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ksfoxwald · 6 months

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Fire and Hemlock Readalong: Part 3 Chapter 4

There's a LOT of ground to cover here, so let's go!

Polly returns home to Granny, who calls Ivy out on her bullshit. Children don't have a lot of context for the way adults act, but we're seeing with the quartet and now with Granny that there are now adults saying that the way Ivy treats Polly is not okay, and that starts to make it more real.

Granny decides that she is going to get custody of Polly in a decidedly "warlike" manner - so we have another female hero in some ways, another way of women to be powerful besides imitating men (Hero) or using sex to control men (Laurel).

We also see the return of Seb, this time with a camera. Polly already has two significant photos from the House, and Seb's may or may not be considered a third. Laurel, it seems, prefers music but does like the arts in general, as several of her other conquests have been photographers, though whether Seb is aware of this is unknown.

Photography is an interesting motif because it's a way of capturing an image that is supposedly true, but as we've seen with the shifting nature of the Fire and Hemlock photo, that is not always the case. It's another blurring of real/unreal like Nowhere.

Granny, strangely, encourages Seb's crush on Polly, though Polly herself is dubious, at first not realizing what Seb wants and then feeling uncomfortable about it. Perhaps Granny is compensating for her earlier hostility toward Tom. Or perhaps she sees him as less threatening because he's closer in age to Polly, but he's like sixteen to Polly's twelve, which is still highly questionable. In fact, when Polly finally does manage to tell him off, that's exactly what she says. "Go away and don't come back for a year! I'm too young!"

At school Polly performs in Twelfth Night, another classic crossdressing story, and Nina is going through an activist phase like any good queerling. It's a bit heroic of her, honestly, and yet another way she parallels Polly. The girls also manage to meet Leslie at Town Hall as they had arranged earlier, and though we don't learn much, we do establish that he and Seb know each other and that he has a "broken home of some kind." I guess your dad pretending that your mom is actually his sister in order to hide from a Faerie Queen can be considered a broken home.

Meanwhile, Polly finally manages to compose her Epic Novel about Nowhere. Interestingly we do get a mention of a bit where "Hero herself became a king's daughter who had to run away from home because of the machinations of her beautiful but evil girl-cousin," a trope which I earlier noted seemed conspicuously absent but fits with her unconscious dismissal of women as heroes. The whole novel is very tropey, because she is fourteen. Tom's response is the iconic:

Sentimental drivel.

In a way this is also one of the pictures from the House coming true. One of the rejected pictures was of a knight praying at an altar; Polly suggests he might be a trainee-hero, and Tom says it's "soppy." In any case, we've known Tom has Opinions on this sort of thing since the beginning.

The scene we get as an example is of Tan Coul getting wounded in the shoulder, and Hero having to dress the wound, while admiring the "smooth, powerful muscles rippling under the silken skin of his back."

Polly's latent sexuality is emerging in this scene, though she's still only comfortable expressing it in her imagination and not in reality; Her reaction to Seb kissing her is "What a funny thing to do! What do people see in it?"

But every teenager knows that there is a huge difference between a hurt/comfort fic starring your self-insert OC and a clumsy teen boy who, as Granny puts it "When he's noticed there are other people in the world besides himself, there might be no harm in Master Sebastian."

Polly is furious at Tom, demanding an explanation, so he sends her a very vivid description of normal human backs by way of Sam. But it's not until Polly goes and talks with Ivy, who has a new lodger and blames Polly for all her problems, that she realizes "there were ways of thought that were quite unreal, and the same ways went on being unreal even in the hero business."

This is a very fundamental part of Diana's writing. In her essay "Two Kinds of Writing" she describes part of her process as being "Now what would really happen [to these real people] in this situation?" (the situation being crashing a spaceship in an alternate world in order to seduce ascetic monks, because of course it is. Go read A Sudden Wild Magic if you can get your hands on it, it's bonkers even by DWJ standards).

But this also reminds me of current Discourse in fantasy circles about "realism," because it usually comes down to "it's not realistic for people to be brown or queer in a medeivalesque setting" vs. "if you can accept dragons why not queer people or people of color?", I haven't seen much talk on defining what "realism" means for fantasy, and what purpose it serves. Because fantasy is about making up situations, but the people should still behave like people, and that means there will be queer people and people of color and people with a variety of backs that most definitely do not look like silk.

Tom, of course, has an agenda here, because the things they make up work better when they are rooted in reality. Their magic is in many ways a metaphor for the creative process (see also Diana's novel Hexwood, which is in many ways a metaphor for the editing process) as well.

Perhaps seeing Polly with the quartet also reframed Tom's concept of their relationship, because he's pulling away again. He does not come to Twelfth Night - which is ultimately a romance - but he does come to Sports Day, which is part of Polly's hero training and thus puts her back in the safely nonsexual category of "boy/child assistant." Still, he does not stay and talk, leaving only a postcard with a drawing of himself as a kangaroo before the quartet sets off on a tour of Australia.

"He thinks I'm just a child!" Polly said angrily. "Well you are," said Granny.

Polly seems to have forgotten her "I'm too young!" to Seb; or perhaps does not see any connection to her relationship with Tom; or perhaps is simply experiencing the Nowhere state of being a teenager as constantly too-young and too-old all at the same time.

#fh readalong #fire and hemlock #dwj

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sicksucculentz · 2 years

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Littlest treehorn headcannons

This one has a lot to do with Jay

If it flies in the skies, walks the earth, or swims the waters Jay will study it. He’s even gotten the chance to study the keepers of the amulet. He’s spent a lot of time studying Zane, internal and external as well as mentally.

Jay was actully the one to find out WHY it is Zane acts the way he does. It’s not his personailty but an embedded programming from spending so many years living with treehorns. He also found that Zane is pretty much controlled by this programming like a puppet and he willingly lets that happen. Pushing back against the programming just causes mental pain and identity crisis. Zane’s true personality is calm and mute yet goofy and excited to make others laugh or even playfully tease others. He can be a little mischievous but it’s never harmful.

Jay never actually knew how to properly interact with Zane when they first met so he just kind of referred to what he knew best….treating Zane like a dog. I don’t mean in a rude demeaning way but more along the lines of head pats, head petting, chin scratch, and asking questions in that tone one has with an excited dog. He fixed a lot of that as time went one but the petting stuck as a goofy form of affection and just ended up being their friendship language. After Zane died and he recreated a new body he made sure to make the hair pettable for the others.

Pixal loves him but good god she wants to kick his ass sometimes. She never would, she would feel so guilty for ever hitting him. Instead she does the mom move and calls him by his full name. As soon as he hears “Zane Julian!!” In that tone we all know his shenanigans stop, he knows she’s not fucking around.

He’s a great boyfriend and he’s thinking about one say marrying Pixal. Pixal is the muscle in the relationship despite how aggressive Zane can get from time to time. He thinks she’s just the most attractive women he’s ever seen, and yes he tells her this in many different ways. Pixal thinks of Zane as a little freak with great big doe eyes but she loves him with all her heart as well. SOMETIMES and only sometimes does she compare Zane’s qualities to another nindroid and realize the other nindroid is a better choice but she stays with Zane. She can’t see a life without him and despite the things that piss her off she can put up with them because he treats her right and makes her own heart flutter. She will die for him and his friends just as he did for her once.

Zane is SUPER affectionate with those close to him. He will cuddle frequently as well as fawn over the well being of his friends

Zane is a little more crabby than cannon Zane. He really gets nasty when he’s woken up from a nap before he needs to and even when he needs to get up he’s grumpy. He’s yelled a couple of times in frustration. Every time the person waking him up will jump and back away. He will sometimes pull his lips away from his teeth in a snarl, something he only does in this situation. He dosent even actively make a noise when he does this just shows his teeth and glares, his friends call it ‘the slumber grumper’

He cannot feel pain but the disrespect of an attack or blow from someone or something else causes him fight back. A little bit of it is programming. Just becasue he cannot feel pain dosent mean he isn’t aware other creatures feel pain. He’s genteil in his play fighting and sparring and does feel guilt when he hurts someone, accident or not. Defending himself is a different, in a case such as that he’s using pain as a deterrent so he would want to hurt someone or something. It’s pretty effective even if it’s not the best reaction in different situations.

Zane eats mostly scraps and snippets of food. He dosent eat very much and mostly does it for taste. He’s always liked fruits, veg, and other plant material. He even loves to eat flowers, stating that different flower types have different tastes. Weeds like dandelions and horsetail or ivy don’t have the greatest taste. Dandelions taste the worst, Zane says they taste like over powering green beans and lawn clippings. Bell shapped flowers are said to not really have a taste, like a not yet ripe melon but the crunch of them is what he’s looking for. Sunflowers are pretty saught after but nothing compaired to cactus flowers or maple tree leaves. Apparently it’s not called a maple tree for no reason, tastes just like maple syrup and a little like toasted marshmallows but not quite. He explains maple tree leaves as a rustic yet sweet flavor. Passion flowers are sour and wild field flowers are bitter. Tree flowers taste more like unidentified fruit.

Zane has a fan made plushie of himself on his bed. He treasures that thing. It’s shaped a little funny at the moment because he’s been holding it in one hand when he sleeps.

He gets the zoomies when someone farts. He’s like a goofy dumb dog and starts getting all riled up. It makes everyone laugh so he’s not gonna stop. He acts all startled then just starts running all over the place for a couple seconds then just goes back to minding his own.

He wont hurt anything thats clearly a baby and that includes toddlers as well as baby animals. He actually protects them or gets them what they want. He kept trying to overfeed Wu when Wu had been turned into a baby.

Jay is actually the one that drugs Zane up and takes him to meet ups are science demonstrations. He uses a quarter of his own melatonin meds, this keeps Zane sated and calm without outright knocking him on his ass with it. Pixal always tags along to the science demonstrations witch are sometimes in a classroom or sometimes at an event. She is the one students or event customers can touch and get an up close personal look at a nindroid while Zane is ONLY shown and or used behind roped off sections. In a classroom setting all students must be seated and remain seated during and after Zane is brought into the room.

Zane's scars are not a sore subject at all. He rather enjoys the way the scars make him look as he wont shy away when his friends run their fingers over them. The one on his face was a rather deep wound caused by a young male treehorn trying to strut his stuff and show off. It's a crooked U shape that loops around his right eye with clear tooth indentations, no questions that he'd been bitten in the head. Zane can still point out witch treehorn did it to him years later, even when the treehorn is larger than it used to be. His scars are kind of course and bumpy.

After his death he recreates a new tituam body just as the cannon Zane does only this Zane's design is different. Etched and burned into his mental skin are fantastical designs like tattoos. His eyebrows have synthetic short hairs that flare out like a rock hopper penguin and he even represented his scars on his old body through the etched designs. His tummy area is a slightly lighter color then the rest of his body. When Cole saw him for the first time on Chen's island he froze in a bit of fear but then quickly began complementing Zane on his designs. When the rest of the team caught sight of Zane they cheered and swamped him in hugs; petting his head, rubbing his back, squeezing him tight, etc. Pixal smacked him across the face for killing himself then cried in his chest. She missed him so much her emotions got the best of her, something that rarely happens with her.

When Zane meet is father and creator Dr. Julian he found his own father was scared of who'd he'd become!. Of course Julian still loved Zane with all his heart and was over the moon to see his son again but he couldn't help but feel intimated by the scars and look in his sons eye. Zane was also over the moon to see his father again.

#Im not done #Tumblr only lets me post these in tiny blocks #ninjago zane #ninjago incorrect quotes #ninjago jay #ninjago headcanons #ninjago littlest treehorn #the littlest treehorn #ninjago au

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erodasfishtacos · 3 years

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request for ceoverse! pls make where the wifey visits him at work ((wherein the employees still dont know how she looks like)) and his secretary kinda looks down at her like “who r u, do u even have an appointment lol” ... i want angry ceo!harry and shook employees PLEASE +++ hes all soft w her in front of them and they are all like HUH 🤨

TEMP OPENING (mini blurb)

Reminder: Harry is not nice! He’s an asshole to everyone but his wife and baby.

Y/N was a bit frazzled. She was suppose to drop off important documents, that her husband had forgotten at home, to Harry’s office an hour and a half ago.

Ivy decided that it’d be best to throw a temper tantrum because she didn’t want to stop playing with her toy kitchen set.

After a half hour of wriggly, angry toddler chaos - Ivy was strapped into her car seat with a furious expression.

Especially because YN didn’t let her bring a toy along because of her behavior. It was her attempting to kick the back of the leather seat until YN firmly asked her to stop.

When she wouldn’t, YN pulled out her last resort card. She didn’t use it much because she didn’t want it to lose luster.

“Did I need to tell Daddy how you’re treating mummy?” YN looks in the rearview mirror at her red-faced daughter.

Ivy looked comical. She’d refused to let her mother comb her wild curls or change her white shirt that was covered in berry stains.

“No!” She shrieks but stops kicking and huffs as she looks out the window to the passing scenery.

The temper of her father, YN swears.

She manages to scurry through the building without many glances. A few people know who she is but not any of the lower level employees.

They don’t recognize Ivy either because she is rarely in the building and if she happens to be they keep her on the secluded top floor where his office is.

YN is rushing, feeing awful about not getting the papers to him sooner. She doesn’t look much better than her baby.

Hair is a messy bun atop her head, a ripped up vintage shirt, and grey biker shorts that have similar berry stains to her daughters.

She is basically dragging her toddler along as she isn’t very willing to use her feet at this very moment. Stopping and staring at everything then grumbling when her mum pulls her away.

Finally she arrives at the office that houses his secretary before the massive doors that lead into his office.

When she pushes through, there are two men sitting on the sofa with briefcases in their laps - obviously waiting for a meeting.

The women behind the desk isn’t the usual grey haired grandmother-like women that she and Ivy love.

Harry’s normal secretary was on a week vacation and there was a younger, raven-haired girl sitting in her usual position.

She looks YN up and down with judgemental eyes before she smirks and says, “Mr. Styles isn’t hiring for the cleaning crew right now.”

It takes moment of confusion to realize that the girl is implying that how she looks - unprofessional and a hot mess means she’s less than.

Even though any job is a good job.

YN is about to comment on how rude the comment is but Ivy bolts to the side of the office to view a large very much alive plant.

She reaches up to curiously pick at the leaves in her child-like wonder but ends up pulling the whole thing over, soil spilling all over the plush white carpeting.

It startled Ivy into tears, rushing back to her mum and begging to be picked up. YN can feel the men and the secretary’s eyes on them.

“Mummy, it’s scary,” Her daughter whines, sniffling and burying her face into her mum’s neck. Hiding.

“You’re okay, it’s fine,” YN soothes, rubbing her back comfortingly.

“It’s really not okay because now I have to clean that up. Maybe you should get that little brat under control.”

It’s perfect timing when Harry’s door opens and he hears the girl call his daughter a brat.

His perfect little baby.

All eyes go to Harry, he demands attention anywhere he goes but this is his territory. He’s fucking furious.

“Hayley, why are you talking to your boss that way?” Harry asks in a calm, taunting tone. He casually rests against the doorframe.

Hayley looks at him confused, “What do you mean? I was just telling this women that her daughter is out of control.”

“First off, that women is your boss just as much as me. Seeing as she has 50% ownership of the company,” He replies cooly, pursing his lips in irritation.

“Second off, I’m not going to tolerate you insulting our daughter. She’s a fuckin’ baby, she’s going to do things kids do,” Harry motions to the plant lying lifelessly on the ground.

YN shoots his a look, no cursing in front of Ivy, and he automatically sends her an apologetic look. Their daughter has popped up and is dimpling at her father.

“Daddy! Missed you!” Ivy chirps happily.

The two men are wide-eyes and quiet, they look at each other once - communicating silently.

“Anything else I need to address, pet?” Harry asks his wife, accepting Ivy when she makes grabby hands at her father.

Harry smiles down at his child, “Hi Vee. Y’missed Daddy? I missed you, my little lovie.”

YN usually would let it alone and not be catty - truly.

Insult her all they want but they do not talk about their daughter like that.

“She said that they’re not hiring janitorial staff. I guess my appearance gave off that kind of signal,” YN smirks, even though the rock on her finger should have given it away.

“Hmm, isn’t that interesting?” Harry hums, mocking that he’s thinking hard.

It’s amazing how he can still be intimidating with a little clone of himself in his arms - who’s currently wrapping her fingers in his cross necklace.

“Wha-what?” The confused, nervous girl answers as she realizes the pit she dug herself into.

“It’s interesting because we may not have a janitorial position available but we have a new opening for a temp secretary,” Harry smiles widely with no empathy for the girl.

Then he’s turning to the other men, “D’you two have anything t’say? I’m always willin’ to open your positions too.”

They shake their heads in unison and don’t open their mouths at all. They actually look at their feet.

“You’re a fucking asshole,” Hayley spits at him, standing up and throwing her purse over her shoulder.

“You better hurry. The unemployment office closes at two,” Her husband tells the girl before ignoring her mutters to kiss his daughter’s cheek.

YN steps over, murmuring “She has been a brat all day but she’s our brat.”

“Eh, her mummy is a brat half the time too,” Harry replies, lowly so the men can’t hear.

He can’t help but reach his hand around and squeeze quickly at her bum.

“H,” YN squeaks, smacking him playfully, “Here’s those papers. I’m sorry I’m so late.”

“Never be sorry, s’okay. These guys have been sitting there for the last two hours waitin’ on them to start the meeting. They’re fine.”

YN flushes, avoiding the men’s gazes, and hands them to her husband, “You really are an awful boss.”

“I know, s’fun,” Harry smiles, pressing a kiss to her lips before kissing Ivy’s nose to hear her giggle.

After meeting, the men will discuss - one: how hot his wife is and two: how Harry was whipped for her and his baby.

Enjoy 😊

#harry styles #ceo!harry #harry styles writing #harry styles masterlist #harry styles fic rec #harry styles x reader #harry styles x you #harry styles x y/n #harry styles fluff #harry styles smut #ceoverse #ceo!harry blurbs #ceo!harry masterlist #writing request #dad!verse #dad harry #harry styles husband #husband harry

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soulmate-game · 3 years

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Not related to the other two Bio!mom Harley AUs that I did. Just... similar. I wrote this instead of sleeping, as per the usual.

—*—*—*—*—*

“I need your help.”

No accent, no threats of violence, no beating around the bush (figurative or otherwise). No fighting or unconscious bodies.

Just Harley Quinn with her hair down, no makeup, and completely serious, in the center of the Bat Cave. Even though her usual exaggerated Brooklynn accent (circa 1950s) had become a pretty inseparable part of her personality over the years, every now and then she forcibly stuffed it down and used her mostly unaccented voice. The one reminiscent of days with less colors on her face, a high bun, and a pristine white lab coat.

Every single one of the Bats and Birds present, fresh from an interrupted patrol thanks to her, could count the number of times they had seen Harley like this on one hand. Bruce would have the most recollections, but everyone else would have plenty of fingers left on said hand. So they all knew, especially when Bruce willingly pulled down his cowl so he could look Harley in the eye, that this was the start of something they were not likely to forget. And maybe their chances of survival were slim too.

“Harley,” Bruce’s voice was still gruff, seeing as he was still mostly Batman at the moment, but his eyes were soft. “Maybe you should tell us what you need help with first. And sit down. You look exhausted.”

Sure enough, there were dark circles under Harley’s eyes. She let Bruce-man lead her over to one of their debriefing tables and sit her down. She let out a huge sigh, her fingers tangling in her loose blond locks.

“I have a confession, and it isn’t gonna leave this cave, capiche?” The slight return of her accent relieved a little of the tension, but not much. Taking this as their cue, the rest of the bats spread out into their usual seats at the table. Bruce stayed near Harley, keeping a hand on her shoulder in silent support. Harley didn’t continue talking until he gave her a solemn nod in agreement. She gulped— an action that immediately returned the tension.

“... fifteen years ago, back when I was still with Joker, I disappeared off the Gotham scene for a few months. I’m sure a few of you remember,” she looked up, and a couple of the older vigilantes nodded. Really, Jason has still been Robin back then. But the memory stuck out in his head now that he was thinking about it.

“Yeah, you were breaking away from him a little bit, which was weird at the time,” Red Hood mused aloud, arms crossed. “I think you helped us out a couple times and did some of your first team ups with Ivy before you vanished. Then a few months go by and you were back in action with Joker, so we mostly ignored it as you just being you.”

Harley nodded. “Ah, my Ivy’s a lifesaver, even back then. She helped cover up the timeline by keeping me in action for longer than I should’a been without putting me at too much risk.”

“Timeline…” Red Robin spoke up, eyes huge even behind his mask. “You don’t mean—“

“Harley,” Bruce breathed, having also caught on. “You were pregnant?”

The air went still. Harley sniffed, eyes watering even as she smiled.

“Oh yeah. Shouldn’t have been possible, ya know? Me ‘n Joker being dumped in that damn acid should have made us both more sterile than an operatin’ room. But I knew I couldn’t raise a kid, so after she was born—“

“You kept her?” Damian interrupted, earning a gentle cuff over the head from Dick. Harley just snorted.

“Yeah. Not gonna lie, I thought about abortion. But the baby didn’t do nothin’ wrong, and I was still in love with Joker back then so I was ecstatic that I was able to make something new with part ‘a him in it. Still, I knew a baby didn’t deserve to be raised in Gotham. Especially not my baby, not with my enemies and history. Not with who her father was. I knew he’d never want her, never let me keep her. So I spent the last five months of my pregnancy lookin’ around for the best possible family to take her in. And I found them in Paris, France. A sweet couple, both of them bakers. Sabine, she’s both adorably sweet and super kickass. Comes from a Chinese family that is crazy about teachin’ their women martial arts. But nothing shady about it, I triple checked. Just bonding through kicking people in the face. Which is perfect, I wanted my baby to know how to defend herself. I knew she’d need those skills eventually. And Tom, that’s Sabine’s wife, he’s a gentle giant. Same size as Bane, but as harmless as a puppy and makes the best croissants ever. Seriously, the best.”

“Harley,” Bruce gently prodded, but there was a tiny grin on his face. Seeing her behaving so… so normally, so proud and reminiscent, was a rare treat. Bruce would be lying if he said he wasn’t proud of how far the woman had come. How she had freed herself and become a better person, mostly on her own.

“Right, right. The point,” Harley took a breath, rubbing her forehead. “I came clean to Tom and Sabine, but apparently they knew who I was the whole time. They just didn’t care— did I mention they are perfect? Anyway, once I explained everything, they agreed immediately to adopting my baby. They’d been wanting kids, but it would’a been too risky for Sabine’s health. That’s how I found them anyway, they were in the market to adopt. We named her Marinette. She took Tom and Sabine’s last names, hyphenated. We decided Quinn would be her middle name. And after that, I came back to Gotham and told myself that she was in good hands and I needed to forget about her. Cuz I was no good for her. I knew that. I went back to my old tricks. And then…” Harley chuckled, but it was self-depreciating.

“Then a few years passed, and I started breaking away from Joker for real. Then we broke up, I blew up Ace Chemicals while you guys were outta town doing Justice League and Young Justice shit. I started dating Ivy. And—“ she smiled softly at the table, clearly seeing something the rest of them couldn’t. “Then Ivy convinced me to go see her. Visit my baby, see how she’s been. And I did. Marinette was seven years old, but damn it to hell she was gorgeous. And say whatever you want about me and Joker— most of it will even be true— but neither of us are stupid. And she inherited all of our intelligence. All of it. She got my blue eyes. But she got his hair, which meant Sabine teased me relentlessly about ‘are you sure she isn’t that Wayne’s kid?’ And don’t make that face Bruce, you’d be lucky to have a kid half as beautiful as my Mari-pie. No offense, Damian. Anyway. Anyway, this is the important part. Or part of it.

“She sat there and listened to everything I had to say. Everything. A little seven year old, who could barely understand English at the time, and she listened without interrupting once. She never threw a fit, she wasn’t angry or confused. I told her about the things I’d done in the past— well, G rated versions— and she didn’t care. She called me Momma Harley right away, said she wanted to meet Aunt Ivy sometime soon, and started telling me everything about her that I’d missed. From that day on, she became my sunshine. The light of my life, and I still call her at least once a week every week. When I disappear for a few days out of the city? I’m visiting her—“

“You’re banned from international travel, Harley,” Dick scolded, but he sounded way too amused for it to work. He knew she had her ways, anyway. Nobody could actually stop Harley damn Quinn from doing whatever she wanted.

“—Ugh, she tells me the same thing every time! Disappointed glare and everything. I don’t know how I gave birth to such a goodie goodie, but somehow I did. Not important though! The important thing is, I’m always the first to hear when something new happens in her life. And we had decided that she wouldn’t visit me in Gotham until she was at least eighteen, but apparently she disobeyed me— which I should have expected honestly— and entered you guys’ WE international scholastic competition.”

“Oh no,” Bruce pinched the bridge of her nose. “Marinette Dupain-Cheng? The contest winner?” He finally pulled out a chair and sat down. “The winner gets an all-expense paid trip to Gotham for them and their whole class.”

“Exactly!” Harley threw up her hands. “Mari told me last week, and I’ve been trying to talk her out of coming ever since. But she’s inherited both of our stubbornness too, and she isn’t budgin’ a bit. ‘Momma Harley, I wanna see you and Auntie Ivy though!’ And ‘Momma, Gotham’s nothing I can’t handle,’ or my favorite, ‘Maybe you’ll finally get to see me dropkick someone three times my size then, and I’ll prove it.’”

“So that’s what you meant by you need our help,” Tim said as he leaned forward over the table. “Joker just broke out of Arkham yesterday. You want us to protect her.”

“I’d prefer if one of you was with her outside of the mask too, as often as possible,” Harley confirmed. “I can’t stop her from coming here anymore, but I also don’t trust Joker for a second. As soon as he sees her, I’m afraid he’ll make the connection.”

“She looks like him?” Damian asked, scrunching up his nose at the ugly mental image of Joker as a teenage girl. Harley shook her head, solemn.

“She looks like a dark-haired mini-me,” she corrected. “She even keeps her hair in pigtails as her way of showing support for me. And I know Marinette can kick ass, Sabine’s trained her well. But Marinette inherited more than I’d like from me,” Harley ran a hand through her hair. “I didn’t notice it until she was thirteen. She got a crush on a classmate, and it was almost like watching videos of me back during the early days of— well, of Harley Quinn. Just without the crime and insanity. She didn’t even realize that she was almost stalking the poor kid until I pointed it out, and luckily I was able to put my doctorate to good use and we nipped that right in the bud ASAP. She never meant it that way, anyway. As soon as I explained things to her, she was horrified and immediately asked me to help her learn how to have a healthy relationship. That was a fun discussion,” Harley grimaced. “But she still gets attached to people really, really easily. Once she grew out of her crush on that boy, she adopted him as her unofficial brother. She already calls Selina “Auntie,” even though I’ve barely mentioned her to Marinette. She gets attached fast, and deeply. And I’m afraid that even after all the warning I’ve done, all the stories I’ve told her—“

“You’re afraid she’ll get attached to Joker just like you did,” Bruce finished for her, closing his eyes. “Because she knows he’s her father.”

“Yes,” Tears were slowly dripping down her face already, her hands curled into fists so tightly that her knuckles were paper white. “You know how he is. If he finds out she’s his biological daughter, he’ll immediately try to take advantage of that. And he’s far too good with his words for people like me and Mari. I’m worried outta my mind. Please. Help keep my baby safe from him.”

“We will,” Jason no longer had his helmet on, or the domino mask that he usually wore underneath it. All of them knew masks were merely formality with Harley nowadays. And he needed to look her directly in the eye so she could see how serious he was. “I can sign up as a bodyguard for the class. It won’t be weird, seeing as they’re tourists and this is Gotham. They also have several rich kids in their group if I remember right.”

Bruce nodded, agreeing with Jason. “That’s a good idea. I can lead the class on their tours of WE personally. That’ll serve the purpose of keeping an eye on her and shutting up the investors that keep begging me to make more public appearances for the sake of the company. Marinette’s name is already released to the news as the winner of the contest, so we can’t keep her out of the spotlight long. Tim, you’ll have to keep an eye on any and all pictures of the class. Try to erase or doctor the images with her in it well enough that connections between her and Harley can’t be easily made. Dick, you and Damian will be in charge of keeping an eye out for any activity from Joker. The slightest hint, and you notify all of us. We’ll decide on a case-by-case basis who is necessary to stick with the class and who goes after the clown.”

“She’s gonna sneak out of her hotel to stay with me and Ivy,” Harley admitted, bringing the (now slightly judgemental) attention back to her. She raised her hands up in surrender. “She didn’t tell me that, and I didn’t approve or suggest it! I just know my baby too well to not realize that that’s her plan. Could ya provide an escort?”

Bruce sighed. “This is gonna be an eventful month.”

#maribat #ml x dc #mlb x dc #soulmate-game #bio!dad au #bio!mom harley quinn #bio!dad joker #maribat fanfic #maribat fic #platonic Harley x Marinette #platonic Ivy x Marinette #platonic brucinette

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inkandpen22 · 3 years

Text

Permanent Chaos (4/?)

Pairing: MGK x Female!Reader

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: mild swearing

Part Summary: While Y/N is out shopping with Cara, news breaks that ties her with MGK.

Masterlist

Masterlist

Two days later...

Cara and I go out shopping and have lunch for a girl’s day. I have yet to talk about the other night with Sam. Cara hasn’t mentioned it and I have no plans to either. Cameras have followed us up and down Rodeo Drive. By this point, Cara and I are both used to it. Carrying my bags however, I doubt I look graceful for these videos their taking. Oh well, they have fifteen thousand more of me.

“CARA! EXCITED TO WALK IN THE CHANEL FASHION SHOW?”

Cara ignores the paparazzi and points out a dress in the window at Dolce and Gabbana. I request to go inside to try it on. I’m not sure where I’d wear it to, but that doesn’t really matter.

“Welcome ladies!” A woman in a black dress approaches. “Can I help you find anything in particular?”

I point over to the dress in the window, “could I see that in a size six please?”

She leaves us to go find the dress for me and we roam around a small section while she does. My phone rings and I see Nicole’s name pop up. My heart immediately begins to race. She doesn’t call me unless absolutely necessary, usually we text. I step away toward the corner to be discreet.

I answer the call hesitantly. “Nicole? What’s up?”

“I got a call from Stephanie,” she sounds agitated on the other end.

Stephanie is my publicist, she handles everything that Nicole can’t basically. They bicker a lot since they’re both so headstrong and constantly need control. It’s the classic good cop/bad cop scenario, yet I don’t know who’s who. These two cover every aspect of my career, God bless them.

“Oh no, sounds bad,” I grumble anxiously.

“Depends how you look at it,” she lightens her tone.

“What is it?” I press.

“Well…” she hesitates.

“Nicole!” I drag out her name.

“It’s all over social media, magazines and it will be on TMZ tonight,” she stammers. “I’m surprised you haven’t already heard if I’m being honest-”

“Nicole! What?” I rush her.

“An article about you and Colson Baker just dropped on some gossip sight,” she explains. “It says that you and Colson Baker are dating. Stephanie and I figured no one would believe it but it’s everywhere! They have videos and photos of you two leaving The Ivy plus talking by Sam’s car. If I didn’t know you, I would be convinced.”

My head hangs low as I rub my forehead, letting out a deep sigh. “Oh dear God.”

“We can handle it, don’t worry!” Nicole assures. “This story will be gone soon!”

“I need to go, talk to you later!” I hang up on Nicole right when the woman shows me the dress.

“I’ll take it” I attempt to hurry up the process.

Cara comes up next to me “don’t you think you should try it on first?”

“I’ll explain later but we need to go” I whisper to her and just like that, she’s hurry the woman along at the register.

I have the dress and exit the store in a rush. I must act cool, the paparazzi will take notice of my mood change.

“HOW’S COLSON, Y/N?”

“SEEING HIM TONIGHT?”

“HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DATING?”

“HOW ARE GONNA HANDEL HIS FANS?”

“HAS HE MET THE FAMILY YET?”

“What’s going on?” Cara asks concerned.

“I’ll explain once we’re somewhere private,” I whisper so the cameras don’t pick up on it.

We speed walk to the car and I offer to drive since I made us cut the day short. Once we’re on the highway towards home Cara asks what the heck is going on.

“Why did they keep asking about Colson?”

I turn on the radio and Elvis Duran, along with his team, are discussing no other than me and Colson.

Danielle summarizes the article for the listeners. “The article says they’ve been dating for the past few months. They’re very happy but the relationship is still new. The pair has not yet met each other’s families but Colson is going on tour soon so maybe Y/N will join him and eventually meet the family. Throughout, there are tons of photos of the cute young couple leaving The Ivy Wednesday night. There’s even a link to a video showing them, what appears to be, having a deep conversation by Sam Merka’s car. If you watch the video, the two are clearly looking at each other very lovingly. I mean, he’s looking at her the way I look at a fresh pizza!”

The rest of the cast laughs and I can’t believe what I’m hearing. Actually, scratch that, I can believe it. I’m just pissed.

“If MGK and Y/N are officially an item, why did she leave with Sam Merka?” Elvis questions.

“I’m glad you asked! According to sources, they’ve been very close friends since the start of TSL. In fact, the duo have taken many vacations together along with their co-star Penelope Glass.”

Cara turns down the volume and looks to me with a steady expression. “Is it true?”

I narrow my gaze at her in bewilderment. “What? No! There’s no way in hell!”

“Okay, just checking,” she lets out a sigh of relief.

“Never ever!” I add and change the station.

Colson Baker is everything I despise in a person. I’ve never hated someone so fast as I’ve hated him. Us together as a couple is impossible. It’s completely irrational.

_________________________________________________________

Later in the afternoon, Stephanie sets up a meeting for us to meet with Colson and his publicist. I had to drag myself to her office. My Fridays aren’t well spent in an office building with enemies. In fact, my whole day could be tarnished by this incident. The meeting room we’re all ushered into is freezing and I’m still in my sundress from earlier. Cara and I were never able to get lunch so I’m starving on top of being cold. The photos of us play in a slideshow on the meeting room’s tv. An endless cycle of false advertisement is how I see the photos. The media is selling us as something completely far from the truth. On top of everything, I’m in a meeting with the one guy in all of Los Angeles I can’t stand. Death would be less painful than the current situation. I tune out the debate between Stephanie and Colson’s publicist. He told me his name but my brain is so numb from the temperature in here I can’t recall it.

“Y/N!” Stephanie calls my name and I search for her around the room until I find her in the doorway with Colson’s publicist.

“We’re going to go make a few phone calls. You two will stay here while we handle the press.” I nod “sounds good.”

I send her a weak smile to charm her out of an apology for zoning out. She huffs and escorts Colson’s guy to her office so they can talk on speaker privately. I stand up from my office chair and stroll over to the windows overlooking the courtyard. I watch the cars zoom by on the street and businessmen and women shuffle in and out of the Starbucks below.

“If it means anything, I’m sorry,” Colson says quietly behind me.

I nearly miss it, he speaks so quietly. I lean against the wall, crossing my arms as I face him.

“You’re sorry?” I shrug, not really seeing his blame. “Why? It’s not your doing.”

I return my gaze to the chaos below us. I watch as people with office jobs travel about. I wonder if they’ve heard of me? I wonder if they like me or think I’m a stuck up actress? I shouldn’t care what people think, but it’s easier said than done. When millions watch TSL every week, it’s hard to ignore the wondering.

“If I hadn’t walked you to the car none of this would be happening,” Colson reasons guiltily.

I shake my head, finding humor in the situation now. The paparazzi can make nothing into a months long romance. A brief conversation outside a restaurant and suddenly we’re meeting each other’s families.

“We were only walking to a car. How could either of us have predicted the amount of attention that would come of us walking?” I justify, not to ease his mind, but my own.

My flicker over to the tv, I examine the slideshow of us. Examining the photos I realize it wasn’t all in my head, the way in which Colson was gazing at me is a tad bit gawk-like. Images of us walking to the car while I’m answering the paparazzi’s questions depict Colson glancing at me with what seems to be such admiration. A picture of when Cara calls for Colson comes up and I’m stunned by how we look. Even I appear to be in awe of him in return. It’s evident Cara is speaking yet neither of us react. We were so caught up within on another.

“I have one question!” I blurt out suddenly with my arms crossed I walk back over to the table. Just one and then I wish to put all of today’s events to rest.” Colson perks up and hums for me to continue. I point over to the photos on the screen “why did you look at me the way you did?”

Turning his head, he reviews the photos blankly and I wait anxiously for some sort of reason. “I’m not looking at you in any particular way,” he disregards my accusations.

I chuckle, amused by his horrible way of lying. “Lies!”

He’s thrown off by my reaction and I storm over to the TV screen to point it out to him.

“It’s clear as day to the press, the public and now me included. You’re clearly lost in some kind of thought! You were there, so was I and our friends! Say all the lies you want but you’ll never convince anyone.”

His jaw clenches and he avoids my gaze. He leans back in his chair, staring out the windows. “Colson,” I sigh, slowly approaching the table. “Maybe the truth could help the lies disappear! If we’re honest then maybe the press will leave us alone!”

He shakes his head low, letting out a brief laugh. “I highly doubt that.”

I have a thousand questions but I’m aware none will go answered. He’s a lost cause. I’m in this alone I guess. Turning my back to him I return to my position by the window. Observing the worker bees swarming around the spaces below. The sound of Colson’s chair rolling back comes from behind me but I don’t even shift. Out of the corner of my eye, I see his figure in the reflection of the window beside me. My attention remains outside. He won’t give me the time of day so why should I treat him any better?

“You wanna know why I looked at you the way I did?” His presence hovers of me and he feels like a wall surrounding me.

“Please,” I mutter a subtle beg.

“I... I had this imagine of you in my head, pre-judgements. You’re supposed to be America’s Sweetheart, Little Miss Perfect! You told me you had been working for this for years, had drive and trails.” He confesses. “You’re not what I expected... It caught me by surprise is all.”

My eyebrows furrow close, “So you thought I was just some pretty face, goody-two-shoes, ditz? If it’s because my image, my past, you said so yourself it doesn’t matter!”

“No, no, that’s not it!” he runs his hand through his hair nervously.

Narrowing my eyes, I press further. “Why then?”

The door swings open and I straighten up before forcing a warm smile to my face. I step back from Colson before the person ever appears in the doorframe. One of Stephanie employees informs us that we’re free to go. Steph doesn’t want to keep me here all day and since I’m allowed to go Colson’s publicist is releasing him. I clasp my hand together, walking over to fetch my purse.

“Thank you so much!” I gush. “Have a good day and please tell Stephanie “thank you!””

The young intern eats up my pleasant expressions. “You too Miss Voss! Will do!”

The young woman shuts the door behind her and I return to the state I was in. Expressionless, I gather my belongings and Colson does the same. Checking my phone for any missed emails or calls I can tell he’s staring me down.

“Does it ever get tiring?” His tone is light, but I can hear the ounce of mockery beneath the surface.

My attention is locked on my phone as text after text pops up from Penelope. She’s more likely than not has seen all the articles and Twitter posts. I should call her and explain.

“Y/N!” Colson shout pulls my from my thoughts.

“Huh? Does it ever get tiring?” I restate his question back to him. “What exactly are we talking about?”

I slide my purse over my shoulder while stepping over to the door, leaving Colson behind. That is until he follows me.

“Your whole act.” He forces a fake smile and tosses imaginary hair over his shoulder. “The “happy go-lucky goody goody All-American girl?””

I scoff, eyeing him up and down. “You’re ridiculous. It’s not an act.”

I swing open the meeting room door, eager to leave here. My heels clink against the white shiny tiles on my walk to the elevators. After hitting the down button, I call up Blake now that I have some time to kill. She’s my oldest friend, I’m sure she sees right through all of the tabloids and is only checking in.

“Calling your boyfriend?” Colson mutters over my shoulder and I quickly move away.

“Don’t have one,” I answer plainly, waiting for Penelope to pick up.

He smirks and props himself up against the wall beside the elevator doors. I side eye him, all he does is smile all the time and he calls me out for acting so happy all the time.

“Can’t you find anyone else to annoy?”

He grins proudly, “sure I could. None would as entertaining as you though.”

“Geez,” I mumble under my breath.

I pace outside the elevators as I wait for one to arrive and for Penelope to answer. Classic of her to text me non-stop but not to answer when I call her back. The elevator doors open and I step inside, ready to get out of here. I hit the ground floor and Colson strolls in lazily not rushed at all. He checks the button and doesn’t add any. The doors shut then silence sits flat in the small space with us. My phone buzzes continuously, I check the name at the top of the screen.

“Frickin’ frackin’!” I clench my teeth together in a growl.

Colson’s eyes widen at my sudden explosion. Closing my eyes, I exhale to calm myself then bring the phone up to my ear. Smiling helps to fake enjoyment when talking to someone on the phone. Sometimes I can fool myself into thinking I’m not miserable during discussions.

“Finn!” I greet. “What’s new?”

My southern accent surfaces. I flip the switch whenever I speak to my family or friends back in South Carolina. I can’t have them thinking I’m not the same Y/N from Charleston. Colson eyes me with his eyebrows raised, surprised by my sudden transition. He makes fun of me in a whisper for my fake enthusiastic voice. I wack him on the arm and it only encourages him more.

“Hi ya Y/N, uh so ya prolly already know butcha face is everywhere along with this MGK fella...” Finn’s voice falters at the end.

I sigh and press my forehead to the wall. Finn asks me if any of what he has read is true and I instantly deny.

My tone goes timid, “who all knows?”

“Just us, Odelle, Greyson and Myself,” he assures.

A sense of relief rushes over me. I turn back around and Colson sends me a sympathetic look, it shocks me. Going from mockery to sympathy from him has my entire mood shifting.

“What ‘bout Momma or Daddy?” I ask, keeping eye contact with Colson.

“Nah, at least I don’t think they do,” Finn guesses. “I’m not entirely sure. Greyson is sayin’ they don’t. He’s the only one that’s home at the moment.”

“Heavens to Betsy,” I exhale deeply, looking up to the heavens. “Let’s hope to the high heavens they don’t. Thank you Finn.”

I go to hang up but he says one last thing. Bringing my phone back up to my ear I reply. “Sorry, missed that.”

My brother becomes stern on the other side, “do you and this guy spend tons of time together?”

I shift uncomfortably, preparing myself for the older brother advice I already see coming. “From time to time but I promise, we’re just friends.”

There’s a pause on his end, an unbearable pause. “I trust you Y/N,” Finn finally speaks. “It’s him I don’t trust. He’s not the best sort of guy. Ya’ll aint right for one another.”

I hope Colson can’t hear any of what Finn is saying. To keep him from becoming suspicious, I keep my replies indifferent. “Sure thing. Uh, talk ya later Finn.”

“Bye, talk to you soon.”

We hang up and I slip my phone into my purse.

Colson leans back onto the railing next to me. “Who was that?”

“My older brother, kinda overbearing,” I laugh nervously then bite my lip. My accent begins to subside again.

“I didn’t know you had a brother,” Colson remarks.

A faint smile appears across my lips thinking of my brothers. “I have two actually and an older sister. The order is Finn, Odelle, me then Greyson.”

Colson returns a kind and gentle smile. “That must’ve been nice to grow up with so many siblings.”

“It was.” I nod as memories flash across my mind. “Finn and Odelle were grouped together and so was me and Greyson since our age gaps are less.”

As we pass each level on the elevator there is a “ding.” Facing toward the doors again, I absentmindedly watch the numbers go down as we pass the levels. My mind wanders to the many memories I’ve made with my brothers and sister.

“Finn is about Sam’s age, so he likes to believe he’s almost a co-parent for me and Grey,” I describe with a pleased expression. “He’s the total opposite of Odelle.”

Colson genuinely shows interest, “how is she?”

“She’s a total wild card! We all joke that it’s every other kid. Finn and I are the rule followers. He was student body president, quarterback of the football team and still managed to graduate with honors. I’m nowhere near him on the perfect child spectrum but I’m supposed to be “America’s Sweetheart.” My parents eat that up. Then there’s Odelle, she’s the total opposite of Finn. My parents had to beg her to improve her grades so she could graduate. I remember being twelve, it was the middle of the night when I got up to get a drink. I went downstairs and saw her sneaking out of the backdoor. She made me promise not to tell our parents. I haven’t talked about it until today. There were days she’d fake being sick just to ditch school with her friends. By her senior year nothing had changed. She ended up graduating but my parents forced her to go to a college close to home so they could keep an eye on her. Her antics continued the entire time I was in high school. College for her was a playground. For some reason, I envied her. I still do. I suppose it’s because no one expects anything from her. She messes up, well, that’s Odelle for you. She causes trouble, just another day. For me, my parents have me up on a peddle stool. By the time I turned sixteen people out here started taking notice of me. When I reached seventeen the title of “America’s Sweetheart” popped up and from then on, I was longer a teenager. I had a role to play and an image to uphold. I could never make mistakes like Odelle. I have to be “perfect” constantly. Sometimes I feel like a doll, plastic. None of it is real.”

The bell rings for the floor. I comprehend the words escaping my mouth and snap back to reality. I revealed so much about myself while I was in that daze, private facts about myself that I’ve never spoken of before.

Straightening up and adjust my dress, I apologize. “I’m so sorry. I have no idea what came over me.” The doors slide open and I step out. “Good to see you Colson,” I rush out a farewell before speed walking towards the exit.

I mentally slap myself for all I confessed. If only Nicole found out, my head would be on a stick. My life, my background, every aspect of my being is supposed to be flawless. An All-American girl from South Carolina with a wholesome up brining is who I’m supposed to be. If word gets out that I’m not so perfect then… then I would be finished. My hand digs for my keys in my purse.

“Y/N! Wait up!” Colson jogs up next to me then steps in front of me, blocking my path.

“Colson, please....” I practically plead in a mutter, stepping around him.

He wraps his hand around my wrist, stopping me. “Let me buy you a drink!”

Workers around us walk around in multiple directions like zombies. I wonder if they’re taking notice. Hesitant, I narrow my gaze at me. The reason we’re in this mess is because we were seen with one another.

“I don’t think that’s such a good idea,” I admit and release myself from his grip.

I only make it a few feet before he’s in front of me again.

“Fine, no to a drink! How about we go get some coffee? Or tea? If you prefer tea!”

His chest rises and falls rapidly, his desperation is evident. The reason behind is desperation is still unknown to me, along with the reason he looked at me the way he did last night. Who is this mysterious man who stands before me? So many questions I wish to ask but I can’t get passed his eyes. Puddles of crystal blue settle on a white canvas. Confused beyond belief, for a reason unbeknownst to me, I accept. Could be my curiosity is getting the best of me.

“Coffee it is,” I give in to his request.

He grins ear to ear and steps to the side so we can leave side by side. “Unless of course you prefer we get tea!” he suggests, sounding a tad nervous.

Honestly I like both drinks but I prefer coffee. He holds the door for me and the bright sunlight of California weather strikes me.

“Nah, I normally drink a cold brew with a shot of espresso,” I describe.

He winces and pretends to gag. “Ew! That sounds horrible!”

“It gives you a boost in the morning! Nice and strong!” I laugh.

“You’re nasty!” He waves his hands in disgust.

“Eh, you’ve called me worse,” I laugh, unfazed by his insult.

He chuckles, “you’re not wrong.”

Our laughing dies down a little as we stroll over to the Starbucks. I peer up at him with a side eye. When our eyes meet we begin laughing again uncontrollably.

___________________________________

Masterlist

Tags: @canyoubuymetoast @bri-3530 @asil1652 @andstilltryingtofindmyself @nadia2021 @olafsidehoe @mgkobsessed @fairywriting101 @ferrell-cat @naylanae-0308 @tonystarkswife10 @alexsa56 @brocksbabyyy @stormrider505 @magnificenthumancopangel @sarcasticfangirlus @lilramencup95beech @missyviolet123 @skeleton-gxrl @glitterybearllamaflap @margaritaville20 @amoresixx @Thysagclub @hockeybabe87

#mgk smut #mgk imagine #mgk fanfic #mgk #mgk aesthetic #machine gun kelly #colson baker #colson #machine gun kelly fanfic #imagine #fanfic

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plazmafields · 3 years

Text

“You asked to see me?”

Cullen lifted his head from his work to lock eyes with the mage in his doorway. He sighed as he gestured for Dorian to sit.

“Yes. I have a…problem, of my own creation, that I could use some advice on.”

Dorian lowered slowly into the seat across the desk from Cullen, curiously raising an eyebrow. “I’ll see how I can help.”

“Thank you,” Cullen smiled softly before clearing his throat to continue, “There’s…a person who I continue to find catching my eye, and I don’t know how to deal with it. I’d really like them to know how I feel, but I don’t think I have the confidence to tell them with words.”

Dorian blinked several times, a bit taken aback that Cullen was so upfront with his ask for romantic help.

“Well,” he began, shifting forward in his seat, crossing one leg over the other, “I am certainly no expert in women—"

“I never said they were a woman.”

Dorian’s mouth still hung open from his comment. He shut it quickly and nodded, silently asking Cullen to continue.

The Commander sighed, running a hand through his groomed curls. “I’ll be honest: I’ve never really…courted anyone before, so we’re essentially starting from scratch here.”

Dorian gave a comforting smile, “That’s perfectly alright. Perhaps a blank slate is best.”

The mage pulled his chair up, resting his elbows on the desk. “Now, you don’t want to come off too strong too soon. So let’s start very basic: what is something almost anyone would like to receive?”

Cullen looked down at his hands, clasped and nervously twiddling. After a moment of thinking he replied tentatively, “Praise?”

Dorian chuckled, “Yes, that’s true, but let’s think most simply. Something superficial, to start. Something physical…?” he guided.

Cullen’s eyes bounced around Dorian’s features for clues. “Gifts?”

Dorian nodded encouragingly, making a rolling motion with his hand to encourage something specific.

“Such as…flowers?” Cullen said it like a question.

“Perfect!” Dorian Tossed his hands up. “Now the next step is easy, what flowers do they like?”

Cullen sighed, rubbing at his scruff, “No idea. And I’m not sure I have the nerve to ask them.”

“Well you wouldn’t want to do that anyway, you want to bring it up casually. Otherwise, they might catch on to what you’re planning.”

Cullen was still looking away, distracted with his own anxiety. Dorian offered a gentle smile and a friendly suggestion. “Why not get a bouquet? A little mix of everything? That way there’s bound to be something they like in there. After all, it’s the thought, not the gift, that matters here.”

Cullen nodded continuously, deep in thought of what to get for his muse. “Yes…a little of everything. That’s…that’s an excellent idea! I’ll go to Orlais, to a florist, pick out the most exotic things they have, the most colorful, most pungent. It’s perfect!”

Dorian couldn’t help the grin that stretched across his lips at Cullen’s excitement.

“Thank you, Dorian. You’ve no idea how much this helps me.”

“Glad to be of service, my friend.” Dorian rose from his seat, gave a friendly bow, and left Cullen to his plans.

__________

As Dorian sat in his little alcove, reading over a new study, the sound of quick and precise footsteps drew closer. Soon, the Inquisitor, ever nimble on her feet, ran into his nook, a massive smile on her face.

“Have you been out today?”

Dorian glanced over the edge of his book. “Not yet, no.”

She bounced on her toes, “So you haven’t seen the garden?”

The mage raised a brow, closing his book with one hand. “Should I?”

The rouge practically squealed as she gestured for Dorian to follow her.

They were in the main hall in no time, Vivienne calling down from her balcony, “It's simply exquisite, darling! Who knew our Commander had such taste?” Varric shrugging as if to say Not me.

Once outside, Dorian had to push through a wall of onlookers, all gawking at the sight before them. The Inquisitor slipped through almost effortlessly, turning to check for Dorian every few seconds.

Finally, they broke through the crowd and Dorian’s jaw nearly dropped. There were flowers everywhere; no patch of dirt in sight. Flowering ivy spiraled up and around the pillars and railings, columns tangled in vines. Each plain tree had been replaced with a flowering fruit tree; one apple, one cherry, one pear, and one orange.

The Inquisitor squeezed his hand to bring him back, saying in a sigh, “Isn’t it beautiful? Like a magic forest!”

Before he could turn to acknowledge her, the red head was already frolicking like a school girl, skipping and bounding through the garden, hoping to find every flower she could. Dorian watched her with a smile, shaking his head at how adorable she could be.

A sudden realization washed over him as he watched the young woman stand on her toes to reach an apple: she must be Cullen’s secret muse. Watching her enjoy every last bit of the garden, even the new insects that had been attracted by the plants, cemented this truth in his mind. Cullen was head over heels for Lyann Trevelyan.

After spending time with his friend amongst the flowers, admiring every scent, Dorian slipped away to consult Cullen on his next move. As he poked his head into the Commander's office, he saw Cullen excitedly pacing, grinning to himself.

“Do you know what a bouquet is, my friend? Perhaps something was lost in translation last we spoke.” Dorian teased, grabbing Cullen’s attention.

Cullen’s head shot up and he smiled widely, rushing over to Dorian to get his reaction. “Well? What do you think?”

Dorian chuckled at Cullen’ childlike glee. “I think you did an excellent job. Maybe a bit over the top, but I can certainly say it made an impression.”

Cullen nearly melted, “Oh, Dorian, I am so glad to hear it. Your advice was invaluable!”

Dorian grinned as he said lowly, “The Inquisitor especially liked it, might I add.”

Cullen’s eyes went wide as he blushed, straightening his back, “O-oh! Well, I suppose I should have run it past her first, but it’s a bit embarrassing to tell her my intentions. Josephine was good about keeping it confidential.” He rubbed at the back of his neck, glancing to the floor.

Dorian gave a hardy chuckle, “Oh I understand. Now, what did you have planned for the next step?”

Cullen froze. “Next…step? How many steps are there?”

Shaking his head, Dorian grabbed the blond by the shoulders and lead him to his desk.

“May I?” Dorian snatched a quill and paper.

“Step one: a sweet but generic gift to show your interest. Something to casually say ‘I might like you'. You already did that one. Following?”

Cullen nodded, leaning his elbows on the desk as he watched Dorian write.

“Alright. Step two: a more personal gift. Something you know they like. This shows them not only are you interested in them, but you’re interested in their interests as well.”

“Right…” Cullen chewed his lip.

“What is it?” Dorian sighed.

“I don’t know much about their likes. They aren’t very…direct. Ever.”

Well that doesn’t sound like Lyann… Dorian thought to himself.

Dorian had to restrain from rolling his eyes. “Well, in that case, an easy thing to get for someone indecisive is sweets. Candy, chocolate, biscuits, pastries. Things like that. Just get them sweets that remind you of them.”

Cullen looked utterly concerned. “Am I supposed to…guess what they…taste like?”

Dorian stared at him with a blank look, completely astounded. “No. What does that even—no, never mind, please don’t attempt to explain.”

After drumming his fingers on the desk for a moment, Dorian tried to be more clear—though he thought he had been plenty clear before. “Think of how they act, yes? Are they kind and sweet? Flowery and fun? Warm like spice?”

Cullen nodded along, seemly understanding this time.

Dorian smiled, placing a tender hand on the blonds arm. “I’ll leave you to it then."

__________

Several days later and not a word from Cullen, Dorian felt a bit anxious. Had he not been clear enough still? Did Cullen get too nervous to continue? Oh no, did he have a falling out with Lyann; she didn’t return his feelings?

Just as he began to lose himself in his nerves, despite having research to focus on, Dorian caught a subtle whiff of something delicious. It was warm and baked, but chocolatey and rich, and somehow tart all at once. Cullen must have asked the cooks to do their damnedest.

After a while the scent became too much, it was too intriguing, Dorian had to go to the kitchens and see for himself what was being baked. As he descended the stairs to Solas's area, the elf came from the main hall with a plate of goodies. Tarts and cookies and all sorts, laid out decoratively on a porcelain dish.

“My my,” Dorian quirked a brow, “Someone has a sweet tooth it seems.”

Solas didn’t look at him as he replied, “There is a spred out there. I would be a fool to turn down free food. Especially Orlaisian pastries.” He popped a fruit tart into his mouth.

Dorian exited to the main hall and was greeted by long dining tables over flowing with every dessert imaginable. Full cakes, cup cakes, full pies, hand pies, everything he loved and things he hadn’t tried before, but was more than eager to.

Everyone in Skyhold, and a few visiting nobles, huddled around the tables making sure to heap their plates, and at the front of the room, with a towering plate nearly spilling down her shirt, was the ever graceful Inquisitor, shoving candied dates into her gob.

“Well aren’t you looking marvelous today,” Dorian laughed as he approached.

“Hm? Oh, Dorun!” Lyann mumbled through half chewed food.

She took a second to chew and swallow before nearly shouting, “Isn’t this amazing?! Cullen and Josephine planned this in only a few days! I don’t know how they got it all here and kept it so fresh! It taste like it just came from the ovens, or maybe the Maker's own kitchen.” She swooned as she crammed another treat into her mouth.

Dorian chuckled, picking up a plate to load up himself. “Cullen planned this, did he? Any idea why?” He feigned curiosity.

“No idea,” Lyann shrugged, nearly dropping a pudding, “He usually doesn’t care about impressing nobles, so I don’t know who he’s trying to impress. Maybe he just felt like the troops deserved it!”

“Oh, I’d bet he’s trying to catch someone’s attention...” Dorian hinted, but the Inquisitor was already going in for seconds. Well, more like fourths.

Dorian shook his head with a smile as she walked off to her chambers with a mountain of sweets. Just as he began picking out his favorite treats, a soft voice spoke up behind him.

“Have you tried the jam biscuits yet? They’re heavenly. I might actually die if someone doesn’t stop me.”

Dorian turned around just in time to see Cullen with a jam cookie half way to his lips. Just as it was about to touch his tongue, Dorian snatched it away, downing it in one bite.

Cullen looked at him in shock, mouth still open to receive the sweet. They laughed together as Dorian tried to chew the mouthful.

“So? What do you think? Did I hit all the right flavors?”

Dorian chuckled, “If everything under the sun reminds you of them, then yes.”

Cullen sighed dreamily, “Everything…”

Dorian had only seen that look a handful of times, but by the Maker, it was his favorite expression on the blond. That look of complete adoration, losing himself to a daydream. It looked beautiful. He looked beautiful…

Dorian shook his head, reminding himself he was helping the man court someone else. The Inquisitor, of all people. But they seemed like a good match, both very…Ferelden.

When he looked back, Cullen was staring at him with bright eyes, an innocent smirk lopsided on his lips. Dorian smiled back.

“Is everything alright?” Cullen asked so gently.

Dorian swallowed hard before clearing his throat, “Yes, of course. Just thinking about your next step.”

“What’s that?”

Dorian led Cullen to a less crowded area of the hall. “Well, everything you’ve done so far has been very…grand. You may want to think about doing something one-on-one with them, personally.”

Cullen sighed, rubbing his neck. “Right, one-on-one…If you couldn’t tell, I’ve been trying to take an indirect approach.”

Dorian rolled his eyes, “But how are they ever supposed to know it’s you?”

“Well, I thought it would be rather obvious.” Cullen gave him a very confused stare.

“Listen,” Dorian sighed and shifted his weight, “they know it’s you, but you have to show that it’s for them.”

Cullen’s eyes lit up, “Oh! Oh, of course, I should have—I’m sorry Dorian I didn’t understand—”

“That’s alright, I just hope you’ve planned for something one-on-one, because I can’t help you with this next bit.”

“What?” Cullen’s eyes seems almost terrified, losing his only advisor.

Dorian wraps his fingers around the back of Cullen’s neck, pulling him closer so he could hear the whisper, “You must make this personal. I’m always willing to help, but I can’t tell you everything they like and how to fit it all together. That’s up to you, my friend.”

Cullen sighed and let his head fall forward, forehead almost leaning against Dorian’s. “Alright. I’ll try to do you proud.”

The mage smiled reassuringly, “You will, Cullen. Don’t worry.”

__________

After nearly a week without any word, Dorian received a surprise visit just as noon struck.

“Glad to see you haven’t given up. I was starting to wonder if you had gotten cold feet.” Dorian teased, slapping Cullen’s arm playfully.

Cullen grinned wide and chuckled, “Well, I’m not actually here for advice this time. I was wondering if you might come with me. I think I’ve found the perfect place for a date!”

“Oh?” Dorian was shocked by the confidence in the Commander’s voice. “What are we waiting for then? Need I pack a bag?”

“No, it’s not too far.” Cullen eyed him up and down, considering his outfit. “Though I might wear something more casual, were I you.”

Dorian looked down at his attire, about to ask why, when Cullen called back to him, already on his way, “I’ll meet you at the gates in an hour. Don’t be late.”

So he dressed down and packed a bottle of wine to sip at on the ride there. Where ever “there” was; Cullen was being awfully secretive about their destination, only repeating that it was the perfect spot for a date.

Just as the two had run out of things to banter about on the ride, Cullen stopped his horse by a gap in some trees.

“Through here. We’ll have to tie up the horses, I don’t think they’ll make it through the foliage.”

Dorian sighed an exasperate sigh, “Are we in for much of a hike? You know I get more exercise than I truly want while adventuring with the Inquisitor.”

Cullen chuckled and held some leaves out of the way for Dorian to duck under. After a short walk, Cullen looked back and smiled, “I think it’s beautiful out here. Tell me what you think.”

Dorian stepped forward through the last bit of trees to be greeted by the most sparkling, clearest, gentlest lake he’d ever laid eyes on. The water rippled steadily with the slight breeze, waves barely formed yet still enough to rock the lily pads and fallen leaves. The sun was just visible through the trees, but not enough to blind them, slowly lowering in the sky, ready shine orange and pink light across the water when dusk came.

“I…” Dorian couldn’t find his words, “Cullen, this is gorgeous…”

He looked back to Cullen who leaned confidently against a tree, pleased with the mage's reaction.

But as he turned back, Dorian remembered who all this was for, and it put a heaviness in his heart. His eyes dropped as he said “She’ll love this, Cullen. I know she will.”

Long moments went by with no response before Dorian felt a gentle hand on the small of his back.

“Who?” Cullen asked softly, seeing Dorian was upset.

“Lyann, silly. She’ll find this all so lovely, I’m sure.” He had a hard time keeping eye contact with the Commander, curious eyes meaning no ill intent.

“Lyann?” Cullen pulled back slightly. “Why would I bring her—”

Cullen’s eyes went wide as he muttered, “oh no…”

He stepped away to pace, continuing his “no”s under gus breath, thinking of something to say or do to make it right.

“Cullen? I don’t understand, what’s wrong?” Dorian followed his pacing, trying to grab his arm.

“I’ve screwed this up royally, that what’s wrong! Lyann?! You thought this was all for the Inquisitor?”

Dorian stopped in his tracks. “Yes? I saw how much she enjoyed everything you did, so I assumed…”

It struck him like a charging druffalo. “No.” He whispered. “For…for me?”

Cullen looked over his shoulder sheepishly, waiting for a better idea of Dorian’s reaction.

“All of it?” Dorian’s words were hardly voiced, sliding out along a whisper of disbelief.

Cullen turned around fully and began taking cautious steps toward Dorian, trying to gage if his surprise was good or bad.

As Dorian continued to stare forward, slack jawed, Cullen placed a warm hand on his neck, the other finding the mage’s chin and tilting his gaze up to lock eyes.

“Everything. Every flower, every tart, everything. I wanted to give you the world, but I didn’t know how to start. I wanted you to see I would do anything for you, Dorian. You want flower, I’ll plant you a garden. You want sweets, I’ll bring the world’s best bakers to you.”

Dorian’s eyes only showed more confusion. Cullen leaned forward, stopping just before their lips touched to whisper, “I love you.”

“You—” But the words were stolen from his lips as Cullen pulled him in, chest to chest, arms around his waist, surprisingly deft lips making him melt into the blond.

He lost track of time. It could have been seconds, minutes, maybe an hour, before they pulled away, each out of breath and shaking from a single shared shiver down their spines.

“That was…electrifying.” Cullen sighed, hugging the mage close.

Dorian could hardly think straight, just hugging Cullen back as he gathered his thoughts.

After a moment of silence, Dorian finally relaxed against Cullen and said, “I…didn’t think I could be so dense.”

They laughed together, Cullen pulling back to plant a gentle kiss to the mage’s nose.

“But in my defense,” Dorian began, returning to his regular self, “who asks the person they plan on courting for advice on how to court them?”

“Well, you liked everything, didn’t you?” Cullen teased back.

Dorian shook his head, still feeling like this couldn’t be real. But those eyes, those golden eyes…

“I…feel strongly about you, Cullen. I’d dare say I’m smitten.”

Cullen smiled even wider before placing a quick kiss to Dorian lips, stripping off his shoes and tunic with impressive speed, and jumping like a cannonball into the lake. Dorian put his hands up to shield his face from the splash, but his casual clothes soaked up the water on contact.

“Looks like you’ll have to let those clothes dry. What should we do in the meantime?” Cullen called over smugly.

“You little southern…” Dorian shook his head before stripping down and diving in himself, making sure to get Cullen in the face.

They laughed together as they splashed the other back and forth, stopping only to share a passionate kiss.

#da #dai #cullen rutherford #dorian pavus #cullrian #dragon age inquisition #dragon age

147 notes · View notes

ourmiraclealigner · 4 years

Text

Easy Co. Reacts to you crying.

Gif not mine! Credit to owner.

A/N: I know this has been done a lot, but I wanted to add my own spin on it! If you want to see a part two with everyone I didn’t do, let me know!

warnings: none

taglist: @hellitwasyoufirstsergeant @mavysnavy @ivy-miranda-2390 @ya-yeeteth @rayofshanshine @primusk @punkgeekchic @joesliebgott @weirdbiwitch @inglourious-imagines @wexhappyxfew @vintagelavenderskies @easy-company-tradition @meteora-fc @order-of-river-phoenix @immrsronaldspeirs @teenmagazines @contrabandhothead @hazsxos

—————————————-

Richard Winters:

- Unlike many of the others, Richard is not surprised when you break down.

- He’s very observant, so he’s noticed how much you’d been overworking yourself throughout the week.

- “Oh honey.” He mumbles as soon as he notices the tears running down your cheeks, his long arm wrapping around your shoulders and pulling you into his side.

- He gives you a few minutes to cry, occasionally kissing your temple as you sob into his shoulder.

- Once you’ve calmed down, he lets you wipe your face and blow your nose as he gets water, his eyes on you the whole time.

- “Talk to me, what's bothering you?” He asks as he sits down, slipping the glass into your hand.

- He listens carefully, only chiming in with small words of reassurance when it’s necessary.

Lewis Nixon:

- Surprisingly, Lewis is extremely comforting.

- He’s not a stranger to sadness, so when he sees the tears streaming down your flushed cheeks, he’s quick to react.

- “What happened?” He asks, words rushed as he pulls you into his chest, his fingers tangling themselves in your hair.

- He keeps pressing kisses to the top of your head, heart pounding as his mind wanders to all of the possibilities of what could have made you upset.

- But he’s careful to not push you, knowing how frustrating that can be.

- “I wish I could take away all of your pain.” He mumbles as he wipes his thumb over your cheek bone, leaning his head down to press a gentle and loving kiss to your lips.

- “Do you want to talk about it?” He asks gently, intertwining your fingers as he leads you somewhere where you can sit.

Ron Speirs:

- While Ron doesn’t show his own emotions very often, he’s not extremely uncomfortable when you’re emotional around him.

- He gets angry. Not with you, but with himself.

- He feels like he isn’t doing enough, in the moment and in your relationship.

- “I’m sorry you’re feeling like this sweetheart.” He mumbles, hand stroking your hair as he keeps you nuzzled into his shoulder. “What can I do to make you feel better?”

- He’s at a loss, frozen as you crumble in his arms.

- Pressing a kiss to your cheek before wrapping his arms tighter around you, he feels his chest tighten as your cries fill the room.

- “Just hold me.” You choke out, immediately following it with a sniffle.

- He does just that, not letting you out of his sight for the rest of the night.

Eugene Roe:

- Eugene grew up with sisters and a very caring grandmother, so he’s been through this before.

- He’s sensitive and in tune with your emotions, so he’s careful to not overstep any boundaries and lets you come to him.

- When you do, he wraps his arms around you and pulls you flush against his chest, his warmth surrounding you.

- “You’re doing too much love.” He says, words muffled as he presses a kiss to your head. “You’re exhausted.”

- He rubs your back, drawing small patterns on your skin as you start to calm down.

- He pulls away, large hands rubbing your arms as he looks at you.

- “Let’s get you to bed mon chéri.”

George Luz:

- George is extremely frazzled when you start crying.

- He looks at you for a few seconds, eyes wide as you move to cover your face with your hands.

- “Oh no baby, don’t do that.” He mumbles as he rushes over to you, gently tugging at your wrists.

- “You don’t have to hide from me.” He almost whines, thumbs working to catch all of your tears and wipe them away.

- He’s stressed, eyebrows furrowed with concern as his mind reels, trying to think of ways to make you crack a smile.

- “Even crying, you’re still so beautiful.” He mumbles, brushing a piece of hair away from your face.

- He smiles when you do, pulling you into a tight hug and nuzzling into your shoulder.

- “Tell me what’s got you down baby.”

Joe Liebgott:

- Joe is easily the most frazzled out of everyone.

- He has no idea what to do as you break in front of him, chest tight as his feet stay glued to the floor.

- “I-“ He starts, but quickly cuts himself off as you take a step closer to him.

- He expects you to yell and push him away, like he does to you.

- But when you softly say ‘I need you’. He’s in front of you in seconds, arms wrapped around your waist as his lips press against your temple.

- “I’m here.” He mumbles, eyes closing as he leans his head against yours. “I’m here sweetheart.”

- He’s by your side for the rest of the night, wanting to make sure you don’t feel alone.

Don Malarkey:

- Don is easily the most empathic.

- He feels what you feel. You cry? He’s going to tear up as he holds you.

- “Oh honey.” He mumbles, tears pricking his eyes as you sob into his chest. “You’re breaking my heart.”

- He doesn’t say it to make you feel guilty, he wants you to know he feels your pain.

- “I’m always here for you, you know that right?” He asks, sniffling as he pulls away to look down at you.

- When you nod, he presses his lips against yours, leaning his head against your forehead when you pull away.

- “I’m sorry you had a bad day. I wish I could make it better.”

Chuck Grant:

- Chuck is the worst at hiding his surprise.

- He shows every emotion he's feeling on his face, so you can tell exactly how lost he is.

- “Oh no, don’t cry angel, don’t cry.” He coos, arms open as he walks over to you.

- Once you’re in his arms, he feels a lot calmer, relaxing into the fact that you’re with him.

- He pulls away for a brief second, peppering kisses onto your face until your laugh cuts him off.

- “There it is.” He mumbles proudly, arms locked around your waist as you stand there.

- “Let’s get you to bed.” He presses a chaste kiss to your lips before gently taking your hand in his.

Floyd Talbert:

- Floyd tries to act calm on the outside, but on the inside, he’s a mess.

- He’s scrambling, trying to say anything and everything to make you feel better.

- “Don’t cry baby, it’s going to work itself out.” He practically begs, hands running up and down your sides as he keeps his eyes on yours.

- “I promise, everything is going to be okay. I don’t want you to feel like this.”

- But after a few minutes he calms down, realizing it’s best to just let you cry it out.

- When you’re done, he pulls away, cheeks flushed as he presses a light kiss to the tip of your nose.

- “Do you need anything? Water? A tissue?”

Shifty Powers:

- Shifty has a hard time seeing you upset.

- You’re both usually so happy, so he knows something must be really wrong for you to be this upset.

- Without a second thought he’s pulling you against him, pressing light kisses against your shoulder as you shake beneath him.

- “I’ve got you love. Let it out.” He softly coaxes, trying his best to make you comfortable.

- He doesn’t pry, wanting you to be comfortable enough to open up about what’s bothering you.

- When you do, he listens without judgement, carefully thinking about every word you say.

- He doesn’t speak, wanting you to get all of your thoughts out, knowing how good it feels to get something off your chest.

- “I’m real sorry you felt that way today, that’s the worst feeling..”

Bill Guarnere:

- Like Eugene, Bill grew up with lots of women around him, so he’s no stranger to crying.

- He doesn’t hesitate, his buff arm around your shoulder in seconds, lips pressed against your forehead.

- He doesn’t force you to speak, and when you try, he cuts you off.

- “Hey, it’s alright. You don’t have to say anything right now. Just try to calm down.” He reassurances, pulling you tighter into his side.

- When you’ve calmed down, he gently takes your hands in his, forcing you to look at him.

- “Tell me what got you so worked up doll.”

- He listens for as long as it takes, nodding every once and in a while to show you he’s still listening.

Joe Toye:

- Like Ron, Joe is angry, but in a different way.

- As he holds you against his chest, he’s silently seething in anger, already plotting his revenge against the person that upset his baby this much.

- Of course, he’ll never end up doing anything but, in the moment, it makes him feel better.

- He holds you, hands running up and down your spine as he stays quiet.

- He only holds you, knowing that that is more helpful than anything he could say.

- And Joe knows he’s not the best with words.

- He’s afraid to say the wrong thing, worried he would make you feel worse.

- “Let’s go lay down for awhile, okay?”

Babe Heffron

- Babe looks like a lost puppy when you first start to cry.

- He’s frazzled, but treats you like how you treat him when he’s upset.

- “Oh sweetheart.” He clicks his tongue, hands immediately tugging at the fabric of whatever you’re wearing to pull you into him.

- “Lay down with me.” He says softly, brushing a piece of hair away from your face. “That always makes you feel better.”

- He slips into bed behind you, nuzzling into your neck as he holds you tightly against his chest.

- “I don’t like seeing you that upset darling.” He mumbles, words muffled by your skin.

- He forces himself awake, not allowing himself to sleep until he knows you’re peacefully sleeping in his arms.

287 notes · View notes

geminijoonie · 4 years

Text

Take care of you

Summary: “No I’m a surprise,” you say sounding all sassy and smiling where your cheeks fluff up and you look like a pufferfish and it always gets Namjoon. His eyes are crescents, dimples peeking from his cheeks.

“What would they say if they saw the big bad Kim Namjoon like this?” you ask raising your brow not as good as Namjoon but it gets the job done.

note: Hello, I am back after months with this piece. Feedback is always appreciated! Thank you for reading.

➡Mafia!Namjoon x reader

➡Warnings: 18+, Mentions of sex, reader’s family not letting her eat

Namjoon hates parties. Sure he’s the CEO, of one of the biggest crime syndicates in the world, the biggest and most feared in South Korea so he could have sent his associates or one of his brothers to attend this party but he was there for a very specific reason. Y O U.

With a frontal name of BigHit Inc., run by the most fearsome mafia BTS behind it, the most fierce crime lords and not by the old fashioned guns and murders way well, that sometimes yes, but mostly financial crimes, stealing money and intellectual property theft done so well they’ve been thriving the last few decades when their fathers, mafia bosses, seven families joined hands together to be sworn allies promising to take down and gain power over the corrupt government. Now run by their sons seven men, most of them educated in Ivy League schools. 5 of them even hold dual degrees, their leader Kim Namjoon or RM even holds a fucking Ph.D. A born genius, his IQ only amplifying his true potential. His members' capabilities, work ethic complimenting the jobs they pull off together as a team. This team was perfect and solid in all ways made to rule. As if fate had brought them together.

The party was boring as usual. All of the crime lords and mafia bosses with their families were here. It reminded Namjoon of the party, similar to this where he first laid his eyes on you. His gaze traveling from the bar section of the huge ballroom towards you at the opposite end where you were forced to make small talk. You stared back at him with the same intensity. Your eyes catching his gaze, latching onto his dragon eyes drowning in those dark orbs that stared at you. You weren’t afraid, not even intimated. No sign of a blush. You weren’t swooning like those other girls. You simply stared back at him equally fierce taking his presence in. Your own doe-like eyes even if not as sharp as his, held enough power to not only draw the attention of the most powerful, eligible bachelor, most feared CEO of an empire himself but also spark something in him. And ever since then your life and these parties have been different. You solely come here to see him. And the same for him. To see you.

What Namjoon and you shared was special. With your family owning amalgamation of big companies, reputable among the mafia bosses and crews it came with lots of curfews for you the heiress to your father. You were an asset. One that would be traded someday. To a man that would be chosen for you, based on his family, money and what value he can derive for your father and his business. And you shall be his dutiful wife, produce an heir and then wait for death inside some mansion. This was your fear. You were disgusted whenever any thoughts of how your future would be like crossed your mind. Amidst all the chaos, uncertainty and lack of control in your own life, you met Namjoon, your Joon. The man changed your entire perspective on love, intimacy and boy he had you pining for him even yearning. But what you didn’t realize is he was yours since he saw you for the first time two months ago.

Namjoon’s at his usual spot. By the bar. Waiting for you. With a drink in his hand. There was no way he could take you on dates given your family. The curfews. And that bullshit about what girls and women can and cannot do. He hated the way women were treated. He was lucky that his father was not as stupid as the others. He made sure that his sister was sent away to Switzerland to study, and live her life the way she wants to like any normal girl. And she was happy and so was his mother who lived in Japan with her own small business, even enjoying life. He hoped one day he can go away somewhere with you. Away from all this. Take you on dates. Hold your hand while he walks next to you. Kiss your cheeks whenever he wanted to. Make you giggle with all the cheesy compliments and then make out till his heart's content. Right now he had to settle for stealing glances in between. Carefully brushing his hand whenever he walked near you. This is all the affection or physical contact he’d get. On a good day, when people at the party would be preoccupied with taking some political party member down or something like that Namjoon would sneak you out to the roof, or to the parking lot inside his car to steal kisses. Heated kisses. Passionate kisses. One where he’d drag your soft lips between his teeth just to hear that moan. Running his hands all over your body while you clutched his torso, held on to his pecs and squeezed his biceps for dear life gasping for air. His plump lips swollen, his shirt buttons open, neck and collarbones littered with hickeys and marks you’d leave every time you had one of your little adventures. Namjoon would give anything to mark you just one small hickey but he couldn’t and he won’t risk your family finding you out. You have stylists and beauty consultants that will scan every inch of your body and he couldn’t afford to get you in trouble. So he holds back and tells himself that he’ll wait for the day, that one day you’ll be his.

All these thoughts suddenly clouding his mind made him feel so empty his forehead sweaty. He decided to step out to the balcony a little disappointed that he’s not seen you yet. He made sure your family was invited. He knows you’ll be there with them as your parents like to show you off like some diamond jewelry piece or an ornament they possess. The thought of you being married to someone else makes Namjoon’s blood boil. And even at these parties the way the other men scan your body, while you’re in your tight-fitting dresses draping your body perfectly makes him want to take his gun out and shoot them all. He looks over to the night sky sighing and drinking his third glass of scotch. Namjoon suddenly feels a pair of hands right above his navel and he’s ready to smack that person but he hears your voice and jolts instead trying to turn.

“Boo!”

“Were you supposed to meet me here?” Namjoon asks with a grin, lifting a brow as if he didn’t just get scared and pulls your wrist around his waist towards his back so he can hug you.

“No I’m a surprise,” you say sounding all sassy and smiling where your cheeks fluff up and you look like a pufferfish and it always gets Namjoon. His eyes are crescents, dimples peeking from his cheeks.

“What would they say if they saw the big bad Kim Namjoon like this?” you ask raising your brow not as good as Namjoon but it gets the job done.

“If I didn’t hear your voice, but only felt hands and if it weren’t you, they’d be dead princess” he responds voice deep and low holding that timber, his the last four words whispered into your ear. His breath making you feel ticklish so you giggle. He looks around to check if any eyes were on him and then, quickly pulls you into a hug. You smell divine as usual. Namjoon dips lower and places his chin near your neck. He loves it. The smell of your perfume, your shampoo combined with your own sweet natural scent. Makes him feel like some kind of animal, primal instincts kicking in and he knows if he keeps his head there he’s a goner. But what he feels now is different than usual. Your body is warmer to his touch. He’s used to how you normally feel. And right now you feel warm, your skin hot when he slots his fingers on your forehead brushing your hair to the side.

“Looks like you’re running a fever are you okay princess?” he asks his voice suddenly all serious, brows furrowed his gaze boring to where his hands meet your skin. You want to say that you’re okay, but you’re not. You feel sore everywhere. Your legs hurt from wearing heels. Your dress is too tight and you’re hating the way it feels all over your body. It’s making you feel uncomfortable. The material just feeling torturous against your feverish skin. You haven’t had proper meals because your family starved you so don’t look bloated for today’s event. They wouldn’t even feed you when you were sick. You threw up twice but they still made you come here. You need an IV probably. You thought you’d text Namjoon but since they were going to make you attend this party anyways might as well be here and get some serotonin from seeing him. You were always trained to say you’re okay. Making yourself seem strong. Your needs were never to be put first. But right now the way Namjoon looks at you, with so much care and concern makes your heart ache so you give in, tell him and you just want to sit down because you don’t know when your dizziness will be back. You want to cry because you’re so annoyed and irritated your brain a mess.

“No” you squeak out. You eyes now glossy and Namjoon’s heart just breaks at that. Only after a few seconds does he realize how your face gives away the exhaustion after he looked at it a little longer. The bags under your eyes can be seen. Even if the concealer did a good job of hiding the dark circles Namjoon can see how truly tired and exhausted you must be feeling. Your cheeks more hollow. Your posture barely making you stand straight or still. Fidgety. Weak. You lean into his arms. Your forehead meets his shoulder. His black blazer feels so soft. You sigh. you want to just stay there. Namjoon carefully pulls you off him while he cups your cheek and tells you that you both should move somewhere more private. You nod and sneak out of the room. Thankfully the party today was at a hotel, one of Seoul’s biggest and Namjoon makes some calls while you’re walking his hands securing you by his side while you make your way out. Namjoon notices how it’s hard for you to match his stride today. Even though the man is 70% legs you usually keep up with him by walking faster or leaping. But today you’re barely able to keep up with his slowest smallest strides. You walk for what feels like an hour but it’s just been two minutes. You’re back at the reception lobby and you see someone guide you and Namjoon to the elevator. The next thing you know you’re in a hotel room.

Namjoon leads you towards the bed once you’re in the room and the door is locked. A few seconds later you hear rustling and you know they’re the guards placed outside the door for security. You sit on the bed your legs finally catching a break from carrying you and the stupid dress around with those stupid heels. You loved wearing heels but not today sis. In your hazy state you try to pull them off only that you forgot to remove the strap first through the small metal buckle. The dress making it a struggle to bend over and reach for the straps. Namjoon sees your struggle and can’t help but let out a small giggle. You look up at him with those doe eyes, confused and there it goes his heart sinks again. He makes way his towards you, leans down on both his knees. He gently takes your right foot into his palm and with the other hand makes quick work to get you out of your heels. Within seconds he was able to accomplish what you were trying so hard to do. And with one of your problems gone, you just fall back onto the plush bed all grace forgotten. Once the head hits the soft cloud-like mattress you let out a sigh of happiness and then a groan. Your feet are still hanging downwards to the floor, your back was on the bed arched so you can rest your head down. But more comfortable than standing or walking right now but you’ll take it. Too tired to move you give up fatigue finally settling in.

“Move up sweetheart you’ll hurt your back” you hear Namjoon say but you have no energy. You don’t even respond sleep already taking over you. Especially now that you were safe, away from those eyes, your parents probably thought you’ll be talking to some guy impressing someone but little did they know you’d be here a few floors above the party with Joon. You don’t know what to call your little arrangement or these little sneaking out sessions are. You don’t know what Namjoon is to you. The two of you haven’t talked about it. It’s weird because you’ve talked about fate, why Namjoon hates seafood and how much you love the rain, the fraud patterns in his business but never about what Namjoon is to you. Not that you need a label, and not that maybe calling him your boyfriend would be a label like that, you’d actually like it. All you know is Namjoon likes you, for sure I mean he wouldn’t be kissing you like a starved man, you shoving your tongue down his throat or else. You know you love him but you don’t know if he loves you yet. It’s too much to ask for. Given the circumstances. You’re just glad you found him. And whatever moments you’ll get to share you’ll cherish them now and forever. You start thinking about all these moments while sleep pulled you in completely and you don’t hear Namjoon call your name again. You don’t hear him trying to wake you up. You don’t feel his hands cupping your cheek. You sure as hell don’t even feel his lips peck yours which is the first time in a while now. You don’t feel him undo some buttons and zips to get you off that dress. You don’t even feel the way he tucks you in.

All you now know is you wake up in a blanket nest. Soft blankets against your cheek, your hands, your legs. You sigh at this feeling smiling to yourself. You’re moving and stretching. Feeling like a new person. You’re fully awake now even though you haven’t opened your eyes and that’s when you hear him

“Can you hear me now sleepy head?” you know he’s only teasing you but you pout before opening your eyes to see him at the other side of the room with an amused smile.

“New person who dis” you reply only making him laugh. Namjoon’s shirtless. He’s wearing his dress pants, his blazer hung at the corner neatly next to your dress. And that’s when you realize you’re wearing his shirt while you napped.

“What time is it” you ask yawning. and when Namjoon says you register you’ve napped for three full hours. He makes his way towards you. He slowly climbs on the bed stretching his arm out for you and you waste no time in jumping to his embrace with your new-found energy. Namjoons smiling at that. He can never get used to how perfectly you fit against him. He’s the one sighing in comfort now. Sometimes Namjoon can’t tell if you know that he loves you or not. The way you make him feel. The way you make him crave your heart.

You peek up from his shoulder to look at him, his eyes never leaving you.

“Hi” you whisper smiling at him

“Hii” he replies back matching your hushed tone dimples on display and you can’t help but poke them. From here you can see how versatile Namjoon is. His expressions outside the usual are deadly. His sharp dragon eyes, jutted jaw, furrowed brows he looks dangerous and lethal. But now all you see is a soft dimpled giant with the cutest button nose and crescent eyes. His eyes hold so much warmth.

He gently cards fingers through your hair asking if your feeling better to which you nod. You reach up to peck his lips. And once you slot your lips onto his plush and soft ones you want more. You move your hand to the back of his head lightly carding your fingers through his hair spurring him on. Namjoon takes this incentive and slots his lips back to yours. You look so damn good in his shirt and now his mind is going crazy. Thoughts racing. He tilts your head so he can angle himself better. Little sucks and swipes of his tongue against your lips and mouth have your knees weak. He knows how to claim his jackpot already knows what makes you react and what you like. One hand reached down to knead your ass. You moan against his mouth breathless as you take him in. Lips swollen, luscious and glossy. Your eyes are unrelenting. And he decided it is at this moment, he has to tell you. He fears the worst will happen. That you’ll say no. And he might never get to see you again. Ever. But the way your body molds in his arms, the way you only always react to him, the way you make his heart always beat faster.

“Y/N I really re-really like you” there it was. That slight stutter. To Namjoon each second felt like a minute now but your eyes become wide and yoU smile a million-watt smile a second later. His hopes are back up. A warm feeling in his chest. Like a lightbulb inside him was lit. You can see him glowing. Now that the weight of his worries is halved. You cup his cheeks. And he thaws in your affection.

“I like you too Joon” you say voice barely above a whisper. You feel like a teenager confessing to her crush. You cheeks are painted red and Namjoon hasn’t seen a beautiful sight before. And now it’s actually your turn to get something off your chest.

“Heck I might even love you Kim Namjoon what are you doing to me” you say before you can think more and it has Namjoon visibly gasping and he pulls you in for another kiss. This time softer. Truly holding you against him. The way you belong to him. And the way he belongs to you. No more unsaid words. No more doubts.

“fuck baby girl be mine I love you too” he whispers inbetween kisses. You want to say something back but his lips are back on yours, molding them, tongue exploring. Leaving kisses at the corner of your mouth. On your chin. Your jaw. Slowly making its way down to your neck. You’re already so far gone you’re a whiny mess. Your body jolting backwards each time his lips touch the skin on your neck. fuck, you were so sensitive and that had his mind filled with filth. Moans dripping when he sucks and licks so gently. Your hand on his pecs, gripping his biceps or at the nape of his neck. Gentle touches, gets him so riled up and you know it. Moments with you like this lets him break his facade. Dive into his desires.

“So sensitive for me” Namjoon mutters to himself continuing his ministrations. One hand at the back supporting you, holding you strong. Another rubbing circles at your stomach for a few seconds, then holding you by the shoulder the next few seconds or groping your breasts softly making you whimper and suck in breaths.

Only when he slips his hand under his shirt on you does he realize the added warmth to your skin is from your fever reminding him of exhausted state and whatever you have going on will only make it worse if you don’t get to rest. Namjoon feels how flaccid and sunken your tummy feels. Not the way it usually does. He can easily notice all the inches you’ve lost. And suddenly there’s a change of energy.

“Those assholes, fuck princess let me take care of you” he says letting you go. His eyes have already changed. The hurt and anger you could see in them made a shiver run up your spine. You can never get used to his eyes. The anger he is actually capable of. He’s always so kind, gentle and sweet to you but that’s just one side. Within minutes there’s food at your room. Everything that you like is here. Gimbap but with extra cheese. Kimchi-jigae with egg-fried rice rather than normal rice because you like it that way and even some dessert. This man really put in everything he knew about you. You looked at him with so much adoration it only made his face turn red while he looked down and scratched the back of his head. Kim Namjoon was shy right now all dimples and smiling. You giggled and pulled him towards you so the two of you can enjoy this meal. You don’t know when your phone will start blowing up. You don’t know when you’ll have to leave, go away from Joon, his warmth, his comfort and his solace. So you take in this moment with everything it has to offer. Grateful that even the few minutes you spent awake with this man made you feel loved to the extent where you're always at a loss of words.

divider: @graph1cs

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dangerousconnoisseurdonut · 3 years

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Omega Auction of the Century Preview

@jeromiah and @nostalgic90s proposed a most intriguing idea of Omegas being so rare, they are auctioned off, and Bruce would go for a frankly insane amount as he is the most eligible of Omegas around. This is just the start of an idea, but I have to get ready for work and want to know what people think of it so far!

Bruce couldn’t completely withhold his shudder of fear and revulsion as he heard the second Omega on the auction block went for a cool ten million, upped from the eight million the last one went for, simply because the first one had been a male and this one was a slightly pudgy (but not unattractive) female who came from a family of six, so she had a good chance for being a strong breeder. Oh, but how he and Brooke hated being referred to that way; as if they were cows or horses just waiting for a stud to come along. In school, they had both received a lot of flack from their peers, often being referred to as breeding stock or even whores once (Brooke had broken Grace Van Dhal’s nose when she said that). It was only their parents large donations to the school that they had taught them proper courses at all as many just enrolled Omega’s in more simple math courses, home economics, home estate management courses, and the like. When their parents had died, the school had tried to put them in those courses, thankfully their Uncles Lucius Fox and Ed Nygma, with their Alpha Dr. Leslie Thompkins, had simply pulled them from the school and taught them everything they needed to know.

Sadly, he thought as the third Omega was taken out for the block, it was probably all going to be for naught; rich Alphas and Betas didn’t really care how smart the Omega was so long as they were fertile and not an imbecile as they worried about the child inheriting such a thing (too bad you couldn’t keep stupid Alphas from mating). And, as Bruce was a rare intersex Omega, his fertility was somewhere around 89%, meaning he would probably get pregnant right away when they took him on his birthday and went into Heat. This was one of the reasons he was being saved for last; his high fertility rate combined with his company and his higher than average intelligence made him a very appealing Omega. Combined with the fact his twin sister was also an Omega, Bruce and Brooke could very well break the record for highest auctioned Omega in the United States, possibly all of North America, which was a steep forty million last year when Lex Luthor bought his Omega, a farm boy by the name of Clark Kent. Some people thought he overpaid, until the rumours started circulating that Lex had had a crush on the boy through their high school years, but the boy had largely appeared straight. At least, he thought as the third Omega, a boy that went for only seven million due to him having a scar on his abdomen from when he had needed to have his appendix taken out as well as his sister having had a miscarriage, Lee, Lucius, and Ed would get a large ‘dowry’ for them as the family of the Omega got around 40% of the bid.

As the fourth, and last Omega before them was hauled out, he bemoaned what they were making him and Brooke wear; all Omega’s had to wear very revealing clothes so as to entice the Alphas into spending big bucks on them. They had originally wanted Bruce and Brooke in something not even a prostitute would be caught dead in; some kind of lacy piece that frankly looked more like lingerie than any type of clothing. But, after a few well placed threats from Ed and Lee, what they was wearing was more fit for a rave or rock concert, but at least it wasn’t entirely see-through. They had put him in tight leather pants, a mesh t-shirt that left nothing to the imagination, and Lee had given him his favourite leather jacket to wear. Brooke was wearing some kind of leather halter top the covered her breasts and did nothing else, as well as a short skirt and fishnet stockings and her favourite knee high boots, all covered by her favourite leather duster. Soon though, he heard the last Omega, a beautiful young girl who came from a long line of strong Alphas and other beautiful Omegas, no Betas found in her family tree, even if her family wasn’t that well off, no doubt they would enjoy the 40% of the twenty million she was just sold for. They were soon being ushered onto the stage, and barely managed to hold in his whimpers as all the men and women in the room were looking at them like they were rib-eyes and they were all starving. Brooke had his hand clamped in a death grip as she looked out as well.

“And here we have, Ladies and Gentlemen, saved the best for last; twin Omegas, Bruce and Brooke Wayne! The last of the Wayne’s, they actually score high in mathematics and sciences, Bruce is intersex…” Bruce drowned out the announcer as his and Brooke’s ‘accomplishments’ were listed, and took stock of just who was there, and felt more than a little sick at who he saw; crime bosses like Thorn, Falcone, and Maroni were there (God, but he hoped Maroni didn’t win them as the man had four Omega’s already, and more than one of them had been accidentally photographed with shiners). There were creeps like Hugo Strange, who was rumoured to experiment on Betas, and Kathryn Monroe, who was rumoured to be something of a cult leader. Then, there were just straight up assholes like Roland Daggett, an unscrupulous CEO that was suspected of taking several shortcuts to get what he wanted, their old classmate Brant Jones, and the one who made him the sickest of all; Theo Galavan. Bruce prayed to whatever powers were listening that Galavan didn’t get them as he would no doubt dissolve Wayne Enterprises as he despised the Wayne’s, and it had been all Thomas, and later Lee, could do to keep Galavan away from Bruce and Brooke when they were younger.

“Shall we start the bidding at $500,000? Thank you, Mr. Daggett, that’s $500,000 to start us off.”

“$550,000!”

“You insult the pair, Salvatore! $750,000!” Bruce was pretty sure that was Carmine Falcone, and prayed that either they were going to be the old man’s, or his son Mario, who was said to actually be rather kind, as opposed to the daughter Sofia; word had it the woman was a straight up whack-job.

“You both insult such fine specimens; $1,000,000!” Hugo Strange bid, and Bruce quickly hoped someone outbid the man quickly as he was losing feeling in his hand due to Brooke’s squeezing.

“$1,500,000!” Bruce saw another acquaintance, Tommy Elliot enter the ring, and really hoped he had matured some since he punched his lights out.

“$5,000,000!” Please, God, no was all Bruce could think as Galavan threw his own hat into the ring.

“$6,000,000!” Bruce was both relieved someone outbid Galavan, but also a little disturbed as it was Kathryn Monroe who bid; he had nothing against older women taking younger lovers (he refused to call them cougars as he found it offensive), but it wasn’t really his thing and besides which, while he may be bisexual, he largely swung for his own team.

“$10,000,000!” Bruce looked up at the familiar voice and saw Barbara Kean and her partner Tabitha Galavan had just thrown down a substantial gauntlet, and he wondered why as not only were Barbara and Tabitha lesbians, they had two Omegas already, and one Beta; his friends Ivy Pepper, Bridgit Pike, and Selina Kyle. He figured this way, he would carry the pups and they wouldn’t have to worry about it. They were probably his and Brooke’s best hope as they would be with their friends and while Barbara could be a little intense (and Tabitha was well known for her whip), he didn’t think either woman would be abusive to their Omegas; Selina had certainly never complained about how Bridgit and Ivy were treated.

“$15,000,000!” Daggett came back into the ring with a strong bid, and Bruce was beginning to feel a little sick as he placed his other hand over Bryce, who whispered a sorry into his ear.

“$23,000,000!” Bruce was rather surprised when Fish Mooney threw a bid out as the woman was usually too busy to have much to do with Omegas, but among the crime bosses littering Gotham, she was one of the better ones to be owned by.

“$30,000,000!” Bruce gripped Brooke back as Galavan countered with a number not many would be willing to counter, even for twin Omegas.

“$40,000,000!” Barbara and Tabitha countered, and it seemed like they were in a vacuum as there didn’t seem to be any noise whatsoever. Bruce prayed that it was too much for Galavan to go above his sister as the announcer exclaimed,

“We have $40,000,000! Thank you Miss. Kean and Miss. Galavan! Do I have anymore bids? That’s $40,000,000 for the Wayne twins to Miss. Kean and Miss. Galavan going once! Going Twice! Going Three ti-!”

“$50,000,000!” Bruce was almost certain he or Brooke were going to pass out as they felt the air pressure drop at an unprecedented number, even for a pair of Omegas. He looked out into the audience and saw that many had mentally withdrawn from the battle, and felt his heart sink as he knew not even Barbara and Tabitha would go against such a bid.

“We now have $50,000,000 to Mr. Theo Galavan! That is a new record! Thank you, Mr. Galavan! Do I have anymore bids? Sirs? Ladies? Well, then that is $50,000,000 to Mr. Theo Galavan, going once!” Bruce prayed anyone would outbid Galavan; he would gladly cover the difference if at least his sister was safe, but none raised their hands.

“Going twice!” Bruce felt Brooke clutch his shoulder as her own shook with the realization that no one was going to outbid their worst nightmare.

“Going three times!” Bruce saw Galavan smirk as his dream of destroying the Wayne legacy was about to come to fruition.

“So-”

“$98,316,010.99!” Everyone was stunned and swirled their heads, trying to figure out who had placed such an outlandish (and rather peculiar) bid, only to see a man decked out in a tight leather outfit and completely bald; he didn’t even have eyebrows, but all knew who this man was. Victor Zsasz, one of, if not the most, Gotham’s most deadly assassins, the Penguin’s bodyguard and enforcer; a man not to be trifled with under any circumstances.

“S-sir?” The announcer, who before had been annoyingly enthusiastic about selling off young men and women, was now very scared as the assassin actually walked up on stage with two of his Zsaszette’s as others referred to them, both of whom smiled gently at the frightened Omegas.

“That, is a joint bid from my boss, Oswald Cobblepot, Jervis Tetch, Victor Fries, Jim Gordon, Alfred Pennyworth, and the Valeska twins, Jerome and Jeremiah. They couldn’t decide which one they wanted, so they pooled their resources for the pair of them.” Zsasz explained before he took a good look at the twins and asked,

“Do either of you feel comfortable wearing that?” Bruce shook his head as Brooke whispered,

“No, Mr. Zsasz.”

“OK, we got some clothes in the car you can change into before we leave, make you look less like a pair of hookers and more like a pair of wealthy brats. Unless, of course, someone wishes to bid against the seven most dangerous men in the city?” Zsasz looked out toward the crowd, making eye contact with Galavan in particular, who actually looked to be gearing up to try and outbid the psychopath, when the announcer said,

“Going once, going twice, going thrice, sold! Sold to -”

“Just call them the Legion of Horribles; it’s quite the mouthful otherwise.” Zsasz said as he and his girls checked the pair for any bruising or scars, and somewhat surprised to see a few here and there, but they weren’t abuse scars; these were battle scars.

“Sold to the Legion of Horribles! They just have to do one final check-up and then you can pick them up at the side entrance.”

“Most valuable darlings in the world, and you make them sound like a pair of cheap hookers, nice.” One of the Zsaszette’s complained before the pair were escorted off the stage.

Please tell me what you think of it so far, as there’s a lot more to come!

#Gotham #gotham au #bruce wayne #brooke wayne #abo #victor zsasz

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vln-vibes · 4 years

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Marie Margaret Quinzel AU

Another “What if Marinette was the daughter of ...” AU ft. Dr. Harleen Quinzel aka Harley Quinn.

So Harleen had a one night stand, it wasn’t exactly her thing but it happened and now she was expecting a little bundle of joy.

Does she go look for the father?

No because She’s a Smart Independent Woman who got her Doctorate and doesn’t need a man.

Thus her little sunshine Marie Margaret Quinzel ( named after Mary Ainsworth, a pioneer in childhood attachments , and Margaret Floy Washburn, first woman to get her Ph.D in Psychology) was born.

Harleen made sure to spend time with her daughter and ensure she knew she was safe and protected, she’d seen enough patients with abandonment issues on the job.

She wanted the best for her little sunshine and when the offer came to work for Arkham Asylum with the big raise in her salary and hours she could get off work she agreed.

Sometimes she regrets ever making the decision .

Marie grows up learning to analyze people just like her mama. Harleen knew that she had always been an abnormal child, apathetic and borderline obsessed with learning the small things about people in some ways, it was the reason she was interested in psychology in the first place, but she knew it would prove useful for her daughter in the future.

Then she met him .

The thing that destroyed her mama and one of the few people Marie loathed.

Mr.J

Harleen hadn’t told people about Marie, she knew the people she worked with (both patients and co workers) weren’t exactly the most reliable or stable. She hasn’t even mentioned a thing to him.

She had felt it coming, her falling for Joker and tried stopping herself butbwas infatuated.

She wanted to learn everything about him.

But that made him dangerous.

Harleen wasn’t sure what to do but she decided it would be best to send her baby away with her cousin in Paris, Tom Dupain, who she’d attended the wedding of a few months after Marie was born.

Harleen hadn’t realized it but it was probably the best thing she could have done for her daughter.

Harley did her best to keep contact with her daughter but with all the insanity and her need to please her Puddin’, she suppressed her memories of Dr. Harleen Quinzel and fully immersed herself into the role of his Harlequin doll to the point she forgot she ever had a daughter in the first place.

It wasn’t until Mari sent Her a birthday present that she triggered her memories and completely broke down.

How could she forget her own daughter?

Harley , with the support and love of Ivy and Selena, begins to turn a new leaf. She stops escaping Arkham, she stops working with other villains, she stops working for Joker. It brings concern to the Arkham workers, who end up informing the Big Bad Bat, but there are other inmates, those with children, to have knowing smiles as they look at the work Harley puts in to becoming a better person.

Batman suspects something of her or that’s its a trap by Joker until she confesses that she’s not changing for himself but because she’s trying to be a better person for someone special in she wants back in her life .

Marie misses her mother dearly; she even started doing her hair like her mom’s for this reason. She began to question her aunt and uncle, the kind Dupain-Chengs who treated her like their own daughter and as an equal to Bridgette (She’s even registered as Dupain-Cheng in the school system because of the system’s fault but neither she nor her uncle and aunt found it necessary to go through all the work to change it since it had been years by the time they realize), what happened to her mama once she turned ten. They would change the topic whenever she did but eventually a year later they told her of the things her mama had done; the person she was forced to become by the hands of a monster.

Marie never blamed her mama, she was well aware of her mama’s struggles as a child.

She blamed Joker and wanted nothing more than to see him locked up in the pits of Tartarus.

When Marie turned twelve she was surprised when she came back from school; In the living room was Her Mama along with two women she recognized as Poison Ivy and Catwoman. Harley expected yelling and screaming from her little sunshine, she deserved it after abandoning her, but was reduced to tears as the girl before her just gave her a bone crushing hug.

Since then Harley either visits Marie or Marie visits her in Gotham (She and Tom were both in agreement that they prefer Paris visits over Gotham but Marie deserved to know her roots and would be protected by Rogues but Harley questioned if it would be enough against Joker)

At fourteen Marie Margaret Quinzel became Ladybug, protector of Paris. She definitely did not tell her parents, not her two moms or her psudo-parents, because she didn’t want to stress them further. She also starts her first year of high school by American standards or 3ème in France, and is just overwhelmed by the different personalities and issues these kids have;

Looks at Chloe: “You’ve got mommy and abandonment issues as well as a low-self esteem” Suffice to say Chloe doesn’t bother Marie anymore or tries to make herself small around her. After talking one afternoon she gets Chloe to open up and thus her road to recovery is a go.

Its worse when she meets Adrien and immediately wants to remove him from his home and just wants to wrap him in a blanket burrito. She recognizes the signs of isolation, his child-like view of the world with his naive sense of what friends and school should be like, his abandonment issues as well as inferiority complex.

She basically becomes the class therapist and they love her for it. Marie still wants to be a designer though.

At fifteen Marie Margaret Quinzel was visiting her mother in Gotham, with Kaalki and Tikki at her side of course, and was taking inspiration on the Gotham rooftops when she met a boy.

Definitely older than her but she could feel the waves of anger rolling off of him, she could feel the corrupted magic damaging and controlling his soul.

That was the night she met Jason Peter Todd.

The two start talking and Marinette hears his story, he wasn’t gone enough to attempting to kill children, and when he was done all she said was “You look like you need a hug”

She decides that he needs help, unless they want a blood thirsty criminal on the lose not that Gotham lacks any, and takes him home.

The Sirens did not expect to see Robin come in through the window along with Marie. Everyone knew Joker killed Boy Wonder II

They definitely did not expect him to try and kill Harley because of the Madness, his mind wanting revenge on the Joker. He took out a gun and aimed straight to Harley’s heart, part of him wanted it to be a swift death, but was snapped out of it when Marie jumped in front of her mama and started talking him out of it.

Jason would not kill a child.

Marie is offended since he’s only like two-three years older but her short height and pigtail do not help.

Thus begins Jason Todd’s road to recovery from Pit Madness with the help of the Sirens and Marie, who also learns how to remove any residue magic with the help of Tikki.

Bonus:

When Marie meets Lila: “Oh you’re just a pathological liar with a superiority complex and an Overall Bitch”

“Oh shit the class therapist said that”

Bless the MariBat Discord for the help!

#miraculous ladybug #miraculous #miraculous au #dc #batman #dc au #marinette dupain-cheng #maribat #jason todd #jasonette #eve-valution #another au #Harley Quinn #Harleen Quinzel #Harley deserves better #Marie Margaret Quinzel AU

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heartbeatan · 4 years

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Damned Royalty (Chapter 2)

Return to Chapter 1.

Return to Table of Contents.

Return to Desperado Series.

Return to Jimin Fanfictions.

Return to Masterlist.

Chapter 2

“You don’t have to do this, Y/N,” your father turned to you after the door shut behind the Park’s. “I can make up a story for why you’re not available. Perhaps we can send you abroad for a while…”

“No, no, no. Don’t be silly. I want to take on this job,” you didn’t realize it until you said it – but you really did want the project.

“They’re not good people, sweetie. I didn’t like the way that boy was looking at you either. I’ll call Stanford tomorrow and make up an excuse.”

“Stop, Dad. I can handle myself. And I can handle this account. And like Jimin said, we’re going to be working together in the future anyways – I’d like us to get off on the right foot.”

“I’d rather you not get off on any foot. I’m so sorry for bringing this down upon you.”

“Please, don’t blame yourself. We aren’t doing anything illegal for them anyway – it’s just business. Let’s treat it like any other.”

“Still. If anything comes up or you are uncomfortable in any way, you tell me as soon as possible. Otherwise, you have my full support. Pick whoever you need for your team – even if they’re occupied, I want you to have the best behind you when dealing with the Park’s.”

“Thank-you,” you leaned up on your tiptoes and gave your father a peck on the cheek. “I won’t let you down, I promise. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go research strip clubs and restaurants.” Your father’s mouth fell open, but before he could say anything, you skipped out of his office and headed back down the hall towards yours.

Later that afternoon, you found yourself on the patio of a chic cocktail lounge, surrounded by your friends, your boyfriend and a litter of drinks all here to celebrate your first account and the end of the Friday workday. After a few rounds, you were starting to feel really good, and a little loose lipped as you began revealing the events of the day.

“You mean, Park’s as in Stanford? Jimin?” your friend, Kijung, awed.

“Yes,” you nodded as you took another sip of your martini. “You’ve heard of them, then?”

“Of-fucking-course I’ve heard of them. They do business with my uncle.”

“Well, apparently they do business with me now.”

“This is insane, Y/N,” said your boyfriend, Jinhyun. “I don’t like you around those types of people.”

“Your mother deals with those types of people, Jinhyun, why shouldn’t I?” you fired back.

“Because, you’re my girl,” he cuddled up next to you. “I don’t want my girl to be in any danger.” He was trying to be cute, but between him and your father this afternoon, you were becoming irritated of everyone trying to shelter and coddle you. It’s probably why your father liked Jinhyun so much. Plus, he came from old-wealth, he was Ivy League educated and enroute to taking over his mothers business when she finally retired. Your match couldn’t get any better for either families. “You don’t know what these people can be like.”

His last remark cut you like a knife. So, that’s what this was about. He thought you were too naïve and too incompetent. Liquid courage behind you, you snapped. “You just don’t think I can handle it!”

Jinhyun’s face dropped. You rarely, if ever, became cross with him.

“No, babe, that’s not it. I think you can handle anything you put your mind to,” he patted your head.

Ugh. Now he’s patronizing me, you grimaced internally. However, you really weren’t in the mood for a fight. Especially not in front of a crowd, nor on an evening when you were flying high. So, instead, you let if go, softened your eyes and smiled back. “Thank-you.”

“But… while we’re on the topic… I mean… have you ever even been to a strip club before?” he continued. You obviously let him off the hook too easily.

“Well… no… but what’s that got to do with it? I’m not running the place.”

“I just think you would benefit from having someone experienced in your corner. Someone who knows what the difference is between a Brass Monkey and an Iron X.” The table erupted into a fit of laughter, Jinhyun’s boisterous voice leading the decibels. It was almost obnoxious sounding to your ears given your current state of annoyance. But they were right. Restaurants you knew, but strip clubs you didn’t. You looked down to your half-full drink and bit your tongue. Perhaps tonight was the night to change that.

“Fine,” you said as you grabbed your drink in your fist and downed the rest of the liquor in a few short gulps. “Let’s go to a strip club then,” you smacked the glass back down on the table and stood up. Jinhyun and a few others chuckled, but when Jinhyun met your glare, he saw that you weren’t laughing.

“Wait… you’re serious?”

“Yes, I’m serious. Let’s go. I know just the place.”

“Well…” Jinhyun brought his drink to his lips and skewed his face. “Let’s go then.”

A cab ride and a few bucks later, you arrived in Guri and pulled up to the curb beside a neon sign that read ‘The Red Palace.’ Your friends giggled their way out of the cab and Jinhyun threw his arm around you as you strutted towards the door.

You weren’t particularly surprised by the club. The hall leading to the coat check was long, dark with walls painted red and black. You could hear the bass pumping through the corridor that led to the main area. When you passed the velvet curtain and into the lounge, you were greeted by half naked women and the fully drunk men that ogled them from their seats. Jinhyun guided you to a table near the front of the stage, wanting to be sure you got the full experience. He was having a bit too much fun trying to introduce his girlfriend to the big bad world for which he seemed to think he was somehow apart of.

An hour in, your party was well beyond the two-drink-minimum. Jinhyun and some of your other friends, as they often did when they were drunk, started flashing around their black cards and soon you found yourself in a VIP booth on the balcony with several full bottles of liquor and mix, as well several dancers clearly looking to make some cash. One dancer cozied herself up next to you and began chatting your ear off – she was nice, but she was clearly hoping to sell you a lap dance. She laughed a little too hard at your terrible jokes for her to not be. Overall, however, as awkward a place you found the club to be, you were having a remarkably good time. You almost forgot that you had come here for the sake of work.

Your eyes scanned the room – at the stage, the booths, the tables, the bar – until a door across from you swung open and a set of black suits strutted through it and onto the balcony. Your heart skipped a beat. You recognized the men immediately – they were the security the Park’s had with them early this morning. You stretched your neck, trying to peer behind them, looking for… him… and there he was. Tall, lean with that mop of honey-blonde hair visible under the club lights. Jimin was here.

You weren’t the only one to notice him. Several of the dancers crowding your table took notice of him as well, including the one you were speaking to.

“That’s my boss,” she said to you, noticing your gaze as Jimin took a seat at an adjacent booth. “He’s handsome, isn’t he.”

“Yeah,” you replied haphazardly. “I met him this morning, actually.”

“Really?” she replied. You nodded and took another sip of your drink.

“Do you know him well?”

“Hmm,” she took a sip of her drink. “I know enough about him I suppose.”

“I hear a lot of rumours about him,” your gaze drifted back to Jimin. He was now joined by two beautiful women sitting comfortably under each of his arms. They were too covered up to be strippers, but not covered up enough to not be strippers either. “Are any of them true?”

“What have you heard?”

“That he’s dangerous.”

“He can be,” she nodded. “He is a gangster after all.”

“I heard he likes to tie up and torture those who cross him.”

“I can’t say I’ve seen that for myself.”

“So, it’s not true?”

“Oh, I didn’t say that,” she smirked knowingly.

You looked back towards Jimin. He had loosened his tie and now had a beer in is hand as he watched the room. It didn’t seem as if he had noticed you yet. Should you go say hello? Would it be weird if you didn’t? Perhaps this was a terrible idea and you should just leave. However, as if summoned by your thoughts, Jimin’s gaze snapped over to meet yours staring at him, and your eyes locked.

“Is that him, babe?” you were startled by Jinhyun leaning over your shoulder to shout drunkenly into your ear.

“Yes,” you shouted back and nodded.

“Why don’t we go say hi?”

“No, it’s all good.” Honestly, you didn’t want or need Jinhyun – especially in this state – accompanying you to meet your client. You turned your gaze back towards Jimin. He was still watching you – even though this time he had a woman nibbling on his ear – he watched you just the way he had back in the meeting. You raised your glass and gave him a nod. It was the least you could do at the moment.

“He definitely likes his women,” you scoffed back to your new stripper friend. She smiled.

“Women… I don’t know about that. But he definitely likes his sex.”

“Oh? What do you mean?”

“Well… let’s just say his kink doesn’t only include tying up people who cross him in the boardroom,” she winked.

“Oh? Ohhhhh!” it took you a moment to understand her meaning. She laughed as she watched the information click.

“You’re just so cute,” she awed at you. You scrunched your nose. “What? You don’t like that I think you’re cute?”

“It’s just like the umpteenth time someone has described me like that today. I’m starting to think I need to make some changes in my life.”

“Well… why not start now? Get a little crazy,” she cocked her eyebrow at you. “What do you say?”

“What did you have in mind?”

“Give me a bill,” she stuck out her hand. For a moment you were offended, thinking you had been played for cash – which, granted you kinda were – but, still intrigued (and perhaps feeling a little guilty you had taken up so much of her time) you reached into your purse and pulled out a crisp $100 bill. “Now, follow me,” she said as she grabbed your hand.

You slid from the booth and followed her downstairs. You ignored the stunned gazes of your boyfriend, of your friends, of Jimin as you strode passed them. Whatever was happening, your plan was already working. Soon, you found yourself standing on the stage in the middle of the room, with the dancer next to you.

“Lie down,” she whispered sensually in your ear as she wound her hands around your waist, putting on a show for the establishment’s patrons.

“On the floor?” you asked out the side of your mouth – a thousand infectious diseases running through your mind.

“Yes,” she took your face in your hands, and brought her lips close to yours as if she was going to kiss you. She then gave a kick to your ankle and your knee buckled slightly. It was enough for her to invade your space and guide you slowly onto the stage floor. Then, suddenly, she was on top of you, straddling your hips, brushing her hair back sexily with her hands, her face mimicking a state of arousal. She then reached down and stuck the $100 into your mouth. Once again, a thousand infectious diseases ran through your mind, but you were stuck now. You heard a cheer coming from above. You looked up to the balcony where you could see your friends practically falling over the railing as they watched you, hooted and cheered you on.

The dancer began to slither her way up and down your body, rolling her waist, her hips, her neck as she used you as a replacement for a pole. The cheers became louder as the patrons sitting around the stage began to get into the show as well. You were beginning to enjoy yourself, enjoy the attention, and – you weren’t going to lie – you were kind of turned on by the whole situation.

“C’mon, darling, help me put on a show,” she said to you. “Sell the story.”

Your heartbeat hard at the idea. You looked back up to the balcony, unsure of what to do. You scanned the faces of Jinhyun and your friends, and the salacious grins they had for you. What would they do right now? Then you looked past them, and you locked on that pair of eyes still on you. Jimin. He was still watching you. He had leaned forward in his seat so he could peer down at you. His gaze, again, was so intense – like he was hungry and in need. He was watching the show. He was enjoying the show. And something inside of you wanted to put on a show for him.

In an instant, without thinking, you threaded your hands through your hair, closed your eyes and arched your back off the floor – the way you did when sex felt really, really good. Your toes curled, and your body pulled taunt, and you let out a little moan.

“That’s it,” said the dancer. She braided her fingers between yours then pinned your hands above your head as she began gyrating over you even more. “It’s just like having sex.”

She stoked her hands down your arms, your sides and across your belly. It was so erotic, you couldn’t imagine Jinhyun ever treating you so well. Then, after a few more minutes of this debauchery, she leaned her face down to yours again, and with her teeth, pulled the bill slowly from your lips.

When the show was over, she pulled you up from the stage and made you take a bow to the crowd. Adrenaline and excitement coursing through your veins, you practically ran off the stage and made your way back upstairs towards the booth.

When you reached the top of the stairs, you were greeted by a woman. It was the woman who had been canoodling with Jimin in his booth.

“He wants to see you,” was all she said before she turned on her heels and walked off. Stunned for a minute, you didn’t follow her right away, but soon, without thinking, your feet began to move.

What does he want? Your limbs began to tremble at the possibilities. Would he be upset that you were here? Would he scold you for being unprofessional in the middle of his establishment?

When you arrived at the booth, you found it empty, save for Jimin seated comfortably in it. You smiled meekly at him and bowed.

“Have a seat,” he replied cooly, gesturing to the space beside him. You obeyed, slipping yourself into the booth. He watched you as you did. You could once again feel his hot gaze burning into your head.

“It’s nice to see you again,” you smiled at him.

“Why are you here?” he asked.

“Well…” you began, but you weren’t entirely sure of the answer. “Research. I don’t know much about strip clubs. Now that’s we’ll be working together, I thought it’d be smart to get a taste of your world.”

“And, how is that world looking, princess?” You were a bit taken aback by the nickname. Princess? Was that what he thought of you. The princess to a business conglomerate and nothing more, the way the others saw you.

“You don’t like that I call you that?” if pried, able to see how you cringed.

“I’m just realizing that I have a reputation.”

“And what reputation is that?” he reached across your body to grab a bottle of vermouth. You froze stiff. For a moment, he was in your space – just for a moment - but you could have sworn that for that moment his body heat was warming your skin. He then began to pour the clear liquid into a martini glass. He swirled it around the glass then with a flick of his wrist discarded the alcohol over his shoulder and onto the floor. He then reached for a bottle of gin and poured its contents into the glass. To top it off, he picked up a piece of lemon, spritzing its juices into the glass. When he was done, he handed the martini to you.

“An aviation martini,” you smiled at him. “Very classy.” You took a sip and did your best not to choke on the pure liquor.

Jimin turned his body to face yours and placed his arm across the back. He was only inches from you now, and it set your senses ablaze. “What is this reputation that you have.”

“I guess that I’m too much of a good girl,” you made air quotes with your fingers. “That I’m only as good as my fathers name.”

“I assure you, I think that you are far more than just your fathers name.” There was something about the way he said it, or perhaps the way his eyes raked your body as he said it, that sent shivers down your spine. Not in fear, however… something else. “But are you?”

“Am I what?”

“A good girl?”

You looked back at him. He was stoic, and he watched you intently as he waited for your answer. He wasn’t, but he felt as if he was still in your space. Your eyes flitted down to his lips, then back up to that strong stare of his.

“I think I am,” you whispered.

“Is that a problem?” You felt his fingers suddenly against your cheek as he pulled a flyaway strand off your face and tucked it behind your ear. Your breath began to shorten and your heart began to pound. There was just something about him.

“I… I guess I just don’t want to be anymore.”

“Good,” he whispered back, and you felt a flutter deep in your gut. What was happening? Where you… flirting? Flirting with another man? A dangerous man? In front of your boyfriend? This couldn’t be happening.

“Jimin.”

“Yes, princess.”

“What’s a brass monkey?”

#bts smut #jimin imagine #jimin smut #jimin x y/n #jimin x reader

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satelliteinasupernova · 4 years

Text

...there are so many more characters in riverda- okay, fine, let’s go. Limiting this to regular or frequent characters. All possible incest ships or adult/teen ships are excluded, they are all an F.

UNDER THE CUT:

Betty/Veronica: A+ and the only ship that I would abandon Bughead for if it was made canon

Jughead/Archie: C, a perfectly acceptable ship

Veronica/Jughead: E, I get the appeal, but the gay core four ships ARE RIGHT THERE

Betty/Archie: F, just no

Veronica/Cheryl: A, absolutely here for it

Jughead/Cheryl: E, apparently this was popular back in season one?

Archie/Cheryl: E, I mean, now that Cheryl has been specified as a lesbian by word of god (as it were), I’m not really here for any Cheryl/dude ships. Their interactions were kind of cute in season 1 tho.

Cheryl/Josie: D, could have been cute, but Josie deserves better.

Josie/Betty: D Josie would have zero interest lmao.

Josie/Veronica: B, I mean. yeah.

Josie/Jughead: E LOL.

Toni/Betty: A YES, JUST LET ME LAY HERE FOREVER

Toni/Veronica: A EQUALLY GOOD

Toni/Jughead: C is it canon or non-canon if they kissed but it didn’t go anywhere. Anyway, in a world where I didn’t have other options, I could be into it. They are better as friends imo

Toni/Archie: D, I could be persuaded, maybe.

Toni/Josie: A, hell yes.

Kevin/Archie: B, love to see it

Kevin/Jughead: D, uhhhh. give me some Jughead and Kevin friendship first and maybe I’d rate this higher.

Kevin/Reggie: C, sure?

Betty/Reggie: D, I know this is a comics thing, but naw

Archie/Reggie: A, absolutely.

Jughead/Reggie: D, I don’t see it.

Cheryl/Reggie: E, we’ve been over Cheryl and dude ships. I’m excluding her from future possible matches with dudes. We’re mostly done with season one dudes anyway.

Moose/Archie: C, I feel like they both have options that would interest them more.

Moose/Betty: D, no

Moose/Veronica: E, I don’t see her dating Kevin’s crush/ex

Moose/Jughead: C, I didn’t think I would!! but somehow he’s one of Jughead’s more viable gay options to me.

Moose/Reggie: A, they are forever, man.

Munroe/Archie: A, absolutely, 100%

Munroe/Reggie: A, yeah, let’s go

Munroe/Kevin: B look, WHY NOT. Have they spoken to each other? probably not?

Munroe/Betty: D, do they know each other.

Munroe/Veronica: C, sure

Munroe/Jughead: D, no wait C, just because I’d want to know what they’d bond over.

Munroe/Moose: C, yeah. sure

Ethel .when will this end?

Ethel/Betty: C, the real friends to enemies to lovers ship

Ethel/Veronica: B, they had their moments in season one

Ethel/Archie: C, you know, I was about to say no, but then I started to think about it, and they would be pretty cute.

Ethel/Jughead: D, shrug. no hate for it, but not interested either.

Ethel/Cheryl: D, this feels very oil and water to me, just cannot mix

Ethel/Toni: C, why not, I could see it.

Ethel/Josie: D, um?

Ethel/Reggie: D I don’t know

Ethel/Moose: C sure?

Ethel/Munroe: C why not

Ethel/Dilton: B this wasn’t canon right? I don’t remember. oh god does this mean I have to do Dilton too?

Dilton/Archie: C idk, I’ve seen their friendship be cute in fic before.

Dilton/Betty: D, she has other nerds she could date AND NO I’m NOT putting TREVOR ON THIS LIST I HATE THAT I KEEP THINKING OF NEW PEOPLE

Dilton/Veronica: D, I imagine they don’t particularly like each other.

Dilton/Jughead: C, a solid ship

Dilton/Cheryl: D, despite being a cute comics staple, as said previously, no Cheryl/dude ships for riverdale

Dilton/ALL OTHER LISTED CHARACTERS: D, let’s move on.

Sweet Pea/Archie: B, LOL only because it would be fun

Sweet Pea/Veronica: B, I’ve read good fic for it

Sweet Pea/Betty: D, I am unconvinced

Sweet Pea/Jughead: C, I don’t hate it, but what would they even do, scowl at each other all the time?

Sweet Pea/Toni: C, though their dynamic confuses me

Sweet Pea/Ethel: B It’d be cute, I must admit.

Sweet Pea/Fangs: B, love em.

Sweet Pea/Kevin: C, that’d be a twist.

Sweet Pea/Reggie: D, too many fics have written them as relatives, I can’t

Sweet Pea/Munroe: D, Munroe has too much sense

Fangs/Archie: C, I mean it’s fine, but an odd choice.

Fangs/Betty: D, not interested, but I’d love to see them as friends.

Fangs/Veronica: C, I’m not NOT into it

Fangs/Jughead: B, yeah, it’s cute. I love Fangs.

Fangs/Toni: D, they give me the vibe of two bisexuals who bond about who they are attracted to, but aren’t into each other.

Fangs/Reggie: D, I could maybe be convinced, but I can’t imagine it as is

Fangs/Munroe: B, okay, wouldn’t they be sweet together though.

Fangs/Josie: E, Fangs would never hurt Sweet Pea that way.

Fangs/Moose: E I’m not saying high school gays aren’t messy, and it’s a small town, but no, I don’t think so.

I’m sure I’ve forgotten some combination, but MOVING ON.

to the Adults. why am i doing this

SHIT. NO WAIT. I forgot some important people.

Donna/Betty: A ..sometimes a w|w enemies to lovers ship just grabs you, you know?

Donna/Veronica: B .... it would also be pretty hot

Donna/Archie: D, it’d be like that scene of Betty threateningly watching Archie from her window, but it’d be all the time.

Donna/Jughead: D. please.

Donna/Cheryl: A, galaxy brain.

Donna/Toni: E, Toni needs someone who will treat her right, and I will accept no less.

Donna/Bret: D, they are like the evil, white version of Toni and Fangs(see above)

Donna/ Everyone else: D, oh wait no. one more

Donna/Ethel: C. Please, just take a moment to imagine this with me. Getting some real Poison Ivy/Harley Quinn vibes here honestly.

Bret/Archie: C why don’t I hate this.

Bret/Betty: F No. and while we’re at it, any variation of Bret being attracted to Betty counts here too. Has he ever hated and been disgusted by a person more.

Bret/Veronica: E No.

Bret/Jughead: E No. but as we all know, Bret is 100% into Jughead.

Bret/Toni: E No. why am I even doing Bret/women ships

Bret/Reggie: E This is fascinating, but no. Reggie deserves much better.

Bret/Moose: F. Absolutely not.

Bret/Sweet Pea: E No.

Bret/Fangs: E No.

Bret/Munroe: F Stay away from him

okay is that.. is that over?

do I still have to do the adults...

BONUS SUPER QUICK ROUND. ADULTS.

Fred/FP: A, a quality ship

Fred/Hiram: D, it would be a fascinating world where this existed.

Fred/Alice: D wait, does THIS count as canon?

Alice/Hermione: C eh

Alice/Hiram: D uuuuh

Alice/Mary: C, the Donna/Betty ship, as it were.

Hermione/FP: C, they had interesting chemistry!

Hermione/Mary: C, why the hell not

Hiram/Mary: C okay, hear me out. Can you imagine the courtroom drama romance.

Hiram/FP: C, okay I really can imagine a world where this existed.

Gladys/Alice: A ... look, I’m only human.

Gladys/Hermione: A ORGANIZED CRIME WIVES

Gladys/Mary: C even I will admit this one is a stretch.

Gladys/Dudes: D. Boring.

Hal/EVERYONE: F

ALRIGHT I’M DONE, I WILL NOT LET MYSELF THINK OF ANY MORE SHIPS. Yes I just realized I didn’t do Sierra, Penelope, or Tom BUT I’M SORRY THIS MUST END.

Thank you for reading.

#if anyone reads all of this thank you #this ones for you #portrait of a blogger slowly unwraveling #ask meme

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nitholites · 4 years

Text

Assuming someone in the BatFam is the end game:

It's been only a week or so since Tony figured out who Ladybug is

She's captured everyone's hearts, but has to go to Gotham soon

For help, but also because of her internship

The Stark Gala becomes a 'you better live and come back one day, Mari or I STG' party, hosted by Tony Stark, of course

She makes all the outfits of the Starks, her parents, herself, Jagged, Penny, Luka, and Kagami (the last two friends minus Chloe from Paris) and she makes extra in case someone has a wardrobe malfunction

Meanwhile, the Waynes have heard a lot about the newest Stark: MDC

Tim is a fanboy. He's found everything related to his favorite rock star's designer/niece there is to find ("I'm not obsessed! They're just super talented, and I'd like something from them! Stop laughing at me, Dick!")

Dick has no room to tease him, as both him and Jason are pretty much in the same boat

Kor'i and Mar'i love MDC, as well

Every one of the Bats are huge Jagged Stone fans

Like... Nearly rabid

(Damian, Bruce, and Alfred redact that statement)

They're invited to Tony's gala thing (he only started it to surpass the Wayne Gala, like the Lil Shite he is)

The night of the party, only Bruce and Jason go, since the rest of the bats are busy

Bruce, Jagged (who brought Fang), and Tony are all chatting in the middle of the floor, 2/3rds of the group are just talking up Marinette

Jason, meanwhile, accidentally runs into this small, adorable child who proceeds to spill her punch all over his suit

He insists it's fine, but she won't take 'no' for an answer ("I am so sorry, please let me make it up to you" "Kid, it's fine, accidents happen" "No, seriously, let me help")

There's a look in her eyes that insists she do something, and he eventually agrees

Cue to Marinette having a suit jacket that matches and fits Jason because "You look like you're the same build as Mr. Stark (she's all for joining Peter in calling Tony 'Mr. Stark' to get under his skin)"

"you know Tony?"

She shrugs, and doesn't comment anymore on it

"give me your address, and I'll bring this back when it's clean again. I'm moving to Gotham for a while soon, anyway"

He does, she doesn't realize he's a Wayne, and they part when the party ends

Cue the entire BatFam sprinting into Jason's room, chasing after a full on scream

Like, they didn't know Jason's voice could get "so high and squeaky, what the hecc?"

They pause as they see Jason litterally jumping up and down

"What the hell, Todd."

Instead of answering, he shoves the jacket in Tim's face with a shite-eating grin

It takes a moment, but Tim scowls and pulls out his wallet

When the rest of the family only look confused, Tim sighs and explains

"He got an MDC original first."

"...you had a bet on that?"

Jason freezes, eyes widening

"HOLY SH*T, I MET THE MDC! SHE WAS SO TINY, OH MY GOD, BATS, WE HAVE TO ADOPT HER!"

They're confused for a solid minute

"YOU DONT UNDERSTAND SHES AN ANGEL AND HAS BLACK HAIR AND BLUE EYES!! SHE'S OBVIOUSLY A WAYNE!"

It takes all of Bruce's willpower not to adopt her on the spot when she visits them

Like, he almost brings up adoption papers

But he knows Stark would fight tooth and nail to keep this baby

So he restrains himself

(for now)

(he swears if one of his children doesn't marry her, he's bringing the adoption papers to court)

She doesn't stay long, only meeting all the Waynes at the house and going back to her hotel

The next day, a villain goes after Mar'i, near the park/mall/something Marinette is by

Instead of becoming Ladybug, she heccin kicks arse

As Marinette

She gets both her and Mar'i out of danger without a scratch using a yo-yo of all things and meets Batman and Robin as they clean up the rest

She's all like "no, it's alright, I'm sure anyone would do the same please stop thanking me, my family's gonna kick my ass to next year for scaring them like this"

Bats comes up and takes her statement, and she happens to mention the situation in Paris

"oh, this was nothing compared to some of the Akuma I've faced" "What's an akuma?" She paled, eyes widening in shock. "You don't know? About Ladybug, Chat Noir, Ryuuko, Viperion, Queen Bee, Red Wasp, Multimouse, Hawkmoth, Mayura, Carapace, Rena Rouge, and all them?"

She explains a little, giving basic information everyone knew, then shows him the app she made a while ago

The Akuma Alert app that held much more than just akuma-related things

She leaves soon after, and Batman has a goal in mind

Within the day, Diana is furious at the lack of response towards the Paris situation

"This Ladybug was left alone for all this time?! Shame on you all, leaving my mother's successor alone!"

When Ladybug is later spotted (hehe, get it?) in Gotham, the entire BatFam finds her and gets her in touch with the League

She explains how she asked both the League and the Avengers for help, all those years ago, and was pushed aside with warnings not to send in prank calls anymore

Of course, Iron Man has already looked into it, but he's not exactly a detective and the more brains on this, the better

Meanwhile, as civilians...

The normal shipping stuff happens

With the exception that nearly every criminal in Gotham low-key adopts Marinette

They may think she's the next Wayne, but the Angel of Gotham is off limits

And not because the little Wayne chases after anyone who even looks at her wrong with a katana

Not just as Robin. As Damian

Marinette actually meets a few villains on the street

She was going to a commission, carrying some hero, vigilante, and villain themed macaroons when she got lost

(before meeting the Waynes officially, actually)

She was in a park, looking lost when Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn came up

She offered treats, and ever since she's the Angel of Gotham

Once, when on a date with her romantic interest, Killer Croc tried taking the restaurant hostage after robbing a bank

Key word: tried

Marinette calmly slipped behind him, grabbed his tail, and dragged his butt outta there

(he blames the fast French girl and the tile on the floor, which didn't let him get a good grip)

By the time Bats and the police got there, Croc was in tears as this tiny French girl lectured him about manners and interrupting dates

(the BatFam can't think of a funnier time)

When the Joker actually kidnaps her as a way to get to Batman, literally everyone rages a rescue mission

Harley, Poison Ivy, Mr. Freeze (Marinette reminds him of the daughter he's always wanted, with his frozen wife), Two-Face (Marinette talked philosophy with him, showing him he still had choices beyond the black and white), Killer Crock (who was impressed by the tiny French girl who threw him out of a restaurant by his tail that one time), Batman, Robin, the Teen Titans, Red Hood, Red Robin, Wonder Woman (she could feel Tikki's influence on Marinette and guessed her identity), Nightwing, all the Avengers, Red Wasp (Chloe, with the Bee Miraculous because she earned it back ages ago), Sabine (no one messed with her baby. No one), a teenage boy wielding a potato gun (who let this kid here?), Pepper, Penny (the two women were fast friends, bonding over their husbands' eccentric ways), Jagged with Fang, Audrey Bourgeois, and the entire police force storm the Joker's hideout

He didn't have a chance

Later, they admit it was kinda funny watching the small Sabine beating the crap out of the deranged clown

Fang, who was usually a puppy with scales, didn't hesitate to bite off the Joker's hand, reminiscent of Captain Hook and the Croc

Marinette's fine (or not, depending on how much angst you want in the story. It's easy to have her tourtured and nearly killed in the Joker's clutches {or actually killed and focused on angst from everyone who knew her [possible heavy Lila/class salt]} and see her move past her PTSD) and she gets home eventually

Around this time, she's made the Guardian of the Miraculous

She eventually goes back to Paris with her huge family (or everyone she thinks could keep their emotions in check)

They kick Gabriel's arse, but Adrien gets away with his mother (who was healed by Ladybug)

Possible second book

Marinette's ship becomes the Black Cat

Time skip, fiveish years later, some of Marinette's classmates see her for the first time since she left

They insult and sass her, not changed since school

Her S/O scowls and debunks them easily, defending Marinette

When they don't stop, Marinette's S/O calls Bruce, Tony, Jagged, and the rest of the League and the Avengers to destroy the morons in the class because they know how long they've waited for this moment

Mari puts her head in her hands, but doesn't stop them because she knows how long they've waited for this moment

Three hours later, the speeches and lectures aren't done yet

Lila eventually goes to Gotham or wherever Marinette is, and tries to warn the person on her arm about Marinette's 'bulling tendencies'

That gets another lecture

Or, her class gets a tour at either SI or WE, depending on when in the story you write it (could be both, and the class just doesn't learn or Tony, Pepper, and their kids were visiting WE to talk about Mari Protection Measures when they overhear it)

Lila goes off on how Mari's S/O is actually Lila's, or how she's BFFS with Batman/Iron Man/ Bruce Wayne and his kids/ Tony Stark and his kids/ the Avengers/ the Justice League

Cue the class seeing Mari

Instant bullying

The resident children and billionaire steps up, insulting and embarrassing the class while defending Mari

Lila tries to turn it around, but they're having none of that

First the kids jump at the chance to defend their little sister and/or girlfriend, then the big guns show up

At WE, it's Bruce, a highly protective Jason, and Tim, who has every single sin/mean thing/lie pulled up in a folder

It's thicker than his hand, and hard to hold

It's both in digital and physical form and sent to every single member of Mari's family- blood related or not

At SI, it's Tony and Pepper

FRIDAY steps up, too

Harley shoots Lila with the potato gun mk 3 until she leaves

The class don't know what they did wrong, but they swear to make it up just to get the scary CEOs and relatives

Also, if anyone knows the AU where Marinette was a street kid with Jason and his little sister (I can't remember who made it or what it was called, but I fell in l o v e), that could work with this one too. Jason would be so proud of his Lil sister being so famous and awesome and "how dare you let me think you were dead!! Do you have any idea how worried I was?!" "I made you worried?! You up and nearly got killed last I checked!"

Jason swore not to tell her he actually died once. He prays she never finds out.

@tired-butterfly @evil-elf16 @doggiediva13 @krispydefendorpolice @mochegato @legallyspawned @kryptored

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nuggets-and-french-fries · 4 years

Text

Taking Chances: Chapter Eight.

Note: I want to say an absolute huge thank you to @cilldaracailin @softeggsy and @hitmeonmytspot for helping me with this chapter.

I hope that you all enjoy this!

===

A few days later, Taron was doing better and that was all thanks to Tina and her willingness to stay with him and Mikey.

It had been hard for Taron to let his family in after everything, but if the last few days had taught him anything, it was that he had to let people in and that it was ok to accept help when you needed it and boy did he help.

The man had asked his mother to take Mikey to school while he went to finally visit his in-laws. To say that he was nervous was an understatement. He hadn’t seen her parents since Kate died because it was simply too hard.

Today was the day for change, not only for his sake but for Mikey’s as well.

“It’s good to see you my boy. It’s been far too long.” Dave said as he opened the front door to see his son-in-law.

Dave gave Taron a hug and pat his back.

“Something smells good.” Taron said nervously as they broke apart.

“Jennifer’s been baking all morning. She wanted to have morning tea all ready for when you arrived.” Dave said, walking into the kitchen with Taron behind him.

“Look who's here.” Dave announced.

Taron stood in the doorway with his hands nervously tucked into his pockets, not knowing how the woman would react after all these years

Jennifer turned around and warmly embraced her son-in-law.

“Don’t look so scared. Come give me a hug.” She said, holding her arms out ready for the embrace she was so eager for.

“I’m so sorry for everything.” Taron apologized as his voice cracked.

“No need to be sorry. I can’t imagine how hard it was but I do wish that you had called us more often. We’ve missed out on our grandson growing up.” Jennifer replied as she broke the hug.

She could see the tears in his eyes.

“Oh my dear boy. I’ve missed you.” She said, embracing him one last time.

“I’ve missed you.” Taron replied.

The adults visited for a while before Jennifer decided to go and get a couple things that she knew Kate would want Taron and Mikey to have.

“Thank you for coming and thank you for the pictures of our grandbaby. He’s one beautiful kid and that’s all thanks to you.” Dave said as he pat Taron’s shoulder.

“Thank you for allowing me to marry Kate.” Taron responded with a small smile.

“It was clear to us that the both of you were so in love. She chose well, just as we knew she would.” Dave answered.

Jennifer soon rejoined the men and presented Taron with boxes made special by Kate.

“Thank you for everything today, I really do appreciate it all.” Taron thanked, giving his in-laws a hug each before heading back to the car.

Two hours later, Nicola was sitting in her car trying to think of what to get Taron as an apology for treating him so poorly.

“What do I get for him!” Nicola groaned out loud.

“KFC’s always a good choice.” Kate said from the backseat.

Nicola hit her steering wheel a couple times before agreeing with her inner voice and went to KFC.

“At a girl.” Kate praised with a wide smile.

It didn’t take Nicola long to get everything she needed for the apology but then it dawned on her, where in the actual hell did this man live?

Just as she stepped out of the food place, two women walked past her talking about a house with blossoming rain lilies out front.

“They were always my favorite.” Kate replied.

Nicola smiled to herself. She remembered driving past that house once as she took a shortcut to work one morning.

“He’s not long home but he’d appreciate the chicken. Save him from almost burning the house down again.” Kate giggled.

Because there was hardly any traffic, Nicola made it to the house quicker than she thought she would.

“Here goes nothing.” She said as she set the food down and knocked on the door.

Nicola took a step back and waited for an answer.

“Can I-” Taron began before realizing that no one was there.

As he went to close the door, a gentle breeze picked up and rustled the plastic bag.

Taron looked down and saw the take away bag.

He smiled to himself as he bent down to grab the food.

“Thanks mam.” Taron said, loud enough for Nicola to hear.

She coyly stepped forward and Taron’s smile immediately fell from his face.

“Before you say anything, please hear me out?” She asked, nervously fiddling with her fingers.

Taron could hear the genuine tone in her voice.

“I was making tea.” He replied.

Nicola shrugged.

“No, it’s ok. I don’t want to interrupt. I just wanted to drop that off as an apology for how I’ve treated you.” The woman responded.

Taron nodded friendly.

“Come in.” He said, standing to the side.

The woman slowly walked into the house and stood in the entryway awkwardly. “Ok.” She said.

“Can I take your jacket?” Taron asked as he came back from the kitchen.

“Yeah s-sure.” Nicola stuttered.

Taron hung up her jacket and led her to the living room.

“I’ll be back with the tea.” He said.

Nicola smiled in response.

“Take a seat, I’ll only be a minute.” He continued before walking away.

Sitting down, Nicola felt nervous and on edge, not knowing what his response would be to what she had to say.

She wanted to offer her help but with not knowing his name and knowing that the name Taz pissed him off, Nicola decided it was best if she just stayed quiet and tried to get her thoughts in order before he came back.

“Thank you for being willing to hear me out. I really do appreciate it.” Nicola said as Taron placed the tray of tea down on the coffee table.

He gave Nicola a tight lipped smile.

“Be strong Nicola, you’ve got this.” Kate whispered as she watched from the other end of the room.

“How do you take your tea?” Taron asked as he doctored up his own cup.

“Same as you.” She said with a smile.

When he was done making up her tea, he passed her a cup and sat down.

“So, the real reason I came here was to hopefully start over.” Nicola admitted.

“Go on.” Taron said, waiting for her to continue.

“Can I be honest with you?” Nicola questioned.

Taron shrugged defensively.

“You were right, I have been a bitch but-” She began before Taron rolled his eyes.

“There’s always an excuse, isn't there?” He sassed.

Nicola looked down and bit her lower lip.

“I know there isn’t a reason for you to believe anything I say, but I’m trying to explain myself. I know that I was awful.” Nicola replied, looking up at him.

“The first time I met you, I had literally just been granted custody of my little sister and it was a really rough morning. I was annoyed and I took that anger out on you.” She explained.

Taron quirked his brow.

“And that’s the truth is it?” He replied.

Nicola lightly scoffed.

“Why would I lie, I’m not like that.” She answered.

“When I was 3, my grandparents were granted custody of me because my mother was and still is a drug addict and would sleep around almost all the time. It got so bad and she’d leave me on my own for long periods of time.” She explained, running the tip of her thumb around the rim of the cup.

Watching her, it became clear that she was being truthful. Taron still remained defensive but respected her for opening up to him.

“When I heard that my mother was doing that again to my little sister, I knew I had to give Jasmine a chance at a better life but to do that I had to move from my one bedroom flat to a two bedroom and then had to fight my mother on everything.” She finished.

Taron closed his eyes and sighed.

“I’m sorry.” He said.

“I know I’ve acted like a bitch but I’m really not. I know I’ve been awful to you and there is no excuse for that. I guess I just wanted you to know that I’m a nice person under all of that.” She explained.

Taron nodded.

“And I know that the way that I handled our last meeting wasn’t right and I feel so guilty. I had no idea that you were married and had I been in my right mind, I would have just slapped you and walked away.” She chuckled slightly.

“I’m not married.” He said, shocking himself as well.

“But you’re wearing a ring.” Nicola pointed out.

“I mean I was married but not anymore. She died.” Taron answered.

“Shit, I feel even worse now.” Nicola said.

Taron surprised himself by laying a hand on top of Nicola’s.

“Please don’t feel bad. To be honest, you calling me Taz took me by surprise. My wife used to call me that and I hadn’t expected to hear anyone else use the name.” He explained.

“Right, I get you. I’ll make sure I don’t do it again. Sorry.” She promised.

“Don’t be sorry. You couldn’t have known.” Taron replied, slightly warming to her.

Before either of them could say anything else, Pickles took his chance and climbed up Taron’s leg.

“Hello you.” Taron greeted, scooping up and petting the furball.

“Who’s this cutie?” Nicola asked.

“This is Pickles.” Taron introduced.

Nicola giggled.

“Pickles. Cute name.” She said.

“My son picked the name.” Taron stated.

“Does he like pickles?” Nicola questioned.

“His favorite tv show is the Rugrats.” The man said with amusement

“Let me guess, he likes someone from the pickles family?” Nicola wondered out loud.

“Yeah, Stu apparently reminds him of me.” Taron answered sadly.

“You can say no but you look like you could use a hug.” Nicola noted carefully, really not wanting to undo her apology and make him feel uncomfortable again.

“How about we just start with names.” Taron replied, not feeling quite ready for any kind of intimacy from another woman.

Nicola smiled.

“Sounds good. I’m Nicola.” She said warmly.

“Taron.” He replied.

“Nice to meet you Taron.” Nicola said.

“Nice job Pickles. You’re a good ice breaker.” Kate said as the feline walked past her and toward his food bowl.

Back at the nursery Mikey and Jasmine were busy painting when Ivy marched up to them ready to paint herself.

“Let me know when you’re finished Ivy.” The assistant teacher said as she finished securing Ivy’s paint smock.

“How are you two doing?” The teacher asked, looking at Mikey and Jasmine.

“Good thank you.” Jasmine answered for both of them.

The teacher nodded and went back to the other kids that were playing on the play set.

“I need it.” Ivy said as she snatched the blue paint brush from Mikey’s hand.

“Hey, I was using that.” Mikey whined slightly.

“But I need it.” Ivy replied, painting a flower.

Mikey frowned and pouted.

Jasmine rolled her eyes.

Mikey went to grab the brush back but Ivy was faster and connected her teeth with Mikey’s upper arm; biting him hard.

Tears immediately grew in the little boy’s eyes and cried.

“You’re mean.” Jasmine shouted before walking over to where the assistant teacher was breaking up another fight.

“Excuse me?” Jasmine said as she pat the teacher’s leg.

“Yes kiddo?” The older woman replied.

“Ivy bit Mikey and he’s crying.” Jasmine explained, making Miss. Jameson roll her eyes.

“Thank you for telling me. Let’s go.” Miss. Jameson said.

Jasmine and the teacher quickly walked over to Mikey and saw Ivy trying to bite him again.

“Ivy Howell. That’s quite enough thank you.” Miss. Jameson lectured.

Ivy jumped.

“Both of you inside now.” The woman said calmly.

Ivy went inside first and Mikey followed with Jasmine beside him.

“Jasmine, can you please stay with Michael?” Miss. Jameson asked.

The little girl nodded, got her friend a tissue and gave him a hug, being careful of his arm.

Standing in the kitchen with Taron, Nicola looked at her watch and saw that it was time to pick up the kids.

“Thanks again for the chicken.” Taron said.

“Thank you for listening to me.” Nicola replied with a smile.

“Well I suppose it’s time to get the kids.” Taron announced, putting the freshly washed tea cups back in the cupboard.

“I don’t mind picking them up and bringing Mikey back here. If you want.” Nicola offered.

“Thanks but that’s ok. I’ll get him.” He replied.

“To save petrol, do you want to maybe, go together and get the kids?” She asked.

Taron thought about it for a few seconds.

“I have two car seats.” Nicola offered.

“Sounds good.” Taron answered.

Both of them headed toward the school to get Mikey and Jasmine.

“So, two car seats?” Taron asked as he looked in the backseat.

“Jasmine’s very indecisive and likes switching sides every time we use the car. One came with her and I bought the other one after being told that I had to.” Nicola explained.

“Interesting.” He replied, looking out the window.

“You can find something you want to listen to on the radio.” She suggested.

“No, that’s ok. The silence is nice actually. It beats having to listen to nursery rhymes all the time.” Taron said.

“Oh my gosh I know. All I seem to hear is the bloody paw patrol theme song. It drives me crazy.” Nicola added.

“Definitely.” Taron mumbled, making Nicola smile for the millionth time.

When they arrived at the nursery building, Jasmine spotted them and ran out to them.

“Mikey’s crying.” The little girl said.

Both adults hurried inside and went straight to where Mikey was still trying to calm down.

Nicola saw Miss. Jameson holding an ice pack on Mikey’s arm and saw red.

“Wait here. You, come with me.” Nicola said, pointing to the assistant teacher.

Both Taron and Jasmine looked at each other. They could hear how angry she was.

“Hi buddy.” Taron said calmly, kissing Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey reached for Taron, wanting to be held.

“What happened?” Taron asked the little girl by his side, knowing that Mikey wasn’t going to answer.

“Me and Mikey were painting and Ivy snatched the blue paint brush. She bit him when he tried to get it back.” Jasmine explained and Taron too saw red. This wasn’t the first time that the child had caused problems.

“Can I see it Mikey?” Taron asked his now calm son.

The little boy shook his head from its hiding spot in the crook of Taron’s neck.

“How hard did she bite him?” The father asked.

“There wasn’t blood but you can see teeth on his arm.” Jasmine answered.

Taron nodded and rubbed his son’s back, letting him know that it was going to be ok.

“Do you think we should go over there?” Taron questioned.

Jasmine looked over at her sister and saw her and how angry she was.

“Up to you.” She answered, shrugging.

Nicola, finally having had enough, stormed back to her sister and Taron.

“Go get yours and Mikey’s things please.” Nicola huffed.

Jasmine hurried off.

“M-mr. Egerton, we need you to sign t-this.” The teacher stuttered, feeling very nervous around Nicola who had her brow raised in warning.

“Something needs to be done about this child.” Taron remarked as he took the pen from Mrs. Graves.

“I think I got it all.” Jasmine said as she returned just as quickly as she left.

“Thank you Jas.” Nicola replied, taking Mikey’s bag and slinging it over her shoulder.

Taron finished signing the form and shot the teacher a warning glare before leaving with Nicola and Jasmine in tow.

“Right, which side are you sitting on?” Nicola asked as they approached the car.

Mikey looked at his dad with confusion.

“Nicola and I both came to pick you and Jasmine up.” Taron assured his son, not knowing how Mikey would feel after what happened a few days ago.

“Mikey can choose first.” Jasmine said, hoping to make her friend smile.

“Behind my daddy.” The boy mumbled.

“Alright.” Nicola said, getting her sister settled in while Taron got his son comfortable.

Once everyone was settled, Nicola drove off.

The kids were quiet in the backseat, Mikey falling asleep from all the crying he had been doing.

“How about we get some food. I’m guessing that little one of yours could eat.” Nicola suggested.

“Sounds good to me.” Jasmine piped up with excitement.

“How’s the little man doing?” Nicola asked her sister.

“Sleeping.” Jasmine answered simply, looking out the window.

“I can’t believe that child. Honestly makes my blood boil.” Taron commented gruffly.

“Mine too.” Nicola replied, turning down a very familiar road for Taron.

He didn’t want to let on but he had a feeling that Nicola was going to his aunt’s cafe.

“You ok if we eat here? I heard the food was really good.” Nicola questioned as she parked.

“Mikey loves it here, plus people are right, the food is really good.” Taron responded, trying not to let his smirk show too much.

Nicola got Jasmine out of the car while Taron woke his son up.

“We’re going to see aunty.” The father whispered, hoping that the woman didn’t hear him.

He wanted to see Nicola’s reaction when she realized who he was. She clearly had no idea.

“I want pickles.” Mikey said before a yawn escaped his lips.

“You can see pickles when we go home.” Taron replied.

“Ok, let’s go.” Nicola said, all four of them crossing the road.

Just as they reached the door, one of the waitresses saw Taron.Taron quickly put his finger on his lips and glanced at the two women behind him.

The waitress nodded and went on with wiping a table.

“What do y-” Nicola said as her eyes landed on a huge movie poster.

Thank goodness the cafe was pretty much empty, which was odd for the time of day it was and for the fact that people seemed to flock to it.

“Why are you on there?” Jasmine asked for both herself and a very speechless Nicola.

Taron smiled and Nicola turned to look at him.

“Yeah, why are you on there.” Nicola questioned, slightly miffed.

Mikey lifted his head from Taron’s shoulder and looked at the women.

“He’s in movies.” Mikey answered as if it was no big deal.

Nicola’s jaw dropped and Jasmine just stared at Taron.

“My aunt owns this cafe, that’s why the posters are on the wall.” Taron admitted.

“Cool.” Jasmine said.

Nicola on the other hand was still silent.

Mikey giggled at the look on her face.

This was the last thing that Nicola was expecting.

===

Tag List: @sarahegerton96 @softeggsy @jobanan23 @hitmeonmytspot @cilldaracailin @hauntedflamingo @superthiccthighssavelives @aberystwythboy @stronglyobsessed @holdmeclosertinytaron @rocknrollmadden @dogmom2014 @fuseburner

#dad!taron #Single Father #taking chances #its just pickles

13 notes · View notes

thorne93 · 4 years

Text

The Softest Fire (Part 19)

Prompt: Rosaline Vaughan had it all: fame, money, power, glory, a high status job. Until, one day, she woke up, and realized something was missing from her life.

Word Count: 5018

Warnings: trauma/ptsd

Notes: First Fantastic Beast fic! I could NOT have done this at all without @arrow-guy. They have created a counterpart to this fic, writing it from Nora Vaughan’s perspective (Rosaline’s cousin/adopted sister). Fic aesthetic done by @mrs-dragneel-stark-solo.

Nora and I got ready together like old times. Sharing a vanity, laughing and falling all over each other as loud music played in the room. I let my hair fall down in nice finger waves over one side of my face. I wore striking makeup of a stark black liner and deep dark red lips. My dress was adorned with sparkles, colored in plum that went all the way to the floor. Matte stripes pulled upward, flattering my curves perfectly. The straps were medium sized, highlighting my delicate perfectly rounded shoulders. I had dark silver silk gloves coming all the way up to my biceps, matching my sterling silver necklaces and earrings.

By the time Nora and I were done, we looked like movie stars.

An hour before the ceremony, a knock came to Nora’s front door. I told her I would answer it while she put on her finishing touches. I raced down the stairs and pulled open the door.

“It’s about time you men got--”

When I opened the door, my eyes fell on two dashing men. Theseus stood tall in an eye catching tuxedo.

“Theseus, you look absolutely incredible,” I gushed.

“You’re looking sparkly as ever, Rosaline,” he complimented.

“Well thank you.”

Once he stepped inside, I could properly stare at Newt who wore a black tuxedo. His hair was gelled and styled to lay on the side, rather than wild as usual.

“Newt, you… A tux?” I questioned, a curious smile growing on my face.

“I know it’s not my usual style but Theseus insisted I treat myself to something.”

“I think you look wonderful. It really suits you.”

“You think so?” he asked, a bit bashful.

I took my gloved hand and lifted his chin.

“Hey, I know so. You have no reason to feel insecure.”

He nodded his head and as he did so, his gaze fell onto my body.

“Rosaline… You… The dre-dress. You’re… uh…” he stammered, unable to find the words.

“Do you like it?” I tried, hoping that would help him.

He bobbed his head eagerly. “Yes, very much. It brings out your eyes. It reminds me of the scales on an occamy.”

“But an occamy is blue,” I retorted.

“But their scales are shiny, brilliant hues and you, when I look at you…” His eyes softened on my form and I couldn’t help but blush.

“Yes?” I prompted.

“I see the beauty of nature reflected in you,” he finally finished, bringing his gaze back up to mine. Our eyes held the gaze for a long moment and I could feel myself being pulled to him before suddenly I heard Nora’s voice right behind us on the stairs.

“Well why else would I wear a dress, Theseus?” she quipped rhetorically.

I whipped around to face them and Theseus was ahead of Nora, smirking.

“Are we ready to go?” Nora questioned and all of us nodded. We linked arms and apparated to the wedding venue.

Weddings always astounded me, from their sheer beauty to the romance. This one was no exception. A dark stone mansion stood sheathed in ivy scaling its walls, even appearing to grow inside. Round balconies jutted out from all sides and levels of the building. The four of us walked up to a man checking names on a list. We handed him our invitations and he bowed his head while wishing us a good time.

We found our way to an exquisite hall that was made to look more like the outdoors than in. Moss covered the ground, flowered bloomed around chairs, pillars, and tables, ivy crawled up the walls.

“Quite the naturist isn’t she?” I wondered aloud.

“Mmm, yes,” Theseus responded, his eyes going over everything.

We had over half an hour before the ceremony so we mingled a bit with other guests. When time grew near the ceremony to start, we took our seats and began to talk amongst ourselves. Before long Jeanette made her way down the aisle in a stunning white dress. Not one I would’ve picked but for her, it seemed absolutely perfect.

As I watched them take their vows a sudden pang hit my heart. A pang that reminded me I would probably never have that, and the closest I got to it was with a lying murderer who tricked me. My eyes stole a glance at Newt who was staring forward.

What I wouldn’t give to turn back the clock, to go back even as far back as Hogwarts. I would’ve asked him out then. I would’ve talked to Leta, perhaps become her friend and convinced her to do the right thing. I would’ve helped Newt with his creatures instead of years in a cold, unwavering environment.

But I didn’t have a time turner, even if I did it wouldn’t be enough for me to right the wrongs I’d done to so many people. I thought I was protecting myself by not letting myself get close to anyone, but I was being selfish.

I should’ve been more like Nora, where no one is a stranger, and everyone loves her. But I couldn’t imagine living through the pain of losing a loved one again. I thought it would be easier if I never got close to anyone, but it turns out, it was a lot harder to stay isolated.

I guess being a frigid witch helped in that department.

I wasn’t warm because I didn’t want people to underestimate me. I wasn’t overtly kind because I didn’t want people to take advantage of me. I didn’t show or share my emotions because they could be used against me. I wasn’t friendly because I saw what friendship did to Newt and Leta and countless others growing up. It’s all heartache waiting to happen.

But as I watched these two people fall madly in love again at the altar, I couldn’t help but think that all the pain, the strife, the heartache, is worth it, just to have people in your life you can count on. People who will be there for your bad days and your good. People who will lift you up when you’ve fallen, and stand beside you proudly as you win.

People like... well people like I knew. Theseus didn’t have to let me have a room at the Ministry. Hell, they could’ve thrown me into Azkaban and threw away the key. Nora didn’t have to hunt me down. Dumbledore didn’t have to help undo the curse on me, or alert Nora, he could’ve easily gone to the Ministry and had me arrested. Newt didn’t have to forgive me or be so kind to me after all I had put him through.

Which made me realize just how truly he must love me. I knew Tina was still around, still waiting for him, and yet, he chose me, even without me saying I chose him. He didn’t choose Tina for a consolation prize or to replace me. He held out, he wasn’t with her, because he didn’t love her.

He’s a truly remarkable man, much like his brother, and I almost squandered it away. Most women would kill for a man as loyal, kind, brave, and smart as him. I only prayed that one day I could earn enough of his love to perhaps stand at an altar with him.

He must’ve caught my staring because he turned to me and squeezed my hand with a smile. I returned the gesture.

“What is it?” he whispered with a bemused look on his face.

“You’re just absolutely wonderful, that’s all,” I breathed.

His gaze dropped as a slight laugh escaped him.

The ceremony wrapped up and the bride and groom escaped to an unknown location while the guests were dismissed to the reception.

“That was lovely,” I remarked as we walked along.

“It was rather pretty. Were you tearing up, cousin?” Nora teased with an elbow nudge.

I merely laughed, dropping my head to nod.

“Shall we make our way to our seats to eat?” Theseus asked.

“Yes, please. I’m famished,” Newt all but begged, making me laugh as I put my arm around him.

We walked through the amazing building out into a garden in the back that had a gazebo. Flowers were blooming and blossoming everywhere, greenery of all kind covered the ground and flowerbeds, save for a dance floor under a tent.

The meal was served, along with watching the couple dance their first dance, then when it was done, guests were welcomed onto the dance floor.

Newt turned to me. “Rosaline, would you care to dance?”

For a split second, I wasn’t sure. I wanted to, of course, but it worried me. Finally, I said, “I would love to.”

I took his hand and right behind us Theseus and Nora followed. We joined about fifteen other couples on the dance floor. The music was soft, slow, the perfect kind to just sway to. Newt took me in his arms and we began dancing little circles as I watched my cousin.

They were awfully close. Theseus planted a soft kiss on Nora’s head just as she rested her head on his shoulder and they swayed. At another point, he kissed her cheek and she lit up like a Christmas tree.

Newt looked at me and I gestured with my chin towards the two of them. “How long has that been going on?”

“A couple months, maybe? It's hard to tell, they've been spending so much time together it's all blurred together for me.”

I nodded, falling silent. I’d missed quite a lot in my absence. Those two were dating, Newt hired a replacement for me, Tina had all but moved to London…

“Things change faster than we expect, don’t they?” he asked a bit more quietly.

“Yes, they do,” I hummed with a frown.

Newt peered at me a moment, we danced a little while longer before he said, “Rosaline?”

I glanced up at him.

“I know you hate yourself. I know you think you caused people pain and deep down that's who you are.”

My mouth screwed to the side as I chewed my lip. “Newt, I--”

“Just listen, please?” he requested softly, but earnestly.

After a moment, I nodded.

“But I know you, Rosaline, and that day at Hogwarts, you could've killed us. You know the unforgivable curses, yet you didn't use a single one. Deep inside, past all of Grindelwald’s spells and manipulations, you couldn't kill us. You're powerful enough to have killed us easily, and you didn't."

“So you think just because I could and I didn’t I’m somehow a saint?” I scoffed slightly as we still swayed.

“I think your heart, no matter what circumstances you’re in, will always guide you. You’re a lot softer than you let on, or that you believe.”

My eyes slowly slid over to meet his gaze and we held our stares for a moment, the tension suddenly thick between us. I’d wanted a moment like this for all of my life. My heart raced as my breathing halted. Before I knew it, we were slowly getting closer to each other and then--

Our lips touched. They were so soft and his were actually a little cold, but I didn’t mind one bit. As soon as he went to deepen the kiss though, a flash of stark blonde hair and heterochromia lit up behind my eyelids. The sensation reminded me greatly of Grindelwald.

Involuntarily, I put my hands against his chest and shoved him away. When I opened my eyes, I remembered it was Newt I was kissing, not Grindelwald. He looked hurt, panicked, and confused. My face was nearly a mirror image. My expression had gone from horror, to guilt, to sorrow.

Everyone on the dancefloor was looking at us and I didn’t say a word as I fled the area. Running into the building, I found a darkened corridor to try and slow my breathing. But the breathing just got worse as a sob built in my chest.

My first kiss with Newt and I ruined it by shoving him away. I slapped my gloved hand against the wall, the other one covering my face before I turned around and leaned against it.

“Hey, hey, are you okay?” Nora’s voice suddenly sounded beside me.

I shook my head, afraid to speak. She patted my shoulders.

“What’s the matter? What happened?”

“I… Newt and I kissed, but it only reminded me of Grindelwald so I shoved him away. I didn’t even know what was happening. Everything was fine but then all I could think about was Grindelwald’s hands all over me and…”

Nora peered at me, understanding in her eyes.

I took a deep breath, the tears finally stopping now that she was here. “Nora, I haven’t told anyone this but I’d like you to know.”

“What is it?”

“Grindelwald… he… was my first.”

At first, Nora was silent before I turned to see what was written on her face. I couldn’t quite tell, actually, other than some far off look. “Nora?”

She shook her head to look at me. “Rosaline, I’m so sorry.”

“Me too,” I breathed, straightening up. “I wished that was one of the memories that got washed away with the curse.” I put the heels of my hands on my forehead.

Nora seemed to be thinking before she suddenly said, “It doesn’t have to count as your first time, if you don’t want it to.”

I scoffed, wiping my face. “How is that possible? It happened. He took my…” I couldn’t even say it.

“Easy. You don’t give him that power.”

“You make it sound so easy,” I breathed.

“It is… Would you like to go home and talk about it?”

For a moment, I wanted to answer yes. But then I thought of my date, the one man I’d ever truly loved, standing on the dancefloor, having no idea what he did wong, when he did nothing wrong to begin with. That thought, made me decide against it.

“No. Not right now. Later though? I really need to go see how Newt is.”

She bobbed her head in understanding as she walked with me back to the festivities. On our way, two men walking by stopped and looked at us.

“Aren’t you that bird that was with Grindelwald?” the older looking one asked.

I stiffened at his name and Nora grabbed my hand for support.

“Why, yes, I think you are! You worked for the Ministry, even ran for Minister.” He eyed me up and down. At first I thought he might say something nice like it was good to have me back or ask how I was doing. I didn’t expect the next words out of his mouth. “You are one low-life piece of trash, you know that?” he snarled. “It’s because of you the wizarding world is in shambles. Everyone knew they couldn’t trust Grindelwald, but one of our own. Someone as upstanding as you used to be joining him is just a travesty. You are everything that is wrong in this world. Corrupt--”

“That’s just about enough from you, sir!” Nora barked, interjecting. “My sister was bewitched. She didn’t join him willingly.”

“Not the way I hear it. If she was bewitched, why did she agree to marry him? Sounds like her thirst for power never really stopped.”

“I want nothing to do with that man, nor did I ever,” I stated firmly.

“You keep telling yourself that, sweetheart,” he scoffed as he started to walk on.

In an instant, I reeled my hand back and slugged him in the jaw, sending him to the floor. The other man looked at me in astonishment, along with Nora.

“That might teach you to open your mouth on subjects you know nothing about!” I spat, pointing down. With my blood still boiling, I stormed off and found Newt standing to the side of the dance floor.

“Is everything alri--” Newt began.

“We’re going home,” I informed quickly, grabbing his hand. “Nora, I’m going back to your place. You don’t have to join me immediately.” Then we apparated away.

Once we were in my room in Nora’s flat, I sat on the bed, gathering my breath.

“Rosaline, what’s… Did I do something wrong? I thought…”

I looked up. “Newt, you did nothing wrong.” I stood and began to pace. “You did everything absolutely right. It’s just… when we kissed, I couldn’t help but be reminded of Grindelwald and I guess I snapped and panicked and I thought it was you and… And I’m so sorry. You didn’t deserve that kind of response.”

“Well are you alright?”

I shook my head, waving him off. “Yes, yes, I’m fine. Grindelwald and I were very… close,” I said, my voice cracking as my throat tightened. “It may take me some time to get over the horrible memories that I associate with romance. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want it… It’ll just take time.”

“That’s fine. Rosaline, I’ll wait as long as I need to. I’ve waited years, what’s a few more weeks or months?”

A soft smile touched me as I stepped forward and took his hands in mine.

“Truly remarkable,” I whispered before I leaned in and kissed his cheek. “I had a wonderful time today with you, despite everything. I even got to punch a man. That felt oddly refreshing.”

He laughed as his eyebrows shot up. “You punched a man?”

“He was saying awful things about me being from the Ministry and being with Grindelwald…” I shook my head. “That’ll teach him to speak out of turn.”

“I’d say it would, yes.”

We grinned at each other a long moment before we heard the arrival of Nora and Theseus in the hallway.

“If you don’t mind, I need to speak with Nora about something.”

“Of course.”

He backed away a step to apparate but then he stopped and asked, “would you come by my flat tomorrow? I’d like to have afternoon tea with you.”

“I’d love to.”

With this, he smiled, nodded, waved, and apparated. As soon as he was gone, I poked my head out into the hallway. I waited to see if they were talking. They were, they were actually whispering.

“Am I interrupting?”

The two of them jumped and pulled away slightly.

“Uh, no. Are you alright?” Theseus asked. I bobbed my head. “Good. Well… I’ll leave you two to the rest of your evening. Have a good night.” He leaned down and quickly kissed Nora’s cheek before apparating back to his own flat.

“Do you want to talk about it?” she asked, looking supportive. “If you aren’t ready…”

“I’ll never be ready, but I’m not about to let it take me over.”

She nodded in agreement as I held my door open, inviting her into my room where I once again sat on the bed.

“So... how did it happen?” she asked once she got in the room and the door closed.

“I… Honestly I don’t even know. We just started… dating? He treated me like a queen, doing everything for me, before I knew it, we were going on dates and he was kissing me goodnight. Next thing I know, he’s inviting me to move my things into his room. We stayed in bed together a few nights then one day he was in a really good mood and…”

Nora nodded. “You know, the whole virginity thing… it isn’t the end all be all. If you felt it wasn’t what you wanted your first time to be, then it doesn’t have to be.”

“But I was physically with him, Nora.”

“So? You wanna know about my first time?” she asked as she plopped down next to me.

“You had a first time?” I accused, turning to her. “How did I--Wait, was it Theseus?”

A soft, amused expression took her over. “No, but I’m glad you think that.”

“If not Theseus, then who?”

“It was actually a girl at Hogwarts… She was a year ahead of me.”

“Let me guess, Slytherin?” I teased.

“Actually a Gryffindor.”

“No kidding?” I mused. “How? Why?”

“We were friends. Good friends. We actually took each other to the Winter ball, as friends, at first, but there was something there…”

“So… what happened?” I wondered, curious.

“We eventually made our way to the astronomy tower. It was disastrous, let me tell you,” she said with a laugh, putting her hand on my knee as she leaned towards me.

“It sounds kind of magical, and cute.”

“Cute would be one word for it. Neither of us had any clue what we were doing, but that’s the point when it comes to your first time. If everyone knew what they were doing, it wouldn’t be any fun.”

“I’m not so sure mine was fun,” I muttered. “I feel so… dirty. I’ve had to live with this memory every day since I ‘woke up’. I have to look at Newt and relive it. If we ever got to that point, I’d have to tell him who I gave myself to.”

“Oh, Rosaline, you give yourself who you give yourself to. The whole concept of virginity is something men made up to make them feel special.”

“Really?”

“Somewhat. If it feels special to you, then it is. But don’t let what happened to you damper what might happen with Newt.”

“Speaking of what might happen… Have you and Theseus….?” I questioned.

“Had sex?”

I blushed at her words, but nodded.

“No, I don't think we're quite ready for that yet. just being physically close is enough or us right now.”

“That’s really nice,” I mused, beaming softly. “I’m glad you two have found your way to each other.”

“Me too. It’s incredible right now.”

After a moment of chewing my lip, I asked her, “Uh, Nora?”

“Hmm?”

“During my… time… with Grindelwald… I would feel this… odd sensation.”

“Pain?”

“No, no,” I stated, shaking my head, blushing. “This is embarrassing.”

“Nothing is embarrassing. Go on and ask,” she encouraged.

“When we were together, I would feel this build up then a sudden… rush? Sometimes it would blind me when it happened and I got really tired afterward. Was I having a panic attack or what was that?” I wondered.

She threw her head back, laughing. “No, that wasn’t an attack. It’s a good thing. It’s called an orgasm.”

“Orgasm?” I frowned at her.

She nodded. “Yes.”

“Did you...Have you had one of those?”

“I had one my first time, with that girl in the tower. I’ve had a few by myself. They feel good, if you know what’s going on.”

I slowly nodded. “I definitely didn’t.”

“So you want to though, one day with Newt?”

“One day? Nora, I’d like to do it right now,” I admitted. “I just can’t because society dictates that we must kiss at this time, then move to the next step. I’ve loved him for a long time and I’ve thought about him physically for years.”

She got a coy look on her face. “Well look at you. I never knew you were so scandalous,” she joked as she peered at me.

“Oh come off it. You know what I mean. With as long as I’ve loved him, of course it’s natural for me to want his touch like that immediately. I just… Between the flashbacks of Grindelwald, Newt being socially awkward, and society deeming it unfit, what choice do I have?”

She nodded her head side to side in thought. “You could always entertain the idea… yourself.”

“Myself?”

“Yes, it’s quite easy to recreate an orgasm on your own.”

I frowned. “Why would I want to do that?”

“To relieve stress, darling. You want Newt and right now you can’t have him. But on your own, you trust yourself, no one to please, no one to bother you. It’s just you and yourself, making you happy.”

My gaze narrowed on the floor as I listened.

“And that’s… okay?”

“Circe’s tits, yes, it’s okay. Why wouldn’t it be?”

I shrugged. “Don’t you have to reserve those kinds of things for your partner?”

She shook her head, scoffing. “No. You aren’t there to make someone else feel good, even if it’s Newt. I love the kid, but you aren’t just something for him to use. You have urges too, Little Rose.” She reached up and pinched my cheek, making me laugh.

“How do you even do that?”

She thought for a moment. “All I’ll say is let your hand travel south, think of Newt, and see how it goes.”

“Oh, Nora, that’s so… You aren’t serious, are you?”

“Deadly,” she said with a mischievous grin and chuckle. “What’s the worst that could happen? You think of Newt while fireworks go off in your head? Isn’t that what usually happens?” she teased.

I bobbed my head and agreed with her.

“On a more serious note,” she said after our giggles and smiles faded, “what are you going to do about Newt. Not the sex, but in general. You aren’t working with him, you can’t kiss him without repercussion, so do you want to move forward?”

My body toppled backwards.

“Of course I want to move forward. That’s all I’ve wanted for five years now.”

“But?”

“But what if he rejects me?”

“On what grounds?” she asked, laying beside me as she propped her head on her hand, staring down at me.

“Anything. I’m not… I’m not like you, Nora. You’re warm, funny, brave, smart. It’s easy to see why Theseus fell for you.”

“And Newt fell for you,” she reminded.

“But what if he fell for the assistant? The quiet girl who sat with his creatures. Not the girl who ran off with the bad guy and committed crimes.”

“You’re still the same person, you’re just a bit wiser now with a past you didn’t ask for, that’s all.”

I turned slightly more towards her. “You know, he said that he knew I had the power to kill you all, and didn’t. So that’s how he knew I was still good despite everything.”

“He isn’t wrong,” she agreed.

“No, he isn’t. Grindelwald told me to end you all that day at Hogwarts, and I didn’t. Something made me stop.”

“It’s that heart, that heart that Newt fell for.”

I sighed. “What if I’m not good enough though? He fell for Tina once, what’s not to say he won’t do it again? Perhaps with someone else.”

Her gaze dropped before she spoke. “I think I should tell you something.”

“What is it?”

“The only reason he even looked twice at Tina was because you spouted off some nonsense about not wanting to let people in. About how it would only end in heartbreak.”

“That’s because it’s true,” I snapped.

“Do you still feel that way?”

“Yes.”

“So why move forward with Newt?”

“He’s my only exception,” I whispered before looking at her. Her face was one of admonishment, making me laugh. “Don’t give me that look. I… I still worry it’ll only end with us being hurt.”

“Sounds like a wonderful way to go through life. Ignoring all possibility of happiness, for the potential to get hurt. Sound plan, Rosaline.”

“Mock me if you want, but we both know it’s true. Look at Theseus and Newt. They loved Leta and for what? So she could break Newt’s heart and die in front of Theseus.”

When she said nothing, I continued.

“Or you? How long did you watch Theseus and wish you had him? Or me and Newt, I watched him with Tina with yearning eyes.”

“Yes, but maybe if you actually opened up and thawed that heart of yours, you might be surprised at what you find.”

“What’s that?”

“Real, unconditional, true love.”

“Is that what you’ve done with Theseus? Trusted him entirely? Given yourself to him?”

“Yes,” she said confidently.

“And you aren’t worried?”

“About heartbreak?” She shook her head. “Have you ever heard the expression, ‘Tis better to have loved and lost, than to never loved at all?”

“Yes, but--”

“Then you know, that even if heartache were to swoop in, that you’d still have your memories of you and Newt. that those memories would burn brighter and better, than any dull ache that might occur.”

“You truly believe that?”

“I have to. Love is a risk, it’s a challenge, it’s fucking scary. But it’s worth it. Without Theseus I’m not sure how I would’ve gotten through this whole mess with you. Love can make you incredibly weak, but it can also make you incredibly strong and resilient.”

I let her words sink into me, and I listened, wrapping my head around them. Agreeing with her.

“Yes, but what if my sins, my demons of my past push him away?” I whispered, tears threatening.

She wrapped an arm around me. “They won’t, not if you don’t let them. You once told me to just go all in, even with Theseus engaged.”

“Well, yes that was because I wanted you to be with him. I felt you deserved him more than Leta.”

“I think you’re forgetting who you are, and who you are to Newt. Just let all of this go, and be with him. He wants you, and you want him, that’s all there really is to it.”

“You think so?”

She took her finger tip and bopped my nose ever so gently. “I know so. Who here is older and wiser?”

“You’re certainly older, I can see it in your gray hair,” I teased.

“You little demon!” she said before going in to tickle me. “Take it back!”

“Never!” I boasted, laughing.

‘I’ll tell Newt about your wild fantasies!” she threatened with laughter in her eyes.

“Okay! Okay! I take it back!” I said, surrendering.

For the rest of the evening, the two of us lied on the bed, talking mainly girl talk. She filled me in on the bookstore. I filled her in on what my thoughts were for a future job. It really felt like old times and that is exactly what the doctor ordered.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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#the softest fire #newt scamander x ofc #newt scamander x oc #newt scamander fic #newt scamander

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