#i have never hugged so many random strangers in my life.

[orcelito]

Done with the funeral 👍

It was rough at first, & there were a few Strange moments (like seeing my ex step family for the first time in like 8 years), but... in the end, it was actually kind of nice? I cried 3 times total, two during the service, but Thankfully not during when I spoke.

Which. That was actually not that bad. I ended up just reading what I wrote last night/this morning, which is usually not my presentation style, but I didn't have time to practice it lol.

I made people cry, though. Several people shared that with me. One person told me that I should be a writer, and I was like "Well, Good News about That!" I hadn't thought about the fact that my experience with writing would make a good eulogy, but apparently it did!

We played Linkin Park's Shadow of the Day at the end, since Linkin Park is something we grew up listening to because of him. And I'm just always gonna have that memory of it, now.

Yeah.

#speculation nation #there was a Lot of people. so much of my dad's work union showed up. like some 75 people or so. idk #i wasnt entirely sure bc i was just Not looking up lol. but the 100 person room was pretty full #i have never hugged so many random strangers in my life. #it was sweet though. my father was well loved. #it was a rough time starting out but. it was a good experience in the end #understanding why people do this now. it doesnt fix the fact that he's dead. but it feels... healing i guess #like a step in the right direction. a step towards healing. #need to text my ex step sis. she said she wants to get back in contact. #they... *were* family for 7 very formative years of my life. so maybe. maybe. i could talk to them again. #my family definitely has been dwindling. i need to cling to what i have. #anyways. yeah. things are mostly just melancholy now. and i can finally rest tonight.

[pablitogavii]

Interview

Summary: Gavi is asked about you during an interview..him being a blushing mess hehe :)

Pairing: Pablo Gavi x Reader

Warnings: cute pablitooo!

"Welcome Gavi, como estas?" lady said and Pablo smiled kindly

"Muy bien, gracias" he answered playing with his fingers like always since he usually gets nervous about the interviews privately being very shy.

"What an amazing last game of the season, you scored and assisted leading Barça to victory. Congratulations!" she said and Pablo smiled feeling proud that he could be helpful to the team and that they won the league championship.

"Gracias. It's an honor to be at Barça and that's something our coach always reminds us and pushes us to give our maximum each game to earn our spot in this amazing team." Pablo said humbly and the lady listened carefully to his answer.

"Not only was in an amazing game for Barça, it was a special one for you..there was a special moment between you and your girlfriend Y/n after the trophy celebration?" woman asked and Pablo immediately smiled thinking back to the little surprise his teammates helped him with to surprise you for your one month anniversary.

flashback

"Barcelona! La Liga Champions!" Busi spoke into the microphone making everyone cheer at the very end of the trophy celebration at Camp Nour before you were escorted with Aurora, Javi and Pablo's parents towards the gates.

You were called by a little girl who wanted to give you a gift for Pablo and you couldn't refuse asking the security to let her through as she gave you a hug and a stuffed bear. When you turned around, you couldn't find anyone looking around trying to located Pablo and his family.

"Donde esta cariño?" you said more to yourself looking for the messy curls but they were nowhere to be seen.

"Y.n!" you heard his voice from the microphone turning to the little stage where he stood with a large bouquet of red roses surrounded by his teammates who held a sign 'be mine forever?" and you smiled with your face turning bright red while everyone clapped.

You walked towards him and he reached for your hand helping you get onto the stage with him before raising his eyebrows waiting for your answer. You nodded your head hugging him tightly and letting happy tears fall down your face while everyone cheered around you.

"Tu estas loco!" you whispered and he giggled nodding his head while kissing your temple and then finally your lips.

"Loco para ti mi amor..te amo mucho..happy first anniversary!" he said and you smiled nodding your head still in utter shock taking the large bouquet and turning to see everyone looking up at you with big smiles.

"Amor!!" Belen said and the rest repeated while you chuckled turning to Pablo this time snaking your arms around his shoulders and kissing him passionately.

"Congrats mi campeon! I can't wait for forever with you!" you said with your forehead against his and he hugged you stepping off the stage to join his family with you still in his arms.

"Congrats hijo, hija!" Pablo's dad hugged you both and you smiled that the man just called you his daughter as Aurora, Javi and Belen joined in on the hug.

"Congrats hermano!" Pedri was first to hug Pablo as the rest of his teammates joined to congratulate us as well.

end of flashback

"Si, um..I wanted to make it special since it's our very first anniversary and she is someone who is very important to me. I don't think I could do any of it without her to be my rock and someone who calms me down" Pablo answered with red face and the lady smiled at the boy who was mumbling his words.

"There were speculations about your love life, people saying you never confirm your status but now there is no question about it. She is a lucky chica" lady said

"I had nothing to confirm until we were officially together, no? I have been connected with so many people from my friends, to some random strangers but until I met Y/n, I really had nobody. I have no problem confirming I'm taken but only when that's true. And believe me I am the lucky one..she is an angel who protects me" Pablo smiles at the lady who said he was looking so happy while talking about you.

"What's your favorite thing about her if you don't mind me asking?" she added and Pablo immediately smiled thinking about your face in his head.

"No, um..I could talk about her for days..I really like her dimples when she smiles..they are so cute..I like the way her eyes sparkle whenever she wants something, it's impossible to say those to those eyes and she knows it..I just love how she hold herself, like a lady, like a queen and that's the way I will always treat her" Pablo spoke feeling like he wanted to have you in his arms right this second.

"Gracias Gavi. Treat your girl right and enjoy your love chico!" she said shaking his hand before he left feeling like he wanted to hear your voice so he called you.

"Hola?" your voice was sleepy and he realized that you were still in Paris after visiting your best friend for her birthday and that it was super early.

"Amor..I'm sorry I woke you up..I just wanted to tell you that I love you..so much..and that I miss you" Pablo said and your heart swelled from those words feeling lucky to have found someone so special in your life.

"I love you too cariño. I have a flight in a few hours and I will see you tonight at home" you said making him smile and nod his head impatiently waiting for the hours to pass all day long!

#pablo gavi #pablo gavi icons #pablo gavi x reader #pablo gavi x y/n #pablo gavi x you #fc barca #fc barcelona #fc barça #gavi #gavigif

[freyanistics]

Comfort~

Miles Morales x Black!Reader

Angst at first but fluff at the end.

This is based off the horror short ‘The Spider Within.’

Spiders.

So many spiders crawling all over his body. One the size of his hand even managed to crawl out of his mouth. It’s pointy legs pressing down on his tongue like pin pricks. Miles wanted to throw up so bad. Feeling disgusted that thing even crawled out. Why was there so many? Why were they crawling all over him? Why why why why

After waking up in a cold sweat in his bed with his heart through the roof he realized it was just a nightmare. He could hear the horror movie his father had originally wanted Miles to watch with him playing in the living room. Clutching his chest Miles closes his eyes trying to calm himself. He had to get some air. Throwing on some random clothes he quietly opens the window slipping out onto the balcony heading down the rickety staircase. He felt paranoid from his vivid nightmare as he kept glancing over his shoulders at any shadow of movement.

He didn’t know where he was headed, just letting his feet leading him down the dark streets of Brooklyn until he reached your apartment complex. You and Miles used to go to school together until he went to Visions Academy. Despite you two no longer in the same school you still were close friends and hung out. For some reason he sought out your presence in his time of need. He just hope you’d be awake.

He quickly scales the brick wall up to your bedroom window landing on the balcony with a soft thud. Your curtains was closed as he saw the familiar light blue shades that you’ve had in your room since first grade. Reaching a hand out he lightly taps on the glass sliding door before putting his hands in his pockets nervously. What if you wasn’t home? Or your parents open the door? What could he even say on why he was at your balcony door at ten pm at night?

Just as he was about to turn to leave the curtains pull back revealing your form. You was wearing a black bonnet to protect your braids. Your light yellow pjs clung loosely on your body as you looked up at him with wide eyes.

“Miles?” You say opening the balcony door allowing him into your room.

“Hey, I know it’s late I just…decided to stop by.” Miles says sheepishly rubbing the back of his head. Looking around your room he noticed how it still looked the same. Figurines on your dressers, a few posters featuring your favorite bands or singers on the neutral colored walls. Your bed that was placed in the corner of the room with covers pulled back hinting you were in bed.

“Miles? Are you okay? You never came here this late before.” You ask him with hint of worry in your tone. You cared deeply for your friend and you could sense something was wrong by how he was behaving. You both have made a promise to one another that you will be open to each other no matter what.

Miles doesn’t meet your eyes opting to look at the carpet floor. Finally after a few minutes he meets your eyes and you could see bags under them.

“I just feel…stressed out. This new school my parents put me in is amazing don’t get me wrong but I don’t know anyone and just feel like a stranger. My parents want what’s best for me, to succeed in life and I want to make them proud it’s just…” he sighs rubbing his temples as you feel your heart drop.

“You feel overwhelmed.” You say softly and he nods. You understood him exactly as you have gotten overwhelmed with your own personal problems in life. In hindsight you felt a bit jealous that Miles was going to a top notch school while you stayed behind, your parents unable to afford such a school. You knew they were trying their best and couldn’t blame them but it didn’t stop you from thinking you weren’t good enough to get into that school.

Walking over you hug him making him freeze a bit before wrapping his arms around your waist. He had gotten so much taller over the year that you even joked he had to have hit puberty over night. Finally you pull away leading him to your bed as you sit down on the edge patting the spot beside you. Once he sat down you look him in the eyes.

“Miles you’re doing your best and that’s all that matters. I see it, your friends back at our school see it, and I’m sure as hell your parents see it. Things are going to get rough sometimes, believe me I know, but just know you have a good support team backing you in your corner.” You finish with a soft smile. Miles returns it looking away for a couple of minutes.

“Thank you. I really needed to hear that.” His heart was beating slowly as the memories of the dream was already dissipated from his mind. Smirking you punch his arm lightly.

“Think you can still beat me at Smash?” You ask him with a mischievous glint in your eyes. “If you have a few minutes we can play a few rounds.”

Miles look out your balcony door then back at you, a slow grin appearing on his mouth. “You’re on but I’m maining Mario.” He says as you start booting up your old wii. “You always use him, even as kids.” You say groaning playfully. Even though you two were going on two different paths you will always find each other in your time of need. And that all matters.

#atsv #atsv miles #miles morales #miles morales x reader #miles morales x black!reader #across the spiderverse #into the spider verse #the spider within #possible spoilers #no proofreading we die like men

[whatisreggieshortfor]

His Jacket

Komori x reader

Your mom had decided to make you go through your childhood bedroom- make piles of what could be donated or thrown away, pack up what you wanted to take back to your own place.

That was how you found it.

Tucked into the back corner of your closet.

Your ex’s high school volleyball jacket.

You hadn’t spoken since the break up, a mutual but painful experience, when you and your high school sweetheart realized life was taking you different ways. He was getting recruited, you were going off to university. You didn’t want to hold him back, it was the last thing you’d ever do, so you let him go. And he did the same.

You slipped the jacket on, even though the color scheme always made you laugh. Yellow and green were such brightly colored choices, but you had always thought he made it look good. It didn’t smell like him anymore, which made sense. It had been in your closet for over four years. But you could still remember it when you closed your eyes and tried hard enough. You knew you should return it, but it hugged your shoulders the same as it used even though you’d grown a bit more, it made you feel like you still had him.

So you kept it on.

You packed up the rest of what you wanted, stowed it in your car, and made the trip back home. Unfortunately, you went about the rest of your day forgetting you had it on. Like when you left your apartment to grab a coffee after moving the boxes.

It was such a simple lapse in judgement, thinking about the distance between Tokyo and Kanagawa and Shizuoka City, you shouldn’t have run into anyone that knew who the jacket belonged to. But then again, life was never easy.

“Aye, Sakusa, look! It’s someone from your alma mater!”

You closed your eyes, deeply breathing and praying there was someone else here in the school colors but too afraid to look. The deep voice you knew well drifting over, “I’m surprised you know what alma mater means, Miya.”

“Wha- I know things!”

“Knowing things doesn’t just mean being able to hit on random strangers and managing a number less than half the time.”

“Wha- Omi!”

Maybe they’d keep arguing and forget about you. Maybe they would leave you alone.

But again, life is never that easy.

Slumped in your chair, staring down at your mug, you could’ve almost ignored the presence that appeared at the other side of your table, but he’d always had such a commanding aura.

“I thought that was you.”

“Hi, Kiy- Sakusa.” You cringed internally, hating that even all these years later you had the urge to use his first name, “It’s, uh, it’s good to see you.”

His dark eyes stared at you, most of his face still hidden behind his mask like it was in high school, “I wasn’t expecting to run into you… we’re here for a match.” You nodded, lips pursed as the two of you tried to navigate small talk after so many years. Just as you opened your mouth, it was like he read your mind, “He’s doing okay. Figured you’d want to know considering…” he gestured vaguely at the jacket you wished you had remembered to take off.

“Yeah… was hoping he was doing well.”

“Omi-Omi! We need to get to the gym!”

Rolling his eyes, Sakusa went to leave, but froze, “I know you think I didn’t care for your company in high school, but you were… tolerable.” You snorted and could see his eyes crinkle behind the mask like he was smiling, “You were good for him. It’s not my place, but it might be time to reach out again.”

He was following his teammates through the door before you could reply, only for the smaller one with orange hair to run back inside, “Hi! Sakusa wanted to invite you to the next game but didn’t want to walk back in where there were so many people. We play tonight against VC Kanagawa, he’s gonna leave your name on the list, okay?” You had to laugh as he ran back out before you could say anything.

Even if they stayed for your reply, it’s not like you were gonna go.

You were there. Unsure what led you to the decision, it was like you were on autopilot until you found yourself outside the gym, and then suddenly you were frozen with the ticket in hand.

What were you honestly doing here? It’s not like you avoided volleyball since high school graduation and the break up, in fact you had managed your uni team, but you had never ventured so closely into his territory. This wasn’t just the game of a friend from high school, this was his cousin. How could you come here when you hadn’t reached out? Hadn’t spoken since you left his home to cry yourself to sleep in bed nearly five years ago?

You were knocked out of your head by someone stumbling up behind you and thumping into your back, “Oh! I’m so sorry. I didn’t… see you…”

You didn’t need to turn around to know who it was. You also didn’t need to turn around to know he knew who you were. But you turned slowly all the same, finally seeing him in person again, “Hey M- hey Komori. I guess I should’ve expected to see you when Sakusa invited me to the game.”

The smile he gave you was tinged with sadness, “No more Motoya, huh? Never thought we’d get to that day, Y/N.”

You gave a small laugh, “Neither did I. Ya know, I’ve been tracking you- I mean your team, obviously I mean your team.”

His smile changed to that big grin that used to make your heart melt- that still made your heart melt, “My mom has kept in touch with yours, so I guess I’ve been tracking you too. Accountant at a law firm, huh?”

You made a face, “Yes. Get yelled all day about spending by the people doing the spending and claiming it has to do with cases when it rarely does.”

His laugh was so refreshing, like you hadn’t heard a sound that beautiful in all those years, “You know you could always contact that old friend of yours from Nekoma- Kuroo, remember? He works for the JVA now. Maybe they need accountants.”

“Yeah, he’s tried to recruit me.” You laughed, before it faded and you struggled to smile as big, “I didn’t want to tread on your territory.”

Komori gave you a look that seemed to cross between empathetic and confused, “Since when was this only ever my territory? Far back as I can remember, you were always here with me.” You gaped, floundering for something, but he just slowly took your hand, “Are you seeing anyone?” You opened your mouth, but couldn’t force the sound out, so you shook your head. “Mind letting me take you for a drink after the game then? I know it’s been a while, but you’ve just…”

“Always been on your mind?” You ventured, and when he nodded you squeezed his hand, “You’ve always been on mine, too, Motoya. I would really like to get a drink with you.”

He grinned again, “Kiyoomi told me he found you wearing my jacket, by the way.”

“That rat!”

Sakusa smirked when he saw the two of you sitting together in the stands.

And he smirked again a few years later when he stood next to the two of you as Komori’s best man.

Masterlist

#haikyuu #haikyuu x male reader #haikyuu x reader #haikyuu x gender neutral reader #haikyuu x female reader #komori motoya #komori x reader #komori motoya x reader

[ramayah]

"𝐣𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐬" — stranger things males x gn!reader

𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄 — fluff (jealousy, kissing) + degrading name-calling (slut + stupid slut) !

𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆(𝐒) — none !

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐒 — steve harrington, eddie munson & billy hargrove

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑'𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄 — when i say " chest" in billy's part, i mean any kind of chest. even males, tysm 4 coming to my ted talk<3

STEVE HARRINGTON's jealousy meter doesn't ring quite high when his lover, you, aren't mentioned. Discounting all the times when Dustin has bailed on him during their Saturday movie nights.

Disregarding that, he didn't like the thought of you with _____. You were ... too close to the male, entirely too close. Even though he was not knowing of how you and your friends acted around each other, mainly because he kept paying too much attention to you instead of your words. However, the way _____'s glances started lingering a lot longer than normal, his small touches soon turned into waist hugs, and his compliments soon turned into flirty-ments.

" You do see what he's doing, right? All those .. disgusting glances." Steve mumbled the last part as he protectively wrapped his hands around your waist and snuggled into your neck, pressing soft kisses on your neck whilst doing so. " He isn't doing anything, Steve. And it's too early in the morning for this.." You slurred, running your hands through Steve's hair as he moved down to your chest, a soft hum leaving your lips whilst he did so. " But he's quite the toucher, actually. And his flirty comments are so ... bleugh." He mumbled against your chest before being eye-level with you once again.

" Stevie, baby, listen ... Wait— Is the Steve Harrington jealous?" You inquired, a smile on your face as his sleepy gaze met yours. " Jealous? Me? Those words have never been put together; you know." He pressed soft kisses on your face, before pressing a kiss on your lips, making your eyes flutter shut from the heart-felt impact.

" Mm.. I'd love you to be jealous more often if I'd get this many kisses from you." You smiled softly, your arms were wrapped around his neck, chest's pressed up against each other, your limbs entangled with each other's. It was the perfect way to start a Saturday morning, exactly the perfect way.

EDDIE MUNSON's love life is quite disastrous, in a sense that he isn't one to have lovers or has had many lovers in his time of being a cute, chaotic metalhead. Therefore, the only times he has been jealous is when people have touched his dark red and glittery electric guitar. However, when the Hellfire club meeting is over, and he sees you next to a random person. Their arms were hooked around your waist, their head on your shoulder and your bodies pressed together. Your hands rubbed up and down their back, he couldn't read your lips, but bloody hell did it make him mad.

" Yeah, I'll call you! Love you!'' You waved goodbye whilst walking towards your car, Eddie's gaze didn't meet yours as you climbed into the car with him. He threw his jean jacket into the backseat with anger clouding his face.

Were you cheating on him? He didn't want to go to such conclusions; however, it was the first thing that popped into his mind.

" I missed you." You cooed, pressing a kiss to his cheek before going back to start up the car. " Who was that uhm, person?" He questioned, still faced forward whilst twisting and turning the rings on his fingers as tears started to prick at his eyes as he pondered about your answer. " What do you mea- Oh, _____? They're just an old friend that came to visit Hawkins, wanted to meet up at the moment so, it happened. They got so emotional when they saw me, it was a nice reunion." You explained, taking his head in yours as you backed out of the parking lot. " Hmm," You hummed in thought as the car was at a red-light, turning your head to face Eddie's, " Were you .. jealous?" You asked out of pure curiosity, you could see the tip of his ears turn bright red at your question.

" No, I wasn't. I'm just saying what the universes feels what needs to be spoken out loud so both of us know how to deal with it. Like a couple should do, you know."

" You're pretty when you blush.." You cooed whilst pressing your lips together with his in a soft, sweet and passionate way. " I love you, so much, but we should probably go home to finish this." He mumbled as he pulled apart from yours, your lips still ghosting over each other. " Mm.. You're right, one more kiss?"

Eddie's face erupted into a smile, " Yeah, just one."

BILLY HARGROVE's love life, unlike Eddie's, is all over the place. One-night stands on his left and on his right. Of course, anyone would jump up and down to have the chance to have sex with him at least once in their life from how good they say he is. And since he's had so many partners from that simple fact, he's never been jealous seeing one of his partners with someone else. He obviously satisfied them so much to the point where they couldn't get his attention anymore.

Disregarding that fact, he had now become the type to get jealous, and so easily at that.

" Billy, ah, we're on duty-" Your hushed words soon turned into muffled moans as his hands traveled up and down your body, mainly fondling with your chest, his tongue slid over yours so effortlessly. When you two pulled apart, his mouth went to travel up and down your neck, placing hickeys here and there whilst doing so, his hands going down to untie your shorts.

" What's got you so riled up, hm?" You questioned as he sat you on a nearby counter, hands fondling your thighs as your arms were wrapped around his neck. " Who were you talking to today?" He questioned, pressing soft kisses on your shoulders, leading up to your neck, and then he pressed kisses on your jawline.

" Mm.. What do you mean?" You answered, confused to what he was asking, he smiled as your breath hitched when he left hickies on your neck. " You know what I mean, don't be so stupid." Billy hissed as he gripped your chin, eyes glaring into yours. " Or are you a stupid slut? Jus' for me?" His harsh words sent a shiver down your spine, he knew just how to toy with your feelings and make you feel like a personal toy all for him. God, it made him so sexy. " Is the Billy Hargrove jealous? All over a few friends of mine?" You questioned, a smirk evidently present on your face as he leaned in closer to you.

" Who are they?" He spat, obviously jealous but he had too much pride to admit to such a thing.

" Fuck buddy's, Billy. You're not my only one. You don't give me as much pleasure as you think. You're just a side piece, honestly." You hissed, and after saying all those things, you were rewarded with a night being taught a lesson.

[SIGNED BY— kuvijuo. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.]

#♢.ev's fluffs #♤. ev's thrists #steve harrington my beloved #eddie munson my beloved #billy hargrove my beloved #x male reader #x bottom male reader #male reader insert #male reader smut #male reader fluff #x male reader fluff #x male reader smut #bottom male reader insert #x gender neutral reader #steve harrington fluff #steve harrington x male reader #steve harrington x gn reader #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington x you #steve harrington x y/n #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson x male reader #eddie munson x gn reader #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x you #eddie munson x y/n #billy hargrove smut #billy hargrove x male reader #billy hargrove x gn reader #billy hargrove x reader

[suffering-and-happy-about-it]

The Genius Florist (Killshot, Part 1.)

Description: The occupation as a member of SAS came along with many restrictions and rules one had to follow to a dot. It could get even more intense for a soldier carrying a lot of trauma and not enough self-love, if any at all. Thank God, this lonely soldier meets a lonely florist one day, and as they say - animals have the best judge of character.

Part Summary: Johnny MacTavish was about to make the most important step of his life and asked one of his best mates and boss to come along. Unexpectedly, the day brings a new hope at rekindling old relationships and making new ones.

A/N: For some unknown reason, my brain blipped and decided to give the reader glasses. It is for you to decide if she's having them on at work only or if she wears them all the time... Or whether she wears them at all. Also, the cover of Modern Warfare 2: Ghost eludes me to believe that Simon likes a cig or two every now and then. I wouldn't assume he's a regular smoker, but he defo likes to light one up when he drinks or feels like there's too much on his shoulders.

Word count: 6.5K

Tagging: x​

Master list: H E R E | Ghost's tapes: P L A Y L I S T

Never in his lifetime would Simon Riley imagine he’d been caught doing this. Frankly, he’d be rather caught dead than doing whatever this was. Deep inside, very deep, he was honoured to be chosen for this opportunity. The main cameraman, Johnny exclaimed jokingly, making Simon roll his eyes. Soap knew he got him hooked right then and there. On the other hand, Simon wouldn't ever imagine Johnny MacTavish getting into a very serious relationship with a Brit; mainly due to Johnny's everlasting ramblings about how the Brits in his unit are the bane of his existence. That changed when Soap met her; a wonderful, smart, and beautiful lass named Cassie. She was, according to her own words, the happiest and luckiest gal in the whole wide world thanks to Johnny.

Sure, Simon couldn’t really comprehend how it was even possible for someone as idiotic as Soap to make such a wonderful woman this content, but he didn’t dig into it much. If anything, it was endearing watching the two slowly fall deeper and deeper into each other. However, in the beginning, Simon had difficult time warming up to Cassie and her presence. By now, he was more or less comfortable around her and accepted her as an extended part of Johnny himself. The lass taught MacTavish how to be more extroverted and slowly let him blossom under her influence. Their happiness couldn't be measured.

He first met Cassie a year back. The night they'd been introduced in a pub was certainly a night to remember. Simon spent most of the time staring into his glass of whiskey, listening to the chatter around him, chuckling under his baklava - the unit members invited were interviewing poor Cassie as if their lives depended on it. Johnny, to make known that he was there for her the entire time, laughed along happily and jumped in whenever the question seemed inappropriate. Johnny's palm ran up and down her upper thigh under the table the whole time. This intimate gesture was saved only for lovers. At first, Simon didn’t overthink it; yet the longer he bore witness to said gesture, the more it itched itself into the back of his head. Needless to say, he was the first to leave that evening, packing his stuff in a rush just so he wouldn’t intrude for much longer.

As he walked home, Simon tried to reflect on what could be the reason behind him suddenly getting so upset over a sign of affection - he witnessed it all the time. Strangers out in public were hugging, holding hands, kissing and always making out. It was easy to dissociate from random strangers. The dissociation became harder the moment it was one of his closest comrades who found his soulmate. The way he talked about her with the boys, the tone of his voice when he called her just to hear how her day was, the newly found glimpse of courage in his eyes each time they were about to enter the battlefield… That was the moment Simon halted and took in a sharp breath.

This, this was the root of the problem, Simon realized. What they had was, to a tee, something Simon longed for in his deepest, darkest fantasies - someone to lean into, someone to laugh about everyday ordinary bollocks with, someone to dance to tacky songs with. Someone to hold, cherish and love for the rest of his life. That one special lass who’d be waiting for him at their apartment after a long deployment. The one who’d love his face no matter how many scars would pile up on it in the coming years. Someone he could cook with, and share his space with without fear or regrets. And maybe even… Simon shook his head. No, imagining a smaller version of himself running around the apartment was a bit too far-fetched, even for him. He could barely imagine dating, so jumping straight to kids was a rather rushed conclusion. This was his little impossible fantasy that was to never come true.

The older Simon got, the louder this longing got - the harder it was to ignore. He wasn’t getting any younger, it felt like he was running out of time. Not ever building himself a proper future was something he thought he was already settled with... But now that MacTavish got himself something Simon would trade his existence for, and it seemed to be working seemingly flawlessly… Why couldn’t Simon do the same? Could he still excuse his loneliness with his work? Hardly, Johnny was making it work even through their occupation. Maybe it was time to pour himself a glass of wine - Simon Riley was unable to start and maintain a meaningful human connection. As soon as he got intimate with anyone outside his unit, all of his alarms started to ring and red flags rose before he and the person got truly intimate. Knowingly, he forbade himself from such a life, mainly due to his duty to the crown. Another fact playing a huge role in all of this was his past and all the demons that refused to stay hidden in the shadows.

Poor Cassie was hot on her heels to bring the boys a pie she baked later in the evening - she approached Simon and apologized for the night before. She didn't know if she'd done something inappropriate to upset him or if she said something wrong... But the pie symbolized a peace offering. The white flag of truce, that's how Cassie phrased it. Poor lass didn't know it was Simon roasting himself mentally. She had nothing to do with his temper or bad mood. If anything, it would've been more appropriate for Simon to bake at least three pies for her. She deserved it more. Each time Ghost thought of this moment, recalling as Cassie watched him with tears in her eyes hoping she'd be forgiven for nothing, he had to smile. He made a new friend that morning. A genuine friend outside the unit - now, Cassie checked on him regularly, always trying to woo super-secret information out of him, something dragging him for a hangout with her and Johnny. Sometimes, Cassie would succeed with extorting the information even out of someone as stoic as Simon was (for example, Cassie was one of the only two people who knew about Simon's soft spot for kittens and puppies), sometimes she'd 'fail miserably', to quote her (she once tried to ask about the type of women Simon was into, possibly leading into setting up a date for him if he wasn't careful enough).

One question still remained - why, for the love of God, was Simon chosen to keep MacTavish company while he picks out the bouquet of flowers for his proposal? Why did Johnny honour him by giving him the position of the cameraman? It was around noon. By this point, Johnny had shoved the diamond ring in Simon's face at least fifteen times. This morning alone. Simon hadn't even bothered counting how many times he saw the small piece of jewellery in the past months during their deployment. Soap kept the ring on him the entire time, telling the lads that Cassie would love the idea of him holding onto the ring during the most intense moments of his life. MacTavish proclaimed this a sign of devotion and love, Riley a sign of idiocy and madness.

“Are you sure we’re heading in the right direction?” - The masked man asked his comrade as he watched him shove the ring back into his jacket. Soap glanced at him mindlessly, looking around for a bit. “Positive, Ghost. My soon-to-be mum-in-law tipped me off to go to this particular shop on this particular day. There’s this genius florist whom she orders bouquets from all the time, said they were the nicest she’d ever seen. Should be riiiiight…” - MacTavish checked his phone again, poking his head around the corner to see if he was right. - “There.”

Both army men stopped in their tracks to look at the flower shop properly. The place looked awfully inviting and sunny even though it was located five minutes away from Soho. This place simply begged for the standbys to look inside and give it a try, it asked to be explored. The shop bore similarity to an intimate greenhouse in the middle of the concrete jungle of London. Ghost immediately noticed that even most people visiting the café on the other side of the street glanced inside the secluded space dreamily. The greenhouse wasn't walled off by concrete, instead, huge portions of said walls were made out of glass, showing the ridiculous amount of flowers, decorations and fairy lights hung all over the interior. Among cut flowers, the shop also offered a fair amount of succulents and exotic flowers delicately placed into either elegant or colourful, almost childish pots. Amid this chaos, there was a desk, a countertop to be precise, with azure colour painted all across it. Name of the flower shop? Rosemary’s. Simply Rosemary’s. Who was Rosemary? No clue.

The two gentlemen entered the shop while chatting, making sure to close the door behind them - the weather was cold and gloomy, and there was this omnipresent darkness even though it was barely 1 p.m. Funnily enough, the mood outside didn’t make it inside in any way, shape of form. The temperature and humidity were taken up to 11 inside the shop, presumably to keep all the exotic plants and succulents in good shape. The cut flowers didn't seem to mind at all, they looked perfectly fresh - as if the florist had just come back from picking them on a meadow.

To be honest, Simon never appreciated places like these. He preferred his shops of choice dark and anonymous, places where no one could recognise him. He preferred to be just a face in the crowd, even though his baklava made him stick out like a sore thumb most of the time. In his eyes, these shops always came across as a tidbit tasteless. On top of that, the mentioned so-called florist genius was playing some tacky 2010s playlist, seemingly grooving to it while walking around the shop, checking on the flowers. - "I'll be right with ya, gentlemen! Just need to find a white ribbon in the back!"

The bouquet on the countertop, of course, Simon assumed. She needed it to finish MacTavish's order - the main skeleton was already being put together with white roses, pure white Transvaal daisies and the brightest lillies Simon ever laid his eyes upon. From the intel he gathered, MacTavish and this mysterious florist spent hours discussing the meaning and design of the bouquet, each flower spelling out different meanings and promises. Promises for Cassie which Johnny meant to keep. What were the meanings and promises? Sadly, Ghost didn't remember a word from Soap's comprehensive speech. Next to the skeleton of the flower, there were also a few decorations laid out as if the florist couldn't precisely decide which to pick. If Simon had to pick, he would go for the small branches spray painted to a subtle silver colour with pears glued on. He'd rather let the florist decide, though.

As Simon wandered off, looking at all the types of succulents, he almost missed a small ball of energy running between his legs. After he looked down and focused on it, he realized it was just a little puppy. A very energetic one... A very happy one, to say the least. "Hey, miss?" - He cried out, catching both her and MacTavish's attention. The moment Johnny set his eyes on the dog, he lowered himself down, letting out a sigh of adoration. The puppy didn't waste a second before running off to Johnny's arms, enjoying all the pets and scratches it got out of him. Simon let out a silent chuckle as he watched one of his best friends mumbling nonsense to the puppy, being enamoured by it. - "Is this puppy yours?" "Oh, yes, I'm so sorry. Does it bother you?" "Not in the slightest!" - Johnny cried out happily, picking the dog into his arms.

Finally, you walked out of the facilities, closing the door behind you, white expansive ribbon in your palm. Seeing that your puppy is in good hands, you knew you didn't have to take it back there just yes. "How can I help you today, gentleman?" - You asked, smiling widely at them. Since this was none of Simon's business, he continued with looking at all the types of succulents Rosemary's had on display, listening to your conversation with Johnny. - "Are we looking for any special flowers? For your mum perhaps? Or something more... Special? For a girlfriend, maybe? I can make it all happen." "Actually, name's MacTavish? The bouquet you're finishing should be the one I ordered a week ago, yeah?" "Is it already 1 p.m.?" - You mumbled back in utter horror, presumably checking your wristwatch. As you gasped and started giggling nervously, it could be heard you were unnerved. - "I'm so sorry Mr. MacTavish. I should've had your order ready, but Bonnie gave me a run for my money earlier this morning. She wasn't feeling too good and I was scared because she's just a puppy... And now I'm just late for everything and looking like a blithering idiot. But yes, this is the bouquet, it should be ready in the next ten to fifteen minutes." "This little rascal gave you that much trouble, eh? Who could be even remotely mad at this little bundle of joy?" - MacTavish continued fluently, lovingly caressing the puppy. - "Also, that works for me, then. Me and the arse over there wanted to go for a cuppa anyway. Now, we have an excuse for it."

"Mhm." - You agreed. - "The café on the other side of the street is a killer. I'd kill for their croissants and chai latté, trust me. You're in for a treat..." - Then, both you and Johnny tailed off the rails, talking about Bonnie and her stomach ache. In the spawn of a minute, MacTavish jumped to your music choice - asking about what were you listening to. With a quiet giggle, you told him it was some mid-2010s band Simon had probably never heard about. "Really?" - John wondered, laughing unbelievably. - "Haven't heard them in ages! Wow, I feel ancient. I used to love them." "Sex on Fire is their biggest hit, in my opinion, but I could name a few..." - That was when Simon turned around to tell MacTavish they should leave you to your work if he wants the fucking bouquet finished today. That was when he first laid his eyes on you. Properly. Without your back turned to him or being hidden away inside the employees' facility.

The was... Something. Something in the way your expression changed as you spoke with Johnny, laughing at his responses. The lights flashing in your eyes revealed all the passion and thoughtfulness that you neatly hid away. Something in the way your body moved on its own as you gestured; Simon liked this part of you. It felt warm, inviting and welcoming, friendly almost... Even though you had never met Johnny in your life, you've chatted about like a pair of old friends. It was the complete opposite of all the feelings Simon's presence evoked. Something so delightful and beautiful about the way you presented yourself, about your hairstyle, the glasses framing your face, the way your working apron sat on your body, showing the white t-shirt tucked under as well as the jeans pants poking from under it. There was a moment when Simon's body forgot how to breathe entirely. The whole entirety of you was absolutely fucking stunning. This was Simon's first impression of you summed up.

That was when you looked back at him, still smiling from ear to ear. The world froze for a second and stopped turning as Simon stared at you intensely, knitting his brows together, puzzled at all the intense emotions tingling and brewing inside his chest. As Simon blinked, he realized you were clearly talking to him. "Are you okay?" - You asked, giggling nervously. This brought MacTavish's attention to Simon as well. John smiled his way, still cradling Bonnie in his arms. "Oh, he does this all the time. Don't worry about it, he's actually a sweetheart." - The other part Johnny whispered to you, making you laugh as you shook your head.

As you watched Simon back, there was something about the intensity in his stare. It was probably caused by his baklava - you couldn't see his expression, therefore you only had to judge his mood based on his warm brown eyes and light eyebrows knitted together. The intensity of said stare was powered by the frame and sheer size of this guy - not that you'd be the smallest bean walking the Earth, but there was something unnerving about the sheer size of his upper body, noticeably his arms. These bad boys seemed like they wouldn't have trouble smashing a pumpkin if he wanted to. And let's not start on his fucking thighs hugged by shabby, comfy pair of jeans. Naturally, MacTavish's 'he's actually a sweetheart' didn't have the intended calming effect.

"I was going to say that we better go fetch that cuppa if you'd like your bouquet done today." - Ghost spoke out finally, praying that his voice wouldn't give up on him now. - "All your bloody fucking blabbering keeps the poor lass away from work." "Oh, you're probably right, yeah." - MacTavish agreed, looking down at Bonnie. Simon heard you chuckle at their friendly banter; the sound made one corner of Simon's mouth twitch upwards. - "Would your mummy let you out for a short walkie with your newest uncle, huh?" - The man mumbled, glancing over at you. Even before Ghost said a word, you could see him performing a well-trained, yet nonetheless impressive eye-roll upon Johnny's words. "I wouldn't entrust this man with an animal. He'll refuse to give it back, he always does." - Simon butted in and gave Bonnie a scratch because she, indeed, was too adorable. You didn't answer Johnny's request, you simply fetched the leash from your backpack. "Bonnie has a great judge of character... Well, better than her mum anyway. I'll let my girly out with you under one condition - you'll stay right in my field of sight so I know she's safe, yeah? Don't forget I have your number, Mr MacTavish." - The last part was said in the sweetest tone imaginable, but your expression was warning Johnny, promising him many consequences in case anything happened to the dog. As expected from a soldier, Johnny saluted you, adding a: "Ma'am, yes, ma'am" before departing by Simon's side.

Around fifteen minutes had passed since the two left you to work - now, both of them were standing outside, at the edge of your vision field hidden away from the other customers. They each bought themselves a hot drink to sip on as they watched over Bonnie being the most adorable and curious little bean. The feelings tightening around Simon's chest were too much to simply breathe through. Even though he wasn't the happiest about this bad habit of his, he was now smoking a cig with his baklava slightly lifted up. Johnny knew better than to look at him, even though there wasn't much to see other than Ghost's lips and his chin glazed by light stubble.

"Did we get it right?" - Johnny wondered quietly, checking the receipt stapled onto a small paper bag he was holding in his palm. Simon glanced over at his comrade, too preoccupied with watching you at work. There was a furrow on your face as you tied the ribbon around the base masterfully, finishing your last touches; to Simon's pleasure, you went for the elegant silver branched, masterfully sliding in one after one, entwining in an enchanting way. Your lips were moving - either you talked to yourself while you worked or you sang along to yet another tacky song on your playlist. "Croissants and chai latté, that's what she said." - Simon let out almost thoughtlessly, being positive this was the go-to order you told Johnny about. Even though he met you ten minutes ago, this piece of information immediately carved itself into the back of Simon's mind.

As the two army men walked inside the warm, fuzzing café, their eyes fell on the menu immediately. There were so many forms of coffee to choose from, and the variety of coffee beans made the choice even more difficult. While Johnny loved coffee, especially the smell of it in the morning, Simon preferred tea. Not that he wouldn't go for coffee every once in a while, but... That was why he stuck to your recommendation. "How may I help you?" - The barista asked, not even bothering to hide that the sight of Simon unnerved her. Nothing to wonder about, Simon gave strong robber vibes to most of the people he met. "Hello. I'd like to order a chai latté, heard a lot of praises 'bout it." - He mumbled loud enough for the lady to head it through the baklava. - "... Actually, make it two. Two large chai lattés and... Are you out of croissants? Can't see them anywhere." "You're lucky, sir. We just finished baking a fresh batch, right from the oven. How many would you like?" "Four, thank you." - Simon ended the exchange, putting the payment on the countertop without waiting for the change back. The barista's behaviour towards Johnny switched a complete 180° - even more so thanks to the cute puppy in his arms. Soon enough, MacTavish joined Simon in the order queue, both men holding a small pink paper with their order summary on it.

"I've never seen you eat croissants." - Johnny remarked matter-of-factly. Simon didn't respond straight away, shrugging his shoulders at first. "It's not for me." - He explained simply. "... Never seen you drink chai latté either. Were you even aware of its existence?" "The florist talked highly of it and I wasn't in the mood for coffee. Also, she let you borrow her dog, figured would be a nice gesture to repay her somehow." - Again, enough of a simple explanation... Except for all the ulterior motives brewing right under the surface. "I see, you're right, as usual. Should've thought of that, mate. Let's hope we got her order right." - Johnny wondered. Simon hummed, not giving MacTavish any sort of an answer. Simon was positive the order was right - the entire conversation you and Johnny had was itched into the back of his brain.

"We got it right, I'm assuring you for the thousandth and last time." "Right, right." - Johnny waved him off, picking Bonnie off the ground - the puppy was now super-dirty and wet since it devoted its energy to running through every puddle in their radius. - "Hadn't seen you smoking in a long time. Something on your mind, beautiful?" "Not much just stressed about my performance." - Simon replied, his tone of voice not giving MacTavish much room for thought. "Hm?" - Johnny wondered. - "As in the tests or..." "I'm a shit cameraman." - Ghost admitted quietly. For a bit, there was comfortable silence between the two old pals before Johnny started snickering to himself. "For all I care, film your devilishly handsome face for the sake of it, I'll be equally happy with simply having the audio. Even just the part where Cassie says yes." "Oh, now you have an idea for what you're gonna get as your wedding gift." "Now I'm scared, Ghost." "Three whole seconds of my face in its full glory, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, won't ever show it to you again." "Well, that's honouring. Cassie will be so jealous, I'll tell you that much." "Awh, no, the bride gets to see my devilishly handsome face anytime she asks me to." "Cheeky little bastard." - Johnny laughed, watching as your palm skillfully wrapped the bouquet into a protective foil. In a few minutes, you were to be done and the delivery would be completed. After this, there wasn't a singular reason Simon could bump into you 'accidentally'. He wasn't much of a flower guy, mainly due to being deployed for long periods of time. If he were to buy flowers, he wouldn't have anyone to ask to take care of them. By all means, these plants would be better off with anyone else than Simon.

"This thing that the bonnie wee lass said stuck in my head." - Johnny admitted suddenly, capturing Simon's attention. Again, he didn't look his way but hummed so MacTavish would know he was listening. - "The puppy is a good judge of character... Better than her mum anyway." "She could mean anything by that." "Do you think someone's troubling her?" - MacTavish wondered out loud. When the florist said this, Simon simply assumed she was making a subtle joke. The connotations Johnny gave to the statement... Was someone troubling you? Was it a personal dispute? Was it a guy that's been bothering you? Or was just MacTavish whisking some drama that wasn't real to begin with? "I'd assume that's not exactly our business, mate. We might be SAS, but that doesn't mean we have to mingle with every personal dispute we come across." - Simon answered after taking a moment to think it through. Johnny nodded in agreement - what Simon said was reasonable. "All and all, the florist was right. The puppy has a great judge of character, isn't that right?" - The last part was meant for the puppy as MacTavish lowered his head, nuzzling its wet fur with his nose. "Now that's narcissistic." - Ghost remarked, amusement clear in his voice. "I'm talking about how it nearly peed your pants with excitement. This little bundle of joy instantly adored you." - Johnny concluded, watching as Simon flicked the cig. - "We should go. The florist seems to be done."

The result was otherworldly. Any woman would be lucky to receive this bouquet - it was done with a lot of care, attention and balance, and even the smallest details bore signs of being masterfully crafted. "How did you manage to craft this?" - MacTavish breathed out in awe, letting Bonnie off the leash - the pup immediately ran to greet you, wettening your jeans in the process. Simon, even though he wouldn't assume himself to be appreciative of any sort of art, couldn't but stare at it. While he let Johnny do the talking, Simon drowned his sight in you and your masterpiece; the way your eyes lit up upon seeing Johnny's reaction, the wave of giddiness taking over you when he started wowing and swing made him smile under the baklava. "A lot of patience, studies, practice..." - You named out, laughing. - "... To be frank, it's just that I know that my art will make someone very happy. I tend to pour a lot of energy into each bouquet that I sell. Maybe a bit too much at times, but the results are always worth the time and effort." "What's the total?" - Johnny asked impatiently, pulling out his wallet. Cassie would be through the roof as soon as she laid her eyes on the flower, Johnny was sure of it. "Well, I did my best to cut on some costs, but it's still an eternal romance bouquet, so... 180 pounds." "Make it 210. Ms Y/L/N... This is incredible. I can see why my mum-in-law talked about you this highly. She's a regular and she insisted that you, and only you, could make a bouquet for this occasion. As per usual, she was right."

"Mums-in-law love to hear they're right, you're on the right track here. Also, that's very kind of her. Might I ask... I don't want to pry, but who's the bouquet for? I might know the lucky gal since you've mentioned her mum is a regular?" - You wondered, counting the cash Johnny handed you. 30 pounds in tips sure was nice... Nothing you'd personally agree with, though. It was sweet that Mr MacTavish was this happy about the result, but this amount was too high for your liking. Yet, when you tried to give the money back to him, Johnny just stubbornly slipped the tip right back to you.

"My fiancé-to-be is Cassie Neil. She's a Londoner through and through, but goddamnit, she reeled my arse right in." "You're joking! No way..." - The shock in your voice was immeasurable as you opened your mouth in disbelief. - "Me and Cass were high school classmates! Until she left to study in France, we'd been best friends. We're still in touch, not as much as we used to be, though. Sometimes, she stops by to say hi, bringing me some of her famous gingerbread. The last time she stopped by, she blabbered about a Scot who stole her heart away. You must be the mysterious man." As you've said, Cass stopped by recently, maybe around a month ago, going off about this Johnny guy whom she'd been seeing for the past ten months. She mentioned that he was military, a part of the SAS - she explained that their speciality is close combat and hostage rescue. Presumably, Mr MacTavish and his buddy were both a part of it... That explained the baklava covering the man's face. "Oh, so you're the mysterious Y/N! My name's Johnny, love, hi. Wondered to whom she brings the best pieces in the batch." "What a coincidence..." - You giggled, your face getting flushed. - "If I'd knew you'd been sent by good old Mrs Neil, I'd give you a discount. I feel so stupid now."

"Nonsense." - Simon suddenly chimed in, making both of you look up to him. It was highly uncommon for Simon to speak out of terms, the self-control coming with a lieutenant position often held him back. If anything, Johnny believed that Simon is more of an 'I'll say my peace after the rest is said and done' kind of guy. - "Your work's valued exactly how it should be. I don't know much about flower arranging, but this is a masterpiece by all means. There is no reason for a discount. We've, ugh... By the way, we've got you something over at the bakery." - The man added, handing you the paper bag. "Um, thank you for the compliment, sir. Wait... Is this what I think it is?" - Excitedly, you accepted the paper bag right out of Simon's hand; when your skin brushed his, he felt a spark of electricity running right through. It left behind a trace of enjoyable tingling lingering on his skin.

You, on the other hand, didn't seem to notice, being over the moon thanks to their generosity. - "Get outta here, you guys are the best. Hadn't even time to order a takeout, so these will come in handy. Thank you so much." "Ghost here said it's for entrusting us with your sweet little puppy." - Johnny explained, carefully accepting the bouquet you handed over to him. Both of you concentrated on the task at hand while still chatting. "If lending you my pup makes you guys buy me lunch each time, you might as well walk her every day." - You chuckled. Bonnie, as if she sensed she was the topic of conversion, stumbled onto the scene and started to nuzzle Simon's boots once more. This time, however, her look of adoration was too much - the man kneeled and started to pet her. You'd both taken note of the action, smiling without commenting on it. - "But no, you might not keep her, Mr MacTavish." "Oh, jobby. I'll try another time then." - Johnny laughed. - "Also, my lass's friends are friends of mine. Call me Johnny." - The man said, offering you his palm. Without too much thought, you shook it.

"Name's Y/N, hi." - You said, still smiling from ear to ear. Then, you turned your attention to Simon since it would be rather inappropriate to just leave him out. - "And you might be?" As Simon looked at your palm, he tried to figure out which name should he give you - Lieutenant Riley? No, that would make him an egotistical jerk. Simon? No, that would be too personal. Ghost was all that remained as an acceptable option. - "Ghost, a pleasure to meet you." "Pleasure's on my side, Ghost. The two of you gotta let me know how it all went. Every last bit of detail, deal? Also, tell Cassie I'm happy for her and send my best regards. This is huge news." "I'll entrust Ghost with showing you the footage. Or stop by myself. He's my cameraman." - MacTavish explained simply, having Simon grunt in agreement. With a quiet 'awwww', you nodded - suddenly, Ghost's presence made a whole lot more sense. The man didn't appear to be comfortable inside Rosemary's, he seemed like he didn't want to be there. The two must've been great friends, then; usually, the cameramen went on to be the best men. "That's nice of you, Ghost. Also, it's assuring to know both Johnny and Cass have the best people looking out for them."

"We should be on our merry way now. You better make sure you're free this time around next year." - Johnny exclaimed, half-jokingly. - "In one year's time to the day, I'm making this lass my wife." "Is this an invitation or a job offer?" "Could we make it both, Y/N?" "That would be great. Can't wait to hear from you! Bye!"

The entire proposal went wonderfully - Cassie's sister came along, and Kyle and Price also took part in it since Cassie wholeheartedly believed that Johnny's unit was like his family and believed this would be simply a "dinner". Simon was smiling under his baklava the entire time, watching both of his best friends slowly becoming a mumbling, sniffling, crying happy mess. Simon filmed the entirety of it, he also made sure he'd have the best angle possible. Of course, Cassie immediately let out a shaky 'Of course, you dimwit' before hugging Soap passionately. Now, all of them were sitting around the table while waiting for their dinner to arrive. Johnny invited everyone for a glass and some food in one of the more expansive spots in London, making sure this would be a night to remember. Cassie and Nelly were all over the bouquet, gushing over how perfect it was.

Ghost was talking to Price, ensuring he wouldn't have time to talk to Nelly. While he adored Cass from the bottom of his heart, Simon was well aware of the reasoning for Nelly joining them - Cassie had been trying to hook the two up for a fair share of time by that point. As soon as Johnny started talking about the florist and her masterpiece, Simon's ears sharpened, and the conversation between him and Price was long forgotten. "Who made it?" - Cassie gushed with adoration, carefully caressing one of the silver-coated branches woven into between the flowers. "A friend of yours worked on it." - Johnny teased, winking in her direction. - "Your mum referenced Rosemary's and once I saw it, I had to give the props. Y/N is a fuckin' genius." - He explained, smiling happily upon seeing Cassie's mouth open wide.

"That explains everything." "Hell yeah." - Nelly chimed in, nodding. - "I remember when she started to fiddle around with flowers back when she and sis went to high school together. Even back then, her bouquets were just... Different. Always hoped the guy I dated would buy me on hers. Hadn't been that lucky so far." - She mumbled, shooting a quick glance over to Simon. As previously, he did his best to ignore Nelly's advances; it almost felt like Nelly was trying to give Simon a tip about how to impress her. As if. "Never got an answer to why that was, though. Y/N can barely keep up a serious face and hates accepting praises and compliments. The only explanation she ever meant was 'It's because I talk to the flowers, and they carry out my best wishes to whoever they are given to', I think." - Cassie sighed dreamily, playing with the engagement ring on her finger. Oh. The way your lips moved gently as you were finishing the bouquet, Simon recalled - you did talk to your flowers. - "Ugh, I awfully miss her at times. Petty she's so reluctant to go out with me lately, we used to be best friends. I'll have to give her a call."

Upon hearing this, Johnny glanced over to Simon quickly, he didn't even need to add anything. ... better than her mum is, anyway. Reluctance to go out with someone you used to be extremely close to even though you and Cass still felt good about your friendship. Do you think someone's troubling her? Knowing Y/N's best friend was safe made her genuinely relieved. Perhaps, there was something about the sentence after all. "We can invite her to our next hangout?" - Johnny offered immediately, having Cassie's face lit up. "You wouldn't mind?" "No!" - Johnny exclaimed. - "The lass seems fun, I already told her that the friends of my friends are my friends too... And I promised that I'd do my damnest to steal her dog away from her, have you seen that bonnie little she-devil?"

As the dinner carried on, the conversation was lively, flowing very nicely. After getting his hands on his glass of whiskey, Simon tuned out the surroundings, to be honest. His brain registered their laughter and chatter, but it felt as if his head was stuck under the water - he was going over Y/N, and he couldn't get her out of his head. Everything about her was freaking Simon out - the sound of her voice, her laughter and giggles, the curve and apparently plushness of her lips. The joy radiating out of her upon watching Johnny in awe. A hint of softness upon realizing why Ghost was accompanying his comrade - a glimpse of interest, he realized as he finished the glass, putting it back on the table. It could be the slight kick of the alcohol or his imagination making it up, but he'd swear he saw a glimpse of interest in your eyes. Pushing forward and drinking some more, Simon's brain kept trying to decipher the throwaway line that could be meant as a joke - ... better than her mum, anyway. It was decided right there and then.

Simon would try his best to create a situation in which you'd accidentally bump into each other just so he could see you again.

#simon riley x fem!reader #simon riley #simon riley cod #john mactavish cod #john soap mactavish #simon ghost riley #ghost and soap are the official chaotic duo of cod: mw #i live for these two hoes #we live for a king thriving #go get the girl johnny ask for her hand marriage #also idk why do we have a doggo #we just have and that's how we roll #i would die for bonnie even though she ain't real

[sorcerous-caress]

About strangers and love.

I'm one of the people who enjoy being alone, and I mean truly alone. No friends and no close family relationships.

What I have noticed is that the more alone you are, the more appreciation you grow for strangers. The more fascinating they become, interesting humans with such a different life to mine.

You notice their small gestures, their stray kindness, and you grow to appreciate it. What's a casual greeting to them by asking about how you are becomes a significant question to you because no one else has asked you that for months. When a stranger shares their ideas with you and you get a second perspective, one you get to analyse and appreciate it, truly see their point of view and comprehend the meaning behind their words.

My favourite has always been when people would talk about their interest with passion, even if it's something I do not understand or know. I'd much prefer hearing someone explain their favourite show to me rather than go watch it on my own. I have my own favourite shows to watch, and I will probably never see what they found lovable about this one show, I will gloss over it because I only have my own perspective to judge from.

But when a stranger describes it, it's like you get to live in someone else's shoes for a second. Because the passion you can relate to, you've always felt it, the love they express is one so familiar and brimming under your skin, and with that single thread of connection you can step into their world, look through their eyes at their own life.

It's so interesting and fascinating. There are so many people and so many lives. The ones that helpled me randomly, the ones I have helped. They barely know me, but they feel comfortable making a joke with me, sharing a laugh or expressing an opinion. Share their joy, the essence of their souls with a random person.

But I only like strangers as strangers, much like I prefer to view the stars from a distance. And I wonder if my light shines through to someone peering randomly in my direction sometimes.

Every action we preform is with love, if giving your mother a hug is 100% love then saying good morning to a stranger is 0.01% love. But it is still love, and it would've flown under the radar. It's so small yet so precious, it deserves so much appreciation and attention. I happily collect each and every one. My own love has always been more than enough for me, it's where I thrive best by myself, but it's akin to the air I breath, so natural and seamless. A stranger's 0.01% of their own love is the faint fragrance I catch through the day and keep thinking about with a smile.

#just randomly thinking #man i love humans #i should go sleep before I explode from tje lack of sleep

[thewritersaddictions]

Prom Night '86: Robin Buckley- In Silver

Pairing: Robin Buckley x Fem!Reader; Ex!Jason Carver x Fem!Reader

Pov: Reader

Warnings: Loneliness, best friend, more than friends, slight kissing/making out, angst, storytelling.

Summary: The bathroom seems to be your favorite place even during prom, so Robin comes to rescue you.

WC- 2.0k

A/n- fireflygraphics for dividers

Stranger Things Master List // The Adults Master List // Series Master List // Prom Night '86 Master List

The prom was supposed to be the best night of my life. Of course, I was too naïve to notice that my boyfriend of two years had been cheating on me with a girl from the cheer team. I was too naïve to see how much he’d fallen out of love with me. Just how much Jason would talk about how much he had to work, but in reality, he was taking his side chick out for drives around town and romantic things.  

Things Jason never did with me.  

The great thing was the simple fact that he dared to say something after I walked down the stairs in my family's house. A black prom dress and puffy lace sleeves. I stood there waiting for him to take my hand, but he never did. He stood with hands sitting in front of him. Jason didn’t dare to look at my parents as they stood looking happily.  

The happiness was sucked out of the room when the words. “I can’t take you to prom Y/n.” Came out of his mouth. My eyes thinned and I couldn’t help but ask why, a stupid question now I thought. “Why Jason?” I asked tears filling my eyes. My vision became blurry. “I’m taking Veronica,” Jason said under his breath. My father was on the verge of losing his shit, “You need to get out of my house, Son.” My father's booming voice echoed through the house. “Honey” My mother came over to support me. I took a deep breath; this is what happened to me. Regardless of how much I tried to make sure it didn’t happen. 

So here I was my mother still driving me to my senior prom, and with pleading eyes to take the day with a grain of salt. “Do not let that boy ruin your prom Y/n.” My mother said as I closed the door to our station wagon. I took a deep breath and tough it out grabbing my dress and walking the rest of the way into the gym.  

The music was loud, and the crowd of people walking into the gym was a bunch of jocks, and cheerleaders. I internally groaned at the sight of them. But continue on my way towards the large double doors that have been hitched open for people to come in and out.  

As I walk in the decoration was sappy just like every prom before them, I see the long line of couple taking their prom pictures near the back. The line of couples is so long it nearly reaches the front of the gym. I stand around, not bothering to listen to the music nor listen to crowds of people that clapped when my now ex-boyfriend was walking in hands locked together with Veroncia.

They in only a few seconds had become to the high light of the prom night.  I couldn’t care to look at the pair, or the said friends that came running up to hug and smile with the back-stabbing couple. I could feel that the tears I had been holding back since he had left me standing on the stairs with utter shock written on my face.  I ran towards the bathroom. The disgusting school gym bathrooms, which I hadn’t entered since I was freshman here at Hawkins high.

Heels clicking against the hardwood, and title ground. I wasn't paying attention when I walked into the bathroom the girls that were in there ran out, disgusted with a scared and upset girl running in and ruining their fun conversation.  

They scoffed and walked out. I stood in front of a random mirror; it had written in red lipstick ‘Loser’. Looking at the tears that were brimming on the edges of my eyes. All could I see was a disappointment of a girlfriend, well now an ex-girlfriend. I wonder what I had done wrong? Did I not mean enough to him? To many questions to be thought or wondered about espically right now.  

I’m supposed to be enjoying the party, but I can’t manage to move my feet.  Stuck in place, like the dumb sad expression that’s stuck on my face. I can still hear the music from the prom that just happening a few feet away from me. I should be out there, enjoying it but I can’t. He ruined it all for me, the cherry on top is that I had the smallest crush on Veronica. Though when I started dated him, I let go of the crush, and the feeling that had rooted themselves in my heart. 

The crush only grew more as the friends we had included her. Which is a fucked-up thing to think about. She was a part of our friend group; the girl had stolen my boyfriend right under my nose.  I’ll just forget about it for now. I can’t bear to rehash what Veronica and my ex had no problem doing.  

As I stood in front of the mirror. I heard the door creak open; I didn’t bother to look at the door through the mirror. I just kept my focus down on the dirty porcelain sink, that was until I felt the tap of my shoulder. When I looked up, I saw the only face I didn’t wanna see Veronica. “Hey, are you alright, y/n?” She asked her face showed no sympathy, honestly no emotion either. I stood in utter shock; mouth left a gap. “Am I alright? Are you seriously asking me that after you walked into prom with what used to my boyfriend?” I asked my voice was fuming with rage. Veronica looked shocked, almost as if she didn’t have a single clue what had happened just a few hours ago.  

“What? Do you think I have something to do with your relationship falling apart?” She asked a crisp attitude heard behind every word she spoke. “My relationship is shit, because of you.” I said harshly, the tears that I had kept swallowed were starting to show. She scoffed, and turned walking towards the bathroom door. “It was never because of me Y/n. He just didn’t love you anymore.” And with that she turned leaving the bathroom. I stared out at the door for what felt like ages before finally letting the tears fall. I fell down the ground I didn’t care now about the way that the floor was sticky or how the way my chest felt like it was going to explode. I cried, and cried for I don’t know how long. It just wouldn’t stop.  

The music continued to play and I wondered how many others had broken up with tonight. I heard the door open, and when I did look up this time it was a familiar face. “Robin?” I asked out. She wore a sad expression on her face and walked over. “What are you doing on this nasty floor Y/n?” She asked me. “Crying,” I said forthcoming with the information she could see on my face. My face was tear-stained.  

She didn’t laugh at my sort of joke. “Don’t make fun of yourself Y/n.” She stated her face was serious, as if she’d seen behind the joking words, seen between the lines of my words. “I was just..” I try to say, but she’s right and I know it. I take the chance to catch my breath. The tears had taken over control over my already shaky breath.  

Robin brought her hand out. I reached out grabbing her hand, and she helped me up to my feet. “You should have sat here.” Robin said pointing my attention towards the bench the school had conveniently placed only a few inches away from me. Robin and I walked towards the bench sitting together.  

I finally had the chance to look at Robins dress. A dark green long dress. It had a sheer layer of what looked like sparkly lace that layer on top of the green fabric. But in grand Robin fashion instead of heels or even platforms shoe she wore a pair of chucks a dark green that matched her dress.  

“The shoes really match.” I commented. I saw the corners of her face go up. “Well, nobody's got you matched. Now if you weren't out there, I bet you could take the crown away from any other girl.” Robin said. Her words mixing my heart and mind together. “Don’t say that, I bet Veronica is going to take it.” I said my eyes staring down at my sweaty plams. My fingers fidgeting together. Picking at the skin on my fingers. I felt the smallest touch come from Robin. Her hand pressed into mine.  

“Y/n.” Robin said softly almost under her breath. “You’re beautiful, and I’m sorry more people don’t notice it and say it to you.” Robin said softly. Her fingers brushing over my knuckles. I couldn’t help but let the tears once again fall down my cheeks, but this time Robin was there. Her thumb wiping away stray tears that were starting to ruin my makeup.  

She smiled at me, I wasn’t used to the feeling she had only just brought up to me. Ocean blue eyes staring into my own, I couldn’t help but lean into her touch. Lean into her hand that was still resting on my cheek. She cupped my cheek, but brought my attention back up to her face. Licking her lips and looking down at my own. I swallowed hard, and closed the small gap between us.  

Robin's lips were so soft, the way they glided against my own. Like they weren’t meant for my lips. I had never felt so loved in just one kiss before. Not even my ex kissed me like this, something was behind the way Robins stayed on my cheek. There was something to the way that Robins tongue didn’t interject in to the kiss. But instead, they asked, begged for admission. When I let her tongue in, we didn’t fight. We just teased and bite at each others lips and tongue. 

When the air that we both needed desperately it forced out lips apart. God, I wished that all I could do with her. Her lips looked flushed, and so was her cheeks. Eye deepened with lust behind them. I smirked. “Damn.... Who knew that you were just a great kisser.” Robin said. Leaning her forehead against mine. My lips felt bruised but in the best way possible. My cheeks were also hot the touch. The air felt light between the two of us. I wondered how I could possibly had ignored the deep-rooted feeling I had for Robin. Years of being just her friend had concealed so much more.  

I stood up, my shoulders standing wider. My confidence growing stronger, I wonder maybe because of the kiss or maybe just because I had just realized that I never really needed my ex. I turned to Robin. “Why don’t we go enjoy our prom.” I spoke. Robin smiled standing up, taking my hand, the both of us looking at each other in the mirror. “I think you’ve got a great idea.” Robin said looking at me in the mirror. With that we walked out of the bathroom. The music wasn’t that loud, but the crowds of people were standing on the dance floor, and I could get the sense I was being watched. We were being watched from afar. Robin squeezed my hand, “Take a deep breath love.” She whispered in my ear, our hands still interlocked.  

Everything will be fine. Regardless of shitty ex-boyfriends, or even shitter ex-friends. I was no longer lost in what I thought was love, I had someone even better, and I doubted that she’d ever leave me without a single reason. Our hands stayed locked together for the rest of the night. Dancing and moving around together. The funny thing was that the silver lining of the whole night hadn’t been some stupid quote or some stupid thing like getting drunk. Rather it was a wonderful person, one who was content and perfect just the way she was. Robin was the silver lining.  

Completed on: 11/18/22

Posted on: 11/19/22

The Adults-

#strangers things #stranger things x reader #stranger things imagine #stranger things x y/n #strangers things x reader #stranger things x you #stranger things fanfic #stranger things fanfiction #stranger things fluff #robin buckley x you #robin buckley #robin x you #robin buckley x fem!reader smut #fluff #smut #stranger things series #stranger things #strangerthingsedit #angst stranger things #fem reader #female reader #stranger things robin

[indecisive-dizzy]

I can’t be cohesive about DearDollops so have random headcanons bunched together

Every time Daisey wants a kiss, they go to Eddie and just ask “kiss?” and they get a kiss :3

Daisey knows how to play guitar, so they sometimes play guitar when Eddie visits. He loves hearing them play, and Daisey loves playing for him

Daisey once straightened their hair thinking Eddie would like it more than their curly hair. He liked it but he said something like, “it’s nice but I like your curly hair more. It suits you!” Daisey hasn’t straightened it since (mostly cause they hate burning their hair)

Eddie’s hair is curly and Daisey helps him take care of it (hair care tips, gets him hair products and stuff that help it not get damaged, etc)

Daisey has totally done that stereotypical thing of playing music outside Eddie’s house while waiting for Eddie to see them from his open window. The first time it happened it was late at night and his dad chased them away thinking it was a stranger. He apologized the next day after Eddie scolded him

Eddie lifts Daisey up in a hug and spins them around whenever he sees them sad

They get coffee in the morning together, but Daisey usually gets hot cocoa instead and pretends it’s coffee since they don’t get tired easily (they pass out an hour later-)

Hand kissing me thinks. Daisey just kisses Eddie’s hand to be polite and they get all flustered over it

Daisey loves going to the arcade and dragging Eddie with them, they win a bunch of prizes together by combining their ticket amount

Daisey plays guitar when they’re sad, so they play sad songs. Eddie totally doesn’t cry when they play those songs noooo-

Back on the quinceañera idea, Eddie knows very little Spanish but still tried to talk to Daisey’s uncles and aunts and cousins. Daisey had to translate a lot and they scolded their cousins if they made any rude remarks over Eddie

Eddie just likes spinning Daisey around, either by lifting them and hugging them, or spinning them when they’re dancing because cuteness

Eddie gets flustered more, but Daisey turns red when flustered more

They get teddy bears and buy them matching outfits

Friendship bracelets and necklaces! Daisey never takes them off :)

I have so many more but I’m satisfied with these

They are my special little guys and I love them

That's So! Points! CUTE!

Man I love guitar,,, I could never play but dang. Also Eddie knows violin! Canonically! So he can play violin for Daisey <33

Curly Hair Eddie is everything. The hc I never said out loud is suddenly everywhere I look and I am thriving. Also I think Eddie would always prefer his partner's natural hair over anything, i don't how to describe it but it's just,, them!

Ah yes, boom box serenade. Did they lift it over their head? Or was more Book Of Life style and playing their guitar hehe

Spin Hugs my beloved, Eddie is putting that strength to use! Also hand kisses, aoudhshdh <333

Arcade dates are top tier especially the larger arcades if you can tolerate all the noise

Yeah Eddie definitely doesn't cry like a baby over the very sad heartbreaking music. No clue where that box of tissues went either!

Eddie (re)learning Spanish when? Go take your Duolingo lessons Eddie. /lh

#Matching! Teddy Bears! #friendship bracelets to ahdhsjdb i love itttt #and i. and many others. hc eddie as texan #so what if he knew more Spanish growing up! #what if he was moderately fluent but forgot it all #He hardly remembers his own Mother i doubt he'd remember a second language he hardly uses #welcome home #eddie dear #welcome home oc #not my oc #neon child #dizztalkstoomuch #imagine Daisey trying to help him relearn spanish sobs

[notalostcausejustyet]

Random pic of my hometown for visual interest haha.

I finally had the chance to watch The Assembly interview and I need to talk about it.

I wasn’t diagnosed autistic until I was in my 30’s. I went my entire life missing a measure with the humanity around me. I was forever off time. Out of pitch. The orchestra played along without me. Arguably they sounded better when I didn’t try to join in. Or at least that’s the message that was very strongly given. I didn’t understand why making friends was SO hard. Interactions so stilted and painful. Why people seemed ok with me until I got excited about something we were talking about. I misread signals. I missed entire essays worth of subtext in conversations. I spent my entire life until almost a decade ago feeling like a stranger in a strange land, all day, every day.

When I was diagnosed an entire world of understanding opened up to me. Maybe I would always be a bit of alien on Earth, but at least I had a reason why. And while how society views and often treats autistic individuals hasn’t changed, it has helped me to stop hating myself for all the ways I’m not “normal”. Many of us go through our lives being disrespected, talked down to, excluded, made to feel as if we are damaged beyond repair, a drain on society, a burden to our peers, too much, too loud, too weird. It’s exhausting. And it can lead to a level of self loathing that can be nigh impossible to overcome. Many of us are capable, impassioned, and damned talented in our respective fields and interests. Yes we are loud and miss inference in conversation and we tend towards a rather alarming amount of candor. But we aren’t less. We never have been.

How does this come back around? It’s about respect and kindness. Michael was absolutely respectful to every single one of his interviewers in The Assembly. He met each one of them where they were at, he was gentle and patient when needed. Encouraging or funny as a matter of course. Complimentary in a way that wasn’t disingenuous. He answered questions honestly and he didn’t “dumb things down” (hate that phrase) when he answered questions. He engaged actively and respectfully and treated each and every single person as worthy of his time, patience and respect. That sort of acceptance is exactly what we are talking about when we are pushing for “acceptance not awareness”. We aren’t a disease to be cured. We’re just human. Albeit on a bit different wavelength, but human nonetheless and deserving of being accepted and treated as such. Not forced to shove ourselves into a societal mold to survive, not shunned. Just treated like everyone else. Michael did that. Didn’t even blink. Just went about it like it was how everyone acts. As if I didn’t want to hug the shit outta that man and thank him for his frankly astonishing amount of genuine decency before. Neil cast him perfectly.

#michael sheen #the assembly #autism awareness #autism awareness week #actually autistic #autistic adult

[writersmilex]

Chopper Dave: Headcanons

(Dave is my favourite side character)

Art by Shttea from Newgrounds

- You watch through binoculars, as a helicopter crashes into the grey desert Leaving a trail of black smoke in the maroon sky.

- Out of concern for the Pilot. You approach the wreckage and go look for a pilot.

- You find him, severely wounded, stuck in the wreckage. You pull him out and drag him to safety, just before the crashed helicopter explodes.

- The mysterious pilot is unconscious, his injuries need attention ASAP. Back in your little cabin located on the outskirts. You place the pilot on your sofa and tend to all these wounds. The gashes and burns need the most attention, the bruises will heal on their own.

- Dave comes to a warm-feeling room. Stiff and aching from his healing wounds. He tries to sit up, mumbling about his chopper. To him the world is spinning, he holds his head to try and make it stop.

- His vision clears and he sees you standing over him, a look of relief on your face. "wh-who are you." His voice is hoarse as he groans, speaking hurts his chest. What happened to him?

- You explain to him that you rescued him from the burning helicopter and pretty much saved his life. Dave is still very much disoriented and fell back asleep quickly.

- You nursed the pilot back to health. And he was forever grateful for your help. "You saved my life! How could I possibly repay you?" He says. You say he should resume whatever quest he had going on at the moment. And you send him on his way.

-A few weeks later, you sometimes still think about that mysterious stranger you rescued. Too bad that you never got his name before he left... Maybe you'll see him sometime again.

- You had a lot of problems with bandits lately. And you had no choice but to leave your humble home and go to the city.

Acquaintance____

- Once in the city, you had to look for work and a place to stay. Luckily you found a raising empire that needs recruits and you signed up.

- You got recruited and you got work, a place to stay. And a new purpose to live. After some training. You're ready to go on a mission together with the Boss.

- At the helipad, you spot a familiar face. It's the pilot that you rescued a month ago. And he seems to recognize you as well.

- "oh my god! It's you, it is so good to see you!" He runs up to you and gives you a quick hug. The two of you catch up and you learned that his name is Dave. Dave is really happy with you joining the same cause as him. That way he can repay you for what you have done for him!

- The friendship was a little rocky at first because the both of you were quite busy and didn't have much time to talk with each other.

- Much later, once you completed your training. You occasionally walk up to the helipad and chat with Dave.

- Sometimes while on the way to a mission, you ask a question about the helicopter. Not the best question to ask. Because once you ask about the airborne vehicle, he won't shut up about it.

- Before the two of you reunited, Dave told many people about his story. And the supposed saviour he owes a debt. He has the scars to prove it! Too bad he didn't know your name back then, he would have preached to it.

- Dave loves to talk, he can tell stories for hours if there is nobody to stop him. Usually, while he's flying you somewhere, He's talking about random subjects that come to mind.

- He always wishes you good luck as he drops you off on your mission.

Platonic____

- Most of the time when you return from a mission with Boss. You stop to catch up with Dave and talk about the mission with him as he always seems interested in whatever happened on your mission.

- It has become a ritual of sorts. After every mission you go on, you meet up with Dave before continuing your day. Dave gets worried if you don't show up after a mission, if you got wounded he understands that needs attention first.

- He recommends you to certain people who need mercenaries. Someone mentions that they need something from somewhere, but most of the time you're willing to accept these jobs just for the cash.

- Depending on how long the mission is, Dave will grow concerned the longer you're away on missions. He was always relieved to see you come back eventually,

- He still feels he owes you something, but he is not sure how he could repay with the little he has. The best he can do is be there for you as a friend, and give you money for better weapons and armour.

- As much of a chatterbox as Dave is, he loves to hear about your day over a cup of tea. He loves it when you get in the zone and start to chat his ears off, he only doesn't like it when you talk about the dangerous stuff.

- When you don't have any missions, you often ask Dave to come and do something fun with you. If he is not busy he will join in. These little 'dates' usually consist of roaming around towns. Looking for something to do, which usually causes trouble. It'll only take so long before Dave pisses someone off.

- Every outing ends up being an adventure which is actually a lot of fun. Either Dave is in trouble with the toughs again or you got in a fight with the syndicate... again. The two you of are trouble magnets, to be honest.

- Q-Bert is the third wheel of your duo. And the voice of reason in most situations. Whenever Dave has a plan to do something, Bert tells him to not do it because it's nutty. But you are more than happy to go along with Dave's crazy plan.

-You and Dave have become the closest friends over time, especially with all the trouble that you make together, and now that you have a bounty on your head, life has never been more fun than it has today.

Romantic__Pining____

- Dave still thinks about that fateful day, the day when he first met you. The day that you helped him. The fact that you're willing to help him like that baffles him, and it stirs something in his gut and he is not quite sure what this feeling is just yet.

- He knows you're strong and can take waves upon waves of enemies. But that doesn't soothe his concern for your well-being. It's a lot different when you're going on adventures with him because he is there and he can partly protect you himself. But on missions with the boss, he always has that lingering worry nibbling at the back of his mind.

- Gets even happier when you indeed return from a mission, the feeling of joy he gets when he sees you jump into his helicopter is overwhelming (and sometimes distracting). That smile of triumph you offer him makes his heart do a somersault.

- You're always happy to see him again, something about seeing him makes you feel all gushy inside. Ever since that particularly rough adventure you had with him the other week. You've been a whole lot closer ever since.

- The first thing you do when returning from a mission is greet Dave and chat him up about your day and whatever happened on your mission. Dave always seems to be happy to hear about your adventures without him, happily listening to your rants over a cup of tea seems to make his day as well.

- Bert refers to the two of you as 'lovebirds' now. He can already see that you have a thing for Dave and vice versa. He gossips about it to his customers and he teases both you and Dave with the same phrase, "so? When's the wedding?" He always has this stupid smirk when saying it.

- Because of Bert's gossiping, nearly the whole HQ is aware of the feelings you and Dave have for each other. The only people who are unaware are yourselves. Although you had suspected Dave likes you in that way, only you're a little nervous to make a move first. And Dave had the exact same problem.

- Eventually, you decide to give it a shot, and if you get rejected you'll just eat your heart out. In one brave attempt, you asked Dave to go on another adventure with you, to a local restaurant to grab a bite together.

- And to your delight, Dave accepted and the two of you went on a little dinner date at that Italian restaurant where shady stuff happens.

- Just as aspected, some trouble happened. When a group of Toughs decided to infiltrate Syndicate, The Toughs still had an axe to grind with Dave and it was just a whole mess.

Romantic__Relationship____

- After finally escaping that troublesome situation at the restaurant. You and Dave are leaning against the side of a building trying to catch your breath. "I'm so sorry! Our date is ruined." You apologize to him but he dismisses your apology. "Let's pick a different place and try again ye?" - The next date was slightly more successful, so much so that you and Dave ended up in the same bed that night~

- Your relationship became official after that, and Bert it owed a lot of bet money. You don't really care about who made a bet with who. You've got Dave all for yourself now and it's amazing. You've lived a quiet secluded life before you met Dave and now with all these friends around you and a decent job, you have never felt happier.

- Dave loves to be around you, as you make him feel all mushy and good. He never fails to greet you with a corny pet name. And he never sticks to one pet name either, it always changes and each pet name rarely makes a comeback.

- You and Dave are very much in love. Everyone around HQ knows, simply because the two of you are very open about your relationship. Dave is not afraid of showing affection in public. He always has an arm around your waist if you're right next to him.

- Bert still perks the same teasing question, but now with a much more knowing look than before. "So? When's the wedding?" The still smirks every time he asks it. Still lovebirds.

- And Lovebirds indeed, the two of you don't stop talking about each other. Even when together you don't stop. Dave is all starry-eyed. "My muffin cake is the most wonderful, and saved my life the day we met!" The gleams in awe. Boss knows this story already and has heard it all too many times.

- Still, Dave will forever fear the day you might not come back from a mission. Anxiety scratches at the back of his mind instantly whenever you're away. He silently prays for your safe return every time.

- Dave does not leave your side when you do return from a mission unharmed yet again. He wants nothing more than to cuddle in bed, which of course you do. There is nothing more you love than being with your love.

- You and Chopper Dave are the cutest power couple in the whole HQ. _____________________________________ The current canon character cast is now complete. And I'm going to write some headcanons for my OCs. I only have 3 OCs I could write for, they're a team called Team Tragix. You'll learn more about them later.

#madness combat #madness combat x reader #madness combat reader insert #madness combat headcanons #headcanons #chopper dave #madness combat dave #fluff

[succubusphan]

Two Man Team - Chapter 11

Summary: This is the story of two struggling friends who after many trials and tribulations find their way back to each other and build the life they've always dreamed of.

Or how Phil changed his life by talking to random strangers on the internet.

Rating: E

Tags/warnings: Friends to lovers, Friends with benefits, mental health issues (mainly anxiety), Slow burn, Dan is a psych student. Canon divergence (the timeline is altered and some things never happened), Slutty Phil, Angst with a happy ending. The fic spans many years.

Author's Note: Written for the OSPBB 2023 @oldschoolpbb. Thank you @effingmeteors for being my life saviour and beta as usual and to my artist Lin @anironsidh.

Edits and the art will be added at some point, we are busy bees.

POSTING EVERY DAY UNTIL IT'S COMPLETED.

Total Word Count: 75k ish

Read on Ao3

CHAPTER 11: Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien

Phil hesitated, not knowing how Dan would react to the news. Actually, he was fairly certain that Dan would have a breakdown and bolt out the door. Phil’s breathing got away from him and he started panicking.

“It’s alright. Look at me,” Dan said, holding his hands gently. “Look at me, I’m here, you’re safe. Everything will be ok.”

Phil tried to match Dan’s breathing, but it took him a few minutes to finally be able to take a deep breath and release it slowly. 

“Better?” Dan asked.

Phil nodded but pressed his forehead to Dan’s still trying to breathe normally. He wanted to cry. He couldn’t lose Dan again.

“Can you tell me what happened?” Dan tried.

Phil shook his head no, but Dan pulled away and cupped his cheeks, looking into his eyes with worry. 

The tears finally rolled down Phil’s cheeks and Dan looked horrified. He pulled Phil into a tight hug and rubbed circles on his back. “Please, please, tell me what’s wrong. Is your family alright?”

Phil nodded but still didn’t let Dan go. “S-sorry,” he said, for making Dan worry.

“It’s ok.”

“Please don’t leave,” Phil said, letting out a small sob and feeling pathetic about it - and about the begging.

Dan let go and looked at him in confusion. “I won’t leave, I promise!”

Still, Phil continued to cry but had the good grace of finally giving Dan his phone. He searched in Dan’s face for any signs of anger, regret or panic but Dan was just dumbfounded, his eyebrows raised.

“I shouldn’t have gone, I’m so sorry!” Phil mumbled shakily.

Dan looked up from the phone and into his eyes before staring into space for a few minutes. Perhaps it was only a few seconds but to Phil it felt like minutes. 

Phil wanted to shake him but instead, he grabbed fists full of his York hoodie and pulled gently as if Dan was going to slip away at any given moment. 

“Sorry,” Dan said, blinking repeatedly. “I just - I’m surprised they even remember me.”

“Of course they do, they have been asking about you for years. They still do!” Phil said with perhaps a bit of bitterness in his voice as he released the fabric.

Dan frowned sadly, lowering his head. He reached for his own phone and logged into Twitter quickly. “Can’t see it here,” he said, but before Phil could suggest anything, Dan slapped his forehead. “Right, I muted anything related to the ship.” He went into settings and deleted quite a few words to be able to read the tweet and responses. He took a deep breath, bracing himself, and let it out slowly as he began to read. “Fuck, this is why I thought they had forgotten me. I had hoped, but -”

The longer Dan stayed quiet, the more nervous Phil got, until he noticed his expression beginning to change.

In fact, the further Dan read, the bigger the smile on his face got. “It’s so hard to believe that they still care,” he said in wonder before liking one of the responses he’d been tagged in that read “Collab when?” He bit his lip and hesitated. “Should I reply?”

“If you want,” Phil said, with a small smile of his own as he rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand. 

“SOON!” Dan replied and all hell broke loose, but it was not a bad thing. Dan seemed to be taking it well.

“When can we see those theatre acting skills on YouTube? You should be in Phil’s skits!” someone suggested and Dan read it to him. 

Phil thought that was a wonderful idea, so he liked the tweet and looked at him expectantly. 

“Do you really want me to be on your channel again?” Dan asked, his tone soft, almost in awe.

Phil nodded and tried to downplay the importance of a potential Dan feature on his channel or a collab. “If you dare, dani snot-”

“Oh, fuck off!” Dan said, throwing a cushion in his direction.

“Fiyaaaa!” Phil screeched. He was so fucking relieved. 

“I’d love to. I’ll do anything you want.”

“Anything?” Phil smirked.

“Don’t do that,” Dan warned him. “You wanted to go slow.”

“I do! I do! Sorry,” Phil said with a laugh. Pausing, he looked into Dan’s eyes intently. “Are you alright?” he asked, even though what he really wanted to say was ‘Are we alright?’

“Yeah,” Dan replied softly. “I think I am. I am surprised, but I am not panicking at the moment.” 

He pressed a quick kiss to Phil’s lips and when he rested his back against the sofa once again, his lips moved for a few seconds, mouthing something silently. Dan bit his lip but swallowed nervously and asked: “Can you watch something?” he paused. “I was thinking… I should post something before my coming out. I don’t want it to be so sudden, it wouldn’t feel right. I have a few ideas, things I want to talk about.”

“Of course!” Phil said and brought his laptop over. 

Dan logged into his accounts and showed him the first few scenes of ‘Daniel and depression’. 

“I love it! What do you think about adding some skits? We could totally do that.”

“I’d like that.” Dan smiled and let out a little sigh of relief. He also showed Phil his set design for BIG, the codename of his June video.

“It’s beautiful,” Phil said. “But you should probably drop hints about the topic of the video beforehand, I don’t want to get sued for the death toll.”

“Hmm, maybe they deserve it,” Dan said, only half joking. “Alright. I think I know what to do.” He opened his notes up and started writing a script.

“Another video?” Phil said, raising his eyebrows at Dan.

“I’m on a roll, don’t judge,” Dan said and typed the words ‘Trying to live my truth.’

“I would never!” Phil laughed and rubbed Dan’s back reassuringly.

---

Phil gave the new YouTube feature a shot. His contact had basically told him that there could be good money in for him if he posted shorts consistently but Phil was honestly a bit burnt out and he was emotionally consumed by Dan. It was stupid, he knew, to let Dan back into his life and make everything about him so fast, but he couldn’t help it. At least it seemed that Dan was also focusing on him for the most part, that and work.

He sat in front of the blank wall that served as his new filming space, checking the lighting, that all of his trinkets were in order and that the brown bits of his plant were facing away from the camera. The doorbell rang just as he was reaching for the record button and he sighed in frustration until he realised that it was probably Dan.

A big goofy smile made its way into Phil’s lips when he looked through the cameras and buzzed Dan in. He leaned against the door, waiting for Dan to let him know he had made it up. He felt so many butterflies in his stomach, it was stupid, but he didn’t care.

There was a soft knock on the door and Phil pulled the door open, happy to see his smile reflected in Dan’s face.

“What were you up to?” Dan asked, inviting himself in and taking off his shoes.

“Just about to film some shorts,” Phil said dismissively. “It’s a bit boring, but I was promised some money for it, and who knows, maybe they will push my channel a bit more. They didn’t say that, but a guy can hope.”

Dan nodded. “Do you need help?”

“Yeah, I could use some company so I don’t fall asleep in front of the camera or something. Sit on the floor by the camera like you used to?”

“Sure. Always loved being your assistant.” Dan walked over to the “set” and waited for Phil to be ready. When he got the go-ahead, he hit record.

“Hey guys, did you know that my fmalee, female,” he laughed. “Family!”

“Great job, Phil!” Dan laughed but didn’t stop the recording.

“Be quiet, assistant!” Phil joked and completely forgot whatever silly story he was going to tell. He thought about it for a moment and decided that they should work on Dan’s projects rather than his very small ones. “Why don’t we do yours? I have skit ideas for the first video and I thought of some nice shots for the depression one as well.”

“Really? Don’t you need to do these first?” 

“Nah, I can do them later. I just want you to lay down so I can throw food at you.”

“I don’t know how to feel about that,” Dan snorted.

“I was thinking popcorn. That’s for the part when you talk about not wanting to eat. And we can also do a bit where I call you to watch the finale of Game of Thrones and you don’t want to.”

“I wish I could go back in time and not watch that, and that’s not the depression talking.”

“Maybe you have the sight in this bit and that’s why you don’t want to get up,” Phil said. 

“That will be the real story behind the skit in my heart forever.” Dan laughed. “Alright, I like that. What was the shot you wanted for DAD?”

“Dad?” Phil asked, almost choking in his own spit at the thought of Dan calling him that.

“No, D.A.D. Daniel and Depression.”

“Oh, right. You could be in bed with your eyes closed and open them to stare at the camera with empty, soulless eyes.”

“So my normal eyes. Got it. You would have to come by to film me in my bed.”

“I was thinking that you could use my bed.”

“The AmazingPhil room? Dan’s eyes widened. “Wouldn’t people be able to tell?”

“No, the bigger one I actually sleep in now. I only showed that room once and didn’t really point the camera at the bed, but we can go to your flat if you want.”

“If you think it will work well for the shot, we can do it here,” Dan said. “Do you have any decent non-green sheets?”

“Lol, shut up, rat. I’ll have you know I use manly blue and grey sheets now.”

“Ooh! So manly!” Dan laughed.

“Very!” Phil laughed. “So, where do you want to lay like a dying slug first, the bed or the sofa?”

“Hmmm, the sofa?”

“Great. Go to my closet and get some joggers or something comfy while I make the popcorn, don’t worry about it, you will have a blanket on you,” Phil said.

Dan gave him an amused smile and trotted along to the bedroom. Five minutes later he was back in grey joggers and a basic white T-shirt. 

Phil had to curse himself for suggesting grey joggers, they really brought the best out in Dan, so he tried to keep his eyes above the belly button and focus on filming. Once Dan had lay down, Phil threw a blanket on him and did a few shots throwing popcorn on his face while Dan remained motionless. They had to alternate with the ones where he was called and just rolled over or buried himself under the blanket because Dan kept eating the popcorn and Phil had to keep making more. 

Once they confirmed that they had what they needed, they went straight to the bed and stripped it bare, choosing different bedding for the take. A moody charcoal grey set was perfect for it and it matched Dan’s colours. If Phil angled it right, nobody would be able to tell it was his bed.

Dan decided to take his top off before getting into bed to be more accurate and Phil tried very hard not to stare, checking the exposure on the camera for a bit. When Dan told him that he was ready, it was time for Phil to basically walk over him and film him from above. It took them a few tries and Phil almost fell on Dan and probably cracked his ribs, but they got it. Dan seemed to really like the idea and promised to use it. 

“Ok, so that’s what I had planned,” Phil finally said.

“Wait, I have a few ideas to add. Do you have cereal and yoghurt? Like the thick Greek kind?”

“Yeah…” Phil answered.

“Ok, and birthday decorations?”

“That’s pushing it a bit but I have like a few party hats and candles.”

“Great, let’s do this,” Dan said. “By the way. I just saw a hilarious clip of you messing up on that gas leak video in your sd card. You should post it to shorts.”

Phil considered it briefly; that would save him a lot of work. “I have quite a few bloopers. It could be a lessamazingphil video.”

“Definitely.”

---

May 2017

As June got closer and closer without an end in sight for the BIG project, Phil suggested that Dan focus on his other videos, the ones that would serve as an introduction for his magnum opus. 

Dan was still very complicated about what month each video could be posted on, so his coming out was reserved for June of 2018. It was not an easy decision. He’d expressed how he feared giving himself more time to work on it would result in him freaking out about it and having to scrap the entire project, but Phil reminded him that he would be there to support him and that each person had their own time. There was no need to rush.

And so it began.

This obviously meant that Phil had to push his own coming out video to the following year, which made Dan feel very guilty, but Phil told him that it wasn’t a big deal to him, it hadn’t been for years since he was not in the closet exactly, not to those close to him at least. 

Dan continued to support Phil on his projects as he stressed on his own and even helped him move out of his iconic flat into one that would have less of a stalker problem and that would allow him to have a better work/life balance. They even snapped a few pictures but Phil decided to keep them to themselves. It was then that Phil finally felt confident enough to evict his fringe and change it into a quiff, which got him a lot of praise from the viewers, but most importantly, from Dan.

During the rest of the year, as Dan began to post videos and dared to be more vulnerable with his audience, the views and subscribers started to grow and grow fast. Dan was a bit nervous at first but also excited to be able to share his personal growth and use his platform to help people as much as possible. He knew how much representation mattered because he saw none growing up. He wanted to be there for people, discussing serious topics in his classic style, full of dark humour but toning the self-deprecation down. 

A part of this new era on Dan’s career included a very necessary rebranding, finally letting go of his danisnotonfire persona and being Daniel Howell, the person. Letting people see the real him and being loved for it did wonders for Dan’s self-esteem and helped him get even closer to Phil since his insecurities had been a big part of their problems in the past.

Dan posted a string of related videos and the mini (unofficial) series was a success. It was a trifecta; the perfect storm. The first one was about his self-discovery journey and him trying to learn what he wanted to do with life, the second one was about his depression and mental health in general and in June of 2018 came the big finale of the series: Basically I’m Gay.

June 2018

On the day BIG was set to be posted, Phil declined Dan’s invitation to watch it together. Not that he hadn’t watched parts of it before, but he knew how heavy the script was, and Dan hadn’t wanted to show him the full video before posting, so this would be the first time he would hear some parts of Dan’s story and he knew it would break his heart into a million pieces and potentially make him cry like a child.

As soon as he saw the tweet, he clicked on the link, his hands shaking, and hit play, letting Dan’s voice captivate him and let him into his mind. Dan looked so confident and beautiful with his black sequin jacket and the rainbow lighting switching during the entire video like a soft gay halo. Things started somewhat sad but as the story progressed into Dan’s teen years, Phil knew it was only going to get worse. He let out a choked sob when Dan spoke about that night so many years ago, when Phil had missed his calls, the time Dan had almost -

He didn’t want to think about a world without Dan. He had imagined that was what Dan had hinted at at the time, but a part of him hadn’t wanted to believe it; especially because Dan had tried to reach out and Phil had been out getting drunk and almost lost him entirely.

He felt incredibly guilty, but at the same time, he knew that he shouldn’t focus on that and make the video about himself. Instead, he clicked back a bit and really paid attention to what Dan had to say, to understand more of his pain and be able to support him.

The end of the video gave Phil a great inkling of where Dan’s journey was at the moment and what he wanted and needed to do. He would try his best to make that happen for him. He shot Mark a quick text asking him for tickets to Noah’s drag show and scrolled down to see the interactions.

Phil could only hope that the comments under the video specifically would be good and supportive; if this video tanked or got a bunch of negative comments, it could hurt Dan’s healing on the topic and probably ruin their new friendship - relationship? They still hadn’t addressed that and it was probably still too soon to do so.

Thankfully, the response was overwhelmingly positive and Dan was even featured on YouTube’s front page. The video was in every recommended box and other youtubers, past and present, supported him and listened to his story carefully.

Shortly after Dan started replying to people, Phil wrote very carefully a tweet of his own, mentioning how proud he was of Dan and letting the viewers know that he may have a video coming as well.

Opening Twitter was something else. He was so glad he hadn't seen the video before and was a part of everyone's experience now. There were tears and excitement and more gifs than you could count about having Dan back and getting to know him all over again and the person he was now. ‘Dan Howell’, ‘Phil’ and ‘Dan and Phil’ were trending worldwide. Yes, Dan and Phil were still Dan and Phil but they were also two separate entities with different goals and approaches to things. And people seemed to be aware of it already.

He was so proud of Dan and so proud of the little goblins that enjoyed their videos for trying to avoid hurting Dan’s feelings or being offensive. It hadn’t always been like that in the past, but it now seemed that the viewers had grown quite a bit as people as well; or perhaps the bad ones had gotten bored and left, it was hard to tell.

Phil grabbed his phone again to send Dan a text but before he could send it, his doorbell rang. Not his actual external doorbell, but the one right outside his flat. His heart crawled up to his throat as he walked to the door and looked out the peephole but it was entirely pitch black.

“Boo!” Dan said, almost killing him of a heart attack. He stepped away from the door snickering.

Phil opened the door and swatted at his arms before dragging him inside by his shirt. “Idiot. How did you even get up here?”

“A pretty girl asked me who I was looking for and I said you so she let me in. She was flirty,” Dan said with a smirk.

Frowning, Phil thought who the skank would be… “Blonde, fried ends with lips too big for her face?”

“I guess,” Dan shrugged.

“I guess she’s pretty, if you’re into that.”

“Awww, don’t be like that. She let me in to see you. Don’t be jealous.”

“What if you were a killer?” Phil asked, poking Dan’s chest with his finger.

“I don’t think I look like a killer,” Dan laughed.

“Exactly, so you would get away with it easier,” Phil said. “I have a spare key, you can have it.” He hadn’t really thought about it until then, but that was actually a big step. Dan had never had a key to his place. Was it the right time? He paused until he saw Dan’s smile widened and his hand extending, expecting the key to be placed on it. He grabbed it from the console table and gave it to Dan.

“Thank you,” Dan said. “That would be very helpful. And if someone kills you, I can find your body first.”

Phil narrowed his eyes at him. “Don’t get any ideas,” he said in mock offence and walked down the hallway, plopping himself down onto the grey sofa.

“This sofa needs a good crease to be more ergonomic,” Dan commented, as he sat down and shuffled in place to get more comfortable. 

“You’ll have to come by more often and create it yourself.”

Dan opened his mouth to answer but saw Phil’s laptop open on the coffee table, still on his video. He looked at Phil expectantly. “Well?”

“It was amazing. It’s my favourite video that you’ve ever made. Very raw and honest, sad at times and very funny.”

“Thank you,” Dan said. “Your tone changed, you were chirpier. Did the mention of our story bother you or…”

“No!” Phil said, sitting upright, his hands picking at the fluff balls on his pyjama pants. “Of course not, and you had shown me that part anyway.” He paused, considering his next words very carefully. “It just brought me back to that week when you wouldn’t answer my messages or calls after I went out and missed yours. I remembered the panic and the worry, and then when you half told me what had happened and I tried to make myself believe that it was not what you meant because I didn’t want to think about losing you. It was a scary week.” He cleared his throat to avoid getting choked up and tried to blink his unshed tears away.

“I’m sorry to have worried you like that.” Dan reached his hand towards Phil and Phil immediately took it. “I’m glad that my grandma was there for me and gave me a place to stay while I recovered from that ordeal,” he said. “I’m glad that I’m here now, with you. I couldn’t have done it without you, even back then when we were just internet friends. Most days talking to you was all I could look forward to. You were the only positive influence in my life.”

Phil didn’t know what to say, so he just pulled Dan into a hug and rubbed his back. “I’m so glad that you’re here,” he whispered, his voice cracking. “I’m so proud of you.”

“Thank you,” Dan said, returning the hug. “And thank you for giving me a second chance. No matter what, you will always be my best friend.”

“That’s true. No matter what,” Phil said and pressed a small kiss to Dan’s cheek, feeling him smile and seeing his little dimple make an appearance.

---

That Saturday, Dan came over to get his outfit checked before they headed to the drag show. He was nervous as that would be his first outing to a gay establishment after his official coming out. 

Phil had no idea why Dan wanted his approval. His fashion sense was immaculate and he had worked hard on curating a very nice closet. In short, Dan looked fucking hot, stunning, divine, and Phil tried very hard not to say that, and just give him an appropriate amount of praise. On the other hand, Phil suspected that what was making Dan so nervous was meeting Mark again after what went down between them and the fact that Mark had it out for him. On that aspect, Phil didn’t know if Dan was terrified of being judged or just outright jealous of Mark. It was no accident that after over a year from the day Dan and Phil hit reset on their friendship, Dan and Mark had not shared space at all.

“Maybe I should change, I have another shirt in my backpack. I just need to iron it,” Dan said and reached for his bag.

Phil pulled him by the shirt and gave him a slow kiss, effectively shutting him up. “What’s going on in here?” he asked, tapping on Dan’s forehead.

“What do you mean?” Dan asked, playing coy.

Phil just raised his eyebrows at him. “Why are you so nervous?”

“I haven’t seen Mark in years, the last time he saw me I looked stupid, he hates me and he’s really hot and his partner too. Also, they are out and have been since like 2008 or something and I’m just here, I feel like I’m on my gay training wheels.”

Phil rubbed his arms gently. “I know why you say that, but you have come out to some people before, right? You had a boyfriend.”

Dan looked down in shame. “I never introduced him to anyone because I was too scared. We just hung out with his friends but I never actually took him anywhere.”

The silence that hung between them made Dan finally look back at him.

Phil must have given him a shocked look because Dan’s face fell immediately, his expression was very defensive.

“I wasn’t ready to be out,” Dan said, trying to justify his actions. “I know it was bad to get him into that situation, that’s why I apologised so much to him. He was right to break up with me.”

“I mean… It is a very complex situation but he did agree to date you under those circumstances,” Phil said, carefully considering the matter and wondering if he would have accepted those terms himself. “You did things in your own timeline and nobody can fault you, at least for that part of the story.”

“He said that I was a disaster and he doubted my ability to help LGBTQ+ people as a therapist given that I hadn’t worked through my own trauma or come out to anyone and I wasn’t really living the way I wanted,” Dan said. “That hurt me a lot, but I can’t say that he was wrong. Even if it’s easier to see other people’s mistakes and to know what they should do from the outside, I hadn’t gone through what I would probably advise them to do.”

“A valid point,” Phil conceded. “Expressed in quite a cruel way, but given that it was a breakup and that he knew you were trying to speak to me again… I understand.”

“Yeah, yeah. Of course, I understand,” Dan said.

Phil gave him a quick peck on the lips and smiled reassuringly. “We should go,” Phil said, looking at the time on his phone. “I don’t want to get there after the show starts, it’s disrespectful.”

Dan grabbed his jacket and put it on, checking himself in the mirror by the front door. “Alright, I’m ready,” he said but paused. “Does Mark still kiss you randomly?”

“No, of course not. You know he has a boyfriend,” Phil said. “And we haven’t been involved like that since like 2013. It was a mutual decision and to help the change move faster he moved out of the flat that same year. We never looked back.”

“Do you miss it?” Dan asked, biting his lip. “Do you wish it was still like that?”

“No,” Phil said, trying not to lose his patience with Dan. He had his doubts and even if he had chosen a very inconvenient moment to ask them, he deserved full honesty. Phil looked into Dan’s eyes for a moment and thought that another question would be coming but Dan just smiled and let out a happy sigh.

“Alright,” Dan said. “Let’s go.”

By the time they made it to the club, the place was booming but Mark had saved them a table. He was sitting at their usual spot, waving them over and had the good grace of smiling at Dan, which was good since Phil didn’t want to have to murder his friend.

“Hey, Dan. I watched your video today, it was very powerful,” Mark said, patting Dan’s shoulder. “First time out?”

Dan looked at Mark with misty eyes, sneaking a glance at Phil and smiling. “Thank you so much,” he said, placing a hand on his chest. “Yeah, thank you for having me.”

Phil could tell how happy this was making Dan. He was being validated not only by Phil’s friend but by someone in the community that Dan had mentioned he feared would reject him. “Take this chair so you can see the stage better. Noah is so talented! He looks just like Lady Gaga in drag, which is hilarious.”

Dan sat where Phil had indicated, which left him with Phil at one side and Mark at the other. “What are we having?” he asked.

“Fries, obviously and some cocktails or beer,” Phil said. “What would you like?”

“Hmm, a margarita?” Dan smiled.

Phil smiled. Dan still liked his margaritas. “I’ll have one too, but we can let the bar know we want to reserve a bottle of Rosé for when Noah is done.”

“Oh, honey, he told them already. You know how he gets,” Mark said, using his actual unguarded voice.

Dan and Phil’s eyes widened. Dan because he had never heard Mark speak like that, and Phil because he knew that Mark only allowed a very small selection of people to hear him be openly flamboyant. He didn’t care for masculine stereotypes but he did care about giving people things they could mock him for.

“Please welcome Miss Kitty Tattletale!” said the announcer.

“There she is! Woooooo!” Mark yelled and threw a rose at his boyfriend.

“There he is, my husband!” Miss Kitty yelled, pointing at Mark. “Well,” she continued. “He’s not my husband yet, but I know damn well that a ring is coming, or he won’t be coming any time soon!” She said and the crowd laughed. “I’m joking, love. I love you. So how is everyone doing tonight with this shit weather? I almost didn’t have to tuck at all!”

Dan laughed and Mark joined him and patted his hand. Phil smiled. There were few ways faster to Mark’s heart than through praising Noah or enjoying his show.

“I know, I know that being our holy month, we have a lot of newcomers in the house, perhaps people that are fresh out of the closet,” Miss Kitty said. The crowd cheered. “I’m going to ask you to please, cheer, yell and toast to welcome our new siblings, the newest members of our community, to let them know that they are loved and accepted here, no matter what the outside world says. Give it up for the babies!”

The crowd went wild, a few people were patted on the back by their friends. Mark and Phil cheered as loud as they could while Dan smiled so big, Phil thought his face was going to get stuck like that. Dan even rushed to wipe a tear rolling down his cheek but Phil saw it, silently reaching for his hand under the table and lacing their fingers together. Dan leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.

For the first lip sync Noah went for “Born this way” and gave it his all, ending in a full split that reminded Phil just how unfit he was.

By the time the show ended, the three of them were quite tipsy and Dan had gone to the face paint station to get some glitter around his eyes, which suited him beautifully, like most things in life. Noah joined them bare faced and introduced himself to Dan before pulling him into a tight hug, as if they had been great friends for years. “Oh, darling. It’s so good to finally meet you. Phil had you hidden away, but I knew the day would come.” He then walked around the table and took the only available seat, right across from Dan.

“Thank you. I just escaped his basement,” Dan joked.

“Did he have you all tied up?” Noah asked and without waiting for an answer he laughed. “How kinky! Tell me, Dan, how are you enjoying the attention your video is getting?”

Dan blinked, surprised by the change in topic. “It has been mostly good, so I am shocked. I expected some backlash, or to lose subscribers, that kind of thing, but it was quite the opposite. It has helped me view the world in a more positive light, I guess.”

“I am happy for you. I can tell that you worked hard on your video,” Noah said.

“I also told you that he worked hard on it,” Phil said.

“Some people work for something in a year and you can’t tell, in this case, I could tell because the video was very entertaining but also honest and the script was very eloquent. You know, if you ever want to try drag, I think you would be good at it. Just let me know.”

“I would love that, but I think if I tried to wear heels, I would probably fall to my death,” Dan laughed. “I’m really clumsy.”

“If Phil hasn’t fallen with how many times we got him into a dress, there’s probably hope for you,” Mark said.

Dan smiled and looked at Phil. “Really? How did you like it?”

“It was fun, but tight dresses and heels are not my thing, it makes me feel a bit constricted,” Phil said, but the image of Dan in drag popped into his head and brought out a smile on him. “You would look cute in a skirt though.”

Dan cocked his head, probably considering it, but shrugged. “Maybe.”

Noah tapped on Dan’s shoulder excitedly. “Hey, did Phil tell you we liked your play last year? I’m sorry we couldn’t stay, I was super tired.”

“He did, actually. Thank you so much for coming!”

“Oh, you’re welcome. Oh! Here comes the Rosé!” Noah said. “Let’s make a toast!” He poured Rosé for everyone and raised his own flute. “To living your truth!”

“To living your truth,” they all said. Phil snorted at Noah’s accidental admission to stalking Dan’s channel. He hadn’t expected anything else from his friends.

Dan smiled widely and mouthed a thank you to Phil before shuffling closer to him.

That night, Phil considered inviting Dan to sleep over but he knew how fast things could escalate, especially while they were both tipsy. He thought he was ready, but he wanted to see where Dan stood before things progressed, so they shared a taxi, each getting out at their respective flat.

---

On the last day of June, Phil finally posted his own coming out video. It was short and mostly positive, merely conveying part of his journey as a young gay teen and how that differentiated him from his friend group, and offering a bit of advice to his viewers. People reacted very positively to the video, as much as they did to Dan’s but what really put a smile on his face was cuddling up on the sofa with Dan and answering the array of texts flowing in from the northern gang.

Richie: Congrats Phil! I can’t believe you are out on the internet. I saw Dan’s video too btw.

Phil: Thanks. I’ll never get used to seeing your name as richie. I don’t know a richie.

Anja: Now that he knows lying has consequences he can’t keep the big dick display name. Congrats Phil! 

Sarah: I really loved how short and to the point the video was. And the closet thing too! That was super funny.

Anja: You should have really posted the closet bit only as a joke, but I understand that you care about your art xD.

Richie: Hey! I was just putting Christina to bed and I come back to pure slander. Shame on you Anja!

Ian: I mean… let’s not dwell on that for your sake. Congrats Phil! The wife and kid say hi. 

Phil: Tell them I said hi back. How is Angie?

Ian: Growing faster than I would like to. She made a unicorn with beads for you. It has flaming rainbow hair.

Phil: I want it. Save it for me.

Ian: Isn’t it time for us to get together? It has been way too long. 

Anja: Yes!!!

Richie: Bring Dan. He never bullied me like these roaches.

Ian: I won’t bully you if you bring Christina.

Richie: Deal.

Phil showed Dan his phone and saw his smile widened

“Did you tell them we are together?” Dan asked.

Phil shook his head. “I guess they just assumed.”

Phil: Dan and I are not together.

Sarah: What?

Anja: Phil…

Phil: We are taking things slowly, seeing where we are now. Still working on it.

Anja sent an audio: “Phil I swear to fucking god, it has been years. Get on with it!”

Dan cackled and buried his face in Phil’s neck. “She does have a point.”

Phil: We’re waiting until marriage.

Ian: Can you also invite Mark or would he fight Dan to the death?

Phil: debatable. I’ll get back to you on that.

He laughed and let his phone slide between the couch cushions, choosing to kiss Dan instead of keeping the conversation going.

#succubusphan fics #phanfic #phanfiction #phan #phan au #dan and phil #ospbb 2023

[moonlightchess]

Maybe I'll live another 50 years, maybe I'll die tomorrow. But nothing in the world will ever compare to the feeling I experienced when I once told a random stranger in an airport with a cool blue/green ombre dye job, "I love your hair, oh my god!" and then turned away with no expectations, only to turn my head just a few moments later to catch her shyly running a hand over her own hair and smiling nervously, like she hadn't heard many compliments in her life and was just absorbing mine in the moment, touching her own face and then sort of rocking back and forth a little, and my god if I hadn't needed to board immediately I would have showered her with love. That person would never have felt alone or forgotten for the rest of ever, that soft and vulnerable little moment where she touched her hair and blushed and hugged herself because I told her that her hair was pretty, oh my god. Oh my god. It was a gift, it was so precious, and someday I'll die asking the universe to make that teal-haired flier never lose what she felt that day, because someday I'm going to need her to bottle it for my great-great-grandchildren.

[dirtytransmasc]

I haven’t seen The Black Phone, but I’m really enjoying the content I see about it from other people. I loved your headcanons, especially the ones about Vance! Absolutely no pressure, but do you have any other headcanons you’d care to share?

I don't have a ton yet since my brain has hyperfixated on Vance the most and I've already posted most of the ones I have for him, but I do have some for group dynamics (and a few random ones thrown in there as I remember them);

Robin and Vance are really protective of each other (and the whole group, but in a very different way) in the sense that they have a 'ill watch your back if you watch mine' type of way. like Robin can break up a pack of bullies bothering any of the other boys without fear if being out numbered because he knows Vance has his back if he needs help. and Vance doesn't have to worry about shutting down or being in public places (he has a shit ton of PTSD from the grabber and hates public spaces/being touched/having strangers behind him) because he knows robin will always be right behind him, and will always watch his back without fail. they may not be the closest friends in the traditional sense, but they're insanely protective and you normally don't see one without the other.

Finney is the mom of the group, and he acts like he hates it, but it's actually a very self appointed role. (this is about to get so projecty it's not even funny). Finney gets anxious when he's not in control of a situation, so he acts like a mom for his own sanity. when they're out in public he's the one doing a head count every five seconds and corralling everyone together. if the groups taking to long to move on from one spot and some of the boys are starting to wander he will walk laps around the whole group to keep them together. the best way to describe him is a herding dog (specifically a collie) cause he naturally likes to keep things in order and gets really anxious if he can't. he definitely has a bag purse that he carries everywhere, it's got everyone's shit in it, a fully stocked first aid kit, water, snacks you name it he's got it.

random one (related to Finney's bag) Vance, Griffin, and Billy are asthmatic. griffins is the most persistent, but mildest in terms of actual symptoms. Vance doesn't have symptoms often but his attacks are really bad. Billy is the sweet spot between the two. Finney makes sure they always have their inhalers. Vance also has a bad nut allergy, so Finney's also carrying his epi pen. (I might do a whole other post on just my health issue hc's, cause ad a chronically I'll person I have so many)

Vance is Griffin's big brother, he's a jerk to him some days, other days he's super affectionate. sometimes he just throws something at him for the sake of throwing something at him, and other times hell just hug him from behind and won't let go till griffins clawing his way out of the embrace. they aren't the cutesy over played brother dynamic, they are the realistic love hate relationship brother dynamic and I live that for them. (this can also be read: Vance feels such an immense need to protect this little human it honest to God overwhelms him because he has never felt so much love and affection for a singular human in his entire life. the hold this kid has him scares him more the he'd like to admit. he would die for Griffin without a second thought, if anything were to ever happen to him, you better pray to any and all gods you know of because Vance will make you regret being born. he doesn't know how to act around Griffin because he isn't good at showing your average everyday feelings let alone these big scary all consuming feelings.)

Gwen is the group's sister, they've claimed her as theirs, no matter how many times Finney tries to say that she's his sister. she just loves her entourage of boys, especially since she has them wrapped around her finger. she can get away with anything cause they either let her do it, or they cover her and give her alibis. her and Bruce love to do spa days together (I got part of this from @ares-da-god ) and she will assist in holding the boys down so Bruce can do their skin care. Vance is actually super protective of her and is kinda just putty in her hands, he doesn't try and fight back because he doesn't want to accidentally hurt or scare her with his underestimation of his own strength (she's tussled with him before, but it always makes him nervous, despite how many times shes said it's fine and that she handle it). she likes getting her hands dirty so she's always outside with Griffin, making med pies or playing with bugs, just being kids (it melts Vance, he likes seeing the kids getting to be kids together, especially his kids). Gwen and Billy shit talk together constantly, they'll just walk around town with Billy's dog talking about all the recent drama, or complaining about whatevers on their mind. Finney and Gwen are just super close, they're each other's right hand man, they do everything together, they barely even fight or anything, just very close but very casual sibling bond.

Billy is generally the most kept to himself. he likes to be independent and enjoys his space, but at the end of the day he loves knowing he has a support system he can fall back on when needed. like he would gladly do his own thing all day just to come home and join the pile of sleeping boys+Gwen knowing he is safe and welcome right there. definitely a bif of s prankster when he's sticking with the group, intentionally getting on Vance's nerves to get Vance to prank him back. he's like a year round secret Santa, he earns quite a bit from being a paper boy (and I hc that he doesn't similar things in his spare time. he bags groceries or shops for the elderly, he collects recycling, walks dogs, etc. so he always has a fair but of spare change) so the busy will find little unmarked gifts randomly and know it's from Billy. he's actually really good at it cause he listens to their conversations a lot so he knows just what to get them.

Vance and Finney are actually pretty close. Vance tries to pretend he doesn't love the little fucker, but whenever he needs help or is stressed he knows he can turn to Finney, and he makes sure Finney knows the same goes for him. Finney's the best at interpreting his nonverbal communication, so there's a lot of trust that's been built between the two. Finney is also just really good at handling Vance when he's upset and can't understand his emotions, he can just kinda hold onto him and make it feel better, he pats at his hair and hushes him gently, and it doesn't make Vance feel small or pitied. and Vance may not be good with the emotions crap like finney is but he's really good at reading Finney and knows when to pull him away if he's getting to stressed or anxious. he also knows that Finney won't leave a task without a fight so he'll just bear hug him until he starts to calm down, and then redirects him with something else. they manage each other really really well.

that's all I have for now, hope you enjoyed <3 (:

#the black phone #vance hopper #finney blake #bruce yamada #robin arellano #billy showalter #griffin stagg

[dreamwritesimagines]

Omg baby Edmund definitely grows up to have his uncle's Golden Retriever Energy and it's so adorable when he's a baby because he is just so loved and safe and Cherie makes sure he always knows how wanted he is by BOTH his parents (let's be honest, she was definitely scarred growing up knowing her dad didn't want her) and Anthony, also a firstborn but who had to grow up so fast, he desperately wants to protect every shred of innocence his son has.

Edmund Bridgerton is an absolute sweetheart, and no one, not even the most stern and mean staff member can come to dislike him, because he is just so damned polite.

He remembers everyone's name, he is always hugging his mom even when other boys think they're too old, he waves at strangers and at random squirrels on the street because Benedict told him that if he does then they will never attack him and that was never something to fear before but now he's fearfully respectful of all animals so he shouts HI! To the swans at the Park

OMG OMG-

This is a great analysis and I have so many ideas, you're amazing darling! ❤

he is just so loved and safe and Cherie makes sure he always knows how wanted he is by BOTH his parents (let's be honest, she was definitely scarred growing up knowing her dad didn't want her) and Anthony, also a firstborn but who had to grow up so fast, he desperately wants to protect every shred of innocence his son has.

I agree with this so much! 😱😍❤ I think Edmund will be such a happy baby, and he will never feel like he's alone or under pressure, or that he has "something to prove" while growing up, both Cherie and Anthony will make sure of that ❤ They both want to shelter Edmund from their own traumas, and like you said, especially Cherie felt like she wasn't wanted, and Anthony had to grow up way too fast, so they will break that chain right there, kind of similar to how Cassie and Percy were better parents than their own parents ❤ Edmund will know he's supported at every point in his life and he will feel very safe ❤

he waves at strangers and at random squirrels on the street because Benedict told him that if he does then they will never attack him and that was never something to fear before but now he's fearfully respectful of all animals so he shouts HI! To the swans at the Park THIS IS SO ADORABLE I'M-

Tiny Edmund waving at squirrels and shouting HI to the swans, HELP I'M DYING AT THIS😂❤

Lolll of course Benedict told him that 😂😂

I feel like he would totally try to go to the swans and Cherie would be like

"Edmund my dearest, what are you doing?"

"Mama, swans! Hi!"

"Aw they're very beautiful are they not?"

"They are! I'm Edmund, this is my mama! Nice to meet you!"

"Do you want to feed them?"

"Can we?"

"We can! Here, we will rip the bread to smaller pieces so that they can eat it easier."

"Like this?"

"Absolutely, good job! You can throw it to the lake- no, don't run to lake, throw it from here."

"Do they have names too mama?"

"Not yet my dearest but we can give them names."

"Can we take one home too?"

"No but we can visit them here. They like it here, see?"

[camywamycam]

yes,I've seen you around here before

SpiderGwen! Reader x Tasm Peter. P  ☆Fem reader implied!☆

☆1,156 words☆

☆summary☆

After the events of sitsv  Y/N  has never felt more alone. she realized once she got home how little she left her house. when once again a portal (in a different color this time) opens while she is on patrol she happily runs through it expecting the friendly face of her dear friend miles (along with some pig dude) when she met with the many confused faces in the room she realizes this is going to be very different than what she was expecting... and shes here for it.

∘₊✧───────────────────────────────✧₊∘ A/N this is my third fic ever, since I wrote my first fic I've been writing non stop so here's one of the many drafts I've been hiding lol also yeah the title is a Starkid reference i didn't know what to name it lol

☆constructive criticism is appreciated!☆

∘₊✧───────────────────────────────✧₊∘

You had to admit it, you were a very boring person. other than practicing with your band, since peter died your life consisted of checking on aunt may, the graveyard, band,  work, and home. your bandmates always tried to hang out with you out of practice but since peter died you became closed off to the idea of friendship, you know to avoid the distraction. you were close to peter than anyone else. you eventually developed a stupidly strong crush on him, but he died before you could confess. when you met miles your life became lighter. like a shit ton of guilt and stress had been lifted off your shoulders just by hanging out with a bunch of strangers. when you got home you slowly returned to your sad cycle,  may, grave, band, work, and home.

it was a Saturday night.

it was colder than usual and you could hear Peter's voice in the back of your mind scolding you for being outside in weather like this in spandex but besides your better judgment, you stayed out in the below-freezing weather. you hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary, which is saying a lot because this is new york city, the land of the crazies and stuff. you were expecting a calm boring day as per usual. that was until you felt every hair on your body stand up. you jumped to your feet looking for the threat, and that was when you heard them. "Peter!, peter over here!!!" "Peter!!" you turned around and noticed at the end of the alleyway you were standing in was a yellow portal. it looked nothing like the one you had passed through last month but you didn't care. you instantly started jogging towards the portal filled with... teenagers? 

 entering the portal you were met with a living room filled with old beige-looking furniture, along with the confused looks of the two teens and two adult men. you noticed one of the spidermen looked an uncanny amount like your peter, and you felt a pain in your chest every time you met his eyes. "don't think that's peter..." said the chubby kid with wide eyes "no shit sherlock, since when did peter have boobs?!" "Hey, you don't know if I'm not peter! I could just have very round pecs!" you jokingly went along "who are you." the beautiful brown girl asked with a skeptical voice "I'm Y/N... I kid you not this is like the second time this year I've been in a different multiverse" "Y/n l/n?!" both peters asked at the same time "yeah?" you took off your hood and pulled off your mask, revealing your face. "how is this even possible?!" peter 3 said rushing to you and hugging you, as did peter 2. you felt the same lightness you felt when you met miles. "I asked for peter parker, not some random lady in a spiderman cosplay". "I'm sorry, who the hell are you guys??" you motioned to the two teens and the granny in the corner of the room. " I'm MJ, this is ned" you couldn't help but notice the stares you were getting from the two spidermen. "you look just like him..." you said as you brought up a hand to cup peter 3s face as he melted into your touch. Peter felt like he was dreaming. if he was he never wanted to wake up. when peter lost you he stopped going out as spiderman. it was too painful to him, everything was a reminder and he couldn't bear to wear the same suit he wore when he held your dead body. "is that my jacket?" 

"Sorry to break this up but do we still have to find my boyfriend!" "Sorry, sorry, Your right," ned said as he continued to bring the right peter through the portal. "is there anywhere your peter likes to go to cool off?" peter 2 tried to help

 When the portal did open you gasped. you knew what had happened the second peter one looked through the portal with rage-filled eyes, tears streaming down his face. Someone had died. when peter lost his uncle ben he became bitter and rageful. the only reason he didn't get shot trying to take avenge his uncle was you because there to hold him as he cried. like how you were there to hold him in your arms as he died. "I'm going to kill him." peter said as he clung to MJ. "listen kid, I understand what your going through, but you don't want that kind of blood on your hands... especially since you are so young" you sympathized, "you don't know what it's like please don't say you understand what I'm going through!" Peter said, the words coming out of his mouth sounding harsher than he intended. You glanced at the other peters and continued, "I... I lost my Peter. When he died I felt like it was my fault since I'm the one who got him into the whole spider women mess I made. Trust me killing the person who did this isn't going to make you feel any better than you do right now." you said trying your best to hold in the tears threatening to escape your eyes.  "I lost my y/n." peter who was an actual copy of yours said. "I couldn't save her in time and it's my fault she died." peter said avoiding your gaze as you placed a comforting hand on his back, "I kept trying to be that friendly neighborhood Spiderman but after all of that it's so hard to leave the house." peter 2 rested his hand on peter 3s shoulder. " I lost my uncle ben," peter 2 said looking at peter 1. "before he went he told me" "with great power comes great responsibility" peter 3 and you finished in unison " how did you know that?" " Its the last thing uncle ben told me before he passed" "maybe she didn't die for nothing peter." 

#spiderman #spiderman nwh #Spider gwen #spiderman no way home #tasm!spiderman x you #comfort #tasm!peter x you #marvel #peter parker #spidermen #peter 3 #peter 2 #peter 1