#peace on us is supposed to be the season opener and i will stand by that!!!!!!!!!

[pherre]

bj being in his red dyed shirt from peace on us clearly shows that peace on us was supposed to go before commander pierce and yet. and yet

#it's probably more complicated than that and they for sure don't film them in order but they did decide to keep the red shirt in for #some reason #so i will reserve my right to be bothered by this #peace on us is supposed to be the season opener and i will stand by that!!!!!!!!! #its me talking #vanya watches mash

[lonelym00n]

Just Friends

Part four of The Devil Likes the Pirate Series

Tara Carpenter x Reader

Word Count: 3.6k

Summary: Things are weird between you and Tara. Can you really be just friends with the girl you're in love with?

A/N: It's 5 am. The birds are chirping. I stayed up all night for this and I would gladly do it again.

It had been a week since Tara had unknowingly crushed your heart in her small hands. You felt defeated, but more so embarrassed that you had given so much of yourself to Tara so quickly. The pieces of you that were left behind were almost nonexistent, squashed to bits at the words of her rejection. 

You hadn’t talked to any of your friends, not because they hadn’t tried to contact you, but because you were choosing to avoid them. It wasn’t a deliberate choice to ignore their messages at first. Part of you had wanted to respond, but when you glanced at the messages, you were just too emotionally drained to do so. This pattern repeated day after day and even though their messages became more insistent over the passing time, your energy still remained at an all time low.

You were admittedly ashamed by your actions, but realistically what were you supposed to do? You were tired and it felt like every last bit of hope you had for your life finally becoming worth something was stripped away completely. The thought of facing your friends, of facing her- 

It was just too much to bear at the moment. You couldn’t see her, you couldn’t see any of them, not when you were so sure that you resembled a flower that had withered up at the first sign of the dry season.

So you kept your distance. You went to class, took meals to go from the dining halls, and holed up in your room. It was an okay routine, but it didn’t measure up to the one that had been constantly filled with laughter and bliss. 

You sighed heavily, tossed your backpack onto its spot on your chair, and climbed up into your bed. With the covers pulled firmly up to your chin, you will yourself to fall into a dreamless sleep. 

It comes to you, luckily. But as fast as your peace arrives, it drifts away as someone knocks repeatedly on your door.

Groggily, you drag yourself out of bed and towards the door, mentally cursing your roommate. This hadn’t been the first time she’d woken you up from a nap because she’d forgotten her keys. 

You fling the door open, an annoyed look on your face. Your eyes widen in shock as they fall upon someone who is most definitely not your roommate.

Mindy frowns at you, a mix of anger and concern in her expression. 

“Wow, you actually are alive.” She stalks into the room, turning around to face you when she hears that you’ve shut the door. “Y’know, people don’t normally ignore their friends to the point where it’s unclear if they’re still breathing.”

You feel small under Mindy’s scrutinizing temperament. 

“Sorry,” you mumble weakly.

She examines you for a few long seconds, before sweeping her gaze along the messy state of your room. You’re not sure what exactly it is that she notices, but she drops her interrogative act and takes on a softer approach.

“Why haven���t you answered any of our texts?”

You shrug, “I dunno. I guess I needed some space.”

Mindy sinks down to take a seat on your bed. You remain standing, awkwardly folding your arms around your waist. 

“Is it because of what Tara told you? Do you not want to be around us anymore because of the whole…” She mimes a stabbing gesture.

Your heart aches at the thought of the group mistaking your absence for your fear of what they’d gone through. “No, no no. Mindy, it's not because of that.”

You take a seat next to her on the mattress.

“Then why?”

“I- it’s just,” you pause and bashfully rub your shoulder. “Tara didn’t tell you what she said? After she told me about the whole Woodsboro thing, I mean.”

Mindy’s brow furrows and she shakes her head. 

“Oh.” You feel a bit deflated at Mindy’s unawareness. You gnaw at your bottom lip and try to stop your overthinking nature from taking over. Was it weird that she hadn’t told anyone? Should you be happy about it?

You flinch harshly as Mindy places a comforting hand on your shoulder. Only now do you notice that you’ve been quiet for far too long. 

“What happened? What did she say to you?”

“Uhh,” your chest is swirling with emotions. You’d yet to talk about this with anyone and it has been eating you up for the past week. “She said she’s not ready for a relationship. She only wants to be friends.”

You find a spot on the ceiling and stare at it.

“She does? But I thought she liked you.”

You huff and flatly meet Mindy’s eyes. “So did I.”

“Look, I think I know what must’ve happened. I’ll talk to her and-”

“No!” You rush out the words, “Don’t talk to her about it please. I completely get why she’s not ready for a relationship.”

Mindy shakes her head and laughs slightly, “But I can tell she likes you and she doesn’t want to be just friends. She probably just got scared after talking about everything.”

“I don’t know. But she made her decision and I’m okay with that. You don’t have to say anything to her about it, it’s fine.”

Mindy looks like she has more to say, but she holds herself back. The two of you sit in silence.

Unfortunately, the silence does nothing to cover up the sniffle you so desperately try to hold back.

Mindy looks up swiftly at the sound. She’s met with the slow drip of tears down your cheeks.

You’re swept into a hug before you know it. She waits a beat, before speaking, “Tell me what’s wrong.”

And because you’ve been emotionally vulnerable this whole week with no one to talk to, you break and tell her everything. You tell her how you aren’t even upset at the fact that Tara isn’t ready for a relationship, but are more heartbroken by the feeling of being led on. How you had held and kissed her so intimately just to be told that the two of you could only be friends. How you can’t get the softness of her lips against yours off your mind, and how you’re not sure you ever will. Lastly, you tell her how strongly you felt for Tara, how you think you’d fallen in love with her after that day in the diner, and how you don’t think you can pretend that she doesn’t mean everything in the world to you.

Mindy, though she denies any allegations of being a hopeless romantic, feels her heart break for the agony that you’ve revealed to her. She knew you’d had feelings for Tara (everyone did, it was nearly impossible not to notice), but she wouldn’t have guessed that they went this far. She lets you cry out all your woes and gently comforts you throughout. 

When you’ve finally cried yourself into a state of emptiness, Mindy shifts the two of you into a lying position. She plucks your laptop out of your bag and props it up on her lap, perusing Netflix’s horror movie section before selecting one she doesn’t find completely abominable. 

The rest of the day is filled with sarcastic comments and relentless critiques for any moment she deems unhorror-like. Mindy does such a good job distracting you that you nearly forget all about the heavy weight that has been plaguing your mind.

You fall asleep that night more at ease than you’d been for a long while.

The next few days are filled with Mindy’s bright presence. She somehow learned your schedule and picked you up from each of your classes. You compare her to a very welcome thorn in your side.

She helps build you back up, and you slowly start feeling like a normal person again. It’s nice to be in her company and you feel so thankful to have a friend like her.

One day, when the two of you are grabbing lunch, she abruptly stops retelling a story from her shared childhood with Chad. 

She’s looking over your shoulder at something that you can’t see. 

“Earth to Mindy,” your hand waves in front of her face, to which she still doesn’t respond. 

“Fuck,” she curses quietly. She turns to you quickly, “Tara and Anika are coming over here.”

A panicky feeling fills your chest. Sure you were doing better, but you were definitely not ready to see her. Sucking in a breath, you prepare yourself for the interaction, knowing you have no choice but to face her now.

“Hey guys!” You missed Anika’s cheery nature and you nearly smile at how smitten Mindy looks when Anika plants a kiss on her cheek.

Tara wordlessly takes the empty seat next to you. 

 “Y/N, how are you?” Anika innocently acts.

You ignore the feeling of Tara’s eyes burning into you as you speak, “Eh, pretty good. My chem class is giving me a lot of trouble.”

Mindy, ever your savior, changes the subject, “T, have you tried that new latte the coffee shop has? Y/N and I tried it this morning.” 

It’s your turn to watch Tara while she’s distracted. She’s as pretty as ever, her soft brown hair laying perfectly on her shoulders. You missed drinking in the sight of her, but you mentally chastise yourself for the thought, reminding yourself that you’re not supposed to be looking at her that way anymore.

You sink into your chair at the remembrance. 

“You and Y/N tried it?” You don’t see the flash of fire in her eyes, too busy picking at your food. 

“Yeah, after her English Lit class.” Mindy turns towards Anika, “You should go with Tara to try it sometime.”

Anika hums softly in response, “Sounds good.”

The conversation dwindles in and out from that point on. You don’t participate much, only offering the occasional offhand comment when you’re mentioned. Tara keeps glancing at you, but your gaze remains firmly on your plate.

Checking the time on your phone, you stand up and gather your trash. “Well, I have calc so I have to go.”

You mutter out a goodbye to the small group and scurry away before Mindy can call you out on your lie. You don’t have calc for another two hours, you just needed an excuse to get away from the table. As you head towards the library, you idly wonder if things will always be so awkward between you and Tara. 

Your answer comes sooner than you expect. It’s Friday after classes, and Mindy is dragging you to a pizza place to hangout with the rest of the group.

She pulls you through the doorway and all but shoves you into the seat to her right. Anika sits to her left, followed by Tara. Chad sits beside her and Ethan sits beside you. You couldn’t be more grateful to be sat as far away from her as possible. 

The night actually doesn’t go too terribly. You’re able to talk to everyone without feeling weird, and you internally sigh in relief at how easy it is to avoid a direct conversation with Tara. 

As the night continues on, you indulge in Ethan’s rambling about this new mobile game he downloaded. You peek over his shoulder while he plays and explains how it works. Once you get the hang of it, he passes the phone to you and leans in closer to watch. Unbeknownst to you, Tara has been silently watching the exchange. 

You and Ethan are now playing a game of tug of war with his phone, laughing like children as you refuse to let him have a turn. 

It’s then that Tara calls for everyone’s attention. “Sam and I are throwing a movie night at the apartment tomorrow. You’re all invited, obviously.”

The group cheers at the news. Apparently Carpenter sister movie nights were a big deal. Your eye twitches at the thought of being trapped in Tara’s house for hours. And you’d have to finally meet Sam.

Your chair scrapes loudly as you stand, “I’m just gonna go to the bathroom.”

You walk away and enter the bathroom. 

Back at the table, Mindy and Anika share a knowing glance. Mindy goes to follow you when Tara stands. 

“I’ll go.” She softly announces, and turns towards the bathroom. Everyone shares a look, well, everyone except Ethan.

“What’s all that about?”

Anika reaches over to lightly shove him in the shoulder, “Keep up.” 

You’re standing in front of the mirror, staring at yourself as you internally struggle to find an excuse to skip out on the movie night.

The door pushes open and your thoughts halt at the sight of Tara.

“Hi.”

“Hi Tara,” you mumble back. 

You both stare at each other for a second. 

She breaks the silence, “Look I know what you’re thinking. But please just come, it won’t be weird if you do.”

This is the first time the tension between the two of you has been acknowledged. Your heart leaps into your throat. You sigh and reach up to scratch the back of your neck.

“I dunno…”

You make the mistake of allowing yourself to meet her eye. She’s staring up at you, a petulant pout spread across her dimpled cheeks. 

“Please? I want you to come. And Sam really wants to meet you. We both want you there, and so does everyone else.”

You open your mouth to spew an excuse but nothing comes out.

“Alright,” you relent. “I’ll come.”

She smiles and the familiar flutter of your heart returns. 

You return to the rest of the group, Tara following closely behind you. She fills everyone in on the details of the plan. The night ends shortly after.

The next day, Mindy and Anika meet you outside of your dorm room for the trip to the Carpenter’s apartment. They chatter the whole way over, reassuring you that Sam’s hard exterior was mostly just a front. 

You are incredibly nervous as the three of you approach the door. Tara opens it shortly after and ushers the three of you in, urging you to make yourselves comfortable. You take a seat on the couch, trying to stave off the anxiousness that has built up in your chest.

Tara returns from her trip to the kitchen with Sam and a redheaded girl. You assume her to be Quinn, Tara had mentioned her to you before. 

“Y/N, this is my sister, Sam, and our roommate Quinn.”

You stand up to greet them, wiping your palms on your pants. “Hi, it’s so nice to finally meet you both.” 

Quinn smiles brightly at you while Sam sweeps her gaze across you, likely determining how much of a threat you are.

Tara elbows Sam in the side, receiving a noise of displeasure in return. 

“Tara talks a lot about you, it’s nice to formally meet you too.”

You nod at her and try to disregard the first part of her comment.

Quinn speaks next, “With how often she talks about you, you’d think she’d have mentioned how cute you are.”

She teasingly runs a finger up your arm and you feel a blush rise up your cheeks. Mindy snorts behind you. 

“Thank you Quinn.”

She hums, “Anytime.”

Ethan and Chad arrive just after her reply. Ethan flops down next to Anika while Chad moves to greet Sam with a hug. You sit down next to Mindy. 

Soon enough, the remaining members move to make themselves comfortable on the couch. Tara eyes the empty spot next to you, but Quinn slides in before she can make a move towards it.

You turn to greet her and she gives you a smile that is anything but innocent in return. Sam commandeers the remote, flicking on the first movie for the night. 

Your efforts to pay attention are thwarted by little touches from Quinn. She drags her finger up your arm again and traces along your collarbone. Once she gets bored of that, she twirls a stray piece of your hair around the same finger. 

You find that you don’t really mind the innocent touches, so you allow her to do as she pleases. 

The movie finishes sooner than you expect. You look over at the rest of the group to find Anika, Mindy, and Ethan all fast asleep, slightly tangled up on the couch. Sam wordlessly puts on the next movie. 

About halfway through, Quinn decides to go to bed, but not before sending a flirty wink your way. When the movie finishes, you notice that Tara and Chad are now asleep too. 

Sam stands up and pads into the kitchen. You hesitate a moment before deciding to follow her. You make sure she hears you as you do so, so you don’t catch her off guard by accident.

“Do you want anything to drink?” She offers.

“Sure, water would be great.” 

She hands you a glass and the two of you stand in the kitchen in silence. 

After a short internal debate, you speak, “I just want to say that I really admire you. Tara’s really lucky to have a sister like you.”

Sam seems surprised at your comment, “Thanks.”

You nod in response. 

She glances up at you, “I’m sorry about the whole barging into the diner thing. I know I put you into an awkward situation. I was just kind of in a panic and didn’t stop to think.”

“Oh no it’s fine,” you quickly reassure. “I can understand why you were so upset. I guess I’m sorry for the part that I played in that too. It’s my fault Tara didn’t answer you.”

Her hard exterior softens slightly at your apology. “Don’t be sorry, you had no idea.” 

You two share a smile, and your eyes drift to Tara’s sleeping form on the couch. Sam looks over her shoulder to see what you’re looking at before turning back to face you again.

“You like her, don’t you?” She asks softly.

Your heart burns in your chest. You wish things were easier enough for you to say yes, but you couldn’t. It wasn’t what Tara wanted.

“I care about her,” you clarify. “We’re friends.”

If Sam notices how choked up you sound, she doesn’t say anything. You sigh.

“I should probably get back before it gets dark.”

She nods in understanding but places a firm hand on your shoulder before you can move to retrieve your belongings. “It was really nice to meet you. For what it’s worth, I think you’d be good for her.”

Tears spring into your eyes but you hold them back fiercely. You choose not to comment on Sam’s words.

“Thank you for having me over. I understand how much trust this takes.”

You turn and make your way over to the living room to grab your jacket and keys, silently slipping out of the apartment so as not to wake anyone. Only once the door is firmly shut behind you do you let the tears fall.

You return safely back to your dorm and fall asleep with the thoughts of what it’d be like to be happily in love with Tara firmly on your mind. 

Ironically, she texts you the next morning, asking you to return back to the apartment so the two of you could talk. You knew eventually that you’d have to hash out the tension that remained between you and her, but you didn’t think it’d be so soon.

After a quick shower and a bite to eat from the dining hall, you head back to the Carpenter sisters’ apartment. 

You arrive shortly after and knock gently on the door. Quinn opens it with a smirk.

She calls out over her shoulder, “Tara! Y/N’s here!”

Tara appears and gently wraps her fingers around your wrist to tug you into the apartment, heading swiftly in the direction of what must be her bedroom. You barely have enough time to notice that the group of friends is still occupying the apartment, biding a brisk hello to them as you are pulled past.

Once you are inside the room, she clicks the door shut. 

“Thanks for coming.”

“Of course,” you smile gently, trying to hide your nervousness, but very obviously failing.

Tara bites her lip, “I hate that you’re nervous around me now. I ruined things, didn’t I?”

You are shocked at her words and you blink a few times before responding, giving her a soft look, “Tara, no. You didn’t ruin things. I’m sorry I’ve been acting weird, but don’t blame yourself. You aren’t ready for something and I get that.”

She paces around the room for a minute, seemingly deep in contemplation. You take a seat on the edge of her bed, waiting patiently.

She turns towards you, “What if I am ready?”

You look at her stupidly. “What?”

She runs her fingers through her hair, “It’s just… I can’t stop thinking about you. And the other day with Ethan and god yesterday with Quinn, I can’t stand the thought of you being with someone else.”

You’re in a complete stupor, it’s hard to believe you aren’t dreaming right now. “Tara, I don’t understand.”

She sits next to you and grabs your hand. The air is charged and you feel like you could faint. 

Tara licks her lips, “Let me tell you a different way.”

You lose yourself in her eyes as she leans in, unable to think about anything other than the shortening proximity. You can feel her breath on yours and just before your lips can touch, Anika barges into the room, a frantic expression on her face.

“You’ve got to come see this.”

You and Tara scramble up and rush into the living room. Everyone’s eyes are glued on the TV.

Your heart sinks as you read the headline. Beside you, Tara trembles.

Mindy’s the one to break the silence, her tone full of anguish and fear.

“It’s happening again.”

***

A/N: ooh things are about to go downhill!! I think the next part is going to be the finale and it's gonna be a wild ride! I messed up the timeline last chapter (scream vi is a full year after scream v, not a few months) but there's not really a way I can fix my mistake without things getting even more messed up. So either just ignore that Tara said it was a few months ago and pretend that this is a full year later or don't, the story still works either way. Hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Taglist: @thenextdawn @dreifhraniquo29

guys im horrible at taglists, plz forgive me if I accidentally forgot anyone I'm trying to rush this out so I can go to sleep before the sun rises

#tara carpenter x reader #tara carpenter x you #tara carpenter #tara carpenter x y/n #devil likes the pirate series #lonelym00n fic

[babydollmarauders]

airport blurb! maybe reader and jack getting their apartment ready for luke and going shopping for him, etc!

“what about this one?” my attention is caught by Jack, who stands in the middle of the aisle, holding up a blue bedspread. “do you think he’d like it?”

“Jacky, i’m sure Luke would’ve liked any of the six you’ve picked up.” he smiles, tossing the bed set into the cart, and i grin, closing the space between us and wrapping my arms around his neck.

“i just want it all to be perfect, ya know? he just lost the frozen four, i want him to have as much comfort as he needs.” he tells me, his hands settling on my hips.

“it will be perfect and he will have plenty of comfort. you know why?”

“why?” Jack sighs, gazing into my eyes.

“because he’ll have you. you’re gonna be here for him. he’ll have you to teach him the ropes and be there for him. he’ll have you to remind him that it does get better, no matter how much he struggles in his rookie season.”

“i love you.” Jack leans forward, pressing his lips to mine in a quick kiss. “now let’s hurry.”

i push the cart, trailing behind my boyfriend as he treks up and down the aisles of Home Goods, throwing things into the cart at random.

**

i can hear Jack’s muttered curses from the kitchen. he’s currently in the guest room, soon to be Luke’s room, setting it up for his brother.

“Babe, you okay in there?” my voice carries from my spot at the oven, and he groans in response.

“i can’t get this damn fitted sheet on the bed and Luke is supposed to be here in 15 minutes.” he steps into the kitchen, sheet in his hands and an exasperated expression, making me sigh.

i know my boyfriend is stressed. this is the day he’s been waiting for ever since Luke was drafted; which is why he’s under so much internal pressure to make sure Luke doesn’t regret leaving UMich after only two years. i just wish Jack would cut himself some slack.

Jack sidles up beside me, letting his head drop down to my shoulder. i press my cheek to his head for a moment before speaking.

“Jacky, baby, look at me, please.” i coo, attempting to pull back and look in his eyes. when he does lift his head, i immediately feel at peace when i see his blue eyes. i gently grab the fitted sheet from his hold, and set it on the counter before holding his face in my hands.

“everything is gonna be okay.” i reassure him, my tone soft and gentle. “i’m gonna make the bed, okay? why don’t you take the last batch cookies out for me when the oven beeps? think you can do that?”

he responds with a nod, raveling his arms around my waist and pulling me in tight. a soft smile spreads across my lips when i hear him let out an exhale, obviously feeling calmer in my arms.

“what would i do without you?” he whispers, his breath fanning across my ear and sending shivers down my spine.

“have an unmade bed for Luke and no cookies.” i joke, making him huff out a laugh. i untangle myself from his arms, leaning up to place a quick kiss on the tip of his nose before i make my way to the guest bedroom.

i’ve just finished with making the bed when i hear a knock on the front door. peeking my head out of the bedroom, i spot Jack sporting a wide grin and he jogs to answer the door.

“c’mon y/n/n, c’mon!” i giggle at his giddy state and sprint to stand behind him as he opens the door.

Luke barely has a chance to say a single word before Jack pounces on him, hugging his brother tight and jumping up and down. a chuckle escapes past my lips while i watch them, an immense happiness filling me from the sight of them finally together again.

#jack hughes #jack hughes x reader #jack hughes imagine #jack hughes blurb #nj devils #nhl blurb #faithlynn’s airport blurbs #faithlynn’s writings <3

[letsgetrowdy43]

The season of giving—

Request: Hey! Can I please request the prompts a being an ass and putting their cold hands on b's warm neck with "It's a time of goodwill, not whatever the hell you're doing" for the ‘never a god au’ xx

Baby, it's cold outside Celly!!

Au Masterlist!!

The holiday season wasn't just for receiving, it was also a time of giving, meaning that the devils were doing 12 days of donating to the community, putting in their time and money into some charities and non-profits throughout New Jersey. Today the entire team was tasked with helping teach kids from the children's hospital how to skate.

Some of these kids have spent most of their lives within the walls of the hospital, so this meant a lot to not only them but also to their parents who were finally witnessing their babies having some normalcy in their lives.

Angie smiled as she tied a little girl's skates, an even bigger smile on the little girl the woman tapped her leg, "does that feel okay?" she asked as the little girl nodded shyly, "Not too tight?" the little girl shook her head, "perfect," she said taking her hand and leading her to the ice.

Nico watched from afar, a grin on his face as he watched her skating backwards, the little girl's hands in hers as she navigated her way across the ice. "You have a staring problem cap," Jesper grinned as he waved his hand in front of the man's face. "I don't know what you're talking about," Nico's smile grew as he looked at his teammate, "go make you're self useful, you're supposed to be helping," Nico said pointing towards the group of older kids just standing around awkwardly on the ice.

The woman on the ice finally let go of the little girl's hand as she whispered that she thought she could do it on her own. Angie clapped as the little girl successfully made me way over to her parents who opened their arms and pulled her into a hug. The woman's heart warmed as the mom looked up at her with teary eyes and mouth a short thank you as the little girl skated off with her father.

Nico watched it all unfold, the young woman stood there with a sullen smile on her face as she looked back up to see him staring right at her, cheeks tinted pink as he started skating over to her.

“Doing stuff like this makes me so emotional,” she mumbled with a smile, “makes me feel so grateful to be in this position to give back,” she looked up at him to see his grin growing by the second. “You look happy?” she said changing the topic as he nodded. “Good atmosphere in here,” he shrugged as she hummed in agreement before getting distracted by the sight of Luke and Jack dragging two kids with their sticks.

A gasp immediately left her lips as she felt a cold sting touch her neck and shoulder she spun around to glare at the man who just grinned menacingly. “Neeks,” she hissed as her hand grabbed his, “you're like an ice cube, Fu—” her mouth shut as she caught herself and watched his face break out into a fit of laughter.

His hand was still in hers as her glare sharpened, “why?” “You looked too peaceful,” he nearly giggled as he realized that he really just let the intrusive thoughts win. Her hand squeezed his, “you're hands are so cold, where are your gloves?” “Don't have any” “Get some You weirdo,” she scolded like a mother, “you make millions and you won't buy a nice pair of gloves.”

“Why own gloves when you could just warm them for me?” he said in a smooth tone causing her face to drop as she let go of his hands. Her face screamed amusement as she watched his smile grow by the second, "You think you're so cute." "I am cute!" “That is enough out if you cap, go teach kids to skate,” she spun on her skates to look away from him, her cheeks a deep shade of red as she focused on literally anything else in the room.

Nico let out a laugh at her obvious embarrassment as he leaned down to whisper in her ear, “It was just a suggestion, Evangeline,” he whispered her name like it was some sort of secret like it was one of the most powerful words in his vocabulary. “It's a time of Goodwill Nico, not whatever the hell you're doing, go help some children,” she spun back around, her face inches from his, “we will talk later,” she said lowly as she manually pushed him in the direction of the kids and the rest of their teammates.

-

-

-

#neveragodau!! #nico hischier blurb #nico hischier imagine #nico hischier #nico hischier fluff #jack hughes #luke hughes

[lala3244]

A crush on Lucifer

~ This is a request from @venture-venus, it is a bit long but well when you are inspired it helps! I do hope you like it. I tried to follow your request as you explained it very well! ~

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Ik I read this before or the troupe but for an obey me!Lucifer x Mc fanfic what if Mc was developing a crush on him and thought it was mutual because he was kind to them, took them out, let them come to his study, and so on. One day Mc was bringing some tea after hearing Diavolo was stopping by so they peaked into the office and overheard the pair talking, revealing Lucifer was doing all of it just to make Mc happy as the exchange student. A pov for Lucifer can show Dia prodding at him saying smth that he’s doing a lot more than he needs to so he obviously likes them but Lucifer being prideful (esp during the first season) pushes away. Mc is of course sad and distanced themself, and so on.

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Warnings: Some angst I think? Hurt/comfort

also, English is not my language and I know sometimes, English speakers wouldn’t use the expressions or sentences I used as even when I read them, they sound a bit off but my brain is not used to speaking English regularly anymore so it can’t think of another way of turning the phrases! I do apologise for this!

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You were sitting at his desk, a book and a notebook open in front of you. You had a test coming up next week and you didn’t feel ready for it so you had asked the prideful demon for his help. He had agreed but with one condition: you had to come to his study every night even during the weekend. So that was where you were. Lucifer was explaining to you a chapter on potions when he leaned down to show you a passage that was important and he put his hand on your shoulder for support. Your breath hitched at the touch and you looked to the side and you realised how close his face was to yours. His beautiful face. You couldn’t help but stare at him. He side-eyed you. “Are you listening?” You blushed furiously, feeling the warmth invading your entire body and you got scared that he could feel the sudden warmth but he didn’t move or say anything. You just nodded stupidly and looked back at the book while writing something on your notebook. He stood up. “Well, it’s enough for tonight. Same time tomorrow okay? And don’t be late.” You picked up your books and stood up. “I know you think you have to do this so that I don’t fail but I still want to thank you for your time and help… and patience. You are a good teacher, Lucifer.” With that, you left in a hurry without waiting for an answer. 

You opened the door of your bedroom and jumped on your bed, hiding your face in your pillow. You couldn’t believe you were developing a crush on Lucifer, Avatar of Pride, a Lord of Hell. As if, you, a simple human, a nobody really could ever be with him! And could a demon and a human even be together? You thought about that moment when you were staring at him and you groaned. How embarrassing that was! But you were glad he didn’t say anything. You decided to change your mind so you went to the bathroom and got ready for bed. You went to sleep but it wasn’t a peaceful one, you kept waking up, bad dreams kept happening so you decided to stay awake and go through your notes again. An hour went by when you heard a knock on your door. You stood up and opened the door. Lucifer was standing there, arms crossed and a frown on his face. “Aren’t you supposed to be asleep right now?” You lowered your head. “Yes, I was but I kept waking up and every time I fell back asleep, I had a nightmare so I decided to stay awake and read for my test.” His arms went on his sides and his face changed into worry. “You still need to sleep. Would you rather I stay with you until you fall asleep?” Your eyes widened as you hear his words and you could feel a blush coming. You cursed yourself internally. You hated the fact that he could make you blush so easily. You lowered your head as to hide your face. “Yes, I would. Thank you.” You left the door open so he could follow you and you went under the covers. You were watching him as he was closing the door and you couldn’t help but admire him. How his hair fell on his forehead, how his posture was always so perfect, how his eyes were observing everything. You were starting to daydream when you felt him sitting next to you. He moved so his legs were lying on your bed and he leaned his back against the headboard. He looked at you and pulled you closer. You stopped breathing, waiting to see what he was going to do. He moved you around so that you were on your side, head on his chest and your arm around his stomach. You let him move you as you knew you were no match anyway but when he finally settled, you were surprised by what was going on. It was actually comfortable to use him as a pillow. He put his hand on your back and soothingly rubbed it. You finally let your breath go and breathed normally again. You let a few seconds pass before whispering. “Good night, Lucifer. Thank you.” You were starting to feel sleepy and his hand rubbing your back helped you relax more. Lucifer smiled at you, even though you couldn’t see him and waited a few minutes to be sure you were asleep. “Any time, darling.” Then he kissed tenderly your hair.

You got woken up by your alarm. You sat down slowly and looked around. Of course, no Lucifer. You lied back down again and took the covers with you to hide your whole body. You replayed the evening in your mind, eyes closed, it was actually nice. Maybe he cared about you more than you thought? No, that would be crazy! But… you snapped your eyes open. In your sleeping state, you thought you had heard him talking and calling you darling. Surely it was a dream. It wasn’t possible! But what if…? You heard one of the brothers calling you for breakfast. You couldn’t say who it was but you left begrudgingly your bed, not really ready to affront the brothers. You weren’t really hungry, having slept so little didn’t help with your appetite so you went back upstairs after drinking only a cup of tea and got ready for RAD. You all left the House of Lamentations, you would usually walk with Mammon, as the second born liked to brag about his schemes he came up with during the night but today, he was busy talking with Levi. You smiled fondly as you watched them together. You felt a presence next to you and you looked up, still smiling. Lucifer had started to walk next to you and he looked down at you. “Why are you smiling?” You chuckled. “It’s just cute how Mammon and Levi interact with each other.” He looked at them, an eyebrow quirked and he chuckled too. “Yes, they can be.” You were all greeted by Lord Diavolo at R.A.D’s entrance. You looked at the Prince who was, clearly, watching Lucifer with a smirk on his face. You said hello to the future King and went to your first class, leaving the brothers with him. The day went by, uneventful. Sometimes, you would catch glances of Lucifer and he was always watching you. He would smile at you when he saw you. 

You hated yourself when you had a crush because you would read every word, every gesture as a sign that they liked you and you were wrong more often than not so you tried to stop yourself hoping but that evening when you were finding yourself in Lucifer’s study, you couldn’t help but hope. For once, he was sitting. Not standing behind you but sitting next to you. Your knees touching slightly, he would brush his fingers accidentally against your hands and you kept telling yourself. “Don’t hope! Don’t hope! Don’t hope” and you failed miserably when after your study session he said that he would take you out after the last study session to celebrate your good results. You laughed and had said “We won’t know for another week.” He smiled. “I know you’ll pass.” It boosted your ego and when you looked at Lucifer’s eyes, you swore you saw a glint of pride. 

When you went back to your room, you couldn’t help but think about the subtle touches the demon gave you. It wasn’t like before. It felt like it was as if your bodies were attracted to each other and they needed to touch one way or another. You shook your head. You needed to stop thinking like that. To stop thinking like there was ever any hope but, still, your mind kept coming back towards those fleeting moments when his fingers were barely touching you. It sent electricity through your body and it kept feeding in your crush. You sighed, loudly. You looked around your room and decided you needed to get out so you went to the kitchen. You were making yourself a cup of herbal tea to help you fall asleep when you heard someone at the door. You tried to listen for a clue of who it was but you were too far away to hear anything. A few moments later, Asmodeus arrived. “Hey hon! Lord Diavolo is here! Lucifer asked me to make some drinks for them.” You smiled at the Avatar of Lust. “I’ll bring them the drinks if you’d like?” He jumped happily and kissed you on the cheek, giggling. You laughed and you busied yourself with the drinks. It took you a few minutes to get everything ready. You knew what Lucifer liked as you had brought hot beverages to him before but you didn’t know Diavolo’s preferences so you put on display different flavours for him to choose. Once everything was on the tray, you took it and left the kitchen.

You arrived in front of the door which was slightly open and you stopped. They were talking and you heard your name so you listened closely with the tray in your hands. Lord Diavolo was speaking. “… brothers told me you slept in their room last night?” You heard Lucifer groaned. “Who told you that? Never mind. I saw the light on in their room so I went in to check if everything was okay and they told me they had bad dreams so I proposed to stay with them until they fell asleep.” Lord Diavolo chuckled. “And you help them with that test?” You tried to see what was going on inside and you saw Lucifer stand up. “They asked me for help. I can’t let an exchange student fail. It would look bad on you or me.” Diavolo was sitting on a chair. “True. But every night? You don’t even do that for your brothers, I don’t think you would spend that much time with someone if you didn’t have any feelings for them.” Lucifer turned to face Lord Diavolo. “What are you insinuating, Diavolo?” Lord Diavolo stared at Lucifer. “You barely speak to Simeon and Luke who are also exchange students in the Devildom. Simeon was your brother as an angel but with this human you do a lot more to make sure they are comfortable and happy. I think you like them. A lot.” Lucifer stared down at Diavolo. “Stop it. I am THE Avatar. Of Pride! I won’t let myself have feelings for such a fragile human., an inferior being.” You took a step back, punched by Lucifer’s words and hurt by the hatred you could hear in his voice. You wanted to leave but they were waiting for the drinks. You braced yourself and opened the door. “Good evening Lord Diavolo! Here, I brought you some drinks, I didn’t know what you liked so you have the choice.” You put the tray down on the desk then looked at Lucifer who had an angry face on. Tears started to well up and when Lucifer looked at you, a tear fell. Lucifer’s eyes widened and concern could be read on his gaze. You wiped your tears quickly and said your goodbyes to the Young Prince. Lucifer stood up. “Wait…” and you left without looking back. 

You went to bed, not even bothering to brush your teeth, change or even get under the covers. You just plopped down on your bed, face down on your pillow. And you hurt. You hurt so much that your chest was painful. You moved your head so you could breathe better but you still had difficulty breathing. It was so painful. You couldn’t believe Lucifer had such hatred against humans or you. Your heart broke. You idealised the demon so much in your mind that to think that he could hate you that much was unbelievable, how could he be so nice and kind to you. A sob escaped your chest then more followed and you couldn’t stop them. You sobbed as if your heart had been ripped out of your chest, as if someone tore a piece of your soul. To know he didn’t like you like you did was okay, he had a right to not have that kind of feelings for you but you thought you were, at least, friends and apparently, he saw you nothing more as a pet. You laughed. A pet is loved, not hated. So for the Avatar of Pride, a human is even less important than a pet. A rat? A pest, that was what you were. Now, you were laughing hysterically and crying. You were alternating both. After a couple of hours, you fell asleep, exhausted by your rollercoaster of emotions. 

You woke up and tried to open your eyes. You touched them and you realised they were puffy from all of your crying last night. You checked your phone and saw that you had no notifications. You cursed Lucifer and his pride. He knew he hurt you but his pride didn’t let him apologise even via text messages. You got up from your bed and went to the bathroom, hoping that some cold water could help reduce the puffiness of your eyes then you went to the dinner room to have breakfast with the brothers. They all looked at you when you walked in but they don’t say anything. You mumbled a greeting to all of them and sat down in your seat. You ate your breakfast in silence while you felt their stares on you. You finally looked up after finishing eating and you saw quickly, all their heads turning to their plates, except Lucifer. He was reading a newspaper while sipping his coffee, unconcerned by your appearance. You felt your chest constricting at the obvious neglect the Avatar of Pride felt about you. You stood up abruptly and left the room, stomping your feet like a child throwing a tantrum but you didn’t actually care. None of the other brothers dared moving and all looked at Lucifer, who just shrugged his shoulders.

It was the evening. You had spent your whole trying to avoid the brothers and especially the eldest but when it was finally time for you to go and see him for your study session, you hesitated. You couldn’t face him, not after what he said but he texted, asking you to still meet him in his office at the same time as usual. So you went, anxious. You, now, knew he hated you and you were scared to say or do something wrong. You decided to just focus on the lesson and what he has to say about it. Not on him, not on his hatred. You remembered one of the first time he threatened to kill you because he felt you were a threat to his family. It was scary then but you just assumed he was a big brother protecting his brother. Now, you knew it was something entirely different. You shakily knocked on his study’s door and opened the door. He was standing by his desk, his back facing you. After a few seconds where you had stayed by the door, he turned around with that charming smile and showed you a chair. “Please, sit down.” You followed his order quietly and sat down. You started unpacking your stuff but he stopped you. “Today, we are doing something different. Here’s a mock-up test. You have an hour to finish it and together, we will do the corrections and see where you need to study the most.” You nodded, speechless. You started your exam and thought it was quite easy, well you hoped but it was actually nice to not have to speak to him for a full hour. The hour went by quickly and he took the paper. He read it quickly and you saw him nod to himself multiple times and when he was almost done, you saw a small proud smile on his face. Your heart bursted with pride and he gasped. His eyes fell on you while you were looking at his desk, basking in your pride. You thought you had passed when you saw the smile and you were so proud to have done so well as you weren’t prepared to have an exam that day. You looked at Lucifer with a big grin, oblivious of his turmoil. “So? Shall we start correcting?” He stared at you for a while longer and you started to get anxious. You were seeing an emotion in his eyes that was unfamiliar. He cleared his throat. “Well, except a few small mistakes here and there, there is nothing to correct.” Your chest swelled even bigger and he staggered back. You frowned. “Are you okay?” He nodded. “Well, keep reading your notes for the next couple of days and you should pass easily.” You nodded, relieved that you didn’t need to spend more time with Lucifer. You left the study and on the way there, you bumped into Asmodeus. “Hey hon! Tomorrow evening, we are going out to The Fall. Would you like to come?” You nodded and jumped excitedly. “Yes please! A night out before my test should help me relax a bit!” Asmo laughed and kissed you good night. 

The next day, you felt better and glad that Asmo had asked you for a night out. At least, not all demons hated humans. You knew you would finish early today so you had asked the Avatar of Lust to go shopping with you. You spent the rest of the afternoon trying on different outfits and you finally decided on one. It highlighted your body in all the right places and unconsciously you chose a black and red one. You realised it once you had bought it. Never mind. Asmo ushered you in his room so you could both get ready and he took you out for dinner. As you were in a hurry, you had left your D.D.D in Asmo’s room. It dawned on you when you wanted to take a picture of the two of you. You shrugged it off and went to the restaurant. You walked in arm in arm with the fourth brother and the maitre d’ showed you to your table. You looked at the menu while listening to Asmo who was explaining everything in there. You saw a shadow covering your table so you looked up. It was Lucifer, he looked pissed, arms crossed. “Don’t you look at your phone.” You stuttered “s-sorry, I-I left it at home.” He shook his head. “Very well, I will talk to you tomorrow.” And he left. You looked at Asmo when you realised. He had promised you to take you out tonight as it was supposed to be the last day of your tutoring. You excused yourself to Asmo “I’m sorry Asmo, I’ll be back! Choose for me”. You ran after the Avatar and caught his arm. Even though, you were still heartbroken and mad at him, you couldn’t help but feel sorry. He might not hate you that much if he was there waiting for you, right? And there you go, hoping. Again. He turned to face you. “What?” He was calm but you could see the anger behind his stare. “I’m… I’m really sorry Lucifer. I really didn’t mean to.” He crossed his arms. “Well, you are human after all, you discard things when you don’t need them anymore.” You stood there, speechless. “I don’t… that’s hurtful!” He smirked. “Is it?” You gasped and anger took you in. “Of course, you’d say that . I am only a pest under your protection. Something that you don’t want but still have to live with and can’t get rid of soon enough. You know what? I’m glad I have forgotten your invitation. You don’t deserve it, you don’t deserve me, you don’t deserve anything. You are only good to scold and teach but nothing else.” You turned away and went back inside. You threw yourself in the arms of Asmo who was waiting for you at the door. “Asmo, I want to go home please.” He nodded and walked past his brother, frowning at him to ask him silently what had happened. 

Spending the rest of the evening in Asmo’s room had helped you feel better and you were actually glad that you didn’t go out as your test was a bit more complicated than the one Lucifer made you take. You knew the answers, it’s just that the questions were weirdly worded and it didn’t make sense at first what they were asking you. When you finished your exam, you left the classroom and you saw Lucifer waiting for you. “How did it go?” You shrugged. “Fine I guess. The questions were kind of difficult to understand.” He nodded. They do that, yes. So it wouldn’t be too easy to answer.” You shrugged again. “Ok, well thank you for asking about my test but I don’t want to be late for my next class.” He nodded again and watched you leave. You shuddered and cursed yourself at how you felt butterflies in your stomach when he asked you about your test but then you reminded yourself, he did it to make sure he did a good at teaching you, not for you but deep down, your crush which had developed into more was still present and you could forgive him anything. You made a promise to yourself, to stop thinking about him and for that you needed to avoid him as much as possible. Avoiding him felt impossible. He was everywhere, you went. You wanted to do your homework in the library? He was there talking with the librarian. You went for a hot drink in a random coffee shop you never went, he was there having a coffee. You went for a walk, he was on the same pathway. You wondered if he had put a bug or a curse on you to know where you were going. And the next few days were pretty much the same. Even in the House of Lamentations, he was everywhere no matter the time except for your room, of course. So, you would hide in there every evening, avoiding him, and as a consequence, his brothers too. After a couple of days, the other brothers got worried but when Asmo told them about the argument with their brothers they decided to leave you alone. They didn’t want their brother on their backs again. You felt betrayed when none of them came to see if you were okay or even at breakfast, they wouldn’t look at you. 

It was snowing. You liked the first snows. It was always so immaculate and quiet. You liked the stillness in the sky and the invigorating cold. For the past few days, you had barely spoken to anyone in the house but you were glad, you had other friends at RAD, otherwise, you would feel really lonely. You had walked from RAD with Simeon and Luke to the House of Lamentations. It had been snowing for a few hours now and when you walked you could hear and feel the crispness of the fresh snow. You stopped and looked up at the sky, enjoying the feeling of each snowflake melting against your skin. You got startled when you received a snow ball on your coat. You looked around and you saw the two angels running away, laughing. You made a snowball then a second one quickly and ran after them. You laughed as you tried to aim at their backs and you got them. You had managed to arrive in front of your temporary home. Lucifer and his brothers were all on the porch, watching you. Mammon was the first to move, grabbed some snow and threw it towards you. You dodged it and tried to do the same but when you aimed for Mammon, you tripped and you sent your snowball on Lucifer. You froze mid-stumble and waited for a reaction. He looked at the snow that was slowly melting on his coat then at you. He slowly walked towards a railing and with a hand, gathered the snow and meld it in a ball then he threw it. It got you on the side of your head, it wasn’t a powerful throw but enough to unfreeze you and to start a snowball fight with Lucifer. The brothers joined you too, Mammon and Asmo played with you and the angels against the other five brothers. You played for a couple of hours but you asked to stop as no one was really winning and you couldn’t feel your fingers anymore. You hugged Simeon and Luke and thanked them for earlier. 

When they left, the brothers had the time to realise that you were cold. Your lips were becoming blue and you started shuddering uncontrollably. Lucifer ushered you to your room. “Get undressed, I’m going to run a bath for you.” Your teeth were shattering and you slowly started to undressed. You tried to lay your clothes down so they would dry but you decided to just let them as is because you were shaking so much. You wrapped a towel around your body and walked quickly to the bathroom. You didn’t realise how much the cold had penetrated your bones. You could barely feel your legs and feet and all your limbs started to be painful as you were slowly warming up with the heat from the house. Lucifer was still in the bathroom, making sure the water was not too hot for your cold body. He turned around when he saw you walked in. You weren’t really thinking at that point. All you needed was the warm water so you took off your towel and slided in the bathtub. There was enough water so that it covered all your body. Lucifer was watching you, slightly panicking at your actions and once you stopped shuddering, you looked at him. You chuckled when you saw his panic look but you quickly got embarrassed when you realised why he was panicking. “Thank you Lucifer. I’m alright now. You can leave, I won’t be long.” You smiled shyly at him and he nodded, his gaze looking everywhere but you now. You stayed a few minutes, rubbing your limbs to get the blood flowing, warm. You emptied the bath and you grabbed the towel to dry off. You left the bathroom enveloped in your towel and ran towards your room.  Lucifer was there, rummaging in your closet for warm clothing. He laid them on the bed for you. “Put that on. I’ll come back later because I would like to show you something but I don’t want what happened earlier happening again.” You chuckled. “Sure, Lucifer. I’ll get dressed appropriately.” He smiled. This charming smile that made you melt every time, no matter how angry you were at him. 

He went by your room and whisked you away to a new coffee that was in an incredible spot. You could see the whole city and the view was breathtaking. It was on a roof of a tall building and you didn’t know there was such a place in the Devildom. He ordered two hot drinks and when they were done he brought you outside. You shivered at the temperature difference and Lucifer instinctively came closer to you. You leaned on the railing to have a proper look at the view. The snow was everywhere, covering the city with a white sheet. You felt the demon coming closer to you and wrapping his arms around you from behind. You could feel his body’s heat even through your layers. “It’s only to keep you warm while you are outside.” You giggled. “Of course, Lucifer” He hummed happily then stopped. He turned you around so you were facing him but you were still in his arms. You gasped as it was sudden and you looked at him, surprised. He looked straight into your eyes and put his forehead on yours. He closed his eyes. “I am sorry”. You waited for him to look at you. “For what?” He sighed. You knew he knew but you wanted him to say it. “For what I said in my study.” You moved your head on the side so you wouldn’t look at him anymore. You started to completely pull away but his embrace tightened. “I-I don’t have any excuse. I went too far. My pride was speaking for me when Diavolo said out loud what I was denying to myself and I let it fester instead of just going to see you and to apologise to you as you deserve. You were right, I don’t deserve you. I don’t deserve a lot but I really hope you can forgive me someday.” You didn’t move your head while he was speaking, you looked at the city’s lights, blurred by the tears that were starting to fall. You didn’t look up either when you started to talk. “It hurt, you know? To hear such hatred from you. To hear that I was an inferior being because I was a human. I felt like you never wanted me and I was just an inconvenience even though you have been so kind to me.” He sighed again, lips strained into a thin line. He hugged you tighter, your head was now on his chest and you could hear his heart. “As I said, i don’t have an excuse for what I said. I could say I didn’t mean it but at the moment it still hurt you and for that I apologise, again. If there is one thing I would never do on purpose, it’s hurting you. What I said was me defending myself against Lord Diavolo’s true claims but I shouldn’t have used those harsh words.” Your tears were still flowing while you listened to him through the vibrations of his chest. You wrapped your arms around his waist and he kissed you on the top of your head. You waited to stop crying before pulling away. He grabbed your face with both hands and gently, with his thumbs, he wiped the tears off your cheeks. He kissed your forehead, both your eyes, the tip of your nose then each of your cheeks and he stopped his lips in front of yours. “Do you think you can forgive me?” You leaned into his hands. “I don’t know? Do you hate me or humans?” He chuckled then leaned in to press a soft kiss on your lips. “No, I don’t hate you nor humans.” 

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THE END

Thank you for reading!

Masterlist

#obey me #obey me fandom #obey me fanfic #obey me swd #obey me shall we date #obey me x reader #obey me lucifer #obey me mammon #obey me diavolo #obey me hurt #obey me hurt/comfort #obeyme lucifer #lucifer angst

[canonicallyobserving911]

Several Sentences Sunday

Fanonwriter2023 on AO3

Where CANON and FANON collide!

Season 7 FANON FanFic: Buddie Multi-Chapter Fanfic - Hiatus Reading: “I’m still in love with you but... I needed to learn how to love myself too!”

Chapter 27 will be posted soon.

This is an EPIC LOVE STORY!

Currently 26 chapters completed: 1M Words; Rated: Mature

One chapter will be posted at a time.

{Previous snippet}

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I'm excited to finish writing Chapter 27 because at the end of Chapter 26, while Buck was sleeping, he made a sound that Eddie hadn't heard before then he immediately sat up in bed and called Eddie's name. He was in a daze when he did and to Eddie, Buck appeared to be still dreaming but since his eyes were open, he started talking to him to get his attention.

They spent the majority of the day before in the hospital after Buck collapsed in Eddie's arms and suffered a bradycardia event of epic proportions. He was unconscious and unresponsive after he received a package that was delivered to the firehouse while they were in Europe. Once he opened it and read the letter, he reached the part where it stated someone died and it reminded him of his own death and it triggered the event.

All three members of the Diaz family are supporting one another as Buck faces the fact that he died last year and as he proceeds to deal with all 7 stages of grief.

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Here's an emotionally angsty snippet from Chapter 27 of Buck revealing something to Eddie that he's noticed.

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At 8:32AM Eddie enters their home and when he does, he immediately turns around to close the door.  After he locks it, he does an about face but when looks up, he gasps and jumps because Buck’s standing next to the couch waiting for him.

“Amore mio?  What are you doing out of bed?  You’re supposed to be resting.”

Buck walks over, wraps his arms around Eddie’s waist, pulls him close so their chests are pressed against each other’s, then he presses his cheek against his and whispers into his ear, “Come to bed”.

He vigorously shakes his head no because he has a lot to do today including making their breakfast.  “But I have to…”

“Babe?”

He furrows his eyebrows and replies, “Yes my love?”

“I know you haven’t been sleeping and I also know that uh… you’ve been having panic attacks”.

Eddie sighs and looks down because he didn’t know Buck knew that since he thought he was being discreet by leaving their bedroom to panic in peace, if that’s even possible but he’s been stealth about it.

Within seconds, Buck sees the tears start to stream down his face, so he unwraps one of his arms, lifts his hand and uses his thumb to wipe them away.

“Babe, you have to sleep.  You’ve been going nonstop taking care of me and Chris but you need to rest too.  So, while you were gone, I called Carla and asked her to pick Chris up from school because me and you…”  He points his finger back and forth between them. “We’re getting in bed and we’re going to sleep until late this afternoon”.

Eddie falls forward and collapses in his husband’s arms and after he buries his face in between Buck’s neck and shoulder, he breaks.  He’s so tired but he’s also worried that he’ll close his eyes and Buck won’t wake up again.  It’s a vision that won’t stop flashing in front of his mind and every time Buck falls asleep, a crippling panic fills his chest and it makes him think he'll never get to see those baby blue eyes again.

As he holds onto his husband for dear life, he thinks about all the life they still have yet to live and through broken sobs, he whispers, “Bu���ck!”

It's unconscionable for him to even think about living his life without Buck because he’s madly in love with him, Buck’s his amore mio and it took them years to get here but they made it.  They got married in Rome, Italy on December 17th and they spent 15 days in Europe resting and healing.  While they were in San Gimignano, they bid on a house named “New Beginnings” and it’s supposed to represent everything they’re planning to do in the future but now it seems like their future might be taken away before they even have a chance to celebrate their one-month wedding anniversary.

Buck kisses his cheek and continues to comfort him by gently rubbing one of his hands up and down Eddie’s back.

Eddie keeps thinking about the song they danced to the week before they got engaged.  It’s “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith and he keeps hearing the chorus, “Don’t wanna close my eyes, I don’t wanna to fall asleep cause I’d miss you baby and I don’t want to miss a thing!”

He heaves past a sob and admits, “Buck… I—I don’t want to close my eyes because…”

Buck uses his thumb and forefinger to lift Eddie’s chin and when he does, he presses his lips against his.  It’s a soft and sweet kiss that’s filled with promises of forever and after he pulls back, he looks into those honey brown eyes he loves so much and admits, “I’m not going anywhere, I promise.  We’re going to die on the same day at the same time 50 or 60 years from now, remember?”

Eddie exhales a shuddering breath because that’s their plan but he’s still scared shitless that his husband will close his eyes and not open them again.  He hiccups on a sob and through heaved and labored breaths he admits, “Buck… I—I know you won’t leave me but I saw you… hanging from the aerial and—and then I—I saw you—when you—were unconscious and un—responsive TWICE…”  He trails off as he exhales a half scream combined with a loud cry.

Will Buck be able to comfort Eddie and convince him to go to bed so he can get some sleep? 🤷🏽‍♀️

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Fic Summary: Months after Buck and Eddie were hit by the same lightning strike; they’re still struggling with the aftermath of it.  But before they make their love confessions, they’ll spend time getting to know themselves as individuals first. Eddie learns to enjoy the simple things in life as he participates in activities on his own and with new friends while Buck learns the rest of the 31-year-old deep dark family secret about his conception and birth. Their journey to forever is still a work in progress but once they finally admit they’re in love with each other, everything that follows their love confessions will be cataclysmic.

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Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 - Eddie makes a new friend while Buck receives devastating news regarding the sperm donation he made for Connor and Kameron.

Chapter 2 - Buck does a lot of research to learn more about the abnormalities found in his red blood cells and Eddie starts a new therapy journey that’s all about him and not the traumas he’s experienced.

Chapter 3 - After more than a month, Buck and Eddie finally spend time together outside of work but it doesn’t end well and they part with a lot of uncertainty regarding their places in each other’s lives.

Chapter 4 - Eddie has a few realizations about his life which causes him to consider moving back to El Paso, TX while Buck continues to be reminded of his past which causes him to take an impromptu road trip across America.

Chapter 5 - Both Buck and Eddie have difficult conversations with their parents and Buck finally learns the truth behind the reason why his mother despised him while Eddie finally tells his mother about the way she tries to control him.

Chapter 6 - More than two weeks after Buck pushed Eddie away after suggesting they needed a break; Eddie decides to try again. Eddie’s there for Buck when he’s at his worst just like Buck was there for him when he was at his worst and he won’t let Buck give up.

Chapter 7 - After Buck’s mental breakdown, Eddie has his back the same way Buck had his when he had his own breakdown more than a year ago.  They share several vulnerable and emotionally intimate moments with one another and they begin to realize their small, sweet and caring gestures matter just as much if not more than any grand gesture ever could because these are the foundations of a long-lasting love relationship.

Chapter 8 - Buck, Eddie and Chris all have their own therapists and during their sessions, they reflect on their pasts while they’re in the present so they can prepare for their future together as a family.

Chapter 9 - Buck and Eddie are there for each other when Buck has to testify as a witness during the trial.  But by the end of it, they’ll both realize their individual and shared traumas are going to keep resurfacing until they talk about them, deal with the fact that they’re in love with one another and face the fact that they can’t live without each other.

Chapter 10 - As Buck and Eddie finally begin to confront their past traumas, they realize how much they need each other to fill in the gaps of their memories.  Additionally, the universe screams at them for what appears to be the one hundredth time so Buck can realize he doesn’t have to ‘find it’ because he already ‘made it’ and Eddie’s reminded tomorrow isn’t promised and he doesn’t have to die alone if he doesn’t want to.

Chapter 11 - A “virga” or dry thunderstorm is in the forecast but once the rain starts, the thunderstorm happening outside won’t be able to match the storm brewing inside between Buck and Eddie.  It’s the universe’s final scream and when the tumultuous winds begin to blow, they’ll have one last chance to hold onto everything they’ve built over the last six years or they’ll lose it all forever.

Chapter 12 - Buck and Eddie have always shared a deep physical attraction and an emotional intimacy that’s unmatched but now that they’re in a relationship, they’re learning how to navigate the romantic intimacy they’ve been waiting for six years to explore. The love they have for each other is a once in a lifetime, soulmate, love of their lives type of love that transcends space and time.

Chapter 13 - While navigating the newness of their romantic relationship, Buck and Eddie take advantage of every moment they spend together. As their individual lives, people from their pasts, time constraints and the possibility of losing each other again make attempts to interrupt and interfere with their journey to forever, they love, care for, support and hold onto each other even tighter to withstand it all.

Chapter 14 - Buck and Eddie can see the lights at the end of the tunnels regarding the results of Buck’s Cancer Screening along with everything else they’re dealing with. But are the lights they see exits to the tunnels or are they headlights on different runaway trains that are speeding towards them in an effort to interrupt their forever?

Chapter 15 - Buck and Eddie have known they were exactly who the other one wanted in a partner since they met six years ago when they agreed to have each other’s backs. They’re in a romantic relationship, they’re both preparing to ask the other one to spend forever with them and by the end of the seventh week into their relationship, together they will plan their most important and greatest adventure for their future.

Chapter 16 - As Buck and Eddie begin to prepare for their marriage ceremony that will take place in Rome, Italy in December 2023, they start planning their first international adventure as a romantic couple. Even though Chris is still the only person they’ve told about their relationship, several people who know them have already witnessed the love they share and as the days continue, others will witness it too.

Chapter 17 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to departing Los Angeles for their international adventure, a moment in time will remind them; life is fragile, tomorrow isn’t promised and every second of everyday should be cherished because everything can change in an instant. The result of that realization will cause them to hold onto each other even more.

Chapter 18 - As Buck, Eddie and Chris prepare for family gatherings before and during the Thanksgiving holiday, the “Santa Ana Winds” start to blow and all sorts of expected and unexpected familial drama ensues.

Chapter 19 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to their wedding day, the universe begins to align everything so that some of their parent and children's relationships are strengthened while others come to an abrupt end.

Chapter 20 - With only 14 days remaining until Buck, Eddie and Chris depart Los Angeles, CA traveling to Rome, Italy, for their first family adventure, an early morning conversation about “tying up loose ends” helps Buck and Eddie realize there are still several things left unfinished on their ‘To Do’ lists. The question is will there be enough time to complete all of them?

Chapter 21 - Buck, Eddie and Chris are finalizing their ‘To Do’ Lists, double checking their itineraries and packing their suitcases in preparation for their trip to Europe so they can board their flight that departs Los Angeles, CA on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 3:25PM.

Chapter 22 - While Buck, Eddie and Chris spend the first 8 days of their European family adventure in Italy, their primary reason for going will be fulfilled as well as several others they hadn’t considered or anticipated.

Chapter 23 - As the Diaz Family continues their Italian family adventure, they’ll say, “Ciao” or hello and goodbye to a lot of things almost immediately after they become an official and legal family.

Chapter 24 - After Buck, Eddie and Chris arrive in London, England on December 24th; the Diazes immediately start preparing to spend their first family Christmas together. During their stay, each of them will hear a few choice words that will be the life raft to get them home to complete their searches to be seen and to be found.

Chapter 25 - After spending more than two weeks in Europe, Eddie, Buck and Chris are back in Los Angeles and they’re getting ready to attend Maddie and Chimney’s New Year’s Eve party. During the event, they have plans to make two surprise announcements but the question is, who’s really going to be surprised, the Diaz family or their found family at the 118?

Chapter 26 - Buck and Eddie are once again faced with their greatest fear of losing each other but this time it could be permanent and if it is, then they won’t be able to spend the rest of their lives together.

Chapter 27 - Will be posted soon.

__________

Read chapters 1-26 are available on AO3.

Continue reading on AO3

Chapter 27 will be posted soon.

#buddie #eddie diaz #evan buckley #christopher diaz #the buckley diaz family #buckley diaz family #buddie fanfic #ao3 fanfic #911 fanfic #911 abc #911 on abc #Fanonwriter2023 on AO3 #Hiatus Reading #Several Sentences Sunday #buddie wip #“I'm still in love with you but... I needed to learn how to love myself too!”

[xsapphirescrollsx]

Mesquite Grove

Written: Sep 10 2020

Dark!Syverson x Black Reader

Also this is post is pic heavy. I really just mood boarded a lot to keep me going while I wrote. I modeled the cabin in this story of off Sky Notch. I hope it’s not to much lol and that you enjoy it. Thanks for reading and reblogging!

Autumn sits all around you. Monday, seven a.m and the town is quiet except for a few rushing cars on the highway just off from the store you now occupied. The colors of deep red and orange are dull in the morning haze but it signals change nonetheless. It felt good, for you too were experiencing another season in your life. A new town, another chance to start over. It would have been frightening if you didn’t know that without this, your life might have gone another direction. 

You stood there in the doorway, hand on the knob as you opened it completely and pushed a big heavy basketball sized stone at the bottom corner. The cold nipped around your neck and you rushed back. And you waited, a lone dot slowly being enveloped in the heavy fog. This dense cloudy layer covers the town, the trees, the homes, your store and the one across the street. 

It was beer delivery day at the liquor store and your turn of the month to stand here and take count of intake. With the door open, behind you pale light from within poured around your body as you stood in the frame. You were one leg out, it was too cold to stand completely in the weather so you stayed half in with the warmth. While watching the truck slowly roll in front of the door and then back in, you took stock of this new you. A year ago, a quiet life seemed so far away, there was a time you enjoyed the sounds of a city that never sleeps and the pace the people moved at. But here, standing in the presence of the singular sound of a truck engine it seemed peaceful.

The truck halted a few feet from the door, tail first, its lights ghostly in the fog and exhaust. You shifted to bat away the puffs of white, it doesn’t last long before a gentle frigid wind carries it off for a moment in another direction. And then there was silence once again with the cutting of the truck’s engine. 

For a moment raised voices from the head of the truck mumble over the cracking of gravel. Laughter, low and sardonic of sorts was louder as two men exited. Their stomping upon small pebbles broke the eerie morning time quietness. The first man you saw, a regular on this route greeted you with a wave. Dave, shorter than you but stout in his shoulders and frame offered a smile. 

“Hey, long time no see!” he said. You smile as best you can muster for this time of day and pull the clipboard from under your arm. “Haven’t seen you in a few weeks.” he added.

“The four of us take turns. Today was my day..”you said quietly. 

“‘Gotta a new helper today.” said Dave, now standing in front of you. He handed a long slip of paper, a receipt of the day's products to be delivered.

“Well, I’m glad,--” Your words and attention are pulled by the sound of a racket coming from the truck. Loud and cumbersome, it was unusual for normally Dave would have slid it more gently. But your eyes landed on the back of Dave’s helper. He had slammed the platform that was hooked on to the door to the ground. The chains on either side still shook slightly from the action. 

“--it’ll go faster this time at least.” you said finally and returned to your list.

The sliding of the truck’s cargo door jarred you again. 

“Easy.” instructed Dave. “You break this shit we have to go back to the city for another truck.”

Once again you look up to see the man hop from the bed of the truck down to the platform. You didn’t look long. The man was already staring at you from under the rim of his dingy baseball cap. He was bulky and heavy with his footsteps as he strode the short distance to you. What you did see of him, he was large with broad shoulders and a frame built for hard labor you supposed. 

“Nice to meet ya,” he said in a smooth voice. It was surprisingly light, and pleasant despite the rugged thick beard that nearly hid his lips.

A greet worth grin, short and tight unfolded upon your lips as you spoke. “Dave’ll show you were to go.”

“You aren’t even going to ask me my name?” asked the man, his smile when bigger as did the delight in his eyes. He slapped the back of his hand on Dave’s shoulder. “I thought you said the folks at The Corner Store were friendly?”

Your eyes bounced from the man to Dave who looked noticeably uncomfortable, but still managed a grin and a shrug. 

The man turned back to you, his white teeth shiny in the light from behind you. “I’m Sy.”

“Okay?”

The sarcasm hung between the rushing sound of a car and the shuffling of Dave’s feet. You rolled your eyes back to Dave. “Anything new on the list?” you asked, ignoring Sy as he walked back to the truck.

An hour in and nearly done, Sy follows you through the first trailer lined with a variety of hot beer, winding to the next right entry way he continued to follow you through the second trailer. Once again, this one too held more warm cases of beer. Down the ramp at the end of the trailer he followed you into the main part of the store, fit for retail and held a large selection of spirits and wines in this section. He followed you still passed the counter toward the large fridge where shoppers could browse the sections of glass doors. But that wasn’t the destination. Instead you walked to the end, opened the door, a muscle reflex really, you held the door open for him as he entered too. Cold, though it felt warmer than outside, and packed and stacked into half rows with more selections of beer he followed behind you at the end. Shelving lined the end of the rectangular space, and underneath that was where he was to stack his cargo. 

“You’re new here.” 

You didn’t bother to turn around, “What gave it away?” you asked.

Sy lightly half scoffed and laughed. “Well this is my hometown. I know everybody here and you’re definitely not a local.”

Not easily swayed by casual conversation you ignored him. But his presence, the largeness of his body is equal to the energy he silently emits. That can’t be pushed aside. Sy waits while you move to the back row and pick up the last flat case of canned ale and place on the stack behind you. With a finger you gesture to that corner and he squeezes between the metal shelves with beer waiting for customers and the stacks of cases on the dolly. From on top of the beer he pushed in he grabbed for five flats of canned spirits and approached you in the corner. Within this space it was incredibly small to begin with. But with him, his broad shoulders and height you quickly become uncomfortable with not having a way out. 

He bent over and slammed the cases into the empty spot. He performed this action twice more until he carried the last of it to this area. And then at last, standing in front of you close enough to smell whatever soap he used that morning he reached for the cold case you placed on top of the other beer. He smiled at you, a grin mostly, one you would see from another who had familiarity with the other person. 

When he stood, his chest was inches from you. Parts you thought were atrophied spark to life, it had been years since you were this close to a man. The pieces fired up, your skin first, smooth turned bumpy though you blamed the cold and ignored it mostly because then your heart beat harder. Besides the whoosh of the refrigerator unit suspended behind you it was all you could hear in this moment. Sy titled his head slightly with his eyes gliding down from your chest to waist and perhaps further still you were sure. Immediately put off you turned toward the door, it felt so far away now, relief from this weight of him seemed hours away. 

“I have to cut a check,” you mumbled and hoped it sounded plausible, it was the truth after all.

Without turning back a short gasp hissed across the sound of the fan. Sy was doubly close, his chest and stomach bumped into yours. Head still turned a bit and you cut your eyes back at him. He was focused on your neck, he leaned in closer and his beard brushed across the skin of your neck as his fingers dug the high collar coat away. You stepped back, well tried - there was no room to step, instead you teetered back against the wood wall, one hand grasped the cases to your right the other placed on his shoulder. 

“What-” you asked but then heard a loud sniffing sound from him.

Instantly the chills upon your arms moved up through your shoulders and fizzled all the way down the sides of your spine. He dragged his nose up through your hairline at the back of your neck. A breathy whimper later, your body felt light, yielding at something you hadn’t had in a very long time - connection. Titling your head up at the feeling of small shudders coursing down your back, the feeling was inescapable, untamed and raw. 

And then it ended. Sy stepped back, his light eyes dark now stared back at you with something that you recognized as a man starved. He blinked and took off his cap, ran a hand through wild curls and replaced his cap. You stayed there unable to wholly accept what just happened but also, those pieces of you missed whatever that was. 

“Sorry about that - I couldn’t resist any longer.”

You wanted to ask the question; resist what? The impropriety begged for argument, to yell and tell him off about crossing your boundaries as men were often want to do. But then you remembered where he stood, where you were too and how many things between you and the door there were. 

Adjusting the neck of your jacket your eyes wandered back to the door. “No worries,” you said. 

Sy nodded with a smile emerging from his beard. The parts of you separated again, once again in their scattered places you frown at him. “Are you done? Can you get the fuck out of my way?”

Sy stepped aside with his back against the shelving and the other cases of beer underneath it. Internally you scream at the lack of space he offered you but took it anyway. Quickly you step forward, keep your body pressed against the opposite side column of beer and can only manage to brush your arm across his chest as you pass. 

You didn’t bother to look back once around the last stack, you strode down the rows of beer hearing the clanging of the dolly behind. No door holding either as you walk out of the fridge door and to the register counter. It wasn’t until you were back behind there and near a phone did you feel normal again. In this dingy old liquor store, at least here with packs of cigarettes and brown spirits did you feel safe.

Halfway through your work week you awoke to the shrill crowing of a rooster. Scrunched up on the side of your full bed your eyes cracked open to the pale morning light bleeding through your curtains. It crooned again and you blinked, brows pushed together as your eyes shot to the fabric slowly moving with the wind from the ceiling fan. 

You grabbed your phone on the end table, checked the time: 6:14 a.m. 

Shuffling on the other side of the window and the waggle of chicken noises was followed by another crow, this time the thing had to be directly in front of the window. 

“God damnit.”

While you enjoyed this house, this space you created into your own vision of a singular life you felt bothered. In the past this sort of interruption in sleep either by sounds of the city or fighting from an adjoining apartment, or even the people you shared the apartment with would have been met with lukewarm animosity. But here, in this home, as you rose from the bed with little more than a shirt on, this chicken with his cawing and carrying on, you thought he might have made a better sandwich than a living thing. 

You jerked open the front door and in a flurry of wings and feathers about a half dozen chicken hysterically flapped and scattered. They ran further when you dashed toward them with raised hands motioning them to flee. 

At the end of the porch the last chicken jumped over the railing and out into your yard. Wind from your left, the north gusted around your bare legs and up under your thin shirt. Before you began to turn and go back to the warmth of your bed something caught your eye. From your house within the valley, rising upon a crest of a hill a white tin roof gleamed as the rising sun touched it. 

You would admit there was never really any concern to know the neighbors. Other than your house, this home about a mile away on the tall mound was the only house to be seen for miles. You still hadn’t met them officially, if people even did that around here. 

But their land stretched for as far as your eye could see. Marked by barbed wire fencing and metal stakes coming as close as maybe ten feet from what would be your land. But unlike your side of the fence, which was mowed before the beginning of fall, their grass grew tall and wild, the cedar and mesquite trees were thick, the cactus patches unattended as well. 

Besides this morning chicken fiasco, you hadn’t even seen the neighbors. It made you think, just a jolt really that broke up the fuzziness of groggy thoughts, that perhaps the people who lived there did not want to be seen.

Saturdays were never easy, unlike the rest of the work week this day was met with constant customers as opposed to the lazy walkin’s of a Friday night. The liquor store would be closed on Sunday, so the rush to get the drinks for the weekend shook more people lose to come and get their selections. Also, to the side of the store, the park was filled and in the evening was lit up brightly with lights. This was different. Normally it was dark with zero cars or people. Whatever was happening brought even more people in than usual. 

Your co-worker, Hyacinth, short and blond went by Cindy mostly, rushed from behind the counter to open the beer cooler for you. As typical, you were the beer roller tonight. Laden down with a variety of beer you rolled it passed the counter where Adeline still stood helping customers make their final purchases. 

“I got it!” called Cindy. 

“My back is killing me,” you whispered as you rolled past her. 

A constant complainer, and as predicted she issued back her own set of ailments. “Well try standing behind the counter constantly after you stumped your toe this morning.”

She said it frankly, as if you had no idea what pain was or could not possibly understand. You rolled your eyes back in front of you and walked through the open door while Cindy followed in behind you. 

“And I got sick this morning,”

“Stop drinking.” your voice rose up a bit louder over the roar of the fans. 

“I wasn't! I just woke up crappy is all. Ugh, this thing with Rex. Did you know he still sends me money? After all this time! He makes me so frustrated, plus I hit my toe on the brass leg of my chair. I nearly snapped it off! It’s torture standing back there.” 

“Oh, must be really crappy to get money you never asked for once a month.” 

You sat the dolly down and grabbed the first case on top. “Geeze, I would totally hate getting money...just handed to me..” your voice drew out in a sarcastic tone.

Cindy rolled her eyes back at you. “He still wants me to come to Sunday dinners at Olive’s.”

“Well he always did love his mammy,” you couldn’t help but to giggle at her expression.

“She doesn’t love me, she lets me still work here and all that but...fuck she doesn’t make it easy.”

You didn’t have time to respond before Adie appeared with her face stuck in through a crack at the door. 

“Twenty guys just walked in -” she said, her voice quiet but begging too.

Cindy waved her off and walked out. Even over the fans you could hear the high spirited laughter and deep voices, the open and shutting of the front cooler doors, the clink of six packs clanking out the windows. And immediately you were happy that there was only thirty minutes left before closing time.

Products got stacked in their predestined places with little thought. Your mind was far away from this place. There was always the tendency to drift into a daydream at the moment the monotony of everyday life became stagnant. Somewhere on the high seas, the hero of your own story where money and time meant little, where you made the rules, and felt satisfied. 

You continued to dream as you walked out of the cooler, dolly in hand, eyes straight forward as they moved to places on the shelves that needed a bottle or two replaced. You paid little mind to the men there, who spoke softly with the beat of music across the street humming through the liquor store walls. 

Weaving around them with the dolly, you hardly notice their eyes casually glancing at your body as you pass them by. It was like any other Saturday, the men included with their minuscule unprovoked attention. Their movements within the store are meaningless, your mind was set on the last fifteen minutes until closing. That bottle of clear rum called to you like the couch, like the bag of chips in your pantry and the show you had been putting off to catch up on all week. You were ready to just be off.

The dolly and you pause near the front door where the bags of ice laid within the stand up freezer. You opened the door, palmed the frozen cubes through the plastic and decided with the cooler weather you wouldn’t have to bag anymore tonight. 

Cindy said your name over the top of the men passing comments back and forth to each other.

“I’m nearly done. I’m locking the back door.” you shouted over your shoulder and began to take off again, dolly in tow toward the second part of the store. Wine bottles stuffed together on rickety shelves clinked with the vibration of the music.

“Okay but that’s not what I was talking about- Come here.” 

You kept going with the dolly. “I’ll be right back!”

So you rolled it back there, just inside the first trailer and walked back. Finally you take the time to look at the faces of the four or five men on the other side of the counter. One of them was Sy. And you stopped short of coming into the main part of the store. 

“Hey! They are having a party up on the hill!” said Cindy excitedly. 

Her giddiness elicits a smile from you. But it was short lived as Sy turned from the counter as you took a few steps near. His large body leaned on his right arm on top of the counter, he stretched out a leg and his other hand held his wrist. A lazy stance but one with purpose that said he was open to friendly banter.  

“A gathering of sorts. The boys have returned.” Sy added.

“Boys? From college?” you assumed, it was fall after all, maybe the semester was over and these boys were younger cousins. 

Adie at the other register next to Cindy laughed. Another one of the men was leaned completely over on his crossed arms looking at Adie. But she was looking at you. “No it’s the -”

“It’sa time for family to return home.” said Sy. “Usually the men take off ‘til they’re late thirties, they come back, help out with the land, home life and settle down.”

“Are ya’ll..is this a religious thing?” you asked.

Most of them laughed, even the men down by the beer, but not you or Cindy. Sy only smiled. 

“Nah, it’s more like a reunion.”

Cindy crossed her arms over her chest, a few fingers played with the ends of her hair. “Hey you still got that bottle at home? Maybe you and I can catch up on that show and drink at your place!” asked Cindy.

Still thinking about their laughter, maybe it was an inside joke you weren’t privy too. But Cindy’s sudden shift from barely contained excitement to attempting to trash the idea all together grated your nerves. “I thought you were trying to go to this?”

“We can do something else. I got my toe to think about.”

At the mention of Cindy’s stupid toe your eyes went back to Sy. 

“After we shut down, we’ll start over there...where is it?”

The car radio mumbled a tune under Cindy’s constant talking. 

“I can’t believe you didn’t know Sy was your neighbor.”

“I’m not nosey.” you threw in, keeping your eyes on the gravel road only illuminated by the headlights of your car. 

You do your best to concentrate on the road. But in the pitch black your mind makes shadows in the spaces between bare mesquite trees, vines creeping over the fences that line either side of the gravel back road. Your eyes sweep back and forth for sleek bodies of deer that would dare dart out. It doesn’t matter that you are driving the forty mile an hour speed, you were careful every time you drove this way to go home. 

And as you passed the dirt driveway to your home an ache sets in. The kind that wants to be in your own environment with your own things. You even glance back through the driver side window, checking for the front porch light and wondering if the house missed you too. 

“I don’t want to see Rex. But I know he’ll be there.” Cindy’s whining cut into your thoughts.

“Then stay away from him.”

“I can try but he won’t listen.” she added, once again usurping another opinion.

Before you know it Cindy was waving her hand to the left. “It’s right there, the turn in - with those big wooden gates.”

It was open as you turned on to the driveway, though not much better than the actual road. Passing through them, they curved over the wide path, carved into them looked like animals, dogs maybe you weren’t sure. 

“Are they rich?”

Cindy unbuckled her seat belt and popped down the viser, flipped open the mirror and squinted when the light hit her eyes. “Ya.” she said, running a finger underneath her eyelid. “They all are.”

You drove further, even here the sides of the driveway were just as wild as the road you had turned off of. Though the gravel seemed sparse and gave way to the reddish orange dirt known for this area. Soon you were much closer in a short amount of time, you could see the house - if one could call it that. What you could see from your house was deceiving. That white house, looking now, was merely a metal garage. The mansion was large, spacious, across the land with timber embedded length wise to wooden planks running long. A cabin? A huge cabin fit for at least twenty or more people. And the cars that lined in front and down the driveway could certainly accommodate just that.

“Oh ya they are rich, god damn.” you whispered and pulled off near the garage. 

You drove to the nearest light, half way between the garage and this big house. But as you came closer it wasn’t electrical, it was a torch made of a stack of stones topped with flames. Your eyes moved past Cindy who was still adjusting her hair and makeup to the house, all the lights outside were made of fire. 

“An upclass kegger?” you laughed and put the car in park. 

“No they aren’t stuck up like that. Really, they seemed to be good people.” Cindy started to say something else but shrugged. 

She looked at you, “Ready?”

You sighed and resided yourself to just get it over with. Walking toward the house, you did feel a bit better, now that the drive was over you could look forward to an exit. 

Cindy walked ahead of you, grateful to let her take the lead you let her. And she walked straight for the large front doors with more dogs carved into the dark wood. Suddenly you were aware of the air around you, it was different from the natural smell down by your house. It smelled of the flora you walked through, even the timber that made up the house. Which only seemed to blend into the trees around it, even the front door was flanked by two small trees, stripped down to bare wood and made to be part of the architecture.

She didn’t even have to open it, before you realized what was happening a woman popped out. Tall, with long brown hair was throwing her arms around Cindy’s neck. She pulled her into the house with you trailing behind. 

“I can’t believe you’re here!” shouted the woman. “Rex!!” she yelled again as you shut the door behind you. 

The woman turned back over her shoulder toward you, “You brought a friend! Please make yourself at home!” The woman let go of Cindy and opened another set of doors set into thick wood. Past the glass on either side of them movement could be seen. She pushed them in and stepped into a stone and wood foyer. You continued to follow but quickly your eyes were pulled into this grand living room the likes you had never seen. It stopped you.

Your eyes were drawn to the large wooden columns of logs that gave way to an open layout that seemed to stretch to the sky peaking through a large window on the ceiling. Further in, the second story could be seen resting on more logs but that wasn't the focal point. Among the wood, and branches stood a rock at least twelve feet tall, carved in such a way it almost looked like the outside of a den or cave. Men sat around it upon cushions of leather or fur in deep conversation and acted like they didn’t even see you. So your eyes moved from then to the lip of this rocky monument where sat a clay bowl, burning with a fire within it.

“What the fuck is this place…” you whispered. 

 “The drinks are over there,” called the woman. She was far away, at the entryway of another room just off from this rock. She gestured into the room she and Cindy walked into. But you were still gazing, amazed even because beyond this rock were a row of double glass doors, swung open with soft music being played outside. 

Cindy called your name, finally you walked over to join her in what looked to be another sitting room but it was so much more than that, you just couldn’t name it. Wood followed into this room too, and stone. There were people in here as well, some crowded around a large bowl full of something blue. 

Cindy dipped a glass ladle into, poured it into a glass and then handed it to you. She did the same for herself, but before you could really ask her anything a bellowing hoot came from behind you. 

A man with dark hair came walking fast toward you, but glancing at Cindy, her face pale mouth open in a gasp took a step back. The man she did not want to see, Rex.

More people turned, some laughed and others nodded in his direction as he closed in on Cindy. 

“Hey I’m going out there, if you need me. That’s where I’ll be okay.” you said softly. 

Cindy only nodded and then at once Rex grabbed her in a hug. That was your mark to leave, and you did so happily. 

You followed the sound of deep crooning vocals from beyond the row of doors. More people, perhaps the last addition to the silent count in your head made for thirty people in total you had seen were sat around. Again, square cushions lined the rails of the balcony, dotted out from there encircled a man with the black satin sky as a backdrop behind him. 

It felt communal in nature, some shit you might have seen on television about cults and how they huddle together, think the same, do the same. But as you observed their faces, they listened to the music, though spoke to whoever was near them. It seemed benign. Though this was the middle of nowhere, Texas, what use would have a home like this? Who lived here?

You gazed at the man for a moment as you moved to the other end of the balcony. It seemed bigger than your own home with its little two bedrooms, and small living room. And it certainly did not have a view like this. In the dark, it wasn’t truly vast blackness, stars peppered the sky like fireflies, the nearly full moon cast a pale pearly light upon the land. 

“See anything you like?” said a voice from behind you. 

Sy was there, drink in hand and a friendly toothless smile. He cleaned up, he didn’t smell like the smoke from the pits at the park any longer, the cap he had on was gone and dark hair bundled in loose curls around his ears and neck. 

“It’s beautiful here.”

Sy’s eyes moved from you to the scene over your shoulder. He nodded knowingly, his jaw tightened and sagged, like he was biting down on a thought and then blinked back at you. 

“Not as beautiful as you.”

You were unamused and it showed across your face. Sy’s expression grew serious, simply staring at you before taking a drink.

Sy stepped closer to your left and stood near, he smacked his lips. “You’ll get used to it.” he said and turned his head toward you.

“Used to what? Was that a flirt?” you asked, finally beating back embarrassment you turned your body and leaned against the balcony.

“I’m not great at flirting.” Sy dipped in close, looking into your eyes, and spoke softly, “I call them like I see them.” 

He stood straight again, “So how long have you been in our small town?” 

The song changed, a few people called out requests before the man started singing again. You watched the people, buying time before you decided upon an answer.

“I’ve been here for about 5 months now.”

“Did it take you long to find a place?” he quickly asked back. “Not like there’s a lot to pick from.”

“Actually, I’m buying the land right down the road from here. The price was right.”

“The Grove house. I know it.”

“Yeah?”

“It used to be a part of this land, the caretaker’s house, but a few generations back we let them buy it from the family. Everything okay with the house?”

“It’s a great home. I didn’t have to do much to it. But there’s a dead tree stump at the far corner of the house.”

“I’ll come by tomorrow.”

You shook your head like you were trying to throw off his good offer. This was all so strange, the house, this land, the feeling in your gut and now this.

You finished the drink off, spilled some of it down your chin as you quickly tried to deflate his offer. 

“No, no--that’s not necessary.”

“Hey we’re neighbors now. I’m home, I want to help you.”

You wanted to say no one more time but your voice loses its intensity with the sound of a woman yelling. Cursing, Cindy strode past the doors, her eyes roaming the dark and then stopping on people and looking some more before she finally landed on you.

Quickly she walked over to you, held your arms and ignored Sy complete. “Please, can you take me home.” her voice cracked.

“What’s going on?”

“Can you?”

You looked over to Sy, he was eyeing Cindy before he turned his eyes back toward the house. Shouting, low and growing louder you shifted back to Cindy. She was still looking at you, concern settled into her stance as she grew rigid, and stared right into your eyes.

You sighed, “Okay. Fine, let's go home. I’ll take you first.”

Sunday was bright, warmer than usual, but then again it was Texas, the weather seemed to have its own mind. And today it was sunny, with the heat from the sun beating out the cool wind. It made for a pleasant late morning, you weren’t even hung over. The ride back to Cindy’s was quiet, she hardly spoke - not like her. While her silence was worrisome you assumed it was some sort of lovers concern. 

The tree in the back had to be dealt with. You figured a few hours of digging around it would yield results. And while it did you were nowhere near getting the four foot wide trunk out of the ground. Squatting down near a deep exposed root, you swung your hatchet, splitting the wood and chipping away at the foundation.

You were sweaty, and tired of using energy best spent making food and sitting in front of the television. Laying the hatchet down you grab a rope and knot it on the end of the cut root. You tugged hard, nothing. 

A rumble of a truck pulling up into your driveway didn’t sway your efforts. Planting your feet you hunched over and pulled back harder. It gave a little that time. When you tried to pull again, a pair of gloved hands wrapped around the rope in front of your grip.

It was Sy. 

He smiled while plucking at the rope, “Let’s give it a tug.” 

His thick arms rubbed against yours, he fixed his stance closer but wider and his thighs brushed against your as the rope wrenched back. He grunts hard, “One more time,”and with another jerk the root comes completely loose from the trunk.

Sy released it and you turned toward him. He was grinning down at the stump, white cotton shirt straining around his large arms with his fingers in the jean loops.  “Looks like you’ve done a good job of getting it to surface. I bet I can pop it out for good.”

He backed up his black trunk and made easy work of wrapping a chain around what was sticking out of the ground.  You stood near the front of the house and observed him gassing the engine. Within a few minutes the stump cracked as it fell forward in the direction he pulled broken roots and all. 

“Thank you!” you said cheerfully. Jumping from the porch you saw Sy lean over into the bed of his truck and retrieve a gas saw. You watched him cut the stump down into slices. You wanted to help afterwards, you even tried to lift one but they had to be at least a hundred pound each. 

“I got it.” and without another word, and to your amazement, Sy squatted down and grabbed a piece. He walked a few feet with it, his arms wrapped around the part of the circumference and placed it in the bed. 

“If you’re up for a cookless night we are having a family dinner up at the house. Do you want to go get ready?” Sy walked back to you near the wood and grabbed for another piece.

“Right now?”

He lifted it, “Ya. Go wash off or whatever it is beautiful women do. I’ll wait.”

It was evening, the sun was setting when you stepped out of Sy’s truck. Gone was the warm weather in its place mist or fog seemed to grow from the spaces between the trees trunks and branches. Somehow the natural world mimics how you feel inside. There are shadows within you too, hidden by the mists of memories, light displaced by ghostly uncaring hands from the past. You look over to Sy, back straight, head lifted he walks like a leader. And when he turns to you, his eyes blazing some of the haze within you disperses. 

Even with his silent acknowledgment that this was the beginning of something new. The lines of cars aren’t ignored. 

“Family dinner,huh?” you asked in jest, though left it open for him to explain further.

Sy nodded, a whisper of a smile tugged at the end of his mouth and you suspected the expression was mischievous but you don’t know why he needed to be. 

Up the stone steps again, the outside ornate door was wide open though the one behind it was not. He walked forward, pushed it and let you walk in first. It smelled wonderful, food of some sort, meat and the fragrance of leather and wood met you. 

The grandness of the living room was even more so in the evening light. The feeling of being within a tree, or a cave did not go unnoticed. Sy grabbed your hand, surprised by this subtle gesture you allowed him to hold you, guide you toward a room that was closed the night before. The distant hum of voices grew louder once he opened the door. You wanted to stop and take in the space, the living room was but a glimpse-- this room was for kings. 

The entire space was timber walls, stone flooring with three low-height long tables running horizontal in this great rectangle of carpentry. The furthest wall was lined with large windows which offered the view of the tree country valley and everything of god’s creation. Bowls of food, trays of hot delights steamed up into the air looking like smoke in the dying light. The people surrounding the tables, had to be at least a dozen each. And Sy continued to walk along the side he came to the head of the first table, and nodded to those who waved at him. Their voices hushed with his approach to the middle table, he brought you to the second empty seat where you sat on the leather cushion. He took his place at the head, eyes wide at the selection, the prestige of this room you looked to him confused.

“The pack is back together!” called Sy. And at once the room bellowed with hoots and howls. 

“In a few short hours we will celebrate the beginnings of a new generation!”

Another round of hollering and calling waved across the crowd. “Eat!” announced Sy. And with that the yelling died down and the clutter of silverware filled the hall.

You stared at the fried chicken mounded up in a tray, and then to the more than rare steak to the left. A heap of corn on the cob with a tiny bowl of butter was quickly taken and passed across the table. 

You turned to Sy, he had already filled his plate with what looked like brisket, a few ribs and yellow potato salad. 

“What are you celebrating?” you asked, and without looking up he spoke while chewing.

“The return,” he shrugged and grabbed a rib and began to eat again.

Not wanting to stick out, quickly you filled your plate with whatever was close and took small bites while glancing down the table and around the room.

Cindy wasn’t too far away. Surprised because of yesterday's turn of events, you waved, and she returned it with an ecstatic smile. She leaned in next to Rex who gnawed on a chicken leg. Your eyes moved from her with a bite of a roll, to the carving on the wall behind Sy. 

The scene depicted there seemed to flow from one transition to the other. First a man, walking through trees, and then he knelt before a great dog. “Who made that?” you asked and took a sip of ice cold sweet iced tea. 

Sy looked over his shoulder, he grabbed a rag and whipped his mouth and beard. “It’s a family heirloom.” said Olive who sat across the table next to Rex. 

“It’s over two hundred years old. It was one of the first things created here.” added Sy.

Your eyes turned back to the raised carving. “This house is that old?”

“Older really.” chimed in Olive.

“This homestead is a testament to family, loyalty, and resilience.”said another, a woman. The same tall brunette from the previous night. 

“So..this is a reunion hall or something?”

Sy shook his head. “This is my home. And also the place our pa-family meets. It sits on three hundred acres of protected land. Throughout there are other homes, not as big --for families who return. Generational homes..passed down.”

“Like my house?” you asked.

“No, that was a gift to the caretaker. His loyalty was never seen of his kind before. It’s a shame he passed away and his family let that land go.” said Olive.

“It’s in good hands now.” added Sy, who picked up the pitcher of tea and refilled your glass.

Your attention laid upon the faces of strangers eating. “These people are your family?”

Sy sat the pitcher down, “Might as well be.”

Confusion spread across your face, “I’m sorry but,” you put your fork down and looked at Sy. “Okay, these people aren’t your family? But this is a family home?” You looked behind you searching for older faces besides Olive and found none. “What about your parents? Do you have siblings?”

Some of the noise lowered with your secession of questions. Maybe you hit a nerve, but there were other women who looked to you as well. “Ya, I came with Jack,” the tiny young woman nudged the man’s ribs to her left. “So many secrets,” she giggled.

Sy cleared his throat before he spoke. “My parents were killed when I was about twelve. I was raised by Olive. This home belonged to my mother and the land to those who resided here.”

“But why?”

“It was originally a colony.”

“Oh,” you supposed that made sense for the times. But in today’s world...you weren’t sure, strange.

Dinner ended with the men and their dates leaving the hall. Though you did see a few women and men stay behind to clean. You walked next to Sy, out of the rows of double doors to the balcony. At the right stairs looking like they were unfinished from a whole piece of a tree. You followed him down them, winding along the edge of the balcony the stone column holding it up to the bottom. 

The only patch of treeless land was not far from the home. Out there night had descended into the orange moon slowly rising into the sky. Your eye was drawn to an equally fiery color of flames licking the cool night air. 

“What a pretty full moon!” a woman’s voice said softly from the crowd.

“Not quite,” said Sy. 

You were standing next to him, watching him gaze at the fire. It cracked and spit sparks near you before he began to speak once again.

“This is a special night.” he lifted his head and spoke loudly toward the people and you. “A homecoming.”

Sy’s fingers pulled at the hem of his shirt and yanked it over his head and then junked it into the fire. You stepped back and looked at the faces of the men. They did the same, each one, to the shock of the partner standing next to them. 

From the dark a woman approached, gray hair, wrinkled heavily around her eyes and mouth. She carried a stone bowl the same color as the long thick dress she wore.

Oh shit.

“This is a cult.” you whispered and took another step back. Sy pulled you back by your wrist. 

He mumbled at first, you thought he was speaking again but you didn’t understand the words. They seemed to rhyme and flow in the same pattern, like a chant.

Your attention was back on the woman, she drank long from the bowl, she stepped to the edge of the fire, something within you felt danger that if she stood any closer her dress would catch fire. 

Her saggy cheeks were full, she leaned back and spit the liquid into the fire. The burst hit the flames, a scream from within the crowd crawled up from the howls from the men. The area was blanketed in smoke and sparks. The thick charred hot mist forced its way into your nose and down your throat. You tried to run but Sy now held you from the back. Craving fresh air you sucked in and gulped down any that was available. 

“What is this!” You yelled through a scream that tasted of blood. 

“The beginning.” he whispered into your ear.

Your legs buckled and Sy allowed you to hit the hard dead grass. 

The smoke parted, maybe your eyes deceived you but the woman there, the smoke trailed into their mouths and nose. 

“You lovely ladies might be wondering what all this means.” his voice was low, thick with a delightful litany. His eyes were wide as he stared at each one. “Well, for us it’s about family, always has been. And for you, tonight, it’s the start of the rest of your life.”

Sy began to pace half way around the fire and then back to you. He shoved a thumb into his chest, “I’m the Alpha prime in these parts, and this here is my pack. They’ve brought you here tonight, they have chosen you.”

From your place on the ground, through the yellow tops of flames, Sy turned his eyes to you. “I have chosen you.”

At the sting of his words you fell back and twisted with pain. Something hard and beating thumped through your chest and traveled down your muscles to your belly. As soon as the wave crested you scrambled away from the deafening screams of women behind you. Trampling through the grass it hit you again. You stood against it, huddled and hunched over your own scream called out into the night. 

Sy was there, you smelled him before he even touched you. The pain rescinded with his touch but you resisted him pulling you toward him, you kicked at his legs even though in his hands made you felt whole somehow.

“Stop!” you screamed but he held tighter, his hands traveled up your arms and held your face. He forced you to tilt your head and met his eyes. A honey colored ripple flashed over the dark blown out pupil invisible waves of spread out from your eyes down your body. It was inexplicable, with his gaze you calmed to his touch, you gave in. 

Sy pulled you back to him, even though the sweater you wore the heat from his skin penetrated the fabric and so to your senses as well. He was in front of you but within you too, somehow you could feel him in your blood. 

“First rut!” shouted Sy up to the sky. Howls issued back, the sound whirling and ringing in your ears.

“Alphas!” Sy dragged you by the wrist for you to follow, blurry eyes stared up at the house.

“Claim your mate!” 

You entered the house in a flurry of groggy blinks and disconnected images. Flashes of wolves carved deep in stone, the sweat of dripping down Sy’s neck, his arms around you ushering you here and there. The smell of him got stronger down a dark hall, you tried to faint then, so overcome with the tearing in your groin you wanted to die. You wanted to give up and surrender to what could only be a slow death. But Sy, ever ready, pushed you, his presences gave you strength to continue over the threshold of a room.

If not for your own breathing the cries throughout the house might have scared you. Death seemed plausible though; how hard could a heart beat this way without dying? Never mind the terrible screams, the violent fits of rage that seemed to float through the wood and enter your mind. You were dying, right?

You clutched the wooden end-board as Sy stripped you naked. He maintains the closeness during, holding his chest near your back, a hand over your belly as he pulls the shirt over your head. He pressed his lips to your neck the sensation wracked your spine seizing it in an arch to meet his naked length.

“I smell you…” he whispered and jerked you around. “I want to rip you a part.” he growled then quickly kissed you. 

You let him take. You let him feel and run his hands all the way down your back. Whatever this was, it reacted to his touch, left you breathless and sucking in air too. 

“But I won’t,” his hands were back at your face, his teeth nipped your lips as he spoke between bites. “I promise, I’ll control myself baby.”

He turned you back around, with a hand forced you to bend over and without another word he pushed into you. Wet wasn’t the word for it, the moment he hit bottom you felt the warmth roll down your thigh. Sy gripped your hips, pulled out and then snapped your ass back to him. 

The invasion bruises you, it forces you to stretch around him. When you start to cry Sy stalls. He slipped from you, held you close from behind and directed you to the side of the bed. “Shush, hush, baby..” he whispered.

He fell to the bed with you, on top of you already positioned between your legs before the tears could start up again. “Put your arms around my neck okay,”

You felt heavy all over but you did as he said. Sy smiled and kissed you as he pulled your hands up over his arms and sank back into you. “There’s my girl..” he said on a pant. He buried his face in the crook of your neck, licking, tasting you his tongue swirled over the bit of skin just below your ear.

“We felt just right,” he groaned. 

It felt like hours, the constant prodding, the grinding into you, his skin slapped against yours undoing you from within. You had never come down so hard on the sensation in your life. Holding on to him tight he pounded into you, his teeth scraped your skin until he bit down. Something more, larger entered into you at the base of his cock, you shouted out as he tightened his jaws. His legs and hips pushed you further up the bed with the shaking of his body. Sy lifted up his head, finally you could see his face, the ripple of yellow rolled over his eyes, his face contorted into some ungodly beast. 

Horror filled you, with the roar he let loose. You were fading though, the fear became thin with the steady beating of your heart. Your arms fell from him, his face returned to what you remembered. You laid there with him still inside. Sy’s face turned down to you, lovingly he kissed your lips, your chin, your cheek. A satisfied growl carried from his chest, long and vibrating it soothed you to shut your eyes. It sounded like a dog...

No, a wolf. 

The men in your life before were easy to pin down who they were. Too loud, and their words gave them away. Too greedy, and their needs, their time was above your own. They took too much and gave very little. Their faces and their warmth are nothing to compare to the man now laying at your side. 

You were a single child of single children. No extended family, passed friendly close acquaintances. Which many were brought into the fold because of childhood parties, work friends, but none could offer the connection of family. Sy offered this. A wild beginning for certain. But lying in a bed softer than clouds, his scent covering your body like the finest of tissue paper brushing across your skin but never truly feeling its weight. 

Naked as the day you were born, your lids crack open, the light coming in was muddled with mist diffusing into the room as a constant drizzly morning. Sy’s arm was around your waist and when you turned your head his eyes were already open too, watching you, studying the sleepiness across your face. 

“I'm so tired...what did you do to me?”

His arms squeezed around you, holding you securely but you didn’t think of it as a vice, “Our kind is meant to be sleeping now. It’s our first rut...it can be exhausting.” 

Your mind searched for the meaning. Rut, it was something you had heard from hunters. When creatures mated..it was a time for animal reproduction. “Rut?”

Sy folded his other arm under his head, his blue eyes with one freckled stare at you steady. 

“Babe, you were changed for the better. The boys, a few females are wolves around here.” 

You sat up fast, that was a mistake for your body felt heavy. “Wolves?”

“Our people have been around for as long as there have been men.” said Sy staring up at you. “It’s a gift most would say, a curse for others.” And he rolled over on his back and threaded his fingers over his stomach.

“Which is it?”

“It’s an honor.” 

“How is this even real? I don’t understand…”

“The world isn’t black and white, this isn’t the movies.”

“So..I’m changing..into what?”

“You are the Omega prime here, I don’t recon you’ll change like me but you are this. Once you see and allow your nature to come through you will understand my love.”

You pull the covers up closer hoping that somehow it would protect you from the truth. “I’m changing into a wolf??”

Sy chuckled lightly and pinched the bridge of his nose as he spoke. “No, you’re a vessel.”

“I don’t want that.”

Suddenly Sy sat up and moved his large bulky body toward you while pulling the sheet from you and sitting directly across you. 

He looked you into the eyes, “It’s too late for that.”

The aches in your body, the creaking in your joints were reactivated under his gazing. Without thinking you stretched out a hand and grazed it over his shoulder and down his arm. There was no use fighting it, that feeling was beginning to churn and flex under your skin again. 

You fell back to the pillow, you can’t stand even your own skin. It itched, it pulled around your muscles in a way you had never felt before. His scent enveloped you, permeating, it sinks into your pores. You could smell him more now, as if the volume of this sense turned up to zero you could even scent his cock and craved what was within it. You wanted to hunt, you wanted to run, to provide...what the fuck?

Sy unfolded your legs and laid his hips between them. “Baby, you’re sweating again. You need me. If you go for too long..you need it.”

Shaking your head while wrapping your hands around his neck your voice trembled out, “I don’t.”

His big hands buried between your body and the bed and gripped your ass. “You do...” And pushed inside of you. Every inch that sank your mouth stretched open. 

“My little omega is wet for me,”

The words didn’t make sense but they rang true for your body. It was dirty and confusing but it made you want to be good for him. You shut your mouth, moaned as you did so and nodded.

Sy began to thump, a smile maybe pulled at the corner of his mouth but his eyes remained serious. “That’s it…”

“I knew you would be a perfect fit..” he groaned too, hitting bottom. “Take my knot so well, love.”

“It--it hurt.” you mumbled.

Sy kissed you lightly, his expression turned to concern, “I know love, it’s supposed to at first.” he grunted and began to slap against you harder. “Just a tight omega..”

The longer he thrusted the more the base of his cock began to thicken. He bounced against you testing the width with each jab until he was forcing it in and out of you. “See..” he hissed and laid his head against your shoulder. Sy’s tongue licked around the marks on your next sending shudders to your core. Gasping, heart thumping his rubbing from within on your clit burst the sweet ache from within. 

“That’s my girl..” he whispered. Sy rose up, grabbed your wrists, pinned you down and fucked you harder. 

His knot entered you completely as he stilled on top of you. In the light of a dreary day his face flashed once again of the hound he hides within. His grip tightened and this time you did not give in to the sleepiness. Sy collapsed, still holding your wrists but dragged them higher as to settle in. His hips continued with small well intended prods.

He lifted his head and stared down at you. “Do you feel it?” 

His cock laid within you thick and heavy. He moved a bit and couldn't pull out. “That’s me inside of you. I did this last night, but you passed out. I fucked you all night. Do you remember it?”

Now it made sense, the aches and pains. “I had you about six times.” he said while still slowly moving his hips. He rolled his eyes back barely containing the ecstasy in his voice. “I’m filling you.”

Your purpose unfolded within your bones, spread to your muscles as warmth from the sun would. A sweet burn, one that felt ancient and destined. The life you had before shed from you as you nodded toward him. You are his, it felt right and true.

When his hands left your wrist you understood that he had brought you into his life. As he held your face and poured into you, there was no other person he loved more. 

“Just a little more,” he said and began to peck your cheeks again. He appeared relaxed and with it so did you. He rubbed your hair, cuddled into you no longer moving his hips. “We’re going to make so many beautiful children together.”

Maybe with him and this strange new way, that your life before could mean more now because it brought you to this moment. Gently you caressed his face down to his beard and carefully kissed him back. Sy grinned as he pushed back on your lips. 

“I’m going to take care of you,” said Sy.

Out of the shower you walk out with Sy naked once again. Water dripped down your breasts and to the floor you couldn’t shake the fact that this house felt like outside. Or maybe it was nature itself that had been invited in. You felt it here more than in any other place. The sense of being at peace, at being at home. Sy’s footfalls are never far from you. Like air, like sunlight too.

“This is --” you said sitting on the bed. “I feel odd. Like I feel you or this house..I’m not sure how to explain it.”

Sy handed you a towel and began to dry his body off. “Bonding.” he said while rubbing his dick and then his thighs. 

You stood up once again, and started to dry off. “You’re my mate. This home was built by my family, it means something.”

His words swallowed your thoughts as you stared at him for a moment. Sy walked to the closet in the far corner, he pulled out a few pieces of clothing and started to dress. “I’ve got stuff in here for you too babe.” and motioned for you to follow.

“How?”

“We still have the keys to that little house you’re buying. I had them move some of your clothes here while we were eating dinner last night.”

He leaned over and pecked your head. You walked to the closet and pulled on the long sleeve shirt, and held the sweat in your hands. You grabbed some faux sheepskin fleece boots too.

“Over there,” he pointed near the bed to a large ornate dresser. “Your socks and things.”

You finished dressing as Sy walked from the bathroom, his curls were tamed for the time as he fanned his fingers through them. “Just try and let it happen, okay? The more you fight it, the longer it takes.”

“You brought me here! You drugged me and now you just want me to accept this?”

Sy shrugged, “It’s always been this way.” He stepped up to you and the connection hummed at his fingertips that lightly grazed the skin around your mark. “I know you feel wronged. I’m sorry I took you. But this is your home now, it would only upset the baby if you kept fighting against this.”

Your head snapped back, “Baby?” You touched your stomach, a reflex really. 

“There will be soon.” he smiled and brought you back to his face, “We need to--” but he stopped suddenly and sniffed the air. “Wait here.” 

Purely out of the concern in his voice you did as he said. But there was more, it was in your bones and you followed out the door anyway. Loud voices carried across the space. At once within the hallway the smell of rot hit your nose. Maggoty things sprang to mind, decay and plunder of flesh flashed across your mind. Sy continued around the second story, and you followed passed busts of brass faces and more pelts lining the inside wall. Despite the sunny rays pouring over dark wood from above and falling down onto the stone monument below, the air felt rancid. 

Passed an adjacent hallway, and another few closed doors you saw the source of the fretful talking. Rex turned his head from the railway overlooking the first floor up to Sy. He paced away from it back to the door behind him, he looked in, his eyes wide he did not stop staring within. Sy stopped next to him, you saw him turn his head and peer in too. You followed suit, with your eyes adjusting to the light blazing in from three giant windows. Within the bed laid a woman upon her back, arms half moved like a crooked doll her eyes were open staring blankly up at the ceiling. 

She was the source, your stomach turned and you stepped forward. Sy held you by the arm. But she did not look decomposed, but the smell wafted up to you anyways. “Cindy!”

You moved again but was still held back, “Wait love.” asked Sy quietly.

“She didn't--” Rex was crying as he spoke. “..the transformation..she.”

There was an end, clearly somewhere within this concoction of mystical smoke people could die. Women met their end.

Olive approached from the other side of Rex, she crossed her arms and stared within the room disappointed. “You know what needs to be done Rex.” her aged voice cracked in the middle, executing the order while dealing compassion was never her strongest trait. 

“She just died!” you yelled.

Olive stayed level as she spoke to Sy. “You don’t want the old God after us, Alpha Prime. You are that now, tonight will make it official. You must do it.”

“She has a family! They will look for her!” you turned around and shouted at Olive. 

Olive seemed to cave into your voice as she turned her head shakily toward you. “I know her mother, sisters. If they come asking questions I’ll handle it.” She released a breath, steadied herself against Rex and looked back to Sy.

“When’s the last time you knelt to an Omega Prime?” he asked Olive. She frowned, and it looked like she was biting the inside of her lip and averted her eyes back to the room. “Half the day is gone.” said Sy.  “Tonight is the run..we need to do this just after dark.”

“So that’s it!” your voice came out as little more than a whisper. “You kill her? Now you’re going to hid-”

Sy whipped you around stared right into your eyes, the color in them shifted. They emitted authority down upon you to the point you were left speechless. His jaw relaxed and with it an almost soothing growl followed, but you broke through you attempted to turn your eyes. But he grabbed you by the arms, made you gaze back at him. He began to growl low, not threatening, you felt the anger within you plummet. 

“Now that you’re calm, listen. She has received the gift but her soul did not take to it. If we do not dispose of the body properly...”

Sy let you go and turned his eyes back to the room. “Let’s just say they haven’t had a dark soul in this area in a generation.”

Already the house smelled better, though cold with every window now wide open, the older women went about shutting them again. A small thin woman with silver hair eyed you as she walked passed you toward the kitchen. 

“There’s still breakfast left.” she said softly. “Just for you, miss.”

You muddled over her comment for a minute. You were starving but the idea of eating after finding Cindy dead was pulling at your ethics. She turned at the door to the kitchen and waved you in. You relented to the hunger. 

Within the kitchen it was busy, with women and men going about preparing food. A giant stone island had six people surrounding it chopping up onions, tomatoes and other things you didn’t get a good look at. The woman returned to you with a plate of toast, a giant pile of scrambled eggs, bacon and glass of orange juice and motioned for you to sit at the last seat near a young girl who was crushing saltine crackers into a giant bowl. 

You ate quickly, said nothing as their conversation picked back up with the arrival of this woman. She had to be about ninety, she commanded the kitchen, ordered people with soft words but stern looks if they back talked her instructions. 

“Well no one else is gunna say it.” said a woman from the other side of the counter. She had curly brown hair, jagged eyebrows that gave her the permanent expression of agitation. “So how does it feel to be the Queen of the Den?”

When you bit off from your toast, those talking halted and looked at you, some continued their jobs in silence. 

You chewed a couple of times, “I don’t know what that means,” you said with a full mouth. 

The woman looked up to the older woman rolling out dough. She scoffed, “Sloan knows how to pick’em.” and rolled her eyes.

With that the old woman banged the roller on the counter and pointed it back at the woman. “Peach! It’s true!”

“I won’t hear it!” said Peach, her soft voice broke into a growl. “Dottie shut that damn big hole in your face!” 

“It’s not for you to know how to strengthen the pack.” Peach relaxed back, held the roller between thick knuckles and looked back toward you. 

“Sorry about that Prime. I wouldn’t recon young and dumb went hand in hand unless it came to Dottie. She meant no harm.”

You nodded slightly, sat up a bit straighter and continued to eat. Sloan? After all this, you had never known his first name. They returned to work, though Dottie went right back to chatting with the woman next to her. The little girl hummed next to you as she moved to the next sleeve of crackers. And halfway swallowing the orange juice the back door swung open with a man carrying an animal over his shoulder. Sy entered right behind him, the man slammed the carcass on a large prepping table at the back of the large kitchen. 

Sy’s gaze never left you as he walked across the kitchen, he slipped in between you and the girl and kissed the top of your head. 

“Hey Sloan.” you said under your breath, he pulled back nodded then smiled slightly as he grabbed a few crackers from the table. 

“Are you done?” he asked, you plucked the toast from the plate and followed him out the back door.

You walked and walked with Sy. After a few minutes of silence he grabbed your hand and led you away from the house deeper into the land. 

“What’s going to happen to Cindy,” you asked quietly. 

“At dark there will be a ceremony, she will be buried then.”

He said it matter of fact though it did not set that way with you. But nothing really felt right since you got here. It was just another shocking development after another really. “What kind of ceremony?”

Sy helped you step over a fell tree, “For the turning. She has to be burned before it’s over.”

You tried not to take his callousness to heart. Though it did seem insane to speak of the dead in such a way. It didn’t strike you as hard though. Something within you felt calm about it, like a lasting trust for the man near.

And you didn’t know if it was the walking but you felt sick. At first in your stomach but quickly it grew to aches and cramps in your belly. 

“I heard Olive say that,” you said through a twist beginning to gnaw at your back. 

“The pack expects it. I’m the Alpha Prime, it is up to me to see that we are safe. And I will do it. I’ll do it till my last breath.”

Sy let go of your hand and wrapped his arm around your back. “This land is for you too,” his hand drifted down your back and settled into the back pocket of your jeans. “I want you to feel at home here.”

When you didn’t respond Sy stopped and forced you to look at him. His fingers stroked your cheek and then with the back of his hand, testing and feeling your claiming skin. “You need me?” he asked.

Shaking your head you pulled from him and walked whatever direction you thought he was going. But you didn’t get far before you doubled over. 

Sy was there, near you making you stand up and lean on him. “Come on, there’s a cabin near. It should be vacant for a few hours.”

“We can’t just use someone’s home-” you winced.

He made you walk with him again, “It's not. Call it a lookout, there are other things out here a lot more dangerous than the occasional coyote.”

You huddled into him, sweating and whining as he walked you down the path where a small house came into view. He helped you up the stairs feeling the wetness building between your thighs. And as soon as you got in it he was on you. “We barely made it in here love.” he said between kisses. His hands quickly grabbed and tugged at your pants as he walked you toward a patchy couch. 

His nose dragged from your neck, your breasts with his fingers pulling at the top of your jeans. You didn’t fight him when he pushed you down. You didn’t say a word when he used your jeans and underwear as a way of holding your legs up and close to your chest. Exposing your glistening pussy, Sy pulled himself out and entered you immediately. Bare upper thighs, Sy’s hands held you there allowing the pants to continue to restrain your legs. 

“Do I really want this? Or is it something else?” you moaned as he pumped fast.

Your eyes rolled back, “Feels so good.” you whispered as he thumped harder.

“It's real,...you belong to me.” Sy leaned in crushing you more with his weight and size. He sucked hard and fanned breath down to you as he huffed, “Always have…the smoke wouldn’t have taken if it weren’t true.”

“You,” he pushed in with every word, “..belong to me.”

“They live in the fog,” Sy said and pointed toward the dark patches between trees. 

You were right to be afraid, not of them though, for you had seen these on your first ride up here. In the car with a chatty Cindy you had told yourself it was only an illusion. Perhaps the fear was of yourself, the ignorance, the lack of connection to worlds thought to be of lore that were closer than you thought.

“Who are they?” you asked while walking closer to Sy. The open woods felt smaller now, what other beings existed out in the wild?

“Sprites, small gods.” he said, looking forward again. “B’careful and never ask anything of them. They crave warmth at the best of times, they like to hang around bodies. But if you speak to them it’sa chance for them to get inside of you.”

You said nothing after that, wide eyes continued to search the trees recognizing more hazy emotionless faces than before with each step. Light from the torches grew brighter, illuminating the dark and with it the beings faded with the touch of heat. 

You entered the area lined with thick wooden torches topped with fire. The other alphas followed behind with their mates and little was said among them. The crack of the fires to the cold of the night was the only sound that really interrupted the moment.

Sy and you stood just within the entry of this circle of flames, one after the other one alpha with his mate took their spots around the center. Built of wood like a stage and on top - a body shrouded in white, it reminded you of something you had only seen in the movies, a funeral pyre. Rex stepped close to the structure, his head pointed toward it, the flicker of shadows and light play down his back and over his head. The shiny beads, things that looked like round coins hung and clinked together in the gust of frigid wind. 

You didn’t look away until you felt Sy step away. He was behind you, unhooking the handle of the torch from the pole. And he stared toward it, walked past you and flung the torch into the brush skirting the pile.

The moment it caught fire something twisted within your gut and chest. At first it felt like guilt, a pang across the muscles in your chest but it persisted. It burst to life in your senses from your lungs and spread out to the tips of your fingers and toes. You heard screaming, light quips of moans from the other women. When you looked around they too were grabbing their chests at the same time you hunched over. Standing there in sparse dead grass, you tried to steady yourself, bracing the air but nothing came to your aid. It buckled your knees. Whatever this was swept through you in waves of pain and knowing. You weren’t sure of anything, but it felt okay, that all of this wouldn’t last. 

The wood cried as flames engulfed the bottom tier completely. And with it, the very atmosphere around you snapped and spit energy you’ve never felt before. Low growling from all around but the loudest, the longest comes from your side. You look up from the ground to Sy. Teeth bared through his thick beard his brows were pulled tight, the angles of his features once again exaggerated into something not human. You stared horrified when he began to claw at his chest, his fingers were not his own, they were long, gnarly and tipped with long nails. The yell from his mouth was an ear splitting soul shaking screech that shook your spirit. 

With the crack of bones, his skin sloughs off long black fur, the floppy bits hit the ground and immediately sank in and became fertile ground that sprouted green grass. His legs grew long and bulky and snapped back like that of a dog. He grew taller, bigger with a wolf's snout and face. 

Suddenly a shriek from the fire rang above the growling and howling around you. Upon the pyre the fire had reached Cindy, but she wasn’t laying there any more. Her body stood, claws ripped through the sheet as it too caught fire. You stared up at it hopelessly, panting hard your heart thumping at an inhuman speed, part of you gave up in the wake of this. You sat there unable to fight the buckling and rebirth of your senses.

Cindy’s body lept from the toppling pyre toward you. No time to react or run something large stepped between you and it. A man screamed from your right, he was in the middle of changing to. Rex stepped toward it with his face shifting in and out of human and wolf and tried to grab the thing by its arm. 

The sheet had burned and melted into what was once Cindy’s face. Its jaw opened long, stretching pieces of fabric and skin across its dark mouth and shrieked. The thing swiped at Rex, slicing through his skin to the white of his flesh across his neck, chest and belly. Blood splashed into the air and to the ground. He crumpled to the ground, dead before he even touched it. And when Cindy’s body turned back toward you something suddenly impaled her chest straight back into the fire, pinning her there until the families consumed her completely. 

It was quiet after besides your breathing and the warping of blood in your ears. Sy, now fully transformed, stepped to Rex, picked him up and as gently as he could, placed his body too in the fire next to Cindy. 

His feet were large paws that you centered your attention on. Displacing the dirt with every step you refused to pull your eyes up further. And when he knelt down to you, his great big clawed furry hands sat on either side of your body. He nudged the side of your face with his wet nose until you did look up. His eyes were the same, with the ripple of honey across blue that you had seen before. He tilted his head down, rubbed his nose into the palm of your hand until finally you ran your hand over the bridge of his nose, and up into the thick fur between two giant ears. 

He pushed his nose into your neck gently before he stood up. Whatever had come over you was quickly dispersing. Though now, after, you smelled more, like a scent had color or flavor that you had never noticed before. The same with your vision, prying your eyes off the newly formed Sy, and glancing at the trees and saw the fog people for who they were. No longer just faces, full bodied apparitions with different clothes and emotions of their own.  And your hearing, besides the tiniest movement of creatures, you could sense the footsteps in the ground and in your ears from the direction of the house. However peering through the dark you could see their silhouettes were still quite close to the house.

Sy grunted and you turned back to him. His snout was tilted up toward the sky, sniffing and licking the air. He howled long and loud and the others followed. He turned to you once again, baring his teeth and took off, leaping over the pyre toward the other side of the circle. A sudden rush of the others following their leader joined him and disappeared into the forest. 

The hall was packed. Along with the row of three tables that you had seen before, there was another, running diagonal at the top. You sat next to Sy who sat at this table, on the middle cushion, surrounded with the faces you had come to recognize. The new members appeared as you felt, lost perhaps in the fray of the night's ceremony, exhausted too, and probably worried about their new lives. They too most likely felt the pull as well. The fading of what their old lives were being replaced by the energy of family around them.

But even as they and you came to grips with what this new life included cheering erupted throughout the hall. Laughing, and gesturing toward one another as they ate and swapped tales of their adventure in the forest. Yes, this felt like family. Something you weren’t so used to having. 

Peach came walking to you and Sy holding a large platter made of wood. She came to your side and slid it into the empty space on the table. On it were slices of meat overlapping in a circle that looked nearly raw with it’s moist flesh, and dark red sauce.

Sy picked one up, he placed it near your mouth. A subtle smile played at the corner of his lips as he urged you to open.  You felt the enormity of this moment if you took this bite. This was it, you would be accepting your place here and everything that meant. You stared into his eyes and then took a small bite. The flavor was metallic in your mouth, tangy and fleshy as you chewed. Sy ate the other part. He passed the plate to the next man who did the same with his mate.

He leaned close to you, his nose sniffed your neck back and forth tilting his head slowly. “I think you got a secret.” he whispered, still sniffing you, his nose brushing upon the skin of your jaw.

“I don’t think it’s a secret that this is all weird,” you laughed softly, and picked at your food.

His nose touched your skin again and breathed in deep, “Oh yeah,” his lips caressed the rim of your ear. “You’re pregnant.”

You jerked your head toward him, mouth slightly parted, the words escaping as they formed in your mind. “I will protect you..” he said.

“I will love you ‘til the end of my days.” His fingers glided long the other side of your jaw to your chin. “D’you accept me?” he asked quietly. 

The hall had gone quiet. You ignored the weight of their stares. Slowly you stroked his beard and nodded slightly. “I accept you.” you whispered back. And cheering roared.  Part 2

#Black reader #black female reader #x black!reader #dark!syverson #dark!geralt #dark!syverson x black reader #dark!geralt x black reader

[lightwise]

TBB S3 E9 Reaction

- Oh boy. I am not liking that opening shot that makes Pabu look like Tantiss 😭😭

- It’s so cloudy and dark—it must be the fall season going into winter

- Wrecker AND Crosshair making lady friends…I see what you’re doing there Jen

- “Does it matter? We’re not handing her over.” The 👏🏻 character 👏🏻 growth 👏🏻

- “Can’t be prepared if we don’t know what we’re dealing with” Hunter is fully back in sergeant mode

- Also this is the first time we’ve seen Crosshair without his outer pauldrons on!! Now he can’t stab someone’s eye out if he stands next to them 😆

- I love how Omega says Batcher

- Oh yeah Omega go walk into the scary cave that Batcher is afraid to go into. And walk up to a strange ship that you don’t recognize 😅

- I do honestly wish Ventress’ character reveal had been kept a secret and wasn’t in the trailer. This moment would hit so much harder. But it’s very good to see her finally show up.

- Love the subtle nod to how Hunter seems to hear Batcher first, and Crosshair sees her first, showcasing their different skill sets and how well they work in tandem.

- Wow Ventress looks so good!! The hair! The outfit! Her in this animation style!

- Lol of course she already knows everything about them.

- Why does Crosshair keep suspiciously leaving a space between him and Hunter where a certain bespectacled Batch member is supposed to be standing 🥺

- “We never gave her our coordinates” 😬😬😬

- Love how serious but also calm and curious Ventress is. You can already see how much more at peace with herself she is compared to TCW (I have not read Dark Disciple but I am aware of the basics of her arc in it).

- “It’s for a friend…you’re saying I’m a Jedi!?!” Baby girl, don’t you know that Nala Se basically engineered you all to be TERRIBLE liars 🤣🤣😅 absolutely no one ever was going to believe those words coming out of your mouth, not with that adorable face

- Loving the lore drops that Ventress is giving here. Using the word midichlorians, tying force sensitivity and blood count to TPM and Ahsoka and the OT. Acknowledging that training is what makes you a Jedi, not your m-count. That the Force connects all living things. Bringing up the age old fandom question of whether clones could be force sensitive.

- “There’s your intel” turns around to leave

- “No one’s been able to give me answers” and we’re not going to leave this episode with any either 😅

- Omega isn’t usually this impatient, so I wonder if her focus is easier to hold when she’s focused on people and creatures rather than tasks that she can’t connect to what she’s trying to accomplish.

- “You must be a Jedi, right??” Immediately shuts her up with a hand to the mouth 🤣🤣

- Tech mention by Cross 😭😭😭

- How can she hear them? Force usage? Or do Dathomirians have sensitive hearing?

- Poor Omega. I wonder too if she’s a little intimidated by Ventress and that’s also impacting her ability to pull off this test.

- “Well? What happened?” A good teaching method, that she wants Omega to explain why she’s having trouble rather than immediately telling her “oh you failed” and helping her up 😄 TCW Ventress would never

- “The sun’s already started setting” nooo I don’t need that parallel

- They’ve made some really interesting shots with framing through the caves this episode

- Yeah girl work smarter, not harder

- Aaand the name of this boy band is? 💀 (serving c—— everything, that’s what 🫠😅) Hunter my boy that hip pop should be illegal

- Ventress has not lost ANY of her sass though

- THIS FIGHT. THE MUSIC. THE MOVES. THE LIGHT. AGAIN EVERYTHING IS ON THE TABLE AND WE ARE BEING SERVED

- Idk if we’ve ever seen Crosshair@/ agility like this

- Girl is fighting dirty

- I also love her going mostly for all of their weak points and joints that allow her to take them down while barely moving a finger herself

- Ahsoka 🤝 Ventress - some of the strongest force users in the galaxy who can take down an entire group of highly trained combatants with just martial arts moves, flexibility, and sheer nerve. No force usage needed. 🔥

- That knife throw 👀 🥵

- “We’re not big on following orders” THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN AHHHHHHHH

- Literally I could look at this scene all day. (They’ve never been more beautiful) 🔥🔥🔥🔥

- Poor Omega has no idea what she’s about to walk into

- *jaw drop* y’all every time I check I’m pretty much certain that I’m straight but….but…dodging those blaster bolts and just casually pulling out a yellow lightsaber like that? Respect.

- Lmao it’s so much worse than I expected 🤣 Jennifer I didn’t know that TV’s below TV-MA rating ever anticipated Hunter flat on his back with his knees spread like that…I just…I think you broke some rating scales there 🫠🫠🫠🫠 I love to see you fulfilling all of our fantasies in one fell swoop (I think I uh, need to go take care of some things, I’ll uh, I’ll be right back 👀)

- Lol kidding. Anyways….

- “What, stop!!!” You tell ‘em kid

- “Times have changed. Something you clones should be familiar with” yeah Hunter, what have you been up to the last two years??

- “We are not the same”. “No? We were pawns in the same war. And we ALL lost.” SAY IT LOUDER FOR THOSE IN THE BACK. girl just literally summed up the entirety of the saga.

- “I’m many things. But I’m not your enemy” character 👏🏻 growth 👏🏻 again 👏🏻

- Hunter, I love you, but your prejudice is showing. Interesting how he’s never had a problem with separatists in general before, and had to convince Echo to help rescue Senator Singh in episode one. Sometimes his distrustful nature really gets the better of him

- “We were just getting warmed up” uhuhhhh sure Wrecker

- “You’re being naive” I never gave up on you, did I?” Crosshair. Honey. Is it really just now hitting you full in the face just how much Omega has believed in you? And look at how far you’ve been able to come. His expressions just pierce my soul 🥺

- I kind of really love the seaport vibes and the neutral lighting here. I can just see Omega as a fisherman’s daughter or running off to be a pirate in another life

- Lol Ventress isn’t used to being around someone as optimistic as Omega

- “You did” lol

- I do find it interesting that almost no force user ever explains what reaching out “feels like” when trying to teach other people about it. You would think they could come up with a better description so that people can grasp it more easily. Unless their goal is that you can’t unless you have perseverance and/or capability

- “This is different than being a soldier” so much to unpack there.

- “Why should I listen to you” years of hardship and trial and experience and loss and growth and change

- Ooooh pretty creatures

- “I’m not the one holding back” 👀

- Ooooh scary (pretty) creature

- “Not intentionally” 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I love her vocal inflection here. “No omega I was just trying to teach you a lesson not accidentally kill you” 💀I wonder which one of them actually summoned it

- *furiously screenshotting the Marauder while we still have it*

- So we’re really gonna get everyone with wet hair except Hunter, huh?

- Crosshair 🤝 Ventress rescuing Omega from drowning in the ocean

- Don’t make the angry tentacle crab angrier!

- The animated movement on Omega’s hair is amazing

- Ahsoka 🤝 Ventress reaching out with the force and calming a wild beast

- Welp. This is probably one of the most powerful instances of a force user connecting with a creature to calm it/communicate with it that we’ve ever gotten

- And what it says about Ventress’ inner calm and serenity and confidence and authority that she’s gained since TCW and Dark Disciple—I’m so proud of her 🥹🥹🥹

- What a beautiful creature

- THEY HELD HANDS 2.0

- Crosshair is just becoming the consummate gentleman and I am HERE for it 🥹🥹🥹

- Crosshair 🤝 Ventress - literally 😏

- Okay in all seriousness I’m not truly shipping them but I love seeing everyone have fun with their ship names

- “But I’m…already a target”. Baby girl still needs answers. She sounds so sad and confused

- Look at Wrecker’s emotional intelligence saving the day

- I love how this show uses little nods between people to show understanding. More of that in real life please.

- “You’re lying” “about which part?” The two of them would have a blast sassing each other that’s for sure.

- Interesting that her take is that omega would have to be trained, when decades later Ahsoka’s response to Grogu is that he shouldn’t be trained at all and should let his powers die out due to attachment.

- LEAVE PABU BOYS. She’s not warning, she’s telling. Ya know, not like it’s the title of the episode or anything

- “You’re not worried about the empire coming after you?” Love how even after all that and all his distrust, Hunter is still capable of caring about her well-being

- “I’ve got a few lives left” can’t wait to see when and why Ventress shows up next

#the bad batch #tbb #star wars #tbb spoilers #the bad batch spoilers #asajj ventress #Ventress #tbb ventress #the bad batch season 3 #tbb season 3 #the harbinger

[razorblade180-heated]

A wonderful performance

[Hey, it’s a smut]

[Disclaimer, I wrote a fair share of this before 4.3 so it’s been reconstructed quite a bit. Spare me.]

“The grass is always greener on the other side” is a well known phrase put to test in many plays, movies, and of course, life. Furina had witnessed this truth many times over the centuries but she never thought it would rear its head as she was granted her new lease on life. At last she had been granted a chance at peace, simplicity, freedom, and way off stage. These were all things that brought a sense of ease to a wary mind that she did not take for granted. However, not even she expected to breathe a sigh of relief upon being granted a Vision. Maybe it was because she felt a lack of power her entire life? Whatever the reason, excitement stirred in her chest under the pale moonlight as she stood on the shore line using her gift to have a certain sway over the low tide. Divinity was something Furina didn’t care for and she was sure gaining mastery over her abilities would open more peculiar doors rather than a path of peace; yet that didn’t terrify her. Rather, Furina felt relief in knowing if she chose to stand on stage and greet the audience with another spectacle, it just might be possible. The humor heart is indeed a fickle thing.

“I’ve truly lost my mind.” She chuckled under her breath, forming a seashell out of hydro.

“That’s pretty.” Called out a familiar voice.

Furina’s broken concentration brought her creation splashed onto the sand. She looked to her right to see none other than Aether walking over, soaked head to toe. “Night swimming are we? Will wonders never cease?”

“Sorta? I was helping someone looking for something as well as collecting a few resources.”

“For your sake I hope it wasn’t crustaceans. Only a few are allowed to the public in this area during this time of season. I doubt you have the list memorized.”

“Pfft, is that so?” He laughed, until he saw Furina stare with unblinking eyes. “Wait, that’s an actual law!?”

“I am going to pretend you found some old mechanical tools and played with the otters.”

“I mean…that also did in fact happen.” He got closer to the girl before sitting on the white sandy beach. “Anyway, what brings you out here in the dead of night? Looks like you’re training.”

“Training? Ha!” Furina snapped her fingers and her honored guests appeared, running around to play while Furina crossed her legs and sat on a bubble she made. “I’m reveling in my new found strength.” She boasted happily, summoning a wheel that held different desserts.

Aether still couldn’t believe how effortless Furina made that look. “Wow, you already found multiple ways to use hydro.”

“The power of water is the ability to take any shape after all. I can even walk across it. Wouldn’t want to go around drenched all the time now would we?” She teased.

“It’s not that bad. Though I probably should’ve brought a towel to-” before he could even finish, Furina took all of the moisture out of his clothes while eating a piece of cake. “Huh…you sure you’re not somehow still an Oceanid or something?”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Although, his question did make her look at her hands as well as examine the beautiful deep blue gem that made this all possible. “…It’s always said Visions are a blessing, a favor from the gods. I wouldn’t really know but… maybe it only makes sense I’m naturally adept at this. It’s a strange feeling. Mirror-me didn’t really teach me a lot and at the same time it feels like it would’ve been redundant.”

“Do you somehow feel closer to her now?”

“In a sense, I suppose so. I can’t really say how that feels. It simply is what it is. Fate is odd like that. Either way, I intend to express all of me. Even if I don’t exactly understand yet what that means for me.” Furina looked at the ocean. “To think after everything I can still find peace at this sight.”

“I’m sure many others feel the exact same conflicting feeling.”

“Fontainian’s and their homeland. We’re certainly a colorful group of people.” She smiled. “Although it would be wonderful if we could be a little less observant. It took entirely too much effort to sneak over here. I even ran into Clorinde during a shift change apparently. Fortunately we remain pleasant towards one another. I do hope she takes the night off like I suggested.”

“Hold on. Sneaking? Why were you sneaking around? There’s no curfew. Though I do imagine most normal people are in bed by now.”

“I don’t think that last sentence was necessary.” She scoffed. “Need I remind you that you’re here as well?”

“Don’t try and get around the question.”

“Ugh, it’s nothing, honest. I just…would rather not bump into many people. After all…Poisson isn’t the only place resentment lingers.” Furina’s bubble popped, causing her to land on the sand as she deflated. “Not that I can blame them.”

“Things like these take time. A lot has happened. It’ll take a while to process.”

“I might know that better than most. I doubt I've truly come to terms with even half of what I feel inside. Regardless, I’m not looking or expecting forgiveness. Their animosity is completely warranted. I could only treat symptoms to what was a long and threatening illness, I. The grand scheme of things that is.”

Aether scrunched his face. He couldn’t exactly call himself the biggest optimist in general or when it came to the prophecy. Even so… “I think you’re not giving yourself enough credit. In fact, neither did I. Be it your powers or lack thereof, you’re very quick to learn and adapt. Not to mention resilient. I’m sorry if it ever came across that I underestimated you.”

Furina felt her cheeks gain a little warmth. Here she was saying she didn’t need apologies or forgiveness, yet hearing it from Aether did nicely for her guilty heart. Not to mention the genuine praise of her capabilities. “Thank you, but really, there’s no need. If I was underestimated then that only means I did my job well, right? I never wanted anyone to see me worry or anything of the sort. It would’ve only brought them closer behind the curtain meant to be shut. I won’t say it wasn’t frustrating; no, I could never say that. Also, if you ask me, not being able to do more because I lacked the power to is a poor excuse. I wish I could have saved more people if anything.”

Aether could see the deep regret in her tired expression, born not from lack of trying, but from the fact her best was all she had. Aether wished he could properly disagree, but he knows the sting of wishing to be better well.

“Furina…”

“Heh, sorry.” She shook away the negative thoughts. “I didn’t mean to make this conversation heavy. I should try following Navia’s example more. Moving on is nearly impossible if all you do is bring up the past. Fontaine is in safer hands now.”

“They’ve always been.” He said with a stern voice that caught Furina’s attention. “We might not be able to do everything we wish we could, but that doesn’t mean you were lacking or inadequate. Earlier today I heard someone thank their blessings by giving gratitude to the Hydro Archon; another person said your name fondly in regards to this nation’s safety. Some even went as far as to call you Focalor.”

“Wh-What!? The news by now has had to have circulated even to the other lands about…you know…”

“My point exactly. You’re tired and down on yourself. I get that. Still, I hope you know for many people, real or not, you were their Hydro Archon for 500 years and held your responsibilities right to the very end. When that title is invoked many will think of you, and if you were to ask them me, I’d tell you that’s earned. I hope you can find comfort in that somehow.”

Furina didn’t understand why this shocked as much as it did. If anything, she was always highly aware of the feelings her, or rather, Fontaine’s people held. If she weren’t honest with herself, though the role she played brought unimaginable grief, she held zero regret in her choice or could say there was absolutely no joy over the centuries. Even the saddest of tragedies had their glimmer of light. If they didn’t, how would the character, performer, or audience truly understand what was tragic about it all?

“You know something? I think you might actually make for a good attorney. Not only do you bring sound reasoning consistently, but somehow you always seem to sway what’s in a person’s heart.”

Aether couldn’t help but laugh off the thought awkwardly. “Thanks for the compliment, but I'm honestly a nervous wreck every time I was in those stands. Don’t think I have the stomach for it all that much. Speaking of which…” he trailed off.

“Ah… is this the part where you want to apologize for nearly getting me killed?” Furina said quickly and with the utmost bluntness.

“That…was no one’s plan. I’m the slightest I might add.”

“Mmhmm, buuuut it certainly happened. There’s a suspended death sentence in my name inside some filing cabinet. That exists now.” She teased further, poking his arm with faux aggression. “As I said earlier, there’s no need to apologize for those things. I can see that I didn’t make things easy and how everyone, including myself, did all we could with what we understood. It wouldn’t make sense to hold that against any of you. However…I won’t lie and say I didn’t feel…blindsided.”

She said it nicely, but Aether remembered the hurt that riddled her eyes in the moment she realized she was lured into a trap.

“You’re right.” He said, turning away from her gaze to look at anything across the water. “I still wanted to say I’m sorry. It’s just that…”

He grew silent. Furina could understand but was still rather annoyed how now he was the one making things heavy and looking back! “Just what? Out with it already.” She crossed her arms.

“…I never wanted to make you cry.”

The rolling waves filled the space between them as they both let his words hang in the air. Furina could see the tips of his ears become stricken with red while she felt a flutter in her chest. Of all things that happened that day, she would’ve never guessed that’s what he was going to say.

“I…” she sighed. Damnit! You would think at this point she could handle curveball situations like this as quickly and easily as breathing. Furina took a deep exhale before breathing in composure, displaying a smile he couldn’t see and summoning bravado. “What an interesting thing to say. Let’s be honest with ourselves. It’s not as if you made me cry. Saying so would be taking credit from hundreds of other reasons I often want to cry about. It just so happened that day the scales tipped! Also…” her became more earnest, “Fate said I was going to weep. So please, don’t feel bad. Okay?”

Aether turned back around to see Furina showing off a smile that said “it’s fine.” Aether smiled back. “Someone is certainly more expressive.”

“I am an actress! It’s my duty to convey my feelings with my glance and every movement!” She said proudly.

“It’s a little confusing though when you look fed up yet clearly give longing looks, Madame Focalor.” He said with a cheeky grin.

Her face flared red. Furina would’ve thought her ears had grown weary of that name; yet hearing his lips say it was….“I-I have done no such thing! You’re simply awful at reading people! And don’t call me that so casually! More importantly, are you saying your gaze is so fixed on me to the point of pondering my feelings about trivial things?”

“So those glances are trivial?” He teases. “You wound me.”

“So you do want them to be longing? Ah ha!” She pointed, watching him play off the accusation with an eye roll. “Roll your eyes all you like. It’s not like I can blame fleeting flights of fancy. I still am Fontaine’s biggest celebrity!” She stands up proudly.

Aether begins clapping in a way that could only be described as petty. Furina couldn’t believe even after all of this, admitting he might have a certain fondness for her was beyond him. Meanwhile, the young man was glad to see her look more energetic. It would seem like the chip on her shoulder wasn’t all an act. It was definitely amusing and nice, if not a little tiring at times. Furina de Fontaine in a nutshell.

The air between them began to feel more playful and rather mischievous as Furina gave a smirk, taking this man by the hands and pulling him up to his feet.

“What’s all this about?”

“I figured you’ve done nothing but grill my authenticity while you play coy. Admittedly your acting is fine but I hardly say that role suits you. All this time I’ve barely seen anything that constitutes your praise as an adventure.”

“What!? I helped save Fontaine! It’s not my fault you weren’t around for the one huge battle!”

“Excuses. That’s all I hear from you. You’re definitely cunning and quick witted, but I’m strangely unconvinced; so if you’re going to keep your eyes on me, might as well put them to the test along with a few other skills.” Furina puts her hat on Aether and tilts it down just over his eyes. “Hold it just like that and count to 70. No cheating now.”

Aether holds the hat like she says. “And when I’m done?”

“You’re a renowned traveler who’s been here for a while haven’t you? Let’s see just how well you know your way around this kingdom. Start counting.”

He could hear her sprint off swiftly. In a matter of seconds, all he could hear was the waves. Furina sure could move when she wanted to. Aether laughed as he continued to count mentally. As he hit 70, he removed the hat from his face and immediately noticed the water stole her footprints aside from the ones immediately next to him.

“Well played Furina. Well played…”

xxxxx

Skipping, giggling and sneaking about, Furina happily moved around her beloved territory. Skilled or not, Aether was in her domain. The likelihood of him even knowing the patrol of the Gardes was incredibly low.

“I do hope he makes this interesting for me.” She hummed, heading west from the main plaza.

“Psssst!” Hissed a few streets away.

Furina whipped her head around and gasped, spotting the blonde sitting at a table with a smug smile. How did he get here so quickly!? It had to be luck, right? Her answer came as he casually pointed to his shoes. Furina looked down at her own and noticed not all of the sand had abandoned the soles.

“Ah…..” Furina looked back up, gave a sheepish shrug, then immediately took off sprinting around the corner.

“Guess we’re doing tag rules then.”

Aether got up with her hat in hand before giving chase. She really was quick on her feet. He barely saw a flash of blue fabric float by as he turned the corner himself. Deeper and deeper he went into Fontaine’s alleyways; going under aquabus bridges and slipping through a side path he’s never noticed. Unlike the other places he’s visited, Fontaine’s major city somehow managed to feel dense one moment then open space the next. The chase was harder than he expected. Furina seemed to slip past every stacked box and promotional sign like a street cat. Clearly this was a path well traversed by her. It was probably how someone with her level of fame managed to slip away from unfavorable situations.

Furina casually ducked between a gap in a fence and around the back of a bakery to find herself one of the most out of the way and peaceful spots in Fontaine. It was a pretty little alleyway; hardly was there any foot traffic during the busiest days. Almost makes her wonder if her people notice it. This precious little space might as well not exist. Furina was convinced some criminal at least had to know about it, but no. This was easily her favorite little hiding hole away from prying eyes.

She put her back against the brick wall and caught her breath. Next time she’ll remember to check her shoes. She had planned to get here a little more eloquently. Oh well. She looked back the way she came, as well as down the path that would lead back to the main streets. No sign of her pursuer.

Did he double back? That was a possibility, but Furina definitely heard his steps hot on her heels for some time. “No way I actually gave him the slip.” She whispered to herself.

“Perish the thought.” He responded.

Furina’s hat fell right onto her head. Her gaze looked towards the sky to see him look down from the roof. With a single hop, he descended and landed right in front of her before she could think about slipping away. Aether put his hands on either side of her and smirked.

“That’s the game. Convinced of my skills now?”

“Quite a lot of effort you put into this. All I’m convinced of is how you can’t stand not having your eyes on me.” Furina playfully wrapped her right hand around his white scarf. It was softer than it looked. “I typically find this level of dedication from my friends a nuisance. I hope you understand that?”

“So I’m a fan now?”

“Aren’t you?”

“I might be. You are definitely talented. I’d see another show.”

“Heh, I rest my case then.” She may have been exaggerating before but now that he was this close… “I can’t be mad about eyes that are this pretty watching me.”

“Like you could be mad at all. Are we still acting like you didn’t lead me here?”

“Is that so~ An interesting accusation.”

“Well I can’t be a fan of Furina de Fontaine if I couldn’t claim to understand her even just a little bit. She’s smarter than she leads on; always thinking about her next move to get what she wants because how could she not? It’s who she is. So, Furina, go ahead. Take what you want~”

She tried remaining resolute in their face off. At this point however, Furina grew intolerant of theatrics; especially when his were so thinly veiled. Even so, she had to admit his commitment to it was something she couldn’t help but stubbornly adore. “I swear…you are so…” Furina didn’t even bother finishing her words.

She wrapped her hand further, pulling Aether down into a feverish kiss neither could resist any longer. Furina invited the boy's eager tongue to slip in between her lips while his right hand grabbed her by the waist and pressed her body up against him. Her left arm draped over his shoulder then folded in to keep his lips right where she wanted. Not that he had thoughts of leaving. Aether leaned deeply into the kiss, fully exploring her so-called, “prideful mouth.” Although right now, the only thing escaping from it were the moans he stole from her.

They savored every second of their growing passion in the secluded alleyway until Furina released him at least. Their chests heaved, desperately taking air as the two of them stared at each other’s reddened faces. She could feel his growing excitement press against her stomach and couldn’t help but smirk.

Her bewitching eyes glowed a faint blue that Aether couldn’t help but drown in. Furina’s hands began moving again, slowly trailing down his chest, then his stomach, and finally stopping at his hips as her fingers tugged on his waistband.

“Isn’t public indecency a crime?”

“I won’t tell if you won’t.” Her voice hummed with a playful hunger that reached her smile. Though it seemed Aether wasn’t letting her have free reign entirely. His right hand took both of her wrists and she let out a small gasp as he put them overhead against the wall. “Scared of getting caught?” She teased, trying to sound unbothered.

“Not exactly, but am I not worthy of your chambers?”

“Ha! And you claim I’m not the honest one? How can a I grant a plea if you’re not clear~” Furina kept her eyes on his. She used her right leg to press against the outside of his left, rubbing up against it teasingly so. His face said everything, but Furina wanted his words. “Go on, speak your mind.”

Aether gladly spoke his mind, but not before keeping Furina in check. He had no problem expressing his desires, but he wasn’t about to let her ego grow so easily. Furina remained unblinking as he removed his left glove with his teeth before dropping it. Aether found his way to her soft and cool torso, dipping lower into her shorts. The actress’s blush only grew along with her sultry smile when he reached wet, warm lips that his fingers slowly massaged.

Furina let out a quiet sigh as the adventurer slipped into her and started curling two fingers to the point her hips jutted out and her teeth sunk into her bottom lip.

“Mmm~��

“We’ve danced around too long to get to this point.” Aether leaned into Furina’s ear. “I want to savor you, so let’s take this behind closed doors; my dear Madam Focalor.”

Such a lovely little act. “That can be arranged.” She let his face back up just a little before stealing his lips. Again, his tongue was greeted by hers; only this time her hips were way more involved in their passion. Furina didn’t even try to free her wrists from his grasp. He was getting so forceful with her body. So…possessive. It was becoming a bit of a struggle to do anything besides listen, and despite her pride, Furina was finding bliss. Aether didn’t stop stirring her insides as he started to ravish her neck. Furina would’ve been done for if it wasn’t for Aether suddenly stopping the moment her knees began buckling. His fingers left her body but she quickly grabbed the lustful hand, catching Aether by surprise. She wouldn’t be put on the back foot completely.

“Shall we get going?” Furina said, guiding his hand to her face. She looked right at him with intense eyes as wrapped her lips around the two soaked digits, licking them clean. Furina left no space between them. Even if he tried to downplay the emotions on his face, the hot throbbing that poked her lower body told all of the blonde’s secrets. “I wouldn’t blame you however, if you needed just a moment of clarity before we made the trip.” Just how long could the boy endure? Furina was eager to find out. She snaked his hand around her throat to make him even more flustered, but was caught off guard to feel his grip tighten just enough for her to realize. Another gasp left her; and Aether leaned in real close.

“Lower your shorts.”

A victory for Furina, although just like always, she had put herself in a position where backing down wasn’t an option. She pulled down her shorts to her knees, allowing the chill air to greet her body while her hands were already pulling down Aether’s pants until she felt his erection spring out and tap her inner thigh. Thank goodness it was dark. It was the only thing hiding just how comically red her cheeks have gotten. Her digits ran along its length, memorizing its shape as she made it slick with a mixture of their arousal and a bit of hydro. His free hand found her butt and made her smirk even more apparent as she felt him squeeze.

“Guess you couldn’t wait after all?”

“Hush.” He groaned.

Air filled Furina’s lungs as she felt Aether push into her. Her playful gaze left as her eyes became wide from the intrusion that commanded her body to hold it tightly. “Oooh my~” Furina grabbed his face and pulled him into another tongue war as Aether rolled his hips into hers. “Mmph!!” Every thrust stole a moan. His hold on her neck remained steady while her waist was kept firmly in place for him to gouge out her insides.

Aether’s grunts matched her feverish panting she snuck in between breaths. How’d he allow her to rile him up so easily? It was as if he was spellbound, burdened with a thirst only she could quench and a desire to shut Furina up. Neither wanted to lose this little game of theirs, but Aether could barely think straight, feeling just how tight her walls are. Not to mention how wet and warm the girl was. If it wasn’t for the smacking of their make out session, the leading noise in this alleyway would be the sound of her pussy swallowing him up. The harder he thrusts, the more Furina sucked on his tongue. She moved her hands around the back of his head in fear of the pleasure causing her to squeeze his face too hard. What was meant to be a bit of foreplay had turned into full blown fucking.

“Anghn, like that~” her voice trembled. “Just like that.” Her body yielded to his movements as his cock dug into a sweet spot repeatedly. In this moment Aether could make her throw her pride aside as long as she got to cum. Every pump felt so heavy and wanting of her body. No person could deny such ecstasy. Not even a god. Furina pried her lips away from Aether’s for her own sanity. “H-Hey…you can cum.. whenever y’know?” Praying he’d leave her with the ability to walk at least.

The strength in her voice waned but Aether found it endearing. He let go of her throat and let her head rest over his shoulder; partly for his own benefit. They both may have started off too strongly. Aether gave several more thrusts before forcing himself to pull out. It was so sudden that Furina’s legs nearly gave out.

“C-Careful!” She trembled. Furina looked down at the unruly appendage that stirred her, watching it spill its seed. “Now, now, evidence is the last thing we need to leave.” She pointed at the mess and washed it away with a stream of hydro before going a little limp on top of the boy.

Aether let out a chuckle. “That’s certainly handy. You okay?”

“Better shape than you. Though a small break is much deserved for your efforts.” She said, sinking into the wall as if it was some luxury mattress.

“Heh, why thank you.”

Both of them found their antics a little ridiculous yet oh so fun at this point. Furina had half a mind to pull the blonde in for another kiss when suddenly, a rumbling trash can startled them stiff. Aether quickly clothed himself and covered Furina from any prying eyes. Their quick maneuvering was in vain however. The trash fell over and out from behind it was a simple cat running off.

Thankful for the outcome but now on edge, Furina realized perhaps Aether had a point. She had no idea how she would’ve explained this to a Garde. “Let’s move this performance to my chambers.” She whispered.

xxxxxx

“ Anyone could say what they want about Furina, but they can’t say she isn’t entertaining.” Those words were always echoed by the people of Fontaine. Aether had to admit every day understood those words more and more. Beyond entertaining however, Furina was surprisingly cunning in unpredictable ways. It made sense for a ruler, former or otherwise, to know their kingdom, but for her to lead Aether all the way to her abode unseen through the quietest Fontainian streets was rather impressive indeed.

“You know you’re quite mischievous when you want to be.”

“It’s my personal spice of life. Everything deserves a little twist.” She took him by the scarf again and walked backwards into her room. By the time the door clicked, Furina was already feeling him up once more as they kissed against it. Frankly it was amazing they kept their hands off each other long enough to get here. It would appear Aether had recovered from their brief but wonderful moment of bliss. Good. Furina wasn’t done with him yet.

Aether felt her hands mess with her shirt and helped her out by raising his arms to quickly discard it. Furina continued to guide him by the lips further into the room then playfully pushed him onto her extravagant bed laced with the finest blue silk sheets which had to be one of coziest mattresses he’s ever felt.

“Wow. Can we just skip to the part where we sound asleep?” He looked down to see the woman already fishing his erection out from his pants. “Guess that’s a n- ngh~”

Music to Furina’s ears. She figured giving the boy a taste would silence his cute banter. Right now she was far more interested in the blush on his face spreading. As capable of a warrior Aether was, Furina was surprised to learn just how passive he could be. Once again she found her gaze fixated on his flickering eyes as she took him down to the back of her throat; she even went as far to moan, sending vibrations through his body that made his hips rise.

“Furina!” He panted, overwhelmed by her hyperactive tongue coiling around him. Aether found it difficult to look at her directly which in turn, only made her more enthusiastic. He began to feel the pleasure rise gradually, his cock twitching violently before Furina dragged her lips off of him.

“Oh no you don’t.” Furina said, wiping her mouth with a single finger. “Do try to last a little longer. We haven’t gotten to the best part.” She gave him a seductive smile as she finally removed her shorts entirely, along with pale blue panties. In truth, she found her impatience a little unbecoming, but she couldn’t find it in herself to care at the moment. Furina gladly straddled Aether, raising her hips right over his raging manhood before slowly piercing herself with it.

“Mmmngh~” she couldn’t deny how full she felt; how he seemed to touch…everything. Furina took a moment to try and calm her breathing as well as her body before proceeding any further. At that time, Aether sat up to meet her and began reaching for her top, but Furina grabbed his hand in reflex.

Aether was surprised by the reaction, and to see Furina’s eyes quickly dart away from his own. “I suppose divine stars can have such relatable insecurities like these.” He spoke softly.

“I may be a star, as you say, but that makes me no less of a woman.” She said, a bit more defensively than she would’ve liked.

“That’s fair. Still, for you to be insecure about this? You, who has the noblest of forms…” he reached for her again. “Bewitching and divine beyond reason and comprehension~”

Furina felt her heart skip a beat. He removed her hat then began quietly working on her top while she remained rigidly still. Those words he spoke could’ve easily been sugar coated, yet Furina let them have their sway; she raised her arms and let Aether see…everything. “It’s not much.”

“Doesn’t matter; It’s what I’m looking for.” He said just as quickly, leaning in as he wrapped his arms around her porcelain skin. “You’re perfect.”

Furina was undone by his teeth sinking into her neck, nipping away towards her collarbone and then assaulting her chest with warm lips and an even warmer tongue.

“Mmm. Truly you are…hopeless.” She swooned, her hips rocking in his laps reflexively. “Fine then, have your fill!” Furina’s arms kept him close.

Aether gladly began to devour her figure, leaving no part unmarked by his affection. Furina didn’t know what was worse. His persistence, or the feeling of his cock growing inside deeper than ever before. Furina felt her face grow hot. His words were no lie at all. The very thought made her body squeeze him in place while her hips kept moving on their own. She pressed her soft, shapely ass onto his lap, grinding his length right up against her womb while she felt Aether’s teeth ensnare a nipple and tease it relentlessly. Furina couldn’t stop her nails from running in between his shoulder blades as she lost composure. There was no hiding it from him; she wanted all she could take from him.

Aether stopped his oral assault for only a moment but it was enough time for Furina to push him back down against the mattress, her hands roaming down his chest as she let out breathless pants. He couldn’t utter even one word as watched in awe as Furina’s movements flowed like a stream; the way her hips would raise only to slam back down and how she shut her eyes to focus on the pleasure drove Aether crazy. Everything felt so wonderful and stuck to his length like warm honey. It took so much strength to not scream when she completely sat down on his lap and rolled her hips forward while her nails grazed his ribs and traced his toned chest.

Furia looked down at him, hearing the sharp, strained breaths come in and out between as kept his eyes shut tightly. The blush on his face was a beautiful red, like a vintage wine ready to devour. Furina laid her body completely on top of his body, continuing to raise, lower, and roll her hips as she began nipping his ear or kissing his neck. As she thought. It was tastier than any wine. Furina was ready to stay like this and drink him up forever until a sudden burst of heat rushed into her body, causing her to gasp. The girl sat up immediately and looked down. Her eyes widened and cheeks glowed scarlet seeing Aether’s cock twitch violently as thick, white cum began leaking out of her. Furina looked back up at Aether to see him covering his face with one hand.

He looked through spread fingers and sure enough, the woman on top of him was grinning like a mischievous cat. “I was close from your blowjob.” He defended.

“Now why don’t I believe that in its entirety?” She cooed, loving his flustered expression. “Not that I can blame you. As you said, I’m bewitching.” She took his hand and ran it up her body, earning another twitch. “Was I too much?”

Aether had no defense for that. He sat up and put his face against her chest to hide better. “You’re annoying is what you are.” He groaned, knowing his ears had to red. He could feel Furina’s fingers playing with his braid. “I got a bit overwhelmed.”

“No need to explain yourself.” She hummed, proud of her performance. He clearly didn’t notice all the little orgasms and jolts of pleasure she was experiencing. “Feel free to recover. After all, it would be natural for someone such as I to be overstimulating to a mortal. I felt lovely. I won’t hold this against-” She cut her victory lap short, feeling Aether began to grow inside of her again. “H-Huh?”

Aether pushed his waist forward, causing Furina to let out a yelp as she was put on her back with Aether perfectly looking down at her between her legs. A jolt went through her as he grabbed both her thighs and moved her legs onto his shoulders where they dangled. The fierce determination in his gaze made Furina realize she might have spoken too soon about his submissive tendencies. Perhaps she had gloated a little too much?

“We can uh…take a break if you’re tir-aah~” She felt his waist dip until it met her body. Aether leaned over her and whispered.

“I said I was going to savor you.” He pulled out to the tip, then plunged right back in.

Furina felt the air leave her lungs and brain stutter for a moment as Aether began pounding her relentlessly. Her limbs didn’t know to grip the sheets or onto him, but they settled for clawing the sheets of the rocking bed. “W-Wait! Anngh! It’s…too deep~” her moans were blatant, mouth agape as she pleaded. The reply she received was his tongue conquering hers, and yet she made no argument against it. “Mmmmm~”

There was nothing to do but take his passion. Furina was certain he was harder than before and making her hips float with every soaked plunge into her. It was a good thing they were kissing, or else someone would’ve definitely heard her wail as he turned up the intensity. It was too much for her. His weight made sure he hit the bottom of her deepest part every time to the point Furina could only…

“MMMPH!?” Her body jerked violently, the inside of her walls gripping like a vase and unleashing a turret of her arousal that dampened the sheets as Aether pulled out and let her legs fall. Furina’s head was so clouded and her breathing was uncomfortable while the pleasure gradually subsided. So much of her strength had been eaten away, but she wasn’t even mad at it. Furina was too busy trying to calm down to care about anything else, even the fact a perfectly good set of sheets were ruined.

“Y-You…brute.” She groaned in pouty satisfaction, still feeling his efforts. Furina would not know true rest however. Aether slowly flipped her over to her stomach. She felt his strong hands grab her hips and raise them until she felt his tip press against her folds. “But I just came~” she whined, despite shaking her hips to feel him rub against her.

“Don’t tell me this mere mortal has overstimulated you?” He said with a hunger in his voice.

Furina let out a long groan as he pulled her onto his cock. “Mmngh, I’m sorry…!” she moaned, reaching for one of many pillows and burying her face in it as Aether’s hips plowed into her again, mercilessly thrusting like a piston. “Aaaaannh~”

Why did she adore this so much? She had him in the palm of her hand earlier and now she was sweating as he took her like an animal. It wasn’t that he was only thrusting, but commanding her hips to push into him, creating such a terribly indecent sound that echoed like steps in a puddle. She knew she wanted everything from him, but it was so embarrassing yet hot to give him everything he craved.

Aether listened to the symphony of squeals and moans as he watched the ripples her ass crested whenever he pushed forward into her body. Her skin was wonderfully flushed like his and the pleasure didn’t seem to end. “You’re so beautiful.”

How dare he say that to her now? When all she could do is push back even harder and submit to his hunger. She knew he could feel her grip tighten. There was no hiding from his words or what was in her heart.

Furina probably thought his ego spurred his actions. While that was admittedly part of the truth, it was insignificant to the infatuation he had seeing her so wanting and pleased by him. Furina was finally being honest.

He made her go prone and put his weight on her again and he took her gripped knuckles. “Look at me.” He rasped.

Furina looked over her right shoulder to see his face an inch away. She instantly closed her eyes and went in for a kiss they both so eagerly wanted. His fingers interlocked hers while his hips made sure she felt his unruly length get buried into her body as he fucked her into the bed. Aether ended their kiss and got his revenge from earlier, licking and nipping at her ear lobe. “Nooo~” her body trembled. “I’ll…”

“Give it to me. Don’t try to fight it. I want to see you cum, Madam Focalor~” He bit her neck.

His teeth found her neck as she was left with those sultry words that would be her undoing. “F..uck.” She put her face in the pillow and screamed, her walls taking hold of Aether’s trembling cock and squeezing it until it had no choice but to erupt again while her own arousal ran down her twitching legs.

Both of them felt the exhaustion hit, laying motionless as they groaned from the pleasure and fatigue. Aether rolled off of Furina and laid on his stomach right next to her. He turned his head to see the girl staring at him with pouty puffed out cheeks. Maybe he went a little overboard.

“Hehe…umm, my ba-”

“I want a normal kiss.” She huffed.

Aether blinked silently before giving a small smile. “As you wish.” He scooted closer and gently placed his lips on her, feeling her body ease into his.

Furina placed her head under his chin and silently, yet loudly, commanded comfort by resting against him. He was very quick on the uptake, placing his arm around her torso. “You performed wonderfully.” She hummed. “Now stay just like this for now. I won’t tolerate waking up alone.”

“Didn’t you hear what I said earlier? I was all for skipping to this part.”

“Ha, as if I’d let you. Although…I can see the appeal.” She shut her eyes.

xxxxxx

When the god finally arose, the day had already begun. Furina opened her eyes to muffled light through the curtains but more importantly, her head rested on Aether’s bare chest. It appeared they moved a bit in their sleep. It was only when she sat up she realized they didn’t just move, but properly under clean sheets and on the appropriate side of the bed.

“….” She poked Aether’s cheek repeatedly until he groaned. “Hey, did you move us?”

“Mmhmm.” He mumbled. “You’re a heavy sleeper and I got a little cold, so I took us to bed properly.”

“But where did you get the clean sheets?”

He pointed towards the door. Furina looked to see a giant note on it with beautiful handwriting she immediately recognized. It said, “Do be mindful of regular patrol and shift changes, my lady. Do not fear however. No traces were discovered, and as always, my silence is yours. Sleep well, Clorinde.”

Furina felt utterly mortified, covering her bright red face. “Why is she so diligent!? She doesn’t even work for me! I told her to relax!”

“My guess is she had a vague idea of possible trouble you could find yourself in and thought it would be better for her to find out instead of someone else by mistake. She may have even known about the alley.” Aether sat up briefly with his undone hair flowing freely. He hugged the paralyzed Furina and brought her back down to bed. “Worry later, or rather, thank Clorinde later. It’s still sleepy time.”

She had no clue how he could be so calm about this!? Yet she also wasn’t about to disturb him. Though that note rid her of sleep, Furina stayed in his arms for comfort. She would think about everything else later. Her eyes drank in his sleeping face, the way his slightly flushed lips curled made her own lips curl up. Under dim light through blinds. Furina couldn’t stop replaying last night’s performance. Those lips of his were so active, so…wanting. They took and gave everything faster than she could process. For the first time in a long time, being overwhelmed felt glorious. She had to admit that right now…if she had the chance to-

Aether opened his eyes, feeling the lady’s gaze on him. He sat up and she followed suit. “If you want something then feel free to say it.” Aether said, casually grinning.

Furina’s cheeks were struck with red. Was he a mind reader now!? “D-Don’t put this on me! You’d think I’d fall for such an obvious plea for-” her defense was immediately cut at the source via Aether grabbing her lower jaw and pulling her in slowly as he stared at her with calm amber eyes. Her heart nearly stopped.

“It might be noon, but don’t you think it’s too early for theatrics? If you can swallow your pride right now, I’ll make it worth everything and more. Just like last night.” He said, morning voice and all.

Furina was left speechless and now bright red. Such a bold proposition! How dare he commanded such authority, and yet…it wasn’t exactly terrible. At least that’s how she tried to convince herself about her feelings towards it. In truth, it was embarrassingly marvelous.

Furina averted his gaze again and removed his hand. Without a word, she bent down, putting her head in his lap while pushing away the covers. She guided his length back into her mouth and began coiling her tongue to invigorate Aether once again. She can’t believe she was doing this, during broad daylight no less! He really was so annoying. It didn’t help she felt a hand start to rub the top of her head while another grabbed her exposed rear, its fingers sliding along it to meet her folds and give them attention.

“Mmm~” Furina raised her hips, allowing two fingers to properly slip inside of her as she continued her efforts in earnest. She felt Aether grow to the point her jaw hung open, his thick and leaking tip greeting her throat.

Aether could barely feel his hips from the way Furina relentlessly lapped his length. “Nngh, good girl.” He teased, committing to his role. He didn’t expect her body to give him a gripping reaction around his fingers. Looks like Furina was still full of surprises for them to discover together. “Okay, I’m a man of my word. Get on my lap.”

Furina took a deep breath as she came up. His fingers left her wanting as they left, but that was fine when what’s to come would feel much better. She couldn’t even find it in herself to boast about Aether’s reactions. Instead she quickly put one leg on each side of him and angled herself above his cock like last night. Slowly, she lowered herself, shutting her eyes tightly as her body remembered last night.

“Aaaa~” she moaned, sinking down further until she was sitting completely on him. Furina felt her hips go numb and her body twitch from the rush of a hot tongue tracing her modest chest. Furina didn’t even get the chance to open her eyes again before feeling her body fall backwards onto the bed; added weight held her body in place as that same tongue slipped past her lips and took it away to his own. The fullness inside was dragged back out to the entrance before slamming back down. A guttural groan rumbled in her chest as it happened again, and again, and again….

Damn that Aether. Nobody moves like this without having their own desires. She could hear every sharp inhale he took and felt the hunger in his hips feed them both ravenous pleasure. He might’ve made her swallow her pride, but only to hide the fact his mind was in the exact same place hers was. Furina couldn’t be bothered to be upset at the ruze at this point. She put her arms around his neck, drowning in their embrace as the heat between their bodies grew hotter. It wasn’t long before either worked a little sweat. That didn’t stop Aether at all though. Furina couldn’t stop her toes from curling after each and every deep thrust that pried her open. It was impossible to tell who was trembling at this point, the both of them soaring high until a final plunge into her released hot seed that her body ringed out with pleasure. Their kisses ended with heavy breathing and strained breath that tickled each other’s ears.

When Aether said, “Just like last night” Furina didn’t expect him to skip towards the intensity he displayed near the end! Her eyes fluttered open, feasting themselves on a slim, yet defined and toned figure between her legs, and eyes that took in her glistening porcelain figure as if it were a crowned jewel. Not that it wasn't, but to see him marvel at her without having to prompt him was… embarrassing to say the least.

Aether watched her eyes grow wider as he put his hands on her knees to part her legs wider before taking her hips into his control, raising her waist up to thrust directly into her.

Furina gasped as if she didn’t just watch him reposition her! His hips didn’t go as hard as before but made up for it with speed and control. “Ngh- you have…too much energy!” Furina moaned. Forget the previous round; her body was still sensitive from last night! “Must you be so rough!?”

“Isn’t this what you wanted?” Aether said breathlessly.

“I…”Furina’s eyes couldn’t help but watch the thick and unrelenting cock disappear inside her, only reappear briefly; the shaft was coated in a mixture of their passion that kept it slick and entering repeatedly. The girl sunk her teeth into her bottom lip, seeing how his length only came back out messier after each thrust. She laid her back, her left arm hiding her eyes.

Aether groaned. “Mmm, you’re getting tighter.”

“Silence!” She whined, knowing it was true. “I…I…”

“Swallow your pride~”

“…..Don’t.., don’t stop, please.” She confessed, her voice wavering. Furina dug her fingers into the sheets while her toes curled again. “I don’t wanna get out of this bed! I just want to feel you!” Her face was bright red. Somehow she found the courage to remove her arm, only to not find fierce eyes dominating her, but shut ones on an equally flushed face as Aether’s hips worked overtime. A surprising sight to witness, yet it made Furina all the more needy for his touch. Her eyes shut again and the both of them bathed in the lustful, euphoric sounds of their bodies.

Aether fought so hard not to yell from the way the soaked, warm walls pleaded for him. His thighs were doused in Furina’s arousal as she slammed into them, giving her everything.

Her pussy gladly took the punishment, growing red from the persistent pounding that made her womb ache. Every inch was taken and remembered. Furina feared if this kept up, Aether might reshape her body entirely. That would be unacceptable. To perfectly accommodate her foolish consort’s body would be…

“Aangh~” she sighed. “Make me yours; for all time…” such a maddening idea.

Furina could no longer find words for her pleasure as she felt Aether’s tip rub against womb and deliver a rush of hot seed directly inside it, his hands like a vice on her hips and rigid length buried to the hilt inside her body. The ravishing feeling had a death grip on her body she wouldn’t soon forget. The word maddening didn’t do it justice. Furina let her mind wander off as the sound that finally let her throat could only be described as one thing. Operatic.

xxxxxx

Loud one moment and quiet the next. Furina’s life had been a whirlpool of emotions in what felt like a wild dream. Yet here she was now, humming in a bubble bath as diligent hands scrubbed her scalp before rinsing the soap out with soothing warm water.

“Mmm. I can’t say 500 years was worth this specific moment, but I think it’s pretty close.” She could hear Aether chuckle.

“Unbelievable. I’m glad you’re happy putting me to work.”

“I’ll wash your hair next if you want?”

“It was a little joke Furina.”

“And my offer still stands~” She leaned back against the young man, watching his arms hold her. Furina ran her fingers in between his quietly as the water settled.

“Hey?” She said sheepishly, gathering her thoughts. “Just to set the record straight, I may have lived a long life but I wouldn’t say it’s been the most fulfilling. These past several hours are acts I’ve never done, so…” why did she suddenly feel so anxious saying this to him. “All I’m saying is I didn’t do this on a whim. If that makes sense. I-”

“Furina.” He said softly, turning her head his way to put her nerves to rest with a gentle, comforting kiss. “I know.”

Perhaps she was the one who underestimated him? He could read her just fine. Furina smiled softly, resting her head on his chest. “I couldn’t ask for a person to share the stage with.”

xxxxx

“Two bags. Just as promised. I thought you would’ve picked these up earlier.” Said a vendor, handing off the groceries to Furina.

“Thank you. And I’ll try to next time. I got a little held up.” She laughed off as she began walking. As she made her way home, her feet froze in place as Clorinde and Navia nearly bumped into her as they turned the corner.

“Wow! Sorry about that.” Navia chuckled. Although it went unheard as Furina and Clorinde shared a glance.

“Did you make it home safely last night? No problems?”

“N-None.” Furina wanted to sink to the bottom of the water right now. “Thank you.”

“It was nothing. Next time though, I’d recommend taking care of all personal business in a more…private capacity.”

“I will keep that in mind. Anyways, I should get these home.Toodaloo!” Furina briskly walked off.

Navia couldn’t help but notice the girl’s awkward stride as she left. “Is Furina okay? She seemed a little…”

“Training.” Clorinde said, calmer than ever. “She was by the water training and pushed herself a little too hard. I made sure to keep an eye out is all. She’s probably still tired.”

“Ah. That’s sweet of you. For a moment I thought she still felt terribly awkward around us. Especially me. I do hope that feeling doesn’t last too long. I wouldn’t mind inviting her to tea.”

“You might have a better chance at that when I’m not around.”

“Really?” Navia squints, noticing the lack of eye contact she was receiving. “Don’t tell me you also feel awkward about it; given how you used to work for her and all?”

“…Something like that.”

“Ah ha! All the more reason to put in effort! I’ll try to get in touch sometime in the near future.”

“You really d-” it was too late. Clorinde could see the determination in Navia’s eyes. “I’ll…keep my schedule open.” The woman let out a quiet sigh of defeat. She’d be sure to grab some cake for Furina when the day comes.

#genshin impact #gi furina #gi aether #gi clorinde #gi navia #furina x aether

[pandalexoxo]

i can’t stop imaging myself being transported into tokyo revengers. though, personally, i believe it would be bitter sweet.

TOKYO REVENGERS X MALE READER

i’d love to imagine meeting takemichi, and confiding in him that i know about his power, that, i too, have a secret. i would tell him that i’m not even from this universe. he thinks time leaping 12 years is weird? try telling him you’re from another reality (basically) where he’s an anime.

to sum up my thoughts (i wrote 13 paragraphs before deleting it bc this is suppose to just be a ramble lmfao, maybe i’m uploading it later and get your guys inputs) i just feel like i would try to be the sunshine guard dog protector, y’know? not necessarily swoop in to save takemichi (tho, i’d definitely swoop in to beat some characters asses just bc i have a personal vendetta) because damn! look at how badass and hot takemichi is, whenever he fights?! (that ass. thiccimichi 😩😼)

now, here’s where my heart aches and my brain fries from overthinking. do i tell takemichi that i watched the anime (read the manga too) and know who will die in the end? do i tell him that i know of the anime but haven’t seen it or read the manga?

MAJOR SPOILERS FOR TOKYO REVENGERS ANIME AND MANGA!!! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!

so, we know that in chapter 275 of the manga (probably season 5 in the anime if we’re lucky) takemichi ends up dying by mikey’s hand, a blade through his chest (heart? stomach? idk i haven’t read the manga in a few months. i sobbed hysterically over his death and refused to open the manga back up. that was until chapter 276 came out, how foolish of me to believe takemichi wouldn’t stand back up like he always does. what a true mc)

funny enough, by using mikey’s hand, he’s able to time travel him and mikey, not just 12 years, but back to when they were kids (i think they were 8 or somewhere around there). thus they are able to help each other create their perfect ending.

though… this “perfect ending” can’t happen unless the characters who died stay dead. shinichiro, baji, emma, izana, draken. with these deaths, mikey indulges in his “dark impulses” and thus the kanto manji gang and toman gen 2 end up fighting to lead to takemichi’s death and end with the perfect book closing page.

it’s unfortunate. it makes me tear up, sob, want to throw up (maybe throw myself out the window) but everything needs to happen. not only the deaths but takemichi’s mental health diminishing needs to happen to. this (others teaching him how to fight and his visions) helps takemichi in the last battle to dodge, punch and get close to mikey.

though, how easily takemichi forgives?! boy just smiles off his pain and forgives others, especially in the final chapter??? he just has his beautiful dopey smile on his face when mikey recognized him and then they ride off into the sunset to save their future??? hell. no. i need everyone to put their fists up, stand in a line, and eat my fucking fist.

i need a takemichi villain arc series. would someone be willing to make that for me? what do you want? a cookie? therapy? a hug? emotional and mental stability? no mommy and daddy issues? (i can’t provide the last two unfortunately, still trying to figure that shit out myself lmfaooo. though, my dms are always open. i love chatting with people and sharing dark humor. muah!)

then again, this is why i whole heartedly admire takemichi. he may not be physically strong like the others but as mikey says, he’s incredibly mentally strong. he gets back up. he stays standing. he’s determined and won’t fall until he wins. he’s too kind. i love him so much guys you don’t understandddd. hina, please share, fuck i am on my knees, foaming at the mouth and barking.

ugh :( it’s okay michi. you get your perfect future, though, are you truly happy and at peace? just keep smiling, okay? anywhooo, you know, i could treat you better anyway! xoxo 😼🕺😽

#rambles #blurb #takemichi #hanagaki takemichi #tokyo revengers #takemichi x reader #takemichi x male reader #takemichi x gn reader #takemichi x hinata #mikey. when i catch you mikey. #ken wakui #ken wakui i love you #ken wakui why do you hate me? #ken wakui why do you hate us? #tokyo revengers x reader #tokyo revengers x male reader

[cacoetheswriting]

hey! if you're taking requests, would you consider writing something for eddie munson? something with a little mutual pining??

*comes out of hiding, writes an eddie fic, disappears again*

pairing: eddie munson x fem!reader word count: 2.7k summary: during a heat wave, you find yourself at eddie's trailer. turns out the two of you aren't as over one another as it would seem. warnings: (+18 MINORS DNI): mature themes, adult language, drug use / mentions of drug use, sexual tension & implied smut, use of pet names (princess), allusions to battling addiction, parental issues (deadbeat dad), a little angst, a little fluff - unedited - pls let me know if i missed anything!

The summer season this year was a lot hotter compared to last.

Starting as soon as mid-May, it brought with it harsh humidity, sweltering sun, and a drought comparable to the 1936 North American heat wave. It was the sort of hot weather that could quite possibly boil the blood of those who did not or could not find a way to cool down. And the news reported it was unfortunately only supposed to get worse.

You, like pretty much everyone in Hawkins, found the heat unbearable.

A week ago you sat in your room with the blinds closed, but sadly now that wasn’t an option because the air conditioning at your house broke and your dad was too conked out on the sofa to even look at it. Normally you would call someone to fix it instead and that is what you wanted to do this morning, however when you reached into your wallet you were greeted with a big fat nothing. 

Actually, no. There was a note.

‘Add it to my tab. Love, dad.’ — Well, that explained where he got the money to get himself in the state he was in.

At that point in the afternoon, anywhere you could have remotely hidden from the sun was unattainable, especially and most regrettably the community pool which was overcrowded with stupid little kids. That is why you ended up where you did. Definitely not where you wanted to be, but in your own defence you were on the verge of a heat stroke and not thinking clearly. 

With your index finger bent ever so slightly, you knocked three times on the trailer door. 

You could hear a slight commotion inside, from abrupt coughing to shuffling footsteps and random clanking. When the door swung open, you caught a whiff of the reason why.

“y/n—” Eddie choked out, clearly surprised to see it was you standing on his doorstep. Surprised yet oh so very relieved.

“Can I come in?”

“Yeah, yeah, of course.” Eddie stepped to the side, allowing you to squeeze past. His gaze stuck to your frame, following you around his living room until you reached the rattling A/C unit at the window. 

“I- eh, I’m sorry about the smell,” he uttered, running a hand through his hair, “I-I wasn’t expecting company.”

You hummed in response. Or perhaps you said it was okay. Eddie couldn’t really tell since his mind was working a little slower than usual (due to the activity he was partaking in not even a minute ago).

Although, he was alert enough to note how your whole body gradually relaxed as the somewhat fresh air blew against your skin. All of a sudden, and only for a split second, you looked incredibly at peace. 

Eddie bit on the inside of his cheek, fighting back a smile. “You okay there, princess?”

Wait. Princess? Princess… What the fuck? He shut his eyes momentarily and clenched his jaw, hating his big mouth for letting the word slip. Like, yeah, he still thought about you sometimes, but it’s not what he called you anymore. It wasn’t his nickname to use anymore.

“Mhmm, better now,” you mumbled, seemingly unfazed by the moniker (you could argue the heat messed with your receptiveness), before shifting in your spot to look at the curly haired teen. “So much better.”

With the A/C now behind you, there was a slow gust of wind blowing through your top. The nickname debacle running through Eddie’s mind faded as quickly as it occured. Fuck— princess. How in the hall was he going to concentrate now?

“Good, goodie, good.” He bopped his head and licked his lips.

Oh sweet lord. He was doomed.

“Sooo… to what do I owe the pleasure?” Eddie inquired, plopping down on the couch.

You couldn’t help but notice how his t-shirt raised in the process, revealing his lower abdomen. It was your turn to crumble. God he was always so fucking hot. With his impeccable facial structure, perfect smile, big doey eyes that literally made you melt, long fingers, soft touch—

You cleared your throat, eyes lingering a little too long on his exposed stomach. 

He noticed. He liked it. Fuck. Not surprisingly Eddie always liked that kind of attention from you, and he secretly thought it was a real shame he was no longer on the receiving end of it. Not as often as he used to be anyway.

“The air con at my place broke overnight and, well, I don’t know, I just couldn’t think of anywhere else to go,” you admitted, meeting his big curious eyes.

He extended an arm to gesture around the trailer.

“Mi casa es su casa.”

You smiled at him. “Thanks, Munson.”

Anytime… princess, he thought. Or wait, did he say that out loud? Lord. He needed to get a grip. There was nothing there, with you, not anymore.

Honestly, the situation between the two of you was odd to say the least.

Simply put, the curly haired teen used to be your dealer. Well, actually, your dad’s dealer. You did the grunt work while your old man reaped the benefits. It was a strange arrangement, even for Eddie’s standards, but you clearly had your reasons and he wasn’t one to pry. You appreciated that about him. He kept his nose out of other people’s business. These days in Hawkins, it was hard to come by folks that stuck to their own shit.

You actually ended up appreciating a lot of things about Eddie. And the feeling was definitely mutual.

The secret meet ups in the woods or at his trailer blossomed into a friendship, then into something more, and then into complete shit. Moral of the story, never do your dad’s dealer - that’s what you would say. Eddie, on the other hand, has very little regrets. The only one being letting you move on so easily.

You ran a hand across your forehead, wiping away any reminiscent of sweat. Bopping your head back slightly, lips ajar, the cool air from the A/C doing wonders for your sticky skin.

Eddie watched you attentively. With every passing second he felt less aware of his surroundings, completely losing himself in you as his mind now raced with thoughts, (memories), too filthy to say aloud.

Once upon a time he would have been able to leap across the room and plaster his lips against yourss then lick the trickling sweat down your neck, down, down, down, as your fingers tangled themselves amongst his curls, tugging lightly when his tounge reached— Fuck, he wanted to scream.

“Can I ask you something?”

Yes, yes, thank you. Eddie straightened his form on the sofa, trying to look as normal as possible, right arm landing across the cushions. 

“Anything, princess.”

Princess.

“Did you sell stuff to my dad recently?”

The question caught him off guard. Shit, maybe silence was better.

He cleared his throat. “Uhm, not since you asked me not to.”

“Oh,” you hastily exhaled a sigh of relief. 

There was a brief moment of silence during which you moved away from the window and glided across the room to sit next to him. Sinking into the spot, your head unintentionally rested against Eddie’s arm. The sudden contact caused his heart to skip a beat, but he couldn’t think about that right now.

“Is he—” Eddie began but you knew exactly what he was going to say.

“Yeah,” you cut off and looked up at him, “hence the broken unit at my place.”

His brown locks bounced lightly as he nodded, a little slower than intended because the scent of whatever perfume you had put on that morning just hit him. Combined with the heat (and also the drugs), well, full transparency, it took all the power he had not to lean across and kiss you.

Bad timing, bad timing, bad timing.

“You know, I-I could take a look at it for you,” Eddie offered, trying to literally think about anything different to how close you currently were, “if you’d like?”

“No way,” you protested, “You’re in no state right now. Plus I’d have no way to pay you for your troubles since dad took the cash out of my wallet.”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! I am in tip top shape,” Eddie defended and you couldn’t help but scoff.

“Munson, you are one joint away from—”

He lifted his left hand, almost pressing a finger to your lips. “Unless you’re about to say - Munson, you are one joing away from a killer nap - I don’t want to hear it.”

You laughed while rolling your eyes. “That only proves my point.”

He pressed his hand to his chest, pretending to be offended. “Cheeky one, aren’t ya? I invite you into my home, let you use my air conditioning, and in return you just poke fun at me. I’ll be honest, princess, that’s a little rude.”

With that, he hopped up onto his feet and stumbled towards the fridge. You sat up a little wanting to make a snarky comment in response, but as you watched him manoeuvre around the small open kitchen, no words came to mind.

You watched as he reached for two glasses and inspected them under the minimal natural light to determine whether they were clean enough to drink from. Watched as he swayed on his heel, turning towards the fridge. Watched as he leaned slightly on the door of the appliance, head inside the cool interior, rummaging for something to drink.

A smile circled your lips. There was no denying that Eddie had this calming aura about him. Everything he did, even the smallest and most menial tasks, were soothing your soul. Once upon a time you would have thought this was love.

“Eddie?” 

(God. The way his name fell from your lips was heavenly.)

“Yes, princess?”

Fuck sake. He really needed to put an end to that shit.

“Why did you stop selling to my dad?”

His head popped up at the question, attention once again landing on you. “I already told you. You asked me not to.”

You lifted your legs off the floor and onto the couch, bringing your knees to your chest and wrapping your arms around them. “Right, but, well, I guess what I want to know is why did you listen? Like, we weren’t anything at that point and I would’ve thought business is business, or whatnot.”

Eddie swallowed his breath. Partially because of where this conversation was heading, however primarily because you pretty much just flashed him. Holy shit. Unintentionally, obviously, but he saw your panties clear as day. Dark green. Lacy. New. Hot. 

Nope. No. Fuck. Fuck.

What was going on with him? Navigating his thoughts this whole afternoon was considerably harder than one of his D&D quests. He could have sworn he was over you, and then you waltzed in here with your short skirt and sweet voice, he was hooked yet again.

Well, one could argue that for a blissful moment Eddie forgot the circumstances of your relationship, hence the trouble in differentiating in how he should and shouldn’t act around you right now. Because you weren’t really exes, you have to officially call yourselves something while you’re seeing each other to classify as an ‘ex’. You weren’t really friends, not anymore. Maybe just acquaintances or two individuals with a past.

God, he was an idiot. The two of you had so much potential. Why did he ever let it get to this point?

“I mean you don’t have to tell me,” you babbled, breaking him away from his thoughts.

Eddie straightened his form and closed the fridge, a chilled bottle of Coca Cola in his hand. He proceeded to then split the contents between the two glasses before making his way back towards the couch. He gave you one glass, making sure to alter his fingers when you reached over to ensure there was no accidental touch (because he simply wouldn’t be able to handle that right now).

He once again made himself comfortable beside you and took a big gulp of the drink, smacking his lips in the process.

Eventually, he looked at you again. “The truth?” 

You nodded an unspoken ‘please’ and Eddie clicked his tongue in response before nodding slowly.

“The day you asked me, you just looked really defeated, you know?”, he began, “Tired and upset. I’ve never seen you like that before so I figured it must’ve been important that you asked and that I listened.”

He shrugged before continuing. “Couple days later your dad came to the trailer, he was definitely on something, and kinda seemed like he hadn’t slept in days, so I told him supply was low and he never came around again.”

Pause. 

“I-I just pictured your face from when we last spoke and it hurt, you know?” 

At that point, the two of you were clinging onto your drinks and staring blankly ahead. He wondered if he perhaps said too much and you wondered whether he would’ve been as honest if he wasn’t high.

Mostly however, mostly you were glad Eddie still gave you reasons to appreciate him more.

“He’s on probation,” you stated eventually, “That’s why I always got the drugs for him. If he got caught… I know he’s no exemplary father figure but he’s still my dad, and he can’t be my dad if he’s rotting in jail.”

Eddie glanced at you. “I didn’t know.”

“Not exactly something I advertise,” you pointed out and took a sip of your drink. Swallowing the fizzy gulp, you shrugged. “Sure, life is shit, and then you die.”

Eddie couldn’t help but laugh. One of those loud, genuine, and hearty chuckles. He didn’t mean for it to happen, truly, and again he blamed the devout friend still actively seeping through his system.

‘Life is shit, and then you die’, he swore that quote was going to be his next tattoo. Might even ask you to design it. He figured you’d like that. Brand him as your own. That’s all he ever wanted to be. Yours.

He thought he could only hope there was still a chance, but judging by how a smile broke your features as he laughed, and any tension you were feeling about the conversation you were having melted away, he had nothing to worry about. It was in your eyes, in the way your whole face changed from concern to joy. You wanted to be his too.

SImply a matter of time for forgiveness to kick in.

“You know,” Eddie began as the laughter died down, “I’m glad your A/C broke.” 

On instinct, you smacked his arm. “Hey!”

“Don’t ‘hey’ me, princess!” Eddie exclaimed. “You’re seriously not even a little bit glad you ended up here today?!”

You shook your head dramatically and teased, “You’ll never hear those words from me, Munson.”

He scoffed and waved his arm, pointing to the door. “Then off you go, please, go back to your stuffy home while I enjoy a killer nap in my cool and cosy bed.”

Not wanting to be the first to break during this little charade, you handed him the half-drank Coca Cola glass and stood up. Your skirt capered with every step, Eddie’s eyes burning into the back of your legs. Was he really about to let you walk out of here?

“Always a pleasure, Eds.”

(The answer was no).

“Wait, wait, wait.” He hastily placed the glasses on the floor, almost causing a massive spillage, and hurried towards you.

“You don’t gotta say anything,” he chimed, stopping right in front of you, “In fact, my bed, as you already know or at least hopefully remember, is big enough for the two of us—”

The air suddenly felt tighter, as if the unit at the window suddenly stopped working, even though you could still very much hear it rattling.

“— And I am known to make exceptions,” Eddie noted before leaning in a tad bit closer with a sudden boost of confidence, “for the right people.”

For a split second, his gaze shifted to your lips and everything faded into the background. The sound of your heart thumping overpowered the surroundings and all you could think was how if he kissed you right now, you wouldn’t even be mad.

Instead his fingers grazed briefly against yours.

“Let’s go take a killer nap, princess.”

-

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#eddie munson x reader #eddie munson x female reader #eddie munson x fem!reader #eddie munson x y/n #eddie munson x you #eddie munson fanfic #eddie munson fanfiction #eddie munson oneshot #eddie munson imagine #eddie munson fics #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson #stranger things fanfiction

[songclangen]

holly

The wind whistled over the dark green moorland. Greenleaf would be ending soon, but the air was still pleasantly mild and humid, and the grass wouldn’t grow taller than this before the frost came in a moon or two. Splinterstar had never really enjoyed this season. There was a sort of tension in the air; anticipation for the leafbare that was to come as the nights grew ever so slightly longer and cooler.

Still, she could still enjoy taking moments away from the bustling camp to wander the territory by herself now and then. She liked the quiet. It wasn’t just her age; she’d always been that way. She felt perfectly safe too. Not only did she have nine lives to spare yet, there was peace between the Clans. Border encounters could be tense with WarbleClan lately, yes. The newly appointed Stagstar was… intense. It was surprising their warriors even had time to hunt, considering how often they patrolled the border— 

Splinterstar’s thoughts were suddenly interrupted. Something pale flickered in her field of view, far away. She was near the border to the sheep-place, with the twoleg stone dens beyond. In the tall grass, in the distance, there was a creature. Judging by its size and movements, it was a cat. It paced back and forth hurriedly, looking lost.

The leader rose to her paws and stretched her legs and back, then made for the border.

Once she had gotten closer, the stranger noticed her. She startled and stared at her, arching her back. But there was only fear in her eyes, no aggression. Clearly, this was a lost or abandoned kittypet. Just the wind in the grass seemed to spook her.

”Hello,” Splinterstar meowed evenly and sat down. ”Who are you?”

The she-cat eyed her up and down. She had a strange coloring, with pale fur on her body, but a dark gray face, tail and paws, and icy blue eyes.

”Holly,” she mewed at last. Her voice was little more than a peep, and Splinterstar noticed how young she looked.

”Are you lost, Holly?” Splinterstar continued. Holly nodded. ”You seem to have wandered into my territory.” 

Holly’s eyes widened, full of worry. ”I’m really sorry, I didn’t know.”

”Now you do,” Splinterstar said. ”Why are you out here on your own? You can relax, by the way. I won’t hurt you unless you give me a reason to.”

Holly looked a bit taken aback, but eventually sat down. ”I, um… I ran away, sort of.” Splinterstar tilted her head. ”I live with my housefolk in a house, over there. But…it’s so crowded, we’re eleven cats living in a very small space. I just can’t stand it sometimes. When I saw that the window was slightly cracked open, I squeezed through, just to get some air. But then there was a loud noise out on the road, and I got scared so I started running and got lost, and now…I don’t know how I’m supposed to find my way back.” Holly looked apologetic, like she was embarrassed to admit that. ”Sorry, I didn’t mean to ramble on.”

”Do you really want to go back?” Splinterstar asked genuinely. ”Do you like living there, with your housefolk?”

”No!” Holly burst out. ”It’s so cramped, cats are constantly arguing and fighting, and the housefolk just ignore us most of the time…I hate it there! But—” she broke off. ”I have to go back, and soon.”

”Why?” Splinterstar asked. She could understand loyalty to a Clan that cared about you, but these kittypets didn’t sound like they even liked each other.

”I— Oh, it’s horrible. I can’t believe that I left! It was so stupid and irresponsible…” Holly closed her eyes, then looked away. ”I have three kittens back there. They’re just a few days old.”

Splinterstar felt a pang of sympathy for the young queen. ”Really? But you can’t be much older than an apprentice…”

”A what?” Holly asked, confusion mixing with the anxiety in her gaze. ”I know I’m young, but…it wasn’t exactly my choice. Or… I don’t know. I don’t even like their father very much, he’s as stupid as the rest of them.”

Splinterstar sighed, beginning to feel the stranger’s worry rub off on her. She shifted her paws thoughtfully. She didn’t mind meeting cats from outside the Clan and talking to them, as long as they weren’t a threat. But this she-cat had really gotten herself in a heap of trouble.

”How could you leave your own kits like that?” she had to ask. Splinterstar had never had kits of her own, but she had seen the sacrifices a mother would do for them.

Holly’s face screwed up. ”I don’t know! I just— I had to get out of there for a moment, I never meant to run away!”

”Alright, calm down,” Splinterstar sighed. ”You’ll never find the way back if you can’t think straight. I’ll follow you back to the edge of the twoleg place, and maybe you can pick up your scent-trail there?”

”You would do that?” Holly’s eyes lit up. Splinterstar nodded.

She had no responsibility to help the stranger, but she felt for her. She was just a young, confused, somewhat impulsive kittypet. And really, it was the kits she was most worried about. As they began walking back, she asked;

”Do you really want your kits growing up in that place?”

Holly shook her head sadly. ”It’s my worst nightmare. If they even…” her voice broke off. ”I’m scared my housefolk will get rid of them if they find out about them. I’ve hidden them in the basement for now. But they’ll be big enough to start roaming soon, and who knows what will happen then? I wouldn’t put it above some of the others to try and hurt them either…”

”You can’t let that happen!” Splinterstar argued, leaping ahead of the she-cat and stopping her in her tracks.

Holly looked shocked and scared. ”No…I know. But where could I go? We can’t live on the streets, I don’t know how to survive without someone leaving food for me. It could be ages before some other housefolk take us in.”

”We’ll take you in,” Splinterstar said quickly. Maybe it was impulsive, but saving kits from harm was her duty, and they needed their mother too. 

”We?” Holly looked confused. ”Are there more of you?”

Splinterstar quickly briefed through what SongClan was and how in a Clan, everyone took care of each other. ”You would be taken care of until your kits are big enough to fend for themselves.”

Holly didn’t really seem like warrior material, if Splinterstar was being honest. But she was young still, and hadn’t gotten a chance to prove herself in the world. Maybe with time, and some training, they could recruit her to the Clan as a real warrior. Three new, young cats didn’t sound so bad either.

”I don’t know…” Holly mumbled. ”Is it really safe out here? Isn’t it cold and scary?”

Splinterstar sighed. ”Clan life can be tough, yes. But warriors help each other, no one is left behind. I promise you’ll be safer than you, or your kits, could ever be in a twoleg den.” A particularly nasty one at that, it sounded like.

”But…how would I get my kittens out of there? They can barely see yet, much less walk out here,” Holly thought out loud. ”Would you help me come get them?”

”I don’t think that would be wise,” Splinterstar murmured. ”How about you try to keep them hidden for one more moon, until they can at least follow you here? Then bring them to this spot and I’ll meet you.”

Holly thought it over, her eyes glistening with wonder and fear. After a few heartbeats, she nodded curtly. ”Okay. That might work.” She nodded to herself a few more times, like she was trying to convince herself. ”I’ll come here with them in one…what did you call it?”

”A moon. When the moon is the same shape as it is today, we’ll meet here,” Splinterstar explained patiently.

Holly looked a bit confused. ”One moon. Okay. I’ll check what it looks like tonight from the window and try to remember…”

Splinterstar twitched her whiskers. As inexperienced as the young kittypet was, she was sort of charming. ”Just count 28 days from now.”

Holly lit up. ”Oh, okay! That sounds easier.”

They had reached the border to the twoleg place, with the sheep in the sheep-place grazing peacefully in the far end of their pasture. Splinterstar didn’t like this place much. The twolegs weren’t a big problem, neither were the sheep. But the twolegs had dogs that often just roamed free in the area. Holly sniffed around the trampled grass a bit, then flashed a happy look to Splinterstar.

”I can smell my own paws here!” she exclaimed, scraping the ground a little.

”Just follow that trail back, and try not to panic. I’ll see you in one moon. Okay, Holly?” Splinterstar nodded, starting to turn back.

”Yes, okay! Thank you…uh, I didn’t get your name?”

”It’s Splinterstar.”

”Thank you, Splin…Splinterstar!” Holly clearly tried not to sound put off by the leader’s name, but Splinterstar overheard her as she ran off into the twoleg dens; ”Weird name…but okay.”

Splinterstar took a deep breath. She wouldn’t be too surprised if Holly ended up not following through on their deal, and worried something might happen to her before then. But she’d tried to help her at least, and if she could get her kits here in a moon, then maybe she was clan-cat material after all. The pale she-cat finished her walk deep in thought before returning to SongClan’s camp. For now, she said nothing of her encounter with the kittypet Holly.

#HOLLYMOON LORE HOLLYMOON LORE #i love her ok so i had to write something #songclangen #songclan lore #songclan fic #new tag????

[familyvideostevie]

extra one shots for the farmer’s market au, you say?? i know requests are closed and the fic isn’t even done yet, but if you felt inclined to write steve and r apple picking and then pie baking… i would be indebted to you

-b

you asked for this before the fic was even done but i knew i had to do it. so, here you go! hope you enjoy :)

bee girl and steve bake apple pie before thanksgiving, post-au | [1k] a no good at waiting one-shot, au masterlist __

"I just don't see how you have never baked a pie before...ever." Steve shrugs and continues to wash the apples you scavenged from the almost-bare orchard. It's the very end of the season and you've just spent a few hours in the cold collecting as much as you can carry.

"El usually does it," he tells you. "But this year she practically begged me to invite you over instead. She said she had faith that we could work it out." The soft smile on his face is so endearing you just have to kiss him. So you do -- a soft, quick peck on his cheek. He doesn't stop washing but his cheeks darken. The air has been cleared after Halloween and every day you wake up with butterflies knowing that Steve is your boyfriend. That this town is your new home.

"You're not going to make me do all the work, right?" Steve's kitchen is too small for the number of pies you're going to make -- four, apparently -- so you've taken over the kitchen of the main house. It's huge and airy, the sink boxy and deep and the cabinets painted a light green. It's a little too stylish for Hopper, you think, but El seems to make good use of it.

"Oh, because you're the pie expert?" He flicks water at you from his fingertips and you yelp. "I don't think so, honey. I am out here to prove myself." Apples washed, he properly dries his hands and steps around you to get the cookbook. The kitchen is big enough for you to have your own space but Steve sticks close, hands on your hips lightly as he moves, as if he's happy to float in your orbit. Which, you suppose, he is. He loves you.

"Okay," he says, dragging out the second syllable. "Wanna do a big batch of dough, then cut apples, then we can fill and decorate the tops?" You hum, coming to stand behind him to hook your chin over his shoulder and read the recipe for yourself. He leans back into you for just a second, sighing with what you've come to recognize as contentment.

You work together well, turning on the oven and pulling out ingredients in sync even though you don't know where anything is in the kitchen.

"Why the fuck are tablespoon and teaspoon abbreviated almost the same," he mutters. "Oh, El said she made crust for us and it's in the fridge."

You open it and find four neatly rapped balls of dough. "She did the hard stuff for us!" you cry. "Next year we have to make it ourselves." You don't realize what you've said until Steve doesn't reply. Next year. Like you're planning that far ahead.

"Okay," he says softly. When you turn to look at him he's smiling, eyes find and hands already reaching for you. "We'll do it next year." He pulls you in by your belt loops for a quick kiss, on the lips this time. It still leaves you a little dizzy.

"Don't think Hopper would want us making out in his kitchen, Steve," you mumble, eyes closed. He groans but release you, heading for the cutting board.

"Fine," he says. "But once the pies are in? All bets are off." He winks at you before he tosses a clean apple in the air and catches it. "Now, you wanna roll out the dough while I cut these?"

You make four large circles and save some to top the pies with, thin strips that you intend to weave into lattices. Steve carefully chops the apples before you both make the filling to toss them in.

It's a quiet process, but you're good at that. Much of your talking as a couple occurs in bed when you're holding each other close, or on the phone in the middle of the day, or when you're driving. When you're together you settle into the peace of enjoying each other's breathing. Sometimes it's enough to just be in the same room as someone you love.

Before you know it, you have four filled pies and all that's left is to lattice the tops. "This looks complicated," Steve says. "You sure you want me to help? I might just mess it up."

"Don't be silly, Steve," you scold gently. "Just watch me and do it at the same time. You're coordinated." He rolls his eyes at you but copies your movements as you weave, carefully lifting and placing the strands of dough. "Just like that, yeah, see? You've got it!" you tell him and he preens, mouth curled at the corner as he looks over at you through his fringe. He insists on doing the second one himself, and it's almost perfect.

"How much time do we have?" you ask. He checks the cookbook as you slide the dishes into the oven.

"50 minutes, I think. We'll keep an eye on them. It would be a bummer to burn down my own job, huh?" He starts to put the dishes you used in the sink and turns on the hot water. You move to help him, drying as he finishes scrubbing.

For just a second, you imagine doing this with Steve in a kitchen that you share. A home of your own, life together in a whole new way. Maybe for your own dinner party or just for yourselves, baking something delicious and eating it on your couch in your living room and going to your bed after. It's a nice thought.

"What're you smiling about?" he asks you, bumping your hip with his.

"Oh, nothing," you say, and he crinkles his nose at you. He won't push but you're trying to be more candid with him and though you're a little embarrassed, you tell him a version of the truth. "I just love you, is all." He blinks like he wasn't expecting it, though you've said it many times by now. Then he turns off the water and gently takes the towel you're holding to dry his own hands before he turns to face you fully.

"Well," he says, a little shy. "Maybe taste the pie first and see if that's still true." You laugh and lean into him, breathing in the smell of the apples mixed with the warmth that's all Steve.

"Love you, too," he whispers against your temple.

#steve harrington fluff #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington imagine #steve harrington x y/n #steve harrington x fem!reader #steve harrington x you #no good at waiting

[multiphandommess]

Good Morning To You

Reader wakes up next to their two girlfriends.

Mia POV

The sunlight peeked through the slit in the curtains of my girlfriends’ and my room. I opened my eyes to reveal beautiful sage skin. I nuzzled my face into her arm, so she put her arm over my chin. To my right, faded pink and blue hair was splayed out my chest, a pale arm around my waist. Harls was in the middle of me and Ives. Both of my girlfriends were still asleep; they looked peaceful like we were the only people in this world. I traced Harley’s tattoos on her thighs, arms, and chest; the tattoos that I knew by heart. She was only wearing a bra and panties, Ivy wearing similar attire. Harley and I had a special love of tattoos that we shared. Whenever either one of us has a particularly bad day, we go with the other as support for the new ink. However, that doesn’t mean that Ivy doesn’t love our tattoos either. Pam loves the tattoos on the back of my neck and behind my ears. She can often be found kissing or tracing the moth on my neck or the flowers hiding behind my ears. She just doesn’t like getting them as much, she likes to keep her skin more clear. Harley, however, prefers the sword and snake between my breasts and the roses on the side of my ribs. I love the diamonds that lay all over her skin. The large repeating shapes have always appealed to me, though I don’t know why. Ivy doesn’t have any big tattoos besides a singular rose on her left ankle. That one is courtesy of Pamela Isly while she was still in college, though it’s typically hidden by socks or pants. I turn to look back and my girlfriends’ faces to find stunning emerald eyes staring back at me. She offers me a sleepy smile and a yawn. I must look like a goof smiling at my girl yawning, but love makes you do strange things I suppose. Ivy and I whisper for a few minutes before I decide to get up. I carefully roll over and gently put my feet on the cold floor; it feels like a slightly cruel, wake-up call. Ivy watches as I stand up, I’m in an oversized ‘Silence Of The Lambs’ shirt that rises as I turn and stretch. I wink at Pam, who’s still staring, and walk into the kitchen to put on a pot of coffee for me and Harley and the kettle for Ivy, she prefers tea to coffee sometimes so whoever wakes up always puts it on for her. As the coffee is done and the water is hot, I pour myself a cup and sit in a chair that looks out the window with a book. I moved in with Harley and Ivy, who still lived in what was once Ivy’s apartment, so there were lots of windows, and one day, I just dragged the chair over so I could look at the city and read. They sat there sometimes as well, but this was my spot. On my days off, I will often just sit here the whole day. Though, I do sometimes move to the couch to watch movies. As a neurodivergent introvert, it was important to all of us that I have my own space to call my own. Harley sometimes sits on my lap and Ivy even once, but they always ask before doing so. Despite what they do for work, they are some of the kindest and most respectful people. We were a little concerned at the beginning of our relationship about how others would react. None of us had been in a poly relationship before and we were just a little anxious, but now, 10 months in, most of that anxiety is gone. My girls joined me in the living room soon after. Harley had added fuzzy socks to her outfit to fight off the chilly weather. Outside, you could see the changing colors of the leaves. Fall is the season that all 3 of us love the most. We love Halloween and horror movies, cold weather and warm snuggles, hot drinks and cold cheeks. What’s not to love? Harley put on one of her few calm music playlists for some background noise as Ivy sat on the couch and Harley plopped onto her lap. Harls was also the first to break the silence. 

“So, are you gonna sit over there, all alone and cold? Or are you gonna come over here and get cuddled while we watch that Halloween baking show you love?” She asked, smiling. I smiled back.

“I think I’ll join you cuties,” I joked slightly, getting up and sitting on the couch next to Ives, allowing Harley to drape her legs over my lap and Ivy to put her hand on my exposed thigh under the blanket we were all sharing. The blanket was yellow, orange, and red and reminded me of the leaves falling outside our window. Gotham didn’t have too many trees that still looked good, but any fall leaves are better than none I suppose. Bud and Lou, those lazy boys, were still lying in their beds in our room and my cats were lying in their tree and on one of their various shelves around our living room. The boys were a bit confused when I brought my girls, Starling and Salem, to live with us and while they were well-behaved, they had made the hyena uncomfortable for a little bit. But now, they are like good friends, and often, you can find them lying together on our bed. The room was captured in a comfortable silence, the only thing making a sound was the TV and Starling, who had jumped up on my lap, purring. As we watched our show, Bud and Lou had trotted out to greet us and lay next to our feet on the ground. This morning had been calm and serene. Not every morning is, and I don’t know where our lives are going to take us, but I do know that there’s no one else I would rather be with. In chaos and in health, good morning to you.

#harley quinn x reader #poison ivy x harley x reader #poison ivy x reader #poison ivy x harley quinn

[cahrlotah]

𝙊𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨

𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘐: 𝘏𝘢𝘸𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬

Pairing: Carver!reader x Eddie Munson

Word count: 2.3K

“A change, that’s what you need right now. You will see, maybe going back to your hometown is all you need, to be with your family” those are the words my friends had told me before moving from a different continent, after what had happened a few weeks back. Moving back to my hometown has already made me come at peace on what happened, I started eating again, smiling, I was kind of going back to my old self. Even though getting used to the American lifestyle is kinda hard, spending all the school months away in Europe and my summers travelling through the continent with family or friends, only coming back during some holidays, not giving me enough time to get used to it again. 

So here I am, getting ready for my first day living “the American high school experience”. As don’t really want to stand out, because as I’ve been told, arriving on your first day of senior year next to the basket ball team captain by your side ( even thought he is my brother ) is going to make me the centre of attention at least of a few days. My outfit consists of a white short sleeved turtle neck top, some light washed mom jeans and white rebook sneakers, and to top it all my backpack with badges on it form all my old school field trips. As for my hair I quickly brush it and part it in the middle and for make up some light foundation, powder and mascara. 

The wooden stairs creak beneath my feet as I make my way to the kitchen, the smell of pancakes and coffee fills my nostrils. 

“Good morning everyone!” I say giving my mom a kiss on the cheek.

“Good morning darling. Ready for your first day of school?” She asks putting a plate of pancakes and salad fruit in front of me.

“Yeah I guess”.  We start eating, and after some minutes the sound of heavy steps announces us that Jason is coming. When he sits next to our dad they start to ramble about the new basketball season until it’s time to go. 

“Come on, let’s the the baby to daycare” Jason says with a smirk on his face.

“Hey dumbass! I’m only three minutes younger than you” I yell and his smirk disappears as a small piece of apple hits his head. We all brust into laughters, well all except Jason. Both of my parents kiss us good bye and wish us a happy first day of school. He opens the passenger seat for me.

“M’lady” he says moving his arm in a dramatic way, just like in the movies. We just laugh. The drive to school is short and quiet, with the exception of the radio playing softly this year’s hits. 

As soon as he parks his car, I can feel the eyes of most students glued on me. A feeling of anxiousness starts to take over my body, my hands shaking on the feeling of everyone staring at me. Jason catches a glimpse of that, he puts his arm around my shoulders and assures me that everything is going to be alright, that lowers my anxiety a little bit. We walk towards the main entrance, where eyes follow every step we take, and where his friends are waiting for us. I can recognise most of them because we used to go the same middle school. They all look shocked when they see me.

“No fucking way!” Exclaims Andy. The ones who recognise me join for a group hug. After that he quickly introduces me to the other team mates. The bell rings and a commotion of people forms in the hallways. Freshmen looking lost and not knowing where to go while the others just reunite with their friends. 

“Guys I’m going to take her to do all the paper work, I’ll see you later” and in a matter of seconds Jason and I are the only ones left. He guides me through the halls, heading towards, to where I suppose is the secretary. He knocks three times, a woman’s voices indicates us that we can come in. She is a middle aged woman, her hair perfectly brushed and some neutral coloured clothing. 

“You must be (Y/N) Carver, right?” She asks in a high pitched voice. I nod and she hands me all the information I need, which includes my timetable. “I hope you have a nice first day here at Hawkins high”. 

As we are heading out, Jason inspects my timetable.

“French, really?!” He says trying to hold in his laugh.

“That was the only language option you guys have in this shit hole, so you better not laugh” I protest, punching him softly.

“Hey! That’s my good arm!” He says dramatically. We both laugh as he guides me to my classroom. “Okay, your next class is that one” he points to a red door with the number 103 written on it. “And then P.E class so just follow your classmates and don’t worry, I will talk to the gym teacher about your clothes, Good luck!” He kisses my cheek and rushes to his class, but not before flashing a smile towards me. I wave at him while I mentally prepare to knock on the door. A knot tightens on my chest, making it a little difficult to breath but eventually, after some breath work and self- encouragement I manage to knock three times. A young woman opens the door, her eyes light of excitement when she sees me. “Oh you must be (Y/N) Carver?”I nod a little embarrassed. “Jason’s sister, she is going to spend her senior year with us.” She shows me where I can sit, at the end of the class, next to the window, there is an empty desk. After I have sit down, she proceeds to continue with her class, even thought the stares of some students are still on me. 

When the bell rings, I quickly pack everything in my backpack and head out down the corridor. It’s packed with people, making it almost impossible to walk, eventually, I make it to, what it seems, a lab. The room is white and luminous. I look around, only to meet with Andy. He gestures me go to where is,I do so. 

“How was your first class?” He asks.

“Not bad, it’s just weird how everyone seems surprised at my presence” I chuckle. 

“Yeah, he is “the big thing” around here” he add and we both giggle. An old man enters the room and all the conversations that were happening slowly die down in his presence. The man makes the typical first day of class introduction. The class passes rather slowly. 

The sun is shinning through the glass placed at the top of the building. All my class is wearing the green, white and orange shorts and a white t-shirt with the school’s logo on it. I sit at the bleachers, as I forgot to bring my uniform. At some points during the lesson Jason comes to check up on me, to see if I’m doing okay, he is kinda overprotective over me. I tell him that I’m bored as the only thing I can do for one hours straight is to sit here and watch.

“Don’t worry hermanita just ten more minutes” he says at the same time he messes with my hair. “I will take a quick shower so you don’t have to wait ,okay?” I nod, he goes back to the rest of the group until the bell rings, announcing the end of class but more important lunch time. All the boys and girls run towards the changing rooms to be the first ones to change and go eat as soon as possible. As promised Jason is the first one to come out, alongside Jake and Andy. 

The four of us make our way to the cafeteria where a small line has already formed but Jason being Jason just skips it, making some of the younger generations of Hawkins High yell at him out of anger but shut up when they see who it is. We grab lunch, and I scan the room.

“Where should we sit?” I ask as I see that all tables are occupied by people. 

“There is a special table for the basketball Tema and cheer quad” Andy comments, his chest puffing with pride.

“So you guys don’t mix with other people outside those two groups?” I naively ask.

“Why we, the populars, would like to associate with freaks like the Hellfire club?” Jason says as if I had just said the most outrageous thing in the world. His head points to a table where a group of metal heads are sitting around discussing something important. 

“What’s wrong with them?” They seem pretty normal, the only thing extravagant about them being their choice of clothing. 

“Satanists” the dramatic tone on Jake’s tone makes me laugh. They all look at me as I have just done something bad so I compose myself . The all walk towards the table and before I can notice my eyes are again on that group of boys, one of them sticks out, he has long hair and is sat in the middle. Somehow he ends up looking towards my direction, when he catches me staring at him, he winks in my direction. I quickly move my gaze and follow my brother and his friends. In less than ten minutes the whole basketball team and cheer squad are updating each other on the the things they did this summer. 

“And you, (Y/N). What did you do this summer? Chrissy, a really nice cheerleader, asks, now all the attention is on me. 

“Well…” I start “me and my friends from my old school went to a summer cabin one of them has in Switzerland and we just spend some weeks there, as a goodbye.” I smile to myself, remembering all the good times we had in the Alps. 

“That’s really cool!” Ashely exclaims “ Most of us just went to the mall or to Jason’s pool. You are really living the dream”. This comment makes me embarrassed as I didn’t want to rub anything to anyone’s face. After some awkward moments they start to talk nonsense, when out of the sudden “I was made for lovin’ you” by KISS starts to play a few tables away from us. The music comes from the Hellfire table.

“Here we go” Jason sighs as he face palming. I turn around to see the raven haired boy playing an “air-guitar”. I start lip syncing the lyrics, when I look up I see all Jason’s friends are looking at me, some of them with a disgust look on their faces. Their stares fixated on me as if I had murdered someone just by mouthing those lyrics. 

“Are you a satanist or something?” Ashley asks with her high piercing voice. 

“Come on Ashley, you wouldn’t suggest that one of the Carver’s is a satanist right?” Jake asks rising one eyebrows. The faces of all the jocks go back to me, waiting for an answer. 

“I mean I went to school where the teachers where nuns and priests, so does that answer your question?” I say clearly annoyed. “It’s just that song is quite popular with kids in my school that’s all.”

“Hey freak!” Jason screams out of nowhere as he stands up, all the cafeteria quiets down, and the curly haired boy turns down the music to listen to what he has to say. “Turn that shit down or I’ll knock you out” after he finishes a face of disgust appears on my face. 

“Jason, stop it” I whisper pulling him back to his seat, but with a harsh movement he scapes my grip and starts to walk towards the unknown boy. I run after him.

“Come on Jason, it seemed that the lovely lady beside you was enjoying the song” he says winking at me again. My cheeks slowly turning a pink-ish colour. That’s it, that action makes Jason jump to the nameless boy throat, making them fall from a table.

“What the fuck?!” I jump right into the fight, trying to break it when all of the sudden a pair of strong arms grab my waist, pulling me out.

“That’s all big old Jason Carver can do? I always thought you were a tough guy, come on don’t prove me wrong big bo-“ he can’t even finish the sentence when Jason fist impacts against his jaw.

“Holy shit” I mumble when I see a flow of blood coming from the metal head mouth. “Let me go Andy” I try to get out of his grip but fighting against him is impossible.

“Just let them be” he says calmly. How is everyone just watching and not doing shit? I think to myself. At that very moment, I don’t know what possesses me but I kick Andy in his private area. The moment I’m free from his grip, I jump back into the fight. As I know I cannot stop Jason physically I remember what I used to do when I was younger, pull his hair. My hands are at the top of his head while I pull with all my strength, he lets out a loud whine as I step backwards, his hair still on my hands. I look at the two boys, Jason’s knuckles are bloody while the unarmed boy face is bloody. They are breathing heavily, I let my brother hair as I go back to the table to grab my bag and when I come back they are in the same positions as I left them. I help the long haired boy to get up.

“What the actual fuck is wrong with you?!” I spit at Jason. As the unknown boy and I walk towards the exit, my eyes are locked with Jason’s. If stares could kill my brother would be dead. 

this is dedicated to the best person on this app @eddiesdungeon

#eddie munson #joseph quinn #stranger things #eddie munson x reader #eddie x reader #eddie stranger things #carver!reader x Eddie munson #eddie munson smut #i am an eddie munson simp and im proud #eddie x fem!reader #eddie munson x you #eddie munson x fem!reader smut #Eddie munson x carver!reader #jason carver #eddie munson fanfic

[justanobodywriter]

Mortem

Eren x Reader x Jean

CW: kind of season 4 spoilers but nothing too specific (iykyk), gender neutral reader, angst, mentions of injuries, reader dies, little bit of cheating reader

Eren leaned over the bed. He looked at how peaceful you looked. He hadn't seen you like this in a while.

"I was beginning to think you weren't going to come," you breathed out.

Your lips turned up in a small smile as your eyes opened slowly. As the haze left, you saw him standing over you.

"I can't stay long," he spoke reaching out and caressing your cheek.

You leaned into his touch, "Any time I can get will be enough."

"Floch told me you aren't doing well."

"I'm not. I'm seriously injured."

"How bad is it?"

You lifted the thin sheet that covered your body, revealing many cuts and open wounds that were poorly stitched up. Most of your torso was a very dark blue, purple, or black color. It was very apparent that there was much that was wrong.

"Jean helped stitch me up," you explained. "I know it isn't perfect, but it's better than it was."

"Why aren't you bandaged better?" Eren questioned trying to keep his face a stoic expression.

"There isn't enough supplies here," you spoke laying the sheet back down. "They weren't ready to treat the wounded. The closest medics to here are against us all."

Eren nodded his head in understanding.

"I know you have to go, so don't worry yourself with me," you waved him off. "I'll be ok."

"This wasn't supposed to happen," Eren admitted.

"No plan is perfect."

"This one was."

"You're right, it was. This was all meant to happen. We have to accept it now."

"Do you still love me?"

"Of course I do, Eren," you let out a choked cough after you spoke.

"Do you still think this is the right thing to do?"

"Do you?"

"Yes."

"That's all that matters. I don't know what to think anymore."

"So you aren't still with me?"

"No, I am. I just don't know what's best anymore. Is there even anything that would be best in this world?"

"Don't say things like that."

"I'm serious, Eren. Think about it. This world has gone to shit. Can it really be saved?"

"There's only one way to find out."

You turned your head to him and looked intensely into his eyes, "Then do it."

Eren nodded.

He leaned over and kissed you.

Both of you knew it would be the last time, so his lips lingered with yours for a little longer than they usually would. He was hesitant to leave. He didn't want to leave you, but he had a job to do.

Finally, he left the room.

You listened to his footsteps as they got farther and farther away.

Your door creaked open.

"Jean," you called out.

"Yeah, it's me," he answered as he shut the door behind him.

He walked over to your bedside. He took your hand in his gently.

"Did he come?" Jean asked.

"Just like we thought he would," you confirmed. "Was it enough time?"

"Only time will tell," Jean breathed out.

He brought your knuckles to his lips and kissed them gently.

You smiled as you looked up at the ceiling. Silent tears fell from your eyes.

"It's ok," Jean cooed. "You did the right thing."

"Did I?" you asked.

He hummed in response.

He pulled a chair over to your bedside. He gently took your hand in his again.

"How are you feeling?" he asked.

"Weak," you admitted.

"Can I do anything to help?" he spoke looking up at you knowingly.

"Stay," you breathed out.

You both knew. It wouldn't be too much longer, so he did as you asked. Jean stayed there until he saw your chest stop rising and falling. Even after he knew, he leaned over and cried over you.

"Your death won't be for nothing," he spoke. "I promise."

#eren x me #eren x y/n #eren x you #eren yeager x y/n #eren yeager x reader #eren yeager x you #eren jeager x y/n #eren angst #eren jeager angst #eren yeager angst #eren jeager x reader #jean x you #jean x gender neutral reader #jean x reader #jean kirstein imagine #jean kirstein fic #jean kirstein x you #jean kirstein x reader #aot spoilers #kind of jean x reader #tw death mention #reader dies