeker

Cthulhu!Joey Drew @inkyvendingmachine

HEA!Bendy @a-rae-of-sunshine

Toon!Henry @keyblack

Linda Stein belong to mine

PS: If you want me to add your batim characters or ocs to my AU, message me so I can draw yours.

#bendy and the ink machine #bendy and the dark revival #batim #batdr #henry stein #joey drew #batim bendy #batdr bendy #audrey drew #linda stein #Bendy: Across the Ink-Verse AU #batim/batdr oc #my art #my drawings

[lostgirl14480]

A Not So Common Fairy (Teaser)

Summary: you're a dark fairy from the upside-down and when you see that a gate is open, your curiosity gets the best of you.

- eddie munson x fairy!reader

Nothing remotely interesting ever happened in this dimension. It was always dark with constant storms, which I didn't mind actually. But I always hoped something would change. Maybe a ray of sun, or the budding of a flower? But no, nothing beautiful ever came to this place...

So, when I got wind that Henry Creel was opening gates to another world, I decided it was time for me to leave this place in search of something more. There was nothing tying me here, only the memories of my family...

Without a second thought, I lift my multicolored wings and set off into the air, heading straight to an open gate. The only thing left behind is a small trail of black dust, but it is quickly swept away by the winds of the never-ending storms.

......................

I emerge from the gate, and for the first time ever, I see the color green. Instead of the dark decaying plants from my dimension, this one is full of life! I stare in awe at all the green leaves on the trees, the moss growing on the ground, even the small river flowing along a path. I'm about to fly over to a particular budding flower when I hear voices coming from below me. Not trusting what the noise is from, I try shrinking myself, but for some reason, being in this dimension is limiting my magic. So instead, I perch myself on a branch just high enough to be out of sight but low enough to hear what is going on.

"We need to see If there's a gate around here, It's the only way we'll be able to find Vecna and free Max from his curse." Says one of the younger humans in the group. Vecna? Curse? Are they talking about Henry? How do they know about the gates?

Intrigued, I lean in closer from the branch I'm perched on and continue to listen to the conversation this group of humans are having.

"Dustin, have you even considered how dangerous this plan is? And Eddie is still wanted for murder, we can't just go walking around town looking for a gate!" Murder!? These humans are getting more interesting by the second.

"Steve, it's our only shot, I don't see any other options..." Dustin replies. "And besides, I think Eddie should have a say, since he's the one being chased by the whole town. So what do you say Eddie?"

The one who must be Eddie stands up and addresses the group. I take a moment to look him over, and I can't help but stare a little longer than I intended, there's just something about him that draws me in.

"I say, you're asking me to follow you into Mordor, which, if I'm totally straight with you I think is a really bad idea. But uh the Shire, the Shire is burning. So Mordor it is." I'm amazed at how brave these humans are, knowing how ruthless Henry, or I guess Vecna, can be. But I guess I have a lot to learn about this new dimension, and the humans who live here.

After agreeing on what Eddie said, the group all start to follow Dustin. Eddie trails behind, seemingly lost in thought and I take the time to admire his features. In Vecnas dimension, there really arn't any attractive males, or any human like creatures for that matter, so it's hard not to admire Eddie in this moment.

But I guess I didn't realize how intently I was looking and how much closer I was leaning over the branch to get a closer look, because all of a sudden, the branch I'm perched on cracks, and I fall a few feet before my wings are able to extend. I quickly fly up to another branch, higher up this time, and behind the trunk of the tree. But I'm sure I felt eyes on me for a split second...

"Eddie! What are you still doing back there?" Dustin calls out. The group is already a bit further along the path, but Eddie is stood at the base of the tree I'm hiding in, staring at the cracked branch.

I stay completely still, not sure If he's already seen me.

"I just, I thought I saw-" Eddie starts, but stops and shakes his head, turing back to follow the group. "Nevermind."

🖤🖤🖤

A/N: This is just a random idea that I thought of, not sure if it'll just be turned into a few imagines or if I'll make it into a story, haven't decided yet 😂 But I've been in an Eddie mood lately so there's plenty more where this came from 😁❤️‍🔥

#eddie munson imagine #eddie munson x reader #eddie stranger things #eddie x reader #eddie munson #stranger things #eddie munson st4 #eddie munson smut #eddie munson x female reader #steve harrington #dustin henderson

[crazyunsexycool]

My little love

Chapter 23

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x enhanced reader

Word count: 6.5k

Warnings: this is fluffy!! There is some angst with Henry remembering his time at hydra, Henry being a brave sweetie pie and facing his fears, Charlotte is a whole warning on her own,

A/N: here we are again with our favorite family! This chapter is kind of all over the place but in a good way. There is a guys and girls weekend. It ends with it being Steebie’s birthday and guess who is the most excited to celebrate her favorite person? That’s right our sweet Angel.

Series Masterlist

“Are you going to do anything fun this weekend?”

“Mhm. Habe a seepover wit Olibia. An mama say we habe tea pawty.” Lottie informs her father.

He was sitting on the floor of the living room with his back against the couch. His head tilted back so that it was resting on Lottie’s lap and she could play with his hair. It was their new night time routine. Bucky looks up to find Lottie smiling down at him while her little fingers tangled themselves along his dark silky strands.

“Dada habe fun?”

“Lots of fun, doll. I’m gonna go fishing and then some more fishing and then some more fishing and then-”

“Dada.” Lottie giggled.

“What?” Bucky replied with a chuckle of his own.

“Dada funny.”

“He’s hilarious.” You call from the hallway as you put your phone away after having taken a picture of the two of them. “But it’s time for bed missy.”

“But mama am making dada pwetty.”

“I see that. You’re doing a great job, he looks very pretty. But if you go to sleep now you’ll be able to see Olivia tomorrow.”

Lottie gasped at this new bit of information before scrambling off the couch, almost kicking Bucky in the face while she did so. She’s already in her pajamas so all she has to do is pick out which book she wants for a bedtime story.

“I was getting the best head massage and you just had to ruin it.”

“Oh I’m sorry baby. I’ll make it up to you.”

“And how will you do that?” Bucky’s expression darkened and he gave you his most devilish, knee weakening grin.

You don’t answer, instead you take a step back and then another as you watch Bucky stand and start stalking toward you. With a giggle you start moving down the hallway but Bucky is right behind you. His intentions were clear but the sweet melodic voice of your sweet Angel stopped anything from happening. For the moment at least.

“Dada, this one.” She held up a book for him to read. Bucky stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her, his demeanor completely changed.

“I’ll be waiting.” You call out after checking in on an already sleeping Henry.

Bucky groaned as he watched you saunter away. The sway of your hips and the flirty wink you send over your shoulder drives him wild. He walked into Lottie’s room where she was already sitting in bed patiently waiting to be tucked in with the book in her hands. Bucky’s eyes soften as he takes in his little girl smiling happily at him. Surrounded by comfort and love and happiness. He couldn’t help but feel selfish as he thought about wanting more of this life with you. He wanted his exhaustion to come from chasing little versions of you and him around and not from hunting down and getting rid of hydra.

“Dada?” Lottie calls him as she holds the book out for him to take.

“Alright, let’s see what you picked for tonight.” Bucky tucks Lottie in and sits at the edge of the bed and opens the book to the first page.

“You remember what I said right?”

“Yeah mama.” Lottie answered from her place on the counter. Her feet kicking in the air as she watches you fill a thermos with coffee. “Dada an bubba go fish wit gwandpa.”

“That right and they’re going to be gone all weekend so we get to have a girls weekend. Olivia and all of your aunties will be here soon.”

“Habe fun wit Olibia.”

“Yeah and uncle Clint’s daughter is going to be here too. Her name is Lila.”

“Habe seepover too?”

“We can ask her when she gets here.” You say as you clean up. The front door opens and you see a little head topped with light brown curls speeding in.

“Lottie!”

“Olibia!”

Both girls squeal in delight as they reunite. You quickly grab Lottie from her place on the counter before she jumps and set her down. They don’t waste another second as they embrace. Immediately they begin to talk about what they should do first before Charlotte takes Olivia’s hand and they run together into Charlotte’s room. As soon as they disappeared Molly, Sofia and your brothers walk in followed by Bucky and Henry.

“I think we’ve lost them already.” Molly says as she hugs you. “How have you been?”

“Good and you?”

“I’m ready for this weekend to get started.”

“There she is.” Luke said as he walked in and engulfed you in a hug of his own. Soon enough you were greeting and hugging the rest of the family.

“Where’s dad?”

“Tony stopped him, something about taking a jet?”

“Of course he’d rather take the jet.” You chuckle. “Coffee anyone?”

You get a chorus of yeses so you serve everyone a cup as you catch up.

****

Apparently it only took twenty minutes to convince Eddie to take the jet instead of separate cars. So now everyone was just outside the hanger as the guys packed their things in. They’d never admit it but you could see how giddy Eddie, Luke and Joshua were.

“Don’t worry kitten, I’ll keep an eye on them.” Your dad said as he stepped up to say goodbye.

“Good luck with that. They’re trouble when they get together.”

“You forget I was in the military. Wrangling in troublemakers was my job.”

You smile as you hug him. “We’ll talk when you come back?”

“Of course. But you have fun too.”

“Sure will.”

Eddie moves to say goodbye to everyone else. It’s like the rest of the team has adopted him as their dad. It’s sweet and you know that your dad loves it and the team appreciates him. You watch Steve scoop up both Lottie and Olivia to say his own goodbye but not before they talk his ear off with everything they’ve planned. It felt like a glimpse into the future and you could totally see Steve being a girl dad. He gives you a quick hug and heads for the jet.

“Alright sugar, are you sure you’ll be ok?” Bucky asks as he hugs you for what felt like the 100th time.

“Yes baby, I’ll be fine. Go have fun and relax. You’ll love the cabin and so will Henry.” You say with a smile before your eyes start roaming. “Where is Henry?”

“He’s with A.J., Cass and Cooper.”

As if on queue Henry runs to you and throws his arms around your waist.

“You ok sweet boy?”

“Why can’t you come with us?” He says as he looks up.

“Because I’m staying here to hang out with the girls and you get to go fishing like grandpa said. I promise we’ll make a trip just the four of us ok? But this will be fun and when you come back you can tell me everything you did.”

“Ok.” He hugs you tighter though, as if he doesn’t want to let go.

“Think of it this way, it’s your first official mission. You have to have fun and report back to me. Now if you don't like it your dad can call me and we can talk on the phone for a while and if you really really really don't like it, I can pick you up and bring you home. But you have to try to enjoy yourself first. Promise?”

He smiles at that. “I will, promise.” Henry let’s go and you see him run toward Lottie and Olivia. He hugs Olivia first and then Lottie. This is what had worried both you and Bucky; they seem to be taking the thought of separation well though. You can’t make out what they’re saying to each other other than Lottie assuring him he’ll have a good time as she touches her head. Meaning she had a vision about it. He reminds Lottie to take care of Alpine while he’s out.

“Alright we should get going if we want to avoid any traffic.” Bucky jokes.

“Dork.”

“Ah yes, but I’m your dork.” He says before kissing you. “Have fun, sugar. But not too much fun without me.”

“Same goes for you.”

All the guys board the jet, leaving the women back at the compound. Once the jet has disappeared everyone starts to head back inside.

“Do you guys want to learn how to shoot a gun?” Nat asks Sofia and Molly.

“Shooting lessons from the widow herself? Sign me up.” Sofia says.

Molly looks over at Olivia as she thinks it over.

“Go. I’ll watch them. They already have a plan to watch Disney movies and dress up as their favorite princesses.”

“Really? You don’t mind?”

“Absolutely not. I’d like some time to get to know my niece better. Besides, Laura will be with me.” You motion to Laura, Clint’s wife. “I think the girls invited her daughter Lila.”

“Ok, thank you so much but I will watch the girls later so that you can do whatever you want to.”

“Have fun.”

You watch as Nat leads them to the gun range. Wanda and Sarah mention something about the pool and May tags along. It made you happy that Tony took Peter with him. He obviously admired the team although he hadn’t joined officially. He was young, he had time.

“Ready to get this show on the road?” Laura asked as she walked up beside you.

“I sure as hell am. Come on girls.”

The girls had taken over the living room. Although Lila was almost four years older than Olivia and Lottie she still played along and sang her heart out to the movie that was playing. While they were busy with that, you and Laura were sitting at the dining room table. Each of you with a cup of coffee as you chatted away.

“Do you miss it?”

“Working for shield?” She asks and you nod.

“Honestly. I do sometimes but then I hear the kids playing and laughing and I wouldn’t trade that for the world. Why, are you thinking of retiring?”

“Maybe. I mean just the going on missions part. I do work in the medbay and I could probably train some of the recruits on medicine in the field. I just feel like my focus has shifted, you know?”

“Well I’ll tell you one thing. I might miss it from time to time but I don’t regret it. If I had to go back and do it over again, I would.”

“Thanks,” you smile. “I don’t think it will be any time soon but it’s good to know.”

The two of you talked a bit more over coffee. It was good to be able to express your concerns with someone that had been in a similar situation.

“It’s really quiet.” Laura said suddenly.

“Oh no, let me check that they haven’t disappeared into the compound. Lottie has a knack for running around.”

“Or worse they’re making a mess somewhere.”

You sigh when you walk into the living room. “Or worse they’re torturing the cat.” You call over your shoulder.

Laura walks up behind you. In the living room the three girls were trying to put bows on a very grumpy looking Alpine.

“Charlotte, Al doesn’t like bows in her fur.”

“But make pwetty mama.”

“But she’s sad, sweet Angel. Why don’t you give each other makeovers instead?”

“Kay.” She says before running into her room to get her makeup kit.

Both you and Laura fell victim into what ended up being a whole salon. Lila was on nail duty, Olivia had hair and Lottie of course had makeup.

Fortunately the rest of the weekend would be a lot more relaxed. Tony had set up times for massages and facials and anything else you could have wanted. You made sure to take plenty of pictures of the girls together. Especially taking pictures of Charlotte in her little pink bathrobe sitting back and relaxing with a face mask on. Her eyes were closed but her little foot tapped along to the music that was being played. You promptly sent them to Bucky.

Everyone enjoyed the small break in their routine. There was a karaoke and game night. You had a movie night in the pool room, where everyone lounged in a floatie and watched a mix of shows and movies. It was a nice easy weekend and you enjoyed every minute with your sweet Angel.

“This place is great.” Steve said as he walked out of the jet. The cabin is a lot bigger than expected, which makes sense or else Eddie wouldn’t have invited everyone.

“It’s been in the family for generations. We’ve even added rooms to it to fit everyone over the years.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, we used to come up here for vacations every summer. Aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents.” Luke says. He walks past Steve and right to the front door.

Eddie and Joshua head inside with Eddie ushering everyone in.

“Alright, I think we should start with everyone picking rooms. Mine is up stairs at the end of the hall. Josh and Luke will share a room and I think the boys can share the kids room since it has bunk beds. Everyone else go figure it out.” Eddie says as he stands at the bottom of the stairs.

All the guys do as they’re told. Bucky, Clint and Sam usher the boys into the room Luke pointed out and helped them settle which bed they’d be using. Henry, though felt a little unsure about the arrangement and held on to Bucky’s hand.

“What’s wrong bub?” Bucky took a knee to be at eye level with his son.

“I don’t like it.”

“Why don’t you like it? Is it because it’s a new place or because of the beds?”

“The beds.” Henry looks back in the room and shivers as memories come back. “The bad men used to have beds like that and they kept us in there all the time.”

Bucky remembered the pictures he saw of Henry and other prisoners of hydra of all ages being kept in rooms with bunk beds. Too many people in such a small space.

“Ok, so how about we find a room with a big bed and you can sleep with me instead?”

“Will they get mad if I don’t sleep here?”

“No, you can still play here and we’ll spend most of our time at the lake anyways. They’ll be too tired to notice.”

“Ok.” Henry nods.

“Hey, why don’t you take Y/N’s room?” Luke said from the door of his own room. “It’s that one.” He points over his shoulder to a door with a sign that says do not enter on it.

“Thanks.”

Bucky and Henry walk down the hall and open the door. It was like walking back into the past, your past specifically. It was obvious you hadn’t been here in a while. The room’s decor was meant for a teenage version of yourself. It was pink and frilly and there were too many posters of bands and actors on the walls. Was it normal for Bucky to feel jealous of a poster? Probably not but it wasn’t going to stop him. He took out his phone and told Henry to step inside so that he could take a picture and send it to you.

Bucky: Guess where we’ll be sleeping…

Sugar: oh my sweet boy!!!! I miss him so much already… also don’t let Steve see my room!

Bucky: Too late…

Bucky proceeds to send a video of Steve laughing as he looks around the room and pokes fun at your things. He holds up an old stuffed animal that has seen better days. Then he starts to goof off with some old accessories that were still on the dresser.

Sugar: I kicked his ass once, I can do it again.

Bucky: he stopped laughing. I might have to start threatening him with that myself. I’ll keep you updated. Love you. Give Lottie kisses for me, miss my doll!

Sugar: love you too, give Henry kisses for me!

Bucky puts his phone away and unpacks his and Henry’s things for the long weekend. He can’t help but smile the longer he spends in your room. He begins to think about spending some time away from the compound and missions and problems. Just you, him and the kids and Alpine of course. A family vacation. It spirals from there, Bucky starts dreaming about school plays and Christmas and all the memories he wants to make. All good memories to replace the bad ones.

“Daddy?” Henry calls from the door.

“Yeah bubs?”

“Can we go outside now?”

“Yeah. Let’s go see what everyone is up to.” Bucky walks out of your room and follows Henry downstairs.

Everyone is sitting around on the large sectional sofa. Henry joins the boys after A.J. calls him over to play with the Lego sets they found.

“So what’s first?” Tony being the one that always needs to be doing something asks.

“You’re good with machines right?”

“I’d hope so or else those suits I use are made by someone else.”

“I need your help.” Eddie gets up from his recliner. “We have these golf carts and 4-wheelers we normally use to get around the property but they’ve been giving me some trouble. Think you can take a look at ‘em?” He says as he leads Tony to a stand alone garage.

“I’ll have them up and running in no time.”

“Good. Knock yourself out, kid.” Eddie walks out and heads back towards the house. “One troublemaker down.” He mutters to himself.

****

“What do you mean you’ve never watched Star Wars?” Eddie looked at Henry in disbelief.

“I think mama has it on a list but we haven’t watched it yet.”

“That is unacceptable and I’ll be talking to your mom about it.” Eddie gets up from his recliner and moves towards the tv. “No grandson of mine is going to walk around without having watched the Star Wars movies.” He sets out to play the first movie.

Henry giggles as he takes a seat on the couch. The conversation had gotten the attention of the others, who were just outside on the porch.

“Oh boy, now we’re talking.” Luke says as he takes a seat. Slowly but surely everyone finds somewhere to sit.

“If you’re going to be part of this family,” Eddie turns around and looks at each and everyone of them. “Star Wars are a must watch on every trip to the cabin, no exceptions.”

So everyone settles into the couch and into this new tradition. A silent agreement forms amongst the team. Eddie is the group dad and must be protected at all costs.

Everyone is up early the next day. Anything and everything that might be needed while out on the lake is packed and the men are off for their first day out. The team is surprised to see Eddie has a boat, they thought they’d be fishing from a dock. Eddie laughed at that before setting off. It was the middle of summer though and the lake was busier than usual. It didn’t stop the team from having a good time though.

The fishing was ignored since there were too many people swimming and partying and scaring off the fish. With swim trunks ready almost everyone jumped into the water. Henry overlooked the water as everyone jumped in, even Cass, A.J. and Cooper. Bucky swam up to where Henry was standing and looked up at him.

“Hey bubs, everything ok?”

“I don’t want to jump in.” He says softly. The truth was that he was afraid of lakes.

That’s where hydra ‘taught’ him how to swim. They would grab him from his cell in the middle of a cold night, put him on a boat and throw him overboard and expect him to swim back to shore. He was four.

“It’s ok if you don’t want to jump in. We can hang out right there. I’ll be up in a second.”

“I’ll stay with him.” Eddie said from his seat. “C’mere Henry.” He patted the seat beside him and Henry sat down. “Are you scared of swimming or the lake?”

“The lake. The bad men, they used to throw me in it at night and I had to swim back or I’d get punished.”

Eddie inhales a sharp breath. He knew about Henry’s past, you had spoken to him about it on one of your late night calls. By now Bucky was sitting on the back of the boat, legs hanging over the side and toward the water.

“That is scary. I don’t think I could have ever done that.”

“Really?” Henry looks at him with wide eyes. “But mama says you’re really brave.”

“I try to be but even brave people have things that scare them. But you know how you become brave?”

Henry shook his head.

“I bet your dad knows.” Eddie and Henry look at Bucky.

“When you have the opportunity to face your fear you have to try. And just by trying you become braver and then one day you’re not scared of it anymore.”

Henry bit his bottom lip as he thought about what his dad had said.

“Do I have to do it alone?”

“Nope. That’s why having a family is so great, they can be there to hold your hand.” Eddie answers.

Henry looked out toward the water and back at his grandpa. “Will you jump with me?”

“Sure thing kid.”

“I want daddy to jump with me too.”

“What do you say Bucky?” Eddie looked over to bucky.

“I say let’s do it.”

Bucky wiped away the water that was getting into his eyes before looking over at Eddie and Henry.

“Alright, let’s do this bubs.” Bucky smiles and nods. “How about we have uncle Steve close by just in case you need help?”

“Ok.” Henry stands by the side of the boat. He looks over the edge and into the water, he frowns but takes a deep breath. Henry doesn’t have an issue with swimming, he just prefers to be able to see the bottom. That’s why he likes pools. “Just gotta be brave.” He whispers to himself.

Bucky had called Steve over and then everyone was looking over and cheering Henry on. Eddie stands on Henry’s right side and Bucky on his left. They both take Henry’s hands. The boat bobs up and down as the three of them shift around causing a ripple effect in the water.

“Are you ready bubs?”

Henry looks at the water again and then up at Bucky. With another deep breath he nods.

“Ok bubs, ready 1… 2…3… jump.” Bucky says and all three of them jump into the water.

Underwater, Henry panics for a moment and kicks wildly before he’s pulled above. Bucky is holding him close and wiping away water from his face. There’s cheering around him. As Henry blinks and looks around he sees Steve, Sam and the others.

“How did that feel?” Eddie asks as he bobs around the water.

“Scary. But I was brave. Are you proud daddy?”

“Oh I’m so proud of you. You’re the bravest kid I know bubs. You should be proud of yourself too.”

Henry smiles and wraps his arms around Bucky’s neck. Bucky kisses Henry’s temple and mouths a ‘thank you’ to Eddie.

“Come on Henry, let’s race.” Steve says.

“Can I go?”

“Of course you can. Go kick his butt too.”

Henry giggles as he swims off in Steve’s direction. The rest of the day is spent either hanging out on the boat or swimming. Henry jumps into the water a few more times, each time is a little less scary but he still holds on to someone’s hand. First it’s Steve, then Sam, followed by Tony, who didn’t want to be in the water but one look from Eddie and he agreed. He wouldn’t say it but he was glad to be able to relax like this. Henry even jumped with Luke and Joshua and then with Cass, A.J. and Cooper. But his final jump was him alone.

By the time they got back to the cabin they were all exhausted. After showers and a quick dinner everyone was asleep in their beds. Henry even opted to sleep in one of the bunkbeds.

During the whole weekend he tested some limits. He still struggled with certain things but it was understandable. Before if he cried no one would comfort him but now he has a whole lot of people that would line up just for the chance to do so. Henry slept easier that night, there were no nightmares or waking up in cold sweats and tears, just exhaustion and pure joy.

The next few days they did manage to go fishing. Sam was in his element as he helped some of the others. There were late nights around the bond fire and even a lightsaber fight. That prompted Tony to start working on actual lightsabers even when everyone shut him down.

The guys were set to return today. It was going to be a great day because it just so happened to be the 4th of July. Upon learning that the 4th was also Steve’s birthday, Lottie lost her mind. She was so excited to celebrate her favorite person’s birthday and wear the outfit that you had bought for her. It was a dress in the same shade of blue as Steve’s original suit from the 40’s. The skirt was layered tulle with red trim. On her chest was the iconic white star and she even had a utility belt. It was full of candy. The look was complete with a plastic shield, fingerless gloves, two high pigtails adorned with red bows, white star shaped sunglasses and her little combat boots.

So while waiting for the jet to land you held Lottie’s hand. She was bouncing in place causing the ruffled skirt of her dress to bounce. Next to her was Olivia, who was dressed in something similar at Lottie’s request. When the jet finally touched ground and the ramp was lowered Lottie was practically vibrating. You expected some sweet reunion between your sweet Angel and her favorite person. What you didn’t expect was that she would attack him, playfully of course. More importantly it was caught on video

The minute she saw Steve she started running and threw the shield like a frisbee, hitting Steve square in the chest. He was absolutely taken aback since he wasn’t paying attention. He first saw the small shield on the floor by his feet and then he heard Charlotte’s laughter as she ran towards him. Steve’s face almost split in half with the huge grin he sported. He dropped to his knees and opened his arms. Still when Charlotte jumped she knocked him back on to his ass. Her laughter was infectious and soon Steve was laughing too.

“Happy buwtday Steebie.” Charlotte said as she hugged him tightly.

“Thank you sweetheart. You look beautiful in your pretty dress.”

“Tank you.” She said before she looked up and saw Bucky walking down the ramp. “DADA!” Leaving Steve completely forgotten Charlotte ran toward her father who also welcomed her with open arms. “Miss you dada.”

“I missed you too, doll. But what are you wearing?”

“Am Captain dada, wike Steebie.”

“Oh this is your uniform. Well you’re the prettiest Captain America I’ve ever seen.”

Charlotte blushes and hides her face in the crook of her neck as she says a little ‘tank you’.

“Mama.” Henry says as he runs past his dad and practically tackles you to the floor. “I missed you so much.”

“My sweet boy I missed you too.” You kissed the top of his head repeatedly while smoothing out his hair. “But did you have fun?”

“So much fun. I have to tell you everything.”

“I can’t wait to hear everything.” You smile before looking up at Bucky.

He looked completely relaxed. It was different from when he relaxed at home. Sometimes he still had a bit of tension in his shoulders but now he looked like a completely different man. You loved it.

“Hi Sugar.” He whispered against your lips before kissing you. “I’ve missed you.”

“I missed you more baby.”

“What about me? Did no one miss me?” Steve says as he walks up to you.

“Charlotte did. Me? Not so much.”

“You’re so mean. Why did we ever become friends?”

“Because you needed someone to teach you about technology.” You say as you hug him. “Happy Birthday Steve. Now come on we made your favorite for lunch. Just the family.” You loop an arm around his and take Henry’s hand as you lead them to the shared dining room.

****

Catching up over lunch had been great. Now you sat in one of the shared living rooms with everyone. Henry sat at your side as he told you about what he did.

“We watched the Star Wars movies. My favorite is Obi-Wan Kanobi. Oh and we got to play with lightsabers and uncle Tony said he was going to make us real ones.” Henry explained to you excitedly as he played with Alpine. You’d never seen him more animated and it made you smile.

“He did?” You asked. It looked over to Tony who wouldn’t meet your eye. “Well I hope he makes me one too.”

“Grandpa and Uncle Sam taught me how to fish. I caught a fish this big mama.” He held his hands a few inches apart. “Uncle Sam said we can go down to his house and do more fishing too. Can we go? Did you know he has his own boat too?”

“I didn’t know he had a boat. But we can plan a trip to go down.”

“Hey Henry,” Cass came up to him. “We were gonna go play outside. Want to come with us?”

Henry looked at you unsure of what to do. You grabbed Alpine from him. “Go have fun. Remember to not go farther than the playground.”

They left after saying a quick ok. You smiled and turned your attention to the couch next to yours where both Bucky and Steve were sitting and listening to Lottie.

“Make A-pine pwetty wit bows. An habe moobie night and go swim too. An uncle Tony gabe toys. Oh mama habe pictuwes. Dada an Steebie habe fun?” She was talking their ears off and they made sure to pay attention.

“Lots of fun but it sounds like you had more fun than us.”

“No habe mowe fun. Missed you.” She leans first into Steve for a hug and then into Bucky. “But is Steebie’s buwtday, can habe fun now.”

“You know what, doll? You are absolutely right. We can have even more fun now since it’s Steve’s birthday. Why don’t we go see if the party is getting started?”

Lottie cheered as she stood up on the couch and hugged Steve again.

“What party?” Steve asked while looking from Bucky to you and then at Tony when the realization hit him. “I thought we agreed on no party for my birthday.”

“I’m not celebrating you, I’m celebrating America. Also it’s Henry and Charlotte’s first time celebrating the 4th of July.” Tony defended, knowing Steve wouldn’t take any experiences away from the kids.

“Yeah Steve, the fourth isn’t just about you.” You added with a smirk. “Let my babies experience this holiday. Besides, Bucky and I have a special gift for you.”

Everyone else started heading outside while Bucky moved to stand with you.

“So Y/N and I have talked about this although it was really a no brainer.” Bucky started.

“And we would like for you to officially be Henry and Charlotte’s godfather.”

“Really?” He looked at you like an excited puppy.

“Of course, we know that you love those kids as if they were your own and they love you too. There’s no one we would trust more with our kids than you.” You say with a smile.

“Other than the whole team.”

“Bucky.” You elbow him but chuckle.

“I would love to.”

Steve stands and scoops Lottie up in his arms. He gives Bucky a hug and then he hugs you.

“It’s the best present ever.”

“Habe pwesent too.”

“You have a present for me, sweetheart?” Steve looks at Charlotte who nods before wiggling out of his hold in order to go get said gift.

“She worked very hard on it over the weekend.”

Steve smiled as the three of you started walking in the same direction Lottie left. You loop your arm around his and smile up at him.

****

Like always Tony went all out for the celebration. The night was buzzing with excitement as music played. People busied themselves with all kinds of entertainment until it was time for the Stark fireworks spectacle. But the most interesting conversation was about to happen at the edge of it all. On one of the benches was Eddie, just watching as his kids and grandkids ran around and spent time together. Bucky approached him and took the empty seat beside him.

“How are you doing Ed?”

“Good. A bit tired is all.”

Bucky nodded in understanding. For a few minutes they sat in silence, both of them appreciating the lack of conversation. But Bucky was a man on a mission and he needed to talk with Eddie.

“I need to talk to you about something, Ed.”

Your dad turned his head slightly to look at Bucky. Half of his face was lit up by the lanterns that decorated the area. Instead of finding a century old soldier, Eddie saw a nervous young man with hope in his eyes.

“Go on then. I’ve told you before I’m here for whatever you need.”

“I want to ask Y/N to marry me but I'd like your blessing.”

“Buck this isn’t the 1930’s, you don’t need my permission. We both know that she’s a grown woman and she’ll do what she wants.” Ed says as he looks back to find you in the crowd.

“I’m not asking for your permission. I’m asking for your blessing. You are the most important man in her life and I don’t want to ask her without talking to you first. I know this is important to her.”

“I’m not the most important, at least not anymore and neither are you.” Eddie looked back at Bucky. “He is.” He said as he nodded toward the crowd.

Bucky turned his head and watched as you ran around happily with Henry. Even in the distance he swore he could hear your laughter as you brought Henry in for a hug after pulling a prank on Steve. His chest swelled with both love and pride that he got to call you his.

“That right there.” Eddie pointed at Bucky’s face. He had a goofy grin as he was watching you and a lightness about him that wasn’t seen when he was away from you or his kids. “That’s why I’ll give you my blessing. You look like an idiot when you look at her and I’ve never doubted your love for my girl. Truth is you’ve made her happier than I’ve ever seen her. You’ve given me a version of my daughter that I’ve never seen before and I’d be an idiot to be against that. You’ve also given me two amazing grandkids. There’s no way in hell I’d miss out on watching them grow up.”

Bucky offered Eddie his hand and the latter shook it.

“You’re a good man Bucky and you deserve good things too. But as father of the future bride you have to know that I’m also an expert marksman. So try some shit with my girl and you’ll never see it coming.”

“If I ever did anything to hurt her or break her heart, I’ll make sure to stand perfectly still.”

Both men nod in agreement just as you walked up to them and took the empty seat between them. You leaned into Bucky but faced your dad.

“We haven’t had a chance to talk.” You told him.

“There’s not much to talk about, Kitten.”

“Dad.”

“I’m ok, the lawyer is handling everything and I haven’t spoken to her since the day at the party.” He waves your concerns away. “When I got home the next day her things were gone. She probably went to stay with her sister.”

“Is there anything you need? Anything I can help with?”

“Not at the moment but I promise I’ll let you know.”

You leaned over and rested your head on his shoulder. Eddie leans down and places a kiss on your forehead.

“You don’t have to worry about me kid. I’ll be just fine.”

“Well I’m still going to worry. You promise you’ll call?” You look up at him through your lashes.

“I promise.”

You sit up and nod even though part of you knows he probably won’t call.

“Daddy it’s time for the fireworks.” Henry calls out.

“I’ll go get the headphones for them.”

“Meet you by the stage.” You tell Bucky as you walk arm in arm with Eddie. On the way you take Henry’s hand and find Charlotte sitting on Steve’s shoulders.

Bucky is next to you in a flash with some noise canceling headphones for both the kids. As the show starts Henry flinches the first few times a firework goes off but eventually is mesmerized by the display of colors.

Eventually the fireworks ended. A birthday cake was brought out for America and not Steve. Although Tony did tell him to blow out the candles.

It was a perfect ending to a great weekend. In his arms, Bucky held a sleeping Charlotte and you held a sleepy Henry. They tended to get clingy when they were tired but neither of you minded. Instead you appreciated every moment because you knew that one day they wouldn’t need you to tuck them in anymore.

After getting the kids in bed you and Bucky made your way to your room. After a quick shower and changing into clean pajamas both you and Bucky collapse on the bed. He holds you close and kisses the top of your head.

“I missed you. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to sleep away from you for more than a day.” You mutter unto his chest.

“Me either. I was thinking that we should maybe plan a weekend away with just the kids.”

“Yeah, that would be great. We could go up to the cabin or plan something else, something fun. I know dad wouldn’t care if we used the cabin but I’ll look into other ideas.” You ramble on as you relax into him even more.

Bucky smiles as he begins to make plans of his own. The first thing he’ll do is go shop for a ring. Then he’ll have to decide where he’ll propose but most importantly he knows he wants to involve the kids. He knows you’ll love that. You’d probably lose your mind if you saw him and Henry in a suit and tie and of course Charlotte in a dress.

Bucky can feel it deep in his bones. This will be the true start of the rest of his life and he smiles as he finally falls asleep.

Ch 24

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#bucky barnes fic #bucky barnes x enchanced!reader #my little love series #dad!bucky barnes x mom!reader #girl dad!bucky Barnes #boy dad!bucky Barnes #bucky barnes x female!reader #Charlotte Barnes #Henry Barnes

[bengiyo]

Alright, new question, I know how much you enjoy your Sad Gay Boy Hours. What shows, besides Until We Meet Again, because I know how much you love it, satisfy your Sad Gay Boy needs?

The Boys Who Suffered

The big thing about The Knowing is The Suffering. There is a melancholy that seeps into you and makes you think you aren't enough. These characters are hard to watch. I know you asked about shows, but I'm doing some movies as well because I've been thinking about genre history lately. For this it's about whether or not the quiet sadness in me connected to the quiet sadness I perceived in a character in this show.

Moonlight (2016)

He is the saddest boy in my heart. This is the moment that breaks him forever.

For The Boys

Jamal, Syed, and Anthony have suffered for being who they are, and they are hurting. They cling to each other and it's often too hard.

Weekend (2011)

This man is so lonely even if people love him. I feel melancholy for days any time I watch this film.

Big Eden (2000)

I don't know who taught him shame, but there's this sense of surrender in Henry that has haunted me for fifteen years.

A Single Man (2009)

Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci play some of the saddest gay men who have ever existed. This entire project is about grief.

180 Degree Longitude Passes Through Us

Inthawut is the saddest man in BL.

Given (2019)

The reveals about the depths of sadness in this boy are really some of the best I've experienced.

Eternal Yesterday (2022)

He was suffering even before Koichi died, and it saddens me so much that the world bent to let him say goodbye to help him grieve.

The Pornographer Series

I just knew there was something fundamentally off about Kijima and the rest of these men.

The Day I Loved You (2023)

I keep meaning to write something about this show, but there's something special about going into a relationship you know won't be forever because of external factors, and also choosing to make that time as special as possible.

Tokyo in April is...

Ren suffering for Kazuma gets me every time.

Like in the Movies (2020)

I'm never getting over Karl and Vlad. I'm sad we'll likely never see them again because in so many ways the specific pieces of melancholy in each of them are why they didn't walk away together.

To My Star 2: Our Untold Stories

These two were not left at HEA and they didn't end there this time, either. Both of these two are carrying some heavy shit in their hearts, and I find comfort in seeing them stumble and keep trying.

What Did You Eat Yesterday?

Shiro makes me so sad sometimes, and I'm so glad he found Kenji.

The Eclipse

Every boy in this show is a sad mess.

The Eighth Sense

I'm glad Jae Won found Ji Hyun, because that country twink won't give up on him.

Kabe-Koji Nekoyashiki-kun Desires to be Recognized

I recently rewatched this and feel so much about Mamoru and Issei.

Our Dating Sim

Lee Wan was wrong, but I get him.

We Best Love

"Yes, I'm in love with you, but that's none of your business."

Stuck On You

The Philippines crushed the pandemic. This is quietly one of the better ones about people who were already suffering.

Blueming

Hwang Da Seul's oeuvre always seems to hit my sad boy core.

Sing My Crush

Every time Han Baram says Im Hantae's name I lose it.

#answered #bl series #eternal yesterday #sing my crush #our dating sim #what did you eat yesterday? #blueming #to my star #to my star 2: our untold stories #a single man (2009) #moonlight #the day I loved you #for the boys #stuck on you #given #we best love #kabe koji nekoyashiki kun desires to be recognized #kabe koji #the eighth sense #like in the movies #gaya sa pelikula #the eclipse series #tokyo in april is... #big eden #the novelist #pornographer #mood indigo #weekend (2011)

[oldirontender]

i have a literal addiction to staring at images of henry on the ttte wiki so im making this post as a compilation of all my favorite henry faces. bc his face means so so so much to me.

first ones first. a lovely guy. love his lips in these illustrations. i usually cant stand defined lips on the engines but the earlier railway series artists just GOT it yknow. anyway i rate this face a 7/10

oh ho HO!!!! a lovely man indeed. i love how hes illustrated by Dalby so so much. like LOOK AT THIS GUY!!!!! i rate this face 8/10

AHHH!!!!! WAAAAAHH!!!!!!!!! the start of his :>. the :> is my life force and its the thing that keeps me going every day. i love his :> so so so so SO much. any face with the :> gets at least a 9.5/10. which is this ones rating.

O _ O

i like this one. 7.5/10

HE. HEHEHEHE. HEH HEHEHEHH .. ..... :> *kicks my feet in delight* ... .... ...10/10

HE SUFFERS DREADFULLY AND NOBODY CARES. 8/10. he looks like hes in desperate need of ibuprofen. love him for that.

HE. HE HE. HE HA HO. WE. WEEEE...... WE HA HO. HE HEA HAH A. 9/10

>:((((((((    >:((( HES SO PISSED BHGAHHADHAHARBRBH. 8/10. also this artist is my favorite of the railway series. i love you john t kenny. i love you so much.

>:[ stupid fuckign BITHC!!!! STUPID!!!! GRAAHH!!!!! 8/10

THIS ONES SO GOOD IDK WHY I JUST REALL Y LOVE HIM SO MUCH. 10/10 i wish his face wasnt in the snow so i could make it my icon on discord.

HE SUFFERS. SO MUCH. HES ALWAYS SUFFERING. THE ILLNESS IS RAMPENT.  9/10

ok moving on to the model series. sorry i dont really enjoy how the other railway artists draw henry as much as these 2 artists

ho. ho he ha. he ha ho. oh oh ohoh oh oho hehehehehehehehehehehhehe. he is SO pissed. SO angry. angry but in a LOVELY way. he serves so much cunt. 9/10 i love when they use this face.

HES SO. GRRGHRGRRHRHRGRHRGHRHGRHRG *bangs my head against my wall* 9/10.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. 15/10. this is the one this is my favoirtie i just rbhrbnfbhndnfr *MELTS INTO A PUUDDLE ONTHE FLOORE.* :> AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!

this one is also so so so sos SO good. i mean its WONDERFUL. i wanna pet him like a gerbil. feed him some seeds and watch him run around on a little wheel in his cage. 10/10. makes me smile. makes me :)

BANGS MY HEAD AGAINST THE WALL. 12/10 IM LOSING MY MIND. PUNCHES MY PILLOW AND CRIES VIOLENTLY. UGH. WOIOAAHHHHGHHGHJH.

reminder that he suffers. 9/10. he is on the verge of tears. *mr krabs voice* we should put him down

<:O. i like his lips on this face a lot. he looks a little gay. 9/10

9/10. henry ur shupposhed to deliver fish not shwim with them

and finally

reminder that he suffers. DREADFULLY. 9/10

#henry ttte #rambling #sorry ive been doing nothing but looking at the behind the scenes pages on henry #hes just so. so....... so.....

[ouatsnark]

A list of Regina being a self-righteous, self-centered, bully

Thinking about only her pain 

Dismissing Emma about fearing for Henry in NL (S3)

Being flippant about Snow losing Emma & never once acknowledging her role in it but only her own pain of losing Henry (S3)

Dismissing Emma’s struggle as Dark Swan & acting like she knows more about what's it like to be consumed by evil when she has never been consumed (5x23)

Acting like she's the only one to ever lose love (S5, Robin stabbing)

Never once thinking of Roland when Robin died or when "Marian" returned

Never once thinking of Robin when he died only of her pain

Never once thinking of Emma when Hook died - all she could do is belittle Emma over trying to save him because it effected her yet she did the same thing with Robin & even Daniel! 

Putting herself before others 

When "Marian" returned, she never once thought about Roland & instead plotted to have her killed so she could have Robin (the only reason she didn't is because, by her admission, they'd have known it was her)

Locking Henry out of his house (4x02)

Letting the Charmings sacrifice themselves for her (s6)

Wanted her HEA at the expense of others & endangered Henry to get it & also ignored the danger Emma was in to find it (s4 over rewriting the book)

Emotionally blackmailing Emma into saving Robin for herself, not for him, & not caring it could send Emma into darkness

Thinking she knows better or is better than others 

Henry’s best chance during the Shattered Sight curse (s4)

Ignoring Emma's concerns about Henry (Pan-S3)

Giving Robyn the spell book (S7)

Ignoring everyone’s concerns about Zelena & Hades because she decided it was OK

Ignoring Pan's instructions and Emma & Hook's insistence they play by the rules (S3-map)

Throws people’s deeds back in their face without acknowledging her own guilt 

Making Emma feel bad about Henry's tear all because she is jealous she doesn't know Henry as well as Emma & ignoring how much she hurt Henry (S5 finale)

How she treated Snow over Cora in S3 when in S2 she and Cora were trying to kill everyone & she killed Snow's father 

Throwing it back in Killian's face that he didn't save her from Greg when she fails to mention she tried to murder him or her role in Greg's life and why Greg was there

Insults Charming's parenting skills over putting infant Emma into the tree (something he had to do because Regina was trying to kill her) while ignoring the emotional trauma she's put Henry through.

This is a small list but not a complete list of:

#anti regina mills

[flowershaveeyes]

Birthday boy ! — Twisted Wonderland

Synopsis: It’s Caroline’s birthday! And everyone seems to have forgotten- including the boy himself.

Warnings: n/a— none!

++ Notes: this is so late I’m so sorry void I KNOW I KNOW it took me long to do it but all for good reason, I swear!!!

xxx

OCs: Caroline Trivia (Belonging to Void/Carol), Ezrael Sitara (Belonging to me, Painter!), Lux (Belonging to Coffee)

28/01

And so the day has arrived; the birth of a legend. An unmatched nobility, akin to no other! Grace, resilience and bountiful amounts of wealth and wisdom, today is the day the Great, Henry VII was born!

Oh, ah, no, wait. It is just the day Caroline Trivia, vice housewarden of Ignihyde was born. Boo. Bummer. Nobody liked that.

Alas, his friends must celebrate this “joyous” and “wondrous” day with him. So perhaps we should go about just how that went down, shall we not? Wonderful! Then, it began something like this..

”HOLY SHIT!” Is precisely what rang out against Ignihyde’s silent and frigid walls, accompanied by the incessant beeping of an alarm clock. It really was alarming, that was for sure. And Caroline didn’t like that.

Practically slamming the OFF button, he rolled off the bed and onto the carpeted floors with a muffled ‘thump!’ (and it really was only muffled because of said carpet), followed not long after by a groan emitted from the third-year himself. Now sprawled out across the floor of his room, he seemed to disassociate with reality for just a bit before reality itself came back to hit him rather hard on the head as if to announce its presence. It also told him, ‘Oh, it seems your late for one of your first classes after winter-break! Boo-hoo, how sad’. How rude it was, snapping him out of the morning-haze daydreams! He knew to listen to it, still. So, he didn’t waste another minute to stumble up and over to the bathroom.

In a rush, he secured a time of five minutes and thirty-two seconds on the imaginary leaderboard, having brushed his teeth and washed his face in just that amount of time. If that snobby housewarden of Pomefiore heard of his “skin-care routine”, he believes he would be gifted a very peculiar apple (one laced with poison, he’s certain of it!).

In a rush, he practically slams the door open and locks it behind him just as quick, shoving the keys in his cerulean vest’s pocket while he sprints down the halls, passing the room of Idia, who he’s sure isn’t going to be going to class at all (not physically, at least). How lucky. He didn’t have a reputation to keep up!

In a rush, he basically throws himself into the dark mirror, and then into main campus, and then into his first class.

And in that rush, it seems, he’s forgotten to check the calendar.

xxx

It wasn’t long til the first period turned into the second, and ultimately into lunch. Trivia wouldn’t dare lie- lunch was one of his favourite times of the day. Because it was really the only time he could talk with his friends other than the little tease and snark they had in the hallways, amidst the floundering to-and-fro, class to class.

At one of these lunch tables sat an odd trio of friends--A jellyfish-mer, whose head reached just about everyone’s waist! And then, there was the Scarabia boy who tucked feathers neatly behind his ear on a daily basis. Ah, and, of-course, Infamous Trivia- the Vice-Housewarden of Ignihyde. A third-year, and much older than the other two first-years. He was much more important, too. But his friends never treated him as such, no, they treated him like the dirt and grime beneath their feet!

He could not say it wasn’t a refreshing change, however- for it really was- a breath of fresh air compared to the oh-so willing-to-please first-years--people like that made him cringe, he’ll be honest!

”Anyways, did you hear what happened at Monstro lounge yesterday?” Ezrael asked, his voice dropping to just above a whisper as he leaned in close to his other two friends, Lux sitting in front of him while Trivia sat to his left, at the head of the table. The spot to his right was empty, however.

”Lots’a things happened at the lounge yesterday,” Lux replied, “Which one?” To which Ezrael sighed. “Oh, right, I forgot Monstro lounge is like a cooking show that also just so happens to be a thriller. Maybe even a horror.”

“Those are, like, the opposites genres. How the fuck would that make sense?” Rolling his eyes at Trivia’s unreasonable quip, Ezrael says, “That’s the point, Trivia, it doesn’t.” “Oh.”

…

“Well you’re right on that one, I guess. Plus, that Floyd guy really gets on my nerves, seriously hate him,” Caroline commented after a long period of silence between the three. And it wasn’t for long til he got a snarky remark, or a yell from Ezrael- as always. “Hey! What’d he do to you?” Caroline stops, gawking like a fish! “You’re defending that sneaky piece of shit?” He asked the comparatively shorter boy, flabbergasted. “Well--“ Ezrael begins, caught off guard by that simply baseless accusation. “I wouldn’t say defending, it’s more so.. uh, I mean- I don’t know what it is, okay? I just, I think he’s not that bad, you know? He’s kind of cool, to be honest.” Caroline blinks, one, two, three. He turns to Lux, who mirrors his expression and also blinks- one, two, three. “Weirdo,” Lux merely states-- blankly, too.

“Exactly, Lux! Fucking exactly! I mean, that guy’s waaaaaaaay too tall. Like, he’s not allowed to be that tall, fuckin’ breakin’ the laws of physics or some shit,” Trivia plays the role of back-up to Lux’s own one word, voice teetering on the edge of ‘far too loud’.

“Being six feet two inches doesn’t defy the laws of physics. It’s perfectly just above average, not too above average.” “AND WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU KNOW HIS EXACT HEIGHT FOR?”

Ezrael huffs, clasping his hands together and resting them on the table in front of him. “Science. Plus, he’s in the basketball club too, like me-- it makes perfect sense why I know that,” he offers an explanation, but neither of the other two seem quite convinced. Raising an eyebrow in query, Caroline asks, “Really?”--And Ezrael’s response is prompt, quick to defend himself. “Really.”

“How tall’s Ace, then? He’s in your club too, right?”

…

…

…

”You’re so down-bad,” Caroline merely states, and at his choice of words, Ezrael gasps. Loudly. “What the fuck?! I am not!”

His phrasing quickly come back to throw several punches and kicks and perhaps even bullets his way, for Lux quickly chirps- “Are too!”

Caroline grins- ‘is this what it feels like when your kid says your name for the first time?’, he questions internally to himself. “Yeah Lux, you tell him!” “No--Lux, am not.” “Are too!” “Am NOT!” “Are TOO!”

“Ugh, it’s useless arguing with you guys-! Let’s just switch topics or something,” Ezrael groans out, and his lips pull up into a pout of sorts. “Pussy.” The boy huffs at the older one’s words, “Shut it, Trivia!”

The mentioned male simply snorts, before shrugging. “Say,” Peacock boy begins, unconsciously twirling his long locks of hair. Or, what of it was left a-drape, really. His hair was rather long, reaching his hips- but he preferred to tie it up into a neat ponytail. Still, two long, thick strands of hair fell down either side of his face, framing it like one would a picture on an expensive mansion wall. “Do you guys remember what day it is today?” He asks, and now it’s his turn to snicker, glancing at Lux, who gives him a knowing stare, with a grin so sharp it could cut that stale, leftover food in the lounge. Did mer-people just have naturally frightening smiles?

“It’s Monday, dumbass,” Caroline says, and despite his bold words, he’s still fairly confused by such a dumb question. “Oh, yeah, sure, Monday,” Ezrael makes sure to drag out the last word, still sneaking glances at Lux, who did so back. Just what was it with these two?

Before the third-year could question anything, though, the bell rang- ding, ding, ding! T’was the sound that signalled the end of peace and stuffing an already-content stomach. Sighing, he got up, and placed his hand on his hip. “See ya’ guys later, I guess,”

xxx

Period three, Potionology with professor Crewel. There’s absolutely nothing he could dread more. Other than, well, perhaps having to convince his Housewarden, Idia Shroud, to attend a housewarden-meeting or a class physically. In fact, that always ended with him having to drag the poor boy out his room! (He wouldn’t call him ‘poor’. Idia knows exactly how much of a trouble he is!)

There wasn’t a certain hatred he bore for the subject- in fact, he rather enjoyed potionology, even more so with his necromantic practices. Yet, the people here made it all worse. He’d take Ezrael’s incessant rambling about some pretty boy that he saw over this. Any-day.

Oh, and the sprinkles- the cherry, the icing, may-haps even the fondant atop the cake- (because fondant was just as horrible as this predicament).. drum roll, please?

He’s partnered with Vil Schoenheit. Fuck. Shit. Oui oui, baguette. 

“Caroline, don’t tell me you’re zoning out.” Well, he wasn’t anymore. Thanks a lot, fucking Vil.

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Caroline replied with his usual tone, alight with mischief, just like his grin when he leaned over the table, looking up at the third year who was clad in his uniform, all neat and crisp. Sevens, he was almost jealous ‘til he remembered that Vil was jealous, too. Not of him, of-course-- he doesn’t think anyone could be jealous of him. He’s not that good, is he? Vil doesn’t let him think a second more, instead- he smirks. The audacity of him! He smirked, really? At Caroline? How could he?! It doesn’t matter if he looks pretty, that’s clearly hurting the vice’s ego! (Not sure how, but his mind works in very odd ways). “Good, because you’ve a lot to do today,” Vil says, and it is a statement. How’d he know about the several assignments that Trivia had been luring away the mere thought of doing, with a bone and a treat, perhaps even a chew toy?

“I do?” Caroline asks, visibly dumbfounded for once. “You do,” Vil merely says. “Oh, fuck, thanks for reminding me, I guess.” The ‘most beautiful of all’ grimaces, a sharp contrast to his elegant and reserved air that he holds himself with so pridefully. “Must you spout profanities so freely?”

Caroline only shrugs, a crooked smile on his face. “It’s not hurting anyone.” And in turn, Vil simply sighs and shakes his head. What would he do with this buffoon--a cheap excuse for a lab partner and an even cheaper excuse for a vice-housewarden. How in the Seven’s name did he become one, was a query to dwell on indeed.

xxx

Trivia couldn’t stop complaining, but what was there to not complain about? He wasn’t even sure he was fully awake just yet, and the school day was already coming to an end! But, maybe, just perhaps, that was a good thing. For he got to succumb to those wonderfully soft sheets of his, succumb to sleep.

He really was so quick to succumb.

And it was clear, it was telling- especially when he succumbed to Cater Diamond, a second-year from Heartslabyul who he knew just the slightest amount of. When he succumbed to his words in the hallway- “It won’t take that long! You just need to come with Kay-kun after your class-- M’kay?”

Sevens, it was really so threatening without meaning to be- especially that glint in his eyes. Trivia was sure he didn’t mean it like that, but he found himself agreeing with his means solely due to that murderous gaze.

And then the bell rung, and now he’s getting up from his seat as quick as he can, while also trying not to draw attention, or to seem like he’s in some hurry, and then drawing much more attention that he had before by tripping over his own feet and toppling onto the hard-wood floors that he was sure hadn’t been cleaned in days, because the headmaster wouldn’t dare hire some janitor and waste his precious funds!

These thoughts were the only company he had as he walked out those doors- while his classmates walked hand-in-hand with their friends, he walked alone, shunned. He did have friends, he really did. It’s just, they never were in the same class as him- they never would be. Because just a few months from now, six, maybe nine more months, and he would be leaving Night Raven for good. They’d still be here.

One year, two year, three year- and then they’d be gone, too. Just like he’d have to leave them so very long ago. But he’s sure he wouldn’t remember them by then- no, he wouldn’t remember anything from here, anyone from this wretched place--

This wretched place which he had, admittedly, grown to love. Like a gift, a present given to you by none other than those you loved, or perhaps the gods above. It doesn’t have to be materialistic, because, well, it was nice. And nice is truly all that it has to be. He doesn’t care if everyone here is fucked up in the head--if he is, too. They’re getting better. He doesn’t care. He really doesn’t. But, he’s not getting better. He isn’t- Ezrael told him once that running from your problems won’t ever stop them from chasing you, it’ll just tire you out. Isn’t that what he’s doing? He’s running from them- running, running, running, ‘til his knees give way and they buckle and his ankles twist, or maybe they get stabbed by a stick, or roll over a stray rock, and then he’ll fall. But he’ll never hit the ground. He doesn’t want that- he doesn’t want any of that, no. He just wants his grandmother back, please, oh Sevens--

“Hey! Caroline, you came!” That chirpy voice that, thankfully, broke him out of his thoughts, could only belong to Cater Diamond. “Huh? Oh, yeah, uh, in the flesh.”

Placing a hand on the older one’s shoulder, Cater only smiles, “We- I mean, ahem, I’ve got a surprise for you.” And that perplexes Caroline. He never talked to Cater for too long before. He just wasn’t Caroline’s kind of person. He could never understand how the second-year had that much energy, to be able to talk with people on end. He almost envied him, but then he recalled that he didn’t want that ability at all- the more he thought about it, the more it sounded like a curse!

He nods, clearing his throat and chinning in front of him- at what, he didn’t know himself. How could he know where this Diamond boy was planning on taking him? “Lead the way, I guess?” Sevens! That only sounded good in shows. Saying that phrase in real life was so cringe, he couldn’t help but grimace. Cater paid it no mind, however.

“Kk! You needa’ cover your eyes first, though.” Again, Caroline was puzzled. And if his emotions were colour-coded and liquid, and filled in a jar, confusion would be turquoise and seeping out of its more-than-full container. “Uh.. sure? Where are we going, again?”

“It’s a surprise, you’ll see!”

xxx

He covered his eyes long ago, and was pushed along by Diamond to and through several locations in those many minutes that had passed. He still wasn’t sure where they were going, but if he had counted his steps, which he had not, he would know they were headed towards the dark mirror. Well, he was going to find out soon enough. And he did.

Because then he felt that strange sensation- like lemonade rippling over baby skin, and inside his brain. He recognised it. They were teleporting. He’s not sure where to, but when they arrived, he noted that it wasn’t very water-y, so it couldn’t be Octavinelle. It wasn’t humid or scorching hot, so it could not be Scarabia or Savanaclaw, either. And it definitely wasn’t Ignihyde, because he would know. He just would.

That leaves Diasomnia and Heartslabyul-- Trivia had barely ever been to Diasomnia. At least, not for very long. Somewhere between a second and a minute. But he knew it was dark, and gloomy. But sometimes it was sunny, because it really did all depend on the emotions of the Housewarden. The strong ones, at least.

But then the scent of roses wafted through his nostrils, and he knew then, without a doubt, that he was in Heartslabyul. In the maze of roses, specifically, because where else would he hear those hedgehogs squeaking and squealing? Not Diasomnia, that’s for sure.

So he walked along as Cater trekked behind him, either of his hands on either of Caroline’s shoulders, feeling the breeze lift up the longer strands of his hair and drop them all the same, coming as they went, and returning as they left.

“We’re almost there, so hold on a little longer.” Caroline was holding on. What else was he doing? He didn’t look impatient, did he? “And remember, don’t peek!” Chirped the ginger again, and this time, Caroline was just about ready to punch him in the face. Mostly because, well, he’d said that exact thing, ‘don’t peek’, for the seventh time now, and it really was starting to get on the older one’s nerves.

They walked a little longer, the soles of Cater’s shoes and Caroline’s boots shuffled and pressing, cascading, even- against the grassy ground, the noise of dirt serenading his ears. Was it truly serenading, if he were the only one who found it to be like music? It was calming, like how his music made him feel. So it must’ve been music.

This inner-monologuing provided as a wonderful way to while away time, ‘til they finally reached their destination. He knew this, because Cater’s feet had come to a stop. So he did, too. “We’re here! You can look now.” Far too eager, Caroline removes his hands from his eyes, squinting at first, before his eyes ultimately adjusted to the sunlight he wasn’t very used to.

And then he saw it, there he saw it.

Or rather, he saw them.

There were students, in what he’d guessed correctly to be the maze of roses, and they were all students he knew. If not very well, he still had said ‘hello’ or ‘goodbye’, perhaps even ‘good morning’ to them at least once in his three years at NRC. He looked around- balloons and confetti galore. Speaking of confetti, a bunch of it shot onto his dazed figure, followed by the sound of the party horn which was actually rather loud, but it was faint to Caroline.

Because all he was focusing on was the banner that they’d somehow manage to hang- there wasn’t a roof in the maze of roses. They probably hooked the two ends of it somewhere.

It said, ‘Happy Birthday’--perhaps the one thing he had never heard his entire life, or heard so little of.

He could feel tears dwelling up- but that was pathetic, so he wouldn’t let them flow. He blinked them away, instead. “Happy birthday!” Yelled the enthusiastic ones- that was Lux, and Ezrael. And Kalim, too, that desert boy from Scarabia. The housewarden, to be precise. He knows Kalim, he’s talked with Kalim a lot. He knows that he said he couldn’t keep up with energetic people, but Kalim was different. He was energetic, but he was kind. He never had bad intentions, and that was something Trivia could respect.

There were the less enthusiastic ones, too, like Leona or Sebek, or-- would Idia count? He didn’t really speak, because he was in that stupid tablet of his, and all that really came up on the screen was a text that exactly said ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!1!!1!🎉🎉’. No camera, no nothing.

And then there were the ones in-between, like Vil and Jade and Jamil, and then there was Riddle and Azul and, Floyd, surprisingly. He didn’t expect him to come, and he felt especially guilty after he insulted the eel so personally just this morning. But he came anyways. It’s not that he would’ve known Caroline said all those things, but he was more than aware of what Caroline thought of him, because he made it very clear.

He thinks back to himself, his own thoughts- he was right, he really doesn’t care.

The tears are coming back.

He doesn’t care if they’re kind of insane. He is, too, isn’t he?

They’ll heal.

They’ll fix him, he can fix them- maybe while he’s still here.

He’s leaving in a few months, he’s already nineteen.

xxx

fin

#oc #my writing #Twisted wonderland #disney twisted wonderland #twst wonderland #disney twst #Idia shroud #leona kingscholar #twst oc #AU where yuu kinda doesn’t exist….. #SORRY YUU #I LOVE YUU #(Pun intended) #birthday fic #angst #caroline is not okay.

[myheartalivewrites]

20 questions for fic writers

Thanks for tagging me @bitbybitwrites @kiwiana-writes @cha-melodius I continue to be emotionally withholding from my WIPs so this was a fun little distraction.

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

15 and I realised tomorrow is the anniversary of the first fic I ever posted! Might do a little celebration post about it.

2. What’s your total AO3 word count?

259,263!

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Red, White & Royal Blue ❤️🤍💙

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Confirming the mad recency bias in RWRB fics, they are all my most recent fics, all published from August onwards with the exception of the last one, hospital cupboard hook-up fic my beloved:

Deep Blue

In His Wildest Dreams

Just Like That.

Oxford Days

Tumbled Down and Tangled Up

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

Yes! Comments are the best thing about ao3 and pretty much the only reason to post my stuff online! I feel boring sometimes, like I'm replying the same thing over and over, but it is SO true that every single comment means so much to me and I hope commenters know that

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

I don't do unhappy endings. The closest I've come to not a HEA is Don't Wanna Be A Fool For You which is still a happy ending lol, but I didn't go into the future and left them only JUST beginning to recover from all the angst

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Oh, tricky to decide this. I'm gonna go with Down By The Water, simply because I go deep, DEEP into their happily ever after in the epilogue (it is 12k of a 63k fic which should give you an idea of just HOW deep), even though it’s still quite… yearn-y.

8. Do you get hate on fics?

No, though I did get some intense emotional responses to a few chapters of Deep Blue, which... well, they were supposed to hurt, but it was A LOT. Never have I used the 😬 emoji that much.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

Hah, yes. A lot of it. All but one of my fics are E and even that one has got a smutty end scene I didn't publish and might post around the holidays. A Christmas treat for a Christmas fic! I'm not sure what 'what kind' is really supposed to mean here, so: very explicit but always emotionally relevant to the story, and particular in long fics I like to use the, ahem, smut progression to show how their feelings and the relationship is deepening.

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?

No

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not as far as I know 😬 Only tumblr posts 🙄

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Oooh, someone asked me if they could translate Deep Blue to Spanish, so I'm excited to see that (but it is 76k so it might be a while)! That would be my first though.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

No

14. What’s your all time favorite ship?

Oh, firstprince, no doubt. Alex and Henry have my heart.

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

I absolutely REFUSE to say I won't finish something. I plan to finish all my WIPs.

16. What are your writing strengths?

This is hard to answer, but I think I'm good at building tension, both in the overall story developments, but also within paragraphs and scenes, playing with sentence length etc. At the very least I like how I do that!

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Yikes, pulling no punches. Sometimes I get bored of writing all the 'getting to know you' dialogue, and get fed up of writing banter. It’s the kind of thing that tends to get me blocked on a WIP. I find it quite hard, possibly because Alex and Henry banter so much it feels like it's all been done before. Oh, here’s Star Wars! Oh, your dog’s name is stupid! Etc etc.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

Love it. I have one WIP currently which has some French dialogue, and my French is middling at best, so I'm going to have to ask for help with it, but I'm not there yet.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

RWRB ❤️

20. Favorite fic you’ve written?

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION. I reserve the right to change this answer, but right now it's Down By The Water, I literally fell asleep last night wishing I had time to go reread it.

Phew, that was a lot! No pressure tagging a few friends who might want to play: @indomitable-love @historicallysam @14carrotghoul @cultofsappho @celaestis1 @suseagull04 @heybuddy-drabbles but open tag if you too wan to join!

#my writing #about me #rwrb #red white and royal blue #rwrb fanfic

[theyellowroseofsodor]

Hello!! 24 for Henry and Hiro

Oooo, this one is a bit spoiler-y. Shall I do the thing?

Without going into heavy detail, if you’ve kept up with the fanfic, you will know that Henry and Hiro have attacked each other due to the illness that’s on the island. Do they have any recollection of it? No, not really. But the damage is indeed done, as will be revealed shortly, and they will struggle for it. Henry blames himself entirely and when a decision is made for the health of Hiro, Henry is absolutely devastated to the point of severe depression. Henry isolates, stops eating in his human form (not horrible as it’s not exactly life sustaining), but the one thing that’s his telltale sign of depression? He quits tending to his plants. All except his Amaryllis but even that’s neglected quite a bit.

Do they recover from this? Yes. I promised a HEA (Happily ever after) but that doesn’t mean it’s not gonna be difficult.

#ttte #ttte fanfic #ttte Henry #ttte Hiro #ttte henry x hiro #asks #ask answered #ttte 3 x 51

[misscrawfords]

Sometimes I just go internally feral about Henry Crawford and Susan Price who have not yet even met in my currently stalled Mansfield Park sequel. But they will meet and it will be so goddamn life-changing for both of them and they won't even know it. And meanwhile Mary is just sitting there giggling to herself in 50k enemies to lovers hurt/comfort fluff & angst HEA guaranteed.

It's a lonely job shipping the anti-hero of Austen's least popular novel with a minor character he met in one line that one time in Portsmouth who is basically an OC. It's a lonely job but someone has to do it.

#the second miss price

[forever-fixating]

Tagged by @priincebutt to share one of my WIPs. This one is a story that I’m really excited about but won’t start posting until I’m basically done writing it. The content means too much just just be something I start posting but never finish. It’s called Please don’t say you love me. Enjoy!

He sighed and sat up, wrapping his arms around his legs and resting his chin on his knees. David whined and pressed himself against Henry. He knew his human wasn’t well. His eyes on the carpet, Henry replied, “I don’t really want to get into the details, but the long and the short of it is…I have been seeing someone for the past eighteen months. He’s in the closet. After graduation, I asked him if we could get a place together. He said…”

Henry, be serious! I thought you understood what this was. I have to put my career first. I can’t risk people finding out. Christ, I should have known dating someone so young was a mistake, I thought you were mature enough to understand my situation!

Henry squeezed his eyes shut, tears tumbling down his cheeks. “He said no. It’s over.”

It’s gonna be an angsty boi, but I promise there’s a HEA. It’s set in my hometown of Hot Springs, Arkansas because I wanted to explore the beauty of found family, queer communities in the South and smaller towns when compared to big cities, and the reckoning that comes with truly accepting yourself. That was one thing that really inspired me when reading I Kissed Shara Wheeler, when Georgia told Chloe, “I know she left. A lot of people do. And that's okay! I get it! Everybody has to do what they have to do. But if everyone like us leaves False Beach, it's never going to change. Someone has to stay.”

I hope yall love this story as much as I do. Also I needed a story where Alex drinks sweet tea like the good Southern boy that he is! He can drink coffee all he wants, but it drives me bananas when stories have him only drinking coffee and dismissing tea out right. Not liking English style tea is one thing; Southern sweet tea is another thing entirely! *steps off my Southern soapbox realizing that not my experience is not universal 😅*

Happy Sunday, yall.

#red white and royal blue #rwrb #rwrb movie #alex claremont diaz #firstprince #henry fox mountchristen windsor #some sentence sunday #WIP #fanfiction