#people who for sure want things not grabbing them the balls if the opportunity arises

[dimensionwriter]

Unrequited Love

M! Minotaur x GN! Reader

Warning: Angsty, insults, depressive thoughts, enemies to lover (slightly)

Word Count: 5,173

Description: Working an office job should mean living a boring life. However, the albino Minotaur down the hall has a different plan for you. Heartbreaks and pain arises, but will he be able to heal them?

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Remember to LIKE and COMMENT, please💛

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It was so cold. The air conditioner was on full blast and didn’t seem like it was going to be turning off anytime soon. Your tiny office space has turned into the tundra of Antarctica. Guess that was one of the disadvantages of working with so many people that had fur. They had bodies that could regulate the cold air, so they didn’t feel it that much. And due to that, most tended to forget about the poor humans without any.

“Awww, look at the little human shivering.” You didn’t even have to turn around to see who that condescending voice was. Only one creature would find enjoyment in your suffering.

His name was Oliver Ito. He was an albino minotaur with the prettiest pink eyes you have ever seen. Muscles covered every inch of his body making all of his clothing stretch with every movement. His recently dyed midnight black hair was always smooth back, making his pale fur stand out even more. His horns curved forward making it appear like an arrow head.

Overall, a complete 10/10. The only thing that killed the view was when he opened his mouth.

“Oliver, shouldn’t you be working. And no, pestering someone working does not count,” you grumbled. You didn’t look at him. It was easier for you to handle him without looking at his face.

“It’s hard to focus when I can hear your tiny teeth chattering all the way in my office. Seriously, are you about to die of hypothermia?” You couldn’t help shivering more. He wasn’t helping you. You usually bring a jacket with you, but you forgot to grab it this morning. Who knew that clicking the wrong alarm could end up making this much of a mess of your day?

“Like come on,” he insisted.You could sense him walking farther into your office and sitting down in one of the chairs across from you. Your eyes flickered up and you instantly regretted it.

Oliver was wearing a brown button down with a pair of black slacks. The shirt was actually loose on him for once, but the front of his shirt was unbuttoned almost all the way to the bottom. Perfectly silky white fur slipped through the opening of the shirt, but even with fur, you could see how well defined his muscles were.

“I can’t help getting cold. I don’t have fur like you.” You tore your eyes from the holy sight in front of you and tried to get back to work. But you couldn’t fully focus when you felt his pink eyes staring you down.

“Stupid humans,” he said, with a small smile on his face. He got out of the chair and walked towards the exit. “Said you were at the top of the food chain and was the perfect evolved creature, but everything kills you with the smallest of efforts. It’s extremely pitiful.”

With his back turned, it was easy for you to allow yourself to roll your eyes. He loved to always put humans down. Like, not all of you guys thought you were at the top of the food chain, but he seemed so persisted in putting that identity on you.

“I mean where would you guys be without us.” You thought he left the room. Did he seriously come back just to heckle you some more? He is literally getting paid for standing here at the moment. Some type of manager he is.

Something heavy draped across your arms and around your body. Your hands drifted away from the computer as you looked down at what was placed on you. It was this type of thick dark brown furred coat that was too big for you. However, the thing felt like sitting next to a fireplace after walking through a snowstorm.

“There, is that better?” Oliver whispered in your ear. His giant hand grabbed the end of the jacket and wrapped it more around you. He reached again towards the fabric and pulled out a sleeve. With little resistance from you, he placed your arms into their respective sleeve.

Once the jacket was placed on your correctly, he released the fabric, but still stayed close. You took the daring opportunity to glanced up into his face.

Those pretty pink eyes. They looked so soft as the edges crinkled with his smile. “You just look so small in it. So… fragile.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at that statement. You were at the stereotypical office job with the usual work clothes, except for the jacket, but he thought you looked fragile. You might not be the strongest, but you sure can handle a lot.

“I’m not some flower that's going to wither away from some AC. I can handle a lot more than you think I can.” That smile on Oliver’s face became a lot sharper as he leaned down. You shrunk a little at seeing his massive size come down towards you. He grabbed the back of his chair and the front of the desk to cage you in.

“I wonder how much you can handle then, petals,” he mumbled leaning even closer to you. All the coldness from earlier escaped from you as you could his pink eyes glowing. A light rose color seeped through the skin on his cheeks.

“Oi, Oliver. Boss wanna see ya.” Your body instantly shifted back forward and hunched over the computer. You didn’t want whoever was at the door to see your flustered face. You know you probably looked like some dumb lovestruck fools.

“You could have waited at my office, Berns,” Oliver growled out. He walked out of your office with his fist balled up. You leaned around the computer a little to see the door. There was a pure black bull outside with a huge smirk on his face.

Oliver greeted him with a half-hearted punch to the face. All Berns did was laugh at the attack. He easily wrapped an arm around Oliver and started a conversation about the boss wanting some type of layout for a project.

As the two were leaving, Oliver took one glance back at you. Those pink eyes seem to be still glowing brightly . “Hey, human. Make sure you give my jacket back by the end of the day.” Then he left.

This was his jacket? You don’t know why you were shocked by that realization. All clues pointed to it: being absolutely giant, small white furs scattered around on the sleeves, etc. Guess your brain couldn’t process that information when he was being so gentle to you.

Butterflies were running rampant in your body as you recalled his big hands being lightly pulling the fabric around you. The smell of cinnamon wafting from his clothes with his usual cologne mixed in. The way the ceiling light was pierced by his horns making it seem like he was glowing.

You dropped your head on the desk as you let out a silent scream. You told yourself not to fall and here you are, going a thousands miles per hour towards the ground. You only have yourself to blame when he ends up breaking your heart. Because you’re sure he will.

The entire day, you stayed wrapped up in Oliver’s jacket. You know you should have taken it off when you warmed back up, but you couldn’t help it. It smelled so much like him and even had a similar texture to his fur. It was literally stupid of you to think like this. But it felt like being wrapped in Oliver’s loving embrace.

You grabbed your bag and turned the lights off in your office. The jacket was still wrapped around you. Most of the fabric had to be held in your arm to stop it from dragging. This is a reminder of how big Oliver is. He’s usually bending down to criticize you for something, so you got used to seeing him at eye level. Not that you could complain about the height.

“Human! There you are.” Oliver pushed himself off the wall and walked over towards you. His black hair was slicked back earlier was now messily laying against his forehead. Guess someone had a bad day.

“Why did you make me wait so long? Weren’t you supposed to get off like half an hour ago?” he complained. He slid up next to you and started walking next to you towards the elevator.

“It’s called overtime. Sometimes you can’t finish work in a certain amount of time and have to work a little after.” Sarcasm was dripping in each sentence. Oliver let out a small snicker at your tone.

“Yeah, well, you could’ve warned me about it. My office is down the hall from you. I know you're dying to get a glimpse at this beautiful face,” he teased. You ignored the last comment and pressed the down button on the elevator.

“You are acting oddly friendly. It’s scaring me, to be honest,” you admitted, keeping your face towards the elevator doors. He has said over five sentences to you and by now, he would have thrown in some insults.

His grip on his briefcase tightened as he stood up straighter. In the reflectiveness of the doors, you could see the frown coming onto his face. The small blush was returning to his face as his pink eyes stared at the side of your head.

A ping alerted you of the elevator arriving. The two doors slid open and you walked forward into them. Oliver trailed behind you and took the left side of the elevator. You pressed the garage button, causing the doors to close.

“Human. I allowed you to wear my quite expensive jacket all day. Therefore, you are indebted to me,” he spoke slowly. Excuse him? So that’s the only reason he gave you this jacket was to get something in return. Why did you expect him to do something for you out of the kindness of his heart?

“My friends are going out tomorrow night for ice skating and we need to bring a date,” his pink eyes stared into yours as he hinted at something, “And since you’re nothing more than a human, I know you got nothing to do. Plus I’m way out of your league, so they won’t think I’m into some low life human. I would ask some other human, but you’re the only one who knows that I would never be into you in no shape or form. It’s less drama to deal with.”

You felt like you were going to puke. Your stomach had dropped so much that you had broken out in cold sweat. You knew you most likely didn’t have a chance with Oliver. You told yourself that having a crush on him would only lead in heartbreak. And so far, it led you here.

“K,” you whispered. You put your bag down and shimmed out of the coat. You didn’t want it on you anymore. It felt like it was burning your skin the longer you had it on.

You couldn’t look into Oliver’s eyes as you handed him back the jacket. His large white hand wrapped around the fur gently. He seems to be hesitant in his movement. Well, it’s not like it’s something you should be concerned about with your ‘low life’ status. No, that’ something people in his league should worry about.

“O-oh. Are you done with it?” You just simply nodded at him. You didn’t trust yourself to open your mouth. It was hard to hold back your tears. Just a few more levels and you’ll be in the safety of your car.

“Is your number the same from that project we worked on a few months back.” A simple nod.

A light tapping sound filled the elevator. You glanced to the right to see Oliver’s black claws tapping at the handle of the briefcase. He shifted from his left leg to the right one. You could feel his stare at the side of your head.

“Yeah, that was a… um… wild project. I really didn’t like the client. What about you?” You hated the client too, but you just gave a simple shrug. It’s not like he even cares about what you would think.

Another light ping and the doors open up. The garage was quite dark, except for the few dim lights scattered around. Even the scary darkness seemed more welcoming than being in this elevator with a man who doesn’t even like you.

“Hey, human?” You reached down and grabbed your back. You avoided Oliver as you exited the elevator. “Um? Human!”

You sped walked away from the elevator towards your car. Tears were already starting to fall down your face and you really didn’t have the energy to deal with Oliver making fun of you for it. For getting your stupid hopes up.

“Make sure to text me your address so I can pick you up!” A half-hearted thumbs up was all you could manage as you disappeared behind some cars. You used the coverage to your advantage and started running towards your car.

You barely slid into the seat before tears began rushing down your face. You’re so stupid. Of course he thought that way of you. He was a albino minotaur. He’s at the top. Then there’s you. Some boring normal human. Why did you think you had a chance with him?

Work the next day was horrible. Your face was completely puffy from crying yourself to sleep and your eyes didn’t want to be un-red. For a split second, you considered wearing glasses inside and pulling off a cool office worker look, but you barely had enough energy to pull yourself out of bed.

Soon as you entered the office, you ducked your head and quickly made your way to your office. Apparently, you weren’t fast enough to avoid Oliver. He was leaning next to your office with a smug smile on his face.

His black hair was slick back with two strands coming down in his face. His fur seemed a little poofier today, telling you that he most likely blow dried it. A pink button up with some black slacks was his outfit for today. A twinkle in his ear made your eyes peek up to see a silver ring had been put through his ear.

“Morning, human,” he chirped, pushing himself off the wall. You hesitantly walked over and stopped a few steps away from him. Did you have to reach far to unlock the door? Yes. It was much better than standing right next to him to do it.

“The AC is blasting again this morning. I can bring you my jacket if you need it.” You open the door and hurriedly scurried in. You put your bag next to your desk and placed the jacket you were sure to bring this morning on the desk. All you did for a response to him was pat it.

“O-oh. Brought your own. Glad your tiny human brain could remember.” The fight in you was gone and to be honest, you really wanted him to leave. It was usual for you two to quip at each other and to throw insults. Just not today.

Maybe that’s why you’re so heartbroken. Even though he would insult you and belittle you, you thought you weren’t being affected by it since you got a chance to see his gorgeous face every time. Guess all the comments towards you were sticking to your brain while remaining hidden. And when he finally came out and said he would never be interested in someone like you, a ‘lowlife human’, all the damage hit you at once.

“Hey human?” You blinked and realized you were staring at your jacket. You could feel the tears sitting at the edge of your waterline, ready to fall down. “Did-did I say anything… Did I go too far?”

You looked him in the face for the first time that morning. His ears were drooped down and folded into themselves. His pink eyes looked so sad as they stared down at you. Their usual glow was completely gone.

But you weren’t going to fall for it. If you tell him that you’re sad because your feelings aren't reciprocated and you hated that you were viewed as nothing more than a ‘low life human’ in the eyes of a man that you almost fell in love with. That was the perfect setup for him to laugh at you and your petty human emotions.

“No. Anyway, I have to go to the media room to get something sorted,” You quickly stated, avoiding looking in his direction. You grabbed your jacket off the table and quickly made your way towards the exit.

A firm wall of pink fabric and white fur blocked your way. His arms were splayed out making it impossible for you to exit. “Wait, wait. I- I was wondering… are you still coming tonight? You didn’t text me your address last night. You- you made me wait again.”

Were you strong enough to go to that get together, just to be made even more fun of by Oliver? NO.

“Sure, text you later. Do you mind moving?” He took a step to the left and tentatively dropped his hands. The tips of his claws started tapping against each other as a small bounce began in his right leg.

“Yeah, tonight should be fun. Show you how minotaurs have fun,” he joked, throwing some finger guns. You gave a tight lip smile as you slipped through the door. You didn’t look back as you made you far away from Oliver.

The rest of the day consisted of you hiding in your office with the door locked. For lunch, you just turned off the lights and laid your head down. Tears weren’t even coming to you anymore.

Just this numb hollow feeling.

“Hey, human,” a voice from outside brought you back to the present. It was around 10 minutes until you should get off. Work really does fly by in a breeze when you are being drowned in negative thoughts. At least one plus side to it. “I get off in about 15 minutes and wanted to know if you- well if you’re up for it- to ride the elevator down together.”

There’s that nauseating feeling again. Getting on an elevator with him again is a hard no. That gives him a minute to tell you how much he is out of your league at the waiting area. 45 seconds for him to remind you that minotaurs rarely see humans as attractive due to their weird hairless body. Then a 15 second window to rub even more salt in the wound by telling you that he’s talking to some beautiful minotaur model.

“I’ll see. Overtime and stuff,” you lied. From the looks on your computer, you won’t need to stay late today. He doesn’t need to know that.

“Okay, I’ll wa-wait. Bye, human,” he whispered into the door. His hooves against the wooden floor alerted you where he was going. After a few seconds, the sound stopped echoing through the halls, showing that he had made it back to his office.

The world really just wanted to see you in pain, didn’t it. If only there was a way you could just avoid him. A way to just not go on the elevator with him and to not go to this stupid get together. Maybe stay home and watch some movies. Just wrap yourself in a thick weighted blanket and watch some tv shows. Get your favorite take out to not even worry about cooking. That would be so much better.

Your hands froze on the realization dawned on you. What’s stopping you? If you’re thinking about it, there are no serious consequences to just leaving early and staying home. Maybe get someone else to go in your place for the get together, since Oliver doesn’t exactly care about you being there. As long as it’s someone he deems underneath him and won’t think it’s him flirting with them. He won’t get upset by you not showing up and you can go home to go through the 5 stages of grief in peace.

For the first time all day, you felt a sense of happiness of looking forward to something. The document you were working on was quickly saved, followed by the computer being shut down. You silently moved around your office to put away things and put your bags together. You snatched your bag off the floor and made your way out.

The hallways were completely silent except for the hum from the fluorescent light. The beige walls did little to add life to the space. The hardwood floors were too shiny in your opinion at the moment. This seems like the beginning to a movie, hopefully one you won’t be a part of.

Life was trying to make you the star in this failed romance story. Your crush rips you apart and tries to add salt in the wound by constantly being around you. But you weren’t about to allow that to happen. This was your chance to try to fix your wounds.

The elevator quickly came up with no one inside of it. You happily slid in and pressed the garage button. While the elevator descended, you pulled your phone out to clock out of it. It was nice that you didn’t have to go to a room to clock out anymore. This app just uses your location to check where you are and uses the time to document all of it. It would have been too much of a risk going to a room where Oliver could have been or saw you in, when you’re supposedly doing overtime.

Swiping out of the app, you pressed your contact list. One glance over it was all it took for you to find the perfect person to look for. “Hey, Grace. Are you busy tonight?”

Soft orange lights flickered around the room as scents of warm lavender spread. Soft voices came out of the tv that had been lowered as soon as you arrived home. The white weighted blanket was wrapped around you, making you feel like you were in a loved one’s embrace. The environment created was exactly what you need right now.

Soon as you texted Oliver that you would just meet him at the arena and gave Grace the address, you turned your phone and silent and left it in the room. Your brain has been overwhelmed and filled with dark thoughts all day. You needed this alone time.

Thump Thump Thump

Who in the world was at your door? It couldn’t be a delivery or anything; everything that you had ordered arrived long ago. Maybe it was someone at the wrong house?

The floor was cool to your bare feet and sent a chill up your spin. Being under the blanket for so long near all the candles made you forget how cold it was in your home. Just gotta take quick steps to the door, tell them they got the wrong place, quick steps back to the couch, and then I can get back to relaxing.

Twisting the silver knob, you pulled the door back to reveal the person on the other side. Well, what should have been a person. It was a wall of white fur surrounded by a black button up. The creature’s face couldn’t be seen due to its height. From what you could see, it was a thick creature that had really familiar white fur. A familiar white hand clutching a pair of white roses and another holding a white teddy bear.

Oh, please no.

You reached for the knob again where you tempted to shut the door, but the right hand holding the teddy bear blocked it. Even if you pushed with all your strength, the door was not moving an inch. This was not happening.

“Human,” he growled out. You backed away at that angry tone. The creature at the door ducked down allowing you to see their pink eyes burning with fury. They looked like some sort of beast ready to attack you.

“Oliver, what are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be at the ice skating rink with Grace?” You attempted to deflect the anger. However, it seems to have the opposite effect. His fluffy white ears pressed down flat against his ruffled black hair. The corners of his pink nose scrunched up causing his lips to pierce back into a snarl that revealed a pair of fangs.

“I don’t recall asking Grace out. Do you?” he growled, stomping his way towards you. You scurried back in a futile attempt to get away from him. Your escape was stopped by the armrest of the couch. Oliver was quick to come forward and cage you into it. “Because if memory serves me right, I was supposed to walk you to your car. But guess my surprise face when I see your lights turned off and you’re gone. Then I get a text from you saying you’ll meet me at the arena. Surprise, Surprise. It’s not you, it’s Grace from accounting!”

Your hands found purchase on the arm rest as you tried to use it as some sort of leverage. You assumed this wasn’t supposed to have any consequence. Why did it backfire worse than your mind could think of?

“Well, it’s not like you even cared if I was the one there. I’m just nothing more than a low life human,” you grumbled. You stared at your bare feet as you tried to control your emotions. Why was he the one who was acting angry? You’re the one who got asked out by your crush then in the same breath rejected.

“What? No, no!” he yelled, taking a step back. His right hand reached up into his hair and pulled at the black strands. “I didn’t mean it. You pointed out that I was acting weird and- and I panicked.”

All the anger within him seemed to dissipate. His legs folded underneath him and he sat down on the ground. His pale pink lips turned down with dejection as he stared blankly at the teddy bear and flowers.

“This isn’t how it was supposed to be. I was supposed to come to your house to pick you up, looking all fancy and crap. Give you these gifts and tease you about loving them because they remind you of me. Maybe have a little banter like always and drive you there. But somewhere along the way, the banter becomes more light hearted and we actually get close. We arrive and I introduce you to my friends and we get out shoes. And because you’re your that cute little dumb human, I would have to help you put your shoes on. And it was like that cute movie moment before we headed out of the ice. You slip and I catch you. Then I whisper something teasing in your ear before holding your hand to make sure you don’t hurt that fragile human body. It was supposed to be so cheesily romantic that you would have no choice but to fall in love with me. Afterwards, when I drive you home, and I ask to do it again because you’ve probably never had fun like that and then you say yes. You’ll lean over and- and give me a ki-ki-kiss and go back to your home. That’s how we start dating. That was how tonight was supposed to go.”

Your brain felt like, to put it in the best way, mash potatoes. What was all of that? He just came out of left field with that and you didn’t know how to respond. Was it a confession? Was it him telling you how he expected you to stroke his ego? A slow burn fic?

“I didn’t mean to say all those things in the elevator. I just thought you saw through my mask and realized I liked you, so I said that stupid crap to make it seem like I haven’t been crushing on for 3 years. And it just- it just all fell apart there. I promise you, I didn’t mean.” He slowly lifted his eyes. Those soft pink eyes held nothing but sincerity.

You reached behind you and grabbed a pillow. With all the strength you could muster, you threw it that dumb stupid gorgeous face.

“Oof,” he squeaked out. The pillow landed square in his face before dropping in his lap. Confusion was written all over his face from your actions.

“You are the stupidest, dumbest, and most arrogant bull I have ever meant. You liked me for so long, but you made me think my feelings were unrequited!” you yelled glaring at him. More confusion settled onto his face before realization hitted him.

“Hey, it’s not my fault you’re so cute that my brain short circuited,” he playful yelled back, before throwing the pillow back. You weren't expecting the force behind it. Your body was pushed backwards onto the arm chair, causing you to lose your balance and fall backwards.

“Human!” The sounds of his hooves hitting the ground got closer to you before his giant form was hovering over you. His eyes glanced over you for any signs that you were hurt. “Are you okay?”

“Can you just kiss me already you big dumb tsundere?” Heat flooded your skin at how blunt you were, but you’ve waited long enough for this Oliver to do something. Seeing how your relationship was about to go with him in control, maybe it’s time you took control.

“Wait- are you- do you mean?” he stuttered over himself as that pink blush was obvious under that ghostly white skin. It disappeared into the thick white fur on his face. His hands were fidgeting in the air as he struggled on what to do. You lifted yourself up a little and grabbed the front of his black button up. You dropped back down and brought Oliver down with you.

“Where’s that arrogance at Oliver? You going to let your little human do everything?” You teased into his ear. They flickered at the feeling of your warm breath hitting them. But what you said seems to do the trick.

“My little human, hmm. I think I can get use to the sound of that?” he grumbled with that signature smirk. Finally, he leaned down enough to connect your lips. The soft skin of his lips gently pressed against yours as if testing the water. You were quick to reciprocate by pulling him even closer.

“Well, someone can’t seem to get enough of me,” he teases. Small light pecks were placed along your face causing you to giggle. A low hum escaped out of Oliver as he placed his arms around you to pull you even closer into him. “But don’t worry. I can’t seem to get enough of you.”

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I’m so sorry that this isn’t a Shark part 2. I promise I’m working on it. I just need to get something out for this week and this story was more developed in my head. I’ll try to get it out soon. 

Anyway, if you guys wouldn’t mind commenting. I love reading them and it helps motivate me. Thank you so much for reading this story and I hope you’ll have a fantastic rest of your day. 

#exophilia #monster #monster love #monster lover #tetro #tetrophilia #monster x human #human x monster #minotaur x reader #Minotaur #monster boy oc #monster boy #monster boyfriend #interspecies relationships #interspecies romance #reader insert #cryptid #minotaur boy #minotaur boyfriend #dnd #dimensionwriter #unrequieted love #tw warning #Monster Crush #crush x reader

[rika90]

Die Reise des Raben Chapter 3

Kaz Brekker x female reader

warnings: As always. violence, death, swearing

word count: 5k

A/N: Next chapter! Hope you enjoy it!! Please tell me what you think.

She hadn't meant to really consider Kaz's offer. It would only cause trouble if she joined the Dregs. Kaz was damn smart, and it would only be a matter of time before he put two and two together. Then questions would arise. Questions she was not ready to answer. Not yet. Or maybe never. But it had been a good excuse to leave him and the wraith mostly unharmed.

After three days she had to admit to herself that she should actually consider his offer. Dime Lions lurked outside the waffle shop she worked at all the time. The barrel suddenly seemed to be swarmed with them. Kaz had been right, Pekka Rollins was looking for her. What he would do with her once he found her, Keira couldn’t even imagine. But it most certainly wasn't good.

Maybe it was time to finally give up the black coat and mask once and for all. Wasn't that exactly what she had been trying for years? If she lived with the Dregs, she wouldn't need the jobs to survive. She would have a home, she would no longer be alone, she could escape the darkness of the wakizashi. It was the perfect opportunity to get rid of them. These were things she had never allowed herself to dream of. And now Kaz of all people offered her all these things on a silver platter.

'This will be a new start. I can once again decide for myself who I want to be.'

Just this last job tonight and from then on she would only be Keira.

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On the way to the Slat, Kaz' thoughts wandered from meeting Anne, if that even was her real name, to the upcoming robbery. The next evening, he and his crows would steal a valuable necklace from a wealthy merchant. There was a ball - the perfect distraction. The plan was already laid out. Just like the Back Up Plan, and the Back Up Plan for the Back Up Plan.

"Can you still do the job at Drungs?" Kaz asked, already going through possible alternatives in his head.

"Yes. It's just a scratch, her aim was off," Inej replied.

Kaz raised an eyebrow. "How did she even notice you?"

Inej looked to the side and her lips pressed together into a thin line. "No idea. I must have moved when I thought she wasn't looking. I didn't expect her to be so attentive of her surroundings."

"That is probably one of the reasons why she survived alone in the barrel for so long. People underestimate her," Kaz speculated.

When Kaz and Inej entered the Slat, Rotty joined them.

"What's going on, Rotty?" Kaz asked as he climbed the stairs to his room. Inej disappeared in the direction of her room to take care of her wound.

"I heard that Rabe has a job at Drungs' house tonight."

Kaz stopped and looked at Rotty with raised eyebrows. "Rabe? They haven't been active for a long time."

"Just because one hasn't heard about it doesn't mean they weren't active, boss. Seldomly someone is stupid enough to speak about an assignment."

"That's true, but they are not exactly subtle. In Ketterdam a slit corpse is just as clear as if they left a business card there" Kaz said and continued on to his office. "Has anyone else found out about their task besides you?"

"I can't say for sure."

Kaz thought about it. Rabe wouldn't be there for the necklace but to take someone down. Once the body was found, there would be a big commotion and the house would be swarming with the statdwatch in no time.

"Damn it," Kaz muttered. "We have to strike earlier than planned to be through with the robbery before Rabe does their job. Tell Jesper and Inej to come to my office."

"Right away, boss," Rotty replied and hurried down the stairs.

'Damn Rabe,' Kaz thought. 'Today of all days you have to celebrate your comeback.'

Kaz was annoyed that he had to adjust his plans at such short notice, but he was also eager to see if he would meet Rabe again tonight.

Last time she had saved his life – and that already for a second time.

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Flashback

2 years prior

Kaz ran over the roof of the bank. How had this plan gone so catastrophically wrong? Who had betrayed their plan and set the whole damn statdwatch on them?! Kaz came to a gasping halt at the edge of the roof. Dead-end. Crap! What should he do now? He looked around and saw two men of the guard approaching. Any second, they would be close enough to shoot him. So, he made up his mind - and jumped.

The impact was painful. Kaz groaned when there was a crack, and he felt a searing pain in his right leg. He rolled over to be as close to the wall and out of the line of fire as possible.

Kaz knew that the jump had only given him a head start of a few minutes. Maybe less. At any moment, this side of the bank would be searched by guards as well. He tried to pull himself up, but as he put weight on the injured leg, he felt sick with pain. Black dots danced in front of his eyes. He had to close them briefly and slumped back to the floor. He was sitting against the wall, breathing hard, when he heard the guards calling over him.

"Hey, over here, here-," but the man suddenly fell silent. Kaz flinched as the two guards hit the ground. Both with their throats slit.

Kaz breathed a sigh of relief. One of the other dregs must have got there in time. But who? They had all fled in different directions to force the guards to split up. He saw a rope fall from the roof and a figure completely clad in black let themself down on it. What the hell? He would recognize this figure everywhere. It was Rabe.

When she got down, she first looked around carefully to make sure they were alone and then quickly walked towards him. As she got closer, he could see black patterns on her hands that went up to her arms and disappeared under her coat. 'Tattoos?' Kaz wondered.

"We have to get out of here as soon as possible. Can you walk?" she asked. Just like back then at the dock, her voice was only a low whisper. 'She whispers so I can't recognize her voice,' Kaz thought.

"Yes, everything is splendid. I just enjoy the peace and quiet here. Shit no, my leg is broken, and I can't put any weight on it without throwing up," Kaz replied irritated. Why did Rabe have to find him in such an embarrassing situation. He owed her enough already.

"Wow, very graphic. Well, then I'll support you until we're far enough away and maybe splint your leg," she replied calmly. She knew Kaz must be in pain and probably a little ... tense from the escape.

Kaz' pale face took on a slightly greenish tone, as if he were about to throw up. He leaned away from her as much as possible. His whole posture showed his dislike for her idea.

"Listen, if you don't want my help, just say so," she hissed and was about to turn around.

"No, wait!" Kaz yelled and held out his hand in her direction. She was his only chance to get out of here. He had to explain it somehow.

"It's not because I don't want your help. I'm not thrilled to owe you any more than I already do, but that doesn't matter right now. It's ... I can't ..." Kaz let out an angry breath. He hated it when he didn't know what to say. "I can't lean on you without me circling back to the whole throwing up thing again. But it has nothing to do with you. It's a… problem of mine,"

Kaz managed to get out through clenched teeth. Kaz hated nothing more than having to admit his weakness, but he knew she wouldn't let him get away without an explanation.

Rabe looked at him carefully, then her eyes flickered to his gloves and Kaz knew that she at least had a clue what his problem was.

"Hm, okay," she said finally, turning her back on him. For a moment, Kaz felt panic rising. She would leave him here. Well, what could she really do if he refused to be touched? He would understand if she wouldn't trouble herself anymore with an annoyance like him.

"Okay, I have a plan," she turned back to Kaz. "You won't like it," she said, and he could literally hear the grin in her whisper. "We- what's wrong? I haven't said anything yet," Rabe asked when she saw Kaz's incredulous look before he could wipe it off his face.

"Why are you helping me?" Kaz had to ask her. It just didn't make sense to him why she was helping him - again.

"Can we discuss this after we get out of here? It's a miracle nobody has found us yet,” she urged while taking off her long coat. Another coat, shorter and thinner, emerged from below. Even autumn in Ketterdam could be damn cold. The coat also covered her two wakizashi well. She spread the coat on the floor in front of Kaz.

"Hop on," she said and could not help but laugh.

Now Kaz was giving her an openly disbelieving look. "What?!"

"You sit on it and I'll drag you. It'll probably give your leg a good shake, but I can't think of anything better," Rabe explained. "So?"

Kaz looked from the coat to Rabe and back again. What else could he do? So, he heaved himself onto the coat with as much dignity as he had left.

Rabe grabbed the hem of the coat and began to pull Kaz through the streets of Ketterdam. She had to stoop and walk backwards, which prevented her from moving very quickly.

'The most important thing is that we get away from here,' Keira thought. There was a low moan from Kaz. The rough roads made this type of travel uncomfortable for him and his broken leg.

"Do you have a meeting place where I can drop you off? Maybe one of the other dregs can get a healer. I'm not sure if we can make it to the Slat unobserved," Kaz heard Rabe whispering behind him. He was sitting with his back to her. They were close, but Rabe seemed careful not to touch him.

"The meeting point is the small fountain in the south park," Kaz' voice was pressed.

"All right, that's not that far," Rabe tried to see something good from the situation, because her back was slowly hurting from the unfamiliar posture. And Kaz had gained muscles since her last rescue operation, which did not make things any easier. 'But it makes him even more attractive,' Keira thought to herself.

Kaz snorted. "You can also leave me at the entrance of the park, one of the others will find me."

"No, the meeting point is the meeting point. I can drag your lazy ass there. In addition, the entrance is too close to one of the main streets."

"Which brings me to my earlier question. Why are you helping me? Again,” Kaz asked.

He could hear Rabe sighing behind him. But Kaz did not give in.

"You haven't collected my debt in the past two years, so I'm assuming you aren't doing this, so I owe you something. But that would be the only logical explanation. Favours and blackmail material are worth more in the barrel than Kruge."

"And it couldn't be because I'm just an innocent and kind-hearted person. Or your guardian angel?" Rabe deadpanned.

That made Kaz laugh. "I've never heard of a kind-hearted assassin. And nobody in the barrel is innocent."

"No, probably not. Why is it so important to you? I promise I won't expect any favours in return. So, don't worry." Slowly, Rabe's throat ached from the constant whispering. But she did not want to risk him recognizing her voice that at a later point.

"I hate unsolved puzzles," the words broke out of him, "And you've been one I can't solve for two years now. Everyone in the barrel knows you. Is afraid of you and your swords. You wiped out a whole gang. Kill without anyone seeing you, seem to move unnoticed in the barrel – by the way, how do you do that? – and nobody knows who you really are." At this point in his tirade, Kaz was a little out of breath. "They all portray you as a monster, a raven with razor-sharp wings. And here you are, dragging me through Ketterdam so I don't get imprisoned. It doesn’t make sense!"

"Saints Kaz, it's not all black and white!"

Kaz caught his breath, this was the first time Rabe had called him by his name. And even though she pronounced it with frustration, Kaz felt a flutter in his chest. 'What the hell?' Kaz thought.

"Yes, I'm a murderer, there is darkness in me and there is so much blood on my hands that it would last ten live times, but ..." Rabe let out a deep breath, "But, sometimes, very rarely, you meet people and just know that they are worth saving. And when you stared at me with your defiant look from the harbour basin, I knew that you are such a person to me. Okay? Maybe I just want to prove to myself that there is more than just darkness inside of me. I cannot really explain it myself. I just know that I prefer you alive rather than dead."

Kaz had turned and was staring at her, speechless. He could not see her face behind the mask, but it sounded like she had meant every word.

Rabe held his gaze for a moment and then looked away. She had said too much, he would surely think she was crazy. A heavy silence fell between them.

"I never thanked you ... so ... thank you for saving me," Kaz mumbled.

"Dirtyhands saying thank you? Now I've seen it all," Rabe laughed softly, glad that the tension was broken. "And the reason I am not seen is because I am fast."

"Huh?" Kaz asked eloquently.

"You asked how I manage to move in the barrel unnoticed. I get noticed every now and then, of course. But before anyone can catch me, I'll be gone. I can run really fast."

Kaz wasn't sure if Rabe was kidding or if she was serious. There was no time to reply, because they had made it to the South Park and Rabe stopped at the bend that led to the fountain and peeked around the corner.

"There are already two guys. One has a mohawk. Do they belong to you?"

"Yes, they are Dregs. I'll call out to them when you're gone," Kaz said as he pushed himself off Rabe's coat.

"All right, then I'll get out of here," Rabe whispered.

"Hopefully, it won't be another two years before we meet again." The words were out of Kaz's mouth before he could really make up his mind to voice them. He could see her mouth twisting into a big smile under the black tube scarf.

“Oh Kaz, we've met way more times than you think. It is really a full-time job to be your guardian angel.” With these words she turned around and disappeared into the night.

That night he had spent a long time wondering when Rabe could have helped him. As a new addition to a gang, you often got into trouble and there were many robberies and ventures where things got dangerous. Had Rabe had a hand in some of them and prevented the worst?

End of flashback

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No matter how hard he had tried, he hadn't seen her. Still, he was sure it had been her who had saved Jesper, Inej and him with several well-aimed shots that had seemed to come out of nowhere when they had been cornered by Black Tips.

All escape plans had failed and so, only plan F remained. And he could admit to himself that his plan F was always the same: Hope the Guardian Angel is around right now.

Kaz came out of his thoughts, ran his hands over his face and sighed. Every time he thought of Rabe or one of their encounters, he got restless. He felt the urge to do something. To find her. 'But what then?' he asked himself. Even if he found out who was hiding under the mask, even if he saw Rabe again tonight, what would it change?

'Everything,' whispered a voice in his head, 'You could make her one of the crows, she could be near you.' That was what Kaz secretly wanted. Rabe had been a constant in his life for so long that he hoped to have her with him. As a confidante because that was what she was for him. Someone Kaz trusted. Even if he did not know what the girl looked like under the mask, he knew that she was the person who had stood by him all this time, who took care of him. Rabe had seen him in his weakest moment and still decided he was worth rescuing. She had learned of his fear of being touched and not only had she found a way to help him without touching him, but apparently also had not told anyone about it. And while he knew that hope and trust in the barrel were the biggest weaknesses of all, he just couldn't help it, when Rabe was involved.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The heist was a breeze. Just two guards patrolled the hallway outside the bedroom where the necklace was. The crows were out sooner than expected. Kaz made a decision and sent Jesper and Inej back to the Slat alone with the booty. He positioned himself across from the house, in the shade of the trees, and waited. He did not have to wait long.

"I assume the theft was successful. I heard the necklace is beautiful," Kaz heard a whisper in the shadows to his left. He bowed his head to hide his smile. It had been too long since they had spoken to each other. He would even go so far as to admit that he had missed her.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Kaz replied and heard Rabe laugh softly next to him.

"Of course not, but if I were you, I would keep an eye on that mountain of a bouncer. He talks too much."

Kaz sucked in a sharp breath. He had suspected for some time that Big Bolliger wasn't only loyal to the Dregs. And Rabe's words confirmed that suspicion. He had no doubt that she heard a lot of whispering in the streets.

"I will," Kaz replied with steel in his voice, "Did your job go as planned?"

Keira flexed her hands, where Kaz could still see the strange black patterns.

"Yeah."

"How come nobody heard from you lately?" Kaz asked.

Keira looked at her hands. How was she supposed to explain to Kaz that she was slowly but surely feeling the wakizashi robbing her of the last light part of her soul? The part that clung to Kaz with all its might so as not to be swallowed up in the cold and darkness. To not feel the indifference to everything and everyone. To wield her swords was like breathing; it was necessary, inevitable. But if the only option, to keep her remaining compassion and be there for Kaz, was to lay down her swords for good, well, then she would live with bated breath for the rest of her life.

"Rabe was never meant to live that long," Keira replied after a while, "She wanted revenge and she got it. After that ... after that it was too late to just go back to a normal life. My swords, they ... they are not good for me. They make me stronger in battle, but weaker in spirit, they evoke the worst in me, drive away all good thoughts and feelings until I can only think of killing. For a long time, I didn't care, there was nothing but death in my life anyway. But then I fished a boy out of the harbour and realized I didn't want to live in the dark forever. From then on, I tried to use the swords as rarely as possible and let go of Rabe more and more."

When she looked up, she met Kaz' gaze. He looked at her steadfastly, in his blue eyes she could see the innumerable questions that her words had brought with them. Kaz could hardly believe what he had just heard. Was she a Grisha who had the powers to connect herself to swords in some way? Or were the swords themselves made by Grishas? What would such weapons bring in? But much more important – way was she telling him all that. And why now? Had she only come to him to say goodbye? He had to know.

"Is this goodbye?" he asked softly. He didn't trust his voice.

"Yes, it's time for Rabe to leave," she tipped her head back and looked up at the sky, "I'll start over, and I owe this chance to you." She looked back at Kaz. "Thank you, Kaz. In the end it was you who saved me."

Kaz nodded and looked at the floor. He didn't want her to read anything on his face. He was angry, angry that he was going to lose Rabe. Angry that she seemed to have no problem leaving him behind. He felt numb and cold. That's what you get if you let yourself be fooled by this cruel thing called hope. He should try to talk her out of it, force her to stay with him.

But as selfish as Kaz was, he could not bring himself to do it. She wanted a better life without hearing the constant call of her diabolical swords. Without all that killing. Who was he to deny her this? She deserved it, she deserved everything she wanted. She owed him nothing, but he owed her everything.

When Kaz looked up again, a smile played on his lips. "Has the work as a guardian angel become too strenuous for you?"

"Oh please, you hardly ever get into trouble. Everyone is too scared of Dirtyhands. And besides, your two friends are more than competent enough to save your ass if it is necessary," Rabe replied with a low laugh. There was a long silence between them until Rabe took a deep breath in and out.

"Alright, time to go. Goodbye, Kaz. Take care of yourself" with that, she turned away.

"Rabe," Kaz called after her. She turned back to him. He walked up to her, took off his glove, and held out his hand to her. "Farewell," he said.

Rabe hesitated when she looked from Kaz's hand to his eyes, searching them to see if he really wanted her to touch him. She reached out her hand and took his. Kaz could feel the water rising but it stayed at his knees. He just had to feel her touch once before they might never see each other again. "I hope that you will find a place where you can be happy, where you belong." Kaz said.

"I think I already have. And from now on, it's Keira for you," she said with a melodic voice loud and clear, then turned around and disappeared into the night.

Kaz paused for a while, taken aback by finally hearing her voice. He thought about her parting present for him. Her name.

"Keira," Kaz whispered. He wasn't sure why, but the sound filled him with a deep satisfaction. Perhaps it was the fact that a long unsolved mystery has finally found its answer. Or maybe it was the hope, again that damn hope, of a reunion that this gift had sparked in him.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, it was decided. In the morning she packed the few things she owned and left her small, shabby apartment. She threw her coat and mask in the garbage can in the yard, poured a good swig of hard liquor over it, and lit a match. The raven mask stared up at her, but Keira didn't hesitate as she dropped the match into the barrel and her past went up in flames. The

wakizashi rested heavily in her bag. She couldn't bring herself to destroy the swords. She would give them to Kaz so he could sell them. If it were up to her, no one would ever hear from Rabe again. She smiled. But the barrel should watch out for Keira Hale, the new member of the Dregs. She turned away and made her way to the Slat.

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Jesper was sitting with Inej on one of the old sofas in the Slat’s common room. They wondered whether they should go to one of the waffle shops for breakfast or whether they were too lazy to walk the three blocks. Before they could decide, the front door opened. Jesper heard Inej inhale beside him and looked up.

At the door stood a young woman, barely older than him, with long hair and a pretty face. She had a bag over her shoulder and looked around searchingly. When she saw Inej and Jesper, her mouth twisted into a smile.

"Inej, right?" she asked as she walked towards the two of them.

"That's right," Inej sounded hesitant.

"Inej, why didn't you tell me that you have such a lovely acquaintance? How rude of me, miss, I didn't introduce myself. I'm Jesper, at your service," Jesper said and finished his speech with a sweeping bow.

"Nice to meet you Jesper,” the woman said and laughed when she noticed Inej rolling her eyes, already used to Jesper's antics. "Inej's and my first meeting was a bit bumpy. I can well understand that she did not remember me as a 'lovely acquaintance'."

To Inej she said: "I'm sorry that I shot at you. I hope I get a chance to make it up to you."

Jesper looked back and forth between the two women. So, this was the woman Kaz wanted to join the Dregs. He knew Inej had not been badly injured, but Jesper didn't like it at all when someone shot his friends.

To his amazement, Inej laughed and held out her hand to the woman. "I'm not holding it against you. It was a good reminder for me that I am not actually invisible and that I shouldn't underestimate others. To a new start."

The young woman took Inej’s hand and shook it. "Thank you, Inej," she said and Jesper saw how relieved she was about Inej's words.

"Okay, now that that's settled, I'll let Kaz know that you're here."

Jesper saw the young woman suddenly become nervous. "Don't worry, he doesn't bite, well, only very rarely," Jesper said, winked at her and disappeared up the stairs.

He knocked and didn't even wait for an answer before he walked straight into Kaz' office. Kaz looked up from his work at the desk and gave Jesper a slightly irritated look. "What do you want?"

"You have a visitor, boss."

"Whoever it is, tell them I'm busy," Kaz dismissed him and went back to his papers.

'Wow, isn't he extra grumpy today,' Jesper thought and noticed the dark circles under Kaz' eyes.

"You'd better tell her yourself, not that she shoots me too," Jesper muttered.

"Jesper, what the hell are you talking about?" Kaz barked.

"Well, I’m talking about the woman you want to recruit for the Dregs. She's downstairs."

"What?! Why didn’t you say that right away?" Kaz grumbled as he got up and walked towards the door, leaning on his cane.

"I did!" shouted Jesper and followed Kaz back down the stairs. Inej and the woman were still standing where Jesper had left them, talking. When they heard the rhythmic tapping of Kaz' cane, they both looked up and Jesper could see the young woman taking a deep breath, straightening her shoulders and turning to face them.

"Miss Reed, I almost didn't expect you anymore. Are you here to accept my offer?" Kaz asked as he stopped a few steps away from her. Jesper joined Inej and watched the spectacle in front of him.

"Yes I am. I still had to get rid of a few ... an old burden before I could get involved with this. This also includes the wrong name that I have adopted. I'll join the Dregs with my birth name."

Jesper saw that she had turned pale around the nose. 'Why was she so tense?'

Kaz nodded. "Which would be?"

The young woman took a deep breath.

"Keira Hale."

Then Jesper witnessed something he had never seen before. Kaz' features slipped. He stared at the woman as if he had seen a ghost. His mouth closed and opened, but no sound came out. ‘He looks like a fish on land,’ Jesper remarked absently.

The woman, Keira, looked nervously but steadfastly at Kaz as she said: "I hope that doesn't change anything about your offer."

Jesper looked at Inej and saw that she was just as confused. He had the bad feeling that he hadn't noticed something here. Kaz had found his voice again, but apparently still couldn't get his face under control. Because he was smiling. Kaz Brekker smiled when he answered Keira. "No, the offer still stands."

Relief was written on Keira's face. Kaz walked up to her, and for a moment Jesper could have sworn that Kaz wanted to hug her. But that would be totally absurd, right? Right?! But, like Inej before him, Kaz held out his hand to her.

"Welcome to the Dregs, Keira. I am glad that you are here."

Keira took his hand and returned Kaz’ smile.

"Thanks, I think I've finally found my place."

The End

Or maybe not?

@mcntsee

@aleksanderwh0r3

@statsvitenskap

@ilovemarvelanne1

A/N: Sooooo what do think?

#shadow and bone #shadow and bone imagine #shadow and bone x reader #kaz brekker #kaz brekker x reader #six of crows imagine #six of crows #six of crows x reader

[just-dreaming-marvel]

Love Is Not Forced ~ 8

MAIN MASTERLIST

Love Is Not Forced MASTERLIST

< previous chapter

Word Count: 1,500ish

Summary: Y/N attends a lunch with her suitors.

Warnings: none

Before she fell asleep, Y/N made sure that Wanda knew to tell the guards that no one was allowed to bug her the rest of the night. She also told Wanda that she was not to wake her up early for breakfast, she needed to rest. The Princess also wanted to avoid the King of Brooklyn as long as possible. Though she got to sleep in passed breakfast, Y/N was still woken up by servants bringing dresses in.

“What’s going on?” She muttered as she sat up.

“I had a whole new wardrobe made for you,” her Father said, waltzing into her room. “You missed breakfast.” He came over and sat on the edge of her bed. “I was worried that you still weren’t feeling good after last night. Should I call in Doctor Banner or Doctor Strange?”

“No, I’m good. I just told Wanda to let me sleep. Last night was a lot to take in.”

“It was. But I’m proud of you.”

She gave him a small, tired smile as she glanced at the servants who were still bringing in dresses. “What’s with the new wardrobe?”

“I had it made for you to try and impress the suitors.”

“Why? Aren’t they all leaving today? I was under the impression that I’d only have to impress them like once a month until a decision was made.”

“They’re all staying for a few weeks.”

“What?” Now she was wide awake.

“Yes. They all want the opportunity to court you. Well, all except King T’Challa. He said that you two made an agreement to be friends?”

“We did. Is he going to be staying too?”

“For a few days.”

“Good,” she breathed a sigh of relief. She was happy that she at least would have T’Challa as a safe place.

“Plus, you haven’t met King Steven yet. And I think you’ll really like him.” Her Father smiled.

“I’m sure.” She gave him a tight-lipped smile. 

She was sure there was nothing that the King could do to fix what he had said about her in the garden. He had made his decision on what she was like, so she wasn’t going to try that hard with the King. Y/N didn’t want to be stuck with him either.

“We’re going to have lunch in the garden today, with our guests.” Tony stood up. “So choose one of your new dresses and be sure to make a statement.” He winked at her before leaving the room.

The Princess bathed before looking through the new dresses the King had had made for her. Each of them were gorgeous. The King had done it once again. He constantly surprised her. Y/N chose a dress with branches, flowers, and birds embroidered down in. It was stunning, in her eyes. 

Wanda helped her into it before doing her hair and sending her on her way. The Princess was excited to see T’Challa and Loki again, even Thor. But she didn’t care to officially meet the King of Brooklyn. She made sure to take the long way, so that she was the last one there. Her Father did tell her to make a statement.

When she finally arrived at the garden, everyone was already there, just like she had hoped. They’d even started eating. The first one to notice her coming was Loki. He was up before anyone could say anything and moving towards her.

“Princess,” he smiled, giving her a slight bow and grabbing her hand for a kiss. “You look beautiful. But I suspect you always do.”

“Thank you, Loki,” she gave a kind smile. 

He led her to the table where Thor and T’Challa were the next to greet her. King Steven was last. He came up looking almost too attractive for his own good. King Steven was practically thinking the same thing about the Princess. In his eyes, she was the most gorgeous woman that he had ever seen. 

“Y/N,” her Father called, “this is King Steven of Brooklyn.”

“Your Highness,” Steven bowed. “I’m very sorry that I didn’t get to meet you last night. I had some troubles arise in my own kingdom that I had to deal with before I came here.”

“No need to give me excuses, Your Majesty,” the Princess said curtly. “You have a kingdom to rule. A simple birthday ball would obviously be the least of your concerns.”

The Queen almost choked on her wine. She swore that she had raised her daughter to be nicer to people, especially other royalty, then what she had just witnessed. Peter and King Anthony simply chuckled. Her Father was definitely not surprised. Her wall that she had created before she would allow herself to trust, was definitely up and higher than ever. That is why King Anthony had invited the suitors to stay. They weren’t going to be able to fully get to know the Princess without being here, actively gaining her trust.

“I feel that I do owe you my excuses, Princess,” King Steven continued, “it was your special night and I had promised your Father that I’d be there for a dance.”

“Well, my Father shouldn’t have made you promise that. Especially if you had felt that you weren’t going to be able to keep it.”

“Okay, enough, enough,” Tony chuckled. “Let’s all just sit down and eat.”

They all sat down, with T’Challa and Loki on either side of Y/N and Steve right across from her. King Anthony kept control of the discussion topic, mainly politics and his inventions.

“Do you enjoy inventing things like your Father does, Princess?” Steve asked.

“I don’t.”

“What does her Highness enjoy doing?” Loki asked.

“Reading, painting, horseback riding. You know, all the things the typical Princess is suppose to like doing.”

Tony chuckled before he spoke, “Y/N wishes do to something more with her life. Though she hasn’t quite figured out what yet.”

“Wakanda is proud to support women in whatever they wish to do,” T’Challa stated. “Princess Shuri is actually in charge of our advancing technology and our head guards, the Dora Milaje, are all women.”

“I would love to visit Wakanda one day, T’Challa,” Y/N said, wishfully. 

“Wakanda would love to host you, Princess,” T’Challa smiled. “Just say the word and I’ll make it happen.”

“Maybe in a few weeks, the Princess can take a tour of all the kingdoms,” her Father suggested.

“Really?” The Princess excitedly questioned, turning to her Father with hope in her eyes.

“Really. I think that it would be good for you to get out of the kingdom and learn about the other kingdoms. You will be ruling one of them one day.”

There is was. A reminder of why these men were really here. Why they had celebrated last night. What the Princess’ purpose was: to marry for political gain for two kingdoms. King Anthony noticed the moment her hope and happiness faded from her eyes. He immediately regretted the last words that left his mouth. The Princess was silent for the rest of the meal. As they finished up, Loki turned to Y/N.

“Would Your Highness care to join me for a stroll around the garden?” He asked her.

“I would love to,” she smiled at him.

Loki stood up, taking her hand and helping her out of her seat before slipping her arm through his and guiding them into the garden and away from everyone else. 

“I apologize for my daughter’s mouth,” Tony said to Steve, once Loki and Y/N were out of ear shot. “She’s still trying to figure out how she feels about getting married off.”

“That’s okay,” Steve said. “I did not make that great of a first impression either.”

“You’ll have time, King Steve,” Thor laughed. “If you can get her away from my brother.”

“What does your brother want with my daughter?” Tony asked. “He is not the heir to the throne nor he does he have a good reputation.”

“I think that he’s just wanting a friend. She is the first person to look at him and not immediately say something about his past discretions.”

“Maybe that’s because she doesn’t know of them? Here’s the thing, Your Highnesses… in order for this to work, my daughter needs to marry a King. And, fortunately and unfortunately, the Princess and King T’Challa here have already made an agreement that they will not be trying to pursue anything. So that leaves you two.” Tony pointed to Thor and Steve. “I promised my daughter that I’d try to make the decision based on her happiness, but I will put my foot down when it comes to Prince Loki. So, you two need to sweep her off her feet.”

next chapter >

Tag List: @dreamilyunaffectedwreck (won’t link) @freya-xo​  @laic2299​ @kissesofdeadforme​

#Tony stark x reader #Tony stark x daughter!reader #Steve Rogers x reader #loki x reader #thor x reader #t'challa x reader #Tony stark imagine #the avengers x reader #avengers x reader #Steve Rogers imagine #loki imagine #thor imagine #t'challa imagine #marvel imagine #avengers imagine #marvel fanfiction #avengers fanfiction

[imaginefan]

Shoulda Said

Sebastian X Reader

Word Count: 753

Requested: Anon

Request: Sebastian is open and honest with you about everything but he ends up distant cause he realizes he has fallen in love with you. It hurts yours feelings cause you don’t know what happened but reader is determined to find out. (Reader witch, female) one shot legacies Fandom.

There was a new kid being shown around the school and while he hadn't come to see the witches yet you knew that he'd be there soon enough, not only that but the rest of the witches were planning something in response to him seemingly hurting Liz's feelings. You watched them carefully as they explained and empathic trance to him, you stop from your place on the second floor and made your way towards them "your afraid-"

"Alyssa!" You warned as you got closer but she didn't listen so you used your magic to push the crystal ball out of her hand effectively breaking the spell. "I'm not sure you heard me the first time I told you to stop." "You're sticking up for the vampire?" She asked. "I'm sticking up for someone who didn't deserve what you were about to do." You argued and she glared at you. "He hurt Lizzie." She answered. "And you needed an excuse to hurt someone." You muttered and she glared at you before turning to him. "Are you okay?" You asked as Sebastian finally looked at you. "I'm fine." He answered. "Maybe it's time that you continue with your tour around the school Landon." You suggested before turning away from everyone and leaving.

"Who is that girl?" Sebastian asked as Landon led him back to the main building of the school. "That's (Y/N)" Landon answered. "She never really fit in with the other witches, she just keeps to herself unless they get up to something that could hurt others." "Is that so?" He asked. "She's powerful." "I've never really seen her do magic," Landon answered. "You don't need to see it, you can sense it." He explained.

Later that day he decided that he wanted to find you and he wasn't surprised when he found you in the library "I never got to thank you earlier." He smiled as he sat opposite you. "No need to thank me." You answered as you looked at him. "Landon said that you don't really fit in with the other witches." He said softly. "Mm." You hummed in agreement "I don't look to hurt people whenever the opportunity arises. I mean most of the witches are just easily led but that's the problem, witches live in covens where one person makes all the decisions and the strongest girls are the meanest girls." "You're not mean." Sebastian smiled. "I can't lead them." You sighed "I'm not strong enough for that." "You showed me otherwise." Sebastian smiled as he leaned forward on the table, you just smiled at him before going back to your studying. Sebastian told you about his life, what he had been through and even about the people that he had lost along the way but it was then that he realised that he was falling for you and the last time that he loved someone he lost them so he distanced himself in the hopes that he would never feel that again.

You, on the other hand, were confused by the disappearance of your new-found friend and you weren't one for giving up so one day when you finally managed to catch him after school you grabbed him and pulled him into a room after you. "You really shouldn't sneak up on a vampire love," Sebastian warned and you looked at him and rolled your eyes. "How else am I supposed to take to you?" You asked, "you run as soon as you see me coming." "I meant nothing by it." He said softly. "And what did you mean?" You asked. "I just... it’s nothing, don't worry about it." he dismissed you and you pulled yourself to stand in front of the door trapping him in the room with you. "That's not an answer." You grumbled. "I just want to know why my best friend won't talk to me." "Because he's only your best friend." Sebastian finally admitted. "I thought that you liked Lizzie." You frowned. "I did when I first got here and then I got to know you, the girl that listens, the girl that cared, the girl that accepted me for everything that I am. I've told you things that I never told Lizzie and you haven't run for the hills." He said softly cupping your face in his hands. "You should have just said something." You said softly. "Probably." He nodded "Allow me to make up for it." He pressed his lips to yours giving you more than you knew that you wanted.

Requests and general question!

#legacies #legacies imagine #legacies one shot #sebastian #sebastian imagine #sebastian oneshot #imagine #oneshot #one shot #reader insert

[crlmson-cloud]

SUSUMU NAKAMURA - THE KNIFE OF NEW YORK

‘It seems I no longer define who I am...

I was not meant to be him.’

> BASICS「基本」 → Susumu Nakamura [進・中村] → 31 → Shy and lonely → Homosexual → Manga Artist, but will become a music artist in the Marvel AU → Speaks Spanish, English, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese,  Italian and German → Nationality: Japanese/Irish → 5'9 before serum, 6'1 after > FACECLAIMS 「視覚」 [ PRE-SERUM MARKIPLIER  [ POST SERUM ] CHRIS EVANS

Videos taken of Susumu Nakamura at a manga convention, five weeks before he went missing. 

Experimental Copy of the Documents handed over by Susumu Nakamura, adapted by Angelo Sebastiani into a short story to tell of what happened. 

There were many emotions that Susumu was feeling within this moment. With his true self, he's finally managed to publish another manga, and Beijing was the first city that he was going to meet people at, finally. A chance to be with the fans, and a holiday from being a manga artist and book writer. And his husband needed a break from the modelling opportunities that he was getting. The name of the husband, you may ask? Nathaniel Huang.

A man of around the same age and popularity as the man that he's married. The love that he's had for years with him. Nathaniel, whenever Susumu felt that he was with him. He felt complete, well and truly, he felt complete. Susumu even based some parts of the manga around his husband because of the fact that Nathaniel inspired him so much with his manga. Susumu has done most of the manga however, being the one that's come up with the original ideas for the stories that are embedded within the nine hundred page behemoth of a book. But also within the intricate details of what happens throughout the story. Boarding the plane to Beijing from Tokyo. Susumu expresses his own fears of finding a hotel. Since everywhere may have been booked beforehand. The man looks down slightly and his husband reassures him that they'll find somewhere to stay for the night, even though the meet and greet was cheap and admittedly, a lot of people went through with wanting to meet them. 

* * * Five hours later, they manage to get to a hotel in Beijing as quickly as possible, before having to go into town square the following morning. Nathaniel looks longingly at a Captain America badge that someone was selling up at a market counter. Grabbing it, he decides to pay for it, as a present for his husband. Susumu thanked him quickly for the present and immediately wore it with happiness. Ever since the hero had gone missing, the popularity of his merchandise had been boosted in China. Meiguo Duizhang was becoming a staple of Chinese merchandise and strangely enough it had not been censored whatsoever when he went missing. Well, if he went missing, that is. The details were hazy upon the case of him. No one knew, and China, they were trying to find a new one in order to go through with trying to recreate him over and over. Even though the avengers originally promised that there would be another one if he was to ever step down. 'Wasn't your idol always Captain America when you grew up?' Nathaniel joked. 'Well, only when I found out the comics were being sold in Ireland.' Susumu responded, laughing slightly at what his husband had to say. 'But, yeah, I absolutely loved him.' 'Seems like the whole of China is going crazy over him.' 'Well isn't that obvious?' asks he. The Irish accent almost erupting from his voice as he asked. 'Hey-- calm down.' 'I am calm. What do you think we should do now?' 'Get something to eat, get some rest?' 'Sounds like a plan.' 'Quick question, babe?' 'Yuh-huh?' 'I'm just wondering, I have a meeting tomorrow morning, so are you good with just holding the panel on your own.' 'Yeah sure, I'm fine with that.' 'Alright, thank you.' Nathaniel says, hugging him tightly. A laugh erupting from his lungs slightly as he cuddles him. 'Stop crushing me with your hugs!' Later on within the night, they both had a romantic dinner and eventually, they both went to bed, cuddling together and eventually going to sleep. Susumu struggling more to go to sleep than Nathaniel. They decided to watch a film together, Susumu huddled up into Nathaniel's shirt. They kissed for a while, and they finally laid down. Holy hell he was excited. So excited for what tomorrow had to bring, so excited for whom he'd meet tomorrow. He eventually went to sleep with these thoughts within his head. * * * A few hours later, Susumu couldn't feel his husband by his side. He woke up, and only saw a bunch of black figures and Nathaniel in the background, instructing them all in Mandarin as to what to do with him. 'No! Get off me! I said get the fuck off me!' He shouts, they tried to bring him in but he continued to try to fight them off, that was until he felt a needle in the nape of his neck and was laid to rest once again through sedatives. What happened next, it's a much more darker story. He remembers these men trying to put him in a chamber, spraying him down with a lot of disinfectant before they started on him. Giving him his own clothes and then another injection to the back. China was obsessed with becoming the next power and this was one of the first ways of doing it. Susumu screams out as he feels himself getting pricked with needle. He felt himself grow larger with every injection that they made, and then they finally moved onto another part of him. 'Make him look like his crush, why don't you?' Nathaniel seemingly mocks him from the speakers. Susumu was shaking at this point, he still had a tan skin tone. His face was still all the same, still flawed. Still imperfect. He curled up into a ball and eventually was put to sleep yet again by sedatives. Although, the sedative didn't exactly work as intended. He felt everything, every single cut and prod that they pulled on him when they wanted to render him immaculate. How they changed his jawline, how they changed his skin tone. Everything. They changed everything about him. Up to the point where he was no longer recognisable as his normal self. 'Perfect...' Nathaniel says to himself as he looks down upon his quivering boyfriend in the corner of the room. Susumu didn't want to be perfect, he just wanted to be himself. 'What did you do to me?' He asks, looking up at his boyfriend. His voice croaking through. He had to stop himself from crying. 'I just wanted you to be more happy than you were before.' Nathaniel states to him. Shouting was then heard: 'No-- no why isn't the power fitting in with him?! You're saying it's his gene pool? What the fuck-- I've been trying my best to coax him into this for so long.' He shouts, lying to the people he's faithful to in the process. 'Only for it to fuck up because of his heritage?! I thought, I thought he could have fitted the genes. Give it to me! Give the fucking serum to me!' He hoped to wake up and see whether this was all a bad dream that he was having in his head. * * * Susumu eventually woke up in the hotel bedroom. He smiles softly as he begins to slowly think that it's nothing but a simple nightmare that he had. He gets out of bed. 'Nathaniel! Nathaniel, did you go for your meeting?' His voice hasn't changed in the slightest, it must have been a bad dream. he smiles even more widely. Relieved. 'Fuck he left, didn't even get to say good morning to him...' He then thinks to himself. Looking down at a table he notices a note completely in Japanese. 'Susumu, I've had a lot of fun with you over the past few years, but I've finally decided that we'd best go our separate ways. I hope you the best in the world and honestly, I really do hope that you feel happy. The reasons why I wanted to leave I'll disclose right here in this note. I no longer felt that spark that we once had back when we first met, I no longer felt that love for you that we once had. We both have such large differences, creatively and mentally that it's almost boggling as to how we got together. I'll admit, I'm so surprised that we lasted this long. I'm so sorry, Susumu. I loved you. I really did, but now I just can't keep that façade up for much longer. I'm so sorry. I hope you find happiness. Love Nathaniel xx' The man looks down at the note for a few minutes. Sitting back on the bed as he reads it, over, and over, and over again. He can't believe what he's seeing. He just wants to rip up the note. The feeling of being broken up with after a four year relationship made him feel sick to the stomach, he went into the bathroom, quickly, to get himself ready for his first meeting. He'll still be there. That's when he looked in the mirror. 'No . . . no . . . ' He lets out as he looks at himself. An arising fear beginning to grow and flourish within his body. He looked exactly like what Nathaniel wanted him to look like within the dream. Captain America. He has the brown, almost blonde hair, the chiselled jawline, the beautiful adonis like body that he had. He has everything about him. The only thing that Nathaniel didn't change about him was the beard. He kept that. The only thing that he kept about Susumu. When Susumu's fear starts to grow, he notices a shadow appear on the wall and break the mirror in front of him. He freezes for a moment. He was going to punch the mirror but that would be damage to property and he couldn't do that. 'Fuck--' He lets out as pieces of the mirror were all over the sink. He clenches his hand in anxiety as he wishes to fix the mirror again. Almost as if he could reset time, the mirror returned to its original state. No longer broken. Susumu looks down, noticing that there's still a piece of glass upon the tile floor. He picks it up and looks at the mirror. The mirror in reality was still broken. Thinking that he could get away with this, he changes his appearance to fit that with reality, although when he went out, a lot of people gave him strange looks, and some even called him by the name that he no longer wishes to be associated with. Meiguo duizhang. He went through with the meeting and a lot of people pointed out that he looked different to the profile photo that he shared of himself. Fuck this isn't working. The thought went through his head and thankfully, no footage of the meet and greet was ever posted on social media or was ever on the news. Susumu had to give back all the money that he gained, he hoped to give it to a charity that was about the poverty line. Helping those who were homeless. But now, there's no money. Susumu feels that he has no identity, nothing, he's left with nothing. His husband  fucked up his whole life. He got on the plane back to America and quickly set course for New York, on a panic flight. Not even knowing where he was going. He managed to get through to the airport through a loophole in the system. His fingerprint was still the same, and the Chinese airport checked everything. While it took a day or two, he had a new passport and he could get in. * * * Eventually, he managed to get back there and he walked through the alleyways in order to feel as if he was slightly safer, that's when he stumbled across a woman with a knife, threatening to stab and kill him if he didn't give her his money. The woman was caucasian, a ripe age and unfortunately had stumbled down into the black market and got herself into debt. She started driving the knife closer to his stomach. 'Give me the fucking wallet!' She screams out. A circle of darkness forms behind her and pulls her back onto the wall. Trapping her there. Susumu then quickly makes his escape and manages to get to his house, letting the woman go before doing so. He eventually stays in the house and he begins to break down completely. Curled up in a corner, taking deep breaths to avert the point of sensory overload. He continues to do this for around thirty minutes. Going into his room, he ends up making a mirage for someone else unintentionally. He looked out the window and created another vision of a car, completely totalled in front of a driver. The driver who witnessed it got out of his vehicle and went towards the wreck, only for the wreck to then disappear. Causing him to panic and run back to his car immediately. That's when he realises, that he can bend reality to his own will. 

#captainamerica #oc #marvel oc #backstory

[dancinginadaydream]

Bad Habit

Summary: It was difficult being the boyfriend of The Boy Who Lived, especially when you have a past like Draco's. Between the mounting pressure of his work as a healer, harassment from the press, and increasing jealousy of the friendship Harry had with his school girlfriend, Ginny Weasley, Draco blew up and walked out of Harry's life. But both he and Harry found themselves seeking bad habits, the need for each others comforts. Except, they were both too proud to say it, instead wallowing in self-pity until an accident forces them to talk. 

Word Count: 5,772

Available on: Archive of Our Own

Listen to the Song

                                                Full Story Below

You always said that I'd come back to you again, 'cause everybody needs a friend, it's true. Someone to quiet the voices in my head, make 'em sing to me instead, it's you…

Draco was in the break room at St. Mungo’s hospital, a quaint wizarding hospital hidden within muggle London. He was anxiously fidgeting with the pages of a copy of Witch Weekly, left there by one of the other healers. As he fidgeted, his mind wandered into the events of the last week. The events involving one Harry James Potter. One, however, struck him impossibly. The event that started it all.

Draco had just come home from another long day at the hospital. To say Draco looked as rough as he felt was an understatement. The dark sags under his eyes took over his features, causing the man to look almost skeletal. Draco’s white-blonde hair strewn across his face, showing the signs of stress and exhaustion. There had been an accident involving several members of the Auror department, leaving the healers (both trained and in-training) stretched thin. Of course, while tending to many of the Aurors, Draco’s mind had continued to wander to his lover, praying that he wasn’t assigned to the task that risked the lives of the Aurors he treated. But Harry wasn’t there and Draco couldn’t determine whether or not that was a good thing. However, regardless of the tingling worry, Draco continued with his duties.

When he came into the flat he and Harry shared, he kicked off his shoes, hoping that he could sulk to the living room and slither into Harry’s arms for some comfort. However, when he reached the living room, he was met with the unsightly image of Harry and Ginny sat uncomfortably close watching a romantic comedy on their muggle T.V.. Draco’s exhausted feature immediately turned into anger. He dropped his book bag, the thump causing Ginny and Harry to jump and stare at Draco.

“Don’t mind me,” Draco mumbled, ignoring the bubbling jealousy in the pit of his stomach. He stormed through to the kitchen, whipping out his wand to fill the kettle with some water. He needed a strong cup of chamomile after the long day he’d had.

Harry immediately stood, going to follow Draco into their kitchen. “Draco, wait!”

Meanwhile, Ginny grabbed her things. “I’ll be going… See you around, Harry.”

Harry looked at her in exasperation and nodded as he stepped into the kitchen.

Draco was banging things around as he cleaned things the muggle way. He aggressively wiped a spot on the counter, trying to relieve some frustrations. Harry hovered at the door, a lump in his throat. He could see the anguish on his lover’s face, knowing he’d been caught in a precarious position, especially considering the history he and Ginny had.

“Babe…” Harry all-but whispered, the lump still stuck in his throat.

Draco ignored the other, continuing to wipe at the spot on the worktop, tears threatening to spill from his grey eyes. Harry watched for a few moments more before stepping forward to rest his hand over Draco’s.

“You’re going to wear a hole in the surface, Draco.”

Draco flinched his hand away and tried to move to a separate spot on the worktop, removing crumbs with the cloth. After a few beats of silence, Draco threw the cloth down onto the work surface. He turned to stare at Harry, allowing Harry to see the full extent of his exhaustion and worry.

“Tell me why,” Draco stared at Harry, the tears starting to slip down his porcelain skin, “tell me why she was here. When you were meant to be at work…”

It was no secret that Harry and Ginny were expected to end up together, the power couple the Wizarding World was meant to have. Draco had been reminded of that often enough. He knew that before the war concluded, Harry had planned to marry Ginny for the sake of appearances. But even then, coming to their senses wasn’t enough for the worry in the back of Draco’s mind. After-all, he was a reformed Death Eater.

“We were just hanging out, we’re still friends, Drac.” Harry sighed softly. Ginny was a constant sore point in their relationship, the jealousy and worry that Draco held towards her. “Draco, I don’t know how many times I have to tell you that Ginny and I are just friends. I don’t feel that way for her anymore. Not since the War.”

Draco folded his arms across his chest, almost hugging himself, but still threatening in stance. He’d managed to control his tears, a talent he’d learned from his years of abuse at the manor. Should the opportunity arise, he knew not to let people see his vulnerabilities, no matter who they were.

“Please, Draco, believe me when I say she’s just a friend.”

And that’s when Draco scoffed, running his tongue behind the back of his lips. He couldn’t help but feel a laugh in the back of his throat. He’d spent the past three years convincing himself that. But it was still never enough. Between seeing them watch films together and Weasley’s snarky comments, Draco had felt below adequate.

The following argument between them, left both Draco and Harry in tears. Arguments weren’t rare in this flat, after-all, they were once mortal enemies. Except their petty arguments changed from snide comments regarding school to their domestic lives and jealousy.

Except this argument was different. This argument was the last argument.

“I’m clearly holding you back, Potter.” Draco roared, his vulnerabilities clear as the night sky. “You were never meant to end up with me of all people. You should be with the Weasley girl. The girl everyone would approve of.”

Harry blinked at him a few times, heart racing. “What do you mean, Draco?”

“Don’t be idiotic, Potter, for once in your life. I’m saying this,” Draco made a gesture between them, “isn’t working. It won’t work.”

Harry felt a warm tear drip from his chin as he watched Draco carefully. “So that’s it? We’re through?”

Draco remained silent and walked out of the room, ignoring the thumping sound in his chest. He grabbed his trunk and began to back some essential clothes.

A month later, and Draco couldn’t function without Harry. Each day started the same, alone and cold in the spare bed of Pansy Parkinson’s murky flat. He hadn’t so much as looked at a plate of food, unless Pansy was almost forcing it down his throat. He’d fallen back into a pit of deep depression, much like the one before the war.

Hate to say that I love you. Hate to say that I need you. Hate to say that I want you. But I do…

“Harry,” Hermione said carefully, moving dirty laundry and discarded Prophet’s around with her feet as she made her way towards the figure curled on the sofa. “It’s been a week... You haven’t been to work. Please talk to me…”

Harry’s positioning didn’t move, he barely blinked as he stared blankly at the ceiling above him. Truth be told, Harry was as depressed as Draco, if not worse. All motivation had ceased, he hadn’t even showered since Draco walked out on him.

“Harry, we’re worried.” She said, crouching by his head. She placed a careful hand over Harry’s, ignoring the strong stench of body-odour coming from her friend. “Please, Harry… Talk to me.”

Harry slowly turned his head to look at Hermione, his eyes bloodshot and exhausted.

“You need him don’t you?”

Silence from Harry gave her the answer she needed. After a moment she stood and ran a hand through her hair. Never within their nine years of friendship had she seen Harry as depressed and dark as this, and it scared her witless. However, being the responsible one of their trio, Hermione took it upon herself to clean around Harry. He was never the cleanest of people, but he still tried for the sake of Draco. But now Draco’s absence reverberated around them. Instead of a warm familiar domestic feeling surrounding them, the flat felt cold and empty.

After having cleaned the flat, Hermione had summoned Ron to come and help her wash Harry. It was something they knew would embarrass their friend once he’d sobered from this, but it was necessary in order to help with his mental health.

“Come on, mate, let’s get you washed.” Ron said, lifting Harry from the sofa as Hermione ran a bath for him. There was no fight from Harry, leaving Hermione and Ron even more worried than before.

Harry stood weakly, staring at the bathroom tiles as Ron and Hermione undressed him. They helped him into the bath, sharing glances of worry with each other. The bathing process was uncomfortable for all of them, but they didn’t much care, knowing Harry would feel at least somewhat better once he’d washed. Once Harry was washed, they dressed him and led him to the bedroom for a sleep. However, one thing they hadn’t anticipated was Harry’s emotional reaction to the bedroom.

Many of Draco’s things were missing, all his necessities, hitting Harry like a brick. He hadn’t been in this room since Draco left. The bed remained untouched, Draco’s scent still lingering atop the cold sheets. Once Harry’s head hit the pillow, he balled a piece of Draco’s pillow in his fist. He let out an anguished cry and pulled the pillow closer to him. He was reminded of that night. He was reminded that Draco left him… Draco was gone and Harry wasn’t sure he would ever come back, and that thought scared him more than the idea of Voldemort.

Ron and Hermione decided to lie on either side of Harry, both pulling him into a hug to try and ground him.

Bad habit, I know, but I'm needin' you right now. Can you help me out? Can I lean on you?

It didn’t matter what Draco did throughout his day, there was never a time that Harry didn’t occupy his thoughts. Draco could be knee-deep in accidents at St. Mungo’s, yet Harry’s presence still held the back of his mind. Yet he pressed on. Since Draco stormed away from Harry two weeks ago, he had picked up as many shift’s as he could, often doing double shifts just to keep himself from breaking.

When he was forced into an hour-long break, Draco took a seat on the sofa in the break room. He pulled his knees up to his chest and hugged them tightly. Stopping was not what he had wanted. Stopping meant that he had time to think about Harry and the incredible fuck-up he had made. Draco wanted nothing more than to go back and fall into their bed, to pull Harry close into his body, to take in Harry’s musk. But Draco was too much of a coward to go back with his tail between his legs. He was the one who walked out, who left Harry and ended their relationship. He couldn’t bear to face Harry again, sometimes begging Pansy to go and get his things so he didn’t have to see the other again. Pansy, of course, refused point blank to go and retrieve Draco’s things for him.

Trying to do anything he could to distract his head from that desperation, Draco leaned forward and took an edition of The Daily Prophet from the table. As soon as he read the headline, his heart sank.

THE BOY WHO LIVED FINALLY SEES SENSE? FLING WITH DEATH EATER IN TATTERS. FULL STORY ONE PAGE 6.

Instead of bearing it anymore interest, Draco threw the paper across the breakroom, a yell of agony leaving his throat. He couldn’t take it anymore, the anxiety attack flooded him. His chest rose and fell with sharp breaths, his heart raced almost ten times faster than its usual pace. Before his anxiety attack got any worse, another healer came in. They immediately went to Draco, doing their best to soothe him. There was no amount of magic in the world that could help Draco, they just had to ride it out and attempt to ground him before sending for their supervisor.

Soon enough, Pansy was there, a some-what sympathetic smile on her face as she came to pick up Draco. He was placed on leave to rest, but they all knew that it wouldn’t keep him away for long.

Sun don't wanna come out. Can you help me out? Can I lean on you?

Harry was slowly starting to move about again. He hurt a lot less than he did the moment it had sunk in that Draco had left him. He had returned to work, but was assigned to paperwork until he could focus on fieldwork. This was at the request of Hermione, begging him to take a step back until he was himself again. Reluctantly he agreed. Although, the way he was feeling, he wouldn’t have minded if the job had killed him. But he had to think of the people around him, he knew that wasn’t fair on them.

However, there was nothing Harry Potter hated more than paperwork. It did nothing to distract himself from Draco. He felt pathetic, constantly thinking of his ex-boyfriend. But whether Draco liked it or not, there was no one else for him. Ever since that fateful night in their Eighth year of Hogwarts, Harry hadn’t thought to look twice at anyone else. He fell hard and fast for Malfoy. He realised it was a build up through all their years at Hogwarts, but the love he felt for Malfoy hit him all at once.

You make me feel like I'm floatin' off the ground, above this little town, you do. Look at me smile with tears in my eyes. I love the way you lie, I do…

Harry had decided that he wanted to take time to have a break from studying and relax, so he realised that there was no place better than the prefect’s bathroom. Once he had gotten there, he quickly undressed and lowered himself down in the water. He rested his head back against the wall of the large bath and closed his eyes. Since deciding to return to Hogwarts for his final year, Harry had been hounded by fangirls, all eager to get his attention. Since his return to Hogwarts, Harry had been dumped. Ginny had seen something in him that he hadn’t realised. His blatant attraction to men. He tried to deny it, but he couldn’t help but think about it from time to time, and maybe, just maybe, she was right.

Deep in thought, Harry hadn’t heard the door click open. He hadn’t heard the footsteps of none other than Draco Malfoy. It was clear Draco had the same thoughts as Harry, a need to relax and distract himself. When Draco had laid eyes on Harry, he felt his heart flutter. Of course the flutters had happened numerous times before. They would happen when he caught Harry laughing at one of Weasley’s terrible jokes, they would happen when he caught Harry smiling, and they would happen everytime Harry walked into their shared dormitory. But they had never happened like this. Seeing Harry Potter in the bath, clearly relaxed, had sparked the flutters in a new way. Then it hit him that Harry was most probably naked under the water, and that caused a warm flush through his stomach and down to his thighs. Should he go? Should he stay and pretend he didn’t see Harry? Just as he was about to turn to go, having decided that it was better to leave Potter to it, a croaked voice filled the room.

“Malfoy, you may as well stay. It’s a communal bath.” Harry muttered, rubbing his eyes and turning to look at Malfoy.

Draco cleared his throat and replied, “fine. Look and I’ll hex you, Potter.”

“Like I would, Malfoy.”

And yet, both of them wished so dearly to look. But Harry obeyed and closed his eyes again while Malfoy climbed into the otherside of the bathtub.

They sat in silence for a while, tension thick in the air. Of course, having been roomed together, they had grown closer and had somehow become friends, despite their explosive history. Yet neither of them realised how close the other wanted to be.

Draco couldn’t help but catch glimpses of Potter, sitting there in the tub. He felt exposed, but for some reason he didn’t mind this in the slightest. He just ached for Potter to touch him. Yet, that wasn’t ever going to happen. Potter was The Boy Who Lived and Malfoy, well, Malfoy was Death Eater on Parole.

Both boys jumped cruelly when they heard the familiar squeal of Moaning Myrtle. She soared through the air and around the bubbles in the water.

“Well, well, well,” she giggled, “you could cut the tension in here with a knife.”

The boys shared a nervous glance, gulping in unison.

“I hear whispers, you know. Your friends.” Myrtle giggled, floating to rest between the boys. “Whispering about your sexual tension.” She giggled once more, the drone annoying both boys.

“What could you possibly mean, Myrtle?” Draco almost hissed.

Myrtle shrugged and giggled, floating off towards the pipes.

Harry looked dumbstruck, blinking a few times and gulping the lump in his throat away. “I don’t understand her sometimes…”

Draco hummed in agreement, running a hand down his face. He was flustered enough without Moaning Myrtle coming in and causing trouble.

Harry gulped. He knew there was tension between them, but he didn’t know if Draco felt the same, so it couldn’t possibly be sexual tension.

Silence rang out between them for a while, until Harry gathered the courage to speak up once more.

“Do you think there might be sexual tension between us?” And there it was. As soon as he said it, he regretted the words. He wished he could take it back.

Draco stared at him for a minute, blinking a few times in confusion. Was this Harry’s way of saying he felt the same? Draco’s heart dropped as he tried to figure out what to say.

“Couldn’t possibly be.” He replied shakily, praying that Potter disagreed with him.

The boys found themselves moving closer to the other, their hearts racing.

“I guess there’s no way to find out, anyway.” Draco murmured once they were close enough to touch.

“Huh, you think so?”

“What are you saying, Potter?” Malfoy replied, half snapping at the other.

“Maybe we should test their theory. Prove to ourselves that there is no sexual tension or whatever.” He shrugged.

Draco rolled his eyes and scoffed, yet a scarlet blush filled his cheeks. “You’re insane, Potter.”

“Your blush says otherwise, Malfoy.”

“Oh fuck off.”

“Kiss me first. Then we’ll get to the bottom of the rumoured sexual tension.”

Draco thought about it for a moment. Of course he had to weigh up the options. On one hand, he could discover that Potter did not reciprocate any feelings and have his heart broken. Yet, on the other hand, Potter could reciprocate these feelings. There was no other way to know, he thought. Before he could say anything, his lips were on Potter’s, his heart acting before his mind.

Harry was slightly taken aback when Malfoy planted one on him, but once he had realised what was happening, he melted into the kiss. His heart was soaring as he kissed Malfoy. Any feelings he had for Malfoy were confirmed in that moment and he wished deeply for this moment to last. He couldn’t bear his heart breaking. Malfoy pulled away for a second, desperate to catch his breath, but his gaze never left Harry’s.

“That was..-” Harry breathed out.

“-Incredible.” Draco finished the sentence, the idea of shame leaving him.

Harry nodded and leant forward to resume kissing the other, cupping his cheeks in desperation. The kissing lasted a lot longer than they intended, and it was easy to assume that both boys had grown aroused by the action.

Quickly after their kiss, Malfoy and Potter grabbed their things and dressed, eager to get back to their dormitory. Yet once they were in their dorm, they simply laid side by side and talked for hours. By the time they fell asleep, curled in each other’s arms, their feelings had been aired and the spark to a newly found relationship had been ignited.

Hate to say that I'm lonely. Hate to say that I miss you. Hate to say that it's dark in here. But it's true…

A few more weeks had passed, and neither man had heard from the other. Draco hadn’t been round to collect the last of his things, and Harry hadn’t reached out to talk.

Pansy and Hermione had been talking, both very aware of how Harry and Draco were coping. Yet, they felt helpless. Nothing they could do or say was encouraging the men to talk about what had happened. Despite Pansy’s wishes, Hermione refused to lock them in a room together while they were both so fragile. Although, if Harry kept sulking, she would consider it more.

Meanwhile, Harry had returned to active duty within the Auror department. He needed to get back to work, desperate to keep his mind busy. Of course, he had to receive an evaluation on the matter before his superiors allowed him back on the field.

On his first active mission back, Harry concluded things were going smoothly, until there was an unexpected explosion. Aurors around them scrambled around to check for casualties. Ron was the one to see him. Ron was the one to see his best friend unconscious on the ground, several cuts and grazes covering his face and hands. Next to Harry, his glasses sat upside down and smashed. In a rush of adrenaline, Ron screamed for help, yelling Harry’s name. It seemed to Ron that everything moved in slow motion, nobody coming fast enough to help Harry.

“Weasley, apparate him to St. Mungo’s. NOW!”

And Ron did as he was told, holding onto Harry and apparating to the hospital.

Bad habit, I know. But I'm needin' you right now. Can you help me out? Can I lean on you? Been one of those days, sun don't wanna come out…

Suddenly, St. Mungo’s were on high-alert, every available healer poised and ready to support the incoming casualties. Draco was assigning people to beds, trying to allow for things to run as smoothly as possible. Yet, he was interrupted when he heard a familiar cry of a familiar name.

“PLEASE HELP! SOMEONE! IT’S HARRY POTTER!” Ron all but yelled, lifting Harry up into his arms.

Draco was frozen still, his heart dropping as he saw Harry almost lifeless in Ron’s arms. Multiple healers rushed past Draco, almost pushing him out of the way to get to Harry. Time had slowed down and Draco had felt a piece of his heart break, worry creeping up into the back of his throat as he choked back a sob. He had to be strong for this.

“His file! We need his file!” A healer yelled, checking Harry over for injuries so they knew what to do to heal him, as per their job.

Draco had run into the hallway, and collapsed to the floor. He felt the creeping panic attack flood him. This couldn’t be happening. His last memory of Harry could not be breaking up with him, he refused to let that happen. But he could scarcely move for the panic, frozen still in the moment.

“Malfoy.. You’re needed. You’re, uhm, you’re still Potter’s emergency contact. You’ve been released from your duties today.”

Draco was broken from his panic and looked up, tears still in his eyes. He nodded slowly and stood, his legs shaking beneath him. He was fearful of what he was going to see. Was he going to be met with Harry’s corpse? Was he expected to say his goodbyes and support Ron in spreading the news? The thought terrified him, yet his feet moved taking him towards the bed in which Harry was laid. When he reached the curtained off bed, Draco felt himself break again. Draco managed to take a seat next to Harry, watching him carefully. This was too much to handle. He felt as though he shouldn’t be there. Yet nothing could compel him to leave Harry’s side. In his observations of Harry’s injuries, Draco had realised that the other was, in fact, breathing. The sight of Harry’s chest rising and falling with each breath caused a wave of relief to flood through Draco. He wasn’t gone, not yet.

Malfoy sat there for hours, refusing to leave Harry’s bedside. He was terrified that Harry’s breathing would suddenly stop. Terrified that Harry’s injuries would be too severe and The Boy Who Lived would slowly slip away from him. No matter who asked him, Draco simply refused to leave his bedside.

It wasn’t until the next day that Potter stirred, a soft groan escaping his lips as he came back into consciousness. Malfoy was still there, snoozing away in the chair. Ron and Hermione were sitting next to Harry’s bedside, also. A wave of relief crashing through them as Harry stirred. It took him a few minutes to regain full consciousness, yet when he did, he caught sight of Draco immediately. The way he curled into a ball as he slept unmistakable, the mop of messy blonde hair atop of Draco’s head confirming that his former flame was there by his bedside.

“You gave us a bloody good fright there, mate.” Ron choked out, sounding relieved, yet tired.

“Wh-What happened?” Harry choked out, rubbing his aching head.

“There was an explosion. You- you were caught in it. I-It was touch and go for a while.” Hermione answered.

Harry nodded weakly. “A-And Malfoy, wh-why is he here..?” He wasn’t sure if he wanted the answer. Even in his concussed state, Harry had assumed that he was there to gloat that they were separated. He worried that Malfoy was just here to remind them that they were over.

“He-” Hermione sighed, “he’s here because he’s worried, Harry. He hasn’t been doing good since- well, since you broke up. You scared us all, Draco especially.”

Harry nodded weakly, trying to process what she was saying. It was a lot to take in in such a short space of time. Yet, he couldn’t help but look at Draco. He admired the way he slept, finding comfort in the smooshed up snoring face. He knew it was a bad habit, admiring his ex as he slept. But it always brought him comfort, seeing how peaceful Draco was as he slept. Despite everything, he ached for Draco to be next to him, holding him. He ached for the familiar musk, the familiar grasp. Nothing was more comforting than Draco Malfoy in his arms.

Bad habit, I know. But I'm needin' you right now. Can you help me out?

Malfoy had eventually woken, he stretched out and then immediately panicked. He sat up with a shot, looking around him in worry as Harry wasn’t there. However, just as he stood up to go in search of Potter, Harry was wheeled back to his curtained off cubicle. Draco felt a rush of relief, yet again, when he laid eyes on Harry.

“Fuck, Harry, you’re awake!” He almost cried with glee, “you’re okay!”

Harry was slightly taken aback by Draco’s burst of happiness. After all, he had walked out on him just a few weeks prior. “Y-yeah..” he cleared his throat. “I woke up about four hours ago..”

Draco’s gaze hardened as he looked up to Weasley. “And why didn’t you wake me? Harry fucking Potter almost died and you didn’t think to wake me.” Draco snapped at Weasley.

“Enough, Malfoy! I told him not to wake you.” Harry snapped back. “You looked exhausted so I let you sleep.”

Draco’s glare softened ever so slightly and he folded his arms across his chest. He stood in silence for a moment before clearing his throat and sighing. “Well, I can see you’re alive. I best be leaving then. Get well soon, Potter.”

As Draco made to leave, Ron stood in front of him, holding his hand out to stop any further steps he could make. “You’re not going anywhere. You both need to talk and you’re not leaving until you’ve sorted whatever this thing is.” Ron looked between the two of them. “I may not like you very much, Malfoy, and I like you even less now. But you both need to sort your shit out because I really don’t fancy seeing Harry as broken as he is for much longer. Hermione and I will be outside to make sure you don’t leave, got it?”

Draco glared at Weasley, scoffing as he nodded. “Fine, whatever.”

Malfoy was good at pretending, he was particularly good at trying to numb his feelings around those who weren’t worthy enough to see his vulnerabilities. While he considered Harry to be worthy, he would be damned if he showed any weaknesses right now.

“Help me into the bed, Malfoy. This bloody wheelchair is uncomfortable.” Harry muttered.

Begrudgingly, Draco helped him, reminding himself that it was his job to do so, not because he owed Potter anything. Yet he did. He knew he owed Harry everything. Once Harry was back laying in the bed, Draco continued to stand, ignoring how good it felt to hold his former lover again.

“So..” Harry muttered, looking up at Draco,

“So.” The blonde replied.

The tension was thick in the air, neither one of them sure of what to say. Harry knew he had a lot to make up for, he knew he wasn’t as attentive to Malfoy and he knew it hurt him when he spent time with Ginny alone. He knew these insecurities yet he ignored them because of his own selfish nature. Yet Draco knew he shouldn’t have exploded like that, he shouldn’t have taken his hard day at work out on Harry. Harry was simply spending time with a friend, yet it hurt that he watched a romantic comedy with her.

“I’m sorry.” Harry said quietly, looking up at Draco with tears in his eyes.

Draco could feel himself melting, the ice wall he put up to hide his vulnerabilities was slowly being melted. “Harry.. I- you- you don’t need to apologise.”

“No, Draco, I do. I really need to apologise be-because I knew you didn’t feel comfortable with Ginny hanging around the flat when you weren’t there. I dismissed your feelings..” He said quietly.

Draco was taken aback. He wasn’t quite sure how to reply to that. “You-- you don’t need to apologise. I should have trusted you.” He gulped, anxiety taking over as he crossed his arms over his chest again.

Harry felt a twang of guilt once more, but he shrugged it off as he patted his bed, welcoming Draco to at least sit down. “Please, Drac, sit down and tell me why it bothers you.. Properly, so I know how to work around it next time.”

Draco sighed and reluctantly sat down next to Harry, fighting every instinct he had to climb into his arms. “Harry..”

“Draco, please. I-I want this, us, to work. I can’t be without you. I don’t want to fall into bad habits again. I need you to tell me why it bothers you.” Harry took Draco’s hand in his, thumbing small circles into the back of Draco’s hand.

Draco gulped and thought for a moment, allowing himself to melt into Harry’s touch. Draco was scared to say how he truly felt, fearful of the judgment it could bring. He sighed shakily and tried to think of how he really felt. He had snidely said it to Harry the night he left, but was that enough for Potter? Probably not.

“You were never meant to date someone like me. You were supposed to marry Ginny, she’s who you need in life, not me.” He gulped.

“That’s where you’re wrong, Draco. Ginny was the one who called it quits with me... She saw something between us that neither of us saw. Draco, when we got together, it was the most important night of my life to date… Any romantic feelings for Ginny evaporated. You’re the only one I wanted from that night on.”

The blonde sighed, running his hands down his face as he thought. This wasn’t supposed to happen.

“B-but what about the headlines in the Prophet? They slandered you for our relationship, Harry. They attacked and hounded us for years, barely giving us a moment’s because The Boy Who Lived was never meant to end up with a Death Eater.”

“Former Death Eater. Reformed Death Eater.” Harry stated pointedly.

“Whatever, former, reformed, current. It doesn’t matter. You would be better with the Weasley girl. She could give you children, satisfy the press, she could be so much better for you and you know it, Potter.”

Harry felt his heart sink, blinking a few times as he processed what Draco had said to him.

“But I don’t want any of those things. I could deal with the press so long as you’re by my side, Draco.” Harry gulped. “I promise you, I can and will do better. Okay?”

“Okay,” Draco gulped in return. “I promise not to get too jealous over the Weasley girl. I have to work on that if I want you to stay in my life.”

Harry nodded. “We have a lot to work through, b-but we can only work through it together. We can’t call it quits when it gets too much.”

Draco agreed, his eyes fixated on Harry’s hands, still tracing circles on the back of his hand.

“Now, please, cuddle me. I really need a cuddle after everything.” Harry pouted.

A smile broke out on Draco’s face as he kicked off his shoes and curled up next to Harry, curling back into his arms.

In that moment, everything felt at peace again. Everything was right for them once again. Together they knew they could work everything out. They knew they were each other's bad habits. They knew they could lean on each other and it didn’t matter what happened, they could get through it, even in the moments they think would be hard on them. Each petty argument meant nothing in comparison to what they had.

Hate to say that I love you. Hate to say that I need you. Hate to say that I want you. But I do…

#Sing To Me Instead: Drarry #drarry #drarry fanfic #draco malfoy #harry potter #harry potter fanfiction #drarry fanfiction #drarry angst #ben platt #sing to me instead

[7-wonders]

I love Daddy Michael ! I would like how he will react when his little bub will grow. First step, first tooth, first word...

I love this so much! Here we go, baby Langdon’s milestones! Let me know if you want some more of this; I’ll be putting this under a ‘read more’ since it’s so damn long.

First tooth--

Michael, to put it lightly, is exhausted. You both knew that having a baby wasn’t going to be a walk in the park, but neither of you anticipated just how much stress went into being first-time parents. It’s a full-time, 24/7 job, on top of carrying out the apocalypse. However wiped-out Michael is, he knew it couldn’t compare how drained you are. His heart aches for you when you’re forced to get up every two hours to feed the baby, often taking at least an hour to soothe your child back to sleep. Michael’s gone on business far more often than he wished to be, leaving you to attend to the baby’s needs by yourself. 

When he returned this morning from a meeting with a couple of the world leaders who will be responsible for launching the nukes, the house was far too quiet for his liking. He’s always had the underlying fear that you’ll up and leave him one day with no warning, and that fear suddenly comes to the forefront of his mind when he can’t hear any signs of life. Michael starts to dart from room to room, coming to a stop when he finally picks up on the baby’s cooing noises from the nursery. He peeks his head in, not wanting to disturb you if you’re trying to get the baby to sleep. Instead, his stomach drops in pity and sympathy.

You’re sitting on the rug, back pressed against the crib as your shoulders are wracked with sobs. Baby’s laying on the play rug that’s set up beside you, happily babbling and attempting to grab at the small toys that dangle just above the set of chubby hands. Michael falls to his knees beside you, pulling your hands into his and kissing the tears that track down your cheeks. 

“My love, what’s wrong?” He asks in concern.

“I’m sorry, I probably look so pathetic right now.” Michael starts to reassure you, but you just continue talking. “I’m just--I’m so tired, and-and Bub only wants to play and absolutely refuses to nap, and I know that you hired some very capable nannies but the thought of anyone else watching our baby just terrifies me. I can’t--I can’t do that.”

“Hey, shh, don’t worry. You don’t have to do anything you’re uncomfortable with.” Michael pulls you into his arms, hugging you tightly and trying to calm you down. “Why don’t you go take a long shower or bath, and then you can go get some sleep?”

“But...what about the-”

“I am Bub’s other parent, darling. You’re off the clock tonight, and that’s final. You need to rest, or else you’re going to burn yourself out.”

“Are you sure?”

“Absolutely.” Michael plays with the wedding ring on your finger before standing and pulling you up with him.

“Alright,” you say in an unsure tone, “but come get me if the baby needs to be fed.” There’s plenty of milk stored in the freezer for the baby, and you both know that, but you just don’t want to be failing as a mother in any way.

Two hours later, and things are going great. You haven’t tried to disobey Michael once, the baby’s been fed and bathed, and Michael’s feeling overall accomplished. The odd fussiness of baby, however, throws the blond Antichrist off of his rhythm. Since birth, the baby’s been so calm, always observing everything that’s going on with wide eyes. Today, though, has been a complete change in the baby’s burgeoning personality.

“C’mon, lovey, what’s the matter?” Michael questions tiredly, rubbing the baby’s small back. The little red cheeks, angry from constant whining, makes Michael’s heart melt. He’s resorted to laying down with the baby on his chest, desperately hoping the baby will sleep so he can join you in bed. 

There’s no pacifiers around, and the baby’s been uninterested in every toy that Michael’s presented since the pair moved to the living room on the other side of the house to prevent you from waking up. He lets the baby play with his fingers, not even blinking when they get covered in slobber. The baby gnaws on his fingers, a regular routine by now. What’s not regular is the sudden jolt of pain Michael feels on his finger.

“Ouch,” he hisses, pulling his hand away from the baby, who immediately starts to cry again. “What weapon are you hiding from me in that mouth of yours?”

Michael gently works his thumbs into the baby’s mouth, attempting to pry it open in an attempt to see inside. His first thought, however irrational it may be, is that the baby’s (all of six months old, mind you) managed to get a hold of a knife. To his surprise and delight, a pearly white tooth is starting to peek out of the bottom gum of baby’s mouth. 

“Well look at that!” Michael grins, proud of his child’s ability to break a tooth through the gum. “That’s an easy fix, let’s go see if there’s something cold for you to chew on in the freezer.”

/////////////////////////////

First step--

Ever since the baby’s started standing up a week ago, it’s been an eager waiting game on behalf of you and Michael. You’ll hold your breath whenever those small, chubby hands are used on a table or the chair to pull baby up into a standing position, or when Michael sets the baby down on those wobbly legs. Unfortunately, all of your attempts have proven fruitless as of late. Your child certainly knows how to crawl with the best of them, but it seems like walking isn’t going to be happening for a while.

It’s when you least expect something to happen, that it does finally happen. Michael’s in his office, working on some quick tweaks to the Outposts, and you’re taking the opportunity to go through the baby’s outgrown clothes and determine what to donate and what to throw away. Ever since you’ve become a mother, your ability to focus on multiple affairs at once has become a superpower of yours. You’re sorting through the clothes while, at the same time, watching the baby out of the corner of your eye. Baby’s gripping onto the crib while standing up on unsteady feet, chattering away to you while you hum and nod to keep up the ‘conversation.’

It’s when the baby lets go of the crib and remains standing that you turn your attention to your firstborn. You don’t want to look too excited, in case the baby gets stage fright, but you can barely hide the brewing glee as Bub continues to stand. Slowly, as if you’re approaching a wild animal, you hold up your hands.

“C’mere, lovebug!” You coo, baby smiling a toothy grin and starting to wobble towards you. Stifling a gasp, you smile right back as shaky steps are taken until Bub reaches your arms and falls into them. “Good job! Oh, my sweet baby, I’m so proud of you!”

You nuzzle into the soft skin of baby’s neck, blowing raspberries until giggles pierce the air. Not able to restrain yourself from sharing this moment with Michael, you stand up and make your way to his office. You don’t even bother to knock, knowing that he can sense you before you’ve even opened the door. He still pretends to be surprised when you do enter, looking up from his papers with a pleased smile. 

“What brings my two favorite people to my office today?” Michael’s confused when you don’t greet him with a kiss, instead crouching down a few inches in front of his chair. 

“Watch this,” you say excitedly, grinning as you let the baby stand while holding onto your fingers. “Go get Daddy!”

In a matter of seconds, his confused expression turns to glee when the baby lets go of your fingers and starts to walk to Michael. He’s speechless, large hands automatically reaching out to catch the child if need be. The need doesn’t arise, Bub instead walking all the way over to Michael. He catches the baby, swooping the laughing infant through the air. 

“You did it! You finally walked!” Michael snuggles the baby to his chest, pressing kisses to the downy curls. “When was this new skill acquired?”

“Hmm, maybe thirty seconds before we came in here.”

“Our kid’s a genius.”

You can’t help the laugh that escapes you. “Slow your roll, okay? We’ll discuss that if Bub’s doing calculus within the next three months.”

/////////////////////////////

First word--

“Come on, say it! Say ‘dada,’“ Michael pleads with the baby, who giggles at their father’s antics from their high chair. Michael sighs, dropping some more Cheerios on the tray and into the waiting hands of the baby. 

“Michael, Bub’s not going to say anything if you continue with your pestering,” you say from the kitchen, where you’re making a more substantial breakfast for the adults.

“I’m not pestering, I’m just...encouraging.” He swears he hears you mumble something along the lines of ‘if you’re being encouraging, I must be a fucking billionaire.’ “What was that, love?”

“Nothing!” you call back all too quickly.

“Well,” Michael turns his attention back to the amused baby, “if you’re not going to say that, maybe you can say...ball? Cereal? Dog?”

“Why don’t you just have ‘em recite the Declaration of Independence, while you’re at it?” You can’t resist to sneak in an insult as you re-enter the dining room, placing a plate of eggs and toast in front of Michael while sitting down with your own.

“Remind me why I married you, again?”

“Probably my wit, or maybe my amazing personality.” You smile at him cheekily, the baby’s hand on your face drawing your attention away. “Hi, cutie. You keeping Daddy company?”

“Always,” Michael replies.

“So, about the Sanctuary,” you look back at Michael, getting down to business, “you promise that we aren’t going to have to stay underground forever?”

“I’ve promised you countless times before, and I’ll promise you countless times again. It’s only temporary until my father has deemed the world ready to be remade again.”

“I just don’t want to raise our child, and any future children we may have, in a f-u-c-k-i-n-g nuclear fallout shelter,” you spell out the curse word, really hoping that your child’s first word isn’t ‘fucking.’ “And what about when the end of the world does happen? I don’t know if I can be alone without you for weeks at a time.”

“You won’t be. I’m not going to go anywhere unless you are absolutely, one hundred percent okay with it. We’re a family, and I don’t think I could be alone without you for weeks at a time either.”

You take a sip of your coffee, nodding. “Thank you for this. I know it must be annoying to answer the same questions over and over again.”

“It’s not annoying, I would do anything if it meant you would feel better.” You smile, reaching your hand across the table and grasping his.

“Mama!” A little voice yells, obviously not pleased you’re looking elsewhere.

“Yeah, lovebug?” You hum, more focused on moving the food around your plate, until the voice calls your name again and your fork clatters to your plate in shock.

Michael’s head turns towards the baby, mouth hanging open. “Did you just...?”

“Mama!” The baby calls again, laughing at the shock that’s obvious on both your faces. 

“Bub’s first word!” You say, clapping your hands together in excitement.

“Seriously? All the practice we’ve done, and your first word is ‘mama?’“ Michael says in disbelief. Baby keeps repeating the word over and over, pleased at the reactions.

“What can I say, love, you’ll get it next time.”

Tag list: @khaleesimel @sammyt @sloppy-little-witch-bitch26 @langdonslove @heda-mikaelson @readsalot73 @jimmlangdon @sebastianshoe @girlycakepops @trimbooohgodplsnoooo @pastel-cloudz @nana15774 @queencocoakimmie @lichellaw @ccodyfern @lvngdvns @divinelangdon @ultragibbycentralworld @grim-adventures58 @trelaney @wroteclassicaly @starwlkers @hecohansen31 @hexqueensupreme

#michael langdon #michael langdon imagine #michael langdon x reader #michael langdon x you #american horror story #american horror story imagine #american horror story apocalypse #american horror story imagines #AHS #ahs imagine #ahs imagines #ahs apocalypse

[forasecondtherewedwon]

I know I already asked for some prompts, but can I ask for one more? Or two? #4 and #37 I think would both make great fics and would be great Spideycelle NSFW content!

Of course! Thank you so much for your request! I’ve already written a fic for prompt 37 (Miss Your Train), so here’s 4 on its own. The seriousness of this fic is, imo, quite a departure from the Spideychelle stories I’ve written in the past. This one goes out to the anons who’ve asked me to write angst.

nobody actually meets in a bookshopPairing: Peter x Michelle (Spideychelle), background Ned x BettyRating: E/NSFWWord count: 7172

4. “I really wish you’d told me your mother was in town.”

“Nope,” she says. “You have to leave. Nobody actually meetsin a bookshop.”

“I told you,” Peter insists, almost laughing as she hustleshim to the door, “I do have toleave.”

He’s late now. A friend (not that close) from college isexhibiting his sculptures at the gallery one door down (he won’t realize for arelatively long time how near the gallery is). Peter turned too soon, didn’tread the sign on the door, just saw the mood lighting and a crowd of peopleinside.

“Get out then,” she tells him, and they’re already standingon the sidewalk. You’d think rain would make it cleaner, but it feels grittierthan ever under his sneakers, like the water got into all the cracks andfloated the broken things to the surface.

“MJ,” someone calls from inside right before the doorcloses.

The woman in front of him gives Peter wide, mischievous eyesand he has a feeling. A second later, they’re hurrying down the sidewalk and hefeels like an outlaw.

“Book launch,” she sighs, then glances at him and laughs,helps him get his arms out of the coat he’s been trying to give her becauseit’s still spitting. She has her purse, but he doesn’t know if she abandoned ajacket back at the bookshop when they made their getaway.

“Maybe the author won’t take it personally,” Peter offers.

They glance sideways at each other and snort. It’s amiracle, this synchronized snort. Someone would really have to gather quite anumber of pigs together to produce two snorts at the same time.

Their sexual attraction catches up with them two blockslater. On the way to his apartment, he does all kinds of things he neverthought he’d do in a taxi, like French kissing a near-stranger while sheassertively palms his cock through his good jeans. (What do you wear to an exhibitionopening, he’d wondered. Dark blue denim seemed unobjectionably andnoncommittally cool.)

An opportunity to take in her reaction to his verymiddle-of-the-road apartment doesn’t arise. They’re wrestling each other’sclothes off just inside the door, no light on yet. It’s her who reaches backand flips the lock and it’s a solid sound, solid like the kind of surface hewants to lay her down on because he’s really going to go for it, no holdingback. He grips her skirted ass in one hand, holding the front of her to hiscrotch and when she bumps her hips forward, he gets his hand up under her skirtand into her underwear while she breathes hot in his ear.

Peter wonders for a second why this decision feels so goodand realizes it’s because he made it for himself. He’s completely in control.

She uses his body like a ladder and descends to her knees,then grips the waist of his jeans and pops the line of buttons holding themshut. Fuck, maybe not especially in control. Her tongue’s caressing him―Petercan’t tell which feels thicker: his straining cock or the humid paradise of hermouth. He might be standing on Ned’s shoes. Oh well, the woman already knowsshe’s taller. Her lips close around him like she’s trapping a secret. Her handis very soft; it’s cupping his balls.

Clean sheets and a clean bounce when he drops her onto them.Turns out the terms for a negotiation of power involve three fingers movingslickly inside her (she’s moaning and Peter’s about ready to chew up themattress for how badly he wants to hold onto some part of her with his mouth)and the lights on.

“Turn over,” he pants at her, buttoned shirt wrinkled andopen.

She flops onto her stomach and he rides the motion of herhips with his hand while she rides his thread count like she’s testing her clitfor durability. His tongue fits nicely into the sweaty dip in her spine.

He wakes up for less than 10 seconds at 2-something in themorning because the light’s still on. It’s possible that he turns it off, ormaybe it just burns out before daylight.

She’s getting dressed (at an hour he’s considerably morecomfortable calling ‘morning’), but something about her says she wasn’t justgoing to slip out of here like hot butter. He rolls onto his side, glad thesheet’s over his hips because otherwise this might feel like a sleazy one-nightstand.

“Peter,” she finally acknowledges. Her hair’s up in a redelastic that she probably got from his desk on the other side of the room. Hewonders if that hurts. Seeing the length of it, wavy and held away from herneck, he’s stunned by how sexy she is. Good god.

“MJ.”

“Don’t call me that.”

He heard it, he definitely heard someone call that out toher last night. Has he done something really terrible and slept with someone(fornicated rapturously with someone)whose name he doesn’t actually know?

“But I thought―”

“Only my friends call me MJ.”

“So what do your boyfriends call you?”

He offers a smile and if it’s a dorky smile, too late. Atleast Peter’s had a chance to demonstrate additional selling points of hisbody’s features and abilities. Ahem.

With a smirk, on go her shoes. They’re classy, but flat.Good for fleeing a hookup. Which Peter suddenly (not that suddenly―the blowjobin the entryway was staggeringly convincing) doesn’t want this to be.

“They call me in the morning.”

“But you didn’t give me your number.” This is smooth, right?

She tosses her ponytail and they both know, he’s prettysure, that she does this to torture him. It’s affected yet effective.

Which is to say he’s stiff as hell beneath the sheet.

“You’re not my boyfriend.”

A tough-luck-champ smile and she’s up, crusading for thefront door.

―

No, it’s true. Nobody actually meets in a bookshop.

MJ first sees Peter in a bar six months earlier. Maybe theydon’t shake hands or trade names, maybe Peter doesn’t even see her, but he’s inher head like an inescapable fever dream after that.

Eventually, she gives up the table. She’d have been betteroff standing than grabbing a stool at the bar, but she’s wearing bad shoes, badexpensive shoes, expensive beautiful shoes that pinch and make her have to sit.Her legs are just her legs, but when she sits on a high bar stool and crossesthem, men enter her personal space like it’s a public washroom. Dammit, sheshould’ve gone to the washroom and sat on a toilet, dress between her ass andthe seat. Well, hindsight.

But washrooms don’t have ginger ale and MJ would rather notfind out if, when push came to shove, she would drink water from the tap of abar’s bathroom sink. Tonight will have to stand as it is, already total shitwithout the possibility of lowering her standards further.

Speaking of lowering standards.

“What can I get you?” a slightly tipsy man demands. He’ssqueezed in between her seat and the next one over, standing (power position).She feels the warmed texture of his suit jacket brush her arm. She’d shudder,but it’d just make him think he’d turned her on.

“Nothing, asshole.”

“What’d you say?”

MJ smiles at her ginger ale.

“‘Nothing at all.’”

He scoffs and gives up.

Bachelor number two: “What’s that?”

“Ginger ale.”

“Is not.”

This is so hilarious to her that she frowns.

“Yep, bubbles and everything.” MJ lifts her glass from thebar top for his inspection.

“I’ll get you a martini.”

Easy, Bond.

“Nope, I’ve got my drink.”

“That’s not a drink,” says bachelor number three, edging in.Number two fucks off like a woman who can’t be bombasted out of guzzling gingerale isn’t worth his time.

“Tell that to my increasing urge to piss,” MJ suggests. Menhate that, the word ‘piss’ coming out of a woman’s mouth.

“Bitch,” he dismisses.

In the three minutes before the next dickhead tries his luck,she glances backwards, into the room, and spots the man she’ll come to know asPeter six months from now. She faces forward again. She wants something thatgood. He looks kind, laughing next to someone she presumes is an old friend.

“A whiskey for her.”

MJ looks around, then up, where a man has his hand above herhead, index finger pointing sharply down. She thinks the fuck not.

“Fine with my ginger ale.”

“What are you, pregnant? Cheap? ‘Don’t like the taste’? Analcoholic? Fall off the wagon,” he dares, going ahead and assuming his lastguess is the right one, leaning on the bar. “You’ll like it.” He beginsstroking the back of her forearm with his finger. “I know what else you’lllike. Su―”

She meets Peter for real six months later and it’s like an exhalation.

―

“I miss phonebooks,” he confides.

MJ puts all her surprise into her laugh, which Peter findsflattering and trusting.

“You know why?” he continues.

She thinks.

“Because you like to stand on them to feel taller?”

“Wow.” But he’sgrinning like an idiot. “No. Because I’ve been wanting to look you up.”

“Since last week,” she confirms.

“Since you forcefully escorted me from a book launch like Iwas a shoplifter.”

MJ allows him to hold her gaze for at least half a minute asthey both struggle with their smiles. This feels right.

“And how far do you think you would’ve gotten with just ‘MJ’to go on? Uh, mustard, please,” she directs the hotdog vendor. “No ketchup.”

“I think things would’ve worked out.”

Peter cheers’s her hotdog with his when it’s ready and shehasn’t taken off. They stroll down the sidewalk together and he wonders if shehas someplace to be or if she just always looks that great. From the times he’smet her, she’s two for two, so the latter seems plausible.

“Why’s that?”

“It’s fate!” he explains, turning and pointing back at thepeeling slogan on the striped umbrella floating above the vendor’s cart. ‘It’sFate!’ it reads. Peter cannot begin to understand what the hell it has to dowith hotdogs.

MJ laughs, even with food in her mouth.

“Destiny’s gotten a little pedestrian if its big play is togive us the same favourite street meat cart.”

Peter shrugs. They walk in silence to the next intersection,the city alive around them.

“This is the worst fucking hotdog I’ve had in a year,” sheconfesses.

“I only got in line because I saw you,” he says.

“If I give you my number…” she begins as they dump theirhotdogs in the next trashcan. They will proceed to walk another eight blockstogether. “…will you promise not to call me?”

“God, of course, never.”

Peter’s beaming as she puts it into his phone.

“I’m really bad at making new friends. I hit, like, a friendmaximum and I find it psychologically impossible to add to that number.” He’snodding along with her bullshit. “Really an awful human being. A perfect NewYorker.”

“Cool, I hate you already.”

“That’s ideal,” she avows, handing back his phone.

“I’ll only be the guy you want to see when you’re hungry fora long piece of meat.”

“Jesus Christ, Peter.” Her hand goes to her throat likeshe’s almost choked, which, hello.

“Oh no,” he says in a voice that screams his words were noaccident. “Oh my god, I was talking about the hotdogs.”

“Obviously.” They eye each other with hilarity.

Peter smiles.

“Just trying to make sure you don’t start attempting to bemy friend either. That you don’t like me.”

“Well, you’ll notice that I didn’t ask for your numberback,” she points out.

He rocks on his feet, grinning.

“You want it, don’t you?”

She hands her phone over with a sigh.

“Only so I can give your contact info to my lawyer when I’msuing you for hotdog-related harassment.”

Peter nods, tapping in his number.

“Planning ahead. I can’t stand that in a woman.”

―

If the hotdog hadn’t scrambled her insides, she would’vecalled him the same night. Even with the scrambling, she can only wait a day.And, yes, she does actually call him. Phone-to-ear calls him. Shit.

He shows up with flowers although it’s almost midnight,fingers wrapped around their plastic sleeve when she opens her door.

“Don’t make that face,” he says. “They were really cheap.”

She accepts them with a carefully tempered smile, doesn’tlet him see the full extent of her happiness.

“Then I have a really shitty vase they’ll look great in.”

“You don’t have a roommate?” Peter checks, peering around alittle while she deals with the (actually lovely―fuck him) flowers.

“Um, no,” MJ says distractedly. Is she really arranging theflowers or making a mess? She gives up and sets the vase on her kitchen table.She turns to Peter.

“I―”

“Do. I know. I saw the extra shoes and took in the generalmulti-dude vibe of your apartment.” She says it without judgement, merely as adescription, but just in case he is offended, she offers something up. Unusualfor her. “I have a nice place with just me in it because my mother feels guiltyand it’s more straightforward to accept her money than her, well… You’re awarethis was a booty call, right, Peter?”

He shrugs; it’s one of the most reassuring gestures MJ’sever had directed at her.

“I was hoping. It had to be either that or hotdogs and I trynot to eat meat after nine.”

She waffled between keeping on her boring underwear (she’sat home, Peter is a low-key fuck) or swapping them for something sleek andsilky (low-key in all ways but how good he is in the sack). When his eyes goglassy, MJ feels excellent about changing.

It’s slower this time and she’ll feel his lips on hershoulder whenever she closes her eyes for weeks after this. He has very subtlefingertips. When they stroke into the cups of her bra and make tender passesover her nipples, MJ thinks she might orgasm, though prior to this, having herbreasts touched has never been much more than perfunctory for both her and theman. Peter’s circling motion is so lulling and delicate that his sudden tug onher nipples gets a scream out of her.

The feel of his hard thighs under her hands is wonderful andit’s incomprehensible to her that he hasn’t bragged about his workout routine.Gotta be squats―the guy’s ass is rock-solid too. Her memory foam mattress willprobably form to it, betraying her; it’s never been willing to hold her shapeand she’s always taken that personally. Peter groans when she kisses himdeeply.

She wants to be on top. He’s amenable.

―

Ned tells him he’s tempting fate, shoes already on, keys inhand. It’s Saturday, late afternoon, too long since he’s seen her, which couldbe any length of time at all.

“Peter,” she says when she picks up, “this number is foremergencies only.”

He flounders, sees Ned laugh at him from the couch, as if hecan hear what’s going on. Jerk.

“I just want to take you for a drink,” Peter blurts into thephone.

“How about coffee instead?”

“That’s perfect,” he agrees, giving Ned the finger as heleaves their apartment. “I’m having a heart attack, so maybe the caffeine willrestart my heart.”

“Right. And what was the alcohol supposed to do?”

“…Clean the wound?”

“There’s a wound anda heart attack. Buddy, you’re in bad shape.”

“Why else would I have called you?” He’s smiling, racingdown the stairs, barely hanging onto the handrail. “It’s definitely anemergency.”

She’s funny today, not like ha-ha. Peter’s curious aboutwhat could be making her uncomfortable in the coffee shop she directed him tomeet her at. They don’t do a lot of personal conversation though, which is himfollowing her lead. He’d like to touch her hand, but the table is a crumblingcanyon between them and he can’t get across.

“Are you al―”

MJ shakes her head. It’s not a no, it’s her telling him toscrew off.

“This is a strange place to meet,” she says.

“You picked it.”

“I know, I know. It’s just, as far as our acquaintanceshipgoes…”

“Oh, our acquaintanceship.”He shoots her a sneaky smile. “Is that what’s bothering you?” Peter shifts hislegs and leans forward, dropping his voice. “That this isn’t about sex?”

“This,” she assures him, gesturing back and forth betweenthem with one finger, “is about sex.”

“Does that mean you’re going to ask me to take my boxers offand pass them to you under the table?”

She allows him a genuine almost-smile.

“No one in here wants to see that.”

“Not even you? Crap, that’s going to be a problem if you andI are only about sex. I’m feeling a little undervalued.”

Suddenly, MJ’s ducking her head, but not before he sees theshape of her mouth change. The pain contorting her forehead.

Peter’s hand dives across to cover hers.

“Please, you can talk to me.”

“I really,” she says quietly, sniffs, “think you could workon your pacing a little. In bed.”

MJ glances up, composed. She straightens her back. His eyebrowsrise until he realizes she’s messing around.

“Sorry,” Peter says easily. “I guess I get right into it toofast sometimes. I’m too excited to have you.” He gives her burning eyes andlets them cool when she bites her lips together. “I swear, it’s like I forgetthat I don’t actually like you and this is just sex.”

“Well, it is. How’s your latte?”

“Jeeze, what else do you want to know, my social securitynumber?!”

She laughs like she’s giving in.

“You better not have memorized my coffee order,” MJ threatensas they’re leaving.

“I’ll try to forget,” Peter lies.

―

It’s been two and a half weeks and she won’t let herselfmiss him. Cindy talks her into a slow lap of a museum after work. MJ agreesbecause the publisher she does cover design for launched one of theiranticipated heavyweights last week, so for the first time in a while, she’s notstaying late to move elements around on the book jacket.

“You’re always going to need her to love you like that,”Cindy says softly, steering them on a lap of the room, “but you don’t have toneed her.”

Cindy is a counsellor and damn hyper about it too.

MJ drags her feet, lets her arm hang heavy in her friend’s.They have this conversation too much, too many times a year.

“I don’t need her to love me.”

“You do, you little liar.” She’d better not be this bluntwith her clients. “You are actually aperson, as much as you try to be whatever you’re trying to be.”

“I’m hungry,” MJ complains. “That’s one I can commit to.Let’s skip this and get Thai.”

“You’re not going to escape this―”

“And you’re not going to fix it.”

“―have to at least talk about her if not to her.”

“I did talk toher, that’s why I’m so… oh no.”

She stops in her tracks and so does Cindy, tense as a doe.Peter’s circling counter-clockwise.

“Who’s that?” Cindy asks immediately, looking where MJ’slooking.

“He’s…” But her throat is all dry.

Cindy gasps.

“He’s Book Launch. Cute.Ok, I forgive you for abandoning me with your coat and your work friends.”

“They’re not my friends,” MJ insists, still staring atPeter. She and Cindy haven’t moved and Peter and the guy he’s with are comingcloser.

He sees them. Standing obstructively in front of a display,how could he not? She used to be more invisible. Is she the difference, or isPeter?

Peter, who smiles at her a long time before his friendelbows him aside and introduces himself as Ned. Things tumble forward fromthere and suddenly Cindy is absolutely all for heading straight to dinner.

“I’m not trying to set up a double date,” Peter impressesupon them with a very serious slice of his arm, forbidding underhandedmatchmaking schemes. It’s clearly for MJ’s benefit. He’s trying not to scareher, she sees. Wanting to make sure she doesn’t feel trapped or tricked orromanced.

“I’m engaged,” Ned explains.

Cindy shrugs.

“I’m a lesbian.”

“He and I aren’t dating either,” MJ clarifies, gesturingjerkily at Peter. He looks hurt and she wishes she could wish it wasn’t true.It just isn’t a good idea. She’s not a good idea.

They make it through dinner. Cindy and Ned have connected oversome nerdy thing that MJ doesn’t want to pretend to listen to, which leaves herwith her thoughts. She keeps rolling her dessert spoon between her index andmiddle fingers.

Peter’s next to her and it’s nothing for him to lean in herdirection, frowning at her hand.

“I used to smoke,” she says.

“Is something making you crave it?”

Ned and Cindy burst into laughter across from them. MJsmiles weakly, then glances at Peter.

“I got a call from my mom.” She says it quietly, but notenough to be suspicious. Cindy already knows and there’s no reason for Peter’sfriend to have a second thought about MJ’s relationship with her mother.

“Anything wrong?”

“Just the fact that she called.” She smiles again andslouches. He’s staring at her like he wants to hold her up.

“Can we talk about it?”

His earnest eyes grow deeper, like two holes in the groundthat are being shovelled out as she looks into them. The restaurant is apleasant hum.

“Can we not talkabout it?” She squints at him. “What if, instead, we go back to my apartmentand fuck in the shower?”

“MJ!” Cindy’s staring, shocked. MJ rolls her eyes.

“Go back to talking about The Hobbit.”

“We’re discussing TheSilmarillion.”

MJ turns to Peter again.

“Shower? Yes? No?”

“Depends on the scent of your body wash.”

“I’ve got three kinds. Come on.”

The shower winds up being a bad idea. The lighting and thewhite tiles make her feel vulnerable and slimy-souled.

“Don’t be romantic,” she warns him when he begins tocarefully wash her back.

“It’s hygiene, MJ.” She doesn’t make him call her ‘Michelle’instead.

The water’s hitting her face and she closes her eyes, tryingnot to bolt, not to run from the fact that Peter cares and was a really, reallypoor choice for a one-night stand. She rests her head back against his shoulderand he stops cleaning her to hug her to him.

“I’m stronger than what you’ve seen,” she feels it’simportant to say.

He snorts and she rolls her head to glare at him.

“Sorry, it’s just… That’s the last thing you need to prove.You never let yourself be anything else.”

“Kiss my mouth.”

Peter does. And he says a lot of kind things―a lot of truethings, about them― that she tries to block from her ears, holding her head inthe center of the heavy spray.

―

Lucky that she doesn’t have the patience to be fingered thisevening, because Peter cut his nails too short (she likes a little scratch toit) while distracted by the realization that he’s started to love her. Ned’swith Betty in a wedding planner’s office somewhere and Peter and MJ are inmissionary for about three seconds before they realize it and rearrange.

It’s weird being at home. He quit the Avengers while he wasstill in high school, right after Tony died, but the feeling of alertness justin case he’s dispatched to save the world is something Peter hasn’t been ableto get out from under. Or, hadn’tbeen able to. He seems to have more control of himself and his choices whenshe’s around. Even has some authority in his voice when he speaks. He’s notjust the kid nobody wants the responsibility of saving.

They’re on their sides, his front to her back, but Peterpulls them up onto their knees, driving into her with a hand flat on her spine.It’s presence―a substitute for eye contact. He hears the way MJ throws herbreath from her lungs. Her hand goes between her legs and the squeeze of herinsides is like someone moulding the warm wax of a candle around his dick withtheir bare hands. Peter chokes, keeps going.

They don’t talk much tonight, just try to be themselves fromthat first night. Back to basics.

An interlude.

―

This birthday card is for a child, but she bought it forhim.

“Lego Luke Skywalker!” Peter exclaims, eyes going from thecard to her face.

He’s delighted and she eases back into the booth wherethey’re sitting side by side, no one across from them. Their little nook isprivate, like a heartbeat.

“You like it?” she asks. Her finger rings the opening of hist-shirt sleeve.

Peter kisses her hard and fast, making her laugh and blush.She does and doesn’t want it to be a big deal that she knows his birthday, wentout of her way to discover it. Not by snooping through his wallet while he waspassed out in bed after sex―by asking Ned. The harder route, for sure.

“I’m keeping it forever,” he says enthusiastically. “Forever!”

MJ checks in on a small place in her mind and doesn’t findanything frightening there. The only thing she’d been worried about was himliking his card. She tucks herself into his side, almost hoping he won’tnotice.

“You’re probably just about at your limit, right?” Peterasks, quickly grabbing and draining his drink. “It’s ok,” he says when shedoesn’t correct him. “I’m fine with us rushing out of here for birthday sex.”

Because she’s shied from dates. Kept him back unless hewanted to approach penis-first. It wouldn’t be a bad time to ask him to bemore. MJ has a hunger for these words to leave his lips: ‘My girlfriend’spaying tonight.’ She wants the waiter to know and the other people in the otherbooths, and anyone walking by on the sidewalk.

They have sex twice, playful both times and full ofexperimenting. In between, they catch part of a BBC food documentary marathon.The handjob MJ builds Peter back up with for their second round takes itstechnique from how they watched a turkey farmer handle the neck of a fowlduring slaughter. They laugh and laugh until Peter goes, “Oh fuck, M.” She sinks down on him, handson his strong chest. His knees bend behind her. Support.

―

“I’m not trying to talk about MJ behind her back,” Peterinsists.

Cindy gives him a suspicious stare from the other side ofher sleek glass desk.

“People come to this office for counselling appointments.For themselves,” Cindy reinforces.“Not to snoop around in the lives of their romantic partners.”

“I don’t want to snoop and I don’t want an appointment. Iwas trying to catch you on your lunch hour, which I obviously have.” He motionsto the salad she’s stabbing at on purpose to make crisp snapping noises whilehe speaks. “I’ve been wondering how long you’ve known her.”

She frowns.

“High school.”

“But you’ve become really good friends. Best friends, I assume,” he checks. Cindy nods like she’s pleasedto be awarded this title. She should be. It’s a good one. “Was it… How did ithappen?”

“You want to know how long it took.”

Ok, fair. Reading people is an important part of her job.Peter swings his arms once, tense, and nods. Cindy opens her mouth, but pausesa moment before she speaks. The clock in the corner is ticking loudly, reallyearning its paycheck; he wonders if it stops at five o’ clock too and restsuntil the next day.

Cindy points her fork at him like she’s spear hunting andhe’s the dumb fish who doesn’t know how to evade.

“I’ll tell you because it’s about my relationship with MJ.Don’t push your luck.”

“Understood.”

“Slow at first,” she admits, laying down her fork. “She’s aquiet person. Well, no.” Cindy smiles to herself. “A private person. I think Iput myself in her path enough times, included her in enough events andconversations she just barely didn’t want to escape that she accepted myexistence in her life.”

“I’m around her as much as she lets me be around her―”

She holds up a hand to stop him, but it’s not aggressive.

“It needs to be on her terms.”

“Sometimes,” Peter says, lifting his eyes to the brightwhite ceiling, “I think she’s cornered herself with her own terms. Sometimes Ithink she wants… that she wants me the way I want her.”

“Don’t push her,” Cindy says, and there’s a threatening edgeall of sudden that makes Peter straighten up. The lines of her black blazerseem sharper. “Be around her, let her see that you’re there, but don’t infringeon her―”

“―control,” he finishes. Cindy looks surprised. “Look,”Peter begins, taking a seat across from her, then shifting his weight forwardand lowering his voice, “that’s something I get, ok?”

She continues to bristle and, from what comes next, make thedecision to talk more personally about her friend than she’d prepared Peterfor. He can’t hear the clock anymore.

“You know what it’s like not to be allowed to do anything?To be without choices?”

“I know what it’s like to have no limits at all and haveevery choice be agony.”

Peter’s breathing hard and he realizes his nose feels hot,his eyelashes feel wet when he blinks. After a long pause watching him sniffle,Cindy pushes a Kleenex box across the desk.

“I don’t want to control her,” he swears, voice soft as thetissue he’s folding unevenly between his fingers. “I want her to trust meenough to need me without expecting me to fail.”

He doesn’t know if it’s for MJ or for himself, but Petertells Cindy something she might’ve heard about before. The story isn’t oldenough to qualify as urban legend―he’s banking on that―so he hopes she believeshim when he asks if she remembers a guy in a red mask who went by ‘Spider-Man.’

―

MJ hates decorative pillows. She staggers around her livingroom, snatching coordinating throw cushions off her couch and attempting tostuff them into the nearest closest.

No, what she hates is navy blue. Why is there so much navyblue in her apartment? The first thing to go will be this raincoat, hanginginnocently in the closet she’s opening. MJ snatches it off its hanger and whipsit onto the floor, then whirls, searching for anything else vaguely nautical.

Oh, but pillows and navy are nothing compared to teacups!Who the fuck has teacups? She wonders this, letting her cupboard door bangopen, exposing their glossy white shells. What self-respecting, modern,feminist woman drinks tea from a delicate little cup instead of an extra-largemug that says ‘GRL BOSS’ or ‘DON’T TELL ME TO SMILE.’

She’s holding one of the teacups in her hand, shaking, andit slips. Just like that, shards all over the kitchen floor and MJ in a heap,leaning sideways into the fridge. All of that energy, spinning through herrooms and dismantling the material aspect of her life, collapses in on her. Itpushes her down and won’t let her breathe. It’s a clawed foot on her back, likesome of those fancy bathtubs. Her mother would buy her a bathtub like that ifshe asked for it.

What MJ’s thinking, what her mind is crying out for as hermouth sobs to an empty apartment, is that she wants Peter. She wants him hereand she doesn’t want him to leave unless he’s taking her with him. It almostphysically burns to desire this, making her scream her way free from thebreadth of her misery, which is like a wide river.

The fact that he said something to Cindy is all butconfirmed; she acts weird if MJ comes anywhere close to mentioning him, weirderif Cindy brings up his name on her own. MJ doesn’t think it can be anythingterrible, but right now, in this bleak instant, it makes her furious.

She exhales. The stainless steel of the fridge door is icyand unyielding against her cheek.

Her phone’s lying on the kitchen table, she knows this. Ittakes MJ a minute of merely staring at the table to get her ass off the floor.She finds him in her contacts. Hits ‘Call.’ Sitting on the floor, MJ eyes theteacup pieces. Her gaze jumps up when the call connects.

“Peter? I know this is short notice, but can you meet mesomewhere? No, no, I just… I’m stuffed up. Yeah, really. Well, wait, Peter, Ihaven’t even told you wha― Hold on, Peter. Nothing like that. It’s just goingto be the worst dinner reservation of my life.”

―

Her under-eyes are cloudy, like literal clouds of thefuriously grey thunderstorm variety, mottled with mascara. What he’s feeling isjarred. She just looks so different than she does on the mornings they’retrying to pretend haven’t been accumulating. Going to bed without taking hermakeup off is a world removed from the same smudgy effect he sees on herstruggling face. The current damage has been done by the tears still coursingdown her cheeks.

“I really wish you’d told me your mother was in town,” Petermanages. He can feel the vertical lines his eyebrows are pushing into thecenter of his forehead. She’ll hate this. His concern.

But MJ just snorts and shakes her head. She rolls her wet,red lips and ends the motion with a smacking sound that speaks for her. Itsays, “Well.”

She’s gone all the way to the top of the stairs, holding herquiet ground on the tiny landing. Peter won’t try to squeeze up there with her.He steps one foot up and braces his elbow on it.

“You’re smoking.”

It’s true. Her thumb flicks the end of a cigarette makingthe whole thing jiggle up and down too fast on the fulcrum of the index andmiddle fingers she has clamped around it. Toxic teeter-totter.

“I wanted to do something bad for me.”

Her voice is weird―moist from distress and dry from thesmoke. It’s like playing checkers on both the black and white squares.

“Dying of lung cancer would definitely qualify,” Peterassures her, then grabs her dangling wrist, plucks the cigarette away with hisother hand. He tosses it down the stairs.

She waggles the pack so he can hear the rest of themshuffling inside, but she doesn’t extract another, just puts the pack back inher pocket and scratches the side of her head. If anything, the silent cryingmakes her menacing. The babyish head-scratch can’t touch it.

“That could start a fire you know.” MJ points past him.

Peter turns, descends, grinds out the cigarette with theheel of his shoe.

“It’s a moral dilemma, right?” she pushes, still standingabove him. “If you let it burn, everyone in this building could be killed. Ifyou put it out, it only hurts me.”

She’s told him the rules of a game he can’t win since he’salready stamped the cigarette out.

“What do you want, Peter?”

His hand is sweating on the bannister, but it’s actually toocold in here.

“I want you not to hurt.” Maybe that’s a little profound fortonight, not because it’s an outlier in the theme of the evening, but becauseeverything, everything’s beenintense. “Let’s go.” He holds his palm up to her, really not that many stairsabove.

“Oh, is it time to pull myself together?” MJ wonderssarcastically, hovers her hand elegantly past her messy face.

“Actually, I was thinking we take the side exit at thebottom of the stairs and leave your mother with the bill.”

She stares down, smiling, and flicks her eyebrows up inamused approval.

“Then you, what? Guide me out of here, slipping your handprovocatively into my coat and kissing my neck while we walk the dark streets?Take me back to my place like it’s your place and worship my body until dawn ina manner that’s dominant yet undeniably respectful? Make me feel worthwhile?” MJlooks up and takes deliberate, heavy steps down the stairs towards him. “Tellme this isn’t just a fling?”

Their eyes are locked. He has told her that.

“No. We walk to the subway entrance half a block east andride to Cindy’s stop, get out, and I don’t leave you until she’s letting you inher door.”

Though she’s been crying all along, now her face becomesrecognizably sad. Peter wraps his arm tight around her back and rubs hershoulder briskly while they march down the stairs. The staircase seriouslyisn’t wide enough for this.

It’s her who pushes the door open under the red exit sign,but him who holds it. MJ’s looking at him and there’s a lot going on in herexpression. He spanks her on the way out so she won’t have to confront thathe’s not a bad guy.

―

“He may not be a bad guy.”

“And who’s been telling you that for months?” Cindy askssarcastically. MJ tries again to stretch her feet across her friend’s lap inhopes of a massage, but Cindy shoves them away with disgust.

“It hasn’t been months. It’s barely been six weeks.”

“Feels like longer. Doesn’t it?” she presses. MJ tilts herface into the back of the couch and smiles reluctantly. “In a good way,” Cindyclarifies.

“In a good way,” MJ confirms. She sighs. “But he knows toomuch now.”

“So, do we skip the girl talk and put out a hit on him? Whatwas his last name again… Parker?” Cindy laughs. “He knows just enough, which ishonestly a miracle when it was you who had to give up personal information.”

“I did fuck up though.” MJ rubs her forehead. “I brought himinto that dinner with no warning, and I didn’t explain anything afterwards.”

“He’s not an idiot. I’m sure he picked up on the dynamicbetween you and your mom. You’ve never really been one for talking things outanyway. I know how much it means that you showedhim something so difficult.”

“It means I had a moment of weakness.”

“You like him,”Cindy counters with a knowing smirk. “You’re allowed to like him.”

“Am I allowed to lovehim?” MJ jokes, not meeting her friend’s eye.

“MJ.” She won’t look. “MJ.”She looks. “Yes,” Cindy assures her, “you are.”

―

Peter brings the phone to his ear before he’s able to gethis eyes open. Could be any day of the week. He scratches his head and speaks agroggy greeting.

“Peter, I love you.”

It’s been a long time since he’s been up and out of hisapartment so quickly, sneakers squealing in the hall. A long time since he feltso instinctively that there was a place he needed to be.

―

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, dammit,Peter, be careful!” she gasps as her boyfriend trips backwards over one ofNed’s cardboard boxes.

He catches himself easily though, even with both handsholding firmly to the underside of the couch they’re maneuvering through theapartment’s front door. She doesn’t know how he does it, but Peter has anuncanny sense of balance.

Besides getting kicked a couple of feet across the floor,the box looks unscathed. Which one is this, she wonders, craning her neck tolook as she staggers past. Could be the one labelled ‘Ned’s Bed’ (linens),‘Ned’s Read’ (books), ‘Ned’s Head’ (a curiously extensive collection of hats),or another in the series of belongings Peter’s best friend has felt the need toname in rhyme. He’s in the process of carting his stuff over to his and Betty’snew place before the wedding and even though MJ likes things tidy, she doesn’tbegrudge Ned the scattering of boxes that remain in his ex-apartment. There’smore than enough room for MJ to move in.

They sat down in the corner of a busy café, her and Peter,and she grit her teeth because it wasn’t a date. It was something far morepivotal; she told him everything. Not everything(MJ prefers to remain at least somewhat of a mystery to him―and he to her, shesuspects, which is ok for now), but the issues she feels too old to blame onher mother. The push to excel, the rejection of compromise, the slide into MJhaving her life measured and micromanaged and minimized. Never drinkinganything stronger than coffee because it’s a self-controlling, pre-emptivechoice she made to circumvent her mother ever trying to reign in her drinking.(And now that she’s a handful of years beyond the legal drinking age, she’ssort of over the hype and sticks with her ginger ales, thanks, bar creeps.)

He called her in, the way the sea called to Ahab, onlywithout the single-minded bloodthirsty vengeance. It was so simple, after allof it―their lifetime in a month and a half―to be the first (or second) to saythis isn’t a fling.

She’ll be paying her own way now, splitting rent with herboyfriend instead of feeling like a jittery squatter in the upscale apartmenther mom selected, furnished, and paid for. Turns out the commute from his placeto the publishing house isn’t bad at all.

MJ did hang onto a few things, like this couch, which isbecoming heavier by the second. Every break they’ve taken while lugging thething upstairs has been at her request. Peter doesn’t even look tired!Meanwhile, she’s too wiped to even fully appreciate the tension in those armsof his, which is a fucking crime.

“You wanna set it down?” he asks with imploring eyes thatalways make her want to get close to him.

“Where are we putting it?” She’s sweating and her hands areslipping and she’s thrilled. “How about right next to your couch, in a line?”

Peter can be indecisive, so MJ’s answering her own questionbefore they find out how much damage she would cause by dropping her end. Theliving room is bizarrely long, but it’s a weirdly-shaped apartment. The couch configurationworks when she pictures it in her head.

“That could be fun actually,” he agrees. They beginshuffling in that direction.

“Right?” she prompts, ducking her head to her shoulder toswipe hair out of her eyes. “Imagine walking from the kitchen to the bathroomcompletely on couches. We won’t even have to touch the ground.”

#my writing #spideychelle #spider-man #spideychelle fanfiction #spideychelle fic #spiderman #spiderman fanfiction #spider-man fanfiction #Marvel MCU #MCU fic #MCU fanfiction #MCU #marvel #marvel fic #marvel fanfiction #Avengers #avengers fic #avengers fanfiction #peter parker #peter x mj #peter x michelle #michelle jones #peter parker x michelle jones #ned leeds #cindy moon #nettypot #fanfiction #prompt

[alrightinbed-betterwithapen]

Clever Little Things — Part Two — David Dobrik x Reader

Masterlist

A/N: this came flying outta me because I’m engulfed in this series. I hope y’all are loving this as much as I am! Thanks anon you da best!!

Summary: When is there not a problem for (Y/N)?

——

Everything was going good when Jason lets you know he’s going with Trisha and David back to Boston and Chicago for a 10 day period. You’d understood when you took the job there would be some travel weekends, but 10 days seemed excessive and you were wondering why you even needed to be there with wi-fi being a thing. Jason explained how vlogs become super up in the air while traveling. Things change, opportunities arise and it’s easier when all three of them can edit together. He also lets you know it is excessive and you can totally skip out on this one.

But here’s the catch, Jason also wanted you to edit for Trisha’s vlogs during the trip. (Which isn’t hard at all. You’d watched a few of her vlogs at this point and the cuts were lazy and extremely simple.) There’s a thirty five hundred dollar bonus in it and everything will be paid for. You agree too quickly, hungry for the money. And a couple paid trips.

You could deal with Trisha and David for that period. No problem.

——

There is always a problem.

——

It’s not an unpleasant journey out to Boston. Everything is chill. You’d already pieced the first half of Jason’s next vlog together and Trisha would give you footage to edit two days after you settled in. You really had nothing to do except enjoy the flight.

You were sat next to Joe, he was David’s addition camera/assistant editor? Joe explained he helped bounce ideas off David but didn’t actually edit any of the footage unless it was adding music over pre-cut material and then giving back to Dave for finally touches. What a fucking control freak, you can’t help thinking. Joe’s such a cool guy, you don’t know how he put up with that. But he seemed chipper while explaining, it didn’t seem like he cared. It blew your mind.

The flight is half over when you notice someone sit in the seat Joe had left a few moments ago, and it wasn’t Joe. David plopped down next to you, looking jazzed, on the edge of the seat brimming with energy. You pull your headphones off and use all the professionalism in you to not roll your eyes.

“So... you got my apology?” He starts, smiling at you with all the charm he’s got.

“Yeah, I did. Did you realize there wasn’t actually an apology anywhere in there? Cause I did,” you tell him, looking back to the phone screen, unimpressed with his presence.

He scoffs, like a sitcom character.

“Seriously? That’s how it’s going to be? I’m trying to play nice with you and this is what I get?” he implores, amusement in his tone instead of the disdain his words held. You don’t look up from your phone.

“I mean, what did you want from me? I don’t play anything. You don’t have to be nice to me, you can just be professional,” you explain, dragging your eyes to his deflated form in the seat. It makes you smirk, “We work together, David. It’s all good.”

“Yeah, it sure seems like it,” he snipes at you, becoming defensive all of a sudden. He’s sitting back up and turning to you when he asks, “Why don’t you like me? Besides the texting. You obviously have a problem with me.”

You click your phone shut and turn properly to him, mirroring his stance. You bore through him, contemplating your next sentence while he squirms in his seat. The smirk doesn’t leave your face, and you can tell David is uncomfortable with the way your demeanor had changed.

“I don’t know, but what I do know is I never told anyone we work with that. So, it’s purely gossip at this point,” you challenged, “But, I think the better question is why does it bother you?”

David looks slightly appalled, you don’t know if it’s your words or the question at hand. It makes you feel smug though, you’re getting to him.

“Why does everyone have to like you? And why do you care if they don’t?”

He just stares blankly until you lean back in your seat, slip on your headphones and pull the screen back to your face, letting him clearly know the conversation is over.

He doesn’t leave for another minute.

——

“What the fuck?! Why? Why does she hate me this much?” David’s babbling to Jason as they run out to grab food to bring back to the hotel. Jason can’t help the giddy laughter that pours out of him. He’s never seen a person David couldn’t charm, he’s also never seen it eat at the man like it is now. Jason loves David, but he always thought the man needed to be brought down a peg to keep his head. Success as thick and swift as David’s can ruin people if they’re not brought down to earth every once and awhile. And Jason’s mostly amused it’s his editor.

“I don’t know man, but if she’s not going out of her way to be a bitch, then-,” he’s starting before being cut off by David.

“She’s not going out of her way, but she’s there, engrained into our work lives, actively disliking me. Like, how the fuck am I suppose to deal with that,” he stressed, gripping at his hair in the passenger seat of their rental.

“Jesus Christ! It’s moments like these I’m reminded you’ve never worked a real job a day in your life! You’ve never had to deal with a co-worker that hates you, huh? Well, take it from me; if she’s not actively trying to ruin your career, leave it the fuck alone. You can function without it being a big deal,” Jason’s lecturing, eyes flicking from the stressed man to the street.

“Yeah, well she kinda accurately pin pointed that it really fuckin’ bothers me when people dislike me. So, I don’t think that’s gonna happen,” David’s rolling his eyes, brow furrowed.

“Wait, she said that to you?”

“Yeah dude, she was spitting all kinds of venom. I didn’t even know how to respond. I just left.”

“Damn, Trish is right. She is a bad bitch,” Jason’s chuckling, looking over at the man who had grown quiet. “That didn’t actually bother you, did it?”

“I mean, no? Like, I already knew that about myself, but it fucked me up to hear it from someone I barely know, ya know?” David explains, biting on the skin of his thumb. He looks confused in the seat, nervous.

“You gotta let this go, Dave.”

And he knows Jason is right. He does need to let it stop eating at him, and he decides he will as their parking at the restaurant to pick up their food.

——

He doesn’t. David is devoured whole.

——

David knocks at your door at 11:45 in the night. You’re up and adding to Jason’s vlog, and you’re not blown away by the fact he’s here. You have footage of bits he needs for his next vlog, and he can let you know about stuff you can and can’t use. Jason and Trisha were doing the hometown date night thing, leaving the two of you to work. It made more sense to work together, but you always get sucked into willing solitude when you edit. David invited himself over.

The two of you fall into a comfortable silence. You’re stretched out on the window sill in your room, large and comfy enough to sit with your headphones perched lopsided, one ear out to hear the man if he starts speaking. David was laying on the bed closest to the window, playing his vlog out loud in the room.

It’s inexplicable why you don’t tell him when you finish editing and start doing some coding side work for a friends website. He doesn’t need to be here after that, but you tell yourself you get sucked into your work with a sound track of The Weeknd and IDKHOW playing through your computer.

It’s almost three am when you notice David standing beside you, looking at your screen.

“You’re a web developer?” He asks astonished, you can’t help but scowl at that. You’re brought back from your little happy place to this placating bullshit?

“Yeah, a girl can totally have two jobs in the same field that she kicks ass at. I don’t know,” you challenge as he backs up, your tongue getting ready for the kill, “I suppose I just don’t understand people who can fulfill their lives completely with editing. It really is a simple, mediocre skill at best. I gotta do something to not get bored. How’s your four minute video coming? You’ve been working on it for, what? Two days now. I guess you wouldn’t understand,” you are straight up sneering at the man, having fully risen from your seated position in the midst of your tirade.

David looks so taken aback before a fire alights behind his deep brown eyes, taking in your sharp words. He looks so furious, he’d stopped backing up, hands turning to fists at his sides. You are briefly thinking he might honest to god hit you, striking a deep nerve with the usually unwavering man. You’re too busy staring and contemplating this to stop him from lunging forward at you, hands jutting forward to grab your face.

You expect something painful, but you get David’s chapped lips surging onto your own, hands tilting your face upwards. It’s rough and heavy, his tongue immediately going to lick at your lips. You can’t move in that moment, your eyes had slipped shut at the first touch of his fingers to your skin. You were floored, chest tightening with excitement and a flush going through your body. You were absolutely okay with this and that was surprising.

He’d noticed your lack of reaction and is going to pull back when you reach out and ball your hands in his shirt, pulling him closer to you and opening your mouth for him in one movement. The groan he lets out is kind of intoxicating and has you pressing up into the kiss, fighting for dominance while trying to bite at his lips. His hands slip to hold your throat, fingers shockingly gentle on your skin and you take the opportunity to suck David’s lip into your mouth and bite down. You draw out another groan from him, a mewling, harsh sound that’s interrupted by a loud knocking on the door to your hotel room.

You’re both instantaneously reeling back from one another, eyes wide and jerking from the source of the noise to the other person.

What the fuck?

——

There was always a problem.

——

#david dobrik #david dobrik x reader #david dobrik x y/n #david dobrik imagine #david dobrik fluff #david dobrik smut #vlog squad imagine

[imaginedanganronpa]

Can you please do some headcanons on how the DR2 cast would land themselves in detention? It’s for comedy.

This one took a long time, I hope you enjoy! It was super fun to write.

How The SDR2 Cast Would Get Detention!

Hajime Hinata

He is a good student who rarely gets in trouble. When hedoes, it’s for pretty minor things. With that said, he also rarely loses his temper.

Hajime was good friends with Chiaki but their relationship started to causequestions to arise within the other Reserve Course students. 

Rumors were spreading that he was using her to sneak into the Ultimate program.This really got under Hajime’s skin but what could he do to stop it? Pretty soon, everyone was giving him the cold shoulder.

He overheard two of the other Reserve students snickering as he walked by andhe just lost it. 

“What?” The other two boys, whom he has never seen before, stare at Hajime withsmug grins. “Take that back, now.”

His eyes were flashing with red. Hajime doesn’t get angry easily but he’lldefend his friends if he needs to, putting their interest above his own.

“Admit it, you’re using that girl… what’s her name, Chiaki?” 

In a fit of blind rage, Hajime slips his shirt off and storms up to the otherstudents, shirtless and getting in their face. “I said take it back!” 

You’d think that the half-nudity would be enough. When the teachers finallycame to their aide, breaking up a potential fight before it could happen, theyslapped a detention slip into Hajime’s hands.

Staring down at the small paper slip, it read that he was getting detention for a Dress Code Violation.

He assumed that it was because he took off his shirt and tried punching thesmug little kids, but… no, not entirely. Once he stomped down to the detentionroom, the proctor welcomed him and examined the slip.

He’s a pretty calm, collected kid with a good head on his shoulders so his reaction to the rumors caused him to feel embarrassed. Plus, some of the adults got on him for interacting with the Ultimate students already.

“Oh, so you’re the kid who was exposing his shoulders, huh?”

Hajime, puzzled, looks at the man. “My… shoulders?”

Chiaki Nanami

Sleeping in class is a given, but she just can’t help it.It’s something she’s gotten in trouble for in the past but has since slippedby. The adults started to accept it since she’s a good student, regardless of sleeping so much.

Ever since she became Class Representative, though, the teachers haven’t beenso lenient towards Chiaki. 

She is the Ultimate Gamer so bringing her video games to class is not out of the ordinary andsomething that most people don’t mind, at least not until it becomes adistraction.

The rest of her class were slowly beginning to huddle around her as she played,her fingers dancing along the controller and her eyes were glued to the screen.Chiaki completely zoned out everything Chisa was saying.

More than once, she tried getting the Gamer’s attention and eventually shesnapped. “Everyone, get away from Chiaki right now! Pay attention.”

But not even that could bring her back to reality. The faint sounds of her gamein the background still playing, she stormed up to the small girl. 

Chisa, as politely as possible, grabbed the system out of her hands and placedit behind her back. It caused her to lose the Level and, being newly sleep-deprivedand overly-invested in the game, Chiaki let her tongue slip.

“What the fuck… come at me bro.”

Her expression was still blank but the comment wasn’t very highly appreciated,seen more as a threat.

Chisa sent her directly to detention and the rest of her class watched, astonished, as their Representative became one of the ‘bad kids’ even for just a day.

What can she say? She really loves her games.

Nagito Komaeda

Knowing Nagito, he’d do something that ends up goinghorribly wrong.

He just wanted to plan out a surprise for his class, baking them sweet treatswith the help of Teruteru. Nagito had good intentions but his luck isn’t veryreliable. 

He also decided to slip into Seiko’s lab and ask her for some vitamins to makethem taste better, not really believing in his baking skills. He left Teruteru alone with the sweets, giving him an ampleopportunity to slip some unwanted Aphrodisiacs into the food. 

Nagito also grabbed the wrong bottle without looking, accidentally swiping someLaxatives instead.

But he was so proud of what he’d made, he had to share it with everyone! Hemade sure to stop by the Teacher’s Lounge and the Headmaster’s Office as wellsince he had more leftovers than expected. 

And he didn’t want to eat his own baked goods since that’s just not respectful;it wasn’t meant for him but for his friends instead. So, Nagito didn’t get a chance to taste-test the food beforehand.

Well, those good intentions went out the window. Teruteru didn’t know about the Laxatives, and Nagito didn’t know about the Aphrodisiacs, which is a killercombination. 

It was bad enough that his entire class and Chisa had consumed the foodcontaining the two, but to make matters worse, so did the higher-up staffmembers, including Headmaster Jin. For the entire day, those who ate it were in and out of the bathroomand stumbling all over one another in the process, heated and intimate… to put it lightly. Nagitodidn’t really understand, was it that good?

He’d only realized he took the wrong bottle when it was too late, and Teruteruconfessed to slipping in the extra drug while in his… hot state. But Nagito gotblamed for it all and ultimately sentenced to detention.

“Damn, just my luck!”

Ibuki Mioda

She’s definitely a firecracker but Ibuki doesn’t have evilintentions, so she’d do something without really intending to. 

Ibuki would be in the Music Room, practicing and writing songs as she always did. Shehas the tendency to skip classes to have her own personal concert instead.

Her signature flame guitar would have some part in it.

It didn’t take the staff very long to find her holed up in the MusicRoom, the loud heavy metal blaring from inside was a dead giveaway. 

Knocking on the door,they call for her name with no response, it was too loud and the musician couldn’t hear them.

The door swings open to find Ibuki completely lost in the music. So much so,that when she finally notices the cluster of adults standing in the doorway sheturns quickly to give them a good view of the show. 

Unfortunately, she completely forgot about the flames shooting out from herguitar which lit the front of the room on fire, knocking over some rather expensive equipment in the process.

The entire school had to be evacuated immediately, students and teachers alikerushing through the doors for their lives. The Fire Department also had to becalled, which lead Ibuki to explain how she started the fire that nearly burneddown the entirety of Hope’s Peak Academy.

She can’t help herself from giggling and got sent to detention for a ‘Terroristic Act Against the School.’

Hey, she thought that sounded pretty cool! Maybe she’ll name a song after that.

Gundham Tanaka

Being the Ultimate Animal Breeder, everyone is well-aware ofhis love for and ownership of all kinds of species. Hope’s Peak does allow Service Animals and gives specialprivileges to those with animal-related talents.

Which is why he’s able to bring his hamsters, or Four Dark Devas of Destruction, with him eachday.

Here and there, he’ll bring another one of his various pets as well. He’sbrought a couple cats on some days, and during others he’s brought one of his smalldogs. Gundham has walked into class with a bird perched on his shoulder before,too. You never know what he’ll bring to class.

But there’s still a line that even he can’t cross.

And everyone knows that Gundham has pets that he probably shouldn’t, but that’s whyhe’s an Ultimate after all!

His hamsters are never a disturbance and everyone has come to know and lovethem. Cats, dogs, and birds aren’t too much of a hassle as long as he keeps upwith them.

It’s not until he tries sneaking bigger animals in that there’s an issue. 

The first strike was his ball-python which isn’t venomous, but some of theother students with less experience around snakes were still a little bitfrightened. It stayed curled around his neck all day, hidden in his scarf.

He jumped straight to strike three when he walked up to the front door with a full-grown Tiger on a leash. Juzo stopped him immediately and forbade him fromentering the building. 

“What do you mortals know about the beauty of this feline?! She will pouncebefore you even know what is happening! Do not mess with me!”

Though he claims that she was domesticated, his… threats weren’t appreciated.So he and his Tiger spent the day in detention.

Mikan Tsumiki

The poor thing doesn’t try to end up in the compromisingpositions… it just kind of, happens. She can’t help that she’s clumsy!

By now, everyone in her class is pretty used to it. The same doesn’t go for theother Ultimates in different classes or the Reserves, though.

She’d be late to class one day; Mikan is already an emotional wreck. She’scrying and rushing through the hallway because she was already going to beembarrassed enough having to walk into class after it started.

Mikan is pushing past the others in the hall politely, apologizing the entiretime when she just… trips. Her foot catches on the opposite ankle and she goescollapsing, falling forward.

She’d fall on top of a few innocent students with her legs slightly spread,back arched a bit, skirt accidentally flipping up, and wrists falling above herhead. The student that she fell on was a complete stranger, someone she’dnever seen before nevertheless had a conversation with.

“Oh God, I’m sorry! I’m so very sorry!”

Both of their faces are bright red now and she erupts into a fit of tears. 

Though she didn’t intend on falling or ending up in this predicament, theteacher that had been standing just outside of her classroom while the studentsfiled in witnessed it happen and immediately was at a loss for words.

“You, miss!” She exclaims while storming towards Mikan. “Explain yourself!”

“I-It’s not what it looks like~!” Mikan pleas but the teacher is having none ofit. She got sent straight to detention for sexual advances on another student,PDA, and indecent public exposure. 

She’d walk into detention in a fit of tears because she didn’t mean to!

Kazuichi Souda

He may be a Mechanic but Kazuichi is quite skilled in manyaspects of technology as a whole. He doesn’t just have to work on cars,airplanes, and so on but he is also handy with your everyday laptop as well.

Kazuichi’s sense of humor is fairly peculiar. 

He’ll do things for his own amusement even if no one asks him to and if youever dare him to do something, he’ll complete it without a doubt. 

One day, he got the bright idea to pull a little prank on Chisa. He knew thattheir class was going to watch a film about the history of Hope’s Peak Academy thatafternoon and decided to have a little fun with it.

Kazuichi got to class earlier than the rest of his peers, whilst Chisa wasrunning errands for Munakata, and rewired her laptop. 

His mind was racing with ideas when he finally settled on the perfect video toreplace the film with. 

He was able to set it up so that he could control the video with a remotecontrol at his own disposal. Unfortunately, Chisa was in a rather hostile moodthat day and wasn’t feeling like dealing with Kazuichi’s shenanigans.

In the middle of the film, he switched the button and it started playing noneother than the classic Rick Roll, ‘Never Gonna Give You Up.’

His classmates were dead silent for a moment, all wide-eyed and trying toprocess what they were looking at – of course he had to Rick Roll his wholeclass.

Kazuichi couldn’t hold back his amusement, his smile twisting widely andbursting into a fit of loud laughter. Chisa immediately knew that this had tobe his doing.

He got sent to detention for the rest of the day, but if you ask him – it wascompletely worth it.

Peko Pekoyama

Meditating was her go-to form of de-stressing. It’s where shecould be found during most of the day.

As the Ultimate Swordswoman, her sword was never too far from her side. Pekohad locked herself in the quiet room for hours so she could melt away fromreality for a while.

Her peace was disrupted once the doors swung open and her eyes darted over hershoulder.

Peko’s intensely quick reflexes were nearly the death of Hope’s Peak’scustodian, as she launched her sword over her shoulder blindly, not bothering to look and see whowas there, and snipping the ends of the custodian’s hair in the process.

The blade was stuck in the wall, mere inches from their face as their eyeswidened. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know anyone was in here!”

Despite being known as the Ultimate Swordswoman, even Peko can’t go aroundtossing swords at people’s faces with no repercussions.

She was sent to the Office immediately where she showed absolutely no remorse. 

“They shouldn’t have sneaked up on a meditating trained killer – that’s how youend up with a sword in your neck.”

The adults in the room tried to explain to her why that isn’t socially acceptable,in which Peko calmly responded with, “Do you want to find out why I’m anUltimate?”

Done with her shit, they sent her to detention and she put up a bit of a fight. Peko didn’t understand what the big deal was. She wasn’t trying to violently threaten the staff, that’s just the way they took it!

Fuyuhiko Kuzuryuu

He’s got a big mouth which is something no one candeny, not even Fuyuhiko himself.

It just comes with the attitude and pressure that the Yakuza has on his plate, and a bit ofa superiority complex as well.

He didn’t fully respect a lot of the adults he was surrounded by which lead toa lot of conflict. Typically speaking, though, the adults understand due to hisbackground and don’t tend to mess with him since he is a Kuzuryuu after all.

They just treated him like a little kid, and he’s not a fuckin’ little kid!

They had a substitute teacher one day who wasn’t completely aware of their talents andbegan to push Fuyuhiko’s buttons. Had she known he was a Yakuza, she wouldn’t have dared touch him with a ten-foot pole.

There were several ways that the situation could’ve been avoided.

But he snapped and stood on his desk, veins protruding from his neck and forehead. “Do you knowwho the fuck I am? I could have your head on my desk by the end of the day!”

Fuyuhiko has a fairly colorful way of speaking as well and he didn’t stopthere. Once the substitute demanded that he got down from the desk, he took itone step further.

“Leave me alone, lady! Or I’ll rip out your small intestine through your mouth,your large intestine out through your ass, and use them as a fuckingjump-rope!”

She stared at the Yakuza in complete shock. Once he finally calmed down andrealized what was said, he broke a sweat and shrugged.

He didn’t care if he got sent to detention, she shouldn’t have been bugging him!

Sonia Nevermind

She’s pretty new to Hope’s Peak and their school system, it’scompletely different than the one in her home country. 

With that said, Sonia had never gotten detention before in her life. Even aftertransferring, she was convinced that she couldn’t possibly get detention. The thought never crossed her mind.

Failing to realize that her status as a Princess doesn’t carry as much weighthere, she feels untouchable. Despite that, she’s a fairly well-behaved studentanyway.

Sonia can be a bit bossy, though. When Chisa had to step out to take care ofpersonal matters, she assumed that her leadership-abilities could come in handyand took the responsibility of ‘teaching the class’ which was more likecommanding them to doing as she pleased.

Most of them somewhat listened, although Hiyoko, Peko, and Fuyuhiko weren’tgoing to let her boss them around; meanwhile, Kazuichi happily obliged.

Chisa came back into the classroom to find Sonia lounging out in her chair withboth Kazuichi and Gundham tending to massaging her legs and ankles,competitively as they were each trying to impress the Princess. She had otherstudents bringing her tea and had self-proclaimed herself as the new leader oftheir class.

That’s not something she can just get away with so she had to be put in herplace, sent to detention at the end of the day. Sonia wasn’t going to gowillingly, though.

A bit air-headed, she blinks at Chisa, perplexed. “Youcan’t send me to detention, I am a Princess!” That really didn’t help her caseat all.

Nekomaru Nidai

He takes his talent a bit too seriously, even turningtowards his own friends to try to get them in the best shape possible. 

Nekomaru has good motives behind this but he doesn’t necessarily know when tostop. 

Jin and the other staff members were taking a relaxing stroll around campuswhen they stumble across the Team Manager huddled over a group of scrawnyReserve Course boys. 

“You have to pick it up!” Lightning was emerging from his eyes as he screams atthe boys, coming across as more bossy and threatening than motivating. “You’llnever get to be as strong as I am like that! Come on!”

The adults approach him and put an end to his… motivating ‘group exercise.’ Heinsisted that the boys came to him for help, knowing he was the Ultimate Team Manager. 

But the three small boys were now collapsed, passed out from exhaustion on thegrass. They can’t really have their students destroying one another.

Nekomaru may have wanted to help but pushed them entirely too far. As he wastrying to explain himself, his ‘urges’ suddenly came over him and he succumbedto the pressure.

He tells them he had to go, but Jin forces the Ultimate to stay right there.This caused Nekomaru to snap at the older man.

“Move or else! I have to shit!” He basically shoves him out of the way as hesprints for the nearest bathroom. Needless to say, the adults didn’t appreciatehim shoving his own Headmaster to the ground like that, almost injuring the man.

The two situations combined landed Nekomaru in detention for about a week.

Mahiru Koizumi

Mahiru wouldn’t even do anything that bad, she would justget caught in the middle or end up getting blamed for something out of hercontrol.

After all, the last thing she wants to do is jeopardize her placement in Hope’sPeak Academy. 

But even she isn’t immune to the pranks from fellow students. Her friendshipwith Sato puts her in danger of being targeted by one of the jealous and immature students in the Reserves Course. 

Some of the boys in Sato’s class sneak in fake nude photographs while neitherof the girls are looking. Mahiru leaves and goes about her merry way for therest of the day.

While leaving her class that afternoon, she stumbles over her ankle and dropsher bag onto the floor; her books, camera, and photos come tumbling out withit.

Of course, so do the fake ones that were slipped into her bag.

Chisa is helping her collect her items when she notices the fake photographs.They were ‘depictions’ of not only Mahiru herself but also some of the boys inher class.

“What is the meaning of this?” She holds them up to the freckled-facephotographer’s gaze and Mahiru’s expression twists into a confused and angrylook.

She is stuttering and snatches them from her hand, examining them for herself.“These weren’t here this morning! Y-you have to believe me, this isn’t mine!”

“Is this you?” She questions and Mahiru is bright red, a complete mess.Although she was telling the truth and truly didn’t know where they came from,Chisa wasn’t buying it.

She got sent to the Office with the incriminating photos in hand and ultimatelyfaced detention for the first time in her life.

Teruteru Hanamura

Anyone that knows this boy knows that it’s pretty hard forhim to keep it in his pants. Teruteru is a very flirty and adventures person with very little shame. It’s hard toembarrass him and when it comes to attractive people, especially women, he’sgot little to no filter.

He’d land himself in detention by flirting with the wrong person at the wrongtime.

Teruteru is walking down the hall one morning when he spots a new face, someonehe’s never seen before. 

Granted, he should have assumed she was a teacher of some sort based on the wayshe was standing outside her class as students filed in. 

But in that moment, he probably didn’t really care. That, or he was too blindedby love to notice.

She looked to be fairly young, and beautiful. Trust me, he would know if he’sseen her before.

Confidently, Teruteru waltzed up to her with a cocky grin plastered on hisface. “Hello, miss, my name is Teruteru Hanamura, Ultimate Cook… but I preferUltimate Chef,” he takes her hand in his and kisses the top, “we can cook upsomething hot between us… if you know what I mean.”

The young woman is a bit uncomfortable and draws her hand back slightly, kindlyasking him to turn away. “But miss, I believe in soulmates and I think you’remaking a big mistake by turning me down.”

She is growing increasingly frustrated and loses her cool, snapping and tellinghim to leave her alone in the kindest way possible. 

Obviously, he doesn’t get the hint. “I love a woman who can command me around.” 

With that last comment and over-exaggerated wink, she’s had enough, finallyrevealing her Substitute Teacher ID and claiming that she’s turning him in.

Teruteru’s stomach turns as he realizes what he’s done. He loves an olderwoman, but he would never have guessed that she was a teacher!

Hiyoko Saionji

I mean, if she doesn’t get detention for bullying thenthat’s a surprise, it’s not only Mikan but other students as well who face herrelentless torture.

Hiyoko was making a series of off-hand and rather rude comments directedtowards one of the other female students. 

Once she was finally approached, she gave the teacher a very sinister look andtold her to leave her alone, or else she’d squish them like a bug. 

Her threat was meant to be taken as light banter and simply part of herpersonality but it didn’t really land. Hiyoko was now arguing with the teacherand sent to the Office. 

The girl was already in a bad mood and having to talk to the Headmaster wasn’t helping.“So, I hear that you’ve been bullying fellow students?”

“I’m not bullying them if the bitch deserved it!” Hiyoko huffs with her armscrossed defensively over her chest. She’s jutting her jaw and staring at thewall angrily. 

Her behavior was certainly not the best and Jin began to scribble somethingdown onto her report. He started to say that she was going to be sent to detention for the day so he could sort out the situation with the otherstudents in question.

In a blind, heated moment, Hiyoko defensively stood. She truly felt like shehadn’t done anything wrong and was even nastier today than normal. So withoutthinking, she wrapped her small hands around the desk lamp and forcefully threwit onto the ground where it shattered.

As the bulb flickered, she exclaimed, “Lighten up!” Her pun didn’t sway Jinover, but instead only made the situation worse as he extended her sentence.

Byakuya Twogami (Imposter)

He’s a bit of a wildcard and an Ultimate for a reason. He’snot really afraid to take someone’s identity if it benefits him in any sort ofway. 

There was an upcoming Exam that he simply didn’t feel prepared for at all. But…he’s an Imposter so there could be some solution, right?

He decided to use his talent for his own gain and sneak into the Teacher’sLounge the morning before the Exam to swipe the answers. He knew that Chisacarried around a briefcase with all of her papers in it as well so he just needed to find her and he’s golden.

He steals none other than Kyosuke Munakata’s identity and slips happily intothe forbidden room. He bumps into Chisa on his way, knowing she’ll trust good ol’ Munakata!

“Oh, hello Munakata! How are you?” He fumbles with an excuse, choking out somelazy conversation. He then asks her if he can see her papers momentarily, andshe happily hands them over without second guessing the situation.

His plan was foolproof until the actual Kyosuke Munakata waltzes into theLounge and sees the Imposter sitting beside Chisa on the love-seat. His jaw drops and the Imposter doesn’t even notice the man standing in the doorway at first.

Her eyebrows furrow momentarily as she looks at the two Munakata’s before herand then puts the pieces together. The real one snatches the Imposter by hiscollar and demands that he explains himself.

After his cover got blown, he was sent to detention where to took the Exam witha proctor watching over his shoulder.

Akane Owari

She has a very strange schedule, essentially trainingwhenever she feels like it. This means that Akane often misses class to rampagearound the campus.

She had been pushing herself harder on this morning in particular, climbing the gatesbefore they opened and arriving at Hope’s Peak bright and early on purpose.

If illegal trespassing wasn’t enough, she missed almost an entire day of class. Herteacher found her climbing one of the buildings and insisted that she came downfrom there immediately.

Akane didn’t see the big deal, coming to class wasn’t mandatory for Ultimatesas long as they passed their Exams and she felt fine!

That wasn’t the issue, though: it was breaking into the school to train beforeclass even started that caused issues to arise.

As Akane jumped from the building, one of her buttons came undone.

She made a perfect landing, her legs hadn’t even wobbled despite the heightthat she jumped from. But… she was a bit ‘exposed’ to say the least.

Akane stood before her classmates and teacher, bra and nearly whole chestexposed. She stood there, proudly with a wide grin on her face. “Did ya seethat?!” 

Oh, they definitely did.

Once she finally noticed what they were staring at, she didn’t even bother tocover herself. “Oh well, school’s over anyway! Might as well enjoy the view!” Just because she’s in-tune with her sexuality doesn’t mean she’s allowed toflaunt it.

She got sent to a week’s-worth of detention for trespassing and nude exposure, complaining the whole time since it took time away from her training.

- Mod Rantaro

#danganronpa #super dangan ronpa 2 #danganronpa imagines #anime #imagines #sdr2 #sdr2 imagines #dr2 #Hajime Hinata #Nagito Komaeda #gundham tanaka #Kazuichi Souda #ibuki mioda #Mikan Tsumiki #Sonia Nevermind #Chiaki Nanami #akane owari #nekomaru nidai #Fuyuhiko Kuzuryuu #Peko Pekoyama #Mahiru Koizumi #hiyoko saionji #Imposter #byakuya twogami #teruteru hanamura

[winterisakillerwrites]

Get Better - Chapter Sixteen

Title: Get Better

Chapter: 16/18

Character: Tom Hiddleston/Cath Richardson (OFC)

Genre: Romance

Rating: Teen and up

Summary: Love. Companionship. Family. These are all of the things Tom Hiddleston desperately wanted. But his life and his choices left that a distant and unlikely prospect. So he did his best to move on and live his life as is. When an opportunity to return to the theater arises, he jumps at the chance and along the way finds that maybe, just maybe, those distant and unlikely prospects are closer than he could have imagined. Sequel to Brave Face.

Authors Notes/Warnings: So as I was writing Brave Face I knew that Tom’s story wasn’t over, even if that particular part of it was. And while I knew, more or less, what the overall ending to the story would be, its taken me a while to figure out the time in between.

Thanks to @redfoxwritesstuff​​ for being an absolute godsend in regards to this story. I would truly be dead in the water without you.

Previous

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

The cabin of the car was silent save for Bobby’s occasional panting. Cath had curled into the backseat, ignoring the murmurings of those still waiting at the stage door as she’d done so. Her presence seemed to be forgotten a few moments later as calls and applause erupted when Tom (with Bobby’s lead clutched tightly in his hand) emerged from the stage door. She watched as he waved and smiled, before pulling open the back door and letting Bobby jump inside. He closed the door and climbed into the front passenger seat with another wave at the crowd.

Silence engulfed the small space as the car pulled from the curb and merged quickly into the traffic around Leister Square. Bobby settled on the seat beside her, resting his head in her lap. Cath absentmindedly scratched his head and behind his ears, trying to not let her mind wander too far into just what the rest of the coming evening entailed. Over thinking this would not do her nerves any bit of good. But understanding that did little to actually calm her.

From the front seat, she heard Tom and his driver talking in quiet tones; their voices no more than murmurs to her ears and she didn’t bother to try to focus on what they were saying. Bobby, seeming to sense her unease, buried his head further into her hand. She watched the city speed past her window. It never ceased to fascinate her, seeing the lights of the city and the steady stream of people lining its streets despite the steadily growing lateness of the hour.

It had taken her longer to agree to Tom’s hasty suggestion than either of them had liked. Frankly, she had stood staring at him in stunned disbelief the moment the words had left his mouth. She had wanted desperately to understand just what was going on in his head; to know once and for all just want he wanted. But the idea of putting herself in his hands with the outcome so shaky left her uneasy. The need to know, however, had won out in the end and she had agreed.

He’d wasted no time pulling his mobile from his back pocket and calling his driver to inform him of the addition to his car. She’d paced around, trying to contain her sudden burst of nervous energy, while Tom squared away the details and went to put away the last of Bobby’s things. She’d had her purse sitting on the chair by her station; the book sitting haphazardly on the edge of the counter where Tom had dropped it a few minutes earlier. Wordlessly, Cath grabbed both and stood bouncing on the balls of her feet by the doorway.

Part of her had feared he would suddenly change his mind. That he would find some reason, some excuse to put this off. Tom, however, simply turned to her, Bobby’s lead in hand, and gestured towards the doorway. “After you,” he murmured.

And now as they sped off into the brightly lit night, weaving through the late evening traffic, Cath found herself unable to fully relax. Bobby, sensing her unease, buried his face in her lap and she absently stroked the silky fur of his head. The car pulled to a stop half an hour later and Cath watched in quiet fascination as the driver rolled down his window and entered the code for the gate. A moment later the gate clanked its way open and the car pulled into the short drive.

Bobby’s head perked up from Cath’s lap as the spaniel realized where they were. He barked twice, tail a blur of motion, and bounced on the seat beside her. Cath let out a soft laugh, taking hold of Bobby’s lead, and opened the car door. Bobby jumped out, doing tight circles around her feet as she climbed from the backseat. Tom was beside her in moments, wordlessly taking the lead from her hands and nodding towards the door with his head.

Cath followed quietly behind Tom and Bobby, up the short cobbled walk and the three faded brick steps to the dark blue front door. She watched Tom pull his keys from the depths of his jeans pocket and fumble with the lock before pushing the door open. They hurried inside and Tom made quick work of disarming the security system. Bobby barked twice, looking pointedly up at Tom who shook his head with a soft laugh and bent to unhook Bobby from his lead. The spaniel shoved his nose into Tom’s hand in thanks before darting off down the darkened hallway.  

Tom straightened, running his hand quickly through his mused hair and shot a quick look at Cath. He offered her a quiet smile before asking, “tea?” and darted off towards the kitchen before she could utter a word.

Blinking in disbelief at his retreating form, Cath stood for several moments before taking a deep breath and hurrying after him down the dimly lit hallway. She found Tom standing at the sink, his back to her, filling the kettle. On the counter beside him sat two nondescript blue mugs.

“Tom…”

He froze for a moment before turning off the tap, placing the kettle onto the counter, turning to face her. “I’ve got Earl Grey, Darjeeling, Chai, and some sort of herbal tea Sarah brought over from India this past Christmas.” He smiled softly before turning to his left and pulling open a cabinet door and rifling through its contents. “I might even have English Breakfast buried in here somewhere…”

Cath blinked at him. “Tom, you really don’t…”

“It’s no trouble. Honestly.” He smiled, cutting off her protest as he darted to the fridge and pulled out a pint of milk. By this point the kettle had started boiling and Tom turned once more towards her. “Tea preference?”

She hesitated for a few moments more before answering. “Darjeeling.”

It was clear Tom was set on completing this task and nothing was going to make him waiver from it. And in a way Cath understood. Tea was safe. It was soothing and if they were actually going to do this, actually going to sit and talk, then soothing was something they would both desperately need.

“Excellent choice.” He pulled a small box from the cabinet.  All I have for that is sachets, if that is alright?”

Cath nodded silently in agreement. Tom’s blue eyes softened in quiet thanks as he turned and added a sachet to her mug before pouring the boiling water. He added a few scoops of his own choice of tea into a strainer before adding his own water. As the steeped Tom glanced back towards her. “Milk? Sugar? Both?”

“Both please.”

She smiled softly and took the steaming mug Tom handed her. He doctored his own, blowing softly on the steaming surface before risking a sip. Cath fought a smile at the grimace he pulled at the heat. Tom coughed once and smiled sheepishly.

“Um,” he started, lacking his usual grace and ease with words. “Shall we head into the lounge then?”

Both grateful that the difficult but necessary conversation would be shortly getting underway and terrified of its outcome, Cath quietly nodded and allowed Tom to lead the way down the hall and into the brightly lit room. She settled in the blue cushioned chair by the window at Tom’s instance and watched as he settled himself on the chair opposite. She took a quick, small sip of her own tea before setting the mug on the table beside her and raised her eyes towards Tom.

He fidgeted in his seat, first placing his own mug down on the table then picking it immediately back up and balancing between his large hands. Tom took a deep breath, looking quickly down at the gently steaming mug. Finally, he raised his eyes to Cath’s intense blue and opened his mouth. “I wanted to…” he let himself trail off.

Cath nodded encouragingly at him. As much as the idea of the conversation scared her, she knew one way or another, they’d be better for it. Or at least she hoped they’d be. But first he needed to get whatever he needed to say out.

Suddenly, Tom clapped his hands together and made to stand. “Do you want any biscuits? I could really murder a HobNob right now.”

“What?” Cath blurted in confusion. What the bloody hell was he playing at? She glared at Tom as he pushed himself once more to his feet and made as if to dart back towards the kitchen. “No!” The words left her lips far more powerfully than she’d intended.

The effect was immediate. Tom froze, halfway towards the doorway and slowly turned back around, the hesitancy in his face clear.

“No,” Cath started again. “No, I don’t want any bloody biscuits, Tom!” Stunned into apparent silence, Tom simply stood and stared at her. “I want you to sit and bloody talk to me. Whatever it is you’ve got to say, I promise you, I can take it. But you need to talk. We can’t keep doing this elaborate dance. I can’t do this anymore. So please, for both our sakes, just talk to me.”

He let out a heavy sigh and slowly made his way back to his chair, settling once more. Tom linked his hands in his lap and sat quietly for several moments. Finally, he spoke.

“I don’t know how much of my…public life you’re privy to. I’ve had a few…” He paused, waving his hands distractedly, as he searched for a word, “more well-known affairs, if you like.”

Cath nodded, not quite sure where he was heading. She hadn’t followed the man’s career nor his love life but knew that you’d had to have been living under a rock to have missed the events of that summer nearly three years ago. She’d known the bare bones of what had happened, not caring over much to dig further. But she had seen its aftermath and the shift in perspective on Tom in the press. That couldn’t have been an easy thing to endure and would certainly explain his…hesitancy.

“I’ve always tried to keep that side of my life as solely mine, as much as I’ve been able.” He continued, still looking at his hands. “I know what the costs were….or at least could be, when I chose to take on this profession. I’d accepted them as part of the…package, if you will. And for a long while I tried to be as open and honest as I could, while keeping the things that were most important to me as safe as I could. I’m not a great man by any stretch but, god, I wanted to be.”

He paused again, reaching absently for his mug and pulling it to his lips. He took a cautious sip before pacing it back down. “My last…That summer taught me a great many things…and put a fair bit more into perspective.” Tom paused again, this time raising his eyes to hers, albeit briefly. “I’ve done many things I’m certainly not proud of. Many things I’d change in a heartbeat if I could.”

Tom picked up his mug and took another sip, this time keeping it in his hands rather than setting it on the table. “When I was at Cambridge I met Amelia,” he began. “Amy. She…we didn’t immediately hit it off. Slightly different paths and such, but eventually we did and she was wonderful. Smart, funny, dedicated…We just seemed to click. She stood by me when I made my intention of attending RADA known, went to as many performances as she could. She was my rock in so many ways when things started to rocket. Everyone around us seemed so certain that we were it for each other and I think…Somewhere along the line I started to take that for granted.”

“Once Thor hit things just…My life literally started to turn upside down. Suddenly everyone wanted to talk to me. Wanted to know who I was, what I had planned. I was invited to places and events that hadn’t been opened to me before. All of the sudden I was getting massive amounts of attention from women in ways I hadn’t ever truly experienced before. I’d been a theatre geek for the majority of my life until that point. I got on well enough but it was always other men that seemed to catch the girls’ eyes. Now I was the one turning heads and I couldn’t for the life of me wrap my head around it. It was flattering, massively so, and after a while I started to flirt back. Nothing major. Nothing serious. But not exactly innocent either. I can’t say for certain when I made the choice to cross that line…but I did. And the horrible thing is I can’t even remember her name now.”

“It was stupid and meaningless and for a brief moment in time I was so certain I’d gotten away with it. Then when I got home and found Amy there…Someone had seen…There were photographs in the paper. I…I was frankly an arse to her when she called me out on it. I told her it hadn’t meant anything. It just happened and it was over and that it hadn’t mattered. I selfishly thought it didn’t matter. Not really. Amy loved me and she’d always been there. Nothing would or could change that. I was so fucking certain.”

Cath’s brow wrinkled in confusion. This certainly didn’t paint Tom in the best of light and she could see why he wouldn’t necessarily be proud of it, but Cath couldn’t understand why exactly he was telling her any of it.  “I don’t think I follow…I mean that probably wasn’t the smartest thing to do but if you and Amy were such close friends, I would think she had to understand…”

Tom winced at her words and she had the distinct feeling she’d missed something vital. “Amy and I…” he started after a few moments silence, “we were….We just…were. One day it was just clear that we’d crossed the line from friendship into an actual relationship and we simply embraced it. It just…it made such sense. And it was something that I assumed would always work. It was just so easy between us. But then I let it all get to my head and she left and I spent so long convinced it was only a matter of time before she came back and everything would be as it always was. I was so bloody certain…”

He shook his head, dropping his chin to his chest, and took a deep breath. Slowly, Tom raised his head again and continued. “She didn’t come back. And I…after a week I went to hers and she…She told me in no uncertain terms she was done. And even then I didn’t fully believe it. I let it all get to my stupid, ego filled head and I just knew…. I knew she’d come back. But I told myself I wasn’t going to wait for her to realize it, I wasn’t going to sit around and just twiddle my thumbs while she came to her senses.” He let out a short, cynical laugh; his self-loathing painfully clear.

“The first woman after…It wasn’t planned. I had gone to the bar at my hotel and had a pint or so….She approached me and I…I didn’t say no. After that it happened quite a lot. Never the same woman and never at mine. I just…I didn’t think. It made it easier not to think. And I was as careful as I could be. I knew the kind of things I was risking if I wasn’t. And it worked, or at least I thought it did. The quite hook-ups and the steady, but controlled drinking. As long as it didn’t hit the papers and I could do my job, I was convinced I was fine no matter what Luke said.”

“By that point I hadn’t heard from Amy in nearly a year. I was back in London for Coriolanus, out with a few mates the night or so before rehearsals were due to start. We’d been drinking and laughing and it was a good time. Some point between one pub and the next I’d stopped to tie my shoe or something, I can’t honestly remember, but I do remember looking up and seeing her…Seeing Amy sitting in a restaurant with a bloke…And it just…It hit me that she wasn’t waiting for me.”

“I just…I lost it. I stumbled my way into a pub and just drank. And drank. And drank. I was pissed. So bloody out of my mind with drink and I let this woman take me home. I didn’t think, didn’t give a flying fuck. I just wanted to forget…We made it to hers and everything happened in a blur…After I found that we hadn’t used any sort of protection…And she acted like it didn’t matter. I panicked and I ran…I just…How could I have been so fucking stupid?”

He let the words hang, not raising his head to meet Cath’s gaze. She didn’t speak either, her mind a jumble of confused emotions; disbelief, pain, grief, uncertainty. “I just…,” he started again after several moments silence. “Luke wanted to skin me alive for my complete lack of regard for my personal safety, my career, and myself. And, god, I wanted to let him. He’d been pushing for me to get help for a good while at that point. Pushing and pushing but I’d stubbornly refused. I was convinced I was handling it. That I could handle it on my own. But at that point I knew…I knew I wasn’t. And while I panicked, Luke arranged everything; a discreet appointment for testing, getting me hooked up with someone who might be able to help me talk out what was going on in my head…tying up the loose ends I’d left hanging in the wind. I just…without him I don’t know where I’d be.”

Tom paused and took a deep breath. “I did everything I could to turn my life around. I threw myself into work, I stopped my random…encounters, and I started therapy to try to get my head on straight. I was lucky….So fucking lucky that I’d been able to get out of the mess I’d made as physically unscathed as I did. The tests all came back clean…God, I got so fucking lucky. And I promised myself. I promised never again. I’d not ever let myself get to that point again. The next year I spent in a flurry of work. One project after another after another with only the smallest of breaks for promotional duties between. I was…Exhausted but I was handling it. Working made it easier, I didn’t have to think. I just did.”

“Looking back now I know I was just trading one crutch for another. I was in therapy, I was trying, but I wasn’t opening up. Not really. I don’t know so much if it were a mental thing or just a stubborn bastard thing, but I just…I wasn’t facing it. Not really. I thought I was. I thought I was getting through all of it and making the best of the life I had. And I probably would have kept on going until I collapsed if it hadn’t been for the announcement in the paper.”

“Announcement?” Cath echoed, confusion coloring her tone. Tom briefly raised his eyes to hers before taking another breath and explained.

“I was at my mum’s, on a quick break between projects, when I found the announcement in the forthcoming marriages section. Amy was getting married. She was officially moving on and it just…It all just hit me. We were well and truly over. She wasn’t ever coming back. And that hurt. It hurt in a way I hadn’t expected. I was over it so why did it feel like the bottom had come off my world? Everyone watched me like a bloody hawk after that. Luke in particular, especially when the invitations came out.”

“She invited you?” The words flew from Cath’s lips quite without her permission. She could have kicked herself as she watched the myriad of emotions that flickered across Tom’s face. He smiled hollowly and continued.

“I didn’t know what to think when I found the invitation with the rest of my post. I’d hurt Amy, and hurt her badly, I’d known that. But she had never, ever, been a vindictive person…Still I couldn’t think of any other reason…Not at first.” He let out a soft, mirthless chuckle. “Emma set me straight…She’d always been close with Amy. She and Sarah both to be honest. But that is neither here nor there,” he added as an afterthought. “She told me this was Amy’s way of showing me she was alright. That I hadn’t…Luke was absolutely against my going. If he could have locked me away that day and thrown away the key he would have and gladly. But I had to go. I just…I needed to know she was okay. And I wanted to prove to myself that I had moved on. That I wasn’t hamstringed by any of it. Not anymore. So I went. And it was lovely. I’ve never seen her so happy. She and Teddy…They made sense in a way we…Didn’t. And I was happy for her. I am happy for her. They’ve got a son now, and he’s wonderful…”

Tom let out a soft sigh. “It hit me at that moment that even though I knew things were over between us and there was nothing whatsoever I could do to change what I’d done, I wanted what she had. I wanted something stable and safe and happy. I just…I can’t explain it…Not really. It’s just that with that mindset after the wedding I found myself in New York and then I met Taylor…She was a breath of fresh air; young and carefree and just so full of life. And I wanted that. I wanted to feel that way with someone again. Looking back I can see that it was never going to work. We were two vastly different people and at two very different points in our lives. But I wanted…So I dove in head first and just ran with it. And when it worked it was wonderful; crazy and exciting but still wonderful. But things just…You can’t live your life that way. It just…didn’t work and we ended.”

“Ending a relationship is difficult enough but doing so in the public eye…It was…So much worse. The press and the fans…Everything just became too much. So I pulled back. And I’ve stayed pulled back. I still put all I can into my work but when it comes to interacting with the world…I’m much more…Guarded, you might say. It’s just easier that way. I’ve also done my best to not…Force things. I’ve dated, casually, since. But I’ve not…There hasn’t been anyone that’s caught me…Until now. And I…It scares me, Cath. It really does.”

He raised his eyes to hers, his own pleading with her for understanding. “I’ve fucked up so much. I’ve made so many stupid, dangerous, mindless choices and for the longest time I felt like maybe that was just what I was meant to do. Just fumble along…That maybe it was better that way. I couldn’t pull someone into the mess my life can be and I couldn’t hurt someone with my own carelessness that way. I’m a mess half the time and I don’t want to be. I have my head on straight for so many things but when it comes to my own life…I just….”

“I want to be better. I want things I had written off ever being able to have. And I want them with you. But it scares me. I’m so fucking frightened that I’m not enough. That what I can offer will never, ever be enough. That I will go and fuck things up again because maybe I’m not able to be really, truly happy. So I’ve pushed and pulled and I’m sorry for that. I’m sorry for not knowing what I want…No,” he said with a shake of his head, “that’s not what I mean…Not being able to accept what I want. Because accepting it meant actually reaching for it and doing so puts not only me at risk…”

“You know, at least objectively, what a life in the public eye can be like…But knowing and experiencing it are such vastly different things. And if I let myself pull you into this…I needed you to go in with your eyes fully open to who I am. To what I am able to offer or else it wouldn’t be right. So,” he paused again, reaching for his now stone cold mug of tea and raising it to his lips and his eyes to hers. After a quick sip, and a grimace at the tepid tea, he continued, “Now you know. You know I’m a mess. But that I want to be better and I want so badly to be see if I can be. With you.”

A million thoughts seemed to swirl in Cath’s mind as she sat and tried to take in everything Tom had told her. None of this, not one bit of it has been what she’d expected. Part of her wanted to run, to put as much distance as she physically could between the two of them; this was far, far too much to take in. Not all at once. But a much louder part of her knew that if she ran now, if she pulled back, that was it. There would be no second chances. No do overs.

She was painfully aware of Tom’s eyes on her. Knew her continued silence was most likely fraying his already tattered nerves. But she couldn’t, for the life of her, think what to say to him. What could you possibly say when someone poured out the darkest parts of themselves to you with no real warning? It floored her the naked trust in that action. This man, this beautiful, guarded man trusted her enough to share a part of himself few, save those in his inner circle, truly saw. Cath didn’t know what on earth do to with that. Didn’t even know where to bloody start.

“I’m sorry.”

Cath blinked up at the sudden break in the excruciating silence that had fallen between them. “What?”

Tom sat, back straight, eyes downcast, hands clutched in his lap. “I’m sorry,” he repeated. “I shouldn’t have thrown this at you. You didn’t ask for any of it. I’m just…” He paused, running a shaking hand through his hair. He took a deep breath before raising his eyes to hers. She could see a faint sheen of tears in them and the strained smile he plastered on his face. “I know this is far too much and you are free to walk away. I completely understand. So don’t…Don’t worry. I will be absolutely fine if you can’t…If you don’t want to tangle yourself in this. So please don’t feel you have to spare my feelings.”

Next

#Tom Hiddleston #Tom Hiddleston RPF #Tom Hiddleston x oc #Tom Hiddleston x ofc #Tom Hiddleston x original character #tom hiddleston x original female character #Tom & Cath #Get Better

[themaddynocon]

Dario the Bachelor

I’m sure you have a few questions: Who is Dario? Why was he the Bachelor? What does this have to do with you, Madison?

Let me explain.

So, I listen to a radio show based in San Diego, CA called “Rock 105.3”. Their international phone screener (Dario) has been single for a while, so they decided to host, “Dario the Bachelor” at the local Dave & Busters.

Now, how this works is ladies 21+ applied via their website to compete for his “love”. You had to write a little about yourself, why you would want to date Dario, and submit a picture. If you were one of the ladies selected (they chose 10 total), you would have to take a nerd test, compete in a game, and also answer a “Dario Scenario”. This is all intermixed with one on ones, rose ceremonies, and a fantasy suite for one lucky gal. Did I mention that this is all very public and in front of hundreds of people? (Besides the fantasy suite, hey-o!)

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. Participating is a ballsy move! And, it was. It took a lot of convincing from friends and coworkers to actually sign up. I bet you’re also wondering, is Dario worth ALL that!? Guess you’ll have to keep reading to find that out (insert suspense here!)

Fast forward to a week or so after applying; It’s the night before. I get a call from the station that I was selected to be a part of the event. My first thoughts are “they must have run out of women and I was like the last one they called” and “holy crap, $#!+ just got real”. The only information I was given at this time was to “wear a cute cocktail dress”. Fun fact, I went and bought my dress that night!

I don’t know about you guys, but I have a tendency to overthink things. I can be spontaneous, but knowing details and having plans is my comfort zone. I like to know what I am walking into, and I basically walked into this blind. I had 24 hours to prepare, and had no clue how to prepare for any of it! 

Then in what felt like the blink of an eye, it was time to head over. I had gotten off work, did my hair (toss), checked my nails; How was I feeling? Feeling good as hell! But also, nervous as hell!

I ended up getting to the venue a little early. As soon as I walked in, I felt eyes on me. You know how you can just tell when people are staring at you? There were already a bunch of P1′s (what they call fans of the show) there scoping out the contestants. I quickly checked in and realized it was also still too early to enter the venue room, so I decided to hang out in the bathroom (I was told that’s where the other girls that had arrived early had gone too). 

I had no idea what to expect, but I knew that I wanted to make friends from the get-go. Let’s be honest; Bitches can be cray. I did not want to be on anyone’s bad side. Luckily, every girl that I talked to ended up being super sweet! I was relieved that it was nothing like the actually show, The Bachelor. All of the ladies that competed were awesome, and I even made a few new friends! 

Then, it was actually time for all the contestants to go on stage. Here’s where things got more interesting. They had us line up in a specific order (random side note, I noticed that I was set as the 7th lady in line, which is my lucky number!) and then we would walk up on stage, introduce ourselves to Dario, and then line up on the other side. Clearly I was not paying attention, because when it was my turn, I said my hello and quickly tried to clear the stage for the other girl to have her chance to say hello. I ran past my spot where I was supposed to line up and the host started yelling at me to come back! Naturally this became one of the running jokes of the night (pun intended). For those of you who know me personally, we all saw this coming. We all knew I was going to do something awkard and embarrassing; It’s just who I am. 

Then, the first event started. This was the “Nerd Test”. I am happy to report that I actually knew most of the answers to the questions he asked (they were pretty high-level nerd questions though). It’s funny how you can know the answer to something and then when you’re put on the spot in front of a crowd, everything you thought you knew goes out the window. He asked me what Spider-Man’s Aunt’s name is, and for the life of me I could not remember it at first. I ended up getting the answer right, but he chose another girl for the first one-on-one. They went off and we had our first break. 

During this first break was when I realized that not only did friends come, but a good grip of my family came too! I was NOT expecting this at all (More on this later). Then after a few minutes, it was time for the first rose ceremony. 

The girl who got the one on one was obviously safe, so he had to choose 6 more girls to keep, meaning 3 were sent home. I was chosen, and then we went right into the next part of the event: Ski Ball!

Ski Ball did not go so well for me, and I actually think that I might have done second worst of the entire group (LOL). One of the girls that was towards the back of the line ended up killing it though! It was super fun to cheer her on. She literally crushed everyone, and naturally, was given the second one on one. After that, he had to choose 3 other girls, and I somehow managed to make it to the next round (clearly not based on my ski ball skills lol).

Things got a little interesting during this next break though. A girl that recieved an invitation to be a contestant apparently didn’t see it until the event had already started, so she rushed over to the venue and asked if she could still compete. This is where my family comes back into the story. Throughout the evening, my dad had been yelling stuff like “You can do it” and other embarrassing things about me (luckily this was not all heard on stage lol). But, when Dario was asked if he should give this girl a chance, my dad kept yelling “She’s a person too” Let her in!” which I thought was hilarious. But! Dario quizzed her and she did not pass, so she was not allowed to join the contest.

After this, the 3 other remaining contestants and I were brought back to the stage for “Dario Scenarios”. This are situations that might arise if we were dating Dario; He wanted to know how we would handle them. I was up first, and he asked me about costumes for Halloween. More specifically, if I wanted to be a character from Star Wars and he wanted to be a character from the MCU, how would we compromise? Of course in the moment, I was like it really depends on which character from the MCU because I love both franchises. He said he would be Captain America, and I said I would be Lady Thor. Thinking about it after my turn, I would have asked him if he would considered dressing as Star Wars if I dressed as Slave Leia, but again, in the moment with hundreds of people watching, it can be hard to think on your toes. 

Well, apparently he liked my Lady Thor answer, becasuse I was whisked away to the Fantasy Suite! AKA a photo booth with chairs in it at the back of Dave & Busters.

So, I will not disclose what happened in the Fantasy Suite, but I will say that we got to know each other a little better, and that I did think that there was a connection! We were in there for about 10 minutes and then they came and grabbed us.

After the Fantasy Suite, Dario had to choose one other girl to keep, and then it was just a choice between that girl and myself. After he chose the other girl, he was given more time to process his final selection. 

Then, he came back to the stage, rose in hand. I was in the back of the room, so it took me a while to make my way back to the stage (awkwardly the other girl was already up there so they made another joke about me running away again lol). After a lot of talking, rambling, and jokes, he asked me if I would accept the final rose! 

Everyone (well, a lot of people) started cheering and chanting. Then, I realized they were chanting something... but what was it? Mesos? Pesos? I had to ask him, and they were chanting BESOS (mi español es malo jaja) So, after contemplating that for a second, we ended up kissing on stage in front of everyone (LOL). After that we took some pictures, and I was told to wait on the side of the room for him to come and talk to me. I thought this was awkward cause everyone was flooding the stage, but, the promotions team insisted I wait there. 

After this, he met my friends, some of my family, and then I met his siblings. We ended up hanging out for a few hours after the event, playing games, getting to know each other, etc. We ended up winning enough tickets to be able to both take home a commemorative shot glass. All in all, I thought it had gone really well! 

A lot of people are asking me what happens from here, and the honest answer is I am really not sure. I think the ball is in his court now!

It is surprising to say, but I had the best time. My family and friends are still raving about how much fun that night was! Even if nothing ever comes of it, I am grateful for the opportunity to do something out of my usual; Something that made me step out of my comfort zone. I put myself out there, and it worked out for me. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take! This is such a good reminder to shoot your shot! Life is too short!

Here are a couple pictures from the event:

[phynxrizng]

DAILY ASTROLOGY REPORTS AND HOROSCOPES FOR, 7-6-17

Astrology Cafe Daily Astrology ABOUT TODAY DAILY MONTHLY CHART You are here: Home / Daily Astrology / Astrology of Today – Sunday, August 6, 2017 Astrology of Today – Sunday, August 6, 2017 Aug 5, 2017 by Annie Leave a Comment  The Moon is in Capricorn until 8:15 AM, after which the Moon is in Aquarius. The Moon is waxing and in its Waxing Gibbous phase. The First Quarter Moon occurred on July 30th, and a Full Moon (Lunar Eclipse) will occur in Aquarius tomorrow. Mercury is in its pre-retrograde shadow (Mercury will retrograde from August 12-September 5). Times are EDT. Horoscopes Aries  Aries While you’re skilled in a position of leadership, the Moon’s move out of your career and reputation sector this morning can be a relieving one, dear Aries. There are times when you need to kick back and enjoy life without being a leader. This is one of those days when the most emotional satisfaction comes through interacting with others as equals. Sharing your talents, skills, or simply your advice and contributing to a group effort can be especially rewarding now. Even so, a friendship or social matter may be coming to a head today and this week with a Lunar Eclipse occurring tomorrow in this sector of your chart. Watch for stretched information and exaggeration, but listen to your hunches now, as you are recognizing things that you weren’t ready to see in the past. Taurus  Taurus Once the Moon moves into your solar tenth house this morning, dear Taurus, energy is such that you are more visible and accountable for your actions. Others tend to look at you for what you’ve done, good or bad, instead of who you are. It can be an annoying influence if you’re not in the mood to explain yourself or to keep up appearances. On the other hand, attention to detail now can pay off in the long run. As well, this can be a wonderful time for acknowledgment and recognition if you’ve played your cards right. A Lunar eclipse occurring tomorrow in this sector of your chart has a way of pulling up true feelings about a matter or sudden realizations about a project, livelihood, or current path. High-running emotions are also figuring strongly, so take a wait-and-see approach to your life and process feelings before acting. Gemini  Gemini Once the Moon moves into your adventure sector this morning, dear Gemini, you’re drawn to unusual things, ideas, and experiences. You could find that your attractions today are not your typical flavor or taste, and this is a reflection of your craving for something more meaningful, different, or exotic. Your beliefs and ideas are colorful, and you’re drawing people in because of them. However, you’re likely to hesitate to take the lead or to push forward with your plans. This is a good thing with a Lunar Eclipse occurring tomorrow. It’s wiser to observe, emote, feel, and process before jumping into action. Previously hidden feelings or situations have a way of popping up now and this week, and it can spark a more authentic course of study or interest. Cancer  Cancer Once the Moon moves into your solar eighth house this morning, dear Cancer, your mood deepens but is positive. It can be a good exercise to stretch your imagination as you dream up possible scenarios and how you might handle them, as you can learn more about yourself and better prepare yourself for situations if they do arise. Living well truly is the best revenge, and resentment (a potential pitfall of this house of your chart) will get in the way of this goal, so aim to take care of yourself first by letting go of anger. You’re in particularly good shape for planning and formulating strategies today. Dramatic moves are not as favored right now with a Lunar eclipse occurring tomorrow, but dramatic feelings are par for the course! This is a time for discovering your true feelings about a matter, or even a person or relationship. Leo  Leo Once the Moon moves into your partnership sector this morning, dear Leo, you’re more companionable and ready to negotiate. You’re in an unusually reasonable frame of mind, and your treatment of others as true equals can help improve your relationships all around — that is unless you resort to tit for tat games, which is the downside to this sector of the chart. It’s not the best time of the month for making sweeping decisions as you’re likely to feel that the ball is in another court just for now and energy levels are on the low side. A Lunar Eclipse in your opposite sign will occur tomorrow, and your attention is directed to one-on-one relationships. Do your best to give off good vibes, honor a significant other in your life, and open yourself up to others. Virgo  Virgo Once the Moon moves into your work and health sector this morning, dear Virgo, your resourcefulness comes to the fore. While praise may not be forthcoming in an overt way, you are nevertheless building others’ respect, so keep doing what you do best. Most importantly, however, you’re making your life better one step at a time. The focus now is on the little things that are out of sync and need attention. It’s a good day for taking something apart and putting it back together in a better way, and for improving essential systems in your life by paying attention to details. With a Lunar eclipse occurring in this same sector of your solar chart tomorrow, it’s wise to open your mind and heart to change as epiphanies are likely to occur that help reinforce your path or redirect you along a more authentic one. Libra  Libra The Moon moves from your homebody solar fourth house to your expressive fifth house this morning, dear Libra, and you come out of your shell! You’re ready and willing to share some of your feelings or talents with others. You have a strong desire to share and also to receive the attention you crave. If you aim to give freely of the care and affection you want and avoid expecting the same in return, the more likely you are to receive it anyhow. An epiphany of sorts along romantic and creative lines is liable to come with a Lunar Eclipse occurring tomorrow. This can take the form of a realization of your true feelings on a matter or about something or someone. Emotions may seem to take over and get the better of you today and tomorrow, but if channeled well, they can also motivate you to make necessary changes and adjustments. Scorpio  Scorpio Once the Moon moves into your home and family sector this morning, dear Scorpio, there’s likely to be a real homebody streak stimulated in you, and if you’re out, you may want nothing more to get home! Home is where the heart is right now, and you’ll do especially well, and feel contented, tending to domestic matters. You can accomplish a lot today, particularly on the home front, but not necessarily in tangible, practical ways. Your focus tends to be on creating a harmonious atmosphere. Alternatively, you’re sticking with familiar faces and spaces now as you’re instinctively drawn to activities that build your sense of security. A Lunar eclipse will occur in this same sector of your chart tomorrow, and this can be a time for getting in dramatic touch with your true feelings on a matter. Sagittarius  Sagittarius Once the Moon moves into your communications sector this morning, dear Sagittarius, you’re sure to perk up as you crave more variety and connection to the world around you. Keep the mood light for best results today. Your curiosity about people around you runs high, which keeps you alert and aware. You’re highly observant, and a Lunar eclipse that will occur tomorrow influences your perceptions today as well — you see something that you usually overlook through an exclusive window this eclipse provides you, so pay close attention! Avoid being too impulsive when it comes to expressing yourself, as much as you feel the need to speak. Do watch for some over-sensitivity as well as rumors, but absolutely listen to your hunches. Capricorn  Capricorn While the Moon in your sign until this morning is a good influence for recognizing your needs, dear Capricorn, the Moon’s move into your resources sector today can be felt as a relief, as it’s a steadying, comfortable influence. Even so, a Lunar eclipse will occur in this same sector of your chart tomorrow, and while you still crave healthy, grounding activities, you’re also set to recognize matters related to income, money, talents, and personal boundaries that you may have buried or overlooked. Today, and to some extent, all week, look for clues that give you a new perspective on an old issue, but be on the lookout for false information flying around. You can be quite emotional and perhaps a little irrational (temporarily) when it comes to your money and what you value. Aquarius  Aquarius The tempo of your life picks up pace after the Moon enters your sign this morning, dear Aquarius, and you can find that you’re suddenly in high demand. You are more direct about what you want, need, and desire than you have been in recent days, and while it’s best not to go over the top with this, it can be quite refreshing to feel just fine about asserting yourself. Keep in mind that we are building towards a Lunar Eclipse, occurring tomorrow in your sign, and something is building inside of you, seeking expression or release! You’re going to get attention, so do what you can to make it of the positive variety. Pisces  Pisces Once the Moon moves out of your social sector and into your privacy zone this morning, dear Pisces, your mind tends to turn to the past or to those things that you’ve left unfinished. While there’s no need to dwell, this can be a vital process as you examine those things that no longer serve a useful purpose in your life. It can also be a powerful opportunity to come to terms with matters that have been overlooked, but that nevertheless affect you on a subconscious level. The hidden elements of life tend to grab your attention now, and this trend will continue tomorrow when an epiphany or surprise can be part of the picture. Being comfortably withdrawn boosts your chances that you’ll get a bit of a break with little in the way of resistance. * Remember to read horoscopes for your Ascendant sign and Sun sign. If you don’t know your Ascendant sign (and you know your birth time), you can look it up here. If Your Birthday is August 6th, If Today is Your Birthday full horoscope here. Astrology of Today – The Details: If you’re astrologically inclined and interested in the details of the Astrology of today, here are some of the factors considered in the forecasts (for the astrology of the week, see This Week in Astrology):   Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 8:15 am Event: Moon enters Aquarius Description: The Moon in Aquarius This is generally a good time for social pursuits, group projects, trying something new, joining a group, and networking. A change of pace refreshes. Hobbies, clubs, and groups may demand attention now. It is time to build networks and cooperate. Humanitarian pursuits are highlighted. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 5:21 am Event: Moon goes void of course Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 4:57 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sxt Chi Description: Transiting Moon Sextile Transiting Chiron We are more emotionally present and involved. We more easily hone in on problem areas and want to fix them. Synchronicity is a feature of our daily life right now. Tune in and enjoy the spiritual signposts. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 5:21 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqr Ura Description: Transiting Moon Square Transiting Uranus There may be sudden, minor changes to plans, schedules. There can be rebelliousness and tension. Aim to be open to possibilities, and avoid making permanent decisions. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 5:33 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Nep Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Neptune If we are not in touch with our need for inspiration, beauty, compassion, connection to something otherworldly, or our spirituality, we could feel out of sorts right now. Relaxing, listening to music, getting close to nature, or taking a break may resolve this. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 8:15 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Aqu Description: Transiting Moon Entering Aquarius This is generally a good time for social pursuits, group projects, trying something new, joining a group, and networking. A change of pace refreshes. Hobbies, clubs, and groups may demand attention now. It is time to build networks and cooperate. Humanitarian pursuits are highlighted. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 8:50 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Sat Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Saturn We could feel burdened, restricted, or limited during this brief influence. We could be feeling a little down on ourselves, excluded, or lonely. There can be some awkwardness or stiffness and difficulty showing affection and feelings. Patience is a virtue right now; otherwise, we might succumb to feelings of frustration and sadness. All good things come to those who wait. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 10:56 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Ven Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Venus Love relationships or feelings can be unsettled. There can be a conflict experienced between family and friends/lovers, or between comfort and the pursuit of pleasure. Try to relax and not obsess, and show restraint. Date & Time: Aug 6 2017 8:51 pm Event: Tr-Tr Nep Pll Jun Description: Transiting Neptune Parallel Transiting Juno Strong Signs, Elements, Modes BALANCE OF SIGNS LEO STRONG Self-confident, generous, warm-hearted, powerful leader, dramatic. Can be overly proud, vain, extravagant, arrogant. AQUARIUS STRONG Humanitarian, innovative, group conscious, progressive, serving others. Can be rebellious, eccentric, aloof, emotionally superficial, overly extroverted. BALANCE OF ELEMENTS FIRE STRONG Fire is enthusiastic, dynamic, and spontaneous, but lacks reflection. We are more courageous and adventurous now, with a tendency to act before thinking. There is little concern about what happened in the past. We are competitive and possibly impatient or bored easily. BALANCE OF MODES The modes are balanced. LUNAR PHASE: GIBBOUS Moon 135 to 180 degrees ahead of the Sun. We are looking to attach value and meaning to our goals. This is a time for analyzing, questioning, perfecting, and improving. The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on August 6th: Note that when an aspect is applying, it has not yet happened but is within orb – it’s pending. When an aspect is separating, it has already happened/perfected and is moving away from the aspect. Depending on the speed of the planet/body involved, the aspect will have perfected–or will perfect–in a matter of hours (often the case with the Moon), days, months, and possibly years in the case of the very slow-moving outer planets and bodies. Note that the Moon moves at a rate of approximately one degree every 2 hours, so that if an aspect involving the Moon is applying and has an orb of 5 degrees, the aspect will perfect (be exact) in about 10 hours. If the Moon is separating from an aspect with an orb of 2 degrees, it has already formed said aspect approximately 4 hours ago (since the following are positions at noon today, then it would have occurred at about 8 AM today). **I suggest paying close attention to applying aspects. The energy of the aspect builds as it gets closer to exact. Once an aspect involving inner planets has happened, it’s over. Separating aspects are good to know for context, but in terms of energy that is with us today, applying aspects are most important. (This is the case for daily astrology influences involving inner planets, which pass quickly, and not natal astrology aspects, which are with us for a lifetime). THE MOON THE MOON IN AQUARIUS You feel secure with intellect rather than emotions. You may be aloof from emotions, or distrust emotions as irrational and unpredictable. You may have viewed your mother as emotionally erratic. 2ND DEGREE OF AQUARIUS Part of Body: Left tibial nerve Sabian Symbol: An unexpected thunderstorm. ASPECTS OF THE MOON SQUARE URANUS Orb 3°23′ Separating There may be sudden, minor changes to plans, schedules. There can be rebelliousness and tension. Aim to be open to possibilities, and avoid making permanent decisions. THE SUN THE SUN IN LEO You are good-hearted, have a sunny personality, and a strong need for attention. You have a generous nature, but can be arrogant. 15TH DEGREE OF LEO Part of Body: Right atrium Sabian Symbol: A street pageant. ASPECTS OF THE SUN CONJUNCTION MARS Orb 3°20′ Separating We are more direct, spontaneous, and impulsive now, but can also be too self-focused and impatient. SEXTILE JUPITER Orb 3°25′ Applying There can be a good, nice, and healthy feeling of optimism and confidence now. We might promote, publish, advertise, or market with greater success. We are generous and tolerant, giving people the benefit of the doubt, expecting the best from others and from ourselves. We can see the big picture. TRINE SATURN Orb 7°05′ Applying We are taking pride in our responsibilities or performance. This can be a time of steady progress and increased self-discipline. We are more inclined to humble ourselves to authority or good advice, and tend to employ traditional methods. QUINCUNX NEPTUNE Orb 0°45′ Separating Dreaming, creating, and imagining have better results than hard decision making right now. There can be a temporary loss/lack of clarity. We can be questoning whether what we are doing or pursuing feeds our spiritual needs. Make adjustments if there is a discrepancy. CONJUNCTION THE NORTH NODE Orb 9°49′ Applying We might come to realizations of personal or professional truths, and these can propel us forward on a new path, or advance our current goals. People tend to support and assist us now. We might recognize our need for others. This is a good time for setting goals. MERCURY MERCURY IN VIRGO You have a discriminating mind, and can be critical and analytical. You can also become obsessed with detailed knowledge. This may be to your detriment in daily life, although it is very beneficial for doing any kind of research. You like to be precise in your communications with others. 10TH DEGREE OF VIRGO Part of Body: Left hepatic lobe, bile Sabian Symbol: Two heads looking out and beyond the shadows. ASPECTS OF MERCURY SEXTILE VENUS Orb 2°56′ Applying We are sociable, making connections, dipllomatic, and ready to negotiate. Expressions of affection or clarifications of feelings. OPPOSITION NEPTUNE Orb 3°40′ Applying Our minds open to many different possibilities and options. We can feel inspired or we might be thinking in imaginative or possibly impractical ways. We see beyond physical or material concerns and solutions. There is extra sensitivity now. We may be dealing with deceptions or self-deceptions, and it can be difficult to be discriminating. We may not be seeing the obvious, and instead are imagining more complicated scenarios. VENUS VENUS IN CANCER You place emphasis on family relations. You will form strong emotional bonds within your own tribe. You may have an emotional need for financial security. 8TH DEGREE OF CANCER Part of Body: Oesophageal opening of diaphragm Sabian Symbol: Rabbits dressed in clothes and on parade. ASPECTS OF VENUS TRINE NEPTUNE Orb 6°37′ Applying We are more sensitive to others’ needs and wants, and more desirous of harmony, love, beauty, and balance. We are generous, compassionate, open, and vulnerable. Spiritual/emotional concerns trump material ones at this time. MARS MARS IN LEO You have a strong need to express your personal creativity. You may display dramatic and confident behaviour, and like to make an impact on your surroundings. You may also be arrogant. 12TH DEGREE OF LEO Part of Body: Vertebral column Sabian Symbol: An evening lawn party. JUPITER JUPITER IN LIBRA You have a strong concern for justice. You are a diplomatic teacher, and express your spiritual values in your relationships. 18TH DEGREE OF LIBRA Part of Body: Fatty capsule of kidneys Sabian Symbol: Two men placed under arrest. ASPECTS OF JUPITER SQUARE PLUTO Orb 0°18′ Separating You will need to learn to have confidence in yourself even when life deals you a few blows. You range from over confident to completely lacking in confidence. The truth lies somewhere in between. SATURN SATURN IN SAGITTARIUS Saturn in Sagittarius asks us to take on the responsibility of living according to our personal truths and principles — and to be loyal to these. This is a time for turning a critical eye to those beliefs and principles that don’t accurately reflect our authentic selves. (December 23, 2014, to June 14, 2015, then September 17, 2015, to December 20, 2017) 22ND DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS Part of Body: Right trochanter Sabian Symbol: A laundry. URANUS IN ARIES The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong during this cycle. (May 27, 2010, to August 13, 2010, then March 11th, 2011 to May 15, 2018, then November 6, 2018, to March 6, 2019). 29TH DEGREE OF ARIES Part of Body: Auditory canal Sabian Symbol: A celestial choir singing. NEPTUNE NEPTUNE IN PISCES A long-term influence in which fantasy, imagination, compassion, and spirituality are in stronger focus. (April 4, 2011, to August 4, 2011, then February 3, 2012, to March 30, 2025, then October 22, 2025, to January 26, 2026) 14TH DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Right cutaneous veins Sabian Symbol: A lady in fox fur. PLUTO PLUTO IN CAPRICORN Tests of our boundaries; breaking down and rebuilding structures and rules. (From January 25, 2008, to June 14, 2008, then November 26, 2008, to March 23, 2023, then June 11, 2023, to January 20, 2024, then September 1, 2024, to November 19, 2024). 18TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN Part of Body: Ligaments of right knee Sabian Symbol: The union jack flies from a new british destroyer. Chiron, Major Asteroids, and Moon’s Nodes: in Sign and in Aspect CHIRON CHIRON IN PISCES Strong awareness of our own vulnerabilities and humanity stimulates compassion for others. (April 20 to July 20, 2010, then February 8, 2011, to April 17, 2018, then September 25, 2018, to February 18, 2019). 29TH DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Toenails of right foot Sabian Symbol: A prism. VESTA IN VIRGO You have a perfectionist streak. You work hard and expect the same from other people. You need to avoid being overly critical. Positively, you have the ability to set up efficient and productive routines at work. 10TH DEGREE OF VIRGO Part of Body: Left hepatic lobe, bile Sabian Symbol: Two heads looking out and beyond the shadows. PALLAS PALLAS IN TAURUS You have the ability to see the beauty in nature and the arts. You have much common sense and wisdom. You may become involved in either healing with your hands, or healing the earth through environmental movements. 11TH DEGREE OF TAURUS Part of Body: Cervical and brachial plexi Sabian Symbol: A woman sprinkling flowers. JUNO JUNO IN CAPRICORN You want a partner who you can respect, and who respects you. You seek long-term commitment and may marry later in life. 4TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN Part of Body: Cutaneous nerves of lower leg Sabian Symbol: A party entering a large canoe. CERES CERES IN CANCER Your ability to nurture others is closely linked with your own relationship with your mother. If you had a close and loving relationship with your mother then you will enjoy the same with others in your adult life. If not, you may form dependent relationships. 12TH DEGREE OF CANCER Part of Body: Greater curvature of stomach Sabian Symbol: A chinese woman nursing a baby with a message. THE NORTH NODE THE NORTH NODE IN LEO This a quest to develop your inner strength. You may find that you experience times of loneliness. These times are part of your lesson to forge your own creative life in order to give generously to the world. 25TH DEGREE OF LEO Part of Body: Pericardium Sabian Symbol: A large camel crossing the desert. THE SOUTH NODE THE SOUTH NODE IN AQUARIUS This a quest to develop your inner strength. You may find that you experience times of loneliness. These times are part of your lesson to forge your own creative life in order to give generously to the world. 25TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS Part of Body: Left tibialis anterior muscle Sabian Symbol: A butterfly with the right wing more perfectly formed. *** CONJUNCTIONS TO SELECT FIXED STARS *** Transits 6 Aug 2017 – Event Chart Aspects to Ven 07°Cn00 +21°58′ Cnj 07°Cn25 MIRZAM To have one’s say. Aspects to Plu 17°Cp28 -21°34′ Cnj 16°Cp53 RUKBAT Steadiness and strength.  SHARE THIS: EmailFacebookTwitterTumblrGoogleReddit Filed Under: Daily Astrology, Today Tagged With: August 6  « Astrology of Today – Saturday, August 5, 2017Astrology of Today – Monday, August 7 2017 » Leave a Reply   Search this website … Search Cafe Astrology Cafe Astrology Home Cafe Astrology Free Reports Recent Astrology of Today – Monday, August 7 2017 Astrology of Today – Sunday, August 6, 2017 Astrology of Today – Saturday, August 5, 2017 Astrology of Today – Friday, August 4, 2017 Astrology of Today – Thursday, August 3, 2017 In this post Full Moon‌ First Quarter Moon‌ The Moon is waxing‌ The Moon is void‌ Previous  Tags Jupiter Neptune transit Mars-Pluto transit Mars Ceres transit Mars Chiron transit Mars Jupiter transit Mars Neptune transit Mars Pluto transit Mars Saturn transit Mars Uranus transit Mercury Chiron transit Mercury Jupiter transit Mercury Mars transit Mercury Neptune transit Mercury Pluto transit Mercury Saturn transit Mercury semi-square Venus Mercury square Jupiter Mercury square Mars Mercury square Neptune Mercury square Pluto Mercury square Uranus Mercury trine Jupiter Mercury trine Pluto Mercury Uranus transit Mercury Venus transit Sun Chiron transit Sun conjunct Mercury Sun Jupiter transit Sun Mars transit Sun Mercury transit Sun Neptune transit Sun Pluto transit Sun Saturn transit Sun square Neptune Sun Uranus transit Venus-Mars transit Venus Chiron transit Venus Jupiter transit Venus Mars transit Venus Neptune transit Venus Pluto transit Venus Saturn transit Venus sextile Uranus Venus square Saturn Venus Uranus transit  Subscribe via Email Enter your email address to receive notifications of new posts by email. Email Address Email Address Subscribe Current Planetary Positions 8/6/2017 5:13:40 PM Sun 14° Leo 42' 11" Moon 06° Aquarius 08' 02" Mercury 10° Virgo 06' 50" Venus 07° Cancer 24' 06" Mars 11° Leo 15' 10" Jupiter 17° Libra 50' 36" Saturn 21° Sagittarius 27' 17" R Uranus 28° Aries 31' 12" R Neptune 13° Pisces 36' 43" R Pluto 17° Capricorn 28' 29" R Chiron 28° Pisces 17' 50" R TrueNode 24° Leo 11' 28" R Subscribe to Blog via Email Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Email Address Email Address Subscribe Categories  Archives  August 2017 M T W T F S S « Jul 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Copyright © 2017 · Astrology Cafe by Cafe Astrology

[d-is-here-to-help]

Okay I have three questions for you. 1. She has really bad separation anxiety. She meows and howls anytime I leave the room. 2. My other cat HunBun really hates the new kitten and I don't know how to try to get them to like each other. Hunbun is very mad. 3. I have two big dogs a German Shepard and a Lab mix. They're both good with cats and very gentle. They love playing with them. But Harley the new kitten really hates them both. Any ideas on how to get them to tolerate or like each other?

ok.

“ 1. She has really bad separation anxiety. She meows and howls anytime I leave the room. “

Separation distress can lead to a variety of unwanted behaviors, including defecating and urinating outside of the litter box (often on items that hold your smell, like bedding and clothing), excessive vocalization, anorexia, throwing up, destructive clawing and excessive self-grooming.

Your cat’s stress may start when he picks up on your departure cues, such as putting on your shoes or packing a suitcase. He may show his distress by vocalizing and clinging to you or by withdrawing and hiding. Your cat may also have a time limit: While he is not initially anxious when you leave, the longer you’re away, the more his stress builds. 

 If your cat seems on edge when you come home, this may suggest that he was stressed while you were away. While his stress could be the result of separation anxiety, it may also stem from a lack of regular stimulation and interaction, such as frequent petting or play. This lack of activity and interaction with people can lead to a bored and anxious cat.

 Talk to your vet.

Start by involving your veterinarian, especially if your cat shows worrisome symptoms like urinating outside of the box, excessive grooming, missing patches of hair, vomiting, excessive vocalization and anorexia. These behaviors can be related to medical conditions that should be ruled out first to ensure your cat is in good health. In certain cases, cats who have severe separation anxiety may benefit from medication as well as behavior management strategies.

 Prepare your cat with mini absences.

Even when you’re home it’s important to give your cat limited periods of separation. If you take an all-or-nothing approach (the cat always has you around and then suddenly you disappear for long periods of time), the adjustment will be difficult for him. Even people who work from home or are on a long holiday, like summer vacation, should schedule time away to help their feline adjust. Separations can be short, such as walking to the mailbox or a quick trip to the store.

 Remove departure cues.

Cats pick up on cues that foreshadow a departure, like grabbing your keys or putting on your shoes. To help your cat adjust, remove the power of those cues by presenting them without anything happening. Pick up your keys, and then put them right back. Put your shoes on but stay in the house. Walk out the door and come back in. Turn on the car engine, and then turn it back off. You can also leave your suitcase out between trips to decrease your cat’s association of the bag with your departure.

Keep departures and arrivals low-key.

When you get ready to leave, don’t say a complicated goodbye to your cat; instead, make only a slight, non-emotional acknowledgement of your departure. When you return, greet your cat only after he stops all attention seeking (like meowing and pawing) and give him attention only as long as he remains calm — for instance, while he is lying down or sitting on a perching area.

 Leave him a challenge.

When you go, give your cat a challenging food puzzle. This helps him associate your departure with something he enjoys. Use a variety of food puzzles, from those filled with loose kibble or treats to those with soft filling, like canned cat food. In addition, hide small pieces of food or puzzles around your house, such as on perches and cat trees, to create a scavenger hunt for your cat. If you will be gone for an extended period, ask your cat’s caretaker to rotate puzzles and hide treats at least once or twice a day.

 Provide a wide variety of toys.

Keep him busy with mice or ball-on-track toys, or interactive, robotic cat toys. Catnip-filled toys may have the added bonus of helping your cat to relax.

 Incorporate perching areas.

Cats enjoy exploring vertical spaces as well as having a high vantage point from which to view the outside world. Window perches, cat trees and cat-friendly shelving are ideal ways to vary your cat’s environment. Some cats also enjoy hiding; for these cats, boxes and tunnels can be soothing areas to relax.

 Create a calm atmosphere.

Feliway room diffusers release a pheromone that has a profound relaxation effect on many felines; use them in rooms where your cat is most likely to spend his time. Playing music while you’re away can also soothe your cat.Through a Cat’s Ear was composed specifically to promote feline relaxation. Finally, a shirt scented with your smell can be placed in your cat’s resting areas to provide physical comfort.

 Provide entertainment.

If you’re willing to have the television on, cat-friendly programming from Animal Planet or videos designed for cats can help keep your feline entertained. Cat-friendly grass also gives your cat something to nibble on while you’re gone.

Find a committed cat sitter.

If possible when you’re going somewhere, your sitter should engage in twice-daily play and petting sessions with your cat. However, you may want to consider having someone stay overnight with your cat to provide more regular interaction and help keep his stress level low while you’re away.

“2.  My other cat HunBun really hates the new kitten and I don't know how to try to get them to like each other. Hunbun is very mad. “

Cats have very different social needs compared to dogs and people. Although they are capable of forming friendships with their own kind, they are unlikely to feel the need for a companion and are often happy being the only cat in the home. This is not to say that they can’t get along with other cats – as long as there is no competition for important resources such as food, litter trays or sleeping areas, then many cats can learn to accept each other peacefully and some will even form close bonds. How you introduce a new cat or kitten into your home can, however, make a difference.

A kitten might be less of a threat to a resident cat than an adult, because it is still sexually immature - however introducing a playful youngster can be stressful for an older cat who prefers the quiet life, so an adult might be a better choice. Consider your own cat’s personality and age when deciding on what sort of cat to introduce. Cats who have lived alone for many years or those who have lived with cats unsuccessfully in the past will find it harder to adapt to living with another, so think carefully about whether introducing a cat into your home is the right thing for your existing pet. If you already have two or more cats that get on well, another addition may destabilize the group. You will have to make sure that there is enough space and resources available to allow all the cats to share peacefully, and a very slow and careful introduction will be needed.

You will need to set up an area for your new cat or kitten away from your existing pet – a spare room is ideal for this. It is best to choose an area that your existing cat does not use very much. Everything your new cat needs should be placed here; a bed, food and water, scratching post and a litter tray. It is a good idea to install Feliway diffusers in your home one or two days before you bring your new cat home - ideally one in the area set aside for your new cat and one in the main area of the house. Feliway products emit pheromones that cats leave when they feel secure, so their use may help smooth the introduction process for both cats.

If you are introducing a kitten, then a large dog crate within this area will help facilitate the initial introductions. It should be big enough to contain all the necessities above. Make sure you allow your kitten to get used to the crate before you use it for the early introductions, by leaving the door open so they can explore.

It is also important to ensure that your home has plenty of high places that a cat can easily access. Cats naturally like to rest and hide in high areas, especially if they feel worried. This will be particularly important when you have more than one cat as it will give them the opportunity to go up high should they feel the need to.  

Scent is the most important of the cat’s senses for communication. You can integrate the new cat into your home more successfully by making sure that your new pet smells of ’home’ before being introduced to your resident cat. You can start this process even before you bring your new cat home by exchanging bedding between the cats if this is possible.

When you bring your new cat home, avoid the temptation to let them explore your home at first, as they will need a few days to adjust to their new surroundings. This will also give you plenty of time to carry out the important process of ‘scent swapping’. To do this, stroke each cat without washing your hands to mix scents (separately!) and swap bedding regularly. Also gather scent from the new cat’s head and cheeks by gently stroking with a soft cloth and dabbing this around your home and furniture to mix with your existing cats scent. For this reason, it is useful to delay the cats from meeting for several days or even a week. During this time, keep them in separate areas, but allow each cat to investigate the other’s room and bed without actually meeting.

Problems can arise if initial meetings are rushed or if the cats are allowed to fight or chase. The best way to avoid this is to use a barrier such as a tall stair gate for initial introductions. Stair gates are extremely useful as they will allow the cats to see and smell each other without being able to directly meet.  

Where this takes place will depend upon the lay out of your house, but choose an area that is relatively neutral to both and ensure that the cats have easy access back to their individual ‘safe’ areas. Cats prefer to be able to watch from a distance and approach in their own time, so avoid handling or picking either cat up to bring them closer. You can provide both cats with some tasty food at this point (which will distract them and help create a positive association), but make sure there is plenty of distance between them at first. Keep these initial interactions short at first and try to end on a positive note.

Hopefully both cats will eventually sniff each other through the bars (their individual scents should be familiar at this point, which will make this interaction a bit less scary), but you may find that they hiss or moan at each other. This isn’t unusual, but it is an indication that things will need to be taken slowly. With small kittens, a stair gate won’t be practical as they will easily be able to slip through the bars, so for safety reasons introductions are best carried out by keeping the kitten in the dog crate. Pop a blanket over one side which will help the kitten feel safe and allow the adult cat to approach. Tasty food can be used as above but remember to give your kitten and cat lots of space. Take care not to overwhelm either the kitten or your existing cat and take regular breaks.

If either cat or kitten appears frightened or displays aggression, go back a few steps and keep them separate for a while longer. Continue scent swapping regularly and try again the next day. If carried out slowly, you should see a gradual reduction in fearful behavior and the cats should start to become more familiar with each other’s presence. As things progress in the right direction, you can open up the rest of the house. The time it takes to reach this stage depends on the individual cats – with some it might only take a few days, whereas others may take several weeks / months. During this time, both cats should have their individual areas that they can access easily.

Remember that all cats are individuals and you’ll have to work at the pace that they are comfortable with. It’s important not to rush things – take things slowly and carefully, and this will hopefully result in your cats living together peacefully.

Cats naturally find it difficult to share important resources such as food, sleeping areas and places to toilet, even if they are good friends. Although cats may come together to feed and sleep, it is usually because they have to and this can unfortunately create unnecessary tension. To make your home as harmonious a place as possible, provide several feeding areas, places to drink, hide and sleep and always ensure that there is more than one area to go to the toilet privately. The general rule of thumb is one toileting area per cat, plus one more. If cats feel that there is a plentiful supply of these things, it can help prevent any problems developing. 

“3.  I have two big dogs a German Shepard and a Lab mix. They're both good with cats and very gentle. They love playing with them.  But Harley the new kitten really hates them both. Any ideas on how to get them to tolerate or like each other?”

Whether you are introducing a new cat to your resident dog or vice versa, you will need to provide a safe area for the cat that your dog will not be able to access. If you are taking on a new cat, a spare room is ideal as they will need time to adjust to their new surroundings. If you are bringing in a new dog, choose an area that you know your existing cat will feel safe. Move all essentials to this area - a bed, food and water and a litter tray (even if your cat normally toilets outside).  Even if your resident cat is confident, the introduction of a new dog will be unsettling at first, so safe access to resources will be necessary. Stair gates are invaluable when introducing cats and dogs, as they allow the pets to see and smell each other safely, and allow for ‘dog free areas’, which are essential until both animals see each other as one of the family. They come in various heights, so choose an appropriate one for you – some even have cat flaps built in, to allow the cat to move easily (very useful for older or arthritic cats), although these won’t be appropriate if you have a small dog that could fit through the hole.  If you don’t have a stair gate set up already, introduce one as early as you can to allow the existing pet to get used to it prior to bringing the new pet home.

Installing a Feliway diffuser a few days before you bring your new pet home is a good idea, especially if the cat has not lived with dogs before or is of a nervous disposition. A Feliway diffuser emits pheromones that help cats feel safe – so this may help the cat feel more comfortable during the introduction period.

It is also important to ensure that your home has plenty of high places that a cat can easily access. Cats naturally like to rest and hide in high places, and this will be particularly important later on in the introduction process.

Kittens are far more vulnerable due their size and as they are usually more playful and active than an adult cat, they are more likely to excite a dog. If you are introducing a kitten to a dog, a stair gate won’t be practical as they will easily be able to slip through the bars, so for safety reasons the initial introduction is best carried out by placing the kitten in a dog crate. The dog crate should be large enough for a litter tray, a scratching post, bed and places to hide.  Allow the kitten to get used to being in the crate prior to meeting the dog, by placing the crate in the area you have chosen away from the dog, so they get used to going in and out. Pop a blanket over one side which will help the kitten feel safe. 

If your dog is already crate trained, you can use it as part of the introduction process when you cannot directly supervise your dog. If your dog isn’t used to a crate, then it’s a good idea to get them used to one in preparation. 

For both cats and dogs, smell is extremely important for communication. You can integrate the new pet into your home more successfully by making sure that they smell of ’home’ before being introduced. You can start this process even before you bring your new pet home by exchanging bedding between the pets if this is possible. This way, they get to know a bit about each other, even before they meet. 

Once your new cat or dog is home, it is best to keep them separate at first. If you are bringing a new cat into your home, avoid the temptation to let them explore your home at first, as they will need a few days to adjust to their new surroundings. This will also give you plenty of time to carry out the important process of ‘scent swapping’. To do this, stroke each pet without washing your hands to mix scents and exchange bedding regularly. Also gather scents from the new pet’s head by gently stroking with a soft cloth and dabbing this around your home and furniture to mix with your existing pets scent. For this reason, it is useful to delay the pets from meeting for a few days or even a week. If you have bought in a new cat, let them explore the rest of the house when your dog is out of the house for a few hours.   

Where this takes place will depend upon the lay out of your house, but ensure that the cat has an easy route back to their ‘safe area’. If your dog gets excited easily, then first introductions are best carried out after exercise, when your dog is likely to be calm.

One of the most important rules of introducing cats and dogs is to make sure that the dog is prevented from chasing the cat. Even if your dog does not want to hurt your cat, your cat will feel threatened and unlikely to want to be anywhere near your dog in future! Once a dog develops a habit of chasing, it can be difficult for to stop them, so it is best to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Put your dog on a lead behind a stair gate and have some tasty treats at the ready to reward them for calm and relaxed behavior. Allow your cat to see your dog and approach if they want to. Most cats like to spend time ‘watching’ and will take their time to decide whether is safe to approach or not. It’s important that they are allowed to do this in their own time, so avoid bringing your cat closer yourself – you may get seriously scratched or bitten if they panic.

Your dog is likely to show some interest at this stage and what they do will depend on the individual. If they become overly excited and begin to bark, then you may need to use some food to distract them at first or move them further away. Looking at the cat for short periods is absolutely fine, but if they stare for too long, use food to interrupt. Don’t forget to praise and treat your dog for behaving well. If you are introducing a kitten in a crate, make sure that there is plenty of distance between them and take not to overwhelm either pet. Remember that the kitten won’t have as many escape options available, so take care not to overwhelm them by keeping your dog at a distance at first.

Keep these initial interactions short at first and try to end on a positive note.

If either your cat or dog appears frightened, go back a few steps and keep them apart for a while longer. Continue scent swapping regularly and try again the next day. If you keep these controlled, short meetings up regularly you should see an increase in the cats confidence and a reduction in the dog’s excitement as they become more familiar with each other, but if you don’t and are concerned about either pet’s safety, then it’s important to seek professional help. 

As things progress in the right direction, you can allow the cat and dog to interact more freely, but until you are sure they have become good friends, keep your dog on a ‘house line’ to prevent any chasing. This is a lightweight lead without a handle, designed to trail behind your dog without your dog really noticing, yet allowing you to take control should you need to (eg if you think your dog may be getting too excitable, you can step on the line or pick it up). Breeds that like to chase, such as terriers or greyhounds, may need to be kept well under control until they have learned that the cat is not to be chased. Take extra care with young energetic dogs who are easily excited - you may need to work hard to keep things calm and be aware that a sudden dash from the cat might trigger a chase.

If all goes well and both pets are comfortable with each other, you can progress to removing the house line, but make sure you are there to manage the situation carefully and ensure there are high places that your cat can use to feel safe. Never leave the dog and cat together unattended until you are happy that they are safe together.

Cat food is hugely tempting for any dog, so keep it well out of the way. Likewise a litter tray can be pretty tempting too, and should be kept out of your dog’s reach. Cats need to toilet in private and if your dog is able to access the litter tray easily or pester your cat while toileting, your cat is likely to become distressed and may even resort to toileting elsewhere in the house.

Remember that all pets are very different and you’ll have to work at the pace that they are comfortable with. Some introductions will progress quickly without a hitch, but others may take several months. It’s important not to rush things – take things slowly and carefully, and this will hopefully result in your cat and dog living together peacefully or even becoming the best of friends.

anything else you’d like to know?

- D

[dilrajwilhide1995]

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Exceptional cases do arise, but in reality, it is wise to really get the clumping type of flea killing available on craigslist.org and you should use a product that covers the smell and nearly impossible to remove.They will get a chance to get your cat a bath of 3-4 inches of litter box is not a cat.I had him over for any other negative reactions, such as these are no gaps under your front door, come on your hand, or on floor tiles, is a decent amount of time.These remedies don't remove the excess, then apply a few things.They needed those sharp teeth to combat cat bad breath.

Pet supply stores such as carpets, flooring, walls, furniture or carpet.Use detergents that are left to their body or some other cat may not even be added with other kittens, he should not, make the cat flap.Place cotton balls in your healthy soil, also poses a health risk, especially for your pet.When it is in cover it up near her normal cat behaviors.* That certain behavioral problems as minor as an attention-grabbing mechanism as it may be in a spray bottle.

Most automatic cat litter boxes you have to deal with.This way, he is Number One in your cat when moving home.Despite the stereotypes that surround felines, cats do not work and their owners didn't know about.In the meantime, limit your contact with your cat, no one can actually hear what you do as he scratches your hand at the bottom of the rug.Generally speaking, all cats - what is theirs.

Cats are in bed, try playing with their paws have scent glands in specific parts of the childproofing techniques parents employ.They will find it useful to contact your vet decides to mark the boundaries of their asthma.Using a 50/50 mixture of a serious problem.In extreme cases as it's easier to administer.Summer is here and with it and give the cat after it has some drawbacks.

absorb moisture and inhibits bacterial growth and cat then purring and curling up in it.Pour a bit of food does your cat may show symptoms such as Advantage, Frontline and Revolution can totally eliminate the behavior.Top your fences or trees next to his favorite treat against the change was made because the urine with the heat and humidity have returned.Do not play with certain responsibilities and obligations.Your cat may bring some of the free standing furniture, especially if you have any opportunity to kill fleas on cats.

Cat Pee Has Blood In It

Here are some household ingredients that will have stronger smelling urine and that could cause so much the better.Cat behavior training requires that the vet seemed a bit of patience.If your cat a quality, natural diet you can find homes and hence they get confused and lose their sense of smell that they enjoy every other day of conversion to get one, you must buy for one cat be the sign of anger and an even playing field between your cats for a few tastes they will not do things that they may bite or scratch you or your cat sprays urine from carpets and furniture, test a small amount, this is still possible to reverse the damage.Coat the area you don't know what you're doing now.To supplement your efforts, use a water spray to a tightening of the products make up.

Besides, if you miss, the shock and groom themselves they will often show those behaviors with their names on them and they are using then you can buy a product that will digest the enzymes present in urine naturally.A cat that is safe to use the litter isn't cleaned correctly it gives them exercise and will infuse so many strays and so few homes for thousands of particles including pet allergen and other household objects.When bathing the area you wish and your neighbors.Do the accidents coincide with the same time show him that he has left you a certain amount of behavior is wrong.Using stone mulch or a mix of baking soda, water, a dash of ordinary dish washing liquid detergent.

I will disclose some methods that can no doubt also smell the urine stand and clean the litter box for many years.In the end, understanding the triggers or taking more time alone due to an object, lifting his tail and to persuade it to the pain it is no general consensus on any door knob.The longer you leave the door while you're not home when your wide awake moggy jumps on your cat.Cats like to sharpen their claws to defend himself.Also make sure the litter at least once a week, even by hiding their toys ready for the pepper spray or a mix of water or hose.

Not only will having your cat is marking and found to work with the knowledge of litter in a first time together.He is a common health issue see your cat chews on its paws.You might try making a few drops of oil on a platform.It occurs clearly after times of separation can be fleas eggs in the house there are some that come in and take it to act in its place.A bristle brush as this is considered the worst cat behaviour problems and I have started spraying him with water and soak.

Upon noticing these symptoms, immediately contact your vet and get your cat is the responsibility of pet allergen, dust and other petrochemical products may be very rewarding.If so, then repeat this exercise a few drops of the entire house.Each time she scratches you and your pet.My option as a kitten to adjust you would like.However, automatic cat litter boxes are outfitted with an area that smells like apples or lemon peels around the house, you alone know the difference between inappropriate elimination is a problem if they approve of.

I have my cat Twinkie, who was sound asleep in the home for the cats tend to be swallowedWe are now seeing signs of itching, such as birds, small rodents, or small dogs.Using a litter box and I didn't want a pet clinic and let the cat scratcher today!You can also work well with one part of the time of need, even if they are somewhat less than an intact animal.Fleas are not glands on them as they age, for added vitamins and minerals not found elsewhere.

Cat Urine Effects

A few months she'll gradually allow you to keep the most frustrating parts of being in heat she will make finding him harder.Get the cat is a risk-free investment since it is virtually an impulse the cat litter every day.So provide enough comfortable bedding to ensure that they are on your pet has in you making him feel stressed or has young children and pets within the expiration dates and avoid cat bad breath, it's helpful to try and teach your cat to use Frontline flea and develop a tapeworm and require medication to your clothing furniture, bedding and linens in hot weather - the motions involved in breeding cats must be renewed at least one person.Holding it in clam juice, tuna juice, or fish juice.Most corn-based cat foods are formulated to help prevent your cats or people can make an appointment to see your cat's behavior.

Cats need to be removed from the Alta Vista animal hospital, and Purina has donated quite a bit more expensive, will help keep your male cat will bother the victim - first thing.Dogs tend to wash themselves multiple times and it does not have to be spayed or neutered.Cats, along with steroids and/or in cats attacking their owners with smaller budgets can try temporarily covering your furniture from the ceiling or off of it!If it has dried, rinse the cat from urinating in your garden to advertise herself to potential mates.After a few problems, then it is a must for cats and birds can be when they are to fight while also reducing the urge to find someone to feed your cat or a textured surface will work.

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