#it's gotta take a lot of effort to do this sort of thing and it'd be nice if a couple of you would let them know?

[khaotunq]

hey hi i meant to do this ages ago, but if y'all wouldn't mind, go show some love to Shash, who podficced two of my Boston-centric stories? (their voice is so measured and soothing to listen to btw)

[Podfic] there's an end to my horizon by shash_reads (sunkitten_shash)

[Podfic] two parallel lines by shash_reads (sunkitten_shash)

#pls and thank u #even some kudos or a lil comment or something #it's gotta take a lot of effort to do this sort of thing and it'd be nice if a couple of you would let them know? #i know podfics aren't everyone's cup of tea but pls pls pls #i want them to get at least a bit of the feeling i experienced when they posted these #pls plsp pls #only friends the series #ofts fic #ficwit #because i'll keep these in my own fic tag too #i'm afraid to tag them in case nobody listens to me lmao but her tumblr is sunkitten-shash #you don't even have to listen if u don't wanna (but you should) #and u definitely don't need to read or kudos or whatever on my fic - just go show shash some love pls <333333

[justagalwhowrites]

TikTok Trend

Beautiful decides to take part in a TikTok Trend with Joel. A New in Town drabble.

^We're borrowing Mr. Ben for a late-40s Joel, OK? I desperately need more gifs of Pedro's Joel from that era, I'm too reliant on other characters and actual Pedro gifs for these fics GIVE ME SOMETHING PLEASE

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader from New in Town

Warnings: Not much! Age gap but not the focus of the fic (reader is 36, Joel is 48). No use of Y/N. Minors DNI 18+ only.

Length: 1.4k

A/N: I got stuck thinking earlier how Joel would react to the "call your boyfriend your husband" trend and this is how I think it'd go. This is set about 3 months before the last chapter of New in Town. This can be read as a stand alone fic with the understanding that reader is Sarah's best friend and Joel and Reader have an established relationship of about a year.

“So what’s this for again?” Joel asked as he sat down at the picnic table in the park. 

“It’s a TikTok challenge,” you said, settling in beside him. Joel opened the paper bag the two of you had just gotten from a food truck and started taking out the tacos, putting some in front of you and him. 

“Right,” he said. “And… I’m sorry, baby, but what’s the point?” 

You laughed as you set your phone against your water bottle so it was propped up and ready to film. 

“There isn’t really one, I guess,” you said. “It’s just a fun little video you make and then share. Those interns I have until May are all about it, they were showing me some of theirs the other day. Figure if I work in marketing, I gotta keep up with the trends!” 

Joel smiled a little. 

“So this is the kind of shit Sarah does, huh?” 

“Yeah, she does,” you laughed again. “Her and the interns made one for the company social page the other day, actually.” 

“Can I see?” He asked, interest suddenly piqued. 

“Sure,” you picked your phone back up and found your company’s TikTok, scrolling to the video and handing it off to Joel. 

“We work in marketing, of course we over analyze every ad we see,” Sarah said through your phone, a small smile on Joel’s face as he watched. 

It made you smile, too. One of the fun parts about being in the strange middle ground between your boyfriend’s and best friend’s ages was serving as a bit of a translator between them. Joel still didn’t quite get TikTok. Sarah didn’t understand why her dad refused to go all in on streaming and still had cable. You, at least, could see both sides. 

But this TikTok effort had nothing to do with Sarah. You did try to keep up with the trends on social media to better craft campaigns and content - capitalizing on trends meant that you had to move quick and you couldn’t afford to be out of touch - but your personal TikTok account was mostly empty. It was pretty private, anyway, shared with only a few close friends like Sarah and Maria. All it had were a few reposts of things you liked, some montages of video snippets from you and Joel’s first vacation together, that sort of thing. 

“You should do some of the trends!” Jason, one of your interns, said earlier that day. 

“Just being in the loop on trends is plenty for me,” you waved him off but smiled. “I don’t need to participate.” 

“But it’s fun!” Kenzie, your other intern said. “They’re not all dances and stuff, you know…” 

“I know,” you said. “But it’s just not what I want to spend a lot of time doing is all.” 

“Some don’t take much time,” she said, opening her phone and scrolling for a second. “Here, this one’s easy. You said you have a boyfriend, right?” 

“I do…” 

“Cool,” she said. “So all you do is record yourself making a video where you call your boyfriend your husband, just to see how he reacts. No crazy edits or anything, it’s super easy.” 

You caved after some light convincing and came up with a plan to get Joel in front of the camera. You told him it was a spicy food challenge, just to see which of you handled the heat better and, while you knew he wouldn’t really get the point, you knew he’d be supportive. He always was. 

But there was something about this trend in particular that made you a little nervous. It’s not like the two of you hadn’t discussed marriage. You’d been together a year now, you’d just moved into his house. It had definitely come up. But it had come up in the way that far off things do, something that might happen some day if things fell into place in just the right way. You didn’t want to push it, didn’t want him to feel rushed or obligated, especially since you’d only been cohabitating about a month. Bringing up marriage - even like this - made you nervous. 

“OK I think I get it,” Joel handed you your phone back after watching Sarah’s video twice. “But we’re not doin’ that same thing, right?” 

“Nope,” you said. “We’re going to see who handles the spice better.” 

“Think we both know which one of us is gonna win that one, Beautiful,” he teased, nuzzling his nose against your temple before kissing your cheek. “Us southern men are made of sterner stuff…” 

“Yeah yeah,” you rolled your eyes but smiled, leaning close to him. “We’ll just see about that.” 

You set your phone up to record again, propping it against your water bottle. 

“Here, you gotta get in close because the TikTok format is vertical,” you said and Joel adjusted so you were half beside and half in front of him, his arm going around your waist, hand finding your hip, thumb slipping up below your shirt to find your bare flesh above the band of your pants and brushing you slowly, sensually there. You gave him a look. 

“What?” He asked, brows raised, smile barely contained. 

“Don’t act all innocent,” you shook your head. “You know exactly what you’re doing…” 

“C’mon,” he said. “Let’s make your little TikTik video…” 

“TikTok,” you rolled your eyes but adjusted yourself, your heart pounding. 

“Whatever the kids are using now,” he said. “Because the sooner we’re done the sooner I can get you home…” 

“Alright, I’m going to record,” you cut him off. “Behave yourself!” 

“Always do, Beautiful.” 

You rolled your eyes again but took a deep breath, leaned forward and pressed record. 

“Hi everyone,” you smiled, watching the recording of you and Joel as it was made on the screen. “I’m here with my husband and we’re going to do the spicy food challenge…”

“Your what?” He cut you off and you turned so you could see him a little better. 

“What?” 

“Did…” he paused, looking at you like he wasn’t sure if you were losing it or he was. You weren’t sure if that was good or bad. “Did you just call me your husband?” 

“Yeah,” you shrugged, turning back to the camera. “Anyway, my husband and I both really love spicy food and…” 

You didn’t get a chance to finish your sentence. Joel grabbed your chin almost roughly, pulling you around to face him and all but crushed his lips against yours, clutching you close, kissing you deep and hard, like he couldn’t get enough of you. When he finally let you go, you looked at him and laughed a little, watching him. 

“What was that for?” You asked. 

“You wanna call me your husband?” He asked, a serious look on his face. “Beautiful, we will go to the courthouse right this damn second, don’t tempt me…” 

“Joel, it’s 7 p.m.,” you laughed. “The courthouse is closed.” 

“Don’t care,” he said, giving you a quicker kiss this time. “C’mon, we’ll grab Sarah on the way, see if Tommy wants to meet us…” 

“That’s all it takes, hm?” You teased, heart pounding but for a good reason now. “Just me slipping up and calling you my husband and you’re ready to run down the aisle?” 

“Baby, I’ve been ready to run down the aisle for about a year,” he pressed his forehead to yours. “Just been waitin’ on you to catch up.” 

“Well,” you kissed him softly. “I’m more than caught up. But think I’m still gonna make you ask.” 

“Good luck stopping me,” he said, kissing you again, longer this time, needier, until you pulled away with a groan. “Forget this food challenge, I gotta get you home and devour you. Let’s go, wife.” 

You laughed and stopped the recording on your phone, saving the video to drafts as Joel gathered up the food. You made the mental note to edit out that last part before posting, no need for the interns or Sarah to know quite that much about your sex life. 

“Sorry for ruining your little video,” he said as you started back toward the car. “We can try again later, promise to actually behave myself then…” 

“That’s alright,” you smiled, lacing your fingers with his. “I already got everything I need.”

#fanfic #joel miller x female reader #joel miller x reader #joel miller x you #joel miller x oc #new in town

[bittersweetresilience]

Sentitwin fake dating AU! I gotta know man

SENTITWIN SHENANIGANS AHOY @asukiess

i love the premise a lot, so i got overexcited and shared the entire outline. romantic tropes in platonic relationships... yes, please. also, a rare crack fic from me.

Adrien, in an effort to divert suspicions on his secret identity, pretends to be dating Chat Noir. This is sort of difficult to pull off, since he is in fact Chat Noir.

Enter Félix. Jazz hands.

Félix doesn't know Adrien is Chat Noir. Félix thinks Adrien is busy and he is supposed to be pretending to be him. Félix has no idea how romance works and completely sucks at fake dating. Chat Noir thinks this is absolutely hilarious and is having the time of his life poking fun at him.

After their first date Chat Noir fesses up to knowing Félix isn't Adrien. He says Adrien told him ahead of time and he just thought it'd be funny to tease him.

Félix gets dropped off at the mansion. Whatever, he thinks. That's the end of it. He goes back into Adrien's bedroom, where the both of them have been staying. Adrien is coming out of the bathroom. He feigns a smile and asks how Félix's date went. Fine, Félix says. That's great, Adrien says. They stand in awkward silence for several minutes until Félix pretends to start reading.

Okay. Awkward. Sentitwins are actually fighting. But Adrien is in a pinch after he ran his mouth about Adrichat, and Félix loves his cousin. Come a few days Adrien says he's busy again and Félix agrees to keep fake dating.

Chat Noir and Félix hang out. Chat Noir and Félix hang out again. Chat Noir starts taking Félix to places he likes instead of torturing him. To Félix's surprise, he discovers Chat Noir is kind of tolerable. He even acknowledges why Adrien might be dating him. Meanwhile, Chat Noir is ecstatic. He gets to get away from the tension in the house and hang out with his cousin.

The secret identity suspicions fade away. But Chat Noir keeps coming around to hang out with Félix, and for some reason, Félix keeps agreeing to go on fake dates with him.

The two of them spend more and more time together. First they do things Félix wants to do. Then they do things Adrien always secretly wanted to do with him. Adrien is having a great time ignoring the fact that they're fighting at home and, as Chat Noir, bonding with him. Félix is lightening up to Chat Noir. Eventually he starts opening up about his childhood to him.

Félix now has one friend, which unlocks character development. He decides he should try to mend his relationship with his cousin. But Adrien is so happy about how things are going as Chat Noir that he keeps unintentionally blowing off Félix's olive branches to run away and transform and hang out with him.

Félix is getting kind of stressed out by this.

Chat Noir notices something is wrong, but he has no idea what. They keep hanging out, but Félix gets more and more quiet. Finally one night after Chat Noir drops him off, he breaks down and confesses he thinks he's ruined things and Adrien must hate him.

Okay. Awkward. Two seconds ago Chat Noir was feeling incredibly good about how close he was getting to Félix.

Chat Noir realizes he's lost the plot and forgotten that the whole time he was lying. He reassures Félix that Adrien loves him. Um, he knows because remember, he's dating Adrien. Adrien talks all the time about Félix. Adrien definitely misses him.

Félix takes some convincing, but he has come to trust Chat Noir, so he does appreciate this.

Chat Noir transforms back and stews in his guilt about tricking Félix into befriending him. He only dug himself a deeper hole by continuing to lie while comforting him. Félix is going to be so angry. Chat Noir has to tell him the truth. He gets in his head. It's cool, he can totally do this. He'll just have to plan the perfect day. He'll put Félix in a good mood and say and do all the right things and then he'll gently break it to him and they can be best friends again and forget about this.

Félix tries to talk to him as Adrien, and Adrien is trying to pay attention but he's distracted and doesn't notice when he says something he isn't supposed to know as Adrien.

The next day Félix stops Adrien by the door to their room. Adrien is rushing to finish preparations for the last fake date. Félix catches him by the hand and hugs him. Adrien hugs back, surprised, but then he skedaddles, which is okay, he justifies, because it's the last time, really. Félix will understand once he's explained everything.

Midway to the kitchen he realizes his finger is bare and wheels back into the bedroom, where Félix is holding his ring.

Okay. Awkward. He didn't get to explain anything.

He's expecting Félix to be angry, but Félix just starts laughing.

Of course you were always running out of the house. Of course you were always busy. Busy patting me on the shoulder and promising you loved me.

You're not mad at me? Adrien asks timidly. Oh, no, I'm furious, Félix says. But don't worry, you have a chance to make it up to me. Take me on whatever date you were planning as yourself and we'll see.

(wip ask game)

#🦎 #🏮 #🌖 #miraculous ladybug #ml fanfic #bad news... after i spent several hours typing this i feel very accomplished with myself and no longer have the urge to make it a fic #anyway moonie helped me brainstorm this love you moonie #felix fathom #adrien agreste

[tiredassmage]

Sorry if this sounds weird, but I hope it makes sense: Day, Formal, Wardrobe for Imp Leo vs Pub Leo

I GOT CHU, I GOT CHU! I think, at least, so let me take a swing at this. I am. so sorry it's taking me 800 years to get through everything. This semester be kickin' my butt, but I have been sitting on so many Leo questions for so long. Come back into the light, my favorite little smuggling goblin child...

[character design oc asks]

DAY - What does your OC wear on a normal day? Why do they default to those clothes? Do they wear similar things, or do they change it up?

I think even in just casual wear, Leo felt a lot of pressure from particularly their parents growing up about what kind of image they were putting out as a family to the rest of Imperial society. That probably meant still a fair bit of neutral colors - gotta love those Imperial grays. And probably a lot more long sleeved shirts, partially because of the cold periods on Ziost, but also because it means Leo could fidget with the ends of his sleeves. Things were likely a bit more properly fitted in contrast to now that he's defected and running his own life (not... always well, but... running!), he definitely prefers things that are maybe a size too big. He wants to be comfortable. I could totally see him as a band tee kind of kid. Assorted graphical t-shirts for the win.

Also, not exactly a part of any of this set, but... I do imagine he was also a lot neater with how he wore his hair when still Imperial, at least around family. If only because Vivienne and their mother probably fussed over him almost obsessively before letting him out anywhere and he grew tired of hearing about it all the time. He's picked up the habit since defecting (unintentionally) of keeping a stock of hair ties around his wrist. Not actively because he needs to use three at a time, but because he habitually abandons them on any flat surface when he lets his hair down and then forgets about them, so he ends up collecting them as he finds them in an effort to try not to forget them again.

FORMAL - What's your OC's formal look? Do they like dressing up? Do they have different looks for different occasions?

Leo would... actually cringe if you ever suggested him wear a suit ever again. As much as I'd love to see him in maybe a dark blue vest or something at least because it'd probably look very nice with his eyes, I think some kind of suit look tended to be the default to please the family. Or at least a sort of... business, fitted top and... honestly probably a bow tie. Can't see this man in the long neck tie to save my life. He probably knows how to do one, but blood of the Emperor would it kill his soul to wear one kdanflsadfnlsfd.

He has very little in formal wear these days. He's... glaringly lacked the need to since his defection and he's quite happy to keep it that way. You'd literally make him pout like a petulant teenager if you asked him to dress up. He hates it. (Because it is so buried in ties to the expectations his father had of him to live up to the family name and their standards and impressions of what he should do; a lot of it is from his father's expectations, but his mother and older sister contributed a fair bit, too.)

I'm so sorry to Dash that Leo still preens over Dash like... Leo could have bangs falling in his eyes while he's trying to perfectly part Dash's hair and just shrug off this glaring hypocrisy. Which is... something in there about Leo's perception of himself being not all that great (and thus having a bit of a hard time necessarily seeing whatever Dash might see in him as far as positive and admirable qualities) because the Family Disappointment syndrome, but that's.... a whole other thing to unpack dfkladsnfls.

WARDROBE - How big is your character's wardrobe? Do they wear things threadbare, or can they afford new clothes often? Are they any good at mending and repairing their own clothing?

Listen. Leo probably has a selection of like five shirts that he loves to bits and, no, mending garments is not one of his little skills. He will wear things down and he'd also probably be the type to wear the same thing for several days straight because he got behind on laundry or just... because he was comfortable and not particularly seeing people. He still might honestly try even if neither of those things are exactly true. I don't think he... likes the idea of fashion shopping in general, given the connotations for him. And, again, for as much as he can preen about others, he's... not particularly always on top of his own appearances. He's... shit at taking his own advice, frankly. Including the bit that the way you dress yourself can affect how you think and feel about yourself. It's not necessarily about affording things, he just... has mixed feelings about the shopping bit. Sometimes it is liberating to add more one-size-too-large graphic prints to his collection by the handfuls and others the simple idea of having to replenish and update the wardrobe seems like the most insurmountable, horrible, terrible task you could ever ask him to do. How could you do this to him.

#answered #swtor ocs #ch: leo ashold

[snootlestheangel]

A Lil Snootles Ranty Rant Time

Hoo boy I need to rant for a minute so everyone relax and just go with this, okay? Don't gotta read or say anything, I just need this out

I am at a really weird point in time right now.

I dropped out of college in September, I started working full time a couple months later, and I will be working full time until at least August. Which is when I plan on going back to school.

But like, I'm still working on figuring out everything I need for my future career. I'm working towards being an aquarist (basically a zookeeper but for an aquarium), and there's a lot of moving parts there in terms of what I need in order to even be considered/eligible for a job position.

I need to sign up for swim lessons this year, and I need to get my scuba certification. Neither are a requirement until I am ready to apply to different positions, but they'll only help me with school and internship opportunities. Which that's like a whole 'nother can of worms I am not prepared to deal with for the time being.

There's a woman at work who used to work with sea lions and she gave me some really good information and said I can contact her whenever. Which is great! I need to ask her what exactly she did, if she was an animal keeper with the sea lions or something else, what schooling she had before then (which I'm assuming and it was implied on she had a marine biology degree of some sort)

Anyways, what I've been avoiding saying is that I am just really overwhelmed with all this, I guess? Like I know it's gonna be a long process, which is better, but I still feel rushed, almost?

I just feel a certain amount of pressure to have all this shit figured out and like soon. I know I need to have an answer on going back to school by the summer so I can register for classes and stuff, and it'd be nice to have swim lessons already in the works before then.

I'm in my early twenties and I work full time. Honestly, I'm in a position that I really want my life to get a move on. I want to meet people and do fun stuff, I want to start dating, I want to put effort into my appearance this year. I don't know, I feel like physically I'm in a great spot for a relationship, and mentally I'm the best I've been for like 3 years now.

But I have to keep reminding myself that I'm only 21, I have time a plenty to figure this whole life thing out. I have time to figure out my career and finish schooling for it. I have time to find a partner. I have time to get stable enough financially to move out of the house.

I'm still just impatient, I guess?

It doesn't help that I still have like no social life. Especially since dropping out. I had a somewhat social life before when I was still in school, but I wasn't mentally in a good place so I rarely pursued being social.

But now I am in a good place. I've gotten past the point of needing my "weekend" to be a recovery period. I can do a bunch of shit over these two days and not feel exhausted, and can still start a new work week feeling pretty good.

I'm overwhelmed by all this but at the same time I'm not because I'm ready to get shit done. I'm ready to take the next step forward in life.

But I can't right now. It'll take so much time for all of this, and right now, I keep getting anxious about the future. I don't know, I'm struggling to put some of this into words.

I feel so silly being this distraught about life because I'm only 21 but I am.

#I don't know #a mutual said something a few days ago about wanting to be a girlfriend again #and I was just hit with the realization that I'm in a good spot mentally and physically #and that a relationship would be absolutely fucking top tier cause life is already pretty good right now #*mild slightly awkward scream cause ?????* #Snootles rants #Certified Snootles moment

[refried-ghost]

A little oc shit too.

Krysa has a great capacity for violence and will act on it if given a suitable opportunity. She actively weights the pros and cons with a 'how fucked a situation will doing this cause me.' She's a sadist. But she doesn't get off on it sexually. (She's also just a much if not more of a masochist with a particularly warped view of pain. Which honestly drives her into more risky situations and unnecessary fights then the sadistic streak.)

This cruelty doesn't extend to cute things or short people (which mostly manifests as her being softer to irken then usual but that may also be because she met Zim and Skoodge so young and got very attached to Skoodge) cause she has somewhat of an inability to fully separate them from children in her mind and children are sorta sacred to her cause, she feels like her childhood was stolen (basically was). It gives her this weird soft spot for kids. A weird kinda maternal instinct she usually attempts to intentionally ignore. And she doesn't really like kids in general. If you just shove one at her she'd probably make sure they're okay, but it they stir that stupid empathy she'll latch on and need to keep them safe(/straight up adopt them.)

Like she's all sorts of not okay. Being in the bunker so long, how she was forced to grow as child, and the legitimate slaughter she had to orchestrate to get both her and others out of her situation, all stamped what empathy she had into a tiny compartmentalized part of her mind. And enforced deeply rooted trust issues. But like she knows how to work people and to hide that pretty thoroughly. She always was quick to catch onto how people worked and was purposely trained in how to use and get things out of them.

As a kid/teen she had a bit of a snappy temper. It'd take a bit to get there, but she'd definitely just sorta snap. However, like the Tallest, being in Zim's orbit for so much of her development just sort beat a new kinda patience into her. (Not that the Tallest use that patience with most people aside from Zim. They just don't need to. But you probably won't find them yelling in anger. There are exceptions of course.) Which she honestly appreciates later cause a cold calculated anger that people can't necessarily see is far more useful in situations.

She weighs a lot pros and cons. Is this person gonna be useful to me? Is that useful enough to overcome any possible headache they may cause? If I let's them handle things how okay is it be if they fail or decide to fuck me over?

And that rounds back to trust issues. She doesn't really expect anything from people. Ever. She'll delegate and shit but she always thinks about how to handle a catastrophic failure or purposeful backstab. So when she does end up trusting people, she's not fucking okay. At all. Trust is weakness an evil temptation to be avoided at any and all costs. But the people she trusts are already deep in the pool of people she's attached to and she's not gonna backpedal away from them. Instead she's gonna turn all those nasty feelings in on herself and tear herself to shreds. But she knows she's a bad person so she obviously deserves it. And if someone she does trust purposely betrays her in a way that intentional hurts those she's attached to and burns down everything she's built-

Her main motivation is knowledge and creation. Sure she gotta bit of a crush for chaos and destruction, but it sure as shit isn't for her stuff. Put her Membrane labs and she's a kid in a candy store. She glances Zim with tech she's never seen before and the world suddenly opened up. She had a fucking spiritual experience. And she's gotta chase that tech.

Zim labelled her a defect because her clear deviation from what humans 'should be' (both in his eyes and his view of humanity's eyes) when she decides it simply not worth the effort of maintaining her mask, her tendency for manipulation (was very easy to see towards others at first cause she didn't really bother hiding it from him), and the missing leg. And that's all before he realized she got really weird complex about being call human.

But I know human OCs aren't very interesting to people so Imma just gush about her to myself more.

#i could go on and on but i won't #refriedramblings

[katyspersonal]

Hey hey! Real quick, what's your dynamic for Queen Annalise and King Cain? You are one of the only two people with a king in mind lol. Also, Anna is underrated she deserves some interest

Thems!!!!!!!!!!!

Well first things first, 'Cain' is a nickname I do use so far as I don't know what his real name could be yet. Naming characters is THE hardest part don't @ me! It is lost in translation but it is said that name of Queen Yharnam has been inherited for generations, so I came up with this headcanon that upon unholy marriage by Pthumerian ritual (with ring of betrothal you can propose to Annalise with, in order to start conception of a blood child) they do assume these names. A Queen assumes name Yharnam, and a King assumes name Cain. Something that ended up not happening because Executioners bursted in before the ritual was complete.

Annalise and Cain have been friends since childhood as Cain, and current Crow of Cainhurst, were children of the staff (the guy executing the wrongdoers that deserved (?) it, never pictured on the portraits because that's not a worker anyone needs to know the face of). Cain seemed to have been keeping somewhat of a respectful 'distance' since age like, 6, when he started to understand his and others' feelings more but it was not because of her status as a princess. Rather, he just admired her as a person - smart, talented, already acting regal in moreso serious than spoiled way. He early learned that lying to her or arguing with her was a bad idea so they formed a bond where he would be genuine with her and give her advices in such a way that it'd feel as if she came up with a good decision instead. Annalise, on the other hand, learned to appreciate the rare person not trying to benefit from her status, nor attempting serious influence on her. It is a kind of friend royalties gotta learn to treasure as they're so rare.

Around teen years, like 15, Cain would develop a habit to bring her various gifts he'd make himself passing them as 'just gestures for his friend' but Annalise wasn't stupid, and it was the first time since childhood they had a bad fight again because... well, he forgot that lying to her was a bad idea now? xD She wasn't stupid and realised his crush and was upset he'd try to be elusive about it. But he had a reason to, because they did not even have a hope to marry when they're older - as a princess she did have to think about "continuing the bloodline" and all that nonsense, right? Needed to marry someone efficient for the purpose.

She also had a say on his gifts being cute but 'pointless' since she could have bought everything she wanted anyways, however he'd continue gifting them anyway, and she'd continue to secretly stash them all in a secret room. One of them was a ribbon thing that you see wrapped around the helmet she is wearing in game though that he gifted her when he no longer wanted to wear it - it is now used as a (working) lucky charm to not lose herself completely since her mind transcends physical realm now.

Around time they grew up, thanks to Byrgenwerth, Cainhurst was finally able to get in touch with their lost heritage that they kept failing to retract from the dungeons (just look at all the armours of fallen Cainhurst warriors scattered down there!). Things sort of changed, a lot. Cain became a captain of the Knights (that Maria inspired) and his brother became a guardian tasked with seeking blood dregs for her, but more importantly? They now could marry! Officially!

However that "marriage" would mean a terrible fate for Cain as the 'king' figure is a final sacrifice when the child of blood is born, but at this rate both Annalise and Cain were going almost insane for the prospect of what new future their whole clan could have. If Cain was scared - she'd convince him it was worth it, if Annalise waw scared - he'd convince her he's ready to take fate worse than death for her ambitions and dreams, basically they entered a loop none could escape thanks to the effort of another. His feelings for her only grew stronger though and he was feeling happy - they liked to sit at the two thrones near each other as kids to play and as teens to pretend they could be the royal couple, but now they finally were doing it for REAL!

So yeah as you can see, they still had somewhat imbalanced relationship but funny enough it was not because of their (previously) varying statuses - it was a combination of Cain being a simp malleable and Annalise being assertive. By the time they proceeded with the ritual, both were so insane for their pursuit that they compared with Byrgenwerth scholars themselves and did not realise they were sacrificing the future they did want for the future they had no even clear idea what would bring, for a child they would not even get to raise together! They were desensitised for something more important but by now Annalise came to her senses and regrets having lost the sight of simple things that made her human... err, vampire? Well you get the point!

She won't say it though, but even if now Executioners are not here to abort a second attempt at a blood child, she won't try again even with as much as a stranger she has no big backstory with, so she refuses our proposing. Not much because of feeling too lonely to give a company already - she used to it over many years, plus she can transcend dimensions while asleep as someone with immortal mind even if her body is dead. But mostly because that'd be an admission Cain was just a 'pawn', a 'failed attempt' and be a disgrace to his fate; it is too late but it doesn't mean she should proceed after such a horrible mistake. I'd say it is a rare courage to stop with the wrong way even if it is too late to redeem and repent and mistakes can't be fixed, something all the mad clerics + scientists in the settings did NOT have, so maybe I hurried to compare her with an average Byrgenwerth student?..

(Needless to mention that for this sort of "marriage" gender of the 'king' figure doesn't matter (we can propose no matter what gender our Hunter is!). If the person is by default infertile of just isn't packed with what they need to impregnate the 'queen' with a child of blood - they undergo a painful physical change as part of a ritual, though.)

Also slight notice, he is shorter than her!

#bloodborne #annalise queen of the vilebloods #king of cainhurst #doodles #yes i just copy pasted him from one of the portraits #ask replies #bloodborne headcanons #honestly though so far the only person with 'the sacrifice was a mistake we must stop' vibe #others just go 'well sacrifices were made so we CAN'T stop now' *glares at laurence and micolash* #she still sips the blood dregs tho because you are not yourself when you are hungry fdhdhsfsd #poor cain his love was an insanity #well technically he is still alive as spirit but it is... complicated #he is an amalgam with logarius now because killing someone this charged with power of cursed ritual? #logarius could not have inherited such dying will without consequences #it is virtually impossible to split them now though especially since logarius has more control #thanks for ask val! #also jokes on you i have EVERY character in bloodborne in mind #even that one corpse you pick black church set from #rip adella's ex you will not be forgotten by me :pensive:

[advnterccs-archive]

@countlessrealities sent; If Rick hadn't already been nervous before, he would have definitely become once after he had been presented with his boyfriend's thoughtful gifts. He had loved them, of course, but they also made him wonder if he had put enough efforts in his own.

"I-I have something for you too," he announced, starting to pull out his portal gun. "O-Obviously, I mean. 'C-Cause, damn, it's our first Christmas together an-and I'd be a fuckin' shitty boyfriend if I hadn't."

And if it had turned out that his gifts were as lame as he was starting to think they were, but he avoided saying that out aloud.

"G-Give me a second," he hurried to add, shooting a portal and stepping inside it before his counterpart could do or say anything.

The green vortex kept swirling for a few moments and then something started to be pushed through it. It was a huge box, about 6 x 3 feet, wrapped in electric blue paper and a big bright green ribbon. Once it would be open, it would reveal plastic packages. Lots and lots of them, and not just any plastic packages. The very same ones they had used to chase after when the Mulan special edition of Szechuan sauce had still been a thing.

Rick stepped out once it had been shoved completely on the garage floor, hands restlessly fixing his lab coat to unload some of his still building nerves.

"I-I might have spent four days locating an-and travelling to dimensions to collect so much of...that," he offered with a shrug that was supposed to be casual, but that still came out too stiff to be believable. "I...I-It's a fuckin' stupid present, but since it's so hard to find it an-and shit...Now you have your w-well stocked personal stash. B-But this isn't all"

Biting the inside of his cheek, he hurried to fish out another, much smaller package from his pocket. "T-This sort of looks like a rip off o-of the bracelet you got me, b-but...I hope you'll like it anyway."

It was a simple dark silver box, with an elegant alien symbol carved on the lid. Inside, there was a necklace. The string was made of a material similar to natural rubber, but softer and more resistant, while the pendant was an odd rock, whose bright reds and oranges seemed to change as it was moved, as if it had been made of an extremely hot fire.

"I-It's...There's this planet where t-they take pieces of stars an-and crystallise them," Rick explained, glancing away slightly. "An-And it seemed fitting since...w-well, shit you are the fuckin' star of my life, Rick."

{ My Rick to your Rick || I wrote it as some sort of continuation to your ask, since you have already posted yours! Gotta love some continuity x3 Also, someone decided to be in a mood(TM) while writing the ask -eyeroll- }

It'd been obvious all night that Rick's boyfriend looked on edge about something. Now that his gifts were presented, the short bout of silence, everything became clear. This was about the gifts. Specifically, the ones that his counterpart chose for him. He didn't know what to say at that revelation. If he should say anything at all.

Instead, he kept quiet, watching the subtle movements of his boyfriend talk. Softly eyeing him with a vague excitement and open-ended curiosity. After all, he wasn't expecting anything. He just wanted to know what got the other so worked up.

"A-Alright," He responded back in a light whisper. A little unsure where this was headed.

There weren't any guesses he could take. Anything could come out of that portal. Something big, something small. Whatever it was, it left his mind puzzled. Though, he refused to put the pieces together.

The large box being pushed out from the swirling green brought half his brow to raise. He wouldn't waste any time to kneel down onto the ground before it. Glancing up quickly at his counterpart with that same confused look before he began to unwrap the gift.

Yet, once it was finally revealed to him, along with the explanation, he felt himself freeze. He'd never really told anyone how that Szechuan sauce was important for the sole fact that it connected him to better memories. Specifically ones of him sharing chicken nuggets with his daughter all those years ago. It made him freeze, heart swelling at the memory and the present day thought of someone who loved him being so thoughtful enough to do all of this.

Standing up, his words would take a while to come out, but he was quieted down again as the second gift was presented. His blue eyes were wide as he took the box in his hand, opening it to stare at the necklace.

Every word and thought overwhelmed him. To the point where he felt as if he couldn't move. It wasn't bad, but he hadn't expected it. This felt perfect and, deep down, he didn't feel worthy of something this thoughtful.

He would have to fully examine the pendant on the necklace later.

At that moment, his vision blurred with a few tears beginning to stream down his face. Yet, the soft wonder in his eye and smile that made it's way on his face didn't falter.

"G-God damnit, I-I feel so fuckin' stupid getting emotional over Christmas gifts," He forced his body to move, a little clumsily, ending up almost falling into his boyfriend's arms. His own arms wrapping around the other's frame, tight and with the feeling as if he had no intention of letting go. "But, th-these are perfect, Rick, fuck, I-I can't fucking speak ---"

Nuzzling his face into the crook of his counterpart's neck, he sniffled from the emotions that poured out of him. ".... I-I love you... y-you're so fucking perfect, I-I don't know what else to say, I-I'm fuckin' in love with you and everything that you are."

#countlessrealities #{ answers ; 🧪 } #{ ic ; 🧪 ; rick } #{ verse ; 'ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇʟɪɴᴇ ꜱᴘʟɪᴛ' } #{ ᴿⁱᶜᵏ ⁺ ᴿⁱᶜᵏ || ꜱᴛᴀʀᴛᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀ ꜱᴘᴀʀᴋ ɴᴏᴡ ᴡᴇ'ʀᴇ ᴏɴ ꜰɪʀᴇ } #long post tw #{ this got so long but i like how it's a continuation of the ask i sent xD } #{ it makes the scene more intimate because they shared their presents one right after the other } #{ speaking of moods -- i think your Rick broke my Rick } #{ he got so happy he stopped working and now he can't speak xD } #{ he's speechless uwu <3 }

[toadstool-heart]

New Year

2022 was definitely an interesting year...lots of trying to make things better, and a lot of things not really going as hoped. I think I'm better off than where I was, but not as much as I had wanted to be. Still, I put in effort to do and be better, and I'm proud of that.

I really want to build a life that I can be happy with, but there just seem to be endless obstacles in the way. I'm learning to be calm in the chaos, and that I don't need environmental serenity to feel serene; but I do wish that I could enjoy living more than I am right now.

I want to progress in my career and stop wasting my life on a shitty job that makes me feel suffocated, but to do that I still need at least a few grand and a semester or two. Maybe it'd be worthwhile to take out another loan and kick out another semester or two of grad school to get my coding skills on par enough to go after jobs in my field?

I'd like to develop healthier relationships, both with others and myself. I'm getting better at not seeking out toxic relationships, but it's still a struggle. I don't know how to convince myself that I deserve to be treated well--that I'm worthwhile and not a net negative on people's lives. I think I need another round or two of therapy before I can move past that ingrained self-loathing. I'm working on seeing a psychiatrist to help sort out my medications, maybe they'll be able to recommend me some psychologists.

On a more superficial level, with my time off this coming semester, there's a lot of hobbies/activities that I want to engage with more deeply. I want to read more, hike more, draw more, just generally live more than I am right now. I need to replace what work takes out of me, and sleeping from when I get home to when I need to get ready again is just not doing that--I'm resting, but I'm not recovering.

Exercising more, as cliche a resolution as that is, would probably help me feel better physically and psychologically. I'd like to find a local pool that I could swim at, being in the water just makes me feel so good. Between that and hiking I think that I could build up my stamina (and put on some decent muscle) enough to feel more energetically available to engage in work and life without needing to rely so heavily on caffeine.

There's a lot that needs work still, but there are good things coming down the pipeline. Travel plans, reunions with friends I haven't seen in forever, etc. Just gotta keep going, keep trying. Life is never going to be perfect, but I know it can be better than what it is now.

#new years resolutions #new years #resolutions #personal #just keep swimming

[reki-of-the-valley]

Write Reki coming out to Langa but Langa being hella confused because he was under the impression him and reki were dating and didn't know why reki felt the need to come out. I just think it'd be funny lol

Reki: Langa 🥺👉👈 I have something to tell you 😖 pls don't hate me tho 😔😥 im gay 😣😣😣

Langa: Why are you telling me this?

Reki: because you're my best friend 😟

Langa, fully in love with Reki and already thinking they're dating: I'm not your friend??

Reki: oh so you're HOMOPHOBIC?

Bestie, this is possibly the worst thing I've ever written. I don't think you understand how much I wanted to scream of secondhand embarrassment while working on this. But here it is!

---

Reki drops his chin on Langa's shoulder, his whole weight pressing into Langa's back.

"Langa... I gotta tell you something, man. And it's like, super-duper important."

Langa hums as he pats Reki on the cheek. His eyes are still glued on Reki's bookshelf, looking for a specific book to reread, but his attention is fully devoted to Reki. "Yes, Reki?"

"Okay, so don't take this the wrong way but," he buries his face in Langa's shoulder, voice muffled by fabric, "I might be lil bit gay. Bi maybe?" He whimpers before lifting his head, his loud voice booming through his room. "Boys! I think I like boys!"

Langa blinks and gapes at him. Was this supposed to be news to him? Was he supposed to act surprised? Was the fact that his boyfriend of over a month liked boys supposed to be some shocking revelation?

Langa knows that he has the habit of getting confused over trivial things, but this confession? Langa has no explanation for it. Part of him even wonders if he understood correctly, if the quick translations were right.

"Why are you telling me this now?"

"Because you're my best friend, dude. Obviously."

So much was fair, Langa supposes. Reki had never really come out to him, never really put a label on his sexuality, but Langa hadn't thought it very important. Lots of people don't put a strict label on themselves, just living as themselves. And Langa had considered Reki accepting his confession as enough of a confirmation that he wasn't straight. It didn't matter if his boyfriend identified as gay, bi, pan, or queer of some sort. All that really mattered was that he liked him and that they could continue going out on dates and coming home to movies and cuddles.

Langa pinches the bridge of his nose, inhaling sharply. He needs to do this right. He needs to say what Reki wants to hear.

"So, you like guys."

"Is that a problem?"

"Well, I mean-"

"Oh my god," Reki falls back onto his floor. His eyes are huge and... Langa isn't sure what that look means. "You're homophobic!"

Langa recoils at the word. Homophobic. Reki was calling him homophobic.

"I'm gay?"

Reki blinks at him. His eyes are still big, but confusion seems to haze them. He seems even more confused than Langa.

"Homosexual," Langa clarifies. "Not phobic."

"You're... gay?"

Why did Reki sound so surprised? Langa had made no effort in concealing how terribly gay he was. Did he think that Langa was-?

"What gave you the impression that I wasn't?"

The silence is almost unbearable as Reki pulls on the sleeves of his hoodie. The silence is unnatural in the usually loud house and Langa wants nothing more than to break it. So he does.

"Reki, Sunshine, Darling, most beautiful human being," he inhales again, both hands in his face before staring Reki in the face, "when I said I loved you, what do you think that meant?"

"I don't know? That you loved me as a friend? They do it in American shows, and Canada isn't that different from the US."

Langa sighs as he gets up. Defeated doesn't even begin to describe what he's feeling.

"That's it. I'm done here. I'm going home to go scream into my closet and possibly go stuff myself back into it."

"No!" Reki grabs Langa's ankles before he can walk away. "Don't go!"

Langa stares at him, the boy sprawled across his floor.

"I like you too?"

Langa stares at the grinning boy, his pretty face completely flushed as the words leave his lips. Langa stares until he's pursing his lips and sighing, shaking his head at Reki's antics. "You... are so lucky you're cute because you're extremely infuriating right now."

"But you love me!"

Langa plops back down onto the floor, Reki moving closer to him. "Unfortunately. So... we're dating for real this time, right?"

Reki grins as he cuddles closer, arms wrapping around Langa's middle as he rests his head on his shoulder. "Only if you agree to go out on a date with me this weekend. I'll make sure it's awesome!"

Langa chuckles as he buries his face in Reki's hair. "They always are, even when you're unaware that they're dates."

#This is one of the stupidest things I've ever written and I love it #I absolutely adore writing dumbass shit so thank you for this #I know I made a few changes to your initial premise but thats mostly bc I don't think Langa would be surprised by Reki calling him a friend #SO YEAH HERE YOU GO #renga #snowgear #lanreki #reki x langa #langa x reki #reki #kyan reki #reki kyan #langa #hasegawa langa #langa hasegawa #sk8 #sk8 the infinity #lils writes

[silence-burns]

Please Hate Me //part 33

Fandom: Marvel 

Summary: Based on “Imagine having a love/hate relationship with Loki.” by @thefandomimagine​

[Somewhere in a universe far, far away…] 

There was a soft brush of fabric on the polished floor that accompanied the approaching steps of leather shoes. Frigga stopped a little to Heimdall's left. 

"What do your golden eyes see, my friend?" 

"They see many things, my queen." 

Bifrost glimmered in the million colors under their feet. Lines and flashes passed faster than the human eye could see. The sword that was the key to every way, waited in Heimdall's hands.

"What do you see of my troubled sons?" 

"They are both learning through new experiences." 

Frigga sighed. "Which usually means they’ve gotten in even more trouble. Tell me, what is it this time?" 

Heimdall stood tall on the dais, the armor forged in ancient times by the hands of legends half forgotten by time still impeccable. The worlds moved before his eyes, with no secrets hidden from the gaze of the All-Watcher. 

"They are faring well, my queen. Even Loki." 

"I had hoped that banishment to Earth would be a better choice than the dungeons." Frigga's hand clutched the gown over her heart. "What did he do this time?" 

A smile ghosted on the lips of the All-Watcher. "It appears that he's made friends. Quite close ones, I dare say." 

"Oh, dear," Freya repeated in a completely different tone. A wicked light played in her eyes. "Do tell, my friend." 

*

[The same universe, a little closer] 

Life in big cities bears a certain strain on everyone's minds. Despite what the newspapers, thirsty for anything and everything worthy and unworthy of filling the pages with, would like you to believe, life had always been difficult. 

Time is always lacking, and money is never enough, and no matter how much you strain your brain, it just sometimes happens that you might not remember about the things stored at the very back of your tiny shop, tucked cozily into the corner of a very calm street. 

"Well," the man said. "I had no idea that I still had those in the freezers. I could've sworn that I have cleaned them before the winter and left nothing except for the packed broccoli. It must be your lucky day, my boy." 

The boy indeed felt very lucky. It was not everyday that one could be sent out to fetch ice cream for a living god in the middle of winter. 

"Have a nice day, sir!" he called on his way out. 

The chilly breeze bit into his cheeks, warmed up in the comforting interior of the grocery. Snow shined on the few surfaces not yet stamped on. The sidewalk Peter chose was a slippery trap that only his spider senses got him through unscathed. 

Loki sensed his coming, and looked over his shoulder at the approaching boy. His other arm was currently wrapped around your shoulders, tucking you closer into him. Peter tried his best not to stare too openly, but couldn't stop the grin from splitting his face. He sat on the other side of the god, the bench icy cold. 

"Thank you, my boy." The god took the ice cream with obvious delight. It had been your idea to spend the few hours before Peter's totally-not-a-date trying out the goods New York had to offer. At first, Loki had snickered at the suggestion of trying out whatever ice cream was available in the middle of winter, but after a few interesting flavors were discovered, Loki apologized. There was an almost disturbing variety of flavors Loki couldn't even imagine existing. 

"You're welcome, Mr. Mischief. I'm sure there would be a bigger choice if it was summer. I always go to that one vendor two streets away from my house, because he has this special recipe that absolutely blows my taste buds away every time." 

"Sounds intriguing." Loki's mind conjured the last time his taste buds had been blown away. If he recalled that unfortunate event correctly, it had something to do with pizza and a bet. "But I think I'll pass for now." 

The look of pure adoration in the boy's eyes hadn’t  perished. 

"I still can't believe you won't get sick after having so many," you said, and watched Loki devour the caramel. 

"It must be nice to be a god," Peter sighed. "You have awesome superpowers, get to do what you want and they even make action figures of you…" 

Loki frowned. "The what?" 

Peter blanched. He started fumbling with his jacket and 'accidentally' looked at his watch. "Oh, I think I’ve gotta go, it's getting so late and I don't want to make MJ wait—" 

Loki reached out and fixed the hair Peter had been nervously fighting with for the past few hours they'd all spent outside. "Don't forget the ring, boy." 

"Thank you!" 

The boy was beaming on his way out of the park. 

"I'm never washing my hair again." 

The totally-not-a-date that was steadily approaching was something Peter wasn't sure he was ready for. So many things could go wrong—and he had already imagined most of them. It wasn't as if he couldn't sleep all night thinking about it, he just… Was busy. Thinking. 

Peter straightened the jacket that was in absolutely no need of straightening. His hand moved to his hair, but he stopped it halfway with a smile. It'd  been touched by the hand of god, so it was as good as it could ever get. 

On his way out of the park the three of you had been resting in for a while, Peter's mind was in a strange disarray of thoughts. However, he was still capable of noticing the interesting new graffiti decorating the Avengers' statues set up in the middle of the park. Whoever decided to redecorate them this time, certainly had a pair of skillful hands. The wild mustache covering half of Iron Man's face looked almost lifelike. 

Loki and you watched the boy leave, nervousness apparent in his every too-stiff step. 

"They grow up so fast," you sighed, leaning further into Loki. 

He nodded. His finger circled lazily around your shoulder, drawing spiralling patterns. Loki turned his head toward the memorial statues raised in the central part of the park. People took pictures in front of them, posing and smiling as they milled around. Those were the heroes, after all. Saviors of the day. 

Loki added a mustache to another statue. 

You noticed and eased a giggle. "They're going to be so pissed." 

"My very soul aches at that thought. What a terrible crime." 

The patterns changed as you shifted slightly. The presence on his shoulder was warm and softened by the fabric of clothes that kept the winter frost from you. 

"I thought using magic in this world was difficult." 

"It is.There's a lot more focus required to make it work than I'm used to. It's nothing dramatic, though. I've heard of worlds where the trickle of magic is even more strained, to the point where it barely exists at all." 

"Do you miss them? The other worlds, I mean. Like Asgard." 

The patterns changed again. They slowed down, became more deliberate. 

"Sometimes," was the honest answer and the one he gave after careful consideration. 

"Will you leave, then?" 

Loki looked down at his wrist, where a thin band of metal used to reside, blocking every and all effort he might take against leaving Earth or using magic in any form. It was no longer there, which meant, although it would be extremely difficult to conduct, Loki could technically leave. 

The only obstacle was that it was no longer his priority. 

"I've never been one to sit aimlessly on my ass for too long, and especially not when and where I had been forced to do so. I think I could name more than a few places I'd like to pay a visit," he admitted, putting his cheek on the top of your head. His throat bobbed slightly. "The only problem is that I just recently found out how terribly boring touring alone might be. It's a real wonder why anyone bothers to do so anymore, and," he swallowed, "I think I could use some company." 

Loki cursed himself for putting his head on top of yours, and blocking the view of your face. Especially as he still didn't get any answer. His heart jumped into his throat, making it difficult to breathe. 

"...I mean, I know it's still so early, and that's okay if you feel overwhelmed or unsure and I won't force you into anything more than you're willing to do—” 

Loki's rumbles were cut short when you finally moved to look up at him. The wild gleam in your eyes and a wicked smile so similar to his struck him dumb. 

"You'd never be able to leave this planet without me." 

A choked breath, so similar to a whispered name ghosted over his lips. "Of course I wouldn't. What would be the fun in that?"

*

[The galaxy, elsewhere] 

"Oh, dear," the queen broke the biscuit in half with perfect manners. Barely any crumbs dared to ruin the fragile dessert. "I guess he really is experiencing something new." 

Heimdall sipped the tea. Servants at the queen's quarters left them with a small table full of goods of the highest sort. The warm breeze played with the curtains with the subtle shimmer of gold. The trees rustled on the wind, losing old leaves to it. 

"He's also plotting an escape," Heimdall added. His helmet laid on his knee. 

Frigga waved the biscuit in a gesture that had very little to do with manners. "That sounds more like him." 

The softest hint of a smile graced her features. 

"I wonder what will become of him. Maybe it's in my nature as a mother, but no matter how much I try, I can't help but continue to worry about him, even after all these years." 

"I swore to keep an eye on him, and I will." Heimdall put a hand to his heart. There was no smile on his face, only seriousness as he recalled an oath he'd never break. 

"Thank you, my friend."

#Please Hate Me #loki x reader #loki x you #loki laufeyson x reader #loki laufeyson x you #loki #loki laufeyson #i love loki #marvel #loki marvel #loki mcu #loki fanfiction #loki imagine #loki laufeyson imagine

[barnesandrogersfanfics]

Unexpected Arrival -4

Pairing: Eventual Bucky x Reader, Possible Steve x Reader

Summary: As if working with the Avengers wasn’t exciting enough…. an unexpected visitor is about to change your life forever.

A/N: This part kinda took a little angsty turn! After the next chapter, there may be a little time jump.... i havent decided yet. Thank you to everyone who is reading/sharing, it means alot!

I was cleared by Bruce, as long as i promised to take it easy for a couple of days! Bucky walked with me back to the residential floor, Evie safely tucked into his right arm as i leant on his left for a bit of support.

"Hey Buck, lets just stop in the common room for a bit. I need to eat and not be stuck in a bed for a while"

"You sure? Bruce said to rest...."

"I'll be resting just fine on the sofa, while you make me a sandwich"

"Okay, deal" he chuckled shaking his head as we walked into the common room. I walked over to the sofa and gently lowered myself down, Bucky standing close by waiting for me to get comfortable.

"I'm not sure how much rest you'll get when the team realise you and Evie are in here" he said leaning forward to place Evie in my arms once he saw i was settled "what do you want on your sandwich doll?"

"I really dont mind, id eat anything im that hungry" i scoffed as i snuggled into the sofa with Evie laying on my chest.

"Well i'll be damned!!" Came the booming voice of Sam Wilson.

"Shhhhh she's sleeping bird brain!" Bucky snapped as he playfully shoved Sams shoulder.

"Sorry! I didnt know!" He mumbled as he walked over and sat across from me "i heard what happened but i thought they were all just messing with me!!"

"Nope its true, surprise huh?"

"Id say!! She's beautiful Y/N" Sam flashed a huge grin as he looked down at Evie.

"Thank you Sam" i smiled proudly and looked over to see Bucky keeping a close eye on us while he made my sandwich.

"What are you? The baby bodyguard?" Sam laughed teasing Bucky, Sam had obviously noticed that Bucky was keeping a close eye on us.

"Try the baby daddy!" Bucky replied with a dead straight face and murder in his eyes.

"What??!!" Sam practically squealed at Bucky's reply.

"Oh my god Buck.... did you really just say that?" I laughed at him, his eyes met mine and his facade broke as he burst out laughing "im sorry! I heard Tony say it yesterday" Bucky shrugged as he walked over with the plate holding my sandwich.

"Please don't ever say that again"

"Wait.... are you serious? Or are you fucking with me?? i honestly cant tell!"

Sam said shaking his head and looking super confused.

"Language! Don't swear around my daughter!" Bucky slapped Sam on the back of the head as he passed.

"Switch please" i smiled up at Bucky before taking the plate, once his hands were free he carefully picked up Evie and had her held against his chest in no time.

"Wow..... you’re like... good at the dad thing Buck" Sam said sounding surprised.

"I had younger sisters growing up, it was a long time ago but I'm pretty sure its still the same" he chuckled.

"Wait, how long have you two...."

"You can take this one Buck I'm eating" i said with a shit eating grin.

"Thanks Y/N" he rolled his eyes, looked at Sam and shrugged "it was one time, we're not together.... but we're in this together. Right doll?" He looked at me and smiled.

"Yep, what he said" i replied trying to keep my tone steady, it hurt a little hearing how casual he made it sound. It took me back to when he had acted like nothing had happened between us  after we finally slept together all those months ago.

"I cant believe y'all have a baby!"

"Neither can we!" I said around a mouthful of my sandwich "imagine my surprise when Bruce told me i didn't have stomach flu and that i was in fact in labour!"

"Thats crazy sweetheart"

"Sure was, scariest thing I've ever been through Sammy....And the pain.... nothing compares to that!"

"But it was worth it, look what you got out of it" Sam was hovering around Evie clearly wanting to hold her but Bucky wasn't parting with her just yet.

"She was worth every bit of the pain".

Later that afternoon I was walking back to the common room after taking a shower and getting into clean clothes, i stopped by the door when i heard Sam and Bucky talking in hushed voices.

"Oh come on man! These girls are hot! You cant pass that up!" Sam was saying to Bucky.

"I don't know Sam, i don't really think me going out on a date is a good idea right now"

"Why the hell not?? Just because you got a kid now? Im sure Evie wont mind"

"Y/N's been through a lot man, i just feel like i need to be here for her and Evie"

"Buck come onnnn! they will both probably be asleep by 7pm! the date is at 8, you dont need to stay that long..."

I couldn't believe what i was hearing! I pushed the door open making sure it was loud enough that they heard me. Both men turned to face me, Sam with a huge fake smile and Bucky just looked plain guilty.

"Sorry did i interrupt something?" I asked casually as i flipped on the kettle to make some tea.

"No doll of course not"

"I was just telling Bucky about a date i arranged for him.... a double date actually. I needed a wingman"

"Oh...."

"And I was just telling Sam that i didn't think it was a good idea. I thought it'd be best if i stayed here incase you and Evie needed me"

"If you wanna go Buck don't let us stop you" i snapped turning to face them "i'll be fine with Evie on my own"

"See! I told you she'd be cool!"

I was suddenly feeling so angry and on the verge of tears all at once! I just needed to get away from them, I walked over to Bucky and reached down taking Evie.

"She needs feeding" i said simply "go on your date Bucky" i mumbled as i turned around and headed for my room.

I was sat on my bed nursing Evie with tears running down my face when i heard the knock on my door. I chose to ignore it hoping that whoever it was would take the hint and leave me alone.

"Y/N.... doll i know you’re in there i can hear you" Steve called from outside making me sigh and wipe my tears away.

"Im just feeding Evie, i'll be out in a minute"

"Can i come in?.... i can tell you’re upset sweetheart"

"Im fine Steve..." i called back but burst into tears again. The next thing i know the door clicked open and Steve came in, he pushed the door closed behind him and locked it before rushing to my side. He sat next to me on my bed pulling me into him carefully while trying not to disrupt Evie's feeding.

"You wanna tell me whats wrong?" He asked quietly as he stroked my arm trying to calm me down.

"Im just a huge hormonal mess right now Steve" i mumbled not wanting to admit what had set me off "its been a lot to adjust to i guess and i think its all just catching up to me"

"You sure thats all? You know you can talk to me Y/N.... about anything"

"I know" i nodded "I'm not even sure why i got so upset.... not really"

"So something did upset you"

"It was stupid..... don't worry about it" i told him as i sat up seeing that Evie was done feeding, i held her blanket over my chest so i didn't expose myself to Steve.

"Could you take her for a second while i sort this out?"

"Sure" he nodded happily taking Evie.

I straightened out my shirt and settled back against the bed watching Steve burp Evie. His huge hand was rested against her chest supporting her chin and jaw, his free hand gently rubbing her back.

"How do you even know how to wind a baby Steve?" I asked curiously, he looked like a pro!

"I may have done some research" he blushed a little "i wanted to know what kinda stuff needed to be done so i could help out if you needed me to"

I was suddenly crying again!!

"Oh god.... what?? Why are you crying?"

He asked starting to panic.

"That was really thoughtful of you Steve!  I cant believe you went to that effort for us... for Evie"

"Of course i did, gotta be there for my favourite girls" he said smiling just as Evie let out a little burp making us both laugh, it was the cutest little sound!

"So why are you in here crying? Talk to me" Steve said a few minutes later.

"Steve...."

"Wouldn't have anything to do with whatever the hell Sam and Bucky were bickering over would it?"

"Probably" I nodded as i picked at a thread on the blanket avoiding looking at Steve "Sam arranged a date for Bucky. I heard them talking.... Bucky said he didn't think he should go considering I've just given birth to his daughter. He feels like he needs to be here incase we need him" i shrugged "i want him to want to be here for her, i don't want him to feel like he has to.... like she's a burden to his dating life" i admitted to Steve then started to laugh at how stupid i sounded "i sound fucking crazy i know!"

"No you don't"

"I told him to go, told him that he should go on his date.... not to let us stop him, that i would be fine on my own"

"But you don't want him to go on that date do you" It wasn't a question, it was Steve stating a fact.

"No..."

"Y/N, why don't you just tell him that?"

"Because i'll sound like a crazy woman!! he doesn't owe me anything Steve, he’s not my boyfriend.... we didn't plan this" i rambled on not even sure if i was making any sense at all "yes, we have a daughter together now but that doesn't mean he has to put his life on hold. If he wants to date who am i to stop him?"

"And what about your feelings for Bucky?"

"W..what?" I asked wide eyed, caught off guard by Steve's comment.

"Im not blind doll, i see the way you are with him... the way you look at him. You love him" Steve stated smiling "and that was before you had Evie!"

"I.... i dont... shit. So what if i do huh?? Steve, it doesnt change the fact that he doesnt feel the same way!"

"How do you know that? Have you asked him??"

"Of course i haven't asked him!! But he made it clear enough back in Alaska" i shrugged.

"What do you mean?"

"if you had finally slept with the woman you loved.... would you act like nothing happened the next day?? Act like everything was normal, ignore her even. Go on dates with other women...."

"I wouldn't no"

"Exactly! There's no point in me telling Bucky how i feel because i know he will never feel the same".

"Y/N...."

"Its fine, honestly. I'll be okay, its just the hormones.... I'm over reacting" i shrugged "please don't say anything to him Steve.... i know he’s your best friend but this stays between us".

"I wont, i promise" he smiled sadly as he held my hand bringing it up to place a kiss on the back of it.

"Thank you Steve".

#bucky barnes #bucky x reader #winter soldier #bucky fanfic #bucky imagine #bucky x you #sebastian stan #steve x reader #unexpectedarrival

[punkscowardschampions]

James & Ava

James: [okay so we all know the mood is that he sees whatever she's posted and literally goes there immediately with no thought of who else could also be cos he NEEDS to check that she's alright. The drama of it all] Ava: [but luckily no one is there and she'd be so shocked but also grateful 'cos no one wants to be alone and feeling unwell, esp. not in hospital] James: [when he'd have to say he was her brother so he can take her #awkward] Ava: [lollol finding that more amusing than you would otherwise 'cos concussion breaking your awks] James: [oh she'd be so cute I can't] Ava: [just hugging him so hard] James: [we all need that moment but sadly it cannot last forever because he'd have some driver doing circles endlessly cos there's nowhere to park at hospitals ever] Ava: [seriously, and it's so expensive] James: [when you were so desperate to get in there you didn't think about how long it could have taken like she could've been admitted and that driver is just lowkey out there for the rest of time] Ava: [lmao i wonder how long he'd wait for that bag before getting bored, luckily they'd low-key be ready to get rid 'cos too busy and overcrowded] James: [practically pushing her out the door as soon as they saw someone show up for her so he doesn't even have time to give her a feelsy speech lol] James: [just help her out to the car boy, you've had a lot of practice with drunk girls in heels and it'd be the same vibe] Ava: [just saying thank you over and over] James: [meanwhile he's asking her if she's okay over and over like every step they trying to take here] Ava: ['Oh God, you must think I'm so stupid, I swear, they came out of nowhere'] James: ['We both know you're not stupid, Ava' shout out to that text cleverness 5ever tbh 'I'm just glad you weren't seriously hurt'] Ava: ['How have you been, I've been so worried' shoutout to this concussion giving me shameless freedom lol] James: [when you can only shake your head because 1. you ain't been good 2. you don't wanna tell her any of it and 3. you don't think you deserve her worry/ want her to worry about you] Ava: [sad face] James: [stopping to stroke said face, don't fall over girl, he's got you] Ava: ['James-' and then just looking 'cos what can you say] James: [looking back at her cos likewise but then you gotta drop them eyes cos so sad] Ava: ['you look tired' and making more of an actual effort to get into this car] James: ['I am tired' but helping her in and doing her seatbelt for her because not gonna see her struggle ever, telling the driver her address because there's nowhere else you can take her but home even though you have no idea if as soon as you get there someone is gonna show up for her and you obviously don't want that] Ava: [patting your shoulder like 'you can come sleep' like no no one can babe] James: ['no' but a little smile cos she's cute af 'I'm supposed to keep you awake'] Ava: [when you make a face like 😏] James: ['by which, of course, I mean, you've got a 8 hour date with Edward Cullen ahead of you'] Ava: [grinning like a fool but then being like, wait 'you'll stay though, can you?'] James: ['I'm not going to leave you alone' oh the heavy unspoken implication that she might not be if the friends or fam descend 💔] Ava: [resting your head on him as a silent thank you but then lifting it like 'so awake, promise'[ James: [stroking her hair and keeping an eye like] Ava: [being like let me tell YOU a story and honestly God knows but it'd be cute and she'd be trying to match his storyteller energy] James: [when that's lowkey the moment he falls in love with her bye] Ava: [asking the driver to play the new moon soundtrack] James: [loling and honestly when was the last time he did that, we all know it was when they were together] Ava: [live the emo life and love it babes] James: [he's GOTTA dance in his seat to keep her awake, no other reason #notanerd lol] Ava: [just clapping and cheering him on like nothing to see here driver God bless] James: [so not what that man was expecting to 👀 or 👂] Ava: [freaking out drivers is low-key a fave] James: [the one time you're happy about London traffic tbh] Ava: [even though we ain't gonna interrupt, you don't know that boy] James: [speaking of, probably send a text or something to check on the kids because you just ran like assumedly they at their grandparents but] Ava: [never leaving 'em with Chlo we all know] James: [lord her and Jay would kill each other] Ava: [I'd genuinely be worried for her safety so don't blame you remotely boy, least her parents are invested] James: [literally though & you can have those grandparents forever babs we ain't taking them away from you] Ava: [awkward that your mum never shows but that's just that on that] James: [lbr that's for the best stick with your dads kiddos] Ava: [we all know it, even if Matty might not end up remembering much] James: [Ava lowkey her mum now oops] Ava: [and Jay's actual auntie...lol what a tangled web we weave boo] James: [at least they can all stay connected] Ava: [true facts] James: [makes my heart happy even if it's weird] Ava: [lean in to how weird this family is James] James: [they weird af but they're better than the one he's got #noshadetoTeddythough] Ava: [all the shade to you Chlo, sort it out] James: [her poor future children & husband] Ava: [honestly, good luck] James: [he'd have to be about everything she is or else what the fuck] James: [anyway we've been sidetracked get to Baze's house you two] Ava: [movie marathon awaits, what else do we vibe or shall we just try and see what comes out, like] James: [let's just run with it and see what happens because we extra and anything could be said and done tbh] James: [imagine how awkward it'd be when they get there because he'd have to send her in first and just be shitting himself in the car like is anyone there or no] Ava: [at least you know full well no one is there 'cos business trips forever so you're just at the door shaking your head and doing the 'come on' gesture] James: [he'd just help her to the sofa like immediately & get her blankets and pillows and painkillers (even though it wouldn't touch a concussion headache) and a phone charger and everything else she could possibly need cos Chloe's got him trained like a dog] Ava: [low-key pulling at him, gently, like boy sit down] James: [when you are then looking at her like what did I forget/ do wrong before you realise] Ava: [squeezing his hand because you can only say thank you so many times, putting the film on but then pausing and gasping so dramatically 'coffee, I promised you coffee' and going to get up like can you be careful please] James: [thinking she's in pain or something because of that gasp so being at her side like 0-1000 and slowing her down cos they can do it together thank you] Ava: [making a face at herself like ffs when she catches on 'I'm not trying to age you' and touching his non-grey hair and wrinkles like totally necessary yep] James: ['but you're offering me coffee, what's next red meat or red wine?' but no actual shade cos we both know he doesn't care and none of that is what's aging him anyway, taking her hand from his face and gently kissing said hand before handholding to lead her to her own kitchen like let's do this] Ava: ['I don't know where my cigarettes are' shrugs and smiles like sorry not sorry, smiles even harder but lowkey stops breathing when, kissing ontop of where he just kissed her hand, then getting to this all-singing all-dancing coffee machine 'you have to pick the most daring option, one you've never, ever tried before, okay?' and waggling her finger like so serious about this] James: [takes his own cigarettes out of his pocket and slides the pack over to her 'okay' and does pick, really concentrating on the decision even though there'd be so much shit he hasn't tried and we all know he could just pick option 1 and be done] Ava: [takes one out and puts it behind her ear for later 'cos no need to light up in your parents home, just watching him 'cos so cute and then nodding like yes, good choice and picks the same, setting up this machine 'cos they're always more confusing and/or time-consuming than they need to be I swear] James: [where's the lie you gotta have the knack I swear, his turn to watch her now though because she's beautiful doing anything ever and he missed her so bad] Ava: [ahh coffee goodtimes forever] James: [he needs it cos he is tired af so thanks Ava you babe] Ava: ['do we talk about what happened, or do we write it off?' when you just saying this casually whilst waiting for your coffees] James: ['I don't know' because he is genuinely torn between wanting to and also not] Ava: ['Wait and see how we feel' 'cos no rush or pressure here 'you better carry these though' 'cos we don't need burns as well ty] James: ['wait here a minute for me' because carries the drinks through and then comes back for her because why not carry her though as well obvs] Ava: [does and loves it 'I've missed you, you know'] James: ['I know now' just giving her 😍 casually 'I've missed you too'] Ava: [😍 right back 'Ask anyone' when you're talking about your mood but you realize that sounds like you been telling the world lol 'I mean, I've been a delight' 🙄] James: [when you shake your head like no it's okay 'I overreacted about your cousin, I'm sorry' takes a deep breath remembering that whole sad ending moment 'And I'm sorry for fucking up the start of your summer' because she loves it and he knows] Ava: ['I understand why, understood, whatever. And I am still sorry, I was just too excited and-' sighs like, you know, squeezing his hand again 'I promise, that's all sorted now though' 'cos clearly told her it's over by now, 'cos thought it was anyway; she nods like thanks but shrugs like it's okay too, don't worry 'Sure even I can't be grumpy in the Seychelles, like'] James: [blatantly almost kissing her because he understands the whole being too highkey thing because he was (*cough* is) too but doesn't because she's going away 'when are you going?'] Ava: [sad face like you didn't just say you aren't gonna be grumpy 'when my parents get back, couple of days'] James: [strokes her face again like he did earlier 'you'll feel better by then' because someone's meant to watch you for 48 hours actually NHS website says] Ava: [😈 me 😇 her looking at him 'how did you even- why- I-' continuously cutting herself off 'cos you know he was checking in on you now and you know he came without hesitating so it doesn't need to be said 'Oh, James'] James: ['Ava' saying her name with SO MUCH feeling that I cannot 'I had to' when you mean so many things by that like you had to go but you have to stay now and you had to make sure she was okay today but also you had to keep checking on her the whole time] Ava: [definitely gonna go in to kiss him can't stop that soz] James: [we all know it was only a matter of time and that this is gonna turn into a not at all casual make out session] Ava: [you honestly deserve it lads] James: [that coffee gonna be cold and they won't even notice] Ava: [the movies are also not being watched lmao but no one cares rn] James: [on pause forever sorry not sorry] James: [but eventually like after AN AGE one of them should lean on the remote or whatever so it starts playing and they're like wtf] Ava: [when you shit yourself like who is here but then loving 'cos hi Edward] James: [we all shitting ourselves and all loling] Ava: ['he's very possessive' no lie] James: [looking at Edward and then kissing her again like when you're trying to make someone jealous] Ava: [when you're loling too hard into his mouth like 'scuse me] James: [kissing her neck instead so she can have her adorable lol] Ava: [reacting to that in a v different way] James: [we back at it again at krispy kreme soz twilight saga] Ava: [i swear to god the ily curse is so real] James: [this always happens to us, don't talk for a bit lads, wink wonk] Ava: [its because we give them such high-pressure situations but yes, you should fully hook up 'cos haven't yet] James: [I wonder if the orgasm headache thing would work for a concussion one or not] Ava: [my boo says #experiment] James: [imma google it but I don't expect an answer] James: [nobody is telling me but if it can help a migraine I don't see why it wouldn't] Ava: [you'll be fine bitch, just a shameless excuse that he needs to hang around longer] James: [we should totally also do the shameless thing when he falls asleep and then wakes up immediately but is like oh no how long was I asleep because not only worried about her we know] Ava: [for sure, just there chilling like 🥰 'not long, but you looked peaceful'] James: ['I was' and more 😍 'I am' just snuggling happily because deserved af] Ava: [kissing the top of his head 'good' then lying down and snuggling harder 'I'm so glad you're here, that you're okay'] James: ['I'm glad that I'm here & that you're okay' kissing her forehead and holding her so tightly because he was so worried that something much worse had happened to her] Ava: ['It was kinda scary how much I missed you- like I said I WAS extra but I think, no, I still am, I can't lie to you'[ James: [when you are just falling so hard for her rn smiling like look at this perfect 😇 'you don't have to miss me any longer, minus however long you're spending in the Seychelles, of course'] Ava: ['Yeah?' trying but failing not to sound so hopeful 'And two weeks, so not as long as it has been, not that I was definitely counting or anything'] James: ['I was afraid, no, I am afraid but very few things have ever scared me as much as when I saw you were in hospital & I thought-'] Ava: [just holding him back even tighter like you could not be closer 'I'm so sorry I scared you, I won't ever do it again, even if I get hit by something more substantial than a 90lbs mum on a lightweight bike' and shaking her head with a lil lol 'cos it is funny even though it can be as bad as a car crash actual sometimes] James: ['You scare me in the best ways, you don't have to stop, I don't want you to' because think of the new things he's already done and the new things he's already felt, it makes me emosh goodbye] Ava: [when that's the hottest thing you've ever heard like 'scuse me round two] James: [you've actually got all night for once so make the most of it lads] Ava: [like literally no one needs it more than him so I'm allowing it, there's enough shit happened, happening and still to come] James: [amen to that] Ava: [happy bubble forever] James: [if only like, he is NOT gonna wanna leave in the morning but maybe we could say that like Jay has a playdate with friends or something cos soz babe you can't keep a secret so he just gets the baby and comes back] Ava: [that would be a moment] James: [just casually meet each other how cute] Ava: [have a normal, happy day like you're meant to oh] James: [you all deserve it truly] Ava: [meet your potential future stepchild babe] James: [do we wanna have them go out or stay in?] Ava: [🤔 obvs really want them to go to Kensington Park 'cos Peter Pan and like obvs I doubt anyone who would be bothered to report to Chloe is gonna be there but it is risky so maybe save it idk] James: [we will bookmark that for the future because MUST but they could take Frank on a walk somewhere cos we ain't referenced that sweet sir even if it's just through the streets like] Ava: [that's a good shout, you better be a good boy lol] James: [and don't cockblock them rn please] James: [they'd look like a little fam, I am FINE] Ava: [and lowkey behave more like one in one day like the bar is so low tah Chlo] James: [the scolding tea] James: how are you feeling? Ava: 😊 So happy Ava: Only a bit tired from the whole staying awake thing and you keeping me awake, like 😏 Ava: oh, and Frank said you've redeemed yourself so well done there too Ava: how're you and the girls? James: I'm happy to hear all of that James: has your dizziness gone? James: we're fine, but tired too Ava: Yeah Ava: barely a headache Ava: and my parents get in early AM so I should be all set to go when they do get here James: how much packing is there left to do? Ava: All of it but deciding which 14 bikinis I wanna take shouldn't take too long James: are you sure? I think it would take me a really long time to decide Ava: I'll put some stories up Ava: You can help me Ava: I reckon I need your clearly more considered opinion James: of course you do James: you wouldn't want to spend the entirety of your holiday wishing you'd chosen differently Ava: so true Ava: especially as I'm not allowed to pack my pout James: everyone is well aware of how important the pursuit of a tan is to you, darling, anything that jeopardises that, well, it's bound to be very pout inducing James: you'll be forgiven Ava: I don't know if my family is as forgiving as you Ava: perhaps they don't like my pout as much Ava: they definitely aren't as supportive in bikini related decision making James: I'll dedicate paragraphs to both James: multiple lengthy ones Ava: It'll seem gratuitous in the movie but nothing is too much for the book James: as long as it remains included in the director's cut James: or else I will be devastated Ava: I'll demand it in my contract Ava: I think it'll be a first in favour of taking your clothes off instead of keeping 'em on James: thank you James: you do deserve a multitude of firsts, honestly Ava: you deserve so much Ava: much more than I'm allowed to give you Ava: that reminds me Ava: as I can't give you anything as a thank you, I've had to get creative James: so much of what I deserve is negative & there is nothing you owe to me in any capacity, thanks included James: but I'd never want to discourage creativity Ava: Shh sh Ava: in the spirit of firsts and trying new things Ava: when you're all less worn out, go to [a sassy but kid-friendly cafe/restaurant that's a bit out there and exotic and definitely nowhere Chloe has ever made you take her] and tell 'em you're eating on me, yeah Ava: then when I get back and you're free, you're coming over and I'm cooking James: Ava Ava: It's already arranged, I go there all the time, it's the 2nd best Brazilian food I've had James: you've been to Brazil for the 1st, haven't you? I can tell Ava: Actually no, mores the pity Ava: but my Uncle is Brazilian and a chef, my cousin too Ava: having a big weird family has unexpected perks Ava: if you like it, I already have a recipe lined up that's meant to be 🔥 but even a novice like me can master it James: you'll have to wait patiently for my review because I regrettably can't send you a picture of my face after the 1st mouthful to serve as one, but okay Ava: I'll do my best Ava: though having any patience when it comes to you doesn't seem to be my strong suit Ava: arguably not a virtue I'm known for, ever, but especially now James: I'll do my best not to miss you so hard that it's physically painful but that doesn't appear to be my strong suit either & as previously agreed, I won't make any promises I'm forced to immediately break Ava: Oh Ava: Knowing it wasn't just me finding out that painful cliche is painfully real is somehow a comfort, to know you'll want to avoid the feeling as much as I do from now on but it also hurts me even more, the idea of you having to feel it at all in the first place Ava: but there is no conflict in just how hard I'm looking forward to seeing you again after this ill-timed holiday James: I don't ever want you to be in pain because of me, I have to insist on only the good cliches going forward James: devastatingly a postcard can't be included in that Ava: Hmm, got any long-lost great aunties I can pretend to be? 🤔😂 James: If I do my wife is bound to be aware of them, their current financial situation & any possible health concerns they are facing Ava: Valid Ava: Don't need to give her any more reason to 💀💀💀 me Ava: At least no holiday is complete without the obligatory narcissistic poolside shoot James: suffice to say I've never had a complete holiday, in that case Ava: I bet you've had to be cameraman plenty though Ava: so rude when you're so nice to look at James: & yet I've never been trusted to pick a filter Ava: 🙄 Ava: does she not know that you're an artiste James: no, it's our secret Ava: 😊 I like that James: I like you Ava: I like that more James: I wish I could see you again before you go Ava: Me too Ava: I kinda wish I weren't going James: how early are your parents getting back exactly? Ava: like 4am kinda early James: I won't make you stay awake again James: I know how tired you must be Ava: 🥺 James: I'm so relieved that I can't see that look on your actual face Ava: It's 💔 Ava: but I'll survive Ava: about James: you're a very strong person Ava: You James: I'm not Ava: You are though Ava: you put up with so much shit James: is that strength or is it weakness? Ava: I think it's strength Ava: You can't necessarily stop shit happening or get shit out of your life Ava: no matter how strong Ava: and you manage to do all the shit you have to regardless James: I'd like to think you're right Ava: Then you should Ava: I encourage it Ava: 🤓 me James: you are undeniably clever Ava: Try to be Ava: when I'm not standing in the middle of cycle paths, obviously James: I heard you say that bike came out of nowhere Ava: Yeah Ava: I miss you already Ava: Frank is not as good a nurse, like at all James: if you can fall asleep now, I'd feel less guilty about the prospect of asking you not to later James: should I hypothetically be able to get away Ava: 🛌🏃 Ava: Promise James: I can't give you a promise back Ava: I know Ava: but this way, I either stay asleep and that's that Ava: or I get the best surprise to wake me up James: what did I do to deserve you? Ava: This is the part where I say something very bad but Ava: you don't seem capable Ava: you're just James: whatever it was, I need to know so I can keep doing it Ava: just be you Ava: another cliche you've proven to be true and real James: this fortnight without you is going to be really cliche James: there's no chance of it existing beyond the 1st draft Ava: not even for my eyes only? James: well James: maybe Ava: Please please please James: okay James: you are my fairest critic & you do have beautiful eyes Ava: Yours are better Ava: but I won't be too jealous if I get to look at them more James: I definitely can't promise not to be envious of everyone in the Seychelles who will get to look at you more than I can Ava: Do you ever get a decent lunchbreak? Ava: we could facetime James: I'll figure something out James: because my dad takes the longest lunch breaks, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's the 80s Ava: 😏 we love a throwback 🙄 James: I'll take Matty to work with me, she'll distract whoever I need her to Ava: She is very cute Ava: I see it James: I won't be saying anything the like of that if she won't sleep tonight though Ava: 🤞 for you and her Ava: shame she's not yet at the walking stage Ava: Frank is so 💤 James: I can't keep her in any kind of routine, it's frustrating for both of us Ava: That's hard James: it's harder for her than it is for me, she never knows what's happening Ava: She'll get there Ava: I was the worst baby Ava: hopefully before you totally lose your mind, 'course James: I find it impossible to believe you weren't 😇 Ava: I was pretty premmie so my poor parents were confined to perpetual bright light for ages when I got home James: both the girls were so late James: that was an entirely different struggle Ava: I can imagine how delightful Ava: usually excusable but when you set the bar low to begin with 😬 James: the last thing I want to do is badmouth her to you, but as we know, sometimes things write themselves Ava: I feel you Ava: not a cliche I particularly wanna be either James: of course not Ava: but you can vent, you know Ava: I don't even have to reply, just if you need to put it somewhere James: no, I can't Ava: okay, just a suggestion James: so much of this is already not fair to you, Ava Ava: I don't think it is Ava: you've never lied about any of it, you're always realistic about what you can and can't give me Ava: and I'd like to help, in any tiny way I'm able James: you don't know what she's like & I'd rather you didn't have to know James: let's keep it at you don't do sympathy Ava: I know very little but that's not positive so it doesn't take your author level of imagination if I wanna go there without your guidance Ava: and it isn't sympathy but okay Ava: I won't mention her and you don't have to either James: I just can't have you seeing me differently because Ava: I'd never see you differently because of what she's like as a person James: it's too big of a risk for me to take, that you'll end up thinking less of me than you do now Ava: You can trust me Ava: but you don't have to Ava: I won't push anything, I don't need to Ava: as much as I want to take things fast in so many respects, I'm never going to take it where you don't want it James: it isn't you I don't trust James: I'm not a reliable narrator, she's made sure I'm not Ava: However...intertwined and diluted you feel your story got, because of her, because of whatever Ava: it's always gonna be your story to tell, if you want it Ava: and I'll always listen to how you tell it James: Ava Ava: James James: if it was a story I was in control of I'd come to the airport & tell you not to go James: cliche or not Ava: and I'd stay Ava: but that's far too much like a happy ending and we've only just begun James: you're right again Ava: don't sound so surprised 😉 James: I was actually trying to decide where it falls on the scale of ideas & habits, good, bad or somewhere in between James: that you always seem to be Ava: Have you drawn a conclusion yet? James: I couldn't possibly tell you James: you're supposed to be asleep Ava: damn Ava: you'll tell me in the morning? James: yes Ava: Okay, I'll go, as long as you know it is so reluctantly it's practically under protest James: & I won't stay here hoping you don't, as long as you know it's under identical conditions Ava: Noted Ava: Goodnight and sweet dreams for whenever that happens for you then, love James: thank you

[punkscowardschampions]

Nancy & Rio

Nancy: Not to be weird, because I obviously don't mind if so, but are you wearing my clothes in your latest insta pics or have I lost my mind? Rio: Oh my God, sorry! Shoulda said before putting that up Rio: casual single white female situation Rio: I was in London and I had to stop by yours to avoid a real walk of shame... whole 'nother story, assumed it'd be alright 'cos you know, you weren't using 'em? Shipped back fully dry cleaned, swear down Rio: Not to drop him in it but shamelessly will, Buster said it'd probably be alright too lol Nancy: Well we have the brunette and redhead thing going on, already. Just don't murder me like Nancy: It's more than okay. They look great on you and they are just sitting there Nancy: Keep them if you want Nancy: I'd rather you than one of Buster's 'guests' Nancy: Did you talk to him? Rio: Last time I check, no feelings of murderous jealousy towards you Rio: Even if you do have a killer clothes collection Rio: You're too sweet! I'm nowhere near statuesque enough to rock it for serious but it was fun playing dressup, not gonna lie Rio: A little bit, yeah, as much as you can with him Rio: Has he reached out to you yet? Nancy: We should go shopping then. I'm not flooded with other offers or compliments right now Nancy: He did try but I didn't answer the call. I didn't know what to say, you know Nancy: Do I want to know what he said about me, if anything? Rio: Absolutely, always up for a style update Rio: and I promise to stay away for the red box dye Rio: Rihanna 2010 I ain't Rio: That's fair, I remember he mentioned that too Rio: He said a lot of things, some of 'em stupid which don't bear repeating but I could tell he was worried about you, checking you were okay, like Nancy: Oh god Nancy: I should've answered I just couldn't Nancy: I've already broken my own heart there's no handling if he decided to do it for me too Nancy: It was like I already hear what he was going to say Rio: No one is judgding you for not Rio: He's been guility of being unavailable for less Rio: You're more than entitled to take your time with this Rio: Let him cool down too, I put him right where I could but Rio: He's stubborn Nancy: And he thinks I'm as cringey as everyone at school does, right? Nancy: I knew it Nancy: I can't blame him really Rio: But that's nothing you don't know, you feel the embarrassment, I don't get why people think they're being clever pointing out as if its not your first hand experience Rio: He asked if you were coming back Rio: which he clearly wants, even if he's not gonna outright say that Nancy: I thought he might be on my side since he always goes after what he wants Nancy: Maybe he is though, if he does want me home Rio: Yeah, there's definitely hypocrisy otherwise Rio: I'm not gonna commit him to either side from a conversation relayed but I don't think talking to him soon will make it any worse Rio: Hoping he said all the dumb shit he needed to me instead, like Nancy: Was he such a prick to you? I'm sorry Nancy: I can't go back until those girls are far away at uni Nancy: Do you think we could convince him to come here? Team effort to get a visit? Rio: Not all bad Rio: and nothing I can't handle Rio: Yeah, reckon I might've met some of them last night Rio: and I feel you Rio: Worth a shot, I threw it out there that maybe if he came it'd make your 'rents coming less of a shitshow Rio: try and hold him to it Nancy: The ringleader is Chloe, with an accent over the e. You'd remember her if you did Nancy: It wouldn't surprise me if she was still hanging around him and his friends, she always did fancy him Nancy: Okay. I'll try Rio: Oh my God, her?! Rio: If she gave me daggers any harder I woulda been bleeding Rio: Such an unlikely candidate, no offence Chlo hun but total Rio: always the girls with the least going for them, honestly Nancy: That's her specialty Nancy: What's it say about me that I used to think we were actually friends once Rio: She looks like she can play nice when she wants to Rio: with your Brother, like you said Rio: Ugh Nancy: Yeah. She didn't want to play nice after I came out but she did a convincing enough job before Rio: Bet she thought you were in love with her and everything? Rio: What a cliche mean girl Nancy: Oh she went one better and told everyone I made a move of her, which even I wouldn't Rio: Oh, don't flatter yourself Rio: What a cow! Yeah, she's not changed at all then, obviously I avoided her best I could but she was way too happy about my drama Nancy: Like I know what I did with Sian was bad but Nancy: Please, I do have some standards Nancy: What happened with you? I didn't even ask. What a cow I am Rio: Yeah, she's not a catch, whatever way you're swinging, sorry to be a bitch but you were first gurl and that's always gonna be a turn-off Rio: Oh nah, nothing major, well, it was very dramatic but over it whilst it was happening so I'm not bothered Rio: Curtis went with me and then decided to get all huffy and try and make me leave early 'cos I was 'dancing too sexy' or whatever Rio: when I wouldn't he literally left me there, considering he drove us over, he had the hotel key Rio: Cue mad rush trying to find a place to crash and a way back Rio: Safe to say he's chucked Nancy: Oh my god! There's no words for how out of order that is. What an utter prick! Nancy: Buster better have offered you my bed Nancy: I'll kill him if he never Rio: Oh yeah, he did Rio: Offered to pay the way back but I thought that was too far Rio: Between taking your bed and clothes, like, need to at least try and sort half of it myself, like! Nancy: At least he's not a total prick himself ALL the time Nancy: Remembering some of how he was raised now Nancy: Are you in London rn still? Rio: Yeah, I'd say we can give him that Rio: Will go to his head but what you gonna do Rio: I am Rio: Toying with staying for a bit but I'll defs get in more shit for doing that for going with Curtis in the first place so Rio: Should probs get the soonest flight back now Nancy: My bed and wardrobe are yours if you are staying Nancy: Did you see my mum and dad? Nancy: While we're mentioning being in lots of shit, like Rio: I appreciate it, Nance Rio: I did my best to avoid then, and succeeded, thankfully, not really the vibe I'm looking to give out to the olders like Rio: Buster didn't seem keen to talk to them either, so they may very well be on the warpath towards Dubo and you...Soz to confirm Nancy: Care to teach me some of your ways before they end my life? I'd REALLY appreciate it tbh Nancy: Fantastic. That sounds accurate Rio: Umm, get them drunk and they'll be sleeping as you sneak about like Anne Frank? Rio: ORRRRR, whilst they're mid-air, come back to London, ha Nancy: Get mum REALLY angry Nancy: Nice subtle nod to my gayness with the Anne Frank ref though Nancy: And you're definitely onto something with getting dad a drink Rio: Say you're coming to rescue me, I can be FAR more dramatic about this breakup than I'm really feeling Rio: edge of fucking tower bridge like Rio: of course, all bisexuals are upheld in the highest esteem in my household Rio: especially brave little jewish girls Nancy: Good plan, if I can be this dramatic about a non-break up then we can make this believable I'm sure Nancy: Take the heroics from my brother too, always great Nancy: I see the bed and clothes gesture and I raise you Rio: Everyone loves a bit of sibling rivalry put to use Rio: get us both off the hook in one fell swoop Rio: Only flaw in the plan is Chloe with the accent Rio: Going to have to work on that so she's outta the way by the time you get here Nancy: I'd suggest taking her to the bridge and pushing her off but I don't need to go to prison Rio: If you thought the gay jokes were bad now Nancy: Exactly Nancy: And nobody needs a rebound that badly, least of all me Rio: They say some people go to Prison for the roof over their head and three meals a day Rio: wonder if anyone has ever gone in purely for the pussay Nancy: As a vegetarian I feel I'd have to Nancy: If only casual sex was my thing. Wouldn't have got here Rio: Yeah, it ain't for everyone Rio: at least you didn't get to fuck her, THEN catch feelings Rio: that'd be even shittier like and what happens to so many girls in our year when they do the 'casual' thing Rio: no wonder they're being salty little bitches about it Nancy: But that way it wouldn't have been all in my head Nancy: Maybe they have a point, I don't know Rio: It wouldn't make this bit any easier Rio: the actual heartbreak shit Rio: the people being cunts, less so Rio: but they'll find any reason, someone else will be the target next week, like Nancy: I know you're right Nancy: And I don't want her life ruined so Rio: Yeah, but you gotta think about you and your life too Rio: She's fine Nancy: Don't rub it in, please Nancy: I feel like my life's over Rio: I know sweets Rio: but it ain't Rio: you'll just keep going Nancy: I know I will, but I don't want to. Like I know she couldn't love me but I still want her too Nancy: It hurts Rio: Its going to Rio: for a while yet Rio: revel in it Rio: how unfair it feels Rio: 'cos its not a sexuality thing, if you were straight or she was gay or whatever the fuck, when you feel like you love someone and they just don't back Rio: that's gonna hurt regardless of the how you got there Rio: its not just because she was a teacher, everyone's been there, like Rio: Promise Nancy: I wish everyone saw this how you do Nancy: You're the best Nancy: June too but he doesn't get this bit yet Nancy: Though he can appreciate the wonders this will do for my art Rio: Gotta suffer, might as well get paid for it Rio: or A's Rio: at the very least Rio: I don't know, Junior is so guarded, I wonder if he ever will, not that I wish that bit on him but you've gotta go through it so its better to get it over with really Nancy: Especially because my Irish grades are gonna take a dive Nancy: I think he will Nancy: He just needs the right one to fall for Nancy: I appreciate how that sounds coming from me rn but Rio: Oh the awkwardness of that first lesson back is gonna be Rio: I'll deffo come Home by then Rio: I hope so, I know he's not happy hiding who he is, so I don't think he's content being alone forever, like, either Nancy: Oh god please do. I'll need all the help I can get Nancy: He won't be. He's a catch. I keep telling him Rio: Pretty sure push it any harder and I'm being dragged back by my hair lmao Rio: Totally, he just needs to get a lil confidence Rio: Not a complete personality change but just enough to give him that push Nancy: We're working on it Rio: Yay! Shame we can't be real speedy about it, get him getting a man to distract all the attention from you like Nancy: That's okay I wouldn't wish it on him Nancy: I can handle it. Sort of Rio: Yeah you can Rio: You've got this Nancy: So our brother keeps saying. But he makes it we because he's everything Nancy: *your Rio: Y'all are cuties Nancy: If you could use your influence on my brother to make him bearable I'll be your best friend Rio: I definitely cannot make promises there Rio: He goes out of his way to be un Rio: but he's alright really, I think lol Nancy: I'll have to take your word on that Nancy: Until I talk to him myself Rio: Let me know how it all works out like Nancy: Definitely